《The Great Planned Marriage: Becoming A Splendid Princess》 Chapter 1 - Rebirth In the sultry summer, a heat wave rose in the Cold Palace. Your Majesty, the rebels have entered the palace! Lets run away! The maid Xia Mang stumbled into the Cold Palace. She grabbed Shi Qingxue, the deposed empress, and tried to run outside. Shi Qingxue was still wearing a red dress, looking calm and even a little aloof, with a touch of self-mockery on the corner of her mouth, The Shi Family is long gone. Where can I escape? Xia Mang became speechless, and after a long while she reluctantly said, There will always be hope as long as you are alive. However, Shi Qingxue sneered, Mo Junyang has former enmity with me, and now he fights into the palace. Even if my force declines, there is no reason for cowardly escape! As she was saying, Mo Junyang, King Ruis eldest son, walked into the Cold Palace with vigorous strides. With the military uniform of Great Mo Dynasty stained with blood, the man looked like a demon from hell and made people scared just at a glance. Mo Junyang kept his eyes on Shi Qingxue as if he was about to pierce her. But Shi Qingxue had a calm look. She was no longer the former proud Sixth Lady of the Shi Family, who was ignorant of worldly affairs. She was clear in her heart. When she was young, Mo Junyang was a hostage in the palace, and she had insulted him many times. Her guilt didnt help and she deserved his revenge. She wasnt afraid. She just looked at Mo Junyang and asked what she most wanted to know at present, Where is Mo Junhao? Mo Junhao, Emperor Hao, the former husband of Shi Qingxue, and the jerk who destroyed her family, abandoned her and left her out in the Cold Palace after he ascended the throne. Mo Junyang just closed his lips lightly and kept his look cold. After a moment, he said in a low voice, Dead. At the end, it seemed that this was not enough to make Shi Qingxue sad, and he added, He was beheaded by my sword. His head and body were separated. Shi Qingxue lowered her eyes. But instead of showing sadness, there was even a smile at the corner of her mouth, and she was very satisfied with the result. She didnt care about the staring sights around her, and looked at Mo Junyang calmly. The pride engraved in her bones made her unable to say any apologies or flattering words. She smiled at the corner of her mouth, figuratively, as if everything had settled. She said indifferently, That being the case, then you Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxue with a gloom look. At this moment, he interrupted her suddenly, Are you asking me for mercy? The straightforward questioning and the surrounding ridicule made Shi Qingxues face pale for a while. She had heard that King Ruis eldest son was vicious and revengeful, and in the past few months, everyone who had offended him had been retaliated in the cruelest way. And his revenge on her was to break all her pride. Shi Qingxue sneered, What do you want me to apologize for? Having insulted you at the young age? Or the hostility when we are on different sides? It was not a big deal that she was arrogant when she was young and inexperienced. Besides, the identification of Mo Junyang as a bastard was lowly. So why should she take care of his emotions? Needless to say that who won the battle between different parties would be the king, and the losers would be ruined! Her look gradually calmed down, but she told Mo Junyang calmly and surely, You know thats impossible! She regretted that she was in love with the scumbag, but all she had done was open and straightforward. Maybe sometimes in inappropriate ways, but she wouldnt regret it, and she couldnt apologize. Arent you afraid of death? Mo Junyang got closer to her. He almost stood right in front of Shi Qingxues face. He met her eyes, and the breath was almost intimidating, but no one was willing to lower head first. Instead, the guard behind Mo Junyang couldnt retain his composure, and yelled, Master, why are you still talking to her? Just kill her Before the guard finished, Mo Junyang looked back with a cold stare and he dared not to say anything else. At this moment, Xia Mangs exclamation caught everyones attention. The crowd looked up and saw Shi Qingxue, who had been standing still, suddenly fell down softly. Mo Junyang quickly held the soft body, but what he saw in front of him astonished him. The crowd unexpectedly saw panic in the eyes of this cold-blooded and ruthless demon. But it only lasted for a second. Then they heard him yelling gnashing his teeth, What did you do? The poison had already attacked her, and Shi Qingxue lost the energy. She could only lean on Mo Junyangs arms softly, and the red blood constantly overflowed from the corner of her mouth. She looked at Mo Junyang with her phoenix-liked eyes, and there seemed to be a puzzle in her weak voice. Why are you so sad? I have offended you, and now I am about to die. Shouldnt you be happy? Mo Junyangs face looked so cold that it could freeze, I dont permit you to die. If you dare to die, I will bury the whole Shi Family with you! I will also destroy all your close ones! Do you hear me? You are not allowed to die! The cold and domineering tone made Shi Qingxue surprised, and then she smiled bitterly, The people close to meare gone Theyre gone She spoke on and off. And the miserable smile on her face gradually became shattered. Before she died, she suddenly realized that her life shouldnt have been so bleak, and her parents who loved her shouldnt have died so tragically! Just because she was young and innocent, and mistrusted and loved an evil person, everyone who loved her was hurt. It would be nice if everything could start over. Chapter 2 - The Sixtieth Birthday Shi Qingxue opened her eyes suddenly, and felt the breeze. In front of her was the rockery in the backyard of the Shi Family, which was only visible in her dreams. She often came here to rest alone when she wasnt married yet. Was it a dream again? But this time it was so real. She actually felt the pain when she pressed her arm! Was she reborn? Shi Qingxue was so surprised and then she saw Xia Mang hurry over, anxiously said, Sixth Lady, why are you still here? Madam is going crazy looking for you? What does my mother want me to do? Shi Qingxue didnt understand what was happening at this moment? Xia Mang looked at Shi Qingxue with doubt, and murmured in her mouth, It is the 60th birthday of the princess royal. Of course madam wants you to go to the front to meet the guests! Shi Qingxue was so shocked that she suddenly stood up from the stone. She went back to her grandmothers 60th birthday. The beginning of all things? Did that also mean that she had a chance to save it all? Shi Qingxue quickly asked again, What time is it now? Does it begin? It is just past 10 oclock. Xia Mang answered subconsciously, but then she found something wrong. Why did the sixth lady in the family who were otherworldly care about the chores? Did the pig fly? Lunch was usually served at noon in the Shi Family. There were so many guests gathering today, and it might be served until 2 p.m. It was not too late yet. Shi Qingxue was relieved, but she did not go to the banquet right away as Xia Mang hoped. Instead, she whispered something in Xia Mangs ear and drove her elsewhere. Xia Mang was frightened by Shi Qingxues request, Sixth Lady, what are you doing? Shi Qingxue didnt have time to explain so much to Xia Mang, but only warned her, Take Dong Shuang with you, and just do what I say. Shi Qingxue wanted to do it herself originally, but now she must rush to the front hall. Fortunately, Xia Mang and Dong Shuang had been raised around her since young, and were loyal to her and very reliable. After Shi Qingxue made clear the vital thing, she walked to the backyard garden as quickly as her former life, where the 60th birthday banquet of the princess royal was set up. The rules of propriety between men and women were not strict. Male and female guests were sitting on separate seats, but there was no barrier between them, and there was still communication between them. When she arrived, the banquet was almost full. Shi Qingxue moved with elegant steps to Mo Shujun, the princess royal, and greeted her softly. Then she heard someone yelling in surprise, Qingxue, youre finally here! The voice was so loud that it could be heard throughout the entire birthday party. The boisterous party became quiet, and even the male guests looked towards here. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but felt a little embarrassed, but seeing her close friend in the past Mo Yuzhen, the third princess, she was very happy. Mo Yuzhen didnt feel embarrassed at all. She came to pull her hand, and Shi Qingxue was not mad anymore, but smiled to Yuzhen. However, the woman in the pink dress seated aside could not see her being so calm, and took the lead in raising trouble, Its grandmothers birthday, but Sixth Sister arrives so late. You are being really very pompous. The one who was talking was exactly Shi Baoyan, the fifth daughter in the Shi Family. She was a concubines daughter of Duke Shi, and Qingxues elder sister. This had happened in her former life. When she was young, Shi Qingxue couldnt hold her breath and quarreled with her sister. Although she didnt lose, she had left a bad impression on everyone that she was wayward and bullying. But this time, in the sights of everyone expecting a drama, Shi Qingxue lowered her eyes slightly. She whispered softly, I had a bad fever these days and it didnt get any better. Grandmother had permitted me not to attend today. But its Grandmas birthday, how can I be absent? Fortunately, the elixir given by Grandma worked, and I was finally able to greet grandmother before the banquet began. And I hope that Grandma wont blame me for it! There were three levels of meaning in these words: First, Shi Qingxue was seriously ill, and she could not have come here; second, she attributed the credit for her being able to come to Mo Shujun; and the last one showed that she was not late at all. Although the words were still arrogant, no one could find any mistakes in them. The princess royal was very happy when she heard that! When Fifth Lady Shi heard that, she was so angry that she grinded her teeth! But no matter how angry and detested Shi Baoyan was, she didnt have the courage to quarrel with Shi Qingxue. Didnt she see Mo Shujun was so joyful with a smile on her face? She also applauded, No blame. I didnt blame you. Im already happy that you can make it here! Come and have a seat! Qingxue, sit here. Come to me! As soon as Shi Qingxue responded, Mo Yuzhen reached out and called Shi Qingxue, as if she was afraid that she didnt hear it. Shi Qingxue knew clearly that her friend was always acting as if there was no one else present. She smiled helplessly, accepted the good advice and sat beside Mo Yuzhen. Suddenly she drew much envy again. Those girls below from the aristocratic families couldnt help thinking enviously: Mo Yuzhen was the most favored princess at present. Even the princes in the palace must give her precedence, and she wouldnt even give a glance at those noble girls from other aristocratic families. However, nobody knew what kind of enticing spell the sixth lady had put on Princess Yuzhen, that she was in such a daze. Mo Yuzhen didnt know or care about the jealousy of those women, and was grabbing Shi Qingxue and talking with great interest. The two of them had similar interests and could always share the same opinions. It was just that Qingxue had something in mind today, so that even Mo Yuzhen talked for a long time, but Qingxue still was lack of interest. She simply turned down her voice, and whispered to Shi Qingxue, Qingxue, do you know? Great-aunt is going to recruit a husband for your eldest sister this time? Chapter 3 - Shielded Based on Unalterable Principle Shi Qingxue nodded with absent-mindness. She knew what Mo Yuzhen said in her last life, and she got no interest in it. She fully focused on the conversation of those madams at this moment. Shujun is really blessed. Not only does she have sons and grandsons, but the wives of sons and grandsons are filial. You could see how lively this birthday party is, and how jealous we are! The old woman who was speaking was Mo Shujuns close friend, Madam He, princess of Commandery Prince Fan. The aged empress had always been very accommodating, and in a simple sentence, she praised the whole family. Not only did she please Mo Shujun, but she also gave face to the wife of Duke, Dong Hui, which evoked the support of several madams. At this time, a clear voice sounded abruptly, It seems as if only she is the only competent one in this family! The voice of Zhou Ruyu, the third madam in the Shi Family, was neither too loud nor too low. It was like a mumble to herself, but it was loud enough for the madams at present to hear it clearly. Suddenly, everyone was silent and looked at each other. In particular, the faces of the madams who were applauding before were even more awkward. Obviously, they did not expect that Zhou Ruyu would insult Dong Hui in public. The rumor said that the wife of Third Master Shi was arrogant and envious. When they met her today, they finally knew that the rumor was not wrong. After Zhou Ruyu said these words, she provocatively raised her chin to her eldest sister-in-law, as if to say, I am insulting you in public. What can you do with me? Dong Hui was instantly furious. However, in front of so many eyes, although Zhou Ruyu was being shameless, she could not lose the honor of the Dukes family. So no matter how mad she was, she could only tolerate it at this moment. But even though Dong Hui was able to bear it, Shi Qingxue, who was always paying attention to it, couldnt tolerate it. She snorted, and suddenly said, Auntie, are you saying that you think you are more competent than my mother? Shi Qingxues voice was a little louder than Zhou Ruyus. This time, even all the ladies were looking at them. This question made Zhou Ruyu the target of criticism. She couldnt give a positive acknowledgement to Shi Qingxues question not matter how respected she was. She could only answer with embarrassment, I surely dare not compare myself with Sister Hui. Shi Qingxue nodded in agreement and said, My mother is the best mother in the world, and even my grandmother has to praise her. Of course she is the most capable! Do you agree, Auntie? Zhou Ruyu was so speechless. And her powdered face stiffened and looked ridiculous. She dared to insult Dong Hui, because she was sure that Dong Hui didnt have guts. But she did not dare to face Shi Qingxues sharpness anyway. But she was not reconciled to admit in public that Dong Hui was better than her. Zhou Ruyu took a deep breath and made an innocent gesture that she was the one being bullied. She pitifully cried to Mo Shujun and said, Qingxue is such a serious kid. I just made a joke with sister-in-law, but she was taking it seriously! She easily described her insult to Dong Hui as a joke, and suddenly it became Shi Qingxues fault! But Shi Qingxue didnt buy it at all. She raised her eyebrows slightly, nobly but not arrogantly responded, Me as a daughter, its unalterable principle to uphold the righteousness of the mother. If I offend Auntie by doing so, please forgive me! If there were still people who felt that Shi Qingxue was disrespectful to her elders, these words made her behavior beyond reproach. After saying this, Shi Qingxue didnt give Zhou Ruyu a chance to talk back and turned to Mo Shujun instantly. Just like what Zhou Ruyu did before, she innocently asked, Grandma, do you think I did it right just now? The problem was left to Mo Shujun, who still had the same affection on her face, looked at the little granddaughter with a spoiling look, and responded, Of course, what Qingxue did was surely right! Later, Mo Shujun glanced at Zhou Ruyu slightly, and her tone became a little colder, Ruyu, if you dont know how to talk good, you should speak less! The old madam was completely showing partiality for Shi Qingxue this time. How could Zhou Ruyu dare to talk back? She could only admit that and embarrassedly look at Shi Qingxue flattering in front of Mo Shujun and say good words for Dong Hui constantly. Zhou Ruyu was angry and jealous. She squinted at her own two daughters, suggesting that Shi Qingxue would say good things for her mother. And this moment your mother was bullied, why didnt you stick up for me? The third lady, Shi Baojin, and the fourth lady, Shi Baoyou both bowed their heads and pretended that they could not see their mothers sign, which made Zhou Ruyu angrier. But after a while, she was not mad. Because Mammy Luo, who guarded the ancestral hall, ran to the front of Mo Shujun out of breath, knelt on the ground, and shouted in panic, Your Highness, something bad happened. The ancestral hall is on fire! These words shocked everyone like a thunder! The old Duke Shi lost both his parents when he was young. Later, he helped the late emperor establish Mo Dynasty and he was rewarded to be the Duke, but there were no one to enshrine in the ancestral hall. So there was only one person being enshrined there at present, and that was the old Duke, Shi Lei, Mo Shujuns husband. Even though Mo Shujun had experienced a lot, she was also in panic at this moment. At this time, the third master, Shi Juncai, who sat in the male guest seat, suddenly interjected, The ancestral hall has always been taken good care of by Sister Hui. How can it be on fire for no reason? Is this because of your neglect of duty? Chapter 4 - Committed Arson Mammy Luo hurriedly kowtowed and begged for mercy, Third Master, you are blaming me unjustly! Although I was ordered to stay at the ancestral hall by princess royal, my status was so low that I never dared to enter the ancestral hall easily. And I usually obey the first empresss arrangement if anything happened. I didnt dare to slack off. How was it possible for me to neglect my duties? The third master and the servant cooperated well and talked without a break. There was no chance for others to interrupt. They seemed to be criticizing and self-defending, but it was obvious that they wanted to blame on Dong Hui for the ancestral hall having got on fire. Those at present were not fools, and instantly knew the intention of the two of them. They all looked at Dong Hui. Dong Hui became shameful and her face and ears turned red, but Shi Juncai didnt explicitly blame her. She couldnt take the initiative to refute. She felt so wronged and could only look to Shi Qingxue for help. Shi Qingxue was probably one of the several people at present who knew what actually had happened. This incident had happened in her last life. It was just those contemptible scoundrel putting on a big show at this moment. She secretly gave her mother a reassuring look, and then reminded Mo Shujun when the banquet was in a mess, Grandma, it is necessary and urgent to go to the ancestral hall first. Mo Shujun immediately came back to her mind. She quickly nodded and walked to the ancestral hall, left the guests at the banquet alone. Seeing this, the others in the Shi Family could only apologize to the guests, and followed up quickly. The guests looked at each other and seemed to be hard to react on this sudden change. But they all endured a tacit understanding, sitting quietly at the banquet, and waiting for the Shi Family to tackle their own business first. When everyone of the Shi Family rushed to the ancestral hall, the flames in the courtyard of the ancestral hall had already scattered, and the dense smoke shadowed their eyes, making it unable for them to enter. Mo Shujun thought that it was the tablet of the man she loved most there, and suddenly became anxious, and she tried to enter there riskily. Fortunately, Dong Hui stopped her in time and persuaded sincerely, Mother, its still burning insides. You cant enter there anyway! But Mo Shujun, who was so anxious, instantly pushed Dong Hui away and yelled, How dare you say that to me? I make you in charge of shrine and accommodation stuff of our family, but you cant even take good care of such a little thing! If anything happens to Yunyangs tablet, you definitely cant get away from this! Dong Huis face became pale because of the criticism, and her lips trembled. Fortunately, Shi Qingxue was holding her aside so that she was able to barely stand still. Zhou Ruyu stood aside and watched frankly, thinking that Dong Hui had made such a huge mistake this time, and the position of mistress mustnt belong to her any more. At that time, once her husband said a few good words in front of the old madam, the power of taking charge of shrine and accommodation could be hers easily. Thinking of this, Zhou Ruyu showed another provocative look to Shi Qingxue: If you were so capable, could you defend for your mother again? She had expected that Mo Shujun was angry at this moment and if Shi Qingxue stood out, she could only be criticized. Shi Qingxue sneered, ignoring Zhou Ruyus provocation, and said in a serious look, Grandmother, dont worry. The urgent priority at this moment is to put out the fire first and then find out who is to blame. Mo Shujun calmed down a bit when she heard these words, and asked in a cold tone, Qingxue, do you have any good ways to put out the fire? This time, Zhou Ruyu didnt wait for Qingxue answer, and smartly pretended to comfort her, Qingxue! I know you feel grieved for your mother, but dont you see what a circumstance it is? Its your grandfather insides! And youre still protecting your mother. Im afraid its biased? With those words, she was blaming Shi Qingxue for regarding Dong Hui even higher than her grandfather. It seemed like that Shi Lei himself were in the ancestral hall. She was trying to put Shi Qingxue and Mo Shujun into the opposite sides! Zhou Ruyu had a very good plan. She reckoned that Shi Qingxue must burst into anger with her feature that she couldnt bear any provocation! She would be hated by Mo Shujun if she said some angry words then. But at this time, Shi Qingxue was not the arrogant young girl who could be irritated by a few words any more. She didnt bother to argue with Zhou Ruyu, and only gave Zhou Ruyu a faint glance, which made her astonished. Shi Qingxue turned around and called a servant. She whispered in his ear, and the servant took the order and ran away. Mo Shujun found it strange and asked, Qingxue, what are you doing? Shi Qingxue smiled to Mo Shujun to comfort her, Grandmother, please rest assured. I have a way to put out the fire. Zhou Ruyu couldnt help but sneer again, Who couldnt say nice words! Such a bluff. Arent you afraid that you would get retribution for it! You shut up! Mo Shujun finally couldnt help but yell at her, staring at Zhou Ruyu coldly. Zhou Ruyu felt scared and dared not to say anything else. At this time, the servant who ran away before brought more than ten servants, and each of them carried a large barrel in their hands and rushed to the fire. Seeing this, Zhou Ruyu snorted in the bottom of her heart: The fire was so big, and the yard was overgrown with grass and trees. How could a few barrels of water be able to put out the fire? Chapter 5 - Who Convicted Whom? But to everyones surprise, less than thirty minutes, the fire was gradually getting weaker. In the end, only a few sporadic sparks were left outside in the courtyard, which was not a cause for concern. How could this happen? Zhou Ruyu was so shocked that her chin was about to fall to the ground. The others also looked at Shi Qingxue curiously, wondering how she could put out the big fire in such a short time. Shi Qingxue looked around the ancestral hall as soon as the fire weakened, and she felt a little relieved. Then she explained, I just ordered people to carry the sand and gravel to separate a fire break first. Its to protect the ancestral hall. And then sprinkle the sand towards the burning place, and the fire would definitely be put out by doing so over and over again. How did you think of using sand to put out the fire? The helpers called by Mammy Luo were pouring pots of water into the fire, which was extremely inefficient. It was actually the first time that Mo Shujun had heard that gravel and sand could be used to put out fire, and the effect turned out to be surprisingly good! The fire became under control. Only then did Shi Qingxue really feel freer to perform well. And a hint of joy showed on the corners of her eyes, making her even more stunning. This is what one of myfriend taught me He said that below the grass is dust, and water will seep in soon, but the gravel would be different. It could cover the fire and put it out. The fire break could control the direction of fire, so that the fire could be put out quickly. When mentioning the friend, there was a hint of uncomfortableness on Shi Qingxues face. But no one cared about it. However, they felt suddenly enlightened, and when they looked at Shi Qingxue again, their sights became a little different. It seemed that they hadnt figured out why an inexperienced spoiled girl from a famous family not before long could become so wise. Shi Qingxue ignored the expressions of those people, and she didnt notice that there was a gloom sight that had been staring at her since she mentioned a friend. She suddenly changed the topic and asked Mammy Luo, Mammy Luo, since you said you never stepped into the ancestral hall easily, how did you know that the ancestral hall was on fire? Mammy Luo was suddenly questioned, and it took her a while to think of the lines she had prepared in the morning. She answered, We were guarding in the courtyard outside the ancestral hall. Suddenly we saw the smoke coming out of the ancestral hall, and we entered the ancestral hall together to have a look in case of accident. Then we noticed that it was burning. I hurriedly asked some people to put out the fire, and rushed to notify Her Highness! This statement made sense, and what she did was very appropriate. Shi Qingxue then asked again, So, you saw the one who committed arson? I didnt. When we went in, the temple was already on fire, and no one was seen inside. Mammy Luo answered calmly. Shi Qingxue narrowed her eyes suspiciously, If it was exactly like what you said, the ancestral hall was sealed, and there was only a short time from the time when the smoke rose until you entered the ancestral hall, so how could you not see the arsonist? Unless She didnt finish talking, but it was enough to turn everyones suspicion to Mammy Luo. Mammy Luo didnt expect Shi Qingxue to be so meticulous in logic that she even took this small detail into consideration. How could she still have the opportunity to slander Dong Hui? She couldnt pull herself out of it this time. She immediately became anxious and messed up, sweating all over her head, and couldnt help looking to Shi Juncai for help: Third Master! You hadnt told me this little princess was so hard to fool. What should I do at this moment? Shi Juncai was also surprised and suspicious, but soon he put on the elders posture, and criticized her on a deep voice, Qingxue, I know you want to protect your mother, but Mammy Luo always behaves fairly well and never makes mistakes. How could you slander Mammy Luo without evidence just in order to acquit your mother? The topic turned back to Dong Hui again, as if he had already convicted Dong Hui. Shi Qingxue blinked, and innocently asked, I dont quite understand the meaning of Third Uncle? When is my mother convicted so that she needs me to acquit her? You said over and over again that I cant slander Mammy Luo. But based on the meaning in your words, are you convicting my mother first? Shi Juncai choked up for a while, and he felt strange in his heart. Shi Qingxue was always not good at debating. How could she be so eloquent today? He didnt know that Shi Qingxue was never bad at talking, but was so arrogant and disdainful that she didnt bother to argue. He did not get the benefits, but did not dare to trouble her riskily. He had to give Mammy Luo a look as a hint, suggesting, I mean it needs to be figured out at last anyway. The fire in the ancestral hall for no reason, Mammy Luo should not be the only one having witnessed it. Mammy Luo realized it, and nodded again and again and said, Sixth Lady, you are blaming me wrongly! What I said was all true! If you dont believe it, you can ask those three servants who entered the ancestral hall to check out with me. Shi Qingxue didnt respond her but asked, So, did you witness the fire inside the ancestral hall? Chapter 6 - The Witnesses Came Out Mammy Luo was a little hesitant. She always felt that there was some other meaning in Shi Qingxues remarks, but she couldnt figure out what was wrong. She could only nod and say surely, Yes! I saw the enshrining table in the ancestral hall burned. If I am lying, make me shocked by thunder and meet with a tragic death! Such vicious vows were spoken out. They couldnt help but be moved. People at present almost believed Mammy Luos words. However, Qingxue looked inside the ancestral hall with surprise at this moment, Well? But it was not burned in the ancestral hall! Its impossible! Let alone Mammy Luo, even Shi Juncai was surprised this time! Grandmother, if you dont mind, you could enter the hall and then you would know it. Shi Qingxue didnt argue with them at all and proved it with the facts. Mo Shujun was thinking about the tablet in the ancestral hall. As soon as she heard what Shi Qingxue had said, she strode straight into it, not even paying attention to the shout of her youngest son. It was indeed not a wise choice to enter a once-burned wooden house. Dong Hui secretly pulled the sleeve of Shi Qingxue, and whispered, If the beam in the house collapses and your grandmother were injured, wouldnt the third masters family create a big disturbance? There wont be a problem. You can rest assured. Shi Qingxue couldnt tell it clearly, but she patted Dong Huis hands gently, and entered first in the sights of those in the third masters family, who were expecting a big show. Everyone followed into the hall, but the next moment they were shocked by the scene in the house: The light insides was dark yellow, full of santal, and Shi Leis tablet was on the primary position. Everything was safe and sound. How is that possible? Mo Shujun saw the scene inside the room, relieved first, but then looked at Shi Qingxue in amazement. It was all burned out on the outside. Why was there nothing wrong inside? Shi Qingxues look remained unchanged, instead she turned around to ask Mammy Luo, Im also surprised. How could you see the ancestral hall was on fire insides? Its impossible. I undoubtedly did ask Mammy Luo shouted in surprise, then suddenly shut her mouth up, pretending to have said nothing. Shi Qingxue then asked, What did you undoubtedly do? Only then did you just say that you saw the ancestral hall on fire, but now the ancestral hall is intact. How do you explain that? Mammy Luos face became pale, but she was still stubborn in her words, I really saw that the ancestral hall was on fire. How could it become like this? I really dont know. Sixth Lady, ask someone else and you shall know, if you dont believe me. Qingxue, you asked her one after another like this. Are you trying to force her to confess? Shi Juncai suddenly interrupted at this moment. And he asked intentionally, Besides, when normal people see that the courtyard of the ancestral hall is on fire, they must think that it is also burning inside. How did you know that there was no fire inside? Isnt this a bit unusual? This remark apparently accused Shi Qingxue of deliberately framing Mammy Luo with a trap. Shi Qingxue wasnt flurried at all. In the confused gaze of Mo Shujun, she slowly revealed the truth, Today is grandmothers birthday banquet. I remembered that grandpa always loved to wake up early in the morning to worship God, hoping that God would bless grandma healthy and safe. But my mother asked me to meet the guest in the front hall, and I could only let my maids, Xia Mang and Dong Shuang, come to worship for me first. Mo Shujun obviously also remembered Shi Leis habit. She could not help but look a little soft, no longer doubted, and listened to Qingxues words. Xia Mang and Dong Shuang came into the ancestral hall to incense, but they saw three men sneak into the ancestral hall and set fire. They captured the three men and tortured them to find out that it was actually Mammy Luos order to do such an evil thing. But when Xia Mang reported to me, Mammy Luo had already committed arson outside the courtyard, so I asked them to protect the ancestral hall, at the same time, I counterplotted in order to drive this evil person out! After that, Shi Qingxue sneered on the corner of her mouth, and said to Shi Juncai unhurriedly, Third Uncle, if you still dont believe it, you can ask those three witnesses of Mammy Luo. She raised her hand, and Xia Mang and Dong Shuang, who had been hiding in the dark, took the three men out. The three subordinates didnt bother to explain it anymore. All of a sudden, they knelt in front of Mo Shujun, and told how Mammy Luo used money to lure them to burn the ancestral hall and frame Dong Hui. Mammy Luo, now do you still dare to say that you arent the one who wants to disturb my grandmothers birthday banquet and slander my mother? Shi Qingxues words turned sharply towards Mammy Luo, she was scared and fell down to the ground, trembling and begging for mercy, Sixth Lady, please forgive me. I am just a servant. These are all third Chapter 7 - Dealt with One First Seeing that Mammy Luo was scared and about to tell everything, Shi Juncai was also terrified that his legs became weak for a while. He said in advance, Luo Song, my mother sent you to guard the ancestral hall. How do you dare to neglect your duties? Do you still want to quibble? Mammy Luo became a little more conscious with his yell, and her original confession was swallowed back under Shi Juncais glaring. All the lives of her family were in Shi Juncais hands. If she dared to drag him into this mess, he could ruin her with one finger! Its all my fault. I hated the first madams partiality and canceled my salary this month, and I made such a mistake. Your Majesty, please forgive me this time, regarding that Ive been cautious and conscientious these years! As if she suddenly understood, Mammy Luo burst into tears, and had a good attitude of confession, but she did not mention who directed it. You! Youre being stupid. Even if Dong Hui is biased, you cant make such a mistake! Shi Juncai reprimanded with pity. Then he turned to Mo Shujun and sighed, Mother, Luo Song is guilty, but she has been with you for so many years. You see Shi Juncai and the servant talked without a break, and they worked perfectly together. In the end, Shi Juncai actually wanted to settle this matter with some small punishments and serious criticism. Shi Qingxue sneered, Third Uncle, Mammy Luo burned the ancestral hall secretly, slandered my mother, and desecrated my grandfathers tablet. Would you still like to let these things pass? Shi Juncais thought was revealed straightforwardly. He choked up and his shame turned into anger, Isnt it unsuccessful anyway? Huh! If she really had burned Grandpas tablet, I would have sliced her alive! Shi Qingxue didnt hide her hatred for Mammy Luo at this time, and the grief in her eyes seemed to really peel and swallow her alive. It was exactly this old woman who had burned the ancestral hall and maliciously framed her mother. As a result, her mothers power to be in charge of shrine and accommodation as the wife of Duke was taken away. And Shi Junhe, the Duke Shi, fought in the warfare all year round, so he had no chance to protect his wife. When Shi Qingxue was not married yet, Mo Shujun at most disliked Dong Hui regarding her, but she never was mean or blamed Dong Hui. However, after she married to the fourth prince, even if she wanted to help her mother, she couldnt reach her. Later, after Shi Junhe died in the battlefield, Dong Huis status in the Shi Family was not even as good as a concubine! She couldnt tolerate such grievance anyway! Fortunately, she knew it in advance in this life. Even if she couldnt remove these evil people in her third uncles family immediately, she had to kill this executioner who slandered her mother! Obviously, Mo Shujun was also not satisfied with Shi Juncais wrong remark, and stared coldly at Shi Juncai before asking Qingxue, Qingxue, how do you think is appropriate to deal with Luo Song? This was to give Shi Qingxue the right of punishment. Mother! Qingxue is still a child, how could she Shi Juncai just weakened but couldnt help protesting when he heard the words. However, before he even finished the words, Mo Shujun gave him a cold glance, he had to shut up unwillingly. Shi Qingxue quietly looked at Mo Shujuns gracious gaze with encouragement, and then lowered her head after a moment, and said with a flat tone, Mammy Luo is not a servant in my family. How do I dare to cross the boundary? It would be more appropriate to let my mother deal with this. Grandmother, you make my mother in charge of shrine and accommodation, so of course you believe that my mother is capable of handling this matter. After Mo Shujun heard this, she turned to Dong Hui, the Dukes wife. After a while, she nodded and said in a casual tone, Since this is the case, this matter is all yours to handle. The family of third master should return to the backyard with me. Although Shi Juncai was unwilling to let Dong Hui pass this time, it was definitely not good for him to delve into the arson at the ancestral hall. He grinned, and secretly said, Even if you happened to catch Mammy Luo, I dont believe you still have such good luck later! When everyone was gone, Dong Hui was relieved and silently wiped the sweat on her forehead. She was almost driven to the corner by those of the third masters family. She did not only suffer from chagrin, but also was slandered. It was really dangerous. Had Shi Qingxue not refuted for her with her smart words, how would Mo Shujun have given her the power to deal with Mammy Luo. So now she also paid much attention to Shi Qingxues opinions. Qingxue, what should I do with this evil servant? Mammy Luo is experienced in this family, and has served the princess royal for so many years. She Chapter 8 - Another Problem Shi Qingxue hadnt spoken yet, but Mammy Luo took the chance to ask for mercy, Sixth Lady, please forgive me! I really just made a wrong decision. Regarding that I have served the princess royal, please Qingxues look was cold, and she said straight to Dong Hui, Mother, havent I just said that? You are the hostess of this family. It is your right to dispose of this evil servant in accordance with family rules. I dont believe that when you deal with a servant who offended the master, there would be people who dare to say anything about you? Even if you throw her out of the house, no one dare to disagree with that. In addition to disturbing the frame of her Third Uncle, more importantly, she made this trap today to let her mother establish prestige in the Shi Family! In this way, people like Mammy Luo would not appear again. In such a situation, she still dared to ignore Dong Hui and Shi Qingxue for forgiveness. Did she really think that the Dukes wife didnt exist? Dong Hui frowned, subconsciously wanted to ask whether such punishment would be too severe, but thinking that it was Qingxue trying to help her establish prestige, she took the words back. With the majesty of Dukes wife, she ordered, Zheng, the family rules clearly state that any servant having offended the master should be flogged thirty times and expelled from this house. Regarding that Mammy Luo is aged and has served my mother, she may get away from flogging. Just expel her! Madam, please forgive me. Madam Mammy Luo realized then that the person who really had control over her life was the Dukes wife, but it was too late. When she just started to talk, Mammy Zheng covered her mouth and dragged her out. Shi Qingxues heart was about to relieve after seeing that her mother had finally became tough, she saw Mammy Zhang hurried over and whispered in Dong Huis ear. How could this happen? Dong Hui was frightened, and hurriedly took Shi Qingxues hand, and said urgently, Zhang said she just went to the kitchen to check and found that the kitchen was destroyed by somebody, and all the ingredients were ruined. It is soon 2 oclock, and the birthday banquet is about to start. What am I supposed to do? Shi Qingxue was shocked for a moment, and finally understood what Shi Juncais sinister smile was for before he left! In her last life, at Mo Shujuns 60th birthday banquet, besides that the ancestral hall of Shi Family was destroyed, the ingredients originally prepared for the birthday banquet were also ruined for no reason. In her last life, Mo Shujun punished Dong Hui in public because of the destruction of Shi Leis tablet, and even removed her power to manage shrine and accommodation. Later they discovered that the ingredients were ruined. But it was nothing more than a supplement to Dong Huis fault, and the bad influence of it was not at the same level as that of the former one. So Shi Qingxue forgot this matter. Shi Qingxue and Dong Hui quickly hurried to the kitchen. It was a great mess in the kitchen and on the stove. The ingredients were ruined and could not be used at all. But it would be too late to purchase new ingredients at this time. Well? Its really boisterous here! Zhou Ruyus cold voice sounded from outside the house. Seeing them look back, without concealing the glee on her face, My mother sent me to ask when the dishes could be available since its 2 oclock soon? There were so many people waiting for the joke today. Zhou Ruyu went away and came back, apparently to pick up Dong Huis fault, and she was not alone. As the one who was following her, Shi Qingxue would never forget him even if he was burned to ashes! The fourth prince Mo Junhao! Mo Junhao was tall and very handsome. Everyone could tell that he was extraordinary from the first glance. He entered and glanced at the horrible scene in the kitchen, and asked gently with concern, Qingxue, what happened? Is there anything I can help you with? Shi Qingxue confronted Mo Junhao. Her great hatred for him hit her chest. She could only clench her fists tightly, and the sharp pain of her nails piercing her palms stopped her from rushing over to tear up the scum. She slightly looked down, and said as calmly as possible, There was only a small accident, and I didnt dare to bother Your Highness. There was inconceivable surprise on Mo Junhaos face. He didnt understand that Shi Qingxue, who had always stuck with him, would behave so coldly, as if she was another person. Qingxue? Whats wrong with you? Why are you regarding me as an outsider? Mo Junhao frowned deeply and his lightened eyes looked skeptical. Shi Qingxue also knew that her performance was not like what she usually was, but she couldnt help it! After experiencing all kinds of misfortunes in the previous life, she even had the intention to kill Mo Junhao, and she indeed didnt have the mood to pretend in front of him. Fortunately, Dong Hui also noticed something wrong with her daughter, and took the initiative to talk, Your Highness, there was an accident in our family just now. Qingxue was in a bad mood, please forgive her. Chapter 9 - King Ruis Eldest Son Mo Junhao said that he wouldnt blame her. He waited for a while, but Dong Hui and Shi Qingxue seemed completely unaware of their embarrassing situation, and did not mention the destruction of ingredients in the kitchen at all. He couldnt wait any longer, so he had to start the topic first, I saw the kitchen messed up, and auntie was embarrassed. I wonder if there is anything that I can help with? Shi Qingxue sneered in her heart, secretly saying that she was really blind in her previous life. Why did she feel that Hao could be like a god and could save her and her mother from such an embarrassing situation? This man was clearly malicious, he dug a trap and waited for them to jump into it! At this moment, they kept silent, but he was ready to push them down at any time! What a great brother of her! She didnt hold back, and asked back with a cold look that seemed to be smiling, Your Highness, I dont know what you think you can do to help? This question was indeed not polite, but Mo Junhao thought that he knew about Shi Qingxues pride. So he just took it as she was in a bad mood, and said more softly, Is Qingxue suffering from the lack of ingredients, and there is no way to start the banquet? The question was right on the point. Even if Dong Hui was pulled by Shi Qingxue, she couldnt help but be surprised when she heard the words, and asked: Is there a solution, Your Highness? Mo Junhao nodded with a smile and did not be deliberately mystifying. He seemed very empathetic and said, It happens to be that we will host a banquet in our house these days, so we have prepared the ingredients in advance. If you need it, I can order someone to send the ingredients immediately, and the dishes will definitely be served on time at 2 oclock. Dong Hui did not expect that there was such a coincidence, and she looked at Shi Qingxue subconsciously. Shi Qingxue secretly gave a sign to Dong Hui, expressing her disagreement. In her last life, Mo Junhao won Shi Junhe and Dong Huis preference with this favor, and made Shi Qingxue fall for his tenderness, and finally led to their unfortunate marriage. At this moment she was awakened and was unwilling to accept this persons pretentious flattery anyway. But at this time, Zhou Ruyu aside who was watching all this said again, Isnt Hui always capable? And there is a daughter with a silver tongue. Even if there were no dishes on the table when the banquet began, how could our mother embarrass you? Dong Huis expression froze. With Mo Shujuns dislike to her, if there was really something wrong with the birthday banquet, Mo Shujun would never spare her. Having figured out the key, Dong Hui quickly nodded to Mo Junhao, Your Highness, Im afraid that we need to bother you Mother! Shi Qingxue shouted in shock, interrupting Dong Huis response. But her mother didnt know about Mo Junhaos sinister intentions. At the time, she still thought that it was just Shi Qingxue being unpleasant with the Fourth Prince, and quickly whispered to comfort her, Qingxue, dont be wilful. Now the guests are waiting for the dishes to be served. If anything goes wrong, your third aunt is going to cause me big trouble! But it was because Mo Junhao had predicted this that he deliberately set a trap for you to go into it! It would cost a lot to make a prince do a favor! Shi Qingxue shouted secretly in her heart, anxious and angry. But even the smartest woman couldnt cook without rice. Even if she was clever in some emergencies, there was no way to solve this urgent need without any ingredients. Just when Shi Qingxue was extremely anxious, a cold male voice suddenly came from the door, Excuse me. Everyone looked at the kitchens door together, and saw a young man standing quietly in the sun, wearing a purple brocade robe, with a cold look. The facial features were as fascinating as the elaborate carving by a craftsman. Shi Qingxue was stunned looking at him. Shi Qingxue did not expect that she would see Mo Junyang, the enemy of her in the previous life. Different from the bitter hatred when she saw Mo Junhao, she couldnt hate Mo Junyang. Instead, she subconsciously set aside her sight with a guilty conscious for no reasons. Why did Mo Junyang, an unknown son as a hostage, appear here? Why are you here? Mo Junhao asked, which was Shi Qingxues question in her heart. However, Mo Junyang only glanced at Mo Junhao coldly. He looked at Dong Hui, and his tone was as cold as ever, The Prince remembers that princess royal fond of cooks dishes in the palace. He specifically asks me to bring some fresh ingredients and order the cook in the palace to come to help. If Mo Junhaos help could solve the urgent need, then what Mo Junyang had brought was undoubtedly the pennies from the heaven. Then, even if Mo Shujun knew about the destruction of the ingredients, she could not blame her. After all, was it possible that ingredients brought from the palace and the dishes made by the cook in the palace were worse than those in the Shi Family? Dong Hui felt that she should have been pleased, but when she saw Mo Junyangs cold face without a smile, why was she worried instead? Chapter 10 - Met Ghost in Daytime However, it was Shi Qingxue that was overjoyed when she heard that Mo Junyang was here to deliver things, and she didnt even think about why she was willing to owe Mo Junyang a favor, but unwilling to have any relationship with Mo Junhao, even though they were both her enemies in her last life. She just gave her mother a wink. The latter understood. She nodded quickly and welcomed Mo Junyang and the others into the kitchen. Shi Qingxue didnt know whether it was her imaginary or not that Mo Junyang seemed to have expected that the kitchen would be destroyed. Apart from the cook, he even brought the cleaning man from the palace. Those people cleaned up a place in an orderly way and started to prepare the dishes, which was very efficient. On the contrary, Mo Junhao, originally full of confidence, thought that with this favor he could capture the beautys heart. Suddenly he was interrupted by Mo Junyang, and all his plans were useless. His handsome face which always seemed positive and gentle became twisted. Seeing this, Shi Qingxue flashed a sly look in her eyes, and suddenly exclaimed, Now that the ingredients for the birthday banquet are ready. Sorry for having bothered Your Highness to be concerned about it! When Mo Junhao saw that Qingxue still cared about him, he thought that she was really touched by him, and his heart was overjoyed, but he showed a magnanimous smile on his face. He said, It doesnt matter, as long as nothings wrong with this banquet. Shi Qingxue smiled and yelled, Your Highness, wouldnt it be a waste of your special preparations for the Shi Family? She intentionally pressed the word special, as if to say that Mo Junhao was deliberately preparing those things to wait for the Shi Family to be awkward. Mo Junhaos smiled face was frozen. His face became green and pale because of embarrassment. After a while, he smiled reluctantly, Its not special. I just happened to have prepared some ingredients. But Im sorry for letting Your Highness come in vain! Shi Qingxue smiled politely. Immediately, she called for Xia Mang and told her seriously, Tell the housekeeper for me to withdraw some money from the accountant and send it to the Fourth Princes house to reward those who are on standby. After all, the Fourth Prince has the intention to help us and it is a favor. The Shi family cannot take advantage of him but give nothing back. At this moment, Mo Junhaos face was really awkward, but he still needed to maintain a graceful manner and couldnt get angry with Shi Qingxue. Anyway, she was being grateful for his intention to help, even if she behaved like that she was sending away a beggar Mo Junhao secretly gritted his teeth for a while, and said in his heart that he might tolerate it this time, but when Shi Qingxue married him in the future, he would deal with all the matters and grievance then! He smiled and thanked her, and no longer responded. Because of Mo Junyangs god-like behaviour, the dishes on Mo Shujuns birthday banquet were served on time. Shi Qingxue should be happy, but at the banquet she gradually realized what the abnormal feeling was. At this time, Mo Junyang was supposed to remain as a hostage of King Rui in the capital. He had no status at all. Mo Junyang was raised to be the eldest son and rushed to Rui Prefecture until King Rui was seriously ill and Mo Junyangs life experience was revealed later. But now Mo Junyang was already the eldest son of King Rui, and what was even more nonsense was that the former Prince Mo Junyu, who had died of smallpox when she was eight years old, was still alive! But now Mo Junyu was sitting alive beside Mo Shujun, which almost scared Shi Qingxue to death! She really met ghost in daytime! The differences between the two lives made Shi Qingxue cant help wondering whether anyone was reborn like her and even before her. Shi Qingxue put her skeptical sight on the elegant Prince Mo Junyu. With the experience of the last life, she would not think so innocently that there would be such a coincidence. It was most possible that this prince knew that something would happen to the Shi Familys kitchen, and did this favor like the coal in a snowstorm! She secretly thought about the opportunity to meet with Mo Junyu. But the First Lady of the Shi Family, Shi Baoning, suddenly felt unwell, and she passed out just when the banquet was over. Shi Baoning was Qingxues sister given birth from the same mother. She was the eldest daughter of the Shi family, very much loved by Mo Shujun. Seeing that her beloved granddaughter was unwell, Mo Shujun went to Shi Baonings boudoir without even paying attention to the guests. Shi Qingxue was a bit worried and wanted to follow up with her, but Xia Mang brought a note to her at this time. Looking at the contents of the note, her look suddenly became dignified. Sixth Lady, are you going to see this man? Xia Mang asked carefully aside. Shi Qingxue nodded. She had expected that her present life was very different from her previous life, and the biggest change wanted to see her. There was no reason for her to refuse. She came to the pavilion in the backyard alone, and she saw the man sitting still there waiting for her. When he saw her, he nodded slightly, Qingxue. Shi Qingxue had a very vague impression on Mo Junyu, and now she felt somewhat strange with Mo Junyu. There was no close relationship as cousins should have at all, and she only said politely, Your Highness. Thanks for your help today. Mo Junyu smiled and said gently, Qingxue, you dont have to be like this. I am your relative, and princess royal is also my grandmother. With no doubt, I cant stand by and watch someone maliciously ruin her birthday banquet. Shi Qingxue suddenly understood that even if Mo Junyu wasnt reborn, he must have paid close attention to the Shi family, so that he could know the maliciousness of the third master and Mo Junhao in advance. He didnt hide the thoughts to align the Shi Family, which could be considered to be bright and clear. Shi Qingxue was more satisfied with this prince. If the Shi family really needed to support one side, Mo Junyu might be a good choice. She thought for a moment before she said, Your Highness, I will always remember your favor today in my heart. If you have any order in the future, I will surely do my best. Chapter 11 - Persistent Madam Zhou Mo Junyu was slightly stunned, probably because he did not expect Shi Qingxue to be so direct. After a long while, he said, Qingxue, dont treat me as a stranger. Seeing you this time is not for recompense. I have something else vital to tell you. Shi Qingxue nodded but did not speak. She waited for Mo Junyus words. Mo Junyu also didnt keep her guessing, and said straight forward, Baonings illness, you can go to Mang Mountain for medical treatment. Shi Qingxues pupils tightened suddenly, and she suddenly looked up at Mo Junyu, who also looked back frankly and did not evade. But it made her even more confused about Mo Junyus attitude. In this life, what Shi Qingxue couldnt bear the most was that others tried to frame her close relatives, and her voice became a little colder, Your Highness is well-informed, why not tell the news to my grandmother yourself? The Shi family had been concerned for the First Lady Shi Baonings illness. If someone offered a good doctor at this time, the Shi family would definitely give valuable remuneration. Especially when that person was a prince. It might not be impossible if there was a good fairy tale of a marriage because of this life-saving favor. Mo Junyu shook his head and said sincerely, It is inconvenient for me because of my identification. Duke Shi is a loyal subject of the country. It is not appropriate to keep a too close relationship with me. The alert in Shi Qingxues eyes turned to surprise, and it was not good to say any offending words. She lowered her eyes and whispered, Your Highnesss good intention, I will always remember it in my heart. No matter why Mo Junyu was concerned for the Shi Family, she could not refuse this affection. Mo Junyu didnt care about Shi Qingxues attitude, but reminded, The skilled doctors name is Shen Luo, and he is very famous in Mang Mountain area. You will know if you go and ask. But the skilled doctor is quite hard to get along. The way to him is not safe either. You must be more careful on the way. I know! Shi Qingxue once again thanked Mo Junyu for his kind reminder. The two didnt say much more, and they left after talking a few words. However, Xia Mang, who was not far away, couldnt help but ask, Sixth Lady, the Prince invited you to meet in private. Is he trying to use you to win over First Master? Shi Qingxue nodded and then shook her head immediately, looking at Xia Mangs confused look, smiling, Its just a meeting with me. Who knows what his plan is? Lets wait and see what will happen in the future! Xia Mang always trusted her master and saw that Qingxue was confident, so she didnt bother to think about it. She only whispered, Those of Third Masters family just came to trouble you. I made Dong Xue ease them out. They didnt know that the Prince met you. Shi Qingxue gave Xia Mang an admiring look, satisfied with her alertness, but the disgusting guys in Third Masters family made her frown again, What trouble is my Third Aunt causing now? The First Lady fainted away just now, and the madams and ladies in the family followed princess royal to visit her. The Third Madam somehow brought you up again Xia Mang didnt finish speaking, but it was conceivable that what Zhou Ruyu said was certainly not good words. Shi Qingxue sneered, I just need to tell my grandmother something, so lets see what she has to do with me. Qingxue took Xia Mang to Shi Baonings Jingshu Boudoir. The room was already full of people, headed by Mo Shujun, and the madams and ladies of the Shi Family were almost all there. Dong Hui was looking at Shi Baoning anxiously beside the bed while listening to the doctor explaining the cautions. But Zhou Ruyu was standing next to Mo Shujun speaking noisily and just mentioned, Mother, you dont have to worry. Baoning will be taken good care of by juniors, and nothing will happen. You can see that they are all hereOh, Qingxue Third Aunt really cares about Qingxue very much. I just go out for a while, and you are in a hurry to find me! Shi Qingxue interrupted Zhou Ruyus words coldly. Zhou Ruyu was caught up when saying bad things about others, and her face suddenly turned red. She spoke haltingly, but she didnt dare to retort to Shi Qingxue at last. But at this time, someone stood out for Zhou Ruyu and retorted coldly, Qingxue means that it is wrong for Auntie to care about you? Shi Qingxue didnt need to raise her eyes but knew that the only person who would retort to her at this time was her sister Shi Baoyan. As soon as Shi Baoyan said this, everyones sights fell on Shi Qingxue, and there were many people who waited for the show. She was used to the provocation by Shi Baoyan. Shi Qingxue was not panicked. She didnt even raise her eyelids, and said lightly, Whether Auntie is wrong or not, how can we juniors judge it? But she is really good at capturing the opportunity! Shi Baoyan had always looked down on Shi Qingxue, thinking that she was acting egoistically in the family just because she was born by First Madam, but actually she was useless. She simply said, Is that what you meant when you interrupted Third Aunt just now? Isnt that judgement? Shi Qingxue looked calm and responded indifferently, Since Auntie has asked about me, of course I should answer her words. Do you think that you should not answer the elders? You! Shi Baoyan was stunned lightly. Her face flushed, but she had nothing to say. Shi Baoyan did not expect Shi Qingxue to be able to say so, and the others looked at Shi Qingxue suspiciously. They didnt see her for a few days, but the rude and wayward Sixth Lady Shi seemed to have been changed into a totally different person. She was not less proud, but the manners and behaviors displayed were elegant, and they could no longer see the unreasonable gestures before. Especially at the banquet, when those madams and ladies from aristocratic families met her, none of them didnt praise her! Was it possible for the illness to make a person be better? At this time, Mo Shujun spoke, Well, you are both sisters. What does it look like to have a quarrel? Criticizing both sides, she wanted to solve this problem. Shi Baoyan was still unwilling to give in. She almost wrote Grandma was partial on her face! Even Zhou Ruyu felt unfair. She thought that Grandmother was way too partial in her heart, and she was always helping those two daughters in the First Masters family, as if other granddaughters were not hers! Shi Qingxue looked at it with a cold eye, but with a sneer in her heart. She secretly said in her heart about her grandmother! Did Grandmother think that she was still the same Sixth Lady Shi as before Chapter 12 - People Looking for the Skilled Doctor Shi Qingxue also wasnt willing to let go of them so easily, but she didnt bother to think deeply about it at this urgent moment. Pretending not to see the looks of those people, she said in a humble tone, Grandma, please forgive me. It is not that I dont treasure this sisterhood. I accidentally learned just now that there was a skilled doctor in Mang Mountain named Shen Luo, and he might be able to cure Baonings illness. Thats why I went to send people to inquire, hoping to invite this skilled doctor to heal Baoning. Mo Shujun didnt expect Qingxues execution to be so strong, and she even thought of finding a skilled doctor to heal Baoning. Huh! What kind of skilled doctor is she talking about? Who knows whether its gonna work or not? Besides, the doctor of the family is experienced, Qingxue is planning to abandon the good doctor in the house, and to go somewhere far to find a rural doctor. Whos to blame if anything bad happens? Shi Baoyan did not hold back, and sneered at Shi Qingxue again, speaking ceaselessly like a firecracker. She made such a serious accusation, just wanting to blame Shi Qingxue for killing her elder sister! If that person was timid, she might really be easily fooled by Shi Baoyan. But Shi Qingxue didnt buy it, and talked back indifferently, Of course I will spare no effort trying to save my elder sister. Whether the skilled doctor will succeed or not, who can tell before a try? Do you have any better ways to make Baoning healed without medicine? Of course Shi Baoyan didnt have any ways, and her vigor suddenly weakened. Shi Qingxue looked at Dr. Qin aside who was feeling Shi Baonings pulse. The latter quickly and respectfully said, I am lack of medicating means, and have not been able to heal First Lady for many years, and I am really ashamed. Speaking of the skilled doctor Shen Luo, I have occasionally heard of him. If you can invite this person, First Lady may really be healed! Even the doctor of the Shi Family said so, Shi Baoyan had no room to bargain any more. Mo Shujun was overjoyed when she heard the words, Really! In this case, I will immediately send some men to Mang Mountain to find this person! Grandma! Shi Qingxue interrupted at this time, in Mo Shujuns inquiring sight, and gently explained, I know from the book that those who are called skilled doctors are very difficult to get along. If we send a servant casually to invite him, then the doctor may not be willing to come a long way to medicate Baoning. So I want to go to Mang Mountain in person. In the surprised eyes of everyone, she continued to say calmly, First, I can go ask the local people to find out whether this doctor is really worthy of the name; second, I can also show the sincerity of our Shi Family and I reckon that the doctor should not refuse. With such reasons of Shi Qingxue, even if Zhou Ruyu didnt want Shi Qingxue to push herself forward, she had no reason to disagree. Not to mention that Mo Shujun had already nodded repeatedly, boasting Qingxues sisterhood affection. Depressed in her heart, Zhou Ruyu looked around and her sight fell on Shi Baoyan, who was also upset. Suddenly, she said, Mother, you are right. The ladies you taught are naturally good. Needless to say Qingxue. Even though Baoyan and Baoning were not from the same mother, she is also very worried about Baonings health. She sighed and told me a few days ago that she just hated that she couldnt go out to find a good doctor for Baoning! Shi Baoyan was suddenly mentioned, and she looked dumbfounded and said, I didnt Zhou Ruyu gave her a severe glance, and she realized that Auntie was fighting for her merit! Shi Baoyan looked at Zhou Ruyu gratefully, and nodded quickly and begged Mo Shujun, Grandma, I am also very concerned about the health of Baoning. Although Qingxue said that the skilled doctor was amazing, but I am not assured unless I take a visit in person. I hope that Grandma can allow me. Of course Mo Shujun was very happy with family harmony and love, but thinking that the skilled doctor was proposed from Shi Qingxue, she asked, Qingxue, what do you think? Everyones sights gathered on Shi Qingxue again. Of course, Zhou Ruyu and Shi Baoyan became jealous in their hearts again, and even Dong Hui looked at her with anxiety. Shi Qingxue didnt look at anyone, just lowered her head, I will obey Grandmas decision. She didnt agree, nor did she refuse. Well! Mo Shujun took a meaningful look at Shi Qingxue with a bit of inquiry, but she didnt continue to say. She groaned for a moment, and nodded, Since Qingxue is okay with that, you should prepare well and go together! After that, she turned around to Dong Hui and explained, You will help them get some luggage packed tomorrow, and then dispatch a few guardians who are good at martial arts in the house to ensure their safety. The Mo Dynastys national custom was open. In the early days of founding the country, there were circumstances where women went on the battlefield. At this time, it was not a big deal to go out. The old madam simply instructed something, and then went back to Shouan Hall to rest. It was Mo Shujuns sixtieth birthday today, and she was exhausted for a day. It was enough to show her love of Shi Baoning that she could come to visit her. But it was impossible for her to stay here for a long time. As soon as she left, the others would not stay long. After a moment, there were only Shi Qingxue and Dong Hui left in the room. Xia Mang was very smart and whispered, Sixth Lady, I will go out to guard. You can just tell me if you need anything! Dong Hui then asked, Qingxue, what is the skilled doctor you said? The doctors in the capital city and even the doctors in the emperors palace have drawn the conclusion that Nings illness was brought out from the mothers womb and its impossible to heal. She can only be nursed carefully. How can you call that bluff in front of your grandmother? When did I call a bluff? I just said that the skilled doctor had great ability, and he might cure Baoning! She didnt say any absolute words! As for the origin of this skilled doctor, Shi Qingxue hesitated for a moment, but she still did not tell Dong Hui about her meeting with Mo Junyu. To tell this thing or not to tell, which was better? Chapter 13 - Unpeaceful Boudoir Shi Qingxue saw Dong Hui looked anxious and extremely worried, she took back the words which had reached her lips. Firstly, she hadnt figured out Mo Junyus purpose, and secondly, she really didnt want her mother to worry about these things again. Dong Hui was surprised by Qingxues sly expression, and then laughed, You shrewdness! Well! If that skilled doctor can really cure Ning, then I will be at ease! Dong Hui always felt that she didnt pay much attention to her physical health when she was pregnant, which led to her daughters bad health since she was young. Needless to say how guilty she was! He definitely will. Mother, you can rest assured! Shi Qingxue knew Dong Huis guilt, and said firmly to pass this firm conviction to her mother. Dong Huis face was a little bit cheerful and she chuckled, I hope! The trouble is that Baoyan will also go with you. She has been jealous of you since she was a child, and she vies with you for no matter what. How many problems will she cause on the way? Having said that, Dong Hui couldnt help but grit her teeth, It was all because of damn Madam Zhou. She just couldnt stand seeing us live well, and always encouraged Baoyan to fight with you! Flies dont bite seamless eggs. If she really is with us, how can she be provoked by others? Shi Qingxue sneered, and her look was disdainful. You are Dong Hui frowned, and seemed not very satisfied with Qingxues attitude, whispered comfortingly, Its okay that you and Baoyan have some little quarrels and mess around in spare time, but she is from our First Masters family anyway. We cant betray and ruin the relationship among our own families, which will be joked by others! How proud Shi Qingxue was that she might not lower her head when she actually did something wrong, let alone being provoked. She would never be treated wrongly. Therefore, in her last life, she did not like to hear Dong Hui say those words to settle problems, and thought that her mother was not grand enough, so she was closer to her grandmother who spoiled her and looked graceful and dignified. But having been reborn, Shi Qingxue knew more and understood more. Shi Qingxue knew Dong Huis pains clearly. Having heard Dong Huis words, although she still did not agree with Dong Huis approach, she would not despise her, but even felt distressed. If it were not Qingxue suppressed inappropriate thoughts and gave Dong Hui a reassuring smile, Mother, dont worry. I wont let them find any opportunity to trouble you! Dong Hui was reminded of Shi Qingxues performance for the whole day, and she smiled a little bit again, You are really sensible. When your grandmother asked you, I thought you would reject it instantly! Then Madam Zhou surely would say bad things about you to mother! Like she disrespected sister, and was eager for merit. Zhou Ruyus mouth could ruin a good girl. In the past, Shi Qingxue did often conflict with Zhou Ruyu. Although Zhou Ruyu seemed not to dare to stand on the side against Qingxue, her secret approaches were endless, which would disgust others and corrupt Qingxues reputation. Dont you worry about it. I have a sense of propriety. Shi Qingxue smiled and looked like that she didnt care about it at all. She was just worried about Dong Hui, so she softly reminded, My father and I are not at home these days, and you have to be careful. If something happens, just wait until I come back! Dong Hui knew what her daughter was referring to, and felt warmer in her heart. She nodded, and said a few more words before letting Qingxue leave. Sixth Lady, do you really take Fifth Lady to Mang Mountain? As soon as she returned to Luotong Boudoir, Dong Shuang couldnt help but hurriedly ask. Shi Qingxue nodded, Yeah, why? Dong Shuang was even more anxious, It was you who found the skilled doctor, but Fifth Lady got involved. She clearly wanted to grab your merit. Shes too shameless! Dong Shuang always talked straightforward, and didnt worry about anything while speaking. She didnt realize she was slandering her master at all. Xia Mang aside frowned, and scolded, What are you saying? Talk about your masters. You miss the punishment, right? Dong Shuang was scolded and her vigor weakened. She stuck her tongue out embarrassedly, pulled Xia Mangs clothes with her small hand, and begged in a low voice, I was just straightforward then, and I hope that you will forgive me. Go away. You, if you dont change the words you say, sooner or later, you will cause trouble to Sixth Lady! Xia Mang pretended to be strict and scolded. Dong Shuang quickly gestured to seal her mouth, and seemed to be complaining to Shi Qingxue, Sixth Lady, look at this. Mang is really a big figure. You havent even scolded me yet. She has already made that stance! These words were said in front of Xia Mang, so of course she was joking! Shi Qingxue also knew that these two servants often made fun of each other and didnt care, but instead she also joked, Xia Mang is the servant who is in charge of Luotong Boudoir. How can she do it without momentum? I am not able to scold you these little pricks! Xia Mang stamped her feet shyly when she heard those words, Master, you dont have to scold Dong Shuang. Besides, why do you help her bully me? Dong Shuang, arms akimbo, smiled complacently, Sixth Lady likes me! You can be envious but you cant get it! Dong Shuang, its your blessing that Sixth Lady likes you. How can you be so proud and complacent? A clear voice suddenly interjected, and then they saw Chun Yu walking into the room with a delicate vase. Dong Shuang didnt hear the jealousy in Chun Yus words, and thought she was only joking. She pretended to be arrogant and laughed, I said the truth. Sixth Lady, do you agree? She also wanted to grab Shi Qingxue as an alliance Shi Qingxue smiled and pointed at the tip of Dong Shuangs nose and didnt answer, but asked Chun Yu, Why are you here? Chun Yu didnt realize that the smile in Qingxues eyes faded away, she smiled even more brilliantly. She passed the vase to the front of Qingxue and smiled sweetly, I know that Sixth Lady loves hibiscus flower the most. I saw those in the yard just now, which bloomed so well, so I picked two to decorate your room. She did what Shi Qingxue liked, thinking she would definitely please Sixth Lady. But when she looked up and saw Shi Qingxues expression, her thoughts suddenly changed. Chapter 14 - Got Water Muddy First However, Shi Qingxue didnt express much surprise at the hibiscus flowers sent to her. The smile on her face remained the same, and she pointed to the dresser in the distance, You may just put them there. After that, she ignored Chun Yu, and discussed the matter of going to Mang Mountain with Xia Mang and Dong Shuang. Obviously, she did not plan to take Chun Yu with her this time. Dong Shuang was the youngest. When she heard that they were going out, she forgot her previous complaints and discussed with them cheerfully. She didnt pay attention to Chun Yus twisted face when turning around. Shi Qingxue seemed not to notice it, and she talked about some unimportant things with Dong Shuang, and it wasnt until Chun Yu slowly put down the vase and had to leave that she suddenly said solemnly, Xia Mang, come here. I have something to say to you Chun Yus had already stepped out of the room and could only continue to walk out. At this moment she really wished that she had a pair of magical ears so that she was able to hear the conversation in the room. But Dong Shuang had already closed the door of the room, and there was no sound from inside. Huh! Sixth Lady is so partial. All good things are given to those two guys! Chun Yu stood outside the door, twisting her handkerchief with her small hands, and looked upset. After Shi Qingxue made sure that the voice in the house would not be heard, she said in a serious look, Xia Mang, tomorrow I will go to Mang Mountain with Dong Shuang. You stay in the house. Except for Luotong Boudoir, you should also pay attention to my mothers Zhenghe Garden and my sisters Jingshu Boudoir. I get it, and I will never disappoint your trust. Xia Mang realized that Shi Qingxue specifically avoided Chun Yu and told her this. But if she really wanted to avoid her, why not avoid her more completely? On the contrary, it seemed to cause Chun Yus curiosity on purpose! Xia Mang was surprised, and suddenly understood Shi Qingxues intention. However, she had always been calm and extremely loyal. She never questioned her own master. Instead, she became a little bit alert, Was there anything bad about Chun Yu? Sixth Lady, rest assured. I will definitely not give them a chance to harm our Luotong Boudoir! Shi Qingxue thought about it, and suddenly evoked a sly smile, and said, Forget it, you dont have to worry too much about Luotong Boudoir. After allhow can I catch the fish when the water is not muddy? Xia Mang also understood Shi Qingxues intention after a while, and smiled, I understand! What do you understand? Why dont I understand at all? Arent we going to Mang Mountain? How did it become catching fish? Dong Shuangs mind was simple, so she didnt understand it from the beginning to the end, and she suddenly felt disappointed. You nerd! Xia Mang sneered and didnt explain. She was so joyful to see Dong Shuang being anxious. Dong Shuang felt more embarrassed and said unwillingly, What is it? Sixth Lady is just as bad as Mang. You are telling the riddle and dont tell me! I am upset! However, no matter how Dong Shuang played tricks, the two did not answer her, and continued to talk about the matter of going to Mang Mountain. Mang Mountain was not far from capital city. The horse-drawn carriage of the Shi Family departed in the morning and had already got into the deep of Mang Mountain in the evening. Along the way, Shi Qingxue was full of thoughts on how to impress Shen Luo, the skilled doctor, and she even ignored Dong Shuangs jokes, let alone actively sought topics to chat with Shi Baoyan. But in the eyes of Shi Baoyan, Shi Qingxue, who was a younger sister, had no respect for her elder sister, and had fun with a servant, but left her sister aside. Shi Baoyan held back for a long time, but finally failed to bear it, and coldly said, Somebody really has short sight, and has deep affection for some of the servants in a lower class. Its really loss of the pride of a lady from an aristocratic family. If it were in the past, Shi Qingxue certainly wouldnt hold her temper and would talk straight back to Shi Baoyan. Anyway, with Shi Baoyans stupid mouth, she couldnt win this quarrel. But at present she had a broader vision than previous life, and she understood the difficulties of her mother. Instead of arguing with Shi Baoyan, she just whispered, We go out from home in a hurry, and there is not much spring water on the carriage. Baoyan, what about having a rest? When Shi Baoyan made her posture, and she was ready to argue with Shi Qingxue, she didnt expect to have such a soft sentence. She was stunned for a moment, and she wondered in her heart whether Shi Qingxue really changed her personality? But turning around, she saw Dong Shuang trying to hold back her laugh aside, and suddenly realized that Shi Qingxue was ironic that she would waste too much water by talking too much! You dare to sneer at me! Shi Baoyan was angry, her arms akimbo, her eyes bulging, like a toad being angry. How do I dare? Baoyan, just take a break! If you have spent your energy here, how can you still have the strength to persuade him to go down the mountain to cure Baoning when we meet the skilled doctor later? Shi Baoyan was unwilling to submit and was about to have a fight back, but suddenly remembered Zhou Ruyus instructions. She temporarily suppressed her anger down and said in her heart, Well! Ill let you be arrogant for a while, and then you will cry! Chapter 15 - Air Leaked Between Teeth How did Shi Qingxue know about Shi Baoyans mind? Seeing that she finally stopped, her mind drifted away again. The carriage was moving forward, and suddenly with a call of stop, the carriage stopped. Several people in the carriage leaned forward because of inertia, and Shi Baoyan almost hit the door. Damn it! Why the hell did you stop suddenly? Shi Baoyan screamed angrily. The guard outside the carriage quickly apologized and carefully squeezed a guilty smile, Master, someone is blocking the way. Shi Qingxue lifted the curtain and saw a girl in purple dress standing outside, with her hair tied into a pair of bumps on head, looking like twelve or thirteen years old. Her little face looked innocent. However, the girl frowned and said indifferently, The paths of Mang Mountain are small and tortuous. Its forbidden to drive on the mountain trail. Please get off and walk. Shi Baoyan was even fiercer, raised the curtain, and impolitely yelled at the girl in purple dress, This road is not yours. I want to take the carriage and I will. Cant you mind my business? The girl in purple dress sneered and said, If you want to go up to Mang Mountain, I am able to mind your business! I advise you to listen to me, or dont blame me for not explaining in advance when you get hurt later. Dont be angry. We are from the Shi Family in capital city. Its our first time to seek for medical treatment from Dr. Shen in Mang Mountain. We dont know the rules, and please forgive us! Shi Qingxue lowered her head to greet the girl in purple dress and soon obeyed the rules and got off the carriage. Shi Baoyan gave a scornful glance at Shi Qingxue. Not only did she not get off the carriage, she also stood on the flat board outside the carriage, taunting with sarcasm, Someone will do whatever the other person says. Isnt Qingxue too obedient? Isnt she afraid that our family will lose majesty once its spread out? Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Baoyan as if she were insane, and she asked in mind what wrong was with this person. Seeing the anger on the girls face, she hurriedly said, Its the unchangeable truth that the guest should obey the hosts rules. Baoyan, since we have already come to Mang Mountain, we should act according to the hosts requests! Compared with the past, her attitude at this moment was actually trying to settle this thing calmly. She didnt want to annoy the girl in purple dress and cause any trouble on her way looking for medical treatment. But this attitude seemed to be irony in Shi Baoyans eyes. Shi Baoyan had never thought that she would first cause trouble on Shi Qingxue. Seeing Shi Qingxue disrespect and ignore her in public, she was so embarrassed, and she simply started to act shameless! Huh! A rural girl is also qualified to be the master? I wont get off the carriage. Ill see what she can do to me. How can she deal with me? Shi Baoyan also raised her chin proudly, as if she were more honorable than all of them. But as soon as she stopped speaking, the girl in purple dress waved her sleeves suddenly. The guards aside had no time to react at all, then they heard Shi Baoyan screaming. Be careful! Shi Qingxue was the closest to Shi Baoyan, and she wanted to grab her hand, but she only scratched her sleeve and saw that she was facing down, and her mouth hit straight on the carriage rail, and then fell to the ground. It happened too fast, and the guards hurried to hold up Shi Baoyan, but her face was already full of blood with that hit. Shi Baoyan trembled with pain, and when she opened her mouth, she could feel the air leaked in her mouth, just like She hurriedly touched her front teeth, trembling, but only felt the gap. Ah! At this moment, Shi Baoyan couldnt hold back anymore, and she cried out fiercely, but because the air leaked between her teeth, it sounded very strange. With her messy make-up and dirty clothes, she looked very funny. Shi Qingxue held back for a long time and finally was able not to laugh. But the girl in purple dress would not care about Shi Baoyans pride. She didnt pretend to be polite at all, and she laughed out, and asked, What do you think if I can do with you now? Shi Baoyan was laughed at when she was deadly painful, which made all parts of her body became in pain. She yelled at the group of guards standing still regardless of her image, You wont fight back even when you see your master being bullied, will you? Are you all dead? The guards looked at each other, took out their swords, and surrounded the girl in purple dress. Dont be rude! Shi Qingxue quickly shouted when she saw that the thing was somewhat uncontrolled. She walked up to the girl in purple dress again, and made a long hand-salute. She said politely, My sister was rude and offended you just now. Now my sister has also learned a lesson. Please forgive us. Shi Baoyan was even more angry, I was hurt by her like this, why is it my fault? Dont bully me too much! In the place of others, not only did she not obey the rules, but she kept yelling. Who was the one bullying? Shi Qingxue glanced at Shi Baoyan speechlessly, and felt that Baoyan might have something wrong with her brain. She didnt bother to argue with Shi Baoyan any more, and gave Dong Shuang a sign. The latter moved her hands to cover Shi Baoyans mouth and dragged her away quickly. The world suddenly became quiet. Youre a polite person! The girl in purple dress nodded with satisfaction. Her big round eyes moved glanced at Shi Qingxue again, and muttered in a low voice, The Shi Family in capital city Which lady of the Shi Family are you? Although Shi Qingxue didnt know the identity of the girl in purple, she guessed that she must have a great relationship with Shen Luo, the skilled doctor. She told the girl her identity, and said that she wanted to seek for medical treatment for her elder sister! The girl in purple dress listened to her arrogantly at first, until Shi Qingxue said her name, her eyes became wide open again and she blurted out, You are Shi Qingxue? It was revealed that she knew about Shi Qingxue. Was she actually an acquaintance? Chapter 16 - The Trap Was Set Shi Qingxue looked up in puzzle, You know me! The girl in purple dress subconsciously covered her mouth and shook her head, I dont know you. I dont know that you are Sixth Lady of the Shi Family at all! Shi Qingxue, Didnt she just admit it all? She didnt say that she was the sixth lady at home! The girl in purple dress was obviously lying, but Shi Qingxue had no time to care about this, and once again politely asked, Excuse me, where is Dr. Shen now? Can you introduce us to him? Okay The girl in purple dress just nodded, but her voice raised, and her tone changed again, becoming an Eh, which made everyone laugh. She was also a little embarrassed. A small face finally showed the shyness as it should look like at her age. She whispered, No, Shen has said. Everyone who seeks for medical treatment must step up along the path in Mang Mountain. Those who depend on external forces will not get his treatment; those who are not sincere will not get his treatment; those who dont obey the rules will not get his treatment. If you can walk to the top of the mountain alone, Shen will be willing to cure your sister. Shi Qingxue was relieved then! Fortunately, she didnt let Baoyan do anything egoistically, or this thing would be hard to deal with! That being the case, then you should wait here, and I will go up alone. Shi Qingxue didnt find this difficult, and hesitantly looked at Shi Baoyan who was angry and glaring at her. With a slight sigh, she saluted the girl in purple dress again, My sister has already realized her mistake. But for a lady, the punishment for disfigurement is too cruel. I wonder if you can help her. The girl in purple dress raised her eyebrows in surprise, and then turned around to see Shi Baoyan. But the latter looked disdainful, as if she was saying that Shi Qingxue was pretending to be a nice person! Well, are you sure you want me to help her? She always didnt bother to deal with this kind of arrogant people. But since Shi Qingxue had spoken, and she asked again. Shi Qingxue nodded without a hesitation. It was not that she really rendered evil with virtue, just that they two came to seek for medical treatment together, and if something happened to Shi Baoyan, then it would be her mother who was to blame. Fine! The girl in purple dress shrugged her shoulders constrainedly, picked up Shi Baoyans two front teeth, wiped the blood on it in disgust, and brought it to Shi Baoyan. Shi Baoyan stepped back instinctively, with a wary expression and leaky teeth, What are you doing? Dont you want your teeth? The girl in purple dress shook the front teeth on her hand proudly. Dont try to fool me! Is it possible to put them back after the teeth are broken? I wont buy it! The girl in purple dress spread her hand, I dont care whether you believe it or not, its not me who is disfigured anyway. When it comes to marriage, when the husbands family heard that Fifth Lady of the Shi Family lost two front teeth, how would they react to that? No! Shi Baoyan thought of that scene, frightened. Her face became pale, and she shouted aloud. Knowing that the person in front of her was the only one who could save her, Shi Baoyan no longer had the arrogance as before, and eagerly wanted to grab the girls sleeve, crying for mercy, Save me, please save me! I dont want to be disfigured. No The girl in purple dress moved sideways to avoid Shi Baoyans hand, and said in her heart, At this time, you knew that you should be scared. What were you doing earlier? But regarding Shi Qingxue, she didnt bother to haggle over it, and coldly ordered, Open your mouth. Shi Baoyan hurriedly opened her mouth widely, afraid that the girl could not see it clearly, and she raised her upper lip with her hand, a mouth full of bloody teeth exposed. The girl in purple dress took a bottle in her clothes, applied a layer of ointment to the gap where the two front teeth should be, and then attached the two teeth to the gap hard. Okay! No one knew what elixir the girl in purple dress used, but this time she really stuck back the front teeth that Shi Baoyan broke. The girl in purple dress held back her hand and saw that her fingers were still stained with Shi Baoyans saliva. She became disgusted and hurriedly wiped it with Shi Baoyans sleeve. But Shi Baoyan was not angry at all. What she wanted to do was to touch the two front teeth. If you touch them, I wont be responsible if you break them again! The cold words of the girl in purple dress scared Shi Baoyan and she stood stiff. She didnt dare to move at all. She stared at the girl eagerly, wondering what else she needed to be careful with to keep her front teeth. Her look was extremely full of grievance! The girl was very happy, but she still put on a serious look, and gave a doctors order, The two teeth cant be moved within a month, and you cant even brush your teeth. How could it be possible! What shall I eat? Shi Baoyan yelled anxiously. Wouldnt she be starved to death if she didnt eat for a month! The girl shrugged, not caring about it, and showed, Is that of my business whether you would be starved to death or not? But Shi Baoyan was anxious! She looked at Shi Qingxue for help. The girls attitude towards Qingxue was very different at first sight. As long as Shi Qingxue would like to speak to help her, she would certainly not really leave her alone. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes silently, scorning Shi Baoyans shameless attitude, but she still carefully asked the girl in purple dress, She cant move her teeth, then will it be okay if she eats some fluid food like cold porridge? The girl gave Shi Qingxue an admiration look and nodded, As long as she doesnt touch her teeth, and swallow it. Shi Baoyan was pampered, even if she did not swallow precious food, she was also a young lady who lived an extravagant life. She hadnt experienced any tough time, but at present she was going to have cold porridge for a month. It would almost kill her! The girl in purple dress ignored Shi Baoyans bitter painful face, and whispered to remind Shi Qingxue, Its getting late, you should go up the mountain hurriedly! Having said that, she grabbed Shi Qingxue and was about to go up the mountain. When Shi Baoyan saw this, her face suddenly froze, and she stepped forward to stop the girl in purple dress from leaving, and said anxiously, Didnt you just say that Dr. Shen only asked one person to go up the mountain? Whats the matter with your grabbing Qingxue? The medical skills of the girl in purple dress also seemed to be very great. Wouldnt she ruin her good plan if she let this person follow Shi Qingxue? She tried every way to make Shi Qingxue go alone. Although the girl in purple dress was reluctant, she thought of Shen Luos order and had to leave first. Shi Baoyan walked to the front of Shi Qingxue with a smile and said affectionately, I come to seek for medical treatment with you, but now you have to go up the mountain alone. It makes me a little guilty! Shi Qingxue only wanted her not to make trouble again, and quickly waved her hand to show that she wouldnt mind it. But Shi Baoyan said that she regretted that she couldnt go up the mountain, and she had to give Shi Qingxue something as a company. So she took off the sachet from her and gave it to Shi Qingxue without any room for compromising, and pretended to be forcing her and said, You dont want to accept my sachet. Are you unwilling to admit that I care about Baoning? Speaking of this, Shi Qingxue only took it as she didnt want her to take all the merit. She didnt suspect that it was a trap and hurriedly hung the sachet and went up the mountain. So she didnt see Shi Baoyans sneer behind her, Well! Shi Qingxue, this time I would make you suffer! Chapter 17 - Got into Danger There were plenty of trees in Mang Mountain. The sunshine at dust crossed those leaves and spread on the silent path. Everything was quiet but lonesome. Shi Qingxue walked alone straight forward, but after walking for a while, she suddenly felt that something was wrong. The sound of Shoo Shoo came from behind, subtle but dense. As if something was approaching her in a large group. Whats going on? Shi Qingxue looked back in puzzle, but the trees made it dim and basically could not see anything. She tried to take two steps forward again, trying to see it clearly. With this look, she was scared and took a deep breath and exclaimed, Ah! A swarm of centipedes were gathering towards her at a fact speed as if they were sweeping. There were thousands of them, and it looked dark where they were at. The observation made Shi Qingxue creep. Shi Qingxue was just a girl, anyway. What she was most afraid of was the shaggy and ugly reptile. She couldnt even think about the poisonous centipede. Thanks to it that her mind was clear, she was so scared, she immediately turned around and ran up the mountain. If she couldnt win them, it should be okay for her to escape anyway. Actually, Shi Qingxue had heard of this skilled doctor in Mang Mountain, knowing that Shen Luo was very hard to impress, and he often made it difficult for people to seek for medical treatment. However, she felt that she still underestimated how strange this skilled doctor was. Who would let centipedes out to test others? By this time, Shi Qingxue didnt realize the problem. She only thought it was difficult problem given by Shen Luo to test her. But she rushed forward for a long distance, and the sound of Shoo Shoo came from ahead again, then from her both sides. No way! Shi Qingxues scalp even began to tingle. Even if she could run faster than the centipedes, the reptiles came from all directions and surrounded her, leaving her nowhere to hide. Was this trying to take her life? Shi Qingxues face was frightened into pale, and she hurriedly took out a flame lighter in her clothes, trying to ignite the grass around her before the centipedes hadnt reached her yet. She wanted to stop the poisonous things attack by the fire. In the summer, when all the things were dry, the bushes were burnt all at once, making a crackling sound. The nature of centipedes was that they liked dim places and afraid of fire. When they saw the bright flames and billowing smoke, the speed of their convergence gradually slowed down, and some even stopped at the periphery and no longer dared to go forward. Shi Qingxue was relieved, and found that her forehead was full of sweat. She quickly took out a fragrant handkerchief and wiped her sweat. The centipedes suddenly seemed to be stimulated, and rushed towards her again. A few of them were even crawling towards her crossing the fire. The smell of scorched flesh flew into Shi Qingxues nose with the thick smoke, she was choked so that her tears were about to fall. But the emergency gave her no time to tangle these, and she bent down to light a fire again. Just then, a centipede had reached right in front of her, and rushed at her suddenly. Shi Qingxue instinctively blocked it with the flame lighter, and her body moved back, and fell to the ground, barely avoiding the first attack of the centipede. When she tried to stand up and escape, she found that the following centipede reached the front of her and was about to rush at her. There was no place to hide, Shi Qingxue was scared and she raised her hands to cover her face. But the expected pain didnt happen. Instead, a few sounds of metal smashing arose in her ears, and then it became empty at her back, and the entire body of her seemed to be flying, Ah! Shi Qingxue yelled in panic, struggling in anxiety. Only then did she realize that she had been held up, not knowing when. Dont be afraid, its okay. The gentle male voice sounded in her ears, with an unexpected comfort. She was not afraid at once. Shi Qingxue secretly opened her eyes, and a beautiful and serious face came into her eyes. His sharp chin added a bit of resoluteness, which made her heart calm and could not help but exclaim, Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang heard it and looked down at Qingxue, with the unknown meaning in his deep eyes. He didnt plan to speak, just held Qingxue across the branches and hurried to the top of the mountain. Shi Qingxue also knew that this was not a good time to chat, so she has to use her thoughts to drive away the feeling of heartbeat, How did Mo Junyang appear here? Why did he come so promptly? Was hehere to save her? When thinking of this, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but feel a little warm, and even when they fell back to the ground, she didnt find it, and still hugged Mo Junyangs neck tightly. Until Mo Junyangs deep male voice sounded again, Are you injured? Shi Qingxue shook her head subconsciously, suddenly realized how ambiguous the gestures of the two people were. She hurriedly tried to take herself off Mo Junyang, but saw the mans face change, and yelled, Dont move! Was it still dangerous? There were plenty of trees in Mang Mountain. The sunshine at dust crossed those leaves and spread on the silent path. Everything was quiet but lonesome. Shi Qingxue walked alone straight forward, but after walking for a while, she suddenly felt that something was wrong. The sound of Shoo Shoo came from behind, subtle but dense. As if something was approaching her in a large group. Whats going on? Shi Qingxue looked back in puzzle, but the trees made it dim and basically could not see anything. She tried to take two steps forward again, trying to see it clearly. With this look, she was scared and took a deep breath and exclaimed, Ah! A swarm of centipedes were gathering towards her at a fact speed as if they were sweeping. There were thousands of them, and it looked dark where they were at. The observation made Shi Qingxue creep. Shi Qingxue was just a girl, anyway. What she was most afraid of was the shaggy and ugly reptile. She couldnt even think about the poisonous centipede. Thanks to it that her mind was clear, she was so scared, she immediately turned around and ran up the mountain. If she couldnt win them, it should be okay for her to escape anyway. Actually, Shi Qingxue had heard of this skilled doctor in Mang Mountain, knowing that Shen Luo was very hard to impress, and he often made it difficult for people to seek for medical treatment. However, she felt that she still underestimated how strange this skilled doctor was. Who would let centipedes out to test others? By this time, Shi Qingxue didnt realize the problem. She only thought it was difficult problem given by Shen Luo to test her. But she rushed forward for a long distance, and the sound of Shoo Shoo came from ahead again, then from her both sides. No way! Shi Qingxues scalp even began to tingle. Even if she could run faster than the centipedes, the reptiles came from all directions and surrounded her, leaving her nowhere to hide. Was this trying to take her life? Shi Qingxues face was frightened into pale, and she hurriedly took out a flame lighter in her clothes, trying to ignite the grass around her before the centipedes hadnt reached her yet. She wanted to stop the poisonous things attack by the fire. In the summer, when all the things were dry, the bushes were burnt all at once, making a crackling sound. The nature of centipedes was that they liked dim places and afraid of fire. When they saw the bright flames and billowing smoke, the speed of their convergence gradually slowed down, and some even stopped at the periphery and no longer dared to go forward. Shi Qingxue was relieved, and found that her forehead was full of sweat. She quickly took out a fragrant handkerchief and wiped her sweat. The centipedes suddenly seemed to be stimulated, and rushed towards her again. A few of them were even crawling towards her crossing the fire. The smell of scorched flesh flew into Shi Qingxues nose with the thick smoke, she was choked so that her tears were about to fall. But the emergency gave her no time to tangle these, and she bent down to light a fire again. Just then, a centipede had reached right in front of her, and rushed at her suddenly. Shi Qingxue instinctively blocked it with the flame lighter, and her body moved back, and fell to the ground, barely avoiding the first attack of the centipede. When she tried to stand up and escape, she found that the following centipede reached the front of her and was about to rush at her. There was no place to hide, Shi Qingxue was scared and she raised her hands to cover her face. But the expected pain didnt happen. Instead, a few sounds of metal smashing arose in her ears, and then it became empty at her back, and the entire body of her seemed to be flying, Ah! Shi Qingxue yelled in panic, struggling in anxiety. Only then did she realize that she had been held up, not knowing when. Dont be afraid, its okay. The gentle male voice sounded in her ears, with an unexpected comfort. She was not afraid at once. Shi Qingxue secretly opened her eyes, and a beautiful and serious face came into her eyes. His sharp chin added a bit of resoluteness, which made her heart calm and could not help but exclaim, Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang heard it and looked down at Qingxue, with the unknown meaning in his deep eyes. He didnt plan to speak, just held Qingxue across the branches and hurried to the top of the mountain. Shi Qingxue also knew that this was not a good time to chat, so she has to use her thoughts to drive away the feeling of heartbeat, How did Mo Junyang appear here? Why did he come so promptly? Was hehere to save her? When thinking of this, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but feel a little warm, and even when they fell back to the ground, she didnt find it, and still hugged Mo Junyangs neck tightly. Until Mo Junyangs deep male voice sounded again, Are you injured? Shi Qingxue shook her head subconsciously, suddenly realized how ambiguous the gestures of the two people were. She hurriedly tried to take herself off Mo Junyang, but saw the mans face change, and yelled, Dont move! Was it still dangerous? Chapter 18 - Reserved Dr. Shen Shi Qingxue shrank her neck nervously, and her hands tightened Mo Junyangs neck again, and whispered, Whats wrong? Mo Junyang stared down at Shi Qingxue, and she was like a frightened rabbit. His cold expression became softer, and said gently, Dont move, let me hold you for a longer while. Shi Qingxue, Somehow, she suddenly remembered that in her last life, the man was also holding her so tightly, as if he was afraid that she would disappear and would not release for a moment. For a while, she felt a little warm in her heart. Her arrogance when facing Mo Junyang in spare time couldnt arouse at this moment, and she couldnt even refuse Mo Junyang. After a while, the man seemed to calm down the emotions in his heart, slowly released his hands, and put Shi Qingxue down. Shi Qingxues heart was warm but also embarrassed, and her eyes were looking around. She just didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang. Even so, she could still feel the mans eager eyes staring at her, as if he was about to burn her. She couldnt stand it, and thanked his, Thank you for saving me just now! In her last life, she would rather die than bow to Mo Junyang. But she could be reborn. All the old grievances seemed to be removed, and the words of thanks were uttered, and she was even really grateful to him in her heart. Mo Junyang did not answer, but stared at Shi Qingxue with a cold look, as if the person who had just rescued her were not him. This alienated attitude made Qingxue very uncomfortable, and she couldnt help thinking: No wonder she was not fond of Mo Junyang in her last life. He was reallyThe character of this man was so not likeable! With that look, who could see that this man had feelings for her For a while, Shi Qingxue also felt embarrassed, but because of some inexplicable thoughts, she could no longer treat Mo Junyang like her last life, so she really didnt know what to do. Dr. Shens residence is just ahead. Mo Junyang said suddenly, pointing to the distance. This attitude showed that obviously he did not intend to accompany Shi Qingxue to go forward. Shi Qingxue also knew that Shen Luo asked her to go to the top of the mountain alone, and she had broken the rules a little bit for Mo Junyang had rescued her. At this time, it was definitely not a good choice for him to accompany her. But after that horrifying experience, she really didnt want to be alone again. But Mo Junyangs cold look didnt allow her to say anything else. She had to move forward slowly, but finally she couldnt hold back and secretly turned her head around. With this look, she was astonished again! Mo Junyang was standing right behind her. The sunshine became dim around him, and his eyes were deep, as if he had been fused with the darkness, and everything would be engulfed. Shi Qingxues heartbeat couldnt help speeding up and wanted to leave quickly, in case she would be dragged into the darkness by the man and not be able to survive. But her feet seemed to be nailed to the ground and could not move. She wanted to turn around and grab the mans hand again, and said to him that she was sorry. The two were distantly facing each other. No one moved for the moment, but the person standing aside finally couldnt stand it. He couldnt help but ridicule, Chinese Valentines day is coming soon, so you dont need to be so pathetic that you can only facing each other in the distance. Shi Qingxue turned her head to where the sound arose, and saw a man in a coat as white as the crescent moon leaning on the tree, with a somewhat joking expression. She recognized that the man in white was Shen Luo. She quickly stood up straight, and politely saluted to Shen Luo, Dr. Shen, Im Shi Qingxue. Shen Luo first froze, then raised his eyebrows and carefully glanced at Shi Qingxue, Shi Qingxue? Exactly! Shi Qingxue thought that the girl in purple dress had already mentioned herself to Shen Luo, so it was not strange that he knew her name, and she moved straightforward to her purpose, I represented the Shi Family to ask Dr. Shen to come out of the mountain, and hope you can help my sister as a skilled doctor. The entire family will be grateful. This time, Shen Luo not only raised his eyebrows, but his eyes stared at Shi Qingxue impolitely, as if he saw a monster. He exaggerated his tone and shouted again, You really are Shi Qingxue? Shi Qingxue responded with her good temper again, Im Shi Qingxue. Shen Luos expression had turned into panic, and he said categorically, Impossible! Shi Qingxue, According to her previous temper, she could immediately answer him: If I were not Shi Qingxue, would you be Shi Qingxue? Thinking that Baoning still needed this guy to cure her illness, she held those words back silently. She only looked down and worried: Would the disease in the brain affect his medical skills? Would it be contagious? Mo Junyang said at this time, Since she has arrived, we shall go! What? Shi Qingxue turned around to see Mo Junyang in doubt. Speaking of that, what role did Mo Junyang play here? It seemed that Shen Luo had just become conscious from Shi Qingxues stuff. When he heard Mo Junyangs arbitrary decision on his schedule, and his eyes glared as round as those of a toad again, It is rule to make her climb up the mountain alone. Such a short distance, you still hold her up here. It doesnt count! You are breaking my rules! I dont While talking, he was showing his indignation. Shen Luo was almost stamping his feet in anger. But before he was done speaking, Mo Junyang glanced at him coldly. Shen Luo automatically became silent. You dont what? The voice was calm and monotonous, but Shen Luo felt a hint of coldness behind his back. He immediately gave a flattering smile, and said politely, I dont dare! Ill pack my luggage and go down the mountain to cure First Lady of the Shi Family right away! The voice was serious and determined, as if he was making a pledge to obey a military order. Seeing this, Shi Qingxue was so surprised that her chin almost dropped off. Where was the reserved skilled doctor who was cold and hard to impress? She didnt know the flattering person in front of her! As the three decided on their next schedule, the sound of Shoo Shoo Shoo came again in the distance, just like a moment ago. Shi Qingxues face changed, and she looked at Mo Junyang in horror. Chapter 19 - Crisis Counterattack Shen Luos joking expression suddenly changed, and asked seriously, Whats going on? Why did all the poisonous things in Mang Mountain come here? Isnt it caused by you? Qingxue was even more unpeaceful when she mentioned this. If it had not been for Shen Luos hard tests, she would not have been so unlucky before. But when Shen Luo heard it, his face was full of doubt, and pointed to himself stupidly, Me? What have I done? This confused expression did not seem to be pretended. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang looked at each other and seemed to understand what the problem was. Then the large group of centipedes that I just met in the middle of the mountain werent released out by you to test me? Shi Qingxue asked tentatively. Shen Luo quickly shook his head, crying without tears, My test wont risk others lives. As for you, even letting you go up the mountain alone is a symbolical test. How do I dare to release these deadly things? Then why did so many centipedes suddenly appear to attack Shi Qingxue? Shen Luos skeptical eyes glanced at Qingxue again. His look suddenly became serious. He walked quickly to her, and was going to reach into her clothes. What do you want to do? Mo Junyang looked cold, and before Qingxue didnt respond, he stopped Shen Luos movement. Uh Shen Luo suddenly felt stressed. He just really acted instinctively then, even giving him guts, he didnt dare to covet Shi Qingxue! Shen Luo quickly explained, The smell on her body is strange. The instance when he said this, Shen Luo saw that Mo Junyang had even changed his face this time, and suddenly realized that his words were ambiguous. He quickly waved his hands and hurriedly explained, No, thats not what I mean. I mean that there seems to be an abnormal smell with her. Shi Qingxue took the sachet out of her clothes and handed it to Shen Luo, Is this the thing? When Shen Luo saw the sachet, his face changed instantly, and he said sharply, You bring this thing with you. Do you want to die? Why? Whats wrong? Shi Qingxue stepped back in shock. Five poisons powder is added into it, which is specially used to attract the five poisonous things. Especially when the temperature rises, the odor is spread out, no wonder various poisonous things are chasing after you! As Shen Luo said, he became more and more furious. He grabbed the dirt to cover the sachet and the smell was isolated. But Shi Qingxue already had the smell of the five poisons powder with her, and those poisonous things moved towards them again. Shen Luo immediately made the decision and took out his special realgar powder and sprinkled it all around, blocking most of the poison things in the periphery, and a few others were also nailed to the ground by Mo Junyangs silver needles. The crisis was temporarily avoided. When the two men turned their heads to check Shi Qingxue, she still maintained a faint expression and stood quietly, as if she didnt realize that they had just experienced a crisis of life at all. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang walked quickly to Shi Qingxue. Although there was no expression on his face, it was difficult to hide his concern. Shi Qingxue looked at the place where the sachets were buried on the ground. After a long while, she raised her head and smiled at Mo Junyang, This was the sachet that Baoyan gave to me. I thought she just couldnt see me take all the merit and hoped she could also go back and show off. I didnt expect She didnt expect Shi Baoyan would want her to die! What should we do now? Shen Luo looked at Mo Junyang. Although he didnt know the whole story, he knew one thing that Mo Junyang would never watch Shi Qingxue being bullied and still be indifferent. Mo Junyang ignored him and continued to look at Shi Qingxue, as if he was waiting for her decision. They saw Shi Qingxue smile again, but this time she was a little more relaxed, and her voice was a bit softer, Dont worry, I wont be so easy to be bullied by them. She turned around to Shen Luo again, continuing the topic a moment ago, Dr. Shen, please return to capital city with me to cure my elder sister. Shen Luo did not understand what these two people were doing, but he didnt bother to joke again, and nodded in agreement, Since this is the case, then I will let Xiaoxiao get us a carriage. Lets depart now! Shen Luos movement was quick, and he got a carriage in a short time. Shi Qingxue just knew that the girl in purple dress who had guided them in the middle of mountain was Shen Xiao, Shen Luos younger sister. However, at this time, Qingxue went next to Shen Luo and whispered a few words, which made the skilled doctors face change again, Are you sure? Shi Qingxue nodded, Mr. Shen, please help me this time. Shen Luo glanced at Mo Junyang hesitantly. Seeing his dead face with no expression, he said in his heart that this man really dealt with nothing, so that he had to come up with the idea for everything. But if he didnt do it well, Mo Junyang would glare at him. It was really so hard to make a living! He just complained in his heart. Shen Luo also understood that if Mo Junyang didnt speak, it meant that this great master basically agreed with what they would do. Then he nodded, turning his head to order Shen Xiao. Shi Qingxue sneered, looking at the way where she came, Baoyan, I am being merciful but you still want my life, then dont blame me for being cruel! Chapter 20 - Rest Assured, I Have Good Sense Halfway up Mang Mountain, the other members of the Shi family waited for a day. They still had not seen Shi Qingxue or anyone else walking down the mountain. Dong Shuang was so anxious that he tried to go up the mountain to find Shi Qingxue several times but each time she was stopped by Shi Baoyan. Shi Qingxue was absent, and so Shi Baoyan was the only master. Even if these subordinates were reluctant, they must listen to her commands. Shi Baoyan was very satisfied by this, especially when the sun rose on the second day, and Shi Qingxue was still missing. She couldnt help but grin. Qingxue still hasnt come down yet. Presumably, she was left by the skilled doctor on the mountain. Its no use for us to wait here. Lets go back and make a plan! Shi Baoyan coughed, ordering people to pack up and go home. Dong Shuangs eyes widened. How unbelievable was it that Shi Baoyan dared to leave Shi Qingxue and walk away?! But at this moment, there was no chance for her to protest. Shi Baoyan ordered someone to cover her mouth and tied her away. They hurried back to the Shi Family, Mo Shujun and the others ran to the door to meet them. When they saw the gray-faced Shi Baoyan, they promptly asked with concern, What caused my Baoyan to become so embarrassed? Have you been injured? Come here and show me. But what happened? Shi Baoyan jumped into Mo Shujuns arms and coquettishly she wept and grieved about all the hardships she encountered while seeking medical advice. Of course, this version became a bitter story of how Shi Qingxue co-operated with outsiders and how she never cared about her sisters feelings. Additionally, how she herself ignored her past suspicions and actively sought medical treatment, but ultimately to no avail. Mo Shujun heard that her granddaughter was suffering. She held Shi Baoyan softly and comforted her for a while, and promised many rewards, which was so touching. Dong Hui couldnt just stand aside and thus couldnt help but ask, Baoyan, youre back. What about Qingxue? How was it that we didnt see her? Shi Baoyan secretly pouted, holding in her disdain for Dong Hui. She also said that all the children were treated the same. But look at Dong Huis appearance. When she came back, Dong Hui didnt express any cares or concerns. She just asked Shi Qingxue. This was absolutely partial. Shi Baoyan despised Dong Hui, her answer was somewhat casual. The skilled doctor was unreasonable and hard to deal with. Qingxue stayed on the mountain in order to impress him. I was afraid that Grandma was worried, so I came back to report peace. What? You left Qingxue alone on the mountain and came back by yourself? Dong Hui asked, staring at Shi Baoyan with a look of sharpness and hunger in her eyes. Shi Baoyan shrank into Mo Shujuns arms. Mo Shujun was unhappy then, accused, Hui, Baoyan finally made it home. You dont even care. Yet, how is it that you are still being this caustic towards her? Did you do this, madam? Dong Hui was stopped in her tracks by these words, her heart was panicking. Shi Qingxue is her daughter. She hasnt returned, and yet Shi Baoyan is standing here calmly. Couldnt she ask where her daughter is? She knew that old madam was not pleased by her presence, so she usually did not come near to Mo Shujun and tried to avoid her glance as much as possible. But now, Shi Qingxues whereabouts were still unknown. How was it that she could still contain herself? Mo Shujun waved her hand indifferently and said softly, Which of the whereabouts are unclear? Didnt Baoyan say that Qingxue was still on Mang Mountain and asked the skilled doctor to come out off the mountain? She was so proud, I thought she might invite the doctor to see Baoning herself. Since you are a mother, you should do more things that suit your childs heart. Dont always try to be arduous but fruitless and make others annoy you. These words were like a sharp blade, piercing Dong Hui s heart. She was almost unbearably. It was Mammy Zheng who put a hand behind her that she could barely stand still. Had she been trained by Mo Shujun in the past, Dong Hui would have been silent even if she had to bite her tongue. But this time, she was truly concerned about Shi Qingxue, and could not hold back her thoughts. Mother, Qingxue is a girl who is all alone. If she runs into trouble, there is no one there to help. I think Ill send another person to Mang Mountain! Shi Baoyan could not wait for Shi Qingxue to endure hardships. She would never allow Dong Hui to send a rescue, she quickly said, The skilled doctor said that if someone sought medical treatment, he could only go alone and couldnt bring a helper. If mother sent someone there, wouldnt it be a waste to let Qingxues former achievements go? There was someone watching the show. Zhou Ruyu went on to say, Thats right, Hui is the mistress in the house. Taking good care of the Shi Family is your business, so why bother with the other things? Dong Hui glared at Zhou Ruyu coldly, she couldnt help but sneer. Qingxue is my daughter, the second daughter of First Master of the Shi family. If she just injured her finger, that would be a big deal. Not to mention that her safety is currently unknown. Whats wrong with me caring for her? Zhou Ruyu was rarely dissed by Dong Hui. She refrained from engaging in a rebuttal for a while and instead smirked to herself that she could avoid Dong Huis sharp tongue. However, she thought in her heart, Huh! So what if you care more? The result is already set! Wait to start your crying! Dong Hui just made Zhou Ruyu shut up. Surprisingly, Mo Shujun then said, They were right, Hui, dont worry about it. Qingxue is incredibly clever, she can handle it. If you really have this much spare time, you might as well manage the housework for the family. What do you think about this family that you are managing? Dong Hui: Dong Hui was heartbroken by these words. Had it not been Mo Shujun who said this, had it not been her mans mother, she was really afraid that she could not help but refute her! Didnt Grandma say that mother took care of the housework well? Why are you accusing her of doing a poor job? Could it be that Grandma coaxed those words out of me? When Dong Hui was sullen and helpless, a crisp and lovely voice came into range, which surprised everyone. They did not know when, but suddenly Shi Qingxue was standing at the door of the hall. She was looking at the people in the room. Dong Hui was immediately overjoyed, running up and hugging Shi Qingxue, urgently asking, Qingxue, are you okay? Why did you come back so late? Were you injured? The series of questioning was totally illogical, throwing to Shi Qingxue, and leaving her no time to answer. Shi Qingxue was not impatient at all. After listening to their conversation just now, wasnt it evident who truly cared for her? Naturally, she wouldnt think that her mothers love was blind. After all, it was nearly impossible for her to come back! Shi Qingxue raised her eyebrows and looked at the others. When they saw her entering the house, some people were astonished. Mo Shujun didnt know the facts. Seeing Shi Qingxue come back so soon, although she was a little surprised, she quickly put on a happy smile and greeted Qingxue jovially, Qingxue, finally you came back. Come and let Grandma look at you. Shi Qingxue stood still, nodding at Mo Shujun, putting on a prideful pose, Grandma, did I just overhear you said negative things about my mother? If you dont give me one explanation, I wont take it! It was sure that only Shi Qingxue dared to ask the royal princess a question which expressed such disregard for ones elders. Did you not want to live? Everyone looked at Shi Qingxue in shock and thought how silly she was after she came back this time. How dare she ask this to Mo Shujun! Could it be that Shi Qingxue would go face to face against Mo Shujun? Dong Hui pulled on Qingxues sleeve anxiously. She stopped talking. Qingxue returned her a reassuring look and patted the back of her hand in private, Rest assured, I have good sense. Chapter 21 - The Power Speaks The atmosphere in the hall was extremely cold. Everyone thought that Mo Shujun would be furious. They saw the old madams face stiff for a moment and then smiled slightly, How it is that grandmother can say such negative things about Dong Hui? Just now, grandmother worried about your safety. I only said those things when I was in a hurry. You Perhaps she also knew that this discussion was fruitless. Mo Shujun turned to Dong Hui and sighed softly, Be done with it. What I just said is out of line. Dong Hui, you need not take offense. Dong Hui had always been bullied by Mo Shujun a lot. She rarely spoke softly to her, dont even think about an apology. Although not much sincerity could be heard in Mo Shujuns words, at least her attitude was revealed. Dong Hui with reverence and awe, fear and trepidation waved, not daring to speak. It was all over. But Zhou Ruyu and the others eyes almost popped out and they were very jealous in their hearts! The old madam was ordinarily so powerful. She was capable of scolding people for the slightest disobedience. But this time, she truly apologized to Dong Hui. Although she was still forced by Shi Qingxue, nevertheless, she doted her so much. Shi Qingxue looked easy to coax. She was still very angry with Mo Shujun. She heard Mo Shujun apologize to Dong Hui, and she immediately beamed. She took the opportunity to get in front of Mo Shujun and proclaimed, Grandmother is really great! Mo Shujun pointed angrily at Shi Qingxues forehead, but couldnt bear to speak harsh words. Instead, she looked at Shi Qingxue anxiously and determined that she was unwounded. This put her at ease, and then she said, You go on a trip. You said that you were going to find the skilled doctor to treat your sister. But, all you bring to us elders is this suffering! The speech was half joking and half filled with blame. Even though Mo Shujun obviously did not believe that Shi Qingxue could really convince the skilled doctor to see Shi Baoning, her words showed her deep concern. And, the young adults have resentment in their hearts; its hard to judge their true feelings by examining the looks on their faces. Zhou Ruyu thought she was an elder, and at this time she also spoke up, Qingxue, you have been there for two days and one night, but your grandmother is worried about you every whole day. Although it is normal for young adults to play around, it is still important to consider things. Could it be that you still want your family to be in a state of anxiety? Auntie, I went to seek medical treatment for my elder sister. In what way would this be fun? Are you certain that I would not be able to find the skilled doctor to treat my sister? Shi Qingxue should not have refuted Mo Shujun, but softly attacked Zhou Ruyus statement, making her swallow her own words. Zhou Ruyus face was dark, and she did not dare to say anything when she stepped back. At this time, Shi Baoyan once again stood up for her auntie reprimanding Shi Qingxue, What are you talking about? She cares about you. You not only were unappreciative, but you also spoke out against it. Do you practice the words that you preach? Shi Qingxues attention had been falling on Shi Baoyan ever since she entered the house. She watched the others reactions change from surprise to pity, and now to jealousy. She couldnt help but feel sorrowful. She really did not expect that Shi Baoyan wanted her dead although they were sisters. Just before, she was still thinking that if Shi Baoyan confessed some wrongdoing or showed some guilt, she would be able to forgive and forget. But, she did not expect that Shi Baoyan would be unashamed of what she did, Shi Baoyan had the nerve to kick her when she was down! Sisters? Ah! Shi Qingxue sneered, put away the last bit of friendship that she had left in her heart, and smiled back, Baoyan naturally is very studious, but I dont know which gentleman has taught you to harm your sisters? Shi Baoyans face suddenly changed, and she said in a panic, What are you talking about? Me, I dont! Dont slander me! Shi Qingxue continued to smile slightly, I havent finished talking yet. How did you conclude that I was slandering you? Could it be that you are guilty? No! Shi Baoyan reluctantly replied. She had far more than a guilty conscience, her entire back was wet with sweat. Mo Shujun was holding Shi Baoyan. How could she not feel her trembling? But, with a serious face she asked, What happened? Shi Qingxue raised her eyebrows and looked at Shi Baoyan, who was cringing in Mo Shujuns arms. She said what happened on Mang Mountain from beginning to end, but she only roughly sketched out that she was rescued by Mo Junyang. It was deduced that the skilled doctor had done a good job, spilled a handful of medicine powder, and all poisons dispersed. Shi Baoyan heard that Shi Qingxue encountered a poison capable of killing. Her face turned to a look of shock. She instinctively turned to look at Zhou Ruyu. The later understood something bad happened secretly and said in a hurry, Maybe you touched something poisonous. Its your own fault that you are being chased by poison, how can you push your own sin onto Baoyan? Yes, I did not go up the mountain. What does it matter to me that you were in danger? If you want to blame me, I wont do it! After listening to Zhou Ruyus words, Shi Baoyan seemed to find her backbone at once, quickly answering, while still looking at Mo Shujun with pity. Even if the old madam is partial to Shi Qingxue, she cant let Shi Qingxue slander her, right? Sure enough, Mo Shujun was embarrassed and had to say clumsily, Well, everything will be fine when you return home safely. As for seeking medical treatment Mo Shujun did not see the skilled doctor who followed. She thought that Shi Qingxue had failed to seek medical treatment and found fault with Shi Baoyan. She also comforted her, The doctor is there. You may ask him to come back next time. Theres no need for that Who said I didnt invite the doctor back? Shi Qingxue said lightly and made Mo Shujun swallow back the rest of her words. Seeing everyone staring at her again, she took the sachet out and handed it to the crowd facing her. It was the doctor who told me that the reason I would be besieged by poison was because this sachet contained five poisonous powders. The sachet has been wrapped by Shen Luo in a thick layer of earth and realgar, a sulfide mineral powder. So, there is no need to worry that this thing will attract poison. But when Shi Baoyan saw the sachet, she suddenly felt weak, fell to the ground, and stuttered, This sachet is not mine! What could have happened? Shi Qingxue didnt say anything; she wouldnt inadvertently acknowledge her misdeeds! Zhou Ruyu scolded aside an imbecile but did not intend to help Shi Baoyan anymore. But instead, offered an explanation, Well? Isnt this sachet that Baoyan got from the embroider? When the embroider handed it over to her, I happened to be there. How did the sachet in Qingxues hands? Are there five poisonous powders in the sachet? This is terrible! The last sentence was spoken very quietly, like a murmur, but just loud enough that everyone could hear clearly. This seemed to be the last straw for Shi BaoyanC even if she had wanted to defend herself! The witnesses gathered, and Mo Shujuns face cooled down. Shi Baoyan, who was still leaning against her was pushed away, and sternly questioned, Baoyan, Qingxue is your sister! How can you do such evil? You really I didnt Shi Baoyan replied in a state of bewilderment. She clearly remembered that the sachet contained a powder that made her itch. How did it become a deadly, poisonous powder? Obviously Shi Baoyan had a thought suddenly pass through her mind. She looked up to see Zhou Ruyu, and when she was about to say something, Zhou Ruyu glared at her sharply and sternly lectured, You must take responsibility for your wrongdoings! If the evidence is conclusive and you want to quibble, our family certainly will not tolerate you! The implication was that Shi Baoyan must be eliminated! Shi Baoyan shrugged in fear, and finally swallowed the excuse that was on the tip of her tongue. Crying and begging, Grandmother, I know that I was wrong! I just lost my mind for a while; I didnt really want to take Qingxues life. Please spare me this time! I beg you! Mo Shujun sighed heavily but did not answer. Then, she turned to look at Dong Hui and said, Dong Hui, after all, this is your business, and you are the mistress of this house. You figure out how this matter can be handled. Shi Qingxue held a cold stare, thinking that her grandmother was capable of being a good people. She was unequivocal when showing her authority, but when it turned to offend someone, this became her mothers affair! According to Dong Huis soft temper, this large matter should not be trivialized, otherwise, it will turn to nothing and be forgiven. Shi Baoyan apparently knew this too, and quickly knelt beside Dong Hui, eagerly begging for mercy, Mother, I really know that I was wrong! Please forgive me this time! I promise But Dong Hui said with a sullen face and ruthlessness, Now that Mother has handed this matter over to me to deal with, naturally, I need to follow the established rules of the house! Shi Baoyan deliberately tried to bring harm to our family member. According to the rules of the family, she should be sent to the family temple for five years and kept behind closed doors. After five years and a determination on her repentance has been made, we will make a final decision. Mother, what do you think? What was family temple? It was a small temple that was kept by nobility. It was usually guarded by one or two Taoist nuns. In the old days, when someone in the family made a mistake, they would retreat to their family temple to repent and rethink their behavior as punishment. But the environment of the temple was quite harsh, and it was impossible for the nobles who were used to be respected and have rich life to suffer from this. Over time, family temples became a sign of prosperity and introspection for the family. Unless the one was abandoned by the family, generally, people would not be sent to family temples to suffer. No one expected that Dong Hui would actually make such a cruel decision! Shi Baoyan burst into tears and kowtowed on the ground, Mother, I really, truly understand that I was wrong! Please forgive me! Mo Shujun couldnt bear it, Dong Hui, Baoyan is still so young, wouldnt it be inappropriate to send her away to the family temple? Dong Hui looked coldly at Shi Baoyan wailing, then she looked up and said, This is the rule set by father when he was alive. Mother, which part do you think is inappropriate? Upon mentioning Shi Lei, Mo Shujun stopped talking right away! Zhou Ruyu abandoned Shi Baoyan without hesitation before, but Shi Baoyan was obedient to her, so at the moment she couldnt help but say, Baoyan is also the elder brothers daughter. Now the elder brother marches out, why not wait for him to come back and decide himself? If the Master has other ideas then, just wait for him to come back to handle it. Since mother has handed over the rewards and punishments rights to me, I definitely couldnt let mother down, right? Dong Huis answer was well-organized and determined. She was sure to punish Baoyan, which made Zhou Ruyu have the heart to protect her but can do nothing. She could only follow Mo Shujun away. Shi Baoyan saw that the only person who could help her let go in the end. Her heart all of a sudden turned cold. The condition of the family temple was terrible, how could she bear it? She threw herself in front of Dong Hui, crying, I dont want to go to the family temple, I dont want to go to that kind of horrible place! Auntie, save me, Auntie Dong Hui didnt bother to listen to her shout and waved her hand. Mammy Zheng immediately sent someone to cover Shi Baoyans mouth and drag her away. When Dong Hui and Shi Qingxue had just returned to the courtyard of their house, and the servant again came to report: Madam Kou was requesting to meet. Dong Hui laughed and said coldly, As soon as I punish the daughter, her birth mother comes to plead. Are they so sure that I, the hostess who is in charge of family affairs, cant bear their constant begging and cajoling? Chapter 22 - The Knife Used to Deal With First Master’s Family The name of Madam Kou is Kou Lian. She was a distant relative of Shi Lei. Her family declined, and thanks to the princess royal, she was sheltered in the Shi Family and lived her life. However, she seduced Duke Shi Junhe and at last married him. She even wanted to take the place of Dong Hui to be the Duchess. It was pitiful that she only gave birth to a daughter, Shi Baoyan, so she could just be an aggrieved concubine. Dong Hui didnt want others to think that she was mean to the concubines. As long as Kou Lian didnt cause any serious trouble, she wouldnt bother to pay attention. But this time Kou Lian knelt on the ground as soon as she came in. She didnt talk, but burst into tears. She was acting aggrieved as if she had been bullied by someone. Dong Hui watched coldly and didnt come up to stop her. When Kou Lian cried for a long time and started to feel out of breath, she slowly said, You start to cry when you come in. Are you trying to make others think that I am mean to you? This straightforward question made Kou Lians tear-stained face froze instantly, like a strangled hen, which looked very funny. Shi Qingxue almost laughed aside, secretly saying that her mother actually was also artful, and she was really good at arguing. Look, even if Kou Lian originally had meant this. At this time, she could only shake her head and quickly explained, You misunderstood me. I just feel shameful and guilty that Baoyan had done such ugly things. It is difficult to restrain my sadness! Dong Hui made a look to show her understanding and nodded, Sure. Baoyan is your own daughter. When she was born, she was raised but not as my daughter. Teaching her is your duty. Thats right! Its all my fault. I didnt educate Baoyan well, so she made such an unforgivable mistake. I am really not worth of Masters trust! Kou Lian thought that she could retreat for the sake of advancing. She first admitted her mistakes, so that Dong Hui would comfort her, and then she captured the opportunity to exonerate Shi Baoyan from a charge. But she didnt expect that Dong Hui didnt make the thing went as she thought. Dong Hui said softly, Since you already know that youre wrong, I wont punish you anymore. You should go back to your room for autocriticism! In a few words, Dong Hui began to send her away, so that Kou Lian was driven back without being able to say anything pleading. Mother, you are Shi Qingxue witnessed the whole process, and for a while she was speechless. Dong Hui grabbed Shi Qingxue and checked her when no ones around. When she heard that Shi Qingxue wanted to say something but stopped, she couldnt help but stare at her with rounded eyes, and said angrily, Do you want to ask me why I dont let go of it this time? Shi Qingxue was silent and did not speak. Was this really what her mother would do? You conscienceless! Dong Hui reached out and pointed at Shi Qingxues forehead. She pretended to be angry and said, No matter how weak and useless I am, I wont just watch my daughter hurt and ignore it. In spare time, Shi Baoyan is always in fight with you. I can just let go of it. But now she hurt you once and will definitely hurt you a second time. How can I keep such an evil by your side? Shi Qingxue suddenly felt warm in her heart, and her face also showed a warm smile. She gently grabbed Dong Huis hand and whispered, Mother, thank you! Dong Hui pouted, showing that she would not accept, If you can listen to me more often, I will even laugh out when sleeping. Why do I still need you to thank me? Just like this time, you can leave it to a subordinate to do the little things like finding the doctor, but you insist to going to Mang Mountain in person. Isnt it to make me worried? Thinking of Shi Qingxue almost died in Mang Mountain, Dong Hui still felt scared for a while. She thought that the punishment given to Shi Baoyan was still too little! Mother! How could Baonings illness be a trivial matter? Besides, a skilled doctor invited by some other person, would you dare to let him give medical treatment to her? Shi Qingxue didnt think Dong Hui was scolding her, but realized that the concerns hidden in the criticism and quickly comforted Dong Hui. And after the trip to Mang Mountain, she also picked out Shi Baoyan from Shi Family, like picking out a worm from a big tree. Wasnt this killing two birds with one stone? Dong Hui was relieved when she heard the words, so she no longer criticized Qingxue. Then she talked with Shi Qingxue about Shi Baonings medical treatment. At this time, neither of them knew that the tapeworm was not so easy to get rid of. Not only was her vitality strong, she also wouldnt stop as long as she was alive. It was useless no matter how hard Shi Baoyan cried and acted shameless, Mammy Zheng instantly called a few servants, and they hurriedly packed a few sets of clothes, and threw her into the carriage. They were about to send her to the family temple. Wait a minute! Zhou Ruyu suddenly appeared and stopped the carriage. Seeing this, Mammy Zheng quickly greeted her, squeezed a smile, and took the initiative to say, Madam Dong asked me to send Fifth Lady to the family temple today without delay. Madam Zhou, do you have any important things? Zhou Ruyu saw that Mammy Zheng dared to use Dong Hui to suppress her, and her anger was soaring. She yelled in a cold voice, I come to see Fifth Lady off. Do I need Dong Huis approval? Dont you forget that Dong Hui is the hostess of the Shi Family, and so am I. Dont you servants dare to say anything bad about me! Mammy Zheng was scolded by Zhou Ruyus continuous words. She was very ashamed, but she could only squeeze a smile, I dont dare. Madam Zhou, please speak to her quickly, in case we delay our departure! Well! Zhou Ruyu snorted coldly, and went straight into the carriage without answering. When Shi Baoyan met Zhou Ruyu, it was like she grabbed the last straw and screamed, Auntie, you must save me! I was wronged. I didnt really add it to the sachet Shut up! Zhou Ruyu yelled coldly at her and interrupted Shi Baoyans words roughly. Shi Baoyan was so scared that she shrank her neck. She didnt dare to say anything to explain, but just burst into tears with grievance. While glancing at Shi Baoyan, Zhou Ruyu secretly planned in her heart. Although this girl was a bit stupid, she could be a sharp knife to deal with the First Masters Family. It was a pity to give her up like this. Furthermore, Shi Baoyan also knew a lot about her secrets. Even if Shi Baoyan confessed her guilt due to her coercion at this moment, she couldnt guarantee that she wouldnt expose her in the future. She should first win her support. Thinking about it this way, Zhou Ruyu put on another face with a kind smile, and tenderly grabbed Shi Baoyans arm, and said softly, You silly girl, I know you are wronged. But why didnt you say it in front of your grandmother? Now who else believes you? Wasnt it you who had changed it into the five poisonous powder secretly? Shi Baoyan complained in a low voice, feeling very dissatisfied. Even though Shi Baoyan was not very smart, she knew that the itch powder in the sachet would never become the deadly five poisonous powder for no reason. It was Zhou Ruyu who asked her to take the sachet from the embroider store. She wouldnt believe it that Zhou Ruyu had nothing to do with this thing! Zhou Ruyu pretended not to understand Shi Baoyans resentful expression, and asked with a shocked look, How do you think so? I am just a woman in this family. How can I find those poisonous things? Moreover, Qingxue is my niece anyway. No matter how vicious I am, I wont kill her! She said those words surely, as if she had meant it. Even Shi Baoyan who was sure that the one having changed the sachet was Zhou Ruyu but she was a little uncertain at this moment. She murmured, If it was not you, how could the itch powder to trick Shi Qingxue be changed into five poisonous powder? No one touched it since I got the sachet! Zhou Ruyu rolled her eyes and asked, Was it really not touched by others? The sachet was not in your hands in the end! You mean Shi Baoyan stared in shock, but immediately asked in confusion, Why did Qingxue change the contents of sachet? That thing would be fatal! Zhou Ruyu shrugged and said casually, Qingxue went up the mountain alone to seek the doctor. Whether anything had happened or not was only up to her words. Who knew what was going on in the dangerous environment? She only said those words, but it was enough to make Shi Baoyan understand the so-called truth! Shi Baoyan gritted her teeth furiously, scolding sternly, Shi Qingxue, such a tricky person. I was almost disfigured, and she even wanted to drive me out of the Shi Family completely. I wont let her go! Zhou Ruyu put on an anxious expression again, and took the initiative to comfort her, Forget it! Your mother is kind of merciful. She just drove you to the family temple for five years, and you are still allowed to come back! Why do you have to fight with them? Five years! Isnt that enough? My great youth is going to be wasted there. Five years later, I will be already eighteen years old. How will I be able to marry to a famous family? I think they just dont want me to live a good life! Shi Baoyan completely envied the mother and daughter in First Masters Family this time. She even wished that she could eat their flesh and drink their blood! Zhou Ruyu was very satisfied with the effect of her stirring up the trouble. She also showed a look of concern on her face, and said, Dont be upset. You can live in the family temple for a while. When your father comes back, I will say something nice for you and you can come back then! Shi Baoyan was immediately overjoyed, and said with gratitude, Auntie was really good to me! I shouldnt have suspected you just now. Please forgive me this time! You silly kid, I am your aunt. I will never blame you. You can rest assured to live in the family temple for a while, I will pick you up in person when its the right time! Zhou Ruyu won Shi Baoyan back in a few words. Not only did she not blame Zhou Ruyu for making her driven to the family temple, but she also felt pleasant with her caring and loving. How could Shi Qingxue know that she was framed again? She put all her attention on Shi Baoning at this moment. Even if she had seen Shen Luos ability, she was still scared when facing this thing. What made her even more puzzled was that on the day when Shen Luo was treating Shi Baoning, Prince Mo Junyu and King Ruis eldest son Mo Junyang both came to the Shi Family in the name of bringing medicine to their cousin. Mo Junyu was a respected prince, but his party had limited power in politics. Recently, he often came to Shi Family, which made it hard for others to not think too much about it. Shi Qingxue didnt want Shi Family to choose the side as early as they did in her previous life. Even if that person was her favorite prince, she didnt want to have too much involvement with him for the time being. When Mo Junyu brought Mo Junyang to visit Shi Family for the third time, Shi Qingxue finally could not help but vaguely implied that Shen Luo alone was enough to treat Shi Baoning and Mo Junyu didnt need to trouble himself and paid unnecessary attention to Shi Family. At this time, Mo Junyu looked serious and solemnly said, Qingxues words are wrong. Although I dont doubt Mr. Shens medical skills, this is a matter of operation after all. How can Baoning bear that pain as a girl? Shi Qingxue didnt take it seriously, It doesnt matter if she uses anesthesia powder! She just said so casually, not taking it seriously, and didnt notice when she said those words, the man standing behind her was stunned and stared at her as if he was looking into her bones through her skin. Chapter 23 - Shameless for Money Anesthesia powder? Whats that? Shen Luo looked at Shi Qingxue in surprise. How could he not know that the Mo Dynasty had such magical medicine, which couldnt make people feel the pain? Shi Qingxue was astonished, and she remembered that anesthesia powder was introduced into the Mo Dynasty from other places a few years later. Even the skilled doctor Shen Luo had no way to make a person feel no pain and do no harm. No, nothing. I am wrong. Shi Qingxue smiled awkwardly and secretly looked at Mo Junyu. Mo Junyus face was as usual, as if he had never heard of anesthesia powder. He didnt look like a prophet at all. Did she guess wrong? At this time, Shi Qingxue could not be certain whether Mo Junyu was reborn or not, but she didnt dare to test him easily. She changed the subject vaguely. Seeing the two turned their attention back to Shi Baoning, she was finally relieved. She didnt know at this time, the secret that she thought she had covered up was little by little exposed to someone. After Shen Luos treatment and conditioning, in half a month, Shi Baoning was not only able to get out of bed and walk, but also looked rosy, and looked just like other noble women. Such magical medical skill was just like bringing a dead person back to life. Even the emperor Mo Xiangbin praised it when he heard of it, and he called Shen Luo into the palace specifically. After several temptations, he did not only give Shen Luo the name of Divine Doctor, but also rewarded Shi Qingxue, who sought medical treatment for her sister. The rewards were lifted into the house box by box by the eunuch who declared the emperors order in the palace and opened them in front of everyone. Like silver bracelets, golden hair accessory, colored glaze vase, jade ruyi, etc. They could even make a person stunned. Shi Qingxue just glanced at them, and then listened to the eunuch who declared the emperors order, while Zhou Ruyu looked at those rewards and her saliva almost flew out. Zhou Ruyu swallowed her saliva, and barely maintained her dignity. But her eyes kept glancing at those rewards. As soon as the eunuch declaring the order left, Zhou Ruyu immediately stepped forward with a smile on her face and said warmly, Qingxue, since the emperors rewards have been sent to the house, Ill help you put them into the warehouse. Dont let them take up space here. Auntie, what are you saying? Why should I put my things in the warehouse? Shi Qingxue said slowly. Zhou Ruyus face suddenly changed, and she severely accused, Our family is not divided. Why do you call those yours? Even if you are much favored by the emperor, you are not allowed to break the rules of our family! Shi Qingxue smiled slightly and asked slowly, But why do I remember that even though our family is not divided, the ownership of things is well defined? And I never hear that those personal possessions should belong to the whole family. Is Auntie trying to make those rewards yours? She was branded as greedy for treasure, Zhou Ruyu didnt dare to admit it. She argued arrogantly, Dont talk nonsense. Im not someone who sees little of the world, how is it possible for me to covet those? I just think that your Luotong Boudoir is not big enough, and suddenly there came so many rewards. There is enough room for them in the warehouse, so I advise you to put them there. Dont be ingrate! Zhou Ruyu was really shameless. Obviously she coveted Shi Qingxues rewards, but she still tried to prove how kind she was. Is that so? Then I really need to thank you for your kindness. But there is still room to place these rewards in Luotong Boudoir, and you dont have to bother to worry about them. Shi Qingxue answered with a forced smile. Then she called Dong Shuang, planning to move all those rewards. Zhou Ruyu lost those treasure she could have got, like a cooked duck flew away. She was jealous and hateful! Those were the rewards from the emperor! Although she was also the daughter of first princess in her family when she was young, Marquis of Wuyang had already declined before she was born, so that there were few rewards her original family could get. Later she married to Duke Shis Family, but most of the benefits were given to First Masters Family. If she should watch those rewards all belong to Shi Qingxue eagerly, she wouldnt be willing. She grabbed Shi Qingxue again, with a shameless smile, she said, Qingxue, in spare time, you always get the best resources in the house, and now you have become favored by the emperor. Such rewards are just a small part of your possessions, and you must not be too concerned about them. But look at your Third Aunt, the money I get in spare time is not much, and your two sisters need money in every aspect. You are not able to use up all those rewards. How about Dong Shuang heard Zhou Ruyus words and wanted to scold her that she was too shameless! A while ago, she just looked down upon the emperors rewards, but at this moment, she still tried to turn to Shi Qingxue to give her some rewards. Madam Zhou, Im afraid its not appropriate to say those words! The money in the family is distributed according to the hierarchy. The share of Third Lady and Fourth Lady is even more than that of Sixth Lady. Madam Dong cares for Sixth Lady, and use her own dowry for Sixth Ladys allowance. How can there be a reason for the younger to support the elders? Dong Shuangs words were aggressive, and Zhou Ruyus face immediately turned red. Although the hierarchy of Dong Huis original family was not high, it was very rich. Only the income from those farmlands and estates included in her dowry were enough to make sure First Masters Family to live a rich life. In contrast, even if Zhou Ruyus original family, the house of Marquis of Wuyang, was a Marquiss family, the dowry given to her was the basic specifications of daughter in an ordinary aristocratic family. In addition, Zhou Ruyu was used to spending money without limitation. After these years, there was not much dowry left. A servant revealed the truth, and Zhou Ruyu suddenly became shameful and annoyed, and she was about to burst into anger. Shi Qingxue took the initiative to criticized Dong Shuang, You little girl, you are really spoiled by me in daily life? Is there any politeness? Are you permitted to interrupt the conversation between Third Aunt and me? I will punish you when Im back to boudoir! After that, she showed a guilty smile to Zhou Ruyu, and said politely, Dong Shuang was spoiled by me. If there is anything that makes Auntie feels uncomfortable, I will punish her after I go back. Auntie, please forgive her! In a few words, she took the right of punishment in her own hands again. Even if Zhou Ruyu was angry, it was useless. After all, Dong Shuang was the servant in Luotong Boudoir, and Qingxue had already promised to punish her. If she still stuck to it, it would show that she was not noble-spirited. Zhou Ruyu hated her so much. But for the sake of those rewards, she still faked a kind smile on her face, said gently, It doesnt matter. The kid didnt know about politeness. I can understand. But its true that Third Masters Family is not as good as First Masters Family these years. Since we are a family, it is not appropriate to live like this. Do you think so, Qingxue? Shi Qingxue nodded deliberately in agreement, Auntie, youre right. Before Zhou Ruyu started to pick things out of the box laughing, Shi Qingxue stopped her quickly. She smiled, Although my mom is in charge of the shrine and accommodation of the Shi Family, the one who makes the final decision is still my grandma. Third Aunt, if you think the distributions are not appropriate, you can tell grandmother. Anyway, my grandma likes you and wont treat you badly! As for these rewards Qingxue then changed her tone and said calmly, These are rewarded by the emperor. Even if they are sent to me, I should also take great care of them. It makes no sense that I should send them away. If the emperor asks about it in the future, neither of us could take the blame. Do you agree? The smile on Zhou Ruyus face froze, and she was so hateful that she scolded in her heart, When did Shi Qingxue become so eloquent? Every of her words made sense, and she couldnt argue. Seeing that she got no chance to own these rewards, Zhou Ruyu was not in her mood to flatter Shi Qingxue, and she said coldly, In this case, you need to look after your rewards carefully. If anything was broken or missing and the emperor blamed you, dont accuse our family. Seeing Zhou Ruyus back when she rushed away angrily, Dong Shuang aside thumbed up to Shi Qingxue, and complimented excitedly, Sixth Lady, you are really eloquent. Just in a few words, you make Madam Zhou not able to argue anymore. There was no one around, and Shi Qingxue laughed proudly with her eye tooth exposed, Whats the big deal? Its her who keeps pushing me. Does she really think that I am the wallet of their Third Masters Family and can be easily bullied by them? Although she was in conflict with Zhou Ruyu in her previous life, because of Mo Shujun and the good relationship with Third Lady and Fourth Lady, she did use her allowance given by her mother to help the Third Masters Family like an idiot. In this life, she wouldnt do such silly things anymore! Not only wouldnt she do that, she also would make those of Third Masters Family throw up what they were not supposed to eat and give back what didnt belong to them. Lets wait and see! Great Sixth Lady! Dong Shuang looked at her master and shouted with excitement. She thought that her master had finally understood it and wouldnt be trapped by those insidious people in Third Masters Family. You! Dont be too proud. Shi Qingxue didnt give Dong Shuang the chance to be complacent. She pointed at her nose, and criticized with a serious look, I know your loyalty and you want to protect me. But you casually interrupt the conversation between masters. Isnt this providing an opportunity to others to talk bad things about us? Dont be silly in the future, do you understand? Dong Shuang also realized that she was being reckless. If Shi Qingxue hadnt acted properly, she would definitely be severely punished by ferocious Zhou Ruyu. She protruded her tongue with guilt. Dong Shuang didnt dare to argue, and guaranteed without hesitation, I know I was wrong. I will speak and behave cautiously in the future, and dont cause you any trouble! Shi Qingxue nodded with satisfaction, and no longer criticized her. She said, Okay, call some people to move these things back to Luotong Boudoir! But Shi Qingxue didnt have the chance to go back to Luotong Boudoir together, because the first-class servant in Jingshu Boudoir, Jing Yi, rushed here to report to her that Shi Baoning wanted to see her. Qingxue thought that her sister didnt feel well again. She didnt take a break and hurried to Jingshu Boudoir. Baoning, are you feeling uncomfortable? Do I need to invite Mr. Shen for you? As soon as Shi Qingxue saw Shi Baoning, she hurriedly asked. In the meantime, she observed her look, and planned to call the doctor once she found out what was wrong with her. Shi Baoning smiled softly, gently patted the back of Qingxues hand, and said, No. I feel good. Dont worry. I want to see you because I have some questions and I need you to teach me. Shi Qingxue saw that Shi Baoning was indeed admirably rosy and in an easy look, and there was no sign of illness. Finally, she was relieved. But then she became confused, Dont be so polite. How can I teach you? If you have something, just say it. Shi Baoning, who was already eighteen years old, was better than young Shi Qingxue no matter in the respect of embroidery, writing poetry or painting. She really couldnt guess what question it was that Shi Baoning wanted to ask her. Chapter 24 - Wanted to Be Favored Shi Baoning grabbed Shi Qingxue to sit down in the room. Her face blushed, and she seemed a little embarrassed. After a while, she whispered, Isnt it Qiqiao Festival a few days later? Shi Qingxue nodded, and her look became even more confused. Why was the annual Qiqiao Festival worth of Shi Baonings worries? In the past, I was not in a good health. Basically, Grandma wouldnt allow me to attend any banquets. But this year, I feel much better, and Empress Dowager has sent the fancy stationery. So I think Shi Baoning hesitated, and was embarrassed to continue to say. After all, no one could believe that Shi Baoning, the eldest daughter of Duke Shi, had never attended any banquet and needed to prepare much for a banquet. Unfortunately, Shi Baoning really asked the wrong person in this matter. Although Shi Qingxue understood, she was still confused. She asked, It was just a banquet on Qiqiao Festival. It will be nothing more than eating, drinking, chatting and having fun. There is nothing to be noticed specifically! In Qingxues opinion, the identity of the eldest daughter of Duke Shi was already dignified enough, so there was no need to please anyone at the banquet. It would be enough to maintain normal etiquette. As for this, Shi Baoning could do more perfectly than her without any notice. Shi Baoning sighed slightly, and said in her heart: It was all because of Qingxues temper. She never stooped to compromise. Though there was nothing wrong with being like this, she could never learn it anyway. Even though her identity was more dignified than her sisters, she was still worried that there would be something that she didnt do well and offend others, or that her etiquette was not perfect enough. But she couldnt explain these concerns to Shi Qingxue in details. Shi Baoning could only change her way to ask, I didnt go out for too long, so I was unfamiliar with the popular dressing nowadays. Im not sure what I should wear at the banquet on Qiqiao Festival. And the tempers of those dignified people in the palace, and what to pay attention to while chatting, could you please tell something about those? Its simple. I will send Xia Mang to ask the Mammy in dressing department of the palace, and see what clothes the attendant noble people will wear this year. I remember that Empress Dowager likes dark purple dress with golden stripes, and Empress likes red, and Imperial Concubine Liu usually wears pink. As long as you avoid those colors of these peoples dresses, it would be fine. As for tempers, Empress Dowager was aged and she likes watching the younger having fun. As long as you dont behave rudely, she will like you. Empress is strict Shi Qingxue often hung around in the palace, so she knew much about the preferences of those ladies in the palace. She said it clearly and logically. She didnt hide anything from Shi Baoning, and she told her everything she knew. At the end, she concluded, Baoning, dont worry. With your identity, as long as you dont make great mistake, no one dares to be picky with you. They will take every opportunity to please you! If you are too cautious, it would make others think that you are weak and easy to bully. I also know it. But Im still a little worried. I heard that this time, Empress Dowager has invited the daughters of princesses in every famous aristocratic family in capital city. Im afraid to make our family ashamed if I do anything not well enough. Shi Qingxue smiled and grabbed her sisters hand, reassuring her again, and patted her chest to guarantee, Dont worry about it. Its not easy that you are now in good health and can go to the banquet in the palace. You should be just relieved and have fun. If anything happens, I will deal with it for you! You this little girl. You wont even be embarrassed when calling a bluff. Arent you afraid that I really rely on you then? With the encouragement, Shi Baoning felt relieved and joked back on her sister. Shi Qingxue was not embarrassed at all. She raised her chin and implied, Im not calling a bluff. I am the most favored by Empress Dowager, and Yuzhen will also defend me. I have nothing to worry. Although Shi Baoning felt that her sister was too proud, she couldnt say anything to rebut. She just slightly tapped Qingxues forehead. She was happy and envious in her heart, Then I will follow you at that time. Dont you be tired of me? No, I wont. You dont know how much I hope you can also attend before! Otherwise, there would only be me and Third Lady from the Shi Family. It was really boring! Shi Qingxue twitched her mouth, and complained in a low voice. Shi Baoning could not help frowning and persuaded softly, I know you are not in a good relationship with Third Lady, but she is your sister anyway. Grandma always hope that we sisters can be friendly. Dont be too tough with her in everything. Its not good to make Grandma worry about your business at such an old age. Shi Qingxue pouted and felt disdainful with Shi Baonings words. But thinking of her sisters respect to Mo Shujun, she didnt say it out. She just changed the subject, On Qiqiao Festival, there must be some activities at the banquet in the palace, and those are all some girly boring things. If you are willing to do it, you can participate. But if you are unwilling, just find an excuse to reject. Dont be too serious about it. Qingxue was a descendant of the military general. She was deeply influenced by her grandfather and father. In addition, she was outgoing. So she liked riding and archery, and she was good at playing with weapons. But she didnt care much about girly things. Shi Baoning also knew this. She only lowered her head slightly, but said in her heart: You had the privilege to be willful and do anything you want, but I needed to obey every rules. We were different. Shi Qingxue and Shi Baoning were indeed close sisters. They were sincerely caring and thought for each other. But the differences in their personality couldnt be ignored. At this time, neither of them realized how much crisis this would bring to their future relationship. Qiqiao Festival was a big day for the women in the Mo Dynasty. On this day, while begging to the moon, you could ask for marriage, and could also ask for intelligence and skills. It was also a good day for friends to chat and enjoy. At this time of every year, Empress Dowager would set up a banquet on palace, and invite all the dignified girls from the aristocratic families who were already thirteen years old into the palace to attend and beg to the moon together. Shi Qingxue had been attending for two years. In her memory, nothing happened at the banquet on Qiqiao festival this year. She just arrived at the banquet with Shi Baoning, when Third Princess Mo Yuzhen rushed to her with excitement, Qingxue, its been so long. Why dont you come to visit me? Qingxue was reminded that since the day when she was reborn, she had been worried about Shi Baonings illness, so that she didnt have a good talk with Mo Yuzhen. She was somewhat guilty, Im sorry. Im not on purpose. I dont care. You definitely forget me for someone else! How could Mo Yuzhen not know what Shi Qingxue was busy these days? But she was just unpleasant that she ignored her for someone else, not even her sister. With her arms akimbo, she said predominantly, If you stay with me all day today, I will forgive you! Seeing Mo Yuzhens spoiled look, Shi Qingxue certainly understood that her friend was inviting her into the palace as a companion! If it was in the past, Shi Qingxue was definitely willing to do it. But at this moment, Shi Baoning was looking at her with expectation. She didnt want her to go but it was not good for her to reject Mo Yuzhens will. Shi Qingxue wasnt relieved to leave Shi Baoning here alone, so she could only meet the wills in the middle, Empress never refuses your requirement. Why dont you come and sit with us? Mo Yuzhen turned her head around and glanced at Shi Baoning sitting straight up aside. She was a little bit picky in her look. After a while, she finally agreed, Fine. But you need to sleep together with me in the palace tonight. Princess Yuzhen had always been doing whatever she wanted, but this time she was willing to compromise and yield to her. It was impossible for Shi Qingxue not to be moved. She hurriedly promised, Okay, Ill accompany you. After thinking for a while, she suddenly laughed and joked, I reckon that you are trying to be lazy again! As long as Shi Qingxue was in the palace, Mo Yuzhen had a perfect reason not to go to Qinxue School for a lecture! How can it be? Mo Yuzhens little face turned red. She wanted to pretend and get passed, but her trick was seen through instantly by Shi Qingxue who knew her so well. She suddenly felt embarrassed, and she put on the princesss posture and angrily said, Well! Shi Qingxue, how dare you to laugh at me! Dont you want to be alive? Shi Qingxue was used to it that as long as she couldnt argue against her, she would suppress her with her identity. And she didnt answer to it. The princess wouldnt do anything to her anyway. However, after Third Lady of Shi Family, Shi Baojin, heard it, she immediately criticized her seriously, Qingxue, behave yourself! Do you forget all the etiquette the teacher has taught you? Third Princess invites you kindly. Not only are you not grateful for it, but you made fun of Third Princess. Some people know that you are in good relationship with Third Princess. But those who dont know about it will think that those of Shi Family are not taught well! This lengthy argument made Shi Qingxue and Mo Yuzhen stunned. They looked at each other, and they saw smiles in the eyes of each other. Mo Yuzhen even laughed out impolitely and criticized straightforward, I am talking to Qingxue. Are you qualified to interrupt? As you know that I am joking with Qingxue, you should shut your mouth up! Shi Baojin originally intended to please Mo Yuzhen, but she didnt expect that she would be criticized. Suddenly her face turned red because of embarrassment, and she was so awkward that she even wanted to hide underneath the earth. Fortunately, Empress Dowager came in, and everyone was silent for a while. Empress Dowager, Ling Ruiyin, was 65 years old. She was the mother of Emperor. Her status was outstanding but she barely asked about the juniors matter, and won much real respect from the junior because of this. Empress Dowager looked around the whole banquet with her kind sight, and at last she looked at Shi Qingxue, who wore a light yellow Ru skirt. She couldnt help but smile, Xue, come here. I havent seen you for so long! Shi Qingxue paced to the front of Empress Dowager, and gave a blessing salute according to the rule. She said sweetly, Your Majesty. I havent seen you for a long time and I miss Your Majesty so much! But Your Majesty looks rosy and dynamic, so Your Majesty definitely doesnt miss me much! In the whole Mo Dynasty, maybe only Shi Qingxue dared to talk rudely like this but still made Empress Dowager delightful. You this little girl. You really When Empress Dowager heard Shi Qingxues words, she burst into laughter. Among all those words complimenting that she looked great, however, only Shi Qingxues words made her especially pleasant. She pinched her nose and pretended to scold her, laughing, I havent seen you in several days and you learn to flatter! Shi Qingxue obediently let Empress Dowager make fun with her. She was about to please Empress Dowager, when she suddenly saw that Shi Baoning was sitting alone in the crowd, as if she was isolated. She rolled her bright eyes around, and she pouted and murmured deliberately, Well, I am telling the truth, but Your Majesty just doesnt believe me. I see. Its surely because that Your Majesty sees my sister here and Your Majesty doesnt like me anymore! When other noble ladies from aristocratic families saw Shi Qingxue courting in front of Empress Dowager again, they were jealous and disdainful in hearts. But it was useless. Anyway, as long as Shi Qingxue was here, Empress Dowager wouldnt notice them. But they didnt expect that Shi Qingxue dared to openly strive for Shi Baonings being favored in front of Empress Dowager. She acted so improperly. Would Empress Dowager do as she wished? Chapter 25 - Brought an Awkward Ending to the Conversation Empress Dowager, Ling Ruiyin heard Shi Qingxues words, and the kind smile on her face faded a little. Looking at Shi Baoning, who had been sitting quietly, although she looked not as energetic and cute as Shi Qingxue, the elegance showed on her could also be outstanding among those noble ladies in aristocratic families. She was indeed the granddaughter raised by Mo Shujun herself! Ling Ruiyin nodded secretly and glanced at Qingxue again. Seeing that big wet eyes filled with sincere expectations, she couldnt bear to refuse her. She called Shi Baoning with a smile, Is First Lady of the Shi Family also here? I always hear Princess Royal mention you. But I barely meet you since you were always in poor health. Come to me and let me take a closer look. Whats so outstanding that makes Xue so jealous? These words really made the noble ladies sitting below extremely jealous! It was a great honor for a noble lady of an aristocratic family to be glanced at or asked by those dignified people at the first time to the banquet in the palace. How do they dare to expect to perform in front of the dignified people? But Shi Baoning came to the palace banquet for the first time, and she was called by Empress Dowager. She really got a good fate! She had a good sister to help her anyway! People with same status really could have different fates! Shi Baoning was flattered and her face turned red because of excitement. But soon she realized that this was the opportunity that Qingxue got for her. She calmed down and walked up to Empress Dowager with elegant steps, and saluted, Your Majesty. Ling Ruiyin smiled and nodded. She praised, You are really a smart child. I heard you were not in good health before. How do you feel now? Thanks for Your Majestys concern. Thanks to it that Qingxue had found me a skilled doctor, and I feel much better now. Shi Baoning was nervous in her heart, and her answer seemed to be cautious, not as natural and adorable as Qingxues. Ling Ruiyin was more satisfied when she heard the words. She thought that Shi Baoning actually understood to be grateful and Qingxues contribution was not wasted. Then she said, It seemed to be worthwhile that Xue took the risk to go to Mang Mountain in person. Shi Qingxue took the opportunity to say, Doesnt Your Majesty know about me? I am the smartest. My sister is so great, and if she is not in a good health, wouldnt it be my huge loss? She repeatedly emphasized Shi Baonings ability. Even though Ling Ruiyin knew that Shi Qingxue was complimenting Shi Baoning on purpose, she couldnt help but be curious what exactly Shi Baoning could do that Qingxue showed her off like this. Since Xue has said so, I really need to see Baonings ability! Ling Ruiyin looked at Shi Baoning with encouragement, but she made the latter even somewhat nervous. Shi Baoning was raised deep in her boudoir, and she had never performed in public. She couldnt help but be nervous, and she secretly looked at Shi Qingxue for help. She also knew that Qingxue was helping her, but in front of so many people, she was scared! What if she messed up? Seeing this, Shi Qingxue had to stand out again, and said coquettishly, Your Majesty, Baoning has a lot of skills! But its the banquet for Qiqiao Festival, if she performs alone, wouldnt she supersede what really matters? How about waiting until the talent competition later, and Your Majesty will see whether I have exaggerated! Of course, it would be easier to be outstanding when she was performing alone than when she was competing all the noble ladies, for no matter how great talent she had, she didnt dare to promise that she could win. Others heard that, and they thought that Shi Qingxue was stupid, while Shi Baoning was relieved and nodded to Qingxue gratefully. Ling Ruiyin no longer insisted, and announced the beginning of the banquet. At the banquet for Qiqiao Festival, the theme would always be chosen by Empress Dowager among Chinese zither, Go, Calligraphy and Painting, and then those noble ladies began to perform, and those ranking the first three would be rewarded at last. Go was selected last year, and the final winner was Shi Qingxue. If Shi Qingxue remembered correctly, this years project would be painting. As she had thought, when the banquet was about to end, Empress Dowager announced, The view of Qiqiao Festival is beautiful this year. Please paint in the theme of Qiqiao Festival. The time limitation is two hours. If you have already had the ideas, you shall start! After that, she turned around and looked at Shi Qingxue, and made fun of her, Last year you got a good deal and took my favorite colored glaze screen. What are you supposed to do this year? Almost everyone at present knew that Sixth Lady of the Shi Family had the best Go skills among the four arts, while she was not so outstanding in the aspects of Calligraphy and Chinese zither. As for her painting skill, it was awful. Shi Qingxues weakness was publicly pointed out by Empress Dowager, but she was not ashamed. She said with a smile, Its a competition, and participation is more important! Your temper is really good. You dont have the sense of dispute at all. Imperial Concubine Liu, Liu Yiyi, had regarded Shi Qingxue as her daughter-in-law, and at this moment, of course she needed to say something to help her. But Empress Liang Jingxian followed to say at this time, I just wonder whether it was that she doesnt dispute or that she just cant win! She seemed to be talking to herself, but it was enough for everyone at present to hear clearly. It was a little bit awkward. Many people secretly laughed, waiting to see the conflict between Shi Qingxue and the Empress. Empresss original family was powerful. Even though Ling Ruiyin was not satisfied with her behavior, she couldnt blame her in public. If Shi Qingxue really offended Liang Jingxian, it was still Shi Qingxue who should take the consequence. At this time, even Ling Ruiyin secretly became nervous for Qingxue in her heart. Shi Qingxue seemed not to understand Liang Jingxians irony. She looked innocent, and nodded in agreement, saying, Your Majesty, you are right. I cant win! Liang Jingxian was immediately overjoyed, but before she continued to ridicule, Qingxue continued to say with a smile, Anyway, I have my sister here, and the Shi Family wont lose face! Your Majesty doesnt need to bother to worry about our Shi Family! Argued back like this, Liang Jingxians smile froze on her face, and the corners of her eyes twitched. But it was her who had satirized Shi Qingxue first, and Shi Qingxue agreed with her very generously, even if it sounded like she was implying that it was none of her business. If she was still stuck to it, she would seem to be ungraceful. Liang Jingxian had to tolerate this reluctantly. Shi Qingxue smiled secretly, but she was still full of smiles on her face, and got into Ling Ruiyins arms, coquettishly saying, Your Majesty loves me dearly. Your Majesty must be unwilling to see me lose face. Can I ask for a temporary job from Your Majesty? Liang Jingxians look was cold, and she said sarcastically, Arent you just not caring at all? Now, are you trying to make Her Majesty open a back door for you? Your Majesty, you are making fun of me. Her Majesty is so fair and selfless. How will Her Majesty break the rules for me? Shi Qingxue pretended to be surprised and asked. With this argument, Liang Jingxian had nothing to say. Shi Qingxue continued to say, I wish Your Majesty could make me be your eyes in this painting competition and watched those noble girls perform for you. This time, even Ling Ruiyin was stunned for the time being. After a while, she burst into laughter, You this little girl! You obviously dont dare to compete, but you find the excuse of being the invigilator for me! This trick to draw the woods under the kettle was absolutely wonderful. Shi Qingxue did not give those noble ladies any chance to mock her at all! Your Majesty, please allow me! Shi Qingxue didnt deny it, but she was just clinging in Ling Ruiyins arms and act coquettish. Ling Ruiyins heart was soft and she responded, Okay, then you should be the invigilator for me this time! You watch them paint. When they finish, you collect their paintings and give them to me and have a look. Sure! Shi Qingxue agreed quickly, and actively rushed to ask others to clean up the contest site. Liang Jingxian was argued over and over again by Shi Qingxue and became speechless, and she couldnt help sneering seeing Shi Qingxues back, Flattering! Im afraid that Your Majestys words are biased. Qingxue took the initiative to share the worries of Her Majesty. How is it flattering? Liu Yiyi responded immediately. Apparently she was arguing Liang Jingxian. Liang Jingxian snorted coldly and said, Other ladies all obey the rules and participate the contest. Only her bothers to be the invigilator. Isnt she trying to stand out and be different? However, Liu Yiyi said with a serious look, Everyone else wants to perform before Her Majesty, but there should be someone to be the invigilator to make sure that this contest is fair. Qingxue took the initiative to be the invigilator and left others the chance to perform, which showed that she got no intention to dispute. In a few words, Qingxues behavior of avoiding the test was whitewashed into a generous behavior. Liang Jingxian still wanted to refute, but Ling Ruiyin said impatiently, Enough! Look at your identities. Arguing at the banquet, are you trying to lose face of the Imperial Family? The two stopped quickly, and responded in unison, I dont dare. Shi Qingxue didnt know the quarrel between the two dignified madams in the palace because of her. Once she took the job as an invigilator, she started to do her duty to set up the site. As in previous years, the test place was also selected on the open space by Molian Lake. The sun moved westwards in the afternoon, and sunlight was blocked by those tall banyan trees. An open and cool site was formed by the lake. It was suitable to paint, and there was no worry that those noble ladies couldnt bear the heat. Shi Qingxue was very satisfied with the site. But Shi Baoning in front of the table was still very nervous. She kept looking around but couldnt find a way to calm down. She couldnt paint in this condition! Qingxue thought for a while and guessed that her sister should be nervous for she hadnt been together with so many people for too long. Then she called the servant again and whispered, You move some screens and separate each position. The servant didnt know her intention, but still did as she said. She used screens to create a private space to paint for all the noble ladies. Then, it was obvious that not only Shi Baoning, but many noble ladies settled down to paint. After two hours, there were constantly noble ladies who stopped and handed in their paintings. Seeing that so many delicate paintings were presented in the front one after another, but Shi Baoning still didnt finish, Chen Xiujiao, the daughter of Mr. Chen couldnt bare that Qingxue tasted tea with relief. She faked a smile and said, Shi Qingxue, you complimented your sisters painting skills repeatedly just now, which made us expect it much! Qingxue calmly took a sip of tea, and said indifferently, What are you anxious about? Her Majesty surely will show the best painting to the public. Then you should know! Chen Xiujiao was very confident with her painting this time. She didnt expect Qingxue to be so arrogant, and sneered, Then we shall wait and see. If Baoning cant win the first, I hope you dont slap your own face! Shi Qingxue shrugged indifferently, saying, No matter whose face is to be slapped, its my own business. Why are you so worried? You! In a way, Shi Qingxue was very good at bringing an awkward ending to the conversation. Chen Xiujiao was speechless and walked away angrily. However, Qingxue was relaxed too early this time, because Shi Baonings servant, Jing Yi, rushed to her and said, Sixth Lady, something bad happened. First Ladys painting is missing! Chapter 26 - The Missing of Painting Shi Qingxue looked at Jing Yi in surprise, Isnt my sister still painting in her seat just now? How could the painting be missing? But Jing Yi was so anxious that she couldnt even explain what had happened. Shi Qingxue could only follow her to find Shi Baoning. Shi Baoning was seen sitting at the table upset, and her eyes were red, as if she had cried. Baoning, whats going on? Shi Qingxue glanced at the drawing table. There were only used brush and ink on it, but the painting was missing. When Shi Baoning saw Qingxue, her pale face suddenly looked excited. She grabbed Qingxues hand as if she had seen the last straw, and hurriedly said, I was painting here just now. A pillar of joss sticks of time ago, I finished Affection. But when I turned around to chat with Third Lady and the others, the painting was gone. What should I do now? What did Shi Baojin say to you? Shi Qingxue keenly captured the key of the problem. She instinctively thought that Shi Baojin suddenly came to Shi Baoning to build close relationship with her because of her dirty plan. Baoning also knew what she was thinking, and quickly clarified, You misunderstood her, Third Lady didnt steal my painting. She just wasnt good at painting skills and came to ask me. I thought that sisters should help each other, and I taught her for a while. But she just watched from beginning to end, and didnt move my painting, so it wouldnt be her! Thats it! The clue was useless, and Shi Qingxue didnt suspect her any more. After all, the most important thing at this moment was not to find out the thief, but how to deal with it. Empress Dowager was fully expecting Shi Baonings ability, but at this time Shi Baoning said that her painting was missing. A better result would be that she lost her face. But if Empress Dowager was angry and accused Shi Baoning of lying, that would be a big trouble. At first, we thought that it was the servant in the palace who took the painting and forgot to tell us, but only after we asked about it did I know that my painting was not handed in at all. And Mammy Chang by Empress Dowagers side had urged us just now and she told us that if we had evidence to prove somebody had stolen my painting, Empress Dowager wouldnt care about it! As Shi Baoning said, her eyes became completely dim. Shi Qingxue raised her eyebrows in surprise, and asked in amazement, You have told Empress Dowager? Yeah! Jing Yi said that the painting was lost during the competition. It was not good to hide it from Empress Dowager. And our power was weak. We need Empress Dowager to help us find back my painting. Shi Baonings words made sense, but when Qingxue heard it, she was so speechless. If Ling Ruiyin didnt know about it, they could use another painting if they couldnt find Shi Baonings painting. But they told all this matter to Ling Ruiyin earlier. They couldnt even hide it at this moment! Shi Qingxue gave an angry glance at Jing Yi. Shi Baoning rarely attended banquets and didnt know how to deal with these matters and it was fine. But Jing Yi was the first-class servant selected strictly by Mo Shujun. She didnt help her master to settle her embarrassment. However, she revealed this matter instead. It made her so ferocious! Qingxue, what should we do now? Shi Baoning looked at Shi Qingxues cold look, and thought they were really helpless this time. She couldnt help but be regretful, Is there really no way out? Shi Qingxue sighed deeply. When she saw Shi Baoning so upset, she couldnt say anything reproachful. Jing Yi, you wait at the intersection now, and dont let anyone approach us. She thought for a while, and decisively ordered. Jing Yi tipped her head in doubt, Sixth Lady, what do you want to do? Dont ask. Just do what I ask you to. Shi Qingxue didnt want to explain too much to Jing Yi and drove her away. Then she began to implement her plan. Half an hour later, the last noble lady also handed in her painting. But the two daughters of Duke Shi were still hiding behind the screen. No one knew what they were doing. Ling Ruiyin didnt ask Empress and Imperial Concubine Liu to accompany her this time. She sat alone in the room and looked at the paintings sent by subordinates. Qiqiao Festival was also Chinese Valentines Day. Almost all the noble ladies painted scenes of having fun and begging to the moon. Sometimes there were a few bold paintings showed the affection between boys and girls and the scenes of their dating under the moon. It was not that the paintings were not good, but after admiring them one after another, Ling Ruiyin couldnt help but feel a little tired of those. She then handed the paintings in her hand to Mammy Chang, and asked, Chang, come and see for me. Which of these paintings is better? Mammy Chang followed Ling Ruiyin since a young age, and she guessed that her master was bored. She hurriedly took over the paintings, and after carefully admiring them, she lowered her eyes and said respectfully, I havent even read books. How could I know about those matters of eulogizing the wind or admiring the moon. But the conceptions of these paintings are all very beautiful. I think they must not be bad. How could Ling Ruiyin not know that Mammy Chang was unwilling to offend any noble lady? She glazed at her, laughed and criticized, You are becoming smarter as you grow elder. When you were young, you would still tell me some of your real thoughts. But now, you completely hide them, and wont tell the truth even to me? Your Majesty really misunderstands me! Its not that Im not willing to tell the truth, but these paintings have similar artistic conceptions, and it is really difficult to decide which one is better. Well! Ling Ruiyin glanced again at the paintings spread out on the table, but nodded in agreement, Thats true. I admired them for so long, and only the Affection in your hands was a little better. In the painting, a woman sits alone in the courtyard playing Acacia. White lights drift away with the sound of Chinese zither and fly to the moon, as if she is finding connection with the one she misses in the distance in this way. The conception is dimly discernible and it is exactly a wonderful masterpiece. Ling Ruiyin kept praising it, but Mammy Chang saw her dissatisfaction at a glance, and asked carefully, Does Your Majesty decide the top three? Although Qiqiao Festival of Fifth Lady of the Qin Family obeys the painting rules too strictly, its instruction is delicate, which makes people eager for the activities of those girls, and it should be the third. Third Ladys Miss When Facing Each Other describes the looks and behaviors when a boy and a girl chase love straightforward. Although it is bold, the whims are not lost. It should be the second. After quickly deciding on the second and third place, Ling Ruiyin paused and didnt say anything for a long time. Mammy Chang tentatively asked again, Affection of First Lady of the Chen Family is really outstanding. Does Your Majesty want to make it the first place? Ling Ruiyin thought for a moment. Without answering, she asked, Chang, have you told First Lady of the Shi Family my words? I told her. And the maid in palace said that Sixth Lady also went to see it, and that she drove everyone else away from the painting table. No one knows what they are planning. Ling Ruiyin couldnt help but chuckle when she heard the words, Since Xue has got involved, and she will definitely settle this matter. Mammy Chang was a little hesitant, But Sixth Lady hasnt sent the painting yet. Time is up soon. No matter how clever Shi Qingxue was, it was actually hard to figure out who deliberately ruined this competition, and it was even more unrealistic to make Shi Baoning draw another painting. Not knowing who was gossiping, not only did Empress Dowager know that Shi Baoning lost her painting, but it also spread among the noble ladies who participated in the contest. The noble ladies in favor of Chen Xiujiao naturally ridiculed, and Chen Xiujiao even laughed straightforward, Doesnt Baoning want us to admire your masterpiece, so that you hide it yourself? She said those words, but actually was implying that Shi Baoning was afraid to lose and pretended that the painting was missing. Shi Baoning was not good at talking with people, let alone coping with such an aggressive tone as Chen Xiujiaos. She was so ashamed that her face turned red suddenly. After a while, she said, Xiujiao, you must be kidding. As long as I participate in the competition, I wont retreat easily. Really? Then I want to see what kind of work you can come up with? But dont let us be too disappointed! They were all daughters in First Masters Family in their respective families, but Chen Xiujiao was not as favored as Shi Baoning. And she didnt have the natural elegant temperament as Shi Baoning. Of course, she would be so angry and she was eager to see Shi Baoning lose her face. Shi Qingxue had just finished her job, and she saw Chen Xiujiao and the others bullying Shi Baoning when she came back. But Shi Baojin, who was also a member of the Shi Family, was standing aside and watching what was happening happily. She slightly sneered, My sister is the one painting, and Her Majesty is the one judging. Jiao, dont bother to worry about us. When Chen Xiujiao saw Shi Qingxue dare to laugh at her minding others business, she became so angry and didnt hide her hatred any more. She sneered straightforward, Someone called a bluff in front of Empress Dowager. Of course it made all of us expect eagerly. Im just afraid that it will disappoint us then! Xiujiao, dont you say. What if she really has the real ability? Luo Wenmei, the second daughter of Minister Luo, who had a good relationship with Chen Xiujiao, pretended to joke. Chen Xiujiao slowly added up, Then she should have ability first! I wonder how she has the real ability if she doesnt even have a painting. Shi Qingxue didnt want to argue with these people, but their words always laughed at her sisters pain. She was about to teach them a lesson, when Shi Baojin suddenly made a movement. Shi Baojin stepped in front of Chen Xiujiao, held up her arm, trying to settle this matter, Well, Xiujiao, Baoning is my eldest sister, and she is annoyed enough today. For the sake of me, dont upset her anymore. When Chen Xiujiao saw that Shi Baonings eyes turned red because their irony, she sneered, pretending to be generous, In this case, I will stop saying it. But Im afraid Empress Dowager will be disappointed then! Seeing that Shi Baojin intended to isolate the two sisters from other noble ladies and still tried to pretend to be the good person, Shi Qingxue sneered, Its still uncertain who will be disappointed. Then we wait and see! At a time when the atmosphere of the noble ladies was extremely tense, Mammy Chang came bring Ling Ruiyins order. In honor of Her Majesty, in this talent competition at the banquet for Qiqiao Festival, the third place is Qin Yanyans Qiqiao. There are two ranking the second, and they are Shi Baojins Miss When Facing Each Other and Chen Xiujiaos Affection After announcing those, the noble ladies were all listening carefully and wondered who would be the first place, but at this time, Mammy Chang paused again. Chen Xiujiao couldnt hold her breath, urging loudly, Mammy Chang, who exactly is the first place? Please quickly announce it! Chapter 27 - Missing You Mammy Chang had expected that someone couldnt hold her breath and responded slowly, Lady Chen, no need to hurry. Her Majesty said that Sixth Lady was the invigilator of this competition, she should announce the first place. What? Shi Qingxue blinked her big eyes. She didnt expect that an invigilator could get such a benefit. In the envious eyes of everyone, Shi Qingxue took the imperial decree cheerfully and opened it, but then she was stunned. After a few moments, she calmly read, The first place is Shi Baonings Missing You. Impossible! As soon as Shi Qingxue read the name, Chen Xiujiao retorted with angry instantly. She glazed and didnt believe that Shi Baoning would win the first place, She lost her painting. How could she win the first place? You must make a fake declaration! Shi Qingxue silently gave Chen Xiujiao a glance, and rolled her eyes. She didnt bother to care about her envy, and congratulated Shi Baoning happily. However, Shi Baoning, who won the first place as she had wished, did not show joy. When Mammy Chang announced the second place, her expression began to look upset and she looked at Chen Xiujiao. What was wrong? Shi Qingxue was confused, and suddenly was reminded that Shi Baonings missing painting was named Affection. Was it Shi Qingxue looked at Chen Xiujiao again, and her sight suddenly sharpened. Mammy Chang also frowned at this time, and said solemnly, Lady Chen, please be careful with your words! The decree was written by Her Majesty in person, and the rank was decided by Her Majesty. I was watching aside. Are you accusing me of expressing the wrong decree? Mammy Chang was favored by Empress Dowager, and even the Emperor should treat her politely. Chen Xiujiao didnt dare to be rude to her and quickly shook her head to deny it. But she couldnt bear it, and muttered in a low voice, Well, even if Shi Baoning really handed in her work, I dont believe that her painting which was finished in a hurry can be better than ours? Her Majesty said that last year it was a Go contest and the results were obvious, so it was hard to have disagreement. But in this painting competition, apart from announcing the top three, their paintings will also be shown to convince everyone. After that, Mammy Chang asked a servant to open and display the three paintings of the second and third places in front of everyone. They admired those exquisite paintings. There used to be some noble ladies who were also unwilling to submit. But after they saw those paintings, they had to admit that those were better. But Chen Xiujiao didnt think so! She looked at the other two paintings, and she was more confident. The so-called her work was much better than theirs in the aspects of artistic conception and skills. She asked proudly, Didnt Her Majesty say that the paintings of the top three would be displayed? Why is only Shi Baonings painting not shown? Is Her Majesty afraid that we would feel shameful? Yeah! Xiujiaos Affection has ingenious design and its artistic conception is extremely beautiful. Such masterpiece only ranks the second. Then how wonderful will the first places painting be? Luo Wenmei echoed, but in her words, she was implying that Shi Baoning didnt deserve the first place. This made Chen Xiujiao more confident. She raised her eyebrow and looked at Mammy Chang, as if she was saying that she was waiting for her to display any painting that could be better than hers! Since you want to see it, Chang, you may take out Baonings painting and display it in front of them! Ling Ruiyin also walked out at this time. She sat straight up in the main seat and waved to Mammy Chang. Mammy Chang did as she asked to. She spread out Missing You in front of everyone slowly. When only hearing the name of Missing You, everyone thought that Shi Baonings painting just describe that a girl missed her lover on Chinese Valentines Day. Such ordinary conception was similar to Qiqiao of Qin Yanyan at most. It was afraid to be not as creative and bold as Miss When Facing Each Other of Shi Baojin. Let alone to be compared with Chen Xiujiaos Affection! However, when the painting was really shown, everyone was quiet. She only used black ink in the whole painting, Missing You, and it depicted a group of women in capital city walked out of the city gate together to wait for their lovers coming back from the war, and their lovers, who were the great soldiers of the Mo Dynasty, were walked here in array and the looks on their faces were excited and overjoyed, matching the expectations of the women. And the word Victory on the waving flag raised the emotion of this painting to the winning of the country, instead of the love affair between boys and girls. Missing You, on one side, painted the exciting gathering together of lovers. On the other side, it also showed that the soldiers of the Mo Dynasty put personal emotions aside for their countrys justice. It displayed their selfish emotions that they decisively went to the battle field and finally came back with victory, which made the somewhat solemn but humdrum scene become exciting and cheerful. It showed the missing to both lovers and the men of the country! Ling Ruiyin saw that everyone was stunned looking at Missing You, like they were not back to consciousness from the painting, and slowly said with a smile, Affection of First Lady of Chen Family has a smart design, but missing to just a lover is not as good as to countrys business. So I decided that Missing You should be the first place. Do you still have any disagreement? The crowd were all silent for a moment, and then said together, Your Majesty is correct. We are convinced. Ling Ruiyin nodded with satisfaction, and looked at Shi Baoning for a long while. She asked curiously, Xue isnt calling a bluff this time. But Ning, how could you come up with the idea to paint Missing You? She had already called Shi Baoning by Ning, and it was enough to see that Ling Ruiyin had changed her attitude towards Shi Baoning. It could be said that she admired Shi Baoning so much! But Shi Baoning didnt show any of her excitement. However, her hands sweated and she was extremely nervous. Shi Qingxue was afraid that it led to bad results, and took the initiative to answer, Your Majesty, havent you seen it? I find out at the first glance! Qingxue attracted Ling Ruiyins attention as she expected. Ling Ruiyin asked with a smile, Well? What have you found? Qingxue glanced at Duchess Dong Hui sitting with other madams, and said, Of course it was because our mother missed our father too much and hoped him to come back with victory that my sister painted it to comfort our mother! Saying that, she nodded in a serious look to show that she guessed it right. Hearing that, Ling Ruiyin burst into laughter, and she looked at Dong Hui with everyone. Dong Hui was so embarrassed that her face turned red, and then Ling Ruiyin praised, Duchess Shi is so fortunate. One of your daughters is smart, and the other is elegant. And they both have filial piety. You really make others jealous, even including me! It was the first time that Dong Hui had been called alone by Empress Dowager, and she became nervous. She hurriedly bowed and thanked, Thanks for Your Majestys praise. Qingxue is willful, and likes to joke around. Thanks to Your Majesty being merciful, she is not blamed for it. Yes! Grandma, Qingxues words are so mean. How could you praise her? Seeing that Shi Qingxue was so proud narrowing her eyes, Mo Yuzhen became indignant and came up to Ling Ruiyin to thrive for favor. Ling Ruiyin also loved this outgoing granddaughter, and of course she complimented, Yuzhen is also great. Mo Yuzhen laughed, and made faces towards Shi Qingxue, and the latter also pouted her tongue as response. Ling Ruiyin saw all of the two little girls cute behaviors, and she loved to watch the junior rollick. She didnt care much about their secrete movements. And she called Shi Baoning next to her, and asked her some things in details. Shi Baoning answered all those questions. At this moment, Shi Baoning became the favorite person of Empress Dowager. Seeing that, Chen Xiujiao sneered, Somebody spared no efforts to stand out just now, but in the end, someone else took all the benefits, and she got nothing! They thought that Shi Qingxues answer for Shi Baoning was to show off. Dont say that. What if they are really in a good relationship and would like to even give away Empress Dowagers favor? Luo Wenmei also ridiculed. Chen Xiujiao twitched her mouth and sneered, Make sense. Now as she wishes! Those noble ladies thought that Shi Qingxue was not favored any more, and started to make efforts to laugh at her. Shi Qingxue saw her sister calmer in front of Empress Dowager and she was being joyful. But she didnt expect that these annoying flies came to her again. Especially Chen Xiujiao, was she certain that Shi Baoning would let go of her missing painting? And she dared to come to bother them again. How shameless was this person? Shi Qingxue smiled and pretended not to hear what they said. She deliberately talked with Mo Yuzhen, Yuzhen, everyone has their own habits and styles while painting, and as time goes, sometimes you can recognize the painter by a painting, let alone girls sometimes like to make some secret movements. Do you agree? Hearing them laugh at Shi Qingxue, Mo Yuzhen was angry. She was confused when she suddenly heard those words, and she nodded with doubt, I like to add some my own signs in the paintings to make others recognize my paintingsWait, Qingxue, why are you saying this? Others thought Shi Qingxue changed the subject because she couldnt argue, but once Chen Xiujiao heard, her face became pale. Seeing that Qingxue was looking at her smiling, she said in a serious look, Why are you looking at me? I dont know anything. Saying that, she still felt scared. She was so afraid that Shi Qingxue would reveal her secret in public, and hurriedly grabbed Shi Baojin, who was also silent, and implied with a smile, Baojin, when we were painting just now, we were always together and didnt separate. We even shared the same ranking at last. Its our fate. You cant leave me! If Shi Qingxue revealed the truth that I stole the painting, then you were in the same team with me and you couldnt get away with it! Hearing that, Shi Baojin trembled, and felt regretful in her heart. She was not untalented like Chen Xiujiao, who stole someone elses painting and handed it in because she couldnt paint. She was just unwilling to see Shi Qingxue and Shi Baoning be so outstanding and wanted to make them lose face. But she didnt expect that she dug a hole and buried herself. If it was revealed, it would be a matter of virtue. Suddenly she was anxious, and looked to Shi Qingxue for help. They were in the same family! Shi Qingxue found it ridiculous that these people were really shameless! She didnt realize that they were in the same family when she stood by and watched her being laughed at, but at this moment, she came to beg her when she was in trouble. Qingxue spread her hands and showed that she could do nothing with it. It was impossible for her to let others cheat and lie with her sisters painting! Chapter 28 - Princess Royal’s Mind Seeing Shi Qingxues indifferent expression, Shi Baojin also knew that obviously she didnt have such an important status in her heart. She had to look to Shi Baoning for help: Baoning, if my virtue was ruined in front of Empress Dowager, did you think that you would get any benefits from this? Qingxue, wait a minute. Shi Baoning called Shi Qingxue. She frowned and whispered, Its the palace banquet right now. All the noble people are here. We should not mind others business. Shi Qingxue, She was going to be mad. Who was minding others business? It wasnt them who had stolen the paintings, and it wasnt them who had started the irony first. How were they minding others business? Shi Baonings attitude which showed that she just wanted to let go of this made Shi Qingxue angry and speechless. She simply didnt want to take care of the matter anymore, and went aside to chat with Mo Yuzhen. She tried to calm herself down by not seeing them. First Lady, Sixth Lady was helping you just now. How could you say this to break her heart? The servant Jing Zhuang who followed Shi Baoning also felt it unfair and could not help reminding Shi Baoning in a low voice. Shi Baoning sighed helplessly, Then what can I do? Right now, Empress Dowager is talking with the madams happily. Obviously she wants to let go of it. If I mention it again, wouldnt I just ruin her mood? Besides, Baojin is also my younger sister. Even if she did something wrong, she should be taught privately. Theres no need to talk about it in public and make our family lose face in front of others. Jing Zhuang didnt agree with her, Why wasnt Third Lady reminded that you were also her sister? Since she dared to do such a shameless thing, she had to be mentally prepared to be caught. It was me being so careless that I lost my painting anyway. Besides, the painting I handed in was not my credit. I really feel ashamed, and what reason do I have to blame others? Shi Baoning blamed herself instead. Jing Zhuang, At this time, she finally understood Qingxues speechless feelings, but she couldnt leave just like Qingxue did when she felt unfair. She still had to be patient, First Lady, you need to be more careful in the future. After all, not everyone is sincerely good to you like Sixth Lady. Like this time, she would rather have less chance to thrive for favor of Empress Dowager than making you lose face. She has paved the way for you several times, and these are all her good intentions. If you still put her in the same position as other sisters, I am afraid that it would break her heart! To be honest, when Jing Yi found that the painting was gone, Jing Zhuang thought that her master had to suffer a great loss this time, but she did not expect that Shi Qingxue could use only half an hour to create another painting for her master to hand in when it was impossible to find the original painting. What was even rarer was that the painting won the first place, making Shi Baoning the most favored person at the entire palace banquet for Qiqiao Festival. Shi Baoning remembered that she found a ghostwriter at last, and her face turned red again, with embarrassed whispering, I, I see. I know it clearly in my heart! Jing Zhuang turned her head away thoughtfully, pretending not to see the embarrassment of Shi Baoning. She smiled and said something else, Six Lady is really gifted. Not only does Empress Dowager like her, but even Princess Yuzhen who is the hardest to please is also in a good relationship with her. Well, Qingxue has always been smart, and she is good at saying nice words. It is hard for anyone to dislike her! So Shi Baoning would only ask Shi Qingxue before the banquet. But she didnt expect Shi Qingxue to do so much for her at first: First she thrived for favor for her in front of Empress Dowager, and then she gave up her contest in order to make her participate in the competition at ease when she was capable to win the first place. How could Shi Baoning not know such deep relationship? Thinking of Qingxues disappointed look when she intended to let go of Shi Baojin a few moments ago, she was a little anxious, and wished to go to Shi Qingxue and apologize immediately. But before Shi Baoning put her idea into practice, the palace banquet had come to an end, and Mo Yuzhen could not wait to grab Shi Qingxue back to Yuzhen Palace. Shi Baonings wish failed again, and she could only take the two servants back home with her families. After the palace banquet, Ling Ruiyin returned to Cian Palace tiredly, and as soon as she took off her costume, the news came from Mammy Chang, saying that Princess Royal wanted to meet her. Ling Ruiyin thought for a moment, wondering secretly: Although Mo Shujun was her sister-in-law, they did not communicate with each other very often. Mo Shujun even did not attend todays palace banquet, but she came to meet her at this time. Did she fancy a prince and come for her beloved granddaughters marriage? By the way, Xue is fifteen years old this year. Its time to consider her marriage! Ling Ruiyin couldnt help but smile. As she asked someone to invite Mo Shujun in, she also said to Mammy Chang, Xue is so smart and cute, and I like her very much. I dont know which prince in capital city can match her. If he is not good enough, I wont permit it. There are also several grandsons of mine who are at proper ages, and I want to pick a good match for Xue from them! Mammy Chang smiled while listening to Ling Ruiyins words, but she became surprised in her heart. She had known that Ling Ruiyin liked Shi Qingxue, but she did not expect her to put Sixth Lady in such a high position? Had she reached the point where she could pick one as she wished from the adult princes? Ling Ruiyin had begun to plan, but when Mo Shujun arrived, she did not mention Shi Qingxues marriage at all, but talked casually, Ruiyin, I havent seen you for a long time. You look a lot better. Did anything pleasant happen just now? This years palace banquet is indeed smoother than those in previous years. I watched those young ladies have fun, as if I were a few years younger. But Shujun, you have become idler these years, and you dont often come to the palace even when theres a palace banquet. Mo Shujun sighed softly, with a bit of helplessness, Im getting older these years, and my body is not as strong as in previous years. I feel tired after walking several steps. So I hardly ever go out, and I wish for your forgiveness. After all, she was the only sister of the Deceased Emperor. Hearing that, Ling Ruiyin showed her care and said, Why didnt you tell me that your body is uncomfortable? Did we hire those doctors into the palace to do nothing? Although you are married into the Shi Family, the palace will always be your home. Dont regard us as outsiders. If you feel uncomfortable, just hand in a sign. Dont make yourself suffer. Mo Shujun hurriedly said that she wouldnt. It seems that I dont have to be so worried about it. This time, Xue invited a skilled doctor for the Shi Family, and its not my turn to be concerned about your health. Maybe I will wait for the skilled doctors medical treatment one day! Ling Ruiyin intentionally said a few jokes to ease the atmosphere. However, Mo Shujuns face became serious, and couldnt see the joy at all. Ling Ruiyin stopped the small talk, and asked seriously, Shujun, you come to me at this time. Is there anything important? Mo Shujun nodded, and said, Exactly, I come here for your graceful permission today. Well? What permission? Ling Ruiyin thought that Mo Shujun was finally going to talk about Shi Qingxues wedding, and she smiled a little more joyfully on her face. To her surprise, Mo Shujun wasnt talking about Shi Qingxues marriage. Instead, she said, According to the rules, as Princess Royal, if I had a daughter, she would be the Infanta. But all because of my fate, I only have three sons in my whole life. So the position of the Infanta has not been determined yet. My eldest granddaughter Shi Baoning, whom you already met today, is a fantastic girl. She is eighteen years old, and her health gets a lot better recently. I suppose she should be in the position of the Infanta. Ruiyin, what do you think of it? After Mo Shujun said these words, she looked up at Ling Ruiyin, and showed the intention for inquiry in her eyes. However, Ling Ruiyin was silent. She silently looked at Mo Shujun for a long while, then said in a low voice, I thought you would give the position of the Infanta to Xue. Mo Shujun paused, and slightly took back her smile. She lowered her eyes and said, Of course Qingxue is also wonderful, but she is not the eldest one. The position should be given according to the respect for seniority. If she is named to be the Infanta, I am afraid it will be difficult to convince others. It makes sense, but Ling Ruiyin sighed heavily, thinking that her sister-in-law was good in all aspects, but sometimes she valued the seniority rules even more than her, and it made her less funny. But she didnt talk about it, she just said, The position of the Infanta is the privilege given to you by the Deceased Emperor. You can give it to whomever you want. I wont have any disagreement. That being the case, Ruiyin, I would bother you to issue an imperial decree and tell the public. Ling Ruiyin waved her hand, saying that it was not hard, and then she mentioned another thing, The Empress and Imperial Concubine Liu both mentioned in front of me that they would like Third Prince or Fourth Prince to marry Xue as a princess. Do you have any thoughts about it? Mo Shujun raised her eyebrows in surprise, and subconsciously answered, But Qingxue has just turned fifteen! Ling Ruiyin thought that she was just loath to be part with Shi Qingxue, and smiled, She is not too young. There are plenty of noble girls married at the age of 15. This Mo Shujun showed bewilderment on her face. She seemed to want to refuse and couldnt find any reasons, and finally said, But Qingxue has five elder sisters, and none of them are married. It is not good to let her marry even earlier than them. Even though it is not ruled that the younger one should not be married if her sister doesnt get married. But it may have some bad influence if others know it. We cant make her get married alone, while her other sisters weddings are not arranged, right? Regardless of these behindhand customs, Ling Ruiyin did not think of it for the time being. After a quick pause, she had to choose a compromising way, We can make a decision right now, and when Xue turns to eighteen, she could get married until all her other sisters are married. Speaking of this, Ling Ruiyin couldnt help but laugh and said, Otherwise, I should be anxious if the marriage of Xue, such a wonderful girl, is not determined yet! Since Empress Dowager had said so, Mo Shujun couldnt refute. She could only ask, I wonder which prince you want Qingxue to marry? Oh, this is really difficult for me to choose! Ling Ruiyin also felt it awkward, and analyzed, Mothers of Third Prince and Fourth Prince have already showed their wills, and the two princes are both excellent. Fifth Prince is not bad. Although Sixth Prince is a little bit young, he is not a bad option. And Ninth Prince Mo Shujun suddenly felt it funny, Well, Ruiyin, if I remember correctly, Ninth Prince is just seven years old this year, right? Ling Ruiyin laughed, But he has determined in front of me early. He likes Xue very much. When he grows up, he wants to marry her as his wife, so he asks me not to marry Xue to other man. Surely such words of a kid should not be taken too seriously, and Ling Ruiyin no longer mentioned it. And then she said with a serious look, If you think they are still not good enough, Crown Prince is at the age of 22 this year, and hes not married yet. He is also the future Emperor, and he is mature and calm. He certainly wont make Xue feel wronged. Chapter 29 - The Matchmaking Crown Prince Mo Junyu was the future Emperor of the Mo Dynasty. If she married to him as his wife, she was really fortunate, just like a bird flew up to the branches and suddenly became a phoenix! Hearing that, Mo Shujuns pupils suddenly were constricted, and she became speechless for a long while. She did not expect that Empress Dowager would put Shi Qingxue in such a high position. It was really No! Suddenly Mo Shujun felt surprised, and remembered one thing that Ling Ruiyin was also from the family of Crown Princes mother. According to the genealogical tree, she was Mo Junyus great-aunt. Maybe what Ling Ruiyin fancied was not simply Shi Qingxue, the powerful Shi Family was the key point! Mo Shujun took back her smile, and said helplessly, Ruiyin, you must be kidding! If any prince is fond of Qingxue, it should be her fortune. How could she be picky? So you agree? Ling Ruiyin was pleased immediately. No! Mo Shujun saw Ling Ruiyin misunderstand, she quickly waved her hands, explaining with embarrassment, Its not me who dont treasure such an opportunity. But Qingxue is the apple in Junhes eyes, and he cherishes her a lot. I cant decide on her marriage alone. Now that Junhe is in the frontier far from here. Its not good to determine Qingxues marriage right now. Please forgive us. Ling Ruiyin was stunned. She didnt think of it. She said in disappointment, Sure, Xues parents shouldnt be ignored when it comes to her marriage. Exactly! Qingxue is still young, and its not yet in a hurry. But Baoning is eighteen years old this year, and her marriage makes me concerned. Mo Shujun also tried to change the subject. Although Ling Ruiyin also thought Shi Baoning was a good child, she didnt have the same interest as she had when they were talking about Shi Qingxue. In addition, she was so exhausted that day. She didnt care much when they were discussing, and she only said, Ning is also great. And you give the position of the Infanta to her. There will be a lot of men who want to marry her in the future. Mo Shujun showed a look of pride and was not that humble, There are plenty of men who want to marry her, but I still feel they are not good enough no matter what families they are from. I just cant be satisfied with any of them! Thats because you are being too picky. Of course you cant be satisfied with them. Ling Ruiyin could understand Mo Shujuns thoughts very well. She laughed, I was also like this when I chose the husband for Crown Princess before. I was picky and I either felt that they were not good enough for Yuyao, or was afraid that they were too capable that they would make her feel wronged. I felt it extremely difficult at that time. Mo Shujun didnt take it seriously. She thought, Crown Princess Mo Yuyao was the Deceased Empresss daughter, and you certainly cared much for her. You were not that concerned when Second Princess got married. Didnt you just pick one noble man for her? Of course, she just thought it in her heart, and she should still pretend to agree with Ling Ruiyins words The two chatted casually for a while, and there was still no conclusion, and they just let go of it. C Shi Qingxue couldnt refuse Mo Yuzhens invitation and lived in Yuzhen Palace. The two friends always had endless topics to talk about. Especially when they were at the proper ages, and their marriages were considered. Qingxue, do you know? My marriage is settled. Mo Yuzhen whispered suddenly. Shi Qingxues smile faded, and then she shook her head, With whom? The eldest son of Minister She of the Ministry of Personnel. His name seems to be She Chang whatever. Mo Yuzhen who used to be carefree was lack of enthusiasm when she talked about this, which made Shi Qingxue feel sad for her. The son of Minister She of the Ministry of Personnel, She Changfeng, Third Princesss future husband. Shi Qingxue actually knew about this earlier, but in her previous life, she and Mo Yuzhen had already broken up their relationship at this time, so she was unfamiliar with Mo Yuzhens future husband. She couldnt help but ask, Dont you like him? Mo Yuzhen chuckled and made an indifferent look, It has nothing to do with whether I like him or not. The husband my mom chooses for me wont be bad. But you Shi Qingxue saw that Mo Yuzhen couldnt even remember the name of him, so it was really hard to believe that she was fond of She Changfeng. Qingxue, I have been envious of you since I was young, and I have been envious of you for more than ten years! Mo Yuzhen suddenly said in a sad tone, and the words showed her bitterness, Maybe I will still envy for my whole life! Because you can choose to be together with the man you love, and you can choose to live a life you want. You didnt need to be envious, because I lived my previous life like you said, but it had been miserable. Shi Qingxue silently replied in her heart and then she also became sad. But she still looked positive to encourage Mo Yuzhen, and smiled, Dont be so pessimistic! If you dont like him, you can refuse! Your mother cares for you anyway! Yeah, she cares much for me! Mo Yuzhen seemed to be smiling, and said, But the person she cares about the most is always my good brother. Because my brother can make her reach her dreaming position. As for me, my function is only to marry a man for his familys power. If I cant even do this well, what value do I have? Like her mother had said, she had been willful for small part of her life, and her mother had permitted her to do whatever she wanted. And at present, her mother was just about to make a decision on her marriage, and if she was unwilling, a dog kept by her mother would even be better than her as a daughter! Mo Yuzhens eyes looked confused, and she was even not sure about her future. Was it real that she could be a good daughter only when she married She Changfeng according to Liang Jingxians request, and sought for a solid strength for her brother to thrive for the throne? Dont say that. Shi Qingxue didnt expect that her friend had experienced such a distress. She had really been a jerk. It was ashamed of her that she was Mo Yuzhens best friend, but when she needed her most, she abandoned their friendship just because of her occasional alienation. Shi Qingxue felt so guilty that she hurriedly grabbed Mo Yuzhens hands and comforted her in a low voice, Maybe She Changfeng was not that terrible as you have imagined? At least in her memory, although She Changfeng was not gifted, he could still be regarded as a good-looking and talented man in the capital city! You havent met She Changfeng yet. Its a bit early to make a conclusion now. How about this? I will go out of the palace with you to see She Changfeng, and then we can make our plans. Mo Yuzhens eyes brightened and she was immediately intrigued, Yeah, why didnt I think of it? Although it was too bold for a girl to inspect her future husband, it was not a big deal to both of them. Just But what if I find out that he is a macaroni after the inspection? Mo Yuzhen became worried again. If she didnt know what kind of person he was, she could still comfort herself and marry him. But if she found that she was sick of him, then she couldnt guarantee that she would be willing to get into the wedding sedan. Shi Qingxue said in her heart, If you really find that he is not good, even if you are willing, I wont let you marry him. No matter how hard Third Prince Mo Junjiu struggled, he couldnt become the Emperor at last. She wouldnt let her friend sacrifice for nothing! But she could only hide those words in her heart. She still had to comfort her, Dont worry about it. Thinking so much is just asking for trouble. You will know when we meet She Changfeng. After the two made this decision, Mo Yuzhen obviously became cheerful, and grabbed Shi Qingxue and laughed, Speaking of it, my mother did not just talk about my marriage, but also mentioned you. Shi Qingxue opened her eyes in confusion, pointing at herself with her index finger, Me? Empress Liang Jingxian had always disliked her, and even at the palace banquet, she still troubled her several times. Why would she care about her marriage? Yeah! Mo Yuzhen nodded seriously, My mother would like Third Brother to marry you! What? Impossible! Shi Qingxue opened up her mouth in surprise, and didnt respond for a long time. Mo Yuzhen thought that she didnt believe in her charm, and pointed out smilingly, I dont understand the complicated etiquette in politics, but you are the most beloved daughter of Duke Shi. With such an identity, almost every man at the proper ages in the capital city should be eager to scramble for you, which like wild duck! In addition, Shi Qingxue herself was a very intelligent and talented girl. No man would be unwilling to marry her. Shi Qingxue pretended to spit to Mo Yuzhen in anger, You are the wild duck! Dont talk nonsense! Okay, I use the wrong words. Sixth Lady, please spare my life! Mo Yuzhen posed for mercy, bowed in front of Shi Qingxue seriously, but then was pushed by her. The two laughed and joked together. After a long while, Mo Yuzhen said in a serious look again, Qingxue, what I say is true. Even your eldest sister, the eldest daughter of Duke Shi is not as popular as you. Do you have? Hearing that, Shi Qingxue also took back her smile, and replied in a low voice, It has nothing to do with whether I am popular or not. I havent thought about it for the time being. In the past life, she fell for the one she loved, and she was left with nothing but a broken heart. In this life, she didnt want to touch that poisonous love at all. Mo Yuzhen looked relieved, and then smiled again, Fortunately, I thought you would say that you were into Fourth Brother! It worried me for a long time. Shi Qingxue did not expect that Mo Yuzhen, who had always been so carefree, could even find out her mind. She remembered that she hadnt mention it in front of anyone in her previous life. Was it true that her admiration was so obvious? Fine! Regardless of her mind in her last life, she had been avoiding Mo Junhao like avoiding a poisonous snake or scorpion at present. It was no use mentioning it. Then she laughed and said, How come? I dont dare to dream of the prince! Mo Yuzhen looked at Shi Qingxue with suspicion, and obviously she was implying, If you dont dare to do it, then no one else in the world dares to do it. However, she was happy and didnt argue. However, she said sincerely, Qingxue, fortunately you dont want to marry him, or I will be so sad! Shi Qingxue felt surprised, thinking that Mo Yuzhen was really speaking for Mo Junjiu, and her mood became strange. She pretended to joke, Why? You really want me to be your sister-in-law? Mo Yuzhen rolled her eyes, and said, What are you thinking? How could I not know about my Third Brother? Let alone that he chases after fame and fortune. He also is greedy of beauty, no matter it is male or female. We are friends. How could I push you into the fire? The more she said, the angrier she became. Even if Shi Qingxue was just joking, she couldnt bear it. In fact, Liang Jingxian saw that they had a good relationship. It was not that she hadnt wanted her to persuade Shi Qingxue. She would like to lose her lifetime happiness in exchange of her Third Brothers bright future, but she didnt want to ruin Shi Qingxues love, so she refused immediately then. Even though Liang Jingxian criticized her for several days, she did not regret it. Shi Qingxue also knew that she had misunderstood Mo Yuzhen at this time, and hurriedly apologized, repeatedly saying that she was just joking. But she was also confused, Since you didnt want me to marry Third Prince, why are you glad I didnt choose Fourth Prince? Chapter 30 - Got Caught in the Brothel Mo Yuzhen showed a distressed look, and after a long time, she said helplessly, Of course I totally support that you should chase your love, but She paused for a moment, seemingly a little difficult to say it. But I am the daughter of Empress after all. If you really become the Fourth Princess Consort, we will belong to two parties. Even if I want to keep the good relationship with you, for your sake, it is necessary to avoid others suspects. Otherwise, when Fourth Princes party saw that the Fourth Princess Consort was still in contact with Third Princess, it was hard to guarantee that Shi Qingxue would not be punished for this. Shi Qingxue never thought of these things, and she was a little astonished. Therefore, it wasnt because Mo Yuzhen didnt like her choice that she had been alienated from her in the previous life, but because she was afraid that Shi Qingxue would go through a hard time in her husbands house in the future, and she bore much pain and got away from her? For a moment, there seemed to be warmth in her heart, which made her eyes wet, but her mood was cheered up. You idiot! Qingxue laughed and pretended to scold with anger, You and I are the best friends. Even if our families have conflicts in politics, those are none of our business. Do you really think that I am that kind of person without thoughts? No matter how much she loved Mo Junhao in her last life, she would not give up her friendship with Mo Yuzhen. But they just made the mistake and missed a friendship by chance. Shi Qingxue had some regrets, but she felt more fortunate to be able to do it again. This time she would not repeat the same mistakes. On the second day, the two really went out of the palace, and Mo Yuzhen accepted Shi Qingxues suggestion. She disguised herself as a man and then she would not be recognized even if she met an acquaintance. I asked Dong Shuang to investigate. She Changfeng should now meet friends in Xiangyue Pavilion. Lets go there and see! Mo Yuzhen lived in the palace for a long time and didnt know much about Xiangyue Pavilion. She asked curiously, I have heard my brothers occasionally mention Xiangyue Pavilion. But what exactly is it for? An academy? Shi Qingxue shook her head and pursed her lips for a while before she said, No, the owner of Xiangyue Pavilion was the descendant of a famous person, who intended to meet friends by talent and then invested to build a place like a teahouse beside Xiang Lake. Its named Xiangyue Pavilion. Some talented noble men in the capital city were regularly invited there to recite poems and discuss ancient and modern era. This sounds pretty good! The owner should be a very talented person, otherwise how could he be so popular with so many people? Even her visionary brother couldnt stop praising her! Dong Shuang nodded, and whispered, Yeah, shes also a beautiful person! Beautiful? Mo Yuzhen was stunned for a while, then realized that the owner of the Xiangyue Pavilion was a woman. Her smile faded, and then she finally understood Shi Qingxues true intention of taking her to Xiangyue Pavilion. After a moment, she suddenly smiled again, closed the fan in her hand, and said cheerfully, Okay! Lets go to Xiangyue Pavilion and see! By the time they arrived at the Xiangyue Pavilion, there had been many noble men in it. Some of them were talking and laughing in the lobby, while others were greeted and brought to the private room upstairs by the servants. With a closer look, Shi Qingxue found that she knew a lot of them. It seemed that this Xiangyue Pavilion was really much popular! Fortunately, the theme here is to meet friends with talent, otherwise, if somebody else comes in, he might think that it is a brothel run in the daytime! Mo Yuzhens words were offensive, and she was really angry. Immediately, Mo Yuzhen didnt bother to take care of the private investigation any more. She grabbed a man immediately and asked, Where is She Changfeng? The man saw Mo Yuzhen looked serious, thinking that she was coming to challenge him, and could not help but sneer, You come at a wrong time. Mr. She is very busy today. Im afraid that he cant compete with you! He showed very ambiguous attitude in the word busy, but Mo Yuzhen didnt understand his meaning at all, and asked with a cold look, What is he doing now? Today Xiangyue invited Mr. She as the guest of honor. The two are now upstairs The man showed a sneaky smile and paused for a moment, winking and making signs to Mo Yuzhen, Well, we are men, and we should understand. You dont need me to explain it! The people next to him also laughed. Mo Yuzhen understood it at this moment. Suddenly she burst into anger, and cursed, Well, you She Changfeng. Youd better not let me catch you, otherwise I must whip you to death! With those harsh words, she ignored the astonished people around, and took out her whip and ran upstairs. Wait, Yu Shi Qingxue was afraid of exposing Mo Yuzhens true identity, and she did not dare to shout loudly. She could only watch Mo Yuzhen rush upstairs quickly. Master, what should we do? Dong Shuang was looking forward to this Xiangyue Pavilion, but when she was really here, and there were some wretched men beside her, she felt much uncomfortable, and she was more unwilling to let Shi Qingxue get involved in this. Mo Yuzhens identity was there. If it was revealed at this moment, the princesss reputation would be not good, and she was afraid that it would also affect her master! Shi Qingxue was also worried, but she was not thinking about it. She was afraid that Mo Yuzhens temper was too bad. What if she really saw some uncomfortable and ugly scene, Yuzhen must whip She Changfeng to death on the spot! You are going back to our house now, and then you go to my room and get my waist tag, then go to the Guardian Room to recruit some men. Shi Qingxue made a decision immediately. Remember, this needs to be done in secret. Dont let my mother and the others know. Dong Shuang was reluctant to leave, Master, lets go together! Anyway Princess has her identity. If something really happened, she could just show her identity. Why do we bother to worry? Even if Dong Shuang had a hundred guts, she didnt dare to leave Shi Qingxue alone in this Xiangyue Pavilion! Shi Qingxue waved her hand and drove her out, Dont worry, I have my plan. You should just prepare as I said quickly. Otherwise, if something really happened, it would be too late. Dong Shuang had no other way but could only take the order. Qingxue hurriedly rushed upstairs, hoping to stop Mo Yuzhen before anything happened. But she ran too fast, and as soon as she got up the stairs, she bumped into someone. The recoil force made her fall straight back, and behind her were only stairs. Ah! Shi Qingxue exclaimed in a low voice, closed her eyes subconsciously, and was ready to bear the severe pain coming soon. However, the pain did not come as she had expected. She just felt that a powerful hand held her on her waist, and she was just pulled back from the edge of the falling, and she hit the thick and warm chest of that person. Do you want to die? The deep male voice was not as calm as it used to be, but was a little scared with anger. Hearing that, Qingxue was surprised. After a moment, she looked up at the man. She murmured incredibly, Mo Junyang. Seeing her being still stupid, Mo Junyang thought that if she hadnt happened to hit him, Qingxue might have rolled down the stairs, and he became angry. Without saying anything, he forcefully held up Qingxue and entered an empty private room aside. Shi Qingxue thought for a few moments before she became sure that the person who had just saved her was Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang also came to Xiangyue Pavilion! She was joyful first, but then inexplicably annoyed. She stared her big eyes fiercely at Mo Junyang, making Mo Junyang who was originally angry feel strange. He heard her coldly questioning, Why are you here? Mo Junyang was speechless. Obviously it was Shi Qingxue who was ignoring her own safety. Why was he scolded at this moment? Even though Mo Junyang was always expressionless, he couldnt help laughing at this moment, Im not angry yet, and what are you so mad at? Shi Qingxue realized that she had misbehaved, and there was a hint of surprise showed on her face, and then she became even more ashamed and annoyed. But this time she was no longer angry with Mo Junyang, but angry with her anger! It was reasonable that Mo Yuzhen became angry for She Changfeng was her future husband. What did Mo Junyang have to do with her? And why was she angry? Shi Qingxue bit her lower lip tightly, trying to suppress these untimely emotions, but she still couldnt look at Mo Junyang calmly. She could only pretend to say coldly, I was with Yuzhen. But she escaped alone just now, and I was worried about her safety Thinking of Mo Junyangs current identity, Shi Qingxues eyes suddenly lightened as if she had found a savior. She looked straight at Mo Junyang and eagerly asked, She went to find She Changfeng, but there are so many private rooms here. I cant find my way. Can you find her? This kind of trusting and reliant sight made Mo Junyangs heart warm, as if it were being gently scratched by the paw, itching and aching. He wished to take the kitty in front of him into his arms and played with her. But he knew that Shi Qingxue was not a docile kitten. If he made her mad, she could scratch his face, and would run far away. It would be difficult to get her back. Mo Junyang meditated a few words in his heart, If you cant bear it, youre going to mess up. He suppressed the pulse in his heart, and on his face, he looked serious and told Qu Yuebai next to him, Go and let Xiangyue check where She Changfeng is. Find Third Princess and bring her here. Not knowing why, it seemed that since her rebirth, Shi Qingxue had an inexplicable trust in Mo Junyang. After hearing this, she stopped worrying and asked, Do you also know Xiangyue? After carefully thinking about Mo Junyangs attitude before, she wrinkled her nose and murmured, Listen to your tone, how does the owner of Xiangyue Pavilion look like your subordinate? Wasnt it rumored that the owner of Xiangyue Pavilion was not afraid of authority, and even the Emperor must obey the rules of Xiangyue Pavilion if he came? Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows and said that the woman he fancied was really keen-minded, and she could detect some secrets only from the tone of his speech, although he never thought of hiding it from her. Immediately, with a mild smile, he asked, What? Cant she be? Shi Qingxue already knew that Mo Junyang was arrogant in his bones, and did not think there was any problem with his attitude. After all, Mo Junyang, who had been miserable at this time in the previous life, got a backbone, and he refused to lower his head to anyone, let alone thinking of him being restrained and low-key in this life. But after knowing that Xiangyue was likely to be the subordinate of Mo Junyang, she couldnt help feeling happy. It was like that she found something that originally belonged to her was not stolen, which made her feel so subtle. Shi Qingxue quickly stopped her thoughts and endured her hot face, whispering, Yuzhen wants to know the character of her future husband, so we come here, just wanting to see what kind of person She Changfeng is. You The two were sitting together and chatting casually, which rarely happened. And a knock on the door interrupted Shi Qingxues words. The two turned their heads at the same time, looking at the door unhappily. Who got anything wrong with his head and annoyed them at this time? Chapter 31 - We Together Qu Yuebai pushed the door and walked into the room. He met two pairs of cold eyes, especially those of his masters, as if he was about to swallow him. He touched his nose in guilty conscience, and stepped forward with the chill at his back, and reported, Master, I found Princess Yuzhen just now in a room, and she was about to whip Mr. She. I failed to persuade her, and Princess insisted on hitting him. Then Xiangyue stopped her, and now Princess is resting next door. Shi Qingxue didnt find out the difference between persuading and stopping, and she asked curiously, What did you tell her? She was actually willing to rest next door? She couldnt even move. Even though she was unwilling, it would be useless! Qu Yuebai took back the words, and only said, Mr. She was frightened, and Xiangyue was accompanying him to rest in the private room. Master, Im afraid that today you Thinking that Shi Qingxue was still in the room, he didnt say it all clearly. Mo Junyang waved his hand indifferently, and said what Qu Yuebai didnt finish unequivocally, We are still trying to figure out what the character of She Changfeng is. I never expect that we can get She Changfengs support as an alliance at the first time we meet. Its okay if it wont work out today! Qu Yuebai was so shocked that his eyeballs were about to fall down. Why didnt his master suddenly fear at all? The hearts of them subordinates were very fragile and couldnt bear the stimulation! Sitting opposite, Sixth Lady of the Shi Familys look showed that it was really the same as what she had thought, as if she had already guessed the ambition of his master. Not only did she not care, but she was also relieved. What were these two planning? No matter how confused Qu Yuebai was, he understood one thing from Mo Junyangs attitude, which was that Mo Junyang didnt regard Shi Qingxue as an outsider, and he didnt allow them to hide anything from Shi Qingxue. However, his guess was not completely correct. In fact, Mo Junyang didnt only regard Shi Qingxue as an outsider, but he already regarded her as a family member. Were they allowed to hide anything from the consort of King Ruis eldest son? Shi Qingxue this time confirmed that Xiangyue was Mo Junyangs subordinate. On the one hand, she admired his ability, on the other hand, she began to think about it carefully. Come here. She waved her hand towards Qu Yuebai, with an excited look showing that she was going to whisper to him. Qu Yuebai was compliant, and he was as obedient as a wooden stake, answering respectfully, Sixth Lady, if you have any requirement, you can just tell me. No matter how Shi Qingxue waved her hand, he didnt move a little. He didnt want to live! Shi Qingxue tilted her head and looked at Mo Junyang, meeting with his innocent and pure sight. Shi Qingxue, Fine! Its not a secret anyway. She mumbled angrily, and said in a serious look, Mr. Qu, could you please ask Xiangyue to do us a favor? What favor? Shi Qingxue finally couldnt help snickering, It certainly is to have a careful investigation on that Mr. She! As she said, she also blinked innocently, implying, This is also to help you get to know Mr. She better, right? Qu Yuebai, If you didnt snicker, I would feel it more convincing. However, Mo Junyang did not express any objection. Qu Yuebai surely took the order and left. Shi Qingxue couldnt hold her curiosity, and asked, Is there a small hole in the private room that is used to peek what is going on next door as the book says? Looking at her eager expression, Mo Junyang nodded immediately. But before her next request was made, he said again, We together. Ah! Shi Qingxues face froze. She didnt plan to take Mo Junyang to do bad things together. Qingxue rolled around her eyes, again showed her pitiful look, and whispered, Brother Yang. Damn it! Even though she looked only fourteen or fifteen years old, if her living years of these two lifetimes were added up, she was even twelve years older than Mo Junyang. It was really difficult for her to act adorable in front of a young child! She got goosebumps, but Mo Junyang seemed to take it according to the look on his face. Then calmly spit out two words, No way. And Mo Junyang saw the little head lowered down as he had expected, and the disappointed look was very tempting. But he still had to pretend to be serious on his face, You are still young, and I dont think it would be appropriate that I allow you to stay here. If I permit you to make a movement alone, I dont know how to tell Princess Royal once anything happens to you. That seemed reasonable. Okay, then we do it together. Shi Qingxue had to obediently agree. In the end, she was still worried and said, Lets go and see Yuzhen first. You cant tell her that I already confess it all to you, or she must will be mad at me! Shi Qingxues subconscious movement showed that she regarded him more intimately than her friend, Mo Junyang felt more joyful, and there was surely nothing he couldnt agree with, Dont worry. I just need to keep you safe. I wont get into whatever you want to do. Did he agree that easily? Shi Qingxue suddenly noticed that the last time when she met Mo Junyang in Mang Mountain, he still looked like a dead person and seemed hard to get close. But at this moment, he was like a totally different person. Was he insane? She didnt know at this time, the reason why Mo Junyangs attitude towards her had changed so much was because her secret that she thought had been hidden well was completely exposed to him. When Shi Qingxue found Mo Yuzhen next door, Mo Yuzhen was lying on the bed like a dead person with her eyes open. Seeing that she come in, she hurriedly blinked her eyes, looking pitiful. Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang with her inquiring sight, but the latter looked up. Brother Yang, please let Yuzhen get up first! Shi Qingxue knew nothing about point opening, and had to ask Mo Junyang for help again. Mo Junyang did it without any hesitation. He flipped a small pebble in the air, and Mo Yuzhens acupoint was opened. Mo Yuzhen was so angry that she jumped out of bed immediately and rushed out to destroy those immoral man and woman. Shi Qingxue was terrified and stopped her, You dont know about the whole thing clearly. Dont be impulsive! Isnt it clear enough for a man and a woman to be in the same room alone? Should it be not clear enough until I catch them in bed? Mo Yuzhens eyes became red because of her anger. She didnt really like She Changfeng in her heart, but her dignity as a princess could not be trampled by others. She Changfeng had already had the engagement with her, but he still came to this messy place to mingle with such a woman. And he allied with that mean woman to bully her. If she still didnt get mad, they would really think that she was weak! Shi Qingxue was embarrassed by her words and found it funny. She sighed helplessly, What if you really misunderstand him? How about us observing it for a longer while? How to observe? Shi Qingxue did not answer, but turned to see Mo Junyang, waiting for him to lead the way. Mo Yuzhen just realized that there was another person in the room. She slightly frowned, and she was a little bit confused with Mo Junyangs appearance. But all she was thinking about was the pair of lovers next door, so that she didnt bother to mind other things. She could just reluctantly be patient, waiting to see what Shi Qingxue planned to do. Fortunately, Mo Junyang did not keep it mysterious any more. He led them to a place beside the wall, and opened a secret closet, and there was a small hole at the proper position for a persons eye. Looking inside, it was exactly the room where Xiangyue and She Changfeng were. Mo Yuzhen was ferocious again, but Shi Qingxue quickly covered her mouth with her hands and whispered, Dont speak. Lets see what will happen first. In the room next door, She Changfeng didnt recognize that the person who came in and tried to whip him was Mo Yuzhen. He thought it was a psychopath from somewhere. He was frightened and was being comforted by Xiangyue at this moment. And everything about admiring the article was left aside. Mr. She, dont be afraid. I have already asked someone to check it out. It was just a vulgarian who was jealous of you coming to cause trouble. And I also send people to strengthen the guarding of Xiangyue Pavilion. Such things wont happen again. Mr. She, please rest assured! Xiangyue was beautiful and adorable. She was in a crescent-white short dress and it made her look more like an elegant fairy falling on the earth. And she said the gentle and touching comfort. Almost every man would like to immerse himself into her arms! Especially when Xiangyue slowly approached She Changfeng while comforting. In the end, the two had almost no distance. Thank you for the comfort. I feel much better now. She Changfeng realized that he and Xiangyue seemed to be too close at this time. He hurriedly moved aside a little, and thanked her politely. Xiangyue didnt care about the avoidance of She Changfeng. Her smile became even more gentle and ambiguous. Her pretty eyes became stunning, Mr. She, you dont need to thank me. It was me who didnt run Xiangyue Pavilion well so that you were horrified. I take the blame and drink up these three glasses of wine to apologize. Please forgive us! After that, Xiangyue stretched out her slender hand, raised the colored glaze glass and put it beside her lips, squinting slightly. But her eyes were always staring at She Changfeng from the beginning to the end, exuding seeming seduction. Even if She Changfeng was still frightened in his heart, he should notice Xiangyues intention at this moment. He rubbed his hands uncomfortably and said embarrassingly, It is better for girls to drink less. In addition, its not your fault, and you dont have to take the blame. If you dont have anything else, I should leave. Well, wait! How could Xiangyue let the benefits run away? She stepped forward again. With an inadvertent movement, her beautiful shoulder was exposed, and the atmosphere became ambiguous. Xiangyue also pretended to be pitiful, and whispered, Mr. She, dont you just dislike me? You are going to leave when you have just arrived. If it is spread, others would think that there are some dirty deals in my Xiangyue Pavilion, so that I cant even make a guest stay! With that, it was not easy for She Changfeng to walk away. He had to hold back the embarrassment and sit down again. Xiangyue smiled with satisfaction again. She grabbed a poem collection casually, leaned more gently towards She Changfeng, and whispered, I got the only existing copy of the poem collection from the previous dynasty. The articles inside are wonderful, and I specifically invite you to admire them. She Changfengs eyes lighted up when he heard it was the only existing copy, but before Xiangyue was about to lean on him, he quickly took the copy and took a big step aside at the same time. Xiangyue could only lean on nothing but the air. Xiangyue lost her equilibrium, and she almost fell hard down on the ground. As soon as she looked up, she saw She Changfengs solemn look. He said, I have an engagement, and please be self-dignified. This time, no matter how tender Xiangyue was, she could not keep the smile on her face any more! Chapter 32 - Beaten to Death Xiangyue reluctantly sat down, facing She Changfeng with one side, and gave him a charming and seductive smile, Why are you being so ignorant? There are only two of us here, and no one will know anything. Why do you have to do this? She Changfengs expression was serious, and said in a deep voice, God knows. Earth knows. You know, and I know. How is it possible that nobody knows it? Moreover, it is the duty of us scholars to keep our original intentions. How can I do anything profligate as long as no one will know it? Fine, we have different paths to go. Its me who have bothered you today. Farewell! After that, She Changfeng left without looking back, leaving Xiangyue alone astonished in the room. After a long while, she suddenly turned her head around, not knowing whether it was intentional or unintentional, and she looked at the peeking hole with a seeming smile. Mo Yuzhen was so embarrassed that her face became hot, and she quickly shrank her neck. Hows it? Shi Qingxue just waited aside, and didnt see the scene next door. She was being curious, but Mo Yuzhen thought she was making fun of her. Her face blushed and she said, What? Its just like that! Huh, I wont tell you! Im going back to the palace! Leaving this sentence, Mo Yuzhen was afraid that Shi Qingxue would chased after her and continued to joke, so she really ran away without looking back. Shi Qingxue, So what was going on? She was speechless for a long time, and finally had to comfort herself, Mo Yuzhens expression was not like that she was angry. Should this wedding be held as it was done in the past life? But Mo Yuzhens blushing on her face was very interesting when she was leaving. She ChangfengShould be good! What should be good? Mo Junyangs voice suddenly sounded, then Shi Qingxue finally remembered that there was still another person in the room, and she was smirking alone here? Shouldnt it all be seen by Mo Junyang? No, its nothing. Shi Qingxue shook her head with embarrassed, and her eyes rolled around but she couldnt think of a word, so she said, Im going home. Mo Junyang frowned, asking, You came here alone? Even if Mo Junyangs questioning was not that obvious, Shi Qingxue understood what he wanted to ask, and quickly shook her head and explained, No! I have taken Dong Shuang out, but she was sent back by me to get some help. Where is she now? Speaking of this, Qingxue was also astonished. Time had passed so long, but why didnt Dong Shuang come back? Probably she was delayed by something? Anyway, I am wearing mens clothing today, so it doesnt matter if I am alone. Shi Qingxue laughed reluctantly and wanted to walk away. But before she lifted her feet, her slender wrist was caught. Ill send you back home. Shi Qingxue quickly shook her head and said it was unnecessary, Its not far. You must have something else to deal with. I can go home alone. Until this day, she still did not want to be too close to Mo Junyang, and there was no reason for her to ask him to walk her home. Mo Junyang refused to let her go, and resolutely repeated, Ill send you back. Before she wanted to refuse again, he simply added, Or do you want the Shi Family to send someone to pick you up? It was not that women in the Mo Dynasty were not allowed to go out, but they had to be accompanied by a servant at least. If the family knew that she came to such a place, shouldnt they take her skin off her? Fine! Shi Qingxue had no choice but to agree, and thought it was still unsafe, and whispered, You must not tell my grandmother and the others! Mo Junyang promised with a smile, and looked very easy to get along with. Shi Qingxue secretly twitched her mouth and peeked at him again. But Mo Junyangs face was normal now, and she could not get any clue. As for what Mo Junyang was thinking, she could not guess it at all. Even in her previous life, she barely inferred his attitude from some extreme behaviors of him when she was dying. After all Even if he was abnormal, wouldnt it be impossible that he saved the persons dead body and shared the same bed with it because he hated that person? That was right! When Shi Qingxue died of poison in the previous life, she did not disappear immediately. Her soul wandered besides Mo Junyang for decades. Every day she looked at the man with a solemn face toward her own body, her feeling was really indescribable. She didnt feel horrified, but she didnt want to entangle with this man in her life. But she was reborn to the present. Mo Junyang faced her again, instead of being indifferent, he approached her step by step, leaving her no place to retreat, and she could only manage to continue. Maybe King Ruis eldest son, who had a high status, wouldnt fancy her from the beginning of this life? The more Shi Qingxue thought about it, the more she was convinced that this was the case. And she simply stopped thinking about it, and treated Mo Junyang with an ordinary attitude. Then lets go! Xiangyue Pavilion was not far from the house of Duke Shi. It only took the carriage two quarters to reach there. Shi Qingxue got off the carriage and kindly invited Mo Junyang to have a break in the house. She was just being polite, but did not expect that Mo Junyang really smiled and nodded, Thats fine! I havent visited Princess Royal for a long time, and its time to greet. What? Shi Qingxue was surprised, stupidly watching Mo Junyang stepping out of the carriage. He raised his eyebrows at her, taunting, What? Is your invitation just out of politeness? Of course it was! Of course It was not! Shi Qingxue said hesitantly, her cheeks blushing. Obviously she could be very calm when facing other people, but Mo Junyang could always make her shy with one sentence. It was weird. Fortunately, Xia Mang just ran out at this time and saw her as if she had seen a savior, Sixth Lady, thank God that you are back! Whats wrong? Shi Qingxue rushed forward. Xia Mang showed anxiety on her face, and dragged Qingxue into the room, while speaking quickly, Dong Shuang was caught by Princess Royal and is now being inquired in the lobby. Princess Royal said that if she refused to hand things over, she would beat her to death. Shi Qingxue was astonished, and the shyness a moment ago suddenly disappeared. She held Xia Mangs arm back and stopped her, and asked calmly, What things? What is going on? You explain it to me clearly first. Xia Mang was almost crying, It was Chun Yus turn to clean your study room today, but as soon as she pushed the door open, she found Dong Shuang hiding in the study room alone and secretly looking for something. Chun Yu called for help, and Third Madam took the managing Mammy to catch up Dong Shuang. Dong Shuang said she was just seeking things for you, but no one believed her at all. And later, when Chun Yu counted the things in the study room again, they found that there was something missing, so they told Princess Royal the whole matter. Shi Qingxue was also anxious this time. Dong Shuang was her servant. Although her personality was naughty, she was absolutely loyal to her. It was impossible for her to take her things without her permission. Besides, Dong Shuang would appear in her study room because of her order, making it even more impossible for her to steal. But if there werent quite conclusive evidence, Mo Shujun would never bother to mind such a trivial matter. Since Mo Shujun had issued ruthless words, it must be determined that Dong Shuang had stolen things. Shi Qingxue couldnt care about other things any more, and hurriedly told Xia Mang to care for Mo Junyang and ran to the lobby herself. Mo Junyang grabbed her first and said softly, Im going with you. Okay. Shi Qingxue didnt think more about it. She nodded and went to the lobby with Mo Junyang. In the lobby, Mo Shujun was sitting straight up in the main seat. Those from First Masters Family and from Third Masters Family stood separately into two rows aside, while Dong Shuang was kneeling on the ground suppressed by others. The ancilla stood aside holding the stick and was prepared to subject her to torture any time. Shi Qingxue took a deep breath and suppressed the impatience in her heart. Then she slowly stepped into the lobby and asked clearly, Whats going on here? Dong Shuang turned her head around and saw Shi Qingxue, crying with joy, Sixth Lady, please save me. Shi Qingxue glanced at Dong Shuang slightly, as if she hadnt heard her asking for help, and kept her steps towards Mo Shujun, asking softly, Grandma, who is making you angry now? Mo Shujun snorted, leaving Qingxue aside without looking at her. However, Zhou Ruyu took the opportunity and immediately said disdainfully, Qingxue, what is the servant you raise doing? If our family will take the blame and suffer the punishment, how will you explain it? Explain what? Auntie, are you saying that I have made a mistake and affected our whole family? Shi Qingxues expression became gloom immediately. As if it really had happened, she knelt on the footrest, half-embraced Mo Shujuns knee, tearfully admitting her mistake, If I really have done something wrong, please punish me, Grandma. Dont ignore me! Mo Shujun was the senior who loved Qingxue the most, and how could she endure such a plea. Even if Shi Qingxue really made a mistake, she would let go of it, not to mention that this matter had nothing to do with Qingxue! Mo Shujun gave Zhou Ruyu an angry look, and reprimanded coldly, Qingxue has just returned from the outside. She did not know anything at all, and did nothing wrong. Why are you anger at her? Zhou Ruyus momentum suddenly weakened, and she stuttered, I am just in a hurry. If the Emperor knows this matter, our family cant get away from it! Even so, that has nothing to do with Qingxue. Is it reasonable for you to scold her? Mo Shujun glared angrily at her, and her arrogance suddenly disappeared, and she could only apologize to Shi Qingxue obsequiously. But the doubt on Shi Qingxues face was more obvious, and her small hand gently shook Mo Shujuns sleeve, asking, Grandma, whats the matter? Just tell me! Your greedy servant stole the rewards that the Emperor gave you a few days ago and was caught up, but she refused to admit it. We found the jade ruyi and emerald, but there were still a few other small things not found yet Mo Shujun said slowly, and explained what Xia Mang had told her in details. In the end, she gave Dong Hui a mad glance, and reprimanded, I think that you seem to be smart and make you manage those chores in the family. But what are these matters under your management? This was blaming the hostess who managed the chores for this mistake! Later, Mo Shujun also issued to the ultimatum, Hit her until she is willing to admit. If the whereabouts of those things are still unknown today, dont you wish to get away from this? The executioners guardian was afraid and did not dare to protect Dong Shuang. He lifted the thick wooden stick and was going to hit Dong Shuang. Shi Qingxues small hand in the sleeve of her dress was clenched tightly, but Zhou Ruyu was staring at her with a stern sight. If she stopped him, she would be victimized by her tricky scheme. What should she do at this moment? Did she really have to watch Dong Shuang being beaten to death and do nothing? Chapter 33 - Who Was Better at Acting? Wait. Right at the time when Princess Royal was mad, how would there still be anyone who dared to risk his life to meet with such anger? What kind of warrior was this guy? The crowd looked at where the voice sounded, and they found that the person who spoke was exactly Mo Junyang, he entered the room with Shi Qingxue and sat there after greeting and pretended to be invisible. King Rui was the younger brother of the current Emperor. As the eldest son of King Rui, Mo Junyang should reasonably call Mo Shujun Great-aunt. But King Rui was never in peace with Emperor Wen, Mo Xiangbin. And he was still in charge of a strong army. The person of whom Mo Xiangbin was afraid was surely powerful and dignified. Mo Shujun didnt want to be against with King Rui. She had to suppress the anger and asked, Mo Junyang, whats your opinion? Mo Junyang bowed again, full of courtesy, saying, The Family of Duke Shi has always valued etiquette and believed that everything should be reasonable and well-founded. Now that this maid is just found having the rewards from Emperor with her, and it is still not certain whether she is framed up, but she is about to be tortured until she confesses. I am afraid that it will tarnish the reputation of the Shi Family. So I hope that Princess Royal should think twice. Whoever in the Shi Family said that, Mo Shujun could glare at him and make him shut up. But this person was Mo Junyang. If he was not satisfied, this matter could be spread out at any time. Although she wasnt afraid, she didnt want to make the matter big, and could only be angry in her heart, who led this guy into the door? What are you talking about? Grandma is merciful and kind to her servants. How could she punish Dong Shuang if the evidence is not conclusive? You must not stigmatize my grandma! Shi Qingxue grumbled, as if she was very dissatisfied that Mo Junyang was impolite to Mo Shujun. But because of the sweet voice, the scolding words seemed to be coquettish. Only a pair of her glittering eyes seemed to be angry, but Mo Junyang was regarding it as a wink. This anger came all in a sudden, but Mo Junyang thought about it and knew what his kitten was planning. He couldnt help but admire Qingxues intelligence. She thought of the countermeasure right after he made a start. His getting involved in this matter for good intention was worthy. Immediately he cooperated with a serious expression, and asked, But I just heard what you said, and no one saw this maid stealing with their own eyes. How could there be conclusive evidence? Even if someone found the stolen rewards in her room, she might have been framed by others, right? Besides, it is impossible for a maid to enter her masters room without the order, isnt it to tell others that she has a guilty conscience in her heart? Should there be any other reason? Shi Qingxues arrogant flame suddenly withered, and she felt aggrieved and retreated, squatting beside Mo Shujun, and said pitifully, Grandma, Dong Shuang entered my study room because of my order. I asked her to go to my study room and get my waist token. I forgot to bring it yesterday. And Sixth Lady was not at home yesterday. Mo Junyang then came up with another doubt. Shi Qingxue tilted her head and seemed to be ignorant of it, Yesterday I stayed in Third Princesss palace with Dong Shuang, but that was all in yesterday. The theft in the study room happened today. Is there any connection between the two matters? Mo Junyang smiled slightly and asked calmly, The maid who just came back to the house of the Shi Family today entered your study room, how could she just steal your things and hide them in her own room at the same time? Ah? Shi Qingxue suddenly became stupid with this question. Why didnt she think of it? Shi Qingxue wrinkled her small face, as if she could never find any refutation of Mo Junyangs words. She could only turn to Mo Shujun for help with disappointment, and complained grievously, Grandmother, I cant argue back! She was almost like a little kid who quarreled with another child but didnt win and could only go back to ask her adult for help! Mo Junyang looked at it aside and almost laughed out. His baby was really good at acting. Turning around and looking at Zhou Ruyu, she was relieved because of Shi Qingxues childish waywardness, probably thinking that this was what Sixth Lady who was spoiled and framed to death by them should be. Mo Shujun looked at Mo Junyang with a little blame, comforting Shi Qingxue softly, Qingxue, dont be upset. What Mo Junyang thought was not completely unreasonable. According to his words, maybe the theft was not done by Dong Shuang actually. Really? Shi Qingxue opened her eyes full of tears, and seemed to be puzzled. After Mo Shujun nodded affirmatively, Shi Qingxue immediately seemed to completely be changed into another person. Standing up with her arms folded, she said to Zhou Ruyu with anger, Auntie, you had no evidence at all, and wronged my servant for no reason. She was bruised all over. You also misled grandma and all of us. If anything that is bad for grandmothers reputation is spread out, how do you save it? This initiative argument stunned everyone, especially Zhou Ruyu, and it was so hard for her to explain! Originally, she should be a person who stood by and expected greater mess. Why was she dragged to the center of the trouble all of a sudden? Facing with Mo Shujuns cold eyes, Zhou Ruyu was so nervous that she started to sweat. She quickly explained, I hope mother to make decision more carefully. There was indeed someone who saw this girl hiding in the study room secretly, and then those stolen rewards were found in her room, so that I thought Well! Is what you think sure to be true? Dong Shuang went back to the house to get my waist token because of my order. You caught her without even asking, and framed her to steal something. You are definitely trying to make me shameful! Shi Qingxue sobbed deliberately, looking so pitifully. Zhou Ruyu was uncomfortable with her coquettish appearance, and she repeatedly showed her guilt, Qingxue, you have misunderstood me. Why do I intentionally make you shameful? It is really Suddenly her sight fell on Chun Yu aside, and her voice suddenly increased, and she pointed at Chun Yu, saying, It really wasnt that I didnt believe your maid. Its exactly because another maid of yours told me she saw Dong Shuang steal something and led us to find the stolen rewards in Dong Shuangs room. Then I captured her and brought her to the front of my mother. Shi Qingxue thought for a while, and suddenly muttered, Chun Yu seems to be in the same room with Dong Shuang. Such a seemingly inadvertent sentence made Chun Yu, who was about to become a hero, become the target of everyones criticism. Chun Yu was so frightened that she fell to her knees on the ground, and hurriedly kowtowed to beg for mercy. But she couldnt speak normally, No, no, I didnt. I It was like that she had confessed her crime without even being asked! Shi Qingxue seemed not to understand, and looked at Chun Yu strangely, What are you nervous about? I didnt say you stole anything and framed Dong Shuang. Everyone, Mo Junyang, Ha ha! His girl was so cute. She was acting completely as a fool, and it was not leaky from her expression to action, making people have no arguments and not able to find that she was pretending. Of course, other people couldnt act stupid as Shi Qingxue. Especially Mo Shujun, she was almost put up by a little servant. If she really made a wrong decision, her reputation would be all ruined. She stared at Chun Yu fiercely, cursing coldly, You little thief. Not only did you steal your masters things, but also framed the sister in the same room. You are really abominable! How can an evil servant like you still be in my house? Someone, whip her fifty times. Then remove her from the list of servants in the house and send her to the jail. Seeing that Mo Shujun had convicted her without any hesitation, Chun Yu was frightened and burst into tears, and desperately begged her for mercy, kowtowing, Third Madam, please save me! I am not intentional. I As Shi Qingxues second-class maid, even though Shi Qingxue seemed not to care about whether she would be alive or not, but Zhou Ruyu was the one from whom Chun Yu begged for mercy in a critical moment, it would really cause others imagination. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang looked at each other, and read the thoughts from each others eyes. They hadnt spoken yet, but Zhou Ruyu was panicked, and hurriedly clarified the relationship with Chun Yu, Damned maid, Im not your master. You made a mistake by yourself and you should confess to your master. It has nothing to do with me! Chun Yu suddenly realized it, and she immediately turned around to Shi Qingxue and knocked her head on the ground, Sixth Lady, it was really just a wrong thought in passing. Please forgive me this time, and dont send me to jail, or I will really die! Shi Qingxue knew that Chun Yu was not faithful to her early, and she wished that Mo Shujun would remove this servant for her. However, at this moment, she thought that she still needed to make Chun Yu stay here to figure out what had happened first, but when Mo Shujun was furious and Zhou Ruyu was stirring up the trouble, how could she take over the power of handling Chun Yu? It should be her to blame for having acting too much a moment ago. Mo Shujun valued her face so much, and she lost her face in public because of them. Wouldnt she just abreact all her anger on Chun Yu? Not to mention sending her to jail, it was even possible to beat her to death. This was exactly helping Zhou Ruyu ruin the evidence! Qingxue closed her lips tightly and couldnt think of a good way for a while. She couldnt help secretly look at Mo Junyang. His gaze also happened to be on her. With a calm face and a smile on his lips, he seemed to be saying, I had a way. Shi Qingxue was anxious, and the look of help in her eyes was more obvious, Then tell me! Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows slightly, leaned on the back of the chair, and looked lazy, You begged me! Qingxue gritted her teeth, and she almost wanted to bite this leisurely guy to death. But in the end she put up with it and squeezed a smile at him, OK, this time I beg you! King Ruis eldest son nodded with satisfaction, and accepted Shi Qingxues request in peace. But even with Mo Junyangs promise, Shi Qingxue still felt anxious in her heart. What skill did this man have to make Mo Shujun have no time to pay attention to Chun Yus crime? When she was thinking about it, Mo Junyangs face suddenly turned pale. His head tilted, and he passed out. Master! Qu Yuebai exclaimed, scaring everyone. Mo Shujun got up from her seat suddenly, and hurriedly asked, Whats wrong with Mo Junyang? Qu Yuebai looked sad, as if he was extremely frightened, and stuttered, My master has always been weak. When he was preparing to return to home today to rest, he encountered Sixth Lady. Seeing that there was no servant next to Sixth Lady, he was afraid that something would happen, so he wanted to send Sixth Lady back home first. But its unexpected that This pause was so smart! At the end, Qu Yuebai still bowed his head and muttered to himself, What if King Rui knows it? King Rui only had one son, and that was Mo Junyang. If something happened to him in the house of Duke Shi, it would be a big deal. In particular, if they really focused on this matter, the fact was that Mo Junyang would appear in the house of the Shi Family because they caught Dong Shuang so that Shi Qingxue didnt have anyone to accompany her back to the house. Mo Shujun was anxious immediately, and called the servants quickly, Are your subordinates useless? Dont you see that King Ruis eldest son has passed out? Hold him to rest in the guest room first. Then, send someone to invite Dr. Shen here to treat him. Yes, Madam! The crowd immediately moved in a hurry, and they couldnt even care about Chun Yu who was about to be punished. Shi Qingxue saw Mo Junyangs face pale like snow, and her heart was tightened suddenly. He didnt seem to be pretending. Should anything really happen to him? She suddenly was reminded that Mo Junyang was not in good health in the previous life. Chapter 34 - Punished the Evil Subordinate Shi Qingxue watched Mo Junyang being carried out, and subconsciously wanted to follow him out. But she just stepped forward and suddenly saw Qu Yuebai turn back secretly and blink at her when no one paid attention to it. Qingxue stopped, and she was shocked and comforted in her heart. He was actually pretending! She secretly twitched her mouth to express disdain for Mo Junyangs behavior of shamelessly pretending to be sick. Grandma, what should I do with Chun Yu? Shi Qingxue grabbed Mo Shujun in time and asked in a low voice. Mo Shujun was so anxious about King Ruis eldest son who had passed out at that time. How could she care about the life of a servant? And she didnt want to answer it. Shi Qingxue immediately proposed, Dont you always say that I should learn rewards and punishments? How about letting me deal with Chun Yu, such an evil subordinate? Mo Shujun saw that Qingxues face was full of eagerness, and she was not afraid of her covering for her subordinate. Then she nodded with agreement, Since shes the person in your house, Ill leave her to you to deal with! After that, she didnt care about what happened next, and followed straightforward to the guest room. In the courtyard of Luotong Boudoir, all the servants were called up to stand aside. Chun Yu was manacled and kneeling down in the middle of the yard, while Dong Shuang who had been bruised and another second-class servant, Jing Yu, were standing aside. Xia Mang ordered someone to carry a chair for Shi Qingxue to sit and interrogate her, but Qingxue didnt sit down. In the depressed atmosphere, she first glanced at Dong Shuang and whispered, Jing Yu, you bring Dong Shuang to deal with the wounds first and then come back. Yes. Then Shi Qingxue slowly turned her sight to Chun Yu. She looked solemn, and said softly, Chun Yu, did I treat you badly? Chun Yu shrank her neck, shook her head, and answered, No. The share of Luotong Boudoir is not low, and you servants are deeply favored by me, so the rewards given to you are not few. Dont you have enough money to spend? Shi Qingxue again asked in a low voice. This time Chun Yu didnt even answer, she just shook her head in silence. Shi Qingxue sneered, What was it that made you steal the rewards given by Emperor, and frame Dong Shuang. She was almost killed by it. Is this your friendship after living in the same room for so many years? Wow! As soon as this was told, the subordinates who used to be silent started to gossip again. They all heard that the second-class maidservant Chun Yu was caught and punished in public by the master for theft, but they didnt expect that there was such a story in it. You may know a persons face but not her mind! Fortunately, its not me who lives in the same room with her, or I will have so bad luck! A maid said in a low voice. Another responded her secretly, and got fear in her heart, You are so right! Look how severe Dong Shuangs injuries are! Xia Mang glanced at the whispering crowd, and yelled coldly, Quiet! After everyone was quiet, Shi Qingxue asked again, Chun Yu, Im very clear what kind of person you are, and Ill give you a chance to confess. You tell me who asks you to do this, and I may spare your life. Chun Yu was so stupid and it was absolutely impossible to think of such a sophisticated way to frame others, not to mention that there still should be someone to sell the stolen things. After looking around through the crowd who all bowed their heads, she looked back at Chun Yu. Seeing that she held the attitude that she would not cooperate and kept silent, she couldnt help being angry, Are you unwilling to tell? Chun Yu trembled because of the fulmination. She opened her mouth and was about to say something, but stopped when she reached a certain point. Suddenly her face became pale and lowered her head again, keeping shaking her head. Well! Shi Qingxue sneered in her heart; she was very disdainful of Chun Yus behavior. When she was about to reveal the truth, she suddenly was reminded that before she took Chun Yu away from the lobby, Zhou Ruyu seemed to have whispered something to Chun Yu. Damn it! Shouldnt they seize the initiative? The look of Chun Yu showed that she was obviously threatened by them. How could she get any truth? She became agitated in her heart, and her questioning became even more offensive, Do you really think that you can get away from this if you dont speak a word? Stealing the rewards from the Emperor, framing others up, selling your masters things. Every one of them is enough to kill you. You I Chun Yu finally spoke with her trembling voice at this time, I didnt sell anything. I just had a conflict with Dong Shuang, and I found a way to frame her. Those missing rewards from the Emperor were not stolen by me. Please perceive carefully, Master. Shi Qingxue was astonished and didnt speak. Chun Yu seemed to have reliance, and suddenly said with her voice increased, I admit that I have framed Dong Shuang, but its just a conflict between us, and its not enough to convict me to death. You dont have the evidence to prove that I have stolen those missing things, and if I am punished for this, I refuse to accept it! I believe that other servants wont be convinced when they see Sixth Ladys arbitrary behavior! The last sentence stirred up the trouble really in time, and the subordinates aside began to discuss about it again. Shi Qingxue was angry, but she even laughed, such stubbornly resisting attitude was so ridiculous, So you dont confess your crime? Chun Yu paused, and immediately raised her head, No. Shi Qingxue lowered her eyes and said coldly, If I have evidence, wont you still admit it? Still resisting with silence, this time there was even a little more contented smile on Chun Yus face, as if she was sure that Shi Qingxue could do nothing to her! Caught the thief and proved with the stolen things! How could she convict her if she had no evidence? Shi Qingxue stopped talking and sat silently on the chair. After a while, she waved her hand at Xia Mang. The latter understood, and whispered a few words to the subordinate next to her, and the subordinate hurried away. When everyone was doubtful, the subordinate rushed back, holding a cloth bag in hand, and handed it to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue threw it on the table casually and slowly opened the cloth bag, Do you still recognize these things you have sold? In Chun Yus shocked and scared eyes, she said slowly, Or have you forgotten this matter after you sold it? No! No way. I have dealt with them. Its impossible Chun Yu shouted in a panic, and then shut up immediately. But it was too late! The stolen things which had been sold appeared again in front of Chun Yu made her in a panic completely. She confessed everything even without any torture. Xia Mang glanced at Chun Yu and immediately said, Sixth Lady had discovered that you stole and sold the things in the house. She thought that you had worked hard in the house for so many years and tolerated it and redeemed them with her own money. It was not expected that you didnt feel guilty and even became more rampant by framing others up. Such an evil servant, how could you get away from this! After all the gossips were successfully suppressed, Xia Mang turned to Shi Qingxue again, Chun Yu sold the rewards from the Emperor and framed others up, and there was absolute evidence. Sixth Lady, please decide how to deal with her. Shi Qingxue stared at Chun Yu for a moment with her serious sight, sneering, As my grandmother has said, whip her thirty times. Its unnecessary to send her in jail, which may ruin the reputation of the Shi Family. Just send her away! Yes! Shi Qingxue didnt need to give another order, Xia Mang immediately asked others to carry the torturing tool here. As soon as the whipping began, Chun Yu screamed sharply. All the other subordinates were frightened, but they all lowered their heads and didnt dare to make a move. However, Qiu Lu, who was also a second-class servant, looked pitiful on her face, and begged in front of Qingxue in a low voice, Sixth Lady, it is reasonable that Chun Yu should be punished for her mistakes. But she is just a weak girl. Whipping thirty times might kill her. Youve always been kind, so just send her away. The subordinate is also a human being. If you beat her to death in front of everyone, Im afraid that there will be someone saying that you punish the subordinate too strictly. How about just selling her to others, which shows your mercy and punishes Chun Yu at the same time? Qiu Lu was hesitant while speaking, and her words were euphemistic. She persuaded Shi Qingxue to let go of Chun Yu from every aspect, as if she really cared about Shi Qingxues reputation with her whole heart. If she didnt imply that she was being cruel if she didnt stop beating Chun Yu Hearing that, everyone actually began to discuss. After Jing Yu sent Dong Shuang back to her room, she heard Qiu Lus remarks, and she argued, Qiu Lu, what are you talking about? Sixth Lady punishes Chun Yu because she has made mistakes. According to the rules of the house, she should be punished. Saying that, are you implying that our master is cruel or that the rules of the house are inappropriate? No, thats not what I mean. Qiu Lu waved her hands quickly, and hurried to explain, Im just afraid that someone will say those wrong words that Master is cruel. I Since you know those are wrong words, you should slap on their faces once you hear them! Sixth Lady has already decided not to send her in jail due to the relationship in the past. Do you think that Sixth Lady should break the rules because of some ridiculous gossips? Jing Yu folded her arms, looked tough and fierce, and refuted. Qiu Lu had to shut up unwillingly. Shi Qingxue looked around, and then asked indifferently, Do you have any disagreements with the punishment of Chun Yu? The crowd responded together, No. Master deals with her properly! The scream continued, but no one showed sympathy for Chun Yu anymore. But Xia Mang thought of one thing, and came up to ask, After Chun Yu was sent away, the position of the servant in your study room should be empty. Will you raise one from those second-class servants or choose among other servants? In the Shi Family, the salary of second-class servants was also different. Just like Chun Yu, Qiu Lu, Jing Yu, Xiao Man and she were all second-class servants, but because she was appointed as the servant in study room by Qingxue, her salary was 30% more than others, and she was closer to the master. In addition, her status was just lower than the two first-class servants. As soon as they heard that there was a chance to be raised, all the servants suddenly became energetic, and no one cared about Chun Yus life. But in Luotong Boudoir, apart from the first-class servants, Xia Mang and Dong Shuang, only Chun Yu and Qiu Lu were named by Princess Royal, and Qiu Lu was deeply favored by Sixth Lady. It was impossible for others to surpass her and become the servant in study room. But if Qiu Lu was raised to be the servant in study room, wasnt there an empty position as a second-class servant? Shi Qingxue saw everyones eager sights and ignored Qiu Lus joy which she didnt even hide. She turned her head around and looked at Jing Yu who was staring at Chun Yu with anger. She slowly said, Everyone spends years working to reach their todays position, so it will be unfair to raise the third-class servants regardless of the levels. Jing Yu is able to write well, then make her work in study room. As for the empty position, you choose a smart one to raise! She actually appointed Jing Yu? Not to mention the others surprise, Jing Yu herself was also stunned, totally unaware how she could be favored by her master. Xia Mang frowned first when she heard this arrangement. She turned her head around and glanced at Qiu Lu and figured a hint of resentment that was hidden behind the obedience in her eyes. Then she looked at her master. Shi Qingxue seemed not have noticed it and just said to her tiredly, The rest is left to you to handle. Come to my room after you settle all these matters. Yes. Xia Mang nodded, but there was some fear in her heart. Did she just read Qiu Lus sight wrong? Did the master find Qiu Lus malice? Chapter 35 - Just Because I Was Powerless Xia Mang hurriedly dealt with everything, and then came to report to Shi Qingxue, Chun Yu had been whipped thirty times, and had been applied medical ointment and sent away from the house. Jing Yu who had been raised to the servant in study room moved to live in the same room with Dong Shuang. A well-behaved and experienced third-class servant Jing Zhi was raised to fill the blank position. After Shi Qingxue heard all of it, she nodded and praised, You have always been mature and calm. I believe you can do it well. Xia Mang hesitated for a moment, and asked at last, As for that thing, I also have told a reliable person to do it. But there is one thing I dont understand. Sixth Lady is our master, and you can just do whatever you want. Why do you need to She didnt say the following words, but Shi Qingxue knew what she meant, and then smiled reluctantly, Do you want to ask why I am so tortuous? Xia Mang nodded and said confusedly, Take Chun Yu as an example. You have figured out her maliciousness early, and in this way you redeem all the stolen things once she sells them. In this case, why do you tolerate and not reveal her? Why dont you kick this scourge out earlier? If this was done early, things wouldnt have been in such a great mess, and Dong Shuang wouldnt have suffered such pain. But right after she said, Xia Mang came up with a thought, and she blurted out, Is Sixth Lady trying to make trouble bigger? Xia Mang, you understand me. Shi Qingxue nodded with joy. But why? Shi Qingxue stood in front of the window, raised her hands in front of her eyes, and watched the sunlight penetrate the fingers and shine on her face. Then she sighed softly, Mang, I dont have power in my hands! Whether she tolerated at this moment, or pretended to be silly and ignorant before, it was to make everyone think that Shi Qingxue was innocent and defenseless as she used to be. Only in this way would no one guard against her, so that she could find a way to live in the Shi Family which was full of malice. In the Shi Family, I seem to be Sixth Lady who is the most favored, but I am just the Sixth Lady alone. I dont have power or force. If grandmother doesnt like me one day, what is left with me? Whats more, she still hadnt figured out why Mo Shujun loved her so much yet, and how could she gamble everything on it alone? Xia Mang was surprised and confused on her face, and she subconsciously wanted to deny it, but she couldnt find a reason for refutation no matter how hard she thought. In the end, she could only say, Sixth Lady, you dont have to be an enemy of the Shi Family! You are so smart, and you definitely wont But Shi Qingxue sneered, Smart? You think Im smart, but I just have to give in because I dont have the power! If her grandpa was still alive, why did she need to be as careful as she was today? She knew well about the evil intentions of Third Masters Family, but due to Mo Shujuns love for them, she couldnt say anything. Knowing exactly how malicious Mo Shujun was against Dong Hui, she couldnt just ask about it, and she still needed to be tortuous between them two. It was all because she had no power! Xia Mang paused. Suddenly she shook her head and said excitedly, No, you are wrong. Shi Qingxue looked at Xia Mang in surprise, seeing that her eyes turned red because of her anxious, How is your intelligence not a power? Is only strength called power? Then whats the difference with the thoughtless courage? This time even Shi Qingxue was shocked. She was astonished not because Xia Mang offended her master, it was surprised that Xia Mangs words made her suddenly enlightened. Yes! She was a delicate little girl. What about lack of strength in her hands? As long as she seized the opportunity and made good use of her ingenuity, one day she could finally achieve her goals. I was being silly just now. Mang, thank you! Shi Qingxue showed a slight smile and sincerely thanked her. Xia Mang scratched her head in embarrassment and said in a low voice, Youre welcome. By the way, did you see Qiu Lus She wanted to ask if Qingxue had found Qiu Lus malicious intentions, but she was afraid that all this was just her imagination. Shi Qingxue smiled slyly at her, You found it too! It really wasnt her illusion. Suddenly, two traitors appeared in Luotong Boudoir, and Xia Mang became anxious, What should we do? Is Qiu Lu just envious? Or is she directed by others? There is a saying that you will know whether its a mule of a horse once you pull it out! Dont worry about it. We shall wait and see! Shi Qingxue obviously took less notice of it than Xia Mang, especially after she was enlightened just now, she became more energetic. Her confidence reassured Xia Mang, who was still a little nervous. Sixth Lady, First Madam is here to see you. Jing Yu lightly knocked on the door and said softly outsides. Shi Qingxue thought that Dong Hui came to ask about Chun Yu and quickly responded, Ill be there right away. But when she went out, she found out that Dong Hui was not asking her about this. Dong Hui asked, Qingxue, there are so many things today. I still havent asked why you come back with Mo Junyang? Shi Qingxue only told roughly the matter that Mo Yuzhen wanted to investigate the character of her husband, but didnt explain the relationship between Mo Junyang and Xiangyue. Dong Hui didnt ask about the details, but frowned and said in a low voice, Third Princess is being so willful. What if anything bad happened? This time, she should really be grateful to King Ruis eldest son! Shi Qingxue pursed her lips. Although she knew that Mo Junyang was pretending to be sick, she couldnt help asking, Is Mo Junyang better now? Dong Hui shook her head, looking serious, Not so good. Dr. Shen and the royal doctor are treating him together. They tell a long list of symptoms, but I dont understand after listening for a long time. In short, his illness is serious. He was awake for a while and then passed out again. Shi Qingxue felt a little astonished and suddenly felt that something was wrong. If Mo Junyang was really just pretending to be ill, then he should be okay at this time. Why was even the royal doctor here? Mother, I want to see Mo Mo Junyang. Is that okay? Shi Qingxue was worried, but she was afraid that Dong Hui wouldnt allow it because they had to avoid suspicion. But after Dong Hui heard, she was overjoyed, and nodded, Of course it is great! I was afraid that you were being mad at him and would not be willing to visit him. Actually, I come to see you now to tell you this. Although the illness of King Ruis eldest son has nothing to do with you this time, but after all, he sent you back home out of good intentions. So it is reasonable that you should go to visit him. Especially when those in Third Masters Family filled the guest room, but First Masters Family didnt even make a move, and there should be someone who talked about Shi Qingxues ingratitude. Shi Qingxue smiled bitterly, and thought in her heart that her arrogant image was really impressive. But this was exactly what she wanted, and she didnt explain at that moment. She just nodded, Then lets go there now! Shi Qingxue didnt believe that Mo Junyang, who had won at last in her previous life, would really be in trouble. But once she thought of his pale face when he passed out, she felt worried. What if anything really happened? Or because of her rebirth Shi Qingxue didnt care too much about that at that time, and hurried to the guest room with Dong Hui. The room was already full of people. Second Master Shi Junfeng and Third Master Shi Juncai were all there and standing beside Mo Shujun. Shen Luo was kneeling beside the bed to treat Mo Junyang, while other royal doctors were watching anxiously. The only good news was probably that Mo Junyang was awake. As soon as Shi Qingxue entered, her eyes met with Mo Junyangs. The mans eyes were deep, as if they were infused with magic, which made her heart beat but she couldnt escape. Everyone else glanced at her. Qingxue had to suppress the complex thoughts in her heart, and moved forward with elegant steps. She asked in a soft voice, Your Excellency, how are you feeling? In her soft voice, there was sincere concern that even Shi Qingxue herself did not notice. She really didnt want him to be in trouble! However, Mo Junyang noticed that, and his sight became more gentle and his expression was softer, making his cold face look warm and bright. He controlled himself and nodded to Shi Qingxue, and said softly, Thank you, Xue. Its just a small problem. Im good. The sunset slowly penetrated through the window and spread on the bed and on his body, Mo Junyangs whole body seemed to be plated with gold. The man was shining with the sunlight, which made him more handsome. Shi Qingxue never expect that the cold and gloom man in her previous life had such a warm and gentle side, and she was a little stunned. Shi Baojin, who followed her to enter the room, was originally asked by Zhou Ruyu to come reluctantly, but when she saw Mo Junyang, whose smile was like the spring breeze and warmth was like the sun, her heart began to beat fast. What a good looking man Shi Baojin chose to ignore that he was weak and lying in bed because of his illness, her eyes and her heart were full of gentle smile of this man. She stepped forward, and said joyfully, Your Excellency, this is Shi Baojin. Is Your Excellency all good? Mo Junyang was suddenly interrupted, and the smile on his face disappeared. But the next second he slightly smiled again, and thanked her politely, Im fine. Thanks for Third Ladys concern. Hearing the man called her Third Lady with his deep and magnetic voice, Shi Baojins whole heart fell into him. Her eyes lighted up instantly, staring at Mo Junyang like a hungry wolf, but she said with her soft voice, Your Excellency sent Qingxue back home but became ill because of it. I feel really guilty. And Id like to apologize to you for Qingxue. Please dont blame it on her for my sake. Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue, Even if Mo Junyang fell ill because of Shi Qingxue, why did Shi Baojin come to apologize? Why was she anxious? Mo Junyang really couldnt understand the logic of the idiot girl, and had to say more politely, Third Lady, dont worry. Its all my fault that I passed out just now, and it has nothing to do with your family. How could you say so! Shi Baojin was even more anxious, and she said quickly, You passed out in the house of the Shi Family, and the whole family should be responsible for that. You should just rest and live here until you completely recover from it. Everyone, Everyone was beaten by Shi Baojins strange logic. She was a lady in Third Masters Family. Even if the guest was really invited to stay, it should never be her turn to do it. In addition, King Ruis eldest son didnt say that he would leave, but she tried to get close to him eagerly, she was being extremely flattering. Moreover, the environment of the house of King Rui was much better than that of the house of Duke Shi. If he really needed to recuperate, he shouldnt live in such a small guest room! This girl really had been fascinated by his good look and no one could save her! Mo Shujun sighed in regret that this guy could only make things worse. She was about to speak to let go of this topic, but Mo Junyang smiled again and looked calm unexpectedly. That being the case, then I should meet the requirement out of respect. I have to bother the Shi Family then! Mo Shujun, It must be that her listening was worse so that she heard it wrong. What did Mo Junyang just say? He was going to stay? How poor this environment would be to him! Shen Luo looked at the shocked people in the Shi Family, and silently covered his face, These people probably wouldnt want to know that at this time, King Ruis eldest son, who they thought was wronged and staying, was actually overjoyed in his heart. Chapter 36 - I Wouldnt Be the Emperor Even though Mo Junyangs identity was not as sensitive as that of other princes, and he was not afraid that the Emperor would fear it if he lived in the house of the Shi Family in a short time, Mo Shujun still worried that something would happen to this noble person when he stayed here. So she hurriedly wrote a letter to the house of King Rui, hoping that he treasured his own son and brought him back home. However, the sedan to pick him up was not sent, but two carriages of things from the house of King Rui arrived, which obviously meant that Mo Junyang could continue to live in the house of Duke Shi. Mo Shujun had no choice but to arrange a good courtyard in the north and facing the south to settle him down. The Crown Prince Mo Junyu was shocked when he heard the news. The next day, right after going to the court, he hurried to visit him. When he entered the room, he saw that Mo Junyang was sitting there and tasting tea and he looked as usual, not like a sick person at all. After asking Shen Luo carefully and knowing that this person was as strong as a tiger, he was finally relieved. But he couldnt help laughing and cursing. You guy. Dont you feel uncomfortable if you dont cause me some trouble? Mo Junyang glanced at Mo Junyu, he didnt even stand up to greet the current Crown Prince. He just pointed the opposite seat with his mouth and motioned him to sit there. Mo Junyu didnt care much about it. He sat down and sipped the tea, then turned to ask Qu Yuebai standing aside with anger, Say it. What is your master planning with such a great mess? Even father asked about it in the morning. Couldnt he pretend to be sick just for fun? Knowing that Mo Junyang wouldnt answer him honestly, he aimed at Qu Yuebai. Qu Yuebai was also very helpless. Since that it was not right to slander his own master openly, he had to squeeze a smile and said vaguely, This is the house of Duke Shi. Why did Mo Junyang spare no efforts to move in the house of Duke Shi? It was so obvious! Mo Junyu was confused at first, then his eyes widened slowly. He couldnt believe that Mo Junyang was pretending to be sick just in order to live in the next door of Shi Qingxue? Would there be anything more dissolute? Unfortunately, even when his eyes were widely open out of surprise, Mo Junyang was still sipping tea calmly, he didnt think that he had done anything wrong at all. Mo Junyu had no way but to sigh deeply, For Shi Qingxue, you really spare no efforts and can do anything! Mo Junyang turned a deaf ear to his satire. Mo Junyu gritted his teeth, Dont forget, father is very sensitive and suspicious now. You live in his courtiers house openly. Arent you afraid that he would think too much? Mo Junyang blew the leaves on the face of tea, and took a sip, Then you rushed here as soon as you finished the court, arent you afraid of him being suspicious? Mo Junyu was choked. After a while, he reluctantly replied, What should I be afraid of? You are my study accompany. You are sick and I come to visit you. Its reasonable. Then I have nothing to fear, after all Mo Junyang smiled and answered calmly, After all, I wont be the Emperor. Mo Junyu, Even if it was made sure that no one was around and he didnt have to worry that someone else would hear it, only Mo Junyang could have the courage to say these rebellious words. The Crown Prince was defeated. Mo Junyu didnt bother to stick to this topic anyway. As long as Shi Qingxue was involved, this guy could only be more abnormal and there was no room for discussion at all. He should quit making himself uncomfortable! Do you know that Princess Royal wants to give the position of Infanta to First Lady of the Shi Family? Although the imperial decree of Empress Dowager hasnt been issued yet, this thing is decided. Mo Junyu suddenly took back his sad expression and reminded him with a serious look. Mo Junyang shrugged indifferently, So what? Mo Junyu said deliberately, Shi Qingxue is the most favored lady in the family. It is reasonable that the position of Infanta should be hers. Oh. Mo Junyang nodded indifferently without any comments. You! Mo Junyu felt that every time he chatted with this guy, his lungs would be blown up because of his anger, he was quite depressed, Dont you mind it at all? The position of Infanta is not just an ordinary benefit! Mo Junyang smiled, and his cold eyes finally became softer, She doesnt even care about it. Why should I bother to worry then? If she really wants it, she will get what she wants? Its just a position of Infanta. Let it be if it is given to Shi Baoning! How do you know she doesnt want it? Mo Junyu paused and analyzed carefully, Even if Shi Qingxue really doesnt care about being Infanta because her status in the family is high enough, it doesnt mean that she can bear it that someone else takes away what should have belonged to her. This mood was actually very easy to understand. If she didnt want a thing and threw it away, it would be okay. But no one could bear that someone else coveted it and took it away! Mo Junyang finally turned his head and gave Mo Junyu a look, but in the eyes of the latter, it was totally contempt. Qingxue, she wont. Mo Junyu, Fine! He didnt even worry about his sweetheart. Why did he bother? Mo Junyu would never admit that he just wanted to see Mo Junyangs anxious but helpless expression, but he failed every time. Suddenly, Mo Junyang asked seriously, Compared to this, I want to know what happened in the war of the Northwest? The northwest of the Mo Country was the Liang Country. Nomadic people were warlike and addicted to killing. They were often in conflicts with the Mo Country. Small things like raping and robbing, big things like wars, these people never stopped causing trouble. This time the Liang Country started a war at the border between the two countries, and Shi Junhe led his Shi Army to fight the enemy. Mo Junyu didnt scold that this man was only concerned about those things related to Shi Qingxue. Instead, he looked cold and ridiculed, How many years have passed since the previous dynasty collapse? My grandfather died only 20 years ago. And those in the court have forgot how hard it is for the ancestor to beat the last dynasty and build a new country and they have started to rest and enjoy! The battle on the front line was tense. When Duke Shi sent people to ask for more food, those people in the court were still reluctant, as if the food given to the soldiers was their flesh! What does the Emperor say? Mo Junyang didnt care about the thoughts of those unimportant people. Anyway, they couldnt cause big trouble, and it was not worth his anxiety. Father still remember the loyalty of Duke Shi, and agreed to deliver the food according to his requirements. But if there is still no victorious news, its really hard to predict what will happen to the situation later! Mo Junyu was so worried. At present, Mo Xiangbin was easy to persuade and suspicious. No matter how much he trusted and relied on Duke Shi, it was hard to say whether he would be convinced by those mean people. Mo Junyang looked down and counted the days, and didnt worry too much about it. He slightly lowered his head, I see. Since you dont want the Emperor to think too much, then dont come in the future. If you have anything to tell me, just ask someone to hand a note. Mo Junyu was sighing with emotions, and was suddenly argued by Mo Junyangs cold words. He was speechless and extremely depressed in his heart. He was extremely skeptical that Mo Junyang did this definitely not because he was afraid of Mo Xiangbin thinking too much, but because he was in the way! Fine! I wont come here no matter whether I have things to tell you or not, okay? Mo Junyu gave Mo Junyang an unhappy glare. Mo Junyang accepted it frankly, and at the same time he showed the attitude of farewell to the guest. Mo Junyu, Qu Yuebai saw that the Crown Prince was much furious, and quickly smiled to appease him, Your Highness, dont be angry. Master really doesnt want to cause you trouble. After all, your identity is special, and those officials are always watching! Mo Junyus anger was smoothed down and he followed his words to say, The last question. Since you are into Shi Qingxue, and she is already fifteen years old, why dont you ask Emperor to issue the decree to make her marry you? Mo Xiangbins love for Mo Junyang even made him jealous. Mo Xiangbin would definitely agree with such a simple request. Mo Junyang shook his head with a smile, and his expression on the cold face was indescribable resolute and determined, The risk is too great, and there are a lot of obstacles. I wont do things unless Im sure of the success. Besides, Qingxue is just I dont want to scare her. His kitten looked arrogant and even became unconsciously close to him. But he knew well where this trust came from. If Shi Qingxue knew at this time that he fancied her, he was afraid that she would hide away at once. Mo Junyang would never allow this to happen! Mo Junyu didnt understand the meaning of Mo Junyangs omitted part, but he didnt care too much about it when he looked at his confident look. Mo Junyang had always been thoughtful and almost never failed. Now when it came to what Mo Junyang wanted, there was no reason that he would fail. Just let it be if it should be complex, as long as it would succeed in the end! After Mo Junyu thought it through, he told his study companion a few words and left contentedly. But when he had just left, there was another distinguished guest here again. Master, Third Lady of the Shi Family comes to greet you and is waiting outsides now. Mo Junyang frowned impatiently, glancing at Qu Yuebai, How do you let her in? Qu Yuebai felt awkward, Master, this is the house of Duke Shi! Third Lady is also favored in the family. Isnt it just a matter of her words to enter the courtyard? It was still because his people were guarding at the door that Shi Baojin didnt rush into Mo Junyangs bedroom straightforward. So what else could he complain about? You go and see her! Just tell her that I dont feel well and I am unsuitable to meet guests. Yesterday, for some inexplicable reason, Mo Junyang could be patient and talk to Shi Baojin politely. At this moment, Shi Qingxue was not here, so he didnt bother to talk to Shi Baojin at all. Qu Yuebai was helpless and had to take the order to go unwillingly. No one expected that when Shi Baojin heard Qu Yuebais words, she suddenly became anxious, she got up and was about to enter the room. As she walked, she complained, Wasnt His Excellency awake yesterday? How does he feel not well again today? Is it because you damned subordinates dont take good care of him? Damned subordinates, Qu Yuebai scolded her in his heart, but still had to pretend a decent smile on his face, Third Lady misunderstands what I mean. Master is still awake, but now he is resting in the room and doesnt want to meet the guest. Shi Baojin didnt understand the dislike in his words, and said with surprise, His Excellency stayed because of me yesterday. How is it possible that he doesnt want to see me? It must be that the subordinate doesnt report it clearly! Move away, Ill go inside and see him myself! Qu Yuebai felt that he was speechless again, and he didnt understand. They were from the same family, but why was that Shi Qingxue was so innocent and fascinating, while this one was so arrogant and made others hate her so much? Seeing that Shi Baojin didnt care about her reputation and was going inside toughly, Qu Yuebai had to stand in front of her regardless of his life and said in a cold tone, Master has ordered that he doesnt feel well and needs to rest in silent environment, so he cant meet the guest. Third Lady, please go back! Chapter 37 - I Would Definitely Be His Wife But Shi Baojin refused to be like that. When she heard it, she was surprised at first, then she raised her head and said with confidence, Im not a guest. Since His Excellency lives in the house of my family, it is reasonable that I should come to visit him as the hostess. Move away! She was too fierce and shameless, and Qu Yuebai seemed not able to handle her. Shi Baojin had made it clear that she would not leave without seeing Mo Junyang, and she tried to peek inside several times. Although Qu Yuebai stopped her, he could only strike a stopping posture. He couldnt touch Shi Baojins body. Just when Qu Yuebai felt helpless and didnt know what to do, his master finally appeared out of his conscience. What does Third Lady mean? Mo Junyangs faint voice became a perfect sound in Shi Baojins ears. She was afraid of being misunderstood and quickly stopped her rude behaviors. She made a blessing salute to Mo Junyang, and whispered, Brother Yang, I come to visit you. How are you feeling? This calling was vague and full of affections. Tender and shy. It perfectly showed the girls mood of missing her lover. The people around her were all sick of her calling of Brother Yang. But Mo Junyang didnt look at her, and his voice became more and more indifferent, There should be distance between men and women. Third Lady, please call me by my honorable appellation! Shi Baojin tried hard to act like this and wanted to take the opportunity to get close to Mo Junyang, but she didnt expect that he forced her to return to her original image in a few words. She was unwilling, but then she thought whether it was because Mo Junyang didnt want her reputation to be damaged that he had to bear the pain to keep the distance with her. The more Shi Baojin thought about it, the more convinced she was. Otherwise, why did King Ruis eldest son, who was warm like the sun, showed a cold face only to her? Definitely because he was not good at expressing and could only drive her away with coldness. I was being brusque just now. I wont do it any more. Your Excellency, please forgive me. Shi Baojin looked down in shyness and said in a stagy voice. At the end, she looked up at Mo Junyang with her eyes half-raised, and she showed a shy look, excited and scared. Mo Junyang was even more impatient, he directly asked her to leave, Since you have already seen me, please go back! Shi Baojin had abundant of warm words to say and planned to make King Ruis eldest son hers with this visit. How could he try to drive her away in a few words? Even though she tried to suppress her anger, her face with exquisite makeup was a little twisted. In this case, I wont disturb your rest. I shall leave now! As Shi Baojin left, she often looked back and walked as slowly as a snail, trying to make Mo Junyang aware of her reluctance and affection. But Shi Baojin didnt get Mo Junyangs requirement of her staying as she had wished. She could only saw him return to the bedroom without even turning back. Shi Baojin, This time, no matter how good at imagination Shi Baojin was, she could not lie to herself that Mo Junyang liked her! Isnt Mo Junyang into a pure and innocent girl? Does he like those pretty and coquettish people? Shi Baojin thought to herself. The more she thought about it, the more she believed that she was right. Men! No matter how serious they looked, they all liked women who were unrestrained. Shi Baojin bit the corner of her mouth resentfully, Hum! Who cant learn to be unrestrained? Isnt it just to learn the stagy look of hookers? I will definitely be the wife of King Ruis eldest son. She stared again at Langyue Pavilion where Mo Junyang lived at present, and left angrily. And just at this moment, a surprise was again brought from the palace. Mammy Chang brought the imperial decree of Empress Dowager, First Lady of the Shi Family, at 18 years old, is raised in a dignified family, gentle and tender. She lives in the house for a long time, but her good reputation is widely spread. She is much favored by Empress Dowager. According to the imperial decree of Empress Dowager, Shi Baoning is named Baoning Infanta. It should be recorded in the book to announce the world. The whole Shi Family knelt down and thanked the grace of Empress Dowager. No matter whether it was true or not, they all congratulated Shi Baoning. The ladies in aristocratic families did not have class themselves. Only after they were married did they get the corresponding class due to their husbands honor. Shi Baoning got her class before getting married, and it was her fantastic luck. Shi Baoning was stunned for a while. Until she saw the loving sight of Mo Shujun, she finally realized that it was her grandmother who had asked for such a grace specially for her. On the one hand, she was grateful in her heart. On the other hand, she felt guilty that this position of Infanta shouldnt be hers. She turned to Shi Qingxue, and just met with Shi Qingxues bright eyes, Qingxue Sister, you are really blessed. You have just won the first place at the palace banquet for Qiqiao Festival, and now you are so beloved by Empress Dowager and are named to be Infanta. You really bring honor to our family. No wonder you are the most favored granddaughter of grandmother! Shi Baojins surprising voice interrupted and stopped what Shi Baoning wanted to say. Even though Shi Baoning didnt like to suspect others to have bad intentions, this awkward compliment made her couldnt help but frown, Baojin, what nonsense are you saying? As she spoke, she glanced at Shi Qingxue again. Shi Qingxue was very happy for her sister to get the position. She didnt understand Shi Baonings sight with worry and guilt in it, and thought it was Shi Baojins words that had made her sister uncomfortable. Then she turned to glance at Shi Baojin, and said coldly, Baojin, since you are here to congratulate, you can say some blessing words. If you say good things into bad things, you might be disliked for it. Even Shi Qingxue tried to euphemistically express her meaning that a filthy mouth couldnt utter decent language, Shi Baojin figured it out and her face changed. Because the elders were watching aside, Shi Baojin couldnt start the quarrel. She could only fake a smile and provoke Shi Qingxue, I am truly happy for Baoning! After all, among so many granddaughters of grandmother, only Baoning can be named to be Infanta. Isnt that of great honor? Qingxue, you say those words, is it because you are jealous Shi Baojin paused deliberately, and she constantly glanced at the two sisters, leaving people with imagination on purpose. Some words might not be so effective if they were spoken out! Shi Qingxue seemed not to understand the meaning of her words, and bluntly asked, What am I jealous? Why didnt you finish your words? Shi Baojin wanted to break their relationship, not to pull herself into the fight, and it would be enough to pause right there. She chuckled a little, instead of arguing with Shi Qingxue, she said, I was being straightforward! Shi Qingxue was even more innocent than her. She blinked her eyes and said softly, I am surely pleasant for Baoning that she has been named to be Infanta. But with Baojins chant and sigh, its like that you are dissatisfied with it. Otherwise, how could you think of the word like jealousy? Originally, Shi Baojin wanted to imply that Shi Qingxue was jealous of Shi Baoning. However, with Qingxue reversing it, it seemed that she thought that others were jealous because she was envious. Shi Baojin couldnt argue and her face became red. But she was speechless, whatever she answered would be wrong. In the end, Mo Shujun called Shi Baojin away, and the storm calmed down. Shi Baoning faced Shi Qingxue alone, and it was the first time that the two stayed together alone after the palace banquet. She was a little embarrassed, but still said, Qingxue, Im sorry about the previous thing. What? Shi Qingxue tilted her head, she didnt understand what Shi Baoning meant. Shi Baoning felt more embarrassed and her face became warmer. She was stiffened for a long while before she whispered, The test at the palace banquet, the credit should belong to you, but the honor became mine at last. Not only did I not but I still criticized you for Baojin. I Her voice was low and those words were intermittent, so at last, Shi Qingxue could barely hear what Shi Baoning was saying. Shi Qingxue tried hard listening and finally understood. She opened her mouth in surprise and asked, Baoning, what are you thinking? Seeing that Shi Baoning became even more guilty on her face, Shi Qingxue realized that her sister had completely thought it wrong. She hurriedly grabbed her trembling hands, and whispered, Baoning, I have never been mad at you. With Shi Baonings surprised look, Shi Qingxue continued to explain seriously, Maybe we hold different opinions on other sisters, but the fact that you are my own sister will never change. Its okay if you would like to believe them or to get close to them! I hope you take good care of yourself no matter what. This is the thing that our parents and I would like to see most. Shi Baoning was shocked by the caution in Qingxues eyes. Her weak heart seemed to be suddenly immersed in the warm spring. It was burned when she just went down, but she was drowned in the warmth later. Maybe this was family! Then dont you think this is unfair? Obviously, you are the most beloved granddaughter of grandmother, and you are more capable than me. The position of Infanta should have been Baoning! Shi Qingxue interrupted Shi Baonings despising herself first. Her eyes were wide open, as if she didnt understand why she would have such a ridiculous thought. Qingxue frowned, holding Shi Baonings hands more tightly, saying word by word, Im really happy that you can become Infanta. There is no other emotion involved. Dont think too much. Baoning, you are the eldest granddaughter of Princess Royal and the eldest daughter of Duke Shi. Your identity is not lower than anyone elses and your talent is not worse than any other noble lady. So theres no way that you should be self-abased! Really? Shi Baonings heart settled slightly, but still a little uneasy. Shi Qingxue nodded earnestly, and smiled, You dont know it because you have stayed in the boudoir for a long time. Those so-called noble ladies outside are not comparable to you. When you completely recover, you will know once you go out! Shi Baoning then showed a soft smile and nodded gratefully at Qingxue, I know, and I wont be self-abased again. If there is any banquet in the future, can you go with me? Ah! Shi Qingxue was most impatient with attending those banquets in dignified families. Usually once she could avoid it, she would not attend. But when facing Baonings expectation, Shi Qingxue had to grit her teeth and promise, Fine, I will go with you in the future. Dont worry! Those messy situations, you might not be willing to go after you had been there once or twice. Shi Qingxue had just calmed down Shi Baoning, and someone began to disturb. Without exception, they were all congratulating Shi Baoning. Even the family of Duke Shi was prosperous and dignified, the position of Infanta with royal certification was by no means an insignificant reward. In particular, those brothers and sisters in Second Masters Family and Third Masters Family came close to flatter eagerly, making Shi Baoning overwhelmed. Shi Qingxue returned to Luotong Boudoir by herself, but she didnt expect to meet a person who had been waiting for a long time. Chapter 38 - King Rui Held Bitter Tears In mid-August, the moon has gradually become round. The bright moonlight was poured on the mans strong body, looking hazy and mysterious. Shi Qingxue looked at him but couldnt help frowning, Mo Junyang? Why are you here? Even in summer, it was still a bit cold at night. Mo Junyang had just become better from the serious illness and he rushed out at night. Did he try to be ill again? Mo Junyang turned to Shi Qingxue, smiled mildly, and ridiculed, What? Why dont you call me Brother Yang this time? Shi Qingxue was reminded that she acted weak to beg Mo Junyang to do her a favor in Xiangyue Pavilion, and her face blushed. Fortunately, it was dark at night, and he couldnt see her face clearly. She replied in awkward, There should be distance between men and women. You are King Ruis eldest son, so its more proper that I should call you by your honorable appellation. These were almost the same words as those when Mo Junyang slighted over Shi Baojin. Even though Shi Qingxue answered like this out of embarrassment, Mo Junyang was still upset in his heart. He smiled more and more brightly, approached step by step, until he stood in front of Shi Qingxue, he lowered his voice and asked, It was not such an attitude when you begged me before. Xue, you are ready to kick down the ladder? Of course not! Shi Qingxue hurriedly denied, unwilling to make Mo Junyang think of her in this way. But when she looked up, she met with Mo Junyangs smiling face, then she realized that he was just joking. She was suddenly a little bit annoyed. She glared at him and was about to be mad, when she heard the man sighing, Well, you have just said the word beg to me, and now you dont confess it. Poor me! Shi Qingxue had never seen such shameless Mo Junyang, and she was choked with her scolding words and couldnt say a word. However, this man pretended quite well, and said in an upset and disappointed tone, Nowadays, it turns out to be that you can beg one person with only several words and then rest assured. You are really lucky! She knew that he was kidding her, but Shi Qingxue couldnt even say a word to argue, and she also felt guilty, as if she really had done something that she became irresponsible once the favor was done. She was really unable to deal with Mo Junyang who acted like this. What do you want? Shi Qingxue pouted her mouth and asked reluctantly. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows and smiled, Its not a big deal. I just want to ask you do me a small favor. Well? When she heard that Mo Junyang, who was capable of everything, had something to beg her, Shi Qingxue turned her big eyes brighter, and she asked a little eagerly, Whats the matter. Say it! Maybe because the two people missed each other in her previous life, or maybe because she accidentally figured Mo Junyangs affection to her, Shi Qingxue always felt herself like a despicable thief in front of this man, who had stolen something that didnt belong to her but couldnt give it back, and she could only keep it with guilt. Shi Qingxues emotional hurt in the last life made her care more about the true love. However, she couldnt give him anything in return for his true love, and she even couldnt be sure whether this man in front of her was still fond of her as he was in the previous life. This contradiction made her unable to dodge or avoid, so she had to stay in this dilemma. At this moment, she heard that this man needed her help, of course she was overjoyed. She wished the man hurriedly said a difficult problem and she solved it for him as a return to him! Hurry up. Shi Qingxue urged again, and her eyes were bright and sparkling. Mo Junyang knew Shi Qingxues subtle and complicated thoughts so well. At this time, he was only smiling in his heart and pretending to be slightly depressed on his face. Then he started to complain Shi Baojins disturbing him these days to Shi Qingxue. It turned out that since Shi Baojin was driven out of the Langyue Pavilion by Mo Junyang last time, she didnt give up. Moreover, she started to harass Mo Junyang even more often. At the beginning, she acted pure and innocent. Later, she became extremely unrestrained and slutty. The last time Shi Baojin even dared to wear just a light pink veil and ran to Mo Junyangs room. If it wasnt that Mo Junyang happened not to be in the Langyue Pavilion, who knew what was going to happen? Even though Mo Junyang was not afraid of being harassed by others, he didnt want to cause trouble in the Shi Family, so he had to wander outside all day and night, and would not return to the Langyue Pavilion until the time to go to bed! The last point was completely to create a chance to meet Shi Qingxue, but he didnt have to say this thought out. Shi Qingxue was astonished. She didnt expect that Mo Junyang, who had chopped others heads off and killed the whole family of others in the previous life, would be stuck in such an awkward situation, and she almost laughed out. However, it was not really nice of her if she ignored his disappointment and laughed out just because his experience was too hilarious. It was immoral. But what if she really wanted to laugh? So, then, it seems that Baojin really loves you! Shi Qingxue pursed her lips tightly and said without emotions, trying to make her tone sounded not like ridicule. But the man still narrowed his eyes and asked insidiously at last, Is it funny? Shi Qingxue didnt hold back this time and laughed out loudly, Im, Im sorry! I didnt mean it, but I really didnt expect it! It didnt happen in the previous life! After she was abandoned by Mo Junhao, Shi Baojin became the new Empress. Not only did she deal with the Shi Army supporting Duke Shis Family well, but she also raised the Third Master Shi Juncai, who had taken away the power to host the Shi Family. But Mo Junyang was not involved in these matters. Isnt Baojin into Fourth Prince? How could it Shi Qingxue tried her best to ask as seriously as possible, but the smile on her face made it more like that she was saying, Look! It was all because you were being seductively dressed that Shi Baojin would harass you and not let you go. Mo Junyang was speechless for a while. He told this just in order to create the opportunity to get along with Qingxue, but not to make her laugh at him. He deliberately said in an insidious tone, But thats the daughter in the Shi Family. If she really does some humiliating things, its not me who should be dragged down. So, Xue, are you still planning to stand by? Shi Qingxue quickly waved her hands, and her eyes were wide open, as if she was trying to make him see her sincerity, Im not standing by. But isnt it easy for you to avoid her? Why dont you return to your house? Couldnt Baojin chase after you to the house of King Rui? Speaking of this, she asked confusedly, Your illness isnt really Afraid of being overheard, Qingxue said, Isnt it really that serious? You have been treated for almost a month, but why arent you even better? For nearly a month, Mo Junyang had lived in Langyue Pavilion. Langyue Pavilion was very close to Luotong Boudoir, and there was only a small garden in between. So every time she went back to Luotong Boudoir, she needed to pass Langyue Pavilion. But during this period, Dong Hui happened to make Qingxue stay in the yard of First Masters Family to teach her how to manage chores, so the two barely met. It was really like the saying that no one could predict! If Mo Junyang didnt wait here on purpose, the two still wouldnt meet each other. Of course, Qingxue didnt know about this. She was just worried that Mo Junyang really got ill. She didnt want him to be in trouble. Facing Qingxues concerns, Mo Junyang would definitely not say that he was pretending. Instead, he pretended to cough, making Qingxue even more worried in her eyes. Then he said with satisfaction, It doesnt matter. I just feel weak. It will be better after I rest for a while! Shi Qingxue was relieved, but was even more puzzled, Then why dont you go back to the house of King Rui? How could the environment for recuperation of the house of Duke Shi better than the house of King Rui? That was because there was no Shi Qingxue in the house of King Rui! King Rui held bitter tears. Is Xue so unwilling that I stay in the house of Duke Shi? Mo Junyangs eyes suddenly dimmed, making Shi Qingxue feel as if she had done something really terrible. She quickly waved her hands, Of course not, Im just afraid that youre not living well here! Now that my father is away, the family is so messy! Mo Junyang reluctantly raised the corner of his mouth, but he still couldnt smile, and he had to give in. He sighed with an extremely bitter voice, What is the big deal of the matters in the Shi Family. You dont know that the house of King Rui is really Mo Junyang seemed to realize that domestic shame should not be made public and stopped suddenly. But at this time, silence was better than sound, and this pause made Shi Qingxue think a lot about it. For example, King Rui seemed to be very nice to this only son, but actually he had an illegitimate son who was more beloved. For example, although King Rui didnt appoint another Queen Rui any more, but he had other favored concubines, and they were in conflict with Mo Junyang. For example, King Rui had already known Mo Junyangs shocking secret Once Shi Qingxue suspected that Mo Junyang was not living a good life in King Ruis house, she felt even more guilty, and said hurriedly, Since you dont dislike the house of Duke Shi, you can stay as long as you want to! Okay. Mo Junyang still smiled, but looked at Shi Qingxue with the unconscious heat. Uh Shi Qingxue couldnt bear it. She looked away and begged in a low voice, Could you please not look at me like this? Not knowing whether this man was born to like looking at others like this, even though she had repeatedly suggested that Mo Junyang had no other meaning, she still couldnt get used to such sight of him. Only then did Mo Junyang realize that he was presumptuous, and was about to apologize, when he suddenly remembered that if it were Shi Qingxue in the past, she would probably slap on him resentfully and not allow him to look at her like this any more, but at this moment Once he understood the meaning of this change, Mo Junyang couldnt help smiling again. But in order not to scare Shi Qingxue away, he still restrained his sight and changed the topic, Lets get back to the serious business. As for Third Lady in your family, do you have any way to handle? This! Qingxue was also distressed when it came to Shi Baojin. It wasnt that she was unwilling to remove those evil people in Third Masters Family. But Shi Baojin actually didnt do anything, so it was hard to remove her! If Zhou Ruyu knew that her daughter was struggling to climb up so hard, she might even help her, like catching them two in bed Shi Qingxue wrinkled her small face and said in distress, You should hide first! At this time, Shi Qingxue wished her father Shi Junhe at home so desperately. If her father were here, how would Third Masters Family dare to bully First Masters Family? And even her grandmother wouldnt target at Dong Hui so openly. Or you could hang out more during the day? Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang was living in the house of the Shi Family to avoid the scourge in the house of King Rui. Then it should be fine if he hung out sometimes during the daytime. Couldnt Shi Baojin follow him out? Chapter 39 - You Matched Me Of course, Mo Junyang would not be afraid of Shi Baojin. If he really couldnt stand her, he could destroy her with an easy move. However, he was actually fond of the expression when Shi Qingxue thought about the ways for him, and other little things were not intolerable. And he could seek greater benefits for himself, such as Thats not impracticable. But Im still ill anyway, so its not good to always leave the house. If Mo Junyang sighed helplessly. Shi Qingxue didnt know that she had fallen into his trap. She blinked her eyes and asked unknowingly, Do you have a better way? Mo Junyang nodded but looked awkward, If someone is beside me, even though Third Lady isshe would restrain herself a little bit, and I dont have to worry that she would do anything excessive which made everyone in a dilemma then. But because my illness is special, if Im with someone else, Im afraid that they would figure out something. So I am really in bewilderment! Sure. Even though it seemed so real when Mo Junyang pretended to be sick, they would definitely find some clues if they were close to him for a long time. Shi Qingxue thought about it, and suddenly her eyes brightened. She said, Then you stay with me in the future. Third Lady dislikes me, and if we are next to you, I guess she will restrain herself! There was nothing more in line with Mo Junyangs intentions than that. He immediately stopped pretending and quickly nodded. Afraid that Shi Qingxue would regret it, he appointed the time and place to meet tomorrow morning first. Shi Qingxue still didnt notice his ambition, and nodded without hesitation. Mo Junyang returned to Langyue Pavilion happily, and the trouble that he was harassed by Shi Baojin was also left behind. But Qu Yuebai was not so lucky. After being tossed for a whole day, when Qu Yuebai saw Mo Junyang, his tears were about to fall down, Master, I will die if you still dont come to save me! Mo Junyang was in a good mood. He was not mad even when Qu Yuebai hugged his lap as if he was fawning. He was kind enough to hold him up and took the initiative to pat Qu Yuebais knees, Its dirty on the ground. Qu Yuebai was stiff, staring at Mo Junyang as if he had seen something strange. After a while, he stuttered to ask, Master, are you alright? Mo Junyang was very patient to let Qu Yuebai glace him up and down. He was not angry. Instead, he patted his shoulder to comfort him, How could I not be alright? Youve worked hard today! This time Qu Yuebai was really frightened. He was not comforted by his masters complement, but could only rub his goosebumps and shout trembling, Master, Im wrong. I wont play tricks anymore. In the future, if you ask me to stop Third Lady, I will definitely prevent her from disturbing you with my life! Please be normal! Mo Junyang was very relieved and waved his hand, Very good. Then Third Lady will be all yours to deal with. Im exhausted, and I shall rest now. After that, he walked straight to his room. Only then did Qu Yuebai realize that he was possibly, or maybe, or definitely tricked by Mo Junyang. He suddenly shouted tragically, Master! You cant do this! Well, dont fawn. If you have something to tell me, go ahead. And if you dont, just go to bed. Mo Junyang finally lost his patience, glancing at Qu Yuebai coldly. Qu Yuebai immediately stood straight up and reported in an orderly manner, Leng Yuan, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War, has sent a greeting post, hoping to see you tomorrow. I have no time. I wont see him. Mo Junyang bluntly refused. Qu Yuebai felt upset. Who said that King Ruis eldest son was smart and capable, and would struggle for great cause? He felt cheated! Crown Prince also sent a letter to say that he hoped you could meet with Leng Yuan. Qu Yuebai expressed the superiors meaning in a devious way, but Mo Junyang still seemed indifferent. Gritting his teeth, stomping his feet, he showed his trump card, The food transferring of soldiers in the northwest depends on this Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War. If he isnt active, the Shi Army will be in suffering! Will you be willing to see that Sixth Lady is upset about this? Mo Junyang moved his eyebrows slightly, after a while, he said, I wont be free during the day. Let him talk with me somewhere at night. After that, Mo Junyang went straight back to his room, leaving Qu Yuebai alone and speechless. He was persuaded in this way? Qu Yuebai had been following Mo Junyang for nearly ten years. He was much aware of his temperament. If he was really unwilling, no matter how hard he was persuaded, Mo Junyang wouldnt change his idea. But just for this persistence, he chose to follow Mo Junyang without hesitation. But at present Was his owner originally planning to see Leng Yuan? Or was the charm of Sixth Lady really so great? It should be the former, right? Qu Yuebai muttered secretly. Until this day, he still had great doubt about Mo Junyangs love to Shi Qingxue: Although Shi Qingxue was indeed excellent, there were also many girls who were better than her were fond of Mo Junyang. Didnt the princess of the Zhao Country hope to marry Mo Junyang several times? Mo Junyang wasnt touched! Moreover, it was more than one or two years that Mo Junyang liked Shi Qingxue. When he just knew Mo Junyang, he showed great interest in Shi Qingxue, but at that time, Sixth Lady of the Shi Family was just a little girl! It couldnt be that his master was a paedophile Qu Yuebai shivered. He stopped his increasingly weird thoughts, and turned to something else. The next day, Mo Junyang went to the appointed place to meet Shi Qingxue with joy, thinking that they could finally spend some time alone. When he arrived, he realized that it was nothing like that! Qingming Residence in the house of the Shi Family was where the kids of the Shi Family read and studied. Those in the Shi Family who were not eighteen years old or not married yet should all come here and study at an exact time. And knowledgeable scholar was hired to be their tutor and teach them specifically. Big families had rules to show their childrens outstanding morality and knowledge. King Rui had only one child, and that was Mo Junyang. He was extremely talented and intelligent, so there was no tutor hired in the house of King Rui. Mo Junyang totally forgot this matter. And didnt Shi Qingxue always go to the palace to study with the princes and princesses in Qinxue School? Why did she still come here? As Shi Qingxue listened to the tutor explain the poems, she answered Mo Junyangs question at the same time, There are many rights and wrongs in the palace. It is much more comfortable to stay at home. Mr. Li is my grandfathers proud student. He is really knowledgeable. Probably only Shi Qingxue, who was the study company of the princess, could return to her home when she didnt want to go to Qinxue School. Mo Junyang looked critically at Li Jin, the tutor, who was teaching in the front, and slightly pursed his lips, Since he is so knowledgeable, why doesnt he go to the court and be an official? Maybe its because he has been following my grandfather for a long time, and he despises the officials like my grandfather. Shi Qingxue shrugged. Dong Biren, Shi Qingxues maternal grandfather, was a famous local scholar. But his temper was weird and would rather die than go into the court. Instead, he set up a school in the forest. The students he taught were all good, but there were also many students who would like to do everything but being an official, just like Dong Biren, which made the court like them but also angry with them. Mo Junyang showed no interest in the tutor, and flipped through the book casually without any interest. He wanted to talk to Shi Qingxue, but she was listening to the tutor intently, and he didnt like to bother her. On the contrary, Shi Baojin at the distance couldnt help moving here. She blushed and whispered, Your Excellency. You are also here! Mo Junyang was upset and didnt even have the mood to respond Shi Baojin. He didnt look at her at all. But Shi Baojin didnt feel embarrassed. Instead, she continued to find topics, Mr. Li is terrific. He is well-learned, and his articles are good. Well, but his temper is a bit weird. He is hired with much money by our family. Third Lady, dont talk nonsense. Shi Baojing, Second Lady of the Shi Family, who was also sitting aside, couldnt help but persuade. She feared that Shi Baojins inappropriate remarks would be heard by others. Shi Baojin didnt know her good intention, but thought that Shi Baojing didnt realize the situation and grabbed her limelight. She retorted angrily, How is it nonsense? Mr. Li refused the sincere invitation of Prime Minister earlier. But he agreed with the invitation when aunt spent some gold. Wasnt it for the moneys sake? That was because the main hostess of the Shi Family, Dong Hui, shared the same teacher with him! Out of consideration for Dong Biren, Li Jin finally was willing to enter the house of the Shi Family and become the tutor. Shi Baojing knew clearly, but she was just a concubines daughter, and her father Shi Junfengs status was not high at home. She could only whisper, Your words would make Mr. Li unhappy. Puff! Mo Junyang heard the conversation between the two girls, thinking that the house of the Shi Family was really a place where people were complicated. One had a clear mind but was extremely cowardice, while the other was arrogant but short-sighted, which was so funny. Shi Baojin heard Mo Junyangs laughter, thinking that he was mocking Shi Baojing for her. She felt sweet, but still needed to pretend to be dignified and said some nice words for Shi Baojing, My sister is raised in the house, so that she has no wide knowledge and experience. Your Excellency, please dont mind it. It was like that she had knowledge and insight. Mo Junyang ignored her, but only glimpsed that Shi Baojing lowered her head with shyness and her eyes seemed thoughtful. This person Shi Baojing is better than Shi Baojin. Shi Qingxue suddenly said with a low voice that only he could hear. What? Mo Junyang was thinking, and didnt understand the meaning of Shi Qingxues words. Shi Qingxue didnt say anything any more. She picked up the book and pretended to be reading it. Until Li Jins attention turned to Shi Baojin, she whispered again, Although Shi Baojing was quiet, she had a clear mind. And she stands firm. It is better to marry her than to marry Shi Baojin. Mo Junyang, If at this time he still didnt understand that Shi Qingxue was acting as a matchmaker for him and Shi Baojing, he would be really stupid! Looking at Shi Qingxues innocent smile, he even wanted to choke this girl! Do you want me to marry Shi Baojing? Mo Junyang didnt hold back and asked with his teeth gritted. But Shi Qingxue turned her head in surprise and said with doubt, No! I just mentioned it. Mo Junyang was relieved, and his eyes were softened, but then Qingxue seemed to be kidding, Maybe you will live a dangerous life full of wars in the future. And you wont match Shi Baojing then! Mo Junyang wanted to grit his teeth again! After a while, he suddenly laughed and said meaningfully, Thats true. In the whole Shi Family, only you, who are always so noisy, can match me, right? What! Shi Qingxue was startled. Her face suddenly blushed, and she didnt dare to see Mo Junyang any more. How could she lead herself into the trap within a few words? Unexpectedly, she reacted too fiercely, and even Li Jin noticed it. He asked in a gentle voice, Sixth Lady, whats the matter? Chapter 40 - This General Was a Bit Worried How did Shi Qingxue dare to let the teacher know that her thoughts drifted away? She shook her head hurriedly, but her little face was red and her eyes fluttered. It didnt seem that there was nothing wrong with her. So Mr. Li, who cared for the students, asked again, Are you unwell? Do you need a break? At this moment, even other sisters looked over here. Shi Qingxue was scratching her head and trying to think of a reason, but she glimpsed at Mo Junyangs carefree appearance and suddenly got mad. She stepped on his foot when no one noticed. Mo Junyangs face was almost twisted with the pain, but in the face of Qingxues threatening eyes, he had to bear it and cough twice, apologizing, Sorry, I didnt hold my book just now and it fell down, so Sixth Lady was scared. Mr. Li, please forgive me. This reason was not enough to convince him. But since Mo Junyang had given the answer, Li Jin just glanced suspiciously at the two, Be careful then. Then he turned back and continued to teach. Li Jin was good in this aspect. Even if he was facing the royal people, he could treat them equally, he didnt flatter or treat them differently. Shi Qingxue escaped from this, but she couldnt help glaring at Mo Junyang. Then she looked away and ignored him. If she had known it, she wouldnt have brought Mo Junyang to Qingming Residence. Let alone he caused trouble, he even made her be criticized. Shi Baojin saw the interaction between the two in her eyes, and she disliked Shi Qingxue even more. She again approached Mo Junyang and said, Your Excellency, why do you ignore me? Mo Junyang looked to Shi Qingxue several times but didnt get any response. And he was harassed by the anthomaniac girl again. Needless to say how depressed he was in his heart. He stood up instantly, nodded slightly to Li Jin and left calmly, leaving Shi Baojin alone astonished and resentful. Huh! There are so many people, and I dont believe that you are really emotionless and not interested in women! One day, I will make you fall for me! Shi Baojin gritted her teeth and planned in her heart. But Mo Junyang didnt really intend to leave. After he went out of the door, he went up to the big banyan tree outside the Qingming Residence. He found a place with a good view, leaned on the tree and looked at the person who were reading intently without any worries. Xue At night, Leng Yuans greeting post was again delivered to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang went to meet him, but unexpectedly, Leng Yuan chose a good place which was prosperous with extravagant feasting and revelry and was full of people dancing and singing. In the Yixiang Pavilion. Mr. Leng is really in a good mood! Mo Junyang said slowly, sitting in the elegant private room on the second floor and looking around those people dancing and singing below. Leng Yuan who was a strong man, became embarrassed by the words of Mo Junyang, he barely smiled, It would not be appropriate to make appointments elsewhere in the evening. He was helpless too! At present, what Emperor hated most was the officials becoming alliance. They could meet in tea houses during the day, but at night, they could only meet in such places. Mo Junyang waved his hand to show that it was okay. He only asked, What is it for that you want to meet me? Leng Yuan didnt talk nonsense, and said straightforwardly, Right Prime Minister went to the house to find Minister of War yesterday. They discussed for about two hours in the reading room and it seemed that it was for the transferring of food of the army in the northwest. Although he didnt hear the dialogue between the two, after that, Minister of War, Feng Jifeng ordered him to gather the food and seemed to plan to transfer it to the northwest. Mo Junyangs eyes flickered, and he frowned slightly. He asked in return, Then what do you think they talked about? These days, the issue of food transferring has been discussed in the court every morning, and Duke Shi reported several times. The food will definitely be sent. And Emperor has announced that the Shi Army would be treated well. However, the transferring of food is a beneficial job. Who will transfer it will finally determine how much welfare can be delivered to the army in the northwest. But these maggots only care about how much money they can put in their own pockets. Who cares about the lives of soldiers in the northwest! As Leng Yuan analyzed, he became angrier. Those brave warriors of the Mo Country were risking their lives for the country, but those tricky ministers on the court began to covet their food. Damn them! I see! Mr. Leng seems to have a lot of complaints about this. In this case, why dont you report to Emperor? Im just the son of King Rui. I dont have the title of nobility, and Im not an official on the court. Why do you talk about this with me? Mo Junyang said in a cold tone and was a little indifferent. Leng Yuan didnt expect that Mo Junyang didnt resonate with his emotional remarks at all, and he felt disappointed in his heart. But then he realized that the indifference of Mo Junyang would not be because he was short-sighted and only concentrated on present, but because Mo Junyang didnt trust him at all. Indeed, he rushed to see him and Mo Junyang had showed his respect to be willing to meet him. Leng Yuan gritted his teeth, and showed his ace in the hole, I was from the Shi Army. When I was young, I also followed the deceased Duke Shi, Shi Lei, to fight and risk our lives in the field. Of course I cant bear it that others fool the people of the Shi Army! So Your Excellency, please help the Shi Army out. Mo Junyang half-supported his chin, playing with the glass with his long fingers, after a while, he said, The Shi Army! Mr. Leng, what do you think I can do to help you? This Leng Yuan was suddenly speechless. To be honest, he would turn to Mo Junyang partly because he was too helpless. He was a general taught by Shi Lei. He only knew how to fight the war and didnt know about politics. He was usually indifferent and silent on the court and didnt want to be associated with any princes. Therefore, Mo Junyang was the best choice for Leng Yuan. But when it came to finding a way, he was also confused. What could Mo Junyang do? The general didnt know what to do at all. Mo Junyang smiled again, and finally understood why Mo Junyu couldnt wait to make him meet Leng Yuan. This guy had a simple and emotional mind, and was very easy to control. Once he did him a favor, he could gain his loyalty and he also had a certain official position. He was a necessary person for the pioneers in his force! Mo Junyang thought it funny in his heart and he also understood Leng Yuans thoughts, so he didnt embarrass him. He said, Mr. Leng is honest to me, and I shall not talk nonsense to you. Since you have asked for help in front of me, I surely wont let you return disappointed. Really! Leng Yuan yelled excitedly, and his joy spilled from his words. Mo Junyang nodded and persuaded, But Right Prime Minister and Mr. Feng are involved in this matter. If you want to make it happen, you must not be in a hurry. Please be calm. After a pause, he asked again, I still have one thing to ask you. Mr. Leng, who do you think can be qualified to be the food transporter in the court? Left Director of Bureau of War, Yue Quan, or Vice Director of Bureau of War, Zhao Gang, can do the job. Leng Yuan answered subconsciously. Then he realized that he could be suspected to appoint people for his own benefits, and he hurriedly waved his hand and clarified, Battle is the matter of Ministry of War. Im not familiar with the officials in other departments. I only know that the virtues and abilities of those two are superior, and then I recommend them to Your Excellency. I have never accepted their money to say nice words for them. Mo Junyang almost laughed out by Leng Yuans stupidity. He hadnt said anything, but he said it first. There were indeed some suspicions of desiring to cover it up. Okay, I know. At the end of the conversation, Mo Junyang didnt have the interest in continuing to talk, he waved his hand to make him leave. Unexpectedly, Leng Yuan showed an embarrassed look again, he looked hesitant but didnt dare to say anything. Mo Junyang glanced at him squinting, Just say what you want. Leng Yuans face suddenly turned red. After a while, he explained intermittently, Your Excellency, I am just an official of the fourth grade I have never stepped into such prosperous places in my normal life. And I have a big family to support He reluctantly explained his needy situation in a devious way, and finally gritted his teeth and closed his eyes to determine, Could Your Excellency share the cost of this elegant room with me? No matter how calm Mo Junyang was in his mind or how indescribable his mood was, this time he couldnt help laughing! This Assistant Minister of Ministry of War was so funny! After such devious words, he even thought of the situation where he would ask for rewards, but he could never expect that he wanted him to share the cost because he really couldnt afford the expense of the elegant room of Yixiang Pavilion. The people taught by Shi Lei were really surprising! Leng Yuan was even more embarrassed with that laughter, and explained in a low voice, I know that it is me who has invited Your Excellency here, and it doesnt make sense to make you pay for the bill. How about regarding it as that I borrow this money from you, and I will repay you next month when I receive my salary? A dignified general of the fourth grade was so poor that he needed to borrow money to entertain guests, and it was really sad. Mo Junyang no longer embarrassed Leng Yuan, and said with a serious look, It is rare for you to worry about the country and you are not corrupt as an official. This dinner should be regarded as my respect to you! Before Leng Yuan refused, Mo Junyang said straightforwardly, You dont have to mind it. Next time, when you receive your salary, it will be fine to treat me with some tea! Leng Yuan saw that Mo Junyang restrained his smile and looked serious, and he knew that he was sincere. He couldnt help but thank him and become more loyal to him, Since Your Excellency has said, then obedience is better than politeness. Mo Junyang sent Leng Yuan away, and sat alone in the private room for a while to drink some wine. Then he thought that it was better to go back to the big tree outside the Luotong Boudoir admiring the moon and the person than to stay here. When he was about to leave, the door was pushed open again by someone. A woman was wearing a light purple tulle, and she didnt even wear a bellyband. The half translucent tulle didnt even cover where should be hidden under clothes. The shoulders were exposed, which looked much slutty. Mo Junyangs pupils shrank, and he felt annoyed. He yelled in a cold tone, What are you doing here? The woman didnt realize that she was being disliked. Seeing Mo Junyangs uptight look, she thought that he had been seduced by her graceful posture and she took two steps forward again. This time she was bolder, and even her laps were exposed. She also covered her lips and chuckled, Of course because I see Your Excellency is lonely, I come to accompany and entertain Your Excellency in particular. As she spoke, her body tried to lean into Mo Junyangs arms as if she couldnt stand at all. Mo Junyang saw this and was agile enough to step aside, avoiding her successfully. If there were no chair in front of her, she would fall straight down on the ground. Even though there was a chair, she fell hard enough. Let alone she hit straight on the cold and hard chair surface, because her center of gravity was unsteady, she was like a turtle groveling on the chair and moving the four legs at hazard. From Mo Junyangs angle, he could see her uncovered laps and even above there, which was really unsightly. Mo Junyang turned his head around and gritted his teeth, yelling coldly, Shi Baojin, Ill give you one last chance. Get out! His voice was cold like ice and bloody horrible. Chapter 41 - About to Demand the Truth Shi Baojin struggled for a long time before standing up again, and quickly neatened her elaborately decorated hair accessory. She winked at Mo Junyang, and acted coquettishly, Why is Your Excellency so cruel. There is nobody else here anyway. Even if we light the candle and stay up late, there wont be anybody knowing it, right? Or, does Your Excellency think that I havent done enough? Shi Baojin pretended to be shy and smiled. Her hands swiped down from her cheek to the collar, and then slowly spread her gauze on her chest. This time she used her body! It was not long before Shi Baojin stripped all her clothes off. Seeing that Mo Junyang was still unmoved, Shi Baojin gritted her teeth and said in a more charming voice, Doesnt Your Excellency feel hot? It is heated and dry here. Why dont you just take off your clothes to cool down like me? Shi Baojin said again while moving towards Mo Junyang. This time she was determined to get it. Mo Junyang didnt want to talk to her, but when Shi Baojin said so, he really felt hot, as if his body were burning. Something was wrong! Mo Junyang was startled and suddenly looked at Shi Baojin, What did you add to the wine? Shi Baojin covered her lips and laughed, Of course its something to help with the atmosphere. Why is Your Excellency so stubborn? I have sent myself here. Lets just do it! Shi Baojin swooped on Mo Junyang again. She believed that Mo Junyang couldnt bear to avoid her anyway this time. Mo Junyang truly didnt avoid her this time. But when Shi Baojin rushed at him regardless of her life, he immediately kicked her down on the ground without mercy. It hurts! It hurts! Shi Baojin had a smooth life in her life. She had never been hurt so much, and her tears were about to roll down because of the pain. But Mo Junyang showed no mercy, and casually took a tablecloth and covered Shi Baojins body to block her unsightly white flesh. Then he looked at her with his furious eyes. His voice was cold without any emotions, Shi Baojin, if you were not from the Shi Family, I would make you know what death is like today! If he were not afraid that it would be hard to explain to Shi Qingxue, with those ugly things Shi Baojin had done, he could make her die a hundred times! Shi Baojin finally became conscious from her delusion, and captured the intention of killing in the cold eyes of Mo Junyang. She shrank her neck in fear, shocked, scared and unconvinced, How can this be? Dont you like me? You smile so softly at me. You should have liked me Mo Junyang didnt expect that this woman was not only anthomaniac, but also so imaginative? He couldnt help sneering, You? Huh! He even disdained to judge. Shi Baojin seemed not to be able to accept this fact. She shouted to Mo Junyang with her eyes full of tears, No! You obviously like me! Otherwise, what are those that Ive done? Regardless of the reputation, she seduced him and followed him to the brothel. She even bribed the procuress into adding the medicine to the wine in order to make this man go to bed with her willingly God! Shi Baojin realized what she had done. She stood up anxiously, covered herself with a dirty tablecloth, and showed an embarrassed smile to Mo Junyang, whispering, Sorry. Mo Junyang didnt bother to respond her. He was hot at this moment, as if he was burning, and all he wanted to do was just to find a cold pool and stayed in it for a while. When he didnt notice it, he was caught by Shi Baojin, and he also heard she saying in a low voice, Im sorry. I dont know that you dont really like a slutty girl. Im actually not that kind of person. I will be obedient in the future, and be as good as Qingxue. Dont be mad. Mo Junyang was just planning to leave. But when he heard that Shi Baojin comparing herself with Qingxue, his face suddenly changed. He waved his hand and unconsciously brought internal force. He threw Shi Baojin out, she hit on the table and chairs and fell on the ground hard. Mo Junyang was still mad and sneered, What do you think you are? How dare you to compare yourself with Qingxue? Shi Baojin fell so hard that she vomited blood. When she suddenly heard those words, her expression froze, and then she thought of Mo Junyangs behaviors recently. A light flashed in her mind and she instantly understood. She asked in a sharp voice, You like Shi Qingxue, right? Mo Junyang yelled impolitely, Is it of your business? But thinking about it, Mo Junyang felt uneasy and warned her in a cold voice, Youd better shut your mouth up. If anything bad is spread out, I will tell you what a suffering life is! This warning was like a demons demanding life. Normal people would definitely be scared when they heard it. But Shi Baojin had been crazy with her imaginary and only wanted to vent her resentment. She yelled at Mo Junyang regardless of her life, Mo Junyang, dont you ever dream of it! Shi Qingxue likes Fourth Prince. She has been eager to become the consort of Fourth Prince since she was young. And she wont even glance at you! Shi Qingxue is just a b**ch. She Even though Mo Junyang was sure that Shi Qingxue wouldnt be fond of Mo Junhao again, but these words still made him uncomfortable. The last few words even made him more furious, as if there were fire burning in his eyes! The angrier he was, the more he smiled. It seemed that he had been too gentle lately that some people had forgotten his cruel means. It seems that you still havent enjoyed enough! Mo Junyang said with unknown meaning. Shi Baojin passed out when she just heard his words. When she woke up again, she was still wrapped in the dirty tablecloth, but she was no longer in Yixiang Pavilion. Instead, she was at a shabby street corner. You wake up? The cold voice of the man sounded, when Shi Baojin noticed that Mo Junyang was standing two meters away from her, and looked at her indifferently. With the faint moonlight, she could see the water stained on the hair and collar of this man. He seemed to have just stayed in cold water. He looked not embarrassed at all, but only more domineering. Shi Baojin trembled and asked, What, what do you want to do? Mo Junyang ignored her, but gave a sign to the distance. Shi Baojin then saw four or five beggars whose looks couldnt be seen and clothes were shabby walking towards her with smiles on their faces. Ah! Dont! She yelled in a fright, and her little hands furiously waved to resist, as if this could drive away those stink beggars who kept approaching. However, the rotten smell was getting stronger and stronger. Shi Baojin could feel those filthy big hands touching her cover even when her eyes were closed. Those hands pulled the tablecloth away fiercely and touched her exquisite skin. Shi Baojin was so scared that she was about to pass out. She hit those big hands that made her sick, and screamed sternly, I know Im wrong. Your Excellency, I wont dare any more. Please dont mind my mistake and spare my life this time. I wont annoy you any more. Please Mo Junyang smiled softly. Just watching Shi Baojin raped like this made him in an extraordinarily good mood. Since she dared to provoke him and talk about his favorite person, she should foresee the punishment. There was no such thing as begging for mercy to him. He had already treated Shi Baojin less cruel. He only found several beggars and picked such a quiet corner. If it had been before, he would let Shi Baojin know the real feeling when f**ked by thousands of people! But the scene was a bit unsightly. After Mo Junyang admired Shi Baojins desperate expression while screaming continuously, he left the matter to the subordinate and turned away. Mo Junyang, what are you doing? The soft female voice suddenly came from a distant corner, making Mo Junyang trembled and astonished right away. How he wished he had heard it wrong, but he would not deceive himself. He could only turn his head around and look at the slim figure at the corner. After a while, he could finally speak, Qingxue. Shi Qingxue then came out of the corner and walked in front of Mo Junyang. She asked with a serious look, Mo Junyang, what are you doing? The supervisor Wei Zichao at the distance realized that the situation was not right, he made Shi Baojin fainted and stopped the group of beggars. Mo Junyang did not expect Shi Qingxue to appear here at all. Judging from the sudden change of her expression, it was obvious that she saw more than this. As you can see. He didnt bother to explain, but just lowered his eyes and began to think about the response. What if Shi Qingxue was really afraid of his ruthlessness and got away from him then? How about simply tying her back? Anyway, there was nobody else here. It was not a big deal to kill all the witnesses, and then Shi Qingxue belonged to him only. As long as Shi Qingxue belonged to him, anything would be fine! Mo Junyang became more and more radical as he thought about it, and his eyes showed madness. Shi Qingxue noticed that something was wrong in time. Although she didnt understand how Mo Junyang suddenly became so horrible, she was still afraid of terrifying him, so she only dared to ask in a low voice, Brother Yang, are you alright? The call of Brother Yang successfully rescued Mo Junyang from the edge of madness. He suddenly became conscious. Yes, it was different. Shi Qingxue no longer hated him, and no longer regarded him as a serpent or a beast. He didnt have to worry about that she would leave him any more. No worries! She even cared about him! Mo Junyangs eyes softened instantly, he even smiled at Qingxue warmly, Im alright. Why are you here? The crisis was resolved! Shi Qingxue suddenly toughened, pouted her mouth and hummed, Dont change the topic! You havent answered my question yet! Why do you do this to Shi Baojin? Has she annoyed you? Qingxue widened her eyes like a little leopard ready to pounce on her prey. But Mo Junyang didnt feel the pressure at all, but felt fortunate, Luckily, she didnt ask him why he had done this to Shi Baojin right away, but asked whether Shi Baojin had done anything. Although Mo Junyang was afraid that his indifference and ruthlessness would scare his baby, since Shi Qingxue had already discovered it, he had nothing to hide, instead he sneered and said, Since she has the courage to try to get into my bed, she should have foreseen that she would be on many peoples bed. Shi Qingxue was scared by this smile which summoned gooseflesh, and she quickly rubbed her arms to get back to normal. Its cold outside. Dont catch cold. Mo Junyang thought she was afraid of the coldness and quickly took off his cloak and wanted to put it on her. But Shi Qingxue reacted quickly. She squatted a little bit and avoided Mo Junyangs cloak. The cloak stayed in the air, and both of them were embarrassed. Mo Junyangs heart became stressed again, but he still showed a slight smile on his face, What? Are you also afraid of me? Shi Qingxue was silent for a long while, and when Mo Junyang was almost impatient, she shook her head and said very softly, No. Mo Junyang was relieved. Everything would be fine as long as she was not afraid! But he saw that Shi Qingxue still looked doubtful, as if she had hesitated for a long time. Then she asked with uncertainty in a low voice, Mo Junyang, are you also Reborn? Chapter 42 - No Plans to Marry Again After Shi Qingxue asked in suspicion, she looked at Mo Junyang with curious eyes, trying to find a clue in the expression of him. She always thought before that it was Mo Junyu who had been reborn, having changed her fate and the destiny of this future demon in front of her. But at present, she couldnt lie to herself any more. Although Mo Junyang was showing his gentleness, tenderness and harmlessness, once he became cruel, he would be exactly the same as the previous life. It was obviously Shi Qingxue took a deep breath, and then thought of these days when they got along. She was startled and sweated. Before Mo Junyang answered, she was already afraid to hear the answer. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang looked at her with concern, not understanding her behavior. Shi Qingxue quickly shook her head, and then glanced at him secretly. She saw that Mo Junyangs look was normal and he was completely not at panic for she had revealed his shocking secret. Did she guess wrong? But this was not right. Even if he was not, Mo Junyang should not be so ignorant when he heard her question. Mo Junyang looked at her and made sure that there was nothing wrong with her before he asked, What did you just say? I didnt hear it clearly. Could you say it again? Shi Qingxue then noticed that because of her nervousness, she didnt speak the word Reborn out. No wonder there was no response. But when she needed to ask again, she couldnt make a sound anyway. No, nothing. Shi Qingxue stuttered and denied her words before. She was so embarrassed that she didnt know where to put her hands. She felt that what she had just asked was stupid and wanted to get away from this situation. She saw that Shi Baojin was still at the corner, so she hurried over there. When Shi Qingxue turned around, the mans deep eyes were looking at her back without blinking, and his mouth murmured, Sooner or later I cant hide this in this way Shi Qingxue hurried over there and saw Wei Zichao and the beggars standing around Shi Baojin. She stopped in fear. Wei Zichao thought about it, he made the right choice to wave his hand to drive away those beggars, at the same time he took off his cloak and covered it on Shi Baojin, so that it wouldnt stain her eyes, and then he made a gesture as letting her pass. Thank you! Shi Qingxue nodded at Wei Zichao gratefully, and stepped forward to check on Shi Baojin. Although she was fainted and her clothes couldnt even cover her body, there was no actual injury. At the same time when Qingxue was relieved, she looked at Mo Junyang in an embarrassing way. After a long while, she begged in a low voice, I dont know what Shi Baojin has done to annoy you. But since I have seen this, I definitely cant watch her raped by those people. So can you She wanted to ask Mo Junyang to let go of Shi Baojin, but she felt that she had no right to do that. She had to say in a lower voice, Although I dont have many things, if Your Excellency needs me to do anything, I would try my best to achieve it. Equivalent exchange made no one suffer a loss. Mo Junyang looked at Shi Qingxue calculating her value with a tangled look. His heart couldnt help itching, and he wanted to blurt out, I want you. But he couldnt at this moment. It was not the right time. Mo Junyang had no choice but put on a gentlemans appearance, bore his unhappiness and said generously, Since Xue has spoken, I should do it for your sake anyway. As long as she will not come to bother me again in the future, I dont mind what Shi Baojin has done this time. Shi Qingxue was surprised that Mo Junyang was so easy to compromise. Wasnt it said that Mo Junyang would revenge no matter what? No one knew better than her about the fact that one who had provoked him had no good result. How could he let go of Shi Baojin so easily this time? Did Mo Junyang originally plan to stop here, so he made use of this opportunity? Shi Qingxue didnt realize what she meant to Mo Junyang at all. Poor Mo Junyang did her a special favor, but she didnt realize at all. Thank you a lot, Brother Yang! Shi Qingxue couldnt understand it, but it was always good to get this matter settled. She no longer thought about it, and called Xia Mang and Dong Shuang to move the fainted Shi Baojin back to the house of the Shi Family. As she was about to leave, suddenly she heard Mo Junyang said softly, Its deep at night. Its rare that you can find such a remote place. Well Shi Qingxue was stiff and found countless excuses in her mind, but she couldnt tell a lie to Mo Junyang. In the end, she had to give up and answered honestly, I sent someone to follow Shi Baojin. She was not a fool. Knowing that Third Masters Family always caused trouble, of course she would always get prepared. So, you knew what Third Lady did from the beginning? Mo Junyangs voice was a little colder. Shi Qingxue thought it was bad, and quickly explained, Of course not. The person I sent out just followed her and didnt dare to astonish her. It was reported to me because her trace was suspicious. But when I arrived, you were no longer in Yixiang Pavilion then. She didnt expect that in the end, she would become the one to deal with the matter for Shi Baojin. If she knew it before, she wouldnt come here. It was all because She looked up at Mo Junyang, and then lowered her eyes, muttering, aggrieved, I am not bad-hearted. How could I watch you trapped by Shi Baojin and just stand by indifferently? Mo Junyang was surprised for a moment. He didnt expect that her baby would react like this. The reason why she rushed here was that she wanted to save him? Then if he suppressed it and didnt react in Yixiang Pavilion, Shi Qingxue would also appear to save him in time. And he was tricked to have aphrodisiac at that time Well, what a vague scene would it be? What a pity! Mo Junyang felt pitiful, but he also had to apologize for his misunderstanding Shi Qingxue, Then I have misunderstood you. What Shi Baojin has done is really inappropriate. She even dared to He didnt say anything later, and Shi Qingxue also felt shameful. Fortunately, it was Mo Junyang. She didnt realize that domestic shame should not be made public. Instead, she raised her face and looked at Mo Junyang with expectation, This time, Shi Baojin doesnt behave properly. But it will also have influence on the reputation of other sisters in the Shi Family. Brother Yang, please be generous and dont let others know about it. As she spoke, she glanced at Wei Zichao and those beggars. Wei Zichao trembled. Mo Junyang understood, and also glanced at Wei Zichao. He looked back at Shi Qingxues shiny big eyes, thinking, This girl was so tricky! When everything was fine, she called me Mo Junyang or Your Excellency and wouldnt have a closer relationship with me; once she had something to beg me, she would call me Brother Yang, which itched my heart and made me willing to give her everything nice. What could he do in the future if he was so under her control? Mo Junyang suddenly felt worried! In order to hide those messy thoughts, he laughed and joked, Its about the reputation of other sisters? Your words seem to imply that it has nothing to do with you? Mo Junyang was delightful in his heart. Qingxue must know that no matter how bad her reputation was, he would be her greatest support. Shi Qingxue had no idea of Mo Junyangs smug thoughts. Hearing that, her eyes became dark and she murmured in a voice that others could barely hear, No plans to marry again anyway. After saying this, she immediately realized that she misbehaved. She chuckled and said, Its late now. Ill go back home first, and the rest of it is left for Your Excellency to deal with. Until Shi Qingxue walked a long distance, Mo Junyang still stood there in the bleak wind. Wei Zichao felt sad for his own master, and when they couldnt see Shi Qingxue at all, he stepped forward and whispered, Master, what should I do next? Mo Junyang then became conscious from the hit and glanced at him, Just do as Qingxue has said. After that, he also went away. Wei Zichao felt that he was the hardest one! What did it mean to do as what Sixth Lady had said? Did he have to suicide? He wanted to have that reliable master back! - In order to move Shi Baojin back to the house of the Shi Family without anyone knowing it, Xia Mang and Dong Shuang had tried hard. In the end, they couldnt be praised for having done a good deed, but only Shi Baojin got the benefits easily. Dong Shuang wiped the sweat from her forehead, and pretended to spit to Shi Baojin who was lying in the bed, What a dirty person! She even dares to do such a shameless thing. She deserves to be defiled! Why does Sixth Lady act so warm-hearted and save her? As far as I am concerned, she should suffer from it. Xia Mang did not explain to Dong Shuang why the corruption of Shi Baojins reputation would have influence on other ladies in the Shi Family, which was obvious. She simply said, Sixth Lady has ordered that everything should be the same as usual. And we should make Third Lady think that she has a nightmare when she wakes up. We must clear it up quickly and leave. Otherwise, when the subordinates in Yujin Boudoir come, it would be hard for us to explain. I know! Havent I just cleaned and dressed her? They wont find it! Dong Shuang still looked mad, but she worked hard when she executed Shi Qingxues order. The two came quietly and left quietly. The subordinates of Yujin Boudoir knew nothing about it. Only Xiao Tao, the first-class servant of Shi Baojin, lost her master and was anxious like an ant on a hot pot, but she didnt dare to report to Zhou Ruyu. There must be a good show tomorrow. Shi Qingxue listened to the two servants report and nodded with satisfaction, Youve worked hard for it. You should go back to rest first. As the rest of the matter, we shall talk about it tomorrow. But Dong Shuang refused to leave, and asked with anger, Sixth Lady, why did you save Third Lady? She is obviously not a good person Xia Mang was startled by Dong Shuangs criticism, and quickly stepped forward to cover her mouth, apologizing, Sorry. Dong Shuang is too young and dont know what cant be said. She just felt upset for master. Hope that master wont mind it. Shi Qingxue watched the behaviors of the two and smiled. She raised her hand to stop Xia Mang and said softly, It doesnt matter. Let go of her! When Xia Mang released Dong Shuang, she continued to say, Although you are servants and Im the master, we are like sisters. I wont hide things from you. You can say whatever you want in front of me, and I dont mind. Just Dong Shuang, there is something that once you say, it will cause trouble, and it may even kill you. I may not be able to save you then. Xia Mang stops you from saying those because she is afraid that you will cause trouble again. Isnt the lesson several days ago enough? Dong Shuangs struggling movement froze. Only then did she understand Xia Mangs good intentions, and she could not help but glance at Xia Mang and whispered, Im sorry. I justI thought you stopped me from saying that because you disliked me. I, I wont do it any more! Xia Mang was teased by Dong Shuangs obedient behavior, You have no conscience. You just know my good intentions now. So my kindness before was fed dogs! Ah! Dong Shuang was anxious and waved her hands. No, it wasnt fed dogs. It was fed me! Shi Qingxue and Xia Mang, The two looked at each other, and at last they both laughed out until their bellies ached. Well! Dong Shuang, how are you so funny? Didnt you understand that Xia Mang was joking? Well, I cant. Im gonna laugh to death Qingxue even ignored her appearance and hugged her belly laughing and rolling in bed. Dong Shuangs face turned red and said with embarrassment, I, Im not dog! Dont laugh I wont talk to you! She stomped her feet, glared at Xia Mang and ran away. Angry? Shi Qingxue wiped the tears from the corners of her eyes and pushed Xia Mang, You caused this trouble. You go deal with her yourself! Xia Mang nodded and said to Qingxue carefully before leaving, Sixth Lady, Dong Shuang is indeed impulsive, but some of her words are correct. Third Lady even whispered your name when she was fainted. Im afraid that she will hate you in the future. This is purely her own thing. Why does she hate me? Shi Qingxue shrugged indifferently. Seeing that Xia Mang looked serious, she still nodded, I know. I will be careful in the future. At this time, the two had not expected that Shi Baojins revenge would come right away! Chapter 43 - Blind Imitation With Ludicrous Effect On the Mid-Autumn Festival in August, the family and the country gathered and celebrated together, and Emperor set a palace banquet, inviting the officials with their families. Shi Junhe was still fighting in the northwest, and on behalf of the Shi Family, Mo Shujun took the big family to take part in the banquet. Shi Qingxue didnt want to go. She planned to pretend to be sick, but was persuaded by Shi Baoning and had to go at last. How honorable it is for Emperor has invited us to the palace banquet! But Qingxue looks like that she is not going to a joyful banquet but a funeral instead. Shi Baojin suddenly snorted, taunt spilling out from her words. These days, Shi Baojin seemed to have taking gunpowder, and she fired with her words whenever she was unhappy. She didnt talk in a devious way like before, but said anything rude straightforward. Of course, Shi Qingxue was the worst affected. Others might not know why Shi Baojin suddenly became like this, but Shi Qingxue could guess why Shi Baojin was in a bad mood and didnt bother to quarrel with her. She pulled Shi Baoning and sat down on the other side of the carriage, apparently showing that even though she didnt want to argue her, she could still hide from her? Shi Baojin was not satisfied with her victory, and she wanted to follow her up after getting off the carriage. But Mo Shujun snorted coldly, Third Lady, isnt there enough trouble you causes at home? What is this place? Is it where you can be noisy? Shi Baojin had no choice but to shut up and glared at Qingxue unwillingly, full of resentment. Shi Qingxue was so doubtful when she was glared at, thinking, What had I done to bother you? Why did you glare at me? Psychopath! But they had arrived, and before she thought more about it, those people who greeted them had already arrived. Great-aunt, my father orders me to wait here for a long time. Please get off the carriage. A clear male voice sounded, and the sight of all the madams and ladies fell on Shi Qingxue. Shi Baochun, the Seventh Lady of the Shi Family, who had good relationship with Qingxue, pushed Qingxue with her elbow, and smiled jokingly, Qingxue, its Fourth Prince! Shi Qingxue calmly looked back and said indifferently, Does it have anything to do with me? Isnt it your Brother Hao? Shi Baochun laughed more happily, and spoke rudely. If it was in the past, Shi Qingxue must have flushed her face, and talked to Mo Junhao with shyness. But at this moment, she just looked at Shi Baochun nonchalantly until the smile on her face stiff, and then she smiled slightly, Its not proper to gossip about prince. Be careful that grandmother would punish you! The slender forefinger gently touched her lips and made a motion as a sign of shutting up, then she followed Mo Shujun off the carriage. Mo Junhao saw Shi Qingxue, and his eyes lit up. He quickly greeted her, and called her softly, Xue, you are also here. Was that nonsense? She was standing right here. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes secretly. If it wasnt for the etiquette, she could just walk away. She reluctantly bowed, Your Highness. If there is nothing else, then I dont disturb Your Highness. After that, she didnt give Mo Junhao time to talk, and grabbed Shi Baoning following behind Mo Shujun. Mo Junhao didnt have time to spread his love, but could only look at Shi Qingxues back silently. What was happening? He eagerly tried his best to ask for this job from Emperor, planning to talk and build a closer relationship with Shi Qingxue, whom he hadnt seen for many days. But he was left out just like this? It didnt go as he had planned! Your Highness, why are you here? As soon as Qin Yanyan, the Fifth Lady of the Qin Family got off the carriage, she saw Mo Junhao standing in front of the gate, and suddenly became overjoyed and ran to him. She thought that the one she liked came to pick her up. It didnt need to mention how joyful Qin Yanyan was in her heart. She smiled and grabbed Mo Junhaos sleeve and swayed it slightly. She said with shyness, I havent seen Your Highness for several days, and I miss Your Highness so much. Why doesnt Your Highness come to the house and find my brother any more? Qin Yanyan, the youngest daughter of Left Prime Minister Qin, was also his only daughter. She was spoiled by the whole family and had developed a petulant and selfish character. And she was in conflict with Shi Qingxue when she was young. Although Prime Minister Qin also secretly showed his loyalty to Mo Junhao, compared to him, Mo Junhao obviously preferred the military power of Duke Shi. And when he was facing the two daughters from the two families, he surely preferred Qingxue. He just smiled at Qin Yanyan in a perfunctory manner, Recent schoolwork has been heavier these days, and father asks me to learn to deal with the court earlier. If there is any neglect, please dont mind it. Of course Qin Yanyan waved her hands to say no. She also held her red face, coquettishly, Brother didnt say anything. Its just that I miss Your Highness! After saying this, Qin Yanyan seemed to realize that she was being too bold and ran back to hide behind her mother. Mo Junhao just showed a kind smile to Mr. and Mrs. Qin, but disliked Qin Yanyan in his heart. What was her? Did she think that she pretended to be shy and then could seduce him? It was indeed blind imitation with ludicrous effect. Shameful! Of course, he knew that Qin Yanyans behavior was all learned from Shi Qingxue. But she was pretentious. There was nothing like Qingxues natural charm, let alone Qingxues unique brightness. However, out of respect for the Qin Family, he should coax her, and kept her on his side with a position of Side Concubine in the future. But it might be not easy to explain to Shi Qingxue. Mo Junhao didnt realize that the little girl who had been chasing after her and calling him Brother Hao had already figured out what he really was like. But he still dreamed of marrying them both! Shi Qingxue ignored Mo Junhao and sat down with Mo Shujun properly in her seat. The Mid-Autumn Festival banquet didnt require the noble ladies of aristocratic families to perform and compete like the Qiqiao Festival banquet. They just sat in their seats, ate, drank, talked and watched the shows, and basically did nothing. However, during this period, many people were passionate with interaction with others, especially those who would like to flatter and find some powerful to lean on. They looked forward to this opportunity to build a relationship with the wealthy and powerful people. After Shi Qingxue dealt with two noble ladies who came to talk, she was completely uninterested. When she saw Shi Baoning, who was still talking with them intently aside, she yawned elegantly, and she held her head to watch the shows in the front. Qingxue, you seem to have no interest. Dont you like this performance? Shi Baojin suddenly came over and said. Qingxue glanced at her, and reluctantly smiled, How could it be? It was just that I didnt sleep well yesterday, and I am a bit sleepy. Shi Baojin also smiled, and intimately held Shi Qingxues arm, and said with a smile, Since this is the case, why dont we go out and hang out in the yard to become more energetic? Im not that sleepy, and now the banquet has begun, it may not be proper for us to leave privately. Shi Qingxue declined politely. She wasnt stupid. She knew Shi Baojin had no good intention for her and would she still stay alone with her? Shi Baojin immediately expressed her disappointment, and even sobbed, I think you must hate me. You are even unwilling to hang out with me. It really makes me sad. If a person didnt know about her, he might probably be persuaded by Shi Baojins words. But Shi Qingxue never relented, and she only smiled but said nothing in the face of Shi Baojins weakness. Shi Baojin cried for a long time without receiving a response, and felt bored. Then she restrained her sobbing, and her look became cold suddenly, Since you are unwilling, I wont bother you. Shi Qingxue nodded, and then turned her head around to watch the show, so she didnt notice that Shi Baojin sneaked into the yard secretly while no one was paying attention. Hows it going? Does she promise to come out? Shi Baojin was startled by the sudden male voice as soon as she hid in the corner. She patted her chest quickly and yelled, Your Highness, you almost scare me to death! Mo Junhao didnt have time to deal with her thoughts, he only asked again coldly, Where is Qingxue? Huh! Qingxue, Qingxue. You both just know Qingxue. Whats so good about her? Shi Baojin complained angrily, and her words were full of jealousy against Shi Qingxue. She is of course superb. You are not qualified to say anything about her! Mo Junhao was unwilling to hear Shi Baojin slandering Qingxue. He was about to yell at her, when he suddenly got the meaning in her words. He frowned and hurriedly asked, Who else is fond of Qingxue? It seemed that Qingxue was already his possession. Who else can it be. Its just Shi Baojin was about to speak it out, she suddenly was reminded of Mo Junyangs means and her heart was tightened, so she shut her mouth up. If Mo Junyang knew that she had leaked his secret, would he use his perverted methods to deal with her again? Who is it? In the face of Mo Junhaos aggressive questioning, Shi Baojin couldnt help but think that Mo Junhao also seemed to be a little capable. If he dealt with Mo Junyang, wouldnt she be able to revenge and stay away from it? Anyway, no one would know that she was the one who told Mo Junhao! Malice full of her heart, Shi Baojin snorted and said, Its just King Ruis eldest son. He even found an excuse and moved in the house of the Shi Family. Isnt he longing for Qingxue? He? Mo Junhaos only impression of Mo Junyang was that he was Crown Princes study company, and was ordinary and unknown at any time. A toad wants to have a swan. Dont need to worry about him. Mo Junhao thought for a while, then left this behind. He continued to ask, I ask you to get Qingxue out. Where is her? Speaking of this, Shi Baojin was resentful, What can I do if she doesnt want to come out? Useless! At last, I still have to ask her out personally. Mo Junhao was unwilling to ask Shi Qingxue out in his own name at first, for he was afraid that others would figure his ambition. But Shi Qingxue was obviously reluctant to talk with Shi Baojin, and it seemed that he couldnt care so much. Otherwise, if things were delayed for too long, there might be some other changes. Mo Junhao made up his mind, took off his jade and gave it to his servant, and said a few words. Seeing that Shi Baojin was still standing there with her face twisted, he snorted again, Fine, you can go back if you dont have anything else! Why are you still standing here? Shi Baojin was aggrieved, but because of the identity of him, she could only salute and turn away. After she crossed the corner, she couldnt help but scold, What is he showing off, since he hasnt become the Emperor yet? Whats the use of it to marry Shi Qingxue. The position of Duke Shi will be my fathers sooner or later. You guys will beg me to marry you kneeling and crying then! On the other side, Mo Junhao thought that he was about to meet Shi Qingxue. He picked a bunch of pansy and planned to please the beauty later. He didnt know how happy Shi Qingxue would be when she heard his confession. With the personality of Qingxue, she would probably throw herself into his arms. Mo Junhao thought about it nicely. Chapter 44 - Grandma Was Always Right! Mo Junhao paced in the gazebo for a long before seeing Yan hurrying over. Shi Qingxue was not behind, and Yan reported with an upset face, Master, Sixth Lady of the Shi Family said that the palace banquet had begun and she was inconvenient to leave her seat. It would cause others gossip if she and Your Highness stayed together alone. Your Highness, please Before Yans words were finished, Mo Junhao was so mad that he threw the pansy in his hand to the ground. And he was still not relieved, he even stepped on it twice. He asked sullenly, What else did she say? Yan replied trembling, Your Highness, please, please forgive her, and she wont come. Yan finished his words with one breath in the end, and closed his mouth instantly. He half-opened his eyes to look at Mo Junhaos face. Mo Junhao looked ferocious, and his eyes seemed to be burning, while he gritted his teeth and scolded, Fine, Shi Qingxue! You really regard yourself as a treasure! I invite you with good intention. How dare you to turn me down? But after a while, Mo Junhao showed a weird smile again and said insidiously, Do you think that you can avoid seeing me if you say so? I show my respect and you dont treasure this chance. Then dont blame me for being cruel! This time I not only want you to see me, but I want you to belong to me completely! Mo Junhao smiled insidiously, waved his hand to Yan, Come and listen. Yan felt hard in his hearty, but he could only be obedient to his master and stepped forward. After listening to Mo Junhaos order, his sweats rolled down and hesitated, Master, if this turned into a big trouble, it would be shameful Dont make nonsense, hurry up. If you cant do this matter well enough, I will rip off your skin! Mo Junhao kicked on him and drove him away. - In a not long time after the banquet had begun, there were people continuously asking Shi Qingxue to talk alone, but she turned them down. She just sat in her seat and wouldnt move. On the contrary, Shi Baoning frowned, and whispered, Qingxue, it might not be proper that you declined the kindness of those sisters. After all, they are all out of good intentions, and Fourth Prince Shi Baoning knew that Qingxue liked Mo Junhao, and said, You two grow up together, and there is no such a defined distance between you. Moreover, grandmother tends to marry you to Fourth Prince. If you talk with him alone, no one dares to say anything. Why do you Shi Qingxue did not expect that Shi Baoning would say such words to her. She was a little surprised. After a while, she frowned and said, Baoning, what do you mean by this? Could it be that you want me to meet a man in private? Even if the distance between men and women was not strictly defined in the Mo Dynasty, handing things between men and women would make others gossip, let alone meeting in private. Shi Baoning was speechless and explained in a hurry, I dont mean it. Just Fourth Prince He will become your husband in the future, and in this way, he is not someone else. Now he asks you out with good intentions, and you dont have to turn him down because of these little matters. Shi Qingxue guessed that her previous admiration for Mo Junhao made everyone think that she must belong to Mo Junhao, therefore, she didnt blame Shi Baoning for her guess. She only said coldly, The thing hasnt been decided yet. Who says that he must be my husband? What if I dont want to marry him now? No! Shi Baoning declined immediately. Both of them were astonished for a while, because they didnt expect that Shi Baoning would have such an excited response. Qingxue closed her lips slightly and looked at Shi Baoning, Why not? Shi Baoning realized that she had overreacted. She looked a bit easier, and persuaded softly, Fourth Prince matches you in the aspects of knowledge, appearance, family and senses. And grandmother chose this marriage for you. How could you not marry him? Grandma chose it for me? Shi Qingxues pupils shrank, and she suddenly found something she hadnt noticed in previous life. She clearly remembered that in the previous life, she wanted to marry Mo Junhao, and her parents both didnt want her to get involved. In the end, she begged her grandmother to deal with it and her parents finally agreed. But at this moment She never thought that Mo Shujun actually hoped that she would marry Mo Junhao. Then after Mo Junhao became the Emperor, why did she agree to abolish her and make Shi Baojin the Empress? Shi Qingxue held her breath and didnt dare to think more. Shi Baoning was unaware of her emotions, she nodded solemnly, and said cautiously, It has been said that you should always follow parents order and the matchmakers words. Grandmother has chosen this marriage for you. How could you not marry him? Qingxue still hadnt come back from her emotions. She whispered, What if hes not a good one? She could still see her experience and feel her pain in her previous life. She was so painful that her body was about to tremble. Shi Baoning paused, and she looked a bit hesitant in her eyes for a moment. Then she said more firmly, No! Grandmas choice for us must be good! As the juniors, it will never be wrong for us to listen to her. Well Shi Qingxue suddenly laughed in a low voice, but there was no smile on her face. Although she and Shi Baoning had the same mother, because the latter was weak, they didnt get close to each other in the previous life. She didnt realize that her sister had regarded Mo Shujun as a God and would obey every word that Mo Shujun had said. Shi Qingxue clenched her fists under her sleeves. She was about to refute, when an old servant came over, and it was exactly Mammy Ru who accompanied Concubine Liu. Greet to two ladies. There was someone else at present, and Shi Qingxue couldnt say it no matter how resentful in her heart. She could only smile and ask, What is the matter, Mammy Ru? Mammy Ru glanced at them two, and said straightforwardly, Which one of you is Sixth Lady of the Shi Family? The Concubine is calling. Please come with me! The son was just declined by Shi Qingxue before. At this time, the mother sent a person to call her again. Wouldnt they be tired of it? Shi Qingxue thought that Liu Yiyi was here to find some respect for Mo Junhao. She could decline Mo Junhao, but she had no reason to decline the Concubines calling. She could only nod and followed Mammy Ru out. Qingxue took Xia Mang and walked on the path in the palace with red bricks and green walls on both sides. As she walked, she suddenly felt something was wrong. Even if everyone was attending the palace banquet at this moment, the path in the palace shouldnt be so deserted, and this road obviously didnt lead to the Concubines room. Shi Qingxue stopped, and whispered, Mammy Ru, this is not the way to Liuye Palace. May I ask where Her Majesty would like to meet me? Mammy Ru glanced at her arrogantly, and gave a sign at the corner. Two tall guards jumped out of the corner immediately, when they stood on the path, they blocked Shi Qingxues way. Then she said coldly, The Concubine will meet you in the Peach Blossom Forest. You can just follow me. Why do you say so much? If Shi Qingxue didnt realize it was a trap at this time, she would really be a fool. But there was no way out, even if she took Xia Mang, she could not escape from the two strong guards. Besides, Mammy Ru was indeed the servant of Liu Yiyi. Even if Liu Yiyi wanted to trick her at this moment, she could only confront the difficulties. They continued to walk again, and the two guards also followed behind them. They didnt give Shi Qingxue any chances to escape. Sixth Lady Xia Mang also realized that something was wrong, and grabbed Shi Qingxues sleeve, whispering. Did they really have to go there when they knew clearly that there was a danger? Shi Qingxue gritted her teeth and stopped. When others looked at her, she took out her handkerchief and wiped the sweat on her forehead. He said softly, I didnt notice today when I went out and wore a thick cloak. It really makes me sweat so much. As she spoke, she slowly took off the water-blue hooded long caper and handed it to Xia Mang, This is made of the brocade rewarded by Empress Dowager. You should take it back and carefully put it away. If it is dirty, you will be punished. Xia Mang was stunned first, and looked at the cloak handed to her without reaction. At last, Qingxue patter her and let her go hurriedly, and then she understood that Shi Qingxue was asking her to take the cloak to ask for help! She immediately answered, Yes! Ill go immediately. But the two guards were still there as if they were guarding a door, and Xia Mang couldnt get through. Shi Qingxue looked at Mammy Ru, and said casually, Her Majesty has called for me, but she hasnt said that I have to bring a servant, right? Moreover, if the cloak rewarded by Empress Dowager was broken, would you want to be killed for it? While talking, she also gave Xia Mang a sign to took two steps forward, and the two guards were really forced to step back a little, and didnt dare to touch the cloak. Then Qingxue raised her eyebrows and looked at Mammy Ru, implying, If you dont let my servant go, then we should all stay here. Mammy Ru was unwilling to cause trouble, and thought that a little servant couldnt make a change to this thing. She waved her hand and make the guards let go of her, and said, Now can we go on? Shi Qingxue watched Xia Mangs back disappear into the night, but she was not at all relaxed. Could Xia Mang really find anyone to save her? Who could stop Liu Yiyis tricks on her? She followed Mammy Ru to move forward, but silently planned in her heart that she still had to save herself. So after just a few steps, Shi Qingxue stopped again. Mammy Ru gave her an impatient glance, Whats the matter this time, Sixth Lady? Shi Qingxue shrugged innocently, Nothing, Im just tired. Mammy Ru, She was also an experienced servant beside Concubine Liu, and she had done a lot of things like this. Everyone would follow her hurriedly after hearing the call, for fear that the Concubine would be impatient. But this one didnt show her respect at all, but also constantly postponed and resisted. She wasnt afraid to make Concubine Liu mad at all. Mammy Ru looked cold and snorted, Sixth Lady, if you keep inattentive and it is delayed because of you and the Concubine blames it on you, dont say that I havent reminded you in advance! Even threatening was used, but for Shi Qingxue, those words were useless. She was even tougher than Mammy Ru, and said coldly, Well? Mammy Ru means that I deliberately delay time? I am not talented, and I dont have class, so Im not qualified for you to call me Master. But Im the daughter of First Master of the Shi Family. Does Mammy Ru even think that the Shi Family is not qualified? Such a serious guilt was she accused of suddenly, and Mammy Ru was instantly astonished. At this moment, how did she suddenly become not respectful for the Shi Family? Chapter 45 - You Are My Finicky Boss! However, Shi Qingxue did not give her the opportunity to defend herself at all, and said more indifferently right away, Im sorry, but Empress Dowager has given me the privilege to hang out in the palace freely since I was young, and no one has ever blamed me like this. If you really have any disagreement with me, we should ask Empress Dowager to judge. Or if your words are spread out, let alone that others would think Im arrogant, it would be really serious that they might accuse the Shi Family of being rude. And I am not able to take that blame! After that, it seemed that she was about to turn to Ling Ruiyin for justice since there was such a disagreement. Mammy Ru was really embarrassed. Could anyone tell her why this lady was so difficult to deal with? If she were accused of so numerous crimes, she would definitely not survive from it. Sixth Lady, you have misunderstood me! Mammy Ru didnt dare to purposely make difficulties for Shi Qingxue, but explained shamelessly, Its all because Im too clumsy of words. My status is low, and how do I have guts to criticize the Shi Family? I am just too worried that Her Majesty would blame you if we arrived too late. I dont dare to speak ill of you. Shi Qingxue knew that she couldnt really escape here, so she stopped with the trend, but she looked even angrier. She sneered, Well! Are you saying that I am narrow minded and have wronged you? Mammy Ry hurriedly smiled and apologized again and again. She said in a humble voice, How can it be? I say the wrong words, leading to your misunderstanding. Master, you are generous and please forgive me this time! Mammy Ru, you are a fourth grade official anyway, and Im not qualified to be your master. Shi Qingxue was completely untouched. Mammy Ru was so desperate in her heart at this moment. You were not my master, but you were my finicky boss! Shi Qingxue then stopped blaming her, and said calmly, Forget it. Im generous. I wont accuse you since this is the first time that youve made such a mistake. But if you do again, I wont let it go so easily. I dont dare to. I wont do it again! Mammy Ru was overjoyed, so that she almost knelt in front of Shi Qingxue. She didnt dare to urge Shi Qingxue, but could only remind her vaguely, Concubine Liu is still waiting in Peach Blossom Forest. So Sixth Lady, how about us Shi Qingxue glanced at the dark road before her, and reluctantly replied, Fine. You lead the way. The four walked slowly on the palace road. Even though Shi Qingxue took small steps and her pace was slow, Mammy Ru didnt dare to urge her. But just after a turn, Shi Qingxue stopped for the fourth time. This time, Mammy Ru even wanted to die, but she didnt dare to express her impatience. She asked carefully, Whats the matter now, Sixth Lady? Shi Qingxue raised her little hand to wipe the sweat on her cheeks, and fanned herself with the handkerchief. Then she smiled in embarrassment, saying casually, Its already Mid-Autumn Festival, but its still so hot. I havent walked a long distance, but I am sweating now. Its not proper to meet Concubine Liu with sweat. Mammy Ru, please wait a moment. Let me have a break, shall I? Mammy Ru, Could she say no? Even if she knew that Shi Qingxue was pretending, she could only meet her requirement obediently and accompany Shi Qingxue standing at the corner to enjoy the cool wind. These people walked for a while and had a rest over and over again, while Xia Mang hurried back to the banquet. The madams and ladies of the Shi Family were talking to others and she couldnt bother them. The only one whom she could turn to was Shi Baoning. But when she spoke out the worry in her heart, Shi Baoning remained indifferent, and said, It is a good thing that Concubine has called on her, so you dont need to worry. Xia Mang was more anxious, and scratched her head to explain, No. Even ghost doesnt dare to go to Peach Blossom Forrest in the evening, let alone a person. Even if Concubine Liu would like to call on Sixth Lady, she shouldnt choose such a dangerous place! Isnt that just Peach Blossom Forest? Maybe Concubine Liu just wants to admire the moon and blossoms with Qingxue and have a chat! Shi Baoning didnt feel anything wrong with that at all, but warned Xia Mang seriously, Well, dont talk nonsense. Be careful and dont cause trouble for Qingxue! Return to your position and stand still quickly! After that, she waved her hand and didnt pay attention to Xia Mang anymore. Xia Mang failed to get the help. She walked around in the yard outside, anxious like an ant on a hot pot. For a moment, she really wanted to go to Mo Shujun for help, but as Shi Baoning had said, how could the masters be convinced if she didnt have the evidence? What should she do? Whos there? Mo Junyu just drank a few glasses of wine with others and came outside for some fresh air. He saw a slim figure walking around at the corner and couldnt help but yell. Xia Mang was startled, and immediately lowered her head. She greeted him cautiously, I am Xia Mang, the servant of Sixth Lady of the Shi Family. Your Highness. When Mo Junyu heard Shi Qingxues name, he took a closer look at Xia Mang and asked, Dont you need to look after your master? Why are you walking around here? Xia Mang had only seen Mo Junyu a few times, and she didnt dare to lose her manners in front of the noble man, but Mo Junyus appearance was like a life-saving straw. Grabbed this opportunity or not? Mo Junyu also saw some clues. When Xia Mang didnt answer him but hesitated, he continued to ask, Where is Qingxue? Xia Mang still did not dare to answer. It wasnt that she didnt want to save her master, but she didnt know the character of the person in front of her. How could she tell him all? What if she harmed her master by doing this? Well, you! Seeing this, Mo Junyu knew that he couldnt figure what had happened like this, then he turned around and said to Zhou Ji, the guard aside, You go and invite Mo Junyang here. When Xia Mang heard Mo Junyangs name, her eyes lit up, and she stared at the entrance of banquet desperately. Mo Junyu laughed and said, What? When you see me, you wouldnt say anything. Once you hear that Mo Junyang is coming, your eyes light up. Is he more reliable than me? No, I dont dare to think that way! Xia Mang thought that Mo Junyu was blaming her, and was so frightened that she knelt and begged for mercy, Its just that Im so entrusted by my master, so that I dare not to tell it all casually. If Your Highness wants to blame me, I have no complaints, but please punish me after I save Sixth Lady out. Mo Junyu didnt expect this girl to be so honest that he couldnt even make a joke. He was about to make her stand up when he heard her words. But he couldnt help but frown. Before he asked, someone asked for him first, What happened? Mo Junyu turned around to see that Mo Junyang was here. He shrugged and stepped aside. When Xia Mang saw Mo Junyang, she rushed over as if he was the savior, crying, Your Highness, please save Sixth Lady! Mo Junyang would not be kind to hold her up. He just asked coldly, Say. What happened? While Sixth Lady was enjoying the performance in her own seat, Mammy Ru, who works beside Concubine Liu, came to pass the message that Concubine Liu wanted Sixth Lady to meet her in Peach Blossom Forest Xia Mang wiped her tears and told everything happened before. Mo Junyang frowned and thought for a moment, then asked, Where is the cloak? When I went to ask First Lady for help, I left the cloak on the seat. Xia Mang answered with a stunned expression, confused. Mo Junyang said again, Go get the cloak and dont make others notice you. Xia Mang was so anxious that her tears were about to fall. Seeing that Mo Junyang was still caring about such an irrelevant thing, she knelt there and didnt make a move, Your Highness, its unknown whether Sixth Lady is safe of not now. Please save her quickly! Im afraid it would be too late if you dont go now! Mo Junyang gave her a cold glance, If you want to save your master, hurry up and bring her cloak. Xia Mang hesitated, but she had no other choice. Just had a try this time! She gritted her teeth and hurried to the banquet. Mo Junyu didnt understand what Mo Junyang wanted to do after hearing it, and frowned, I thought you would immediately go to Peach Blossom Forest after hearing it. Why? Arent you afraid anything would happen to her? Mo Junyang glanced at him coldly, and after a moment, he said firmly, She will be fine. Then what are you going to do? Mo Junyu was not worried about Shi Qingxues safety, but was curious about Mo Junyangs next move. Mo Junyang smiled indifferently, Since they are going to play tricks, I dont mind helping them. Mo Junyu got goosebumps because of his voice, and thought that Liu Yiyi was really risking her life to provoke this demon. In the Peach Blossom Forest, the peach trees were lush and the shade blocked most of the moonlight. With the faint moonlight, it could be barely seen that a slim figure was wearing a water-blue hooded cloak and heading towards the depth of the forest, where it was dark. The whole person was completely covered by the cloak and no one could see what the person looked like. But a person who was familiar with it could recognize at a glance that this person was wearing the cloak which Shi Qingxue wore most often. The person hurried and looked around at the same time, as if he was looking for something. At this moment, a tall figure suddenly rushed out behind a peach tree next to that person, and then suddenly hugged the slim figure. The person was startled, struggling and screaming, Let go of me! Let go of me! It was a coquettish female voice. The figure embraced that person even tighter, and at the same time he whispered in the ears of that person, Xue, dont move. Its me. The person didnt struggle any more, permitted his hug and called him in a very low voice, Brother Hao. The beauty was in his arms and softly called him. Mo Junhao immediately pulled the person under a peach tree and began to touch her. He first put his hand tentatively to the placket, seeing that she was just holding his hands softly and didnt mean to struggle. Mo Junhao was relieved, and his big hands went straight in from the placket, grabbed the breasts and then slowly kneaded them. Ah! The person suddenly murmured with a low and sweet voice and was full of charm. Mo Junhao didnt plan to do it all here at first, but he couldnt hold it when he heard the voice, especially when the small hands of that person seemed to be moving down along his waist muscles. Even if he was confused by the initiative of Shi Qingxue, since he already reached so far, it would be a pity if he stopped at this moment. In the Peach Blossom Forest, the two black shadows were entangled together, groaning from time to time, which could make others blush and quicken their pulse. Who is there? A majestic male voice sounded suddenly, and the two people were startled and shocked. The torches were also ignited, lighting up the surrounding area. Mo Junhao embraced the figure tightly in his arms, who was trying to escape, thinking that she was finally here. Chapter 46 - Not Interested to Catch Them The torchs light dazzled peoples eyes, but Mo Junhao still stood there calmly, and slowly opened his eyes until he got used to the light. This time, he was completely astonished on the spot. It was not that Liu Yiyi brought people to catch them as he had expected. Those standing in front of him were Emperor Mo Xiangbin, his mother Liu Yiyi, King Ruis eldest son Mo Junyang and several subordinates. How could this be? Hadnt they just planned that Liu Yiyi appeared alone and they forced Shi Qingxue to marry him? Why did so many people appear here suddenly? Mo Junhao looked at his mother for help, but with Mo Xiangbin standing next to her, how did Liu Yiyi dare to say a word? She could only wave at Mo Junhao to tell him that something had changed and that he should act accordingly. Mo Xiangbin yelled at this moment, How is it proper that you do this in public? Let her go now! Only then did Mo Junhao realize that he was still holding who he thought was Shi Qingxue, and hurriedly let go of her. And the latter quickly hid behind him for shelter. He carefully scrutinized Mo Xiangbins look. Seeing that Mo Xiangbin looked gloom and remained silent, he knew that this time it might become serious! Sure enough, Mo Xiangbin asked, Its Mid-Autumn Festival banquet. You dont admire the performances in the front. What are you doing here? Junhao, who is that behind you? In normal days, Mo Junhao was the most obedient son in front of his father, he never crossed the boundary. But at present, this matter happened. He was afraid that his good impression on Mo Xiangbin was all gone. Immediately, Mo Junhao couldnt care about too much, but only wanted to tie Shi Qingxue next to him firmly. Since Emperor had seen the scene, it would be impossible that Shi Qingxue didnt want to marry him this time! He reached for the person behind him and brought her in front of him. He yanked off her hood suddenly. Ah! The person screamed in a low voice, covering her face with both hands, as if she could escape the embarrassment in this way. Father, we are in love with each other. Please permit me to marry Xue After Mo Junhao yanked the hood of that person, he started to express his thoughts determinedly to Mo Xiangbin. But before he finished his words, he suddenly found that the person he was embracing before was not Shi Qingxue at all, but Fifth Lady of the Qin Family, Qin Yanyan. His tone even changed, How could it be you? Qin Yanyan did not hide again at this time. She looked at Mo Junhao who was shocked with shyness, and then looked at Mo Xiangbin. She said in a low voice, I, I am fond of Fourth Prince, and Fourth Prince has just said that he would like to marry me. Your Highness, please permit us. For the first time, Mo Xiangbin saw that the two who were caught doing that thing didnt panic, but still had the courage to ask him to permit their marriage. He didnt know whether he should go mad or laugh out for a time. Liu Yiyi also found that it was not Shi Qingxue whom they hoped to be here. When she was disappointed, she also quickly became conscious. She persuaded in a soft voice, Your Highness, they cant help their adoration, and its quite normal to hang out here secretly. Moreover, they are unmarried. It doesnt matter even if it is spread out. Why should you be angry with them? Its better to meet their requirement and achieve a wonderful marriage! When mother knows it, she should definitely be pleasant then! With Concubine Lius words, she could turn black into white. After hearing that, Mo Xiangbin actually was not that mad. He was reminded that when he was young, hadnt he decided the marriage with Liu Yiyi in such situation? At the moment, it was not impossible to permit the marriage of these two lovers, but this was indeed not an honorable thing, and it also had been seen by He glanced at Mo Junyang, who did not speak. Seeing that the latter stood aside indifferently and that he seemed not to be a looker-on, however, the Emperor was still uncomfortable in his heart, and became even unsatisfied with Mo Junhao, whom he always thought highly of. It was okay if they wanted to meet secretly! But couldnt he pick a good place? The choice of lover was also not good enough. If it had been Shi Qingxue, he wouldnt have lost face this much when being caught, would he? Fifth Lady of the Qin Family, who comes from a noble family, smart and intelligent, is qualified to be a Concubine of Fourth Prince. Today, an imperial decree should be issued that Qin Yanyan is regarded as a Concubine of Fourth Prince and they should choose a great day to finish the wedding. Mo Xiangbin thought for a while, but only gave Qin Yanyan a position of Concubine at last. When Qin Yanyan heard that Emperor married her to Fourth Prince, she was overjoyed, not minding that she was just Concubine of Fourth Prince. In her opinion, being able to marry her Brother Hao was the greatest happiness. She immediately knelt down to thank the Emperor. But Mo Junhao looked mournful, he wasnt pleased at all. He just wanted his father to take back the decree. Liu Yiyi saw that her son was in a wrong mood, and quickly reminded him, Hao, how honored it is that His Highness has permitted your marriage. Quickly kneel down to thank His Highness! At the same time, she glared at Mo Junhao secretly as a silent warning, This matter went like this at this moment. You had to marry Qin Yanyan even though you didnt want to. Hurry up and comfort your father. Dont make him angry again! Mo Junhao was extremely unwilling, but had to kneel down to show his gratefulness. Liu Yiyi then came forward and held up Qin Yanyan, saying intimately, Get up now. If you are injured, it would be a big deal. Your Highness doesnt know that at the Qiqiao Festival banquet, Yanyan won the second place. Her painting was praised by mother! Liu Yiyi smiled and said slickly, attracting Mo Xiangbins attention with Qiqiao Festival banquet. Mo Xiangbin asked with interest, Well? What was Yanyans painting? She painted Liu Yiyi gave Mo Junhao a sign, at the same time she pulled Qin Yanyan and Mo Xiangbin away while they were chatting. The three of them went farther and farther, and disappeared in Peach Blossom Forest finally. At this time, Shi Qingxue let go of Mammy Ru, whose mouth was covered before, and turned around glancing at the two guards under control. She sneered and turned away. The play was so wonderful, but she was not interested in participating. Shi Qingxue, stop! Mo Junhaos mad voice arose behind her. Qingxue ignored it. But after a few steps, her arm was grabbed forcefully by him, so she had to stop. What does Your Highness stop me for? Shi Qingxue didnt want to see the abominable face, and said coldly, looking down. But Mo Junhao thought she was guilty in her heart. He shouted even more fiercely, Shi Qingxue, you are not leaving until you explain this to me today! Shi Qingxue heard the words, looked up, and said with a seemingly smile, I dont know what Your Highness wants me to explain. Mo Junhao didnt expect that Shi Qingxue would talk back, he was choked for a while. Yeah, what did he want her to explain to him? Should he ask why she didnt go to meet Liu Yiyi? Or should he ask why she didnt step into their trap? It seemed that neither of them could be proper to ask. Mo Junhao was so angry that he simply asked, Why is your cloak on Qin Yanyan? If it werent for that cloak, he wouldnt hug the wrong person at all. Shi Qingxue thought it even funnier, Its just a cloak. Yanyan felt cold, what was wrong with it that I lent it to her for a while? But Your Highness has reminded me that the cloak is rewarded by Empress Dowager and I still need to get it back. You Mo Junhao was speechless twice and his eyes suddenly turned sharp. He stared at Shi Qingxue tightly, and he said in a low voice, Xue, you have changed! Werent you the one who defended me the most? We together used to Shi Qingxues expression also became indifferent, and raised her voice to interrupt Mo Junhaos words, Your Highness! When she saw Mo Junhao looked at her in surprise, she calmed down, but her voice remained cold, I am not a relative or a friend of Your Highness, so it makes no sense to ask me to defend Your Highness. Moreover, Your Highness is married now. I wish Your Highness to be self-respected, in case there is any unnecessary misunderstanding. After that, Shi Qingxue mercilessly shook Mo Junhaos hand off and walked away without hesitation. She stopped again after she took a few steps. Only then did she find that before she noticed, Mo Junyang had stood in the tree shade aside and looked at them with serious sight. She didnt know what he was thinking. But one thing was clear that at such a short distance, Mo Junyang could definitely hear her quarrel with Mo Junhao. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips slightly, and her heart was messy. She wouldnt like Mo Junyang to misunderstand that she was entangled with Mo Junhao, but she really didnt have the energy to explain anything. She just nodded at Mo Junyang and left right away. When Shi Qingxue knew Liu Yiyis hypocritical calling on her, she guessed it out that Liu Yiyi wanted to make her marry Mo Junhao, and she thought Liu Yiyi should make an appointment with her to develop a closer relationship for Mo Junhao. If she was really unwilling, she could just be perfunctory. But what she didnt expect was that the two were really cruel to this point where they wanted them to be caught doing that thing on the spot! This was to completely ruin her reputation, so that she had no choice but Mo Junhao. What a cruel heart! Shi Qingxue reluctantly sneered, and she felt like crying. Obviously she no longer loved Mo Junhao, and she was clearly aware of the mans viciousness. But when she was forced to experience this again, she still couldnt bear it. Once upon a time, she naively thought that this man really loved her. She could give up a lot of things for Mo Junhao, not caring about fame or reputation at all, just like Qin Yanyan at present. However, when she recalled, she found that this man didnt love her from beginning to end. He just wanted to marry her, or more precisely, he wanted to marry the force of the Shi Family behind her! Shi Qingxue bit her red lips so hard that it almost bled. In this way, she suppressed her sorrow and anger. She snorted towards the ground and cursed, I had been blind before! Fortunately, she could see it clearly at this moment and she would never be cheated again. In the early morning next day, Mo Xiangbin issued an imperial decree that Mo Junhao should marry Qin Yanyan as the Concubine of Fourth Prince six months later. Not to mention other parties, even those of the party of Fourth Prince were astonished. And Left Prime Minister, Qin Shirong, was even more confused, completely not knowing how his daughter became the Concubine of Fourth Prince. Although Qin Shirong had shown his loyalty to Mo Junhao, his daughter was married to Mo Junhao at this moment, wouldnt it mean that the Qin Family entered the party of Fourth Prince? It was not a wise choice to choose a team at present when the situation was so uncertain. But Mo Xiangbin didnt give them any chance to choose, and he waved his hand and said, Well, about Fourth Princes marriage, lets just stop here. If theres nothing else, you may disband! Qin Shirong had to take back his words which had reached his lips. He could only bow and report, Your Highness has ordered the Ministry of War to prepare the food for soldiers before, but the person who should transfer it hasnt been decided yet. I propose that Right Director of the Bureau of War, Yan Liang, should be qualified to this position. In the old days, Mo Xiangbin liked to let the officials go straight to the point on the court. But this time when he heard that Qin Shirong had decided the person to transfer the food without asking him, he couldnt help but frown. He thought, The older this man is, the longer his hand is stretched out. But he still doesnt teach his daughter well, she could only go crooked ways. And now he even wants to arrange his own person for this position! He didnt respond Qin Shirongs words, but asked, Does anyone disagree? Chapter 47 - Kissed Her! At this time, Crown Prince Mo Junyu stood out in time and replied in a gentle voice, Your Majesty, although Right Director of the Ministry of War Yan Liang is a general, he has never been to the northwest. Therefore, I reckon that Left Director Yue Quan is more qualified for this position. Mo Xiangbin nodded with satisfaction, and did not give Qin Shirong time to refute, and decided at once, That being the case, according to Crown Prince, Yue Quan is appointed to transfer the food. Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War Leng Yuan is in charge of the transference this time. If theres any trouble, report to me straightforwardly. Yes, Your Majesty! Mo Junyu did not expect that this would be so easy to settle, and he couldnt help but look at Mo Junyang in surprise. Mo Xiangbin unexpectedly didnt accept Left Prime Ministers recommendation, but took his proposal instead? Miracle! Mo Junyang didnt even look at him. He stood calmly on his position, looking down and whispering, and waited for this conference to end. Mo Junyu was even more curious! It was Mo Junyang who had given him a sign, so that he could stand out and give his advice in time. He didnt believe that Mo Junyang knew nothing about this. When the conference was over, the Crown Prince finally couldnt bear his curiosity, and found a secret restaurant to meet with Mo Junyang, Tell me! What method did you use to make my father ignore Left Prime Ministers recommendation in front of so many officials? That was too unusual! It should be mentioned that Left Prime Minister was Mo Xiangbins favorite official, and his status in the court was only below the Emperor. Usually, all of his suggestions were accepted by Mo Xiangbin. But today, Mo Xiangbin just named his daughter as the Concubine of Fourth Prince, but instead he showed Qin Shirong no respect at all, as if he was criticizing him. Mo Junyu felt it strange as he thought about it, he had to ask Mo Junyang at last. Mo Junyang slowly raised the tea cup and took a sip before he said indifferently, Yesterday, the Emperor heard that Concubine Liu went to Peach Blossom Forest to admire the blossoms, and thought of his first meet with Concubine Liu. So he also went there. And he happened to see Fourth Prince and Fifth Lady of the Qin Family meeting secretly, then he passingly permitted their marriage. Mo Junyu, He knew that Mo Junyang asked someone to send the cloak to Qin Yanyan yesterday, and later he also asked someone to find Mo Xiangbin. But he didnt find these two things relative at all then! After a moment of speechlessness, Mo Junyu finally sighed, Yang, I really admire you! You are so intelligent. Every decision of yours is closely linked to another. Who can escape? With Mo Junyangs low-key and quiet personality, he supposed that the group of people still didnt know how they stepped in the trap! However, make Mo Junhao marry Qin Yanyan Mo Junyu groaned for a moment, Dont we completely push Left Prime Minister to their party? This cost is somewhat large. Mo Junyang sneered and asked, Why? Do you think that Qin Shirong would choose you if Mo Junhao doesnt marry Qin Yanyan? Hes always sitting on the fence. You will kick him out even if such a person is in your party. Now hes sent to Mo Junhaos party. We should just watch whats gonna happen! Mo Junyu suddenly understood. He hadnt considered this before, and couldnt help but laugh, You are really But Fifth Lady of the Qin Family only gets the position of Concubine. Although many consorts from the noble families all start from concubine, my father obviously doesnt mean this now. He smiled a little indifferently, To whom does he leave this position of Concubine? I think you have guessed it out. So what? Mo Junyu found the person he was teasing indifferent, and stimulated him again, Sixth Lady of the Shi Family is already fifteen years old. Grandma even started to be concerned about her marriage before, and Empress Liang and Concubine Liu both begged grandmother Well, you really have a lot of competitors! Mo Junyang slightly looked up, and his expression was cold, Yes, why dont you say that you are also included? Doesnt Empress Dowager think that you also match her? Mo Junyu, Looking at Mo Junyangs seemingly indifferent smile, he suddenly trembled as if he had fallen into an ice cellar, and his body became frozen. It was terribly cold! Mo Junyu trembled and shook off his goosebumps. He hurriedly explained, No. Grandma thought that my force was weak and wanted to win over the Shi Family for me. I never want to marry Shi Qingxue! If he was hated by Mo Junyang because of this misunderstanding, it would be his disaster. He smiled flatteringly, Speaking of this, we are a group. You marry Qingxue, and the effect is also the same! Because you rarely showed up in front of grandmother in normal days, she wasnt reminded of you for the time being then. So, is it my fault? Mo Junyang showed a bright smile, which looked very beautiful. But Mo Junyu felt even colder. He waved his hand and looked awkward, Fine, my goodness! Can you stop laughing so horribly? You are scaring me to death! Crown Prince was so frightened that he forgot to use his respectful appellation of himself. Mo Junyang then took back his smile and said coldly, Youre right about one thing. What? I really shouldnt be so silent. Mo Junyang smiled again and looked gentle, I dont want to scare her, but she is much stronger than I have thought, then I wont allow her to hide from me anymore. His eyes looked murky and dangerous, Some debts, its time to ask her to repay. Mo Junyu shuddered, he was silently anxious with Shi Qingxue. In the past, he still didnt understand what was so good with Sixth Lady of the Shi Family that Mo Junyang was so obsessed with her. But at present, he had stronger feeling that Shi Qingxue was unfortunate that the psychopath Mo Junyang was fond of her! - On November 15th, 41st year of the Mo Dynasty, Third Princess of the Mo Country, Mo Yuzhen, married She Changfeng, the son of Minister of the Ministry of Personnel. King Wen of the Mo Dynasty was overjoyed and specially set a banquet in the house of Princesss Husband, and invited the officials in capital city to the banquet. Shi Qingxue was Mo Yuzhens best friend, so she was forcefully brought to the palace by Mo Yuzhen several days before the wedding. She had the intention to make Shi Qingxue accompany her in the whole process of wedding. Although it was not proper according to the rules, the elders acquiesced, so Shi Qingxue didnt bother to care about it. She followed Mo Yuzhen like a small tail. Qingxue, do you think that I should make up to be more dignified or lovely? Do you think my husband would be fascinated by me? Well, he saw me last time and I almost beat him with a whip. Wont he feel that I am barbarous? Mo Yuzhen kept questioning. She was sometimes worried but sometimes also rejoiced. There were so many questions poured to Shi Qingxues ears. Shi Qingxue was tortured by these words all night, struggling to open her eyes to see the hourglass. God! It was already 12 oclock at night! She sighed helplessly, Yuzhen, arent you tired? Tomorrow you will get dressed up at 5 oclock and go to the wedding sedan at 8 oclock in the morning. Mo Yuzhen then stopped and glanced at the hourglass, and said disappointingly, Time flies so fast! I thought it was still evening! Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes silently and thought, You had been thinking about this all night, and left poor us being busy with your wedding as companies. You surely felt that time went so fast! Mo Yuzhen quickly laughed, You are bothered to keep busy with it! Qingxue, youre the best! Shi Qingxue glanced at her and asked straightforwardly, So, what else do you want to say? Aha, you surely understand me! Mo Yuzhen was not embarrassed at all because her thought was figured out, she scratched her head, I want to ask one last question. Shi Qingxue waited for Mo Yuzhens following words quietly. But she didnt expect that Mo Yuzhens high-pitched voice suddenly dropped and she hesitated for a while, then she whispered, Qingxue, do you think my husband will like me? Shi Qingxue was shocked for a moment, and felt surprised in her heart. She did not expect that Mo Yuzhen, who had always been full of self-confidence, would worry about this. Seeing the smile and shyness on the delicate small face with inexplicable expectation, she took back the words that had just reached her lips. At this moment, Mo Yuzhen absolutely didnt want to hear Shi Qingxues answer like that how much She Changfeng matched her, or that they had been engaged and She Changfeng would like her no matter what. Qingxue tilted her head and thought, sitting upright, and said seriously, Yuzhen, since you have been certain with Mr. Shes character, and you are fond of him, you shouldnt doubt whether he likes you or not! With your ability, arent you confident to catch your own husbands heart? The Princess Yuzhen I know isnt such a person with no confidence! Seeing that Mo Yuzhen was stunned by her words, she calmed down and chuckled, You can rest assured! You are so great, and Mr. She will definitely love you! Moreover, with the principled character, he definitely wouldnt be tempted by other women! But Mo Yuzhen suddenly rolled her eyes on Qingxue, not noticing the key point, and snorted, Who says that I like She Changfeng? Dont talk nonsense. It is the blessing of their family that I marry him! Shi Qingxue, She had never seen such a person whose face changed so fast. Okay! Our Yuzhen is the best! You have asked the last question, can we go to sleep? Shi Qingxue yawned slightly, and waved her hand at Mo Yuzhen. She really didnt have the energy to talk about this. She knew that she wouldnt be much easier than the bride tomorrow. Mo Yuzhen grabbed her again, requiring in a low voice, Qingxue, Im sure I wont fall asleep if I sleep alone tonight. You come sleep with me! Okay, lets go to sleep! Shi Qingxues eye could hardly be opened, and she lifted the quilt and covered Mo Yuzhen, then she followed to the bed and slept. Mo Yuzhen was the princess most favored in the palace of the Mo Dynasty. Her dowry could be described as ten miles of fortune, especially that Mo Xiangbin specially built a house for the couple. It was obvious how favored she was. The custom of the Mo Dynasty was that an unmarried girl couldnt enter the husbands house with bride unless she was also brought with the bride, so Shi Qingxue stopped when she sent Mo Yuzhen to the house. Seeing that the gold and silver boxes were lifted into the house, Shi Qingxue couldnt help thinking that when she had married Fourth Prince, was it the same? There were smiles on everyones face, but how many peoples smiles were really from the bottom of their hearts? And how many people truly blessed her? These guests with all sorts of bad characters made her annoyed and upset. What are you thinking? Shi Qingxue was obsessed with her thoughts, and suddenly a deep male voice sounded in her ear, startling her. She looked back hurriedly, while he kept the posture of bending down and lowering his head. And the two mouths touched straightforwardly. The soft and hot touch came, Shi Qingxue felt that Mo Junyangs face was infinitely enlarged in front of herself, and when she looked at the pair of dark black eyes like a pond, she seemed to have fallen into the starlight. For the first time, she stared so closely into Mo Junyangs eyes that she didnt respond for a while. It was really an accident! But it was an unexpected delight for Mo Junyang. He didnt move, even slowed down his breath for fear that he would scare Shi Qingxue, he only quietly absorbing the familiar aroma. The breath of the two was entwined, so charming and seductive. Chapter 48 - He Didnt Hold It Back For the first time, Mo Junyang felt that all his willpower was gone, and the temptation of her red and sweet mouth was in right in front of him. He didnt hold it back. He opened his thin lips slightly, kept the little soft lips in his mouth, and then slightly licked Hmm! Shi Qingxue shouted in shock, but her voice was swallowed by Mo Junyang, and only a low moan was heard. She trembled, pushed Mo Junyang hurriedly in shock, and raised her hands subconsciously to wipe her wet lips. But the more she wiped her lips, the hotter her face became, especially when Mo Junyang still looked at her with firm eyes. She was even more annoyed and couldnt help but yell at him angrily, Mo Junyang, why are you here? Mo Junyang reached out his slender fingers against his thin lips, and stared at Shi Qingxue with his fiery eyes, as if he were still kissing Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyang! Shi Qingxue was even angrier, and growled, I have said before that you are not allowed to look at me like that! Mo Junyang smiled, Forbid me to look at you like what? Shi Qingxues cheeks were crimson, and her eyes fluttered because she didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang, and stuttered to reply, Like I wont say, but you are not allowed to look at me like that anyway! Or I will be angry! Shi Qingxue released the most severe threat she could think of! Oh! Mo Junyang responded faintly, then raised an eyebrow and smiled, What will happen when you are angry? Shi Qingxue, She opened up her eyes in surprise and stared straight at Mo Junyang, as if she had never seen him before. When did King Ruis eldest son, who was always cold and dreary, actually learn to be so shameless? This made no sense! Shi Qingxue felt that after half a month they hadnt met, Mo Junyang seemed to have become another person, making her unable to cope. What should she do? Fortunately, Mo Junyang knew that going too far was as bad as not going far enough, and he didnt force Shi Qingxue any more. Instead, he took one step back and said gently, Dont be angry. The wedding banquet is about to start. Why dont you go inside? Shi Qingxue then remembered that they all came to Mo Yuzhens wedding banquet, and Mo Yuzhen asked her to accompany her in her wedding room a while ago! Oops! This time Yuzhen should be mad at me! Shi Qingxue shouted anxiously and was about to go inside. But Mo Junyang grabbed her first and asked seriously, The banquet is in the backyard. This is the way to welcome the bride. Where are you going? Shi Qingxue said quickly, Now the bride has entered the wedding room, and it should be okay if I go in this way, shouldnt it? Yuzhen asked me to go to the wedding room to accompany her. If I enter from the main entrance, there must be a group of boring people talking to me and then I dont have chance to get away! You are not married. Now you go to the wedding room. Wont they gossip about you? Mo Junyang pointed it out seriously. Of course he would not admit that it was because he was upset that Qingxue regarded Mo Yuzhen as such an important person. Shi Qingxue frowned and looked helpless, Yuzhen only has such a small wish. Isnt it bad if I let her down? Hum! Since she wanted to bring her best friend into the wedding room, this princess was not ordinarily greedy. Mo Junyang frowned, but did not stop her, because he knew why Shi Qingxue cared so much about the friendship with Mo Yuzhen currently. He only said, That being the case, let me go with you! How is it appropriate? Shi Qingxue answered subconsciously. Mo Junyang glanced at her, and then said, So what will it be like if you go to the wedding room alone? Shi Qingxue was speechless again and froze for a long time. But the thought of visiting Mo Yuzhen persuaded her and she nodded with agreement, Then how do we go inside? You come with me. Mo Junyang paused for a moment before speaking. In order to conceal the surprise in his heart, he went first. To be honest, he didnt expect that Shi Qingxue actually would agree to go with him, even if he asked for it. If it were the previous Shi Qingxue, she would probably reject him categorically and sent him off by saying indifferently that he had nothing to do with her. Reminded of the unexpected kiss between the two of them, Mo Junyang couldnt help but smile. Shi Qingxue followed Mo Junyang around for seven or eight laps in the house, they actually didnt meet anyone. They stopped at the gate of a courtyard. Because Qiao Ling, the servant beside Mo Yuzhen, ran out of it. When she saw Qingxue, she said, Sixth Lady, Princess said that it was not appropriate for you to meet her right now. She didnt think it carefully before. Please dont mind it! Did Yuzhen really say that? Shi Qingxue looked at Qiao Ling in surprise, and felt it very strange. It was clear that Mo Yuzhen had told her last night to stay with her today. And she had arrived here, but Mo Yuzhen suddenly realized that she should not be here? Mo Junyang didnt give her time for reflection, and said to Qiao Ling, Then we shall leave first. After that, he grabbed Shi Qingxue and went to another road. Mo Junyang, where are you taking me? Shi Qingxue followed him up. Looking at the unfamiliar surroundings and seeing that Mo Junyangs pace didnt slow down, she couldnt help but ask, Why are you so familiar with here? It was the same just a moment ago that he was able to avoid everyone and go straight to the main room. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that it was just a coincidence. Mo Junyang stopped and turned to take a deep look at Qingxue before answering, The House of Princesss Husband was designed and supervised by the Ministry of Rite, and the Assistant Minister of Ministry of Rite, Wang Quan, was on Crown Princes side. Shi Qingxue, Why did you tell me this? Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang in disbelief. She didnt expect that he would tell her everything just because of her question, even including the range of force of the Crown Princes party. She didnt believe the Crown Princes party had been so arrogant. On the contrary, among all of the princes parties, Mo Junyus force was the weakest, he was also the one who should be protected cautiously. But Mo Junyang did not hide anything from her, who was an outsider. Mo Junyang said indifferently, Didnt you ask me to tell you? But, but I didnt expect you totell me all of it. The meaning behind this, even though Shi Qingxue was just a girl, she knew well how much this trust meant, so that she had no idea how to deal with Mo Junyang who gave her this trust. After hesitating for a long time, she said, I wont tell anyone. Mo Junyang couldnt help laughing. He really laughed, and his eyes were full of joy. Unfortunately, Shi Qingxue didnt notice it since she lowered her head, but she still heard the mans gentle voice, Thank you. The two were speechless for a while, and then Mo Junyang said, Lets go to the banquet! At the banquet, guests were diverse, and all the princes and princesses in capital city arrived, even Emperor and Empress sent people to congratulate. As soon as Shi Qingxue entered the banquet, Shi Baochun, Seventh Lady, hurried over to grab her and smiled, Qingxue, where have you been? Ive been looking for you for a long time. Why are you looking for me? Shi Baochun glanced at Mo Junyang secretly and stopped talking. As if he hadnt seen it, Mo Junyang smiled at Shi Qingxue and then walked away, leaving the space for the sisters. Shi Baochun whispered, Third Madam found that you were missing just now and sent someone to look for you, as if she was afraid that others didnt know that you were absent. Shi Baochun was the daughter given birth by a concubine of Third Master, Shi Juncai. Her birth mother didnt live long, so she was brought up by Zhou Ruyu since she was young. But Zhou Ruyu had already had two baby daughters, and how would she pay attention to such a daughter who only cost her money? Even though there was little difference between daughters identities in the Shi Family and all the manners were specially taught to everyone, Shi Baochun was ignored by Zhou Ruyu, and she learned the candid personality of a generals aristocratic family so well, but was lack of awareness of what a noble lady should be like. It was because that Shi Baochun really wasnt scheming that Qingxue had a good relationship with her. In her previous life, they were the sisters who had the best relationship among all those of the Shi Family. Unexpectedly Thinking of those things in the past and looking at Shi Baochuns caring expression, Qingxue didnt know how to face Shi Baochun for a time being. She smiled reluctantly, It doesnt matter. I told grandmother before I came to the palace that Yuzhen asked me to do something for her and I would come later. Shi Baochun patted her chest and was relieved, That would be fine! After a pause, she asked again, Qingxue, you used to call grandmother by grandma. Why did you just say grandmother? Shi Baochuns unintentional words shocked Qingxue, and she could not answer for a long time. Then Baochun laughed again, I just asked casually, whats the matter with you? Grandmother is also okay! I just heard Third Madam criticize Third Lady that grandmother emphasized the manners most and she would be unhappy if she were called grandma! Shi Qingxue certainly knew that Mo Shujun liked a dignified lady who obeyed the rules, but she was raised next to the deceased Duke and was the closest to her grandparents, so there supposed to be difference. At least she thought so when she died in the previous life. She pursed her lips and did not answer, but asked, Where is my mother? Shi Baochun smiled and pointed to the front, Today your two uncles are here too, and First Madam is probably chatting with them. Uncles are here too? Shi Qingxue frowned, looking to the direction where Shi Baochun pointed. Sure enough, she saw her two uncles bring the big family eating and drinking at the end of the guest table, they seemed very noisy and messy. She thought about it and pushed Shi Baochun back and said, You go back first. Ill go and see my uncles there. Shi Baochun understood the situation of the two uncles from the Dong Family. Hearing that, she hurriedly pulled Qingxue, and persuaded her in a low voice, Qingxue, you are well aware of your two uncles Probably she didnt have any good words next, then Shi Baochun changed the topic and said, They are eating and drinking well now. If you disturb them now, there may be something wrong! You might as well wait for them to be full and drunk and then ask someone to send them away, wouldnt it be nice? But my mother is still over there! I worry about her Shi Qingxue was not afraid of conflict between the two uncles, but she was worried that Dong Hui would be wronged in front of the two brothers who had different birth mother with hers. Shi Baochun laughed, First Madam is their sister, even if they cause great trouble, they wont dare to disrespect their sister. Otherwise, they should be unreasonable. But you are different. You are a junior. Even if they are in drunken brawls, its not your turn to deal with it! She took Qingxues hand and walked backwards, and said toughly, Qingxue, it wont be wrong if you listen to me. Just go back with me first! Shi Qingxue still didnt feel it proper. Her two uncles regarded alcohol as their lives, and they were not educated strictly by her maternal grandmother and formed rogue characters. It was uncertain what trouble they might cause. But Zhou Ruyu came over this time, smiling at Shi Qingxue, Qingxue, you are finally here. Your grandmother has been looking for you for a long time. If you dont go there, she would be anxious. Mo Shujun called on her, and Shi Qingxue had to let go of this matter first. But she didnt expect that by putting this off, she missed the best opportunity and almost watched her mother be subjugated forever. Chapter 49 - Secret It turned out that Mo Shujun called on Shi Qingxue because she wished that Qingxue could treat the Shi Familys relatives who had come a long way from the Shu County for her. The little girl in front of her looked very lovely, and her big eyes were charming. She also formed the candid personality specially of the Shi Family. Shi Qingxue liked this little girl at a glance. The little girl was named Shi Yuechu. She was the daughter of Shi Junhes cousin. She was born a few days later than Qingxue. After Mo Shujuns introduction, she laughed brightly. She grabbed Qingxues hand intimately and said sweetly, I dont have a blessing to be listed in your family in order of age, so could I call you Sixth Sister like other sisters do? Shi Yuechu was natural and graceful, and Shi Qingxue felt good about her and laughed, Of course. Then I shall call you Yuechu since Im older than you. The two had similar personalities and had different experiences. They talked a lot with each other and soon they built a close relationship. Shi Qingxue was also a little surprised why she hadnt seen these people after the death of Shi Lei in her previous life, but this did not prevent her from making a good relationship with Shi Yuechu. Shi Yuechu was born in the Shu County, which was far away from the capital city, and she had never been to the capital city either. When she saw Shi Qingxue, she kept talking. Qingxue was also very interested in the customs of the Shu County. The two chatted much happily and even sneaked out while the adults were not paying attention to them. Are you sure there wont be any problem this time? Zhou Ruyu looked at the back of Shi Qingxue leaving, and her expression was a little dignified. Mammy Zhang came up and whispered, No. Now the relatives of her grandfather have all her attention. How could she have time to mind the matter here? You just rest assured! Zhou Ruyu then smiled satisfactorily, and said insidiously, Thats good! Dong Hui, Ill see how you can escape this time! - Shi Qingxue was with Shi Yuechu, she had to bring her to the Storytelling Pavilion. The so-called Storytelling Pavilion was a delicately decorated tea house where a storyteller was hired to describe the story of some unofficial histories and gossips to attract guests. Generally, there were two levels in the Storytelling Pavilion. The center of the lobby on the first floor was the position for the storyteller, and around him were old-fashioned square tables for eight people, while there were private rooms on the second floors. Sister, why is the private room upstairs so much more expensive than the seats in the lobby downstairs? Is it because of the name? Shi Yuechu had never seen Storytelling Pavilion in the Shu County. She only heard it from her brother who studied in other places and was very curious about it. And she begged Shi Qingxue to pick the most expensive position. But after they went into the private room, they found that the most expensive location was not sure to be the best! Looking around, the windows and doors are closed tightly, just like the secret room, inexplicably giving people a sense of suffocation. Shi Yuechu looked disappointed, Sister, how do we hear the stories when we are in this room? Shi Qingxue shrugged and said, Open the windows and the voice below might be heard, but She laughed out teasingly, This place is so remote, so its uncertain whether you can see the storytellers shadow from the window. Who asks you to choose the most expensive and best? But you havent told me that the most expensive and best thing is this kind of place. How do you listen to the storyteller like this? Shi Yuechu was confused. Shi Qingxue pointed on her forehead with a smile and said, Often the unofficial histories and those strange adventures are probably fake. Even if they are attracted into the tea house, how many dignified noble people do you think will come here to hear all these for its name? Shi Yuechu was still confused, Since so, why are there so many private rooms? How good the position in the lobby downstairs is! If thats the case, then why do they have to invite the storyteller to the tea house? Doesnt it have better atmosphere and cheaper prices if they tell the stories right below the bridge? Shi Yuechu was speechless for this question, and muttered with an upset look, Then why is it? Sister, you are so good. Please tell me! Shi Qingxue had no choice but to point to the door and smiled, Havent you found out that when we come inside, we come alone a single aisle and dont meet anyone else along the way. Shi Yuechu nodded and said firmly, It means that the business here is not good, and no one comes. Shi Qingxue, She tapped on Yuechus little head disappointingly and snorted, This is the largest and most popular Storytelling Pavilion in the capital city. How could its business be not good? Then whys that? Shi Yuechu covered her small head and was quite aggrieved. How could she know that a Storytelling Pavilion was so mysterious? Seeing this, Shi Qingxue didnt keep her guessing, and revealed the answer quickly, Its very simple. That means the private rooms upstairs are not for listening to the storyteller below. What? Shi Yuechu opened up her eyes in surprise. What did they do if they werent coming here to listen to the stories? Think about it. If someone wants to talk secretly and is unwilling to be noticeable, isnt this Storytelling Pavilion which is complex and secret the best choice? Shi Qingxue opened the window and pointed downstairs, First, no one doubts your purpose when you come here to listen to the stories; secondly, this place doesnt only make you able to observe everything downstairs, but the noise downstairs attracts all peoples attention; the most important thing is that once you choose an private room, those servants will automatically avoid others notice and it would be hard for someone else to follow you! After Shi Yuechu heard it, she opened her mouth in shock and it took her a long time to get conscious, but she was still astonished, Such a Storytelling Pavilion turns out to have so many rules. Well, its not right. When my brother came here, he didnt hear of this. How could you know about it? The Storytelling Pavilion was an unwritten secret in the aristocratic circle in the capital city. Shi Yuechus brother just traveled here to study, and of course he wouldnt know. Shi Qingxue was trying to explain, but suddenly she heard the sound of steps at the door. Instinctively, she paused and put on a gesture of hush to Shi Yuechu, and then walked to the door. She heard the sound of steps from left to right, and then stopped in the room on their right. A rough male voice sounded, This one is fine, and you can get out. Dont bother us if theres nothing important. Yes, Ill leave right away. Please enjoy it. The servant answered pleasingly and until they closed the door, he ran away fast. For the first time, Shi Qingxue met some people talking secretly in the Storytelling Pavilion. She became curious, and walked close to the wall between the two rooms and wondered whether it was possible for her to hear something, she didnt notice that the sound of the servants steps paused for a moment at their gate. Sister, what are you doing? Shi Yuechu saw that Shi Qingxue seemed to try to take down the painting on the wall and overhear, she quickly stopped her, and unconsciously lowered her voice to ask, Havent you said that here is for people to talk in secret? How could you succeed as long as you want to overhear it? Shi Qingxue smiled. How could she not know about it? But she couldnt bear her curiosity and wouldnt give up without trying. But when she took the frame off, both of them were startled by the thing behind the painting, then they looked at each other. There was a small hole on the wall, and there was light shining through the small hole. Shi Qingxue was sure that if she popped her head through it, she could definitely see the next room. What about the best hidden private room? How could she be able to hear the secrets so easily? Shi Qingxue was puzzled, but she probed without hesitation. The next room was darker than theirs, and the light barely lighten the room. Three men were sitting around the table with solemn faces. After sitting for a while, the tallest man asked the fat man sitting opposite him, Are you sure that he is here? The fat man quickly and respectfully responded, Yes, the Sixth saw with his own eyes that he comes in with a masked man. The short and thin man next to him nodded quickly and agreed, Boss, I saw them being led in. But which room they entered Okay, I know its impossible for you to inquire where he goes. The tall man waved his hand, and said solemnly, All the spies are in the House of Princesss Husband today, but the Crown Prince sneaked to the Storytelling Pavilion. He certainly has a hidden secret. Whatever it is, we cant let him go back alive today! Sixth, are your men prepared? They have already ambushed in the backyard. As soon as the Crown Prince appears, kill him immediately. Sixth flattered, Boss, you can rest assured! There is only one man by his side. They cant escape our palm even if they have wings! There was a slight smile on the tall mans face, and he patted Sixth Sister, Good! If this assassination is successful, there will surely be a great reward if the superior is happy. Work hard! Yes! The three discussed again and then exited the room. Sis, Sister, what should we do now? Shi Yuechu shouted stuttering, looking at Shi Qingxue in a panic. Shi Qingxue shook her head, and at this moment, she was also messy in her heart. She didnt expect that she would hear such a shocking news when the overhearing was on the spur of the moment. Someone wanted to assassinate the Crown Prince today! Shi Yuechu couldnt get the answer, she became more panicked, Should we report to the officer? No! Shi Qingxue vetoed. It was definitely too late to report to the officer, and they had no evidence. Who knew whether the officer would believe it or not? If this matter was not handled well, both of them and even their families would suffer the punishment! She lowered her head and thought for a moment and then said, Lets go to the backyard and see whats going on. What? Shi Yuechu was startled, We are just two girls. What can we do if we go there? Although Shi Yuechu was just a young lady, she also understood the seriousness of this matter. And this kind of thing was definitely not what two weak girls could settle. Shi Qingxue shrugged, We cant settle this, but we can seek for help anyway! Or you can go outside to report to the officer, and Ill go to have a look first. Shi Yuechu was even more against it. She was more afraid when she was alone! Ill follow you! Shi Qingxue didnt force her either. She grabbed Shi Yuechu and told her something, and then they went to the backyard. At this time, neither of them noticed that after they walked through an aisle, a short man appeared from the corner. He looked at the direction where they left and hurriedly turned away. Chapter 50 - After Domineering...Frightened in One Second Without the servant leading them, Shi Qingxue and Shi Yuechu spent much time finding the backyard. But the backyard was quiet. There were two people on the ground, and a strong bloody smell permeated in the backyard. Sis, sister Shi Yuechu was almost scared into tears, and she grabbed Shi Qingxues hand, trembling, to stop her from going forward, Lets go back! There were dead people. She didnt want to be here! Shi Qingxue refused to leave, and stabilized Shi Yuechus hand, Dont be afraid. Let me go there and see what happened. You stay here first. She walked there cautiously and observed the environment. Neither of them was breathing, but their blood was warm. So they should be dead just a moment ago. Shi Qingxue carefully observed the direction of the blood stains, she picked up the quiver on the ground and stood up to go out, Ill go around to the alley behind. You wait for me here. Sister, dont go! Im scared! Shi Yuechu hurriedly grabbed her and refused to let her go, There, there are dead people. Arent you afraid? Lets not play any more! Lets just go back! She was a lady raised in the boudoir anyway. Even though she looked bold in normal days, she would still be scared when someone was really dead. Shi Qingxue still looked calm on her face and comforted her, When I was young and the Shi Army stayed in the capital city, my grandpa and father both took me into the military camp, and they even sieged the bandits, which was much more horrible than this. But Im safe! So dont be afraid, and just stay here. It will be okay soon. Shi Yuechu still wouldnt like to let go of her, and cried aggrieved, Then you stay to accompany me! Or we can go get help from others together! We are both weak girls. If there is really an assassination, we can do nothing to help. So lets not mess it up! At this time, she could still calmly analyze their roles. Shi Yuechu didnt seem that useless! Shi Qingxue thought, If she were alone, she would definitely go forward to see it, but now there was Shi Yuechu with her. She brought her out, and what if something really happened to her, she couldnt take the responsibility for the result. After thinking about it, she had to nod, Well, lets go to the officer first Just then, the sound of a metal collision came from a distance. It was very weak, but it was still captured by Shi Qingxue. Her look became serious, she couldnt care so much. She said in a low voice, Dont move. Ill come back soon after I take a look. Shi Yuechu looked at the back of Shi Qingxue who left quickly, her spine became cold for a while, especially when she felt the freezing wind coming behind her. She was horrified and trembled, and hurriedly chased after her. Sister, wait for me. Ill go with you! The alley behind was much more noisy than the backyard. A group of men in black and a group of men in casual clothes fought extremely fiercely with swords and knives. And the three men whom Shi Qingxue saw in the private room were in the group of men in black. And their goal, the Crown Prince Mo Junyu, was covering his left shoulder and leaning against the wall, his face was pale. Black poisonous blood flowed out of the wound and stained the clothes in front of his chest, which looked horrible. There was a person blocking in front of him. When he saw anyone trying to breaking through the siege, he waved his hand out, and those in black were suddenly frightened and retreated again. Wow, thats awesome! At the beginning Shi Yuechu was so afraid that she covered her eyes and didnt dare to watch. After seeing this scene, she was completely shocked. However, Shi Qingxue frowned deeply, because she recognized that the person blocking in front of Mo Junyu was Shen Luo, who was supposed to be in the house of the Shi Family. How did the two of them appear together? But the situation was urgent, and she didnt have time to think more about it. Three men in black rushed and stabbed towards Mo Junyu regardless of their lives. Although Shen Luo stopped two of them, there was still a man attacking Mo Junyu from the back. Be careful! Shi Qingxue instinctively lifted her arrow and drew her bow, and shot the arrow without thinking. The sharp arrow moved away from the string so quickly that everyone had not reacted yet, and there was a screech. The sharp arrow shot through the mans right wrist, and the man in black couldnt even hold the sword and fell to the ground. All people were stunned, since they didnt expect this sudden arrow. Shen Luo reacted the fastest, and he waved at the man in black moaning on the ground and ended his life. Three of them were resolved all at once, but Shen Luo didnt feel relieved at all, instead he was afraid. God! Why did he maybe, probably, or definitely see Shi Qingxue here? This was not a joke. All the assassins were fighting regardless of their lives, only to take Mo Junyus life. The situation was extremely critical. Shi Qingxue, as a weak girl, broke in. Wouldnt it kill him? If something happened to Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang would peel his skin off! How much Shen Luo wished he had seen an illusion? However, this illusion didnt only pierce the assassin near Mo Junyu with an arrow, but she also shot three arrows and pierced their right wrists. If those men stood together, the points where the arrows pierced on the wrists might be the same. Later, the illusion even ran all the way to them. She first glared at Shen Luo and then asked, What happened to Your Highness? Mo Junyus consciousness has fallen into a semi-faint state, he could barely saw the person in front of him. But he couldnt make a sound. Shen Luo had to answer on his behalf, The poison has not yet been urged out, then he is trapped again. I temporarily made him take the detoxification pill, but he should be checked carefully after we escape from this danger. Shi Qingxue smiled, Since so, then we should talk about it after we escape! She deliberately emphasized the words talk about it, which suddenly made Shen Luo raised goosebumps. He wanted to explain, but Shi Qingxue pulled out a sharp arrow and blocked in front of them, so Shen Luo could only shut up in fear. Even though Shi Qingxue was able to shoot with great precision, she couldnt resist their attacking regardless of their own lives, let alone The arrows would run out! Shi Qingxue originally picked up others arrows, and there were not many left. She shot several arrows constantly, and at this moment, she only had one last arrow in her hand. What should she do? Do you only have these useless cowards? Its been so long. Why hasnt anyone gone to find help? After Shi Qingxue was forced to shoot the last arrow, she had no other choice! She wasnt good at short-distance fight at all. If someone stabbed her again, she could only hide. Not knowing if anyone could see through her mind, next moment, another sword stabbed towards her face. She hid subconsciously, but the sword seemed to have its own consciousness and still came for her as if it wouldnt let her go. Sister! Shi Qingxue! Everyone yelled in unison, when Shi Qingxue closed her eyes, she felt a little depressed. Well, even if I was reborn, I still couldnt stop myself from minding others business. This time I made myself killed again! However, the expected pain did not occur, but it was quiet around her and even the sound of fighting disappeared. Shi Qingxue opened her eyes, and then she was stunned. After a while, she murmured, Mo Junyang. In this afternoon with the sunset, in the environment where a thick bloody smell rushed into her nose, the severe cold wind was blowing. Mo Junyang was wearing a black coat and standing in front of Shi Qingxue with a sharp sword in his hand. He looked cold. With the blood on his sword, he looked even more murderous. He was like the God of War, and was unstoppable. Shi Qingxue wasnt back to consciousness for a long time. Mo Junyang frowned, Are you injured? Shi Qingxue shook her head in surprise. Mo Junyang checked again and made sure that Qingxue was really not injured. Then he turned to look at the assassins who were still resisting. His eyes became cold instantly, Kill! One word, like the call of God of Death, straightforwardly sentenced the assassins to death. The guards who were guarding them received the order, all of them changed their looks, and stepped forward with intentions to kill. After a short time, the assassins lay on the ground messily. Junyang, leave one alive! Shen Luo knew that Mo Junyang cared about nothing when he was ferocious, so he quickly reminded him. If all of them were killed, how would they investigate? But with his words, those assassins knew that the mission had failed and there was no chance to escape, they began to attack like suicide in attempt not to be caught alive. Mo Junyang didnt seem to notice the current situation, he just stared at Shi Qingxue closely, as if she would run away once he didnt look at her. Shi Qingxue felt uncomfortable and pulled the corner of her clothes, and asked in a low voice, Dr. Shen is talking to you. Why dont you answer him? Mo Junyang then raised his eyes and squinted at the last man in black who was still standing. When he saw that he was preparing to draw his sword and suicide, he instantly flipped a golden nubble. The man in black couldnt move. Let alone suicide, he couldnt even blink his eyes. He looked up at Mo Junyu, who was unconscious, he frowned and asked, Is he still not detoxified? Shen Luo said in his heart, Do I have time? However, in addition to Shi Qingxue, there was still another person who saw what had happened. That was Shi Yuechu, who was looking at him excitedly at this moment. He didnt dare to talk casually, and could only glance at her. He wanted to remind Mo Junyang that there was still an outsider here, but Mo Junyang didnt respond. However, Shi Yuechu looked excited and came forward saying, Are you Dr. Shen in the house of the Shi Family? I heard of you from others before. You only waved you sleeve and killed so many people just now. You are really powerful! Fine, Dr. Shen accidentally had a little admirer. Shi Yuechu kept talking excitedly and didnt stop. Her eyes were blinking. She made Shen Luo had no chance to explain, even when he wanted to. Mo Junyang thought she was annoying and flipped another golden nubble. This time it was more straightforward. Shi Yuechu fell asleep right away. Shen Luo stared at him, Mo Junyang, you were so rough. Did your Shi Qingxue know about that? Absolutely, Shi Qingxue also glared at him. But before she spoke, Mo Junyang gave her a glance again, I havent talked about what happened just now with you. You stay there. Shi Qingxue, What happened? Wasnt it just that she didnt estimate her ability and showed up to be the hero and almost killed herself? Shi Qingxue was frightened in one second, and obediently lowered her head, not saying anything. Then Mo Junyang asked Shen Luo again, Havent I asked you to detoxify him today? Why is he still poisoned and even injured? Shen Luo also felt wronged, and said helplessly, I dont want this to happen either! The poison of His Highness was a bit complicated, and I didnt expect it before I came here. I was planning to write and fill the prescription for him. But this attack happened as soon as we went out of the backyard. Speaking of which, you should take the blame! If it werent for you Shen Luo shut his mouth with Mo Junyangs stare, but Shi Qingxue seemed to have captured some information and asked immediately, Why would the Crown Prince get poisoned? Why is he hiding it? What is going on? Chapter 51 - Interrogation Shen Luo didnt have a proper answer, he could only turn to look at Mo Junyang. However, he didnt intend to give him a hint. He could only explain reluctantly, His Highness was found to have been poisoned yesterday. Because the East Palace was too easy to be aimed at, and the one who had poisoned him was not found out, they could only suppress his poison inside temporarily. We originally planned to come to the Storytelling Pavilion today to get him detoxified, but unexpectedly Shi Qingxue heard the assassins plan with her own ears and experienced what had happened, so she was not surprised. But Why are you the one to detoxify His Highness? Didnt they come to the Storytelling Pavilion on purpose just in order to hide from others? But if Mo Junyu really wanted to hide this matter that he had been poisoned, he shouldnt ask an outsider to detoxify himself. Unless Who are you to His Highness? Shi Qingxues eyes became strict and she stared straight at Shen Luo. Ahem! Shen Luo was choked because of Shi Qingxues being straight forward, he became extremely awkward. He didnt expect that Shi Qingxue was so smart that she immediately pointed out the key to the problem. How was he supposed to answer? Hes in Crown Princes party. When Shen Luo was racking his brain to find the proper answer, a faint voice told the truth. Shen Luo stared, Shi Qingxue stared, Fine! No one was more straightforward than Mo Junyang. However, Shi Qingxue was not surprised by this answer. At that time, that she should go to Mang Mountain to seek medical treatment was proposed by Mo Junyu. Shen Luo moved in the house of the Shi Family without hesitation because of Mo Junyangs help. Mo Junyang was on Crown Princes side, and everything seemed to be logical. She did not think that Mo Junyu deliberately inserted Shen Luo into the Shi Family. In addition, she was not interested in the court stuff anyway. She told the two what she had overheard in the Storytelling Pavilion, and then said, If there isnt anything else, then Ill go back first. Ill send you. Mo Junyang started to ignore others again. Except for Shi Qingxue, anything could be non-significant. Shen Luo already knew the mans temperament. It was useless to persuade him. Threats were impossible for him to listen to. Shen Luo could only grit his teeth. He was mad but didnt dare to speak it out. However, this time Qingxue refused Mo Junyang with a determined expression, No, thanks. Our carriage is waiting for us. Ill take Yuechu back home by myself Seeing that Mo Junyang was still unwilling to let her go, she smiled, Dont worry. Im giving you time to think out the answer. Anyway, next time when we meet, you need to explain to me why I was so fortunate that I came to the Storytelling Pavilion and happened to find out a shocking secret and why the servant in the Storytelling Pavilion also appeared here. Well, we seem to have met before. Wei Zichao, who had been trying to hide himself in the group of guards, faced Shi Qingxues seemingly smile. Instantly the truth was revealed, and he could only smirk. Shi Qingxue ignored him. Seeing that Mo Junyang was finally speechless because of her words, she held Shi Yuechu and left with satisfaction. Wei Zichao quickly rushed forward to plead guilty, Master, I was really not intentionally exposed. But at that time Sixth Lady wanted the private room, I had to lead them to the room which you often used. Who knew that Who knew that something did happen and she happened to have overheard it. Well, she must think that you made this show for her on purpose! Shen Luo gloated. Wei Zichao was in distress, and he really wanted to seal Shen Luos mouth, Master Enough! Mo Junyang waved his hand to interrupt Wei Zichaos words and looked at Shen Luo. Seeing that the latter still smiled leisurely, he also smiled, What? Are you so idle? Shen Luos goosebumps suddenly popped out, and it was his turn to shake his head, Im busy. Im busy. Im really busy! No longer afraid to speak, Shen Luo hurried to detoxify Mo Junyu. - By the time Shi Qingxue returned to the house of the Shi Family, it was almost dusk. What are you doing? Let go of us! I tell you, we are the siblings of your First Madam. If we are injured or harmed a little bit, you will surely be punished! The female voice sounded at the gate of the house of the Shi Family, and several people were entangling there. As soon as she got out of the carriage, she saw such a scene. And she recognized that those who were fighting with others at the gate were her two uncles and aunts at the first glance. What are you doing? Shi Qingxue yelled, stopping those people, and asked Xia Mang to send Shi Yuechu back to the guest room first. On the other side, when Shi Qingxues aunt, Madam Yang, saw her coming, she became even more arrogant. She pulled Qingxue over and began to complain, Qingxue, look at those useless subordinates of your Shi Family. They cant even recognize me, your maternal relative, and they even stay here to guard the gate. If they were in the Dong Family, I would kick them out! The doorkeeper who had heard Madam Yangs complaint sweated in frightening. He thought that he would die this time, for everyone knew that Sixth Lady of the Shi Family protect her own families most. However, the expected scolding didnt come out. But she just asked in a cold voice, What exactly is going on? The door keeper answered, It was Princess Royal who asked me to drive them out. It was said that they stole things. They were not sent to the officer for they were relatives. What? Shi Qingxue stared at them. She was also startled. The two aunts from the Dong Family shrank their necks because of her stare. Madam Yang said with a trembling voice, Qingxue, we, we just thought that the bracelets were beautiful and picked them up to have a closer look. We really didnt intend to steal them. We just forgot to take them off after we wore them on. The younger aunt, Madam Zhao hastened to add, This is what has happened. We didnt steal anything at all. They wronged us! Qingxue, you must justify us! It seemed to be true! Shi Qingxue was almost laughed out of anger, Whose things did you steal? The two aunts did not reply, but the doorkeeper replied, They entered Shouan Hall. This time, Shi Qingxue wanted to hit slap on them. At first she thought that no matter how unbridled Madam Yang and Madam Zhao were, they only caused trouble in the First Masters Family. She never expected them to be ashamed in front of the Old Madam. No wonder even Mo Shujun drove them out this time. Shi Qingxue paused, thinking of something, and then asked, Where is my mother now? The doorkeeper didnt say anything this time, but Madam Yang began to clamor, with a gloat, Qingxue, your mother is not much better than us. Maybe when you go in now, she has already been punished and is going to be divorced soon! Shi Qingxues small face became pale, and tried to go into the room, but the doorkeeper asked in a low voice, Sixth Lady, what about these two Grandma has ordered, hasnt she? You wont be wrong to obey grandmothers words. Shi Qingxue didnt want to waste more time here. No matter how Madam Yang and Madam Zhao cried, she ignored them and left quickly. When she arrived in the lobby, she didnt see Mo Shujun and Dong Hui. Only after she asked did she realize that Princess Royal had brought First Madam to the ancestral hall for punishment! Shi Qingxue was surprised. Anything that made them go to the ancestral hall should be a terrible event that might cost their lives! She hurried to the ancestral hall, seeing Mo Shujun sitting in the main seat, full of anger. Zhou Ruyu smiled flatteringly aside and occasionally inserted a few words, making Mo Shujun even angrier. However, her mother, the noble wife of Duke Shi, was punished to kneel on the ground. In front of all the eyes, her face was all lost. When Shi Qingxue saw this scene, her lungs were going to explode with anger. Without further consideration, she rushed in to hold Dong Hui up. Under the astonished sight of the crowd, she coldly ordered, All irrelevant people, go away. The subordinates looked at each other without moving. Mo Shujun frowned and angrily said, Qingxue, what are you doing? Do you want to rebel? Shi Qingxue asked calmly, Im the one who should ask. Grandma, what are you doing? You dont even save any pride for my mother Why didnt she think about pride when she did those shameful things? Now, she knows that pride is needed. Zhou Ruyu murmured disdainfully, hoping to stir up the trouble. Shi Qingxue ignored her, and continued to say seriously, After all, mother is a noble lady of Duke Shi. With these words, she shut Zhou Ruyus mouth up. Mo Shujun frowned, but said nothing. She only waved her hand to send all the servants away, leaving only those of the Second Masters Family and the Third Masters Family, as well as Shi Baoning. Mo Shujun started to yell again, Kneel down still! Shi Qingxue was still reluctant to let her go, but Dong Hui waved at her secretly. At this time, if she confronted Mo Shujun, they would be unreasonable even if they used to be rational. Qingxue, come here. Grandmother will handle it fairly. Shi Baoning came to grab Qingxues arm at this time and pulled her aside. Mo Shujun then felt a bit easier, and then asked with a cold face, Hui, are there any mistakes in those things I just pointed out? Dong Hui shook her head and said with a husky voice, No. Its true that my two brothers are not sensible and make the Shi Family lose face. Why was it about the two uncles in the Dong Family this time? Shi Baoning whispered to her and said, While in the House of Princesss Husband, you took Yuechu out so you didnt know about it. What was that? The two uncles were drunk at the banquet and had an argument with others. They almost fought and told the name of Duke Shi, so that someone found grandmother. Grandmother could only take these two drunken men back to the house of Duke Shi. But this thing was spread out in the circle of the noble. The Shi Family was ashamed this time. No wonder that grandmother would be so mad this time. Shi Baoning sighed heavily and looked worried. After hearing this, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but look at Shi Baoning again, and the sense of uncomfortableness in her heart came up again. Although what Shi Baoning had said should be the truth, those words Anyone could say it, but it shouldnt be said by Shi Baoning. But at this moment, she had no time to get entangled in this little matter. She asked straightforwardly, Why is mother related to it? Shi Baonings face froze, and wanted to say that this was a matter caused by the two uncles in the Dong Family, so it was of course the matter of mother. But when faced with Qingxues blinking eyes, she couldnt say those words at all with confidence. At this time, Zhou Ruyu said in an ambiguous way, Huh! It was not your face to lose anyway, then you could get away from this. These words pushed Shi Qingxue to the opposite side of the Shi Family. Shi Qingxue sneered, Why does Third Aunt seem to mean that it is my mother who has shamed the Shi Family? You Zhou Ruyu got choked with anger. It was an obvious matter, but with Shi Qingxues question, they became unreasonable. After all, both of the two uncles of the Dong Family were adults. They had caused trouble, and they blamed it on Dong Hui. It did seem that they were trying to punish her for being related to those two uncles. Zhou Ruyu was unwilling to give in, and said, What about the dirty thing that your two aunts have done? It was her who had led them into Shouan Hall on her own. This time, can she still get away from it? Hearing that, Dong Huis face became even more gloom, and said in a low voice, Qingxue, stop. This time I indeed make the Shi Family lose face, and I am willing to be punished. Even the party herself had confessed it. Zhou Ruyu suddenly became glad and raised her chin towards Shi Qingxue, as if saying, Your mother had admitted it. What else could you say? Mother! Shi Qingxue shouted and frowned, trying to cheer Dong Hui up. But Dong Hui just shook her head towards her, then lowered her head and didnt say anything else. Mo Shujun then spoke again, and her voice was cold, Since you have confessed your guilt, I wont keep asking you any more. With a sigh, Mo Shujun said with a serious look again, You give birth to no son. And you make the Shi Family lose face. You have broken two of the seven rules, which is enough for divorce. Someone. Pack Dong Huis things and send her back to the Dong Family. She was about to make her divorce! Chapter 52 - Choices of the Sisters in the Shi Family Everyone at present was shocked by Mo Shujuns decision. Only Zhou Ruyu had a smile on her face, as if the position of Duchess had been hers already. Dong Hui was astonished, like shocked by lightning. Her tears condensed in her eyes and then fell silently. She was like a puppet without strings, sitting on the ground without any energy. Seeing that the subordinates in Shouan Hall had entered the room to execute Mo Shujuns order, Shi Qingxue subconsciously blocked in front of Dong Hui. Mo Shujuns face turned gloom. She was dissatisfied with Shi Qingxues being against her over and over again today, What are you up to this time? Shi Qingxue was silent for a moment and only asked, My mother didnt do anything wrong. Wasnt it unfair to count the theft on her? Mo Shujun sneered, Dong Hui had no son for so many years. I never mentioned it before for First Masters sake. But such matters happened today. If I let go of her again this time, maybe the basic of the Shi Family that our ancestors built for us will be destroyed by her. Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Shujun was very dissatisfied with Dong Hui, but she didnt expect that it had reached such a serious level that she would divorce Dong Hui from this family. Why are you still standing there stupidly? Havent you heard what I say? Mo Shujun scolded coldly when she saw that the subordinates didnt make a move yet. This Subordinates were also in a dilemma. Shi Qingxue was standing in front of Dong Hui. They couldnt do anything! However, at this time, Zhou Ruyu pretended to have a kind heart and persuaded, Qingxue! I know you want to defend your mother. But what your mother have done is obvious, and she has confessed it herself. Dont annoy your grandmother because of this. Its not worth it! It was clear that she was thinking good for Shi Qingxue, but every word actually made Dong Huis heart even more painful. Shi Qingxue didnt answer yet, and then Shi Baoning came to pull her, and whispered, Auntie is right. You shouldnt make grandmother angrier. Even though Shi Baonings voice was very low, and only the two of them could hear it, Qingxue still stared at her in surprise. She couldnt believe that it was what her sister could say! Baoning, what nonsense are you talking about? Grandma wants to divorce our mother now. Are you going to just stand by and watch? Shi Baonings eyes dimmed and her voice was low, Grandmother isnt doing anything wrong. Shi Qingxue, Perhaps Shi Baoning also realized that what she said was a bit ruthless, she quickly changed her words, I didnt mean that. I just want to say that grandmother is angry now. You are not able to save mother even if you keep sticking to it. It might have bad effects. Then you just watch grandmother send our mother back to the Dong Family? Shi Qingxues voice became cold completely and asked impolitely. Shi Baoning looked embarrassed and after a while, she reluctantly said, I just want to persuade her until grandmother is not that angry. There is room to compromise. When grandmother is not angry any more, we persuade her together, and then we definitely can get mother back here. What if grandmother keeps unwilling to compromise? Shi Baonings face froze, and she couldnt say anything. Shi Qingxue didnt talk to Shi Baoning anymore. She knew that if she moved away at this moment, Dong Hui would surely be driven back to the Dong Family. No matter whether Mo Shujun would compromise and let Dong Hui back or not at last, the taint left when she was once divorced would be with her forever. She couldnt watch Dong Huis reputation ruined, and the matters seemed too coincidental, as if someone had planned them well secretly. Before things are investigated clearly, dont try to touch my mother. Shi Qingxue resolutely stood in front of Dong Hui. Zhou Ruyu was afraid that the truth would be revealed as time went by, she anxiously said, How havent the things been investigated clearly? Even your mother has admitted the matter of theft with evidence and witnesses. Let alone your two uncles even lost their faces in front of the imperial family. What else do you want? Shi Qingxue sneered coldly, My mother is the Duchess. And her class was rewarded by the Empress Dowager. Now my father has not returned. She wont be divorced just by your words! Why? Cant she be divorced by me? Mo Shujuns eyes became strict and she stared at Shi Qingxue coldly, I am the hostess of the house of the Shi Family. Do I need to ask anyone else before making a decision? Zhou Ruyu quickly agreed, Yeah! Now it is the order of mother. If you continue to mess around, then we will have to deal with you according to family rules. Dong Shuang, pull your master away. Dong Shuang also felt that Mo Shujuns decision to divorce Dong Hui was too ruthless, but she was more afraid that Shi Qingxue would make herself trapped instead of saving Dong Hui back by confronting the seniors. Sixth Lady, how about us Before Dong Shuang finished her words, she was glared by Qingxue and shut her mouth up obediently. Her master was so determined that she could not be persuaded. What should she do? Did she really have to watch Shi Qingxue ruin her reputation under impulse? Mo Shujun also became impatient and gave a sign to her first-class servant, Zhu, Pull her away. Zhou Ruyu watched Shi Qingxue struggling like a trapped beast, not to mention how happy she was. Huh! You should struggle as much as you could! Anyway, you would be driven out of the Shi Family. At that time, wouldnt she be in charge of the Shi Family? And wouldnt all the people obey her words? Zhou Ruyus eyes were widely opened and she wished to see Shi Qingxue helpless when restrained by others. But something unexpected happened. When Zhu brought a few subordinates to get close to Shi Qingxue, she wasnt struggling but looked quite calm. She only looked at Mo Shujun quietly, as if she had given up hope after being desperate. Before Zhou Ruyu became extremely overjoyed, she heard Shi Qingxue say in a calm voice, If grandmother has to make such a decision, then I will have no choice but to use the token granted by the Emperor. Everyone stopped and looked at Shi Qingxue in amazement. What was the token granted by the Emperor? That was given by the Emperor to the meritorious officials. As long as one had the token granted by the Emperor, he could be forgiven even when he would be sentenced to death. In a family, this was even a token that was more useless than anything. Shi Lei helped the Emperor to establish the Mo Dynasty, so he also got a token. According to the rules, if Mo Shujun didnt keep the token granted by the Emperor, it should be passed on to his eldest son, Shi Junhe. But Shi Lei loved his young granddaughter, Shi Qingxue, when he was alive, he gave the token to Shi Qingxue in front of everyone. Mo Shujun held the handle shook, and her old face wrinkled like a chrysanthemum, Do you have to be against me? Shi Qingxue responded calmly, I dont dare to. But grandmother ignores my mothers hard work in the Shi Family for half of her life and insists on divorcing her. I cant stand by and ignore it. Grandmother, please forgive me. Seeing that Mo Shujun was choked by Shi Qingxues words and seemed to really let go of it, Zhou Ruyu anxiously said, Mother, this time Dong Hui has done such things that ruin the reputation of the Shi Family. If there is no punishment on her, Im afraid it wont be convincing even when you want to punish someone in the future! You cant Shut up! Mo Shujun scolded ferociously, venting all her anger caused by Shi Qingxue on Zhou Ruyu. Zhou Ruyu was strictly criticized but she didnt dare to say a word back, only staring at Shi Qingxue unwillingly. It made no difference. At this time, the subordinate came to report that King Ruis eldest son arrived. Mo Junyang came here again! Everyone thought of this involuntarily, even though no one could understand the purpose of Mo Junyangs arrival, Mo Shujun still had to send people to welcome him. She gave Dong Hui a cold glance. Although she was unwilling, she had to put down the matter of divorcing her for the time being, and only said, Dong Hui, you have a good daughter. She protects you with the token granted by the Emperor! But even if I spare your life in the family this time, you cant get away from the crimes. You kneel in this ancestral hall to reflect on your mistakes. If I find that you dare to pretend to obey but to covertly oppose me, then dont blame me for driving you back to the Dong Family regardless of anything! After that, Mo Shujun waved her sleeve and left quickly. Although Shi Baoning was also worried about her mother, seeing her grandmothers anger at the time when she left, she only gave Dong Hui a glance and followed Mo Shujun up, lowering her head. When there were only those of First Masters Family in the ancestral hall, Shi Qingxue didnt care what Mo Shujun had just said, she wanted to hold Dong Hui up, Mother, are you all right? Can you get up yourself? But Dong Hui was unwilling to stand up, and smiled at Qingxue with tears, Princess Royal made me kneel just now. If I stand up at this time, wont I send them the chance to threaten me? I wont give them any opportunities to bully you any more. Dont worry. Im not tired. It wont matter if I kneel for a while. Shi Qingxues heart was painful. Looking at Dong Huis expression of suppression, her tears were about to fall. Since you are unwilling to get up, I shall accompany you to kneel on the ground! Shi Qingxue couldnt bear watching her mother kneel in front of her anyway, so she also knelt down. Then Dong Hui became anxious, and hurried to pull Shi Qingxue up. But the latter remained motionless. She sighed helplessly, and understood Qingxues intentions. Her heart that was once hurt by Mo Shujun and the others gradually became warmer. She put her hand on Qingxues shoulder and called her in a low voice, Qingxue Infinite sadness was contained in the silence. No wonder Dong Hui just pleaded guilty to those charges without resisting. On the one hand, she did feel that the absurdity of her brothers and their wives had made the Shi Family lose face. On the other hand, it was more painful that her mother-in-law, whom she had served even more cautiously than she treated her birth mother for over ten years, could actually decide to divorce her so easily. Huh! For a moment, she was really thinking, Compared with struggling in such a big house full of intrigue and that even her own daughter wouldnt help her, she would rather be divorced and go back to the Dong Family! At least, she had a father who would always love her! Fortunately, such a thought just passed by. Shi Qingxues behavior later made her regain some confidence. Although her eldest daughter had been raised beside mother-in-law and was not close to her, she still had the daughter who would defend her for no reason! She had her husband too! In any case, Dong Hui would always hold on until Shi Junhe came back with triumph. Shi Qingxue silently accompanied Dong Hui on her knees for a while, and suddenly mentioned, Mother, although the two uncles love drinking, they have never caused trouble at the banquet before. As for the aunts, its not the first time that they have come to the house of the Shi Family. Havent they taken enough golden and silver jewelry from you in normal time? Why do they steal? This Dong Hui used to believe that her troublesome relatives made the Shi Family lose face, but when she heard Shi Qingxues words, she also found out something strange, and said doubtfully, When the wedding banquet of Third Princess just started, I specially told Shaokang and Shaoyang not to cause trouble and they both promised. But later I didnt notice them. They were in quarrel with those of the Qin Family and they almost had a fight. The Qin Family? Shi Qingxue suddenly came up with an idea, and asked, Which Qin Family? Who else could it be? The Prime Minister Qins family. But it was said that it was a distant relative of him, so they didnt mind it too much. Otherwise, who would know what this thing might be like? Speaking of this matter, Dong Hui still was scared in her heart, thinking that it was her luck to have escaped from such a disaster. But Shi Qingxue sneered at this moment, This may not be what it looks like. Chapter 53 - The Token to Avoid Death Dong Hui looked at Shi Qingxue with doubt, What could it be? Shi Qingxue shook her head and asked, What about the aunts? There was such a big joke caused by uncles. Why did they come to our house instead of going back home to take care of uncles? Dong Hui showed some helplessness and sighed, What could I do? I didnt know what was wrong with Madam Zhou today. She kept inviting them to visit our house. You knew about your two aunts. They liked to covet little advantages and agreed after several words. And Zhang kept persuading me aside that this was a great opportunity to get close to them. I thought so, and then I promised them. Zhang Jing and Zheng Xia were servants brought with the dowry by Dong Hui from the Dong Family. They had been serving Dong Hui without getting married. They were experienced in the house and won deep trust of Dong Hui. Even Shi Qingxue would call them Mammy respectfully. But when Shi Qingxue heard this, she couldnt help but frown, Then it would be okay if they came to the house. Werent they used to sit in Zhenghe Garden in the east and then leave with some things? Why did they go to Shouan Hall this time? Zhang told me that the two sisters-in-law would like to greet Princess Royal. I thought that they were my relatives and I needed to recommend them. Unexpectedly, your grandmother went to the garden in the south to meet your Third Uncle, and we went there in vain and caused such a matter. It was really Dong Hui blamed it on her bad luck. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and then said, It was Mammy Zhang again! The meaningful words made Dong Hui glance at her, What do you mean? Shi Qingxue would not keep her mother guessing, and said straightforwardly, Dont you feel it strange? How could a distant relative of the Qin Family, whom we didnt even know, suddenly come to participate in the wedding banquet of Third Princess? Dont forget that the Emperor has just permitted the marriage of Fourth Prince and the Qin Family. Dong Hui didnt think of it at all and became speechless. Whats more, the distant relatives of the Qin family quarreled with my uncles, and when it broke out, he chose to settle it down calmly right away. No matter how you thought about it, it would be strange, wouldnt it? Shi Qingxue didnt believe in coincidences. Hearing that, Dong Hui was in surprise, but then she felt it wrong after thinking for a while, Then what was the matter with Zhang? Shi Qingxue hit the nail, If she hadnt been there, would you have brought my aunts back home or go to the Shouan Hall? Dong Hui couldnt say anything. But it was still hard for her to believe, But Zhang is the experienced servant I brought from the Dong Family. How can she betray me? This is impossible! Shi Qingxue became silent. She wanted to say that Zhang Jing had done more disgusting things than this in her previous life! Sixth Lady, Princess Royal asks you to go to the lobby. King Ruis eldest son wants to see you. Zhu ran into the ancestral hall and interrupted the conversation between the mother and daughter. Shi Qingxue didnt want to leave Dong Hui, but she just made Mo Shujun lose face. This time, she was afraid that she would really break the relationship with Mo Shujun if she refused again. She could only tell Dong Shuang a few words and get up heading to the lobby. According to the fact, King Rui was just an unloved son given birth by a concubine. He returned to the capital city to settle down from his rewarded land and had no power or force. There was nothing of him that the Shi Family should notice. But not knowing why, every time Mo Shujun saw King Ruis eldest son, she had a faint feeling that the gentleness of this man was just the surface, and the power hidden behind could surprise everyone. This was the vigilance that Mo Shujun gained when she went to the war with Shi Lei for many years when she was young. Such alert had saved her many times, so even if she hadnt figured anything out, she would definitely not look down upon Mo Junyang as others did. At some time, she even had an idea to please Mo Junyang. She didnt want to be his enemy when she could be a friend. Even when Mo Junyang wanted to see Shi Qingxue without any excuses this time, she didnt hesitate to find her here. Even when Mo Junyang asked for a private talk with Shi Qingxue, Mo Shujun, who had always been courteous, didnt feel that there was a problem and left them alone. On the contrary, Zhou Ruyu had a lot of opinions, Mother, although our family is related to the imperial family, we dont have direct relationship with King Ruis Family. They are not cousins. Isnt it proper for them to meet in private? Mo Shujun gave Zhou Ruyu a strange look, Whats wrong with it? You didnt say anything when Fourth Prince sat in the Luotong Boudoir before. Wasnt that because they took Mo Junhaos bribes and promised to cause chance for him and Shi Qingxue? Of course, she couldnt speak such words out. Zhou Ruyu said in a more euphemistic way, After all, they are both unmarried. If it is spread out, people will gossip! They just sit in the yard, with all the servants around. They arent meeting in private. Who dares to say anything about it? Mo Shujun waved her hand impatiently. Zhou Ruyu saw that she was not able to provoke her, and then said, Dont you worry about any private relationship between them? After all, King Ruis eldest son was close to Qingxue when he lived in the Shi Family several days ago! No matter in which era, private relationships were forbidden, even those of unmarried people. Mo Shujuns expression did become serious as she had expected, then she turned to look at Zhou Ruyu for a long while before murmuring, Do you think that Qingxue and Mo Junyang Impossible! How old is Qingxue now? She doesnt know that much. And it doesnt look vague when they meet each other. How can they The more Mo Shujun thought about it, the more she felt that Zhou Ruyu was talking nonsense. Even if she didnt know much about Mo Junyang, wouldnt she understand Shi Qingxue? Princess Royal still thought that Sixth Lady would show all her feelings on her face and was easy to be guessed out as before. She didnt pay attention to Zhou Ruyus words. Instead, she sneered, Okay. If you are free, it will be better for you to think more about Madam Dong. This time we not only failed to drive her back home, but also dragged the Shi Family to lose face together with the Dong Family. Look what you have done! Zhou Ruyu immediately looked upset and cried for justice, Mother, you wronged me. I didnt do anything. I Before she said the following words, she shut her mouth up out of guilt with Mo Shujuns cold sight. After a while, she was still reconciled, and said, But mother, you shouldnt let her go today! The token granted by the Emperor is rewarded by the Royal Family, and it is for saving life, not for the wife avoiding being divorced! This time, it is Madam Dong who has made our family lose face! Huh! The token granted by the Emperor was given to her by Yunyang in front of the whole Shi Family. At that time, he said that as long as she took out this thing, everyone in this family must promise her one thing. Dont you obey Yunyangs words? Mo Shujun stared at Zhou Ruyu and became more dissatisfied in her heart. Zhou Ruyu quickly confessed her mistake, I dont mean it. Im just thinking that father has made such a request and you also have promised her. Then can we take back the token? When it came to the token granted by the Emperor, Zhou Ruyus eyes became blinking. She couldnt help coveting it. She still needed to pretend to share the worries with mother, In all the families owning tokens granted by the Emperor in the capital city, they all leave such a good thing to their most beloved son born of the legal wife, and no one ever gives it to granddaughter. After all, when the granddaughter grows up, she should belong to someone elses family. Does she even take the token away with her? Mo Shujun squinted and looked at Ruyu. How could she not know Zhou Ruyus thoughts? Saying the most beloved son born of the legal wife, wasnt she just trying to get the toke granted by the Emperor and give it to Shi Juncai? However, hearing Zhou Ruyus words, Mo Shujun really started to plan this, and it had to be fast. When Shi Lei gave this token to Shi Qingxue, apart from asking the Shi Family to promise her one thing, he even hoped that this could keep Shi Qingxue a carefree life, considering her spoiled personality at the young age. Shi Lei only told Mo Shujun and Shi Junhe about this, even Shi Qingxue herself didnt know it. So if she wanted to take back the token granted by the Emperor, she would have to do it before Shi Junhe came back to the capital city. Mo Shujun thought that Shi Qingxues performance these days had completely made her disappointed, making her determined to take back Shi Qingxues tool! When Mo Shujun had just started to plan, Shi Qingxue, who was upset a while before, ran in with joy, smiled at the two of them and said, Great! My father He is back! Hearing this, Mo Shujun opened her eyes in surprised and her eyeballs seemed to be about to fall. She had just thought of a way to deal with Shi Qingxue, and her father came back to protect her? With Shi Junhe, let alone taking back the token granted by the Emperor, they didnt even have the chance to harm Dong Hui! Zhou Ruyu also did not expect Shi Junhe to return so soon. First, she was happy, but then said with dissatisfaction, Why is he back? Does he quit the war in the northwest? Can the Emperor permit him? It sounded like that Shi Junhe escaped back from the battlefield. Shi Qingxue suddenly looked mad, Auntie, what do you mean? Of course my father has won the war and returned home with his army. If you slander a general like this, wont you be afraid that grandmother will punish you? After that, she turned to Mo Shujun, which seemed to be asking for justice from Mo Shujun. Mo Shujun was uncomfortable in her heart, but on the surface, she could only tell Zhou Ruyu to shut up. However, she also didnt believe that Shi Junhe could return so soon with triumph, We also have sent people to the northwest. Why isnt the news that the Shi Army has won spread here? Shouldnt it Mo Shujun wanted to say that if the news was wrong, but Shi Qingxue didnt want to waste more words with them. Instead, she said joyfully, Father has won the war, and that means he is back. I wont say more. I am going to welcome my father with mother at the North Gate. Shi Qingxue was too happy, ignoring how complicated their thoughts were, and ran to the ancestral hall to bring Dong Hui. And the two went straight to the North Gate. As for whether her behavior was meant to help Dong Hui escape from the punishment? Who knew? Even though the sun was already down, both sides of the entrance street at the North Gate were still full of people who heard of the news and rushed here. Shi Qingxue was unable to squeeze in. In addition, Dong Huis legs were injured. They could only wait in the private room at the window arranged by Mo Junyang in a restaurant. When will my dad enter the city? Shi Qingxue stood by the window for a long while, but didnt see Shi Junhe. She began to be anxious. Mo Junyang patted her shoulder and smiled, Why are you so anxious? The pioneer has said that Duke Shi will enter the city before dark today. Wait a moment and he will arrive soon. Fine. Shi Qingxue responded in disappointment. She still stared at the direction of the city gate, and hoped to see her father enter the city at the first sight. Mo Junyang was ignored, and he was somewhat dissatisfied in his heart. He wanted to use other things to attract Shi Qingxues attention, when he found that Dong Hui was looking at them and seemed surprised. He thought for a moment and knew what Dong Hui was thinking. A plan came to his mind. Mo Junyang smiled again! Chapter 54 - They Were All Yours...So Was I Mo Junyang got closer to Shi Qingxue. There was almost no distance between them, Sister Xue, are you thirsty? No, Im not. Shi Qingxue didnt notice that Mo Junyang slowed down his speaking, she just waved her hand and continued to look out of the window. Mo Junyang was not annoyed. Instead, he turned around and poured a cup of plum juice for Shi Qingxue, This is the plum juice that I specially ask others to save for you. Isnt this your favorite? Even though you are not thirsty, just drink a little bit! It was winter, so it was almost impossible to find plums. Shi Qingxue subconsciously followed Mo Junyangs action and took a sip. After she tasted it, she found out that it was her favorite drink, and she narrowed her eyes with happiness. Not realizing how ambiguous their interaction was, she smiled sweetly, Thanks. Dong Hui had no intention of seeing the situation downstairs at this moment. Her eyes were as round as bulls eyes, and her mouth couldnt be closed in surprise. However, as for the two parties, one didnt notice it, while the other didnt care about it. They were getting closer and closer. Just when Dong Hui was about to explode, a shout sounded outside, The Shi Army comes back with triumph! The cheering shouts arose suddenly, attracting everyones attention. Shi Qingxue looked at the distance, and saw a group of neatly dressed soldiers on the horse entering the city from the gate, headed by Duke Shi Junhe. Father! Father! Shi Qingxue hadnt seen Shi Junhe for a long time. It was so long that she almost thought her father would not come back. But Shi Junhe was back! She looked at her living father, as tall and mighty as she remembered! And her elder brother, Wenren Chi! Shi Qingxue couldnt restrain her emotions and shouted at the street with joy. Fortunately, the cheers on the street also got louder, so almost no one noticed what happened in the restaurant. Just almost. The two men who rode the horses in the front distinguished the delicate sweet call from the thousands of cheers and looked at the restaurant at the same time. Finding Qingxues excited cheering figure, the two mens serious faces became gentle, waving at the restaurant. The people below were even more ecstatic and shouted, General Shi is good! He has kicked away the Liang Countrys rebels! General Wenren is so handsome! The Shi Army is the greatest Such words of praise went louder and louder, moving in the direction where the army was heading. Shi Qingxue watched her father walk past her. Even there was only a back figure left, she was not disappointed. The Shi Army was going to meet the Emperor at this moment. After that, her father and brother would accompany her for a long time! Mo Junyang, lets go back to the house! Dad will come back later. I want to welcome them at the gate. Shi Qingxue was full of joy and couldnt wait to share it with Mo Junyang. She didnt notice that Dong Huis original expression of joy changed because of her words, and she looked at the two in surprise again. Mo Junyang responded calmly, Of course. I will accompany you back to your house. I just have something to discuss with Duke Shi. However, Shi Qingxue disagreed, and she pouted her mouth, No! Dad belongs to me and mom after he comes back from the court. You cant grab him away! Little fool. Mo Junyang only felt that Shi Qingxue, who was immersed in joy, seemed to have returned to the innocent age of fifteen or sixteen. Her mind was simple and childish, but unexpectedly it made him fond of her. Even thought it was not the right time, he still couldnt help reaching out and pinching Qingxues nose, and his voice was unconsciously softened, I wont take him away. They are all yours So am I. Shi Qingxue exploded before he finished his words, and impolitely slapped Mo Junyangs hand, covering her nose, Why did you do that? Mo Junyang was not annoyed at all, and looked at her with a smirk. His eyes did not conceal the enthusiastic emotion in his heart. After looking at each other for a while, Shi Qingxue couldnt bear it and turned her face away. She murmured in annoyance, You always use this trick! Qingxue! Dong Hui finally shouted, staring at them in amazement. Shi Qingxue realized that her interaction with Mo Junyang was all watched by Dong Hui. Her small face suddenly became hot, and turned to pout her mouth towards Mo Junyang with anger. Then she ran to Dong Hui with small steps and grabbed Dong Huis arm, Mother, I was just joking with Mo Junyang. Dont be angry. Dong Huis anger disappeared when she looked at Shi Qingxues blinking eyes. She felt not good in her heart and said, Then after the joke, we should go back first! Your father is still waiting for us to welcome him! Shi Qingxue immediately forgot her ambiguity with Mo Junyang, she couldnt wait to urge Dong Hui to go back, Lets go back now! Before Dong Hui left, she couldnt help but look back again, and once again met Mo Junyangs gaze. She was astonished again. Unlike his gentle sight before when he looked at Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyangs gaze was so cold that it made everyone frozen even with one glance. Dong Hui turned her head around and didnt dare to look at him. She quickly caught up with Shi Qingxue. - The Shi Army led by Shi Junhe defeated the Liang Countrys army. The Emperor was so overjoyed that he gave him numerous rewards and planned to set up a banquet to give award to him. How honored he was with such glory! Let alone the seniors and juniors in the Shi Family, even the nobles who were used to being arrogant in the capital city didnt dare to bother Shi Junhe at this moment. Therefore, when Shi Junhe returned to the house of the Shi Family, everyone was preparing the family dinner happily, and no one mentioned the matter of divorcing his wife at this time to annoy Shi Junhe. Shi Junhe didnt know that his wife had been wronged, but Shi Qingxue would not miss such a good opportunity to sue them. After returning to the east garden of the First Masters Family, Shi Qingxue told Shi Junhe what had happened in the ancestral hall in details. Her expression was very concise, and it was too late even though Dong Hui tried to stop her. However, when Shi Baoning heard Qingxue repeat what she had said before, she felt embarrassed and awkward. She was stiff for a while and then said, Qingxue actually still resents me! But after all, grandmother is the senior. I should be blamed for not having courage However, this time Qingxue didnt care for her pride, and straightforwardly asked, Shouldnt I resent you? Shi Baonings face became pale, and was speechless. She held her breath and choked herself. After all, she was born by Dong Hui. Even though Dong Hui was angry before, she couldnt bear to see Shi Baonings poor and helpless look. Glancing at Qingxue with complaining, she pretended to scold her, Only you can talk? What time is it now? Arent you afraid to disturb your fathers rest? Shi Qingxue smiled and hid into her fathers arms shamelessly as she did when she was young. She even protruded her tongue towards Dong Hui, Huh! Dad is so powerful. He wont be tired! He comes back specially to speak up for mother. Am I right, dad? Shi Junhe had a square face, so when he didnt smile, he looked dignified and made others feel invisible pressure since he was in a high position for a long time. But he couldnt keep grave in front of his little daughter. Instead, he touched Qingxues head lovingly, and smiled, Yes, yes! Qingxue is so great. Of course you are right! Then his voice changed. He turned his attention to Shi Baoning. When she became anxious and embarrassed, he asked, Baoning, is there anything false in Qingxues words? Shi Baoning shook her head, No, but Have you said those words? Shi Junhe asked again without giving her a chance to explain. Shi Baoning was even more overwhelmed and wanted to deny it, but could only nod silently in the stare of her father. However, she was not willing to be questioned by Shi Junhe in this way, and asked mutely, Father, do you believe that its my fault based on these words? Do you think that I have no filial piety and have no advantage at all? The more she said, the more she felt wronged. The tears slipped down her cheeks. But Shi Junhe just glanced at her lightly and smiled again, No, you are not wrong. The smile on Shi Baonings face had not yet bloomed, she heard Shi Junhe said slowly, How can you be wrong? You have been raised beside your grandmother. How can we blame you for being close to your grandmother? Shi Baonings smile froze on her face. Her face became pale, and she couldnt make a sound even though she opened her mouth several times. Dong Hui couldnt bear it, and took the initiative to settle this down, Fine, we are a family. Her filial piety to her grandmother also counts! She was afraid that Shi Junhe would annoy Shi Baoning, she took the initiative to say, Wenyu, you dont know yet! Some time ago, mother asked for the position of Infanta for Baoning. Now Baoning is also an Infanta with class of second grade! She is a good child, and it is reasonable that she is favored by her grandmother. Shi Junhes face became a bit gentle, he nodded at Shi Baoning and finally had a little pity in his eyes, I know that you are good! You have your own considerations about todays matter. I dont blame you. Okay, its not early now. You go back and rest! Shi Baoning nodded, and looked at Qingxue, who still stayed in Shi Junhes arms. She was a little envious and seemed to be upset, asking in a low voice, The Luotong Boudoir is close to the Jingshu Boudoir. Doesnt Qingxue come together with me? No, I havent filed all the complaints with my dad yet! Im going to sleep with dad and mom tonight! Shi Qingxue said reasonably, as if she really would continue to sue in her parents bed. Duke Shi and his wife felt angry and funny, but Shi Junhe couldnt bear to reprimand Qingxue. He only pretended to scold her, How old are you and you still want to sleep with parents? Arent you ashamed? Who dares to marry you then! Speaking of this, Shi Junhes eyes blinked a bit and his thought floated away. But he became calm again, and no one saw his abnormal appearance. He gently command, Baoning, Chi was injured in the northwestern battlefield this time. If you have time tomorrow, go to Jinhua Pavilion to see him! Shi Baonings eyes became anxious and looked towards Shi Junhe violently. Seeing that there was care in his strict look, she promised with tears. Until Shi Baoning went away, Shi Qingxue buried herself in Shi Junhes arms again, saying, Daddy, I really miss you! Shi Junhe suddenly heard such words. No matter how tough he was, his heart became soft. And he had to say to Dong Hui, I thought my daughter had been raised by you for a long while and grown up a lot. But now she seems to be even more naive than she used to be. Dong Hui also laughed, How do I know? I thought my daughter was only five years old this year instead of fifteen years old! These two people didnt know that what made Shi Qingxue most painful was not that she was abolished by Mo Junhao or that she poisoned herself at last, but was that she didnt even see them for the last time when they were killed. At this moment, she regained such an opportunity. She treasured it even more and didnt want to miss one second. Shi Qingxue was not afraid of her father and mother joking, but grinned at the two and said proudly, I dont want to grow up in front of you! I will always be your baby daughter! Baby! Arent you ashamed? Shi Junhe teased. The three then sat down around the old-fashioned square table again. Shi Junhe said in a serious look, Qingxue, although you have saved your mother today, you are really reckless. That is your grandmother anyway! Chapter 55 - Peeking Shi Qingxue didnt mind it and pouted, What if grandmother really drove mother out if I didnt do it? Shi Junhe saw his wifes face dim, he quickly reached out and held Dong Huis small hand, sighing, As long as you won more time, I would be back soon. Wouldnt there be nothing then? Why did you have to oppose your grandmother? She is the senior anyway! He talked about this theory again. Shi Qingxue muttered with dissatisfaction, But if Mo Junyang hadnt told me that you were back, I wouldnt have known that you were about to enter the city. How should I win more time? Shi Junhe also realized that he was making an impossible presupposition. But when he thought that Shi Qingxue was against Mo Shujun today and there must be a lot of risks later, he became worried. But if his wife was wronged because of this, he was completely unwilling. Dilemma finally turned into a sigh, Hui, Im sorry that you are wronged. Dong Hui quickly shook her head and held back Shi Junhes hand, I wont feel wronged because I have you two. Ouch! Shi Qingxue screamed strangely, covering her right face suddenly. The couple were shocked and asked, What happened? Shi Qingxue muttered for a while, but she didnt look uncomfortable. Instead, she smiled, My teeth sore! The couple first stunned, and then realized that their daughter was teasing them! Instead, Shi Junhe held Dong Hui even tighter, and raised his eyebrows at Qingxue, What? Are you envious? Dong Huis face turned red, and she scolded, No manners. Ahem! Shi Junhe coughed and then looked at Qingxue seriously, Mo Junyang I am backing home less than six hours, and I have heard his name from you several times. Huh? Qingxue, arent you going to explain to us? This time it was Shi Junhes turn to target at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxues face froze and she wanted it to pass with some laughter, Well, dad, isnt the Emperor going to set a banquet for you? When is it? Can we also go? How was brother injured? Is it bad? Do we She spoke so much quickly without a pause. She almost said all the problems she could come up with, making the listeners shocked. They were surprised by Shi Qingxues eloquence. However, General Shi was not so easy to fool. He patiently waited for Shi Qingxue to finish her words, and then smiled slightly, These are not urgent. You explain your relationship with Mo Junyang to us first! Dong Hui also asked, Yes. In this afternoon, how could you call the name of King Ruis eldest son? And with him Those things might seem normal at first, but if you thought about them more carefully, they all exceeded what were proper! At this time Qingxues face became hot and her eyes fluttered, but she didnt escape the eyes of them two. So she had to explain carefully, I and Mo JunHis Highness are just friends. He has helped me a lot I also trust him So thats it! Shi Qingxue also couldnt explain her relationship with Mo Junyang in such a few words, and finally stopped talking. Shi Junhe was dissatisfied with this explanation, Some days ago, Master Leng, Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War, told me that thanks to Mo Junyang, the food was transferred successfully this time. During the war, my army had been difficult for many times and we got help every time. They even sent us the defense drawing of the Liang Country. At first we thought it was a bait deliberately released by the Liang Country, but later several parties verified that the thing was indeed true, so that we defeated the Liang Army. Did you win because of this? Shi Qingxue muttered secretly. No wonder she didnt feel it real that Shi Junhe came back with triumph. In this war in her previous life, the Mo Country was defeated. Its land was indemnified and compensation was made. They even sent Fourth Princess, Mo Yulan, to marry to the Liang Country in order to settle it down. Shi Qingxue frowned, and asked in confusion, So what does this have to do with Mo Junyang? Qingxue always called his name, and forgot to use His Highness this time. Shi Junhe and Dong Hui looked at each other and both saw anxiety in the eyes. But the former just replied calmly, Because it was Mo Junyangs subordinate who had helped the Shi Army. What? Shi Qingxue stood up in shock. How did Mo Junyang know that the Shi Army would encounter difficulties? How did he offer help in time? He seemed to have foreseen it! Shi Qingxue was anxious in her heart but hid her worries, asking, Mo Junyang is now the study company of Crown Prince. Are you sure that its not Crown Prince who has asked him to help the Shi Army? Shi Junhe did not think of it. He frowned and thought for a moment before he said, Its not impossible. But how can Crown Prince know about the situation in the northwest? He even got the enemys defense drawing. If Mo Junyu were really so powerful, then the situation in the court wouldnt be as peaceful as it seemed at present. Shi Junhe was about to praise Qingxues smart mind, when he suddenly thought of the purpose of bringing it up, and then he looked serious again, Dont change the subject. How did you know Mo Junyang exactly? Shi Qingxue was still thinking about the last question. She didnt expect that Mo Junyang had done so many things for the Shi Family silently behind her, which made her more complicated. After a while, she squeezed a smile, His Highness is also a relative to our family. I should call him Brother Yang. What is strange about me knowing him? Shi Junhe looked at Qingxue firmly for a while, and was sure that his daughter had no intention to confess, but he didnt continue to ask. He only said, I know you know much about manners, and I dont want to restrain you. But theres only one thing. You must protect yourself well, you know? It was hard to hide his much love for her. Shi Qingxues smile bloomed like a flower, and quickly responded, I know, dad. Dont talk this much. Now youre finally home. You should have a nice sleep holding my mom. I wont disturb you any more! After that, Qingxue was afraid that Shi Junhe would catch her and ask about Mo Junyang again. She quickly ran away. The couple were teased by their daughter and felt embarrassed but funny. Dong Hui thought for a while and sighed helplessly, Wenyu, there are other possibilities in what you have said. But you didnt know that I was really anxious this afternoon! She told him everything that had happened in the restaurant this afternoon, and said worriedly at the end, I havent realized that the two of them were close until today. Now I dont think Qingxue is fond of Mo Junyang, but Mo Junyangs attitude is That explicit possessiveness was not hidden at all. Dong Hui thought whether she was being too sensitive, but she did feel that Mo Junyang was demonstrating in front of her. Shi Junhe also frowned deeply, King Rui should have no close relationship with our family! Indeed! But Mo Junyang happened to be sick in our house a few days ago, and stayed here for a month. Maybe I didnt notice at that time Well, blame it on me! Dong Hui couldnt stop blaming herself, and felt that she found it too late. If she knew it earlier, and separated the two, maybe it wouldnt be as hard to handle as it was at this moment! But she probably didnt know that she was not only one month late, but to be precisely, she was a lifetime late. Okay, take things as they come. That being the case, thinking more about it wont help. Just look how it goes in the future! Maybe things wont be so terrible? Shi Junhe hugged his wife and comforted her. He was also wondering in his mind: In the past, he was almost unimpressed of Mo Junyang. But at this moment, it seemed that he was like the old saying that it never rained but it poured. If that being so, he was afraid that he should really think more about it. Maybe he could be a good husband for Shi Qingxue? Shi Junhe didnt mind it and let go of this matter for a while. He held up Dong Hui and walked to the bedroom, Love, lets have a good rest! Dong Hui said snorted with shyness, Unscrupulous! - Mo Junyang didnt know he had flattered his father-in-law. He lived in the Langyue Pavilion of the Shi Family again out of the reason that he had things to talk about with Shi Junhe, but he didnt have the chance to talk to Shi Qingxue for a whole night. In the end, he couldnt bear it. He climbed the wall in the middle of the night and jumped onto her roof. But unexpectedly, he found that there was still another person standing there. Before Mo Junyang spoke, he was questioned by the other party first, Who are you? Why are you here? Ill give you back the second question. Mo Junyang glanced at the other party coldly, and yelled, General Wenren, you climb up to the roof of a girls boudoir in the midnight. Arent you afraid that it will be spread out and you will be spurned? The person who stood opposite Mo Junyang was Shi Junhes adopted son, Wenren Chi, who was the eldest in the third generation of the Shi Family. Wenren Chi was a posthumous child of Shi Junhes friend. His friend died in the war when he was young, and his wife committed suicide after giving birth to the child, leaving Wenren Chi alone. So Shi Junhe adopted him. Even in honor of his friends, Shi Junhe didnt make Wenren Chis family name Shi. At home, Wenren Chi was the honorable eldest son of the Shi Family, and might also be the heir to the title. Outside, he was the vice leader of the Shi Army, admired by thousands of people. The two stared at each other silently for a while. Wenren Chi first gave in, and his originally calm face became red, not knowing why. He only said awkwardly, Im just here to appreciate the moon. Mo Junyang nodded and deliberately looked up at the sky, Well, the moonlight is pretty good. The night sky was so dark that only few stars could be seen. Wenren Chis ears turned red this time. His body was stiff, and he reluctantly asked, Who the hell are you? What are you doing on the roof of Qingxues room? Mo Junyang didnt want to talk to this person. But thinking that Shi Qingxue attached great importance of this brother, he nodded and said, I am Mo Junyang. I drank too much at dinner. The Langyue Pavilion is a bit short, so I want to come up to the roof to make my mind clear. This explanation was reasonable. Even if he knew about his intention, he couldnt find a refutation. Not to mention that Wenren Chi had a guilty conscience, he could only nod without doubt. That being the case, then I wont bother Your Highness to sober up. I shall leave first! Even if Wenren Chi had some thoughts, he should suppress them at this moment. He was afraid that he would really cause any trouble for Shi Qingxue if he appeared here in the middle of the night. He just said a few words before leaving, which made it convenient for Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang politely watched Wenren Chi leave, and then he didnt hesitate to occupy the best position on the roof. He looked down, and there was no embarrassment of the peeper at all. Chapter 56 - Affairs Shi Qingxue didnt know that someone was watching her all the time. Shi Junhes return only made her life more comfortable. It seemed that nothing could bother her any more. But it was just seemingly. Because half a year later, her father, the leader of the Shi Army, was ordered to go to Qingluo Mountain to remove the bandits but was murdered by the renegade. Her brother Wenren Chi went to revenge for father and his head was chopped off by the bandit. At that time Shi Qingxue had already married Fourth Prince and was trapped into the fight in the Imperial Harem. She didnt even get the chance to see her father and brother for the last time. Although many things had been different from her previous life since the rebirth, the death of her father and brother was still more horrible than a nightmare to Shi Qingxue. She couldnt rest at ease, no matter how. After thinking about it, she decided to meet Shi Junhe first and told him her thoughts. Daddy! Daddy! Shi Qingxue hurriedly went to Shi Junhes reading room, but she found there was a guest. The elated shout was suddenly dumbfounded by Mo Junyangs gaze. She was suddenly speechless. She stood in dignity and saluted to the two, Father. Your Highness. Shi Junhe rarely saw such obedient appearance of Qingxue, and couldnt help laughing, I rarely hear you call me father before. Why do you change the way you call me when King Ruis eldest son is here today? Shi Qingxue was even more embarrassed after being teased. She just didnt want to let Mo Junyang see that she was coquettish with her father, probably because even she knew that it was inappropriate to do this kind of thing at her age. What are father and His Highness talking about? If its not convenient, I will go back first. Shi Qingxue didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang and said in a low voice. Of course, Mo Junyang would not let Qingxue leave easily, and said immediately, Its not inconvenient. We are just talking about some interesting news in the court. You can just listen to it and divert yourself from boredom. Really? What interesting news? Shi Qingxues eyes became blinking suddenly, and she looked at Mo Junyang eagerly and refused to leave. Mo Junyang handed the reports in his hand to Shi Qingxue, explaining, Recently, there are many things in the capital city, so the reports come frequently. But the accuracy of the information has not been verified yet. You can take a look at them like reading stories. The so-called report is the information collected by the spies developed by the aristocracy. It usually talked about politics, but there were also various gossips. The nobles who were in good relationship would exchange reports with each other, but so important things were generally in the hands of the host. Shi Qingxue didnt even see the reports of the Shi Family a few times. Suddenly she got Mo Junyangs reports, and she immediately read them with interest. But looking at them, she was dumbfounded. Whats this written on them? Why are they different from what Ive seen before? Shi Qingxue spread the reports. She only knew the language of the Mo Country. Mo Junyang smiled, and then took the report before explaining, This report is written in cipher text. If you dont learn the specific cipher text, of course you wont understand it. Ill read it for you. He walked straight to the side of Shi Qingxue, and put the report in front of them. Then he read it in a low voice, In November, 41st year of the Mo Dynasty, the Shi Army defeated the Liang Countrys Army. The army came back to the capital city One was reading seriously, when the other was listening intently. They didnt notice at all that Shi Junhe opened his mouth wide enough in surprise that an egg could be put inside. Obviously, these two werent behaving properly. But why did he have a sense of redundancy? This was his reading room! Shi Junhe was a little desperate in his heart. He wanted to go up and pull away the one who coveted his baby daughter, but he hadnt made a move, when a subordinate came to report, Master, Third Madam is here. Two pairs of eyes turned to him, with doubts in them. Shi Junhe was embarrassed in their sight. He couldnt help shouting back, Why are you looking at me? Shi Qingxue blinked her eyes, as if she didnt understand why Shi Junhe suddenly got angry. She only frowned and asked, Third Aunt is always in conflict with us. Why does she come alone to find you? Qingxue was really just wondering at first, but when she said those words, she also felt that this word alone contained another meaning in it. Shi Junhe was even more uncomfortable, even though his eyes fluttered, he couldnt escape Shi Qingxues inquiring gaze, How do I know? I always dont know about the matters back here. Really? Shi Qingxue asked skeptically, straightly looking at Shi Junhe, making him awkward and helpless. He gritted his teeth secretly. Why did he have such a rebellious daughter? Fortunately, there was a good assist here. Mo Junyang coughed twice, comforting her, Your Third Aunt took the initiative to come here, so its normal that Duke Shi didnt know it. But before Duke Shi gave Mo Junyang a sight to praise his having done a good job, Mo Junyang continued to say slowly, Anyway, there is a cubicle in the reading room. If you do want to know whats going on, you can just hear their conversation. Right? Shi Junhes face was about to crack! This was the first time that he had seen that someone demanded to overhear straightforwardly but didnt blush! However, Shi Qingxue nodded after hearing this, turned around and looked at him eagerly, Daddy, can I? Shi Junhe, Could he say no? Sure. Shi Junhe sadly said the answer that made him regret it immediately, and watched Shi Qingxue grab Mo Junyang and hide into the cubicle. He didnt seem to agree to let Mo Junyang overhear together? It was too late for him to stop them. The subordinate had led Zhou Ruyu inside the room. Shi Junhe had no choice but to ask someone to offer a cup of tea and asked coldly, Why do you come for me? Zhou Ruyu smiled and winked, Look what youve said. Im your sister-in-law anyway. Cant I come to visit you if I have nothing to do? Or brother has really hated me to the extent that you are not willing to see me? When she talked, she also pretended to wipe the corners of her eyes, as if she had been really hurt by Shi Junhes relentlessness. Shi Junhe was unmoved, and only said, If you have something to tell me, just say it straightforwardly. Dont talk in a roundabout way. Zhou Ruyus expression was stiff on her face before she barely smiled and said, Since you have said so, I wont bother you with those casual talks. Shi Junhe put down the tea cup and stared at Zhou Ruyu, waiting for her following words. Shi Junhe had an advantage that many people couldnt compare. It was that no matter how much he hated you, he would still listen carefully when you spoke. But in a way, this was also a disadvantage, because even if you knew that he disdained you, you would still be deceived by his soft and affectionate eyes, as if he had really loved you. Zhou Ruyu suddenly felt upset that she was about to cry, and she tried to squeeze a smile but couldnt maintain her smile. At last, she could only give up and shouted in a low voice, Wenyu, do you really hate me so much? Whats the meaning of your words? Shi Junhes eyes remained unchanged, as if he really didnt understand the meaning of Zhou Ruyus words. Zhou Ruyus eyes showed resentment, and she got up and walked to the front of Shi Junhe, raised her hand to touch Shi Junhes face cautiously. Sister, please respect yourself. Shi Junhe turned his face and got up, avoiding Zhou Ruyus movements quickly, and warned her solemnly, If you dont have anything else to say, please go back! Wenyu, do you really hate me so much that you are unwilling to have any relationship with me in this life, and unwilling to be close with me? Zhou Ruyu looked sad, as if she had been badly broken. Shi Junhe didnt change his look, and only emphasized, Its inappropriate for us to be alone due to our identities. Inappropriate? Zhou Ruyu suddenly laughed, and her eyes looked sad and angry. She gritted her teeth and asked, Why didnt you say it was inappropriate when you hugged me in the house of Marquis of Wuyang? Shi Qingxue covered her mouth in surprise, She didnt expect that she heard such a shocking thing out of curiosity. Was it too late to cover her ears at this moment? Although she thought in this way, Shi Qingxue still listened to them carefully, for fear of missing any words outside. Mo Junyang looked at her big eyes full of fear and excitement, and felt speechless, especially when no one had spoken for a long time and Shi Qingxue wanted to reach her head out to peek. Dont move! Mo Junyang simply stretched out his arm from behind and held Shi Qingxues arms, trapping her in his hug, and covered her beautiful eyes with his another hand. Shi Qingxue was startled, and wanted to shout but was afraid to attract the attention of the people outside. She could only ask in a low voice, What are you doing? Let me go! Mo Junyang didnt move, Stop jabbering. Shi Qingxue was argued back and was choked. She even wanted to use the same words against Mo Junyang. Who was jabbering? They will find you if you move again. Mo Junyang whispered in Shi Qingxues ear, and Shi Qingxue didnt dare to move immediately. After being silent for a while, she couldnt hear any sound. Shi Qingxue felt that it was full of her heartbeat in her ears. Boom! Boom! It made her annoyed. It seemed that Mo Junyang didnt find the atmosphere too ambiguous, and he was holding her tighter and tighter. Her back attached close to Mo Junyang, and the lower parts of their bodies were also close to each others. She could even feel the fiery hard object. Shi Qingxue realized what it was, she was suddenly shocked. She pushed Mo Junyang forcibly and shouted in shame in a low voice, Mo Junyang, what are you doing? Mo Junyang was pushed away and he hit on the table and chair behind him, making a muffled sound like Bang. The one outside suddenly became alert. Whos there? Zhou Ruyus face changed and she wanted to go inside. Shi Junhe scolded secretly that the two of them could only make trouble, but stood in front of Zhou Ruyu and solemnly said, No ones there. The window is not closed, so the wind blows down something. Its no big deal. Ill ask someone to clear it up later. Really? Zhou Ruyu glanced at Shi Junhe suspiciously. But maybe she wouldnt realize that Shi Junhe could spoil her daughter to the point where everyone would be indignant at it, so she didnt doubt Shi Junhes words. Instead, she took advantage of the close distance between them and tried to fall into Shi Junhes arms. But Shi Junhe had foreseen her move early, and stepped aside. Zhou Ruyu missed her target and almost hit the chair. Zhou Ruyu stood reluctantly, embarrassed and angry, and asked, Shi Junhe, what do you mean? Shi Junhe looked back at her coldly, and said indifferently, Stop mentioning the things in the past. You are just my sister-in-law now. He deliberately stressed the word just, which was the most powerful insult to Zhou Ruyu, so that all her sinister seduce was exposed. Zhou Ruyu was both embarrassed and angry. She trembled and pointed at Shi Junhe for a long time before she resentfully said, Okay! Shi Junhe, since you are being so cold, dont blame me for being ruthless! You let me down today, and I will make you repay ten times, even a hundred times! Shi Junhe ignored the harsh words said by Zhou Ruyu. When she left, he hurriedly rushed into the cubicle and asked, What happened? Seeing the scene in the room, he was suddenly stunned, Whats the matter? Chapter 57 - Failed to Insult But Was Dissed There was no picture of the confrontation between them two as Shi Junhe had expected in the cubicle. There was only Shi Qingxue who stared at the window with a shocking look. The window was open, and Mo Junyang was missing. Whats going on? Shi Junhe frowned and walked to the front of Shi Qingxue, waving in front of her eyes to make her back to consciousness. But Shi Qingxue just shook her head and said disappointingly, Its all right. It didnt look like that it was all right at all! Shi Junhe had to ask again, Where is Mo Junyang? Shi Qingxues face froze, and she was silent for a moment. Then she turned her face away and said with guilt, He, he said that he still had something to deal with and left just now. Was there anything important that could make Mo Junyang jump out of the window and leave without telling him? Not to mention that the person who was with Mo Junyang was Shi Qingxue. The more Shi Junhe thought about it, the stranger he felt. But Shi Qingxue was not in mood to stay here any more, she said, I am suddenly reminded that theres still something I havent done yet. I shall go back now. After that, she quickly ran away. Shi Junhe couldnt even stop her. Shi Qingxue hurriedly ran back to the Luotong Boudoir. She didnt stop until she returned to the room alone, but her face was dim. Thoughts floated back to the cubicle a moment ago when Mo Junyang left. Shi Qingxue pushed Mo Junyang away angrily, mad and annoyed. She glared at him resentfully, showing an aversion that she herself didnt even notice. She couldnt bear the touch like this, which reminded her of Mo Junhao in her previous life and that she used to have no regrets for falling for Mo Junhao. The hypocrisy behind made Shi Qingxue feel sick. But she suddenly noticed that Mo Junyang was also looking at her with his eyes red. His sight was different from the scorching heat before that made her afraid and let her heart beat faster. There seemed to be the eagerness when a hunter caught his prey followed for a long time and couldnt wait to eat it. Shi Qingxue was shocked, and then was a little scared. At this moment, Mo Junyangs expression changed, and his usual indifference was restored. His eyes were cold, and there was ridicule in his smile, You actually know, know that I What? Shi Qingxue frowned, she didnt understand what Mo Junyang wanted to say. Mo Junyangs smile became even more exaggerated, Shi Qingxue, you are the cruelest one! The deep voice no longer hid his thoughts, and his love was like a tide rushing into Shi Qingxues mind, making her at a loss. She stuttered and denied, No, Im not. I But Mo Junyang didnt let her continue, he just smiled bitterly, Well, you really still hate me! Shi Qingxue looked astonished for a moment, she couldnt even speak, and watched Mo Junyang turn away. When Shi Qingxue returned to the Luotong Boudoir, she was always reminded of Mo Junyangs back figure when he left. And she felt very uncomfortable in her heart. Why did Mo Junyang say those words? Hated? She never said such words. Why did Mo Junyang think that Shi Qingxue racked her brains and couldnt think of a reason, and she didnt realize that her inadvertent performance had made Mo Junyang misunderstand her. She only felt wronged and muttered with anger, Im not cruel. You are the excessive one! Obviously it was Mo Junyang who had behaved like a hoodlum. At present, it became her fault. He was totally making unfounded counter charge! Shi Qingxue was resentful and decided to ignore Mo Junyang, that bastard! One morning, when Shi Qingxue just had her breakfast, a servant from Shouan Hall came to call. Princess Royal asked everyone to go to the front hall to welcome the guest. It was so grand that even the sisters who came to the hall first were discussing who was coming. Princess Royal even needed to gather the whole family together. Isnt it a relative from Grandmas family? Shi Baochun stared curiously at the door, as if the guest would walk in from outside as long as she glanced at it. Shi Baojin chuckled and sneered, Ignorant. Grandma is Princess Royal. Her relatives are all royal people. Which one dont we know? Shi Baochun was choked by these words and became silent. But Shi Baojin still looked like that only she knew the best around the world and continued to say, In my opinion, it is definitely a poor frumpy relative coming to our house for an easier life. Grandma doesnt want to lose face and has to come to welcome that relative. When saying this, Shi Baojin glanced at Shi Qingxue from time to time. These words suddenly reminded everyone of the shameful matters that Dong Huis relatives had done before in the Shi Family. The scene was a bit embarrassing. Shi Baonings face was red with embarrassment, as if it was her who had been ashamed. But the one whom Shi Baojin wanted to insult still looked calm and unmoved. Shi Baojin hated Qingxues indifferent look so much that she took a deep breath and said sarcastically, There are always shameless people. Im afraid their skins cant even be pierced by a sword! Do you agree, Qingxue? Shi Qingxue was unwilling to talk to Shi Baojin, but she had to grab her in this. She didnt hide again and responded coldly, I dont know whether their skin is thick or not, but I believe that normal people wont be so vicious and use a sword to pierce others. Shi Baojins look was awkward, and said in anger, What do you mean? Nothing. I just want to say that we are sisters, and why do we bother arguing about other peoples matters? Shi Qingxue smiled mildly, settling this matter down. Shi Baojin failed to insult Shi Qingxue but was dissed, and her face became even worse. But Shi Qingxue had said so. If she kept holding on to this matter, it would be her being unreasonable. Even if she was reluctant, she had to shut up. The seniors happened to come in at this time. Mo Shujun walked at the front, with those madams following. But behind Zhou Ruyu followed a young and pretty woman. Shi Qingxue never met her, but Shi Baojin shouted in surprise, Aunt Ru, why are you here? The one who was called Aunt Ru was Zhou Ruyus cousin, Zhou Ruru. Zhou Ruru heard Shi Baojins call, she smiled mildly, and greeted, Baojin, long time no see. Shi Baojin turned to look at Zhou Ruyu. She remembered that her mothers relationship with this cousin was not very good. However, Zhou Ruyu smiled brilliantly, and took the initiative to hold Zhou Rurus hand and introduced her to Qingxue, Sister Ru is my cousin. She grew up with me. This time, she doesnt feel well and comes to recuperate for several days. Although Sister Ru is my cousin, she is almost at the same age as you. I hope you two will get along well. Zhou Ruru was one generation above other ladies in the Shi Family according to the seniority, but she was easygoing and docile, and she laughed a lot. Moreover, she was not pretentious. Even though the relationship between the First Masters Family and Third Masters Family was tense, Zhou Ruru still got along well with those ladies. Shi Junhe happened to come back from the court. Seeing the women talking and laughing when he entered the room, he couldnt help laughing and asked, Whats up today? How is it so busy in the house? There was no such rule in the Mo Country that women couldnt see men from other families, so Zhou Ruyu pushed Zhou Ruru forward and introduced her to Shi Junhe, and said, Brother, you might not know. My sister also grows up in a Generals family since she was young. She is fond of those military stuff. Before she comes, she keeps telling me how much she hopes to meet the leader of the Shi Army! Sister, what are you talking about? Zhou Ruru stomped her feet shyly, trying to hide behind Zhou Ruyu, but she was forced to stand at the forefront. She had to glance at Shi Junhe with her shy and timid eyes. She praised sincerely in a low voice, General Shi, you are really brilliant. My father has always praised the Shi Army led by you, and I also admire you very much. Shi Junhe often encountered all kinds of admirers. Even if Zhou Ruru was from the Zhou Family, the pure and innocent look made him unable to hate her. He could only say politely, You think too highly of me. Zhou Ruru was suddenly surprised and said excitedly, You can just call me Ru! You dont know it, but I grow up reading the military books you have endorsed. Those strategies are so great, and I have benefited a lot from them. I take it with me to read at almost any time! As she spoke, she took out a military book which had been read for many times. Opening it randomly, there were Shi Junhes notes on it, along with a few lines of smaller words, which were her own thoughts added by Zhou Ruru. It was the first time that Shi Junhe had met such an enthusiastic and serious fan, he liked Zhou Ruru a little more. He even took the initiative to say, If you like reading military books, you can just tell my subordinate to lead you to the reading room. There are more military books, and they are enough for you to kill time. Its really great! Zhou Ruru flushed with excitement without shyness at the beginning, she stayed beside Shi Junhe and talked about her thoughts after reading. At this time, everyone didnt think too much about it. They just regarded her as another female admirer of Shi Junhe. Mo Shujun avoided the crowd and called Shi Junhe to Shouan Hall and then asked, Junhe, what do you think of Ru? Shi Junhe thought that Mo Shujun wanted to arrange the marriage of a junior in the family, and he praised her accordingly, She is a smart kid. But Mo Shujun laughed and cursed, She is of the same seniority as you. How can you call her a kid? But shes almost 24 years younger than me. Isnt she just a kid? Shi Junhe smiled bitterly. He couldnt treat her as his sister. She could even be his daughter at her age at present! Mo Shujun took a serious look and scolded, The seniority counts. No matter how young she is, you should treat her according to the seniority in the family. Shi Junhe hurriedly nodded and promised, Yes, I know. I wont mistake it again. I wonder mother wants to ask whom to marry her? There were a lot of men in the Shi Family, but all those unmarried men were her grandsons. They were one generation below Zhou Ruru. With Mo Shujuns rigor, she wouldnt allow Zhou Ruru to marry her grandson. Mo Shujun looked at Shi Junhe and asked with a gentle smile, Its for you. How about it? Are you satisfied with the person I choose for you? Even though Shi Junhe had experienced a lot, he was still astonished at this time. After a while, he stuttered and asked, Mother, are you kidding? Mo Shujun was suddenly unwilling, Who is joking with you! You two younger brothers already have several concubines. I have always wanted to choose a concubine for you, but there was no appropriate person before. Zhou Ruru looks not bad, and you like her. Although the status of her family is not high, it is still enough for being a concubine. Its not suitable! Shi Junhe quickly explained, Im almost 24 years older than her. I can even be her father at this age. How can I He couldnt speak the rest of the words out. Mo Shujun didnt care about these things, Its not bad to be younger. She can give birth to kids and is easy to teach. Otherwise, that person might know nothing and still rebel against me. Chapter 58 - Compromised Shi Junhe knew that Mo Shujun was implying Dong Hui. He showed a helpless expression on his face, Mother, I already have Hui. Speaking of this, Mo Shujun looked even worse. She said angrily, How dare you to mention her? It has been so many years, but you still dont get a son. If she were in another noble family, she would be divorced and driven back home. Im being kind enough not to divorce her. Will you really keep no son for your whole life? Mother, I have a son. Chi is Shi Junhe just said a few words when he was interrupted violently by Mo Shujun, Wenren Chi. Wenren Chi. His last name even isnt Shi. Can he be your son? To speak bluntly, he is just a flunky in our family. Can he Mo Shujun vented her anger. But when she saw Shi Junhes face became angrier and angrier, she stopped talking with embarrassment. After a while, she reluctantly explained, I dont mean it. But in the final analysis, it is better for you to have a natural son! This time Shi Junhe said in an extremely tough tone, Chi is my own son! He took a deep breath, and painfully recalled the past, When his father died in order to save me, I vowed that Wenren Chi would be my own son for my whole life. Mother, you have taught us that one cannot live without conscience! Mo Shujun was choked and had nothing to say. She really wasnt reasonable in this matter. However, she was still not reconciled, so she argued, I dont mean that you cannot regard Wenren Chi as your son. But the blood in his vein doesnt belong to our Shi Family. Then what about your title? Are you going to make an outsider inherit it? Shi Junhe couldnt bear the word outsider. When he was about to refute, Mo Shujun glared at him, Junhe, Yunyang fought for this title. You cant be so selfish! Shi Junhe was choked by her words. He could be willful in anything, except for this title. He was not qualified to be willful when dealing with it. He was silent for a while, and then answered in a low voice, Mother, I know what to do. You can rest assured. The future Duke Shi will only be someone from our Shi Family. With the guarantee, Mo Shujun actually seemed released a little. Just when Shi Junhe thought that this conversation was about to come to an end, Mo Shujun said again, Although the matter of the title isnt a big deal, Junhe, you still need to have a son, your own son. I realize that Zhou Ruru can bear easily at the first glance. In addition, the Zhou Family is blessed. It is definitely not a problem to give birth to a healthy boy for you next year. Mother Shi Junhe said helplessly. Mo Shujun glared at him, and then said, There are three forms of the conduct that is not filial, of which the worst is to have no descendants. If you dont have a son, what should I say to Yunyang after I die? Shi Junhe again had nothing to say, but he was still unwilling to compromise. Mo Shujun knew her eldest son very well and smirked, If you cant make the right choice, I will go and tell Dong Hui. Dont! Shi Junhe shouted in surprise. Seeing that Mo Shujuns attitude was resolute, he had to say in a low voice, Mother, dont tell Hui. She cant stand it. Mo Shujun sneered, How cant she stand it? I dont think she dares to disagree! When others wives know that they cant give birth to a boy, which one of them wont make her husband marry a concubine to bear a descendant as early as possible? However, she isnt active at all, but she also doesnt allow you to marry a concubine. How is this rational? Shi Junhe couldnt talk back. He couldnt explain to Mo Shujun. When he married Dong Hui, he promised her that he would only marry her in his life. Mother. Shi Junhe sighed softly and said gently, This is not a trivial matter, and it is difficult to decide in a short time. Mother, please give me some time and let me think about it. Ill answer you later. Is that okay? Of course, Mo Shujun knew that this was her sons strategy of avoiding this matter, but she didnt push him any more. She only said, Anyway, Ruru is going to stay for a while in our house. You think about it! Shi Junhe responded helplessly, and sighed heavily again. At the family banquet later, Mo Shujun showed great interest in Zhou Ruru. She even arranged her to dine beside her. And on the other side of Zhou Ruru was Shi Junhe. If such an intention was still not obvious, Mo Shujuns words after the banquet would make everyone understand. Hui, it is the first time that Ruru has come to our house. You can arrange a room for her in the east garden! Everyone at present was stunned, and didnt expect that Mo Shujun would make such a decision. Zhou Ruru was a person brought by Third Masters Family. Wouldnt it be inappropriate to live in the room of First Masters Family? Of course, Dong Hui was unwilling to lead such a trouble in her family, so she said with embarrassment, Every guest room in the east garden has been used before. If I make Sister Zhou live in the room having used by others, it will be inappropriate. But Mo Shujun looked at Zhou Ruru, and asked with a smile, Ruru, will you feel wronged? No, no. Im fine with everything! Zhou Ruru quickly waved her hands to define her position, and then showed a shy smile to Dong Hui, Then I shall bother Sister Dong. Instead of regarding her as a sister-in-law, Zhou Ruru called her Sister. Dong Huis face became embarrassed. She turned to look at Shi Junhe in disbelief, but the latter could only look away with guilt. Dong Hui shivered and couldnt even speak. Shi Qingxue held Dong Huis hand under the table and smiled innocently, In this case, Aunt Ru can live in the Langyue Pavilion! Only King Ruis eldest son has lived there. The room is cleaned every day, and Aunt Ru certainly wont feel wronged. Moreover, the Langyue Pavilion is close to the Luotong Boudoir. I can spend more time getting along with Aunt Ru. Grandma, what do you think of this arrangement? The Langyue Pavilion was the best room in the east garden. Although it was far from the room of Master, Mo Shujun couldnt refuse Shi Qingxues proposal. Still, she should praise her, Sixth Lady is so thoughtful. Then arrange it like this! When everyone left, Shi Qingxue still planned to take charge of the arrangement of Zhou Ruru, but she was stopped by Shi Baoning. Shi Baoning blamed her without pausing, Qingxue, what exactly are you thinking? Havent you guessed out Zhou Rurus intention when she comes to our house this time so far? But Shi Qingxue asked indifferently, Whats wrong? Shi Baoning glared, Dont you know grandmothers plan? Do you really want to let Zhou Ruru live in the east garden? Even she knew that Zhou Ruru didnt come here to recuperate as a guest, but planned to stay here for a long time as a member of the family instead! Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Baoning in a strange way, and struggled for a long while before asking, Do you care about this? Why dont I care? Shi Baoning retorted subconsciously, and then she immediately understood why Qingxue had such a doubt. She instantly became awkward and helpless. She was stiff for a while, and sighed helplessly, Qingxue, I know that you blamed me for not having defended mother in front of grandmother. But I really didnt mean it. I just didnt have other options Shi Baoning grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and repeatedly explained this. Even though Shi Qingxue was really angry before, there was no way for her to remain indifferent at this moment. Perhaps Shi Baoning was really a filial granddaughter of Mo Shujun, but she was also connected with Dong Hui because she was her daughter. How was it possible that she really didnt care about her mothers suffering? Thinking of this, Shi Qingxue couldnt get mad any more. She took the initiative to hold Shi Baonings hand and explained, Baoning, dont worry. That woman wants to cause trouble in our First Masters Family. We wont make it easy. But grandma has already said it, and if we dont obey her words, mother will be in a passive situation. As for what it will be like after she moves in the Langyue Pavilion, isnt it under our control? Shi Baoning then understood Qingxues plan, and instantly was relieved. She smiled, You are really smart. After thinking for a while, she was also worried, The Langyue Pavilion is indeed far away from the main room, but it is where King Ruis eldest son used to live. Didnt His Highness live there days before? Now we arrange her into the room. What if His Highness comes here again? Couldnt they make King Ruis eldest son move to somewhere else for a noble girl in an aristocratic family? Shi Qingxue pouted her mouth with anger, The house of the Shi Family is not his family yard. The Mansion of King Rui is just one or two streets away from here. Does he have to live in our house? Moreover, our house is too small for him, the finicky god. Last time when Mo Junyang left Shi Junhes reading room, he didnt even return to the Langyue Pavilion, which made Shi Qingxue angry for a period of time. She simply ignored him in the end. Shi Baoning was frightened, and keenly aware that this topic was not suitable for them to continue to talk about. She hurriedly said, We dont worry about this now. Lets think about how to get rid of that woman. Even Shi Baoning, who had always been gentle, called Zhou Ruru by that woman, which showed how much Zhou Rurus intention made those of First Masters Family uncomfortable. At this time, Shi Junhe did not have time to pay attention to Zhou Rurus affairs. After talking with Mo Shujun, he thought for a whole night, and finally he could only find Wenren Chi. It didnt need to be mentioned temporarily what the two of them had talked about secretly in the reading room for two hours. The father and son went to and left the court calmly the next day anyway. As soon as Shi Junhe left the court, he walked towards the east garden. When he passed the Flower Bridge, he saw a woman in pink standing in the middle of the bridge. He took a closer look, and found that she was exactly Zhou Ruru. But Zhou Ruru didnt seem to find him. She held a thin paper umbrella in her hand and looked far, as if admiring the snow. Shi Junhe had no intention to disturb her, and was just about to change his way, but he saw Zhou Ruru put away her paper umbrella and wave her long sleeves. She actually began to dance in the snow. There were no musical instruments or songs accompanied. But Zhou Ruru seemed born to be a dancer. Her movements were soft and gorgeous, as attractive as a snow elf in winter. Shi Junhe couldnt help but stop to appreciate, but just when he was fascinated, Zhou Ruru paused a little and fell to the ground. Shi Junhe was shocked. He quickly went up to hold her up and asked with concern, Why are you so careless that you fall down? Zhou Ruru turned her head and saw Shi Junhe. First, her face flushed and said shyly, Brother Shi, why are you here? Im alright. Stared at by the timid eyes, Shi Junhe was so uncomfortable. He let go of her and took two steps backwards, politely saying, Since you are alright, then you go back to the room first. Its cold outside in winter. And it is not suitable to stay outside for long. Thanks for Brother Shis concern. Zhou Ruru repeatedly thanked him, and she even was about to bow to Shi Junhe. But she didnt stand firmly. She fell towards Shi Junhe again. Shi Junhe couldnt dodge and could only hold her into his arms. Whats wrong with you? Shi Junhe couldnt step aside, so he raised his hands and asked awkwardly. Zhou Ruru looked up and her eyes were full of tears. She said pitifully, I seem to have twisted my ankle. Could you please send me back to the Langyue Pavilion? Shi Junhe could only promise her. But when he just held her back to the Langyue Pavilion, he met Dong Hui coming out from the Luotong Boudoir, and they looked at each other. Chapter 59 - Became a Scapegoat They looked at each other and felt very embarrassed. Hui, its not like what you have seen. Dont get me wrong. Shi Junhe hurriedly explained. If Zhou Ruru werent holding him tight, he could leave her alone and explain to Dong Hui in details. But in the eyes of others, he just said something indifferently, and didnt take any actions. At this time, Zhou Ruru also smiled at Dong Hui, and took the initiative to explain, Sister Dong, dont be mad. Theres nothing between me and Brother Shi. I just accidentally twisted my ankle while dancing, and Brother Shi happened to be there. So he brought me back to the Langyue Pavilion in passing. Such an explanation made nothing but bad effects! Dong Huis eyes were bleak, and she barely showed a smile, Really? Spraining your ankle is not a trivial matter. You need to take a good rest. Zhou Ruru nodded shyly, Thank you for your concern. I will. But I still need to bother Brother Shi to hold me back to the room. Shi Junhe couldnt explain even though he wanted to. He had already taken her to the door of the Langyue Pavilion, it was impossible for him to leave her there at this moment. But there showed more anger on Dong Huis face, which made him uncomfortable. Just when he was in such a dilemma, Shi Qingxue suddenly said, Daddy, are you tired? Shi Junhe was stunned. He didnt understand the intention of Qingxues question. Then she turned to Xia Mang and said, Xia Mang, you go help and hold Aunt Ru back to the Langyue Pavilion and settle her down. After she arranged it like this, she didnt even give Zhou Ruru any chance to refuse, and smiled innocently, Daddy must be tired after holding her back for such a long way. If Aunt Ru becomes guilty because of this, it will be too bad! Zhou Ruru was so angry in her heart, but she couldnt show it. Still, she had to praise her, smiling and nodding, Qingxue is really thoughtful. Shi Qingxue smiled happily, Sure! After all, Aunt Ru is not that light! No matter under what circumstances, the weight of a woman was always the topic that couldnt be mentioned. Even though Zhou Ruru wouldnt like to offend Shi Qingxue, she couldnt help being angry at this time. But Xia Mang didnt give her time to argue. She took the person away from Shi Junhes arms right away and carried her back to the Langyue Pavilion. Witnessing this scene, Shi Junhe found it both funny and annoying. He touched Qingxues nose, You have so many tricks! Shi Qingxue hit his hand unhappily and pouted her mouth angrily, Huh! You are blaming it on me! Lets see how you are going to explain to my mother. When Zhou Ruru whined to Shi Junhe a moment ago, Dong Hui couldnt bear it and returned to the main room. Shi Junhe sighed helplessly and hurried to the main room to pacify his wife. Qingxue, would anything happen to father and mother? Shi Baoning looked with concern at the direction where Shi Junhe had left. She just had an appointment with Dong Hui to come to chat with Shi Qingxue, but she didnt expect it to be such a coincidence. They happened to meet. She didnt know what trouble would be caused. Shi Qingxue blinked and smiled treacherously, Do you want to know? Then we will know if we go and have a look. After that, Shi Qingxue instantly grabbed Shi Baoning and secretly followed up. - When Shi Junhe hurried back to the main room, he saw Dong Hui sitting alone in the bedroom angrily. She didnt make any reactions when he came in, as if he didnt exist. He was also embarrassed, but instead he teased her, Well. Who is so bold to make my beautiful wife angry? Tell me quickly. Ill go teach him a lesson! Dong Hui squinted at him, Who do you think it is? Duke Shi pretended to be solemn, coughed and said seriously, Do you servants not take a good care of her and annoy her? It was not the first time that Mammy Zheng had seen this couple argue, so she responded fluently, Master, you are wronging us. How dare we to disrespect Madam? Duke Shi clapped his hands and said firmly, That must be Qingxue being too naughty. I will teach her a lesson later! An innocent girl who was eavesdropping outside the door became a scapegoat. Dong Hui snorted angrily, Dont blame others! My baby girl is so good. She is caring and smart, and she never makes me angry. Duke Shi immediately pretended to be embarrassed and sighed, Then its so difficult! Who else can it be? Dong Hui wanted to ignore Shi Junhe. But seeing his strange look when he frowned and blinked, she laughed out, but she quickly showed her anger and stared at Shi Junhe. Shi Junhe felt frightened. This problem was serious at this time! He had to wave his hand to make the subordinates go out. He closed the door and coaxed his wife shamelessly, My love, Im wrong. Please forgive me this time! Dong Hui ignored him. When there were only two of them, Shi Junhe completely disregarded the pride of Duke Shi. So he pleased her in a low voice again, If you are really angry with me, then vent your anger on me! Dont make it harm your health, or I will be really regretful! After that, he walked to the front of Dong Hui and grabbed her hand to slap on his face. Dong Hui cared for her husband and before she slapped on his face, she took back her hand. She couldnt help but show fear and worries on her face, and said nervously, Are you mad? What if you are really hurt? Shi Junhe knew that Dong Hui couldnt bear to hurt him, and he was overjoyed in his heart. But he still said generously, If my wife is not angry any more, I will do anything! Huh! Dont pretend to be so generous. You know that I dont bear to hurt you. Dong Hui angrily snorted and immediately revealed Shi Junhes thoughts. Shi Junhe didnt feel embarrassed. Instead, he took Dong Huis hand and said sincerely, Hui, dont think too much about it. There is really nothing between me and Zhou Ruru. Today, I just happened to be there when she sprained her ankle, so I brought her back. How was it possible that Dong Hui didnt know the truth? But when a woman saw her husband holding another woman, even though she could understand, she would still feel uncomfortable, Of course I know it. If you dare to have other thoughts on her, I will castrate you! As soon as she became tough, Shi Junhe certainly promised immediately. He also sighed, I have a fierce wife at home. I dont dare not to obey her words! What? Are you tired of this fierce wife and hoping for a pretty young lady? Dong Hui raised her eyebrows. Shi Junhe quickly apologized, I dont dare. The couple were intimate in the room for a while, completely unaware that their conversation was all heard by the two girls outside. Shi Baoning blushed and was too embarrassed. She grabbed Qingxue and was about to leave, Qingxue, father and mother have reconciled with each other. Lets go back! Shi Qingxue was interested at this time, so of course she refused to leave, Dont hurry to leave. They are still talking! Its inappropriate for us to hear those words! Shi Qingxue didnt think there was anything wrong. She made a gesture to shush her and pointed inside the room, Hush, they mentioned something else. Hui, I discussed with Chi yesterday and then asked for an imperial decree from the Emperor. In the future, Chi will enter the City Guardian Army and become the Right Guardian. He will be in charge of guarding the peace and the processions in the capital city. When Shi Junhe told her this arrangement, Dong Hui immediately frowned, Chi is doing well in the Shi Army. Why should he enter the City Guardian Army? The City Guardian Army is a royal army. It gives him much better treatment than the Shi Army. Besides, this time he made a great contribution to the war in the northwest, so the Emperor also promoted his official position. He is now the Zhongwu General of the fourth grade. Shi Junhe explained the benefits brought to Wenren Chi by this change in details. But Dong Hui did not buy it, Even if he enters the royal army, so what? Can he be more comfortable than he is when our own people take care of him? Besides, havent you said that it is ruled by the guidance of the Shi Family that a son in the Shi Family should be in the Shi Army for his whole life? Shi Junhe smiled helplessly, Shi is not Chis last name anyway Dong Huis eyes suddenly became sharp, What do you mean? No, I didnt mean that. Shi Junhe also realized that he was wrong, and quickly explained, The City Guardian Army is a good place to practice. Chi is still young, and its always good for him to go out and steel himself. Its not a reason. Dong Hui sneered and pointed on Shi Junhes chest, Wenyu, we have lived together for more than 20 years. Do you think I really dont understand what you are thinking? You never regard Chi as your own son in your heart! Shi Junhe quickly denied, Of course I do. Since I took him back, I have regarded him as my own son. But the Shi Family needs an heir to the title! Dong Hui was stunned, and looked upset, Are you still blaming me for not bearing a son for you? Shi Junhe was astonished for a moment, and explained anxiously, No. Dont think too much about it. After all, the title doesnt belong to me alone. If it is inherited by an outsider, how will I explain it to my deceased father? Explain? Doesnt what we have decided before count? Dong Hui didnt accept Shi Junhes remarks at all and snorted, Do you forget our plan when father hasnt passed away years ago? We have decided at that time that when Qingxue grows up, we will marry her to Chi and then this title will be inherited by their son. Father didnt even object to this decision. What do you mean by saying these now? Shi Junhes face was stiff, and he was very embarrassed. He tried to explain, Isnt that something which is still unsure now? At this time, there was suddenly a noise at the door. Both of them in the room were startled. She Junhe yelled, Who is there? Come inside. Shi Qingxue was accidentally found, so she had to push the door and go inside the room awkwardly. She said in a low voice, Dad. Mom. Its me. Dont quarrel any more. Shi Junhe saw that their daughter had found him quarreling with Dong Hui, and he became extremely awkward. He said exasperatedly, So rude. Do you only learn to eavesdrop after being taught so much about etiquette? Shi Qingxue lowered her head while Shi Junhe criticized her. Dong Hui became unhappy and snorted, What do you scold her for? This is related to her interests. How cant she hear it? Mother, I never wish to inherit the title of my father. Shi Qingxue quickly waved her hands to clarify her standpoint. In her two lifetimes, she never dreamed of inheriting her fathers title! Shi Junhe took the opportunity to say quickly, Look! Children have their own thoughts. Now Qingxue has grown up. She has her own plans. They wont live happily if you force her to marry Chi. Chapter 60 - The More Zhou Ruru Got, the More She Wanted Dong Hui ignored Shi Junhes smart words and turned to look at Qingxue. She asked seriously, Qingxue, if I want you to marry your Brother Wenren, will you be willing? Will you be unhappy? What? Shi Qingxue was astonished. She looked at Dong Hui and then looked at Shi Junhe. Then she frowned and said, Mom. Dong Hui was untouched and asked toughly, Answer me. Will you do it? In the past, Shi Qingxue would certainly not hesitate to refuse because she didnt love Wenren Chi. But at this moment, she didnt want to make Dong Hui sad no matter what, so she had to nod, I will. Even though Dong Hui pretended to be tough on the surface, after hearing Shi Qingxues answer, she was as astonished as Shi Junhe. She never expected that Shi Qingxue, who was used to making decisions on her own, would actually agree with it. As for Wenren Chi, there was no need to ask his idea at all. Dong Hui knew clearly what her son thought. She immediately raised her head proudly and looked at Shi Junhe, as if saying, What else do you want to say? Shi Junhe was silent for a while, but then said, Even if she marries him, the wedding will still be unsure. Talking about their children will be Huh! I reckon you think that Qingxue cant have a son too. No, I dont mean it! Shi Junhe made it more and more chaotic, and finally had to give up and murmured, Even if Qingxue really gives birth to a son, his last name still wont be Shi Not to mention whether the Royal Family would agree or not, Mo Shujun wouldnt permit it. But Shi Junhe hadnt finished yet, when Dong Hui shouted excitedly, Shi Junhe. You are such a hypocrite without conscience. You spoil Qingxue in normal time, but when its really crucial, you would rather make an outsider inherit this title than giving it to our daughter as a guarantee! Shi Qingxue saw that her parents were quarreling fiercely, she felt embarrassed and sad in her heart. She quickly said, Mom, dont say this. I dont want fathers title. It will be fine if dad gives it to others. I What do you know? Shut up! Dong Hui acted extremely resolutely in this matter. She wiped the tears from her face and stared at Shi Junhe with her dim eyes, Shi Junhe, Im asking you for the last time. Do you really refuse to make your daughter inherit this title? Hui, I Of course, Shi Junhe wanted to promise her, but he had so much to concern that he couldnt even say a word at all. Dong Hui smiled sadly, I get it. She stood up and walked outwards, which terrified Shi Junhe and Shi Qingxue. He stopped her hurriedly, Whats the matter with you? Now you can disregard the interests of Qingxue and give this title to another person. Then will you give my position of First Madam of the Shi Family to another person in the future? Dong Huis words were sharp, and her look was resolute, This being the case, I might as well leave early, so that you wont be annoyed. After saying this, she shook Shi Junhes hand off and left. When they reacted and chased after her, the subordinate came to report that Dong Hui had already got into the carriage and returned to the house of the Dong Family. It was the first time that Shi Qingxue had seen Dong Hui so mad, so she indeed didnt know what to do. She looked to Shi Junhe for help, but the latter was also helpless, I also have no idea. Your mother Well, let her calm down first. What? Arent you afraid that she will never come back again? Shi Qingxues eyes widened in surprise. She couldnt believe that Shi Junhe really let Dong Hui leave like this. Shi Junhe was also helpless, I dont think it will be peaceful in our family for a while. If your mother stays here, she will feel wronged. We might as well take her back after we settle everything down well here. She thought about it in this way, and it seemed a little reasonable indeed. But What are you going to do with Zhou Ruru? Shi Junhes face froze, and he was speechless. Well, he had no idea. The father and daughter looked at each other and sighed again. Shi Qingxue suddenly was reminded of Shi Baoning and said, Maybe sister has some ideas? She ran to the door and wanted to call Shi Baoning in, but found that Shi Baoning had already left. Why did she leave? Shi Qingxue murmured, but Shi Junhes face changed, Baoning was also here just now? Yes. Whats wrong? Shi Qingxue responded in doubt, wondering what his father was fussing about. Shouldnt he still blame them for eavesdropping? She quickly explained, My sister and I were just too worried about you and mother. We really didnt mean to come to eavesdrop. But the more she said, the more embarrassed Shi Junhe looked. Finally, she had to shut her mouth up with guilt. After a while, Shi Junhe sighed helplessly, Qingxue! This time you are going to do great harm to Baoning! What? Shi Qingxue was frightened, completely unaware when she had made a great mistake again. But she hadnt done anything! She asked gloomily, What have I done? Shi Junhe opened his mouth, but didnt say anything when he met Shi Qingxues dim and anxious sight. What could he say? Could he tell Shi Qingxue that because Shi Baoning adored Wenren Chi, if she knew that they didnt intend to marry Shi Baoning to Wenren Chi, but wanted to match Shi Qingxue and him, would she not be reconciled with Qingxue any more? These words were too dark. Shi Junhe didnt want Shi Qingxue to know about them this early. Moreover, he didnt think that Shi Qingxue liked Wenren Chi at all, and in his eyes, when Shi Qingxue promised, it was more like a farce. Qingxue, dont you always like Fourth Prince? Even if His Highness has a Concubine now, there is still Mo Junyang. Shi Junhe was still unclear about the relationship between his daughter and Mo Junyang, so he didnt say the name of Mo Junyang straightforwardly. He just said, You always regard Chi as your own brother. Why did you obey your mothers words? When she was young, they did think about marrying Shi Qingxue to Wenren Chi. But when the boy grew up, the girl was still heart-whole and even only regarded him as her own brother. So Shi Junhe gradually didnt insist on this. However, he didnt expect that Shi Qingxue actually didnt hesitate to agree to marry Wenren Chi. Shi Qingxue was silent for a while, and whispered, Isnt it said in the book that we should always follow parents orders and the matchmakers words? I dont have the one whom I am determined to marry, and brother is a fantastic person. Since mother wants me to marry him, theres no reason for me not to agree. I, I dont want you and mother to worry about me any more. The obscurity and distress in the words made Shi Junhe feel sad, and he couldnt ask any other questions. He didnt know when his daughter whom he spoiled for half of his life had grown up silently. She was still mature and sincere, but was burdened with too much stress that they couldnt see, couldnt help with, or even couldnt ask about. It made him painful. Okay, lets leave this as it is for the time being! Shi Junhe patted Shi Qingxues shoulder and gave her silent comfort, You go back to rest first! It was spread quickly in the house of the Shi Family that Dong Hui was angry and returned to her familys house. Thanks to it that Shi Junhe suppressed it, even Mo Shujun didnt say anything but just thought Dong Hui went back and stayed there for a few days. However, when the hostess in the east garden left, Zhou Ruru, who was already troublesome, became more rampant. A few days later, she even ran to the masters bedroom to find Shi Junhe and said that she was going to discuss the skills in the military books. Who believed that she was going to read the military books at night? Shi Junhe asked Zhou Ruru to go to the reading room and said that it was inappropriate for an unmarried woman to come to the masters bedroom at night. But Zhou Ruru seemed not to understand his refusal and said innocently, It doesnt matter. Although its a bit far from the Langyue Pavilion, I dont regard it as a long distance. If its really too late, I believe Sister Dong wont mind me sleeping in her bed. Damn. She could even say such words, which showed how shameless Zhou Ruru was. Shi Junhe was almost speechless to this woman and said with a cold look, Now Hui is not here. You are just a young girl but stay alone with me, such an old man, it will have bad influence on your reputation. Its okay. As for my reputation, a clean hand wants no washing. I dont worry about it. Zhou Ruru smiled at ease. Shi Junhe, He didnt know how he could drive this woman away. It was true that one was unbeatable when being extremely shameless! Just when Shi Junhe was helpless to the extreme, Shi Qingxue ran into the room and shouted anxiously, Daddy, are you okay? Why am I not okay? Shi Junhe glanced at Qingxue in doubts, wondering what she was up to. Of course I was worried that you would be swallowed alive by the horny woman! Shi Qingxue muttered silently in her heart, but she didnt show it on her face. Instead, she looked at Zhou Ruru with her blinking eyes, Aunt Ru, why are you here? Zhou Ruru deliberately moved closer to Shi Junhe again, and smiled gently, Im here to discuss the thoughts after reading with Brother Shi. Qingxue, if you have nothing important, can you come next time? She said it as if she were the hostess of this family, and she even began to feel Shi Qingxue annoyed. Shi Qingxue narrowed her eyes slightly, glanced at Zhou Ruru up and down for a while, and suddenly laughed out. Damn! She had been so gentle recently that there was someone who dared to bully her. Let alone the whole Shi Family, even those royal peers didnt dare to talk to her in this tone. She didnt expect that the first experience was actually given by Zhou Ruru. Do you like the military books very much? Shi Qingxue sat between the two of them, leaned in Shi Junhes arms and raised an eyebrow, looking at Zhou Ruru with her cold eyes. Zhou Ruru was suddenly glanced at and questioned sharply by someone, and that person occupied whom she was about to make her own. So she was even unhappier, and complained to Shi Junhe, Brother Shi, look. Im talking about serious matters with you, but Qingxue She didnt say the following words, as if she was bullied by Shi Qingxue and didnt dare to speak. She also sobbed, which made herself pitiful. But Shi Junhe was completely indifferent, and offered Qingxue his wide shoulder to lean on. He said with his love for Shi Qingxue, Nothing is more important than my little baby! Besides, Qingxue is talking to you, why is it that you dont answer her but talk to me instead? This is very impolite! Zhou Ruru was so choked that she was speechless, especially at this time Qingxue raised an eyebrow towards her again, as if mocking her failure. It made her face red out of rage. It took her a long while to suppress her anger, and she answered coldly, Sorry, I didnt hear what Qingxue said just now. Could you repeat it? She deliberately pretended not to hear Shi Qingxues words, just in order to irritate her. Chapter 61 - Showed His Mind Shi Qingxue was not angry at all. She yawned in a delicate manner, and looked at Zhou Ruru casually, If you didnt hear it, then forget it. Zhou Ruru, Compared with Shi Qingxue, no one was more capable to make others mad with words. As for her noble posture, Zhou Ruru was even unable to imitate it. Shi Junhe watched aside and laughed secretly. Seeing that Zhou Ruru was so awkward that she almost became angry, he stood out to calm her down, Okay, its not early now. Miss Zhou, please go back! He didnt even call her Sister Zhou, which showed that he wanted to keep his distance with Zhou Ruru. But Zhou Ruru was unwilling! What about Qingxue? Why dont you tell her to go back? She finally blocked Shi Junhe in the bedroom, just to make something happen tonight, or to make people believe that something happened between them. In this way, he had to marry her. Shi Qingxue smiled slightly, Because I am my dads baby daughter! Of course, it is different. If you also want it, my dad will adopt you as a daughter! Then you can stay in this room as long as you want to. What do you think of it? Shi Junhes eyes lit up. Why didnt he think of this way? Anyway, Zhou Ruru could be his daughter at this age. If he really adopted her as a daughter, he could prevent others from matching them, and there wouldnt be anything ambiguous. But when Zhou Ruru heard it, she was so frightened that her face changed. She shook her head and refused, No! Shi Qingxue ridiculed and said, Why not? Dont you admire my dad so much? I am being generous to share my dads favor with you, but why do you become unwilling? Is your admiration mentioned before fake? Of course not! Zhou Ruru was afraid to make Shi Junhe misunderstand her, so she denied. But she was pushed by Shi Qingxue into such a dilemma, where she could neither deny nor admit. After thinking for a long time, she barely found a reason, I am a cousin of Sister Ruyu, so I am of the same generation with Brother Shi. It will be inappropriate to regard me as an adopted daughter. Shi Qingxue smiled slightly and said, You are not our relative, so the seniority is not strictly defined. I call you Aunt Ru today, but its also okay to call you Sister Ru tomorrow. We are not related by blood, anyway. There wont be a problem if my dad regards you as an adopted daughter. Such things also happened in the last dynasty. In this way, no matter how late you stay here, no one will gossip. Zhou Rurus last reason was refuted, so she couldnt say a word at all. Of course, Shi Qingxue didnt really want Shi Junhe to adopt Zhou Ruru. Seeing that Zhou Ruru was choked and speechless, after a long while, she asked calmly, Now, does Aunt Ru insist on staying here? Zhou Rurus face was twisted like a withered chrysanthemum, and she said reluctantly, Its getting late. I shall go back first! Seeing Zhou Ruru walk away destructively, the father and daughter finally couldnt help laughing out. Shi Junhe touched the tip of Qingxues nose with love and smiled, You are really capable. You actually made her speechless with just a few words. Shi Qingxue raised her head proudly and snorted, Theres no need to mention. Who the hell is she? I dont want to mind her in normal days, but she actually has become more and more rampant. She will think that I am easy to bully if I dont teach her a lesson! However, this time it was just a small victory for Shi Qingxue, which would make Zhou Ruru restrain herself for the time being. But she still didnt have any means to drive Zhou Ruru away. Thinking of this, Shi Qingxue felt bothered. Dong Hui was not in the house of the Shi Family, and Shi Baoning was unwilling to come out recently. There was no one whom she could talk with. She was so bored that she had to go for a walk with Xia Mang and Dong Shuang to relax. In order not to meet the acquaintances, she specially chose the Yinfeng Lake, which was broad and uncrowded, to admire the snowy scenery. Unexpectedly, when they had just arrived at the small pavilion in the middle of the lake, they met another group of people coming from the opposite side. Dong Shuang had a good sight and she recognized the coming people at once. She shouted loudly, Sixth Lady, they are Crown Prince and King Ruis eldest son. She shouted so aloud as if she were afraid that the people on the opposite side couldnt hear it. It was too late for Qingxue to hide away, so she had to greet them unwillingly. Your Highness. Your Excellency. After she greeted them politely, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but look at Mo Junyang secretly. They hadnt met each other for a few days. This man looked even more cruel and ruthless, making people frightened. And he turned to look at the lake with his cold eyes, as if he hadnt seen Shi Qingxue or heard her greeting. He was silent like a statue. Mo Junyu wanted to be a good man by giving them two some private space. But after a while, Mo Junyang still didnt reply. So he could only take the initiative to greet her, Its freezing and cold. Sister Xue, why dont you wear more clothes when you come out to admire the snowy view? It would be bad, if you were sick. Shi Qingxue finally had the courage to greet Mo Junyang, but she didnt expect to be treated like this. She was also annoyed, so she simply ignored Mo Junyang. And she chatted with Mo Junyu, Thank Your Highness for caring about me. I dont feel cold. Its a rare chance for us to meet. Why dont we go to the pavilion and sit together for a while and drink a cup of hot wine to drive off the cold. What do you think? The Crown Prince invited her, and Shi Qingxue certainly couldnt refuse. But at this time, Mo Junyang suddenly said, I still have business to deal with. I cant stay for a long time. He actually wasnt willing to sit with Shi Qingxue for a while. Shi Qingxues eyes dimmed, and all her anger turned into disappointment. She didnt even know why Mo Junyang suddenly became cold to her. But such indifference was hard for her to get used to. Mo Junyu raised his eyebrows and looked at Shi Qingxue, then turned his head to see Mo Junyang. There was inquiry in his eyes, I tried hard and gained such a benefit for you. Were you sure that you didnt want it? Mo Junyang was still indifferent. Mo Junyu suddenly smiled slyly, and said deliberately, Then its your loss to give up such an appetite. Sister Xue, lets drink and leave him alone! He did not believe that Mo Junyang could allow him to accompany Shi Qingxue to drink wine and do nothing! As he had expected, Mo Junyang frowned slightly, obviously unhappy. Mo Junyu was proud of himself for finally taking advantage of his weakness, and wanted to take this chance to tease Mo Junyang more, he heard the other party say coldly, Hasnt Your Highness promised to meet Master Leng in the Tongxiang Pavilion? You are already late now. Is Your Highness planning to break the appointment? After he said this, he also added a sigh, as if lamenting for the good character that the Crown Prince was losing. Mo Junyu was choked. Although he was completely sure that the person who had made an appointment with Leng Yuan wasnt him, in Mo Junyangs cold sight, he didnt dare to refute! He had to take the blame for being late. He smirked, Thats really unlucky. Im afraid I cant accompany Sister Xue to enjoy the snow. Shi Qingxue hoped that them could leave as soon as possible, so she quickly said, It doesnt matter. If Your Highness has something important to do, please deal with it first! Mo Junyu didnt even know what to say to these two people, so he had to hit Mo Junyangs shoulder as a silent inquiry, Since you didnt want to stay here, should we go? Mo Junyang glanced at Zhou Ji beside Mo Junyu and suddenly said, Since you dont appreciate the snow any more, why do you still take these hip flasks? What? Mo Junyu looked at Mo Junyangs impatient face, then he glanced at Shi Qingxues red face because of the coldness. Suddenly he understood but then became very sad. So not only did Mo Junyang deprive him of the opportunity to enjoy the snow, but he also made him contribute his good wine to Shi Qingxue in order to warm her body. Was there any justice? Mo Junyu roared in his heart, but he had to obediently offer his good wine. He was also afraid that the wine was too cold for Shi Qingxue to drink, so he asked Zhou Ji to send it to her after heating it up. Shi Qingxue was very grateful. Before leaving, she couldnt help but glance at Mo Junyang secretly, and her feelings were complicated. She did understand how kind Mo Junyang was to her, and she also did appreciate him for it. But the pain in her previous life made her unable to chase love as boldly as before. There was one point made it harder for her to be relieved. Mo Junyang was still Mo Junyang, but wasnt the one whom she used to know. Every time Mo Junyang treated her well, she wished to do something in return, but at the same time, she also felt upset, because the real Mo Junyang would never receive or care about her intention to compensate him. Fine! The things in the family are already annoying enough. If he wants to stay away from me, it will be fine! Even though Shi Qingxue hadnt figured out why Mo Junyang suddenly alienated her but still cared for her as usual, she made a decision in her heart, which was to keep her distance with Mo Junyang. After leaving the Yinfeng Lake, Mo Junyang didnt go to meet Leng Yuan. Instead, he chose a high platform which was away from the pavilion in the middle of the lake but made him be able to see the person in the pavilion clearly. He looked at the distance, skilled at peeking. Mo Junyu was almost speechless behind him, Well! Since Duke Shi returned to the capital city, you always looked cold, as if someone had owed you a great amount of money. Your expression is even the same when you meet Shi Qingxue. Whats wrong with you? Nothing. He answered coldly and wanted to let this matter go. Mo Junyu knew that if his study accompany really didnt want to say it, then he wouldnt be able to get any answers no matter how hard he tried. So he could only talk about something that the other party must be concerned about, A few days ago, the spy reported the news that your baby was getting extremely annoyed these days! Mo Junyang looked forward without blinking, as if he didnt hear what Mo Junyu had said. Mo Junyu had no choice but to expose more, Princess Royal is trying to add a concubine to First Masters Family. The lady from the Zhou Family has made First Masters Family in the Shi Family messy. It is said that Duke Shi doesnt dare to go back to his own reading room recently, and First Madam is so angry that she has returned to her parents home. Shi Qingxue is so pitiful that she is just fifteen years old but is about to become a poor baby who is lack of parents love! Mo Junyang finally reluctantly looked at Mo Junyu, but he looked indifferent, Are you so talkative? Mo Junyu was choked, and felt that this was going to be horrible. Mo Junyang was still indifferent even when he heard that Shi Qingxue was suffering. There must be something wrong! Whats wrong with you exactly? Mo Junyus voice was a little anxious, and his eyes also showed his concerns. Mo Junyang was silent for a while, and asked in a low voice, If If there is a person, who is your enemy and almost make you die, what will you think when that person suddenly changes her attitude and becomes nice to you after you try hard and escape from death? Chapter 62 - Good at Betraying a Teammate Mo Junyu frowned and replied without hesitation, No one will offer help without wanting anything. It must be evil. Then what if that person says she likes you? I dont believe it! Mo Junyu replied even more decisively. He thought about it again, but failed to understand which couple loving and hurting each other at the same time Mo Junyang was implying in his words. Couldnt they be Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue? He thought about it carefully again, and then denied the correct answer very firmly. Seeing Mo Junyangs face become gloomier because of his words, he couldnt help but ask again, Arent you always fond of Shi Qingxue? Why is there an enemy now? Mo Junyang didnt answer him again but asked, If that enemy keeps chasing and pursuing, will there be any chance? Of course not! Mo Junyu answered without hesitation, he looked at Mo Junyang in surprise, as if he were wondering why he had such a strange thought. Mo Junyu pointed to himself, making a metaphor, Take myself as an example. Those who have harmed me before, I will definitely retaliate back for no reason, let alone the enemy related to life and death. I am not born to be addicted to being abused, how can I be fond of my enemy? Seeing Mo Junyangs eccentric face, he thought he encountered an example which was totally opposite to what he had said, so Mo Junyu said with empathetic, Even if he really accepts his enemy and gets together with her, it should be a lie. He is going to defeat and kill her when she is not alert. Since she is an enemy, the relationship must have reached the point where only one of you can survive. It cant be saved! Mo Junyangs look suddenly changed, and his gaze instantly turned fierce, as if he were to swallow him alive. Mo Junyu was startled. He stuttered and asked, What, whats the matter with you? Nothing. Mo Junyang took back his malice in a moment, and just replied in a low voice, then he turned around, which showed he was unwilling to talk again. But Mo Junyu couldnt be reconciled. He finally made Mo Junyang answer his question, who usually ignored him, so he hurriedly asked, Are you really fond of an enemy and planning to have a pathetic love affair which makes you love and hurt each other? Mo Junyang began to ignore him again. The more Mo Junyang ignored him, the more motivated Mo Junyu was. He even made up a story that Mo Junyang met the beauty he had framed before, which he absolutely could do with Mo Junyangs evil character, and then they fell in love with each other and would belong to nobody else but each other, so that even Shi Qingxue wasnt a priority Something like this. So the Crown Prince, with the hope for a greater surprise in this matter, said leisurely, Since you dont have the mood to mind Shi Qingxues business, I will tell the subordinates not to pay attention to the Shi Family any more. And we dont take care of the matter this time. Its not our force, anyway. Even if they really cause great trouble and it is no longer peaceful in this family, it wont be of our business. Mo Junyang immediately looked cold and snorted, Arent you calling her Sister Xue? And you have also said that she can turn to you no matter what difficulties she encounters. Do you turn against her ruthlessly now? Uh the Crown Prince became awkward when he heard those words. After he was stiff for a long while, he reluctantly argued, At that time, I made that promise because of you. After all, Duke Shi has always been a pure and honest official. There is no chance to make him our force. Then how is it possible for me to be nice to his family for no reason. Not only will I gain any benefits, but I may be suspected by the one above us! The more he said, the more confident Mo Junyu was. And he simply said at last, If you really dont want to mind this business, we will just stand by and watch it. Anyway, muddy water made it easy to get the fish! Mo Junyang pursed his lips tightly, his expression was dignified. He was totally not as indifferent and ruthless as he used to be. The two were in a stalemate for a long while. Then Mo Junyang gave up and looked away. He said with a little helplessness in his tone, I have my own arrangements for this matter. You dont need to take care of it! After that, Mo Junyang didnt give Mo Junyu the opportunity to keep on asking and went to meet Leng Yuan straightforwardly. Mo Junyu raised his eyebrows in surprise, thinking that he had heard it wrong C Mo Junyang really didnt plan to mind Shi Qingxues life any more? So did the sigh before mean that he was helpless or that he completely gave up? Before he made it clear whether it was good or not for Mo Junyang to give up, Mo Junyangs next move made him understand that he was completely wrong. How was it possible that Mo Junyang gave up? He was totally enchanted! Because the next day, Mo Junyang, as King Ruis eldest son, found Zhou Youcheng, Zhou Rurus father, who was an official of the ninth grade in the capital city. No one knew what they had talked. But two days later, Zhou Youcheng came to the house of the Shi Family in person and tied Zhou Ruru up and brought her back home no matter whether she was willing or not, she was really tied up with a rope! There was no other way. Zhou Ruru was so crazy about being the wife of Duke Shi, so she refused to leave. But Zhou Youcheng even disregarded Mo Shujuns detainment and took Zhou Ruru away toughly, like fleeing from famine. Within three days, he tied Zhou Ruru up and sent her into a wedding sedan. He married her to a small city on the border, which was thousands of kilometers away from the capital city. It seemed that he didnt want to see his daughter come back in his life. Such a quick and ruthless behavior made many people who were waiting to laugh at the Shi Family astonished. They all thought that this world was changing too fast and people could by no means understand it. Even those in the Shi Family didnt understand what had happened. Shi Junhe grabbed Shi Qingxue and asked, Did you do anything to drive Zhou Ruru away? Shi Qingxue shook her head in confusion, No, I didnt do anything. Shi Junhe murmured in doubt, Why did Zhou Youcheng bow to us specially before he left? What? Shi Qingxue was shocked and suddenly thought of a possible reason. But she immediately denied it. Mo Junyang had already shown an attitude of keeping a distance from her. Maybe he didnt even know what had happened to the Shi Family these days. How could he help her? Shi Qingxue suppressed the anxiety in her heart and showed a relaxed smile to Shi Junhe, Daddy, after all, it is good for us that Zhou Ruru is gone. Dont think about it any more. Lets think how to get mother back! It is Lunar New Years Eve soon and we need to gather together! Shi Junhes face was suddenly helpless, and he ran back with embarrassment to find a solution. In fact, it was not hard to make Dong Hui return to the house of the Shi Family, especially when Zhou Ruru had left and it had been peacefully in the Shi Family. When Shi Junhe brought sons and daughters to her home and begged her, she was immediately tenderhearted and came back to the house of the Shi Family. - The Lunar New Years Eve at the end of the 41st year of the Mo Dynasty was a very good day. Mo Junhao also brought back a pretty exciting news that the riot caused by the snow disaster, which used to trouble the capital city as well as the surrounding areas every winter, was solved easily by him. The snow this year was still very heavy, but Mo Junhao brought people to prepare for the preventive work around the capital city as early as possible, in order to minimize the influence of the snow disaster. He also led the victims to make progress together. Besides, the food for the victims to survive the disaster offered by the government was sufficient this time. Therefore, the riot which should be barely suppressed by the army before was resolved by Mo Junhao. When the Emperor, Mo Xiangbin, was informed of this news, he was overjoyed. Not only did he reward Mo Junhao a lot, but he also made an order that he would go to the Palace in the Wen City in person to recuperate, accompanied by several favored princes and King Ruis eldest son, apart from Mo Junhao. At the same time, Empress Dowager made an imperial decree that she would go to the Peace Temple in the Wen City to burn incense and worship Buddha, accompanied by Qin Yanyan, the future Fourth Princess, Zhao Zhuer, the only daughter of the Minister of the Ministry of Revenue Zhao Ming, Leng Jing, the daughter of the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of War Leng Yuan, Chen Xiujiao, the second daughter of the Imperial Censor, and Duke Shis two daughters. Shi Qingxue heard this decree at the palace banquet, she was not surprised that she should accompany them to go. But seeing Mo Junhaos complacent face at the banquet, she felt much annoyed. Anyone who had a brain could find that Mo Xiangbins arrangement was just to exalt Mo Junhaos Family. She was mad while thinking of this. It had been more than half a year since her rebirth. Although it had changed a lot, she still hadnt been able to threaten the status of Mo Junhao, her mortal enemy. In this way, when would she really have her revenge? Sister Xue, why are you outside and standing in cold wind alone? Mo Junyus gentle voice suddenly sounded behind Shi Qingxue, startling her. Shi Qingxue turned to look at him, Mo Junyu was also glancing at her with an inquiry. The deep meaning in his eyes made her alert, What can I do for you, Your Highness? Mo Junyu smiled with kindness and didnt answer her. Instead, he came up with another topic, King Ruis eldest son has been unhappy these days. He doesnt even enter the palace often. I dont know what he is up to in the house of King Rui, so Im quite worried. I wonder whether you know something or not. Shi Qingxue was shocked in her heart, and a little panic could be found on her small face. But she immediately pretended to be calm and said, Im afraid Your Highness asks a wrong person. I am not familiar with His Excellency, and we havent met each other for a long time. So I have no idea. Unfamiliar? Mo Junyus smile disappeared, and he frowned. Suddenly he felt that Mo Junyangs hard work had been wasted, because it was just in exchange of a judgement that they were unfamiliar. When he spoke again, his tone became a bit colder, It seemed that he was being officious to find Zhou Youcheng specially for someone a few days before. Well, no wonder he has been upset recently. He helps an ungrateful soul. Who wont be disappointed? Shi Qingxue did understand that Mo Junyu was satirizing that she was ungrateful, but she cared more about another matter, You said that Mo Junyang had found Zhou Youcheng? What did he do? Mo Junyu raised an eyebrow and sneered, What did he do? You really dont know? Shi Qingxue was speechless. Yeah, how did she not know that Mo Junyang was a completely ruthless person no matter in her previous life or in this life. If it were not because of her, why would he have minded such matters that got himself no benefits at all? But wasnt he unwilling to see her? Why did he do this kind of thing? When Shi Qingxue expressed her doubts, the sarcasm in Mo Junyus eyes turned into surprise, and then he said firmly, No way! Even if my gender were changed, it should be impossible for him to be unwilling to see you. Shi Qingxue was amused by Mo Junyus silly words. She imagined the Crown Prince as a girl secretly in her heart and she couldnt help laughing out again. Her disappointment on account of having been ignored by Mo Junyang also vanished a little. She only said in doubts, You also saw it at the Yinfeng Lake that day. He wouldnt even like to see me. This Mo Junyu was also confused by Mo Junyangs attitude. And the conversation even made him more puzzled. Later, he investigated for a long time but didnt find out who the so-called enemy of Mo Junyang was. When he looked at Shi Qingxue again, he suddenly asked, Do you know whether Junyang has a mortal enemy related to life and death? Chapter 63 - Exposed Shi Qingxue was frightened in her heart and seemed to have captured a message, but she still asked calmly, What do you mean? Mo Junyu had forgotten that he grew up with Mo Junyang since childhood, and he must know better about Mo Junyang than Shi Qingxue. At this time, he was in a hurry to find out the answer, so he simply repeated Mo Junyangs words that day. At the end, his voice became lower and lower, because he saw Qingxues look became stranger and stranger when she heard his words, as if she were struck by the lightning, making him wonder whether he had said inappropriate words. Qingxue, did I say anything wrong? Mo Junyu didnt know at this time that he accidentally exposed Mo Junyangs biggest secret completely. He still thought that Shi Qingxue was concerned about Mo Junyangs attitude towards that enemy. He hurriedly comforted her, Dont think too much about it. Mo Junyang cant have any feelings for that enemy. Arent you aware who he really likes? Werent you aware who he really liked? This sentence pulled Shi Qingxue out of her complex consciousness. First, she was frightened by the news that Mo Junyang was the one with the memory of the previous life, and then she was moved by Mo Junyus words. Yes! How did she not know to whom Mo Junyangs heart belonged? But she always thought that it was just his temporal fascination or an obstinate stubbornness when he couldnt get her. Whatever it was, she didnt want to touch it. But at present, she suddenly learned that Mo Junyang was just like her, she didnt know how to sort out her messy mind but could only run away in a hurry. Fortunately, the two groups of people accompanied the Emperor and Empress Dowager settled in different places in Wen City. If she avoided him on purpose, Shi Qingxue couldnt meet Mo Junyang. This made Shi Qingxue both relieved and somewhat disappointed. Looking back the experiences with the premise that Mo Junyang was also reborn, those questions that were often ignored by her suddenly have the answers. For example, why did Mo Junyu, who had died at a young age, survived, and he even rescued her at the birthday banquet of Mo Shujun? Why did the Shi Army get precious help and win the war against the Liang Country when it was supposed to lose it? Why did Mo Junyang, who was supposed to be an ashamed hostage, become King Ruis eldest son? Mo Junyang was originally a man of tactics, and at this moment, it was like that he was helped by God. Couldnt he gain a great success? And Shi Qingxue seriously doubted that she had been exposed to Mo Junyang early. Well, Mo Junyang, you are deliberately misleading me! Shi Qingxue remembered at this time why she mistakenly thought that Mo Junyu was the one reborn. She was so angry that she gritted her teeth. And she couldnt wait to confront Mo Junyang and ask for the truth. But thinking that she really needed to meet Mo Junyang, she was also afraid. She had not figured out how to deal with Mo Junyangs feelings for her. If he were just Mo Junyang in this life, then it would be okay if he liked her. All her guilt and pity were for Mo Junyang in her previous life. She wouldnt respond to it, even if she really had some different feelings. She wouldnt like to get in touch with the annoying love in her whole life. However, once she thought that Mo Junyang also had memories in her previous life, her heart was itchy and hot as if soaked in hot oil. What should she do? When Shi Qingxue was bothered, Qin Yanyan came up shamelessly, and said coldly to Chen Xiujiao beside her, Well! Someone is really great. She dares to look unhappy when accompanying Empress Dowager to go out, as if she were afraid that others dont know that she is upset. Shi Qingxue was accused of such a great guilt by others for no reason, and was still confused, when Qin Yanyan regarded her silence as confession, and snorted, I dont know how long she can still be rampage. After all, flowers should always wither. Every dog has its day. Someone should be really cautious. Yanyan, your words are too excessive! Everyone is invited by Empress Dowager. Why are you saying these words to cause misunderstanding? The person speaking was Leng Jing. Because Leng Yuan was recently favored, the Leng Family was also exalted. Leng Jing became a new favored lady in front of Ling Ruiyin. Qin Yanyan was refuted by someone, and she looked even more embarrassed. She glared at Leng Jing angrily, while the latter looked at her calmly, and then walked to the front of Shi Qingxue, smiling, I am Leng Jing from the Leng Family. I didnt get any chance to introduce myself before. And I hope Sixth Lady doesnt mind. Shi Qingxue was rescued by her, so she surely wouldnt refuse Leng Jings kindness, How can it be? Sister Jing is one year older than me. It should be me to take the initiative to greet Sister Jing. Shi Qingxue had this kind of ability. When she tried to annoy others, she could make others angry to death with her words. But when she put down her pride to build good relationship with people, she could also make them comfortable with words. Leng Jing used to have some preference for Shi Qingxue. At this moment, when seeing Shi Qingxue, she was not arrogant as she was said to be. So Leng Jing liked Shi Qingxue even more. The two ladies who had just met each other joined together as companies soon. Qin Yanyan failed to provoke her and felt resentful. Seeing this, Chen Xiujiao said, Sister Qin, why are you so mad at her? You are now at the position which she dreams of. Of course, she doesnt dare to argue with you! Of course, I know she cant be compared with me. But I just cant stand her arrogant face, as if she is looking at people with her nose, which is hateful. I have to teach her a lesson! Qin Yanyan looked angry, but she couldnt hide her jealousy in her eyes. Chen Xiujiao immediately understood what Qin Yanyan cared about and encouraged her, In this case, why dont you compete with her in front of Empress Dowager and see who is the real chosen lady? Isnt this a good way to teach her a lesson? Qin Yanyan was overjoyed, just wanted to nod but asked with embarrassment, Its indeed a good way. But what should we compete? Chen Xiujiao thought about it for a moment and replied, Last time, at the Qiqiao Festival banquet, she obviously was not good at the four arts, but she avoided to be ashamed in the name of supervision. Sister, why dont you compete her in the aspect of painting skills? Then ask Empress Dowager to judge. Everyone can understand her sinister intentions. Huh! This is a good way! I will tell Empress Dowager now. I am so favored by her and she will definitely agree! Qin Yanyan couldnt wait to find Ling Ruiyin. But Shi Baoning, who had been following them, suddenly stood in front of them and said seriously, No, you cant compete with her in painting. This is unfair. Qin Yanyan snorted coldly, and said disdainfully, I think you are just afraid that Shi Qingxue will lose and be ashamed, right? Shi Baoning denied, Of course not, Im saying it for your good. If you compete with her in painting, you will definitely lose. I dont believe you! Qin Yanyan snorted. But Chen Xiujiao suddenly asked at this time, How do you know that we will lose to Shi Qingxue? Dont forget that we were all on the list at the Qiqiao Festival banquet! Shi Baoning looked at Chen Xiujiao with a seeming smile, On the list? Were you? The meaningful question suddenly made Chen Xiujiao blushed, but she still insisted, What do you mean? Even though Im not capable, Yanyan is the third place appointed by Empress Dowager. Isnt she a thousand times better than your sister who doesnt even dare to join in the contest? Shi Baonings eyes dimmed. Thinking of what Shi Qingxue had done for her at the palace banquet, she hesitated when she was about to blurt out her words. Did she really have to do it? Zhao Zhuer aside saw Shi Baonings hesitation and bewilderment, but she didnt know the reason. So she only secretly grabbed Baonings sleeve and asked in a low voice, Whats wrong with you? Im fine. Shi Baoning shook her head, as if he had made a decision. She took a deep breath and stopped the two people who had turned away, Missing You was painted by Shi Qingxue. What? The three women at present were so shocked that their chins were about to fall to the ground. Not only were they surprised that Missing You picked by Ling Ruiyin was painted by Shi Qingxue, but they felt it harder to understand that Shi Baoning actually told the truth. How could this benefit her? Qin Yanyan stared at her, Its impossible. You must be lying to me. Shi Baoning didnt mean to explain, she just glanced at Chen Xiujiao coldly and said meaningfully, Believe it or not. I have already given you advice, anyway. If you still want to lose face in front of Empress Dowager, dont blame me for not reminding you. After that, she grabbed Zhao Zhuer and walked away. Zhao Zhuer was still confused for a long while, Baoning, I remember that Qingxue is your own sister. Shi Baonings expression remained unchanged, So what? Why did you say those to them? Do you wish Qingxue to lose? Zhao Zhuer was also from an aristocratic family, knowing the conflicts in the house well, but those were all with the peers given birth by different mothers. The sisters given birth by the same mother would fight against outsiders together. She couldnt figure out why Shi Baoning did this thing which was detrimental to herself. Could it be I know! Zhao Zhuers eyes lit up and looked at Shi Baoning with joy. Shi Baoning was shocked, but she pretended to be calm and asked, What do you know? Zhao Zhuer smiled proudly, You must be goading them into actions. With Qin Yanyans temperament that cant stand being provoked at all, the better you are being for them, the more she doesnt understand your goodwill. She will insist on competing with her in the aspect of painting. Then Qingxue will certainly win at that time! With such a speculation, Zhao Zhuer was very satisfied with her wisdom. Shi Baoning was also relieved secretly. She smiled slightly, neither admitting nor denying. However, what Zhao Zhuer didnt expect was that the next day, Qin Yanyan didnt insist on competing with Shi Qingxue in painting in front of Ling Ruiyin, but asked to competed Cuju, the ancient football, instead. Did Shi Baoning overreach herself? When Zhao Zhuer turned her head to look at Shi Baoning, the latter really frowned and looked very dissatisfied. At this time, Shi Qingxue said, I dont compete with you. Probably only Shi Qingxue in this world dared to refuse the contest before Empress Dowager spoke. Of course, she was the only person in this world who had such qualification to be that arrogant. Qin Yanyan saw Ling Ruiyins indulgent treatment towards Shi Qingxue, as if she could do anything she wanted. She was even more jealous in her heart, and her voice was sharp and harsh, Why? I think you must be afraid of losing to me. Well, you are even a daughter of General Shi. You are just a coward. Shame on you! Shi Qingxue didnt want to confront Qin Yanyan, but the other party dared to talk about her fathers reputation, which she couldnt bear at all. She squinted at Qin Yanyan, proudly sneering, You still need me to explain such a simple thing to you. I am really worried about your intelligence. Whats wrong with Cuju? Dont talk nonsense! Qin Yanyan was so angry that she felt that her head was about to explode, and she cursed unkindly. Chapter 64 - Chose a Contest Shi Qingxue glanced at Qin Yanyan, explaining slowly with an almost casual tone. It is rare that Empress Dowager finally comes to the Peace Temple to recuperate. Of course, Her Majesty wants to rest in such a quiet environment in this temple. At this time, you want to play Cuju, such a troublesome and energy-intensive game. Doesnt it give Her Majesty no time to rest when Her Majesty is on trip? Besides, Cuju cant be played by only a few people. You take this game as a competition. Do you want to find the monks to play with you as well? There were no excessive words in her sarcasm and irony, but she made Qin Yanyan more and more embarrassed and blame herself for not having chosen a better contest. Sure enough, Ling Ruiyin also nodded, agreeing, Yanyan, it is good for you to entertain everyone with a contest. But the temple is a quiet place, and Cuju may disturb the monks cultivation. In this case, what about the archery? This wont disturb others, but also allow them to show their skills and compete with each other. Shi Baoning said at the right time. Her suggestion made Ling Ruiyin surprised. She laughed, Okay! Sure enough, Baoning is so thoughtful. When I was young, I went on the battlefield with the Late Emperor. My archery skills were even taught by the Late Emperor in person! Speaking of her beloved husband, although Ling Ruiyin was almost 70 years old, there was an affectionate look on her face like a young girl. Since Empress Dowager said so, Qin Yanyan had no other way no matter how unwilling she was. Moreover, the Qin Family was also an aristocratic family which had the tradition to learn martial arts, and she was incomparable in the aspect of riding and archery among those peers in her family, so she believed that she must be much better than Shi Qingxue. Thinking this way, Qin Yanyan gave a provocative look at Shi Qingxue, but she saw Shi Qingxue looking at Shi Baoning solemnly. She didnt seem to be confident at all. Could it be that Shi Qingxue was not good at archery? Qin Yanyan was overjoyed and showed a stronger desire to show herself. She quickly called her subordinates to prepare the target for archery, as if she were afraid that Shi Qingxue would escape. On the other side, Shi Qingxue was standing in front of Shi Baoning. Ignoring Zhao Zhuers surprise, she asked, Baoning, why do you do this? Shi Baoning seemed to be unable to understand Shi Qingxues question and smiled innocently, Whats the matter? You have been taught by grandfather and father since childhood and you are best at archery. I pick the contest you are skilled at, but why are you blaming me for it? Shi Qingxue was speechless, but Dong Shuang couldnt bear it and said angrily, First Lady, you clearly know that when Sixth Lady embroidered with you yesterday, her fourth finger of right hand was accidentally scratched by you while helping you to divide your threads. Now its hard for her to bend it. How is she able to shoot arrows? Shi Baoning glanced at Dong Shuang with a cold face, criticized her angrily, When your masters are speaking, how dare you a servant to interrupt? Dont think that you can be lawless when Qingxue spoils you! You need to know that your contract is still in the Shi Family and you are a servant in the Shi Family! Dong Shuang just blurted out her thought without thinking about it. Why are you so mad? Shi Qingxue said calmly and pulled Dong Shuang behind her. Such an obvious move to protect her made Shi Baonings eyes darkened, but soon she returned normal and smiled tenderly, We are a family, and of course I wont be mad at you. Im just worried that this servant will cause you trouble in the future! Shi Qingxue stared straight at Shi Baoning, as if she wanted to reveal her real face under her calm expression. But she failed, so she could only squeeze a smile, So you make us compete the archery for my good? Of course. Im your sister. No matter what I do, it must be for your good. I think with your capability, the small wound on your hand definitely wont affect your performance. In this way, Shi Baoning also put on a posture showing that she could give her anything, It doesnt matter if you are really worried. I wont participate in this competition, and I will always be by your side to help you in return since youve done the same before. In this way, she seemed to be a good sister, who cared for her sister wholeheartedly and hoped that her sister would win the game. Shi Qingxue didnt even have a reluctant smile. She looked at Shi Baoning meaningfully and turned away. The two sisters separated unhappily, but Qin Yanyan was in high spirit and even took the initiative to be the first one to perform. Ling Ruiyin had always liked the active and lively children. Even though she did not have a good impression of Qin Yanyan before, she nodded in satisfaction at this time. Qin Yanyan shot ten arrows. Seven arrows hit the yellow bullseye area. Two arrows were outside the center. Only one arrow at the beginning missed the target because she didnt control it well. Great! You are indeed the baby daughter of the Prime Minister Qin. Your archery skills can only be developed in the generals family! Ling Ruiyin saw this and her eyes were shining. She was a bit more satisfied with Qin Yanyan. The one who shot next was Leng Jing. She was also born in a generals family, and her archery skills were also very impressive. Six arrows hit the center area, while the other four were a bit away from the center area, but they were all on the target. Compared with Qin Yanyan, she was just a little worse. Then came Chen Xiujiao and Zhao Zhuer. Although they were both taught to shoot arrows by families, they rarely worked hard on it, so they were a bit worse in accuracy. Half of the ten arrows missed the target, while others missed the center area and hit the periphery. Ling Ruiyin also praised them with a few words and asked Mammy Chang to reward them. Qin Yanyan raised her eyebrow to look at Shi Qingxue and said with intention to tease her, Sixth Lady, its your turn to shoot now. Why do you still not take the arrows yet? Facing the expecting or mocking eyes of everyone, Shi Qingxue could only take the bow and arrows handed over by a servant. But as soon as she tried to draw the bow, her finger was hurt so much that she frowned. Leng Jing was keen-eyed, and she saw Shi Qingxues injured hand at once. She quickly grabbed it to check it out, and found that the place where her fourth finger bent had begun to bleed, Qingxue, why dont you say it when your hand is injured? Leng Jing was a short fuse. When she saw Qingxues hand hurt so badly, she immediately reported to Ling Ruiyin, Your Majesty, Qingxue accidentally hurt her hand. If she shoots, she wont be able to perform at her best. Please forgive her. What? Qingxues hand was hurt? Ling Ruiyin looked at their direction worriedly, but because they were a little far away, she didnt know about the injury. But Qin Yanyan said coldly, Why didnt she mention that she was injured when we proposed to compete the archery just now? How is she unable to hold the arrow when its her turn to perform now? Can things be so coincidental in this world? The wound is here. If you dont believe it, you can see for yourself! Leng Jing couldnt bear Qin Yanyans superior posture. She spread Shi Qingxues right hand, and the bleeding wound was shown to the crowd. But Qin Yanyan didnt even look at it, but said casually, Last time, Her Majesty held a painting competition and she said that she wanted to be a supervisor to avoid the competition. This time she is injured and cant compete again. It is so coincidental that it should be suspected whether someone does it on purpose! Ling Ruiyin frowned, but did not scold Qin Yanyan. She called Shi Qingxue to come forward and checked her wound carefully and sighed, This wound is serious. How is it injured? Shi Qingxue lowered her head, and replied in an upset tone, It was just injured accidentally. Ling Ruiyin was exactly sensitive. How couldnt she find that Shi Qingxue was in a bad mood? She didnt ask about the cause of the injury, but only asked, Do you still want to continue the contest? Your Majesty! Qin Yanyan exclaimed, fearing that Ling Ruiyin really agreed Shi Qingxue to quit. But Ling Ruiyin waved her hand and said justly, The fact that Xues hand is injured is not false, but the competition has already begun. Therefore, I will leave the right to make a decision to her, and only she can make the best choice for herself. Xue, what is your decision? Shi Qingxue looked up at Ling Ruiyin in confusion, then looked down at the wound on her hand, and tried to clench her hand again. But the extreme pain made her sweat and powerless. Could she really shoot arrows in this state? Qingxue didnt answer, Ling Ruiyin thought that she needed time to think, so she said, It is more important to be entertained than to compete, and its not in a hurry. It is too late today. You can go back and think carefully about it. Give me your choice tomorrow! Chen Xiujiao hoped that Shi Qingxue could be ashamed at this moment. How was she willing to wait until tomorrow? She was also afraid that a long delay might cause trouble. But it wasnt convenient for her to speak, so she poked Qin Yanyan, wishing that she could speak in front of Ling Ruiyin. Unexpectedly, not only did Qin Yanyan not object, but she smiled generously, Your Majesty is right. Qingxues hand is hurt. No matter whether she wants to quit or continue the contest, we should give her time to have a rest. Only in this way can it be fair! Ling Ruiyin did not expect Qin Yanyan to say such words. After being surprised, she was also joyful. She called her to come close to her and praised, Yanyan is really a good kid. Not only are you capable of the archery, but you are also considerate! Dont say it, Your Majesty. I will be shy! Qin Yanyan took the opportunity to lean in Ling Ruiyins arms, laughing and playing, which made Ling Ruiyin pleased and satisfied. But Chen Xiujiao was so anxious that she was about to stamp her feet. She grabbed Qin Yanyan aside while no one was there, and asked in a serious tone, We have clearly pushed Shi Qingxue to a desperate situation. If she takes the chance to quit the game, others will definitely think that she escapes from it because she is useless. Why do you give her another day to prepare? What if her hand recovers? Qin Yanyan sneered indifferently, Havent you seen the wound on her hand? How can it be all right in a day? Besides, even if her injury is healed and she can compete tomorrow, do you think she can beat me? It is reasonable, but a long delay may cause trouble. The longer time she gets Before Chen Xiujiao finished, Qin Yanyan interrupted her impatiently, What do you know? Even if she were really ashamed today, only we would witness it. Empress Dowager spoils her so much. Maybe she will feel sad for her wound and think that it is not a big deal that she quits. So what do you mean? Chen Xiujiao understood, but she still didnt know what Qin Yanyan wanted to do. Qin Yanyan laughed treacherously and said slyly, Watch the show! There must be audience. You just wait and see tomorrow! Chapter 65 - To Be Defeated or to Withdraw? On the other side, Ling Ruiyin returned to the bedroom with the help of Mammy Chang, and she kept frowning on the road. Mammy Chang was concerned and quickly asked, The ladies performances today in the competition were wonderful. But why is Your Majesty still upset? Ling Ruiyin sighed, Its because of Xue. I was looking forward to her performance most, but she unexpectedly broke her finger. Moreover, she didnt seem to be in a state today. I also felt annoyed when I saw her being like this. According to what Ling Ruiyin had said, Mammy Chang also felt that Shi Qingxue was a bit strange today, It seemed that when Infanta Baoning came up with the archery competition, Sixth Lady became somewhat absent-minded. Well? Did you also notice it? Ling Ruiyin recalled the previous scene and continued to say, When I asked her why she got injured, she didnt answer me, but unconsciously looked at Baoning Ling Ruiyin suddenly thought of a hint, but she denied it at the next moment, It shouldnt be like that. Those two are sisters and they are in a good relationship. There shouldnt be conflicts between them. Mammy Chang also agreed, Everyone knows how nice Sixth Lady is to Infanta Baoning, and Infanta Baoning is also a person who is always grateful. They cant be in conflict with each other. However, the injury on Sixth Ladys hand is severe. The Royal Doctor just reported that it was like being scratched by something like a scissor. If it had cut deeper, it would have hurt her bones. Ling Ruiyin was shocked, Is that so serious? Yes! Although she has applied medicine to her wound, it is impossible for it to recover in a day. Mammy Chang was also worried, thinking that even though Ling Ruiyin had given Shi Qingxue one more day to consider about it, the result wouldnt be different. Ling Ruiyin guessed out what Mammy Chang was thinking in her heart, and smiled helplessly, Chang! How cant I feel pitiful for Xue? But you also saw the situation just now. If I had really cancelled the contest, her reputation would have been ruined. She was the granddaughter of Shi Yunyang! At that time, Shi Yunyang was so badly injured that he almost lost his arm, but he still held the knife and went to the battlefield. I have even been admiring his spirit till today. Although Xue has been spoiled, I also hope that she has the backbone even when she loses the game. Shi Qingxue did not know Ling Ruiyins real thoughts. She had been in a trance since Shi Baoning proposed the archery competition. She couldnt believe that Shi Baoning would actually do it. If the injury on her hand was not caused inadvertently by Shi Baoning last night, she might think Shi Baonings advice was not on purpose. But at this moment, she couldnt deceive herself. But why? Shi Baoning was willing to help the outsiders to humiliate her own sister! Sixth Lady, dont think about it any more. Your hand will definitely recover. We dont have to participate in tomorrows contest. Anyway, your archery skills are great. If anyone dares to laugh at you, we can go and slap her face fiercely when your injury recovers! Dong Shuang looked at Shi Qingxue pitifully, for fear that Shi Qingxue would be too headstrong. Shi Qingxue looked at her right hand and smiled reluctantly, How can it be so simple? This thing has come to this point. Dont they all just want to force me to admit that I am defeated, or to withdraw? Dong Shuang cried out even more aloud and whined, Sixth Lady, I feel it worthless for you. You are so kind to First Lady, but she doesnt care about you at all. Its so not worthwhile Her cry was so funny, as if the person they bullied had been Dong Shuang herself. Even though Shi Qingxue was bothered and annoyed, she was amused by the cry. She reached out her hand and pinched Dong Shuangs fleshy face, saying with a smile, Eh, isnt it me who has been injured? Why are you crying? You look like a muddy cat. Dong Shuang didnt hide, and muttered pitifully, I am being sad for you. You dont feel distressed, but still laugh at me. You are so heartless! Okay, I wont laugh at you. I feel distressed for you instead. Is that enough? Shi Qingxue said in a perfunctory way, and asked Xia Mang to take her away to freshen up. Dong Shuang still refused to leave. She grabbed Qingxues sleeve and begged in a low voice, Sixth Lady, its okay if you lose! Please treasure your own body. Dont force yourself to take part in the contest tomorrow! Helpless, Shi Qingxue glanced at Dong Shuang. She met her firm gaze and could only promise, Fine. I wont hurt my right hand, okay? Dong Shuang thought for a while and believed that she had got Shi Qingxues words. Then she left with satisfaction. However, the next day when Ling Ruiyin asked again about Shi Qingxues thought, she answered like this. As Your Majesty often says, no matter what competition it is, it will be pleasant as long as I participate in it. Therefore, I dont expect to win this time, but I just ask myself not to be a deserter. Ling Ruiyin nodded with satisfaction and smiled, You are indeed the granddaughter of Shi Yunyang. You really inherit his unyielding spirit! Well, today you can shoot the arrows at will. Just dont force yourself and hurt yourself again. Shi Qingxue promised obediently. Qin Yanyan didnt expect that Shi Qingxue actually had the courage to continue the competition. Wasnt she afraid of losing her hand? But it was a good thing in this way. She walked to the front of Ling Ruiyin with small steps and said with a shy smile, Your Majesty, I mentioned our contest with His Highness yesterday and he was very excited. He also said that he couldnt let us perform in front of you alone, and he also looked forward to showing his ability to you. But he is afraid to make you angry, so he is now waiting outside. What does Your Majesty think of it? Ling Ruiyin liked the lively atmosphere most and certainly agreed, My grandson is also here. Great, I will enjoy the feast for the eyes today! As she talked, Mo Junhao walked in first, followed by several princes. It seemed that those young people in the imperial palace couldnt bear the loneliness and all came to join the fun. Ling Ruiyin brought so many noble ladies to travel together with her this time, not only to relieve herself from boredom, but hoping that these noble ladies could spend more time with the princes so that she could pick up some future concubines. The situation at this moment was exactly what she wanted, so she couldnt be more overjoyed. She also made her servant prepare a full set of archery tools well, so that the young men could also show their capabilities on spot. Mo Junhao had been triumphant recently, and quickly grabbed the opportunity to show off first. And his archery skill was also extremely accurate. Except for one arrow that missed slightly, his other arrows all hit the bullseye. Other princes also showed their skills and were praised by Ling Ruiyin. Seeing that the atmosphere was pushed to the highest point, Qin Yanyan suddenly said, Now Their Highnesses have all showed their capabilities. Qingxue, isnt it your turn to show us your exquisite archery skills? Ling Ruiyin agreed to let the young men shoot arrows first in order to give Shi Qingxue more time to prepare, and at this moment, it was not good to postpone it any more. So she said, Qingxue, are you ready? Shi Qingxue nodded and said, Yes. Sister Xue, is your hand injured? Does it matter? Have you seen the Royal Doctor? Shi Qingxue just picked up the bow, when Mo Junhao hurriedly came to her. His eyes were full of concerns, and he seemed not afraid to make others aware of his feelings for Shi Qingxue, which made Qingxue sick. But Shi Qingxue tolerated and smiled gently at Mo Junhao, Thank Your Highness for your concern. Im fine. Mo Junhao still looked worried, he grabbed Shi Qingxues hand, Let me see. If the injury is really too serious, dont participate in it. It will be bad if your injury becomes worse. This ambiguous move immediately attracted the attention of many people, and this was exactly what Mo Junhao wanted. He seemed to be more careful with her, as if Shi Qingxue had been made of snow in winter. He feared that she would melt if he held her in his hands, while he was also afraid that the cold wind outside would tear her apart. His behaviors were very much enamored. Shi Qingxue didnt know what Mo Junhao wanted to do, and she didnt care. Looking at the fake face of the other party, she became more annoyed and sneered, I am all right. Your Highness, please stay away from me, since the arrows dont have consciousness. It will be bad if I hurt Your Highness. Qin Yanyan also stepped forward and pulled Mo Junhao, saying softly, Yes, Your Highness is noble. Dont be too close to such places. Mo Junhao avoided Qin Yanyans hand and concealed the disgust in his eyes, Its okay. Sister Xues hand is injured. If I cant accompany her here, I will be too worried about her. But Yanyan, for real, you should stay away. It will be worthless if your face is hurt! Qin Yanyan covered her face, fearing that Shi Qingxue really shot the arrow to her face in the next second. Shi Qingxue felt sick of these two peoples interaction, and drove them away coldly, Okay, I am going to shoot the arrows, so please move away. After being rejected several times, even Mo Junhao became a little angry. But when he glanced at Mo Junyang who was standing far away and watching this coldly as if it had been none of his business, he suddenly smiled contentedly again. He smiled softly, Well, I wont bother you. I will wait for you beside the target and watch you, okay? Shi Qingxue thought in her heart, Youd better stay far away from me, and never show up in front of me. But glancing at Mo Junhaos greasy look, she suddenly didnt want to make him live so at ease. Since he dared to provoke her, he should be ready to pay the price! She gave a bright smile to Mo Junhao. Until he became elated, she said softly, This being the case, Hao Your Highness, please wait for me over there. Even though she was putting on a show, she couldnt call that person Brother Hao any more. Of course, Mo Junhao promised her. He walked fast to the target and waved at her. But Leng Jing grabbed Shi Qingxues bow, and whispered seriously in a low voice, Qingxue, dont you want your hand? It is badly injured. If you still force yourself to draw the bow, then you wont be able to shoot the arrows with this hand again! Miss Leng is right. Sixth Lady, didnt you promise me that you wouldnt participate in the competition yesterday? Lets withdraw, shall we? Lets not do such a dangerous thing. Dong Shuang cried aside again. And Qin Yanyan, who became jealous of Mo Junhaos behaviors, said sarcastically, Somebody shouldnt reluctantly show herself off. Even if you succeed in shooting all the ten arrows, you will lose to me at last. Why bother? As she spoke, she glanced at Qingxues right index finger wrapped in gauze, and she pretended to be surprised, Oh! How did the Royal Doctor wrap your hand into the shape of a rice dumpling? This is really troublesome. How are you supposed to draw the bow? Do you need me to help you remove the gauze? Qin Yanyan was hoping Shi Qingxues hand to be disabled, so she pretended to be kind and came up. But Shi Qingxue didnt accept it. She moved sideways to avoid her hand, and said coldly, No, thanks. Well? Then I really want to see how you can draw your bow when your hand is wrapped like this! Qin Yanyan stepped aside and looked forward to seeing Shi Qingxue being ashamed. Shi Qingxue took back her bow from Leng Jing without changing her look, and suddenly sneered, Who says that I can only draw the bow with my injured finger? Chapter 66 - e Sharp Arrow Had No Eyes Shi Qingxues words made everyone stunned, and they looked at her in puzzle. Shi Qingxue first used her right thumb and the strength between her thumb and her index finger to fix the position of the bow. Then she took a sharp arrow out of the carrier and set it on the string. Later, she bent her left index finger and middle finger. At last, she drew the bow. Shi Qingxue was going to shoot the arrow with her left hand! Those people at present were startled again and looked at Shi Qingxue in disbelief. Qin Yanyan didnt believe that Shi Qingxue had this skill. Moreover, her posture of holding the bow was even not standard. There was no way that she could shoot accurately. Shi Qingxue ignored Qin Yanyans irony. She stared at the target with earnestness. However, at the moment when she just shot the arrow, her right hand suddenly shook. The arrow went out of its course and flew straight to Mo Junhao beside the target. It was so sudden that there was no time for anyone to respond. Even Mo Junhao himself stood there in surprise without reaction. Seeing that the sharp arrow was about to hit Mo Junhao, some people were so scared that they closed their eyes, for fear of witnessing such a bloody scene. But to everyones surprise, the arrow didnt hit Mo Junhao, but slide away on the top of his head. Mo Junhao could even feel the impact strength of the arrow when it touched his tuinga. This kind of thrill struggling on the edge of life made him sweat on his back. If he wasnt pretending to be strong, he might kneel on the ground shamefully right away, trembling. It took a while for him to barely escape from the fear of death. As soon as he looked up, he met Qingxues cold sight, and shook again. When he was about to observe it carefully, there was only anxiety and horror in Qingxues eyes. She ran to Mo Junhao with an anxious look, and asked him with concern, Its all my fault. Is Your Highness okay? After Mo Junhaos fear, the anger in his heart rose up. But before he vented this anger, it was extinguished by the soft whispers of Shi Qingxue. After all, it was him who had insisted on staying next to the target. Who else could be blamed when the accident had happened? Besides, she had also apologized. Mo Junhao said with a pale face that he was alright. But Qin Yanyan was not so easy to fool. When she gained back her consciousness, she pointed at Shi Qingxues nose and scolded, Shi Qingxue, what the hell are you doing? If you had hurt Brother Hao, it wouldnt have been enough even if you die for a hundred times! Shi Qingxue lowered her head and apologized anxiously, Im so sorry. My hand shook just now. I was really not meant to do it. I At the end, she seemed to cry. Ling Ruiyin was also taken aback before, but she had experienced much great storms, so she only took this as an accident. After all, accidents would inevitably happen in such events like playing with knives and swords. She called Mo Junhao to her side with concern, Junhao, are you hurt? Even though Mo Junhao was so scared that he almost peed in his pants, he could only act tough and said, No, Im fine. Dont blame Qingxue. She was not intentional. Since the victim had said so, Ling Ruiyin, who was unwilling to punish Shi Qingxue, surely followed his words and regarded this thing as an accident and let it go. She also asked Shi Qingxue, Qingxue, does your hand really not matter? What about just quitting this competition? Shi Qingxue shook her head quickly, with helplessness in her voice, Your Majesty, I know that Im not doing well, but my grandfather taught me that once the bow is drawn, the arrow wont turn back. Since I promise to take part in this contest, I must finish it. I just wish His Highness to stay farther from the target. It wont be good if the accident happens again! Ling Ruiyin was pleased with Qingxues persistence, and of course she agreed. Then she glanced at Mo Junhao, and criticized, Junhao, you are not young. You should know that the arrow has no eyes. Xue shouldnt take all the blame for the accident just now. You should also reflect on yourself! At this moment, even if Mo Junhao was given limitless courage, he wouldnt dare to stand next to the target to seek death. But why did this sound so strange? Mo Junhao was confused in his heart, and he looked up at Shi Qingxue again. He always felt that Qingxues reaction was a bit strange today. However, Qingxues face was as usual. She took the posture of shooting the arrow again. Then the second arrow flew out and it finally hit the target. Later the third arrow was closer to the bullseye that the previous one. At this moment, the audience had calmed down and they were all watching the movements of Shi Qingxues hands intently, as if they felt amazed or disbelieving. How could anyone be so great at archery when she was even shooting with her left hand? And Shi Qingxues next performance made them so shocked that their jaws were about to fall to the ground. The seven arrows left flew out one by one, faster than the previous one. They were all closer to the center than the previous one, and all in the yellow bullseye area. All the seven arrows hit the target! Qin Yanyan saw it and her eyeballs seemed about to fall. She shouted in shock, This is impossible! Even Dong Shuang, who had served Shi Qingxue since she was young, didnt expect that her master was so good at shooting with her left hand. But when she heard Qin Yanyans words, she was mad like a rooster whose tail was stepped on and said angrily, Everyone witnesses Sixth Ladys capability of archery. How is it impossible? Qin Yanyan didnt know what else she could say. So she only shook her head to deny, Her right hand was injured, how could she shoot so well? Absolutely deceptive! Leng Jing couldnt bear it any more, and snorted angrily, I just checked it. Except for the first arrow that missed the target, the other nine arrows were all on the target. And unfortunately, her grades were a bit better than yours. At this time, everyone also focused on the targets of the two people. Actually, as Leng Jing had said, although Shi Qingxue also shot only seven arrows in the bullseye area, compared with Qin Yanyans target, it was obvious that her grade was better. The missed arrow didnt count, and the scores of Shi Qingxues other arrows really werent lower than Qin Yanyans. Qin Yanyan used to plan to take this opportunity to humiliate Shi Qingxue, but to her surprise, she failed to shame Shi Qingxue but lost face instead. If others knew that she couldnt even beat someone with an injured finger, how could she have the face to brag about her archery skills? No, Shi Qingxue, I think you simply embarrassed me deliberately. Qin Yanyan was not stupid. She didnt believe that things happened so coincidentally. They designed all these from the beginning and deliberately led her to fall into the trap. Shi Qingxue shrugged and looked innocent, Yanyan, you think too much. No one can be certain with the scores. How can I embarrass you deliberately? Qin Yanyan was about to refute, when she heard Qingxue saying coldly again, If I really can embarrass you and make the score of every arrow better than yours a little bit on purpose, then isnt my archery skill so exquisite that I can make the arrow hit wherever I want? Does Yanyan mean this? Asking Qin Yanyan to admit that Shi Qingxue was a little better than her was enough to make her uncomfortable. She wouldnt admit it even if she was killed. But not admitting it meant that the arrows shot by Shi Qingxue were exactly just a little better every time. It seemed that God wanted her to lose to Shi Qingxue again and again! Qin Yanyan showed grievance on her face. Her face turned red with anger, but she couldnt say a word to refute. Chen Xiujiao, who had never spoken before, took her hand and comforted her softly, Yanyan, there are always victory and failure in competitions. Dont care too much about it. Its good as long as you have done your best. You are better than that person without capability who wins by cheating. Qin Yanyan immediately understood her devious words, and turned her hatred to Shi Baoning. If they were not misled by this woman, how could she compete with Shi Qingxue in archery. If they had a painting contest, there was no way that Shi Qingxue could beat her with the injured right hand! She immediately reported to Ling Ruiyin, Your Majesty, I got a message yesterday that someone had cheated in the painting contest at the Qiqiao Festival Banquet. It was a matter of great importance, so I didnt dare to deceive Your Majesty. Ling Ruiyins eyebrows were raised, and her relieved expression suddenly became serious, Who are you talking about? What exactly happened? Tell me quickly. Ling Ruiyin had always been upright, and she couldnt bear others cheating most. Qin Yanyan glanced at Shi Baoning and Shi Qingxue insidiously and repeated what Shi Baoning had said yesterday right away. Shi Baoning didnt expect Qin Yanyan to be so shameless that she sold her. Seeing that Ling Ruiyin looked at her with angry eyes, she felt that all the blood in her body had flown away. She was so cold that she started to tremble. She only heard Ling Ruiyin asked coldly, Baoning, is Yanyan telling the truth? Shi Baonings lips shivered, but she couldnt even speak out a complete sentence. It seemed that she was with a guilty conscience. So, was Missing You really not painted by you? Ling Ruiyins voice became a bit colder. Shi Baoning wanted to deny it, but many people heard it when she spoke yesterday. She thought Qin Yanyan wouldnt cause her trouble if she spent time fighting against Shi Qingxue, so she didnt even think about the excuses. How could she deny it at this moment? Helplessly, she subconsciously turned to Shi Qingxue, but she just met her cold sight. Her heart trembled, and she was even more at a loss. Yeah. How did she still have a face to ask Shi Qingxue for help? When Shi Baoning thought that she was going to be finished, a clear voice suddenly sounded firmly, Of course, Missing You was painted by Sister Baoning. Really? Ling Ruiyin looked at Shi Qingxue suspiciously. She remembered that during the competition, Baoning had reported that her painting was lost, but then Shi Baoning had handed in the painting again. So she thought that her painting was found and didnt mind this matter. It seemed not that simple at this moment. Shi Qingxue nodded quickly and said firmly, Apart from her, who else has the ability to paint such a beautiful work? Ling Ruiyin frowned and asked, Since this was the case, why did Baoning say those words to Yanyan? Shi Qingxue paused, and she looked embarrassed. Qin Yanyan quickly snorted, You cant make it up anymore! Obviously you had used some tricks to deceive Her Majesty, and you didnt admit it! Huh! Ling Ruiyin also showed a bit more sternness on her face. She called Shi Qingxue to her front and seriously said, Xue, I want to hear your answer. Ah! Well! Others must think that Ling Ruiyin wanted to know the truth, but after Shi Qingxue thought about it, she knew that Ling Ruiyin didnt want to investigate this matter at all. But she was just pushed to this point by Qin Yanyan, so she had to look into this matter. Shi Qingxue used to be guilt with lying to the Empress Dowager who had been spoiling her, but at this moment, she felt a lot easier. However, Shi Baoning had said it like an absolute truth. How could she make up for it? Chapter 67 - Showdown Shi Qingxue blinked her eyes and secretly made a decision. She looked helpless and shy, as if she were forced to the point where she had no other ways. She had to tell the truth, Your Majesty, it was all my fault. Dont blame Baoning! It was me who asked Baoning to tell Yanyan those words. Why? Ling Ruiyin was shocked. Shi Qingxues small face looked a bit pitiful. She wept softly, Because I was in competition with Yanyan before. I was worried that she would embarrass me with painting which she was good at, so I made Baoning tell her those words, in order to make her give up that kind of thoughts. Boning would have been desperate to hide such a shameful thing if it had been true. Why did she announce it to the public? Qin Yanyan thought that they really planned together to fool her, so she was so angry that she was about to stamped her foot. She pointed at Shi Qingxues nose and scolded, Shi Qingxue, you deliberately dug a pit for me! This is roguery. You are so shameless and mean! The words she used were not respectful at all, so that others couldnt help but frown when they heard them. They were worried about the upbringing of this future concubine of the Fourth Prince. Yes, yes, its all me bad. Yanyan, I apologize to you. If you really want to punish me for this, Ill also accept it. But Shi Qingxue nodded tenderly, with a sad expression on her face, showing that she knew that she was wrong. Her attitude of admitting her mistake was excellent. But before Qin Yanyan proposed her punishment, she sighed helplessly, Unfortunately, I made such a plan, but I didnt expect that my right hand would be injured, so that I had no advantages at all in the archery contest. This incident told me that one must never do bad things, otherwise, God wouldnt let you go! She sighed heavily again and again. It seemed that she could only accept the arrangement of fate when she was extremely helpless. Everyone clearly guessed that Shi Qingxue was pretending deliberately. How could she be helpless? She was showing it off that she was spoiled! Ling Ruiyin was amused by her helpless look. She was angry but didnt vent it. She couldnt help but touch her nose and scolded with a smile, Are you really taught a lesson? Shi Qingxue hurriedly nodded, Yes! You didnt know that I never thought that Your Majesty would choose archery as the subject of competition. At that time, I really felt that the evil I brought on myself was the hardest to bear! But I was unwilling to be a deserter, so I could only force myself to participate in the competition. I was really afraid that I would lose my hand! The fear and panic that her small face showed was appropriate. It wouldnt make people feel fake or exaggerated. But these were not the reasons why Ling Ruiyin let this matter go. The old madam had sensitive eyes, and she took a glance, finding that the gauze on Qingxues right hand had been dyed red again. As what Shi Qingxue said, no matter who was right or wrong in this matter, she had learned a lesson. Since the victim begged to make this matter over, she waved her hand and stopped Qin Yanyan who wanted to speak, saying coldly, Enough! As I said before, it is more important to participate in the game than to get the good result. In these two days, you have made me witness your excellent archery skills and I am quite satisfied. Lets call it a day! In several words, this matter was concluded. No matter how mad Qin Yanyan was, she could only suppress her grievance and let it go. When the Empress Dowager left, the crowd also went back to their homes. Only Shi Baoning stood beside Shi Qingxue. She didnt leave, but also didnt say anything. Shi Qingxue also didnt speak. She was waiting for an answer, to be more precise, an explanation. However, Shi Baoning just opened her mouth, and turned away without saying anything. First Lady is too excessive. This was obviously a mistake that she made, and you helped her to settle it. But she left without saying thanks. I have never seen such a shameless Dong Shuang felt it worthless for her own master, and she dared to say anything out. Xia Mang hurriedly yelled at her and glanced at Shi Qingxue. She criticized her, If you dare to talk nonsense again, I will sew your mouth with a needle. Dong Shuang was so scared that she hurriedly covered her mouth. She was afraid that Xia Mang would actually do it. But she looked at her carefully again and realized that she was teasing her, so she cried and scolded, Xia Mang, you are so bad. You are always frightening me. I hate you The two maidservants messed around again, as if they had forgotten all the unpleasant things all of a sudden. In the past, Shi Qingxue also loved to watch the two of them teasing each other. However, her mind was consumed too much in these two days, so that she couldnt cheer up to play with her servants. She dragged her exhausted body back to her bedroom. When Shi Qingxue just walked in her room, she was taken aback by the person inside. Xia Mang and Dong Shuang who was following behind her looked at each other and stepped outside together. They were also thoughtful to close the door for their master. But Dong Shuang was still a little uneasy, Sixth Lady isnt married yet. Isnt this not good for us to let them stay together alone in the room? Why didnt I see you disagree when the Fourth Prince went to Sixth Ladys boudoir before? Xia Mang talked back slowly. Moreover, Shi Qingxue obviously trusted that man more than the Fourth Prince at this moment. Didnt they figure how Shi Qingxue was at a loss when this man didnt show up recently? Dong Shuang scratched her head, and she had to agree with Xia Mangs words. She only said, Then what about Sixth Ladys hand? The Royal Doctor said that we should apply the ointment onto it on time! Xia Mang was speechless and rolled her eyes. She thought that this girl was really numb, Then what do you think King Ruis eldest son comes here for? She saw the gauze and ointment bottle in Mo Junyangs hand at the first glance. Wasnt it obvious that he came here to apply the ointment for her master? In the room, Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang for a while and did not react. Until he stepped forward and grabbed her hand, she withdrew her hand in shock and asked, stuttering, Why are you here? Mo Junyang took a deep look at her, and grabbed Shi Qingxues hand again. He whispered, Dont move. I will apply the ointment to your injury. The words Dont move was more useful than the imperial decree. Shi Qingxue really didnt move any more. She obediently let the man uncover her gauze, wipe off the blood that had oozed out because she overused her hand, and then apply the ointment and wrap it up again. Seeing the snow-white gauze wrapped around her hand, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but ask in a low voice again, Why are you here? Mo Junyang was silent for a long while, and suddenly said, Dont be afraid. I will leave soon. I dont mean it. I In fact, Shi Qingxue wanted to meet Mo Junyang. But when she actually saw him, it didnt seem to be the same as she had expected. She hadnt figured out how to have a showdown with Mo Junyang. And at this moment, she felt unpleasant with his attitude. Why did it seem that she was unwilling to see him? Shi Qingxue turned her head and pouted her mouth. She complained grievously, You are actually a bad guy! Looking at her, Mo Junyang became so soft-hearted that he didnt want to say the lines he had prepared well, but he responded obediently, Well, I am a bad guy. He completely obeyed the principle, You are so beautiful and I love you so much, so you are right about everything. It was more unreasonable for Shi Qingxue to vent her anger. After thinking for a while, she summoned the courage to say, Mo Junyang, I remembered that the Crown Prince had small pox when I was young. Mo Junyangs movement paused, but he didnt even raise his head. He made a positive respond in a low voice. Shi Qingxue didnt receive his following words after waiting for a long time. Looking at Mo Junyangs calm look as usual, she thought that they were chatting and talking about some gossips. She raised her eyebrows slightly and said, Smallpox! It can kill people, but he has survived! Mo Junyang remained silent for a longer period of time. She couldnt see his expression clearly when he kept his head down, but only heard him say calmly, Yes, Shen Luo cured him. There was still no concealment at all. At a moment, Shi Qingxue really had such an intention to ask Mo Junyang straightforwardly whether he was reborn or not. She was even sure that if she asked it out, he wouldnt lie to her. But she still refrained. After Mo Junyang wrapped her wound up, she was a little stunned staring at the slender fingers. Done. Mo Junyang said so, but he didnt plan to take back his hands at all. Shi Qingxue did not withdraw her hand, either. She didnt even look at Mo Junyang. Only staring at their hands that were holding together, she suddenly lowered her voice and asked, How did you feel to be a hostage? Mo Junyang stiffened. Even though he was well prepared to deal with Shi Qingxue, he was astonished and speechless in the face of her question which was totally out of his expectation. But Mo Junyang was only shocked for a short while. Then he showed a smile to Shi Qingxue gently. A soft whisper slowly flowed into Shi Qingxues ears, I didnt remember. It happened decades ago. Shi Qingxue was stunned. She didnt expect or thought that Mo Junyang would be so calm and tell her the truth in such a vague way. Even though she really just wanted to know how Mo Junyang felt. When Shi Qingxue got the answer, she suddenly found that she wasnt angry or shameful as she had expected. Her mood was calm, which she never imagined. Still, there were some words she should say, Im sorry. Mo Junyang raised his head violently, and his eyes suddenly burst into fierce glare. Shi Qingxue stepped back, frightened, and she also pulled back her hand from his hand. Mo Junyang just smiled self-deprecatingly, Sorry for what? Shi Qingxue was choked. She didnt know what she was sorry for. She was confronting Mo Junyang when she died in her previous life. She could face him without guilt, and didnt think that she had done anything wrong. At this moment, Shi Qingxue still didnt think that she was wrong. But when she thought of Mo Junyangs reaction after her death She closed her eyes and suppressed her emotions. Perhaps she would never tell Mo Junyang that she had been staying with him for nearly fifty years. Mo Junyang didnt understand what Shi Qingxue was thinking, but he could see the guilt in her embarrassed sight. Guilty about what? The only thing that he didnt need was her guilt. Mo Junyangs smile was brighter but his look was colder, stressing each syllable, Dont feel sorry for me. And dont Hate me. Mo Junyang didnt say the last two words. He turned his face away, depressed those emotions that should not exist. He asked coldly, What happened today? How was your hand injured? Its okay. I myself Shi Qingxue wanted to deceive him. But when she saw Mo Junyangs gaze, she unconsciously told what had happened in the past few days. Even though it was an embarrassing sisters conflict, she didnt conceal it. She had a natural trust in Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows, lowered his eyes and thought about it. He murmured in a low voice, Shi Baoning! Chapter 68 - Appointment Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang and was inexplicably embarrassed. She subconsciously said, How about your going back first? The two were even more embarrassed. They were just bandaging the wound. Why did she have to make it like a cheating? Shi Qingxue looked away embarrassingly. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt go into it seriously, but just nodded as an agreement. In order not to embarrass her, he even left from the back door. But this was more like a cheating! Shi Qingxue was speechless. She faced the opened rear window and was stunned for a long while. Then Dong Shuang covered her eyes and pushed the door, entering the room. Her hand spread wide enough for her to peep. She almost saw it all with her big eyes completely showed between her fingers. It was obvious that she came in to be a looker-on. Shi Qingxue was speechless, Whats the matter? Huh? Dong Shuang looked around after entering the room, and asked curiously, Wheres that person? Why is he gone? Shi Qingxue, She took a deep breath and decided not to mind this little girl. She asked again, Whats the matter? Yes. First Lady sends you a letter, and I bring it for you. Dong Shuang handed the envelope to Shi Qingxue, and didnt forget to look around at the same time. When she was sure that there wasnt anyone else in the room, she still didnt give up asking, Sixth Lady, where is King Ruis eldest son? Shi Qingxue glanced at Dong Shuang angrily, ignoring her rolling eyes, and paid her attention to that letter in her hand. She thought that Shi Baoning would come to her in person, but she didnt expect it to be just a letter. Shi Qingxue couldnt tell whether she was relieved or disappointed. Anyway, she was not ready to confront Shi Baoning. She couldnt be ready. She was even unwilling to think about it. Then she opened the envelope. Sisterhood is under the locust tree. Our appointment is after dusk. What is it? Dong Shuang had never understood the boundary between master and subordinate. When Shi Qingxue just opened the envelope, she came up to read but didnt understand it. Shi Qingxue put the letter on the table and didnt hide it from Dong Shuang, Baoning asks me to meet her under the locust tree in the Back Mountain after dusk. Dong Shuang was confused, Why? Cant she just tell you straightforwardly now? Why do you have to go to that kind of gloomy place after dusk? They had been here for so many days. The abbot just showed them around the Peace Temple on the first day. No one went to the Back Mountain in normal time! Shi Qingxue ignored Dong Shuangs mumble. She was in puzzle. Her brain finally reacted after she knew Mo Junyang shared the same experience with her. She was not as calm as she had thought. How could she let Mo Junyang go before she hadnt made it clear? Well, forget it. There will always be a chance. She and Mo Junyang were both a little absent-minded today. It was really not a good time to talk about it. Dong Shuang stared at Shi Qingxue strangely and asked, Sixth Lady, what are you thinking of? Shi Qingxue finally gained back her consciousness. She looked guilty but pretended to be calm and made it up, Nothing. Im just thinking what Baoning will tell me later. Dong Shuang didnt doubt her. She nodded but still refuted, Are you really going to meet her? Yes. Shi Qingxue didnt explain. No matter whether she would get an explanation from her or completely break up with her, she should meet Shi Baoning. She liked to be simple, even if the truth might hurt. Shi Qingxue went to the Back Mountain with a mood of autosadism, and Dong Shuang couldnt persuade her. But when she got to the locust tree, she didnt see Shi Baoning. Shi Qingxue waited for a while, and her face was painful blown by the cold wind. She had to warm her hands with her breath and then rub her face. But it was useless. She was still cold. It was completely dark, and the cold wind screamed. It had been a long time, and she also began to be afraid. She called in a low voice, Baoning, Baoning, are you here? There was no response. Couldnt it be possible that Shi Baoning had forgotten this appointment? Shi Qingxue couldnt wait any longer. She stomped her feet and wanted to go back to the room to find Shi Baoning. But when she just turned around, a tall figure which suddenly appeared behind her startled her. Ah! Shi Qingxue shouted and took a few steps backwards. She stopped until she leaned against the locust tree. Staring at the strange man in front of her in panic, she asked sharply, Who are you? Why are you here? The strange man showed an obscene smile and slowly approached Shi Qingxue. He also said, Girl, wasnt it you who had asked me to meet you here? Saying that, he also tried to touch Shi Qingxues face. Shi Qingxue ducked sideways, and the fear in her heart increased. But she still forced herself to look calm, and yelled, How dare you! I am the second daughter of Duke Shi. How can you bully me at will? If you dont want to get into trouble, leave hurriedly. We can pretend this never happens. Otherwise, the Shi Family wont let go of you! She thought that she was accidentally caught by a strange man passing by, so she told him her identity sternly and quickly. Anyone who was smart wouldnt be willing to provoke the officials and the nobles. The mans face showed hesitation and undetectable fear. But before Shi Qingxue was relieved, he suddenly rushed toward her. Shi Qingxue was unprepared. The man grabbed her sleeve, and his dirty big hand grabbed her right hand. So disgusting. Fear evacuated Qingxues mind of reason. She yelled in fright, and slapped the man regardless of her injured right hand, trying to break free from him. But the man was so strong that, like a viper, he grabbed a corner of her clothes and quickly entangled her. No matter how Shi Qingxue kicked him, she couldnt escape. Where do you try to run, girl? Just be obedient to me! The man grinned grimly. His eyes were glowing. He stared at Qingxues soft breasts, and he was about to drool. No, let me go! Or I will make you live a suffering life! Shi Qingxue was terrified and desperately waved her hands to resist. She didnt realize that her right hand started to bleed again, and she also didnt feel the pain. However, she forgot that the threat issued by the weak could only arouse the perpetrators greatest malice and make him want to find his pride back on her! The man smiled grimly. He grabbed Shi Qingxues right wrist with his big hands and folded it fiercely. Her wrist made a click sound. Then he pressed Shi Qingxue to the ground by his body, Then I should make you enjoy first now. He tried to pull Shi Qingxues clothes, but Shi Qingxue struggled to resist too hard. She shouted and hit him when he released her a little. He could only press Shi Qingxues lower body with his legs and hold her hands with his hands and raise them above her head. He was sitting on Qingxues body, and then he thought he succeeded and laughed, You should shout! The louder you yell, the better I will feel. This is sexy! Shi Qingxue had never been treated so violently for two lifetimes. Seeing that the man had begun to pull off her clothes, she raised her head and bit his hand. With all her strength. Ah! This time it was his turn to scream. He tried to withdraw his hand but Qingxue bit him so tight that he couldnt pull his hand back. If he withdrew forcibly, his flesh might be torn off. The man yelled in pain, You release my hand now! Let me go! Shi Qingxue bit even tighter and didnt let go of his hand. She knew that it wouldnt last long, but she had no other ways any more. She just held her breath and kept biting him. The back of the mans hand was painful, and there was a smell of blood. He was so angry that he scolded, Damn it! I have given you the opportunity, but you dont want it. I am going to beat you to death! When he said that, he raised the other hand and was going to slap Shi Qingxues face. Shi Qingxue closed her eyes in horror, only remembering one thing that she couldnt relax her bite even if she died. But the expected pain did not come, and the scolding voice was gone. She opened her eyes silently, and saw that the man who bullied her remained in the position when he was about to slap her, like a dead man. Shi Qingxue didnt realize what had happened yet. When her hands were free, she pushed away the person on her fiercely. He was successfully pushed away and fell straight to the ground. There was no suppression or scolding. At this time, a familiar call arose next to her ears, Qingxue. From far to near, it was right behind her. When Shi Qingxue wanted to stand up, he picked her up first and held her tightly in his arms. A familiar and gentle breath rushed to her face. Without looking up, Shi Qingxue knew that the person holding her was Mo Junyang. Fear, grievance, pain All feelings were magnified infinitely. Shi Qingxue grabbed Mo Junyangs neck in horror tightly, as if she had grabbed the last life-saving straw. Tears slipped down from her face, Mo Junyang, Im so scared, so scared Since her rebirth, Shi Qingxue had always thought that she was indestructible. No matter what trouble she met with, she was able to turn the danger into peace. Even when she encountered the assassination, she had the confidence to grab the bow and arrows to fight them. But what had happened today caught her unprepared, and she was terrified. Mo Junyang also hugged Shi Qingxue tightly, fearing that once he released her a little, she would disappear. For the first time, emotions such as fear and distress appeared on his indifferent face. While holding Shi Qingxue, he coaxed her in a low voice, Its okay. Everything will be fine. Im here. No one will hurt you again. Mentioning the man who had hurt Shi Qingxue, the bloodthirsty fierceness was showed in Mo Junyangs eyes, but it was quickly suppressed by his anxiety, Are you injured? Can I have a check? Shi Qingxue cried for a while before she reluctantly stopped. She let Mo Junyang grab her hands in front of her unwillingly. The concern that could not be concealed on the mans face made Shi Qingxues fear dissipate a lot, but her grievance gradually rose up. She couldnt hold back and her mouth crumpled again, Mo Junyang, it hurts. It hurts so much. The wound that had just been bandaged was bleeding again because of the fight. The blood stained most of Shi Qingxues sleeve. Mo Junyang felt painful in his heart, he held Shi Qingxue up and walked away, Lets go back. Okay. Shi Qingxue was a little unaccustomed to being imprisoned and immobile in his arms, but the man holding her made her feel safe, so she no longer struggled. She leaned on Mo Junyang obediently and let him hold her walking away. But after a few steps, she felt that something was wrong, and shouted, Mo Junyang, where are we going? Arent we going back? This was not the way back to her room! Chapter 69 - The Shower She Asked for When Shi Qingxue saw that Mo Junyang was taking the wrong route, she didnt struggle. She held Mo Junyangs neck with her hands and asked in a low voice, Where are we going? Mo Junyang kept striding and said simply, Going home. He knew that Shi Qingxue didnt understand it, and added, The house of King Rui. When did the house of King Rui become Shi Qingxues home? Shi Qingxue was still confused, but Xia Mang hurriedly followed up and blocked in front of Mo Junyang, Your Excellency cant just take Sixth Lady away like this. Mo Junyang raised his eyes and glanced at Xia Mang, saying indifferently, Go away! Xia Mang shook, but still gritted her teeth and refused to move away, If Sixth Lady leaves now, it will be like sending the evidence to those people. If it is spread out, the reputation of Sixth Lady will be ruined. Your Excellency, please think twice. Huh! Mo Junyang sneered, not paying attention to Xia Mangs warning. Since the Shi Family couldnt protect Shi Qingxue, it was okay to leave that place! Dont make me say it twice. Xia Mang grieved in her heart. If Mo Junyang really took Shi Qingxue away at this time, no one would know what others would gossip about the relationship between them two! But she didnt dare to stop him! She could only turn to Shi Qingxue for help, Sixth Lady, at least you must be sober! Shi Qingxue leaned softly in Mo Junyangs arms, very dependently, with her big eyes half-closed. No one knew whether she got Xia Mangs hint or not. Xia Mang was so anxious that she started to sweat, thinking that even if she might die, she should stop Mo Junyang, she heard the soft and weak voice of Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang, my hand hurts. Could you help me bandage my wound again? Mo Junyang was silent for a moment, and his deep eyes were tightly locked on Shi Qingxue. At last, he compromised and said coldly, Clean up the spot. I need to know the origin of that person. Yes! Wei Zichao responded respectfully and watched Mo Junyang turn back to the room. Then he wiped the sweat on his forehead. He couldnt help thinking that it was so dangerous. He almost thought that his master would really lock her up at home regardless the warnings. Then the whole noble circle in the capital city would be messed up. Sixth Lady of the Shi Family was capable, she stopped the devil with some soft words. But he had to hurry up and figure out who exactly dared to put a stick into a dragon. Otherwise, it would be not fun when Mo Junyangs anger was transferred to him. Wei Zichao shivered with goosebumps, he called the servant back to her consciousness, and began to work. Shi Qingxue insisted on taking a bath first after returning to the room. She just rolled on the ground and was touched by the wicked man for several times. She felt so disgusted. But Mo Junyang did not allow her to take a bath, for a good reason, Your wound mustnt be watered. Its okay. You ask Xia Mang to come in and help me. I promise that my right hand wont touch water. Shi Qingxue asked pitifully. She is investigating the identity of the man. She has no time. Then its also okay to call Dong Shuang! Mo Junyang immediately vetoed, Dong Shuang is too reckless. No. Shi Qingxue pulled her collar uncomfortably, Then other servants will be fine. Should Qiu Lu be careful enough? No, others cant be trusted. Mo Junyang refused without hesitation, making Shi Qingxue have no choices. Shi Qingxue suddenly was unwilling, No. I am so uncomfortable. If you dont let me take a shower, I wont let you bandage my wound. Mo Junyang almost laughed out, when he saw Qingxues rogue look. Who was actually injured? But when Mo Junyang saw Shi Qingxues right hand that was red, swollen and bleeding, his tough heart softened at once. He thought for a while and proposed the conditions, You can take a shower, but you have to obey my arrangement. Shi Qingxue nodded hurriedly and promised immediately. She asked Dong Shuang to prepare hot water quickly before Mo Junyang spoke. At the end, she blinked her big eyes at Mo Junyang, and sincerely promised, You can rest assured. My right hand wont get wet. Mo Junyang nodded, Okay. Shi Qingxue blinked again, reminding him, Im going to take a bath. Mo Junyang said in an emotionless tone, Okay. He didnt move. Shi Qingxue thought that her hint was not obvious, and reminded him again, I need to undress. Need me to help you? Eh-hem! Shi Qingxue was almost choked by her saliva, and drove him away angrily, You just leave! Mo Junyang stood still, and pointed out at the same time, I am going to be here watching you. Huh? Shi Qingxue opened her eyes wide in surprise, almost thinking that she had heard it wrong. But Mo Junyangs attitude was definitely showing that he was going to stay. Shi Qingxue refused without thinking, No! He must be kidding! Even though there was no defined distance between men and women, there should absolutely be a boundary! Mo Junyang reminded very calmly, You have just promised. What have I promised Shi Qingxue retorted, but was suddenly reminded what Mo Junyang had just said that she should obey his arrangement! And the so-called arrangement was Shi Qingxues face was so hot, as if she could fry eggs on it. She wasnt sure whether it was out of anger or shyness, but she protested awkwardly, Im not going to let you see me take a shower! How could this happen! Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows, Do you want to deny your words? I Shi Qingxue had no words to argue and she was so upset. Mo Junyang was teasing her deliberately! Mo Junyang didnt know what Shi Qingxue was thinking, but at a glance, he understood her awkwardness. He didnt explain and pulled her straight to the bathtub. Wouldnt he want to undress her? Shi Qingxue shivered in shock, but Mo Junyang took out a scarf in his clothes and used one hand to cover his eyes with it. He wasnt willing to move his hand which was holding Qingxues right wrist at all. He just spoke coldly, You take the bath! Shi Qingxue wanted to drive Mo Junyang away. In fact, the words had already reached her mouth, but she couldnt say anything facing Mo Junyangs calm and honest attitude! Mo Junyangs actions and attitudes indicated that she could rest assured that he wouldnt peep at her. If she still insisted on it, it would seem that she was too cautious and imagined herself as the favorite! But why did she still feel the indescribable shame? It was the shower she had asked for. She had to finish it no matter how shameful it was! Shi Qingxue had to hypnotize herself that she was here alone, she was here alone, she was here alone She meditated those three times in silence, and then took the shower as quickly as possible! With Mo Junyangs guarding, steam surrounded Shi Qingxues body after her having taken the shower, but her wound wasnt wet at all. Her appearance like a hibiscus coming out of the clear water instantly captivated Mo Junyangs mind. His throat knot slipped involuntarily, as if he were swallowing. The greed flashed in his eyes, and he lowered his eyes. He silently brought gauze to help Qingxue bandage her wound again. Shi Qingxue didnt notice these actions at all, and also regarded Mo Junyang as a gentleman. She said gratefully, Thank you! Mo Junyang smiled awkwardly in his heart, but still pretended to be calm, For what? Shi Qingxue scratched the ends of her hair embarrassingly, and said with shyness, You helped me so much, and you saved me today. All these favors were like the debt that she could never pay back! Shi Qingxue wasnt anxious like before. It seemed that she had been carefree when she owed him too much. She said with a smile, I will pay you back! He never asked for her gratitude, let alone her repayment! Mo Junyang couldnt point out these honestly, so he could only take back those words and feel bitter in his heart. It happened that Wei Zichao came to report the investigation. The man who intended to insult Shi Qingxue was named Li Bie. He was a famous hooligan in this area. He didnt care about his life. He was arranged into the Peace Temple three days ago and it was said that he was asked to complete a task. As for what this task was, everyone at present was clear. Shi Qingxue still had some doubts, The letter was sent to me this afternoon, and I didnt show it to anyone else at all. How did Li Bie know that I would go to the locust tree? Why wasnt Baoning there? Did anything happen to her? Dong Shuang looked angry. She wanted to say it but she didnt dare to. It was hard for her to tolerate. Shi Qingxue couldnt bear it and asked her, Have you seen Baoning? What happened to her? Shi Qingxue still thought that Shi Baoning was hiding from her only in order to avoid the blame. She was a little bit upset but was not very sad. After all This was human nature. Dong Shuang finally couldnt hold back, she snorted and scolded, Sixth Lady, it is not worthwhile that you treat First Lady so well! She She Dong Shuang was so angry that she couldnt say it anymore. Mo Junyang continued to say at this time, Your servant thought that it was not safe for you to go to the Back Mountain alone in the evening, so she secretly went to Shi Baoning and asked her to meet you in another place. Shi Baoning didnt agree and said that she had never sent a letter to you. And she was unwilling to seek for you at night. She had no other way, so she came to me for help. No wonder Mo Junyang could arrive in time! Shi Qingxue thought about it and felt it wrong, The letter must be from Baoning Yes, where is the letter? She was in a complicated mood at that time and placed the letter on the desk. But at this moment, it was gone. Dong Shuang suddenly lowered her head down, and looked guilty, I was lazy before and asked Qiu Lu to clean up. She said that Lan, the servant of First Lady, had taken the letter back, and said that First Lady didnt want her letter to be left to outsiders. Am I outsider, too? Shi Qingxue repeated the word sarcastically. To their surprise, she was not angry at all. Dong Shuang, however, felt it unfair for her own master, Sixth Lady, it must be First Lady who has planned this matter to harm you. The subordinate saw that she sent the letter. So she cant get away from this. This time you cant be tender and let her go! Cant get away from this? Shi Qingxue smiled helplessly. Suddenly she came up with an idea and asked quickly, Who sent the letter at that time? Who accepted the letter? It was Lan who sent the letter, but I didnt see her at that time. The letter was given by Qiu Lu to me. A strange smile appeared on Shi Qingxues face, muttering to herself, Its them again! Dong Shuang looked at Shi Qingxue confusedly, she didnt understand it. But Mo Junyang suddenly said, I remember that Lan and Zhu, the first-class servant of Shi Baojin, are twins. Yeah! They look so alike. I often cant tell the difference. But whats the matter with this? Dong Shuang was still in puzzle, not knowing what these two people were smiling at. Chapter 70 - The First Step Mo Junyang would never want to explain to Dong Shuang. He took a glance at Dong Shuang and gave an order, Go and tell Zichao to bring the maidservant here. At this moment, Dong Shuang was full of respect for Mo Junyang. Needless to wait for Shi Qingxues order, she rushed to execute Mo Junyangs command at once. Shi Qingxue gaped out of astonishment. After a while, she said, Im seriously wondering whose servant she is now! Raising his eyebrows, Mo Junyang blamed her, If it werent for her and Xia Mang feeling something fishy and informed me, today you Thinking that Shi Qingxue could have been bullied by such a scumbag, Mo Junyangs eyes became cold and chilly at once. He even thought that killing that guy within seconds was way too kind for him. He should have shaved him into a homunculus! Still, only the assailant was killed, the one behind the scenes was still alive. He had the luxury of time and energy to play with these people! Shi Qingxue shrunk her neck, Mo Junyang suddenly appeared kind of scary to her at the present moment. Quickly, she pulled the end of Mo Junyangs sleeves and whispered, I didnt know this would happen, I thought Baoning invited me personally to explain about the archery incident. Explain what? Mo Junyang kept back his coldness. His eyes turned to Shi Qingxues right hand and said, I have yet to ask you, how did you injure your right hand? Just I accidentally scratched it, Shi Qingxue hesitated. She explained it briefly and vaguely. At that moment, Wei Zichao brought the maidservant who delivered the letter. Their conversation was interrupted. Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief. Yet, she frowned as soon as she saw the maidservants face, You are Zhu! Zhu paused and admitted since she had been recognized, Yes, Sixth Lady, Im Zhu. You are Third Ladys servant, why were you with First Lady? Zhu explained with a smile, The Third Lady injured my sister by accident, so she asked me to stay with the First Lady and serve her until my sister recovers and returns to the First Lady. This reason was perfectly logical, there was no mistake at all. Shi Qingxue trusted Shi Baonings personality, but she did not believe Shi Baojins flattery servant at all. She yelled in a cold tone, First Lady has never asked me to meet up under the locust tree, who asked you to set me up by using her name? Zhu appeared innocent. She denied, Sixth Lady, you have accused me wrongly. Ive been following and serving the First Lady ever since I came to the Peace Temple. I have never left her, how could I use the First Ladys name to set you up? Huh! You sent the letter to my doorstep, are you still denying it? Zhu acted even more innocently, Letter? I have no idea! Moreover, there were so many people in the Sixth Ladys courtyard. If they had seen me, they could have pointed me out. If that were the actual case, Third Lady would never go easy on me, without needing Sixth Lady to take action! Shi Qingxue knitted her brows tight, she certainly did not have the letter now. Plus, Qiu Lu was the only person who saw Zhu at that time. Otherwise, this brat wouldnt have been so arrogant. Seeing that Shi Qingxue stopped talking for quite some time, Zhu thought she had successfully intimidated her. She acted more pompously, If you have nothing else to order, Sixth Lady, Zhu is heading back. After all, the First Lady needs me to take care of her. Stop right there, have I asked you to stand up? Mo Junyang shouted apathetically. That stopped Zhu who was about to leave. Zhu was taken aback, but she calmed down immediately. She asked half-heartedly, Anything else, Your Excellency? Being daring enough to disrespect the most favored lady in the House of Duke Shi, Zhu did not take this prince seriously. Mo Junyang raised the corner of his lips and smirked in a cold manner, Do you think you can leave here alive without saying a word? Zhu shivered after sensing the killing intention behind those words. After some time, she came back to her senses, You must be joking, Your Excellency. I did nothing, you cannot blame me as you like! Mo Junyang showed a cold expression. He did not even bother to smile. He went straight forward, If I really want to kill you, do I need to question what you did? Im wondering, would the House of Duke Shi come after me if I chop you into pieces? After hearing that, Zhus knees weakened and fell onto the ground. She believed that Shi Qingxue couldnt do anything to her without evidence. Nevertheless, she forgot that Mo Junyang was around here. He was someone extremely unpredictable. His cold glaring eyes were clearly warning her that he was not joking just now! In this survival-of-the-fittest world, Mo Junyang could make her die in an ugly way with the slightest effort of his words or acts of anger. Plus, he was about to do that now. I, I Mo Junyang leaned against the table and said casually, If you think that it doesnt look nice to die in pieces, how about I cut your limbs to become a homunculus? This punishment sounded scarier than the previous one. Not only Zhu, Shi Qingxue had a quiver when she heard that too. She pulled Mo Junyangs sleeves secretly. Using eye signals, she hinted, If you keep talking about it, I will lose my sleep tonight too! Mo Junyang patted on Shi Qingxues hand to console her. Meanwhile, he was merciless towards Zhu, Have you decided to explain to us? Zhu quivered, tears ran down her eyes endlessly. While her body was trembling, it was as if her lips were switched on. She admitted everything in a hurry, I All these were according to Third Ladys order. She asked me to bring Sixth Lady to the locust tree this evening. I have no idea about the rest. I was just following her command, everything was Third Ladys idea. Your Excellency, please be generous, have mercy on me! Why was it First Ladys handwriting on the letter? Although Shi Qingxue seldom saw Shi Baonings writing, she could recognize her handwriting. Zhu did not try to hide, I had been following First Lady for a very long period, I usually served her closely while she was writing or painting, I purposely practiced to forge her handwriting, so Shi Qingxue got it. On top of that, she was distracted by the news of Mo Junyangs revival at that time. She did not look at it carefully, so it was reasonable that she had mistaken it. Yet, out of sudden, Mo Junyang asked, When did you start serving Shi Baoning? Zhu did not know why Mo Junyang wanted an exact time, but she answered honestly, Last year, 24th of the twelfth month of the lunar month. It was only about half a month ago. Whats wrong? Seeing Mo Junyang frown and ponder, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but ask. She did not understand why Mo Junyang asked as well. Mo Junyang shook his head and did not elaborate. He asked, Where is the letter? I burnt it after getting it back from Qiu Lu, Zhus voice softened gradually as she spoke, feeling afraid that she would irritate this terrifying devil if she spoke too loudly. Mo Junyang stopped questioning. He gave Wei Zichao an eye signal and instructed calmly, Settle her. Zhu did not expect to be settled after admitting everything, she was so petrified that she almost lost her souls. She screamed in fear, Your Excellency, I have told you everything. You cannot be so cruel, I Wei Zichao shut her noisy mouth at once and knocked her out with a hand blow. He bowed at Shi Qingxue in embarrassment, Shes too noisy, Ill settle her right now! Shi Qingxue gaped while seeing Wei Zichao carry the servant away casually. After some time, Shi Qingxue regained alertness and yelled, Mo Junyang, what are you trying to do? Mo Junyang threw another question without answering, According to Wei Zichaos information just now, it was Shi Baojin who bribed Li Bie too. This time, there must be someone else who wanted to hurt you. Shi Qingxue was alert enough to notice the keyword in Mo Junyangs statement, her expression changed, Someone else? You think there is somebody else involved in this incident? Mo Junyang did not comment, What are you going to do against Shi Baojin? About this Shi Qingxue paused for a moment, feeling difficult. She was not going to let Shi Baojin go because of sisterly love, but Zhu alone could not be a piece of valid evidence. Furthermore, Zhu was Shi Baonings maidservant by name. We have lost the only letter, if I confronted Shi Baojin hastily, she would either push all the responsibilities and blames to Baoning, or even more likely, accuse me of defiling her. She wouldnt admit a single thing. Previously, Shi Qingxue would not even hesitate since she was deeply convinced that Mo Shujun favored her the most. Even if she had no evidence at all, Mo Shujun would have trusted her. But now, she did not have such confidence. Mo Junyang held Shi Qingxues left hand and brought her out of her negative emotions. He spoke lightly, Since you have no idea what to do, leave this matter to me then! Alright! Shi Qingxue nodded and agreed without a second thought. Yet, after a while, she asked curiously while blinking, What are you going to do? Mo Junyang showed a cold smirk, Since she likes to play tricks about fornication, Im going to let her taste her own medicine. Ah? Shi Qingxue was startled for a second before she got what Mo Junyang planned to do. Her tiny face turned pale. Under Mo Junyangs sharp stare, she ended up saying nothing and nodded, Okay. Mo Junyang loosened his tensed back. He showed his first sincere smile of this entire night, though it was not obvious, You must have been tired today too, rest well! Ill send you back to the capital tomorrow. Despite saying that, Mo Junyang sat still without the slightest intention to leave. Shi Qingxue glared and thought to herself, was this guy planning to watch her even while she was sleeping? She certainly could not fall asleep then! Before Shi Qingxue could chase him away, Mo Junyang mumbled, The House of Duke Shi is not safe enough, perhaps I should bring you back to the King Ruis House. Perhaps it was because they had talked it over, or it could be due to the recent dangerous incident, Mo Junyang did not conceal his possessiveness towards Shi Qingxue anymore. He was straight forward and barefaced enough to bring chills and extreme fear to any ordinary man. Shi Qingxue was not intimidated, but she was not used to it and felt awkward. She shook her head hurriedly and turned down Mo Junyangs wild offer. Seeing that he was stubborn and determined, she could only put up with it and said, Okay, Ill allow you to stay and rest here tonight, but where are you going to sleep at? If Mo Junyangs answer was to sleep on her bed, she would kill him for sure! Chapter 71 - Causing Trouble Mo Junyang lowered his eyes, he didnt say that he should sleep on Shi Qingxues bed. He only led her to the bed and said softly, You shall sleep! He didnt mention what he would do at all. Shi Qingxue was speechless. How could she fall asleep in this way? Mo Junyang was so stubborn that if he really decided on something, Shi Qingxue couldnt stop him either. She could only lay in the bed obediently. She closed her eyes, and after a while, she opened her eyes again. She turned her face towards Mo Junyang and whispered, Mo Junyang, Im really fine After a short pause, her voice was lower and hardly audible, Dont be afraid. I wont die. Mo Junyang shuddered, he looked up at Shi Qingxue, and met her calm gaze. This shock was indescribable, and after the shock, Mo Junyang felt unprecedentedly peaceful in mind. He subconsciously raised the corners of his mouth, which made his cold expression gentle. Shi Qingxue also smiled, and exhaustion hit her. So she slowly closed her eyes and fell asleep. The next day, when Shi Qingxue woke up, Mo Junyang was no longer there. Before she went to greet the Empress Dowager, a subordinate came to report that the Empress Dowager temporarily decided to go back to the palace. Unprecedented high efficiency! Xia Mang couldnt help but praise, His Excellency is really capable. He actually persuaded the Empress Dowager so quickly! Shi Qingxue glanced at Xia Mang and asked in doubt, How did you know that it was him? Wasnt it possible that Her Majesty wanted to go back? It must be His Excellency! Xia Mang was so sure, she took what happened yesterday as an example, Just like yesterday. His Excellency did things neatly and without faults! Speaking of this, Shi Qingxue was also curious, How was the mans body dealt with at last yesterday? Although she wasnt sure whether Mo Junyang had killed the person at once, she was sure that he definitely didnt see todays sun! Xia Mang shrugged and said casually, That kind of rubbish, even if he was minced and fed to a dog, the dog wouldnt eat him. You can rest assured. His Excellency wont allow that jerk to affect your reputation. The fact had proved that one couldnt be so sure about a thing. Shi Qingxue returned to the house of the Shi Family and lived peacefully for several days, and even Mo Junyang didnt come to find her. But she didnt know when the rumor was spread in the capital city that the little daughter of Duke Shi was lust and had done excessive things with a man in the saint place of Buddhism to ruin its peace. The reason why the rumor was the rumor was that it didnt require any evidence and that it could quickly sweep the entire circle, leaving the victim no chance to refute. Even if the party had never done anything, there would have always been someone keeping asking about it. In a straightforward way, or in a devious way. Shi Qingxue was so bothered by those questions. Shi Qingxue just sent a group of people, when Dong Hui came and asked anxiously, Qingxue, what happened to you in the Peace Temple? What are those rumors that are spread outside? Shi Qingxue was completely annoyed. She sighed helplessly, Nothing. Those are just nonsenses spread by others. They are not true. Dont believe them! Dong Hui still looked anxious, and was more worried, Are they all fake? How can it be spread like this? Could it be that you didnt notice and did something that misled others and was seen? Or Mother! What are you talking about? Shi Qingxue opened up her eyes and couldnt believe it was what Dong Hui could say! Dong Hui knew that she said the wrong words, and looked a little embarrassed. But she still criticized seriously, Qingxue, I know that you dont care about these since you were young. But the reputation of a woman is so important that you cant ignore it. It was hard for Shi Qingxue to refute Dong Huis good will. So she suppressed her dissatisfaction, but her tone still showed that she was unconcerned, It doesnt matter. If that person really loves me, he definitely wont care about my reputation. Seeing that Dong Hui was about to criticize her, she continued to say, If he doesnt love me for who I am, then the fame of our family will support me, so my reputation wont be that vital. Dong Huis eyes were wide open, and she looked at Shi Qingxue in disbelief. Her mouth opened but she couldnt say a single refutation. Thinking about it, it seemed that Shi Qingxue was right. She had the identity of the second daughter of Duke Shi. There were a lot of people who wanted to marry her. Shi Qingxue didnt worry about it! Dong Hui shook her head to forget this inappropriate idea. She looked serious and snorted, Dont tell me this nonsense. Havent you thought about it that if the one you love knows about your bad reputation and dont want to marry you, what will you do? Shi Qingxue smiled a little coldly, and thought that it wouldnt matter if she didnt get that kind of person! He could abandon her once because of her reputation, then he might abandon her for a second time because of some other trivial matters. But she couldnt tell Dong Hui straightforwardly, so she had to be roundabout, Mom, dont you know what kind of person I am? I am clear. Ill be fine if other people hurt my heart and say those bad words about me. But do you even choose not to believe your own daughter but those rumors outside? Dong Hui quickly waved her hands and denied, Of course I dont believe that you have done those ugly things. But A clean hand wants no washing. Things I havent done, no matter how others tell them, cant be true. Shi Qingxue stopped this topic in a tough tone, and wouldnt like to talk about it. Dong Hui had to shut her mouth in dismay. After thinking for a while, she again whispered, If you really didnt do those things, we couldnt leave those rumors spread. This is not only Okay, I know. I will handle it. Shi Qingxue responded impatiently. She looked away and didnt talk to Dong Hui any more. It was not that she didnt treasure those good wills, but those matters that she couldnt explain clearly for so many times really annoyed her. Moreover, she was never a patient person. In the past, if others questioned her about such a fake thing, let alone explain it, she wouldnt say a word to the other party! Dong Hui sighed and left. The more Shi Qingxue thought about it, the angrier she got. When the rumors were spread, Qingxue instantly knew who the initiator was. But Mo Junyang had said that he would deal with it, so Shi Qingxue decided not to mind it. She didnt want to care about it! Anyway, Mo Junyang wouldnt make her suffer a loss. But she didnt expect that this thing would get bigger and bigger, and even Dong Hui started to doubt her. She could imagine what others thought about her. Shi Qingxue indeed didnt care about her reputation, but it didnt mean that she was willing to be arbitrarily slandered. Sixth Lady, should I send a letter to His Excellency to make him handle this matter? Xia Mang saw that Shi Qingxue was unhappy and advised in a low voice. Shi Qingxue pouted her mouth and said unwillingly, This matter is spread all over the city. Do you think that he doesnt know it? Either he has no way to handle this, or he is dealing with it. We dont have to bother him with this kind of thing. Xia Mang raised her eyebrows in surprise. She stared at Shi Qingxue and didnt speak for a long time. Perhaps Shi Qingxue didnt notice that her words didnt only show her understanding of Mo Junyang, but contained her trust and dependence. Xia Mang had never seen that Shi Qingxue could trust in anyone to such an extent before, not even Mo Junhao. Although Mo Junyang was strong and powerful, the trust was too strange. Xia Mang almost thought that an outsider pretended to be her master when she didnt notice. Of course, this was impossible. Shi Qingxue didnt know the strange thoughts in Xia Mangs mind. When she mentioned Mo Junyang, her mood suddenly lightened up, and she couldnt help smiling, You can rest assured! Mo Junyang is full of tricks and he is unwilling to suffer losses. He wont sit around and wait for failures. Maybe he has already begun to make plans! Xia Mang frowned, reminding her in a small voice, His Excellency is the noble eldest son rewarded by the Emperor. How could you call him by his name? Shi Qingxue paused, she just realized that she said the wrong words. She scratched her head annoyingly and said embarrassingly, I am used to it. She didnt know that Mo Junyang was reborn before, so she still pretended to call his respectful appellation. At present, all the secrets were revealed, so she didnt even bother to pretend while mentioning Mo Junyang. Sixth Lady, do you like King Ruis eldest son? Xia Mang suddenly asked. Shi Qingxue was choked by these words, coughing fiercely. She looked at Xia Mang in disbelief and yelled, Xia Mang, what are you talking about? Xia Mangs eyes were bright, and she said frankly, If you dont like him, how will you allow him to be so close to you? Shi Qingxue sighed helplessly, Isnt that what he wants? In fact, she planned to keep a long distance with Mo Junyang before. As long as she kept her distance with him, his love would be eroded by time and distance. Besides, she didnt think that Mo Junyang, who had been King Ruis eldest son rewarded, would love her so much, who was just such a little girl. But Mo Junyangs stubbornness was horrible, not to mention that this stubborn Mo Junyang was still the former one, which meant that his affection for her was not a momentary love, but an obsession accumulated for a long period. This made her more difficult! Xia Mang looked at Shi Qingxue, who was in a dilemma, and pointed out, If you dont like him, how will you allow him to be so close to you? In the past, how unsympathetic Shi Qingxue was to her admirers, Xia Mang witnessed it all. She wouldnt even give them a chance, so how could she give the other party the opportunity to entangle with her? Shi Qingxue was stunned, staring at Xia Mang in surprise for a moment. Then she suddenly thought how she got along with Mo Junyang these days. There were too many matters having crossed the boundary! Shi Qingxues eyes dimmed, and after a long time, she whispered, I get it. Xia Mang didnt know what Shi Qingxue was referring to, but Qingxue didnt give her the opportunity to ask. Then she said, Okay. You send someone to the house of Shi Baojin later to check what she is up to lately. As for this, Xia Mang knew it before she went there to ask, so she quickly replied, It is said that Third Lady often goes out recently, and has close contact with the lady in the Family of the Minister of Ministry of Revenue. Huh? The Shi Family and the Minister of Ministry of Revenue havent had much contact with each other. Isnt Third Uncle always in the party of the Fourth Prince? Why does she get connected with the person in the party of the Third Prince? Shi Qingxue frowned. Could it be that Shi Baojin became so capable that she could win officials for Mo Junhao? Xia Mang sneered contemptuously and said concisely, The second son in the Family of the Minister of Ministry of Revenue is still unmarried. Chapter 72 - The Second Move Shi Qingxue frowned, and glanced at Xia Mang helplessly. Xia Mangs bright eyes made her speechless. After a long while, she said, The second son in the Family of the Minister of Ministry of Revenue. Well, isnt he Zhao Zhuers second brother, Zhao Liang? Xia Mang nodded and said initiatively, Miss Zhao had always been in a good relationship with First Lady before. But since we returned from the Peace Temple, she has spent more time with Third Lady. I heard that Third Lady invited Miss Zhao to go to Zhao Liangs school together. About what they went there for, there was no need for Xia Mang to explain. Shi Baojin has always been proud. How could she be satisfied with the identity of the wife of the second son in the Family of the Minister of Ministry of Revenue? This is a bit strange. Shi Qingxue wasnt slandering Shi Baojin. In her previous life, Shi Baojin became the new Empress. Such an ambitious person, how could she marry him because of the identity of a noble son? Not to mention that the relationship between the Minister of Ministry of Revenue and the Third Prince was unclear. Werent they afraid that Mo Junhao would kick their family out of his party when he was mad? Xia Mang shrugged, Who knows! Third Lady is always being arrogant. Its not the first time that she has done such an excessive thing. Didnt she do those ugly things in order to become the wife of King Ruis eldest son? Now its not strange that she takes the initiative to get close to Zhao Liang. In my opinion, as long as she doesnt make the Shi Family lose face when she is teased, why do you bother to mind her? It had been proved that Xia Mang was sometimes a jinx. Only one day after she had just said this, there was another big news in the Shi Family which had been bothered by the rumors. Someone saw that Zhao Liang was sleeping in the same bed with Shi Baojin who not properly dressed, in the famous brothel in the capital city. It was doubted that something indescribable had happened. As soon as this topic came out, it quickly swept through the entire noble circle. And the rumors about Shi Qingxue before disappeared instantly. After all, compared with Shi Qingxues rumors without any evidence, the crowd were more interested in such matter with witness and evidence to prove that they had been caught in bed. Although the custom of the Mo Dynasty was open and there werent so many things to avoid for men and women, it was still too excessive to meet privately in the brothel with no scruple. Shi Qingxue frowned again when she heard the news and asked Xia Mang in doubt, Why is this thing exaggerated like this? Xia Mang smiled indifferently, How great it is! Everyone has turned their attention to the matter that they were caught in bed, and no one talks about your rumors any more! The best way to break the rumor was to create a more surprising gossip. Obviously, Shi Baojins gossip was more attractive than Shi Qingxues rumors, which were without any evidence. Shi Qingxue understood this, but she still felt that something was wrong, Im just afraid that someone deliberately aimed at the Shi Family. By the way, how is Shi Baojin now? How could she be after being ashamed? It is announced that she doesnt feel well and needs to recuperate at home. Who doesnt know that the Princess Royal thinks that she is shameful and locks her up? Dong Shuang said while she was dancing. She was so excited, as if she had picked a gold ingot. Shi Qingxue was speechless, Eh! She is also a member of the Shi Family. Its okay for her to have a bad luck on her own. But now it is the reputation of our Shi Family that is defiled. It was true that she hated Shi Baojin, but she also couldnt tolerate others to slander the members of the Shi Family at will! Yes, she liked shielding the weak. Xia Mang glanced at Qingxue and said softly, There might be some details added into this matter of Third Lady. But the fact is not much different from the rumor. It was really too dramatic, and there was no room for passers-by to exaggerate it! Shi Qingxue opened up her eyes wide in surprise, You mean that Shi Baojin is really with Zhao Liang When Shi Baojin seduced Mo Junyang before, she used this trick according to the saying that what had been done could not be undone. She instantly had nothing to say. And whats more exciting is that Zhao Liang is a shameless noble man. He has already slept with her and made it known to the whole city. If he is responsible, he will marry her and live with her. But he doesnt do it! It has been two or three days, but the Zhao Family never sends anyone to propose a marriage. It is said that someone has seen that Zhao Liang goes to the opera today! Dong Shuang told her the gossips she had heard with an excited look. And she had an expression of gloat on her face! But this time Shi Qingxue was not angry. She liked shielding the weak, but she was not stupid. It was the trouble Shi Baojin caused for herself, so she should bear her own responsibility. She had saved Shi Baojin, and she didnt plan to mind her business for the second time. She just sighed with emotions, It seems that she will miss the position of Empress this time. Thinking in this way, Shi Qingxue felt it funny. In her previous life, she and Shi Baojin had spent so much time on fighting for the position of Empress. But in this life, she gave up that position from the beginning, while Shi Baojin wasnt qualified any more. It had really changed! Shi Qingxue sighed for a while, and simply ignored the matter. But Zhou Ruyu came to her at this time. What is Third Aunt up to in the Luotong Boudoir? Shi Qingxue spoke softly after completing the etiquette. She was not afraid that Zhou Ruyu would criticize her on her attitude. If she really annoyed her, she could drive her out right away. Unexpectedly, Zhou Ruyu was not angry. Instead, she smiled obsequiously at Shi Qingxue, Its no big deal. I find that you dont go out these days, so I want to check whether you are feeling well. If you feel sick, I can help you call Dr. Shen The words of concern were endless, as if she were really concerned about her. Shi Qingxue was impatient with pretending to be close to Zhou Ruyu. She raised her eyebrows and said with a seemingly smile, I think Third Aunt knows why I havent gone out these days. If Shi Baojin hadnt done those dirty things, would she need to stay in the house for peace? Zhou Ruyus smile froze on her face. After a long time, she reluctantly said, I know that there are some things that we have done improperly before, and they offended you. But after all, we are families. You cant do those things to make your families painful and make your enemies pleasant. Well. Shi Qingxue looked more indifferent, and said unkindly, I think it is more appropriate for Third Aunt and Baojin. Zhou Ruyu, Zhou Ruyu wholeheartedly sought peace, and her attitude was already extremely low. If she still held her erratic temperament as before, she must have argued back if she was treated like this. But when she thought of Shi Baojin, who was still locked up in her boudoir, she forced herself to suppress her anger. She flattered, Qingxue! You know about your Baojins temperament since you have known her for so long. She is reckless and doesnt think too much while speaking and doing things. But she has a good heart. She is now locked up by mother, so she wont be able to apologize, even if she feels sorry. I am her mother, so I should also bear the responsibility of not raising her well. I would like to apologize to you for all the wrong things she has done before. After all, you two are sisters. Please forgive her! Shi Qingxue was surprised. If it werent an inelegant behavior, she would rub her eyes to see if she recognized the wrong person. Were those humble words really said by Zhou Ruyu, who was always so arrogant? Shi Qingxue was silent for a moment, and then she simply asked, Auntie, if you have something to say, dont be devious. Zhou Ruyu thought that Shi Qingxue was moved by her words. She was suddenly overjoyed and said hurriedly, I wont say those empty words. I wish you can do me a favor to make the second son of the Zhao Family marry your Baojin in a formal way. What? Qingxue looked at Zhou Ruyu in surprise and said gloomily, Auntie is thinking too highly of me. The relationship between the Shi Family and the Zhao Family is normal, and I am more unfamiliar with those gentlemen and ladies in the Zhao Family. You ask me to persuade the Zhao Family to propose a marriage. Is it possible that I will succeed? Not to mention Shi Qingxue was still unmarried. If she really believed Zhou Ruyu and proposed a marriage, she really wouldnt marry a man in the future. Zhou Ruyu turned a blind eye to the difficulties that Shi Qingxue had said. Instead, she encouraged her with more excitement, If you say a word, even the Empress Dowager will give you a face. How could it be that you wont succeed? Qingxue! The happiness of Baojins life is all under your control. She now gives her everything to that damned ungrateful person in the Zhao Family. If he doesnt marry her, she really wont live! Speaking of her sadness, Zhou Ruyu really dropped a few tears and looked very pitiful. Shi Qingxue was speechless for a while. She totally didnt understand Zhou Ruyus logic. Since she knew that Zhao Liang was an ungrateful person, why would she still insist on pushing Shi Baojin into the fire pit so persistently? What a great mother! She pursed her lips and didnt show what she was thinking. However, she mentioned, The so-called formal marriage should be according to parents orders or the matchmakers words. Even though Third Uncle is a man and doesnt like minding such matters, why dont you ask grandmother to stand out for Baojin? A trace of resentment flashed in Zhou Ruyus eyes, but she quickly hid it and explained helplessly, Mother is unwilling to take care of these little things, and it is not convenient for me to bother her as a junior. So Qingxue, you must It turned out that Mo Shujun didnt care about it at all! Shi Qingxue understood. In fact, she had guessed Mo Shujuns attitude. She was curious, Im just a weak woman. Why do you think that I have the ability to persuade Zhao Liang, or the Zhao Family? It would be more reliable if she went to Shi Baoning. Anyway, Shi Baoning was an Infanta and had a very good relationship with Zhao Zhuer. Zhou Ruyu only thought that Shi Qingxue was saying the riddle with her. With a flattering smile on her face, she said in a devious way, Qingxue is being naughty. You are saying riddle to me. Now who doesnt know that you and King Ruis eldest son Third Aunt. Shi Qingxues voice became cold and she interrupted Zhou Ruyus words. Her eyes suddenly became extremely indifferent. Zhou Ruyu still insisted on finishing her words, You have such a good relationship with King Ruis eldest son. You just need to tell him about this matter and ask him to do you a small favor. This matter will be solved casually! Shi Qingxue never thought that one day she and Mo Junyang would be linked together by others in this way. Mo Junyang was not her subordinate. No, Zhou Ruyus words were even more harsh. It implied that Mo Junyang was a dog under the command of her. She didnt feel happy. Instead, she was extremely uncomfortable! Shi Qingxue looked angry, she pointed at the door and unkindly drove her away, Third Aunt, please leave! Chapter 73 - Returning Home and Visiting Families Zhou Ruyu was talking vigorously, but was suddenly asked to leave by Shi Qingxue so rudely, so she also got angry, Shi Qingxue, what do you mean? I put down my pride to sue for peace, just in order to make you do me a small favor and praise our Baojin a little in front of Mo Junyang. Still, you are not willing to help us. But you also show me your bad attitude. It seems that you really know nothing about etiquette! Shi Qingxue had no expression on her face, and spent her last patience waiting for Zhou Ruyu to finish her speech. Then she turned to Xia Mang, Send her out. Zhou Ruyu, Zhou Ruyu didnt expect Shi Qingxue to be so ruthless. She glared at her, raised her hand and pointed at her for a long but couldnt say a word. Xia Mang also didnt expect that Shi Qingxue really drove her away without hesitation, but when she went back to her consciousness, she executed her masters order immediately. Shi Qingxue drove her away, but was still full of anger, and it couldnt vanish. She was so mad that she wanted to beat someone! What are you mad at? Mo Junyangs cold voice sounded from behind, startling Shi Qingxue. She turned around, staring at the man in astonishment, who suddenly appeared in her boudoir, she asked him in a cold voice, When did you get here? Mo Junyang didnt answer, but asked again, What are you mad at? Shi Qingxue was almost speechless about Mo Junyangs ability to skew the question, but when confronting the mans persistence, she could only answer honestly, I dont like it when she describes our relationship in that way, as if you were my subordinate or something more degrading. You are not! Mo Junyang raised the corners of his mouth and smiled slowly, Then what am I? What is it between us? It was the first time that they had faced the huge problem in front of them. Shi Qingxue was speechless. The time and place were not right. She shouldnt discuss this topic with Mo Junyang here. She wanted to escape again, but Mo Junyang pushed her to the front, so she could not avoid it any more. Shi Qingxue lowered her head, took a deep breath, and seemed to be making a big decision. A few minutes later, she raised her head again. Her look became peaceful again, and then she said in a calm but firm tone, Mo Junyang, we are not suitable. Those were just simple words, but nothing could be more straightforward than them or make him more aware of Shi Qingxues meaning. Mo Junyang looked at Shi Qingxue quietly. He knew that she had tried her best to give him an answer that wouldnt make him misunderstand, even though he didnt like it. He didnt speak. He had nothing to say at this time. Shi Qingxue unilaterally denied their possibility, but he did not accept it. The two were once again in a stalemate. Even though both of them felt embarrassed, they had nothing to say. Until Sixth Lady, Second Lady is here and asks to see you. Xia Mang lightly knocked on the door and said in a low voice at the door, as if she were afraid to disturb the conversation between the two in the room. Shi Qingxue was hoping that someone could disturb them, so she couldnt wait to reply, I see. I will go to the living room right away. After that, she looked at Mo Junyang with embarrassment. He suddenly appeared in her boudoir. How should she explain it to Shi Baojing? Mo Junyang seemed to have guessed the concern in her heart and immediately said, I came in after telling the subordinate. In other words, the appearance of Mo Junyang was reasonable and aboveboard. Shi Qingxue was relieved. She bit her lips, and hesitantly asked, Are you going back? Mo Junyang shook his head, and said, I am going with you. Speaking of it, I havent seen Baojing for a long time. Shi Qingxue was stunned. Until Shi Baojing and Mo Junyang chatted for a while, she suddenly remembered some things in her previous life Mo Junyang might have some different feelings for Shi Qingxue, but when he was dealing with his political enemies, he was not sympathetic at all, including the Shi Family. After Mo Junyang ascended the throne, he almost killed the whole Shi Family, including Shi Baochun, who had been married and never opposed him. But it was almost. Mo Junyang left Shi Baojing alive, without any reasons. Like a lunatic, he did whatever he wanted. Shi Qingxue also regarded Mo Junyang as a lunatic at first, but a lunatic wouldnt have such precise strategies. In other words, even if Mo Junyang was totally a lunatic, he did things for a reason. The problem was whether others could find out that reason or not. Shi Qingxue had a feeling at this moment that she seemed to have known a secret. She watched Shi Baojing and Mo Junyang talking with her eyes twinkling. Their identifications and status were quite different, but Shi Baojing was calm and Mo Junyang was gentle, which made the conversation between them easy and warm. Shi Qingxue felt a little surprised. Could two people, who had never met each other before, really talk happily in such a short time? She didnt believe this was a kind of coincidence. She looked at Shi Baojing but didnt see the difference. She glanced at Mo Junyang, but failed to find a clue. But she clearly knew that the person who caused this situation was Mo Junyang. There was no evidence. She didnt need the evidence. Shi Qingxue calmly watched the two talking, and felt confused in her heart, until Shi Baoning turned her eyes to her and asked softly, Qingxue, is that okay? What? Shi Qingxue realized that she was distracted and didnt even hear what they had just talked about. Shi Baojing didnt mind it, and repeated it again, It is my grandfathers birthday two days later. My father has agreed that my mother and I can return home and visit our families. Do you want to come with us? After that, she smiled with embarrassment, Although the house of my family is a little rough, it has beautiful scenery and it is suitable for relaxation. Shi Qingxue raised her eyebrows in surprise. To be honest, she never thought that Shi Baojing would invite her to return to her house and visit her families. It was not because Shi Baojings maternal family was poor, but because she just had a general relationship with Shi Baojing. She was obviously trying to help her avoid the recent bad things in the Shi Family by inviting her at this time. It was out of good will. But for what? Shi Qingxue didnt think that it was necessary for Shi Baojing to do these things for her. But in the face of Shi Baojings sincere gaze, she couldnt say anything to refuse. She knew that Shi Baojing really wanted to help her. Baojing, you kindly invite me, if I refuse, I will be ingrate. Besides, I am quite interested in your maternal family! Shi Qingxue took Shi Baojings hand and said with a bright smile. Shi Baojing was relieved and smiled, Yecheng County wont disappoint you. The two had a very happy chat. Mo Junyang didnt disturb them, but listened to them with interest aside. Until they set a schedule, he slowly asked, Do you know Zeng Zhi, the County Magistrate of Yecheng County? Shi Baojing replied, He is my uncle. Mo Junyang smiled and said softly, I had an appointment with Mr. Zeng before. This time I will go to Yecheng County with you. Would you mind it? Shi Baojing was stunned by Mo Junyangs smile, and her face turned red instantly. She couldnt keep dignified and calm like before, but lowered her head and replied, stuttering, No. How could I? Its our blessing that Your Excellency would like to visit the Zeng Family in Yecheng County. Shi Qingxue watched them and felt surprised C when did Mo Junyang become so good at flirting? And Mo Junyang was flirting with Shi Baojing For a moment, Shi Qingxue doubted whether she had been drunk. Otherwise, how could she make up such an impossible thing? However, the fact was that when Mo Junyang and Shi Baojing were standing together, who were in totally different styles, they seemed to be unexpectedly harmonious. Shi Qingxue deliberately ignored the discomfort in her heart, and began to seriously think about matching these two people together. The more she thought about it, the more appropriate she felt it, mainly because Mo Junyangs special attitude towards Shi Baojing was very illustrative of certain problems. If Mo Junyang really became her brother-in-law, it would seem to be okay. Shi Qingxue suppressed the urge to be the matchmaker and thought that they would all go to Yecheng County anyway, so she would know whether this could work as long as she had a try. Located in the southwest of the capital city, Yecheng County was a small town that was quite backward. But as Shi Baojing said, it had the advantages of beautiful scenery and pleasant climate. It was still freezing in February, but in Yecheng County, there was no longer snow. The spring breeze was blowing. Although it was a bit cold, it still made people feel comfortable. Shi Qingxue was sitting in the carriage, enjoying the spring view outside. She thought that it was right to come out this time. Anyway, she could relax her mind and avoid the dirty matters of Third Masters Family. It was also good to stay away from them for a while! However, Shi Qingxues good mood didnt last long. It took them two days to arrive at the house of the Zeng Family in Yecheng County. As Shi Baojing had introduced, the Zeng family was really poor. Even though Shi Baojings grandfather was a great scholar before, he was an obsolete. Although Shi Baojings uncle was the County Magistrate of Yecheng, he didnt have extra income. So even when the noble guest came, Mo Junyang could only get a separate room, which was already the best room they could offer. And it was the room of Zeng Ru, Shi Baojings grandfather, next door. Zeng Zhi was scared. He personally led Mo Junyang to the bedroom. He asked in a humble tone, Is Your Excellency satisfied with this room? If Your Excellency thinks it is not good enough, I will Speaking of this, Zeng Zhi was embarrassed. What could he do? Could he make his father move out and give that room to Mo Junyang? Or he could help Mo Junyang find a first-class inn outside, whose environment might be better than here. Zeng Zhi was anxious. He was afraid that Mo Junyang was dissatisfied with this arrangement. Also, he worried that Mo Junyang really turned away. Mo Junyang looked at the simple and crude residence. There was no extra expression on his face. He just asked, Where does Qingxue live? Zeng Zhi was surprised. He didnt understand why this great man cared about where a little girl lived, but he still answered honestly, Shi Qingxue lived in my daughters bedroom with my niece. They are all little girls, so they have common topics to talk about while living together. Mo Junyang made no comments and said coldly, Then I will live here. Thank you, Mr. Zeng. Zeng Zhi didnt expect Mo Junyang to be so flexible, which was different from the rumors. He responded stupidly, Its good that Your Excellency is satisfied. Its good. In the eyes of outsiders, Mo Junyang seemed to be really satisfied with the residence arranged by Zeng Zhi. After he decided to live here, he immediately let Wei Zichao make a bed. He showed no hint of detestation. Only then was Zeng Zhi relieved. He took the initiative to invite him, Your Excellency must be tired after this long journey. How about having a meal with us tonight? Our Zeng Family can welcome Your Excellency in this way. Mo Junyang frowned and glanced at Zeng Zhi, which made him anxious again. God! Did he offend this great man by saying anything wrong again? Was it too late for him to recall the invitation? Zeng Zhi thought desperately. Chapter 74 - He Needed a Wife Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang did not refuse Zeng Zhis invitation. After frowning, he nodded at Zeng Zhi instead, and said gently, Then I shall bother you. Zeng Zhi was still astonished when he left, as if he were hit by pennies from the heaven and lost his consciousness. Qu Yuebai couldnt hold it back and teased him in a low voice, If the Crown Prince knows that you are so considerate and kind to scholars for his great cause, he will definitely wake up laughing. Although he said it, Que Yuebai didnt believe that Mo Junyang really came a long way to Yecheng County just in order to motivate a county magistrate for Mo Junyus business at all. Probably even the Left and Right Prime Minister couldnt succeed in inviting this god! As for the reason why Mo Junyang was willing to come, it should be too easy to guess. Mo Junyang glanced at Qu Yuebai and said indifferently, Are you idle? Qu Yuebai shut his mouth in a hurry and made a gesture of sealing his mouth, indicating that he wouldnt say another word. Since then, Qu Yuebai had always been quiet. He didnt follow Mo Junyang to attend the banquet of the Zeng Family. He didnt have his position as a staff in such a situation, and he didnt care about it. While everyone was having dinner, Qu Yuebai and Wei Zichao quickly made an assessment of the entire Zeng Family. Any dangers and uncertainties were under their control. In a small county like Yecheng, Mo Junyangs identity was enough to amaze many people. The Zeng Family spared no efforts in serving him. They almost consecrated him as if he were their ancestor. Compared with him, Shi Qingxue was treated much worse. However, Shi Qingxue didnt mind it at all. She watched the Zeng Family flatter Mo Junyang with great interest, thinking that this time he suffered a lot! With Mo Junyangs temperament, he would never deal with others courteously but without sincerity. Once he became impatient, he could instantly kill them. But at this time, he had to pretend to be calm and listen to Madam Luo of the Zeng Family, Shi Baojings aunt, praising her own daughter. Accompanied with the shy and timid appearance of her daughter, the intention to match them together was obvious. But Shi Baojing became more and more anxious. When Mo Junyang frowned again, she finally couldnt help but say, It is the first time that Your Excellency has come to Yecheng County. Let me show Your Excellency around. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows slightly. He didnt speak yet, when Zeng Yi, Shi Baojings cousin, said hurriedly, How can Baojing be more familiar with Yecheng County than me? Let me go with Your Excellency! Mo Junyang didnt even look at Zeng Yi, and said straightforwardly, Theres no need. I am exhausted, so I shall go back to the room and rest first. Zeng Zhi grabbed Zeng Yi, who still wanted to say something, and said quickly, In this case, we will not disturb Your Excellency. If there were any need, Your Excellency could order us again. Mo Junyang nodded, and glanced at Shi Qingxue before he left. As he left, Zeng Yi immediately became unhappy. She pouted her mouth and complained, Dad, it is rare for His Excellency to come here. Why do you let him go? I havent talked with him yet! In this way, when will he fall in love with me? Ahem! Shi Qingxue coughed twice before reluctantly holding back the laughter that had reached her lips. Zeng Yi glanced at Shi Qingxue strangely and asked in doubt, Qingxue, are you sick? Why do you cough? Shi Qingxue waved her hand and pressed her voice, saying, Im okay. I was just choked by water. You go on. Dont mind me. Okay! Zeng Yi believed it. Her attention was not on Shi Qingxue at all. She complained again, Dad, I dont care. Tomorrow you must make His Excellency hang out alone with me, so that he can know how good I am. After that, Zeng Yi nodded seriously, as if Mo Junyang would definitely fall for her as long as they spent time alone together. Zeng Zhi looked serious and reprimanded loudly, Nonsense. How great His Excellency is! Who are you to match with him? Youd better dispel this unrealistic idea as soon as possible. I will find you a marriage with an appropriate family next year. You wont be wronged. As soon as Madam Luo heard this, she became unhappy, Zeng Zhi, what do you mean? What is our daughter weak in? Why doesnt she deserve His Excellency? In my opinion, our daughter is pretty and intelligent. She can be elegant outside and be virtuous inside. She is too qualified to be the wife of King Ruis eldest son! If you were not that useless, she would be in the palace and become a noble concubine! Well, Shi Qingxue finally knew why Zeng Yi was so confident. Qingxue turned her head around and saw Shi Baojings embarrassed look, and silently held back her laughter. She pretended to be sleepy and yawned, Uncle, Aunt, I am a little sleepy. I shall go to rest first. Zeng Zhi also didnt want this awkward thing in his own family to be seen by others, so he quickly responded, You have a good rest. If you need anything, feel free to tell me. As soon as Shi Qingxue left the living room, Zeng Zhi became strict again and reprimanded unhappily, What nonsense are you talking? If the junior heard it, how bad it would be! Madam Luo was not afraid of him. She raised her eyebrows and said, Huh! Who do you blame for your being useless? I must be blind so that I married you. I thought you had a sister who married to the Shi Family, and then your family would be prosperous. After I married you did I know that your sister was just a concubine of the second son in the Shi Family, who didnt have a title and was short-lived Luo Jiaoniang! Zeng Zhi yelled with anger and subconsciously turned to look at Shi Baojing. Shi Baojing kept her head down, as if she hadnt heard the dispute between the seniors. Nevertheless, Zeng Zhi still felt embarrassed. He said irritably, If you talk nonsense again, dont blame me for divorcing you. Luo Jiaoniang rested her hands on her hips and said with an arrogant attitude, I dare you to divorce me! I never break the seven laws. For what reason can you divorce me? Zeng Zhi, I tell you. Dont forget that you got this position of the County Magistrate with the help of our Luo Family. If you divorced me, you would be nothing! Zeng Zhi opened up his eyes and glared at Luo Jiaoniang fiercely. He intended to slap her. But Zeng Yi shouted to stop his movement in panic, Dad. Mom. Dont quarrel! Zeng Yi looked sullen, showing an impatient expression. She shouted, Mom, dont you just think that father is not a great official so that you cant show off in front of your sisters? You have me now! As long as I get His Excellency, should my father still worry that he cant be promoted or get rich? Should our family worry that no one flatters us? It will be better if you think of ways for me to catch the heart of His Excellency, rather than quarrel about those trivial things all day. The argument in the room was really calmed down by Zeng Yis arrogant words. She turned to talk to Shi Baojing, Baojing, I find that you are in a good relationship with His Excellency. You help me to make an appointment with him by the Mingyang Lake tomorrow, and I will appear there by chance. Then I can accompany His Excellency to appreciate the lake. His Excellency will definitely change his opinion on me. Shi Baojing didnt expect that she would turn to her for help. After a long while, she stuttered to say, I, I am not familiar with him. His status is distinguished. How can I make an appointment with him as long as I want to? Zeng Yi raised her chin slightly and said arrogantly, I dont care. I have given you this task, anyway. I must meet His Excellency at the Mingyang Lake tomorrow morning. She yelled this command out as if she were assured and bold with justice. Even when Shi Qingxue had walked out of the lobby, she still heard it. Qingxue couldnt help being speechless. She felt that she was wrong to think that Zeng Yi was with a good shape but she was without a good brain. Wasnt she quite smart? At least she had found a shortcut. She sighed helplessly and didnt intend to listen to the discussion in the room. When she just passed the corner, she saw Mo Junyang leaning leisurely against the beam column. Obviously, he also heard the conversation. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but ridicule with a smile, Your Excellency is really charming. It hasnt been one day since you arrived in Yecheng County yet, but you have one more admirer! Mo Junyangs expression remained the same. He raised his eyebrows and asked, Jealous? Shi Qingxue hurriedly waved her hands. She couldnt stand such admiration. Mo Junyang stared straight at Shi Qingxue and suddenly asked, You said before that we were not suitable? Shi Qingxue thought about it for a while before she was sure that it was a question, and then she nodded in doubt. Mo Junyang smiled again, If you are not suitable, who will be suitable? Shi Qingxue glared at him and showed a look, as if to say, How can I know who is suitable for you? But Mo Junyang didnt give Shi Qingxue time to express her thought. He said straightforwardly, Didnt you apologize and say sorry to me? Yes. Whats wrong? Shi Qingxue was a little embarrassed, but she wouldnt deny what she had said. Mo Junyang then asked, Did you really mean it? Shi Qingxue glared at him again and responded angrily, Of course I did mean it. Why should I lie to you? What exactly do you want? I have lived such a long time, but you are the first one to whom I have seriously apologized. Dont you She didnt like to be entangled in this topic. It would embarrass her. Mo Junyang said casually, Is it enough to just say sorry? What? Shi Qingxue was astonished for a while. Then she realized that he implied that she was just saying. If she really felt guilty, she wouldnt compensate him with just saying sorry. Shi Qingxues face suddenly became hot. After a while, she barely calmed down, but she still didnt dare to look at Mo Junyangs eyes. She could only explain in a somewhat vague voice, I really havent thought about compensation before. I was overwhelmed by my own matters. It would be ridiculous to talk about compensating you in that circumstance. She took a deep breath, and continued, But since you have mentioned it, what do you want me to do? As long as I can, I will do my best. Speaking of this, Shi Qingxue felt herself a little pathetic. She was so naive and longed for true love in her previous life. But she didnt realize that she had indeed got what she longed for until she was dead for a long time. The most pathetic thing was that she couldnt accept that true love. Mo Junyang got her promise in this matter. He didnt look happier, nor did he look disappointed. He was just indifferent as usual. After a while, he said softly, I need a wife. What? Shi Qingxue raised her eyes in surprise. She watched Mo Junyang for a while, and she was still not sure whether she had heard it wrong. Mo Junyang didnt repeat, but said coldly, You heard it clearly. Shi Qingxue, She did hear it clearly. So she frowned and hesitated for a while before asking, So do you want to marry Zeng Yi? Chapter 75 - Approached Him Shamelessly Mo Junyang had always been calm, but this time he was shocked by Shi Qingxues words. For a while, he looked at Shi Qingxue helplessly, Do you think that this is the standard for my wife? Shi Qingxue shook her head quickly, she was afraid that Mo Junyang would get angry. She smiled and flattered, How could it be? Brother Yangs wife must be the best woman in the world. Only in that way can she be matched with you! She called him Brother Yang again. Mo Junyang was dazzled by this flattering smile, so he couldnt vent his anger, and he was somewhat pleasant instead, Really? Then, in your opinion, who meets this standard? Shi Qingxue glanced at Mo Junyang, feeling embarrassed. How could she know who this unparalleled woman was? After thinking about it, she carefully implied, Actually, it should be the one Brother Yang likes. Mo Junyang glanced at her and said in his heart, I like you. But such words could only scare her away. He restrained his tempting heart and said softly, Dont think about whether I like her or not. Since you have said that you want to compensate, you should make me marry a wife within a year. Then we should be clear. Shi Qingxues eyes glowed when she heard the word clear, Are you serious? Mo Junyang looked away, Yes. But you cant just find an ordinary woman to fool me. Shi Qingxue kept nodding, and agreed without hesitation, You can rest assured. I will definitely choose a wife for you with fantastic appearance and virtues! What if those casual women chase me? Mo Junyang glanced at the room with a certain insinuation. Shi Qingxue frowned. She was embarrassed for a while, but she still promised, If an unqualified woman chases you, I will help you settle this matter! Mo Junyang guided her, Wont you regret it? Shi Qingxue replied firmly, A word can never be withdrawn. Mo Junyang then smiled with satisfaction, and said coldly, Then, see you at the Mingyang Lake tomorrow. Then he walked away with ease. What? Shi Qingxue stood still and after a while, she finally realized it. She was upset and mumbled sadly, If you dont go to the Mingyang Lake tomorrow, Zeng Yi wont get the chance even though she wants to chase you. Why do you have to trouble yourself? Mo Junyang had gone far. She wasnt sure whether he had heard her complaint, but she didnt get an answer anyway. Shi Qingxue sighted helplessly. The next day, she followed Shi Baojing like a small tail. When they reached the Mingyang Lake, they happened to meet Zeng Yi who came out to admire the scenery. When Zeng Yi saw Mo Junyang, she was like an energetic butterfly. She hurriedly came up to the front of Mo Junyang, Does Your Excellency also come to the Mingyang Lake to admire the scenery? What a coincidence! So do I. What about us visiting it together? I can also introduce you the views of the Mingyang Lake. Mo Junyang smiled slightly and refused without hesitation, There is no need. Second Lady said that she could accompany me to walk around. I dont have to bother you. He called her Second Lady according to Shi Baojings rank in the Shi Family. There was nothing special about it. But as Zeng Yi pondered over it, she found a hint of intimate relationship in this call. Zeng Yi glared resentfully at Shi Baojing, and desperately blinked to warn her: As long as you took him here, you should go right away. Dont stay here, getting in the way. Shi Qingxue was a little speechless, facing Zeng Yis righteousness. She planned to ignore it, but Mo Junyang glanced at her, so she had to quickly rectify her attitude. She grabbed Shi Baojing and came forward to the front of Mo Junyang. She smiled and said with her unique and sweet voice, Sister, I havent visited the Mingyang Lake before. When you hang out with His Excellency, could you please also take me? I promise not to disturb you two. At last, she blinked at the two ambiguously. Shi Baojings face suddenly turned red with shyness. She quickly glanced at Mo Junyang and found that he still looked calm, so her heart beat faster. She didnt pay attention to Zeng Yis look, but asked in a low voice, Then Your Excellency, shall we walk around by the lake? Mo Junyang glanced at Shi Qingxue and Shi Baojing. He immediately understood what Qingxue had in mind. But he was not mad. At least he didnt show it. He nodded at Shi Baojing very politely, gave way to her, and agreed that Shi Baojing could walk side by side with him. Shi Baojings heart beat fast. She wanted to go forward, but she was afraid. She subconsciously looked at Qingxue, and the latter gave her an encouraging smile and reached out to push her forward, saying, You walk in the front to introduce the beautiful scenery to His Excellency! I shall go with Yi. Dont worry about us! Right, Sis? Her last sentence was said to Zeng Yi. Zeng Yi was extremely mad, and secretly scolded that Shi Qingxue couldnt recognize the situation and matched the wrong people together. But in front of Mo Junyang, she didnt dare to vent her anger. So she barely maintained her smile and still insisted, Actually, I am more familiar with the Mingyang Lake. I can Great! Shi Qingxues scream interrupted Zeng Yis words. Her smile became even brighter. She seemed to be acting coquettishly and shamelessly and requested, Baojing has mentioned the Mingyang Lake before, and I have been looking forward to it for a long time. Brother Yang must not mind giving me Sister Yi! Mo Junyang was not able to refuse Shi Qingxue. At this moment, the girl he loved made eyes at him. It was so sweet that his heart was moved. If there were no need for him to maintain his personality, he could put down his pride and agree, Its all up to you. As long as you like! Of course, he still looked very calm without a smile on his face. He nodded expressionlessly and then walked forward without looking back. Shi Qingxue blinked her eyes and watched Mo Junyangs back figure, which seemed to walk a little faster than before. She felt that he was escaping. Well, it must be an illusion. Shi Qingxue nodded in her heart. Completely ignoring Zeng Yis mad look, she went forward and said with a smile, Sis, shall we go? Zeng Yi held back her temper and didnt shake her hand off. She squeezed the words out of her teeth, Lets go! Shi Qingxue visited the lake as if she really intended to admire it. While walking, she listened to the introduction and asked some questions at the same time. From poems and songs to allusions and legends, she seemed to want to know everything about the Mingyang Lake. Zeng Yi didnt want to pay attention to her at all. She just wanted to find an opportunity to approach Mo Junyang and perform well. But the distance between the two pairs of people was not far. Once her voice got louder, she could be heard. Shi Qingxue even asked perseveringly the second time, so Zeng Yi couldnt quit answering her questions. They wasted their time, no, spent about one hour leisurely and comfortably enjoying the spring views at the lake, until Zeng Yis mouth became dry and she could hardly bear it. Ouch! Shi Baojing suddenly twisted her ankle and she lost her balance, flung forward. Mo Junyang saw it and grabbed Shi Baojing quickly, so that she didnt fall down with her face on the ground. But he didnt hold her into his arms as written in the script. He just slightly decreased Shi Baojings pain, but she still fell down on the ground. Zeng Yi ran to Shi Baojing more initiatively than anyone else and asked anxiously, Baojing, are you okay? Are you injured? Does it matter? Can you still walk? As she spoke, she used her hand to press Shi Baojings injured right ankle. Shi Baojing screamed out because of the pain. So she quickly took back her hand, and immediately burst into tears, and the sisterhood was fully interpreted, Baojing, how could you be so careless? What can we do with your sprain? It will be grandfathers birthday tomorrow. He must be sad if he knows that you are injured. My heart even hurts when I see that you are so badly injured. Shi Qingxue, She coughed in a low voice, trying to cover up her laughter. Fortunately, Zeng Yi focused on performing her care for her cousin in front of Mo Junyang wholeheartedly, so that she didnt notice her at all. She couldnt help but laugh out. Mo Junyang happened to turn his head and caught her grinning. Her face suddenly became serious, and she showed anxiety in her eyes, Baojing just fell down. She will be fine after sitting and resting for a while. It shouldnt affect her walking. Qingxue looked at it carefully. Mo Junyang didnt show any tenderness toward her at all when he just pulled her, but he controlled his strength properly to completely avoid Shi Baojing getting injured. But Zeng Yi turned her head to stare at her with a look, implying that Shi Qingxue was merciless and heartless, Didnt you see that Baojing fell to the ground? What kind of injury will be serious if this is not? Qingxue, I know you are usually playful. But now Baojing is hurt like this. Do you still want her to accompany you to visit the lake? A series of accusations made Shi Qingxue speechless. Mo Junyang frowned without trace, but soon he asked in a gentle voice, Cant Second Lady walk now? Zeng Yi immediately became shy and whispered, No. Baojing is badly hurt. There is no way that she can continue to accompany Your Excellency to admire the lake. Your Excellency, please dont blame us. Mo Junyang showed a mocking smile in disdain, but Zeng Yi kept her head down and didnt see it. She only heard him say with tenderness, You are so worried about your sisters injury. How can I blame you? However, Zeng Yi insisted on pleading guilty, It is true. But Your Excellency rarely has such mood to visit the lake. You Excellency is disappointed this time, so I am willing to compensate Your Excellency for Baojing. As she said those, Zeng Yis original intention was plainly revealed! Shi Qingxue curled her lip, thinking that no wonder Zeng Yi was so concerned about Shi Baojing. It turned out that she was waiting for this! Huh! Didnt she just want to take the place of Shi Baojing and show Mo Junyang around the lake? She wouldnt let this go as her will anyway! Qingxue rolled her eyes and she had a plan. She took the initiative to say, Sister Yi is right. Sister Jing certainly cant accompany you to visit the lake in this way. Since that is the case, lets go back. Anyway, we have known much about the Mingyang Lake. Zeng Yi hurriedly shook her head and said anxiously, How can it be? It is rare that His Excellency comes to Yecheng County. If he couldnt return with satisfaction, it would be our Zeng Family not treating our guest well. Shi Qingxue said indifferently, But didnt you just let me stop being playful? If we dont send Sister Jing back home now, it will be bad to make her injury worse! Sister Yi, you will also be distressed, wont you? Zeng Yi was slapped on face by her own words. Instead of feeling embarrassed, she said confidently, Doesnt His Excellency have the guards? Make the guards send Baojing back home by carriage. In this way, His Excellency wont be disappointed and Baojings treatment wont be delayed. This makes the best of both sides. Chapter 76 - Not Because of Love Shi Qingxue smiled slightly and asked, Of course, the carriage and guards are no problem at all. But Sister Yi is so concerned about Sister Jing. Are you at ease about letting Sister Jing return alone? Zeng Yi was choked. She glared at Shi Qingxue for a long time and said nothing. Mo Junyang said at this right time, Sister Xue is right. Since you are so worried about Second Lady, I can ask Wei Zichao to send you back home by carriage. As for visiting the lake, it is enough for me to have Sister Xue accompanied. What? Ah? Zeng Yi and Shi Qingxue spoke at the same time, looking at Mo Junyang in disbelief. Mo Junyang was calm. He looked at Qingxue and argued reasonably, Zeng Yi cares about her sister, so of course she needs to go back together with Second Lady. You have just heard so much about allusions and poems. Are you even unwilling to repeat them for me? Shi Qingxue had some scruples in her heart, so she was unwilling to stay with Mo Junyang alone at this time. But Mo Junyang gave her a glance, and she could only take back her rejection. Well, she had a hidden task, which was to drive away all the unqualified admirers around Mo Junyang. She thought about this task at this moment and found it really troublesome. However, she was so desperate to compensate Mo Junyang at that time. At last, it was her who had to suffer. Qingxue sighed in her heart heavily, but there was a sweet smile on her face, Brother Yang has such interest. How can I be unwilling? Mo Junyang also smiled and determined, Wei Zichao, you go and ask someone to drive the carriage here. You must send these two ladies back to the house of the Zeng Family safely. It seemed that Wei Zichao didnt realize that once he drove the carriage away, his master couldnt go back home later. He responded politely, Yes. The carriage soon arrived. The two ladies were sent into the carriage quickly. And the carriage rushed to the House of the Zeng Family. During this period, Zeng Yi had no chance to say a word. She could only move farther and farther away in the carriage, and watch the figures of Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue becoming smaller and smaller. By the lake, the two were walking in silence. Mo Junyang didnt speak, Shi Qingxue also didnt say anything at first. The silent atmosphere made her a little uneasy. She racked her brains and thought of a topic, Did you cause the matter of Shi Baojin? It was a question, but without a tone of doubt. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows slightly, trying to look surprised, Why do you think so? Qingxue didnt even look at Mo Junyang and said with certainty in her tone, You just tell me whether it was you or not! Mo Junyang was silent for a while, pondering over the two issues of dealing with this matter alone and never lying to Shi Qingxue. He was about to shake his head. Shi Qingxue stopped and said more firmly, I know it was you! Okay, this time Mo Junyang nodded without hesitation, Well, it was me. I promised that I would handle this matter well. Shi Qingxue knew that Shi Baojin had sent a stranger to rape her. This time she didnt ask for mercy for Shi Baojin, but asked with a smile instead, Was your method to find her a good marriage? Until this moment, Shi Qingxue didnt doubt that the Zhao Family would marry Shi Baojin. After all, the Shi Family had great fame. Besides, Mo Shujun wouldnt allow her beloved granddaughter to give herself to a man for nothing. A good marriage? Mo Junyang sneered and lowered his voice, Whatever you say. Shi Qingxue glanced at Mo Junyang with a suspicious look, Are you going to make trouble? Mo Junyang smiled innocently, How come? Am I such a narrow-minded and vengeful person? Speaking of these two words, the two both couldnt help remembering what Mo Junyang had done to his enemies after having gained power in his previous life. Then they became silent at the same time. Ahem! Mo Junyang coughed twice before he earnestly said, You can rest assured. Not only will I mess up the marriage of Zhao Liang and Shi Baojin, but I will also try my best to promote it, in order to make sure that Shi Baojin marries him as impressively and conspicuously as she wants. Rest assured? It was even more impossible for her to rest assured in this way! Shi Qingxue judged objectively, Well, I dont believe it. So what exactly do you want to do? Mo Junyang didnt feel uncomfortable with his being doubted at all. Instead, he had a sweet feeling in his heart. His mind was full of sweet thoughts that my Qingxue certainly knew me best, which made King Ruis eldest son, who was always intelligent and imposing, a little bit dizzy. Of course, King Ruis eldest son was good at pretending. He looked indifferent and said calmly, I will give her whatever she wants. Then I will ask them back in the future. Is it too excessive? Well, that was to say, he lifted her high enough first, and then smashed her with a snap. Shi Qingxue didnt know what Mo Junyang planned to do, but this plan made her feel inexplicably happy. She couldnt help but laugh and made a little joke, Well, you really have everything under control! Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxue for a long time. His darkened expression was full of complexity which Qingxue couldnt understand. She pursed her lips anxiously and asked in a low voice, Whats wrong? Why are you looking at me? Mo Junyang didnt look away. After a while, he said in a deep voice, I thought you would get mad. Last time you Shi Qingxue suddenly recalled that when Mo Junyang was annoyed by Shi Qingxue before, he almost let a group of beggars rape Shi Baojin out of rage. At that time, she was already unhappy with Shi Baojin, but considering that they were in the same family and that domestic shame should not be made public, she wouldnt like to see Shi Baojin bullied. Maybe in her heart, she still intended to protect the weak at that time! At present, a similar situation happened, but the above emotions never appeared in her heart again. She even felt that Mo Junyangs retaliatory method of seducing her was reasonable. Well, there was nothing bad about it. But why did she have such a change? Compared with Mo Junyang, Shi Baojin was no longer a family shame or the weak person who needed her protection. In her previous life, Shi Baojin had done something worse than this, but Shi Qingxue was stubborn. Even though those scandals might suffocate her or drag her down, she wouldnt allow the outsiders to handle them. Mo Junyang was no longer an outsider. Shi Qingxue was astonished and shook her head quickly, throwing away those increasingly divergent thoughts. No, I cant think about it anymore. It will be bad if I think about it again Mo Junyang looked at her suspiciously, What will be bad? Shi Qingxue didnt expect to speak out what she was thinking when she was nervous, so she looked even more embarrassed. Those thoughts could never be said to Mo Junyang anyway. It was too shameful! Nothing. Nothing. Arent we here visiting the scenery? Lets go ahead When Shi Qingxue was nervous, she could be talkative, so Shi Qingxue started to talk about the allusions and legends of the Mingyang Lake without any pauses. Mo Junyang wanted to interrupt her several times but didnt find a chance, so he had to give up and act obediently as an audience. But wouldnt her mouth become dry when she kept talking like this? King Ruis eldest son, who cared for his future wife, thought so. Shi Qingxue finally told Mo Junyang what Zeng Yi had told her after adding some details to them, and another two hours passed. She looked up at the sky. It was already noon. Then she looked at Mo Junyang, Are we going back? Mo Junyang shook his head without thinking about it, The environment is good here. Why do we go back? Do you still want to be bothered by others? Shi Qingxue pouted her mouth, and had to admit that Mo Junyang was right. She only murmured, Its not me who is bothered anyway. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows, Well? Who said that she would try her best to keep those worthless people away from me? Shi Qingxue didnt have any thoughts on Mo Junyangs contemptuously regarding Zeng Yi as a worthless person, nor did she feel unfair for her. With Mo Junyangs identity, not to mention in this small Yecheng County, even those noble people in the capital city were merely mediocre. She just frowned, and asked in doubt, You could hold Baojing just now, right? Why did you Mo Junyang shrugged indifferently, I showed enough mercy by reaching out and pulling her. What else did you want me to do? Shi Qingxue also didnt know what she wanted him to do. She just felt strange, Dont you like Baojing? Why are you so cold to her Seeing Mo Junyangs face darkened immediately, Shi Qingxue realized that she said the wrong words. She hurriedly shut her mouth and waved her hands, pretending that she said nothing. She also blinked her eyes, making her look innocent and cute. Mo Junyang had no way to get mad at Shi Qingxue, who was acting cute, so he sighed helplessly, Why do you think I like Shi Baojing? What? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang stupidly, and she spoke all of her thoughts out, You didnt kill her, and you treated her in a special way. You cared about her. So I think The more she said, the lower her voice became. At that time, she also realized that she might be wrong. Mo Junyang treated Shi Baojing in a special way. But it was not because of love. Mo Junyangs face was darkened as he listened to her, and his anger surged, and he blurted out, I Didnt you know whom I liked? Mo Junyang took a deep breath, he suppressed his impulse, and put on a calm and harmless smile which made others even believe it, I dont like Shi Baojing. Well. Okay! Shi Qingxue was stunned for a moment, and looked silly when she responded. Fortunately, she quickly came to her sense, she nodded and answered quickly, I see. Mo Junyang carefully pondered over Shi Qingxues expression to make sure that she really received and believed his answer, and then he nodded with satisfaction, Well, then you dont match the wrong people together! Can you like Baojing in the future? The two people spoke at the same time, but Shi Qingxue insisted on finishing her words. There was silence again. After seeing Mo Junyangs face upset for the third time, Shi Qingxue wished that she could lose her voice. She quickly waved her hands and hurriedly explained before Mo Junyang got angry, No. Im just thinking, you say that you need a wife. So I think of Baojing Well, she is pretty good. If you get along with her for a long time, perhaps The more she said, the more difficult it was for her to explain. When she saw that the expression on Mo Junyangs face seemed frozen, she shut her mouth. She desperately thought that she was not suitable for being a matchmaker at all! After a while, Mo Junyang finally moved. He raised his hand, reaching for Shi Qingxue. Qingxue closed her eyes subconsciously and cried in her heart, Can anyone hear her when she calls for help? Chapter 77 - Wanna Tie Her Around Him How could it be possible for Mo Junyang to beat Shi Qingxue? He was even reluctant to touch her. He forcibly restrained himself, and gently touched the soft long hair of Shi Qingxue with his big hand, as if he were touching something fragile carefully. An emotion surged in his chest and almost invaded him. But Mo Junyang suppressed it with his unimaginable perseverance. Just before Shi Qingxue avoided him, he withdrew his hand. He didnt look at Qingxues suspicious expression, but only said softly, Lets go back! Shi Qingxue had a lot of thoughts in her heart, but at last she didnt make it clear, and obediently agreed, Okay. The little girl thought fast. During that period, she secretly glanced at Mo Junyang for several times, and she looked guilty. Mo Junyang didnt need to think about it and knew what Qingxue was planning. Well! He always knew that even though Shi Qingxue didnt have the hostility and even blushed and her heart beat, there wouldnt be the love that he wanted. He didnt expect extravagant and misty love. All he ever wanted was companionship. Even before discovering that Shi Qingxue was also reborn, he planned it well that he first made Crown Prince build a good relationship with the Shi Family and controlled all the members in the Shi Family, then he made Shi Junhe give Qingxue to him, which was too easy. Yes, gave it to him. He needed to tie Shi Qingxue to his side. It was the best that he could see and touch her every minute and every second, no matter what means he used. It didnt matter whether there was love or not. But gradually, he was not satisfied again. Mo Junyang wanted to watch Shi Qingxues bright smile, wanted to hear her sweetly calling of Brother Yang, and wanted her to snuggle in his arms every second If the policy of conciliation was unsuccessful, it wouldnt matter to extort them, as long as he got her! Mo Junyang forcibly interrupted his increasingly abnormal thoughts and said something else before Shi Qingxue was alert, Its Zeng Rus birthday tomorrow. Lets go back to the capital city the day after tomorrow! Arent you trying to win over Zeng Zhi for the Crown Prince? Have you done it? Shi Qingxue didnt find the value of Zeng Zhi, who was a little rigid and weak, but it didnt prevent her from guessing the purpose of Mo Junyangs trip this time. Mo Junyang paused for a moment, seeming to be hesitant, but in the end he said frankly, In fact, I did not come to the House of Zeng Family for Zeng Zhi. What? Who is that then? Shi Qingxue blinked doubtfully. She didnt really understand the fact! Mo Junyang took out a report from his sleeve and handed it to Qingxue, I have already had it translated by Qu. You can check it out. In the report, there wrote the analysis of Shi Junhes battle with the Liang Country, including the dispatch of soldiers, the consumption of food, the great generals and the influence of the war situation. Even someone who had never been to the war like Shi Qingxue could understand it. Shi Qingxue read it very seriously and she thought about it even faster. She immediately found the information she needed in the report. She looked at Mo Junyang and said firmly, Are you here for Zeng Tai? There was a trace of surprise and admiration in Mo Junyangs eyes. He just tested her a little bit, and he planned to tell Qingxue after she read it. But unexpectedly, she realized his intention keenly according to a report. Should he say that she really deserved the educations of Shi Lei and Shi Junhe? He nodded with a smile, This person, Zeng Tai, is a little rigid like his father, but different from Zeng Zhis numbness, Zeng Tai chose to give up the literary job and become a soldier because he hated the darkness of officialdom. He was just a scribe. But with his passion and hard work, he became the Captain of Xuanjie without pleasing the superior. He is indeed a malleable talent. Shi Qingxue heard the words and said with pride, Of course. He was from the Shi Army. He is working for Wenren. Wenren knows how to judge people and use them, but he never claims credit for himself, so he definitely wont bury a talented person. Mo Junyangs smile disappeared a little bit, and he regretted writing Zeng Zhis experience all in the report. Wenren Chi, the man who had sneaked to the roof of the Luotong Boudoir in the midnight, was not like a good person at all. Of course, Mo Junyang wouldnt think about it at this time. Not only Wenren Chi had done that kind of thing secretly. And he still didnt know that Shi Junhe and his wife had planned to make Wenren Chi marry Shi Qingxue. - The next day, Zeng Rus birthday banquet was held as scheduled. The men and women sat in separate seats, so even though Zeng Yi was motivated to seduce Mo Junyang, she had no way to do it. But she wasnt that eager today. Instead, she sat next to Shi Qingxue and talked enthusiastically. Even though Shi Qingxue was lack of interest, she couldnt stop talking. Shi Qingxue didnt know what Zeng Yi was planning. She just talked with her fitfully and silently spared a part of her attention for the matter Mo Junyang mentioned yesterday. She helped Mo Junhao wholeheartedly in her previous life, so the Shi Family had been regarded to be in the party of Fourth Prince since the day she married Mo Junhao. There were many people trying to win over the Shi Family in this life. It was just temporary that Shi Junhe could be a whitehanded officer. He had to join a party sooner or later, and he certainly needed to choose the final winner. But Mo Junyang didnt seem willing to be the Emperor any more. Shi Qingxue thought anxiously. Even though Mo Junyang didnt say it clearly, she did feel his thoughts. Is this Sister Qingxue? A gentle female voice sounded aside. Shi Qingxue raised her head and saw a petite, plainly dressed young woman smiling at her. She didnt know this person, and was about to ask, when the other party promptly introduced, My maternal family name is Feng, and my name is Siniang. My husband is the eldest son in the Zeng Family. If Sister Qingxue doesnt mind, you can regard me as your sister-in-law. She turned out to be Zeng Tais wife. Shi Qingxue smiled quickly, and was about to get up but was pulled by Zeng Yi. Zeng Yi glanced contemptuously at Feng Siniang and said indifferently, You dont look after you kid in the room. What are you doing out here? It is grandfathers birthday today. If you are rude to the guests, can you be responsible for it? The smile on Feng Siniangs face was stiff, and after a while she reluctantly said, Ling is asleep. I am worried that mother and you will be too busy to take care of the whole banquet, so I want to help. What kind of circumstances my mom and I havent seen? Do we still need the help of a rural woman like you who is inexperienced? Youd better go back hurriedly to look after your daughter. Mom is chatting with other noble madams. If they see you, it will be too unlucky! Zeng Yi expressed her dislike and her words stabbed in the other partys heart. Shi Qingxue felt embarrassed when she heard it. Seeing Feng Siniangs look, maybe she wanted to find a ground crack and get in. She knew before that Zeng Tai married a daughter of a poor family, which was according to his parents orders. At that time, no one expected Zeng Tai to be successful. Luo Jiaoniang even thought that it was good that her eldest son could have a wife so that there was no way that they should be picky. But at this moment, it seemed that the Zeng Family was also picky! Feng Siniang quickly regained her indifferent look, but her face was a little pale. She reluctantly pretended to be calm and said, I just come here to greet Sister Qingxue. My husband has mentioned Qing Zeng Yi interrupted her impatiently, Are you qualified to call Qingxues name? Dont you know what kind of person you are? You should go back to your room and hide. Dont stay here to be humiliating. Feng Siniangs body shook, but immediately stabilized again. She lowered her eyes and bowed to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue withdrew her hand, she took the initiative to grab Feng Siniang, and said with a smile, Although you are the wife of Brother Tai, we dont care about that while getting along. If I call you sister-in-law, it will seem that we are aloof. How about my calling you Siniang? Feng Siniang raised her head violently, her eyes were full of disbelief, and she shivered for a while before responding, Okay, of course. Thinking of Zeng Yis reprimand to her before, she carefully pursed her lips, Then I shall call you Sixth Lady. Shi Qingxue frowned, pretending to be mad, I think you call me Sixth Lady to keep away from me. Didnt you call me Sister Qingxue just now? Why? Are you unwilling to regard me as your sister now? Feng Siniang shook her head in a panic. She was only afraid of offending the noble person, so that she had to lower her attitude. But she didnt expect that Shi Qingxue took the initiative to be kind to her. She hurriedly said, How can I be unwilling? Im just afraid that you are unhappy. Shi Qingxue was pleasant and she became very energetic, How can I be unhappy when there is one more sister who treasures me? Zeng Yi watched the two of them leave her aside and chatted with each other, she couldnt help but get angry. She didnt dare to aim at Shi Qingxue, so she vented her anger on Feng Siniang, Why are you still standing here? Dont you know your annoying useless daughter is temperamental. She is always crying. What if she disturbs our noble guests? Feng Siniang had a good temper, but when she heard someone talking about her baby daughter in this way, her face suddenly changed, and she stared tightly at Zeng Yi. Zeng Yi was taken aback, but soon regained her arrogance and snorted, Why do you stare at me? Have I said anything wrong? You gave birth to a useless daughter. If I had been you, I would have drowned her in the urine barrel. Shi Qingxue knew that the idea of favoring men over women was popular in small places, but she didnt expect that Zeng Yi, who was a woman, had such a thought. Drowning her in the urine barrel. How could she say it out? Shi Qingxue glanced at Zeng Yi with a seeming smile, and said coldly, Then I am so sorry for being that useless. But Im glad that my mother didnt choose to drown me. Zeng Yi realized that she was wrong and quickly showed a flattering smile, No, I dont mean it. I just Shi Qingxue waved her hand to stop Zeng Yi from talking, It is normal that Sister Yi looks down on girls. Your living environment is limited, and it is unfair to request too much on you. Then I wont stay in front of you to disgust you. Id better accompany Siniang to visit her little girl. After all, we are that group of fortunate people who are not drowned. Zeng Yi looked embarrassed and hurriedly said, Qingxue, I really dont mean it. You are a distinguished guest to our Zeng Family. If you leave, I wont be able to explain once my mom asks me. Shi Qingxue shrugged indifferently, It doesnt matter. Mrs. Zeng must also look down on me because Im a girl. So I wont disgust you in front of you. Siniang, lets go! Feng Siniang didnt even think that Shi Qingxue would take the initiative to speak for her, and she was moved completely. No matter how angry Zeng Yi was, she led Qingxue to see her daughter with pleasure. She still introduced at the same time, Ling is very obedient and smart. But she was born earlier, so she was somewhat weak. But shes much better now. She isnt noisy Zeng Yi saw them leaving and chatting with pleasure, and stamped her foot, scolding, Shi Qingxue, you are too ignorant. I, the noble lady of the Zeng Family, am here, but you are chatting with a rural woman so happily. How can you be a noble lady from an aristocratic family? Pah Chapter78 - Couples Were Similar and Alike Luo Jiaoniang turned her head and saw Zeng Yi standing there alone, gritting her teeth. She hurriedly walked over there, Yi, whats the matter? Who offended you? She glanced around and asked again, Where is Shi Qingxue? Havent I asked you to follow her? Speaking of this, Zeng Yi looked angrier, she said impatiently, It was her. Who? Luo Jiaoniang didnt understand in such a short time. Zeng Yi said resentfully, It was Shi Qingxue who annoyed me! Huh! What kind of person was she? She helped Feng Siniang to humiliate me! Such a person is not qualified to be my second sister-in-law! When Luo Jiaoniang heard Feng Siniangs name, there was also a trace of disgust on her face, but she quickly rebuked seriously, Shi Qingxues status is not low, and if your Second Brother marries her, he will be related to the whole Shi Family. You can be arrogant in normal time, but in this matter, you need to be obedient. Dont cause trouble for me. Zeng Yi was even more dissatisfied, Mother! Even if she is from the Shi Family, what can she be? She is still just a woman. Moreover, after I marry His Excellency, we dont have to mind the Shi Family. Second Brother can get any position he wants then! Why should I flatter her? Luo Jiaoniang patted Zeng Yis head gently, and said in an angry tone, You are too young to figure that the attitude of His Excellency towards Shi Qingxue is very unusual. I have inquired that the relationship between King Ruis Family and the Shi Family is normal. His Excellency must treat that girl so well in respect of Duke Shi. You! You should open up your eyes and observe it! I was wondering why His Excellency would like to visit the lake with Shi Qingxue instead of me yesterday! It turned out to be so! Zeng Yi suddenly understood and complained with jealous, Huh! She had good luck! Luo Jiaoniang didnt refute and apparently she also agreed with Zeng Yis thought. She patted Zeng Yi on the shoulder and comforted, Okay, you bear it for now. A noble lady like her always has a bad temper. But after she marries into our house, she will be all ours to order! Zeng Yi glared angrily, Bear. How can I bear it? I am already unhappy with her being close to Feng Siniang. Luo Jiaoniang rolled her eyes, Why are you in such a hurry? Now even your grandmother looks down on Feng Siniang. She will be divorced sooner or later. Until your eldest brother is promoted, it is easy for him to marry a noble lady in the capital city. It sounds reasonable. But my eldest brother likes her so much and he also wanted to take her to the capital city. How can he divorce her as long as we ask him to? Zeng Yi wasnt really an idiot. She knew Zeng Tais love for Feng Siniang, which made her unhappier. Luo Jiaoniang looked strict, she snorted, What can he do even though he loves her? I am his mother. How dares he not to divorce him when I ask him to? Moreover, there are three forms of unfilial conduct, among which the worst is to have no sons. I believe they have nothing to say! When Zeng Yi thought that Feng Siniang had been married for so long, but she only gave birth to a daughter, she immediately calmed down and urged Luo Jiaoniang, Then you must hurry up. Divorce that woman as soon as possible when my eldest brother leaves the house. In case a long delay may cause trouble! I see. You now go and coax Shi Qingxue back now. Dont let that woman really win Shi Qingxue over. Otherwise, it will be troublesome to divorce her. The two discussed in the corner with passion. They thought that no one would hear it, but didnt expect that it was all heard by the one who happened to come out of Feng Siniangs room. Shi Qingxue felt it funny and raised the corners of her mouth. She walked out until these two went back to the crowd again, Well, I think that only prosperous business leads to conflicts. But I never expect that there are also many affairs in such a small family. I just feel they are greedy and brainless, but I dont expect that they are so vicious. Because Dong Hui had never been able to give birth to a son, Shi Qingxue was very sensitive to the saying that there were three forms of unfilial conduct, among which the worst was to have no sons. At the same time, she also felt ridiculous. Why were they so confident that once they coaxed her well, she could put down her pride and marry an arrogant man? Lets go back to the capital city, now. Mo Junyangs cold voice suddenly sounded, which startled Shi Qingxue. She turned around and saw Mo Junyang looking straight ahead with a gloomy face, Whats wrong? What happened? Mo Junyang shook his head, looking upset, and said again, I will ask Wei Zichao to prepare the carriage. He really meant it and was really effective! Shi Qingxue stopped him quickly and hurriedly asked, What exactly happened? Havent we decided that we leave after the birthday banquet? Did you fail to deal with Zeng Tai? Was he unwilling to join the party of Crown Prince? Mo Junyang looked down at Shi Qingxue, the latter looked worried, as if she were racking her brains for him. His gloomy mood suddenly became excited, and he finally explained with a smile, Does he dare? His words were concise and arrogant! Shi Qingxue, Although she had seen Mo Junyangs egoistic side before, she was still speechless, Fine, I know you are the best! Then why should we leave in such a hurry? Havent you found that there are full of shows in such a small family? This time it was Mo Junyangs turn to be speechless! However, even if Mo Junyang was speechless, he wouldnt let others find his embarrassment. He just said coldly, Whats interesting in those things? Boring. Shi Qingxue thought about her own mood to watch the shows, and she had to agree with Mo Junyang. But she still muttered unpleasantly, Fine. You are the most interesting, okay? Huh, obviously hes a riddle. Not interesting at all. She spoke the last sentence very softly. She was almost talking to herself. Mo Junyang glanced at her, he did not speak, as if he hadnt heard it. But he didnt look happy. Shi Qingxue hurriedly laughed again and changed the topic, I want to bring one more person back this time. Mo Junyang refused without thinking about it, Youd better stay out of this muddy water. There are many things in the capital city that will annoy you. Qingxue glared at him and her face showed her doubt, How could he know that she was dealing with this muddy water before she said anything? Mo Junyang didnt even look at her and explained, Zeng Tai performed well in this war in the northwest. Although he works for Wenren Chi now, there are a lot of people who want to win over him. Only Luo Jiaoniang and Zeng Yi cant tell the situation and dare to bully Feng Siniang. Others are looking forward to such a chance to flatter Zeng Tai, so Feng Siniang will be okay. The long explanation made Shi Qingxue stunned but a little dissatisfied, Since you know that Feng Siniang is important to Zeng Tai, why should we give the opportunity to others and not make good use of it ourselves? The word we successfully pleased Mo Junyang. His face became brighter and his voice slowed down, but his arrogant attitude didnt change at all, Theres no need. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment, Mo Junyang wanted to conquer Zeng Tai with his strength and made him completely surrender, right? Nonsense! With this arrogant attitude, she thought that only blind people would follow Mo Junyang. She thought in this way, but Shi Qingxue didnt show it. Instead, she blinked innocently, and sighed pitifully, It turns out to be like this! I thought that Feng Siniang was a key person, so that I just worked hard to have a good relationship with her just now. And I have convinced her to come with us later. But I might have done useless work again! Mo Junyang paused and changed his words, Zeng Tai is very fond of Feng Siniang. If we can have Feng Siniang, we wont be afraid that Zeng Tai will betray us. This is not useless work This explanation was unreasonable and there was no emotion. If someone didnt know about Mo Junyang, he would think that this is perfunctory. Shi Qingxue knew him very well. Of course she knew that he was comforting her. She was a little puzzled when she was moved, Mo Junyang, I just dont understand one thing. What? Shi Qingxue paused and looked around. Until she was sure that there was no one else, she whispered, You have always done things carefully, everyone is perfectly arranged. In the past, you definitely wouldnt leave Feng Siniang to others. But why According to Shi Qingxues guess, once Mo Junyang planned to win over Zeng Tai, he wouldnt give him the opportunity to betray him. But this man had always been straightforward and never left no escape while doing things. Therefore, others thought he was wicked and merciless. She didnt like this kind of judgement, and she didnt want to put it on Mo Junyang, so she was motivated to build a relationship with Feng Siniang for Mo Junyang. She didnt think highly of herself, but she thought that she did better than Mo Junyang in this matter. However, Mo Junyang suddenly told her that it was unnecessary. Shi Qingxue was so depressed. Could it be that she still didnt understand him after she had watched him all day and all night for fifty years? Mo Junyang turned his face away to look at the noisy scene outside. After a while, he said in a deep voice, Dont you dislike it? Shi Qingxue was stunned. She heard Mo Junyang whisper in a softer voice, Dont you always think its bad that I am cruel and tricky? Actually, Mo Junyangs explanation got nothing to do with the key point of this matter. But Shi Qingxue was moved when she heard it. She opened her mouth for a while but didnt say anything. She closed her lips tightly and suppressed her emotions. She pretended to be easy and changed the topic, Actually, it is pretty easy to please Feng Siniang. I was just being nice to her, and she became honest and sincere to me. She was a pure people. It is said that couples are similar and alike, so you dont have to worry about Zeng Tais loyalty too much. Mo Junyang knew that Shi Qingxue understood what he meant, but she didnt want to continue that topic. So he followed her words and replied softly, Well, but it is unsuitable for Feng Siniang to live in the House of the Shi Family. I will arrange another place for her to live in after we arrive in the capital city. Shi Qingxue smiled trickily, Although it is impossible to keep it completely secret that you are trying to draw Zeng Tai to your side, isnt it too excessive for you to prepare the residence for Feng Siniang with great fanfare? As for the sneaky preparation, it might be possible if Shi Qingxue did not intervene. But dont even think about it at this moment. So you cant mind this business. It should be another person to handle it. I promise the arrangement will be reasonable. Who? Mo Junyang frowned, and he felt that he wouldnt like Shi Qingxues answer. Shi Qingxue smiled more brilliantly. Her eyes seemed to be glowing, and she said clearly, Wenren Chi! She was afraid that Mo Junyang didnt understand, so she explained in details, He is the superior of Zeng Tai. It is reasonable for him to settle subordinates wife! Chapter 79 - Find Him Wenren Chi didnt know that his sister was arranging such an arduous task for him. When he left the Shi Army, he became the Left Leader of the City Guardian Army. It was a high-ranking official, so there were a lot of people finding him. Especially for matchmaking! Brother, Mr. Jins wife invites you to meet at the Juxian Pavilion. Wenren Chi was going on patrol with his subordinates, when a person came to report. Such invitations had been countless recently, which annoyed him. He looked sullen and said coldly, You tell her that I still have to go on patrol and have no time to meet her. Please forgive me. After that, he brought his people and walked away without looking back. The subordinate sent by Mrs. Jin was not far away. He heard Wenren Chis words clearly. When Wenren Chi left, he scolded in a low voice, My madam invited him with good intentions, but he refused. He really doesnt appreciate what is good! The soldiers who spread his words glanced at that man, and also scolded in an angry tone, Whats so great about the wife of an ordinary official? Our boss wont meet her if he says so. If you dare to talk more about it, be careful that I will beat you! Although Wenren Chi joined the City Guardian Army, he didnt go alone to tolerate the anger. She Junhe assigned the team he had trained in the Shi Army to the City Guardian Army. No one was dissatisfied with the forces of the Shi Army. The Great Leader of the City Guardian Army was the Assistant Minister of Ministry of War, Leng Yuan. He wouldnt have any disagreements, and he also took the initiative to help cover what broke the laws. Seeing the fierce face of the soldier, the man compared their figures and walked away with fear and disappointment. A group of people in the back laughed suddenly, and one of the strong men also spit on the ground very disdainfully, Bah, what a coward! How can he behave affectedly in front of our boss? But a short man said with envy, Xiong, you cant say so. You havent seen her, but the girl in the Jin Family looks really great. I saw her in the flower market from afar. I almost drooled. Xiong Zhuang glanced at the short man with disgust, Bah! Beautiful, beautiful. You are always wanting those who are beautiful. Wang Laosan, youd better restrain yourself. If our boss knows that you still go to the joyhouse when you rest, he will break your leg. Oh my god. Xiong, dont tell him. Havent I promised that I wont go? Wang Laosan hurriedly covered Xiong Zhuangs mouth, fearing that Wenren Chi would hear them. Xiong Zhuang hit Wang Laosans hands away, Youd better keep your words! If those in the City Guardian Army look down upon our boss because of you, I wont let you get away from it no matter whether our boss gives the order or not! Wang Laosan shrank his neck and quickly nodded to promise, I see. I promise! I promise! They followed Wenren Chi to patrol the north and the east of the city, and the morning was gone. But after that, Wenren Chi didnt have a rest. He put on the casual clothes and rushed to the House of the Shi Family. Is he going back to be petty and low again? Xiong Zhuang looked mad and scolded impatiently. Tie Niu next to him was not surprised, and whispered, You usually educate Wang Laosan. How come you dont restrain yourself? Look what you have said. Our boss is a member of the Shi Family anyway. It is normal for him to go back and greet them. Xiong Zhuang found that there were only them two in the room and immediately stopped pretending, A member of the Shi Family! If they really regard our boss as a family member, why do they kick him out of the Shi Family? He still has to give place to those useless people in the Shi Family. Tie Niu sighed and warned in a low voice, General Shi treats our boss well. Even though you arent afraid that you will make General Shi disappointed, arent you afraid to make our boss accused of the crime of being unfilial? Xiong Zhuang shut his mouth up with fear and argued, Im not saying that General Shi is not good. I mean those cowards in the Shi Family In the threatening sight of Tie Niu, Xiong Zhuang stopped talking. At this moment, Wang Laosan rushed in, Where is boss? Someone asked to see him, and I let her wait in the living room. Xiong Zhuang glared at Wang Laosan impatiently, Hasnt our boss said that he wont meet the guests? You can drive her away. Why did you lead her to the living room? Arent you afraid to waste the tea? A clear female voice interrupted him, Who makes our Brother Xiong so mad? He is even unhappy to offer me a cup of tea! Xiong Zhuang heard the voice and felt it familiar, but he couldnt tell it at once. He pushed Wang Laosan away. Looking at her, he suddenly became astonished, Sixth Lady, why are you here? The Shi Army were loyal to Shi Lei, Shi Junhe and even Wenren Chi, but had no good impression on the Shi Family. Among all the members in the Shi Family, maybe only Shi Qingxue could gain the respect from the Shi Army. Xiong Zhuang always liked this petite Sixth Lady of Shi Family, who was even smarter and more capable than them. But at this time, he was guilty and his voice was much lower. Shi Qingxue didnt mind it and smiled slightly, Im here for Brother Wenren. Where is he? Xiong Zhuang and Tie Niu looked at each other and answered honestly, Our boss went back home. How can this be? Shi Qingxue pouted her mouth unhappily. As soon as she returned from Yecheng County, she came to the camp of the City Guardian Army to find Wenren Chi and wanted to ask him to settle Feng Siniang, but they missed unexpectedly. She sighed helplessly and asked again, Brother Xiong, Brother Tie Niu, I heard from my dad that you also came to the City Guardian Army. Have you been used to this life recently? Even though they knew that Sixth Lady of the Shi Family didnt put on airs in front of them, they were still surprised. Tie Niu hurriedly replied, Thanks for Sixth Ladys care. Everything is fine. Shi Qingxue looked around and nodded when she was sure that it was not poor, What about Brother Wenren? How is he doing lately? I havent spoken to him for a long time. It had been more than two months since Duke Shi returned with triumph, but she had few opportunities to meet Wenren Chi, let alone to chat with him. If it werent because Wenren Chi was busy, she would think that her brother didnt like her any more and wanted to avoid her. Xiong Zhuang preemptively answered this time, Our boss is fine. Sixth Lady, dont worry about it. We are used to the rough life, so everything is fine! Well, then I can rest assured! There was a smile on Qingxues face again. She was about to speak, when Wenren Chis soft voice sounded behind her, Qingxue, why are you here? Shi Qingxue became joyful when she heard him. She quickly turned around and showed a brilliant smile to Wenren Chi. She walked to him with small steps and grabbed his arm, coquettishly, Brother, you are finally back. I miss you so much! A suspicious blush flashed on Wenren Chis white face, but soon he suppressed it. No one noticed it. He looked the same as usual and said, Zhuang, Niu, you may leave first. They obediently left. Wenren Chi closed the door and asked again, Qingxue, why are you here? Shi Qingxue was used to Wenren Chis numb, so she was not mad. She poured a cup of tea and handed it to Wenren Chi, flattering, Brother, you just rushed here from home, so you must be thirsty. Drink a cup of tea first! Wenren Chi looked up and glanced at Shi Qingxue for a while, knowing that she must have something to ask from him once she flattered him. But he still couldnt bear to let Qingxue keep holding the cup. He took the cup and sipped the tea, and then asked the question again. Shi Qingxue was surprised by how numb her brother was. She helplessly rolled her eyes and said quickly, I send Zeng Tais wife here. You arrange a place for her to live in. It is better to be somewhere no one can find her and she can live a good life. Wenren Chi was not a fool. He immediately understood Qingxues meaning and nodded to promise without any hesitation, Okay. I know what to do. Shi Qingxue paused. The prepared utterance was useless. Wasnt it too easy? Brother, have you agreed? She blinked, and was still in disbelief. Wenren Chi nodded again, Yes. Shi Qingxue smiled again, as bright as a peach blossom, which made Wenren Chi stunned. Shi Qingxue grabbed his arm again and keep saying sweet words, Brother, you are so nice. You are my favorite! Wenren Chi was very excited. He clenched his fists and restrained himself hard not to hug the girl in front of him. He looked away, pretending to be calm, When havent I done the things you tell me to do? It had been like this since she was young. Once Shi Qingxue was coquettish, there was nothing that Wenren Chi couldnt promise her. Well, this situation was getting worse as they grew up. He would promise without hesitation once Shi Qingxue mentioned it. Shi Qingxue smiled secretly and suddenly said, Then I want you to move back to the Jinhua Pavilion. Will you promise me? The smile on Wenren Chis face paused, and excitement in his heart suddenly cooled down, Why do you mention this all of a sudden? Because if you live here, I cant see you often! Shi Qingxue pouted her mouth unhappily. Shi knew that Wenren Chi had his own considerations for what he did. But she didnt know why she felt that since Wenren Chi joined the City Guardian Army, he had kept the distance with the Shi Family and her. She didnt like this feeling at all. Wenren Chi avoided Shi Qingxues gaze, he put down the teacup and smiled again, Havent you visited the barracks of the City Guardian Army? How about asking Tie Niu to show you around? Shi Qingxue was astonished. She couldnt believe that Wenren Chi would fool her. No! Shi Qingxue never treated her close relatives in a devious way. She pulled Wenren Chi, but he didnt move. So she simply walked to the front of Wenren Chi. Seeing that he still wanted to look away, she reached out and held Wenren Chis cheeks to fix his head, so that he could only look at her. She asked seriously, Brother, are you mad at me? Wenren Chi denied without thinking, No. How can I? Shi Qingxue didnt believe it, If you were not mad at me, why did you call me Sixth Sister? You have never called me in this strange way! What did I do wrong that made you angry? Did I embarrass you by letting you take care of Feng Siniang? If you are in trouble, I can Wenren Chi couldnt bear Qingxues voice that was getting more and more upset. That would make his heart painful. He couldnt help it any more. He grabbed Qingxues small hand and held it tightly in his hand. He said firmly, Im not angry with you. Never will I. Even though he had some complaints in his heart, he wouldnt let this emotion hurt his most beloved baby. Chapter 80 - Arent You Going to Marry Me? Shi Qingxue was good at getting more. When she found the sign of Wenren Chis tone becoming soft, she held back her tears and her frustration disappeared. She pushed away Wenren Chi, and her face bulged, You are. You are indeed angry with me. So you dont go back to the Jinhua Pavilion. Wenren Chi was speechless. He couldnt explain to Shi Qingxue why he left the House of the Shi Family. Seeing that Qingxue was not sad, he changed the subject, Dont you want to know where I live now? Shi Qingxues attention was attracted, Arent you living in the barracks? Wenren Chi shook his head and walked out of the room first, I live in the house of my dad and mom. The house was always guarded by father before. He gave me the key not long ago. It locates in the west of the city. It is not far from here. I shall take you there so that you can recognize the road there! Shi Qingxue was confused by dad and mom and father he said. Until she was taken to the House of the Wenren Family, she understood that dad and mom said by Wenren Chi referred to the deceased Wenren Bo and his wife. Although she knew that Wenren Chi called Shi Junhe father and called Dong Hui mother, Qingxue still felt a little uncomfortable in her heart. She pouted her mouth and carefully pulled Wenren Chis sleeve from behind, she asked in a low voice, Brother, are you leaving us? Wenren Chi stood still, and a trace of pain flashed in his eyes. But it was quickly covered up by him. He suppressed his emotions, turned his head to Shi Qingxue, and even smiled, How come? You will always be my favorite sister. Shi Qingxue did not doubt and smiled with satisfaction. And she didnt complain so much about Wenren Chis moving out. After all, General Wenren and his wife were Wenren Chis biological parents. It was reasonable that Wenren Chi wanted to find his origin. Even though she was unwilling, she couldnt be vexatious. It was good as long as Wenren Chi still recognized her as his sister! Wenren Chi really led Shi Qingxue to hang out in the House of Wenren. The House of the Wenren Family was not big, and it was not as magnificent as the House of the Shi Family, but it was not small. After all, General Wenren was equally famous with Shi Junhe, so his treatment was not bad. Shi Qingxue looked around and was satisfied with the environment of the House of the Wenren Family, but she felt it too deserted, Why dont you hire more subordinates? A courtyard with few people will be deserted. Wenren Chi smiled indifferently, It doesnt matter. I dont often live here anyway. At this time, a chubby, ball-shaped middle-aged man hurried over, Master, there is a person outside, who claims to be a family member of the Right Leader, asking to meet you. Wenren Chi was suddenly disturbed. He frowned unpleasantly, and his voice became a little colder, No. Uncle Li, please tell that person that I am not here. Uncle Li wiped the sweat on his forehead with a helpless look, That person might watch you enter the house and refused to leave before seeing you. Shi Qingxue saw that both of them looked helpless and asked curiously, The Right Leader of the City Guardian Army. Isnt it Jin Hui? Wenren Chi nodded and asked impatiently, Who is that from the Jin Family? It seems to be a servant. But that person said that he was spreading his masters words. Uncle Li paused for a moment and persuaded in a low voice, Master, he is your colleague. You just joined the City Guardian Army not long before. Im afraid its better for you to meet this person. Shi Qingxue looked at Wenren Chi and then looked at Uncle Li, asking in a small voice, Brother, do you know what this Master Jin finds you for? Wenren Chi hesitated for a moment, he first made Uncle Li greet the guests, and then nodded, Probably for matchmaking. His daughter has come to the camp several times. Wenren Chi was quite annoyed. Shi Qingxue glared at him and felt it unbelievable. She blurted out, Arent you going to marry me? How can you get entangled with this woman? It was Wenren Chis turn to be stunned and speechless. Almost a quarter of an hour later, Wenren Chi said reluctantly with his husky voice, Do you know what you are talking about? Shi Qingxue was surprised by Wenren Chis strange attitude, but still nodded without thinking, Of course, my mother said that I would marry you. She had violated Dong Huis order once, and ended up in loneliness. So she didnt intend to violate Dong Huis order again. Even though she had no affection for Wenren Chi at all, she should obey parents orders and the matchmakers words. There was nothing she couldnt do. But Wenren Chis attitude was too strange. It seemed that he was shocked and couldnt believe it, but there seemed to be a little disgust. Shi Qingxue had always thought that even if Wenren Chi didnt love her, he should be like her, obeying parents arrangements. But at this moment, she was uncertain. She glanced at Wenren Chi cautiously and asked in a low voice, Brother, are you unwilling to marry me? When they were young, they often played house. Wenren Chi married her for too many times, and she thought that it was the same as before this time. Wenren Chi looked deeply at Shi Qingxue. There were contradictions in his dark eyes, which he himself didnt even understand. His mouth opened and then closed for several times. Every time, he wanted to say that he was willing and he had been willing since he was young. However, he didnt say it out in the end. Instead, he turned around and said a little coldly, Mother is joking with you. No way! Shi Qingxue subconsciously denied it. But she remembered that Dong Huis attitude was indeed abnormal when she said those words, so she was not so sure. Did Dong Hui really joke with her? Wenren Chi looked at Qingxues small face full of confusion, and his heart was itchy and throbbing. He teased with his hoarse voice, Why? Do you like me? Shi Qingxue looked at Wenren Chi frankly and replied without hesitation, Of course. I like brother very much! Wenren Chis heart skipped a beat, and bitterness spread uncontrollably. Because he only found admiration and respect in the pair of bright eyes, and there was no trace of affection. He held back all his emotions and replied with a smile, I also like Qingxue. But Qingxue, you are not young. You should know that we are just brother and sister. Without blood relation. Shi Qingxue pouted her mouth and said unhappily, I know. You just want to say that you also like me, but its not affection, so you wont marry me, right? Wenren Chi was silent and exhausted all his energy to prevent himself from saying anything to deny it immediately. He didnt tell Shi Qingxue that he wanted to marry her, so desperately, but he couldnt marry her The daughter of the one having killed his dad. Shi Qingxue regarded his silence as his acknowledgement, and she thought that Wenren Chi was sad because he had to reject her. She took the initiative to say, I know brother has always treated me as a sister. Then I will treat you as a brother in the future! Dont worry. Even if you dont marry me, I will be fine. After a pause, she suddenly smiled again, I know why brother refuses to marry me. Wenren Chis heart beat quickly. He ignored his sorrow and asked quickly, What do you know? Shi Qingxue saw his panicked face, and she was more certain that she had guessed Wenren Chis thoughts and said proudly, You like Baoning, right? Therefore, you are unwilling to marry me. You want to marry Baoning when you are successful. Am I right? Wenren Chi calmed his panic down. He looked at Shi Qingxues proud look. She seemed to be wrapped in golden light, which was warm and comfortable. It made him not bear to refute, so he just reached out and rubbed Qingxues head, and smiled, spoiling, Silly girl. His voice was too low, so Shi Qingxue didnt hear it. She was even more encouraged and patted her chest to guarantee, You can rest assured! I will help you handle everything! What? Qingxue pointed to the lobby and smiled secretly, The Jin Family! I wont let those messy people ruin your dreaming marriage! After that, she raised her head and walked towards the lobby. The visitor in the lobby was not Jin Hui or Mrs. Jin, but a beautiful young girl who was in her sixteen and dressed in style. When the girl heard the sound, she looked at the door with her eyes shining brightly. When she saw Shi Qingxue, she was astonished at first and then pointed at her with anger, asking, Who are you? Why are you in the house of Brother Chi? Shi Qingxue immediately knew that the girl had misunderstood her relationship with Wenren Chi. But since her sisters rival in love was equal to hers, she didnt deny it. Instead, she raised her eyebrows and smiled, Of course it was Brother Chi who brought me here. However, you came here without invitation. Arent you ashamed? Hearing those words, the girl blushed, and then became mad, Huh! You shameless vixen. You dare to seduce Brother Chi. I will kill you! After that, she rushed towards Shi Qingxue. Qingxue certainly wouldnt be hurt by such an ordinary person, but she saw that Wenren Chi also came in, so she quickly moved sideways to avoid the girls attack. She suddenly fell into Wenren Chis arms and said coquettishly as usual, Brother Chi, she wants to hit me. Im so scared! Wenren Chis goosebumps were aroused by the affected voice, but his care for Shi Qingxue defeated everything. He subconsciously guarded her in his arms, Are you hurt? Let me check! Shi Qingxue was like a delicate flower. She patted her chest and said softly, She is so fierce. She scares me. When the girl saw Shi Qingxue sue her, she was angrier and scolded with threatening gestures, You are so shameless. I dare you to fight with me. Whoever wins will have Brother Chi. How are you qualified when you only can sue me secretly? Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes secretly and uttered her tongue when the girl couldnt see it. Who wanted to fight with this savage woman? Was she too idle? Wenren Chi pinched the back of Qingxues hand, warning her silently. Qingxue hurriedly pleased him and smiled, I didnt sue her secretly. I said it frankly. Wenren Chi shook his head in disagreement, Why did you provoke her? She pouted her mouth pitifully, She said that I was shameless. The two were communicating in silence, and the girls curse was getting harsher and harsher. Wenren Chi took back his gaze and stared at the girl unpleasantly and snorted in a cold voice, Miss Jin, I dont think my sister has offended you before. Why do you insult her at will? Jin Lianyi, the lady from the Jin Family, abruptly stopped cursing. She glared at him and asked stupidly, Who do you say she is? Uncle Li answered kindly aside, This is the sister of Master, Sixth Lady of the Shi Family. Jin Lianyi was suddenly astonished and didnt react for a long time, as if she were a statue. Shi Qingxue carefully admired Jin Lianyis surprised and regretful look, and she was quite satisfied. When she wanted to make this worse, Wenren Chi glared at her fiercely. She shut her mouth in fear. Wenren Chi didnt want to talk more to Jin Lianyi, so he waved his sleeve and said straightforwardly, Miss Jin has a high status. My House of Wenren Family cant serve guests like you. Please go back! Jin Lianyi had just went in the House of Wenren Family and hadnt stayed for a while, when she was ruthlessly driven out by Wenren Chi. Chapter 81 - Steal Her Fiancé? Shi Qingxue looked at Wenren Chis black face and kept her mouth shut. She didnt want to offend the furious man, although she hadnt figured out why he was angry after she had just retorted Jin Lianyi and made her speechless. At the moment, the middle-aged servant Li came to report again, Young Master, Third Prince has come. Shi Qingxue was surprised and soon realized that he was talking about Mo Junjiu, but the Shi Family didnt have contact with Third Princes followers. Why did Mo Junjiu come to Wenren Chi? Big brother. Wenren Chi avoided Qingxues worried gaze and smiled faintly. His Highness came here, and I cant refuse to see him. I will tell Li to send you back home. Shi Qingxue pouted but didnt insist on staying here. She responded thoughtfully, No, thanks. Xia Mang and Dong Shuang are waiting for me outside. I can go home by myself. After pondering for a while, she added worriedly, Its cheerless here. Brother, come back when you are free. Wenren Chi answered in a low voice and watched Qingxue leave, standing still for a long time. Li thought Wenren Chi was worried about Qingxues safety, so he said, Young Master, please rest assured. I saw King Ruis eldest son standing next to the two maids of Lady Qingxue at the gate. Now I know that he came to pick her up. Wenren Chi heard that and looked more serious, but he didnt say anything about it. He ordered, Ask His Highness to come to the main hall. Shi Qingxue walked out of the Wenren Familys mansion and happened to meet Mo Junyang who was walking inside, but Mo Junjiu entered the mansion in a hurry, as if he hadnt seen her, which petrified her for a while. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang held Qingxues arm and walked into the carriage with her, asking. Shi Qingxue thought for a while and finally told him what Wenren Chi had said to her earlier. Then she concluded, Brother is so strange. I think something wrong happened to him, but he didnt want to tell me. She murmured the last words, so she didnt find that someones cold face darkened when he heard that she was going to marry Wenren Chi. Mo Junyang was clear that Shi Qingxue didnt have feelings for him for now and he was not anxious, but he didnt expect that Dong Hui wanted to marry off Shi Qingxue to Wenren Chi. Damn it! I dont know why Wenren Chi hasnt agreed now, but I will make them give up this plan, he thought. Mo Junyang concealed his emotion. For the first time, he didnt hide the fact that he had also been reborn. I remember that Wenren Chi is destined to marry Shi Baoning. Are you going to steal your sisters fianc? Shi Qingxue shook her head crazily and grabbed Mo Junyangs hand, explaining hurriedly, No. I have never thought about it. Mo Junyang felt happy secretly but still remained calm. Oh? Really? He asked in a weird tone, and Shi Qingxue started to doubt herself. Remembering that she had thought it would be okay with her if her mother married her off to Wenren Chi, she felt guiltier. She glanced at Mo Junyang cautiously and smiled, trying to please him. I would never steal my sisters fianc. In the beginning, she had the wrong thought. She believed that it was the best filial piety to obey her parents. But a little change would influence everything. She couldnt agree to marry somebody randomly. If she ruined others happiness, she would be a sinner. Then I dont need to get married, right? Shi Qingxue scratched her head, feeling annoyed. Not until then did she realize that if she wanted to walk on a different way from her previous life, she would inevitably get married for the second time. Seeing that Shi Qingxue finally had the awareness, Mo Junyang nodded with satisfaction and said with concern, You are wrong. Madam Shi will surely find you a good husband. Shi Qingxue remained silent. She didnt want to marry somebody elses husband. She looked at Mo Junyang to ask for help with tears in her eyes. Is there any way that I wont marry somebody else? Of course. Marry me, and then you dont need to marry somebody else! Mo Junyang answered in his heart. In order not to frighten his prey, he smiled innocently. There is certainly a way, but The prey fell into his trap. Brother, just help me. Mo Junyang was excited but still pretended to be calm. What can I get? Shi Qingxue blinked and offered sadly, From now on, I will do anything you tell me to do. Mo Junyang heard her assurance and nodded contentedly. Okay. Dont break your word. Shi Qingxue nodded repeatedly. I will send you back home first. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was reluctant with tears in her eyes, Mo Junyang couldnt help but rub her nose. He said with a smile, Dont worry. I am sure they wont think of you for now. Shi Qingxue didnt understand what Mo Junyang meant at that time, but she understood after she came back home. When Shi Qingxue was in Ye City in the past few days, the family of Lord Zhao, the Minister of Revenue changed their attitude and werent as ruthless as before. They came to propose marriage and quickly finished the preparation before the wedding. They even promised to give Shi Baojin the position as Second Young Madam. Even if Mo Shujun thought highly of herself, she was satisfied with Shi Baojins marriage. She agreed to the Zhao Familys proposal without demur. Meanwhile, in order to prevent something disgraceful, they decided the wedding date, only two months later after the proposal. Shi Baojin knew that she was going to marry next month, and she felt happy yet annoyed at the same time. Mother, I dont worry about my marriage as so many men want to marry me. Why did you decide the wedding date so soon? We dont have enough time to prepare. In such a short time, Shi Baojin couldnt pick a perfect wedding dress. Zhou Ruyu spent a lot of time on Shi Baojins marriage these days, and she was angry at her ungrateful daughter. She said coldly, What do you want? The Zhao Family agree to let you marry their son, and you should thank God. Otherwise, before the issue is exposed, your grandmother would make you die of an illness. Shi Baojin didnt believe Zhou Ruyus threatening words. Mother, dont frighten me. Grandma loves me so much, and Father is her favorite son. She cant bear to see me suffer. Zhou Ruyu sneered. She looked around and found nobody, so she stopped Shi Baojins daydream without mercy. Huh! Your grandma pays much attention to the rules. You did such a shameful thing. She wants to kill you in person. How would she love you? Stop daydreaming. Havent you seen the few dowries from the mansion? If they are sent to the Zhao Family, you would never be respected in that family. Shi Baojin paused for a while and still didnt believe it. No. I have checked in the storehouse. I have 64 dowries. Grandma wont treat me unfairly. Zhou Ruyu poked Shi Baojins head crossly. First Masters Family gave you only 32 dowries. I added the rest for you from my own savings. 64 dowries were common for the noble ladies in the capital. If Shi Baojin couldnt have so many, she didnt need to live in the noble circle. No way! She denied subconsciously but knew that Zhou Ruyu wouldnt lie to her. Shi Baojin got nervous and was about to risk her life to fight with First Masters Family. They have gone too far. I am going to get my dowries back. Zhou Ruyu stopped her hurriedly. What are you doing? They are my dowries. I wont endure it or let First Masters Family graft them. Shi Baojin was furious. Zhou Ruyu snorted. Without your grandmas suggestion, how could First Masters Family be so arrogant? And they are perfectly logical and reasonable. You are not Duke Shis daughter, and your father is just the Rank-5 Director of Labor Ministry. Even 32 dowries are special treatment for you. How could you ask for more? Shi Baojin was rebuked and couldnt reply, but she believed that the Shi Family owed her. She gritted her teeth and said angrily, I dont care. They are mine. They cant grab anything from me. I will get my dowries back! She planned to run out regardless of everything. Zhou Ruyu couldnt stop her, so she slapped her in the face out of anger. Clap! The clear sound resounded in the room. And both of them were stunned. Shi Baojin glared at Zhou Ruyu in disbelief, with tears in her eyes. Zhou Ruyu got soft-hearted and rubbed her eyebrows tiredly. She advised her daughter patiently, Whats done cannot be undone. Can you please make less trouble for me and stop! Shi Baojin choked and held her head high. Are we just letting First Masters Family bully us? It must be Shi Qingxue who did it. She always dislikes me. She must have kept my dowries. Shi Qingxue became the scapegoat for no reason. Zhou Ruyu thought so, too, but she was more reasonable than her daughter. She sighed helplessly. Even if she did something, what can you do? She knew your secret. If she tells somebody else what you have done in the brothel, you wont have the face to survive. I didnt sleep with somebody else. I gave my virginity to Second Young Master Zhao. Its not shameful. Shi Baojin still didnt think she had done something wrong. Zhou Ruyu was disappointed and patted Baojin on the shoulder gently. She knew that it was too late to say anything at this time, so she said, Well, I dont care how resentful you are. It has been decided. You are the future Second Young Madam Zhao. The only thing you need to do now is prepare for the grand wedding ceremony and get married in one month. Since Shi Baojin still looked displeased, her mother stressed, If you are lucky and carry the eldest legitimate grandson of the Zhao Family, you would do whatever you want to show your power after you stabilize your position. Just bear with it now. Shi Baojin had wanted to marry into the royal family in the first place, but she had slept with Zhao Liang by accident, so she didnt feel contented. Although Zhao Liang is favored in his family, his father is just the Minister of Revenue. Can he do something to turn the world upside down? Zhou Ruyu rolled her eyes at Shi Baojin and thought she was short-sighted. She lowered her voice and taught her. What do you know? Lord Zhao is just a Rank-2 official indeed, but can we look down upon the person above him? Your father is stupid and insists on supporting Fourth Prince, but he cant see that Third Prince is in the ascendant now. Shi Baojin didnt get Zhou Ruyus hint but complained, I am not going to marry Third Prince. Zhou Ruyu was speechless. She wanted to teach her more, but Qiong Zhi was knocking at the door. Madam Chapter 82 - The New Favorite Granddaughter Zhou Ruyu was in a bad mood and cursed as soon as she opened the door, Why the hell are you shouting, bitch? The maid Qiong Zhi shrank with fear and replied respectfully, Madam, Fourth Lady has come back. She is in Youran Boudoir now Zhou Ruyu was stunned to hear that and then got overjoyed. Before Qiong Zhi finished her words, Ruyu ran out quickly and rebuked, Useless girl, why didnt you tell me earlier? She ran fast and only thought of Fourth Lady, Shi Baoyou, totally ignoring Shi Baojins surprised and sad eyes behind her. Shi Baojin subconsciously ran a few steps after Zhou Ruyu, but her mother ran too quickly and she couldnt catch up with her. She knew that Youran Boudoir was just one hundred steps away from her, but she just stood at the door and watched Zhou Ruyu disappear from her sight. The first-level maid in Yujin Boudoir, Xiao Tao walked to her and said in a low voice, My Lady, its cold outside. Lets enter the room. Shi Baojin glanced at Xiao Tao and suddenly laughed. Xiao Tao, we are both Mothers children, but how could she be so partial to Baoyou? Xiao Tao kept silent. After quite a while, she responded, No. Madam also loves you. Yes, she loves me very much at ordinary times, but I am nobody after Shi Baoyou comes back Shi Baojin smiled with self-mockery and then turned around to enter the room. The fourth lady Baoyou of the Shi Family was a mysterious one among all the ladies. She had been born prematurely and was in poor health but destined to be wealthy. When she was young, a fortuneteller said she was coveted by God and should be hidden and raised secretly. Otherwise she wouldnt have survived. She couldnt get rid of the disaster until she was seventeen years old. Zhou Ruyu thought it was better to believe than to take the risk. When Shi Baoyou was under the age of one, she was sent to the Zhou Family and raised in Marquis of Wuyangs mansion. She had never come back to the Shi Family. Zhou Ruyu went to her parents home to see her little daughter at intervals. Not long ago, Shi Baoyou had her seventeenth birthday, and Shi Baojins marriage was decided, so Zhou Ruyu couldnt wait to bring her back home to meet the elders. Although Shi Baoyou had been raised in secret, she was a noble lady brought up in an atmosphere of luxury and wealth. She had received the treatment as good as her sisters. It could be seen that Zhou Ruyu had spent a lot of money on her. Of course, Shi Baoyou lived up to Zhou Ruyus expectations. She was graceful and attractive with a nice figure. Although she was not as outstanding as Shi Qingxue, she was pleasant to the eye, like a lotus. Shi Baoyou came back to the mansion. With her beautiful face, obedient character and silver tongue, she defeated Shi Baoning and Shi Qingxue, and became Mo Shujuns favorite granddaughter. Shi Qingxue didnt care about it. Since she had grown apart from Mo Shujun, she never expected to win her grandmothers love, and she was very busy these days. Because everything had changed in this life, Dong Hui didnt have the plan to marry off Shi Baoning to Wenren Chi. On the contrary, she always tried to set Shi Qingxue up with Wenren Chi. Qingxue was not sensitive to the love relationship, but she couldnt resist Dong Huis repeated hints. She was helpless. She had loosened her tongue in front of Dong Hui, so she couldnt go back on her word and say that she wouldnt marry Wenren Chi. Shi Qingxue had no choice but to go to Baoning. Big sister, do you want to marry Chi? She asked straightforward as soon as she entered the room, which shocked Baoning, who then asked after a while, Qingxue, what are you talking about? Shi Qingxue blinked and said innocently, Nothing. You and Chi are not siblings. And Father and his father want you two to get married, right? This was what had happened in the previous life, but Shi Qingxue spoke out without feeling embarrassed. Shi Baoning was more astonished. After a pause, she laughed. Then she said in a more indifferent tone, Didnt Mother say that she will marry you off to Chi and let your child inherit the official position? Ah? Shi Qingxue finally remembered that the two of them had eavesdropped at the window of their parents then. She smiled awkwardly and explained in a hurry, Mother was just joking. Grandma is here, and Father wouldnt give his official position to a man from another family. I have never wanted his position. And Chi likes you, so he will certainly marry you. She took her answer for granted, but Baoning was petrified for a long time. She stared at Qingxue, with a complex expression in her eyes that the latter couldnt understand. Sister, whats wrong with you? Shi Baoning lowered her head and clenched her fists, murmuring, I think, I think he likes you. I think you are going to get married. Her voice was so low that Shi Qingxue heard it clearly with difficulty. She shouted in surprise, How can it be possible? It occurred to her that Shi Baoning was cold to her these days. She was suddenly enlightened. It turned out that her big sister loved their brother. You misunderstand it. Chi has always treated me as his younger sister. He wouldnt marry me! Shi Qingxue held Baonings hand and explained seriously. For fear that Baoning didnt believe her, Qingxue briefly told her what Wenren Chi said to her in the Wenren Familys mansion the other day. Of course, she didnt mention that she had said she would marry him. After hearing that, Shi Baoning couldnt hide the joy on her peaceful face. She grabbed Qingxues hand and asked excitedly, Really? You didnt lie to me? Shi Qingxue almost swore to God. Why would I lie to you? If you dont believe me, you can ask Chi. Shi Baoning was finally relieved and showed a smile. But she concealed it when she met Qingxues sincere and concerned eyes. She lowered her head, and apologized softly, I am sorry. Qingxue thought she apologized for her misunderstanding and waved her hand in an instant. Its nothing. Never mind. It was just a misunderstanding, and it caused nothing serious. After thinking for a while, Qingxue told her big sister, Anyway, we are sisters. In the future, if you have something to ask me, just ask. It would be a pity if we are not on good terms because of some misunderstanding. Shi Baoning went stiff and didnt have the courage to meet Qingxues eyes. She answered in a low voice and then said, But Father told Chi to move out of our mansion. He might not agree to our marriage. Huh? Qingxue didnt think of this problem. I thought Chi asked to leave our mansion. Shi Baoning shook her head and said dispiritedly, No. Grandma said Father drove Chi away to the City Guardian Army and told him to be independent. Baonings complaint made Qingxue at a loss for words. But it had something to do with Mo Shujun, so she believed it was not simple. Baoning, do you believe Grandma so much? Shi Baoning was petrified. What do you mean? Shi Qingxue didnt like to make mischief, but she didnt want her sister to act upon whatever their grandma said. She couldnt help but remind her, Baoning, dont forget that Grandma likes Third Uncles family the most. But the mistress and Infanta are both in First Masters Family. Even if Grandma favors Third Uncle, she wouldnt be partial. Qingxue sneered and said indifferently, Mother is First Masters wife in Duke Shis mansion and has never made any big mistakes. Who is qualified to manage the domestic affairs except her? As for the Infanta, do you think Empress Dowager would agree if Grandma asked her to give the position to Third Sister or Fourth Sister? Shi Baoning was shocked. She always trusted Mo Shujun and never doubted her love. Sometimes, she even felt proud that their grandma was partial to her. Now that Qingxue mentioned it, Baoning finally realized that her glory and being favored was probably not being partial, but it was proper for her official status. She was the most valued eldest legitimate daughter in the mansion. No matter how Mo Shujun didnt like her, she would give her everything that she should. Otherwise, many people must criticize her behind her back. As she thought with this clue, Shi Baoning suddenly found that Mo Shujun treated her nice not because of her but her status. Mo Shujun never hugged her but told her that the eldest legitimate daughter should be dignified and mature and couldnt act like a spoilt child. Mo Shujun gave her anything the same as her sisters and taught her that the Shi Family shouldnt care too much about the status, so she gave Third Lady and Fourth Lady more than the rules said just to prevent others from looking down upon her sisters. Shi Baoning shook her head and didnt dare to think more. She just said decisively, No. Grandma loves us. Qingxue, we shouldnt comment on elders behind their backs. Shi Qingxue shrugged and didnt reply. But she incited Baoning, Sister, you love Chi so much. Lets ask Father to grant your marriage. Qingxues direct words made Baoning flush. I didnt say that I love Chi. I just take him as a brother. Baonings face was red, and Qingxue didnt believe her words. She joked, Brother or boyfriend? Shi Baoning lowered her head almost to her chest and hesitated in speaking. Shi Qingxue acted as she said and thought Baoning agreed in silence. She happily pulled Baonings arm and went to Shi Junhes study. It happened that Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi were inside. Father, Brother, what are you talking about? Shi Qingxue held Shi Junhes arm and asked in a sweet voice with a smile. Shi Junhe rubbed his little daughters head, with love in his eyes. He rebuked her but smiled. Girl, you come in without asking for my permission. You are so rude. He said that but didnt get angry. Shi Qingxue was not afraid of being rebuked. She pretended not to have heard that and laughed. I miss you. Shi Junhe leisurely took a sip of tea. Tell me. What do you want? Qingxue rubbed her nose shyly and wondered if she was often ill-behaved. Her father guessed right so soon. She winked at Baoning secretly and hinted, Sister, say it now. What a coincidence that Chi is here too. As long as you mention it, your marriage can be decided. So it was safe to say that Shi Qingxue was not a good match-maker. She didnt know the feeling of being shy and couldnt learn from other girls. She never thought that an ordinary girl wouldnt ask her parents to get her married, especially when the man was present. Even if she loved him, she couldnt mention it first. Otherwise, it would show that she was not valuable. Shi Baoning thought so, and she couldnt say a word. But she dreamed of marrying Wenren Chi, so she had to look at Qingxue to ask for help, indicating, I am too shy to say that. Shi Qingxue was also at a loss. What do you want me to say? Its not me who is going to get married. Shi Junhe noticed his two daughters eye contact and saw that Wenren Chi focused his eyes on him. He thought that Wenren Chi didnt want to hear the girls talk. Chi, go to visit your mother first. We will talk later. Yes, Wenren Chi answered and left the study. Chapter 83 - Being Favored Only for a Period Shi Junhe patted Qingxues head and said helplessly, Well, you can tell me now. Shi Qingxue smiled sweetly and got to the point. Father, tell Chi to marry Baoning. Shi Junhe was shocked and suddenly raised his head, meeting Qingxues bright eyes. Then he found Baonings shy and joyful expression. He realized what was going on. He had known that Qingxue didnt have feelings for Wenren Chi and didnt plan to get them married, but Shi Baoning Ning, do you want to marry Chi? Shi Baonings face was redder and she lowered her head. After quite a while, she responded in a low voice, I will listen to you. That was not an answer. Shi Junhe had noticed Baonings secret thoughts long ago, but then they were still young, and he often went out to the battlefields everywhere with Wenren Chi, so he didnt consider this matter. Now that they mentioned it, Shi Junhe thought about it seriously but didnt answer. He said, I will discuss it with Chi. Ning, you go back first. Shi Baoning nodded and ignored her little sister, running away. Shi Qingxue stared openmouthed and was about to call Baoning when she found that Shi Junhe was looking at her with a complex expression. Whats the matter? she asked. Shi Junhe sighed deeply. Qingxue, do you really not like Chi? Father, arent you going to arrange marriage for Baoning and Chi? Why do you ask me? Shi Qingxue thought there was something wrong with her father. Shi Junhe was unable to reply. Under Qingxues pure eyes, he couldnt explain to his daughter, With Baonings current position, she would live a good life even if she marries some man randomly, but you are different. You wont be favored forever. If you cant marry a good man, you would probably be miserable for a lifetime. And in my opinion, Wenren Chi can be depended on for the rest of your life. The ups and downs were difficult to explain. Shi Junhe tried to argue the matter off and said the same words, You go back first, too. I will ask Chi. Shi Qingxue refused to go. Just ask him. I wont interrupt. Shi Junhe had no choice. After pondering for a while, he told Wenren Chi to come to the study but didnt ask directly. He said, I hear that many people want to make a match for you recently. Chi, do you have someone you like? Wenren Chi was surprised and subconsciously looked at Shi Qingxue. But he looked away after he met her bright eyes. Father, why do you ask such a question suddenly? Father will make a match for you. Shi Qingxue ended Junhes euphemistic expression. Junhe knocked at Qingxues head and pretended to be angry. Didnt you say that you wouldnt interrupt? Qingxue hurriedly covered her mouth and stepped aside, showing that she wouldnt say anything, but she stared at Wenren Chi and expected his answer. Wenren Chi hesitated and clenched his fists in the sleeves. But soon he calmed down and said in a hoarse and bitter voice, Qingxue, stop joking. Anyone could hear the disappointment and helplessness in his words. Shi Qingxue was more confused. I wasnt joking. Dont you like Baoning? Are you unwilling to marry her? Wenren Chi was stunned again and then realized that Shi Qingxue didnt bring up the old story but wanted to pair him off with Baoning. For a moment, he was relieved, frustrated and desperate He didnt know which emotion got the upper hand. At last, he could neither laugh nor cry. Dont talk nonsense. Ning is my younger sister. He said with equanimity and had never thought of this possibility. Shi Qingxue and Junhe looked at each other and thought it was lucky that he had told Shi Baoning to leave earlier. But at this time, there was a voice from outside the door. My Lord, King Ruis eldest son came to see Lady Qingxue. Madam asked me to bring her to meet the guest. The three in the room were all astonished. Shi Qingxue came back to her senses first and showed a smile automatically. She responded, Okay, I am coming. Then she met two mens inquiring eyes. She felt guilty for no reason and explained in a hurry, I didnt ask him to come. Suddenly Shi Qingxue felt it rather baffling. Why would she have explained? Fortunately, Shi Junhe was not in the mood to think about it. He waved his hand, gesturing for Qingxue to go out and then looked at Wenren Chi, asking seriously, Chi, what do you think about the matter we mentioned just now? Wenren Chi looked away from the closing door and was asked again. He had to repeat awkwardly, Ning is my younger sister. Shi Junhe didnt deny it and nodded, but he then asked, Do you want to marry her? Wenren Chi was speechless. He wanted to refuse as the fist reaction, but all of a sudden, he remembered Mo Junjiu had told him that he had too few bargaining chips. Wenren Chi had no idea what answer was right, so he had to be frank. I have never thought about it. Shi Junhe nodded and had guessed this answer. He didnt push Wenren Chi but said sincerely, Chi, I wont say something useless to you. Although you and Ning as well as her sisters are close, like siblings, you are not blood-related. I have brought you up and always want you to marry one of my daughters, but it depends on you whether you are willing. Just go back and think it over. No matter what happens, you are my good son. Nobody knew what was on Wenren Chis mind. He had a stiffened expression and nodded after quite a while, answering seriously, I see. I will give you a reply after I think it over. Shi Junhe gave a nod with satisfaction and continued, You just told me about sending armed force to suppress bandits. It is imperative but we cant be rash. Whats more, the situation in the capital city is unstable recently. I will be worried if we leave Qingxue and others in my mansion. Lets talk about it later. Wenren Chi opened his mouth and tried to persuade him, but he thought of something and stopped himself. Okay. Mo Junyang took Shi Qingxue out of the mansion with a good reason. Didnt you agree to help me look for a wife? Shi Qingxue thought for a while and agreed with Mo Junyang. Then she asked Baojing to go out with them. Dont you think my sister Baojing is nice? she asked and took it for granted, without hiding her intention to pair him off with Baojing. Mo Junyang couldnt reply. Mo Junyang might find fault with another girl, but Shi Baojing was really nice. She had no weakness except that she was a concubines daughter and was not favored, which was not what Mo Junyang cared about. But was it good to say it directly in front of him and Shi Baojing? The girl had lowered her head almost to her chest. Shi Baojing pulled Qingxues sleeve with shyness and said in a low voice, Qingxue, dont talk nonsense. When she spoke, she stole a glance at Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue chuckled and blinked at Mo Junyang, saying on purpose, Fine, I was talking nonsense. But its rare for us to come out. Lets go to the Juxian Pavilion. Mo Junyang was quite clear about Qingxues secret thought but didnt expose her. He thoughtfully led the way, and his warm breath could make anybody happy. When the three sat down, Shi Qingxue couldnt wait to express, Third Princesss mansion is nearby. I havent seen Yuzhen for a long time. I am going to visit her first. She wanted to leave as soon as they arrived, and her intention was too obvious. Mo Junyang glanced at her and said indifferently, Third Princess entered the imperial palace today. She is not in her mansion. Eh. A perfect excuse was declined by Mo Junyang, so Shi Qingxue had to sit down. But maybe because Shi Baojing was too nervous or too numb, she sat by the window since they entered the private room. She kept silent and just lowered her head, drinking tea, as if she didnt take Shi Qingxues hint. Shi Qingxue had no choice but to break the ice by asking, Whats the date today? Why did Yuzhen enter the palace? Isnt she like a bird out of the cage as soon as she moved to the mansion? Mo Junyang shrugged. The Qingming Festival will come in the next few days. Maybe she wants to hold a spring outing dinner party. Right, I almost forgot it. Shi Qingxue attended a spring outing dinner party last time a few years ago, and she hardly remembered it. Then she turned to Baojing and smiled. Baojing, do you remember where the spring outing dinner was held last year? Shi Baojing shook her head silently and then answered softly, I seldom attend such dinner parties. Later she fell into silence again. However, Mo Junyang changed the topic. Qingxue, Second Prince also came to this restaurant today. If you dont mind, I will invite him here. Okay? The second prince Mo Junwen was born to a low-level concubine, who died many years ago. Now he was raised as Concubine Taos son, but she had a son, the ninth prince, so she didnt care about this adopted son. She just let him sink or swim on his own. So Shi Qingxue was petrified to hear his name. But soon she nodded repeatedly. Great. We can have fun with more people. Mo Junyang went out to see Mo Junwen. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but complain to Baojing, Sister, dont you like Mo Junyang? Why did you keep quiet? As a matchmaker, she felt embarrassed. She didnt understand. When the two of them were talking in secret, Shi Baojing had expressed that she liked Mo Junyang, but why did she become a coward in front of him? Shi Baojing looked into Qingxues confused eyes and smiled bitterly. She didnt answer Qingxues question but asked about something irrelevant. Why can you call His Excellencys name? Ah? I forgot it. Shi Qingxue hurriedly covered her mouth. Earlier she was relaxed and didnt pay attention to it. My dear sister, dont tell Mother. Otherwise, she will teach me a lesson. Shi Baojing didnt intend to find fault with her but said frustratedly, But I dont dare to and would never call his name anyway. Shi Qingxue was stunned and didnt understand what Baojing meant. Shi Baojing didnt expect her answer but continued, This is our difference. Baojing, what on earth do you want to say? Qingxue noticed that Baojing felt something lost, but she couldnt figure out why. Nothing. Shi Baojing refused to explain but stood up and smiled. I suddenly remember that I have something to do and have to go now. Please say sorry to His Excellency for me. Shi Qingxue watched Baojing leave and couldnt stop her. When she was feeling helpless, she saw Mo Junyang come back alone. Gee? Didnt you go to invite His Highness? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyangs back and found nobody. Even Second Prince became so arrogant nowadays and didnt accept the invitation? Chapter 84 - The Fight in the Royal Family Mo Junyang replied helplessly, Second Prince did come here, but he has just left when I went there. It happened that he failed to meet Mo Junwen by a narrow chance. Where is your sister? At the mention of this, Shi Qingxue had a headache. She told Mo Junyang about Baojings weird reaction and sighed with helplessness. What is she thinking? Mo Junyang was surprised. Before he did anything, Shi Baojing shrank unexpectedly. However, he didnt explain but showed that he was also confused. I dont know what she is thinking. Shi Qingxue was at a loss. She even thought that she had heard the disappointment in Mo Junyangs words. Then she thought that in the beginning, she incited Mo Junyang to be with Shi Baojing, but now Baojing backed off for no reason. Did it mean that Mo Junyang was going to lose his lover? This realization made Shi Qingxue quiver. It was improper and she felt sorry for Mo Junyang. She didnt dare to meet Mo Junyangs eyes and faltered, Maybe my sister really has something urgent to do. Maybe. I saw in the distance just now that Lady Baojing met Second Prince at the door of the restaurant and went away together after chatting for a while. Mo Junyang seemed not to notice Shi Qingxues embarrassment and sighed emotionally. I have never seen Lady Baojing so relaxed. It is The disappointment in his tone made Shi Qingxue more awkward. She changed the topic in a hurry. Speaking of which, I have ordered some dishes. They are all famous dishes in this restaurant. Have a taste. They must be delicious. By the way, its early spring now. How about we go out for a walk later? Then Shi Qingxue tried her best to distract Mo Junyangs attention, for fear that he would feel sad because of Shi Baojing. Meanwhile, she couldnt help but complain in her heart, Baojing, you have feelings for Mo Junyang, but why did you back off easily? She couldnt understand what Baojing was thinking and felt so guilty that she agreed without hesitation when Mo Junyang asked her to attend the spring outing dinner with him. Mo Junyang was a good actor as a victim, but when Mo Junyu heard about it, he disdained him. Someone just plays hard to get even when he wants it badly. Someone is you. Mo Junyang didnt care about Junyus disdain. And he didnt think there was something wrong with his pursuing plan. He said casually, You dont understand. She would never agree until I make her realize the possibility that we could be together. Mo Junyu didnt understand indeed. Are all women so weird? You have a high position and are nice to her. What can dissatisfy her? Mo Junyang couldnt explain to Junyu about something annoying that happened in the previous life worsened their relationship to the extreme. He had even guessed that Shi Qingxue would detest him, but fortunately, she didnt. On the contrary, she changed the attitude toward him, which was a miracle. That was enough, so far. But as King Ruis eldest son, Mo Junyang couldnt allow anybody to defame his future wife. He raised his eyebrows. So, do you mean that you wont refuse any woman who has a high position and is nice to you? It was a question, but a word was written in Mo Junyangs eyes: low. Mo Junyu was speechless. He learned a lesson and didnt want to have a heart-to-heart talk with a guy who would lose his marbles at the mention of Shi Qingxue. While fishing, he asked seriously, Why did Mo Junwen go to the Juxian Pavilion at that time? It couldnt be a coincidence. Why couldnt it be? Mo Junyang didnt think so. Dont think too much. Mo Junwen doesnt even have a subordinate. How could he have the ability to plan a coincidence? If Mo Junwen really met me by chance and had lunch with me, I might suspect if there was something wrong, but he left before I went to see him. Obviously he did that in order to avoid arousing suspicion. He would never come to the Juxian Pavilion to intentionally let me know that he had come. Mo Junyu couldnt retort but he was really worried. All of my brothers are difficult to deal with. Dont be too careless. Hmm, Mo Junyang answered leisurely. Suddenly he asked, hitting the nail on the head, What has happened in the imperial palace recently to make you so nervous? After being exposed, Mo Junyu didnt hide the truth. General Shi has controlled many soldiers and gets more popularity after the victory in the northwest. Someone begins to have the sense of crisis. Who? Who else can it be? Of course its my suspicious father. Mo Junyu laughed sarcastically. Mo Junyang frowned. I remember that Duke Shi always behaves like a loyal official. He doesnt side with any faction or get close to any prince. Why would His Majesty be worried about such a person? Mo Junyu glanced at him. General Shi doesnt lust after power or beauty. Nobody can find fault with him as both his moral quality and behavior are good. But such a person tries to be alone. Do you think my father will agree? Then what does he want? Mo Xiangbin had been the emperor for about ten years, but he didnt make any contribution to get praised. Moreover, he was suspicious, partial and heartless. Mo Junyu called him father but didnt respect him when he talked about him. Of course he will try every means to relate General Shi to the royal family. I hear that after the first lady of the Shi Family was titled as Infanta not long ago, the extremely wealthy men in the capital city dont dare to propose marriage to her. Mo Junyang immediately understood what the crown prince tried to express. Indeed, many people think General Shi wants to marry Lady Baoning into the royal family. Mo Junyu was excited. Before he could speak, Junyang continued slowly, Qingxue wouldnt agree to let Baoning marry a prince. If she doesnt agree, can the Shi Family stay out of the fight for the throne? Mo Junyu responded coldly and didnt take Shi Qingxues thought seriously. But Mo Junyang laughed. General Shi wouldnt marry his eldest daughter to a prince who is in the ascendant, no matter if it is Mo Junhao or Junjiuor you. The crown prince was seen through, and his face turned red. Feeling depressed, he said, I dont want to marry Shi Baoning. But no matter if she marries Junjiu or Junhao, it would be troublesome. You dont want the sisters in the Shi Family to go against each other, do you? In the final analysis, Mo Junyu felt restless. He was clear about Shi Qingxues influence on Mo Junyang, so he couldnt wait to win over the Shi Family. Otherwise, Mo Junyang might follow another prince in order to please his dream lover. But the crown prince still didnt know Mo Junyang might defeat all the princes and take the throne. If he knew that, he would be scared to death. Mo Junyang leered at him, looking calm, which made Mo Junyu think he knew what was on his mind and feel guilty. Then he heard Junyang saying, You truly dont need to think of Shi Baoning. You could never marry her. Before Mo Junyu glared at him, Mo Junyang continued to explain, Now the situation in the imperial court is unclear. Third Princes and Fourth Princes followers counterbalance each other, so you can keep your position as the crown prince for so many years. If they find that you draw Duke Shi and the Shi Army over to your side, believe it or not, your two brothers would skin you alive. Mo Junyu was scared to shrink his neck by the accurate description. Even if he was reluctant, he had to admit that Mo Junyang was right. The ones who had no power didnt qualify to be arrogant. He was nervous. Then we will watch Shi Baoning marry Junjiu or Junhao? Mo Junyang smiled meaningfully. Dont keep me guessing. Say it now. Mo Junyu was anxious and didnt even want to grab his fishing rod. He threw it aside and stared at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang glanced at the lake surface and pulled his fishing rod. After he was sure that the fish in the lake were frightened by his companion to leave, he put down the rod and said unhurriedly, Why are you nervous? Shi Baoning wouldnt marry either of your two brothers. Why? Mo Junyang stood up and patted his clothes. He received the water bottle from Wei Zichao and drank some water. After the man went away, he replied, It is a game. Empress Liang wouldnt allow Mo Junhao to marry Shi Baoning, and His Majesty wouldnt want to see Empress Liangs relatives grab all the power. If most of the military power in the Mo Dynasty is in the hands of Her Majestys relatives, wouldnt he be left as a powerless emperor? The right prime minister Liang Yuanming was Mo Junjius maternal grandfather and controlled most of the imperial guards. If the Shi Army joined them, Mo Junjiu could force the emperor to give the throne to him. Mo Junyu thought it over and felt more relieved, but he was still worried. My father wouldnt give up so easily. He wouldnt believe that General Shi is loyal to him until someone from his family marries into the royal family. If it is not Shi Baoning, it would be Before he mentioned Shi Qingxues name, Mo Junyu was stopped by Junyangs cold glance. Fine, he didnt have the courage to challenge Mo Junyangs bottom line, but he indeed asked to the point. Mo Junyang kept silent. He had thought that as long as Shi Qingxue married him, Mo Xiangbin would surely feel relieved, but now it was uncertain when she would marry him. Even if she married him, it wouldnt be easy to make the man next to him rest assured. Well, dont worry. I know what I should do, Mo Junyang said decisively and didnt want to continue this topic. I hear that Empress Liang wants to introduce another lady from the Liang Family to you recently. How could you have the energy to care about those trifles? Mo Junyus face darkened as expected, and he said helplessly, She is determined to arrange a woman around me and even mentioned Liang Ying this time. Liang Ying was a favored legitimate daughter in the Liang Family. Liang Jingxian had coveted the position of the crown princess for a long time, but this was an abandoned child. They hadnt expected that Liang Jingxian would have done that. Mo Junyang was surprised and then couldnt help laughing. Liang Ying! She is really nice. Have you considered her? Mo Junyu had a grievance on his face and wanted to curse, Why would I consider her? I dont have any interest in such a hot-tempered noble lady. These years, he had always been conservative and humble in order to keep his position in the East Palace. If he married Liang Ying, he would be controlled by the Liang Family. He was not so stupid. Unfortunately, the East Palace was not powerful. The good daughters were waiting in the boudoir to be betrothed or were in the families of Third Princes or Fourth Princes followers. It was not easy for Mo Junyu to select a good wife as the crown princess. Mo Junyang seemed not to notice Junyus annoyance and smiled. He looked up at the sky and found that it was almost time to go out. The spring outing dinner is held today. Why dont you set out? Mo Junyu had to stand up and complained, Its Yuzhens idea. Its not funny. I want to leave after I show up. Lets I am going to pick up Qingxue. Please help yourself. As the crown prince stared openmouthed, Mo Junyang left. Chapter 85 - Watch a Play Mo Junyang said he was going to pick up Shi Qingxue, but he didnt have a chance to stay with her alone. All the way, the ladies from the Shi Family were with them. As soon as they reached the Moon Mountain, Mo Yuzhen couldnt wait to come to find her friend. Shi Qingxue gave Mo Junyang an apologetic glance and then was pulled away by Yuzhen. Qingxue is so capable that Third Princess cant forget her even after marriage. Shi Baojin said with sarcasm. Her voice was loud enough and everyone present could hear it clearly. All people scrupled at Shi Baojins glory and wouldnt stand up for two girls who were not here, but Shi Baoyou pulled Baojins sleeve and advised in a low voice, Baojin, dont say that. Qingxue has been Her Highnesss bestie since long ago. Its normal for them to be close Shi Baojin didnt give in. She dragged her sleeve and said coldly, What shouldnt I say? Was I wrong? You are right, but no matter who is my friend, it has nothing to do with you. Do you qualify to comment? A cold voice came from behind them. Not until then did they find that Mo Yuzhen came back. Shi Baojin was embarrassed in public and her face was pale. But she gritted her teeth and lowered her head to admit her fault. I am sorry to say something improper. Your Highness, please forgive me. Mo Yuzhen ignored Shi Baojin who showed the white feather and didnt care about her dignity. She snorted. Of course, you said something improper. Fine, I dont want to see you. Help yourself. Aha! Somebody around couldnt help sniggering in a low voice, but it was harsh. Shi Baojins face was ghostly pale and her lips trembled. She forced herself to bow. I am leaving now. After driving away the annoying Shi Baojin, Mo Yuzhen looked around at the noble ladies and said, We are having a tour in spring today. Dont be overcautious. Go for a walk around with your friends. Dont worry. I have told the City Guardian Army to guard at the foot of the mountain. Anybody irrelevant wouldnt come to the Moon Mountain. Thanks, Your Highness! Many people came intentionally, hoping to cotton up to Mo Yuzhen. Seeing that Yuzhen was in low spirits, they had to leave by twos and threes. However, Shi Qingxue was nervous to hear Yuzhens words. Yuzhen, did you really tell the City Guardian Army to guard at the foot of the mountain? Mo Yuzhen took it for granted and nodded. Why would I lie to you? My maternal grandfather gave me the power. Even the imperial guards should listen to his orders, let alone the City Guardian Army. Mo Yuzhen held Shi Qingxues arm and walked to the hillside excitedly. A few days ago, I came to check this place in person and found an interesting spot. Let me take you to have a look. Wait! Shi Qingxue stopped her and asked with concern, How could you tell the City Guardian Army to guard at the foot of the mountain for you? Their duty is to guard the capital city and its environs, but you transfer them to the mountain. If the officials know it, they would criticize you. Mo Yuzhen was stunned and didnt expect that Shi Qingxue would think about it. She was moved and amused. Then she couldnt help rubbing Qingxues nose and said joyfully, Honey, I didnt expect you to consider everything for me. I love you so much! While laughing, she rushed to Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was not in the mood to joke with her. She pushed Yuzhen away crossly and said angrily, I am serious. Correct your attitude, or I wont talk with you. Mo Yuzhen hurriedly stood and straightened her back, with a proud and joyful expression on her face. She grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and didnt want to let her go. She called, Qingxue. After she got married, they hardly met each other, not to mention having a talk like now. This feeling of being distant made her uncomfortable and helpless. This was the price that they should pay after they grew up. When Mo Yuzhen decided not to tell Shi Qingxue to marry Mo Junjiu, she knew that they would get parted gradually, but the reality was that even if she forced herself not to go to see Shi Qingxue and intentionally kept her at a distance, Qingxue still cared about her and even What on earth are you thinking? Does your grandpa allow you to act recklessly? Shi Qingxue didnt find the glimmer in Yuzhens eyes and was still worried that Yuzhen had harassed the people and wasted money. After hearing that, Mo Yuzhen laughed again, but she answered seriously, He told me to transfer the army. Do you think he would allow me to? Shi Qingxue was confused. Why? He should know that it will arouse others envy. Havent you found that my brother Junhao is so arrogant recently? Mo Yuzhen meant something. Qingxue was blank. She was busy with her own life these days and forgot to pay attention to the imperial court. She had no idea since when she didnt hate Mo Junhao as much as when she had just been reborn. She lost the hatred toward him, as if he was just an irrelevant stranger. Oh, of course, she would take revenge anyway. Hearing that Mo Junhao was riding high nowadays, she was unhappy. He just did something at the end of last year, right? Why is he still popular? Your big brother, the crown prince even did a magnificent feat to defeat the robbers. But His Majesty doesnt care about it. Mo Yuzhen subconsciously looked around and made sure that there was no outsider. Then she looked at Shi Qingxue and didnt know whether to laugh or cry. You are even braver than me to say anything. Shi Qingxue looked ignorant. Whats wrong? Mo Yuzhen knew that her friend was very smart, but had a fatal weakness. She wasnt on the alert for anybody she trusted close to her. It was fortunate that only the two of them heard what she said just now. Otherwise, it would cause much trouble. But Mo Yuzhen didnt plan to remind Qingxue. She even felt proud because her friends natural character. She didnt hide anything. You know that my father likes my brother Junhao. He favors him so much that he would exaggerate his insignificant contribution. Shi Qingxues eyes darkened. She suddenly remembered that she had married Mo Junhao at this time in the previous life. She was truly glorious, and Mo Junhao was promoted to future crown prince soon. Moreover, Mo Junjiu was impatient and tried to usurp the throne recklessly, so Junhao found his secret aboveboard and defeated him easily. But it was not so easy in this life. Qingxue smiled slyly and didnt want to think more about Mo Junhao. She continued the topic. Even so, what does it have to do with transferring the City Guardian Army? They are enjoying the glory, and you need to try and serve as a foil? She couldnt understand it. Gee, thats it. But my big brother Junyu is impatient. He wanted to do something, and my grandpa didnt allow him to but was afraid that suppressing would arouse protest, so Mo Yuzhen didnt finish her words. But Shi Qingxue understood what she meant. Her eyes dimmed and she had complex feelings. Before she could say something, Mo Yuzhen had covered her eyes. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Dont look at me in this way. Dont feel pity for me. Mo Yuzhens voice was hoarse and deep. Upon hearing it, Shi Qingxue felt sadder and wanted to look at her, but she couldnt see anything as Yuzhen covered her eyes. She had to give up and wait quietly. Till Your Excellency, where are you going? Wait for me! A familiar voice came from a distance. Both of them were astonished. Shi Qingxue took off Yuzhens hand in a hurry and looked at the direction where the voice was from. Its Shi Baojin. What else does she want to do? Shi Qingxue and Mo Yuzhen looked at each other. They reached a secret agreement and hid behind an undergrowth to peep between the leaves. On the hillside far away, Mo Junyang was enjoying the spring scene alone. Shi Baojin ran to him with excitement on her face and greeted shyly, Your Excellency, long time no see. How are you? Mo Junyang glanced at her indifferently. I am fine. He didnt even pretend to be polite but was about to leave. Shi Baojin wouldnt let him go. Regardless of the consequences, she pulled Mo Junyangs sleeve and shouted, I have something to tell you. Please listen to me, Your Excellency. She said that, but the expression in her eyes showed that if he shook off her hand, she would call others. Mo Junyang controlled himself and took a deep breath, asking, What do you want to say? After making sure that she had made Mo Junyang stay, Baojin looked shy again. She asked softly, My mother said the Zhao Family was willing to propose marriage to me because of you. Is that true? While speaking, she couldnt help but raised her head to look at Mo Junyang, with expectancy and disbelief in her eyes. Shi Baojin didnt believe that after what had happened between them, Mo Junyang was still willing to help her. Mo Yuzhen couldnt believe that, either. She asked doubtfully, Does Mo Junyang fall in love with Shi Baojin? No way! Shi Qingxue denied without thinking, although it appeared to be true. Mo Yuzhen also thought it was impossible, but why did Mo Junyang help Shi Baojin? Leaving aside others, they were sure that Zhao Liang was the best husband Shi Baojin could find. Noticing Mo Yuzhens doubt, Shi Qingxue felt guilty and said to herself, He is not Baojins best husband. In the previous life, she married Mo Junhao. She was clear about it, but she couldnt say it, so she had to respond, Anyway, he wouldnt love Shi Baojin. A man would never let the woman he loves marry another man. Thats right! Mo Yuzhen suddenly realized it. As far as she knew, Mo Junyang was not such a generous man, but she thought of another question. Shi Qingxue, I suddenly find that you know a lot about him. Shi Qingxue remained silent. She couldnt explain, so she stopped talking and pulled Mo Yuzhens sleeve, hinting her to watch the play. Obviously, Shi Baojin also thought Mo Junyang had helped her because he loved her. With joyful and helpless tears on her face, she murmured, Why didnt you tell me earlier? If you did, perhaps we wouldnt have been like this. Mo Junyang was baffled and glanced at Shi Baojin, with an expression showing, What the hell are you talking about? But Shi Baojin thought he was trying his best to conceal his love for her. She was more depressed and couldnt control herself but yelled, I know. I know everything. You love me. Now we are alone here. Dont need to conceal it anymore. Chapter 86 - Avoid Trouble Then Go Away No matter how calm Mo Junyang was, he was surprised at Shi Baojins imagination with no sense of shame. He thought, How shameless she is! She even thinks I love her after I almost threw her to a beggar. Mo Junyang was not in the mood to explain to Shi Baojin. He got rid of her grip and said coldly, Lady Baojin, you are going to marry the second young master of the Zhao Family soon. Its improper to say something like this to me. Please conduct yourself with dignity. With that, he didnt give Shi Baojin a chance to speak and left directly. Shi Baojin didnt expect Mo Junyang to be so resolute and was petrified for a while. She subconsciously chased him, but he walked fast and disappeared soon. She was angry and anxious, yelling at Mo Junyangs receding figure, Dont try to hide. I know you love me. Even if fate wont bring us together, I wont give up because I love you, too! Shi Baojin expressed her love sincerely and then still stood there quietly. The two hidden girls found the surprise on each others face. Perhaps it was their first time to see such a shameless and self-sentimental person. Mo Junyang has left for a long time. Why does she still stand there? Mo Yuzhen had seen a lot but she showed that she couldnt understand such a weird thinking mode. However, Shi Qingxue knew something. Maybe she is waiting for Mo Junyang to come back. But he has Mo Yuzhen was speechless. Gee. I have known Mo Junyang for so many years and have never seen through him, but I am sure that he is arrogant and cant change. He would never say he likes something that he doesnt like. I dont know why Shi Baojin has the courage to think that he loves her. Shi Qingxue showed that she could hardly understand it, too. Especially Mo Junyang was ruthless to make Shi Baojin lose her virginity, but perhaps Shi Baojin would think that was a joke between lovers. We have watched the play. Lets go. I havent taken you to the interesting spot I found. Mo Yuzhen lost the interest in Shi Baojin and then excitedly held Shi Qingxues arm, walking to her secret base. Shi Qingxue thought of the topic they had talked about earlier, but it would be not good to mention again since Mo Yuzhen didnt want to say more. She just asked, Who from the City Guardian Army came to guard the Moon Mountain under your grandpas order? She thought it over secretly, but her emotion was shown on her face. Mo Yuzhen felt it laughable and didnt hide the truth. The general commander of the City Guardian Army is Leng Yuan. He certainly wouldnt do such a tiring job. The right commander seeks benefits and avoids disadvantages and wouldnt accept such a hard but thankless task. Who do you think it is? Ah! Nobody except my big brother! Shi Qingxue frowned unhappily and pouted to complain. Her voice was so low that Mo Yuzhen didnt hear it clearly, but she knew what Qingxue wanted to say. She couldnt help laughing. If I dont know you really take Wenren Chi as your brother, I would doubt that you like him judging from the panic on your face. Shi Qingxue answered blankly, I do like him. He is my big brother After saying that, she finally realized what Mo Yuzhen meant and frowned more deeply. Dont talk nonsense. He is my brother, she said decisively without hesitation. Mo Yuzhen sighed in secret. No wonder Shi Qingxue is Duke Shi and his wifes favorite daughter, but Grandpa never tries to incite Wenren Chi to marry her. Anybody would feel strange even if they mention Qingxue and Chi in the same breath. But Mo Yuzhen looked serious and reminded her casually, Qingxue, I have to remind you that Wenren Chis family name is not Shi. Mo Yuzhen was clear that as Mo Junjius younger sister, a core member of his followers, she shouldnt say that, but facing Shi Qingxues wholehearted trust, she couldnt bear to hide everything from her. But Shi Qingxue looked ignorant. Oh, so what? Mo Yuzhen got impatient and pounded Shi Qingxues arm, asking crossly, Havent you thought about what you should do if he covets your familys fortune? Shi Qingxue shook her head without thinking and replied firmly, No, he wont. Seeing that Mo Yuzhen wanted to retort, she added seriously, It doesnt matter even if it is possible. He is my brother. Fine. Shi Qingxue prevented Mo Yuzhen from saying what she wanted to and made her think that her worry was a waste. Mo Yuzhen was furious. Well, well. You are brother and sister loving each other. I worry too much, okay? Mo Yuzhen walked ahead, seeming to leave Shi Qingxue alone. Shi Qingxue laughed helplessly. She knew Mo Yuzhen was concerned about her, but she would never doubt Wenren Chi. He was her brother and future brother-in-law. If he was not credible, this world would be desperate. Yuzhen, wait for me. Arent you going to take me Qingxue hurriedly caught up with her and held her arm, acting like a spoilt child, making her anger released. The two friends managed to patch it up and became close again. But when they arrived at the destination, they were stunned once more. They had thought it was a secret base, but it was occupied. The noble ladies walked leisurely on the beautiful lawn in twos and threes. Shi Baoyou found Shi Qingxue first and waved at them joyfully, Qingxue. After she shouted, it was not possible for Shi Qingxue and Mo Yuzhen to keep quiet. All the noble ladies came to greet Mo Yuzhen and surrounded them. Shi Qingxue was not used to such an atmosphere and glanced at Mo Yuzhen before moving a few steps backward to make way. Qingxue, lets have a seat. Shi Baoyou smiled, held Shi Qingxues arm like her close friend and took her to the shed of the Shi Family. This place is beautiful, and Baojin has found it. All people heard that and came here to set up their sheds. In the shed, only one lady, Shi Baojin was sitting and having tea. Others went out to have a walk with their friends. Shi Qingxue took a look at it and wanted to go away, but Shi Baoyou seemed to have guessed what she was thinking and pulled her arm. She didnt let her go and pouted, Qingxue, I just came back home not long ago. You dont even have any time to have a cup of tea with me? Since her sister said that, Shi Qingxue had to smile even if she was unhappy. Of course yes, but it is a waste to stay in the shed when it is so beautiful outside. Right, somebody wants to be with Third Princess twenty-four hours a day. Otherwise, how could she cotton up to the princess? Shi Baojin interrupted sarcastically. It was awkward there. Shi Qingxue was used to her sarcasm and didnt want to talk with her. She took a sip of tea in silence, pretending not to hear that. Shi Baoyou was a newcomer in this family and widened her eyes after hearing that, as if she had seen a ghost. She screamed, Baojin, we are sisters. How can you say something unpleasant? Shi Baojin snorted. How is it unpleasant? Didnt I tell the truth? Of course not! Shi Baoyou denied decisively and looked more emotional than Shi Qingxue. It seemed that she was the one who was wronged. Qingxue is on good terms with Her Highness, and its natural that they stay with each other all day. Its not like what you said. Oh? Do you mean that she didnt stay with us because she is not on good terms with us? Shi Baojin responded with a faint smile, which made Shi Baoyou speechless. Shi Baoyou had tears in her eyes out of anger and her lips trembled, but she lived happily from childhood and had never argued with anybody. She was stumped for words to retort Shi Baojin but was so nervous that she almost cried. Shi Qingxue originally wanted to stay out of this and was not in the mood to quarrel. Shi Baojin just wanted to say something, while Shi Baoyou tried to stand up for her but couldnt, so she would be ashamed if she left. This was so awkward. She sighed and looked at Shi Baojin with a smile, asking in reply, Baojin, dont you think I am on good terms with you? It was an obvious fact, but anybody who admitted it first would be the cause to ruin the relationship among sisters. Shi Baojin held her neck high and turned away. You said that, not me. Shi Qingxue wanted to leave as soon as possible and winked at Xia Mang. The maid brought a cup of tea in an instant. She received it and held the cup with both hands, preparing to give it to Shi Baojin. She lowered her voice. Since we are on good terms, please drink this cup of tea. She made peace with her sister to avoid trouble before leaving. Qingxue thought this was a good idea, but Shi Baoyou suddenly grabbed her arm and said emotionally, It was Baojin who said something wrong. How can you apologize to her? Its unfair. Take the tea cup back now. Baoyous serious tone surprised Qingxue, whose arm was pushed. The tea cup fell from her hands on Baojins thigh by chance, and the tea splashed over her. Ah! Shi Baojin screeched sadly and suddenly jumped to sweep the tea cup. Xiao Tao hurriedly came up to help her wipe the tea. But the tea water was just boiled and too hot. Only a few drops of tea splashed to burn Shi Baojins wrist and made it red. It happened all of a sudden, and the sounds were loud. All people looked at them before realizing what had happened. Shi Qingxue came back to her senses first and calmly told Xia Mang to fetch the ice. And she told Xiao Tao, Help your lady get changed. She took out her handkerchief and wanted to help Shi Baojin clean, but the latter pushed her away with strength. She was caught off guard and staggered. Fortunately, Shi Baoyou stretched her hand to help her. Shi Baoyou was scared by this accident, but she reacted soon and supported Qingxue. She frowned at Shi Baojin and said with displeasure, Baojin, whats wrong with you? Qingxue was kind to help you clean. You didnt thank her but did that to her. You have gone too far. Shi Baojin got angry after hearing that the guilty party sued her. How can you have the face to say that? She threw water on me intentionally to embarrass me. How can you say that she is kind? Where is her conscience? I didnt! Shi Qingxue disdained to argue with Shi Baojin but was not a coward. She wouldnt let anybody slander her. Ha! You have thrown tea on me. Of course you would say that you were careless to do that. Anyway, nobody knows it, right? Shi Baojins voice was sharp, and she said unkindly, When you received the cup, why werent you careless to throw it on yourself? Was your hand disabled when you gave it to me? Who would believe that you didnt mean it? What had happened just now was really an accident. Shi Qingxue didnt think she was careless. If Shi Baoyou didnt push her, she wouldnt have done that, but she couldnt say it. Before she thought of the right words to explain, Shi Baoyous face paled out of anger. She explained in a hurry, Its not Qingxues fault. Just now, I was anxious and pushed her, so the cup fell from her hands. If anyones to blame, its me. Chapter 87 - Get Close to Me Shi Qingxue glanced at Shi Baoyou and was surprised that she had told the truth. It was her first time to see such an honest person, and she didnt know what to say. However, Shi Baojin didnt believe Baoyous words, or rather, she couldnt accept that. She snorted. Ha, you two are so close, so you would certainly give false testimony for her. I am so poor. Even my sister helps an outsider. Its so sad. She even mentioned the blood relationship to judge the closeness. All that Shi Baoyou explained couldnt be a reason. Baoyous face was pale and she lowered her head. She tried to grab Baojins sleeve in a hurry. No, I didnt help Qingxue. I just Shi Baojin shook off her hand and said crossly, You dont need to pretend kind. Just go to flatter Shi Qingxue. I am going to see what you will get. Her voice was loud and went out of the shed. Every onlooker looked as if they were to watch a play of the Shi Family. Especially Qin Yanyan even laughed loud. Shi Qingxue was clear that if Shi Baojin continued to make a scene, the Shi Family would be a laughingstock. She looked at Shi Baojin with a grim face and lowered her voice to warn her. Shi Baojin, I dont care what you are going to do. But youd better get changed and apply some medicine. Otherwise, I wont stay here with you to embarrass yourself. It appeared that if Shi Baojin continued to make a fuss, Qingxue would knock her out and take her away. Shi Baojin couldnt endure being provoked, but at this time, she had to bear Qingxues threat. After all, it was fine to have an internal fight, but it was another problem if the enemies laughed at them. She glared at Shi Qingxue, and left with Xiao Taos help. Shi Baoyou followed them with concern in her eyes, as if Shi Baojin hadnt abused her just now. Gee, I thought all the members of Third Masters Family in your mansion are bad except Shi Baochun. I didnt expect that Shi Baoyou looks decent. As soon as Mo Yuzhen drove away the ladies who pestered her, she moved close to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue sighed. I just met Shi Baoyou a few days ago and dont know her. Mo Yuzhen was astonished. Then why did she help you? Shi Qingxue smiled and showed a complex expression on her face. She just replied simply, Maybe she was born to be decent, as you said. Huh! Mo Yuzhen wouldnt be so na?ve and asked, What happened just now? Shi Baojin tried to make trouble for you again? They didnt speak loud in the shed, and the outsiders just heard the quarrel. It was obvious that Shi Baoyou sided with Qingxue and had a conflict with Baojin. I gave a cup of tea to Shi Baojin, and threw the cup by accident. The tea splashed over her, and she got angry. Shi Qingxue told her directly and summed up what had happened in a few words. Mo Yuzhen asked immediately, Shi Baojin did it on purpose? No, Shi Qingxue answered automatically. Then she stared at Mo Yuzhen in surprise. Why do you think so? Mo Yuzhen took it for granted and answered, You dont like to make trouble. Every time you have a conflict, she is the one who starts it, right? Fine, it became a convention. Anyone who had eyes could see that. The problem was whether they would choose to be blind sometimes or even call black white. Shi Qingxue shrugged but didnt put the blame on Shi Baojin. It was not her. This time she was innocent indeed. As far as she knew, Shi Baojin wouldnt drag her down at the price of injuring herself. But Mo Yuzhen didnt believe it and thought Shi Qingxue was defending Baojin. She looked displeased. You are one of my people. You have suffered injustice but dont tell me. Dont you take me as your friend? I didnt mean that, but this was an accident Maybe Shi Baojin had told too many lies, so she had lost her creditability, even if Shi Qingxue justified her. Mo Yuzhen snorted and forcefully interrupted Qingxue. When you were favored in the past, she didnt dare to bully you openly. Now she just marries the second son of the Zhao Family. Does she think she can do anything? Shi Qingxue couldnt help laughing. To be frank, she hasnt married. Her wedding would be held in half a month. Mo Yuzhens eyes lit up. She clapped and said happily, Right. How could I have forgotten it? She hasnt married yet. Qingxue, see what I will help you get even with her! What are you going to do? Shi Qingxue asked nervously. She wasnt worried about Baojins safety. After Baojin had sent someone to insult her, their kinship had been cut off. Now they could live in peace only because she agreed to leave it to Mo Junyang. If Mo Yuzhen got involved at this time, would she ruin Junyangs plan? Mo Yuzhen didnt ask for Qingxues permission. After making the decision, she smiled at Qingxue slyly and then left excitedly, even when her friend tried to stop her. My Lady, will there be something wrong? Xia Mang had witnessed everything and felt worried, too. Shi Qingxue had no idea and sighed helplessly. Who knows? By the way, how is Shi Baojin? In private, she didnt want to hide that she was distant to Shi Baojin and just called her full name. Xia Mang shook her head. I just led the doctor to check on Lady Baojin, but she asked the doctor to stay and drove me away, so I dont know how serious her injury is. I am afraid that she will take the chance to make trouble again. Xia Mang was confused. What can she do? You gave her a cup of tea to show respect, but she was rude as she didnt accept it. Whats more, it was not you who threw the cup purposely. Why did Shi Baojin blame Qingxue? Shi Qingxue smiled bitterly and stopped talking with Xia Mang about Shi Baojin. I want to go out for a walk. Xia Mang was surprised and responded quickly, I will keep you company. No, thanks. Have a rest here. I want to be alone. Shi Qingxue found a quiet place and didnt want to be disturbed. However, as soon as she had a seat, someone moved close to her. Little Qingxue, you are here? What a coincidence. Shi Qingxue had selected a place near the cliff and hid in the forest, difficult to be found. But just after she sat down, Mo Junhao came here soon. Nobody could believe it was a coincidence. She rolled her eyes at Mo Junhao and didnt even pretend to be polite. She still stared at the cliff, waiting for him to leave when he got angry. However, Mo Junhao didnt get mad after being ignored. He moved two steps forward and said with sincerity, We grew up together since childhood and used to be close, although we have to keep a distance after coming of age because of the different genders. Qingxue, do you hate me for that? No. Your Highness, you think too much, Shi Qingxue replied coldly and disdained to pretend obedient in front of Mo Junhao. Then she kept silent. Mo Junhao still didnt get angry. With love on her face, he asked, Then why didnt you get close to me? Shi Qingxue was annoyed and sneered. Didnt you say that we should remember that we have different genders? Mo Junhao was unable to respond. After a while, he said, But we cant ruin our friendship. While speaking, he had come to Shi Qingxue, just half a meter away from her. Shi Qingxue cursed in her heart, Shameless. Who has friendship with you? If it wasnt the wrong time to offend Mo Junhao openly, she would have slapped this jerk. Shi Qingxue gritted her teeth and forced to restrain her anger. She stepped back and stated expressionlessly, Its necessary to remember our different genders. If your wife sees that we are so close, I dont think you can explain to her. She mentioned Qin Yanyan just to remind Mo Junhao to have scruples and disappear from her sight as soon as possible. Beyond her expectation, he didnt care but showed a brighter smile. He stepped forward again and grabbed Qingxues wrist to pull her into his arms without hesitation. She could even sense his breaths. Shi Qingxue felt uncomfortable and resisted his chest, trying to push him away. But he had powerful strength and put his arm around her waist recklessly. They got closer and she could feel the warmth in his body. Shi Qingxues face darkened in an instant, but she couldnt move. She had to question coldly, Mo Junhao, what do you want? The young girls fragrance entered his nose, and he was satisfied that he had her under control, with desire in his eyes obviously. What do I want? Little Qingxue, you really dont know? Let me go! Shi Qingxue couldnt believe that Mo Junhao dared to make out with her at this place. She was not panic, but she felt disgusted. She looked at his happy face and wanted to throw up. Then without thinking, she stepped on his foot with all her strength. Mo Junhao was in pain and his handsome face was almost twisted, but he still refused to let her go and held her more tightly. With one arm, he hugged her and restrained her both hands. And he reached out his right hand to touch her red and tender face. Mo Junhao! Shi Qingxue felt as if many disgusting caterpillars were on her face, and she had gooseflesh all over. However, she was small-sized and weak, no match for Mo Junhao, so she had to endure it. Seeing that his hand was trying to touch her red lips greedily, Qingxue couldnt control herself. She would rather die from feeling disgusted than let him go. Then she bit his index finger. Ah! he screamed. Shi Qingxue found that he had loosened his hand and pushed him away as hard as she could. Then she turned around and ran away, but she stopped after a few steps and looked ahead blankly. After she pushed Mo Junhao, he staggered and almost fell. When he stood steadily again, he found that there was a third person here. Mo Junhao put his left hand on his back and could still feel the pain on the part between the thumb and index finger. He didnt need to check on it and knew that it was swollen. But under the circumstances, he couldnt show the white feather. He glared at the uninvited comer. Your Excellency, what can I do for you? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang three or four meters away from her and then glanced at Mo Junhao. She suddenly realized that Mo Junyang did something to the attacker, so she could get rid of him. Although she didnt want Mo Junyang to see her in a difficult position, she couldnt ignore the sense of security brought by him. She walked to him. Her intention to seek protection was apparent. Chapter 88 - Disgusted One of the two men present had a long face, and the other was expressionless, but there was joy in his eyes apparently. Before coming here, Mo Junhao was sure that Shi Qingxue loved him. She was cold to him just because she was angry with him as he had married Qin Yanyan, and he even thought that she bit him as a joke between lovers. But now Shi Qingxue walked to Mo Junyang without thinking and showed that she was going to seek protection. It was hard for him to ignore her intention. With a cold face, Mo Junhao glanced at Qingxue and said in a deep voice, Qingxue, come here. He said that as if it was his ultimatum. It seemed that if Shi Qingxue didnt listen to him, he wouldnt want to marry her. Shi Qingxue cast a sidelong glance at Mo Junhao and noticed the threat in his words, but she felt it laughable. Why did he have the confidence to think that she behaved like this because she couldnt forget him? She didnt even want to look at Mo Junhao. His touch disgusted her, and she just wanted to find a place and have a wash. Mo Realizing that Mo Junhao was in front of them, she couldnt call Mo Junyang by his name. She pulled Junyangs sleeve and said in a low voice, Lets go! She didnt want to see Mo Junhao again. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows and was happy at Shi Qingxues behavior. He didnt give her a chance to withdraw her hand but held it in front of Mo Junhao. Shi Qingxue tried to take back her hand but failed. She raised her head and met Mo Junhaos intense gaze. Magically, the disgusted feeling after being touched by Mo Junhao disappeared. She felt secure and didnt resist Junyangs hand but accepted to hold hands with him. Mo Junhao was furious. His face turned red and pale occasionally. He stared at their hands and suddenly laughed in a sharp voice. Great! Shi Qingxue, I thought we deeply love each other and even if we dont say anything, we wont ruin our relationship. But I didnt expect you to have an affair with Mo Junyang behind my back. I have underestimated you! In Shi Qingxues opinion, this unreasonable curse was ridiculous. She wanted to retort, What did you do in the previous life? How can you have the face to say that we deeply love each other? Dont sully these words. But she couldnt say that. Firstly, nothing serious had happened, even if she knew that Mo Junhao would do the same under the same situation. Secondly, she disdained to be in a relationship with Mo Junhao. However, Shi Qingxue could endure that, but it didnt mean that Mo Junyang would turn a deaf ear to his criticism. He toughly stood in front of Shi Qingxue, with killing intent in his sharp eyes. Even Mo Junhao was scared by this sudden murdering intent and moved a step backward involuntarily. Before Mo Junhao realized the situation, Mo Junyang laughed all of a sudden, with no smile in his eyes, and his voice was cold. Your Highness, its unreasonable of you to criticize her. When you asked Prime Minister Qin to marry his daughter to you, you made it clear that you and Qingxue were like brother and sister and nothing had happened between you. Why do you blame her now? Do you have other feelings for her? Mo Junhao was astonished. He certainly had said that to Qin Shirong, but it was a secret between them and couldnt reach Mo Junyangs ears. He subconsciously retorted, Of course not. I Mo Junyang didnt give him a chance to finish his words and concealed his smile, saying expressionlessly, Qingxue has always taken you as a brother. She doesnt care or want to ask what you think. Your Highness, if you want to explain, just explain to your wife! His statement showed that Shi Qingxue was just like Mo Junhaos sister and couldnt accept his criticism and also indicated that Mo Junhao was under the hallucination and thought she loved him. He just put the blame back onto Mo Junhao easily. Then Mo Junyang looked away and turned to Mo Junhaos back. The latter was alert and looked back. Then he was stunned again to see his wife. Yanyan Mo Junyang was satisfied with the scene before his eyes, but he was unwilling to see more. He pulled Shi Qingxue away and left the couple alone to make a fuss. He took Shi Qingxue to a stream on the hillside and told her to sit down. Then he took out his handkerchief to wet it with the stream water and used his internal force to heat the wet handkerchief before he turned around, trying to wash her face. Meanwhile, he explained in a warm voice, Its cool in April. Just wash your face first. If you still feel unwell, I will send you back home. Shi Qingxue avoided Mo Junyangs hand automatically and both of them were petrified. She finally realized his intention and her face was flushed with shyness. Then she grabbed his handkerchief in panic and mumbled, Thanks. I will do it myself. Mo Junyangs joy faded soon, and he kept silent for a while. What happened just now made him lose his self-control which he was always proud of. He couldnt help but ask, You dont like me to touch you? Shi Qingxue stopped her hand, and her first reaction was that she didnt like anybody to touch her. But meeting Mo Junyangs deep eyes, she couldnt say that bravely. It seemed that if she said that, she would be heartless and ungrateful What the hell! Shi Qingxue shook her head and got rid of the inexplicable thoughts. She explained in a hurry, Wrong. I am not used to you doing this for me. Mo Junyang looked at her deeply again, which almost scared her to admit defeat and correct herself. Then he moved backward and gave up the plan to wipe her face in person. Before Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief, the man said casually, You will get used to it sooner or later. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. She stared at Mo Junyang and doubted that she had misheard, but he didnt look at her. After speaking, he stood up and looked into the distance, as if he was an outsider. So she was too shy to ask more. They stayed silent for a while. Shi Qingxue finally washed every part on her face Mo Junhao had touched. She didnt feel disgusted anymore, but she felt awkward now. She couldnt stand it and broke the ice, asking, Why did you show up in time? I found that Mo Junhao followed you, so I went to have a look. At the mention of what happened earlier, Mo Junyang was still angry. If he hadnt been stopped for a while, he could have prevented Mo Junhao from the start and wouldnt have given him a chance to get close to Qingxue. Shi Qingxue didnt realize Mo Junyangs regret but felt lucky. She couldnt help but say, Fortunately, you were there. Otherwise, I dont know what I will end up! Mo Junyang stared at her again and didnt look away until she felt uncomfortable. He said casually, I am always here for you. Shi Qingxue felt it was like a bomb and frightened her. She was speechless and wanted to goggle at him, but she thought she shouldnt do that. After all, Mo Junyang didnt do anything, and she couldnt make a fuss. But But Mo Junyang was flirting with her. Shi Qingxue was resentful and couldnt be more depressed. I am going back home. I will send you back. Mo Junyang had no objection. He even wanted to hide Qingxue and allow nobody to see her. Shi Qingxue just didnt want to stay with him awkwardly, but unexpectedly, Mo Junyang took action soon. He told Xia Mang to prepare the carriage and then asked someone to tell Mo Yuzhen that they were leaving. Then he prepared to send her back. He finished everything in less than fifteen minutes. Shi Qingxue wanted to cry but shed no tears. She looked at the carriage nearby and then turned to Mo Junyang, wondering whether it was too late if she said now she didnt want to go back. And the activity started less than two hours ago, but she would leave earlier. If the news spread, nobody knew if they would say something unpleasant. Mo Junyang seemed not to see the plea in her eyes and asked, Cant you walk? Need me to carry you? Shi Qingxue shook her head crazily and hurried to look around. After making sure that there was nobody, she let out a sigh of relief. She didnt dare to protest and then got into the carriage. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt stupidly spread the news. Otherwise, her reputation would be ruined. If you dont want to go back home yet, I can take you to the Moon Lake. The scene there is as beautiful as here on the Moon Mountain. Mo Junyang thought Shi Qingxue hadnt had enough fun and suggested. Shi Qingxue felt depressed and responded, I dont want to. I dont find that funny at all. Mo Junyang didnt want to let her go so soon, so he offered, You havent been to King Ruis mansion in the capital city yet. Will you pay a visit? My father is not at home these days. King Ruis mansion! Shi Qingxue was still in low spirits, but somehow, she seemed to read the expectancy in his eyes, so she nodded without thinking. Okay! Mo Junyangs gloomy eyes lit up suddenly. Although there was still no expression on his face, anybody could notice that he was in a good mood. Shi Qingxue also felt better and didnt feel regretful anymore. King Ruis mansion was in the north district of the city, not far away from Duke Shis mansion, but Shi Qingxue came here for the first time. Looking at the magnificent courtyard and buildings, she had the first thought that Mo Xiangbin was nice to his half-brother, a son of his fathers concubine. Mo Xiangbin gave Rui King a first-grade mansion and so many people to guard his mansion. But on second thoughts, she was nervous and looked at Mo Junyang in a hurry. She wondered if Mo Xiangbin trusted King Rui, Mo Xiangrui or was worried about him. Unfortunately, with her current position, she didnt qualify to ask. Before Shi Qingxues eyes dimmed, Mo Junyang explained, These people were all employed by my father and are loyal to us. Dont need to worry. Oh? Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang in surprise and soon understood. Mo Junyang had desire as he stared at her big beautiful eyes, but he couldnt do anything. He had to turn away and tried to say slowly, I will show you around. This mansion was built following the mansion in my fathers fiefdom, so the architecture had the unique feature in Rui City. Have a look. Do you like it? I am wondering why I have never seen some pavilions or towers. It turns out to be Rui Citys unique feature. Then how about your house? Was it built following the mansion in Rui City? Shi Qingxue had grown up in the capital city and then entered the imperial palace. She had few chances to go out, so she was curious about the outside world. But she didnt know which words she said were wrong. Mo Junyang kept silent and the smile on his face was replaced with seriousness. He was unwilling to look at Qingxue anyway. Chapter 89 - Haven’t You Had Enough? Shi Qingxue was puzzled and blinked. She walked to Mo Junyang. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang turned away again and avoided looking at Shi Qingxue. Nothing. I will show you around. He left after speaking. Ah, wait. You havent answered my question. Shi Qingxue hurriedly caught up with him and didnt forget to say, I have seen the architecture here. How about we have a look at your residence? In fact, she was willing to come to King Ruis mansion mainly because she was curious about Mo Junyang, including his environment in the previous life and this mansion. Mo Junyang stopped in his tracks as if something tripped him. He managed to stand steadily with effort and said indifferently, There is nothing worth seeing in my house. I will take you to the back yard, where there is a natural lake. Its very beautiful. Hey, wait! Shi Qingxue was curious and stopped Mo Junyang. She stood in front of him once more. Why dont you look at me? Usually, Mo Junyang focused his eyes on her and made her feel shy. Why did she want to show up in front of him now but he didnt want to see her? Mo Junyangs eyes were absent. No. You worry too much. Shi Qingxue snorted. Look at me when you speak to me. Mo Junyang kept silent for a while and then finally met her eyes seriously. There was no emotion on his usual tough face and nothing could be seen. Shi Qingxue was doubtful but she always couldnt see through Mo Junyangs emotion. She looked at him for a while and had to give up. Then she went back to the previous subject. I dont want to go to the back yard. I just want to see your house. Cant I see it? She said the last sentence casually, but next second, she saw a faint blush flashing on his face. When she looked at him again, he showed a poker face as usual. Something weird flashed on Shi Qingxues mind, and she asked subconsciously, Are you feeling shy? Mo Junyang couldnt control himself anymore. He turned around again and retorted rudely, Dont talk nonsense. It was obvious that the more he tried to hide, the more he was exposed. Shi Qingxue was petrified for a while and then couldnt help laughing. Her displeasure after being neglected disappeared. A faint and special joy came to her heart. The feeling that she got something precious belonging to her only and nobody could see was so wonderful. Mo Junyang she called softly. In her voice, there was sweetness and charm that even she didnt realize, as if a cat tried to please somebody in a spoiled manner. Even if Mo Junyang took sulks, he couldnt help looking back. The beautiful yet not feminine face was red, as if she was shy or joyful, which made Mo Junyang excited. He replied gently, Yes. I Shi Qingxue wanted to say, You are so cute when you get angry, or, I just want to see and know more about you. These words were in her throat, but she didnt speak a word in the end. However, nobody knew what Mo Junyang thought of, and he said, If you really want to see, I will take you to my house. King Ruis mansion was under his control, and he didnt worry that Qingxues reputation would be affected if she went to a mans house, but thinking of the stuff in that room, he sighed in secret. Shi Qingxues eyes were glittering. She nodded repeatedly. Okay. Okay. She thought Mo Junyang was afraid that she would tell somebody else and assured him seriously, Rest assured. I will never tell anybody what I will see or give them a chance to threaten you. When she was just reborn, she trusted Mo Junyang for no reason, and now she totally took him as one of her own, as important as her parents. Mo Junyang was amused by Qingxues imagination and satisfied with her words. He enjoyed her closeness to him. It was because he didnt know what Shi Qingxue was thinking, and if he did, he would get angry. Whats the name of your house? Is there a lake, too? And Shi Qingxue followed Mo Junyang and asked many questions, but he didnt give any reply. He just said, You will know when you get there. When Qingxue reached the gates of his residence, she was stunned. Love Xue House. As she looked at the three words on the plaque and immediately thought that was Mo Junyangs handwriting. She believed his handwriting was beautiful, and then Love Xue Houses meaning occupied her mind. Love Xue, it was self-evident. Even if Shi Qingxue was not sensitive about love, she couldnt help flushing and didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang. Perhaps he was mentally prepared, so he didnt panic as before. He just said, Lets go inside and have a look. Shi Qingxues blood froze and to be honest, she wanted to run away, but Mo Junyang walked in front of her, and she had to bite the bullet and follow him. But every time she took a step, her heart beat faster, as if she walked on thin ice, which was dangerous and thrilling. But when she went into the courtyard and saw the scene clearly, she got stiffened. She turned her head to look at Mo Junyang. As she looked into his eyes, they remained silent. It was because of nothing but the desolate scene before her eyes couldnt be more familiar to her. In the previous life, Shi Qingxue lived in the Cold Palace for a longer time than in the empresss residence, the Phenix Palace. The desolate and cheerless Cold Palace was her nightmare. She had thought that she would never go back to that hell, but unexpectedly, she had been reborn and returned to the Cold Palace in this way under the situation. She felt Mo Junyangs gaze, but she couldnt give him a smile as usual. She didnt even have the energy to look at him. They stood there quietly for a long time till Mo Junyang started to panic and thought he had done something wrong. Then Qingxue asked in a trembling voice, Why? Mo Junyang couldnt reply but asked knowingly, What? Why? Shi Qingxue didnt allow him to escape. Why do you still like such a place? Havent you had enough in the previous life Shi Qingxue sighed in a low voice and interrupted herself immediately. She looked at Mo Junyang nervously and felt a little inexplicably guilty instead of being depressed earlier. She wasnt supposed to know that after her death, Mo Junyang changed the structure of the imperial palace in Mo Country and turned the deserted Cold Palace into the emperors residence. Nobody could understand why or dare to say anything. They just obeyed this tyrant silently. In the beginning, Qingxue didnt know what Mo Junyang was thinking, either. She just thought he was abnormal and had a weird temper. It was not surprising no matter what absurd things he did, but later, she witnessed this man She shook her head and tried to shake off what she shouldnt think of. She opened her mouth and wanted to change the subject, but Mo Junyang whispered, lost in thought, Havent you had enough in the previous life? Who did you refer to? Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang misunderstood, but she didnt want him to know that she had paid attention to him in secret for more than fifty years. She believed that he wouldnt hope everything that he had done in the past to be exposed in front of her, so she took the opportunity to admit, Hmm, I had enough of living there. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxue for quite a while again, as if he wanted to confirm if she told the truth, but at last, he just nodded. If you dont like it, I will tell them to change it in a few days, he said casually, like he was saying that if she didnt like this dish, he would tell them to cook it once more. Even if Shi Qingxue was clear that Mo Junyang would do as he said, she still couldnt control herself but goggled. No. I didnt mean to interfere in your private affair, but dont you think its weird to live in such a place? She wanted to ask this question since long ago. No matter how weird he was, he shouldnt be abnormal and think a place like the Cold Palace was a comfortable home. It was more uncomfortable to live in this depressing, boring and desolate place than to abuse himself. Mo Junyang shrugged and responded casually, I am used to it, but I wont in the future. Fine, it was the second time that he reassured her. Shi Qingxue really wanted to say that he didnt need to care about what she thought, but personally, she was unwilling to see the architecture here again. She had to endure the uncomfortable feeling and said, Thats all right. In fact, you dont need to live a life like an ascetic monk. After all She wanted to say that the previous life was in the past, but such words couldnt comfort them as they had been reborn. It was better not to say. Mo Junyang noticed her feeling bad. Before she finished her words, he agreed. I will. Okay, they had said that. Shi Qingxue lost her enthusiasm to visit King Ruis mansion. I want to go back home. Mo Junyang didnt want her to leave so soon, but he had no choice. He nodded. I will send you back! No, thanks! Shi Qingxue refused automatically, but his determined eyes told her that he would never let her go home alone, even if the manservants and maids of the Shi Family were waiting at the gate. Shi Qingxue felt awkward and let Mo Junyang send her back home. Before she got out of the carriage, she suddenly remembered Mo Yuzhens words and then told him what had happened on the Moon Mountain, hoping that it wouldnt ruin his plan. Mo Junyang frowned after hearing that, which made Qingxue restless and wonder if she was a doomsayer. Then the man asked, Does Shi Baojin dare to make trouble for you again? Shi Qingxue was unable to answer. She admired his ability to misunderstand and touched her forehead helplessly. Do you know what the point is? I said Yuzhen might make trouble for Shi Baojins marriage. Will it ruin your plan? Mo Junyang didnt reply but frowned and asked, Do you know I have a plan? If this man didnt look at her as if he had a secret, she might believe that it was a coincidence, but now she just wanted to laugh. I am leaving now. Anyway, his relaxed attitude told her that no matter what Mo Yuzhen would do, it wouldnt affect him. Mo Junyang didnt stop Qingxue from getting out of the carriage. He watched her walk into Duke Shis mansion and thought for a while before ordering, Go to the imperial palace. Shi Qingxue didnt know what she said casually would overturn heaven and earth. She was happily receiving the good news brought by her parents. Chapter 90 - Propose Marriage Shi Qingxue stayed in King Ruis mansion for a long time. When she came back home, the other ladies had returned from the spring outing dinner. As soon as she was back, she was asked to go to the East House. Shi Junhe and Dong Hui was talking and laughing happily. Whats the matter? Shi Qingxue moved close to Dong Hui curiously. Seeing that Qingxue came, Dong Hui concealed her smile and poked her daughters forehead with her index finger, asking angrily, Baoning said you left the Moon Mountain earlier, but you come back till now. What did you do? Shi Qingxue felt it was bad. Usually, Dong Hui wouldnt ask about her whereabouts, but now she asked. Qingxue couldnt say that she went to King Ruis mansion. Otherwise, her mother would be more than getting mad. In secret, she looked at Shi Junhe to ask for help pitifully. Shi Junhe coughed. Although he also wanted to know where Qingxue had been, he still helped her. Its normal for a child to go out for fun. Why did you ask? Dong Hui glared at him. She is not a child anymore. Other girls would stay at home to learn about makeup and etiquette at her age. If in the future, her husband knows that she is still wild and often goes out, what should she do She was striking up the same old tune. Shi Junhe and Qingxue lowered their heads to listen to the lecture obediently but exchanged glances from time to time. Shi Qingxue hinted, Father, when will Mother finish her speech? I can hardly stand it. Shi Junhe replied, I can do nothing. Why did you go out without telling us? Shi Qingxue suggested, How could I tell you when I was outside? Father, tell her to stop. My ears are suffering. Shi Junhe couldnt resist Qingxues spoilt manner and had to say, Well, its a good day today. Why did you say that? Shi Qingxue was clever and hurried to ask, Why is it a good day? What happened? Tell me. Her questions stopped Dong Hui from saying more. Dong Hui certainly knew what the father and daughter were thinking but still replied happily, Of course something nice happened. Something nice? What is it? Mother, dont keep me in suspense, okay? Shi Qingxue shook Dong Huis arm and her eyes were glittering. Dong Hui could do nothing to her spoilt daughter and said, Just now your big brother told someone to send a letter to your father. He wants to marry your sister Baoning! Ah? Shi Qingxue was petrified and couldnt react. Dong Hui patted her head and rebuked her, Ah? Your brother and sister will become a couple. Are you unhappy? Qingxue shook her head in a hurry and feared that Dong Hui would misunderstand. But it is so important to propose marriage. Why didnt Chi ask Baoning in person? He just sent a letter to finish the job? It was different from what had happened in the previous life. Back then, Shi Baoning was in poor health and often got sick. She seldom left the Jingshu Boudoir, but Wenren Chi proposed marriage perfectly. He expressed his love to Shi Baoning romantically, which made all the other ladies envy. Why was it different in this life? Qingxues casual question made her parents frown and look at each other speechlessly. Shi Junhe finally said, The marriage is suggested by a matchmaker and decided by parents. Chi pays attention to etiquette and it is natural to ask for my advice first. Whats more, he was transferred at the last minute to guard the mountain for you idle girls today. How could he have time to come here in person? Shi Qingxue felt awkward and thought she worried too much, so she changed the subject in an instant. How about my sister? Does she know? What did she say? She certainly agrees. I have asked someone to choose a lucky date. October 20th is a good day for marriage, and its more than half a year later. We have enough time to prepare for the engagement and wedding gifts, Dong Hui said joyfully. One would doubt that she had planned everything long ago. While speaking, Dong Hui had another question. Junhe, Baojin will get married in a few days. Shall we tell Mother about it after her wedding? But time is limited for now. If we mention it after her wedding, we would arrange the gifts in a hurry, and I am afraid that we will make mistakes. They had even less than two months to prepare for Baojins wedding, and Dong Huis words contradicted herself, but Shi Junhe knew that his wife desired to excel over others. He felt it laughable but still nodded. It will be in haste indeed, and it is better to talk about it earlier. I will tell Mother later so that we can set it in stone. Since Mo Shujun had forced her son to divorce his wife, Dong Hui didnt like her. Except for the greetings in the morning and evening, she tried not to go to the Shouan Hall. Hearing Shi Junhes words, she heaved a sigh of relief. Go now. I have something to tell Qingxue. Shi Qingxue wanted to go away, but Dong Hui told Shi Junhe to leave and left her in the room. Shi Qingxue couldnt escape and called with a sad face, Mother. Dong Hui looked cold and prevented her daughter from pleasing her. Tell me frankly. Where on earth have you been? Shi Qingxue faltered, I just went out for a walk. Dong Hui retorted, A walk? But I heard from Zheng that she saw you leave the Moon Mountain with King Ruis eldest son. Shi Qingxue felt nervous. She had forgotten that Dong Hui had sent someone to go to the Moon Mountain with the ladies. So they must have seen everything. You have seen that. Why did you ask? Qingxue said in a depressed voice recklessly. Dong Hui was furious and pinched Qingxues arm, but she couldnt bear to use strength. You have forgotten what I told you, right? I have said many times. Even if the man and woman dont keep a distance in our country, I dont allow you to get close to any man who is not your relative. Earlier, I found that you kept away from Fourth Prince and thought you finally understood your mothers care and thought for you, but you make the same mistake again in just a few days. Whats more, His Highness is alright. You love each other and its fine that you are close, but His Excellency is not a friend of our family and we have no contact with each other. He Mother! Shi Qingxue interrupted Dong Hui hurriedly, looking displeased. Dong Hui was astonished, but soon she found her imposing manner. She stood with her hands on her hips. What? Cant I teach you? Shi Qingxue responded gloomily, I didnt mean it. Then why did you get angry with me? Qingxue couldnt explain clearly and mumbled unhappily, I have no relationship with His Highness. Dont mention us in the same breath. Its annoying! Dong Hui was surprised. It was her first time to hear Qingxue mention Mo Junhao impatiently, as if she hated that man to the bone. It shouldnt be that. Didnt she like Mo Junhao? Duke Shis wife hadnt understood her daughters thought yet. She just thought the little girl was mad at him. She replied to make Qingxue feel better, Fine, I wont mention him. But dont turn a deaf ear to my words. I dont allow you to go out with His Excellency or any other man alone in the future. Understand? I see! Shi Qingxue answered simply. It made Dong Hui unable to say more. She had to let the girl go. Well, its late now. Go back to have a rest. Shi Qingxue walked out of the East House swiftly and then sighed deeply. Her mother was better at chattering. She could hardly resist it. Qingxue, what are you doing here? Qingxue raised her head and saw Wenren Chi in military uniform walk to her. He seemed to come from the military camp in haste, and there was sweat on his forehead. She ran to him with a smile and greeted sweetly, Big brother, are you coming to see Father? Why are you in such a hurry? Its so hot. While speaking, she conveniently gave her handkerchief to him. When they were children, Shi Qingxue often went to play on the Shi Armys training ground. Every time Wenren Chi got tired from training, she would give him her handkerchief and even wipe sweat for him when she was in a good mood. It was natural, and she had no other intention. But as Wenren Chi looked at her bright smile and then at the white handkerchief, he was in a daze. Chi? Shi Qingxue pushed the handkerchief to urge him and called in confusion. Wenren Chi came to his senses and received the handkerchief. He wiped his forehead in order to cover up and forgot his purpose in coming, just standing in front of Shi Qingxue blankly. Shi Qingxue wouldnt forget it. She asked the same question and laughed mysteriously. I knew you would agree. What? Qingxue thought he was playing dumb and knocked at his arm like a brother. She didnt notice the embarrassment flashing on his face and said excitedly, You have sent a letter to Father. Do you still want to hide it from me? I know you are going to marry my sister. Mother has decided your wedding date. Its on October 20th. Its just around the corner She spoke for a long time, but there was no reply. She looked at Wenren Chi in doubt but found that he was petrified. What? Whats wrong? Did I say something wrong? Father and Mother tell you to get married so soon. Are you unhappy? Wenren Chi trembled and grabbed Qingxues arm, asking emotionally, Who told you that I am going to marry Baoning? You said it! You have sent a letter to Father. Can it be She didnt say the last word false. As she looked at Wenren Chis confused and surprised expression, she thought it might be false. Wenren Chi looked serious. Where is Father now? I need to see him. Oh, he has left for the Shouan Hall, Shi Qingxue replied automatically. After speaking, she met Wenren Chis eyes. They found that it was not good in each others eyes. Then both of them ran to the Shouan Hall quickly. They hoped that Shi Junhe hadnt said that, so they could stop it. If he really told Mo Shujun about the marriage of Wenren Chi and Baoning, then Shi Qingxue couldnt imagine what a mess it would be, but she didnt understand. Chi, why did somebody write a letter to propose marriage to Baoning on your behalf? Who would be so idle or addicted to making a match? Wenren Chi bit his lower lip and walked forward silently. Nobody knew what he was thinking. Shi Qingxue was more confused but didnt dare to ask more. When they reached the Shouan Hall, the maid Zhu told them that Princess Royal was talking with Duke Shi and they should wait outside even if they had something important to report. Chapter 91 - Delay the Wedding Shi Qingxue was so anxious. She didnt care about it and pushed Zhu away, walking inside. I really have something important to tell my father. Dont stop us. But Zhu didnt obey and forcefully stood in front of her. My Lady, I am guarding outside as Princess Royal ordered. Please forgive me. Shi Qingxue could hardly explain to the stubborn maid and she was afraid that she would delay it, so she said arrogantly, I dont care who ordered you. Step aside. Wenren Chi grabbed Shi Qingxues arm and comforted her softly, Dont be like this. This is Grandmas residence. You cant act recklessly. Lets go out and wait. Then he showed Zhu an apologetic smile and pulled Qingxue back to wait outside the Shouan Hall. Zhu played with the pendant on her waist indifferently and didnt even glance at Wenren Chi. Her disrespect made Shi Qingxue furious, but Wenren Chi restrained her and she couldnt lose her temper. Chi, what are you doing? Why didnt you let me teach that snobbish bitch a lesson? Wenren Chi smiled bitterly. When you want to kick a dog, you have to know who its owner is. If you teach Grandmas maid a lesson in her residence, no matter what the reason is, the outsiders would only say that you dont know the etiquette. Shi Qingxue didnt care. If I have to suffer injustice for the sake of the etiquette, I would rather not know it. I am not afraid that others would say that. Wenren Chi was astonished and looked at Qingxue blankly. With complex emotions inside, he could hardly control himself, but at last, he turned away and pretended not to mind it. Why did you argue with a maid? Are you going to bite a dog after it bites you? Shi Qingxue was going to explode because of Wenren Chis inattentive attitude. She was worried about his marriage, but he was carefree. Fine, she wouldnt get involved in it anymore. But Father must be inside talking with Grandma about your marriage to my sister. We have to go in now. If Father said that, we can never save it. Wenren Chi was not anxious, but gazed at Qingxue. Dont you want me to marry Baoning? Shi Qingxue shook her head without thinking and answered briskly, Of course yes. I hope you can marry her. Wenren Chi had a bitter smile in his heart but looked more carefree. In this case, we dont need to go inside and say anything. Ah? Whats wrong? Shi Qingxue couldnt understand and frowned, staring at Wenren Chi. Didnt you say that its not you who wrote the letter to propose marriage? Wenren Chi nodded. But it doesnt matter. I He paused for a while and then continued firmly, I am going to marry Baoning. What happened about that letter? Who did it? Shi Qingxue didnt doubt Wenren Chis sincerity, but the marriage was significant and there must be nothing wrong. Wenren Chi knew that he couldnt fool Qingxue, so he replied frankly, In the past few days, I wondered if I can make Baoning live a happy life, so I hesitated to propose marriage. My friend couldnt bear to see me dispirited, so he sent a letter to Father out of kindness. Perhaps he wanted to help me bring about the marriage by this chance. Oh, no wonder that happened. Qingxue believed Wenren Chis explanation easily but murmured, Someone is really addicted to making a match. Wenren Chi was unable either to laugh or to cry. What At this time, Shi Junhe walked out of the Shouan Hall happily. Seeing the two, he asked with a smile, You cant even wait for such a short time? You came here to get the news, right? Hearing the joke, they knew that Shi Junhe thought they came here because they were anxious to know Mo Shujuns opinion about the marriage. Shi Qingxue didnt explain but looked at Shi Junhe with expectancy. What did Grandma say? Shi Junhe showed a bigger smile. What can she say? She always dotes on Baoning and likes Chi. Now they love each other and would get married. Of course she agrees, but she mentioned a requirement. Shi Qingxue asked in a hurry, What requirement? Baoning is an Infanta with an honorable status, and her marriage cant be random. We should ask His Majesty to grant it. Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief and also smiled. It should be easy. We just need His Majesty to grant their marriage, but we dont know if it would fit the wedding date Mother has chosen. The emperor would grant the marriage, and the date would be up to him. He wouldnt care about the wedding date they had decided. Shi Junhe was helpless. Dong Hui had expected this marriage for a long time and was anxious since they got the letter, but now they would ask the emperor to grant the marriage, so she might be unable to handle it. There is something else! Shi Qingxue wanted to tell her father that somebody wrote the letter to propose marriage under Wenren Chis name, but Wenren Chi pulled her arm. It was obvious that he didnt want her to say it. Shi Junhe looked at the two kids in confusion. What else? Shi Qingxue didnt know if she should say it. She thought it was strange, but she couldnt figure out what was strange. At the moment, a servant boy ran to them in haste and interrupted their conversation. My Lord, bad news. Some persons from the Zhao Family came here and have a fight with Third Madam and Third Lady now. Third Madam asked you to say something. What the hell? The future in-laws came to make a fuss and they needed the family master to say something? The three had no idea what happened and had to go to the main hall first. In the main hall, the madam of the Zhao Family, Ms. Liang and the lady Zhao Zhuer sat in the guest seats with long faces. Zhou Ruyu was crying in the middle of the hall, putting on a one-man show. Third Lady Shi Baojin stood in the corner in panic, with tears in her eyes. Whats wrong? Shi Junhe was the family master. Even if he didnt want to mind the business of Third Masters Family, he wouldnt leave everything behind as Shi Juncai did. He had to bite the bullet and stop Zhou Ruyu from crying. As soon as Zhou Ruyu saw Shi Junhe, she shouted, as if she had suffered much injustice, Big brother, you have to seek justice for my daughter Baojin. Ms. Liang had been attacked by Zhou Ruyus loud voice after she came in and told what the matter was. Now she couldnt stand it anymore and rebuked coldly, Ms. Zhou, our children will get married soon. We can talk about anything peacefully. Why did you make such a scene to embarrass yourself? With Shi Junhes backup, Zhou Ruyu said in a sharp voice, Who on earth made a scene? It is your son who proposed marriage and wanted to get married in a hurry. Now we have exchanged gifts and sent the invitations. But you came to tell us that you will change the wedding date. Is it fair? Do you think my daughter Baojin can be bullied easily? Shi Junhe had thought Zhou Ruyu was the unreasonable one but was petrified to hear that. However, he calmed down soon and asked Ms. Liang, What on earth happened? Why did you want to change the wedding date? The Zhao Family and the Shi Family would be related by marriage, and we have sent the invitations. If you change the wedding date for no reason, it would probably ruin the fame of our two families. What he said was reasonable and sincere. Even if they expressed almost the same meaning, his words were much more pleasant to hear than Zhou Ruyus. Ms. Liangs face softened, and she also showed some sincerity, saying helplessly, I have considered what you said, Duke Shi. Its about the fame of two families. If there is other choice, I am unwilling to change the wedding date. Zhou Ruyu snorted. There is no other choice? Who believes that? Second Young Master Zhao happens to be seriously ill at this time and cant even get married? People who dont know the truth might think he is dying! Ms. Liangs face darkened instantly, and she glared at Zhou Ruyu, with her sharp eyes. Zhou, dont talk nonsense! If you dare to curse my son again, I wont let you get away with it. I just say it. You Ruyu! Shi Junhe shouted and stopped Zhou Ruyu from saying whatever she wanted. He apologized to Ms. Liang hurriedly, Madam Zhao, please forgive her. She said something unreasonable because she loves her daughter so much, but she didnt mean it. I believe that you can understand it as a parent. Ms. Liang sneered and didnt pester her. Shi Junhe asked, Can you tell me what disease your son has suffered? You even need to delay the wedding date? There is no outsider here, and I will be frank to you. We know why we decided the early wedding date urgently in the first place. Now that you want to delay the wedding all of a sudden, I am afraid that it would be more difficult for us to wind this matter up then. Ms. Liang glanced at Shi Baojins belly, which was flat and couldnt show the pregnancy. But it would be different in a few months. She sighed again. Obviously she was affected by Shi Junhes statement. She kept silent for a while but still insisted, Duke Shi, I know what you are concerned about. I dont hope that my son Liangs first child would have some stain, but She gritted her teeth and still said firmly, But the wedding cant be done now. Please understand. Shi Junhe noticed that Ms. Liang had something difficult to voice and was about to ask when Zhou Ruyu said harshly, It sounds nice. I just ask one question. You want to postpone the wedding until half a year later. How would Baojin get married at that time? Ms. Liang hesitated for a while and gave a solution. We can get them married after the baby is born. Huh! Its easy to say that. My daughter Baojin was defiled by your son and felt a grievance to marry him. Now do you even want her to give birth to a baby before marriage? Zhou Ruyu pulled Shi Baojin to Ms. Liang rudely and said every harsh word. Shi Baojin kept silent and looked at Zhou Ruyu, with tears in her eyes. She was moved by her mothers act. She had thought after Shi Baoyou came back home, she had lost her position in this family, but her mother still cared for her. However, before she grabbed Zhou Ruyus hand, she heard her mother saying, If the news spreads, how would our family face the public? Will the other ladies in the Shi Family get married? It Shi Baojin got stiffened and remained still like a stone. The touching voice went farther and farther. She couldnt hear or see anything. It turned out that what Zhou Ruyu truly cared about was not her reputation but the marriage of the other ladies. Nobody found Shi Baojins unusual expression. Ms. Liang was irritated by Zhou Ruyus repeated cutting remarks and cursed regardless of anything, Stop it! If your daughter didnt make trouble, how would our family be embarrassed with you? Her words were shocking. It was horribly quiet in the main hall for quite a while. Nobody spoke a word. Shi Junhe reacted first and decisively told somebody to take the members of Third Masters Family away. Then he told Shi Qingxue and Wenren Chi to leave with Zhao Zhuer before asking, Madam Zhao, what did you mean? Chapter 92 - Marriage and Loyalty Ms. Liang made a slip of the tongue and regretted. She had said what she shouldnt say. Shi Junhe was looking at her and obviously waiting for her to continue. She sighed deeply. It is Third Princesss decision. Shi Junhe was astonished. Why? It was the marriage of the Zhao Family and the Shi Family, and Third Princess Mo Yuzhen never cared about the affairs of the imperial court. Why did she get involved in it all of a sudden? Ms. Liang was helpless. Now there is no outsider. I dont mind telling you, Duke Shi. Its not a secret that my husband works for Third Prince, and he has to listen to his order. Even if there is grievance, we have to bear with it. Shi Junhe nodded to show that he understood it. But His Highness is always reasonable. Whats more, if the Zhao Familys fame is ruined, it wont do good to you and him, right? Who would be so idle as to do something that would hurt others but do no good to themselves? Ms. Liang couldnt speak out her difficulty and was resentful. If your niece didnt offend Her Highness and make her angry to take action, how would we be embarrassed today? Shi Junhe was speechless. He was clear about Shi Baojins character. She was arrogant and bossy. She wouldnt show mercy if she got the upper hand, but she was not brainless. How could she have offended Mo Yuzhen? I dont know! Ms. Liang said coldly and put the blame on Shi Baojin. But Her Highness personally came to ask my husband. And His Highness dotes on his sister. My husband didnt dare to refuse. Mo Yuzhen told them to delay the wedding and left them no room to hesitate. Shi Junhe showed a sad face and asked, Is there no way to change it? If it was really Baojins fault, I will tell her to apologize to Her Highness. Maybe Ms. Liang waved her hand in a hurry. Dont do that! Her Highness said that we cant tell anybody that it has something to do with her. I told you and I have broken the rule. If she knows it, she would skin my husband alive. Ms. Liang regretted telling Shi Junhe, but he raised his eyebrows and suddenly laughed. Madam, what are you talking about? Since you have told me the truth, I might help you. Why do you still try to hide something? Ms. Liang laughed shyly and found that Shi Junhe was not dull even if he was a warrior, so she tried to please him. Duke, you are right. To be frank, only you can do it. Shi Junhe frowned. Why? But Ms. Liang thought he was playing dumb. Everybody knows that your little daughter is clever and adorable. She is Her Highnesss good friend. If she can say something nice to her, maybe it will work. And she knew that Shi Baojin had a fight with Shi Qingxue before the spring outing dinner and then Mo Yuzhen comforted Qingxue, so she suspected of the reason why Mo Yuzhen took action against Shi Baojin suddenly. Of course she was not foolish as to think that Shi Qingxue had incited the princess to get involved in it. After all, if the news spread, both the Zhao Family and the Shi Family would be embarrassed, and Shi Qingxue didnt look like that unreasonable. Shi Junhe concealed his smile and then responded indifferently, My daughter Qingxue is on good terms with Her Highness, but how can we comment on a princesss decision? Hearing that Shi Junhe was unwilling to help, Ms. Liang got angry and said with sarcasm, I thought you care about your niece, but you just look on and do nothing when she is in need. Shi Junhe was completely indifferent and wasnt provoked by her words. Ms. Liang didnt want to offend him, so she didnt say more about it. She said, Duke, since you can do nothing, I wont disturb you. Goodbye! Ms. Liang left, and Shi Junhe was still sitting in the main hall. He frowned and was lost in thought. After quite a while, he suddenly said, She has gone. Why dont you come out? Shi Qingxue who was hiding behind the screen had to walk out. Seeing Shi Junhes grim face, she explained in a hurry, Father, I swear that it has nothing to do with me. I didnt tell Yuzhen to do that. I learned it just from Madam Zhao. She was solemn, as if she told the truth. Shi Junhe was angry but wanted to laugh. He peered at her. So you didnt know that Her Highness planned to help you deal with Baojin? Eh Shi Qingxue was aware that she was like a rabbit and couldnt fool her father, an old fox, so she had to admit, Yuzhen saw that I had a conflict with Baojin before the spring outing dinner. She believed that Baojin had rocked the boat and said she would do something to her. She had expected Mo Yuzhen to take action, but it was beyond her expectation that she would do it so soon. Shi Junhe was helpless. You knew that Her Highness would do something. Why didnt you advise her not to? Shi Qingxue took it for granted and answered, Why would I advise her? Yuzhen considers everything for me, but Baojin always makes things difficult for me. Should I hurt someone who cares about me for an enemy? Sorry, I cant do something immoral like this. How dare you! Listen, what are you saying? Shi Junhe frowned with displeasure. Thats your cousin. How does she become your enemy? Qingxue sneered and swallowed back her complaints. She had wanted to tell Shi Junhe what Shi Baojin had done to her, but at the last minute, she chose not to. It was not that she was afraid that Shi Junhe didnt believe her, but she didnt want him to be sad for it and know that he had a brother who wanted to harm him and fought for the hereditary official position and a vicious niece who wanted his daughter to have a ruined reputation They were so disgusting. She would like her father to think that she was not sensible and sulked with Third Masters Family. Father, dont think about it anymore. Yuzhen is stubborn and wouldnt change her mind because of my words, and I would never ask her to show mercy to Baojin. I am willing to take her as a cousin and give her wedding gifts just for your sake. She vented out her grievance in one breath and then closed her eyes and shrank her neck. She was afraid that her father would beat her in a fit of anger. After all, her words were cruel in the ears of those who didnt know the truth. You! Shi Junhe didnt beat her but sighed helplessly. Then he pulled the frightened girl into his arms and patted her back to comfort her. He reproached softly, You are frightened after you said everything? What did you do? Werent you fearless? Shi Qingxue heard that and knew she was pardoned. She spoke out what she wanted to more recklessly. You are my father. I dont want you to be sad, and I cant bear to hide anything from you. Even if it was harsh, I want to tell you the truth. If you get mad at me because of that, I have to admit that it is my destiny. Gee! It sounds like you are so wronged. Somebody who doesnt know it might think I have bullied you. Qingxue grinned. Thats right. You are my father. Even if I am wrong, you should be partial to me. How can you blame your innocent beloved daughter for an outsider? Shi Junhe was speechless. The duke felt depressed. How could he have raised such a thick-skinned daughter? More magically, he even thought Qingxue was so cute as to say that. Right, he could only dote on his daughter. Fine. I have never wanted you to ask Her Highness to show mercy. Otherwise, I wouldnt have refused Madam Zhao to embarrass her. Shi Junhe knew what he should do to meet the Shi Familys interest, but when he tried to do that, he found it so difficult. He couldnt make his beloved daughter suffer any injustice, even if he was the family master and shouldered the entire familys glory. Shi Qingxue showed a bright smile and said more than once, Dad, you are the best. Then Shi Junhe told her to leave. Shi Junhe did have something to do. He calmed down and then entered the imperial palace to ask the emperor to grant the marriage. Theoretically, the officials who were favored by the emperor should have some privileges so it would show that they were special. And asking the emperor to grant the marriage was one of the privileges. Shi Junhe didnt take it seriously in the beginning. He had military exploits and it was just a formality to ask the emperor to grant it in order to make the marriage of Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi more glorious. But when he told Mo Xiangbin about Mo Shujuns intention, the emperor didnt answer immediately but was lost in thought. After quite a while, he said in a low voice, I remember that you have accepted General Chi as your foster son and made him your eldest child. Why do you let him marry Baoning now? Do you want him to come to your mansion after marriage? Come to your mansion The four words looked like a joke but they were heartbreaking. Everyone knew that Duke Shi accepted his friends son as his foster son because his friend had saved his life and it could be seen that he was grateful, but according to Mo Xiangbins words, it seemed that Shi Junhe had no son and wanted Wenren Chi to marry his daughter and come to his mansion in the first place. That was to cut the Wenren Familys bloodline. As the ancient tradition, if Wenren Chi came to Duke Shis mansion after marriage, his children would have the family name of Shi and wouldnt be members of the Wenren Family. Shi Junhe frowned. He was clear about Mo Xiangbins character and knew that he was dissatisfied with the marriage but had no excuse to refuse. Your Majesty, Wenren Chi is my friend General Wenrens only son. I would never cut his bloodline. If Wenren Chi marries my daughter Baoning, she will be a member of the Wenren Family. I will never ask him to come to my mansion. Shi Junhes words explained Mo Xiangbins last excuse. Mo Xiangbin had no reason to refuse the marriage of Wenren Chi and Shi Baoning. After a short pause, Mo Xiangbin laughed again and pretended to be casual. It is such a coincidence. The other day, my mother told me that she likes Baoning who is dignified and virtuous. Few women have such a good moral quality and beautiful face in the world. And she said that we cant let her marry into another family. His suggestion was obvious. They wanted Shi Baoning to marry into the royal family. And whose intention was it? The emperor said that, so it was the empress dowagers intention. Shi Junhe had sweat on his head. He hadnt expected that Mo Xiangbin had that intention. But on second thoughts, he was more scared. Its not that His Majesty wants Baoning to marry into the royal family, but it means that he doubts my loyalty to him. At this thought, Duke Shi was frightened with a shiver down his spine even if he had much experience on the battlefield. He couldnt respond to Mo Xiangbin. Fortunately, Mo Xiangbin sighed. But it happened that you have engaged her to General Chi, who is a loyal officials son. No matter how much I like Baoning, I cant take his lover away. Shi Junhe had to say bitterly, Thanks for your and Empress Dowagers love for my daughter. I have let you down. Mo Xiangbin smiled more gently and was easy-going, replying, Dont worry. I am not a matchmaker, but I know that its better to ruin ten temples than to ruin a marriage. I will keep the marriage of General Chi and Infanta Baoning in mind. Shi Junhe finally heaved a sigh of relief. Although the emperor didnt grant the marriage immediately, his promise had set it in stone. Mo Xiangbin suddenly asked casually, I remember that you have a little daughter and she is sixteen years old this year, right? Chapter 93 - Three Years Older Shi Junhe got stiffened and didnt dare to move. But Mo Xiangbin looked at him with expectancy, so Shi Junhe had to answer, Yes, my little daughter is named Qingxue. She will have her sixteenth birthday in June. She is a clever girl. I have seen her several times. She is obedient and witty and knows how to make my mother happy! Mo Xiangbin said casually, but told the truth. It was not easy for the busy emperor to remember a young girl with no official rank. It was true that Shi Qingxue was extraordinarily capable. But Shi Junhe didnt feel happy to hear that. Instead, he was more terrified. Then Mo Xiangbin spoke in a careless way again, as if he didnt fear that he would scare somebody to death. I hear that your daughter is a friend of my fourth son Junhao. He is always picky, but he praised that girl in front of me for several times! Shi Junhe responded in panic, His Highness is so kind. Mo Xiangbin waved his hand and looked down, finding that Shi Junhe was trembling with his head lowered. He believed that he had given enough hints and shouldnt push him too hard. Then he said, We just talked about our children. Dont be overcautious. I will consider Infanta Baonings marriage. Go back and think it over. Yes! Although Mo Xiangbin didnt tell him what to think over, Shi Junhe left in a hurry without asking. After he walked out of the imperial palace, he finally sighed deeply and wiped the sweat emerging continuously on his forehead. Probably it was his first time to feel so scared when facing the emperor. He was almost frightened to death. In the carriage to his mansion, Shi Junhe sat with his back straightened. Without any joy of assurance on his face, he looked serious, as if he was facing many enemies. In the beginning, he had thought Mo Xiangbin was dissatisfied with him being alone, so he wanted to drag him down into the mess of the royal family, but he hadnt expected the emperor to make the Shi Family follow the fourth prince. Ah! Love is so tiring. That person would do such a thing, and it is so Shi Junhe sighed helplessly. It was said that the emperor Mo Xiangbin doted on his concubine Liu Yiyi, but it was normal for a man with supreme power to have one or two beloved concubines and even to be partial, but unexpectedly, that person would have gone so far. If Mo Xiangbin just doubted the Shi Familys loyalty, he could prove that he was loyal. After all, there were other choices to show the loyalty to the emperor except marrying his daughter to a prince, and it was even okay with him if Mo Xiangbin wanted him to help Mo Junhao. Under the current situation, the crown prince was timid and not powerful enough, and the second prince was numb and powerless. The third prince had relatives who monopolized the power and there would be much future trouble The fourth prince Mo Junhao could be considered as a choice, especially nowadays Mo Xiangbin was partial to him apparently. But Mo Xiangbin shouldnt mention it in this way. Thinking that the emperor wanted Shi Qingxue to marry Mo Junhao, Duke Shi wrinkled his brows tightly. Till now, he certainly wouldnt think that his daughter loved Mo Junhao. Moreover, especially when Mo Junhao had a side concubine, the duke didnt dare to tell Qingxue about Mo Xiangbins intention. He was so worried. What happened in the emperors study made Shi Junhe have a headache as he didnt know how to refuse Mo Xiangbins involvement. While the empress dowager Ling Ruiyin had a meeting with Mo Junyu after she got the news. Junyu, do you know your father wants Qingxue to marry your brother Junhao? Ling Ruiyin didnt keep him in suspense but went straight to the point. Mo Junyu was surprised and wanted to play dumb, but he saw his grandmas grim face. He had to nod, saying helplessly, Father is always partial to Junhao, and it is not surprising that he wants to find Junhao a reliable wife. But their father chose Shi Qingxue from so many ladies. He prayed for Mo Junhao in his heart. While Ling Ruiyin asked, Are you willing to let Junhao take advantage of you? Mo Junyu thought, Dont worry. He wouldnt take advantage. However, he had to say worriedly, You know that Father doesnt like me. Even if I am unwilling, I have to bear with it. Nowadays, no matter how unwilling he was, he had to hide his capabilities and wait. Thats not necessary. I have a way to grab the advantage for you! Ling Ruiyin suddenly said. Mo Junyu was stunned and confused. Grandma, do you mean Ling Ruiyin smiled slyly. Qingxue is so adorable, and none of you can compare with her. If I dont think that you are nice and would love her wholeheartedly after marrying her, I wouldnt be willing to marry her to you. The crown prince was speechless. But Ling Ruiyin misunderstood him and put on a long face, reproaching him, What? Its said that men are fickle in love and heartless, forgetting the old one after seeing a new one. You havent married her, but you start to consider another woman as your concubine? Mo Junyu could neither laugh nor cry and hurriedly waved his hand, explaining, No, I dont dare to. I know that if the wifes position is unstable, the household would be a mess. He was a tragedy caused by the unstable position of a wife. Even if he would be lucky and get the supreme position at last, no matter how he disliked his wife, he wouldnt humiliate her. That was his bottom line. Ling Ruiyin got contented and said joyfully, I didnt put the boot on the wrong leg. I am relieved to marry Qingxue to you. As long as the Shi Family is related to you by marriage, and Junjiu and Junhao fight with each other, it wouldnt be difficult for you to keep the position as the heir to the throne. She got more excited while speaking, but Mo Junyu got more terrified to hear that, even with sweat on his back and a chill on his neck. He was scared by his fear and hurriedly interrupted Ling Ruiyins daydream. Grandma, what are you talking about? I am eight years older than Qingxue, and she is a little sister in my eyes. She treats me like a big brother. How can I marry her? If possible, Mo Junyu wanted to take back what they had said. What a joke! If Mo Junyang knew that Ling Ruiyin dared to arrange Qingxues marriage and wanted to marry her to him, would they live a good life? The crown prince was so worried and thought, Grandma, stop! If you say more, my most capable military counselor will kill his master! Ling Ruiyin didnt know Mo Junyus worry at all and even thought he was ungrateful. She rebuked him, with a cold face, What brother and sister? Its just a form of address. With this relationship, you will be closer after getting married. Whats wrong if you are eight years older? I am nine years younger than your grandpa, but we loved each other. A man should be older than his wife, so he knows how to love her. You dont have a wife, and you are talented and handsome. You are a good match for Qingxue. What she said made sense, and Mo Junyu couldnt reply. He couldnt say, Grandma, you misunderstand me. Its not that I dont want to marry Qingxue, but I dont have the nerve to! Ling Ruiyin was disappointed at Mo Junyu and glared at him. Whats so difficult? Do you have someone you love so you refuse to marry her? Tell me. What kind of woman attracts you? You even think Qingxue is not good enough? Since Ling Ruiyin got far away from what was normal, Mo Junyu explained in a hurry, You misunderstand. Its not that I dont like Qingxue, but He suddenly had a brain wave and found an excuse. Grandma, you love Qingxue so much, so you will consider what she thinks. If you arrange her marriage without asking her and hurt her feelings, it would be bad. After all, marriage is a matter of two people. Hearing that, Ling Ruiyin didnt push him anymore but showed a sad face, sighing. I really like that girl. How would I ignore what she thinks? But your father is determined to make her his daughter-in-law. If she doesnt marry you, could I bear to see that she marries Junjiu or Junhao? She had no choice but to tell Mo Junyu about Mo Xiangbins suspicion on the Shi Family. Mo Junyu was surprised but then understood on second thoughts. That was his fathers suspicious style. But neither of them had expected that Mo Xiangbin would bring it up at this crucial time. Did something wrong happen? Mo Junyu kept silent, lost in thought. Ling Ruiyin guessed that he was still hesitating and then threatened, Junyu, tell me frankly, do you really have no interest in Qingxue? If you really dont like her, I wont force you. Like I said, Qingxue is so attractive. If you dont want to marry her, somebody else thinks of her every day. Who? Mo Junyu got alert and asked. Ling Ruiyin was satisfied with his reaction and seemed to win. The ninth prince. He is only 13 years old, but he knows about love early. Since Shi Qingxue showed her beauty and talent at the party on July 7th three years ago, that boy would mention his sister Qingxue every time he came to see me. He even asked me to let her marry him. If I dont care about you for the sake of your mother, the empress, I am unwilling to let Qingxue marry you, such a short-sighted guy! Huh The last word huh was so harsh that Mo Junyu was desperate. He couldnt get rid of her misunderstanding, no matter what he would say. At last, he had to smile bitterly. Grandma, my brother is just a kid. In Mo Country, the man became an adult at the age of 20 and could get married at the age of 18 at least. The ninth prince Mo Junzhan was only 13 years old and indeed a kid. Ling Ruiyin was so absurd as to think about such a match. However, Ling Ruiyin was more courageous with sufficient reasons. Marrying an older wife can make the man get more wealth. The wife is three years older than the man, and it is a perfect match. Although it is still early to get married now, we can make them engaged. Anyway, if somebody else regrets, he will find a place to cry. She intentionally stressed the words somebody else, which made Mo Junyu unable to laugh or cry. He admitted defeat. Grandma, we cant act rashly to arrange the marriage. No matter if I will marry her, I need to think it over. Please give me some time. Ling Ruiyin was generous and agreed, Okay. Go back and think it over. Dont let me down! Mo Junyu nodded instantly and was still worried in the end. He told her, Grandma, please dont arrange the marriage randomly before I make a decision. Or It would be done! Ling Ruiyin glanced at him with a smile and asked leisurely, Do you have a sense of crisis now? No. He was terrified today! After saying goodbye to Ling Ruiyin, Mo Junyu rushed to King Ruis mansion. Chapter 94 - What If You Love Her? Ten days later, Mo Junyu finally found Mo Junyang who was travel-worn at the gate of King Ruis mansion. Junyang, where have you been these days? Mo Junyangs eyes were darkened and he looked exhausted. He waved his hand. Lets talk inside. Mo Junyu followed him in. For the first time, he saw Mo Junyang so tired, so he was curious. Where on earth did you go? What happened in the capital city? They asked at the same time. Mo Junyang rubbed his forehead and repeated his question. Mo Junyu was curious but had to tell Junyang about the conversation between Ling Ruiyin and him and what he had guessed. Then he expressed firmly, I definitely dont love your girlfriend Qingxue. Dont get me wrong. Mo Junyang cast a sidelong glance at him and smiled faintly. What if you love her? She would never take a fancy to you. Mo Junyu was unable to reply. The crown prince almost spat blood. He managed to swallow it back but couldnt control himself to complain, Its another problem if Qingxue would take a fancy to me. But now, my grandma would either marry her to me or make her engaged to my brother Junzhan. She didnt even consider you. Mo Junyang was surprised. Mo Junzhan? Mo Junyu was waiting for Mo Junyang to be choked or to retort him, but he took another point. He was stunned and then replied, Yes. My grandma wants Qingxue to be the wife of her grandson, either me or Junzhan. If you dont figure out a way soon She would really make it! No way! Mo Junyang interrupted Junyu forcefully and didnt give him a reason. The crown prince was speechless for the silent attitude of his most capable counselor and then said after quite a while, Figure out a way. Now my grandma has brought her into the palace. It was said that they wanted Shi Qingxue to talk with the empress dowager to kill time, but the truth was plain. Mo Junyu didnt dare to return to his residence the East Palace in the past ten days for fear that something wrong would happen. However Mo Junzhan went to visit the empress dowager frequently these days, more times than he did in the previous year. He would greet her once in the morning, at noon and in the evening and sometimes after lunch. If Mo Junzhan was not too young, Junyu would think this little brother who didnt fight for the throne had some secret thought about Shi Qingxue. He was just a kid, and it must be impossible for him to Junyang, are you all right? As Mo Junyu spoke, Mo Junyangs face got darker. He didnt dare to tell Junyang that Junzhan shamelessly got close to Shi Qingxue every day. He doubted that if Mo Junyang knew that, Mo Junzhans good days would end. Mo Junyang shook his head silently, as if lost in thought. After a while, he asked, What happened at the imperial court in the past ten days when I was away? Mo Junyu was surprised at Junyangs sensitiveness and answered honestly, During the Qingming Festival, Duke Shi asked my father to grant a marriage. Mo Junyang nodded. The marriage of Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi? How did you know it? Mo Junyu thought he had many spies but he got the news just a few days ago. Mo Junyang was out of the city, and how did he know it as soon as he got home? It appeared that Junyang knew more than him! The crown prince was unhappy at this thought Mo Junyang replied casually, I guessed. Eh. Mo Junyu hadnt expected such a perfunctory answer. Mo Junyu couldnt complain, and Mo Junyang didnt want to explain but asked, So? His Majesty wouldnt agree so easily, would he? Fine, he guessed right again. Mo Junyu didnt want to ask how Mo Junyang guessed that and said powerlessly, Correct. My father found several excuses to delay it. The best reason is that Wenren Chi is already a Rank-4 general, but he is not good enough to deserve Infanta Baoning, so they will talk about it after Wenren Chi wins several battles and gets promoted to higher ranks. Mo Country didnt like to start a fight. Could they fight a battle easily? It was obviously an excuse to delay. Mo Junyus eyes suddenly lit up, and he said mysteriously, But you know what? Then Then someone suggested the Shi Army go to the battlefield? Mo Junyang took a sip of tea leisurely. Mo Junyus eyes widened and almost popped out. His expression showed, How the hell did you know it? Mo Junyang shrugged and asked calmly, Who? Mo Junyu snorted with displeasure. Cant you guess? Both of them fell into silence and looked at each other for quite a while. Mo Junyu admitted defeat and responded, Mo Junjiu suggested. You know about the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain. They have made trouble for several years. Although they dont influence a lot, the government cant defeat them after attacking for a long time and feels embarrassed. They dont need to go to the battlefield to suppress bandits, but if the Shi Army can take back the Qingluo Mountain, they would perform exceptionally meritorious services. They are surely to get promoted. Then my father cant find a reason to refuse to grant Wenren Chis marriage. My brother Junjiu always wants to please Duke Shi. This time he has found a good chance! Yes? Mo Junyang gave an indifferent response, with a peaceful expression. Mo Junyu felt it strange. What do you mean? Mo Junyang didnt answer. Did they mention when to leave? Mo Junyu was clear about this guys stubbornness and didnt want to ask. He said crossly, They left yesterday and didnt wait for you to come back. What a coincidence. Mo Junyang was not peaceful anymore and frowned. Qingxue Didnt she know it? Mo Junyu was happy in secret. I know you frown mainly because of Shi Qingxue. However, he looked calm as usual. Of course she didnt know, and nobody would tell her. You know how naughty that girl is. If she knows that my father refused to grant the marriage of her brother and sister and made things difficult for her father, believe it or not, she would make a fuss. Even if my grandma wants to make a match for her, she hasnt asked her yet. She said she would wait for that girl to realize it by herself He made it clear that even Ling Ruiyin knew that Shi Qingxue looked obedient and thoughtful but was stubborn indeed. If she made a decision, even Gods words would be ineffective. Mo Junyu stopped sighing and glanced at Mo Junyang. What? Do you want to tell her? This was a great chance to leave her a favorable impression. Mo Junyang shook his head quickly without hesitation, but then he kept silent again. She Nothing can be kept from her. Mo Junyangs words were pretty close to the truth. Shi Qingxue had stayed in the imperial palace with Ling Ruiyin for about ten days, and she couldnt stand it anymore. She tried every means to ask for the permission to go back home. Then she didnt find Shi Junhe at home and knew that he had led the army to the Qingluo Mountain. Before Dong Hui could finish her words, Shi Qingxue was anxious and turned to run out. Qingxue, where are you going? Dong Hui grabbed her daughter and didnt allow her to run away as soon as she returned home. Shi Qingxue was in such a hurry and said subconsciously, Dont stop me. I am going to see Mo Junyang! Dong Hui heard that and her face darkened. She was more unwilling to let her go. Qingxue, have you forgotten what you promised to me? She had promised to keep her distance from Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue instantly explained. No. I have something important to tell him. I have no other intentions. Dont worry too much. Dong Hui didnt believe her words. What is it? Of course it was about her father suppressing bandits. Shi Qingxue couldnt tell Dong Hui that in the previous life, both Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi died on the Qingluo Mountain. The nightmare came again. It would be late if she didnt take action. Mother, listen to me. Its easy to defend but hard to attack the Qingluo Mountain. The bandits there are cruel and blood-thirsty. Even if the Shi Army goes there, it is not easy to win, and And she found many suspicious clues when she thought back. The Shi Army was brave and skilled in fighting but would get half the results with double the effort on the deep mountain and thick forests, and they shouldnt be sent to suppress bandits. Even if Shi Junhe couldnt conquer the Qingluo Mountain, he shouldnt have been strangled There were so many puzzles. She couldnt help but doubt if somebody intended to harm her father. Hearing Qingxues words, Dong Hui was almost scared to death but still refused to let her go. Even so, why would you have to go to see His Excellency? Shi Qingxue responded swiftly, He can surely help Father! Dong Hui suddenly laughed and asked, Not to mention that His Excellency has no power. I just ask you. Why would he help us? Shi Qingxue was petrified. She had never thought about this question, so she went silent. Fine. Your father has much experience on the battlefield and it is easy for him to suppress bandits. Since you have come back, just stay at home and rest assured. Dont go anywhere. Dong Hui restrained her worry and gave her order. She was still worried and said, I dont allow you to contact His Excellency. He is distant to our family. You should maintain some distance from him. Shi Qingxue was unwilling to obey and said anxiously, Mother, listen to me. Father would be in danger on this trip. If we cant find a solution, I am afraid Dong Huis expression changed, and she howled, Shut up! Shi Qingxue shrank her neck and trembled. It was her first time to hear Dong Hui shout so loudly, and she could say nothing. It was quiet in the room, and all the servants were scared and knelt down. Mammy Zheng noticed the unusual situation and comforted Dong Hui, Madam, Lady Qingxue sincerely cares about His Lordship and didnt mean to say something unlucky. Take no offense at a childs babble. His Lordship would surely come back safely. Dong Hui finally looked better but didnt want to say more to Shi Qingxue. She ordered coldly, Zheng, keep an eye on her. Without my permission, she cant leave the Luotong Boudoir. Shi Qingxue was locked up in the Luotong Boudoir and it was useless to ask for mercy. She couldnt even go out to see Shi Baoning, so she was worried and uncomfortable. Xia Mang, what should I do? Shi Qingxue was restless like the ants on a hot pan. Xia Mang didnt know the reason and said, My Lady, you know His Lordships capability. Its a piece of cake for him to suppress bandits. Ignorance was a fortune. Everybody thought how the bandits could defeat the well-known Shi Army, but nobody knew that Shi Junhe was ruined by it. Shi Qingxue was so worried that she almost shed tears. The Shi Army is not good at attacking on the mountain, and the Qingluo Mountains landform is weird. I am afraid that Father will Before she finished her words, Xia Mang covered her mouth and said nervously, My Lady, its a taboo to say something unlucky when they are on the battlefield. Havent you seen Madams angry face last time? Dont make this mistake again. Moreover, Madam ordered to keep you in the Luotong Boudoir. Who dares to let you out alone? If they didnt say that, then it wouldnt come true? Shi Qingxue didnt believe that, but Xia Mangs words reminded her. Chapter 95 - Under House Arrest Shi Qingxue didnt argue with Xia Mang but returned to her room and wrote a letter. She gave it to Xia Mang. Send this letter to King Ruis mansion now. Be sure to hand it to Mo Junyang. After thinking for a while, she was still worried and added, Hmm, Qu Yuebai or Wei Zichao is okay. Anyway, ask Mo Junyang to give me a reply as soon as possible. Xia Mang was not surprised that Shi Qingxue called Mo Junyang by his name. She just said worriedly, Madam has said that you cant contact His Excellency. You Shi Qingxue raised her eyebrows. Little Xia Mang, do you listen to me or my mother? Little Xia Mang, who was several years older than Shi Qingxue, kept silent and admitted her destiny to send the letter to King Ruis mansion. After asking, she learned that Mo Junyang went out just now and nobody knew when he would come back. Qu Yuebai received the maid from the Shi Family. Qu Yuebai glanced at Xia Mang and asked leisurely, Did your lady tell you to come here? Xia Mang thought, Of course. Otherwise, why would a servant come to see His Excellency? She handed in the letter respectfully. Lady Qingxue asked His Excellency to reply as soon as he reads the letter. Qu Yuebai received the letter and fumbled on the envelope with his finger. Then he took out another letter from his pocket and gave it to Xia Mang. Give this to your lady. Xia Mang goggled. She asked to reply as soon as possible, but not so soon! It seemed that they had planned everything in advance. Qu Yuebai guessed what Xia Mang was thinking and laughed humbly. His Excellency guessed that your lady would come, but he is not in the capital city these days, so he had to reply her with a letter. And he asked me to tell her not to worry and that he would handle everything. He was like a fortuneteller. Xia Mang sighed with emotion and knew more about Mo Junyang who showed up in front of her lady frequently nowadays. She replied in a hurry, I see. I am going back to tell my lady. However, before Xia Mang sent the letter back to the Luotong Boudoir, she was stopped by Dong Hui and Mammy Zheng at the gate. It appeared that they had known that Xia Mang went out to send a letter to King Ruis mansion. They didnt stop her earlier just to wait for the reply. Dong Hui grabbed the letter in her hand and didnt read it but asked, Didnt His Excellency come? Xia Mangs heart beat fast and she thought they had guessed right, but she couldnt betray her lady. She had to lower her head more. Dong Hui leered at her with a forced smile and snorted. What? Qingxue is stubborn in front of me. Do you want to get the same treatment as her? The warning made Xia Mangs heart bitter. She answered in a low voice, I dont dare to. I didnt see His Excellency this time. I just brought this letter back. Dong Hui finally got satisfied and winked at Mammy Zheng, who then brought a fire basin immediately. In front of Xia Mang, Dong Hui threw the sealed envelope into the fire basin. Madam Xia Mang wanted to pick it up but under Dong Huis glare, she had to lower her head and watch the letter being swallowed by the fire. From now on, Xia Mang is reduced to a Rank-2 maid. Go to the garden house now, and you cant go back to the Luotong Boudoir, Dong Hui ordered coldly and just kicked Xia Mang out, even without giving her a chance to report to Qingxue. Mammy Zheng couldnt bear to see Xia Mangs dejected back and comforted Dong Hui softly, Madam, you know that Lady Qingxue is close to Xia Mang. You drive her maid away without asking her. If she gets angry with you for it, it would be not worthwhile. Dong Hui showed a gloomy expression and said helplessly, I know it, but there are so many eyes watching Qingxue. They are waiting to find fault with her. Even if she will hate me, I cant just stand by and watch her being ruined by the gossip. Mammy Zheng looked around and confirmed there was nobody else before whispering, Dont worry too much. Lady Qingxue is under the protection of the token granted by His Majesty, and nobody dares to do anything. Dong Hui sneered. If its in the past, with Mothers concern about Qingxue, I believe that she can be safe even after she makes any trouble, but recently, cant you understand after noticing Mothers attitude toward her? Uh Dont need to falter. I have seen through everything earlier. With hatred in her eyes, Dong Hui gritted her teeth. Its not that Mother concerned about Qingxue, but she knew that Third Masters Family had crossed over to Fourth Prince. She wanted to pair Qingxue off with His Highness and draw my husband over to his side, so she favored Qingxue. But recently, Qingxue has got more distant to His Highness but gets close to His Excellency, so Mother changes her attitude. Mammy Zheng pulled Dong Huis coat in panic and stopped her from saying more. Madam, you cant say something like this. Its better to keep it in mind than to speak out to give others some evidence. Fine, I know! Dong Hui took a deep breath tiredly and concealed her hatred, saying indifferently, I have no other expectations now. I just hope my family would be safe and peaceful for a lifetime. I wont think about anything else. Mammy Zheng responded, You will. And Lady Qingxue will understand your effort. I hope so. Dong Hui sighed deeply. Well, I will talk with Qingxue in case that she worries too much. After Dong Hui told Shi Qingxue, the latter exploded at once. Mother, how can you burn my letter? Shi Qingxue didnt know what to say. She finally got in touch with Mo Junyang, but her mother cut their connection without demur. Would she carry out her plan? Qingxue took deep breaths and finally calmed down, asking, How about Xia Mang? Where is she? Dong Hui responded coldly, Xia Mang didnt obey my order and I have reduced her to a Rank-2 maid. If you think you havent enough maids to serve you, you can choose one from the Rank-2 maids to replace her. Shi Qingxue refused and said recklessly, No, I wont. Xia Mang has served me for many years, and I am used to her looking after me. I dont want anybody else. Mother, you love me so much. You dont want to see me have no appetite or good sleep, right? Dong Hui got really cold-hearted. No need to say more. If you think a Rank-2 maid is not good, I will tell Fen to look after you. Anyway, before your father comes back, you just need to stay at the Luotong Boudoir. You cant go anywhere. She even arranged somebody to spy on Qingxue and obviously intended to make her have no way back. Shi Qingxue grabbed Dong Huis arm and said anxiously, Mother, I am not going to see Mo Junyang just for fun. Please believe me. If there is somebody who can make Father retreat from the Qingluo Mountain, it is him only. She said that in order to make Dong Hui realize how serious the problem was, but her mother didnt believe her words. They are just suppressing bandits. Its not terrible as you said. Dont lie to me in order to see His Excellency. I wont believe you. Qingxue was unable to reply. She was nervous and blurted out, Someone wants to do something to harm Father this time! Dong Huis expression changed. Dont talk nonsense. I didnt talk nonsense. If not so, why would I want to see Mo Junyang so urgently? I just want to ask who wants to do something. Only after we eliminate the hidden trouble can we make sure that Father will focus on killing the enemies. Shi Qingxue regretted so much. It was her fault that she loafed around and did nothing in the past few days. If she had eliminated the hidden trouble earlier, she wouldnt be in a dilemma. Is that true? Dong Hui was astonished, but she couldnt doubt Qingxue judging from her solemn expression. Yes! So, Mother, please let me out. Allow me to go to see Mo Junyang! Shi Qingxue pleaded. Dong Hui stayed silent for a while and then suddenly asked, Why is it him? As I said just now, only he canShi Qingxue didnt trust anybody else. If Dong Hui didnt make it difficult for her, she wouldnt have spoken out her guess. Then why wouldnt it be him? Shi Qingxue was surprised at this question and got puzzled. Dong Hui sneered. You have said that somebody wants to harm your father. Why wouldnt it be His Excellency? Qingxue replied firmly, Its impossible. She had never thought of this possibility. Yes? Qingxue, you dont even believe the ones in our family. But you trust an outsider? Dong Hui gazed at her and seemed to see through her. Thats because The Shi Family was plagued by crises and nobody knew how many spies were even around this Luotong Boudoir. Qingxue was speechless for a while and didnt know how to explain to Dong Hui. But Dong Hui made a decision at this time. Qingxue, I can understand if you are worried about your father. I am going to write a letter now to remind him. But no matter what you would say, I wont let you go out to see His Excellency. You shouldnt be in touch with him. You just stay at the Luotong Boudoir till your father comes back home. Then she told Mammy Zheng, In the next few days, any servant in the Luotong Boudoir cant get close to Lady Qingxue alone. Fen will take care of her food and clothes. You supervise them. Shi Qingxue didnt expect Dong Hui to be so unreasonable and asked furiously, Mother, are you going to regret when Father is in trouble? Dong Hui stopped in her tracks for a while and still left without looking back. The room door was closed, and Mammy Zheng said, My Lady, Just tell me if you want anything. I can do everything for you. She indicated that Shi Qingxue was not allowed to leave here. Shi Qingxue was so indignant that she kept quiet. She strode to her bed and threw herself on the soft pillow, but she didnt feel the pain. She just couldnt vent her anger. If a bow and arrows were given to her, she would shoot the wall down in front of her. What should I do? If she ignored it, the tragedy of the previous life would come again, which was what she could never endure. She was mad at Dong Huis stubbornness and meanwhile thought she was so incapable that she couldnt figure out a way. She was still angry when the maid Fen brought the dinner for her. I am not hungry. Take it out. Fen knelt on the floor. Madam said, I can only get up when you have dinner, My Lady. Shi Qingxue was unable to speak a word. Dong Hui knew well about Shi Qingxues weakness. Fine. Ill eat. Okay? No matter how furious she was, she couldnt vent her anger on an innocent maid. So she could do nothing but pick up the food. After she took a few bites, she stopped and looked at Fen suddenly. Fen was putting the dishes on the table with her head lowered, without any unusual expression. Qingxue tried to look calm and put down her tableware, saying indifferently, I dont need anybody to serve me when I have dinner. Go out now. Fen left obediently and closed the door. Chapter 96 - Run Away from Home Shi Qingxue anxiously took out all the food from the bowl and found a note at the bottom as expected. She read the note, and it was Xia Mangs writing. His Excellency is not in the capital city. Madam has burnt the reply to your letter given by Mr. Qu. I dont know what is in it. Ah! Shi Qingxue howled sadly and almost shed tears. Her last hope was Mo Junyang. She thought as long as she sent a letter to him, he would surely find a way to take her out. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang left the capital city at this crucial time, and Dong Hui had burnt the only letter he left. She didnt even want to live. Shi Qingxue didnt have appetite and then went back to lie on the bed. She mumbled, What should I do? My Lady, have you finished your dinner? Fens voice came from outside the door. Qingxue suddenly sat up on the bed and hurriedly hid the note. Then she put the food back in the bowl and answered, Come in! Fen pushed the door open and entered the room. Seeing that the food on the table was still the same as before, she frowned. Before Fen knelt down, Qingxue said, I lost my appetite when seeing these dishes. Take it out and tell them to cook again. Ask Dong Shuang to come in. I am used to her serving me at dinner. Without her, I cant eat anything. Her excuse was bossy but reasonable. Dong Hui didnt allow the servants in the Luotong Boudoir to stay with her alone, but she didnt say that they couldnt serve her at dinner when Fen was here. Fen hesitated for a while but had to do as Qingxue said. The more beautiful and delicious food was served to the table, and Fen brought Dong Shuang with her. The two maids stood at the table like the guards. Shi Qingxue had dinner while Dong Shuang served her. When she was eating, she ordered, Fen, go to make tea. I will have tea after dinner. Fen looked hesitant and remained unmoved, looking at Dong Shuang who was carefully putting the dishes on the table. Shi Qinguxe lost her temper. It will take about ten minutes to make tea. Cant I order you? Yes. But Madam told me to Qingxue didnt listen to her explanation and said crossly, There are so many people in the house, and I cant run away. Why are you nervous? Do you want to disrespect me? Be careful. I will ask my mother to sell you. She accused her of many crimes, and Fen didnt dare to resist but had to obey. My Lady, you know that Fen just does everything under orders. Why do you make things difficult for her? Dong Shuang glanced at Shi Qingxue helplessly. Shi Qingxue didnt even have time to talk. After the door was closed, she pulled Dong Shuang into the bedroom. Take off your clothes. She started to unbutton her clothes. Dong Shuang was puzzled. What? My Lady, what are you going to do? Lets interchange clothes, and then you will stay in the room dressed up as me so that I can run away. Shi Qingxue soon took off her coat. Seeing that Dong Shuang was still confused and unmoved, she reproached in a low voice, What are you doing? Take off your clothes now. Time is limited. Ah? But Objection overruled, Shi Qingxue interrupted Dong Shuang without thinking. And then she said, Its inconvenient for me to take luggage now, so I will go to your room and get some of your clothes and necessities later. I will make it up for you after coming back. Seeing that, Dong Shuang knew her lady was going to run away from home and said miserably, If Madam blames me, what should I do? Its no big deal. I will leave a note to her. She wont get you in trouble. While speaking, Shi Qingxue took something valuable and some money. Since Dong Shuang still did nothing, Qingxue took off her maid uniform and put it on. Then she pointed at the brocade clothes on the stool. Put them on. Dong Shuang did that obediently. Shi Qingxue got everything ready quickly. As soon as she finished the note, there were footsteps outside the door. The two inside got nervous. Dong Shuang was almost going to cry and hinted, We will be found. Shi Qingxue shook her head and gestured for the maid to hide in the inner room and stay still. She hid herself behind the door and said gently, Come in. Fen walked in and didnt see anybody. She shouted in an instant, My Lady! I have just made my clothes dirty. Put down the teapot. Come in to help me get changed. Fen didnt doubt anything and quickly walked into the inner room after putting down the plate. But as soon as she saw a yellow figure in the room, she felt a severe pain on her neck and then fell into a coma. My Lady! Dong Shuang shouted in fear and goggled at Shi Qingxue and the wooden hairpin in her hand. Shi Qingxue made a gesture to tell Dong Shuang to shut up. Or I cant leave. Seeing that Dong Shuang was still petrified, Qingxue explained, Dont worry. I hit her at an acupuncture point. She will wake up later. I am leaving now. Wait for her to wake up and then play to the score. Shi Qingxue couldnt afford to delay, so she packed up at night and then left the mansion. In Mo Country, the city gates were closed at night, so she couldnt get out of the city before dawn. She found a hotel to stay for a night and employed a waiter to prepare everything she needed. Early in the morning next day, as soon as the city gates were opened, the servants from the Shi Family guarded at the south gate and didnt dare to say anything. They just carefully checked every passers face, but they got nothing till the gates closed at night. At the same time, a young man dragged a post-horse with a bow on his back and slowly walked out of the city from the north gate. Madam, they didnt see Lady Qingxue. Perhaps she hasnt left the city. Do you need to send someone to King Ruis mansion and ask? Dong Hui showed a grim face and grabbed her handkerchief with both hands. After a long while, she loosened her hands and seemed to feel frustrated. No need. We cant act rashly and alert her. You send somebody to guard the Luotong Boudoir and forbid anyone to enter or leave. If somebody asks, tell them that I am worried about Qingxues safety. As for Dong Shuang, just let her stay in the room, dressed up as Qingxue and dont let anybody else find anything wrong. Mammy Zheng knew how serious the matter was and nodded in an instant. Do they still have to guard the south gate? If Dong Hui rubbed her forehead with one hand and shook her head with a bitter smile. Qingxue is always smart. We cant stop her doing whatever she wants to do. Im afraid that she has left the capital city and is on the way to the Qingluo Mountain. Mammy Zheng was worried. The Qingluo Mountain is 500 kilometers away and its dangerous on the way. Lady Qingxue is a weak girl. How can she endure the hardship? Dong Hui felt a pain on her chest but could do nothing. Its my fault. I know she is not an unreasonable child, but I acted willfully when she stressed Junhes danger repeatedly and forced her to make such an unwise decision. Now its useless to regret. I will write a letter later to explain what happened. You find someone to send it at high speed to Junhe. I just hope that Qingxue can take good care of herself and reach the Qingluo Mountain safely. Then what Lady Qingxue said Shi Qingxues determination and anxiousness had showed Shi Junhes crisis to a certain degree. But Dong Hui was just a woman and had no choice but to send a letter. At last, she could only depend on Shi Qingxue. If there is someone who can bring Junhe back home safely, I believe Qingxue is the only one. Dong Hui forced herself to cheer up and smiled. Fine. What we need to do now is keep Qingxue leaving the capital a secret and try to protect her fame. An unmarried woman ran away from home without telling her parents. If the news spread, Shi Qingxues fame would be ruined. Mammy Zheng accepted the order and left in a hurry. Neither of them found that a person under the window outside the room left secretly after that. One day later, a servant from the Shi Family was robbed in a forest on his way to the Qingluo Mountain. He died in the wilds and everything he took with him was gone. Shi Qingxue didnt know what happened in Duke Shis mansion. After she left the capital city from the north gate, it took her a long time to get back to the right way. She left from the opposite direction, but at least, she had managed to escape from the chasers. The mens suit gave her a lot of convenience. Every time she stopped for refreshment when travelling or stayed in a hotel, nobody looked at her with a weird expression in the eyes. She estimated that with her current speed, if she sped up a little, she could get to the Qingluo Mountain in five days, but then the Shi Army would have been on the mountain for more than half a month. She didnt know how her father was. If only I can reach there in time. Every day, Shi Qingxue started her trip at dawn and found a hotel to rest in the evening. Riding a horse for a long time made her miserable. She endured it. As she knew she didnt have the experience of a long trip, she was cautious. She would rather make a detour than pass through the deep mountains and forests where there was nobody, even if it was a shortcut. Even so, when she left a small village and headed to the next town on horseback, a long arrow was suddenly shot to her from the right. It was so fast that it could take her life. She happened to take a look at the right and dodged the long arrow. Then several long arrows came to her successively. She had to jump off the horse and find a big tree to hide. The sounds of the sharp arrows inserting the trunks made her tremble with fear. The change happened all of a sudden. Her only experience similar to a battle was when somebody tried to assassinate Mo Junyu last time. She didnt know how to deal with it, so she had to find a best hideout by instinct. Then she took out the long arrow from her back and found a crack to shoot the enemy. She didnt know if she hit the target but could only wait quietly and meanwhile find a way to escape. She could never fight back under the circumstances. Come out! A mans voice came from not far away. Shi Qingxue didnt move and then several long arrows shot to her, passing at her side. It seemed that as long as she came out, she would be shot. Get out! Shi Qingxue was still motionless and looked around. She found a big tree one meter away. She took a deep breath and grabbed the bow tightly. Then she waved to the right first and then quickly shot an arrow from a crack on the left. Later, she rolled and then hid under another tree. This time, she shot the left arm of the assassin in black outside. He must be unable to use the bow anymore. As long as she found a chance to ride her post-horse, she could probably run away. Shi Qingxue cheered up, and her horse was not far away, but this time, the assassin in black didnt give her a chance to play the same trick. When she tried to pull her horse, two stones were shot and hit her both hands. Her bow fell on the ground. Her only defensive weapon left her, and the assassin in black jumped to her. He had a sword in his hand and abruptly tried to stab her. Apparently, he would kill her at one blow. Chapter 97 - Owe You a Favor Shi Qingxue didnt know any martial skills. She subconsciously closed her eyes and turned to one side, but she could only dodge once. Ah! A scream appeared, but it was not from her. Shi Qingxue was stunned for a while and then opened her eyes suddenly. The assassin in black was lying on the ground in a pool of blood, without closing his eyes. In front of her, a tall and big figure stood straightly. With his back toward the sun, he was as steady as a high mountain but was unrealistic. Shi Qingxue squinted and saw the person in front of her reach out his hand to her. He comforted her in a gentle voice, Its all right. Can you get up? She paused for a while and didnt stretch out her hand but chose to struggle to get up by herself. At the same time, she moved a few steps backward and kept her distance from the man. She expressed her gratitude with a poker face, Your Highness, thanks for saving me. Right, the one who had saved her was Mo Junhao unexpectedly. That was what Shi Qingxue had never expected or hoped, but it was a truth. She felt more annoyed to express her thanks feebly than when she was in danger earlier. She didnt show her emotion, but the annoyance was deep in her bones. She had too much animosity toward Mo Junhao. At ordinary times, she could force herself to cope with him, but she owed her enemy a favor for no reason now, which almost made her mad. Mo Junhao also noticed that Qingxue was in a bad mood, but he thought that she hadnt come back from the shock, so he said more gently, You are welcome. Its my pleasure. While speaking, he looked around with an air of importance and checked the assassins body. Then he added, An assassin came, and there might be more to come. Its not safe here. Let me send you back to the capital city. Shi Qingxue was astonished and felt stranger. It was baffling for her to meet the assassin, and Mo Junhao had been able to show up in time, as if it had been planned. She didnt need to doubt that he had been waiting here to save her life, and he even might have been following her since she left the capital city. But it was still uncertain who had sent the assassin who was dead now. Qingxue didnt beat around the bush in front of Mo Junhao. She picked up her bow and said directly, Your Highness, thanks for your kindness, but I have something important to do and wont go back to the capital city. As for where she would go, she didnt want or need to tell him. Mo Junhao raised his brows and looked at Qingxues pale face, reminding her leisurely, Someone knew that you left the capital city and wants to kill you. You are in danger, no matter where you are going. Shi Qingxue didnt change her expression. Its the same if I return to the capital city. She would go to the Qingluo Mountain regardless of her life. Mo Junhao said, Fine, I will go with you. If I am with you, no matter who sent the assassins, they would restrain themselves. The crimes of killing a lady from an aristocratic family secretly and assassinating a prince were not on the same level. Shi Qingxues first reaction was to refuse, but she knew that under the circumstances, it was impossible for her to reach the camp of the Shi Army safely on her own. However, she would rather be killed than ask Mo Junhao for help. She took deep breaths and reminded herself not to act willfully before she finally controlled her depression. Then she forced a smile. In that case, thanks, Your Highness. After going back to the capital, I will send some gifts to return your favor. No matter how resentful she was, she had to make such a promise. Obviously, Mo Junhao was satisfied with her gratefulness. He had a big smile but said modestly, Qingxue, thats all right. Dont be so distant. I just lift a finger to do it. Shi Qingxue didnt want to talk with him. She pulled her horse and continued her trip, but Mo Junhao stood in front of her and asked worriedly, Are you going to ride? Otherwise, would we go there on foot? Qingxue rolled her eyes in secret and looked at Mo Junhao in silence. Mo Junhao shrugged innocently. I mean, I dont have a horse. If we are going to ride, we have to share the horse. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. She wanted to refuse and then go away. But there was no village or post house on the way. And the point was that it was her, not Mo Junhao, who was in a hurry. She controlled herself and gritted her teeth. After getting on the horses back, she glanced at Mo Junhao and remained still. Mo Junhao showed a brighter smile and suddenly felt that Qingxue was so cute even when she got angry with him, which made him unable to go away. He couldnt help but tease her, Qingxue, are you unwilling to share the horse with me? Shi Qingxue didnt answer but looked at Mo Junhao calmly. After meeting her eyes for two seconds, he admitted defeat and then got on the horses back. Shi Qingxue moved forward by instinct and wanted to be farther away from Mo Junhao, but before she did, the man behind her put one arm around her waist and grabbed the rope with the other hand. They clung to each other, and she couldnt move. Dont move. I will speed up. Be careful, or you will fall. Since Mo Junhao said that, Shi Qingxue had to bear with it and try her best to ignore the touch from behind. Fortunately, she just endured it for more than half a day. In the evening, when they reached the next town, the first thing she did was ask a waiter in the hotel to buy her another horse. Mo Junhao had hugged her for so long and felt contented but didnt forget to get himself more benefit. Manager, we need one first-class room. Then he explained without guilt, We are not at home, and it will be safer to stay in the same room. Shi Qingxue said indifferently, It doesnt matter. You will know after I shout in the next room if there is something wrong. And we can let the manager make more money by booking two rooms. The hotel manager nodded repeatedly and echoed, Right. I am not bragging. This hotel has a history of more than ten years and there was never any accident. Its totally safe here. Sirs, you dont need to worry. Moreover, I can see that you are hurry on with your journey. Naturally, you will feel more comfortable staying in separate rooms. Then arrange two first-class rooms next door for us. Shi Qingxue made a decision directly and then left, with a waiter leading the way. Mo Junhaos scheme was in vain, but he didnt ask for much. He smiled and then followed them. When Shi Qingxue stepped into her room, he entered with a good reason. We need to have a talk. Shi Qingxue didnt stop him. About what? She still looked cold, even if she needed his help. Mo Junhao finally showed his displeasure. Anybody would be like this after being ignored many times by the one he tried to flatter. His smile faded. Are you going to the Qingluo Mountain? Shi Qingxue displayed a faint smile. Didnt you know earlier? Under the situation, she had nothing to hide. On the contrary, she expected more to get some useful information from him. For example, who on earth wanted to harm Shi Junhe? Mo Junhao looked solemn and said seriously, If you are willing to listen to my advice, I hope that you can return to the capital city as soon as possible. Dont get involved in this mess. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She gazed at Mo Junhaos face. She knew well about him and he was still too young to hide his emotion. He told her to go back to the capital city indeed because he didnt want her to be in trouble. Although he might have his own purpose, at least it meant that the trip to the Qingluo Mountain was truly dangerous. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and suddenly laughed with self-mockery. So what? I have died once, but my father shouldnt be dead once more. Your Highness, thanks for your concern, but my father is on the Qingluo Mountain now, and I have to go there. With determination in her eyes, Shi Qingxue was not diametrically opposed to him anymore. Mo Junhao was clear that it was because she had improved the attitude toward him and felt happy. Since you have decided, I will go with you no matter what happens. Shi Qingxue was surprised and wanted to say that he didnt need to follow her, but then she realized that his purpose was not simple. She smiled and then said thanks to Mo Junhao again. Suddenly she asked, Your Highness, do you know who tried to assassinate me today? Mo Junhao bit his lower lip and shook his head, saying cautiously, That assassin was professional and didnt leave any useful information. I can hardly judge who sent him, but dont worry. With me by your side, you wont get hurt. Gee, they had talked a lot but Shi Qingxue didnt make any breakthrough. She stopped pretending to be polite and opened the door. Its late at night. Please go back to your room, Your Highness. Mo Junhao was unable to speak a word. He wanted to talk more with Shi Qingxue, but she looked exhausted, so he had to leave. Shi Qingxue closed the door and took out a small notebook from her pocket. Then she found a pen and wrote and drew on the book. Although the chance is few, its possible that Mo Junhao planned the assassination. And in the previous life, he was the one who ordered Father to suppress the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain But it is said that this time, it was Mo Junjiu who asked His Majesty to give the order she mumbled, trying to get some clues from the puzzles. But after she connected all the known information, she didnt get a conclusion. Instead, she was more confused. At last, Qingxue had to write the certain information on the notebook and decided to wait and see in steps. When she finished everything and was about to go to bed, she suddenly felt a chill from the window and the candle-light swayed. Crack! The room was plunged into darkness. Shi Qingxue automatically grabbed the bow and leaned against the pillar to distinguish the direction from the sound. Then there was no sound for a long time, and nobody broke in or attacked her with a hidden weapon. The candle-light was just put off by the wind. With her heart beating fast, Shi Qingxue felt uneasy. She didnt loosen her grip on the bow and walked to the door step by step. At this time, someone shouted outside all of a sudden, Fire! Fire! Come to put off the fire! How was it possible? Shi Qingxue stopped abruptly and opened the door in a hurry. Then a long sword came in from outside. She turned her head away, and the long sword went through her long hair. A lot of black hair fell on the floor. She stretched out her leg by instinct, and with all her strength, she kicked the person out of the door. At the same time, she pulled the bow to shoot an arrow. The long arrow was shot to the palm of that persons right hand holding the sword and nailed it on the wooden floor of the corridor. Qingxue, are you okay? Mo Junhao also opened the door and rushed out. He held a sharp sword in his hand and there was blood on the blade. At night, with flame in the sky, it looked specially terrifying. Shi Qingxue didnt have time to care about it and hurriedly walked downstairs. Go away now. But Mo Junhao grabbed her and embraced her waist without asking her. Chapter 98 - About the Situation Shi Qingxue was surprised. What are you doing? But Mo Junhao held her more tightly and said seriously, There is such a fierce fire. Its dangerous to walk downstairs in the house. Perhaps many people are waiting for us on the first floor. I will take you to jump from the window to the back yard and then ride away. Then he hugged Shi Qingxue and jumped to the stable in the back yard. Without giving Shi Qingxue any chance to protest, he held her waist and flew to the horses back. Before the assassins waiting in the front yard chased them, they left the hotel on horseback. Mo Junhao was excellent at riding and soon the hotel disappeared from sight. Shi Qingxue looked back and could only see some red light indistinctly, but the way ahead was in the darkness. She could do nothing but hug Mo Junhao and remain still, but later she felt something wrong. That group of assassins was chasing them. Qingxue raised her head and met Mo Junhaos dark eyes. They noticed the worry in each others eyes, but the way ahead was uncertain. Lets Mo Junhao hesitated for a while. Shi Qingxue said immediately, Go to the left. I hear the water, and it must be a river. Mo Junhao was still confused as why a river was a way to escape, but he still rushed to the left as she said. They rode for a distance and found a surging river. They moved forward along the direction of the flowing water. Three sharp arrows flew to them from the sky, and Mo Junhao waved his long sword to resist two arrows, but the last arrow was low and shot the horses leg. Hiss! The horse screamed sadly and lost its balance. Mo Junhao had to hold Shi Qingxue and give up the horse, jumping to the ground. They rolled on the ground and then managed to stand steadily, but four or five assassins from behind caught up with them and surrounded them. Mo Junhao protected Shi Qingxue in his arm and wielded his sword to resist the assassinss attack. They fought for nearly fifteen minutes, and the two realized that the group aimed at Shi Qingxue and didnt want to hurt Mo Junhao. As long as he let her go, he could escape. Mo Junhao had several wounds on his body. Even when Shi Qingxue thought he might be unbale to endure it and would give up, he kept fighting at the risk of his own life. Blood could be seen everywhere. Take a breath! As soon as he stopped saying, Mo Junhao held Shi Qingxue, jumped into the raging torrent and disappeared soon. The three assassins left on the bank were petrified. The leader was in a rage and slapped the fatty in his face, cursing, Bastard! Our master said he just wants to take Shi Qingxues life. Who permitted you to hurt His Highness? The fatty covered his face and felt wronged. But you have seen that His Highness protected her as if she is his child. He would rather get injured than Before he finished his words, the other side of his face was slapped. If there is something wrong with His Highness, you cant even pay with your life. The shorty next to them said in a hurry, His Highness is skilled in martial arts and wasnt seriously injured. He must be all right. But Shi Qingxue is a girl who doesnt know any martial arts. She would surely die in the surging river. How about we go to receive His Highness downstream and collect Shi Qingxues body? The leader glanced at the shorty and remained silent. He thought, It makes sense, but we cant be sure if there will be something different. If His Highness is really wounded, we will surely die. In another word, even if he is safe, would he treat us well after he knows that we are the chief criminals? He pondered for a while and coughed. We have followed the masters order and tried to assassinate Shi Qingxue all the way, but His Highness insisted on protecting her and ran away with her. Thats what happened today. Do you understand? The two were stunned. The fatty still wanted to say something, but the shorty stepped on his foot and answered hurriedly, Yes, I understand. We will say as you told. Okay, go back to report. The leader took another look at the rapid stream and then walked back with the two. Three days ago, in a hidden forest at the foot of the Qingluo Mountain, the Shi Army had set up a camp here. We have been here for more than half a month and attacked several times, but every time, the surrounding mountain defense would be in the way, or we would be tricked by the weird array on the mountain. Now His Majesty has sent three imperial edicts successively and told us to conquer the Qingluo Mountain within one month. What should we do? A deputy general of the Shi Army, Liu Caishu sighed with a worried face. Another deputy general Fu Chuan was more nervous than Liu Caishu. His Majesty doesnt know about Qingluo Mountains terrain but pushed us so hard. Before we got ready, he just forced us to attack. We are not from his army, so he wont suffer any loss, right? Fine. Stop complaining, Shi Junhe interrupted them indifferently and looked at the map. Now we have more than ten thousand soldiers. If we confront a group of bandits with bare hands, its very easy to defeat them. Even if they have extremely solid defense installations, we have capable men to break them. Only the array with five elements is weird and hard to attack. He thought for a while and then added, Yesterday, I told someone to send a letter at top speed to a good friend of mine in Fan City, Shang Ping. He is proficient in strange defense and armor. If he can come, we might be able to defeat the Qingluo Mountain. Shang Ping? Wenren Chi repeated the name in a low voice, with a complicated expression in his eyes. Shi Junhe thought that Wenren Chi hadnt remembered him and explained with a smile, Chi, you must have heard of this name, right? Shang Ping, your father and I were best friends. But he is used to be loafing around and has lived in seclusion in Fan City since long ago. He is unwilling to come out easily. Speaking of which, he was closer to your father. I didnt think of it earlier. It would be more proper if you sent a letter. He hoped that Wenren Chi could keep in touch with his late fathers friends to have more backups. Hearing that, Wenren Chi stayed silent for a while and then responded, Then I will send a letter to Uncle Ping. Shi Junhe thought it was fine, so he told Wenren Chi to write the letter. Then he continued to talk with Liu Caishu about the military situation. Wenren Chi quickly arranged everything, and the one he sent was familiar with the terrain and might reach Fan City with a shortcut earlier than the first messenger. Late at night, outside the camp, he looked at the direction of Fan City and stood silently for a long time. Till his legs were numb, he came back to reality and sighed deeply before turning to walk back. There was a horses voice from behind out of the blue. Wenren Chi looked back and saw the subordinate he had left in the capital city jump off the horse in a hurry and kneel in front of him. Master, bad news. While speaking, he gave a letter to Wenren Chi. Wenren Chi opened the letter and read it. With his grim face turning dark, he restrained his anger and asked, When did it happen? Maybe three or four days ago. As soon as I got the news, I sent people to search in the city secretly but didnt get any information. We only confirm that she is not in the mansion, so I came to report immediately Wenren Chi was so angry that he clenched his fists and trembled. He crumbled the letter. Rubbish! You cant even guard a person. Do you know what she was going to do? The man who was cursed knew that he neglected his duty and felt guilty. He didnt dare to hide anything. Madam keeps it a secret, and not many people knew it, but I heard that Madam had sent somebody to guard the south gate of the city for one day, so I guess that she has come to As if his heart was struck by something, Wenren Chi closed his eyes and managed with effort to control his emotion and continue listening to the man. But I came to the Qingluo Mountain and didnt find any clues all the way, so I cant be sure Fine. No more words. Hearing that she wasnt found, Wenren Chi got impatient and didnt want to listen anymore. He waved his hand to tell the man to leave and then walked fast back to the generals tent. Shi Junhe was alone in the tent. As Wenren Chi entered, Shi Junhe happened to raise his head. They noticed the anxiety and worry in each others eyes and asked at the same time, Whats wrong? Whats up? Both of them were stunned and then said, You first! You first! They looked at each other for a while. Wenren Chi, who was always humble, couldnt stand it unexpectedly and said in a hoarse voice, Qingxue has run away from home, and nobody knows where she is. She might be coming here. What? Shi Junhe was astonished and spluttered, Why? Why did she come to the battlefield? She is so mischievous. But then he felt something wrong. How did you know? Wenren Chis face stiffened, and he opened his mouth several times, but he couldnt say a word. He was not used to lying to Shi Junhe, but he couldnt explain why he could get the news that Shi Junhe didnt know yet. Seeing Wenren Chis expression, Shi Junhe got soft-hearted and didnt ask anymore but said, Just now, His Majesty sent three imperial edicts in a row and demanded us to take action as soon as possible. We cant stay here for long without doing anything. The ones who disobey the order will be punished according to the military law. Wenren Chi frowned and felt it difficult. We attacked three times and lost twenty percent of soldiers. If we launch another attack rashly, there is slim chance to win. Shi Junhe understood it, but the imperial edicts were in front of them and the messenger was outside right now. If the Shi Army didnt do anything, it meant they disobeyed the order. Arrange an elite team of thirty soldiers tomorrow, and you lead them to attack the mountain from the side cliff again. Wenren Chi nodded silently and didnt care about the danger of this task at all but asked, Shall we send some people to look for Qingxue along the way? I am worried about her. She is a girl. If she is in danger on the way, what should she do? The worry in his eyes was sincere and he was even more concerned about her than his own safety. Shi Junhe was moved, but he had to analyze the situation calmly, Since she can avoid the chase of many people, she must have some way. Even if we go to look for her, we wont be able to find her. If she really came to the Qingluo Mountain, we just need to wait here. She will show up sooner or later. As he spoke, he looked confident and was sure that Shi Qingxue could come here. Wenren Chi didnt continue with this topic and turned to leave. He would prepare for the attack tomorrow. Chapter 99 - Don’t Bully the Weak In the surging river, two figures emerged and disappeared occasionally, as if they might be swallowed by the water anytime. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junhao were floating along the river for a long time, but they grabbed each others hand all the time, so they didnt get separated by the flowing water. Its not good. We need to get on shore instantly. Mo Junhao was good at swimming and tried several times to swim to the bank grabbing Qingxues hand, but soon he was dashed back, so they had to go with the stream. When the two tried another time, Mo Junhao suddenly found that there was a big rock standing in the water downstream less than two meters away from them. Be careful! Mo Junhao shouted in a sharp voice, but they couldnt get any leverage. When Shi Qingxue flowing with the water was about to bump into the rock, he abruptly applied much strength to pull her into his arms. Shi Qingxue felt that she circled in the water. Before she realized what had happened, she heard a muffled voice. They stopped swimming and the surge swept them to somewhere farther. The tight grip on her waist loosened, and she subconsciously grabbed Mo Junhaos hand. Not until then did she find that he was in a coma. Hey, are you okay? Seeing that Mo Junhao was about to sink, she dragged him in a hurry, but there was no answer. Mo Junhao sank and floated in the surge. If it went on like this, they would be done sooner or later. Shi Qingxue looked around in haste to seek for something to rely on. Soon she found a branch in front extending to the river from the bank. She raised her right hand and shot an arrow-shaped ironware from her wrist to circle around the branch on the bank rapidly. With the support of the branch, she managed to steady herself and stopped flowing with the stream. But she managed with difficulty. She had made a choice earlier anxiously and didnt find it was just a little thicker than a grown-up mans arm. It shakily bore the weight of the two and seemed unable to stand it any longer. As long as this branch broke, even if Shi Qingxue could find the second stronger one, she had no ability to shoot for twice. How about letting him go? The idea flashed on her mind and kept haunting. Mo Junhao was in a coma. Even if she loosened her grip, it didnt matter as nobody would know it and she might save herself. A voice in her brain incited her. Let him go. Its better if he dies secretly, and you dont need to stain your hands. Another clear voice started to refute it. No! Mo Junhao saved you. You cant return kindness with ingratitude. The first voice snapped, If you dont loosen your hand now, you might be unable to take revenge forever and would be buried with him. Are you willing to? The second voice weakened. But Suddenly, an old but gentle voice flashed on her mind. Little Qingxue, remember your grandpas words. Dont bully the weak and the kind-hearted. Shi Qingxue shook her head and gritted her teeth. Then she tightly grabbed Mo Junhao with one hand and made the silk continually circle around the other arm in order to get close to the bank. The force of the surging water was too powerful. For a few times, she was forced back, but fortunately, she clenched her teeth and got through it. Finally, when the branch was broken, half of her body was in the grass on the bank. She didnt have time to take a break. With the friction force of the grass, she cheered up and pulled Mo Junhao to the bank. It seemed that all her strength was lost. She didnt even have the energy to open her eyes to look around and check the surroundings but just gasped continually with her eyes closed. I thought you would have let me go. A mans voice appeared beside her ear all of a sudden, and it scared Shi Qingxue. She opened her eyes quickly and saw that Mo Junhao had sat up and looked at her leisurely. Of course he was leisure. It was not him who had put forth all the strength. Shi Qingxue was resentful and even doubted that Mo Junhao didnt fall into a coma. He faked everything in order to make fun of her. Perhaps her angry face was too obvious, so Mo Junhao felt guilty and said, Dont goggle at me like this. I was indeed in a coma for a while after being knocked just now and then I felt powerless all over. He explained in an indirect way why he didnt speak until now. Shi Qingxue was less angry but still looked unhappy. Lets enter the forest to make a fire. Do you have a firelighter? Mo Junhao didnt want to irritate her again and nodded. I will pick up some wood. Shi Qingxue remained silent. After watching Mo Junhao go away, she found a big tree nearby to lean against and had a seat. In the beginning, she just wanted to have a short break, but she was too tired and closed her eyes automatically. When Mo Junhao came back holding a bunch of wood, he found that Shi Qingxue was asleep leaning against the trunk. She was wet all over. The thin brocade clothes clung to her body. She looked thin, but had a nice hour-glass figure. It was just a mens suit, but she was shockingly tempting and attractive. Mo Junhao couldnt help but swallow his saliva. Then he realized that he was too stupid. Smiling with self-mockery, he piled up the sticks and made a fire. Although he didnt have much experience surviving in the wild, he quickly dried his clothes. Shi Qingxue hadnt woken up, and he hesitated for a while but then called in a low voice, Qingxue, wake up and dry your clothes, or you will get a cold. Shi Qingxue woke up suddenly, and Mo Junhaos face enlarged before her eyes, which scared her to move backward. Mo Junhao swiftly grabbed her so that she wouldnt fall on the ground. At the same time, he frowned. Am I so terrifying? I frightened you to this level? Shi Qingxue thought, You are more than terrifying. You are a nightmare! But she still giggled. How come? I just woke up and cant think. After speaking, she didnt look at Mo Junhao but went to the fire to warm herself. Mo Junhao came over and sat next to her. He was close to her, and Shi Qingxue tried her best not to avoid him. She had to pretend that she didnt mind and asked casually, Do you know where we are? Mo Junhao felt it laughable. We finally escaped from death. You just talk about this? Shi Qingxue was confused and seemed to say, Do we have something to talk about except this? Arent you hungry? Mo Junhao took a deep breath and restrained his anger. Qingxue frowned. No, I am not. Are you? No matter when it was, food or clothing was the best topic to start a conversation, but Shi Qingxue didnt want to cooperate, which depressed Mo Junhao. If he replied that he was not hungry, they couldnt continue to talk anymore. If he answered that he was hungry, as neither of them had brought any food, it was useless to say so and would show that he was like a child. Mo Junhao was furious and couldnt reply. Shi Qingxue was puzzled and thought this man was hard to deal with as always, but she stood up and walked to the deep of the forest. She said, Stay here and wait for me. I will come back later. What are you going to do? Mo Junhao instantly followed her. Although it was almost dawn, it was dangerous for Shi Qingxue to be alone. Shi Qingxue glanced at him. Didnt you say that you are hungry? There are pheasant in the forest. Ah? The fourth prince was born in the lap of luxury, and he didnt know that the pheasant could be eaten. Then he asked, Its said that the pheasant can fly, right? Can you catch it? Even Mo Junhao who was good at flying skills couldnt make sure to catch a bird, so he didnt believe that Shi Qingxue could make it. Shi Qingxue didnt answer but picked up several stones and a small fork branch from the ground. Then she took out the silk from her wrist to make a simple catapult. She found the right position and shot a stone. Creak! Before Mo Junhao saw everything clearly, a scream came from a tree, and something fell from it. Shi Qingxue walked to that tree and picked up her prey before walking back. Noticing that Mo Junhao was petrified, she frowned. Are you okay? You are awesome! Mo Junhaos eyes were glittering, full of admiration. No matter how much Shi Qingxue disliked him, she couldnt help but show a complacent smile. Then she forced to conceal it and pouted. Its no big deal. My grandpa was more awesome. I learnt it from him. She added in her heart, If I didnt listen to my grandpa, I wouldnt have saved your life. Mo Junhao laughed. I had the honor to get Elder Duke Shis instructions when I was young. At the mention of Shi Lei, Shi Qingxue improved her attitude toward Mo Junhao. Although she didnt take him seriously, she looked at him excitedly and asked anxiously, What did my grandpa tell you? The military tactics. They were almost the same as what the imperial teacher said, but somehow, I prefer the stories Elder Duke Shi told, especially about when he followed my grandpa to conquer the world. I can still remember them now. While speaking, Mo Junhao peeped at Shi Qingxue all the time. As expected, she looked proud. Of course, my grandpa was the most capable general and could find a solution even under the situation doomed to lose. Mo Junhao nodded repeatedly and received the prey from Shi Qingxue in a natural way. He smiled gently. Although I dont have your ability to hunt, I can deal with the food. Its better not to stain your beautiful hands with blood. Shi Qingxue was not a spoilt child, but if possible, she would try to stay away from blood. Now that somebody was willing to take her job, she was happy to do nothing. Watching Mo Junhao dealing with the prey carefully, she didnt hate him that much. She walked aside, selected two pointed and thin branches and then washed them in the river. When the man gave her the clean pheasant, she inserted the branches to it and roasted it on the fire. Even when Mo Junhao sat next to her again, she didnt feel uncomfortable as before. When the pheasant was roasted, the oil dripped on the fire and buzzed. The good smell spread. As Mo Junhao was hungry, he praised when smelling it, It smells so good! Here you are. Since it was almost done, Shi Qingxue gave a half to Mo Junhao, who took a bite as soon as he got it. He wasnt stingy to give his high praise. Its so delicious. Even the chefs in the imperial palace cant make something so tasty. Shi Qingxue was cocky, beaming with joy but still said modestly, I just roasted it randomly. It cant be as yummy as the delicacy in the palace. You are hungry now, so you think it is delicious. Mo Junhao retorted, Of course not. This is among the best delicacy I have ever tasted. Unfortunately, there is only one half of pheasant. I cant bear to eat it. Ha! Even if Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junhao was exaggerated, she felt over the moon because of his commendation and offered, Just eat it. If its not enough, we can catch a hare. My grandpa said the hare reproduces fast in spring. I have never caught one. Maybe we can have a try. Elder Duke Shi knew a lot. Roasting is a skill. Did he teach you? It was rare for Mo Junhao to see Shi Qingxue with a pleasant smile in front of him. Since the atmosphere was relaxing, and they were closer, he tried every means to please her. But next second, Shi Qingxues expression changed. Chapter 100 - Changed His Mind Shi Qingxue bit her low lip and remained silent for a while till Mo Junhao was surprised and called, Qingxue? She then turned to Mo Junhao with a fait smile. Its a nice skill. At least I wont starve to death. It sounded strange, and Mo Junhao realized after a while that she was answering his question, but why did it sound so confusing? Qingxue, are you kidding? How could a person starve to death? Mo Junhao thought Shi Qingxue was joking with him or being exaggerated. Even if they didnt have roasted pheasant to eat, they would just be hungry for a while and couldnt be so miserable as to starve to death. Shi Qingxue stopped looking at him and replied coldly, Just take it as a joke. Qingxue Before Mo Junhao finished his words, Shi Qingxue threw the roasted pheasant she hadnt eaten into the fire and then stood up, walking to the outside of the forest. He couldnt stop her. It seemed that the warm closeness growing from living and dying together was like a bubble in the morning and could break after touching. You are unreasonable! Even if Mo Junhao tried to please Shi Qingxue, he thought this girl was difficult to get along with. Who would suddenly turn hostile to him when they talked happily and lived in peace? Shi Qingxue never thought she had lived in peace with Mo Junhao, especially when he said with a smile that roasting was a skill. Who would be willing to get into hot water when she could be a little princess? Shi Lei didnt teach her how to roast. In the past, although he had taken her to train in the military camp, he would never make her worry about food or clothing, not even for trial. Elder Duke Shi had said that his loved granddaughter should be spoilt and favored wherever she was. The reason why she had learnt to roast was just that when she was trapped in the Cold Palace, she was treated coldly and even had nothing to eat sometimes. She had almost starved to death several times. At last, she had no choice but to figure out some ways to get the food, and roasting was one of them. What she could roast then wasnt the top food like pheasant. Sometimes she could get a grass snake, and most of the time, it was the mouse or gecko She felt sick even at the thought of that. So when she heard Mo Junhaos casual words, it was nice of her not to throw the things in her hand to his face. It was impossible for her to be friendly to him. After the incident, they could hardly maintain the peace, let alone getting close. Fortunately, soon after, Mo Junhaos subordinate found them. The bodyguard knelt down as soon as he saw Mo Junhao. Your Highness, I am late to save you. Please forgive me. Mo Junhao didnt mind and waved his hand. What is going on now? I followed the marks you left all the way. When we arrived at the hotel, it was on fire, and you and Lady Qingxue were not there. Later, we continued to trace you and caught two assassins near the upstream of the river. Two? Mo Junhao laughed playfully. What information did you get? Its about the assassinss identity While speaking, the bodyguard hesitated and peeped at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was thinking about their conversation. Finding that it went silent all of a sudden, she came to her senses and said at once, I will get some water to put out the fire before leaving. Mo Junhao wanted to say that it didnt matter in order to make peace with Shi Qingxue, but the bodyguard winked at him repeatedly, so he nodded. Be careful. Shi Qingxue was clear that they might talk about who tried to harm Shi Junhe, but she didnt listen in immediately. First, she couldnt succeed in overhearing; second, she had her own plan. She would better be a gentleman than be a villain to fall out with him. She moved slowly and got some water back to put out the fire after they finished their secret talk. Then she said indifferently, Alright. Lets go. The trio quickly walked out of the forest and found a town nearby to have a rest. But Shi Qingxue didnt have much time to rest. She had inquired about the location and learned that she could ride to the Qingluo Mountain in less than two days. If she sped up, she might be able to reach the Shi Armys camp next day before dark. At this thought, she couldnt wait to ask Mo Junhao to set out instantly. But Mo Junhao was hesitant and advised, You didnt get any sleep and a lot happened last night. Now if you hurry to start the trip, there will be something wrong. How about we have a rest here for one day and leave tomorrow? Shi Qingxue disagreed. I am not tired. We are in the area of Qingluo County now and can reach the Qingluo Mountain soon. Since there are assassins who dont even let me go, I am afraid they will hurt my father. I just want to see him as soon as possible. The words were probably the most sincere ones she said to Mo Junhao these two days. Mo Junhao was happy that she was frank and still hesitated. In fact, the ones who want to hurt you are not He spoke with difficulty and stopped halfway, seeming to keep her in suspense. Shi Qingxue was curious, but she didnt ask. She knew that she couldnt get the truth even if she asked. She said, Even so, I have to go to the Qingluo Mountain right away. She didnt ask for Mo Junhaos advice but told him because they were companions. Then she turned to walk downstairs. But soon after she went out of the city gate on horseback, Mo Junhao caught up with her. Qingxue, wait for me. Shi Qingxue stopped to look at Mo Junhao for a while and frowned. Your Highness, if you have something important to do, I can go to the Qingluo Mountain alone. You dont need to feel sorry. She said that because Mo Junhao just rode the horse to chase her and didnt bring the luggage the bodyguard had prepared for him. Obviously, he didnt intend to go with her. Mo Junhao frowned and grabbed Shi Qingxues arm, unwilling to let her go. Qingxue, listen to me. Your trip to the Qingluo Mountain is dangerous, full of traps. I am not kidding. Shi Qingxue peered at him in surprise and didnt say anything, but the expression on her face showed, Crap. I have to go there just because it is dangerous. If there is nothing, would I abuse myself? Mo Junhao lowered his voice and warned her more seriously, I mean, if you go there recklessly, its possible that you will die. Oh, I will turn the possible into impossible, Shi Qingxue answered expressionlessly and didnt want to argue with Mo Junhao on the street. Shi Qingxue! Mo Junhao was anxious. He pulled her arm and forcefully indicated her to look at him. Then he stressed each word. Dont be so na?ve, okay? I wont harm you. If you go to the Qingluo Mountain, you cant save your father but would lose your life. Shi Qingxue remained unmoved with a smile. How would I know if I dont have a try? Mo Junhao blurted out, Shi Junhe is doomed to die this time. Qingxues face darkened and she stared at him. How did you know? Damn it! The bodyguard must have told Mo Junhao something to make him change his mind all of a sudden and even give up leaving a better impression on her. However, Mo Junhao fell into silence again and refused to tell her who planned to kill Shi Junhe. Forget it, but you dont stop me. Shi Qingxue shook off his hand impatiently. She turned around again. Mo Junhao had to pull her again and asked attentively, If I tell you, will you go back with me? For fear that she didnt believe him, he stressed anxiously, Dont worry. I will protect you. Qingxue sneered in secret. Who would go back with you? Just tell me first. Whose idea is it? Mo Junhao bit his lower lip and seemed to calculate. After quite a while, he suggested in an indirect way, In fact, you have guessed, right? At the imperial court, who incited my father to send General Shi to suppress the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain? And Prime Minister Liang reported to my father repeatedly, accusing the Shi Army of slacking off in their work, so my father sent several imperial edicts telling General Shi to finish as soon as possible, even if it is not the best time to suppress the bandits now Shi Qingxues expression changed, and she suddenly focused her eyes on Mo Junhao to tell from his eyes if it was the truth. He met her gaze without guilt. After thinking for a while, he added another clue. Maybe you dont know, as most people, that my brother Junjiu has a concubine whose father is the magistrate of Qingluo County. Each clue Mo Junhao had offered was ordinary alone, but when they were connected, it was shocking for no reason. It was Mo Junjiu unexpectedly. Shi Qingxue clenched her fists in the sleeves and the nails penetrated to her palms, which almost made her bleed, but she didnt feel the pain. She was just extremely furious. She managed with effort to keep calm and said, Your Highness, thanks for telling me. I will return your favor in the future. I have something urgent to do, so I am leaving now. Goodbye. She was anxious to go to the Qingluo Mountain and didnt want to delay. But Mo Junhao grabbed the rein of her horse in a rage and almost cursed her, Are you out of your mind? I have told you. You would surely die if you run to the Qingluo Mountain. Why do you insist on going there to court death? Let me go. Shi Qingxue was not in the mood to explain and wanted to grab the rein from him, but he gripped her hands, which made her unable to move. She couldnt control herself and cursed, Bastard! I tell you to let me go. Cant you hear me? Mo Junhao still didnt loosen his grip. I wont let you go to die for nothing. Go back with me. Ha! Why do you mind my business? Qingxue glared at him with disdain. Mo Junhao didnt mind but said ruthlessly, If you dont listen to me, I will be rude. Shi Qingxue was in a fury but laughed. She thought this man was unreasonable. It was a matter of course if she went to save her father. What did it have to do with him? However, the mans face was grim, and his eyes were sharp, which told her that he would do as he said. Qingxue was scared. She couldnt defeat Mo Junhao. Dont be like this She forced a smile and tried to find some excuse to make him give up. Mo Junhao had found that she was unwilling and quickly reached out his hand to her back neck. As long as he pinched her gently, she would be knocked out till they returned to the capital city. Chapter 101 - Die with Her or Go Back Together Shi Qingxue moved forward to dodge, but Mo Junhaos hand followed her closely. She didnt have a chance to resist before going into a coma. Her slim body fell forward, and Mo Junhao reached out, trying to pull her into his arms, but a long arrow came after breaking through the air and forced him to lean back. When he steadied himself on horseback, Shi Qingxue was in the hands of a man in black. Damn it. If you dare to hurt her, I will make you and your master die a graveless death! Mo Junhao unsheathed his sword and stared coldly at this man who came to rob halfway. Mo Junhao showed the killing intent for the first time, and anybody else would have trembled with fear at the sight of it. But that was anybody else. The man in black held Shi Qingxue and sat on the horses back. He glanced at Mo Junhao silently and tried to ride away. It was the first time for Mo Junhao to be totally ignored, and he got furious. He waved his sword, trying to stab the man, but the latter took out a long whip from nowhere. Before Mo Junhao saw clearly, the whip had taken away his sword. The man in black had ridden a few steps away and increased the distance between the two. Mo Junyang! Mo Junhao suddenly realized and shouted. The man in front of him finally had some reactions. He stopped for a while and even looked back at Mo Junhao, but soon turned to leave. Mo Junhao heaved a sigh of relief and refused to let him go. He strode to the front of the mans horse and asked, Where will you take Qingxue to? Its none of your business, the man in black, Mo Junyang said coldly and didnt change his attitude after Junhao had recognized him. I have saved her life. I wont let you steal her away! Mo Junhao had protected her all the way and almost lost his life. No matter who the comer was, he wouldnt allow anybody else to get her. Mo Junhao started to attack Mo Junyang with his bare hands. Mo Junyang jumped off the horse and went farther away from Mo Junhao step by step, without fighting back. Huh, you dont fight with me, so you would never take Qingxue away. Mo Junyang still didnt take action but said indifferently, She wouldnt want to return to the capital city. Mo Junhao was stunned and stopped his hands. Then where are you going with her? Mo Junyang didnt reply, but the answer was self-evident. Are you out of your mind? Mo Junhaos eyes widened in surprise. He didnt believe that Mo Junyang had no idea what was happening on the Qingluo Mountain. Anybody who went there would court death! Mo Junyang remained silent and got on the horses back again since Mo Junhao stopped attacking, showing a cold expression to indicate, Are you done? If you are, I am going. Mo Junhao was in a rage and stopped him again. I know you secretly love Qingxue and want to cotton up to her, but I would never allow you to joke about her life. He condemned justly and severely, as if he was the one who truly cared for Qingxue. Who had tried every means to marry Qingxue but made her live in hell in the previous life? Mo Junyang finally focused his inquiring eyes on Mo Junhaos face but at last sneered. You are not capable to die with her or go back with her. You dont deserve her. Mo Junhao was petrified. When he came back to himself, Mo Junhao had ridden to the south with Shi Qingxue in his arms, even if it seemed to be a way of no return. Mo Junhao smiled bitterly. Maybe it was because of Mo Junyangs words you dont deserve her, or it was his tacit approval. Far away on the Qingluo Mountain, Wenren Chi led an elite team of thirty soldiers to attack and was defeated again. More than a half of the elite soldiers were injured or dead, and he was seriously wounded and bedridden. But it couldnt prevent him from secretly telling some people to look for Shi Qingxue on the way to the capital city. However, they got nothing. Chi, dont worry. Qingxue will be fine. Maybe she has something to do on the way and delayed. Shi Junhe saw everything and couldnt help but comfort him gently. Compared to Wenren Chis worry, he was more confident in his daughter, but nobody knew how helpless he was when he looked relaxed. Three days had passed since they sent letters to Fan City, but there was no reply. Shang Ping was unwilling to come, or somebody did something and the letters werent sent to Shang Ping. Either result meant that the battle to attack the mountain would depend on their own power. General, bad news! The deputy general Liu Caishu rushed in hurriedly and didnt look calm as usual. Shi Junhe got nervous and asked immediately, What happened? Liu Caishu lifted the tents curtain and led Shi Junhe out, pointing to the mountaintop. This morning, the patrolling soldiers found there was mist on the mountain, but it rained yesterday, and it has been wet in the forests, so we didnt care. But its noon now, the mist didnt scatter but became thicker and enveloped the entire camp. We cant see anything 20 meters away. Its not like the ordinary fog. Shi Junhe looked up, and as expected, he saw the dense fog covering the camp. He could hardly see the barrier outside the camp clearly. It was really weird. General, do you think it is another trap of the monsters on the mountain? Liu Caishu was a tall and big man but was scared by the strange skills. While speaking, he couldnt help trembling. Maybe. Where are the investigating soldiers? What information did they get? Have they found a new way to attack? Shi Junhe frowned and looked solemn. At the mention of this, Liu Caishus face turned paler, and he faltered, unable to make a sentence. Shi Junhe glared at him impatiently. Say it now if you want to. Liu Caishu showed a sad face. We have sent investigating soldiers three times, but none of them came back alive. We didnt even find a dead body. What? Shi Junhe believed that the soldiers of the top elites trained by himself wouldnt be defeated unless the situation was too terrible to resist. If all of them were really destroyed, would it mean that Liu Caishu was anxious. General, there is an ancient saying, the soldiers should act according to the ability. How about we retreat to Qingluo County first and discuss with the magistrate before making the plan? We cant afford to suffer any more losses. Shi Junhe pondered for a while. His Majesty ordered us to attack. If we retreat now, we are disobeying him openly. But Fu Chuan said, His Majesty doesnt care about our soldiers. Dont you care? It is better to be killed by the enemies from Liang Country on the northwest battlefield. We came to suppress the bandits, but we have lost nearly thirty percent of soldiers even before we can make a bandit lose one hair. It is so strange. Whats more, what if we succeed in suppressing the bandits? We will kill the people of our country. What can make us proud? Many military officers were from poor families. The miserable life made them understand what was called being compelled to and being forced by hard life, and they were not passionate about suppressing the bandits. Shi Junhe was clear about what his subordinates were thinking and didnt criticize them. Both of you go back now. I will discuss with Chi. Liu Caishu and Fu Chuan looked at each other and then replied in unison, Yes, sir! Although Wenren Chi joined the Shi Army not long ago, his courage and talent had won everybodys approbation. They thought it was fine if Shi Junhe discussed with him and left after taking a glance at the inside of the tent. Shi Junhe stood at the door for a while and watched the dense fog getting thicker. Then he sighed and walked back into the tent. At the same time, Wenren Chi put on a coat and was about to sit up. Shi Junhe quickly walked up to help him and reproached in a low voice, You havent fully recovered. Why do you sit up? Lie down I am fine. Wenren Chi insisted on sitting up. Shi Junhe could do nothing but help him up and then told him what had happened. Chi, what do you think about it? Wenren Chi lowered his head and his expression couldnt be seen. After a long time, Shi Junhe thought the young man didnt hear the question and planned to ask again when Wenren Chi looked up and asked, We havent found Qingxue yet? Shi Junhe was speechless and helpless. He was able neither to cry nor to laugh. He stared at Wenren Chi for quite a while and joked, Chi, since we knew that Qingxue came to the Qingluo Mountain, do you know how many times you would ask me this question every day? Wenren Chi lowered his head and remained quiet. He seemed to be guilty, or rather protest silently. Shi Junhe could do nothing to Wenren Chi who behaved like this. He just sighed deeply and stopped joking, saying seriously, There are no outsiders here. Lets have a heart-to-heart talk, son. At this crucial time? Wenren Chi raised his head in astonishment, seeming to say, Are you kidding me? With the internal and external problems, how could they have a heart-to-heart talk? Shi Junhe pretended not to see Wenren Chis expression and said casually, I heard from Qingxue that she once said to you that she would marry you? Wenren Chi didnt know what Shi Junhe planned to do and hesitated for a short time before responding, Yes. You refused her? The young man nodded. Why? Wenren Chi was stunned and then smiled bitterly. His answer had been prepared. No why. Of course because I Perhaps others cant see that, but I know the one you love is Qingxue. Shi Junhe forcefully interrupted Wenren Chi and spoke out the truth. Wenren Chi denied anxiously, No, Father. You get me wrong! I But Shi Junhe told the stories one by one. Before leaving for the battlefield, the last place you went was the Luotong Boudoir. Even if Qingxue stayed with the Fourth Prince every day, you waited in the Luotong Boudoir for a whole day yet she didnt come back. I employed teachers to teach all of you about the poem, writing, chess and painting. You are good at nothing but painting, but you never painted characters. I saw the only paint of a girl you finished, which was a portrait of Qingxue. Am I right? Every piece of evidence made Wenren Chi flush. He scratched his head and ear at a loss and shouted, Father. Shi Junhe smiled. Not to mention the details in life. Since I brought you to my mansion when you were five years old and Qingxue was just born, the focus of your life is her from your childhood, teen years and even youth. Even Baoning cant be compared with her. After my father passed away, I was busy with military affairs, and your mother had to take care of Baoning who was sick. Then none of us found that Qingxue was on the verge of collapsing because of your grandpas death. It was you who tried every means to make her get out of the shadow of death. You never left her and grew up with her. Everyone thought you just loved your little sister, but He sighed and looked at Wenren Chi deeply, telling the truth, Chi, you didnt love her as your sister. You tried your best to bring up your lover. Chapter 102 - Don’t Want to Be Your Enemy Wenren Chis intention to deny turned to nothing when Shi Junhe said the last words. He was unable to deny. But he couldnt admit boldly, either, so he had to smile bitterly. Father! Wenren Chi called in a soft voice, and even he didnt know what he was going to say next, or what else he could say. Shi Junhe smiled and suddenly asked, Chi, do you know how many times you called me Father today? Wenren Chi was stunned. Shi Junhe then asked, Do you remember since when you didnt like to call me Father? Wenren Chi raised his head in surprise and panicked. Dont be frightened. I dont mean to blame you, Shi Junhe comforted him. But he turned to the dense fog outside the tent, as if recalling the past. After I brought you home when you were young, you were afraid of strangers and refused to call me Father. Later, you got closer to Qingxue and mixed in this family as time passed, and you became willing to call me Father gradually. You dont know. I was scared then and thought As if he thought of something funny, he curled up his lips slightly. I thought you were telling me that you wanted to marry Qingxue, so you were willing to call me Father. Wenren Chis face turned red again. No. I sincerely take you as my father and want to get close to you. I always remember that you have been nice to me. Really! He stressed intentionally to convince Shi Junhe or himself. Shi Junhe laughed with relief and patted the young mans uninjured left shoulder, soothing gently, Stop. I know. I know that After hesitating for a while, he said in a dignified voice, You have your own consideration as you dont choose Qingxue. If you dont want to tell me, I wont ask But I have taught you that you should be responsible for any of your choices. Now that you have chosen Baoning, no matter what would happen in the future, she is your wife. I hope you know how to treat her. Wenren Chi didnt hesitate this time and responded firmly, Father Please rest assured. Whatever would happen in the future, Baoning is and will be my only wife. I will do whatever I can to protect and love her for a lifetime. I will never break my promise. Great! Great! Shi Junhe finally relieved his tense expression, as if it was set in stone. Then he patted Wenren Chis shoulder again. He stood up with his back to Wenren Chi and said in a low voice out of the blue, Whats more, dont let Baoning know the deal between you and the Third Prince. Wenren Chi got stiffened all of a sudden and his mind went blank. There was only one thought in his brain, Shi Junhe has known it. This great man has seen through my dirty plan to take revenge. When he came back to reality, Shi Junhe had walked out of the tent, as if nothing had happened just now. Wenren Chi was restless and couldnt sit or stand. For several times, he wanted to rush to Shi Junhe and ask, What did you know? or Since you know my hatred toward you, how could you face me so calmly? But before he made the decision to talk with Shi Junhe frankly, there were noises outside. A batman hurriedly rushed in to put on armor for him and meanwhile said, The enemy came to attack. General Shi told me to put on armor for you and prepare to fight. What? Wenren Chi was taken aback. They had attacked several times, but the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain avoided meeting them. Now they made no move, but the bandits launched a surprise attack. The bandits were not supposed to fight back the official soldiers in this way. Would they want to defeat the troops of the Shi Army with nearly ten thousand soldiers depending on about one hundred people? Wenren Chi couldnt figure out those bandits intention for now. He had to quickly walk to Shi Junhes tent. Liu Caishu, Fu Chuan and other generals had arrived. Shi Junhe had made arrangements before Wenren Chi came and said simply as soon as he came to sight, Chi, later, you, General Fu and General Yan will lead the elites team I leave to you to break out of the encirclement in the northwest. Dont keep fighting. Remember to conserve your forces and try to retreat from the Qingluo Mountain without injury. Wenren Chi frowned. What about you? General Liu and I will lead the remaining troops here to attack the bandits coming down from the mountain. Be sure to remember that the enemy must have expanded the strange tricks here, so you must be cautious when you retreat. Dont relax your vigilance. Understand? Shi Junhe arranged casually, as if he didnt know about the hidden trouble. But others were not fools. The general Yan Ji objected immediately, General Shi, you are the commander-in-chief of the army. How can we let you fight in the forefront? If you are injured, we cant pay with our lives. Right! General Shi, let me lead the soldiers to resist the enemys attack. You retreat with General Chi, so that we can keep the foundation of the Shi Army, another general, Cao said. The key point of the Shi Armys name was Shi. This was an army created by Elder General Shi. Even the new soldiers were taught to be loyal to the Shi Family, not the one in power, which was the reason why the soldiers of the Shi Army other than the troop which used to belong to Wenren Bo were respectful but not fully loyal to Wenren Chi. The reason was that he didnt have the family name of Shi. Shi Junhe waved his hand and stopped them from saying more, only stressing, I dont need to explain, and all of you are clear about the current situation. Before breaking the array with five elements, we could never fight with those bandits. If we stay here, we would only be wounded or dead for nothing. Just do as I ordered. Its the most important to conserve our forces. Before they could say anything, Shi Junhe looked at Wenren Chi and Fu Chuan, commanding, This is my order. Just do it. Dont make me repeat it. Yes, sir! All people had no choice but to agree. All others left the tent one after another and went to make preparations. Only Wenren Chi stood there still. Yan Ji was confused and wanted to call Wenren Chi, but Fu Chuan pulled him away. Chuan, why did you stop me? Didnt General Shi tell us to take action as soon as possible? Fu Chuan sighed. Perhaps they have something to talk about. Talk? General Yans eyes lit up. Does Chi also think General Shis idea is improper and plan to persuade him to retreat with us? Fu Chuan smiled bitterly. I hope so, but it might not work. Yan Ji didnt think so and pouted. Its nonsense to make the commander-in-chief follow in the rear. What is General Shi thinking? The most important one in the army was the commander-in-chief. If he died, the Shi Army would have to return to the capital city in frustration. Fu Chuan wrinkled his brows and sighed helplessly. General Shi considers more than every one of us. First, if the general doesnt stay to resist the enemy, the remaining soldiers would probably know that they are abandoned and the morale would be low. How would they resist the attack? Even if the remaining soldiers would die, they needed a general to accompany them. Second, His Majesty ordered us to attack, but we have attacked several times and were defeated. Now that we are even going to retreat, His Majesty would surely blame us, so General Shi will be left to Yan Ji was speechless for a while and soon realized something wrong. Arent we retreating? Why would General Shi be left here? Would he avoid being blamed if he stays here? He would have gone. How would he be to blame Fu Chuan mumbled and dragged him away, without caring if Yan Ji could understand. In the tent, the two stood silently for quite a while, as if they were waiting for the other side to speak first. Shi Junhe was afraid they would delay and said, Dont worry too much. Lead your soldiers to retreat as planned. We have suffered great losses this time, and I hope we will suffer no more. What about you? Wouldnt you be a great loss? Even if none of them said anything, they knew that Shi Junhe would surely die if he stayed here. Wenren Chi finally understood why the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain chose to attack at this time. It was difficult to destroy the whole Shi Army, but it was easy to kill Shi Junhe alone, and this man was willing to walk right into the trap. Shi Junhe laughed and said out of the blue, Chi, we are father and son. I dont want to be your enemy. Since he had said that, Wenren Chi knew that Shi Junhe was clear about everything and had made the best arrangement for their gratitude and resentment. They didnt have to be enemies but they knew everything. Such an end must be the most satisfying for Wenren Chi. He could take revenge and face Shi Qingxue calmly. He didnt need to feel powerless when Qingxue inquired him in his dream every night. But he felt grieved and restless with anxiety. It was terrifying that he suddenly didnt want Shi Junhe to die in this way. Then Wenren Chi struggled with a lot of thoughts and finally said with difficulty, I will stay, too. After speaking, he felt relaxed all of a sudden. But Shi Junhe refused determinedly, with his face changing. No way! For fear that his voice was too tough, he softened his tone and advised, Chi, listen to me. The Shi Army is the effort of my father and me, including your fathers hard work. Any single soldier couldnt be injured easily. I wont rest assured if I leave the army to anybody else, and I am sure you wont, either. He used the tactic to retreat for the sake of advancing. But it was pointless to cope with the stubborn Wenren Chi. He lowered his head and responded unhurriedly, Life and death are decreed by fate. Lets listen to God. It was fine no matter God decided to make Shi Junhe stay alive or die at last. And his own ending was not important. Shi Junhe was calm when he decided to face death but was easily irritated by Wenren Chis words, with his beard trembling. However, no matter what he said, Wenren Chi didnt answer but showed an expression with his neck high, indicating that Even if you punish me, I will admit my destiny. And I will surely stay here. You are the only child of the Wenren Family. Are you going to disregard it? Shi Junhe rubbed his brows tiredly, with complex feelings. His guilt toward Wenren Bo urged him to make a decision, but unexpectedly, Wenren Chi chose to die with him. It was Wenren Chi didnt nod or shake his head or dissuade him. He just said, I am going out to select the soldiers who would be left to resist. He went away without looking back, as if he was afraid that he would change his mind. Shi Junhe had no choice. He didnt even know why it would have become like this. He wanted to save that child, but would he drag the boy down to die with him? Bo, would I have to apologize to you once more? When he was worried, lost in thought, a clear and joyful voice came into his mind like the sunshine penetrating the dense fog. Father, here I am. Chapter 103 - The Dead Are Gone But the Living People Should Live on A beautiful girl lifted the curtain and broke in like a lively spirit, rushing into Shi Junhes arms. She called in a sweet voice, Father, I miss you so much! Shi Junhe suddenly came to his senses after quite a while and found the soft body in his arms. Joy flashed in his chest and soon it was replaced with worry and fear. He blurted out angrily, Why did you come here? Shi Qingxue acted like a spoilt child and moved in his arms, saying reasonably, I naturally came to see you. Who told you to come? Shi Junhe pushed her away slightly. Shi Qingxue was forced back and staggered. She almost bumped into the desk, looking at him in disbelief. Father, what are you doing? Shi Junhe didnt answer but got hard-hearted, pointing to the door. You go back now. Go! Father. Qingxue opened her eyes wide, which were full of tears. She controlled herself and prevented them from falling. In this way, she looked at Shi Junhe, which almost made him soft-hearted. But at the thought of the current situation, Shi Junhe got tough and remained silent. His little daughter could never stay here. Father! Shi Qingxue called again in a low and pleading voice. Her bright eyes blinked with tears and looked pitiful, as if saying, I am obedient. Dont drive me away. Shi Junhe was about to tell her to go away, but he couldnt. He just turned away and asked coldly, How did you come? Shi Junhe didnt see that the little poor girl smiled secretly, but she answered in a sad voice, I heard that somebody wanted to harm you, so I came out alone. Later I met His Excellency on the way, so I came here with him. Shi Junhe was attracted by her words and didnt have time to wonder why she was with Mo Junyang again. He asked, Somebody wanted to harm me? Who told you? Of course she guessed from the signs in the previous life and later Mo Junhao had confirmed it. She couldnt say what had happened in the previous life, and the next was the gratitude and enmity between her and Mo Junhao, which she had to deal with by herself and she didnt want to talk about. So, the lady blinked and said casually, I guessed. Shi Junhe was unable to respond. Before he spoke, Shi Qingxue swiftly held her father again and behaved in a spoiled manner. Father, you dont know how much I missed you. I havent slept well for several days and just wanted to see you earlier. Dont drive me away, okay? Shi Junhes last toughness was defeated by her grievance. She was his loved child and he would never want her to suffer. They hadnt seen each other for only a few days, but Qingxues beautiful face got thinner with obvious dark circles beneath her eyes. He looked at her and felt sad for her. He answered automatically, Okay. I wont drive you away. I wont. Stop crying. Thats what you said. If you change your mind, I will report to Grandpa. She even mentioned the late Elder Duke Shi. Even if Shi Junhe thought it was inappropriate, he had to reply, I wont back out. The grievance on Shi Qingxues face was like being painted and disappeared soon. If it werent for fear that she made her complacency too obvious, she could laugh out. Somebody coughed from behind. The two raised their heads at the same time and found Mo Junyang and Wenren Chi who were standing at the door and looking at them. Qingxues face turned red and she hurriedly came out of Shi Junhes arms. She stood up and explained, I just missed my father too much. Wenren Chi couldnt help laughing. Didnt you use to run into Fathers arms for comfort? Why are you feeling shy now? While speaking, he glanced at the cold man next to him from time to time. Brother! Shi Qingxue stomped with shyness and blamed Wenren Chi for making fun of her. Well, it is not time to joke now. Father has arranged everything. You and His Excellency retreat with General Fu as soon as possible. Wenren Chi concealed his smile. Shi Qingxue had gone through all kinds of hardships and almost lost her life before reaching here, and even Shi Junhe was convinced by her. How could she go away because of Wenren Chis cold face? She laughed complacently. I am not going. I will stay and kill the bandits with Father and then return with victory. Stop. Wenren Chi sighed helplessly. This was almost the harshest word he had said to Qingxue. Shi Qingxue seemed not to notice his difficulty but ran to him and grabbed his arm. She didnt find the mans stiffness under his armor and said with morale, Chi, dont worry. None of us will die here. We can go back alive. Believe me! I will protect you all. She said the last words in a low voice and seemed to lack confidence. Anybody else would probably laugh out loud at Qingxues brag after hearing that, but the three men present were stunned and heard the devotion and determination from her words. Wenren Chi was most affected and almost believed Shi Qingxue and that they could return in safety. However, how could they have the safety? It was a dead end of him and Shi Junhe. They wouldnt or couldnt stay alive. Wenren Chi bit his lower lip and shook off Qingxues hand decisively, repeating, Stop. Go away with His Excellency now, or it would be too late. Shi Junhe kept looking at Wenren Chi and his eyes darkened, but he approved, Chi is right. You go back now! Father, you break your promise. You said you wouldnt drive me away! Shi Qingxue glared at Shi Junhe like complaining, but the latter avoided meeting her eyes and remained silent. You! Shi Qingxue was furious and couldnt understand what were in the two dull heads. She sensitively found that the two didnt want to resist the bandits simply, but she couldnt persuade them. She turned to Mo Junyang involuntarily to ask for help. He was quiet since he came in, as if he were not existent. The man seemed to be telepathic and looked at her, too, with the emotionless face, but it could comfort her unexpectedly. Shi Qingxue suddenly calmed down. Mo Junyang finally said, If I say that I have a way to make you two generals go back, wouldnt you consider it? The other two men looked at him in surprise. Shi Junhe glanced at Wenren Chi, who looked hesitant but didnt speak a word at last. So Shi Junhe said, Your Excellency, thanks for your kindness, but I have my decision to arrange the array. He refused without mercy and then couldnt help but state, I have an unreasonable request. Qingxue is innocent and came here. Please send her back home safely, Your Excellency. I am really appreciated. Father! Shi Qingxue thought she had misheard. Her father could always tell who was right and accept the good advice and would never give up a way to go back but insist on facing death. Shi Junhe ignored her and looked at Mo Junyang, waiting for his promise. But King Ruis heir, Mo Junyang never took anybody else seriously, including Shi Junhe. He just stared at Qingxue and said expressionlessly, Go out and bring the other generals here. We will discuss the tactics again. He said to discuss, but there was no difference from ordering, even if he was just King Ruis heir without real power. Shi Qingxue was mad at the two stupid men inside and snorted. Then she ran out quickly, leaving them no chance to stop her. Wenren Chi howled angrily at once, Your Excellency, this is the Shi Army. You have no right to order us! Mo Junyang seemed not to have noticed his anger and looked at the two, saying indifferently, I just tell you, Qingxue wouldnt let you die, even at the risk of her own life. So no matter what gratitude or enmity you two have or how you are planning to face death, you cant die here. His statement was not to discuss with them but to give orders more toughly. Wenren Chi wanted to reply subconsciously, What does our plan have to do with you? But he knew the answer before asking. Mo Junyang didnt care about their life or death. He wanted Shi Qingxue to stay alive, so they would be alive. Or, as long as you can persuade her to give you up and go with me, its okay with me, even if you are turning traitors now, Mo Junyang added with a faint smile before the other young man spoke, as if he had seen through Wenren Chis mind. Wenren Chi was speechless. He was struggling in his heart. One was the deep enmity, and the other was Shi Qingxues life. He seemed to have fallen into a swamp. He didnt want to show his head, so that he wouldnt have to make a choice. Chi Shi Junhe stared at Wenren Chi worriedly and was afraid that the young man would enter a dead end. At the same time, a gentle voice, which came from his mothers tenderness, appeared in Wenren Chis heart. Chi, you need to remember forever. The dead are gone but the living people should live on! Wenren Chi was shocked. The words were always deep in his brain, and even when Shi Lei passed away, he comforted others with this sentence. Now it happened to him, but he was once confused. His attitude changed and his eyes became brighter. Although he was still unhappy at Mo Junyangs arrogance, he asked respectfully, How would you resist the bandits attack and keep the Shi Army? The best defense is to attack. Wenren Chi sneered and seemed to express how foolish King Ruis spoilt heir was. If we are capable to break the array, we wouldnt have been in such a dilemma. How could we attack unless we break the array with five elements? Mo Junyang was emotionless. I can break the array. Shi Junhe was surprised. Your Excellency, do you know something about the strange defense and armor? No. They finally had some hope, but it was destroyed soon. Wenren Chi couldnt help but say with sarcasm, Your Excellency, do you think it is a childrens game to break the array with five elements which has harmed hundreds of soldiers? Can you break it as you like? And now we are already in the array. You are daydreaming if you want to break it. I wont let the Shi Army go crazy with you! Shi Junhe didnt say anything, but he showed that he agreed with Wenren Chi. Who said we cant break it unless we know the array with five elements? Mo Junyang retorted casually and uplifted his brows. How do you think I took Qingxue inside? Wenren Chi was petrified. Right! If Mo Junyang could do nothing to the array with five elements, he couldnt have taken Qingxue into the Shi Armys camp in the array. Chapter 104 - Ask for a Better Official Position Mo Junyang was so capable. Even if he hadnt done anything, he could know what the other side was thinking. His few words made all the generals believe that he had the ability to break the array and lead the Shi Army to eliminate the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain before returning to the capital city with victory. Shi Qingxue witnessed that and couldnt help but express her surprise. No wonder in the previous life, Mo Junyang was a hostage trapped in the imperial palace in the beginning and then became King Ruis heir in name only, but he could step on the dead bodies of all his enemies and become the emperor at last. Even she, who couldnt understand anything about the military affairs, thought this man was reliable after hearing that. Of course, he was always the one she trusted most. And the truth was that Mo Junyang didnt brag. According to the route he offered, the array with five elements which had confused the Shi Army was clear at a glance like the dewdrop exposed to the sun. Without the array, the ambushes on the way were like toys in front of the Shi Army. They went out smoothly. When the bandits attacked the camp with the help of the array, they found that the Shi Army had used the array with five elements to hide themselves. Then the soldiers surrounded them and killed all of them. The bandits on the Qingluo Mountain, who had made trouble for nearly ten years and harmed nearly one thousand soldiers of the Shi Army, were eliminated in less than half a day. It was so easy that even the generals of the Shi Army couldnt believe it. His Excellency is really awesome. He has seen through the weird array and could even surround the bandits. You didnt see how scared they were when they found that they were encircled. I almost laughed to death. Yan Ji was selected by Mo Junyang as the leader and fought in the forefront with him all the way. He was deeply impressed by the young mans calmness and wisdom. Liu Caishu was not convinced and questioned on purpose, I heard from General Shi that he admitted that he doesnt know the strange array. How could he have broken it easily? Was it a coincidence? Pah. You are incapable, so you think everyone is good for nothing? Yan Ji defended Mo Junyang determinedly. His Excellency is modest. He is low-key and doesnt like to show off. He is not like you. You just know how to use a broadsword but you want everybody to know that. Liu Caishu bared his teeth in anger. If you are capable, dont ask me to teach you. Yan Ji did the same. If you are capable, dont learn swordsmanship from me. Liu Caishu and Yan Ji continued arguing. The two generals were more than thirty years old but they quarreled like children and talked nonsense. Others could hardly stand it. Shi Junhe was unable either to cry or to laugh and could do nothing to them. But they just won the battle and he didnt interfere. He just looked at Mo Junyang. Unfortunately, Mo Junyang was not talkative. Everybody celebrated the victory, but he remained silent. If it werent for his powerful imposing manner that nobody could ignore, it was safe to say that there was a statue here. No, it couldnt be said like this. At that time, Qingxue ran to Mo Junyang joyfully and asked in surprise, I remember that you dont know any strange defense and armor. How did you break the array this time? The mans cold eyes became softer. He had no expression but answered her question. Not long ago, I came to the Qingluo Mountain and got familiar with the terrain. You know how to break the array only in this way? Shi Junhe could hardly believe it. Nobody but Shi Qingxue knew how familiar he was with it. He didnt only know the ways, but perhaps kept the terrain of the Qingluo Mountain in mind. The question was why Mo Junyang came to get familiar with the terrain in advance, just several days before Shi Junhe led the army here, as if he had it planned purposely. However, after all, Mo Junyang had helped him get out of danger. No matter what his purpose was, Shi Junhe owed him a favor. Of course, it would be better if the young mans eyes didnt focus on his loved daughter all the time. The father gritted his teeth secretly. The news that Shi Junhe succeeded in suppressing the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain and solved a hidden trouble of Mo Country spread to the capital city soon and caused an uproar. All people who had been local officials knew that the main reason of the bandits was the local officials indulgence, but Shi Junhe could easily kill those bandits. The help of Mo Junyang to break the array was kept inside the army. At least, on the surface, all people thought that the Shi Army had defeated the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain. Shi Junhe got more popularity in the capital city. Even Mo Xiangbin had to grant the marriage of Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi. The wedding date was decided, on lunar December 3rd. Happy events came one after another. The second young master of the Shi Family, Shi Baozhao came back from another city after finishing schooling. He was recommended by the principal of the Lingshan School and would take part in the selection of officials which was held once three years. As for Shi Baozhao, he was Shi Juncais eldest legitimate son. Before Wenren Chi came to Duke Shis mansion, he had been the first young master in the mansion and got much favor. Especially Shi Junhe didnt have a son, so a lot of people thought if Shi Junhe didnt want to divorce his wife and remarry, he would adopt a son of one brother to inherit the title of nobility. Shi Baozhao had always expected that, but after Wenren Chi came, Baozhao became the second young master and his qualification to inherit the title was deprived. Later, in order to maintain Wenren Chis position in the Shi Family, Shi Junhe took Wenren Chi to the military camp and sent Baozhao to the Lingshan School. Whether he was partial was evident. Of course, these secrets were hardly worth mentioning now. Zhou Ruyus son came back in safety and was promising. She put on airs in the mansion recently and would talk with anybody about her dear son who had won credit for the family. These days, Duke Shis mansion was bustling with noise and excitement. Shi Baonings wedding made everyone in the mansion busy and twice more guests came to visit than before. But after three tests, Shi Baozhao was selected as an insignificant official of Rank-7 and didnt even need to go to the imperial court. He wasnt sent to another city, but he had to work far away from the center of the capital city, and it would be difficult for him to go back home. Zhou Ruyu was not happy to see that her son would come back home from work after a long trip every day, nor did she want him to be such a hopeless low-rank official. Before Shi Baozhao got the order to work, she came to see Shi Junhe. At first, she naturally cried and told her brother-in-law how wonderful Baozhao was but he was pitiful when he was excluded because he didnt want to go along with the officials in their evil deeds. Shi Junhe had a headache and rubbed his forehead, stopping Zhou Ruyu from complaining. Ruyu, stop. I have read Baozhaos writing. The claims examiner evaluated him properly. And he is impatient, eager for quick success and instant benefits. He truly needs to be trained before accomplishing some achievements. Zhou Ruyu wanted to ask for help, but hearing that he gave her son some negative comments, she got angry. Brother, what are you talking about? Baozhao was recommended by the principal of the Lingshan School, so he must be capable. Why is he average in the eyes of the claims examiner? I dont believe that. There must be someone who aims at harming my son intentionally. Seeing that Shi Junhe frowned and got unhappy obviously, Zhou Ruyu kept her mouth shut with displeasure and thought, Now I want to ask him to help us. I cant make him angry. So she said, trying to please him, Brother, to be frank, if Baozhao is successful, wouldnt he win glory for our family? How can you not help him when he is in need? The environs of the capital city are not as good as the city, but it is the area of the capital and suitable for Baozhao to toughen himself. If he can work there for four or five years patiently, it would be natural for him to enter one of the six ministries in the future. Dont be anxious. Four or five years! Zhou Ruyu screamed furiously. She couldnt bear to see her son work there even for four or five days, let alone four or five years. The selection of officials in Mo Country depended on tests but mostly recommendation. As long as a powerful official recommended, many people could work in one of the six ministries, not to mention being an official in the capital. Duke Shi was a big name, but he didnt contact anyone to help his nephew yet showed that he was just and stern. The people from the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs were good at acting in front of different people, so they wouldnt help Shi Baozhao a lot. Brother, Lord Chens legitimate son is a playboy, but he works in the Ministry of Rite. You have seen Baozhao grow up from childhood. Can you bear to see that he is inferior to a playboy? The other day, the imperial censor, Lord Chens wife came to visit the Shi Family in name, but she showed off her son all the time and irritated Zhou Ruyu, so Ruyu came to see her brother-in-law, expecting him to arrange a good job for Shi Baozhao. Shi Junhe interrupted her coldly, Our family never has the custom to bribe and we cant have a start. Ruyu, no more words. Since Baozhao has a job offer, he should work hard. If he does a good job, I will recommend him in the future. After saying, he waved his hand, indicating that she should leave. Zhou Ruyu was in a rage, but she knew Shi Junhe well and stopped speaking. Then she turned to the Shouan Hall. After all, Shi Baozhao was the official eldest legitimate son of the Shi Family. She couldnt get Shi Junhes help, but she didnt believe that the old madam would stand by. The next day, Mo Shujun was in a good mood and got every member together to have a family dinner. Even Wenren Chi who had moved out and left home was told to come back. The whole family sat around the table while eating, drinking, talking and laughing. It was harmonious. Baozhao, I heard from your mother that you have got the job offer as an official, Mo Shujun said all of a sudden after taking a sip of tea. Shi Baozhao replied in a hurry, Yes, I have got it. I am appointed as the right leader of the repairing department under the Ministry of Revenue and temporarily in charge of the construction and maintenance of the flood-control dam for rivers in the capitals environs. Mo Shujun frowned and asked unhappily, What official position is it? Why have I never heard of it before? A local low-rank official. Uncle cares for me and promised me to stay in the capitals environs. Shi Baozhao showed his respect and gratitude to Shi Junhe. But Mo Shujun turned to Shi Junhe. So you arranged Baozhaos position? Shi Junhe smiled bitterly in secret and thought, Here comes the climax of the play. I cant escape. He had to answer obscurely, Mother, Baozhaos appointment was decided by the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs. I dont have the right, nor can I interfere. Please forgive me. Mo Shujun was not as stupid as Zhou Ruyu and was clear about her eldest sons character. It was impossible to tell him to openly gain personal profits from work, so she didnt bother about this subject. She said casually, In this case, I cant force you, but Chapter 105 - Another Dispute Mo Shujuns word but made everyone nervous. She said unhurriedly, But Baozhao is from our family anyway. If he is a low-rank official at the start, others would laugh at us. Shi Junhe wanted to say that it was to toughen himself, but he didnt speak. Mo Shujun continued forcefully, Although it is to toughen himself when he is at the bottom, the starting point could decide something. Back then, your father took you to the military camp. He let you work as a batman for two years, but he promoted you soon. Am I right? Shi Lei promoted Shi Junhe so soon at that time because he was partial to his son, but more importantly, Shi Junhe had the ability indeed. Shi Junhe couldnt explain that, so he had to say, We can only judge after Baozhao gets some training for two years. Moreover, His Majesty made six ministries in order to let the officials do their own jobs. I cant interfere in the business of the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs. Mo Shujun seemed to have expected Shi Junhes words and smiled. I know you have your own difficulties, and I dont insist that you contact the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs, but The Shi Army is our familys business, right? When Chi joined the army, it was because of your words. She beat around the bush and got Wenren Chi involved just to tell Shi Junhe to let Shi Baozhao join the Shi Army. After all The successor of the Shi Family would get nothing if he had never been to the military camp. Shi Junhe looked at Mo Shujun and then at Wenren Chi who lowered his head silently. He said helplessly, Mother, Baozhao has never been to the military camp. I am afraid What are you afraid of? Chi didnt know anything when he started working in the military camp. You take Baozhao with you and teach him more, so he will know everything. Mo Shujun disagreed and waved her hand. She mentioned Wenren Chi from time to time and raised her brows, seeming to say, If you dont agree, you are partial. Shi Junhe had no choice but to sigh. Its not that I dont hope that Baozhao would have a bright future, but the military camp isnt suitable for him. I am sorry, Mother. Mo Shujuns face darkened. Why could Chi join the army but Baozhao cant? Isnt Baozhao your brothers child? He is a member of our Shi Family. She even talked about the bloodline. Wenren Chi got stiffened but concealed his emotions, keeping silent. It was a deadlock for a while. Shi Qingxue said in a sweet voice, Father made this arrangement not because he is partial. She exposed her grandmas allusion, and Mo Shujun didnt hide it anymore but said coldly, He isnt partial? So why? Is Baozhao inferior to Chi? Shi Qingxue responded reasonably, Of course not. When Chi started working in the military camp, he could use the gun skillfully and Grandpa taught him in person, so Grandpa and Father agreed to let him join the army. Baozhao studied the humanities from childhood, and its reasonable to give him a job as a civil official. Shi Junhes eyes lit up. Qingxue is right. Its not that I dont want Baozhao to work in the military camp, but he is not fit for the job, and he cant endure the hardship. I heard that the new soldiers of the Shi Army would train for nearly 16 hours every day from morning to night, no matter it rains or what, and if they fall behind with one project, they have to catch up even if they dont eat anything. Is it true, Chi? Qingxue pretended to look at Wenren Chi curiously. Although the man didnt want to get involved in the Shi Familys debate, he couldnt bear to ignore Shi Qingxues question, especially when she did it for his good. He had to answer frankly, Yes. When I first joined the army, I stayed hungry and didnt eat anything for one day because of one mistake. In the Shi Army, we have to keep practicing as long as we are alive. Only the high-intensity training could make the Shi Army undefeated forever. Mo Shujun was annoyed by their echoing each other, but she could say nothing, especially when Shi Qingxue talked about Shi Lei again. She would never deny her husbands deed, so she had to keep quiet. But she was not reconciled. The sons of other families had high positions and got high salaries, but her grandson had to be a low-rank official with grievance. They are right, but the Shi Army was created by your father, and somebody would be in charge of it at last. Now none of the younger generation in our family works in the military camp. Would you give the result of your fathers effort to somebody else? She didnt explain who somebody else was, but all people present knew the answer. Wenren Chi knew that he was just an outsider in this family from childhood. No matter how nice First Masters Family was to him, he didnt have the family name of Shi, even if Qingxue called him big brother, which made him over the moon. And He clenched his fists hidden under the table and tried to calm down. After a while, he finally said peacefully, Father, I have something to do in the camp. I am leaving now. Eh When Shi Junhe started to speak, Wenren Chi stood up and walked outside. Shi Baoning, who stayed quiet all the time, looked embarrassed. She glanced at Mo Shujun and then at Shi Junhe. Then under his approving eyes, she also got up and walked out. Mo Shujun saw that and felt angrier, saying with sarcasm, Its said that the daughter is a member of another family after marriage. This girl helps an outsider even before she gets married. Dong, you have raised a good daughter! Dong Hui was to blame for no reason and couldnt speak a word. She didnt say anything unnecessary at night, but in the end she was reproached mercilessly in public and lost face. She could endure it, so she said nothing. But Shi Qingxue couldnt endure it and her smile disappeared. She said harshly, I heard from Grandpa that in the past, he and the late emperor once argued about the military affairs, but Grandma supported Grandpa and then he won in the battlefield at last. He kept it in mind for long and told us several times. Every member of the Shi Family had heard of this story. Shi Lei had truly told many times, and even Mo Shujun had told a few times in order to show that the couple deeply loved each other. But Shi Qingxue mentioned it now and it had totally different meanings. Mo Shujuns face changed, with different expressions, but Shi Qingxue acted as if she was telling stories and didnt even talk to her. If she retorted her, Mo Shujun would confess without being forced, so she felt more than depressed. The princess royal was used to being respected for many years. Even if she was wrong, she wouldnt admit her mistake or swallow insult and humiliation silently. She glared at Shi Qingxue, who was unmoved. And then she goggled at Shi Junhe, who also lowered his head and ignored her. This time, the old madam almost exploded. Fine, fine. I am annoying now. I am off, okay? Then she waved her sleeve and went back to the Shouan Hall. Seeing that, Zhou Ruyu hurriedly led two daughters to comfort her, and the people from Second Masters Family also followed her in a hurry. Soon, most of the people left the dining hall. Brother, you can make Mother so angry. You are really capable. Shi Juncai watched the play from the beginning to the end and laughed freely. He didnt care about his sons future, nor did he fear that his mother would get sick out of anger. Shi Junhe didnt reply but glared at Shi Juncai, with a long face. Its said that another man came to ask you to repay a debt the other day and almost destroyed the accountants office of our family. What was going on? Shi Juncai looked resentful but didnt dare to ignore Shi Junhe. Nothing serious. Every official would have dinner and social intercourse with others to keep a good relationship, but pay day hasnt come round this month, so I am in debt. Can you owe ten thousands of taels of silver for social intercourse? The comer was a servant of the Yixiang Pavilion and he said you paid the most beautiful girl every month. Is that to have social intercourse? Usually, Shi Junhe wouldnt rebuke his brother regardless of his dignity, but Shi Juncai had gone too far. If Junhe continued to indulge him, there might be some trouble. You know that some officials in high positions like those girls. They want somebody to keep company. I have to ask them for help, so I cant disagree, right? Shi Junhe said boldly. But Shi Junhe wouldnt allow it. He snorted. The officials should be just, upright and law-abiding. Its breaking the law to stand treat or send gifts occasionally. How could you dare to invite them to somewhere like the brothel? Shi Juncai disdained the outdated rules but didnt have the nerve to offend his elder brother. He had to nod. Anyway, he had paid the debt, and it would be as usual in the future. You Shi Junhe could do nothing to his brothers rascal attitude but sigh. He waved his hand to tell him to go. The family dinner ended in discord. When Wenren Chi walked out of the mansion gate, Shi Baoning chased him in haste. Chi, wait for me. Wait. Wenren Chi pretended not to hear and drove away. When Shi Baoning reached the gate, he had disappeared. In the next few days, Wenren Chi, who used to come to greet the elder generations of the Shi Family on time in the morning and evening every day, didnt come but sent a letter to explain that he was busy with work on the first day. Dong Hui didnt know Wenren Chis evil thought but was clear that Mo Shujuns words had broken his heart. Seeing that Shi Baoning was unhappy all day, Dong Hui could do nothing but comfort her softly, How about you go to the Wenren Familys mansion? Now you are engaged, and you are brother and sister. Nobody would comment on you. With tears in her eyes, Shi Baoning said with grievance, Chi must have heard me calling him that day, but he left without looking back. If I go to his mansion, wouldnt he look down upon me? Shi Qingxue responded in surprise, It was Grandma who said something improper and hurt Chis feelings. Its natural for you to comfort him. Why would he look down upon you? If my man was wronged, I would at least stay with him and offer comfort even if I cant seek justice for him. But Shi Baoning was aware of that, but she was always reserved, and it was hard for her to lower her level to please somebody. Fine, if you dont go, I am going. Shi Qingxue wanted to see Wenren Chi since long ago, but she was too busy in the past few days. It was the right time now. But Shi Junhe ordered with a straight face, What are you going to do? You cant go. Shi Qingxue blinked in confusion. Why? I have something to tell Chi. Chapter 106 - The Beauty Is a Disaster Shi Junhe thought, Wenren Chi loves you secretly. If you take the initiative, there might be something wrong. But he couldnt say that. So he replied, Didnt you promise to make a large piece of embroidery of hibiscus for Baoning? You just have a start, but you want to go out every day. With your skill, can you finish it before her wedding? Do you want to find somebody to make it for you? Shi Qingxue was good at embroidery, but she did it unusually slowly. When she was a child, she had a friend who insisted on asking her to make her a small piece of embroidery as a birthday gift. Qingxue had no choice but to agree. At last, she wanted to go to the military camp with Shi Lei and couldnt finish the embroidery in time. Shi Lei told her to find a maid to finish the task for her. Later, she even cut the connection with that friend whom she thought as a burden. Although Shi Lei incited her to do that, she always took it as a shame. When Shi Junhe mentioned it, Shi Qingxue blushed with shyness and stopped talking about going out but agreed obediently, I am not going, okay? Please dont bring it up anymore. Shi Baoning turned her eyes from Shi Junhe to Qingxue occasionally and thought of something. Then she nodded seriously with determination. I see. I will go to the Wenren Familys mansion later. However, Shi Baoning was bound not to see Wenren Chi this time. As soon as she reached his mansion, the butler Li told her that the young master had just gone out. Shi Baoning didnt see him. But it was not that Wenren Chi avoided meeting her on purpose. Somebody had invited him to the Juxian Restaurant. Your Highness, why did you invite me here? Wenren Chi got straight to the point, not arrogant or humble. Mo Junjiu was clear about this mans character and didnt mind. He made a gesture to invite him in and smiled. We havent seen each other for a long time. We should keep in touch. Wenren Chi had to sit down. He didnt get an answer, so he kept silent and stared at the cup of tea in front of him, as if he could see something amazing. Mo Junjiu tried to chat with him several times but couldnt continue because of his simple answers. He had to smile bitterly. General Chi, are you so unhappy to have a talk with me? Your Highness, you get me wrong. I am not talkative. Please forgive me. Wenren Chi remained calm. Mo Junjiu realized that this guy was a hard nut to crack and had no choice but to talk business. General Shi wasnt injured in the battle on the Qingluo Mountain but got my fathers praise and claimed all the credit for him. However, you didnt get any profit. What a pity. Hmm, Wenren Chi just replied softly. Nobody knew if he agreed with Mo Junjiu or just expressed that he had heard what was said. Mo Junjiu was desperate. Are you willing to get this result? Wenren Chi looked indifferent. Everything is set in stone. It doesnt matter if I am willing. But Mo Junjiu refused to let it pass. Lets forget about the past. I heard that the victory on the Qingluo Mountain this time was because King Ruis heir gave the advice, and then you led the soldiers to defeat the bandits. Shi Junhe did nothing but got the reward. Its not fair, right? Wenren Chi glanced at him and asked meaningfully, Does the reward you mentioned mean that His Majesty granted my marriage to Infanta Baoning? Eh Wenren Chi didnt make it clear, but Mo Junjiu knew the hidden meaning in his words, so he said awkwardly, I know you dont want to marry the daughter of your fathers murderer, but it is impossible for you to seize control of the Shi Army unless you marry Shi Baoning. You dont hope to see that the soldiers trained by General Wenren with his effort of a lifetime were controlled by somebody else, who even killed him. Shi Junhe gave me all the loyal subordinates cultivated by my father when he recommended me to the City Guardian Army. All the soldiers left in the Shi Army were trained by the Shi Family, so we shouldnt say that the result of effort was grabbed. Mo Junjiu was disappointed at Wenren Chi and glared at him. You dont know that Shi Junhe did so in order to control the Shi Army more. Think about it. The people he gave to you were loyal to General Wenren and had important positions in the Shi Army. He couldnt win them over, so he expelled them. Only you foolishly took it as his kindness. Wenren Chi sneered. Whats done is done. Your Highness, what do you think I should do? Mo Junjiu pretended to ponder for a while before saying, The Shi Army is too powerful now, especially after they easily killed the bandits on the Qingluo Mountain, which confirmed its high status. But sometimes, the one who sits too high would be unstable. Power should be balanced. Wenren Chi acted as if he didnt understand. Your Highness, what do you mean? Sometimes, it would make people relaxed if the military power is controlled by two talented leaders. Do you think so? Mo Junjiu smiled mysteriously. Wenren Chi lowered his head. I dont have the family name of Shi. I dont think I am a talented leader as you mentioned. But Mo Junjiu laughed. All people think that the Shi Army should be controlled by a man from the Shi Family, but with your position in the army and your identity as a son-in-law of the Shi Family, it is easy for you to divide the power. Im sure that is what my father wants, too. Mo Junjiu didnt mince matters. Wenren Chi knew that as long as he agreed, Mo Junjiu would surely help him seize control of the Shi Army. He might agree without hesitation if it was before he went to the battlefield. But after the battle on the Qingluo Mountain, he had changed some of his thoughts unexpectedly. If Wenren Bo were still alive, he would never agree to divide the Shi Army. Your Highness, thanks for your advice, but the Shi Army stands for the military defense power of Mo Country, and a slight move in one part may affect the situation as a whole. Although I dont like some of Shi Junhes decisions, I wont put the country in crisis for my own private interest, Wenren Chi said sincerely, not only to show his attitude but also to exhort Mo Junjiu. But Mo Junjius face darkened, and he snorted. General Chi, you are going to be a son-in-law of the Shi Family soon, and I can understand that you dont want to be Shi Junhes enemy, but in the past, you always said you would take revenge, and I have made plans for you with effort. Now you want to back out. You are not reasonable enough, right? Effort? Wenren Chi looked cold. Qingxue secretly went to the Qingluo Mountain to offer help, but you sent people to assassinate her and almost killed her on the way. This is what you called effort? What? Mo Junjiu was stunned, seemed not to know something like that had happened. Wenren Chi thought he was still playing dumb. Only the secret guard I left in Duke Shis mansion knew that Qingxue would go to the Qingluo Mountain. Can you say that you dont know about it, Your Highness? Mo Junjiu didnt look well and said crossly, I was clear that she secretly went to the Qingluo Mountain, but I dont know anything about the assassination you mentioned. Yes? What a coincidence. I heard that your people happened to go to the Qingluo Mountain, taking the same way as Qingxue. I didnt Mo Junjiu wanted to deny, but Wenren Chis expression of certainty made him realize that it was useless to argue. He said impatiently, What if I happened to take the same way as her? It didnt mean that I did something to her. Whats more, she is Yuzhens bestie. I wouldnt hurt her for Yuzhens sake. So your people followed Qingxue in order to protect her on the way to the Qingluo Mountain? He intentionally made it sarcastic. Mo Junjiu was embarrassed after hearing that. He goggled in a fret. So what if it was me? She is kind of Shi Junhes most loved daughter. If she dies, it would give Shi Junhe a blow. Then it would be easier for you to Wenren Chis voice was cold. Your Highness, I dont care what you want to do, but you cant hurt Shi Qingxue. Hope you can understand my baseline. Mo Junjiu got stiffened and looked at Wenren Chi in astonishment. He almost assumed that the man in front of him was an imposter. Since they started to have connections, they were not close, but Wenren Chi was always emotionless, and he hardly overreacted. Why would Wenren Chi warn him because of Shi Qingxue? Was it because? Mo Junjius expression changed and he suddenly laughed weirdly. It seems that I have done something wrong. I should have sent somebody to propose marriage to the sixth lady of the Shi Family, right? You Wenren Chis eyes turned cold, but soon he controlled himself. He lowered his head and said calmly, Your Highness, stop joking. It would be unworthy if we end our cooperation because of a joke. It was Mo Junjius turn to look pale. He hadnt thought that Wenren Chi would threaten him with disrupting their partnership owing to Qingxue. He snorted. General Chi, you are really sentimental. For Shi Qingxues sake, you can even put the job to avenge the murder of your parent out of your mind? But If Lady Qingxue knows that you once tried to harm her father and almost made him die on the Qingluo Mountain, what do you think she would do? Wenren Chi remained unmoved and looked at Mo Junjiu coldly, with a little killing intent that only he knew. Mo Junjiu seemed not to feel it and took a sip of tea leisurely. Then he said unhurriedly, I am not afraid to tell you frankly that Duke Shis family has become a thorn in my fathers flesh now and would be destroyed sooner or later. Even if you dont take action, somebody else would do it. Why not kill him earlier? You can avenge your father, and when the Shi Family is in decline, whether Qingxue stays or leaves would be at your option. Then you can have your career and beauty. Isnt that great? Yes? Wenren Chi remained expressionless and asked, You told me from the beginning that Shi Junhe killed my father in order to seize control of the Shi Army that year, but the evidence is just a few words. Its hard to convince me. Do you think so? Mo Junjiu felt nervous and thought, Its true that the beauty is a disaster. Wenren Chi believed me in the beginning, but now he questions me because of Shi Qingxue. However, he looked unhurriedly and responded, What you called a few words is a letter written by my great-aunt, and she made it clear that she intended to kill General Wenren. The letter was sent to Shi Junhe who was fighting against the enemy far away on the border, and then the news spread that General Wenren died in the battlefield in order to save Shi Junhe. Isnt it enough? With the black characters on white paper, Mo Junjiu was not afraid of confrontation. Chapter 107 - Trust Wenren Chi stayed silent for a long time. Nobody knew if he agreed with Mo Junjiu or still hesitated. Not until Mo Junjiu looked impatient did Wenren Chi say gently, That letter was only Mo Shujuns intention, and it didnt mean that Shi Junhe also wanted to harm my father. Whats more, I have a question to ask you, Your Highness. What? Since this letter is in your hands, can I ask how Shi Junhe would have killed my father according to the letter that year? Mo Junjiu was speechless and glared at Wenren Chi silently. It seemed that Wenren Chi just asked the question and didnt want the answer. He looked peaceful and stood up to say goodbye. Your Highness, thanks for dinner today. I will think over what you said and investigate it. In fact, the questions he had mentioned and the contradiction were obvious, but he had been driven away from their mansion by Shi Junhe and then Mo Junjiu suddenly told him the truth of Wenren Bos death on the battlefield, so he harbored hatred toward Shi Junhe without thinking and put all the blame on him. But now Wenren Chi gritted his teeth in secret and decided to talk about it after he found the truth anyway. Li, why are you standing at the gate? As soon as Wenren Chi returned to his mansion, he saw that the butler Li was standing at the gate and seemed to welcome a guest. Li greeted the young master and reminded him helplessly, Lady Baoning came after you went out for dinner and waited for you in the living room. She left just less than thirty minutes ago. They could have met each other. Wenren Chi was stunned for a while. Oh. Shall I send someone to chase her and get her back? Li thought it was a pity for the unmarried couple to repeatedly miss the chance to see each other. No. I am a little tired. Wenren Chi shook his head tiredly and went into the room. Something occurred to him and he stopped all of a sudden, asking, Li, you always stayed with my father before he passed away. How do you think of his relationship with my foster father? Lis expression didnt change, and he answered frankly, His Lordship always took General Shi as his best friend when he was alive. The two were in close contact with each other and had a tacit understanding when cooperating. They were all words of praise. Wenren Chi stared at Li in doubt, but Li stopped, so he had to ask, But? Li looked confused. What but? No but. Everyone knows the two generals were on good terms. Wenren Chi was unable to reply. He was clear about what everyone knew, but now he needed some different comments. What kind of person do you think my father was? Li was sophisticated. Even though he didnt know what Wenren Chi was worried about, he knew it had something to do with Shi Junhe. He didnt answer directly but said vaguely, His Lordship had sharp eyes. Wenren Chi understood immediately. Right, if Shi Junhe was a bad guy, Wenren Bo wouldnt have been his friend, even for more than ten years. But what happened about Mo Shujuns letter? He mentioned his doubts in front of Mo Junjiu, but they were just doubts. Mo Shujuns letter was not fake, and the Shi Familys hostility to his father was true. Wenren Chi was more confused. At the same time, the Shi Family was still preparing for Shi Baonings wedding in order. Especially Shi Qingxue stayed at home these days and tried to finish the embroidery on time. She found different excuses to avoid meeting the guests. My Lady, Princess Yuzhen came here again. She mentioned you by name this time and wanted to see you. Shi Qingxue was using a needle. After she heard that, it stabbed her index finger by accident and she hurriedly withdrew her hand in pain. Dong Shuang who was next to her wanted to check her injury, but she just waved her hand. Its nothing serious. I just got stabbed. She paused for a while and saw that the Rank-2 maid was still standing at the door and waiting for her response. She had no choice but to reply, Tell her that I am seriously ill and cant see any visitors. After I recover, I will go to her mansion and apologize to her. My Lady Xia Mang looked at Qingxue worriedly and advised in a low voice, Princess Yuzhen has asked three times to see you, but you refused every time. You would be in trouble if somebody with evil intentions talks about it. Shi Qingxue bit her lower lip and hesitated. She knew that, but she just felt awkward. And she was afraid and unwilling to face Mo Yuzhen. It seemed that as long as they met each other, she could see their gloomy future. It was no fun. Forget it. I wont see anybody, and its not aimed at her only. Nobody can say anything. As soon as she stopped speaking, an arrogant womans laugh came from outside. Yes, you are already a silkworm now. You wont be a butterfly unless you break your cocoons, right? Mo Yuzhen pushed away the Rank-2 maid standing at the door and strode into Shi Qingxues bedroom, with a faint smile on her face. Shi Qingxue had to conceal her complicated emotions and smiled at her friend. Why did you come here? Mo Yuzhen didnt answer but glanced at Xia Mang and Dong Shuang. Qingxue had to tell all the maids to leave the room and close the door. She poured a cup of tea for the princess and then asked the question again. Mo Yuzhen still looked at her. After quite a while, she smiled suddenly. Qingxue, are you unwilling to see me? No. Why Shi Qingxue faltered and could hardly hide her panic. In front of somebody who she really cared for, she was not good at lying. If no, why is it more difficult to see you than to see His Majesty in the palace? Mo Yuzhen asked aggressively. She could see Mo Xiangbin just after making an appointment, but Shi Qingxue turned down her invitation at first and next time refused to go out with her. Now she came to see Qingxue but the latter said she was ill and tried to avoid meeting her. She almost went crazy. Shi Qingxue was embarrassed after hearing that, but she couldnt explain, so she had to keep quiet. Mo Yuzhens face fell, and she asked with displeasure, Qingxue, are you really going to break up with me? Shi Qingxue looked surprised and denied automatically, Of course not. She said that quite firmly. Mo Yuzhen finally looked better and softened her voice. Are you mad at me because I made trouble for Shi Baojin without asking you? She knew that Shi Qingxue always protected her family. No. Shi Qingxue hadnt thought of this matter. Seeing that her friend had taken it to heart, she had to explain, I know you did it to avenge me. Then why are you angry with me? Mo Yuzhen lost her patience and walked to Qingxue, forcing her to face her. She asked, stressing each word, Even if you want to break up with me, you have to give me a reason. Or I am reluctant to! Mo Yuzhen was the most favored princess in this country but came in person to make peace when Qingxue was cold to her. The friendship made Qingxue feel moved even though she was uncomfortable. Qingxue was in silence for a while and finally chose to be frank. Do you know what happened on the Qingluo Mountain? Ah? I have heard of something. Whats wrong? Mo Yuzhen was baffled. Qingxue stared at her. The battle on the Qingluo Mountain was quite dangerous, and my father and big brother almost died there because somebody tried to harm them. Why? Didnt your father suppress the bandits and get my fathers reward? Mo Yuzhen asked in disbelief, but the serious expression on Qingxues face told her that she told the truth. Mo Yuzhen thought of something and turned pale, asking subconsciously, Do you suspect that my brother Junjiu did it? Shi Qingxue shook her head. When Mo Yuzhen was about to sigh with relief, what Qingxue said next made her nervous again. Qingxue responded casually, I dont suspect that. I am sure that it has something to do with Prince Junjiu. Mo Yuzhen was speechless. She was angry because of Qingxues suspicion, and also happy because of her blunt answer At last, she was unable either to cry or to laugh. Why are you sure? Qingxue hesitated at first, and she didnt want to say what Mo Junhao had told her, but on second thought, she remembered her friends identity and suddenly showed an indifferent smile. Prince Junhao was also on the way to the Qingluo Mountain once. Do you know that? She bet, since Mo Junhao could even know her whereabouts easily, no matter if Mo Junjiu had sent some people to kill her, he should have known her location. Mo Yuzhen asked hesitantly, So what? Nothing. Shi Qingxue seemed to be relieved after getting the answer, but she was almost suffocated. She looked down and tried to make her voice calm with no emotion. However, probably you dont know that not only my father and brother narrowly escaped death on the Qingluo Mountain, but some people also tried to assassinate me twice on the way, and I was almost killed every time. Mo Yuzhen was astonished all of a sudden. All her resentment of Qingxues cold attitude turned into guilt. She wanted to asked, Were you get injured? But even if she did, it would only show that she was hypocritical, so she didnt ask. They fell into silence. Mo Yuzhen didnt even have the energy to refute. She just asked softly, Are you really going to unfriend me? It was evident that she was trembling with fear. Shi Qingxue still shook her head, but that was what she could only do. At the moment, they deeply realized for the first time that their hostile positions would only get them farther away from each other, and they could do nothing. Yuzhen, I Shi Qingxue opened her mouth, but she didnt want to say anything insincere, so she shut it again. She picked up the cup of tea that Mo Yuzhen hadnt tasted from the table and put it in her friends hands, saying gently, Have a cup of tea. I have poured it for you. Mo Yuzhen took a sip and focused her eyes on Shi Qingxue, who also gazed at her. So she took another sip. Till the tea was finished, Shi Qingxue took the tea cup and put it on the table, smiling. Yuzhen, this is our relationship. What? No matter when it is, you dare to drink the tea I give to you, and so do I. But they couldnt be as close as before. Shi Qingxue didnt speak the last sentence, but Mo Yuzhen understood what she meant. Mo Yuzhen smiled bitterly. Okay. I am going. Take care. Shi Qingxue nodded and saw her off. Mo Yuzhen walked out step by step under Qingxues deep gaze, but she had never felt so depressed. When she was at the door, she suddenly stopped in her tracks. Under Shi Qingxues confused eyes, Mo Yuzhen quickly walked back to her. I know we are not on the same path, but I have to tell you something. My father wants you to marry Junhao as a princess. Chapter 108 - A Surprise at Night The news Mo Yuzhen mentioned was not surprising, and Shi Qingxue had known about Mo Xiangbins intention earlier, so she said indifferently, I know, but I wont marry him. Dont worry. You dont know! Mo Yuzhen replied anxiously. Under Qingxues stunned eyes, Mo Yuzhen grabbed her friends hand and said quickly, It is not the same as before this time. My father is determined to marry you to Junhao, and Concubine Liu will hold a dinner party in Junhaos mansion and invite all the noble ladies, in order to confirm it. A dinner party? Why didnt I know? Mo Yuzhen was disappointed at her and poked her forehead, cursing, You have been hiding in your bedroom these days. What the hell did you know? It could be seen how angry Mo Yuzhen was. Shi Qingxue shrank her neck and listened to her lecture obediently in silence. After venting all her resentment these days by this chance, Mo Yuzhen said coldly, The invitation hasnt been sent to your mansion probably because they are afraid of alerting you, but it will be a dinner with disaster. You cant attend it. Do you know? Qingxue nodded in a hurry and assured her, Set your mind at ease. I wont go anywhere these days. I will just stay at home to finish my embroidery. She was so obedient, so she wouldnt make the princess angry anymore, right? But Mo Yuzhen still looked unhappy. When I got married, you just gave me some treasures, but you are making the embroidery for Shi Baonings wedding. You are so partial. Shi Qingxue was unable to answer. What the hell? No. You didnt tell me then. And you got married in a hurry. You know that I make it slowly, Shi Qingxue explained in an instant. Mo Yuzhen didnt buy it. I didnt say that I want your embroidery. Even if you wrote a poem or made a painting for me, it would be better than the emotionless stuff. Its clear that you dont keep me in your heart. Shi Qingxue replied, Please do me a favor and leave here. Huh, I am off! The princess was actually kicked out. She was going crazy. Qingxue showed an expression to say, Goodbye. I wont see you off. Mo Yuzhen took two steps and said loudly, I am really leaving! Shi Qingxue nodded without saying anything. Her friend didnt ask her to stay, so Mo Yuzhen had to continue walking out. When she was at the door, she couldnt help but say sadly, I wont come here after leaving. I know. Take care, Shi Qingxue responded expressionlessly. Mo Yuzhen got unhappy. Why didnt you ask me to stay? In the past, every time you were unwilling to let me go. Shi Qingxue had nothing to say. At this time, mentioning the past would only make both of them awkward and helpless, but Mo Yuzhen said that, and Qingxue couldnt answer. She sighed helplessly. Its great if both of us are fine. Just go. There were tears in Mo Yuzhens eyes, but Shi Qingxue didnt even look at her, so Yuzhen was furious. Since when did Shi Qingxue become the one who was rational when they needed to make a decision together? Qingxue was the most self-willed one. Why couldnt she be more self-willed to stop her from leaving? Okay. Mo Yuzhen took a deep breath and held back all her emotions, turning to leave. Shi Qingxue stood quietly and didnt come to her senses until Xia Mang called her softly after entering the room to clean up. She asked, What time is it now? Its five oclock. Are you going to have dinner? No, I am not hungry, Shi Qingxue responded at will and sat on the bedside again to continue with her embroidery. But soon after, she stopped once more and asked in a fret, What do you want to say? Xia Mang bit her lower lip and asked in a low voice, Did Her Highness make you angry? Shi Qingxue was taken aback. Why do you think so? When she walked out, she looked depressed and told us to take good care of you. Otherwise, she would punish us. Xia Mang paused for a while and added hesitantly, Its my first time to see that kind of expression on her face, so Shi Qingxue reacted after quite a while and understood Mo Yuzhens intention. If a lady from a noble family made a break with a princess, the noble lady must be the one who would suffer. Mo Yuzhen had put the blame on herself and lowered herself, so that others would have some scruple because she defended Qingxue even if they knew that they had stopped contacting each other. To be frank, Qingxue had never thought that Mo Yuzhen could help her to this point. She was surprised and felt sad as she had lost a great friend. I am fine. I am just tired and want to sleep earlier. She didnt have dinner and went to bed. Xia Mang didnt dare to say anything and put out the candle before closing the door and leaving. It was silent at night. Shi Qingxue lay on the bed but couldnt fall asleep. There were a lot of thoughts in her brain till a faint smell came into her nose. Who is it? she whispered and sat up on the bed. She saw a figure standing in front of the desk, which looked familiar. Mo Junyang? Qingxue called automatically. The figure moved and approached her slowly, which made her restless till the man walked to her bedside and the moonlight was on him. It was Mo Junyang indeed. Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief and pouted unhappily. Why didnt you speak just now? You scared me. Mo Junyang sat on the bedside and then Qingxue found a box in his hand. The pleasant smell was from it. It was like She asked, The osmanthus cake? Mo Junyang nodded and opened the box, giving it to her. Would you like to have a try? Shi Qingxue was taken aback. There was probably nobody but Mo Junyang who would break into a girls bedroom at night and give her a box of osmanthus cakes. However, after he scared her, she was a little hungry. She looked at the food box for several times but remained unmoved. Be careful, and then you wouldnt drop anything on the bed, and others wouldnt find it. Shi Qingxues only worry was gone after Mo Junyangs advice. She felt free to grab a little piece of cake and put it in her mouth. It melted in her mouth immediately and the pleasant smell spread. It tastes so good, and its special! Shi Qingxue couldnt help but praise and grabbed another piece. When she was about to put it into her mouth, she saw Mo Junyang gazing at her red lips. She stopped and showed the cake to him, asking awkwardly, Do you want to eat, too? Yes. Shi Qingxue wanted to tell him that there were cakes in the box, but Mo Junyang lowered his head and bit the cake in her hand. His warm lips got close to her fingers, which gave her goose pimples. She hurriedly withdrew her hand. What are you doing? Eating the cake given by you. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Then what are you doing in my room? Mo Junyang still held up the box in his hand and didnt answer her but said, Its brought by my father from his fiefdom, Rui City. Its a specialty of that city, and you cant find it in the capital city. Shi Qingxue heard that and then took another piece to eat slowly. When she almost finished them, she received the handkerchief from Mo Junyang and wiped her hands. Then she asked, Can you tell me now? Mo Junyang nodded and replied directly, The dinner in the Fourth Princes mansion in a few days will be a disaster. Dont attend it. Gee, why did you bring it up, too? Yuzhen told me today. Mo Junyang said, If you will go, remember to send me a note in advance. Shi Qingxue responded, No, I wont join in that fun. Moreover, she still remembered that Mo Junhao had knocked her out and tried to take her away. She didnt want to talk with that guy so far. You came here in order to tell me this? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang in doubt. It was unnecessary to come here in person for such a trifle. He could have sent a letter. Mo Junyang looked at her deeply and seemed to find something from her expression, but nobody knew if he succeeded. He just asked casually, Didnt you promise to find me a wife? Several months have passed, but where is my wife? Shi Qingxue patted her head and regretted. So many things had happened these days, and she almost forgot about it. When Mo Junyang asked her seriously, she felt guilty. Ah, yes. So are you in love with someone? Mo Junyang went right to the heart of the matter. You are offhand with me. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak a word. Could they have fun together? Fine, but I am busy recently. Shi Qingxue blinked and started to pretend pitiful. Mo Junyang didnt mind at all. It doesnt matter. I am not in a hurry, anyway. Shi Qingxue was confused. You are not in a hurry? Why did you ask me to help you? You promised me. Dont forget it. Mo Junyang smiled gently, courageous with sufficient reasons, as if he was not the one who wanted to get married. Shi Qingxue felt sad for she was so foolish as to take such a job. She said helplessly. I did promise you, but it must be someone you like. What if I look for a long time but you dont like her? Mo Junyang shrugged. I believe in your insight. Its okay with me as long as you recommend and she is willing to marry me. Really? Shi Qingxue doubted that, but soon her eyes lit up. Then I recommend my cousin Baojing. Her moral quality and scholarly attainment are excellent, and she deserves you, but She hesitated for a while and then asked in a low voice, Do you dislike her background? Shi Baojing was a daughter of the Second Masters concubine. Her background was not presentable even though she was raised by her fathers wife. Mo Junyang couldnt help but rub her hair and said indifferently, Others dont know my background. Dont you know? If the family background can decide everything, I wont become like this now. In the previous life, his identity as a hostage was at the bottom, but he could turn the table and become the emperor at last. It proved that the background couldnt decide everything. Shi Qingxue was happy to hear his words and didnt care that he took her as a child. She looked up with a smile. You said that. I will tell Baojing. She likes you so much and surely wants to marry you. Mo Junyang didnt change his expression and nodded. I will wait for your news. It seemed that as long as Shi Baojing said yes, he would really marry her as his wife. Shi Qingxue didnt realize Mo Junyangs intention and thought he agreed. So she wanted to talk with Shi Baojing and set it in stone next day. But Shi Baojing was not in the mansion. It was said that she went to the manor in the environs of the capital city to have a rest. Shi Qingxue wanted to go there when Liu Yiyis invitation was sent to her. Chapter 109 - Concubine Liu’s Favor It was said on Liu Yiyis invitation that the fourth princes side concubine Qin Yanyan would have her birthday in three days, so Liu Yiyi would like to invite the ladies from aristocratic families to enjoy the beauty of flowers in his mansion and celebrate Qin Yanyans birthday. If Qingxue didnt know that Liu Yiyi aimed at her, she would have thought that the emperors favored concubine sincerely liked her daughter-in-law so much as to make her happy, but if others knew that Liu Yiyi wanted Shi Qingxue to be the fourth princes wife, it would humiliate Qin Yanyan. Shi Qingxue felt it laughable but didnt want to join the fun. Next day, she told someone to send a letter to the imperial palace and said that she was seriously ill, so she couldnt disturb Qin Yanyans birthday party. Meanwhile she sent a proper gift to the fourth princes mansion. After she did that for the sake of courtesy, Qingxue felt at ease and stayed at home to continue living in comfort. But beyond her expectation, on Qin Yanyans birthday, Liu Yiyis maid in charge, Mammy Zhuo came with a royal doctor and said that Concubine Liu was worried about Lady Qingxues health, so she came to visit her as ordered. Oh, she came to visit the patient as she said. But in fact, she came to check if it was true. After the royal doctor checked on her, Shi Qingxue couldnt pretend to be ill anymore. It happened that Shen Luo went back to the Mang Mountain, so the only one she could ask for help was not here. Shi Qingxue was carried into the carriage by Liu Yiyis people. Mammy Zhuo didnt give her a chance to send a message in private, as if she found that Qingxue would ask for help. She stayed with Qingxue all the way and said that it was Concubine Lius favor. When the carriage reached the fourth princes mansion, Shi Qingxue saw Mo Junhao standing at the gate as soon as she got out. He welcomed her with a smile, Qingxue, I havent seen you for a few days. How are you? Shi Qingxue put on a smile just to show her politeness. Your Highness, thanks for your concern. I am well. While speaking, she planned to enter through the side door. But Mo Junhao stopped her. You are a respected guest. How can I let you enter my mansion through the side door with grievance? You certainly should go through the main gate. In Mo Country, being led in from which entrance could show the guests status, but it was a customary rule for the woman who was not a member of the royal family to go through the side door. Shi Qingxue naturally wouldnt be so foolish as to be used and said with a smile, Before I came out, my mother warned me that I should follow the rules. Please forgive me, Your Highness. Mo Junhao just wanted to stay with Shi Qingxue. Seeing that she insisted, he laughed. Its just the gate. There are not so many rules. Since you want to go through the side door, I will go with you. Shi Qingxue was taken aback and thought she had misheard, but Mo Junhao grabbed her arm and went through the side door. Mo Junhao paid much attention to status. He was a prince, and he could never enter through the side door no matter which family he visited, not to mention his mansion, but now because of her words, he went through the side door with her. He did that just to please her. Shi Qingxue suddenly remembered that in the previous life, before she married Mo Junhao, he had truly done many things he wouldnt do at ordinary times for her sake, so she didnt doubt his love for her. It seemed that something happened again, but she was not moved. She just felt it was sarcastic, and his touch she was used to made her feel sick. Let me go. I can walk on my own, Shi Qingxue said coldly and took back her hand. Mo Junyang asked in a warm voice, Why are you angry? Do you feel unwell? Because I dont want to see you! Shi Qingxue answered in secret but she couldnt say that. Or she would be unreasonable. Nothing. I am a little tired and want to have a rest first. Please help yourself, Your Highness. She pretended to be exhausted and walked to the nearest pavilion to have a seat, trying to avoid Mo Junhao. But as soon as she sat down, Mo Junhao caught up with her and told someone to serve tea and fruits, as if he wanted to have a talk with her. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but goggle. Your Highness, what do you mean? You have other guests, right? It would be unworthy if you neglect other respected guests. Mo Junhao responded quickly, No matter how important they are, nobody can be compared with you. Whats more, Ms. Qin can take care of them, and I dont need to worry. I just want to have tea and talk with you, so that such beautiful scenery wont be a waste. Not until then did Shi Qingxue realize that the pavilion she selected randomly was the best place to watch the scenery in this mansion, with a nice view. In the previous life, she most liked to have a walk here, but now she just felt she was unlucky. She didnt want to pretend polite anymore in front of Mo Junhao and stood up. Today is Lady Qins birthday. I have to say happy birthday to her, so I wont disturb your enjoyment. Mo Junhao hurriedly grabbed her arm and looked displeased at last. Is it so difficult to ask you to sit with me and have a cup of tea? Shi Qingxue didnt say a word. Mo Junhao continued, Even if you hate me so much, you must remember what you promised to me on the way to the Qingluo Mountain. I saved your life Now I ask you to drink tea and sit with me. Is it too much? He even mentioned that he had saved her life. No matter how unwilling Shi Qingxue was, she had to sit down again. In that case, it is impolite to decline. Mo Junhao smiled and looked up at a maid, who quickly poured tea for them and then left respectfully. This is the new tribute, Longjing tea picked before Grain Rain, mid-April this year. My father gave some to me. Have a try. Shi Qingxue had no choice but to pick up the tea cup and take a sip. It really had a special smell, but it tasted weird. It was not like the new tea leaf. Mo Junhao heard her description and there was panic flashing in his eyes, but soon he said, Perhaps the people in the warehouse didnt keep them well, so they are wet. I will punish those lazy guys. If you dont like it, I will tell someone to change the tea. No, thanks. Shi Qingxue refused in a hurry. What a joke. If they continued to talk about it, she wouldnt need to go away. She held up the tea cup and toasted to Mo Junhao, saying casually, Your Highness, you helped me the other day, and I am greatly appreciated. With the tea, I am drinking a toast to you now. Then she drank up the tea. Mo Junhao showed a satisfied smile and said skillfully, You are welcome. Dont be so formal. Here you are. Have a taste of these fruits. The servants picked them in the suburb recently. They are fresh. While speaking, he picked up a grape and gave it to Qingxue, seeming to feed her. Shi Qingxue turned away to avoid him, but he still didnt give up, so she had to reach out her hand to stop him. Your Highness, thanks for your kindness. I can pick up some by myself. Mo Junhao conveniently grabbed her hand and said with a smile, I just want to feed you. When we were young Their hands were joined, which disgusted Shi Qingxue, but Mo Junhao grasped her and didnt let her go. She was so angry that she couldnt pretend anymore and wanted to offend him openly. Your Highness, what are you doing here? A female voice came abruptly and stopped Shi Qingxue from speaking. Qin Yanyan strode over and held Mo Junhaos arm, forcefully making them farther away from each other. At the same time, she glared at Shi Qingxue and wanted to bite her. Shi Qingxue didnt get angry but almost shouted Bravo! to her. When she looked at Qin Yanyan, she couldnt hide her smile. Lady Qin, good day. Happy birthday to you. She said that sincerely, but in Qin Yanyans eyes, it was irony and showing off. Qin Yanyan was so furious that she scowled and snorted regardless of Qingxues dignity. Since you came to celebrate my birthday, why did you come so late? Didnt you take me seriously? Is that the domestic discipline of the Shi Family? She attacked Qingxue in speech arrogantly. But before Shi Qingxue retorted, Mo Junhao couldnt bear to hear that and rebuked her coldly, Yanyan, Qingxue is my respected guest. How can you act recklessly? Apologize to her. He was partial openly. Qin Yanyan couldnt believe it, and even Shi Qingxue thought there was something wrong with Mo Junhao today. Prime Minister Qins power was clear. Even if he wanted to make her happy, he shouldnt irritate Qin Yanyan. He embarrassed Qin Yanyan just to get close to Qingxue. Wasnt he afraid that he would lose both of them? Your Highness! Qin Yanyan shouted emotionally and was about to cry. Even if you dont care about me, you should consider the baby. Who the hell is Shi Qingxue? Does she deserve my apology? The word baby made everyone present change their expressions. They looked at Qin Yanyans belly and didnt expect that she would drag up the news at the crucial time. Seeing that the two were astonished, Qin Yanyan felt contented. She rushed into Mo Junhaos arms in a spoilt manner and said sweetly, The royal doctor checked a few days ago and said it is more than two months old. I didnt spread the news for fear of any accident, but it is our bay. Dont you want to touch it, Your Highness? She gently pulled Mo Junhaos hand to put it on her belly and peeped at Qingxue, with obvious provocation. Shi Qingxues expression was stiffened, but it wasnt because of Qin Yanyan. She thought of something in the past and lost her interest in coping with the two. Then she turned to leave. She didnt notice if Mo Junhao called her later. She just felt disgusted and tired, and she even didnt know what time it was. She staggered ahead and was tripped by a stone before falling forward. She didnt even have the energy to struggle but closed her eyes by instinct. She didnt bump or feel the pain as expected. A force dragged her behind and she rushed into warm arms. A deep and exasperated voice was beside her ear. What are you doing? You dont even look at the road when you are walking? It was Mo Junyang. Tears soon filled Shi Qingxues eyes. In Mo Junyangs reproach, she hugged his neck and buried her face in his shoulder, whispering with sobs, Mo Junyang, Mo Junyang She called again and again. In her voice, there were tiredness and pain, as well as helplessness and trust that she didnt find. Mo Junyang heard that but he was not relieved. He just felt heartbroken. Then he patted Shi Qingxues back and comforted her in a low voice, Dont cry. I am here. What happened? Tell me. No matter who bullied you, I will stand up for you. Anybody who didnt know would think that Mo Junyang was lying, but Shi Qingxue was clear that this man was so capable. He didnt take anybody or anything seriously. She felt relieved. Even though she didnt need help, she blurted out in Mo Junyangs love, Mo Junhao. He bullied me. You help me beat the shit out of him. Chapter 110 - It Is Not a Dream Mo Junyang was stunned, with a gloomy expression flashing in his eyes. Okay. Uhh? Shi Qingxue was surprised at his simple answer and asked automatically, Dont you ask me how he bullied me? Mo Junyang shook his head. No need to ask. Seeing that Qingxue still didnt give up, he added, If you dont want to tell me, I wont push you. Shi Qingxue couldnt help laughing and went deep into his arms. Mo Junhaos touch disgusted her, but Mo Junyang made herrelaxed. It was wrong. She shouldnt treat Mo Junyang like this. This was not her man, but she couldnt control herself, nor did she want to loosen her hand. After quite a while, Shi Qingxue managed with effort to calm down and forced herself to let go of his arms which made her unwilling to leave but belonged to somebody else. She smiled and said softly, I am sorryin all aspects. Mo Junyang paused for a while and also smiled, replying in the same tone, Never mindin all aspects, at any time. They both talked disorderly, and perhaps only the two of them could understand each others meaning. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but laugh and felt more relieved. After a short hesitation, she finally said, I once lived in the fourth princes mansion for nearly three years and was quite familiar with every tree and bush here. I thought I would never come back here, but Hmm, dont come here again, Mo Junyang replied gently. They were not words of comfort, but Shi Qingxue felt comfortable. Hmm, I didnt want to come today, but Concubine Liu sent some people to my mansion to bring me here. By the way, why did you come? Mo Junyang looked solemn. Just in case. Concubine Liu didnt come today. Go back after seeing Qin Yanyan. Dont need to go to the backyard. I saw her just now, and she showed off that she is carrying a baby. I think she is playing the woman in front of Mo Junhao now. When she mentioned the baby again, her smile faded. Mo Junyang was astonished for a short while and soon understood. He looked awkward. A baby He tried to find proper words, but he was not good at comforting others. However, he gave Shi Qingxue all his patience. Its different now. There have been a lot of changes from the beginning. Your father and big brother are still alive. Cant it prove everything? It was just a horrible dream in the previous life. When you are awake, it is gone. Shi Qingxue heard of this saying for the first time and felt it was novel. Her depressed feeling disappeared. She thought it over, and it was true. Everything in the previous life had changed, no matter it was good or bad. Its different indeed. I wont have a baby, not Mo Junhaos Qin Yanyans sudden pregnancy reminded Shi Qingxue of her baby in the previous life who was dead before it was born because of the fight in the mansion. She felt it was like a dream, but on second thoughts, it was Mo Junhaos baby and it would be better if she hadnt given birth to it. Then she felt much better. Mo Junyang didnt like to see Shi Qingxues expression when she talked about Mo Junhao, even though there was no love in her expression. He changed the subject in time. Let me send you back home. Shi Qingxue was about to nod when Wei Zichao ran over in a hurry. He whispered in Mo Junyangs ear and then the latter changed his expression instantly. What happened? Mo Junyang answered, There is something wrong with the crown prince. I will send you back first. Wei Zichao shouted in surprise, Master! Shi Qingxue realized the situation and shook her head to refuse. My home is not far away from here. I will go back by myself. Please go to deal with your job. It was rare for Mo Junyang to hesitate to make a choice between Shi Qingxue and Wei Zichao. He nodded at last. Dont go. Mo Junhao wouldnt let you leave easily. Find a quiet place to hide yourself. I will be back soon. Okay. Just go. I will wait for you! Shi Qingxue responded but didnt take it seriously. Mo Junyang and Wei Zichao disappeared soon. Shi Qingxue continued to walk forward and hesitated if she should go back home or kill time here. She decided to wait. If Mo Junyang came back and didnt find her, it would be not good. But after she took just a few steps, a maid came to her. My Lady, good day. Lady Liu asked you to come to the backyard. Shi Qingxue frowned. Was it said that Liu Yiyi didnt come today? She looked at this maid, who was dressed in the maids uniform in the fourth princes mansion, and there must be nothing wrong. She nodded. I see. I will come later. Lady Liu was afraid that you dont know the way, so she told me to lead the way for you. Please dont make it difficult for me, My Lady. The maid didnt give up. It seemed that if Shi Qingxue didnt follow her, she would drag the lady there. Shi Qingxue thought, Even if Liu Yiyi wants to harm me, she wouldnt dare to play dirty tricks in public. Maybe I will be safer in the backyard. Then she replied, Please lead the way. The maid led Shi Qingxue to go through the splendid pavilions and buildings in the mansion, and she almost felt dizzy. When they walked on a long path with cobbles, Shi Qingxue finally asked, Wait. Where are we going? The maid still smiled and pointed to a door with flowers in the front, answering innocently, After we go through the door, we will reach the backyard. Lady Liu and the others are inside. My Lady, please walk quickly. The backyard of the fourth princes mansion is located in such a deserted place. Isnt he afraid of slighting the respected guests? Shi Qingxue still stood and looked around from the corner of her eye. Even when Shi Qingxue was in doubt, the maid didnt panic but winked at somewhere secret. She smiled at the same time. This is a mansion given by His Majesty, and the architecture was arranged by the Labor Ministry. I dont know why they built it like this. Since the maid said that, Shi Qingxue couldnt ask more. But she didnt speak, as if she believed what the maid said, and she continued to walk. The maid walked to the door with flowers and reached out a hand. My Lady, please. Qingxue popped out her head when somebody pushed her from behind. She staggered forward for a few steps before stopping. When she looked back, the door with flowers was closed. Gee, the same trick again. In the pavilion, Mo Junhao was scared by the sudden news of Qin Yanyans pregnancy. He was certainly happy. Among all the princes, only his side concubine was pregnant. In another word, his son would be the eldest grandson of the emperor and could give him a hand to take the great responsibility. But in that case, it would probably be difficult for him to marry Shi Qingxue. The Qin Family wouldnt agree but might ask him to make Qin Yanyan his wife, a princess. He pondered for a while and his happiness was gone. Then he pushed Qin Yanyan away from his arms and said indifferently, Since you are pregnant, you should recuperate. You dont need to go to the backyard. Go back to your room first and take a rest. I want you to stay with me. Qin Yanyan grabbed Mo Junhaos sleeve and spoke softly like a spoiled child. But Mo Junhao shook off her hand impatiently and replied with no emotion, I have something to do and will go to see you later. Lianger, send your lady back to her room. Qin Yanyan refused to go and pouted angrily. No. Today is my birthday. Junhao, you dont keep me company. Are you going to sleep with some seductress? What are you talking about? Mo Junhao shouted harshly and then realized that he was too emotional. He lowered his voice. I really have something important to deal with. Dont make a fuss, okay? Qin Yanyan sneered. Something important? Do you think I am blind and have no idea what you asked that bitch to drink just now? Mo Junhao was nervous and stared at Qin Yanyan. What do you know? Qin Yanyan touched the teacup Shi Qingxue had just used and then shrank her hand. She wiped her hand with her handkerchief in disgust and responded casually, The love flower tea! It can arouse a womans desire. No matter how pure and dignified she is, she can become a dissolute woman after drinking it. But dont you always think that you are so unrestrained and charming that nobody can defeat you? Can you only make it with such a dirty trick? Mo Junhao understood that Qin Yanyan had known his intention and didnt hide it from her anymore. He tried to please her and grabbed her hand. Yanyan, I always love you most, but you know about my ambition. My identity means that I wont have only one woman in my life. If you really love me, why cant you consider more for me? But Qin Yanyan got rid of his grip. I know what you want. I tell you frankly. I am not so jealous. Like the beauties in the mansion, as long as they dont get pregnant or fight for your love, I can accept them. But She focused her eyes on Mo Junhao and stressed each word. But Shi Qingxue cant! I would never allow her to surpass me. She was not a fool. If Shi Qingxue became the fourth princes wife, she would be always inferior to that woman, and she wouldnt allow it. Why cant you understand? I dont love her. What I need is the Shi Family behind her Mo Junhao was anxious and tried to coax Qin Yanyan with delusive words. However, Qin Yanyan was no longer that little girl who valued Junhao above everything. She had grown up and seen through many things. She looked away from Mo Junhao and said coldly, Your Highness, dont need to say more to me. Anyway, any other woman is fine. Even if you have an interest in a noble lady, I can ask my father to help you. But Shi Qingxue would never be yours! And Qin Yanyan laughed mysteriously all of a sudden. Mo Junhao got alert and grasped Qin Yanyans hand, questioning, And what? What did you do to her? Qin Yanyan seemed not to feel the pain and still smiled. Nothing. I just told someone to take her to the Purity Garden. Gee, she had some love flower tea. If it works, she will be extremely seductive. What kind of place was the Purity Garden? The fourth prince had a place where he kept some singing girls and could entertain the guests with them, and that was the Purity Garden. It was far away from other places in the mansion, and even if something happened, nobody would know. Chapter 111 - Don’t Go Too Far Hearing the words Purity Garden, Mo Junhao changed his expression. He glared at Qin Yanyan ferociously and asked in a rage, What are you going to do? Qin Yanyan replied, I said any other woman can, but Shi Qingxue cant. If you insist on marrying her, I will ruin her. You! Mo Junhao looked ghostly pale and stared at Qin Yanyan. So last time it was you It was me! Qin Yanyan didnt hide it from him anymore but admitted, If I didnt fear that you would be hurt, I would have already killed that bitch. How could she come to our mansion to steal my husband? She looked horrible, with deep hatred but felt happy. But this time, nobody can save her. The Purity Garden. I remember that you still have some guests staying there. I dont know who would have the chance to touch her or how many men can sleep with her. Dont worry. Even if your people cant get any profit, I have prepared entertainment for her Gee, I want to know if she is not pure anymore, will you still want to marry her as your wife? You! Mo Junhao pointed at Qin Yanyan and it took him a long time to restrain his anger. Then he turned around to rush to the Purity Garden. He didnt have time to talk with this crazy woman. He had to take Shi Qingxue out as soon as possible. But Qin Yanyan suddenly rushed to hug him and didnt let him go. Dont go! As long as you dont leave, I will let you marry her. Otherwise, even if I use up my familys power, I wont allow you to marry her! Mo Junhao had to stop and shook off Qin Yanyans hands impatiently. What the hell do you mean? Didnt you say that you marry her just because of the power behind her? Then no matter if she has done something with other men, it wouldnt affect your marriage to her, right? Qin Yanyan smiled complacently and said with full confidence, As long as you dont mind what happens in the Purity Garden, its okay. Then if you want to marry her, I wont stop you but will help you persuade my father to agree. I dont need you to agree, Mo Junhao answered coldly. Yes? Qin Yanyan fiddled with her handkerchief casually. After all, my father is the prime minister of the country. If he joins hands with his followers to support the third prince or the crown prince, do you think you will have any chances to win the fight for the position of the heir to the throne? Mo Junhao turned pale and didnt speak a word. Now he was almost well-matched in strength with Mo Junjiu, and they could do nothing to each other. If Qin Shirong followed somebody else at this crucial time, Mo Junhao would definitely lose! No, your father wouldnt do that. You are my side concubine. Even if he supports Mo Junjiu, my suspicious brother wouldnt believe him. Moreover, it will do no good to you, Mo Junhao remained coldly. But Qin Yanyan looked like she was crazy, in a nervy state. I dont want any good. Shi Qingxue once ruined my fame and made me become your side concubine. I want to pay her back a thousand times more! I will do it at any cost. If you dont believe me, you can have a try! Mo Junhao kept silent and knew that Qin Yanyan was not joking. Since he didnt speak, the depression and craziness on Qin Yanyans face disappeared. She smiled again and said lively, Dont be unhappy. My plan will be greatly helpful to you. Mo Junhao frowned. What do you mean? Dont tell me that you are unaware that Shi Qingxue doesnt like you at all! Qin Yanyan told the truth, straight to the heart of the matter. She looked with pleasure at Mo Junhao, who was unable to reply, showing a stiffened expression. Then she continued leisurely, She is so arrogant, as if she can win any mans heart, and how can she have any interest in you? But if she falls into the abyss and becomes a slut condemned by the public, do you think she will be haughty? Then nobody would want to marry her. If you propose marriage to her, she would surely take you as a life-saving straw and use all the power of the Shi Family to help you in case that you abandon her. Isnt it what you want? Mo Junhao was speechless and scared by Qin Yanyans fantasy. He stayed silent for a while and still frowned. After a long time, he looked at Qin Yanyan coldly. You are insane. Qin Yanyan didnt think that he was cursing her but laughed joyfully. Who isnt insane in this world? What do you think? Your Highness, how about you go to have a seat in your study first? Lets watch a good show together later, okay? Mo Junhao knew what Qin Yanyan meant. If he agreed, it meant that he approved her plan to ruin Shi Qingxue. In fact, he had no other choice. At the critical time, he couldnt lose the Qin Clans support. Moreover, what Qin Yanyan said made sense. Shi Qingxue lost her confidence! Then wouldnt she be at his mercy? Mo Junhao tacitly approved and restrained his anger. At the thought that his loved woman would sleep with somebody else, he wanted to kill. If he had known it earlier, he should have slept with her first. He looked at Qin Yanyan and warned her with useless words. Dont go too far. Qin Yanyan smiled and watched Mo Junhao walking to his study. She murmured, I wont go too far. I will keep her alive. But she was not sure if Shi Qingxue would go crazy because she couldnt bear the blow. Lianger, lets go to the backyard. Today I am the focus of attention. I cant let that bitch steal the show every time. Qin Yanyans pretty face flushed out of excitement. She walked with a few little hops. When they reached the backyard, all the noble ladies talked and laughed in twos and threes. They greeted her after seeing her. Qin Yanyan accepted their greetings and just nodded occasionally, putting on the airs. They chatted happily, and somebody suddenly asked, Why is Lady Qingxue not here? Is she absent again? Another lady next to her asked in a low voice. The daughter of the Minister of Penalty, Luo Wenmei started to expose the news. Lady Liu sent some people in person to bring her here. She must have come, but she is not present now Doesnt she have the courage to meet us? Shi Baoning frowned and looked at Luo Wenmei with resentment. Qingxue is aboveboard. Why would she have no courage to meet you? Luo Wenmei responded, I dont know. Or do you say that Lady Qingxue disdains to greet His Highnesss wife so she avoids meeting her? Gee, its said that Lady Qingxue always loves His Highness. Now she must be hiding somewhere and crying as Lady Qin is favored by him. The voice was from the crowd, and they couldnt tell who had said that before most of them laughed. Shi Baoning was speechless. She just looked at the entrance and thought where Shi Qingxue was. Just now Jing Yi said that she saw Qingxue coming in from the side door. At this time, a maid ran over in a hurry and came close to Qin Yanyans ear but reported in a voice loud enough to make others hear, My Lady, bad news. Lady Qingxue entered the Purity Garden. The Purity Garden? Qin Yanyan shouted, as if she was afraid that others couldnt hear her. Then she asked seriously on purpose, How could you let her in? That maid felt wrong. She insisted on entering, and I failed to stop her. Bastard, didnt you tell her what kind of place it is? I told her, but she didnt listen. Instead, she insisted on walking inside Qin Yanyan didnt need to say more, and there was an uproar in the backyard. A young lady who didnt know that asked, What kind of place is the Purity Garden in this mansion? An older lady explained, You dont know that? Every noble family provides for some singing girls to give others as gifts or for entertainment. His Highness let them stay in the Purity Garden. There was a surprised voice. Then isnt it Gee, its my first time to hear that a noble lady went to somewhere like that. Its so humiliating. Shi Baoning glared at the speaker and asked coldly, Luo Wenmei, what are you talking about? Luo Wenmei shrank her neck after the howl, but soon she looked at Shi Baoning as if nothing had happened. What am I talking about? I am telling the truth. She went to the Purity Garden. I feel embarrassed to say that. She is shameless, but I have to care about my dignity. You! Shi Baoning trembled with anger, but she was not good at arguing and couldnt retort. Qin Yanyan announced in time, Well, stop bickering. We dont know how Qingxue is now. Lets go to have a look first. Luo Wenmei laughed, delight in the misfortunes of others. We are going to watch a good play. All the noble ladies came to the door of the Purity Garden. Qin Yanyan was about to walk inside, but Lianger pulled her arm and advised in a low voice, My Lady, youd better not go in. Qin Yanyan wanted to see Shi Qingxue fall into a quagmire and get a bad name, but Lianger reminded her that the Purity Garden was not a place which they should enter. But how would she catch them making out if she didnt come in? Qin Yanyan didnt say anything but looked back at the anxious noble ladies behind her. Then someone pointed at the garden and shouted, Well, it seems that there is a coat falling on the ground in the garden. Baoning, have a look at it. Is that Lady Qingxues? Shi Baoning looked at it after hearing that and her pale face stiffened. She didnt need to say a word, but others knew her answer. Chen Xiujiao moved close to Qin Yanyan and incited her, My Lady, although the unmarried girls should consider our status and cant go into such a place, Qingxue is trapped inside and might be waiting for us to enter and save her. If we stand aside and something wrong happens to her, what should she do? Luo Wenmei echoed, Right. We cant be completely indifferent when watching Qingxue in trouble. Moreover, there are so many of us together. Its clear at a glance whether we are innocent. Others cant frame us even if they want to. The law failed where violators were legion. In addition, they had a perfect excuse as they would save someone. Qin Yanyan led all the ladies into the Purity Garden instantly. Of course, in order not to watch something too obscene, Qin Yanyan told Lianger and two guards to lead the way and kick out anybody irrelevant. Shi Baoning felt restless and wanted to prevent this farce, but she couldnt when she saw one and another garment showing on the ground. At first, it was the coat, and then the outer dress, underwear, underpants Shi Baoning turned ghostly pale and panicked to see that. Ha, they are having a good time. Its surprising that Qingxue looks pure but is good at playing! Luo Wenmei sighed with emotion and laughed sarcastically. Shi Baoning quivered at her provocation. Dont talk nonsense. Qingxue is not like what you said. Dont cast wild aspersions at her. Luo Wenmei responded, Can you say that the clothes all over the ground are not Shi Qingxues? What do you think she wears after taking off all these? Someone whispered, Its beyond my expectation. I used to think that Lady Qingxue looks na?ve and isnt like someone who would do something like this. Who knows? You cant judge a person by the appearance. The most famous hooker in a brothel always looks like a noble lady, but when she is in bed Another lady had a scornful expression. The Shi Family has such a shameful girl and would have a loss of respect and honor. Chapter 112 - Who Is Inside Comments and criticisms came one after another, which made Shi Baoning blush and feel embarrassed and angry, but she could do nothing. It was more horrible that influenced by their words, she couldnt help but doubt whether Shi Qingxue was inside and even Shi Baoning abruptly shook her head and cast off those absurd thoughts. She grasped her handkerchief secretly and told herself, No, it cant be true. They are just making a false charge against Qingxue. Luo Wenmei suddenly moved close to Shi Baoning and whispered with a smile, There is such a slut in your family. If I were you, I would have stayed away from it and proved myself earlier. Otherwise, can you get any profit if the news spreads? While speaking, she pretended to unintentionally look around. Not until then did Shi Baoning realize that the ones next to her had gone far away from her, and many noble ladies peeped at her. When they met her eyes, they looked away, as if they would be affected after taking a look at her. Shi Baoning felt humiliated and gritted her teeth so that she wouldnt make a fool of herself in public. She looked up and glanced at Luo Wenmei, saying indifferently, Lady Wenmei, you said that too early. Now we havent seen them, but you try to sling mud at Qingxue. Are you jealous of her? Luo Wenmei was seen through and blushed. She retorted hurriedly, Of course I am not. Dont talk nonsense! We can only reach a conclusion after finding the truth, Shi Baoning said firmly. Even though she was nervous, she tried her best to save Qingxues face. Qin Yanyan looked at Shi Baoning and said meaningfully, Indeed we need to find the truth with our own eyes. She led the ladies to a room door along the clothes and then winked at Lianger. The latter walked forward and was about to knock at the door when the sounds came from inside all of a sudden. The sounds were rapid and passionate occasionally with rhythm. Many girls heard that at the door and their hearts beat fast. All of them lowered their heads with blush and didnt dare to look. Lianger seemed not to understand what the people were doing in the room and insisted on knocking at the door. Sixth Lady, are you inside? Hmm The voice was made when the mouth was covered. It was sweet and seductive, like some forced behavior on sex, painful but pleasant. My Lady, are you all right? Lianger called again but the woman in the room just cried in a low voice and didnt answer. She turned to Qin Yanyan at a loss. My Lady, it is Qin Yanyan knew what was going on inside but pretended to be ignorant and said in panic, I seem to hear Qingxues muffled voice. Is she in danger in the room? Lets open the door and have a look! Afterward, she couldnt wait to push the door open and enter the room. Stop! Shi Baoning rushed to stand in front of Qin Yanyan and didnt allow her to push the door. Qin Yanyan frowned. Infanta Baoning, what do you mean? We are not sure if it is Qingxue in the room. It might be improper if we break in before the people inside agree. Shi Baoning struggled for the last time, even if it might be useless. As expected, Chen Xiujiao supported Qin Yanyan instantly. Shi Qingxues clothes were thrown outside the door. Who else would be inside except her? Whats more, if its not her, we should check it. If some outsiders want to do harm to His Highness or Lady Qin in the mansion, you cant afford to take the responsibility! Shi Baoning was threatened and couldnt say a word. Another lady said, Gee, it is so obvious, but Lady Baoning tries to cover up for Shi Qingxue. Who will believe her? Right. They are family. Shi Qingxue can do something immoral, and nobody knows how dissolute Lady Baoning is despite her dignified appearance. You know what? I hear from my brothers that some men love this kind of woman who looks demure but is debauched in secret. The noble ladies whispered to one another and started to attack on Shi Baoning in speech, as if all the members of the Shi Family were the same. Shi Baonings face burned with shame and she trembled. She was powerless when Qin Yanyan pushed her away, left with no choice but to watch her push the door open. Everything in the room could be seen. Ah! Ah! Screams appeared inside and outside the room at the same time. All the noble ladies considered their status and covered their eyes, walking out to hide. Their faces were surprised and doubtful, and all were stunned that there were more than one man. It seemed that the woman in the room finally came to her senses and tried to hide herself under a man, groaning automatically at the same time. Since Qin Yanyan had got what she wanted, she pretended to be kind and partly closed up the door before ordering Lianger, Lead two people in and tell them to get dressed before coming out to see us. How embarrassing it is to be naked. It appeared that Qin Yanyan considered for the woman in the room, but two burly guards followed Lianger in. Didnt she want the naked woman to be seen by more people when they helped her get dressed? But at this time, nobody would care about this detail. They caught them having sex and witnessed with their own eyes. Shi Baonings lips trembled and Qin Yanyan still questioned, Infanta Baoning, what do you want to say to defend Lady Qingxue? Shi Baoning was unable to speak a word after a long time. Luo Wenmei abruptly cut in and spat to the ground. She can do something so dirty as a guest. She just makes all of us noble ladies lose face. Right. If the news spreads, what would the outsiders think of us? Chen Xiujiao said to Qin Yanyan, My Lady, Lady Qingxue did such a shameless thing in your mansion, and naturally you should deal with her. Qin Yanyan waved her hand with an affected air and pretended to be modest. I am just the side concubine, and everything in the mansion would be handled by His Highness. Moreover, it is significant. I think we have to report to His Highness before making a decision, in case that somebody would say that I use the power for my own private revenge. Pah! Shi Qingxue had sex before being proposed marriage and we caught them in bed. She made the Shi Family lose all the dignity. Who would help her? The words became more and more obscene and almost made Shi Qingxue not worth a penny. When Qin Yanyan thought she was going to win and prepared to tell Lianger to ask Mo Junhao to come and make it more dramatic, a clear female voice appeared from the outside. I am curious. What have I done to make so many girls curse me up hill and down dale and defame the Shi Family? All people were astonished and looked in the direction the voice came from. And they made way for the comer involuntarily. Qingxue! Shi Baoning was almost desperate and hadnt expected Shi Qingxue to show up in front of her, with no filth or shame as they said. Qin Yanyan opened her eyes wide, as if she saw a ghost, and blurted out, Why are you here? Shi Qingxue first smiled at Shi Baoning to comfort her and then calmly and forcefully glanced over the noble ladies who had added insult to injury. At last, she looked at Qin Yanyan and said casually, My Lady, I got Lady Lius invitation and came to celebrate your birthday. If I am not here, where should I be? Qin Yanyan hadnt come to herself and murmured, No. No way. You are supposed to be She paused all of a sudden and looked at the room, asking, You are outside, so who is the woman in the room? Shi Qingxue didnt care and shrugged, laughing. You have invited all the guests. Havent you found who is missing? Qin Yanyan was taken aback and had a bad feeling. She turned her eyes to everyone in the crowd nervously and felt more scared. Then she questioned automatically, Shi Qingxue, what did you do to my younger sister? Shi Qingxue didnt change her expression or even reply. A weak and sobbing voice with grievance appeared in the room. Sister, why am I here? At the same time, Lianger happened to open the door. The sixth lady from the Qin Family showed up in front of everyone. Her clothes were wrinkled, with dots in the corners. Even if they couldnt see, they could guess what the dots were. There were dense red marks on her neck, and even her clothes couldnt cover them, which showed what had happened to her earlier. Sixth Lady from the Qin Family! Someone recognized the woman in the room. Seeing that, Qin Yanyan almost went into a coma and then screamed automatically, Luoluo, why do you look like this? Qin Luoluo shed tears after being shouted at and tried to hide behind Lianger timidly. I dont know. I dont know anything! Close the door! Be quick! Qin Yanyans first reaction was to close the door and tried to keep off the curious eyes from outside. Shi Qingxue resisted the door in advance and asked coldly, My Lady, didnt you say that you would find the truth? Why do you want to shut the door now? Qin Yanyan glared at Shi Qingxue and asked with resentment, What do you want? Shi Qingxue looked at her fearlessly and said indifferently, I dont want anything. But just now, you slandered me and my family before seeing the woman inside clearly and said you wanted to ask His Highness for justice. Now the leading role in the room has come out, so I ask you to thoroughly investigate the matter. Is it too much? Qin Yanyan almost exploded. What else should be investigated? Anybody could see that the victim was Qin Luoluo. If they asked Mo Junhao to come here, Qin Luoluo wouldnt have the face to live in the future. The Qin Family and even Qin Yanyan would be humiliated. At this thought, Qin Yanyan acted shamelessly and pushed Shi Qingxue away with strength before closing the door. She snorted. Here is the fourth princes mansion, and I am his wife. Who are you? Do you qualify to say anything? Get out! How can you act like this? You told her to get out before investigating? Isnt it clear? I think Lady Qin thought Shi Qingxue was in the room, so she intentionally led us to catch her in bed. We have caught someone, who is from the Qin Family unexpectedly. Its so laughable. I told you. Lady Qingxue is always upright and lively, and even the empress dowager praised her. How could she do such a dirty thing? She was actually wronged. All people whispered, firing belated shots. It was beginning to hum. Qin Yanyans face darkened, but she thought that she had the highest position and ordered forcefully, All of you, shut up and leave the Purity Garden now! Lianger, send them away. Huh! She kicked out all people and would clean up every trace. Then she would threaten the noble ladies present and was sure to smooth things out! Chapter 113 - Wait to See a Drama Qin Yanyan had a perfect plan and prepared everything. If somebody dared to resist, she would force them out of the Purity Garden. At the moment, somebody reported from outside all of a sudden, The crown prince, the fourth prince, and King Ruis heir are coming! All people looked at the entrance at the same time and saw the crown prince Mo Junyu walking in the front, with Mo Junyang and Mo Junhao on each side, entering the Purity Garden and coming over. Anxiety couldnt be concealed on Mo Junhaos face, and he walked irregularly. It appeared that he wanted to walk faster but had to follow Mo Junyu because of his status. He looked over here in the distance and seemed to be looking for something. As soon as he found Shi Qingxue, his pupils shrank out of the blue, but soon he calmed down. He lowered his head to hide his complicated thoughts and followed Mo Junyu steadily. Mo Junhao believed his petty actions were not eye-catching and couldnt be noticed, but everything was in two peoples eyes. Shi Qingxue sneered and thought she would have felt sad. The man she loved in the previous life tried to harm her without mercy, but now she just felt it was as expected. Mo Junhao could do anything! But she wasnt in the mood to aim at Mo Junhao today. She looked coldly at Qin Yanyan who panicked and hurriedly walked a few steps forward before standing. Your Highness, why did you come here? She even forgot to greet him with more words and was totally frightened. Mo Junhao didnt have time to care about this trifle and asked her, My elder brother Junyu and my cousin Junyang came to visit me and suddenly heard from the servants that there was something wrong in the Purity Garden, so we came to have a look together. What happened? Arent you supposed to celebrate your birthday with the noble ladies in the backyard? Qin Yanyan gritted her teeth in secret and thought, Which nosey servant dared to gossip? If I know who it is, I will cut off his tongue. But she had to answer respectfully, I was having fun with the girls in the backyard when we heard that something was wrong in the Purity Garden and then found that Qingxue was not with us. We were worried about her, so we came here together. She explained why she had led a group of noble ladies to the Purity Garden and meanwhile put the blame on Shi Qingxue. Even if Mo Junhao wanted to punish somebody, he could do nothing to Qin Yanyan. At the same time, she wanted to take the chance to distract everyone and told Lianger to take Qin Luoluo away first. But as soon as she stopped speaking, Mo Junyangs words attracted everyones attention again. Who is standing at the door? Lianger had opened the door and pulled Qin Luoluo out. When they prepared to flee in secret, many eyes were focused on her in unison, which scared her and she didnt dare to move. She had to look at Qin Yanyan miserably to ask for help. Mo Junyang followed Liangers eyes and looked at Qin Yanyan, continuing to ask, It seems that this maid will work under Lady Qins orders, right? King Ruis heir was fine if he didnt speak. As long as he said something, every word would kill somebody. Qin Yanyan had cold sweat on her back and cursed Mo Junyang in her heart, but she had to smile politely. My sister is not feeling well. I told the maid to take her to my room to get a rest. Im sorry to let you know that, Your Excellency. She spoke casually and meanwhile glanced over all the noble ladies present with her threatening eyes, seeming to say, I will kill anyone who speaks now. Although many noble ladies wanted to see Qin Yanyan being humiliated, nobody was willing to speak first to offend her. All of them lowered their heads silently and turned to Shi Qingxue with expectancy. Qin Yanyan had defamed the Shi Family regardless of anything earlier. Shi Qingxue was always unwilling to be defeated and wouldnt miss such a chance to get back at the Qin Family, so they just had to wait to see a drama. Beyond everyones expectation, Shi Qingxue, who should angrily jump out to make a charge against Qin Luoluos immoral behavior, remained silent and stood by. King Ruis heir softened his voice and asked seriously, Whats wrong with Lady Luoluo? He asked sincerely and couldnt understand what had happened to Qin Luoluo. Qin Yanyan couldnt be shameless as to tell others that her sister had sex just now, with more than one man. Qin Luoluo looked like she had been defiled miserably and was in a trance. Qin Yanyan clenched her teeth and tried to pretend that she didnt mind. She just has some ailment, and it is not serious. Thanks for your concern, Your Excellency. Mo Junyang responded in an instant, If you dont pay attention to the ailment in the beginning, it will kill you when it attacks. Am I right, Crown Prince? Mo Junyu was mentioned all of a sudden, and he was stunned for a while before nodding. As His Excellency said, Lady Luoluo should be checked by a doctor. I am going to find a doctor. Excuse me. Qin Yanyan interrupted Mo Junyu rudely and walked back to Qin Luoluo to keep off the eyes with evil intentions. She wanted to send her sister away quickly, but Mo Junyu said again, Lady Qin, dont be anxious. I happen to have a doctor with me. How about you let Mr. Shen check on Lady Luoluo so that we can know what is wrong with her. Junhao, what do you think? At last, he ignored Qin Yanyan and told Mo Junhao to make a decision. Mo Junhao looked away from Qingxue quietly and didnt change his expression. Luoluo is just a little girl. How can she disturb the miracle-working Doctor Shen who is famous in the capital city? The doctors in my mansion can treat her. Mo Junyu smiled kindly. Thats true, but its better if a famous doctor can help. Is it that you dont think Mr. Shen is skilled, so you dont want him to treat your sister-in-law? Mo Junhao had guessed that Qin Yanyans plan was ruined and couldnt help but feel happy. Although it was a pity that he had lost a great chance to threaten the Shi Family, Shi Qingxue would belong to him unharmed. He didnt mind helping Qin Yanyan prevent this farce from going farther. But He frowned in secret and was surprised at Mo Junyus sudden aggressive attitude, which was different from his previous peace-making style. Mo Junhao couldnt refuse anymore. Thanks for your kindness, brother. I will be impolite if I refuse. He saluted Mo Junyu to express his gratitude. Mo Junyu turned around and said to the man behind him. Mr. Shen, please check on Lady Luoluo. No problem, Shen Luo replied instantly. Without being told, he walked to Qin Luoluo. Shi Qingxue witnessed everything and felt surprised. She couldnt help but peep at Mo Junyang. The latter seemed to feel it and smiled at her in secret to offer comfort. So she watched the play calmly. But Qin Yanyan was not calm. Seeing that Shen Luo walked to her step by step and then reached out to check Qin Luoluos pulse, she stood in front of him. Dont touch her. Shen Luo was not irritated but smiled. I find that Lady Luoluo is in a trance and seems to have eaten something wrong. If she cant be treated in time, I am afraid she will be in trouble. Qin Yanyan didnt believe Shen Luo, nor did she let him touch Qin Luoluo. There was no joking about it. It could be seen what had happened from Qin Luoluos appearance, but it would be different after the famous doctor made a conclusion. She looked at Mo Junhao for help, indicating, Your Highness, I beg you. Stop this miracle-working doctor from insulting my sister. If the Qin Clan is humiliated, can you get any profit? Mo Junhao avoided meeting Qin Yanyans eyes and pondered for a moment before saying with a smile, After all, Luoluo is an unmarried woman. Its better if Doctor Shen treats her in the room. Mo Junyu seemed not to find that it was a stalling tactic and nodded. Right. Choose one room to let Mr. Shen examine Lady Luoluo carefully. Huh? It looked as if he finally found a room in front of them and his eyes lit up. Then he said joyfully, This room looks nice. Thats it. Aha! They played a game and the onlookers watched a play. Some audiences couldnt help laughing. But when the men looked at them again, all of them lowered their heads, standing still. Only Qin Yanyans face was ghostly pale, showing that she didnt want to stay alive. She tried every means to harm Qingxue, but she failed, and she even hurt her sister and was embarrassed. Qin Yanyan gritted her teeth with resentment and wanted to bite Shi Qingxue into pieces, but she was clear that it was not time to act rashly. She couldnt allow Shen Luo to check Qin Luoluos pulse. Next second, in the eyes of everyone, Qin Yanyan suddenly felt dizzy and staggered to fall forward. Luo Wenmei swiftly helped her and shouted at the same time, No. Lady Qin is weak and kept standing for a long time. I am afraid the baby is affected. Your Highness, please send her back to her room as soon as possible. Lianger, send your lady back now, Mo Junhao ordered instantly and looked at Shen Luo. Doctor Shen, my wife is weak. Please come with us to check on her. I will ask another doctor to treat Luoluos ailment. Uhm Shen Luo looked at Mo Junyu hesitantly and the latter turned to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang was at leisure and didnt speak a word. Alas! These two were gods. If they didnt play charades at the crucial time, it couldnt show that they were powerful. But since the two were silent, Shen Luo didnt want to be a bad guy and took the chance to follow Qin Yanyan whose fetus was affected. All the audiences were led by the servants in the mansion to leave one after another. The farce was in suspense, which made most of the people feel uncomfortable. Before leaving, Chen Xiujiao glared at Shi Qingxue, seeming to say, You were lucky this time. Lets wait and see. Shi Qingxue narrowed her eyes and didnt talk with her. She just told the maid Jing Yi to send Shi Baoning back home first. Qingxue, arent you going back with me? Shi Baoning grabbed Qingxues hand and didnt let her go. She had been scared for one day. Even though she knew Shi Qingxue was in safety, she still felt restless and couldnt set her mind at ease. Qingxue patted the back of Baonings hand and said in a low voice, I have something to do and will go back later. Dont worry. I will be fine. Shi Baoning was worried. What are you going to do? What happened? Why are your clothes in the Purity Garden? Oh, right. Why did you get changed? While speaking, Shi Baoning finally noticed that Qingxue didnt wear the clothes she had worn in the morning, and there was water on her hair. It seemed that she had been in water. Chapter 114 - No One Is Innocent Shi Baoning found more mysteries. She stared at Shi Qingxues neck, which was covered by the collar. But when she lowered her head, some red marks were exposed. Even though Shi Baoning didnt have experience, she knew what had happened. Shi Qingxue seemed not to notice Shi Baonings changed expression and explained with a smile, The wine made my clothes wet, so I got changed and washed myself. It could truly explain why she got changed, but it couldnt conceal the red marks on her neck. Shi Qingxue didnt plan to give an explanation and forcefully told Jing Yi to send Shi Baoning into the carriage. Mo Junyu stood behind and watched everything. He couldnt help laughing and sighed with emotion to Mo Junyang. I think your girlfriend is not easy to handle. She is skillful in lying. If he didnt know the truth, he might have been cheated by Shi Qingxues calmness. Mo Junyang cast a sidelong glance at him and said casually, She did get changed and have a wash after getting her clothes dirty. When did she lie? Mo Junyu was speechless. Fine. He knew that the inward Mo Junyang would never allow him to speak ill of Shi Qingxue, but he just couldnt control himself. Mo Junyu cursed himself in secret for his long tongue and then walked to Shi Qingxue decently, reaching out his hand to invite her. Lets have a talk in another place. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang subconsciously, who didnt have any reactions. She had to nod and follow Mo Junyu. The three went into a private room in a tea house. After serving tea, the waiter considerately closed the door for them when leaving. Your Highness, what do you want to tell me? Shi Qingxue asked anxiously. Actually, if Mo Junyu didnt say that he had something important to tell her, she wouldnt meet him at this crucial time. Mo Junyu didnt keep her in suspense but went straight to the point. Although General Shi won the battle on the Qingluo Mountain, in fact, they were in danger and had a lot of hidden troubles. I think I dont need to tell you about it. Shi Qingxue responded, So what? It must have nothing to do with you. Why would you care so much about this matter? Mo Junyu goggled and couldnt speak a word. She blamed him for meddling? He didnt want to talk with Shi Qingxue anymore. This couple were good at ending a conversation and were a perfect match. He would live ten years less if he talked with them. Mo Junyu was resentful, but Mo Junyang glanced at him, so he concealed his emotion and said seriously, We dont talk about if it has something to do with me, but you must want to figure it out now, right? Do you know what I want to figure out? Mo Junyu took a sip of tea leisurely. Mo Junjiu. Shi Qingxue looked serious and stared at him. Then what can you tell me? Nothing. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. Mo Junyu was glared and smiled with satisfaction, saying slowly, Indeed I have nothing to tell you, but if you want to know the truth, maybe you can ask your elder brother, Wenren Chi. What do you mean? Shi Qingxues expression went cold. Mo Junyu shrugged indifferently. Thats what I can remind you. I believe that with your capability, its not difficult to find the truth. Moreover, Wenren Chi still loved her, and if she investigated him, there must be many questionable points. Shi Qingxue didnt understand Mo Junyus hidden meaning, but she knew that no pains, no gains. She didnt ask more but expressed her gratitude. Your Highness, thanks for your kindness and information, and today Mo Junyu said modestly, I did nothing today and dont dare to claim credit. Thats not true. You two really helped me a lot. Shi Qingxue showed a sincere smile. Without their disturbance today, Qin Yanyan would have dealt with the issue in the Purity Garden and might have made a fuss about her clothes. Mo Junyu also smiled. Although Lady Qin pretended to be sick in the end to cover up the scandal, after this farce, the Qin Familys reputation in the noble circle would be As for the reputation, something that happened might have never happened, but once it was known, it couldnt be like nothing. Speaking of which, Junyang, you are too brutal! Even if Lady Qins plan was bad, Lady Luoluo is innocent. You shouldnt hurt a na?ve young girl to get even with Lady Qin! Mo Junyu sighed with emotion but there was ridicule in his eyes. He didnt feel sorry for Qin Luoluo and just made fun of her. Innocent? Even Mo Junyangs smile was cold. His low voice was like the judgment in hell. She is not innocent at all. Mo Junyu was stunned and asked in confusion, What did she do to offend you? Mo Junyang and Qin Luoluo didnt seem to have any connections, but the expression on his face obviously showed that it was wrong, and his hatred made Mo Junyu tremble with fear. Mo Junyang didnt intend to explain and turned his head to look out of the window, saying with no emotion, Its late now. You should go back to the palace, Your Highness. Why are you still used to driving people away when you have the slightest disagreement? Mo Junyu mumbled discontentedly, but Mo Junyang didnt even look at him. Mo Junyu turned to Shi Qingxue and smiled slyly. Nobody would be willing to marry a man with his character in the future! Do you think so? He said that quite firmly as if he made a prediction. But Shi Qingxue didnt have any sympathetic response. Facing Mo Junyangs half smile, she felt bitter. No. How is it possible? There must be somebody who wants to marry him. I promise. Mo Junyu looked at Shi Qingxue in doubt. He was just joking. Did she need to promise seriously? Mo Junyang didnt give him a minute to think about it but told Wei Zichao to see him off. The crown prince was kicked out. Oh, no. He was asked to return to the palace. It was silent in the private room after Mo Junyu left. Shi Qingxue was lost in thought, about Mo Junyangs words not innocent. Qin Luoluo was not innocent indeed. In the previous life, after marrying Qingxue as his wife, Mo Junhao united the Qin Family by marriage and married two sisters, Qin Yanyan and Qin Luoluo. Both of them were arrogant, vicious and extremely devious in their efforts. They used one bowl of nutritious soup to kill the baby in her belly, so she lost much energy and blood and couldnt get out of bed until resting for more than half a year. She didnt plan to let them go from the beginning, but she hadnt expected that Mo Junyang was so efficient. He made use of every opportunity and finished the job, as if he knew what she was thinking. But in the previous life, when she was in the fourth princes mansion, Mo Junyang had been given the title of King Ruis heir and sent back to Rui City. Logically, he shouldnt have known what had happened to her. However, Mo Junyang knew everything and offered her help, like this time. When Shi Qingxue was forced into the Purity Garden by the servant, she didnt feel scared. She was familiar with every secret passage in the mansion and could easily leave from another exit. But after she took only a few steps, she started to feel hot all over and was like being burnt by fire. Her awareness was confused, and she didnt even find how she took off her coat. She staggered to the pond in her memory and then fell into it without thinking. She wanted to cool herself with the ice-cold water. It didnt work! Her body temperature went up gradually and burnt her to lose her consciousness. And her eyes became misty, and her body softened. Shi Qingxue almost doubted that she would drown in the pond or be caught by the people of the Purity Garden. Suddenly, her wrist tightened, and a cool body got close to her from behind to make her feel cold. Its comfortable. Shi Qingxue had lost her reason for the high temperature and moved close by instinct to the stuff which could make her comfortable. Next second, she was picked up and left the water. She felt hotter. For a moment, she regained her awareness suddenly and realized the danger. She struggled with all strength and asked for help weakly, Let me go. Dont touch me Mo Junyang At last, she didnt know what she was saying, but the person who held her paused for a while and then hugged her more tightly, whispering in her ear, Dont be afraid. I am here. She sensed the familiar breath and felt that she was covered by something. She still felt hot, but she was comfortable and safe. She stopped struggling and obediently approached the creature which made her feel at ease. After a long time, Shi Qingxue opened her eyes slowly. It was not the dirty and cold pond in the Purity Garden but an unfamiliar environment. However, she was in warm spring water and felt relaxed. How are you feeling? Mo Junyangs hoarse voice came from behind all of a sudden, which scared Qingxue. She turned around in a hurry and found that she was tightly hugged by him. She couldnt move but could only look back. Mo Junyangs handsome face enlarged before her eyes. It was gloomy but tolerant, which frightened her. Mo Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang forced a smile and asked her the same question. I am fine. Please let me go! Shi Qingxue felt uncomfortable and wanted to move, but Mo Junyang didnt loosen his hands and shouted in a low voice, Dont move. What Whats wrong? Mo Junyang loosened a little. When Qingxue tried to get rid of him, he pulled her arm and turned a circle. Then the two were face to face. Shi Qingxue was unable to speak a word. Mo Junyang still didnt plan to explain but asked, Dont you feel unwell? Shi Qingxue replied, I am just itchy. It was a strange itch, as if thousands of ants climbed over her body, which made her heart itchy. She wanted to move close to something. So when Mo Junyang refused to let go of her, she didnt struggle. The feeling when they clung to each other made her happy, even though it made her feel ashamed. She just didnt dare to meet Mo Junyangs eyes. Mo Junyang saw through her dilemma at a glance and explained to her, Probably you drank the love flower tea, so you lost your consciousness just now. I have fed you some medicine. Stay in the medicine pool for longer. You will be fine after the medicine works a few times. The love flower tea? Shi Qingxue repeated in surprise and couldnt believe it. Mo Junyang misunderstood and looked cold. What? You dont believe that Mo Junhao would drug you? Shi Qingxues big eyes widened, and she stared at Mo Junyang. Till he turned away after being stared, she realized that he appeared to bejealous. She felt joyful weirdly and wanted to laugh. After so much happened, how can I still have any unrealistic feelings for that kind of man? If she had any thoughts, she just thought about how to kill him. I just didnt think that he would be so low as to use the love flower tea. Shi Qingxues smile was cold and her weak body trembled automatically. Mo Junyangs pupils shrank. The medicine worked again. Chapter 115 - Take the Responsibility Shi Qingxues body got burning hot again. Unlike before when she was burnt and unconscious, feeling uncomfortable, she was sober now, but her body was excited. She couldnt control her desire to pounce on Mo Junyang and touch him, and it was better to She was not an ignorant little girl, but this desire made her feel ashamed and want to hide herself. However, Mo Junyang still hugged her and they could sense each others breaths. If she leaned forward, she could touch his lips and get what she wanted. This thought lingered on her mind since it appeared and she couldnt shake it off. She had to grit her teeth and resist this shameful hope while trying to push away the mans solid and reliable chest. Let me go. Let me go. Mo Junyang refused without thinking, and he had enough reasons. You will be powerless later and fall into water if I dont support you. I want to get on shore. Mo Junyang still disagreed. You will feel worse. Shi Qingxue shook her head and held her breath, walking to the shore. At the same time, she resisted Mo Junyangs touch. Seeing that she staggered and almost fell into water several times, Mo Junyang sighed helplessly and picked her up again. Ah! Dont move. I will carry you up. Mo Junyang was afraid that she would struggle again and get hurt, so he added, Dont worry. I wont sleep with you without your permission. Most of the time, Mo Junyang had extraordinary willpower and would do as he said. But when they were on shore and Mo Junyang wanted to put Shi Qingxue on the prepared blanket to let her rest, she hugged his neck tightly and didnt let him go. She even rubbed her neck against his constantly. It was like the little animals closely playing games and the swans crossing necks. ShiQingxue! Mo Junyang gritted his teeth, growling and sat on the blanket like a statue. Blue veins stood out on his fists, but there was no expression on his face, as if it was calm before the storm came. Unfortunately, the girl intimate to him didnt realize the danger but started to pull his collar. She messed up their clothes soon. Mo Junyang grabbed Shi Qingxues hand which moved randomly and clenched his teeth. Do you know what you are doing? Did she try to kill him by seducing him in this way? Being shouted at, Shi Qingxue paused for a while and looked up, with confusion and grievance in her beautiful eyes. She looked at him and called softly, Mo Junyang Her low voice was like a kittens but like a bomb to explode in Mo Junyangs heart. His reason was bombed out. He grasped Qingxues hands and kissed her red lips. It seemed that he wanted to skin her alive. Shi Qingxue didnt resist and grabbed Mo Junyangs collar with both hands, just groaning when she was bitten. Mo Junyang got soft-hearted in an instant and released her lips. In his eyes, it was Qingxues ruddy and seductive face with moisture. He couldnt control himself and lowered his head again, aiming at Shi Qingxues fair-skinned neck to force the woman in his arms to make more pleasant and tempting voices. But it was not enough. Junyang Shi Qingxue murmured again with no awareness and the power was like the last straw. Mo Junyang nearly had sex with this woman he loved for two lives regardless of anything. Just nearly When his hand touched Shi Qingxues trembling skin, he came to his senses suddenly. He realized that she was not sober at the moment. Damn it! Mo Junyang cursed in a low voice and put her light-skinned arms back to both sides before holding her more tightly. He confined her like chains, which made her unable to move. Shi Qingxue still sobbed in pain. Hot. Uncomfortable. Mo Junyang, it hurts She spoke in disorder and called Mo Junyangs name occasionally, with ambiguous feelings. Mo Junyang didnt know how to describe his feelings. He was aroused but couldnt vent his desire. And he got more excited from time to time by Qingxues random action, but she called him like a kitten, which made his heart melt. Even though she was unconscious, she asked nobody but him for help. He looked at Shi Qingxue with pity, unwilling to hurt her. Mo Junyang lowered his head and kissed her sweaty forehead gently, with no desire. He just comforted her by saying, Go to sleep. You will be fine after that. Afterward, Shi Qingxue fell asleep indeed. After she woke up, she found she had changed into clean clothes and returned to the fourth princes mansion. She sat and leaned against a big stone behind the rockery. Mo Junyang stood two meters away from her and looked into the distance, lost in thought. He didnt notice that she had woken up. Mo Shi Qingxue wanted to call the mans name, but when she opened her mouth, the memory of what happened after she took the medicine came into her mind. She remembered everything that should and shouldnt be remembered. This was another good effect of the love flower tea. Shi Qingxue flushed with shyness and didnt have the courage to call his name as before. She didnt even dare to look at him. Mo Junyang heard her voice and looked back instantly. He walked to her quickly and reached out to touch her forehead naturally. How are you feeling? I am well. Shi Qingxue avoided Mo Junyangs hand automatically and left it in the air. Both of them were stunned, and it was awkward for no reason. Shi Qingxue found that Mo Junyang looked unwell, and her shyness turned to shame. I am sorry. I didnt She said awkwardly and then interrupted herself. She didnt know how to explain. If she said she didnt mean it, would Mo Junyang believe her? Obviously, Mo Junyang didnt believe it. He gazed at her for quite a while and said out of the blue, I wont let you go away again. Ah? Shi Qingxue didnt understand what he meant, and Mo Junyang didnt want to explain but asked, Do you remember what happened before? He just mentioned what she tried to avoid. Did he fear that she wouldnt feel ashamed to death? Shi Qingxue glared at Mo Junyang and replied crossly, Yes, I remember everything. Okay? Mo Junyang nodded and was satisfied. Its great that you remember. Wasnt Mo Junyang supposed to laugh at her? Why was the conversations trend different from what she thought? Mo Junyang said suddenly, I kissed you. Shi Qingxue kept silent. Mo Junyang continued, I kissed you, so I will take the responsibility. Shi Qingxue felt a chill on her back and answered automatically, I dont mind. Mo Junyang said again, You kissed me. So, so what? Shi Qingxue goggled and asked hesitantly. Mo Junyang nodded and seemed to accept her reply. But before she heaved a sigh of relief, he said leisurely, You need to take the responsibility for the rest of my life. Shi Qingxue felt that her eyes would pop out of their sockets. Take the responsibility? What the hell? Since she was reborn, Shi Qingxue always tried to avoid being in a relationship with Mo Junyang. She had finally persuaded him to marry somebody else, and she couldnt ruin it at the crucial time. She suddenly had a brain wave and blurted out the shameless words. You are not the only one that I have kissed. Then she covered her face with shyness and didnt see that Mo Junyangs face darkened because of her words. When she observed Mo Junyangs reactions again, he was calm as usual. He just said innocently with grievance, But you are the only one that I have kissed. It was his first kiss, and she couldnt get away with it. How is it possible? Shi Qingxue didnt believe him. Mo Junyang looked at her silently. The meaning was self-evident. Shi Qingxue wanted to cry. She was clear that Mo Junyang might have told the truth. I Qingxue opened her mouth and was at a loss for words. In fact, she wasnt so dumb as to unable to understand Mo Junyangs feelings for her, but she was unwilling. She had said that she didnt want to hurt Mo Junyangs feelings because she couldnt love him back, but actually, she was just a poor girl. A burnt child dreaded the fire. I have promised you Shi Qingxue chose the right words cautiously. I will help you find a suitable wife. You, dont need me to take the responsibility. Mo Junyang sneered. Do you think some girl would be willing to marry me? Why wouldnt? Qingxue goggled and didnt believe his words. But Mo Junyang took it for granted and said, In nice words, I am the admirable King Ruis heir, but who doesnt say behind my back that I am a dog raised by the crown prince? And I am an unwise dog and dont know how to choose a master, bound to be a cannon fodder. Shi Qingxue frowned and didnt like Mo Junyang to describe himself with those lowly words. She bit her lower lip and finally couldnt help but ask the question she had always kept in mind. You had reached the peak, and you can do more when doing it again, but why She didnt finish her words, but she had made it clear enough. Even though Mo Junyang didnt say clearly, she had guessed that he had come back long ago, so he was able to save Mo Junyu who should have died early. If there was so much time, Mo Junyang could have reached the peak again more efficiently. She didnt even doubt that Mo Junyang could conquer the other three countries and unite the world. Mo Junyang did nothing but hid behind Mo Junyu, without any intention to fight for the throne, although nobody thought he had the ability so far. In the outsiders eyes, he was a harmless counsellor, horribly obedient. Would there be someone who had experienced the good feeling after gaining all power and wealth but left it behind soon and didnt miss it at all? It was unrealistic. Mo Junyang stayed silent for a while because of her question and then raised his head to gaze at her, asking gently, If I repeat everything in the previous life, would I possibly win you? Chapter 116 - You Are More Important Than the Throne Shi Qingxues heart missed a beat and her face was stiffened. She had no idea how she should react. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt want her answer and replied for her with a smile, It is impossible, right? Shi Qingxue tacitly approved. If Mo Junyang was as cruel and sinister as he had been in the previous life, she could understand but couldnt accept him. They would end up parting with each other. But Even so, I cant do it Shi Qingxue said helplessly. If possible, she didnt want to get involved in any romantic relationship in this life. She looked at Mo Junyang sadly and said in a low voice, I am good for nothing. In fact, you can turn to others, and maybe Mo Junyang interrupted her coldly, Shi Qingxue. He called her full name for the first time. Then she heard him stressing each word. I know whats on your mind, but I have proven one thing for a lifetime, you are more important than the throne. So, its impossible for me to give you up. Shi Qingxue was shocked by Mo Junyangs words like under oath and opened her mouth for a long time but couldnt say a word. In front of Mo Junyangs determination, her retreat and fear were laughable. It seemed that in her heart, a small figure stood with arms akimbo and pointed at her nose to mock at her. Huh, you said you didnt want to love, but in fact, you are just afraid of being hurt. If you dont have any feelings for Mo Junyang, how could you have called his name at that time? You coward! Qingxue bit her lower lip and hesitated for quite a while, seeming to have finally made a decision. She requested, Give me some time. She didnt say what she would do or how long she needed, but Mo Junyang smiled. His cold eyes softened with gentleness and love. Okay. They didnt say more. Then Mo Junyang sent Shi Qingxue back home before turning around to head for the imperial palace. When he entered the East Palace, Mo Junyu was sitting in the yard with a cold face, and Shen Luo was cutting the decayed flesh on the wound of his right shoulder with a lance. It was bleeding, and with his unfriendly face, he looked horrible, like the demon in hell. He scared the maids-in-waiting and eunuchs surrounding him in the yard almost to death. Of course, they might be scared by the person lying on the ground who was beaten and screamed miserably with torn flesh and blood all over. Mo Junyu seemed not to see Mo Junyang coming in, and his eyes which were always gentle became as cold as a knife. He glanced over every servant and said coldly, You are all in the East Palace. I know the palace is not powerful enough now and you get the worse treatment than before, so I turn a blind eye to some people who are lazy or playing tricks at ordinary times. But some of you think that I am easy to deal with and dare to betray me and help my enemy. So I have let you see if I am really easy-going today! All of you, have a look. This is what you will end up after betraying your master! If you dont think I dare to do anything to you because you are the solid backups my mother left to me, you can have a try. All the servants knelt down and replied in unison, I dont dare. Mo Junyu didnt plan to tell them to get up but closed his eyes. After letting Shen Luo bind up his wound again, he opened his eyes slowly. Looking at the guy on the ground who almost stopped breathing, he sneered. Dont worry, I wont kill you but will have your wounds cured and send you out. I want to see how your new master will reward you after you injured me for him. After speaking, he waved his hand and left the man to Shen Luo. He ignored the quivering servants and walked into the room with Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang sat down and rested his chin on one hand. Looking out of the window, he said casually, You put on such a play today. Arent you afraid that somebody would know and tell on you in front of His Majesty? After entering the room, Mo Junyu didnt look calm anymore, and fret was written on his face. I dont give a damn. Anyway, he has learnt many of my crimes, and he wont care about the trifle of being heartless. Wont you protect those people your mother left to you? Mo Junyu laughed sarcastically. I once thought even though I am used to deceiving mutually outside, at least, the East Palace is pure and is the place where I can return at any time. But there are traitors before my eyes. It is so disgusting. Mo Junyang shrugged and added insult to injury, as if he hadnt found the other mans depression. I told you long ago that there are no more than five people that you can trust wholeheartedly. But you are greedy. Mo Junyu really believed that the late empress had made him an irresistible defense. If the late empress had the ability, she wouldnt have died of an illness early. Mo Junyu glared at him powerlessly and said gloomily, Stop. Is it fun to teach me a lesson? Anyway, I am the crown prince. Mo Junyang made a conclusion mercilessly. You dont look like Mo Junyu was speechless. The crown prince took a deep breath and tried hard to tell himself that this guy was hateful, but he was injured and couldnt defeat him, so he restrained his impulse to perish together with Mo Junyang. Enough! Mo Junyang was satisfied indeed and advised him kindly, Its not late if you start to reorganize the East Palace now. The ending of the eunuch to be thrown away tomorrow would be kept in everybodys mind. I believe that you dont need to say more and the people in your palace would restrain themselves. What else are you worried about? Mo Junyu rubbed his temple and was still annoyed. Do you know who bought over that guy? Mo Junyang uplifted his brows. Mo Junjiu? He has done so many things recently, and he is afraid that nobody knows he covets my position as the crown prince. Mo Junyang didnt say anything. Obviously, he didnt think this matter could cause him to make a fuss. Mo Junyu couldnt bear that Mo Junyang kept out of the affair and shouted angrily, Mo Junyang! What? Mo Junyang replied lazily. Somebody was depressed. Arent you going to do something? Mo Junyang nodded seriously. I did make preparations, but the target is not Mo Junjiu. This time, Mo Junjiu had ordered a servant in the East Palace to drug Mo Junyus injured arm all of a sudden. Even though it was significant, Mo Junyang didnt intend to change the target. So the crown prince didnt agree. Hey! I know you feel sad for Shi Qingxue and want to avenge her, but Qin Yanyan was punished by you and lost face today even before doing something to her. Why dont you stop at a certain point? Mo Junyang answered simply, She is vicious and will be a disaster if we keep her alive. Mo Junyus lips curled. What about Mo Junjiu? He is not easy to handle, either. Would you relax if he keeps doing whatever he wants? Dont forget that he almost made Qingxue lose her family. Whats more, he plans to take action against the Shi Family now. Arent you afraid that he would do something to make the Shi Family a mess? And, and Mo Junyu spared no effort to make Mo Junyang realize that Mo Junjiu was more dangerous than Qin Yanyan. His reasons were strange, and Mo Junyang could neither laugh nor cry after hearing that. He couldnt help but cut in, Fine. Dont you just want to teach Mo Junjiu a lesson? Less of your nonsense! Do you agree? Mo Junyang was surprised and joyful. Mo Junyang responded, Yes. However, Mo Junyu hesitated, as if he was going to face death instead of taking revenge. Whats wrong with you? Mo Junyu answered helplessly, You are so easy to persuade all of a sudden. I am worried, and it was like dreaming. Mo Junyang looked askance at him and smiled faintly. Didnt you say that you are the boss? Of course, I have to listen to you. Mo Junyu had goose bumps and hurriedly waved his hand. Eh, are you provoked by something? So horrible! Provoked? Mo Junyang murmured and showed a bright smile, turning a blind eye to Mo Junyu who felt terrified with his hair standing on end. Mo Junyang got up and prepared to leave, saying leisurely, Whatever you say. In the room, Mo Junyu was petrified like a statue. After Shi Qingxue went back home, she had complex feelings. She hoped that she could sort out what had happened in the fourth princes mansion that day, but as she thought about everything, a handsome face would come into her mind from time to time. Then she thought of his lips and the feeling when he kissed her as well as his decisive words Then it was a mess in her brain. Ah! Shi Qingxue held her head miserably. Why would I think of such a hideous mess? I should consider what Mo Junyu reminded me. With Mo Junyang present, what Mo Junyu told her couldnt come out of thin air. But Mo Junjiu and Wenren Chi It was strange to connect them anyway. Suddenly she remembered that when she went to the Wenren Familys mansion for the first time, Mo Junjiu had visited Wenren Chi. Was it No way. How could my brother have anything to do with Mo Junjiu? It must be a coincidence, or Mo Junjiu wanted to win over my brother but must have been refused. As soon as Shi Qingxue had this idea, she denied it, and then she went into a blind angle and was at a loss. At the moment, Dong Shuang ran into the room in haste and smiled. My Lady! Young Master came to give betrothal gifts to Lady Baoning today. There are a lot! His Lordship and Madam told you to go to the East House as soon as possible. Shi Qingxue checked the date and it was time for Wenren Chi to give Shi Baoning gifts. The family dinner had ended in discord last time, and she kept worrying that their marriage would be affected, but things went on well so far. She happily left the doubts behind and thought, Whatever! Wenren Chi is my elder brother, and it cant change no matter what happens. As for anything that I cant figure out, just talk about it when the truth begins to come out. Shi Qingxue joyfully ran to the East House to join the fun. Looking at the gift boxes filling the courtyard, she showed a bigger smile. Gee, you have such a bright smile. Anybody who doesnt know might think that the betrothal gifts are given to you. Shameful! Shi Baojins sarcastic voice came from behind. Shi Qingxue glanced at her and didnt respond but moved close to Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi and joked, Brother, you gave my sister so many gifts, and I am jealous. No. After you leave, I will grab some treasures from her! Wenren Chi patted her head helplessly and pretended to be tough. How can I not give you good things? But these are all for Baoning, and you can get nothing. Chapter 117 - Questioning Shi Qingxue pouted with displeasure and was skillful in pretending to be pitiful. Purr, Brother, you are bad. You have my sister and forget me. Nobody loves me. Nobody cares about me. I am so poor At last, she even hummed a tune with no rhythm miserably and ridiculously. Shi Baoning wanted to laugh but couldnt laugh out in public, so she had to glare at Qingxue to warn her. Shi Qingxue thought she was bullied and turned to Dong Hui for help, saying pitifully, Mother, even my sister starts to bully me. I am really unwanted. What should I do? Dong Hui could do nothing to her little daughter who behaved recklessly. She knew the girl was pretending but couldnt help comforting her, Many people want you. Qingxue, you are a lovely girl and everybody wants you. The gifts your brother gave are not valuable. I will prepare better gifts for you, okay? Really? Shi Qingxue stopped rubbing her eyes and peeped at Dong Hui between her fingers, requesting in a hurry, Then I want the painting Wind, Flower, Snow and Moon produced by the Master of Painting Zhao Yan of the last dynasty. Can I have it? The Master of Painting Zhao Yan was extraordinarily skilled in painting and had died decades ago, but his paintings were highly praised and there were few paintings left. People might be unable to buy one at a high price. The painting lovers thought that the ownership of a paining produced by Zhao Yan stood for the noble status. Dong Huis grandfather had made friends with Zhao Yan and was lucky to get a masterpiece. Then the Dong Family had given it to Dong Hui as a dowry. Shi Qingxue had known it earlier and coveted her mothers property for a long time, so she couldnt help but ask for it boldly. Dong Hui had bragged and had to agree even if she was unwilling. Okay. I will tell Zheng to find it from the warehouse later and then send it to your room. Are you happy? Shi Qingxue felt contented and smiled. Then she said something nice and made everybody burst into laughter. The family talked and laughed, and the betrothal gifts were given and received smoothly. Shi Baojin watched enviously and compared with the scene when she received the betrothal gifts. She was jealous and resentful. Why was their ceremony of accepting gifts more cheerful than a wedding? The betrothal gifts were complete and everybody was here. But she hadnt seen the second young master of the Zhao Family, Zhao Liang since they proposed marriage. But it was useless no matter how resentful Shi Baojin was. Not to mention that she didnt have a position in the First Masters Family. She was abandoned even in the Third Masters Family. Zhou Ruyu didnt take her to heart but always talked about Shi Baoyou. Perhaps it didnt matter if she died. Shi Baojin hated everybody. She was reluctant to ruin her life, so when Shi Baoning accepted the gifts, Shi Baojin came to congratulate the future bride regardless of her dignity and wanted to keep a good relationship with Shi Baoning who was the best-tempered. This was her only chance. It was a pity that Shi Baojin didnt know how to swallow humiliation. Not to mention that she couldnt endure any grievance. She just exploded as soon as she saw Shi Qingxue like before. When Shi Qingxue entered the room, she was attacked in speech by Shi Baojin, so no matter how soft-hearted Shi Baoning was, she couldnt be coaxed by only a few words. Moreover, there was Wenren Chi who had fallen out with everyone in this mansion except the First Masters Family. He was grateful to Shi Junhe and his wife and would marry Shi Baoning, so he could treat them the way as before, but he just wanted anybody else to stay away. After the ceremony, Wenren Chi kicked everybody irrelevant out of the East House without showing mercy. Chi, would the Third Masters Family and Grandma make comments? Although Shi Baoning didnt want them to ruin the harmony, the angry eyes of the Third Masters Family when they left made her uneasy. Wenren Chi was aware of Shi Baonings love for Mo Shujun but didnt explain. I am here. Take it easy. But I am afraid of Go in and keep Mother company. Wenren Chi smiled faintly and stopped Shi Baonings worry, pushing her into the room. Shi Baoning had no choice but to enter the room. But Shi Qingxue witnessed that and was surprised. Brother, did you have a fight with my sister? Wenren Chi paused for a while and asked as if nothing had happened, No. How is it possible? However, noticing his reaction, Shi Qingxue didnt believe him but looked worse, saying firmly, You lied to me. There must be something wrong. She grabbed Wenren Chis sleeve anxiously. Chi, whats wrong with you? Wenren Chi was surprised at Shi Qingxues sharp eyes. He didnt say much, but she could see through him. However, he couldnt explain, so he had to try to smile, expressing powerlessly, I am really fine It was impossible for Shi Qingxue to believe his words, but looking at his forced smile, she felt sad. What Mo Junyu said undoubtedly made her suspicious of Wenren Chi. No matter if it was true, she couldnt take it calmly. Then, you It was hard for Shi Qingxue to mention it, but at last her gut made her choose to ask directly, Are you in connection with Prince Junjiu? She was so straightforward that Wenren Chi didnt even have the chance to beat around the bush, unless he lied to her. But he faced Shi Qingxues expectant eyes Yes. He couldnt lie to her, even if it might ruin his plan. Then what happened on the Qingluo Mountain Wenren Chi confessed, I stopped the person Father sent to Fan City to ask for help. Prince Junjiu wanted to kill him with the bandits help. Shi Qingxue bit her lower lip so hard that it bled, and then she controlled herself, asking in a trembling voice, Why? Wenren Chi glanced at Qingxue quickly and the dazzling red blood made him heartbroken. He reached out to touch her lip by instinct, but she avoided him. However, Shi Qingxue didnt dodge but stared at him with complaints in her bright eyes. He concealed his frustration and answered with no emotion, I want to take revenge, for the murder of my father. What? Shi Qingxue was startled and thought she had misheard, but Wenren Chis sad eyes told her that it was what she had guessed. Qingxue stayed silent for a while and then raised her head, saying firmly, No way. You must be wrong. Wenren Chi thought she couldnt accept the truth and smiled bitterly while shaking his head. Qingxue, this is between me and He couldnt say the word Father, but he couldnt mention the name Shi Junhe, either. This is the gratitude and resentment between me and your father. Leave it to us, okay? Even though he knew it was impossible, Wenren Chi still hoped that Shi Qingxue could keep out of it. No way! Shi Qingxue answered decisively and ruined Wenren Chis last expectation. Could he and she only be enemies? Wenren Chi restrained the bitter feeling and stressed in a cold tone, I would never give up the revenge. Not necessarily. On the contrary, Shi Qingxue smiled, feeling relaxed, as if she was not talking about the hatred but about something unimportant like Wenren Chis favorite food. Wenren Chi was speechless. There was something wrong. He almost thought that Qingxue was madly angry with him. Shi Qingxue continued, I am not crazy. Fine. Wenren Chi knew that he couldnt hide anything from her and just said tiredly, I hate to tell you, but my fathers murder is unbearable. I am sorry. I didnt say that you cant take revenge! Shi Qingxue answered naturally, which made Wenren Chi think that she supported him to avenge his father on Shi Junhe. But it would be just illusion. He looked at Qingxue vaguely. Stop messing around, okay? If Shi Qingxue continued to speak, he was afraid that he wouldnt insist. Brother, I didnt mess around. Shi Qingxue realized that Wenrens attitude was not right, so she responded seriously. She tentatively grabbed his hand hard. When Wenren Chi looked at her, she said in a low voice, What I said was from my heart, but Chi, are you so sure that Father killed Uncle Bo? Wenren Chi held his breath. The evidence was supposed to be certain, but after Shi Qingxue asked, he hesitated again. It would rather be his last expectation than uncertainty. Maybe it was not him? Shi Qingxue also got this point and asked anxiously, Can you tell me what on earth happened? No matter if it is true, I should have the right to know the truth. Wenren Chi lowered his voice and said deeply, Sixteen years ago, there was a war on the border of the three countries of Mo, Liang and Zhao. My father and yours led the Shi Army to fight against Liang Country and returned with victory at last. Do you know that? Shi Qingxue nodded repeatedly. Of course I know. The Shi Army defeated Liang Country in the battle and drove the enemies out of the border, who didnt dare to intrude again for the past more than ten years. Grandpa told me many times about this battle. I Suddenly she thought of something and her excitement turned to caution. Its said that in that battle, Uncle Bo Yes, my father died in that battle, but he didnt die with glory at war. He was trapped to death because they didnt save him in time. Mentioning Wenren Bo again, Wenren Chi had hatred in his eyes, as if he had witnessed his fathers humiliation and pain. Shi Qingxue squinted up at him cautiously and asked in doubt, What does it have to do with Father? Wenren Chi sneered and replied cloudily, Because your father wanted to take control of the Shi Army, he intentionally delayed the rescue, which caused my fathers death. No way. You must get it wrong, Shi Qingxue screamed and couldnt believe the so-called truth. Wenren Chi had expected her reaction and said indifferently, Fine. You have heard the story you wanted to know. Go back now! Shi Qingxues eyes widened and she couldnt accept that he didnt go on. No. There must be some misunderstanding. It must be Enough! Wenren Chi rudely interrupted Shi Qingxues imagination. He sneered to conceal his bitter feeling and looked cold to cut off his emotions, kicking Shi Qingxue out mercilessly. I dont care about your unrealistic thoughts or how you would deal with me after knowing it. Anyway, I wont give up the plan to take revenge. Wenren Chi announced his plan to take revenge again in order to firm his determination. Unexpectedly, after hearing his words, Shi Qingxue wasnt shocked or flurried as before. She calmly and insistently grabbed his hand and stressed each word. I dont believe that Father would have done something like that. So, no matter what the truth is, we should find it first, right? Wenren Chi frowned and couldnt bear to shake off Qingxues hand. He just asked with displeasure, How do you plan to find it? At least after you ask Father. Shi Qingxue smiled at Wenren Chi and pulled him into Shi Junhes study. Chapter 118 - A Different Story In order to let his wife and children have a talk, Shi Junhe went back to his study alone after the ceremony. Seeing that Shi Qingxue pulled Wenren Chi and pushed the door open to enter, Shi Junhe stared at their hands and his eyes widened. He asked with displeasure, What are you doing? Shi Qingxue was confused after being shouted at. Whats wrong? Wenren Chi understood first and secretly withdrew his hand which was grabbed by Qingxue. He stepped backward. Nothing. Nothing. Shi Junhe also realized that he overreacted and repeated the word. Yes? Shi Qingxue looked at the two men in confusion but didnt ask more. She pushed Wenren Chi forward and frankly told Shi Junhe about the conversation between her and Wenren Chi. She didnt hide anything or use extra words. Then she asked Shi Junhe, Father, what happened? You have guessed that, right? It was said that the father knew his son best, but Shi Qingxue also found Shi Junhes unusual reaction after they came back from the Qingluo Mountain. He had sent someone to Fan City to ask for help, but after the problem was solved, he didnt send a message to his friend, which was not what he could possibly do, unless he had guessed from the beginning that the letter hadnt been sent to the right person. Shi Junhe didnt deny but looked at Wenren Chi while frowning. Have you told Qingxue everything? Wenren Chi nodded, but he didnt explain the fact that he couldnt lie to Shi Qingxue, which made him awkward. Shi Junhe didnt ask anymore but turned to Shi Qingxue and said casually, Its none of your business. Dont get involved. The same answer as Wenren Chis almost drove Shi Qingxue mad. She snorted and pointed at Shi Junhe crossly. You, my father. Then she pointed at Wenren Chi with her slender finger. You, my big brother. She took a deep breath. You have come to a point where you are at each others throat. How can both of you say that its none of my business? Do you think its none of my business until I lose one of you or even both of you? While speaking, the nightmare that Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi died in the battle on the Qingluo Mountain in the previous life made her out of her mind again. She couldnt control herself and tears fell from her eyes. Qingxue didnt want to show her weakness and wiped the tears as soon as they fell. She opened her eyes wide, with grievance in them. Wenren Chi felt sadder and grabbed Qingxues hand in a hurry, wiping the tears on her face carefully when he comforted her in a gentle voice, Say whatever you want. I have come here with you. We will find if there is misunderstanding, okay? Dont cry. Even though he thought misunderstanding was just vain hope, as long as he could comfort Shi Qingxue, he didnt mind thinking wishfully. Shi Qingxue stopped crying immediately and turned to Shi Junhe, who raised his hands to surrender, expressing, Fine! I will tell you whatever you want to know. She finally felt better and sniffed, saying softly, Father, I dont believe that you would have intentionally hurt Uncle Bo, so what on earth happened in the battle sixteen years ago? The battle among the three countries sixteen years ago was a heroic war story to Shi Qingxue, but in Shi Junhes opinion, it was a nightmare in his life. The expression on Shi Junhes face disappeared and stiffened for a while before he sighed. Mo Country had just overturned the political tyranny of the last dynasty and established the new government for more than twenty years. It was turbulent in the country and we should maintain peace and restore production, but Liang Country had coveted our countrys rich land for a long time. They attacked Zhao Country in name but intruded our border. The late emperor knew that if the neighboring country fell apart, our country would be in danger, so he ordered the Shi Army to go to the border of the three countries and help Zhao County resist Liang Countrys attack. At that time, my father was ill and couldnt go to the battlefield, so I and Bo led the army to the border. Two countries fought against one, and it went smoothly in the beginning, but after Liang Country realized their disadvantage, they gave up on Zhao Country and killed our people on the border. Zhao Country thought they were safe and started to fight passively. One day, I and Bo led the Shi Army and we were attacked by Liang Country suddenly. Most of our soldiers got separated. There were only less than one thousand soldiers left in the troop we led. We had no choice but to fight back with difficulty in a deserted town and seek for chances to break through. But the enemies aimed at us and trapped us all the time. If there were no reinforcements, we would only end up with death. So after more than half a month, I and Bo discussed that one of us should stay and the other would led a team to break through and search for reinforcements to get a chance of survival Shi Qingxue concentrated on listening. Finding that Shi Junhe stopped all of a sudden and didnt speak, she got anxious again. Father, why dont you go on? What did you decide to do? Who went to search for reinforcements? Who stayed to guard the town? Shi Junhe glanced at Wenren Chi and asked with a bitter smile, What do you think? Ah? She had to guess? Shi Qingxue frowned and had to ponder since Shi Junhe was waiting for her answer. After quite a while, she asked hesitantly, Father, did you stay? Hearing that, the two men uplifted their brows in surprise. Shi Junhe stayed silent for a minute and asked doubtfully, How did you know? Qingxue smiled and explained complacently, On the surface, no matter you stay or lead some people to break through, it is dangerous, but theres no making without breaking. As long as you can escape, you will have the chance of survival. Its better to leave So Father, you would definitely make the more dangerous and difficult choice. Shi Junhe looked at Shi Qingxues trustful and admiring eyes, and he felt less depressed. He didnt even feel sad as before when he met Wenren Chis doubtful eyes. He nodded peacefully. Right. Most of people had to stay and wait for death. If nobody stayed to relax the soldiers, even the Shi Army wouldnt wait to be rescued. So I arranged fifty picked soldiers to follow Bo and told them to break through, and I stayed with the others to guard the town. Yes? Wenren Chi couldnt help but snort. But why is it said that you didnt rescue them in time and my father was trapped to death? Right, it was different from the story which circulated. Shi Qingxue turned to look at her father, waiting for his explanation. Shi Junhe turned away and looked out of the window. After a long time, he said helplessly, I didnt lie, but so far I dont know what was wrong. The soldiers from Liang Country supposed to stay to encircle and annihilate the main force of the Shi Army transferred most of the soldiers to chase Bos team unexpectedly. I found that and was unwilling to sit still and await destruction. It happened that we met a discomfited troop from Zhao Country, so we joined hands and defeated the remaining soldiers of Liang Country, breaking through successfully Wenren Chis eyes turned fierce instantly and he interrupted Shi Junhe coldly, But you didnt go to rescue my father at once and intentionally delayed to give the soldiers of Liang Country an opportunity to attack them. It caused my father to be killed by the main force of them! Shi Junhe was speechless. He opened his mouth and didnt know what he could say. It was a truth that Wenren Bo died on the battlefield, and it was true that he didnt rescue them in time. As for the subjective factor, different people had different kinds of view. Brother! Noticing that Wenren Chi was going to explode again, Shi Qingxue grabbed his arm in haste and changed the subject. Didnt you say that you have evidence to prove your assumption? What is the evidence? Show it to us, okay? Wenren Chi thought it was clear enough and there was no need to explain. At the same time, he couldnt bear to make Qingxue unhappy, so he had to take out the letter to Shi Junhe. He put it in front of the two. It was addressed to Shi Junhe. They were both familiar with the handwriting, which was Mo Shujuns. My dear son, the Shi Army was created by your father with his effort, and he personally gave the army to you. We dont expect that you can make the army more powerful, but at least, its name cant be changed. Now there are several major generals in the army who were not trained by your father, and Wenren Bo has equal shares of honor with you. Its not helpful for the Shi Armys stabilization. Hope you can think it over and make a decision. After reading the letter, Shi Junhe and Qingxue changed their expressions. Especially Shi Junhe had never thought there was such an incident more than ten years ago. He met Wenren Chis cold eyes and explained in a hurry, I have never seen this letter. I believe it. After Wenren Chi took it out, he kept staring at Shi Junhe, whose shock and confusion were not acting. But he didnt believe that Shi Junhe was innocent. But can you deny that this letter is written to you by Mo Shujun? Shi Junhes face was pale and he remained silent, but Shi Qingxue didnt want to cheat anybody, saying with certainty, This is absolutely her handwriting. I wont mistake it. Qingxue! Shi Junhe shouted, but he knew it would only show that he was powerless. Shi Qingxue ignored him and asked Wenren Chi, Even if Grandma wanted to harm Uncle Bo, at that time, she was far away in the capital city, and Father didnt see this letter and wouldnt do as she said. It was just a coincidence. Wenren Chi responded, Coincidence? I also hoped it was a coincidence, but Qingxue, do you know where I got this letter? Shi Qingxue blinked in doubt. Prince Junjius people got it from the butler of the Shi Family, He Jun, by chance. Back then, He Jun was not only the butler of the Shi Family. He was a bodyguard of Shi Lei in the army. After the war broke out, Shi Lei was worried about his son, so he told He Jun to stay with Shi Junhe and protect him. No way, Shi Junhe denied, his face ghastly pale. Wenren Chi just stared at him and didnt argue. Or it was pointless to argue. They reached an impasse again. Wait. Shi Qingxue broke the ice and then looked at Shi Junhe, suggesting, Father, you havent finished your story. Go ahead! Shi Junhe gazed at Qingxue confusedly and couldnt understand why she still bothered about what had happened that year. But Shi Qingxue continued, Since you refused to tell us, how about letting me guess? I think you met the troop of Zhao Country and then planned to rescue Uncle Bo, but the soldiers from Zhao Country didnt allow you to, right? Shi Junhe didnt answer, but his astonishment told them that she was right. Wenren Chi was also startled. Why? What on earth was going on? He was sure that he had found the truth, but Shi Qingxues words made him doubt that there was something amiss. He couldnt even feel at ease to blame Shi Junhe. So what exactly happened that year? Chapter 119 - Another Version of the Story Since they had talked about this point, Shi Junhe didnt hesitate anymore but finished the story. As soon as we broke through, I prepared to help Bo, but the soldiers of Zhao County didnt think we had enough manpower. Even if we went there, we would court death. They insisted that we meet the reinforcements before rescuing Bos team. At that time, I led not more than five hundred soldiers. Although Zhao Country was our ally, it was reasonable that they didnt want to take risks, so I had to do according to the best solution as they said. In the end, Bo led less than one hundred soldiers and resisted the main force of Liang Country, but they didnt get our help At last, he said in a hoarse voice, with regret, helpless and pain filling the room. But what could he do? Shi Junhe could help his friend at the loss of his life, but as a commander-in-chief of the army, he couldnt be willful. The so-called best solution sometimes meant that somebody should be sacrificed. Wenren Chi remained silent, too. If he still trusted Shi Junhe firmly, he believed that his foster father would never lie to him. So he believed Shi Junhes words. But if it was as Shi Junhe said, how could he blame this general? In such an emergency, Shi Junhe had only one choice, and Wenren Bo would do the same. That was a soldiers choice. Did he blame Shi Junhe wrongly? Was Wenren Bos death just a coincidence? Wenren Chi staggered and then leaned against the door, looking painful and hesitant. He couldnt accept this fact. Shi Qingxue hurriedly grabbed Wenren Chis arm and asked with concern, Brother, are you all right? Dont be sad Wenren Chi tried hard to smile at her and wanted to say that he was fine, but he was too tired to open his mouth. No, its not clear enough, Shi Qingxue suddenly shouted. Her words attracted the two mens attention successfully. They looked at her in confusion. She rolled her eyes and seemed to find proper words. After quite a while, she said slowly, Under that situation, Grandma couldnt have sent the letter to Father from far away in the capital city. Shi Junhe pondered for a minute and then nodded. It was right. If he could receive a letter at that time, they didnt need to break through. They could have sent a letter to ask for help. So Shi Qingxue thought for a second and then said, If this letter is not fake, it should have been given to Butler He by Grandma before you went to the battlefield, but it came to Chi by accident. The two men fell into silence and thought about Shi Qingxues explanation. After a long time, Shi Junhe frowned and asked, So what? Shi Qingxue blinked and replied meaningfully, Butler He didnt give the letter to you, but it didnt mean that he did nothing. What do you mean? Wenren Chi asked anxiously, as if he found a way to vent his anger. Qingxue patted the back of his hand and comforted gently, I just guessed, but we can only know about the details after asking Butler He. Wenren Chi frowned and looked at Shi Junhe, With He Juns current position in the mansion, would he tell the truth if we ask him? And so many years have passed. Shi Qingxue smiled slyly. He certainly wouldnt say anything if we ask, but the letter was for Father. If Father asks him, he would answer. Then she winked at Shi Junhe. Father, you must know how to ask the questions efficiently. Shi Junhes face darkened, and nobody knew what he was thinking about, but facing two childrens expectant eyes, he still told someone to summon He Jun to the study. Seeing that they didnt plan to leave, he said, Wait in the back room. Dont come out without my permission. Shi Qingxue agreed immediately. Without being told, she swiftly pulled Wenren Chi to hide in the back room and listen in. She moved quickly and adroitly. Shi Junhe smiled helplessly, but still felt depressed. The current butler of the Shi Family, He Jun was almost sixty years old. He was wounded and retired from the Shi Army. Shi Lei felt pity for him as he was alone and had no children, so he was told to work in the mansion. Shi Junhe had never treated him badly. Because he was steady, Shi Junhe made him take over the position of the butler. He Jun got the message and came soon. He was over ten years older than Shi Junhe, but he was respectful to his master, like when they were in the army. Shi Junhe stared at He Jun and didnt beat around the bush. He put the letter in front of the old man and asked, Have you seen this? In the beginning, He Jun had thought the master wanted him to report about the accounts of the mansion and stretched his head to read it confidently. When he read the letter, the old face changed, and he was stiffened. Shi Junhe didnt need to ask more and just demanded, Tell me about this. He Jun looked at Shi Junhe hesitantly and faltered, unable to make a sentence for a long time. Shi Junhe was patient and said casually, He, you have been working for me for so many years, and you should know me well. I think highly of the older soldiers my father left to me, and I am always tolerant to you, but I have only one requirement, your loyalty. If you cant promise, you dont need to stay in my mansion anymore. No, My Lord! He Jun was scared and knelt down at once. I am loyal to the Shi Family and to you. I have never wanted to betray you. Please observe clearly! Shi Junhe threw the letter on the table silently. Seeing that, He Jun knew that he couldnt hide it anymore and confessed obediently, My Lord, please forgive me. Its not that I didnt want to confess, but it was Princess Royals order. I have no choice! Shi Junhe straightened his back in his seat and gazed at He Jun. Tell me what happened. If you make it clear, I can let it pass for the sake of your contributions to my family, but if I find you lie to me, dont blame me for my cruelness. Since the master had mentioned the reward and punishment, He Jun trembled and told everything that had happened sixteen years ago. It was like what Shi Qingxue guessed. The letter was given to He Jun by Mo Shujun before they went to the battlefield. She told He Jun to give it to Shi Junhe at the crucial time and act according to circumstances as it was demanded on the letter. He Jun knew that Mo Shujun wanted Shi Junhe to kill Wenren Bo in order to get control of the Shi Army, but he knew well about Shi Junhe and that even if he gave the letter to the master, it would be useless and even cause the conflict between the mother and the son. So he kept the letter and didnt give it to Shi Junhe. Later, they were trapped in the deserted town, and Shi Junhe offered to stay and face death. In order to save his master, He Jun leaked the news to Liang Country that Shi Junhe led a team to break through and seek help. The army of Liang Country trapped the Shi Army just to take Shi Junhes life. As expected, the enemies transferred the main force to chase the soldiers who tried to break through and gave the soldiers left in the town a chance of survival. But He Jun lost the letter during this period. He was afraid that Mo Shujun would blame him, so he took the job himself. He secretly told the soldiers of Zhao Country that they had reinforcements in somewhere else. They were afraid of death and asked Shi Junhe to meet the reinforcements before going to rescue Wenren Bos team, so the team didnt get any help until death. After saying that, He Jun was clear that Shi Junhe would be angry, so he kowtowed repeatedly to ask for mercy. My Lord, I did everything for you. Even if I had no contributions, I made every effort. Please forgive me for I have worked hard for your family for so many years. Shi Junhe was silent all the time, with no expression on his face, but the shock from his heart couldnt be concealed. He was shaking and his teeth trembled. He had to grit his teeth with all strength so he didnt express his emotions. He had never thought that there was such an inside story. He didnt kill his friend, but his friend was killed because of him. He was always guilty about not rescuing Wenren Bo in time, which caused his death. But that was an accident. He adopted Wenren Chi in order to feel less guilty, but now he was told that the accident was not true, and his subordinate and his mothers letter were involved. He could say that he had killed Wenren Bo. What was the difference? Wenren Chi in the back room was also shocked by the truth He Jun told, and then he got furious. If Shi Qingxue didnt pull him hard, he could rush out to stab He Jun with his sword. Chi, calm down. You cant take action here. Shi Qingxue was also mad at He Jun, but under the circumstances, if Wenren Chi killed him, they couldnt explain anything. She would never let it happen. Wenren Chis eyes were red, and he shook off Shi Qingxues hand so hard that she bumped into the corner of the table behind her with a bang. It startled the men in the study. He Jun looked at the back room alertly and asked in a deep voice, Who is inside? Then he tried to rush in. Shi Junhe came to his senses and stopped He Jun. There is nobody. Maybe the strong wind blew the table to fall. Others were speechless as he found such a clumsy excuse. But He Jun had no say, and Wenren Chi was attracted by the miserable expression on Shi Qingxues face. Qingxue gritted her teeth and growled in pain. She still grabbed Wenren Chis clothes with both hands and didnt allow him to act rashly. Wenren Chi had no choice but to hold Qingxues hand and agreed in a low voice, I wont go out. Let me see your injury. Now he didnt worry if He Jun had found that he was listening in but wanted to check Shi Qingxues wound. But the little girl was stubborn and cunning. Knowing that he had calmed down, she loosened one hand which grabbed his clothes to cover her waist. She bared her teeth and dodged, refusing Wenren Chi to check. I am fine. It doesnt hurt at all. Wenren Chi was unable to reply. Her face was almost distorted, but she said it didnt hurt. But he knew why Qingxue insisted on refusing him to check. He felt guilty but didnt force her. Then he took out a bottle of medicine from his pocket and gave it to her. This medicine is effective in traumatic injuries. If you dont let me check, just apply some medicine by yourself first. Oh! Shi Qingxue received the medicine bottle and didnt move. Wenren said again, Apply some now. Shi Qingxue goggled and seemed to say, Are you kidding me? Wenren Chi didnt answer. Hearing that Shi Junhe told He Jun to leave the study, he lifted the curtain and walked out. Chapter 120 - Think Twice Before Taking Revenge Shi Qingxue was left alone in the back room and wanted to chase Wenren Chi, but as she moved, she felt severe pain on her waist and numb all over the body. She had to admit her destiny and applied some medicine in the room. In the outer room, Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi looked at each other and didnt say anything until Shi Qingxue came out. She broke the ice. Dont be so silent. Chi, what are you planning to do? Wenren Chi glanced at Shi Junhe and said coldly, I want to take He Juns life. Shi Junhe tacitly approved Wenren Chis plan. Wenren Chi continued after a while, I wont forgive Mo Shujun. She is the one behind the scene! Shi Junhe looked cold and reproached in a low voice, How dare you! Thats your grandma. She is not! Wenren Chi answered without thinking. He didnt hate Shi Junhe and was still willing to take the man who had raised him for more than ten years as his father and respect him, but Mo Shujun was different. When he got that letter, his little affection for the grandmother had been buried. For fear that Shi Junhe didnt understand his determination, he added firmly, She doesnt deserve. Shi Qingxue heard that and showed a mysterious expression on her face, responding softly, Right. Her voice was very low, as if she was talking to herself, but the two men had sharp ears and heard it clearly. Then they looked at her in surprise. Shi Junhes face was ghastly pale, and he rebuked with displeasure, Qingxue, what nonsense are you talking about? It was logical that Wenren Chi hated Mo Shujun. After all, she was not his biological grandmother and had done something evil like that. Shi Junhe didnt blame Wenren Chis principle. But Shi Qingxue had been raised by Mo Shujun since childhood and was favored. She was ungrateful to say that. If outsiders knew that, everyone would criticize her. Shi Qingxue was just murmuring, but Shi Junhe glared at her, so she was unwilling to admit defeat. She didnt think she was wrong and retorted, I told the truth! She even explained with an example, She did something too evil. If Grandpa knew that, he wouldnt allow her to. Shi Lei was aboveboard all his life and loved the soldiers like his children, so he had won everyones respect in the Shi Army. If he knew his wife played dirty tricks to kill somebody and seize power, he wouldnt stand by and do nothing. Shi Junhe could say nothing about Shi Qingxues example. He didnt look well and said coldly after quite a while, The elder should be respected. Even if your grandma did something wrong, you cant judge. Wenren Chi sneered. Then did my father die for nothing? Shi Junhe fell into silence. He couldnt turn a blind eye to Wenren Chis revenge on Mo Shujun, but Wenren Chi was not wrong to take revenge. If you insist on taking revenge Shi Junhe pondered and raised his head to look at Wenren Chi, saying sadly, In the final analysis, your father died because of me. My mother did everything for me, so if you want to take revenge, just come to me. I am willing to pay Bo with my life. Father! Shi Qingxue shouted in astonishment. It was beyond her expectation that she finally transferred Wenren Chis hatred toward her father, but the older man foolishly put all the blame on himself. She couldnt understand her father. It was Grandmas fault. Why do you need to take the responsibility? Shi Junhe looked at his daughter in pain. The son should pay his parents debts. Qingxue, I ask you. If something like this happens to you, can you bear to see others hurt me? Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. But Wenren Chi said, You are my father, and it was not your fault. Even if I take revenge, I wont come to you. I cant transfer the hatred. Then, without looking at Shi Junhes pleading eyes, he turned around and left. Shi Qingxue wanted to follow Wenren Chi and then turned to Shi Junhe who was dispirited, saying all of a sudden, Father, I wont stand by when watching others hurt you. Shi Junhes eyes lit up. Then Shi Qingxue added, That is because I believe that you would never hurt anybody, and if others hurt you, it must be their fault, but Grandma is different. Shi Junhe was petrified and went silent. Qingxue didnt want his answer but just glanced at him deeply before running out of the study. Wenren Chi was walking on the cobbled path in the East House slowly, as if he was lost in thought or waiting for somebody. Shi Qingxue hurriedly walked forward and grasped his arm, asking, Chi, what are you going to do? She thought Wenren Chi was going to take revenge now and advised him softly, This is our mansion. You cant make He Jun die here for no reason. Even if Grandma and Father would let it pass, it would affect your reputation after the news spreads. We have to consider carefully before making a decision. Wenren Chi didnt say anything and looked at Shi Qingxue with a weird expression. Whats wrong? Qingxue lowered her head to look at herself, but she didnt find anything wrong with her. Do you allow me to take revenge? And you will help me? Wenren Chi couldnt imagine Shi Qingxues plan, nor did he want to get her involved in this matter. But Shi Qingxue took it for granted and nodded. He Jun did something like that. Even if you dont kill him, Grandpa would have his head cut off in public if he were still alive. He wouldnt let that kind of person ruin the fame of the Shi Army. We have to figure out a way to make him show his evil nature and then find a chance to kill him! She gritted her teeth, as if it was her hatred. But on second thoughts, it was true. He Jun cast a bone between Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi, which made the two die on the Qingluo Mountain and greatly weakened the Shi Army in the previous life. Although it was different in this life, she didnt want to let this future trouble get away with it. However Thinking of Mo Shujun, Shi Qingxue felt it was difficult. She leered at Wenren Chi cautiously and found that he didnt look terrible, so she said gently, Grandma was wrong as she intended to kill somebody else, but under the situation, she couldnt control He Jun, so if we think about it carefully, we cant take her as Uncle Bos murderer, and we have to consider her status. Whats more, you and Baoning Wenren Chi raised his head to interrupt Shi Qingxue and said in a tone not as tough as he had been when he faced Shi Junhe, I know. Dont worry. I wont be impulsive or take her life. I have to consider for others. Even though it appeared that Shi Qingxue didnt prevent him from taking revenge, he didnt dare to bet in this matter. Not to mention whether he was able to kill Mo Shujun. Once he tried to kill her, his relationship with the Shi Family would be completely ruined. Heehee! Shi Qingxue didnt know Wenren Chis feelings, but she heaved a sigh of relief after hearing his words. She showed a big smile. I know you love my sister most and wont make her sad. Wenren Chi couldnt deny it, so he changed the subject. Qingxue, I wanted to ask you a question from the beginning. Shi Qingxues big eyes were shining. What? You knew that I felt hatred toward Father in the first place and I even tried to harm him, even though I didnt make it successfully. Why didnt you have any grudge but help us find the murderer behind the scene? Wenren Chi was clear that if Shi Qingxue didnt get involved, he might bother about Shi Junhe and ignore the truth behind it. Shi Qingxue thought, How can I have no grudge? In the previous life, both Father and you died. She pouted and didnt answer but asked, If Father died on the Qingluo Mountain, would you come back alive? Wenren Chi stayed silent, but his expression told Shi Qingxue his response. So Shi Qingxue stretched out her hands and pretended to be helpless. See, you cant feel at ease to harm Father. Of course I wont hate you! The kinship was magical sometimes. There was no reason, and it didnt need to explain. Wenren Chi rarely showed a relaxed smile. Thanks. As he promised to Shi Qingxue, Wenren Chi didnt get back at He Jun and Mo Shujun on impulse, and he could even prepare for the wedding with Baoning, as if nothing had happened. During the period, the Zhao Family which had cut off the relationship with the Shi Family suddenly sent someone to Duke Shis mansion and reset the wedding date, ten days later. It was like a pie falling from the sky. Everyone in the Shi Family was happy, but there was one problem. Shi Baojins pregnancy was obvious now. If she attended the wedding, the guests would find it. While the Zhao Family required that no matter what Shi Baojin would do, they couldnt let outsiders know that she got pregnant before marriage. The Shi Family pondered for a long time and found a way at last. They would let another girl perform in the formal wedding ceremony. Anyway the brides head would be covered with a bridal veil. Nobody would know if it was Shi Baojin. Shi Baojin was always arrogant and would finally have a wedding. She didnt agree and cried that she would perform in the wedding. Zhou Ruyu gave her a cold glance and said crossly, If you didnt do something shamelessly, how would it be like this? The Zhao Family has said that there are grandsons in their family. They would rather make you lose your baby than let you humiliate them. Just think it over! Mother! Shi Baojin was stiffened and still wanted to say something, but Zhou Ruyu left after warning her. Xiao Tao next to her had to advise, My Lady, cheer up. You just cant perform formal bows. You will still enter the bridal chamber. But a baby is a womans main backup. If you want to steady your status in the Zhao Family in the future, you have to keep this baby. Shi Baojin wiped her tears and said gloomily, I know. I just cant bear it. Why would Shi Baoning get married with glory? But I have to beg the man from the Zhao Family to marry me. Xiao Tao could say nothing and thought, You deserve it. If you didnt give your virginity to Zhao Liang, that playboy anxiously, with the fame of Duke Shis mansion, you wouldnt marry a worse man. But as a maid, she couldnt say that, so she had to suggest, You havent been out for a few days. How about having a walk in the courtyard? Its helpful to the baby. You are right! Shi Baojin showed a weird and cold smile on her face. Lets go to the Luotong Boudoir to pay a visit. Chapter 121 - Find Fault Shi Baojins expression showed that she wasnt going to the Luotong Boudoir to pay a visit but to find fault. Xiao Tao was terrified, but she was a maid and had no say, so she had to follow miserably. At the same time, she prayed in her heart, God, please make Shi Baojin clever and tell her not to make trouble at this time. Otherwise, she wouldnt get married. Shi Qingxue was making her embroidery in the Luotong Boudoir more and more slowly. She almost lost patience. Hearing from a servant that Shi Baojin had come, she said without thinking, I am not available. Tell her to go back! But before she put down her needle, a cold voice came from the door. Qingxue, you are more and more arrogant now. I came to the Luotong Boudoir with difficultly, but I cant see you. Shi Qingxue ignored Shi Baojins sarcastic tone and said coldly, Even if I didnt let you in, you have entered, right? Tell me, what can I do for you? Shi Baojin couldnt bear the provocation and her face turned ghastly pale. She responded aggressively, Cant I come to see you for nothing? Dont forget that I am older than you. She threatened with her position, but Shi Qingxue didnt care. She leered at Shi Baojin with a faint smile. Do you think we can have a small talk? Even if not, you should offer me a cup of hot tea since I came. Shi Baojin raised her jaw haughtily. She was sure that Shi Qingxue didnt dare to offend her for the time being. Shi Qingxue finally stopped working because she was too annoyed. She looked at Shi Baojin and replied indifferently, I have no tea. If you want to have tea, just go back to your room. Dont stay here to offend my eyes. Shi Baojins eyes widened, and she couldnt believe that Shi Qingxue would kick her out mercilessly. With her face darkening, she stood, arms akimbo, and cursed Shi Qingxue, I am going to be the second young madam of the Zhao Family soon. How dare you be so rude to me? Believe it or not, I will tell Grandma on you later and let you bear all the consequences. You should kneel in the ancestral hall as a punishment for you disrespect the elders! Shi Baojin was complacent and thought she had found Shi Qingxues fault, so she could do anything to the younger girl. Shi Qingxue heard that and stayed silent for a while. With a sneer on her face, she asked casually, I will be punished to kneel in the ancestral hall if I disrespect the elders. Then how should you be punished if you harm your younger cousin? Have you forgotten what Baoyans ending was? All people present changed their expressions. Shi Baojin trembled but didnt admit defeat. Who harmed the younger cousin? Do you have evidence? Dont frame and wrong a good person! Shi Qingxue almost laughed out and didnt expect that Shi Baojin was so thick-skinned and didnt feel ashamed to say that. She tilted her head and rested her jaw on one hand, saying slowly, Let me guess. How did Baoning explain to you about Xiao Zhus whereabout? Did she run away on the way home? Or did she disappear after falling into a river by accident? Shi Baojin was speechless and her eyes almost popped out. But soon she came back to earth and straightened her back, snorting. I dont know what you are talking about. Anyway, you cant show evidence, so it means I have done nothing! Grandma wont believe you! Shi Qingxue fiddled with the stuff on the table unconcernedly and smiled. Why would I want Grandma to believe me? I just need to She pretended to unintentionally glance at Shi Baojins belly and laughed heartily. I hear that you havent been out for several months. Its not like you. Shi Baojin subconsciously avoided Shi Qingxues eyes but still refused to show the white feather. She struggled. Its none of your business. Its none of my business indeed, but if outsiders know that you got pregnant before marriage, and you are so big with child now, what do you think they would say? How would the Zhao Family treat you? Huh? Shi Qingxue described the nightmare Shi Baojin feared most in one breath. The scene could scare her to cry. Shi Baojin screamed automatically, No, you cant do that! Oh? Why cant I do that? Shi Qingxues eyes turned cold and she stared at Shi Baojin like a dead person. Ever since you sent that rascal who tried to bully me, we dont have any kinship. I am kind enough as I didnt make trouble for you, but I dont expect that you are so foolish as to come to provoke me repeatedly. What? Do you think I am as good-tempered as the Buddha? The cold words stabbed Shi Baojins throat like a sharp sword. She was being stared at by Shi Qingxue, and she felt chilly from toe to head. She wanted to run away, but she seemed unable to move. She was shaking and could hardly breathe. My Lady, calm down. Take care of your baby! Xiao Tao hurriedly came up to support Shi Baojin and helped her calm down. The masters had a fight, and the servants were in trouble. Xiao Tao had found that Shi Baojin was brainless. She had no advantage but stupidly came to find fault with Shi Qingxue and deserved to be retorted and scared. But what could Xiao Tao do? She had to try her best to help Shi Baojin clean up the mess and apologize to Shi Qingxue, My Lady, please dont be mad. Lady Baojin is not in a good mood today and has offended you. You are so generous. Please forgive her for she is your family. Shi Qingxue lazily raised her brows and peered at Xiao Tao, asking unhurriedly, What? Havent you heard what I said just now? Xiao Tao was surprised and suddenly remembered that Shi Qingxue had said that she and Shi Baojin didnt have any kinship, so how would they be family? No, I Xiao Tao feared that she would offend Shi Qingxue, but she was just a lowly maid. Any master could take her life quietly if they didnt want to see her. Now Shi Baojin had irritated Shi Qingxue. Whatever Xiao Tao said would be wrong. Xiao Tao looked sadly at Shi Qingxue and gritted her teeth, closing her eyes, like a brave warrior who would die a heros death. Lady Baojin is pregnant. If there is something wrong, I cant pay even with my life. My Lady, please show mercy for me. She didnt know if her words would be useful. She often heard from the other servants that Shi Qingxue was nice to them, and the maids working in the Luotong Boudoir had never been beaten. If they made a mistake, she just taught them. Xiao Tao thought she would either win or die. Anyway, if something wrong happened to Shi Baojin, she wouldnt get away with it. When Xiao Tao was almost desperate, Shi Qingxue finally said, to Xia Mang next to her, Is Doctor Qin still in the mansion? Baojin is unwell. Ask him to check on her in the Yujin Boudoir. Xia Mang understood that Shi Qingxue wanted the guests to leave and walked to Xiao Tao, stretching out her hand. Please! Shi Baojin was still resentful, but her secret was in somebody elses hands. She didnt dare to bet if Shi Qingxue would spread her scandal, so she just let Xiao Tao help her go out. Dong Shuang witnessed everything and couldnt help but spit behind the two girls backs. Pah! Who are you? You came to the Luotong Boudoir to act like a boss. Do you think you can become a ministers wife after marrying into the Zhao Family? You are daydreaming! Shi Qingxue glanced at Dong Shuang in surprise and said with a smile, Dong Shuang, you are awesome! Dong Shuang thought Shi Qingxue was going to reproach her and shrank her neck. I just dont like to see that. Its not I didnt mean that. Shi Qingxue waved her hand and interrupted Dong Shuang, joking, I find that you are born to be a fortuneteller. Ah? Dong Shuang was confused. Shi Qingxue laughed and didnt explain. She continued to make her embroidery. Nobody knew if Shi Qingxues warning worked, and Shi Baojin didnt make any trouble till she got married. On the wedding date, as the brides family, Shi Qingxue had to attend the wedding even though she was unwilling to. In the dinner party at noon, there were many plates of beautiful cuisine on the table, which looked delicious, but Shi Qingxue had no appetite. She ate a little and couldnt eat more because Mo Yuzhen stared at her all the time from another table. After they fell out last time, it was her first time to meet Mo Yuzhen. In fact, she wasnt angry with Mo Yuzhen. Especially when she saw that Yuzhen wanted to talk to her but hesitated, she wasnt mad at her at all. But what if she wasnt angry? After so many things happened, she and Mo Yuzhen had to repeat what was in the previous life, and she could do nothing. When everyone turned the attention to the groom, Shi Qingxue found an excuse and walked away sneakily. She would rather find a hideout randomly or have lunch outside than suffer terribly at the dinner party. Shi Qingxue didnt even bring a maid with her and quietly went out from the side door of the Zhao Familys mansion alone. When she was at the door, someone caught her. That man looked back with a smile on his face. Qingxue, where are you going? Shi Qingxue got stiffened and forced a smile, greeting with no emotion, Mo Junyang, what are you doing here? Mo Junyang was not the third princes follower. No matter how powerful the Zhao Family was, he didnt need to show up in person. Arent you here? Mo Junyang responded casually. Shi Qingxue didnt ask anymore. She was clear about this mans character. If he didnt want to say, he could beat around the bush and be offhand with the question. She wouldnt get the answer. Moreover, she seemed to understand why Mo Junyang attended a banquet that he didnt need to. Qingxue had a flush on her face and looked around. After a while, as if she made a decision, she suggested in a low voice, The food on the feast didnt taste good, and I am still hungry. Would you like to eat something with me in the Juxian Restaurant? Even Mo Junyang who was always calm got surprised to face Shi Qingxues first invitation. After a long time, he finally came to his senses and his cold lips curled up, with softness in his eyes. Okay. Shi Qingxue glanced at Mo Junyang and looked away in an instant. Her face was burning hot, and she walked in front quickly. Lets hurry up. I almost starve to death. Shi Qingxue had thought it over these days. Because of what had happened in the previous life, she really didnt trust love anymore. Love from a man was not as reliable as power in her hands, but on the other hand, Mo Junyang had proven to her with a lifetime in the previous life that he was persistent. Even though she always said that she didnt want to be with Mo Junyang, she might have been moved, especially after she knew this man was her Mo Junyang and he would never give up She couldnt help but expect. Maybe she and Mo Junyang had a chance to be together? Shi Qingxue was not sure, but she didnt mind letting nature take its course when she was with Mo Junyang, so she invited him to the Juxian Restaurant today. But as soon as they were seated, the room door was pushed open by Mo Junyu. Chapter 122 - The Curtain Opens for a Play Mo Junyu strode into the room swaggeringly and sat in front of Mo Junyang, with a long face, as if he came to find fault. What was wrong? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang speechlessly, and the latter also put on a straight face, staring at Mo Junyu coldly. It looked like they were going to have a fight. Uhh Your Highness, good day. Shi Qingxue thought for a while and stood up to bow to Mo Junyu, interrupting them glaring at each other. Mo Junyu was in a rage apparently and wasnt as gentle as usual. He waved his hand impatiently and then asked Mo Junyang furiously, You agreed to help me deal with Mo Junjiu, but now he even has a helper from the Shi Family. What are you going to do? Someone from the Shi Family could say nothing. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but wonder if she should leave them alone. This was a confidential talk! Unfortunately, the crown prince was too angry to pay attention to it, and Mo Junyang didnt care at all. He cast a side glance at Mo Junyu and said coldly, I will do as I promised to you. What are you doing here? Mo Junyu jumped out angrily because of Mo Junyangs indifference and didnt care about his manner. I am afraid that if I dont come, you can even sell me out. What have you done? Dont tell me that everything goes well with Zhao Ming recently not because of you. The crown prince stood, arms akimbo, like a shrew making a fuss, seeming to say, I am going to see what explanation you will give me this time. Yes, I gave him an offer. Mo Junyang admitted simply, as if he didnt notice that the crown prince was going to explode. He added casually, I made a deal with him. Mo Junyu asked, What deal? Mo Junyang didnt hide anything from him. I told Zhao Ming to let his son marry Shi Baojin and accept her as the second young madam of the Zhao Family. Then I will help him get a chance to show up in front of His Majesty and make him the same level as the Minister of Personnel. What? Mo Junyu stared at Mo Junyang as if the latter was a ghost, and then turned around to look at Shi Qingxue. Seeing that she was also surprised, he asked, Are you out of your mind? If I remember correctly, Qingxue is not on good terms with that lady from the Third Masters Family. Why are you He didnt know what he could say. This could be the most unreliable thing Mo Junyang had done, and it was the only, not one of the most But when Mo Junyu was petrified, Mo Junyang still showed an impatient poker face and didnt plan to explain. He turned to Shi Qingxue. Qingxue, arent you curious about his purpose to do that? Ah? Shi Qingxue was stunned that he paid attention to her suddenly and then looked at Mo Junyang, who gave her a comforting smile, so she tried to persuade Mo Junyu. Your Highness, dont be anxious. Junyang must have his own consideration. Although she couldnt understand why Mo Junyang tried to promote the Zhao Family, she was sure that he got Shi Baojin married into the Zhao Family not to let that woman live a good life. So she had to guess and look at Mo Junyang with uncertainty. Maybe Junyang plans to promote him and then kill him? Zhao Ming follows Prime Minister Liang but has connections with other factions. He is a cautious man, but he doesnt hide his ambition to get promoted and seize more power. I have kept an eye on him for a long time and found that he is anxious to show up in front of His Majesty recently, so I will definitely give him a chance to perform. Otherwise, how would this play go on? Mo Junyang explained meaningfully and smiled at Qingxue with approval. Then he turned to peer at Mo Junyu. His disdain was evident. Mo Junyu was speechless. What a detour. If Mo Junyang didnt make it clear, who would know what he was trying to do? Mo Junyang shrugged, indicating, Qingxue has guessed right. Just admit that you are foolish! Mo Junyu bared his teeth to retort secretly, No. You must have told Shi Qingxue in advance. Mo Junyang ignored him and then looked at Qingxue, saying seriously, Relax. Shi Baojin bullied you, and I will make her pay for it at a higher price. He pondered for a while and added, Without getting the Shi Family involved. Without getting my family involved Shi Qingxue certainly believed him but pouted. So you mean the whole Zhao Family would be killed? What accusation? Trying to overturn the dynasty? As soon as she said, she objected. No. He is not qualified. If he commits one of the top three of the ten abominations, the whole family would be implicated. Hes not planning to ruin the royal property, either, so he would only plot treason! Shi Qingxues eyes lit up, like the beautiful and dazzling fireworks. She gazed at Mo Junyang and expected his answer. Mo Junyang was almost dazzled and the shock from his heart was overwhelming. He had to keep silent. Mo Junyu was amazed and looked at Shi Qingxue with his eyes opened wide, unbale to react for quite a while. Mo Junyangs reaction showed that Shi Qingxue was right. You can even guess it? Incredible! Mo Junyu thought he was intelligent. Even though he might be inferior to Mo Junyang, he was absolutely the number one among his brothers. Unexpectedly, when they just knew Mo Junyangs intention, he hadnt figured out, but Shi Qingxue had sorted out everything and made a conclusion. Her explanation was reasonable, and Mo Junyu doubted that Mo Junyang had told her in advance and intentionally provoked him. Shi Qingxue wasnt happy for the truth she had guessed but frowned. The Zhao Family contacts the enemy from another country? Why? The Zhao Family wasnt royal but was one of the top noble families in the Mo Country and they didnt need to betray the country to seek power and wealth. Mo Junyang expressed, I dont know. I dont care. So you gave him a chance in order to get the evidence of his connection with the enemy from another country? And then you can kill his whole family? At the mention of the state affairs, Mo Junyu stopped joking and asked seriously. Mo Junyang answered, Yes, and no. I had the evidence long ago, but if I dont make him powerful, it would be boring to torture him. Recently, the Zhao Family got more power and Mo Junjiu almost took Zhao Ming as his capable assistant. If the news spread at this time that Zhao Ming plotted treason, wouldnt Mo Junjiu be killed by his anger? At this thought, the three in the room laughed secretly. Mo Junyu wasnt as furious as he had been when he entered the room and said generously, What would you like to eat? Its on me. Help yourself. Mo Junyang concealed his smile and peered at him, saying coldly, You can leave now. The crown prince who was dismissed mercilessly couldnt say a word. On the third day after the wedding of the Zhao Family and the Shi Family, the Imperial Censor, Ling Xiaoyun reported to Mo Xiangbin and accused the Minister of Revenue, Zhao Ming of contacting the enemy and plotting treason. He had communications with the King of the Liang Country by letters and told the enemy many times about the information of the Mo Country such as taxes, census registers and military supplies. The news shocked the imperial court. But Ling Xiaoyun just handed in a file and didnt give any presentable evidence, so the third princes followers criticized him and recriminated him of framing because he had personal grudge toward Zhao Ming. Mo Xiangbin investigated and found it was true. The Imperial Censor, Ling Xiaoyun had contacted Zhao Ming the other day because his nephew who was a local official in another city would return to the capital to report on his work and be transferred to another post. He hoped that Zhao Ming would let his nephew work in the Ministry of Revenue, but Zhao Ming didnt agree. Mo Xiangbin furiously scolded Ling Xiaoyun for he didnt make a clear distinction between public and private interests and would demote him. The third princes followers sighed with relief, but suddenly another person sent confidential letters to the emperors table. They were all letters between Zhao Ming and the King of the Liang Country, with military defense information and tax accounts attached. All of them confirmed the truth that Zhao Ming contacted the Liang Country in private. Zhao Ming couldnt defend himself, no matter what he said. Mo Xiangbin was enraged and put Zhao Mings entire family in prison without demur. When Mo Junjiu got the news, he heard that Mo Xiangbin was sending someone to investigate this matter thoroughly and got stunned. He hurriedly rushed to Prime Minister Liangs mansion to see Liang Yuanming. Grandpa, what should we do? In order to win over Zhao Ming, Mo Junjiu had told him a lot of core secrets about his faction, including some grey areas that everybody understood from their hearts but did not choose to say in public. If others knew that, he couldnt be a prince. Liang Yuanming was old and sophisticated. He always thought poorly of Zhao Ming, and now such trouble was caused, so he cursed angrily, I told you long ago that Zhao Ming is up to no good, and he always played hard to get in the past. Later he crossed over to you easily, and he must have his purpose, but you just took him as a treasure. Now, it happens, right? Even if what you have done wouldnt be exposed, your brothers would bother about you just because Zhao Ming is your follower. If they accuse you of treason, you will be ruined. Mo Junjiu turned pale with fright and his legs trembled. He shrank his neck and responded, I just thought he seemed to be capable. Under Liang Yuanmings glare, he didnt dare to say more but asked for help, Grand Grandpa, please do help me. Liang Yuanming touched his forehead helplessly and sighed. There is no good way now. We have to start with the people who would investigate Zhao Ming. We cant make Mo Junhao take this job, or you will be really screwed up! But the Supreme Court doesnt have the authority to judge this case, and the Ministry of Penalty is under control of Junhaos people. What should we do? Mo Junjiu scratched his head anxiously and didnt look like a prince. Liang Yuanming roared, Calm down. Its not set in stone yet. Why are you anxious? He stroked his mustache and pondered for a while before saying all of a sudden, No. His Majesty is always suspicious and he knows you and Mo Junhao are incompatible for long. If he leaves it to Mo Junhao, he wouldnt find the truth. His Majesty would choose somebody he fully trusts My Lord! A guard ran in hurriedly and interrupted Liang Yuanmings meditation. Before Liang Yuanming lost temper, the guard gave him a letter. My Lord, its from the imperial palace, and they told me to give it to you at once. Fine. You are dismissed! Liang Yuanming received the letter and then got astonished after reading it. Mo Junjiu waited for quite a while patiently and didnt get an answer, so he was restless. Grandpa, what is on the letter? Tell me now! Liang Yuanming put down the letter and looked at Mo Junjiu with a complicated expression, sighing. His Majesty ordered King Ruis heir to hear the case of Zhao Mings treason. Chapter 123 - A Lame Duck After hearing that, Mo Junjiu heaved a sigh of relief and then murmured, Why is it him? Liang Yuanming grabbed the letter with one hand and stroked his beard with the other, muttering to himself, It appears that His Majesty trusts that man more than what we imagined. He hides it perfectly. Mo Junjiu had never taken Mo Junyang to heart and bragged without feeling ashamed, Why did you say that? Mo Junyang is a useless bastard. If he hadnt followed the crown prince, he might have been killed by us when we were children. How would he live till now? But in the final analysis, he has no real power. As long as we threaten him, he would be sure to Idiot! Liang Yuanming interrupted Mo Junjiu crossly and cursed with disappointment, What I said just now is useless to you? Why dont you use your brain? Mo Junjiu was scolded and got angry, but this was his respected maternal grandfather and his most reliable counselor, so he had to bear it. But he didnt look well and said with displeasure, I am not wrong. Grandpa, you know I am not good at it. Just tell me what you are thinking about. Dont keep me in suspense. Liang Yuanming goggled out of anger. He was clear that his grandson was obedient to elders but not wise enough. However, Mo Junjiu was a prince and would only be obedient to him. In front of other counselors, he was always puffed up with pride and would never take advice modestly, so it was difficult to cultivate his wisdom in a short time. So Liang Yuanming didnt insist but said helplessly, Didnt I tell you just now? The person who would be appointed to hear Zhao Mings case must be trusted by His Majesty. While in the past few years, Mo Junyang has always been average. Although he follows the crown prince, he made no contributions, and everybody thinks he is good for nothing. Mo Junjiu pouted and remained silent, but he said secretly, He is just a lame duck. Liang Yuanming was angry at Mo Junjius attitude and wanted to call him Lame Duck. Do you know the more harmless Mo Junyang pretends, the more he hides everything. Zhao Mings misfortune might be his plan. Liang Yuanming had no evidence, but such things didnt need evidence. The indistinct instinct could explain everything. Mo Junjiu denied automatically, No way! Why not? If this matter has nothing to do with him, why do you think His Majesty would tell him to investigate? Mo Junjiu was unable to reply. He wanted to retort and say that Mo Junyang was not so capable, but the old mans serious eyes told him that this was the truth. He frowned resentfully and cursed in a low voice, Mo Junyu must be behind the scene. He pretends to be gentle and harmless at ordinary times, and I really dont think he cares about the position of the heir to the throne. Now he finally cant be calm. Indeed. The East Palace is not powerful, and the crown prince is always low-key these years, but now he suddenly takes action Liang Yuanming pondered for a short while and then looked at Mo Junjiu out of the blue, with his sharp eyes. What did you do? Mo Junjiu shrank his neck and retorted with guilt, I did nothing Fine. I tell you. He couldnt bear Liang Yuanmings deep eyes and had to tell his grandfather that he had secretly sent people to assassinate Mo Junyu several times. At last, he was still reluctant. He was lucky enough to escape every time. Otherwise, no matter how partial my father is to Junhao, I would get the position of the crown prince. How dare you! Liang Yuanming hadnt thought that Mo Junjiu would do something like that recklessly. He almost spat blood. Everybody would be irritated. Moreover, no matter how much Mo Junyu hid himself, he was the heir to the throne. After being provoked repeatedly, if he didnt fight back, he would be a coward. In Zhao Mings case, they might have found what Mo Junjiu had done. Hearing his grandfathers explanation, Mo Junjiu was startled and said doubtfully, No way. All people I sent couldnt come back alive, and everybody has died. I have secretly killed the one in the East Palace. He couldnt have known it. Liang Yuanming was speechless in fury and didnt want to explain the tricks to Mo Junjiu. He just said, Anyway, now we need to urgently find from Mo Junyang what Mo Junyu plans to do. If he just wants to give you back tit for tat, we can end it after pushing Zhao Ming away. If he plans to have a life-and-death struggle, perhaps we would have to change our target Ah? Cant we protect Zhao Ming? Mo Junjiu mumbled unwillingly. Till now he still dreamed that he would have the Minister of Revenue on his side. Liang Yuanming was enraged by him and lost his energy. He warned coldly, Just stop having an unrealistic dream! Havent you found that the evidence Mo Junyang showed was solid, and any information would deprive Zhao Ming of his official position? Whats more, they have kept so many letters, and it can be seen that they kept an eye on him for long. They would never let go of this main target. Liang Yuanming didnt say that Zhao Ming didnt commit an ordinary crime but treason and if the Mo Country were destroyed, what would the point be even after Mo Junjiu got the position of the heir to the throne? After taking Mo Xiangbins order, King Ruis heir, who had been remembered with concern for long by the third princes followers, went to the prison to see the former Minister of Revenue, Zhao Ming. Zhao Ming had been kept in prison for three days. With his messy hair and untidy face, he lost all his imposing manner. Mo Junyang was seated outside, with tea and snacks on the table in front of him. He didnt say anything and just sat silently. Zhao Ming got impatient first and said in a hoarse voice, Your Excellency, you are in such a good mood. I am flattered that you came to this filthy place to see me. Its a nice place here and suitable for you, Mo Junyang responded casually. Zhao Ming raged and couldnt say a word. He stared at Mo Junyang. I have never offended you, right? You asked Liang to marry that woman from the Shi Family, and I agreed. Why did you want to kill all my family? Mo Junyang blinked his eyes lazily and said indifferently, You contacted the enemy and betrayed the country. Do we need to give any more reasons to kill you? Zhao Ming was unable to reply. Or do you want to say that you are forgivable? After all, the King of the Liang Country, Yel Beichen saved your life once, right? Zhao Mings face turned pale, and he looked at Mo Junyang in surprise. How did you know it? Mo Junyang turned the pages of a notebook in his hand and said slowly, In the twenty-sixth year since the Mo Country was established, there was a war in your hometown, and your parents died in the war. You didnt suffer in the disaster because you were studying in another city, but you were robbed in the forest. Yel Beichen, who was the crown prince of the Liang Country then, was on the way and saved you conveniently, and he told the servants to look after you. He heard that you were a scholar, so he gave you money and told you to take part in the selection of officials in the capital city. After you were selected and sent back to your hometown to work as an official, you contacted Yel Beichen again. He always took care of you and helped you bribe others and get promoted successfully. In less than ten years, you became a Rank-3 official. In order to repay Yel Beichen, you sent letters with the opportunity of your position all the time. Am I right? Zhao Ming was petrified and didnt know how to respond. His identity was fake and couldnt be found, but Mo Junyang told the truth, which was horribly accurate. How Why did you know that? Others would answer with ravings such as The day has eyes, and the night has ears. However, Mo Junyang disdained to make fun of Zhao Ming and asked, Your crime has been confirmed, but His Majesty told me to ask you. What do you want to say? Zhao Ming gritted his teeth. It looked like he swallowed humiliation but finally decided to confess. He said, Everything As soon as he started, whoosh, a long arrow flew from somewhere in the dark to him. Mo Junyang sat still. Wei Zichao behind him raised his hand and lifted his sword. He threw the sword with the handle in opposite direction and happened to hit the long arrow, with the sound of metal collision. The arrow then fell on the floor in front of Zhao Ming. Zhao Mings legs softened, and he sat on the floor. The guards in the prison finally reacted and chased in the direction where the long arrow came from. Wei Zichao opened the room door and walked in. He picked up his sword to put it back in the sheath and then put the long arrow in front of Mo Junyang, reporting, Master, there is poison on the arrow. Zhao Ming trembled again with fear. Mo Junyang was in a good mood and rested his chin on one hand, smiling. Lord Zhao, go on. He was relaxed as if he hadnt experienced a terrifying life-and-death disaster just now. Oh, right. Anyway, the target was not him. Wei Zichao pouted in secret and thought that his master tended to have a repulsive addiction. Zhao Ming had been threatened by death and opened his mouth but couldnt make a sound for a long time. It seemed that he was out of wits. Mo Junyang waited and got impatient. He frowned and said expressionlessly, You plot treason and your whole family would be killed. Anyway, you are dying. What are you afraid of? Zhao Ming couldnt speak a word. He seemed to say, We will eat sooner or later. Why are you anxious? More incredibly, Zhao Ming came back to reality from the death threat, for the time being. He stared at Mo Junyang and thought, He knew my treason plot long ago but didnt say anything, and he came to question me this time, so I must have something that he wanted. It was a good bargaining chip. Zhao Ming calmed down and looked relaxed. Your Excellency, as you said, I am dying anyway, so what can I say? Mo Junyang uplifted his brows and sneered. Are you threatening me? Zhao Ming smiled shamelessly and pretended modest. I dont dare. When I was exposed, I knew that I couldnt escape death. But I still have a wish. Hope I can make a deal with you. What do you want? Mo Junyang asked without changing his expression. Zhao Ming replied seriously, Please keep one descendant of my family alive. No matter what excuse you use, I just want him to stay alive. Afterward, he smiled at Mo Junyang again, trying to please him. Your Excellency, its not difficult for you. Moreover, the Shi Family is involved. If you can make my wish come true, I will tell you everything that I know. I believe that your boss will be satisfied with that. He had a perfect plan. Mo Junyang kept a good relationship with the Shi Family. Otherwise, he wouldnt have stood up for Shi Baojin. And Zhao Ming had the secrets of the third princes followers. It would be easy to exchange those for Shi Baojins life, and the Zhao Family would have a descendant left. Unfortunately, he was calculating but had never thought that Mo Junyang made Shi Baojin a member of the Zhao Family, the group of treason, not to let her live in comfort! Wei Zichao looked at Zhao Mings complacent expression and prayed for him secretly. Chapter 124 - Who Is the Beneficiary After keeping silent for a while, Mo Junyang said expressionlessly, Tell me what you can satisfy me. Wei Zichao was stunned and peeped at his master in disbelief. Mo Junyang came here just as a formality. Why did he want to have a heart-to-heart talk with Zhao Ming? Zhao Ming was overjoyed and gave some information to please him. Prince Junjiu has coveted the position of the heir to the throne for a long time and wants to replace the crown prince. Mo Junyang sneered. Thats it? Do you want to exchange it for a life of your family? Dont waste our time! Then he stood up and planned to leave. Your Excellency, please wait! Zhao Ming panicked and didnt expect that Mo Junyang would leave whenever he wanted to and couldnt be kept in suspense. He knelt down and pleaded, I am not a good talker. Please give me another chance. I wont make you come here for nothing. He spoke solemnly and almost swore to God. Mo Junyang stopped in his tracks and went back to his seat, saying coldly, This is your last chance. If you say something worthless I dont dare to anymore! Zhao Ming kowtowed to ask for mercy. Mo Junyang said with no emotion, Tell me what your bargaining chip is. Zhao Ming quivered and spilt the beans. In order to win me over, His Highness promised me that after we make it, he would give me my hometown as the fiefdom and make me King Chuan. The Mo Country had the rule to make a man outside the royal family the king, but it was left from the last dynasty. After the Mo Country was established, several kings from other families plotted treason and had been killed. Then the country didnt have a king who was not from the royal family. It was such a great temptation. Who wouldnt be attracted? Mo Junjiu was really good at playing games. He just drew a Rank-3 official over to his side and would reward him with the position of a king. What about the others with more power? Wei Zichao secretly cursed that this prince was a prodigal son and thought his master was considerate. They really didnt know about this news earlier. Mo Junyang tapped his slender fingers on the table and nobody knew if he listened to Zhao Ming. After a long time, when Wei Zichao thought his master was asleep, he heard him say, Chuan City is ruled by the Mo Country and the Zhao Country now. Can Mo Junjiu make you King Chuan even after he gets the position? Both Wei Zichao and Zhao Ming were stunned. The former regretted that he hadnt thought of this key point, and the latter was amazed by Mo Junyangs acuity. Zhao Ming didnt dare to play tricks and responded frankly, The crown prince of the Zhao Country, Zhao Xinyu has become His Highnesss alliance. They would help each other get the position and had deals in cities, and a small city such as Chuan City is nothing difficult. I see. Mo Junyang finally showed a smile. Zhao Ming heaved a sigh of relief and continued, I am not as capable as you, and I cant get the letters between His Highness and Zhao Xinyu, but I have recorded the contents of their communication. If you can promise to keep a life for my family, I will give you all the contents. Contacting the Liang Country was treason, but contacting the Zhao Country wasnt? Even though the records were the second-hand evidence, Mo Xiangbin was suspicious and after those things were submitted, he might deprive Mo Junjiu of his chance to be an heir. Such a big secret was enough to exchange for a life, no matter who made a deal with him. Wei Zichao couldnt help but want to praise this traitor, Lord Zhaos resourcefulness. This two-faced man was a good spy and his last card was attractive. With Mo Junjius secrets, the crown prince in the East Palace would have more choices to go ahead or retreat. What would Mo Junyang choose? After all, Zhao Ming wanted them to spare Shi Baojins life Mo Junyang looked as if lost in thought and seemed to hesitate. He came back to earth till Wei Zichao called him in a low voice. Then he looked at Zhao Ming, seeing his expectant and confident eyes, and sneered. I am not a stubborn and unreasonable man, but you asked me to help nobody but Shi Baojin. Are you still unaware why I helped you so much but just wanted that playboy in your family to marry her? The smile on Zhao Mings face got stiffened and a thought flashed in his brain. He looked at Mo Junyang in disbelief. Mo Junyang smiled casually. Anyone who did something wrong would have to pay for it. Afterward, he ignored Zhao Ming who sat on the floor dispiritedly, and waved his sleeve, standing up. Well, the conversation is over. Lord Zhao, take care of yourself. Wei Zichao was clear that as long as something was related to Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang would change his mind, but Zhao Mings offer might influence the situation of the fight for the position of the heir to the throne. Was his master not tempted at all? Master! Wei Zichao called anxiously and glimpsed at Zhao Mings anxiety. He reminded tentatively, The Zhao Family can keep a life other than Shi Baojins baby. Zhao Mings eyes lit up at once and he crawled to Mo Junyang in a hurry, shouting nervously, Right. Your Excellency, no matter how you will treat Shi Baojin, I just want you to keep a life for my family. Anyone is okay Mo Junyang smiled. Then what will you exchange with me? Zhao Ming said in haste, I will give you all the records as I mentioned before. Mo Junyang was dismissive. Ha! You want to fool me with that? Zhao Ming, do you think I am as stupid as Mo Junjiu? Fine, since you dont want to make a deal, I wont waste your time to enjoy the last breaths. Your Excellency, everything I said is true. Those are the records of Mo Junjiu and Zhao Xinyus connections. With the records, you can investigate the traces of Mo Junjiu and the Zhao Countrys relationship. I wont let you down. I told the truth! Zhao Ming shouted loudly. If there werent a room door, he might climb to Mo Junyang. Wei Zichao couldnt help but whisper, If what this guy said is true, that stuff would be helpful to the crown prince. Master, you Mo Junyang cast a side glance at Wei Zichao, who wanted to advise him but was afraid of annoying him, and felt it laughable. After thinking for a while, he took out a thin notebook from his pocket and threw it to Wei Zichao. Do you mean this? Wei Zichao opened it in an instant and got stunned. Zhao Ming found that notebook looked familiar and then noticed Wei Zichaos expression. He couldnt accept it and shouted, No way. I have hidden it well. How could you get it? It must be fake, for sure! Mo Junyang didnt want to argue with a dying person about the truth of something that he didnt care about. He raised his head and left. After he took two steps, something funny occurred to him, and he stopped and smiled at Zhao Ming gently. Zhao Ming, you are not a fool. I think you must know who started the war sixteen years ago. When the Liang Country intruded our countrys territory, you suffered a lot. Why did you help the Liang Country at last? Let me guess. How did Yel Beichen explain to you about your parents death? What did he promise to you? Chuan City was conquered by the Zhao Countrys army then, which was like a beast at bay occupying the city. They would burn, kill and rob the local people when they retreated after being defeated at last as the customary rule. And he promised to make you King Chuan, too? Or would he help you defeat the Mo Country and the Zhao Country? You would actually believe such words? Mo Junyang spoke each word easily, but accurately told the truth that Zhao Ming tried to forget and didnt even dare to think about, which was like the last straw. Moreover, he didnt want Zhao Mings answer. He left a bomb and exploded Zhao Mings last fighting spirit before walking out of the prison relaxed. Wei Zichao followed Mo Junyang and walked outside. Before leaving the prison, he couldnt help but look back at Zhao Ming, who was lying on the floor after all his energy was lost, like a dead person. Master, did the Liang Countrys army really kill Zhao Mings parents? Wei Zichao couldnt control himself and asked. If this were the truth, Zhao Ming would be pathetic. He wanted to avenge his parents and family, but before dying he finally found that he had helped his enemy. Such a blow would be more painful than death. Mo Junyang shrugged. I dont know. Then you said Mo Junyang was indifferent. The war was so many years ago, and the truth had been buried with the history. It depends on what you believe! He was in doubt, and I just told him every possibility to entertain him. Wei Zichao was speechless and thought, The entertainment you mentioned would make him fall apart! Mo Junyang concealed his smile and looked serious, saying coldly, Where do you think Mo Junjiu got the letter to cast a bone between Wenren Chi and Shi Junhe? Without that letter, I wouldnt have found the secret between Zhao Ming and Yel Beichen. He dared to make Qingxue sad, so he had to prepare to pay for it. In the final analysis, he did it for Shi Qingxue. Wei Zichao was too powerless to comment. Perhaps after this issue, more people would guess that Mo Junyang loved the lady from the Shi Family. How would we deal with this notebook? Shall we give it to His Majesty? Wei Zichao excitedly held the notebook with both hands, as if he had taken a bomb and would explode a fort. Mo Junyang glanced at him with ridicule. Why shall we hand it in? Since when did you want to be used as a tool? Wei Zichao answered automatically, Cant it get Mo Junjiu in trouble? And then? What then? Wei Zichao couldnt understand. Mo Junyang was worried about his subordinates intelligence and told Qu Yuebai to explain to him. Then he went to the imperial palace to report on completion of the task. Wei Zichao didnt give up and asked Qu Yuebai, Why didnt our master use it? Does he not want the crown prince to be more powerful? Qu Yuebai took that notebook speechlessly and rolled it to knock on Wei Zichaos head, cursing crossly, Idiot! Cant you use your brain? Do you think Zhao Ming would betray his boss just for a life? Wei Zichao said blankly, Of course not, but Mo Junjiu is not his boss. He could betray Mo Junjiu. Do you doubt that the records are fake? Que Yuebai didnt want to let Wei Zichao think about it and said directly, The records must be true, but something true would be suspicious. Zhao Ming wouldnt get any profit after handing it in. He didnt hand it in. It was our master Wei Zichao shut up angrily under Qu Yuebais glare and then asked reluctantly, What do you think he wants to do? Qu Yuebai sneered. This seems to be a good tool to deal with Mo Junjiu, but it is a hot potato indeed. If he hands it in, Mo Junjiu would be ruined and the crown prince would be in trouble, too. Do you think our boss would do such a thing to make two fight and benefit the third one? Wei Zichao was still confused. Do you mean Mo Junhao is behind the scene Qu Yuebai interrupted him with a smile, Buddha says, it cant be told. Lets wait and see what our boss will do. Chapter 125 - The Rumor Wei Zichao was not smart enough indeed, but he guessed right. Mo Junyang did that, and he told Zhao Ming something in the prison. The news that Mo Junyang loved Shi Qingxue spread instantly. He didnt tell the world, but anybody who should know had heard about it. The first one who asked Mo Junyang was Mo Xiangbin unexpectedly. The emperor of the Mo Country summoned Mo Junyang to the study and didnt ask about Zhao Mings treason, but questioned, Do you want to marry the girl from the Shi Family? Mo Junyang smiled, with his determined eyes. Your Majesty, I dont want to but will marry her. He bragged in front of the emperor, but Mo Xiangbin didnt get angry. Instead, he stared at Mo Junyang deeply. After quite a while, the emperor smiled, his eyes sharp. Junyang, I know about your capability, but its my first time to see you concentrate on something. Is Qingxue so attractive? Or do youhave any other purposes? The old fox would think more. Obviously, Mo Xiangbin didnt believe that Mo Junyang had put Shi Baojin in a treason group just to avenge Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyang didnt explain but smiled freely, asking, Your Majesty, what do you think? Everyone in the Mo Country, even including the most favored fourth prince Mo Junhao, didnt dare to be so reckless in front of Mo Xiangbin, but Mo Junyang was so relaxed, as if he werent facing a ruler who controlled everybodys life and death. More magically, Mo Xiangbin didnt get mad at all. Even with admiration in his eyes, he laughed. Great! You deserve to be my nephew. If any of my sons were as capable as you, would they need to try every means to fight for the position? While he was speaking, the old emperors face was depressed. Mo Xiangbin was capable for sure as he could take over the position of the late emperor. Even though he was truly partial to Mo Junhao, he hoped that his successor would be somebody talented. Only under control of such a man could the country pass down for many generations. Unfortunately, his three sons who fought most for the position of his heir were all square in every aspect. It was tough to make a choice. Mo Junyang seemed not to hear the hidden meaning in Mo Xiangbins words and answered casually, Your Majesty, the Mo Country is yours. You can give it to anybody as you like, and nobody dares to object. Mo Xiangbin was freshened by Mo Junyangs praise and nodded with satisfaction. Junyang, you know what I think. Probably Mo Xiangbin wouldnt have such thoughts if he knew that Mo Junyang had killed anybody who objected him and ascended the throne in the previous life. Mo Junyang didnt want to talk with Mo Xiangbin and said directly, Your Majesty, if you have no orders, I will leave. Wait. Mo Xiangbin stood up and stopped Mo Junyang. He moved two steps forward and stared at Mo Junyang, asking out of the blue, Thanks for your help in Zhao Mings case. Qingxue No need. Mo Junyang interrupted Mo Xiangbin without thinking. He added, Thanks for your kindness, Your Majesty, but I have my own plans. I dont dare to trouble you. Mo Xiangbin heard that and confirmed that the young man didnt sincerely want to marry Shi Qingxue. He felt relieved and waved his hand. Fine. I am old. I will let you younger generation handle it by yourselves. Mo Junyang didnt express his opinion and left for King Ruis mansion. Beyond his expectation, King Rui, Mo Xiangrui, who always abandoned himself to nature and didnt care about the society, had come back to the mansion and sat in the masters seat. He looked serious and obviously waited for his son to answer his questions. Mo Junyang frowned and stepped forward, greeting, Father, nice to see you. Mo Xiangrui gazed at Mo Junyang and asked deeply after quite a while, There is news from the imperial palace that you want to unite Duke Shis family by marriage? Father, you hear about it so soon. Mo Junyang had planned to spread the news, but Mo Xiangrui got it sooner than he expected. Mo Xiangrui didnt hide it and said frankly, I have people in the Ministry of Penalty. Gee. Mo Junyang knew that the fox which looked obedient would show its true nature someday. No matter how harmless Mo Xiangrui pretended, he was not a powerless sheep. If Shi Qingxue heard that, she would comment silently, Shameless. Who likes most to pretend to be a little sheep? Father, you are awesome. Mo Junyang wasnt stingy to praise. But Mo Xiangrui glared at him with displeasure. Tell me frankly what you are thinking about. I remember that you once said you didnt want to seize the throne. If you regret now, I can give you a hand. But Shi Junhe pays attention to loyalty to the emperor, and I am afraid that its not easy to win him over. You If the enemy heard of these words, any word would be enough to destroy King Ruis mansion, but on the other hand, it could be seen that King Rui spoke to his son from the bottom of his heart. Mo Junyang wasnt as relaxed as he had been when he faced Mo Xiangbin and replied respectfully, Father, I never regret. Now I am quite satisfied with the life in this mansion and I dont plan to unite Duke Shis family by marriage. But why is there rumor that you love Qingxue and tried every means to avenge her? Mo Xiangbin stared at Mo Junyang in disbelief and then was suddenly enlightened. Do you show it to others? Mo Junyang shook his head again and answered with a smile, The rumor is true. I put Shi Baojin into the Zhao Familys mess in order to avenge Qingxue. I will make anybody who bullied her pay for it at a much higher price. He spoke with ease, with a smile in his eyes, like expressing his love, but it made Mo Xiangrui tremble. Mo Xiangrui didnt take his sons words as a joke. He stayed silent for a short time and then said helplessly, You consider everything for her but dont want to marry her. What on earth do you want? Mo Junyang raised his brows and laughed showily. Who said I dont want to marry her? But didnt you say that you dont plan to unite the Shi Family by marriage? Mo Xiangrui looked astonished. Mo Junyang didnt care and shrugged. Uniting by marriage and my plan to marry her are different. Mo Xiangrui paused for a while and his old face showed that he understood. He looked happy and also sad. If only I had your courage in those years. He sighed silently and waved at Mo Junyang tiredly, saying, Deal with it by yourself. I wont stop you as long as you dont lose your life. You should know that your life doesnt belong to you alone Yes, Father, Mo Junyang responded softly and turned a deaf ear to Mo Xiangruis murmur. Then he left quietly. In the noble circle, the news spread that Mo Junyang loved Shi Qingxue and caused a great clamor. At the same time, all 27 people of three generations in the family of Zhao Ming who committed treason had been burnt to death in the prison except Shi Baojin, on the second day after Mo Junyang visited the prisoner. All people guessed that Mo Junyangs secret was exposed, so he killed the whole family to vent his anger, or Zhao Ming knew something he shouldnt know and had been killed so that the secret wouldnt be found. More magically, everybody thought Mo Xiangbin would get furious but he closed the case randomly and didnt plan to investigate anymore. So, nobody knew how many people sighed with relief in secret and how many smashed cups, unable to endure it. After Mo Junyu got the news, he didnt have any reaction. Although he hoped to see Mo Junjiu in trouble, he knew that the current situation of three sides was the most beneficial to him. If Mo Junjiu was ruined, Mo Junyus few followers would definitely be the first to suffer. So when somebody reported to him that Mo Junyang had hidden the most powerful evidence which could defeat Mo Junjiu, he killed them secretly even without asking more. But when he faced the expressionless Mo Junyang, he was restless and tried to start a conversation. What did you say to my father? He didnt investigate this matter anymore. Mo Junyang seemed not to notice Mo Junyus uneasiness hidden in his voice and replied, Nothing, but He is the emperor, after all. Mo Junyu was shocked to hear that. You didnt do anything this time, and he would thank you, Mo Junyang added unhurriedly. However, Mo Junyu smiled bitterly. Thank me? Forget it. We just played a show. Lets see what will happen in the future! By the way, didnt you always hide your feelings for the lady from the Shi Family and fear that you would scare her to run away? Why dont you fear now? Speaking of which, Mo Junyu might be the first one who knew about Mo Junyangs persistent love for Shi Qingxue. This big shot said as soon as he came to Mo Junyu, I will help you. Shi Qingxue is mine. To be frank, he didnt realize at that time who Shi Qingxue was. Eight years ago, she was just a kid. Till now, he still doubted that Mo Junyang was a pedophile. He was nervous and looked at Mo Junyang, who just smiled silently. But Qu Yuebai said with a smile, Your Highness, you dont know that our master fears nothing with somebody at his back. Oh? Why did you say that? Mo Junyu turned to Qu Yuebai curiously. In front of somebody Mo Junyang trusted, the crown prince didnt put on airs. Of course because Lady Qingxue When Qu Yuebai was anxious to gossip and wouldnt get happy unless he spoke out, Mo Junyang coughed. He didnt say anything and just glanced at his subordinate. Qu Yuebai shut up immediately and made a gesture of killing while shrinking obediently. Mo Junyus curiosity was aroused and mumbled discontentedly, You need to go on as you have started. You are not a man if you hesitate. Somebody who was forced not to be a man wept secretly and still didnt have the nerve to speak a word. When they were joking around, a servant sent an invitation from the third prince, who asked Mo Junyang to have a chat in the Xiangyue Pavilion. After reading the invitation, Qu Yuebai sighed with emotion. Both sides had such a big fight and were almost at daggers drawn. Prince Junjiu even has the interest to invite our master to a brothel. What does he want? Mo Junyu took the invitation and checked it. Then he sneered all of a sudden. Prime Minister Liang is cautious. Even if he knows that we wont make a fuss about Zhao Mings notebook with records, he would think its not safe in our hands. He might want to take it back. While speaking, he looked at Mo Junyang. Are you going there? It would be a waste if we dont take the benefit given to us, Mo Junyang answered simply. Qu Yuebai thought so after pondering for a while but then expressed awkwardly that he had seen that Mo Junyang put it in fire conveniently. Mo Junyu was anxious after hearing that. Then how would we blackmail Mo Junjiu? Chapter 126 - The Problems of the Third Master’s Family When Mo Junyu and Qu Yuebai were depressed because they couldnt blackmail Mo Junjiu, Mo Junyang glimpsed at them. He said casually, You can get as many such things as you want. What? Do you still want it? The two nodded repeatedly. Mo Junyang smiled faintly and leered at Mo Junyu. But Mo Junjiu asked me out. Do you want to see him by appointment for me, Your Highness? Almost everybody knew that Mo Junyang worked for the crown prince, but if Mo Junyu came out, that would be the intramural fight of brothers, and it was forbidden. Mo Junyu naturally wouldnt do something stupid like this and then smiled, trying to please him. We are brothers. Dont be so distant. Whats more, you have planned this issue, and I cant claim all your credit for myself. Your Highness, what do you want? Mo Junyang was not in the mood to beat around the bush and asked directly. Mo Junyu answered, After Zhao Ming died, the position of Minister of Revenue is vacant, and I am afraid that many people covet it. Junyang, whats your opinion? Mo Junyang stayed silent for a while before saying, The Assistant Minister, Zong Quan. What do you think, Your Highness? Zong Quan? Mo Junyu thought this name was unfamiliar and frowned. This man is unknown to the public and has no background. Would it be a waste to make him the head of the Ministry of Revenue? More importantly, Mo Junyu was worried that Zong Quan who was not engaged in factional activities in pursuit of personal gains on the surface worked for Mo Junjiu or Mo Junhao. If he promoted this man, would he help others? Zong Quan is over fifty years old but is still the Assistant Minister just because he is honest and stubborn and doesnt know how to flatter. Mo Junyang introduced Zong Quans information calmly. Mo Junyu always liked the sophisticated people. Such people could be used and were easy to win over. They just sought for profit. Hearing Mo Junyangs introduction, he wrinkled his brows more deeply. We cant make such a person loyal to us. The stubborn people paid attention to the principles, which was the most troublesome. No matter how much was given to him, it couldnt change his original intentions. How could they buy him over? Mo Junyang sneered. Your Highness, have you forgotten your identity? Mo Junyu was stunned. Mo Junyang looked into the distance and said leisurely after a short while, You are so busy and have done so many things. Have you forgotten your original purpose? Or because of your brothers means, dont you remember your greatest advantage? Your Highness, you are the crown prince and the official heir to the throne. As long as you dont make mistakes, even His Majesty cant deprive you of your position easily. So you dont need to win over your followers anxiously. Only your identity is enough to make many people loyal to you. Why do you confuse cause and effect to lose your majesty? Mo Junyu kept silent and was shocked, as if his heart was stricken. He suddenly thought of what Mo Junyang had told him in the past and couldnt help but ask again, How about you? Why are you willing to follow me? In fact, when Mo Junyu was dying, lonely and desperate, and even the empress dowager, Ling Ruiyin had given him up, he had asked Mo Junyang who saved him the same question. And now, Mo Junyang looked at him expressionlessly but said forcefully as before, You are the crown prince and should ascend the throne. At that time, the fated prediction had given Mo Junyu much courage and made him fearless to fight against the fatal attack of smallpox. But now, he heaved a sigh of relief and concealed the complicated emotions, pretending that nothing had happened. I am afraid I have to depend on you, brother. Mo Junyang just nodded at him and stood up to leave. Qu Yuebai followed Mo Junyang. Till they were on the way back to King Ruis mansion after leaving the East Palace, he said in a deep voice, Your Excellency, you are smart and should have known the story that the bow would be worthless and ruined after all the birds are hunted. I think youd better make plans earlier for something. Mo Junyang leaned against the soft chair and smiled casually, asking, Are you worried that the crown prince would do something to me? Qu Yuebai looked serious. Although he killed the spy around you this time, which showed that he trusts you, we dont know if this spy was greedy for wealth or was sent by him. He looks calm, and it means that he is guilty. Cant you see this point? Yes, Mo Junyang answered simply. But before his follower was relieved, he added unhurriedly, But anyway, he is just afraid that I will follow one of his brothers. If he only wants to confirm this aspect, I wont mind promising to him. Qu Yuebai frowned and then asked, What if he has other plans? Mo Junyang fell into silence for a long time. Till Qu Yuebai thought he wouldnt get an answer again, Mo Junyang patted his shoulder and said solemnly, Yuebai, I wont make you regret your choice. Que Yuebai was shocked and looked at Mo Junyang, planning to ask more, but the latter had lifted the carriages curtain and ordered the driver, We wont return home. Go to Duke Shis mansion first and head for Xiangyue Pavilion in the evening. Yes! After Shi Baojin had been put in prison, Duke Shis mansion was a mess. Especially everyone in the Third Masters Family was nervous and feared that the Zhao Familys case would implicate them. They were not as lucky as Shi Qingxue, and the token granted by the emperor made her invincible. They hadnt considered getting Shi Baojin out yet. Especially after hearing that Shi Baojin was thrown out to suffer by Mo Junyang because she had offended Shi Qingxue, Zhou Ruyu couldnt help but blame her daughter. I told that girl not to annoy Shi Qingxue, but she didnt listen to me and insisted on bothering about Shi Qingxue. Now she has got herself in trouble. What should we do? Shi Juncai snorted. You have raised a good daughter. You spoilt her. I hear from His Highness that King Ruis heir is very vindictive. Because of our relationship with First Masters Family, he might even hate us. But your daughter insisted on going to Shi Qingxue to court death. Wouldnt she implicate everybody in our family? Zhou Ruyu was angry. With one hand on her waist, and the other pointing at Shi Juncai, she cursed, Is Baojin not your daughter? When she pleased Mother and fought with Shi Qingxue at ordinary times, why didnt you object? Now she is in trouble, and you blame me? Shi Juncai, I tell you. I am not one of your concubines who can let you vent your anger. If you dare to bully me, believe it or not, I will go back to tell Father. Shi Juncai patted Zhou Ruyus hand away and sneered. Do you think Marquis of Wuyang is still the first marquis in the capital city as more than twenty years ago? Stop daydreaming! Since your two brothers died in the battlefield, your family has declined. Marquis of Wuyang does nothing now and only waits for death. Oh, I think he would have nobody to collect his body after he dies. He has no descendants. You! Zhou Ruyu was enraged by the sarcastic words and could hardly breathe. She rushed to Shi Juncai to punch and kick him while cursing in tears, Why did I marry such an ungrateful guy? Have you forgotten that your brother refused to help you get promoted and my father did that for you? Shi Juncai bared his teeth in pain and couldnt bear Zhou Ruyus hot temper. He pushed her away, which made her fall on the floor. And he stabbed her heart with words mercilessly, Huh? Do you think that I dont know you wanted to marry my brother at the beginning? Unfortunately, he married Dong Hui and didnt have any interest in you. He didnt even want to make you his concubine. Your father wanted to claim ties of kinship with Duke Shis mansion and asked my mother shamelessly to let you marry me. As for that official position, it was what you should do. Now you want to claim the credit? Zhou Ruyu was insulted and her face got pale. She trembled and pointed at Shi Juncai, but she couldnt speak a word out of anger. Shi Juncai was always controlled by Zhou Ruyu and suffered a lot. At the moment, he vent his anger in one breath and wasnt afraid of offending her. Then he added fuel to the fire with harsh words and made her almost have a heart attack. Father, Mother, what are you doing? Shi Baoyou saw that as soon as she entered the room and then hurriedly helped Zhou Ruyu up to have a seat. Seeing that Shi Juncai still wanted to irritate Zhou Ruyu more, Shi Baoyou had tears filling her beautiful face and tried to advise, Father, its said that one night of love is worth a hundred of friendship. Even if Mother makes you angry, please dont irritate her anymore for the sake of me and my brother, okay? After all, she gave birth to children for you. Her words hit Shi Juncais weakness, and he couldnt curse anymore. He started to comfort Shi Baoyou in a hurry who was full of tears. Baoyou, stop crying. I was so anxious because of your sister that I lost my mind. I didnt mean it. Even a hero couldnt bear to see a beautys tears. Moreover, such a charming and weak beauty was Shi Juncais daughter. He had to keep his temper and admit his mistake. Shi Baoyous tears were wiped by her father, and she didnt cry anymore but grabbed his hand, comforting softly, Father, dont be anxious. In fact, we have chances to change the situation. At least, all Minister Zhaos family died, but my sister is still alive and wasnt sentenced to death. It can be seen that His Majesty didnt want to get our family involved. Maybe we can even save my sister. Shi Juncai heard that and got joyful, but then he said in low spirits, With our familys current position, I certainly know His Majesty wouldnt do anything to us, but His Excellency Who knew if he would be narrow-minded and hurt them to make Shi Qingxue happy? I hear that His Excellency loves Qingxue, so as long as she says something, he wouldnt bother about this matter. Shi Baoyou calmly analyzed and dragged Shi Juncai back from the abyss of hopelessness once more. Shi Juncais eyes lit up again and he excitedly grasped Shi Baoyous hand. Right. You keep a good relationship with First Masters Family recently. If you say something, you can persuade Shi Qingxue. He was worried that Shi Baoyou would be under pressure and couldnt make it, so he added considerately, Dont worry. Its fine if you cant save your sister. As long as His Excellency lets go of our family, it will be great. Shi Baoyou bit her lower lip and looked depressed after hearing that, with sorrow in her eyes, but soon she concealed it. Then she replied peacefully, I am going to talk with Qingxue. When Shi Baoyou reached the Luotong Boudoir, it happened that Shi Baoning and Qingxue were in the room. Looking at the two sisters happily talking about Qingxues finished embroidery, Shi Baoyou who was restless had more confidence. With the soft-hearted Shi Baoning here, Shi Qingxue would be easier to be persuaded. Shi Qingxue found Shi Baoyou and showed a bigger smile. She stepped forward to hold her cousins arm and pointed at her work result, asking, Baoyou, have a look. How is my embroidery? Chapter 127 - The Weak Is Innocent Shi Baoyou was pulled by Qingxue to watch the embroidery she had just finished, but she was depressed and wasnt in the mood to enjoy Qingxues works. She glanced at it randomly and then nodded, praising, Qingxue, you are more and more skillful. It can be seen that you have worked with effort. Shi Baoning also smiled and rubbed Qingxues nose, saying with love, When I heard that she talked big and wanted to make a big piece of embroidery for me, I was afraid that she couldnt finish it as she always has a brief period of enthusiasm. Till I see it completed, I know that she really worked hard and even finished it earlier. Shi Qingxue stuck out her tongue and complained, as if she suffered grievance, No matter how much I love to play, I dont dare to be careless with your wedding gift. Yes, Qingxue, you are good at embroidery. As long as you are willing to work hard, your embroidery would be unmatched, Shi Baoyou echoed absently, and the anxiety was shown on her face automatically. Shi Qingxue immediately found something wrong with Shi Baoyou, and her smile faded. Baoyou, is there anything troubling you? No, nothing, Shi Baoyou denied subconsciously, but her faltering voice expressed the opposite meaning. Shi Baoning grabbed Baoyous hand and comforted her softly, We are cousins. Just tell us what bothers you. Maybe we can help you. Shi Baoyou forced a smile but peeped at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue noticed that and suddenly realized. Baoyou, do you want to talk about Baojin? Shi Baoyou was seen through at a glance and looked awkward, but she still gritted her teeth and nodded. Yes. After all, she is my sister. Now she is suffering in prison alone and has nobody to rely on. I She deserves it, Shi Qingxue responded indifferently, with no sympathy on her face. Obviously, she never considered saving Shi Baojin. Shi Baoyou was embarrassed and bit her lower lip subconsciously, which almost bled. Then she smiled bitterly and said, You are right, but we are human and have feelings. I cant bear to see my sister suffer! While speaking, Shi Baoyou knelt in front of Qingxue, with determination on her face, and begged, Qingxue, I know Baojin offended you and no matter how many times I apologize to you, it wont make it up. I dont ask you to forgive her, but I hope you can let her go for the sake of your kinship. Shi Qingxue wanted to say that she had no so-called kinship with Shi Baojin since long ago, but Shi Baoyou knelt to her despite of her older age. Even though she hated Shi Baojin to the bone, she started to struggle in her heart. Moreover, Shi Baoyou added, Please put the blame on me. I am willing to be punished for her. I will bear it even if you beat or curse me, but Baojin, she has an innocent baby in her belly. Please pardon her for the babys sake She tried to move Qingxue with emotions and reasons. No matter how hard-hearted Shi Qingxue was, the words be punished for her and the baby could soften her heart. Shi Baoning watched that and frowned, too, sighing. As Baoyou said, no matter how many mistakes Baojin has made, the baby is innocent. It would be too cruel to make a baby take the blame. Qingxue, you I Shi Qingxue was unable to speak a word for a second. She certainly didnt want to get the innocent involved, but Shi Baojin had hurt her so many times. She was reluctant to let it pass. However, Shi Baoyou begged her sadly and even Shi Baoning advised her. It seemed that if she disagreed, she would be the unreasonable one. But who knew that she was the most innocent victim? When Shi Qingxue was in a dilemma, a deep voice came from the door. Infanta, you are wrong. That baby is not innocent at all. The three turned their heads to the door at the same time and saw Mo Junyang standing there expressionlessly, with Xia Mang behind him. Xia Mang had an apologetic expression on her face and reported to Shi Qingxue, His Excellency said he had something important to discuss with you, so I didnt stop him. My Lady, please Shi Qingxue instantly stopped Xia Mangs apology. Never mind. Pour a cup of tea for His Excellency. Xia Mang had helped her out. Qingxue wouldnt blame her but felt happy. She stepped forward and looked at Mo Junyang with a smile. What are you doing here? Mo Junyang looked softer and smiled. I was afraid that somebody would pester you, so I came to see you. His meaningful words made the two girls in the room blush. Shi Baoyou didnt dare to act recklessly in the face of Mo Junyang, but Shi Baoning, who had just been retorted, felt she was honorable in front of him and said calmly, The baby is not born yet, but it has to take the responsibility for its mothers mistakes. Isnt it too absurd? Mo Junyang sneered and asked in reply, Its said in the law of the Mo Country that three generations of the traitors family should be killed. Infanta, do you think the law is absurd, too? Shi Baoning was stunned. In the beginning, she just thought that Shi Baojins unborn baby shouldnt take the blame for her, but she had forgotten that the baby was a member of the Zhao Familys three generations and couldnt be pardoned. I didnt mean that! I just Shi Baoning looked awkward and was anxious to express that she didnt disdain the law of the Mo Country, but under Mo Junyangs cold eyes, she couldnt explain. Shi Baoyou nerved herself and said to Qingxue, I know Baojin is guilty, but I hope you can give me a chance to take the punishment for her so that I can fulfil my wish as her younger sister. She loved her sister so much that she wanted to take the punishment for her. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Baoyou with his sharp eyes. If she asked him in private, he might give her a chance because she was from the Shi Family, but she mentioned it at this crucial time and talked about the sisterhood. Apparently, she indicated with sarcasm that Shi Qingxue forgot the kinship. No matter if Shi Baoyou was on purpose, he wouldnt let her get away with it. He winked at Shi Qingxue in secret and silently told her not to reply. At the same time, he stood between Qingxue and Baoyou. His cold face froze and he didnt conceal his hatred toward Shi Baoyou, asking aggressively, Qingxue is just an unmarried woman and has no rank. How can she decide the traitors punishment? Lady Baoyou, you asked her to give you a chance several times. Are you kidding? Or do you intentionally make things difficult for her? Huh? No, I didnt mean that! Shi Baoyou explained in a hurry, afraid that Mo Junyang would twist what she had said. Everyone knew about the fact that Shi Qingxue could influence Mo Junyangs decision, and he could decide Shi Baojins life or death, but as long as he insisted, Shi Qingxue was just a commoner with no power. Shi Baoyou didnt want to offend Mo Junyang, so she had to give up her plan to save Shi Baojin and then admitted her mistake. I was joking with Qingxue. Qingxue, please dont take it to heart. Mo Junyang didnt want to let Shi Baoyou go and said, Lady Baoyou, your sister is still in prison and nobody knows whether she is dead or alive, but you still joke about her He paused for a while purposely and then praised, You are so patient. I admire you! Shi Baoyou was unable to speak a word. Shi Qingxue witnessed that Mo Junyangs silver tongue defeated Shi Baoyous hypocritical excuses and laughed secretly. She felt joyful. Mo Junyang always showed a poker face, but even she was no match for him while debating, let alone her pure sister and cousin. But Shi Baoning and Shi Baoyou simply tried to save Shi Baojin and didnt harbor evil intentions toward her, so Shi Qingxue didnt want Mo Junyang to fall out with them. She coughed and glanced at Mo Junyang with approval in secret but said seriously, Your Excellency, Baoyou was just anxious to save her sister and asked a wrong person for help. She was not thoughtful enough. She isnt like what you said. Please dont get her wrong. Mo Junyang raised his brows and glimpsed at Shi Baoyou coldly, which made her nervous. Then he responded with no emotion, I have got you wrong. Lady Baoyou, please forgive me. He spoke like a boss and didnt seem to apologize but to denounce her. However, Shi Baoyou was scared by Mo Junyangs twists with cold sweat on her back and didnt dare to put on airs. She waved her hand constantly and said that she didnt dare. Then she put the blame on herself as she didnt make it clear. Mo Junyang didnt deny Shi Baoyous fault and said arrogantly, Lady Baoyou, you have joked and apologized. Do you have anything else? Shi Baoyou was speechless. For the first time, she saw that a guest took it for granted to ask another guest to leave. But that was Mo Junyang, so everything became natural. Shi Baoyou automatically turned to Shi Qingxue, who was blocked by Mo Junyang, and couldnt see her face. She knew that she couldnt achieve her purpose today, so she had to say something to show her politeness and then leave in frustration. Seeing that the trouble was finally gone, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but smile at Mo Junyang. When she was about to praise his great help, Shi Baoning said, Your Excellency, did you come to our mansion before making an appointment and enter the Luotong Boudoir directly just to tell us about the law of the Mo Country? She said that coldly with displeasure apparently and didnt hide her resentment well after being retorted. Shi Baoning was not as weak as Shi Baoyou, and she thought she was Shi Qingxues elder sister and was more qualified to stay in the Luotong Boudoir than Mo Junyang, so she was tougher. Shi Qingxue saw through what was on her sisters mind at a glance and thought that with Shi Baonings fighting ability, she would soon have nothing to say after Mo Junyang said a few words. So Qingxue had to give him a hint first, She is my sister. Dont be too harsh on her. Mo Junyang took the hint and swallowed what he was about to say. He looked at Shi Baoning helplessly. I came to see Qingxue. Chapter 128 - Qingxue Has Grown up Shi Baoning frowned and seemed not to understand that Mo Junyang wanted to have a talk with Qingxue alone, asking on behalf of her, What for? Shi Qingxue was surprised. Sister, you She didnt want Mo Junyang to have a conflict with Shi Baoning, but Shi Baoning was aggressive all the time, and that man was not good-tempered. As expected, the rare gentleness on Mo Junyangs face disappeared, and he looked at Shi Qingxue, saying casually, I am a little hungry. Qingxue, do you have any food here? Yes, yes. I am going to bring some food for you. Please have a seat, Shi Qingxue answered instantly and smiled at Shi Baoning before running out of the room. It was not that she was too timid to face that. Under the circumstances, if she were there, she would suffer most. Maybe after she went away, the problem would be solved easily? Shi Baoning thought Shi Qingxue fled and would leave everything in the Luotong Boudoir to her. She was satisfied with her younger sisters obedience and had more confidence to confront Mo Junyang. Your Excellency, just say what you want to. Mo Junyang looked coldly and replied with disdain, Infanta, I have nothing to say to you. Since you have nothing to say, please go. Perhaps Shi Baoning hadnt realized how horrible the man in front of her was, and she directly told him to leave. It seemed that she could make decisions for Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyang certainly wouldnt leave and looked at Shi Baoning expressionlessly for a while. Suddenly he smiled and got courteous. Since you said that, I really have something to tell you, Infanta. Shi Baoning was impatient. Whats the matter? Mo Junyang glanced at Dong Shuang who was guarding at the door obediently and concentrated on their conversation. Then he said leisurely, For example, Qingxues right hand was injured when you were in the Peace Temple, or Shi Baojins maid Xiao Zhu worked for you I dont know what you are talking about! The panic on Shi Baonings face disappeared soon and she forced herself to calm down, but her voice was trembling inevitably, which made Dong Shuang look at her in surprise. Shi Baoning was depressed and rebuked Mo Junyang in a harsh voice, Dont sling mud at me and ruin my relationship with my sister. I tell you. You wont succeed. I am Qingxues sister. She trusts me and wouldnt believe your nonsense. At last, she couldnt help but feel complacent. Meanwhile she paid attention to the door, expecting that Mo Junyang spoke to her with harsh words and Qingxue walked in Would Mo Junyang quarrel with Shi Baoning? Of course he wouldnt, and he disdained to do that. With his lips curling up, he leered at Shi Baoning. Only the coldness in his eyes was enough to make the girl who was complacent on the surface but felt guilty inside lose her imposing manner, with a chill down her spine. Then she heard him say slowly, I always disdain to say more. I am just a doer. Shi Baojin is a good example, right? Infanta, havent you seen it clearly? Mo Junyang really dared to take action against her. Shi Baoning was scared by this thought and trembled. She wanted to retort Mo Junyang, but there seemed to be something in her throat, and she couldnt make a voice. And she got more and more frightened. Your Excellency, what do you mean? Did you come to our mansion to threaten my daughter? Dong Huis cold and dignified voice cut in all of a sudden and interrupted Shi Baonings horrible imagination. Shi Baoning heaved a sigh of relief and walked quickly to Dong Hui, calling Mother to ask for help. Dong Hui didnt know the beginning and the end of the matter. Only Shi Baonings shout with grievance made her sad. She hugged her daughter with love and looked at Mo Junyang more unkindly. Hearing that Mo Junyang came to the mansion alone and broke into the Luotong Boudoir without asking for permission, Dong Hui was angry with this impolite man. Even though he had helped Shi Junhe on the Qingluo Mountain, she wouldnt forgive him. She couldnt allow him to ruin her loved daughters fame. As a result, she rushed here and found Mo Junyang bullying her other daughter. How could she let him get away with it? Mo Junyang was silent and became humble after a while. He apologized calmly, I have said something improper. If I make you and Infanta unhappy, please forgive me, Madam. If King Rui or anyone who was familiar with Mo Junyang were here, he would cover his eyes and ears and say that this Mo Junyang was an impostor. Otherwise, how would that Mo Junyang who was above everybody and didnt even take the emperor seriously apologize to someone sincerely? Fine, it was not evident if he was sincere, but he had never been so humble. But Dong Hui didnt let it pass and turned away, saying coldly, I am lowly and dont deserve your apology, Your Excellency. If you have nothing to say, please go back home. She showed her dislike obviously. If in the previous life, Mo Junyang would have ignored this insignificant Duke Shis wife, even though she was Shi Qingxues mother. But it was enough that the tragedy in the previous life happened once. He was clear about how much Shi Qingxue loved her parents, and it would be a bad idea to irritate Dong Hui. Mo Junyang looked at the door. Nobody knew whether Shi Qingxue went to bring food or hide herself. Anyway, she was not here. He looked away with disappointment and responded casually, In that case, I am leaving now. Goodbye. He left directly as he said. He was sure that he couldnt see Shi Qingxue, so he went away as soon as he finished his words. The people left in the room looked at each other speechlessly, as if they hadnt expected that Mo Junyang would be so easy to deal with. He couldnt see Shi Qingxue, and he certainly wouldnt stay. Shi Baoning was still scared and asked in a low voice, Mother, would he get even with us later? Mo Junyangs threat was deep in her heart and made her tremble with fear. He probably wouldnt. Our family is not as easy to be bullied as Shi Baojin. Dong Hui comforted Shi Baoning but frowned at her, asking in doubt, Baoning, when did you offend this devil to make him threaten you? Logically, you are Qingxues sister and he At the thought of Mo Junyangs feelings for Shi Qingxue, Dong Hui felt uncomfortable and didnt want to say that. She just looked at Shi Baoning. Shi Baoning was frightened by Dong Huis words, but seeing that there was concern instead of resentment in her mothers eyes, she guessed that Dong Hui didnt know what had happened in the Peace Temple, so she was relieved and answered casually, Who knows? In order to harm Baojin, he could kill the whole Zhao Family as an excuse. It can be seen that he is evil. Does he need a reason to hurt somebody else? Dong Hui was astonished. Didnt they say that Baojin was implicated? Why do you mean that the cause and effect are reversed? Do you have any evidence? Shi Baoning hadnt thought that she would tell the truth by accident. She had just tried her best to hide the issue in the Peace Temple, so she certainly described Mo Junyang as abnormal as possible. Now that Dong Hui asked her, she had to bite the bullet and mention Mo Shujun. Grandma told me that. She said King Ruis heir is sinister and helped our family several times, so he must have some purpose. She told us not to fall into his trap. While speaking, Shi Baoning saw that Dong Hui looked serious and thought that her mother didnt like her to talk about Mo Shujun, so she hurriedly tried to mediate. We are family. Even though we have conflicts with Grandma, it is related to our familys interest, so she wouldnt lie to me. Dong Hui didnt seem to be displeased as Shi Baoning expected, but she was deeply worried and murmured after quite a while, Is it true? No wonder. Then he and Qingxue Mother, what are you talking about? Shi Baoning waved her hand in front of Dong Hui. Dong Hui came back to earth and forced a smile at Shi Baoning. Nothing. I am just worried about your sister. Shi Baoning nodded to approve. His Excellency is too horrible. Qingxue is young and simple. Wed better not let them get too close. Moreover Her next words were known to all, and there was no need to say. When they fell into silence, Shi Qingxue finally walked in with some cakes after going through many hardships. She was surprised to see Dong Hui and then looked at the room. Mo Junyang was not here. She asked in confusion, Where is my brother Junyang? Dong Hui heard Shi Qingxues address and her face darkened. What did you call him? You are so disrespectful. Shi Qingxue put out her tongue disapprovingly and retorted with a smile, Mother, there are no outsiders here. Why cant I call him like that? She used to call Mo Junyangs name, but now they were closer, and she felt shy to call him by his name impolitely. But this time, Dong Hui seriously and forcefully demanded, Even if there are no outsiders, you are a woman and he is a man. Havent I told you before to keep away from him? But look at you. What have you done these days? Shi Qingxue was rebuked and got confused. For the first time, Dong Hui criticized her so harshly. After a long time, she wrinkled her beautiful brows and called softly, Mother. Her sweet voice was full of grievance and confusion. Dong Hui couldnt help but feel heartbroken. However, thinking that it was Mo Junyang, she gritted her teeth and ignored Shi Qingxues expression, adding, Fine, stop talking about him. I came here to tell you something important. Go ahead, Shi Qingxue responded in low spirits. This morning, Madam Leng came to visit and chatted with me. We talked about you. You are going to have your sixteenth birthday soon, and your sister is engaged. Now its your turn. And she wanted to make a match for you and the young master of the Leng Family, Leng Qinghan, Dong Hui said casually to throw an earthshaking bomb. She didnt care if the news could explode Shi Qingxue and continued, I hear that Young Master Leng was trained in the military camp with his father Leng Yuan since childhood, and now he is working as an imperial guard, a Rank-3 official, a bodyguard with a knife of His Majesty. Although he doesnt deserve you for now, he is nice and willing to work hard. He is a young and promising man, and his future is bright. You can meet him first and try to Stop! Shi Qingxue was confused upon hearing that and instantly stopped Dong Huis long speech. She frowned. Mother, what are you going to do? Dong Hui replied naturally, Of course I am going to find you a husband. You need to listen to me. I have made an appointment with Madam Leng to meet in the Juxian Restaurant tomorrow morning. You have to dress up, and I will go with you tomorrow. After giving the order, Dong Hui didnt care about the grievance on Qingxues face and told Xia Mang something. Then she left with Shi Baoning and gave Qingxue some time to make preparations as she said. Chapter 129 - Break the Appointment After Dong Hui had left for a long time, Shi Qingxue finally came back to her senses and her feelings were beyond expression. She hadnt thought that Dong Hui would make a blind date for her. A blind date! She had never had such an experience in the previous life and this life. It was absurd like a dream. And what happened about that Young Master Leng? She had never heard about this man in the previous life. She didnt know what was wrong with Dong Hui, who even considered making a match for two irrelevant people. It was ridiculous. Even if you want to get me married, it would be Mo Junyang. Where is Leng Qinghan from? Shi Qingxue murmured and soon realized what she had said. Her face blushed automatically, and her eyes looked around randomly with guilt. After confirming that nobody heard her words, she was relieved. In fact, if there were no so many things that happened between her and Mo Junyang, if she didnt promise to him, she could obediently marry somebody her parents liked. But there was no if for everything, and she had fully trusted Mo Junyang and was willing to develop her relationship with him naturally. However, Dong Hui got involved, so Qingxue almost prayed to God. Xia Mang chose some clothes and gave them to her, asking in a low voice, My Lady, which will you wear tomorrow? Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes. Do you want me to go to the blind date, too? Xia Mang lowered her head and answered respectfully, Its Madams order. Youd better listen to her. If you make her sad, you would be unhappy. Alas! That was what Shi Qingxue was worried about, so she didnt decisively refuse the dinner tomorrow. She was not obedient to her parents in the previous life. Since she had a chance to be reborn, she swore to protect her family and respect her parents and would never let them worry about her, so she didnt want to displease Dong Hui because of this matter. Seeing that her lady was so depressed, Xia Mang reminded tentatively, It seems that Madam doesnt like His Excellency. Shi Qingxue was stunned and turned to Xia Mang. Do you think so, too? I thought I guessed wrong. But why? She could forget what happened in the past. If Mo Junyang hadnt helped them in the battle on the Qingluo Mountain, the Shi Army wouldnt have won but would have suffered a lot or even have been destroyed. Mo Junyang didnt claim his contribution and attributed the success to Shi Junhe. In this case, Mo Junyang must have left a good impression on her parents, although she knew that he did it on purpose. Even if Dong Hui didnt feel grateful, she shouldnt hate Mo Junyang. Xia Mang guessed, Maybe Lady Baojins case made Madam scruple? After all, Mo Junyang was always silent and looked harmless, but when he did something, he destroyed a whole family and made them miserable. It would make others imagine something bad and worry that they would offend him someday and get themselves in trouble. After all, not everybody trusted Mo Junyang so much as Shi Qingxue. But Shi Qingxue didnt think so and snorted crossly. Shi Baojin asked for it. I told her not to bother me, but she still dared to play dirty tricks on me, and she should have thought that I would get back at her. Xia Mang stayed silent for a while and then couldnt help but remind softly, My Lady, its not you but His Excellency who has got back at her. Uhh. Shi Qingxues expression got stiffened, and she glared at Xia Mang shily. Xia Mang pretended not to see it and waved the clothes in front of Shi Qingxue, saying seriously, My Lady, please pick some clothes for tomorrow. Otherwise, you cant explain to Madam. Huh, you just threaten me with my mother, Shi Qingxue complained like joking and didnt want to choose the clothes. Xia Mang had to advise in another way, You just need to meet him. My Lady, you can take it as dining outside. Dont you like the food in the Juxian Restaurant? Shi Qingxue sighed helplessly. I have no choice. She couldnt disobey Dong Hui to make her angry, so she had to suffer a grievance. The next day, Shi Qingxue had planned to malinger and avoid the date, but Dong Hui seemed to have expected it and brought Doctor Qin early in the morning, declaring that if she was feeling unwell, he could check on her and give some medicine. Shi Qingxues last hope was in vain and she had to go out with Dong Hui unwillingly. On the way, Dong Hui chattered inevitably, I have made an appointment of the exact time with her, but you are sluggish. Now we are late. If they blame us, what should we do? Shi Qingxue yawned lazily and found an excuse. Just let them blame us. Women need to dress up before coming out, and its natural to be late. Or do you want me to see them without makeup, Mother? I dont mind Dong Hui didnt reply. She knew that if she agreed with Shi Qingxue, this girl would definitely go out without makeup next time. Didnt I tell you to get up earlier today? If you did, you would have time to make up. Dong Hui glared at Xia Mang secretly and put the blame on her. It must be because this maid didnt tell her lady to get up on time. Shi Qingxue was displeased and pulled Xia Mang to her back, mumbling, I didnt feel well and wanted to sleep in. What does it have to do with Xia Mang? Mother, dont wrong a good person. Seeing that Dong Hui got mad again, Shi Qingxue hurriedly shut up and pointed to the Juxian Restaurant in front of them, changing the subject. The Juxian Restaurant is here. Mother, dont be anxious. Its so early. Maybe the people from the Leng Family havent arrived. Dong Hui denied without thinking, No way. Madam Leng cares about this matter a lot and must be waiting for us in a private room for long. She said that firmly but was embarrassed soon. When they entered the Juxian Restaurant, they found that there was no private room reserved for Madam Leng. Facing Shi Qingxues eyes with a faint smile, Dong Hui felt awkward. She told a servant to book a private room and defended the man. Perhaps he has something to deal with on the way. Shi Qingxue thought so and nodded, echoing, Yes, men need to dress up, too. Dong Hui was clear about her daughters character and didnt dare to irritate her anymore. Otherwise, the girl could leave immediately, so Dong Hui had to say, Since we are here, just have a seat. No need to go away at once. Shi Qingxue had no objection and told the waiter to serve food. That was her main purpose to come here. After the food was served, she started to eat. As she said, the ones who arrived late didnt qualify to keep others waiting. She ate in a random manner, which made Dong Hui goggle at her and say that girls should be reserved. Shi Qingxue turned a deaf ear and acted like she was at home. But Dong Huis worry was unnecessary. Till Qingxue was satiated with food and drink, the people from the Leng Family didnt show up. Gee, it means that weve been stood up? Shi Qingxue received the handkerchief from Xia Mang contentedly and wiped her mouth. Dong Huis face darkened and she reproached the servant next to her, Hasnt Madam Leng come? Did you not tell the shopkeeper the right room number? So they couldnt find us? The servant shrank his neck in fear and replied while trembling, I have told the shopkeeper and waiters to bring Madam Leng here as soon as she came, and someone was sent to guard at the door. We wouldnt have Dong Hui got impatient and interrupted coldly, Why havent they come? The servant showed a sad face and wanted to cry but shed no tears. How could he know why they hadnt come? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but say, Mother, its fine if the people from the Leng Family didnt come. Why did you shout at our people? Dong Hui was embarrassed to be taught, and Shi Qingxue laughed secretly but continued on purpose, Maybe they dont like me and think I am too willful, arrogant and unreasonable, not a good wife. Dong Hui didnt allow anybody to underestimate her loved daughter, including herself and rebuked her sullenly, What are you talking about? You are wonderful. Leng Qinghan doesnt deserve you. He didnt come, and we dont want to meet him. Shi Qingxue was waiting for Dong Hui to say that and instantly stood up, smiling. In that case, lets go back home. Dong Hui was speechless. She hadnt thought that she would fall into Shi Qingxues trap. But she had said that, so they had to go back. Shi Qingxue looked at the angry Dong Hui in the front and thought for a while. Then she whispered in Dong Shuangs ear, and the maid looked at her in surprise. She didnt say more and just shook her head, speaking in a low voice. Go now. Dont let my mother see you. Dong Shuang glanced at Dong Huis back cautiously and then nodded. Yes, My Lady. In fact, Dong Hui had noticed the two girls behind, but she was furious to have a heartache because the Leng Family had broken the appointment, so she didnt want to interfere. After they got in the carriage, she asked, What did you tell that girl to do? Shi Qingxue smiled and didnt plan to hide it from her. I told her to check in King Ruis mansion. You contact His Excellency again? Dong Hui goggled. If Qingxue didnt have such tender skin that red marks would be left after she pinched her, Dong Hui would want to grab this girls ear and call her heart back which was nowhere to be found. Mother! Shi Qingxue noticed Dong Huis attitude and felt unhappy. She couldnt help but call dispiritedly to show her resentment. Dong Hui snorted. Dont call me mother. I tell you frankly. I dont care who you love and will let you marry anybody as you wish, but it cant be Mo Junyang. And in the future, I dont allow you to contact him again. Do you understand? Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded and stared blankly at Dong Hui, at a loss what to do. It was her first time since childhood to see Dong Hui so determined. She just prevented her from marrying Mo Junyang? But why? Qingxue frowned and looked at Dong Hui in confusion, asking anxiously, Whats wrong with Junyang? Dong Hui paused for a while and scowled, responding, He is not a good person. Chapter 130 - Contact Secretly Shi Qingxue was unable either to laugh or to cry after hearing Dong Huis na?ve reason. She certainly knew that Mo Juyang was not a good person, and she was not, either. But facing Dong Huis serious expression, she stopped joking and said solemnly, Mother, we are not good people. Your reason is not proper. And Shi Qingxue paused for a while and there was gentleness on her face that she didnt notice. Then she said slowly, And I wont fall in love with anybody in all my life. If there is somebody, it will be him only. Do you understand? She was unwilling to disobey Dong Huis decision, but she had gradually found what she really wanted from the bottom of her heart. If she would have to obey her parents and marry somebody else, ignoring Mo Junyangs love for her Sorry, she couldnt do that. Maybe she couldnt treat Mo Junyang like he treated her for now, which was why she still refused to love him back even if they had vague feelings. But she was willing to make effort for their future. However, Dong Hui wasnt moved by her daughters rare sincerity and showed a weird expression with surprise, fear and regret on her face. She grabbed Qingxues wrist forcefully, stressing each word. No. You cant be with him. What she said was decisive, with no chance to change. Mother! Shi Qingxue was anxious. But Dong Hui waved her hand and interrupted her. She turned away and avoided seeing her daughter while saying, I am your mother. Since I have given you a chance to choose a man, but you dont want it, you should let your parents decide your marriage. Dont worry. The guy from the Leng Family didnt show up, but there are many good men in the capital city wanting to marry you. I will find another one tomorrow. What? Another one? Shi Qingxue felt lucky that the people from the Leng Family didnt come today, but she realized that Dong Hui meant to make a blind date for her every day till she found a husband. She was annoyed. I dont want to see them. Stop joking. Why would I have to meet the men that I have never seen before? Dong Hui totally ignored Qingxues wish and arranged everything forcefully as she locked up Qingxue in the Luotong Boudoir like last time. At the same time, she had an appointment with a Rank-2 officials wife to meet next day. Shi Qingxue looked at Dong Hui who seemed to have changed and felt depressed, but even if her mother made an appointment for her without asking her, she couldnt stand up anybody regardless of her mothers dignity. She was so angry. What could make her feel happy was that the blind dates made by Dong Hui in the following days didnt go on well for different reasons. A man broke his leg by accident on the way to the restaurant, and another had taken an order from the emperor at the previous night and disappeared, or And Dong Hui didnt cut off her connections with the outside world like last time. After locking her up for several days, she let Dong Shuang go back to serve Qingxue. As soon as Dong Hui left, Shi Qingxue couldnt wait to ask Dong Shuang. Whats going on? What did Mo Junyang say? Does he have a way to prevent me from seeing those men? Dong Shuang smiled slyly. My Lady, you havent met them yet, right? Shi Qingxue was distressed. I can avoid it one day, but I cant escape forever. I wont be lucky every time as the man happens to be too busy to see me. Maybe! Perhaps you will be lucky every time, My Lady! Dong Shuang tried her best not to laugh and the smile in her eyes which couldnt be concealed scared Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue trembled and patted Dong Shuangs head crossly. Stop joking around. The news that my mother forces me to have blind dates must spread in the capital city. I dont believe that Mo Junyang would be completely indifferent. She was not sure about others, but Mo Junyang, the man who was willing to sleep with her skeleton after she died, would never stand by and do nothing. Dong Shuang finally couldnt control herself anymore and burst into laughter. Of course he did something. Otherwise why would the men who want to meet you these days be so unlucky? Uhh! Shi Qingxue was astonished and soon realized what had happened. She opened her mouth wide instantly, which could swallow an egg. But then she was worried again. It cant go on like this all the time. It appears that my mother wouldnt stop until she finds me a good husband. I dont want them to fight because of me. Xia Mang and Dong Shuang looked at each other and prayed for their lady for a second. Then they raised their heads at the same time and reminded, Just now, Madam told you to dress up. You will go out to see Duke Wus heir later. Wu Su? Hearing this name, Shi Qingxue frowned. Because the elders of the two families were friends, Shi Qingxue had connections with Duke Wus heir, Wu Su, when she was a child, but because of their relationship, she put that guy on the list of the people that she would never make friends with. She didnt want to see Wu Su at all, let alone developing any special relationship with him. I dont know what my mother is thinking. Dose she think that nobody wants to marry me? She actually likes Wu Su, that coward. It pisses me off! Shi Qingxue thought her taste was insulted for the first time. As soon as Mammy Zheng entered the room, she heard Shi Qingxue complain about the man, but she didnt show any expression on her face. She just said formally, My Lady, Madam has to deal with the family affairs today and has no time to go out, so she told me to meet His Excellency with you. Shi Qingxue heard the first sentence and was about to grin, but she was frustrated by the last words. She rested her hands on the table with displeasure. I wont go. Mammy Zheng said, Madam has made an appointment with Madam Wu. My Lady, if you refuse to go, Madam Wu would wait for you there. Seeing that Shi Qingxue hesitated, Mammy Zheng pushed harder. Madam has said if you are still unwilling to go, she will go to Duke Wus mansion to apologize after she finishes her work. Hearing that Dong Hui would apologize, Shi Qingxue had to give in. No matter how much she resisted Dong Huis arrangement, she wouldnt make her mother lose face in front of outsiders, which would only give Mo Shujun more chances to spite Dong Hui. She sighed helplessly. I am going, okay? Mammy Zheng smiled with satisfaction and told somebody to prepare the carriage. She comforted Shi Qingxue, My Lady, relax. If you dont like His Excellency, Madam wont force you. And you will meet him in a country house in the environs of the capital city, where there is beautiful scenery. You will enjoy it and forget to return home. Shi Qingxue leaned against the carriage and responded feebly, I hope so. And this time I have sent somebody to inquire. His Excellency has reached the house. You dont need to worry that you wont see the man as before. Mammy Zheng added, thinking herself clever. What? Shi Qingxue was surprised but not pleasant. She looked at Dong Shuang subconsciously. She indicated, Didnt you say that Mo Junyang would handle those men? Dong Shuang was also distressed. His Excellency did say that you dont need to worry. Shi Qingxue glared at her crossly. I dont need to worry? You cheat me? Faced with Shi Qingxues anger, Dong Shuang lowered her head deeply and wanted to hide herself. The carriage had arrived at the destination. Shi Qingxue had to get out and then walked into the house. This house was built at the foot of a mountain, and a stream came from the mountain and flowed outside the courtyard. There were a mountain and a stream, and the scenery was indeed attractive. After entering the courtyard, Shi Qingxue was more impressed. Different from the noble families luxury and grandiosity, the country house was decorated delicately but not wasteful. Every embellishment was perfect, and she didnt have time to check all, so she believed what Mammy Zheng said before they came. The trip was well worthwhile. But Since when did Wu Su have such good taste? Shi Qingxue murmured in surprise and heard the butler of this house report, Master has prepared tea and snacks in the backyard. My Lady, please come to enjoy the scenery with him. Okay. Qingxue replied hesitantly. Mammy Zheng wanted to go with her, but the butler stopped her with a good reason. The backyard is a place for the masters to have fun, and nobody can enter without permission. Uhh Mammy Zheng looked at Shi Qingxue in embarrassment. Dong Hui had told her to follow Qingxue closely, but guests should listen to the host, so she couldnt enter. She had to pin her hopes on Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue earnestly wished to cover this old maids eyes, in case that she got mad at Wu Su later and beat him up and would be told on. She certainly wouldnt help Mammy Zheng and made a gesture to indicate that she could do nothing. She comforted to show her thoughtfulness, We are guests, and of course we need to listen to the host, right? Wait outside. I will call you if there is something. Then she walked into the backyard swaggeringly. As soon as she entered the backyard, Shi Qingxue was stunned. Generally, the noble families liked to plant exotic flowers and rare herbs or raise some precious animals in the backyard to show their status, but there was only one kind of plant in this backyard, hibiscus. The hibiscus trees were planted on both sides of the path, and they stood gracefully erect, like shy beauties. It was summer, and the hibiscus flowers were blossoming on each side. With the breeze, some pink and white petals fell occasionally. Shi Qingxue was attracted by the fine view. She walked and stopped, and almost wandered around the same place for a long time. Then a mans laughter came from ahead. I know you would be unwilling to leave after seeing it. Do you like it? Qingxue His low voice was full of affection. Shi Qingxue suddenly raised her head and looked ahead. She was astonished and then got joyful. She couldnt help but run to him instantly, asking with a smile while holding her face with both hands, Mo Junyang, what are you doing here? Mo Junyang smiled and joked, Werent you told to meet His Excellency? Who can it be except me? Shi Qingxue was speechless because of this rascal. So you have arranged the appointment of me and Wu Su? Mo Junyang smiled and didnt reply. Shi Qingxue was suddenly enlightened. She knew Mo Junyang was narrow-minded and had tried every means to prevent her from seeing those men before, but why did he become generous all of a sudden? It turned out that he was waiting here to see her in secret. So my mother had to deal with the family affairs because of you Mo Junyang didnt give her a chance to ask more and held her hand. He walked inside with her, hand in hand, and said gently, The scenery inside is more beautiful. Lets go in and have a look. Shi Qingxue was unable to respond. She could do nothing to his natural behavior and had to walk in with him, but she was worried. If Dong Hui knew that Mo Junyang had done so many things behind the scenes, would she go crazy? Chapter 131 - Nobody But Him Shi Qingxue was worried about the strained relationship between Mo Junyang and Dong Hui, but he was leisurely and carefree, so she couldnt tell him about her worry. Looking at Mo Junyangs relaxed face, she was even relieved and forgot the hidden trouble. They watched the flowers and had tea in the backyard. At the moment, the butler came to report in a hurry that Duke Shis wife had come. Shi Qingxue stood up in astonishment and thought she was done for. Mo Junyang told the butler to invite Dong Hui in, as if nothing had happened, and looked at Qingxue playfully. You are so guilty like a thief, as if we are having an affair. No need to be so nervous, right? Shi Qingxue was unable to speak a word and thought, You are having an affair. All of your family members are disloyal! She almost shouted at Mo Junyang, but thinking of something, she didnt say anything. She just lowered her head dispiritedly and fiddled with the teacup in front of her. Dong Hui came in quickly and said before seeing them, Your Excellency, thanks for your warm treat. Both Qingxue and I are appreciated Before she finished her words, she shut up when she saw the two people sitting quietly in the distance, as if she saw a ghost. Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see that. What are you doing here? Dong Hui walked to Qingxue rapidly and asked in a cold tone, regardless of etiquette. Mo Junyang answered naturally, This is my country house. Is there anything wrong as I am here? Dong Hui asked, Where is Duke Wus heir? She looked around and wanted to find the people from Duke Wus family. Mo Junyang understood what she was looking for and reminded indifferently, No need to look for him. He wont come. Why wont he? We have an appointment Dong Hui stopped abruptly and looked at Mo Junyang in shock, blurting out, You have planned everything! She said that with certainty and then thought of all the men who broke the appointments. There was surprise or anger on her face, and she shouted at Mo Junyang impolitely, You were behind the scenes earlier. You Mother! Shi Qingxue hurriedly interrupted Dong Hui and defended Mo Junyang in a low voice, I dont want to see those men. Junyang didnt play tricks. Dong Hui was furious because Shi Qingxue helped him and cursed without thinking, Shut up! You dont have a say in this matter. Shi Qingxue was howled at and shrank back, with a blush on her face. She tried her best to hold back her tears, but her eyes were red. However, Dong Hui seemed not to feel sad for Shi Qingxue at all and dragged her forcefully to walk out. Wait. Mo Junyang stood in front of them expressionlessly, looking horrible. Even though Dong Hui was more than twenty years older than him, she was scared by his expression and moved backward. What What do you want? She faltered to ask and then got more courageous. She puffed out her chest and spoke loudly. Your Excellency, I am going to take my daughter back home. Did I ask for too much? Or will you let her go after my husband comes here? Dong Hui mentioned Shi Junhe and wanted Mo Junyang to back off. But she apparently underestimated him. Mo Junyang wasnt even afraid of the emperor. If not for Shi Qingxues sake, he wouldnt take Duke Shi seriously. But before he said anything, Shi Qingxue who stood behind Dong Hui waved at him secretly. Her eyes were full of tears and she said No with her mouth shape. She begged pitifully. Mo Junyang remained silent and stepped backward, make a gesture to say please courteously. Dong Hui seemed not to see that and grabbed Qingxues hand rudely, leaving here. Mother, mother Shi Qingxue was dragged into the carriage, and her fair-skinned wrist was red after being grabbed. Dong Hui turned a blind eye to it and warned her sullenly, I will let it pass because you didnt know that, but in the future, you are not allowed to see Mo Junyang. Do you hear me? They had talked about this subject many times, and Dong Hui was more and more forceful. Shi Qingxue didnt take it to heart in the beginning, and now she just couldnt believe it. Shi Qingxue looked at Dong Hui seriously. Why? When did he offend you? Dont forget that at Grandmas birthday banquet last year, he helped us and made it go smoothly, and what happened on the Qingluo Mountain Even if Mo Junyang was not a good person, he did the Shi Family great favors. Dong Huis face got stiffened as Shi Qingxue mentioned what she didnt want to. She rebuked crossly, Dont think that His Excellency loves you sincerely because he did so many things for us. He just tried to coax little girls. Dont make love blind you. Some little girl who was almost forty years old from her previous life was speechless. Shi Qingxue never doubted Mo Junyangs feelings for her and said firmly, No. Anybody might lie to me, but only he wont. That was the truth she had found after living twice, but Dong Hui thought the girl lost her mind and was so angry that she even cursed with dirty words, Fucking love! He gets close to you and makes you happy just because of your fathers power. He intends to win you over so that your father would work for him. In the past he was generous to help us. He just planned everything on purpose and wanted us to return the favor. He tries to buy us over with some small favors. Shi Qingxue looked at Dong Hui incredulously and couldnt imagine that her mother would think Mo Junyangs kindness so dirty. She couldnt bear to hear that anymore. What are you talking about? Mo Junyang wouldnt do something like that! Shi Qingxue knew better than anyone how arrogant that man was. In the previous life, Mo Junyang was in the mire and was bullied but refused to lower his head in front of anybody. How could he use such despicable means to get what he wanted? Moreover, she was sure who had made things difficult for him. Dong Hui just looked confident, seeming to say, No matter what you will say, I wont believe you. Shi Qingxue took a deep breath and tried to calm down before saying, What if he wants us to return the favor? The people who give but require no rewards must be suspicious. Moreover, he works for the crown prince. Its natural for him to win us over in order to maintain the position of the heir to the throne. But Dong Hui reproached harshly because of Qingxues words, What do you know? His Majesty scruples about the officials ganging up for private interests, but you want your father to get close to the princes. Do you want to kill him? Of course not. Shi Qingxue denied. But if the Shi Family was bound to take sides, they would choose the last winner. Dong Hui sneered and disdained Mo Junyang obviously. Thats what you think. He did a lot not for the crown prince, but he has other purposes. Shi Qingxue was stunned and seemed to find something from her messy thoughts. She asked cautiously, Mother, did you hear about some rumors? Dong Hui wished to speak out all her complaints to Shi Qingxue so that her stupid daughter would leave Mo Junyang from now on, but looking at the little girls cautious expression, she didnt want her to know something despicable. She just said coldly, Dont ask what I know. Anyway, I wont lie to you or hurt you. Mo Junyang is ambitious. No way! Shi Qingxue firmly denied Dong Huis unrealistic imagination and said seriously, Junyang always acts dutifully and wont be disloyal. She pondered for quite a while and wanted to convince Dong Hui with an example, but she found that something couldnt be explained, so she had to say, He is just King Ruis heir. Even if he wants, he is not qualified. He Dong Hui suddenly retorted, Who said he is not qualified? Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded and stared blankly at Dong Hui, with fear in her eyes. Dong Hui thought she had scared Qingxue and hurriedly added, Who has said that he wouldnt want if he is not qualified? Many people in this world covet what doesnt belong to them. Shi Qingxue kept quiet and knew that Dong Hui didnt mean that. Perhaps Dong Hui had heard of something about Mo Junyangs birth. She suddenly remembered that at this time in the previous life, Mo Junyangs birth was exposed, and he almost died as a result. There was an atmosphere of tension. Dong Hui didnt know if Qingxue understood what she meant and had to change the subject abruptly. I hear that the empress dowager plans to grant your marriage recently. Before the marriage is decided Dong Hui wanted to make Shi Qingxue stay at home, but she thought for a minute and knew that Qingxue wouldnt be willing, so she said, You are not allowed to see Mo Junyang again. Otherwise, I will keep you under house arrest and you cant see anybody. Do you hear me? After threatening, Dong Hui was afraid that she would get soft-hearted and left in a hurry, without seeing Shi Qingxues sad eyes behind her. Shi Qingxue was actually hurt by Dong Huis autocratic ways. Dong Hui had never treated her like this from her childhood. Even if her mother did that for her good in name, Shi Qingxue couldnt accept such an attitude. My Lady, dont be sad. Madam is just worried Xia Mang wanted to comfort Shi Qingxue, but she couldnt continue what she was about to say. She didnt want to lie, but the truth was hurtful. Shi Qingxue smiled bitterly and looked at Xia Mang. She concealed the sorrow in her eyes and responded casually, I know what you want to say. My mother doesnt doubt me, and she is just unwilling to face anything that might get my father in danger. And She laughed, and the feeling of disappointment couldnt be hidden in her voice. Her husbands safety is more important than her daughters happiness, right? If I were her, I would make the same choice. It was not difficult to choose rationally, but when it happened to her, she felt pained. Fortunately, she didnt have time to bother about it. Shi Baoyou came to visit her again. Shi Baoyou looked worried. She showed all emotions on her face, like all the upright and pure people, and didnt pretend. She asked as soon as she saw Shi Qingxue, Qingxue, I want to beg you for something, okay? Shi Baoyou even said beg, and it could be seen that she was really determined. Shi Qingxue didnt agree or refuse and just asked, For what? Shi Baoyou bit her lower lip and it seemed that it was hard for her to mention it. After a while, she expressed seriously, I hope you can see my sister for the last time. Can you? It was Shi Baojin again. Chapter 132 - The Wish before Death Shi Qingxue refused directly and didnt want to have anything to do with Shi Baojin. I beg you. Baojin is about to be sentenced to death. Before going, she regrets treating you like that in the past and wants to apologize to you. If you dont agree, she wouldnt die with relief. Shi Baoyou said while sobbing pitifully. Shi Baoning was about to enter the room. Hearing that, she instantly came up to help Shi Baoyou and wiped her tears carefully. Meanwhile, she looked at Qingxue disapprovingly. Qingxue, even if Baojin did something wrong to you, Baoyou is always nice to you. How can you treat her ruthlessly? Shi Qingxue was speechless and knew that no matter what happened, the weak would easily win others compassion, so she didnt say anything. Dong Shuang standing aside was resentful because her lady was bullied by others, especially one of whom was her sister helping an outsider. It was annoying. She couldnt help but say angrily, My Lady, you are not fair. Lady Baoyou made things difficult for Lady Qingxue and asked her to visit Lady Baojin in the prison. Lady Qingxue is unwilling to, and Lady Baoyou cried. How can you blame my master? Shi Baoning had no idea why Shi Baoyou came to the Luotong Boudoir, and Qingxue was always aggressive, so she thought by instinct that Shi Baoyou had suffered injustice. And she hadnt expected it, so she blushed automatically. She was bashful and embarrassed, so she could do nothing but rebuke, We are talking. Why did you interrupt as a maid? Did the old maids teach you for nothing? Dong Shuang shrank her neck and trembled, too scared to speak a word. Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see that and pulled Dong Shuang to hide behind her, saying indifferently, Baoning, you can get angry, but why did you vent your anger on a maid? Shi Baoning noticed the indifference in Qingxues tone. Seeing that her sister helped a maid, she was furious, about to lose her temper, but Baoyou pulled her sleeve. So Shi Baoning controlled herself and asked, I hear that Baojin wants to see you, right? Hmm. Shi Qingxue responded with no emotion and didnt say more. Shi Baoning frowned and said with displeasure, I know you bear a grudge against Baojin, but the dead should be respected. Why do you still bother about her? Shi Qingxue smiled, which made the other two think she was about to agree, and then told the truth coldly. She is not dead. Shi Baoning was put in an awkward situation by Qingxues noncooperation and thought her dignity as the eldest lady was provoked. So she showed her displeasure. But you didnt want to save her. Now she is dying. Are you so cruel and unwilling to make her last wish come true? Cruel? Shi Qingxue felt that her heart was stabbed, and it didnt hurt a lot, but she felt sour and depressed. She raised her head and looked at Shi Baoning with a complicated expression. She wanted to ask, Am I a cruel person in your heart? But Shi Baoning turned away and avoided seeing her. Ha! Shi Qingxue laughed with self-mockery and gave up her plan to defend herself. Anyway, the two in front of her, or everybody in this mansion believed that she was cruel, and it would be useless to say anything. She was clear that they said Shi Baojin hoped to see her for the last time because they wanted her to get soft-hearted. Since you two said that, if I dont go, Baoyous tears and Baonings lesson would be wasted. Shi Qingxue finally agreed. Shi Baoyou smiled immediately and seemed not to notice the sarcasm in Qingxues words, saying, I am going to tell someone to prepare the carriage. It wont take long. She ran away rapidly and was afraid that Shi Qingxue would regret. Shi Baoning looked awkward and probably realized that she was not friendly just now, so she explained softly, I dont force you to save Baojin, but she wants to see you before she dies, and you have to see her. Otherwise the outsiders would comment on you. I did it for your good Okay, you dont need to say more. I understand. Shi Qingxue interrupted her and smiled. Baoning, if you have nothing to tell me, please go back to your room. Those whose courses were different couldnt lay plans for one another. She had been objected and criticized a lot from her family today and didnt have enough energy to talk with Baoning. Shi Baoning bit her lower lip and didnt want to go. Mother told me to keep you company. Lets go together to see Baojin in the prison, and then you wont feel uncomfortable. Shi Qingxue didnt care and agreed, walking out of the Luotong Boudoir with Xia Mang. Dong Shuang wanted to go with them, too, but Qingxue didnt allow her to. The maid was straightforward and liked to defend her lady against an injustice, and Qingxue wouldnt let her maids be bullied. It was hot in June, but the prison was cool and wet. Anybody standing inside would tremble with fear. Shi Qingxue felt cold and quivered, silently looking at the untidy person in the room with messy hair, whose face couldnt be seen clearly. For a long while, the prison was quiet. Shi Baoyou found that Qingxue didnt want to say something first and then called in a low voice, Baojin, Qingxue came to see you. Just tell her what you want to. The person in prison curled up and shrank after being scared by Shi Baoyous words. She made sounds of Hmmm like little animals and nobody could hear what she was saying. Whats wrong with her? Shi Baoning looked at the person inside in surprise and couldnt believe that was Shi Baojin who was always arrogant. Why would she make herself so miserable? Shi Baoyou looked worried and sighed gently. When I came to see her a few days ago, she could not think clearly. The environment here is poor and she is pregnant. Even if she is sick, she cant be cured in time. I wanted to tell Doctor Qin to check on her, but the workers in the prison didnt allow him to. I am afraid that she cant insist for long. While speaking, she shed tears again. Shi Baoning hurriedly comforted her, Dont be sad. I will tell somebody to check on Baojin later and wash her. We cant let her suffer the humiliation before death. Shi Baoning spoke while looking at Qingxue again. Qingxue pretended not to notice the complex expression in her sisters eyes and said to Shi Baojin inside indifferently, You told me to come, and I am here now. If you have something to say, just say it. Shi Baojin put her hands on her chest and crouched in the corner, murmuring. She didnt look at them, nor did she plan to answer. After waiting for a while, Shi Qingxue said, If you dont want to talk to me, I am leaving. Nobody knew which of her words irritated Shi Baojin, and the latter pounced on her as if she were full of energy. Shi Qingxue moved backward automatically, but she couldnt because Shi Baoyou was behind her. Her arm was grabbed by Shi Baojin, and her clean sleeve was stained. She could sense the overwhelming stink. What are you doing? Let me go! Shi Qingxue wanted to withdraw her hand, but Shi Baojin seemed to get more power all of a sudden and grasped her wrist tightly, refusing to let her go. She even mumbled, No. Dont go. Dont go Shi Baoning and Shi Baoyou witnessed that and didnt come to help Qingxue but stopped Xia Mang from pulling Shi Baojin away. Qingxue, just feel pity for Baojin and talk with her. Shi Qingxue was unable to say a word and wanted to curse them. They told her to pity Shi Baojin, but who would pity her? Qingxue clenched her fists and restrained her rampage. Staring at the crazy woman with turbid eyes who was bumbling in the room, she said calmly, Enough. Shi Baojin, I know you are not crazy. Just say whatever you want. Shi Baojin was still raving and didnt respond to her. I dont have time to play dumb with you. If you want to go on, I wont mind telling a prison guard to separate us. Shi Qingxue said coldly. She didnt believe that Shi Baojin would be crazy. This woman was too selfish and sinister. How could such a person get insane? It was silent again in the prison. Shi Baoyou couldnt bear to see that and prepared to talk into Qingxue. But Shi Baojin suddenly moved. She raised her head and looked at Shi Qingxue tearfully, begging, Qingxue, my good cousin, I know I did something wrong to you in the past. I know I was wrong, but I dont want to die. I really dont want to die. Help me, please? Just once, just save me once. I promise I wont go against you anymore. Okay? Her voice was sad but her words were properly and logically arranged. She wasnt like the crazy woman in a confused state of mind before. Shi Baoyou and Shi Baoning looked at each other and noticed the confusion in each others eyes, but Shi Baojin cried so sadly and they couldnt bear to hear that, so they forgot to mind that she played dumb but helped her try to persuade Shi Qingxue. Qingxue, my sister has suffered enough. Just forgive her this time. Yes. Just consider us if you dont care about her. Anyway, we are family. If you insist on taking Baojins life, how would Mother keep a foothold in this family in the future? Shi Qingxue almost laughed out of anger because they echoed each other. She had never seen such shameless people even though she had experienced a lot. She had guessed that they wouldnt give up begging her to spare Shi Baojin, but Shi Baoning even talked about Dong Huis dignity in order to force her to do that. It seemed that if she didnt agree, she would disrespect her parent and embarrass her mother. Xia Mang couldnt bear to see that. When they didnt pay attention, she patted Shi Baojins hands away and pulled Shi Qingxue out of the encircling ring. She stood in front of Qingxue and said seriously, My Ladies, you are joking. Lady Baojin would be punished by law because she made mistakes, and nobody can change the situation. And Lady Qingxue came to see her just because you requested. Please dont humiliate yourselves. With Xia Mangs identity, it was not proper for her to speak like that, but she was upright and reasonable, and they did say that before coming. Both Shi Baoyou and Shi Baoning couldnt be shameless to deny what they had said, and they had to lower their heads silently. Since I have seen her and talked with her, I am going. After coming here, Shi Qingxue didnt get soft-hearted but felt more disgusted, and she was anxious to leave now. But as soon as she turned around, Shi Baojins shriek came from behind. Shi Qingxue, are you so heartless and planning to see me die without helping me? Shi Qingxue stopped in her tracks and looked back, telling the truth coldly. Since you sent someone to insult me in the Peace Temple, you are not qualified to say that I am heartless. The truth astonished Shi Baoyou and Shi Baoning. Both of them didnt know such a horrible thing had happened. They went pale and didnt say anything. Shi Baojins face paled, too, and she sat on the floor, frustrated, looking sad and desperate. Shi Qingxue was not in the mood to enjoy the scene and turned to leave. When she took a few steps, she saw a man coming from outside. The tall and big figure was against the light and his face couldnt be seen clearly, but Shi Qingxue recognized him at a glance and smiled automatically, even becoming light-footed. Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang saw her and also smiled, but before his smile spread, the mans dark pupils shrank suddenly, and he shouted sternly, Qingxue! My Lady! Before Shi Qingxue reacted, she was pushed hard, but she still felt the slight pain which couldnt be ignored on her neck. Then she fell aside. Chapter 133 - Die with Her No! Mo Junyang who was always calm changed his expression instantly. Before Shi Qingxue fell on the floor, he walked quickly to hug her, but the body in his arms was soft and unconscious, which terrified him. Qingxue. Qingxue! Mo Junyang shouted several times, but Shi Qingxue didnt answer, as if she were dead. He reached out his trembling hand to Qingxues nose. She didntbreathe! No. No way! Mo Junyang was petrified. The nightmare in the previous life came again and it was almost the same. He couldnt help but doubt that she wasnt reborn. It was that Cold Palace, and he hugged Shi Qingxue, watching her die, and his heart was gone with her. He was horribly desperate. Wei Zichao reacted first and reminded in a hoarse voice, Master, Lady Qingxue is alive. Her pulse is still active. Mo Junyang suddenly came to his senses and checked Shi Qingxues neck. It still beats weakly. She was still alive! His desperation was gone and he heaved a sigh of relief while the different anxiousness filled his brain again. He didnt dare to delay and carried Shi Qingxue, striding outside. Wei Zichao hurriedly stopped him. Master, how should we deal with the people in the prison? Mo Junyang stopped for a second and didnt even look back. Lock them up. Before we investigate and find the truth, none of them is allowed to leave. Shi Baoning finally came back to reality from the accident when she heard that Mo Junyang would even lock her up. She roared, Your Excellency, you are just King Ruis heir. You are not qualified to investigate or lock us up. Qualified? Ha! Mo Junyang snorted and said in a cold voice, If there is something wrong with Qingxue, I will make all of you die with her. Mo Junyang didnt care that his words could scare them to death and carried Qingxue to King Ruis mansion. Shen Luo happened to be in the mansion these days and must be able to save her. Mo Junyang, stop! Shi Baoning shouted angrily, but Mo Junyang went away and disappeared soon. She wanted to chase him, but Wei Zichao stood in front of her in advance and said formally, Infanta Baoning, please stop. My master said you cant leave the prison. Mo Junyang has no right to lock me up. Step aside. Shi Baoning certainly wouldnt be stopped by a guard and pushed his hand away, planning to walk outside. Wei Zichao didnt stop her but winked at the people behind. Swish! More than ten guards showed their weapons at the same time and the sword light lit up in the dark prison. It could almost dazzle and blind their eyes. Shi Baoning was frightened and moved backward. Shi Baoyou supported her. Baoning, dont move. Be careful, or you would be injured. Shi Baoning didnt expect that Wei Zichao dared to hurt her. After being stunned for a while, she got angrier and thought they were rebellious. Who are you? How dare you be rude to me, an infanta? Let me go. Otherwise, after I come out, I will take your life. Wei Zichao didnt fear the threat which was outwardly strong but inwardly weak. He even smiled. My master ordered me to watch you. If I offend you, please forgive me. I am an infanta! You actually make me stay in this shabby prison. Be careful. I will tell His Majesty about Mo Junyangs behavior and get him in trouble. Shi Baoning came to the prison to visit Shi Baojin, which was her baseline. Thinking that she would have to stay here for longer, she felt uncomfortable and couldnt bear it. But Wei Zichao said, Infanta, if you think the environment in the prison is not good, I can tell some people to decorate it. Just stay here at ease. He said something nice but refused to let them go. Shi Baoning stomped in anger. She thought Mo Junyang was not so bold, but she was terrified by the broadsword in front of her, at a loss what to do. Shi Baoyou calmed down first and pulled Shi Baonings arm, comforting in a low voice, Baoning, dont be anxious. Lets just wait. If Grandma and Aunt find that we dont go back home, they would come to look for us. Shi Baonings eyes lit up and she said confidently, Right. Mo Junyang dares to disrespect us. I dont believe he dares to disobey Princess Royal and Duke Shi. Lets wait and see. Then she glared at Wei Zichao with provocation. Wei Zichao still smiled and said indifferently, Both of you dont need to be anxious. After Lady Qingxue recovers, you will be safe. In another word, if there was something wrong with Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang would really bury all of them with her. You! Shi Baonings face turned pale out of anger. Mr. Wei, I have taken care of Lady Qingxue all the time. Can I look after her now? Xia Mang suddenly cut in. She was not fragile or afraid of being locked in the dark and wet prison, but she was worried that others couldnt take good care of Shi Qingxue. Wei Zichao glanced at Xia Mang and didnt refuse her at once as before. But he didnt agree, either, just saying cautiously, I need to report to my master and ask for his permission. Xia Mang nodded repeatedly and bowed to Wei Zichao. Anyway, hope you can tell me about Lady Qingxues situation in time. I would appreciate it. Upon hearing that, Wei Zichao couldnt help but look at this maid several times and praised her secretly while agreeing. Of course, no problem. Seeing that Wei Zichao was friendlier to a maid than to her, Shi Baoning was furious, her face and neck burning. But Wei Zichao ignored her. After arranging everything, he glanced at Shi Baojin who curled up to play dead after Shi Qingxue went into a coma and then left. In King Ruis mansion, it was heavily guarded. Apparently, something serious was going to happen. In the Love Xue House, the miracle-working doctor Shen Luo was sitting on the bedside and checking Shi Qingxues pulse, with sweat all over his head because he rushed here and he was scared by Mo Junyangs sullen face. Whats wrong? Have you found anything? Mo Junyang had asked the same questions three times since Shen Luo came in. Shen Luo wiped the sweat on his forehead and sighed with emotion secretly. He had known Mo Junyang for more than ten years, and it was his first time to see this cold-blooded man at a loss, who even forgot what he had just said. Shi Qingxue had an extraordinarily great influence on him. But Shen Luo didnt have the nerve to say that in front of Mo Junyang. He had to repeat, I am feeling her pulse. Dont disturb my thoughts. Otherwise, how could I know He stopped abruptly and raised his hand, trying to take off Shi Qingxues clothes. What are you going to do? Mo Junyang swiftly stopped Shen Luos hand and looked at him, with his fierce eyes. Shen Luo explained in a hurry, No. I doubt that she was poisoned. I have to find out where her wound is. Mo Junyang didnt allow him to. Obviously, he didnt want Shen Luo to touch Shi Qingxue. Shen Luo got anxious, too, and said crossly, How would I know what poison is in her body without checking her wound? Quack! Mo Junyang commented mercilessly and disdained Shen Luo who had to check the injury before knowing the patients condition. Shen Luo was unable to respond to this unreasonable man. He was in a rage and stopped. Do you want to save her or not? If I dont know where her wound is, how can I prescribe a medicine special for the disease? What if she Before he finished his words, he shut up as soon as Mo Junyang glared at him. Mo Junyang didnt want anybody to touch Shi Qingxue, and even this thought made him want to kill, but he couldnt joke about her life, so he gave in. Check quickly. Dont touch her randomly. He showed a long face and stared at Shen Luos hand. It seemed that Shen Luo owed him a lot of money and he would chop this hand later. Shen Luo was frightened by his imagination and shrank his neck. He didnt dare to reach out his hand again and was afraid that Mo Junyang would get back at him later. Then he would be miserable. How aboutyou examine her? Just check if there are wounds on her body. Shen Luo compromised and figured out a solution. He didnt want to irritate Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang certainly nodded. Although he didnt know about medical skills, he thought he was sensitive. He recalled what had happened in the prison and lifted Shi Qingxue, reaching out his hand to touch her back neck. Then he found a black dot in the center of her fair-skinned back neck. The dot spread and seemed to blacken the skin around. How is it possible? Shen Luo looked serious and moved closer to check it carefully. In an instant, his expression changed. Mo Junyang focused his eyes on Shen Luo and asked anxiously, What happened? Do you know whats wrong with her? Shen Luo shook his head subconsciously and put two fingers on Qingxues pulse again. He then lifted her eyelids and checked for a while. At last, he seemed to confirm something and sat back in the chair beside the bed in low spirits. He had never looked so dignified before. What on earth happened? Tell me now! Mo Junyang was nervous. If he didnt hold Shi Qingxue, he would push Shen Luo away. Shen Luo goggled, too, and howled, Why did you vent your anger on me? Did I poison her? Mo Junyang didnt feel guilty at all and said directly, Detoxify her now! Why do you hesitate? Shen Luo was speechless. If it werent Mo Junyang who spoke, Shen Luo would beat him to death. He was depressed and frowned. Do you think I dont want to? But do you know what poison is in her body? Its Lethal Seven. Lethal What? Mo Junyang had never heard about it. Shen Luo suggested Mo Junyang put down Shi Qingxue first and sighed before explaining, This is a rank poison from the western region. Lethal Seven means it can kill the victim. As long the poison enters the skin, it would spread all over the body and make the victim unconscious instantly. If she doesnt take the antidote within seven days, she would die in the dream without any awareness. Mo Junyang was uneasy and then forced himself to calm down, saying, Since you know what it is, give her the antidote as soon as possible. Uh Shen Luo looked at Mo Junyang helplessly and didnt believe that this smart man would be so blunt and couldnt understand what he meant. But Mo Junyang was silent, so Shen Luo had to make it clear. I only heard about it from my master when I was a child, and I have never seen the poison or the antidote. My master said He paused for a while and didnt intend to give Mo Junyang a chance to deceive himself. Then he gritted his teeth. There is no antidote to this poison. Chapter 134 - You Must Save Her Mo Junyang sat on the bedside expressionlessly in silence and didnt have any reaction. Shen Luo waited for a long while and Mo Junyang still didnt speak. He guessed that Mo Junyang was badly upset and asked cautiously, Junyang, areare you all right? He was too scared to make a sentence. Mo Junyang finally raised his head and his eyes were calm. He said coldly, Save her. I said the Lethal Seven There was no antidote. Under the mans horrible eyes, Shen Luo didnt dare to speak out the last desperate words. After thinking for a while, he continued hesitantly, My master once studied the Lethal Seven and tried to produce the antidote Give it to me. Mo Junyang stretched out his hand directly. Shen Luo was unable to speak a word. Mo Junyangs abnormal reaction almost drove Shen Luo crazy. Who gave that calm Mo Junyang back to him! Shen Luo took a deep breath and prevented himself from going ballistic. But he had to explain gloomily, I said that it was my master who studied it, not me. Cant you hear me? Mo Junyang, calm down, okay? How can you save Shi Qingxue if you behave like this? Mo Junyang fell into silence again, but nobody knew if he showed a cold expression to resist the truth Shen Luo told him or to estimate the situation. After a long time, he spoke again. You said the poison would attack in at least seven days, right? He became serene as usual. Shen Luo had guessed what Mo Junyang was thinking about and nodded after hesitating for a while. Right, but I dont have the antidote at hand, and I dont even know where the formulation is. Mo Junyang gazed at the sleeping girl and ordered in a hoarse voice, All the medical books from the Mang Mountain are in the mansion. I will allow you to study in the Love Xue House. I need to see the antidote within seven days. Shen Luo wanted to say that he knew nothing about the poison Lethal Seven and how could he make the antidote within seven days? But looking at Mo Junyangs tensed handsome face, he had to agree. Okay! I am going to check the books and see if my master left some clues. And I have several pills for detoxification. They cant remove the Lethal Seven thoroughly, but they can delay it. Dont worry too much He patted Mo Junyangs shoulder and found that he was still sitting there unmoved, so he asked in curiosity, What do you plan to do? Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxue lying in bed for a long time and then leaned down, kissing her lightly on the forehead. He said in a deep and gentle voice, Dont worry. I wont let anything happen to you. I promise. Wait for me. Understand? Shen Luo was speechless and had goosebumps all over his body because of this gentle voice. Mo Junyang, youd better be mentally prepared. The Lethal Seven was not as simple as Mo Junyang imagined. And Shen Luo had never seen this poison. He could do nothing but try his best and listen to God. Mo Junyang snorted and glanced at Shen Luo coldly. Do you think I have only one doctor? Can you say that behind my back? Shen Luo expressed gloomily. He didnt have the sense of achievement as a miracle-working doctor in front of Mo Junyang. How could he go on? At the moment, a servant rushed in from outside. Your Excellency, Duke Shi and his wife came to ask for the three ladies of the Shi Family and wanted to see you. King Rui is not at home, and Butler Liu told them to wait in the living room. Please receive them. Shen Luo calculated the time and tut-tutted. You brought Shi Qingxue back only less than one hour ago, and the Shi Family came here. Obviously, somebody told them earlier. Mo Junyang leered at Shen Luo and said coldly, Mind your own business. The only thing you have to do is develop the antidote as soon as possible. Gee. You are so capable. Her parents came to take her back home. Would you trap her here While speaking, he suddenly found something wrong. Three ladies, but only Shi Qingxue is here. Wei Zichao simply told Shen Luo what had happened in the prison, and the latter looked joyful, saying, The Lethal Seven couldnt have appeared for no reason. You locked up all the people in the prison and there might be more Lethal Seven inside. If He babbled on and on excitedly. Before he finished speaking, he raised his head but didnt find Mo Junyang. Where is he? Was he kidding? Shen Luo tried every means to remove the poison for Shi Qingxue, but Mo Junyang had left. Doctor Shen expressed his resentment. Wei Zichao hurriedly defended his master. My master has gone to the prison and said if you need something, just tell me to do, Doctor Shen. Oh? What about the two people in the living room? Shen Luo looked at the guard who came to report and still waited here, but Mo Junyang had ignored him. Butler Liu let them in, so he should receive them. Wei Zichao was not smart, but he had been working for Mo Junyang for long and knew about his masters thoughts. Fine! Shen Luo initially wanted to advise Mo Junyang. After all, the two in the living room were special to Shi Qingxue. But the master and servant didnt care about them, so Shen Luo didnt want to meddle but concentrated on Shi Qingxues condition. He turned to the girl lying in bed. Shi Qingxues face was fair-skinned and ruddy. Her arched brows were like the new moon, and her lips were as red as the cherry. She looked like the sleeping beauty in dream. She was not as gorgeous and charming as she had been when she was awake, but she was still attractive in a different way. You are a beauty for sure. No wonder Junyang is so besotted with you. Shen Luo took out a pill for detoxification from his pocket and put it in Shi Qingxues mouth. Then he let her swallow it with a special method and couldnt help but praise in a low voice. It happened that Wei Zichao carrying a bunch of medical books into the room heard it. The guard looked back subconsciously and confirmed that his master hadnt come back. Then he heaved a sigh of relief and said to Shen Luo in a hurry, Doctor Shen, dont say something like that. If my master hears, it will be a disaster. If Mo Junyang knew that somebody coveted Shi Qingxue, he would go ballistic. Could he say that praising the beauty was not coveting? King Ruis angry heir wouldnt care. Shen Luo smiled complacently and moved closer to Shi Qingxue on purpose under Wei Zichaos glare, saying playfully, Your master begged me to save her and wouldnt be willing to kill me! Wei Zichao knew that the miracle-working doctor was fearless because of his excellent skills. He couldnt win the argument and had to secretly decide to tell his master vividly every word the doctor had said after he came back. Fine. I wont kid you! Shen Luo didnt dare to go too far. Mo Junyang could definitely burn the bridge after crossing it. The doctor didnt want to be the bridge. After joking with Wei Zichao, Shen Luo took the medical books and read them one by one. Wei Zichao watched aside for more than one hour and found that Shen Luo didnt make a conclusion after checking the books one after another. He worked as a supervisor for his master seriously. Doctor Shen, you have read for so long. Do you have a way to save Lady Qingxue? Shen Luo didnt raise his head. No. Wei Zichao was unable to reply. It was his first time to see a doctor who couldnt cure a patient but was so bold and straightforward. Maybe Wei Zichaos complaint in his heart was too strong, or the Lethal Seven was too difficult to deal with. Shen Luo who always couldnt come back to earth when he was reading put down the book and rubbed his forehead tiredly, explaining, There must be no ways to remove the Lethal Seven on common medical books. My master once studied this poison, and he would have left some records no matter whether he succeeded or failed. I am looking for those notes. These medical books were all medical classics left by Shen Luos late master. Wei Zichao was stunned for a while and soon understood. Do you want me to check the books with you? Shen Luo showed a faint smile. You are not stupid. Before Wei Zichao got complacent, Shen Luo concealed his smile and ordered indifferently, Since you know that, why dont you sit down and check now? Do you want me to beg you? Wei Zichao was silent. As expected, anyone who could make friends with Mo Junyang was not a good person. In the prison. Ah! No! The screams came one after another. The architecture of the prison was well sound-proofing, and the sounds couldnt be heard outside. The miserable screeches resounded in the prison and all the people inside got goose bumps. Mo Junyang sat outside the room in the prison and looked at the person inside who was almost dumb after screaming too much. Then he waved his hand and stopped the beating. Arent you going to say? Shi Baojin in the room was beaten up, with blood all over her body. Except her belly they avoided, there was no complete skin on her body. She curled up like a blood ball. She was scared by Mo Junyangs cold voice and trembled. Then she raised her head and begged, I dont know anything. I didnt poison Shi Qingxue. Even if you beat me to death, I dont know. Shi Baojin cried and quivered. Her voice was sad and desperate, but it was sincere. The guard, Wei Ziye who tortured her saw that and glanced at Mo Junyang, feeling nonplussed. Master, it appears that she didnt lie. Perhaps it was not her who did it. How about I ask the prison guards on duty? After all, Shi Qingxue was attacked from behind indeed, but not only Shi Baojin was behind her, and Shi Baoning and Shi Baoyou had been standing behind Qingxue. Logically, Shi Baojin was the last suspicious. She had been kept in prison for long and should have been searched. She couldnt have hidden the poison. Mo Junyang leered at Shi Baojin and thought for a second. Then he agreed with Wei Ziye. Go to ask the prison guards on duty some questions. He told Wei Ziye to approach him and then whispered in his ear. Shi Baojin tried her best to curl up like a ball and looked pitiful and harmless, but she showed a ferocious smile on her face covered with her hair. Speaking of which, how did you know Qingxue was poisoned? I have never mentioned it. Mo Junyangs cold voice came suddenly and frightened Shi Baojin. She raised her head all of a sudden and happened to meet Mo Junyangs deep and bloodthirsty eyes. She was like a frog in a poisonous snakes eyes. She couldnt move and had no chance of survival. Chapter 135 - Take off Her Clothes, or Skin Her No. Your people said that before. I just guess Shi Baojin opened her mouth and tried to argue. Mo Junyang gave her choices. Tell me, or have a living death. Or rather there was no choice for her. Shi Baojin looked at Mo Junyang in fear and explained, jabbering, Its not me. I have never planned to harm Shi Qingxue. You must She attempted to struggle, but Mo Junyang lost his last patience and said to the man next to him, Find several beggars to take off her clothes. After giving the order, Mo Junyang showed a rare smile and looked at Shi Baojin gently. This is the game we didnt finish last time. You must be expecting it, right? His smile was like the summons of the demon in hell. Shi Baojin was frightened and didnt come back to her senses until several dirty and ugly beggars were brought into the prison. She screamed and waved her arms crazily, shouting, No. Go away. Get out. The ugly beggars saw Shi Baojin. Even though there was blood all over her body and her face couldnt be seen clearly, she was a woman anyway. They pounced on her like the starving people finding a meat. Two of them fixed her limbs with one on each side, and other two came up quickly to take off her clothes. Shi Baojin was scared and shed tears, struggling without stopping, but she had to watch her prison clothes being peeled off one after another. No! When those beggars filthy hands touched her skin, she almost fell apart. She lost control and shouted at Mo Junyang, Ill tell you. Ill tell you everything. Let me go, please Mo Junyang suddenly threw four silver needles into the room, and the four beggars stopped instantly. Shi Baojin shrank back in horror. After getting rid of the beggars hands, she was naked and wanted to take back the prison clothes which had been thrown on the floor and put them on, but a guard got the order and picked up her clothes in advance. No. Give them back to me. Give the clothes back to me! Shi Baojin was ashamed but could only grab that guards trousers and beg miserably. The guard lifted her clothes and tried to take back his leg, but it was held by Shi Baojin and he couldnt move, so he had to turn to Mo Junyang for help. He was afraid that he would kick her to death at one blow. Mo Junyang said indifferently, Give her a coat, in case it offends the eye. Shi Baojin heaved a sigh of relief when she heard the first sentence and thought that Mo Junyang felt pity for her, but the next sentence kicked her to hell, and she was more ashamed than before. Right. This King Ruis heir loved her cousin and never took her into account. A rough mens coat fell from the sky and covered Shi Baojin from head to toe. It concealed the ferocious expression flashing in her eyes. She took a deep breath and raised her head, as if she finally made a decision. Then she looked at Mo Junyang pitifully and hopelessly. I didnt want to, but Prince Junjiu forced me. He said if I didnt help him poison Shi Qingxue, he would kill me like he burnt the other members of the Zhao Family to death. I had no choice. I never want her to die Shi Baojins voice was sad and she tried to make her a pathetic victim who was forced. But after she babbled and performed for a while, she found that Mo Junyangs eyes were not on her. He looked at the worn-out clothes in the guards hand and didnt listen to her. Till the guard put down her clothes and shook his head at him, Mo Junyang turned to Shi Baojin again and his eyes was distant. Have you done? Shi Baojin was unable to reply. If her life were not under control of him, she would jump out and curse him. But the reality was that she nodded obediently and said in all sincerity and seriousness, Everything was His Highnesss plan. Mo Junyang curled up his lips and seemed to believe her words. Then he asked, Why would he do that? In fact, His Highness didnt want to take Qingxues life. He knows that you love her, so he wanted to threaten you with her life and make you work for him. Shi Baojin got more confident and sued Mo Junjiu more excitedly. The cause and effect were logical. Mo Junyangs dark eyes seemed to be lightened all of a sudden and he asked, So Mo Junjiu has the antidote to the Lethal Seven? Shi Baojin nodded in a hurry. His Highness gave me the poison, and he must have the antidote. Where is the leftover poison? No. I dont have any left. Shi Baojin replied in an instant. It seemed that she was afraid that she would offend Mo Junyang, and she explained hurriedly, His Highness gave me only three needles with poison and I threw all of them out, and Qingxue was pushed by that maid, so not all of them hit her She wanted to defend herself more, but Mo Junyangs cold eyes told her that shed better not talk too much at this moment. At the same time, Wei Ziye ran over in haste and then whispered in Mo Junyangs ear. Mo Junyangs eyes fixed and he asked in a deep voice, Are you sure? There must be nothing wrong. I interrogated them with torture respectively and they told the same story. Wei Ziye answered cautiously. Mo Junyang then looked at Shi Baojin and said coldly, Ill give you the last chance. What else do you want to say? Shi Baojin hesitated for a while and then insisted, I told the truth. If Mo Junyang waved his hand and didnt even want to give a glance at Shi Baojin, saying to Wei Ziye, Find a butcher to skin her. Whwhat? All the others present, including Shi Baojin, were too scared to move. Wei Ziye wasnt sure about what he heard, but Mo Junyangs cold expression didnt give him the chance to ask, so he had to agree and then told a subordinate to finish the job immediately. The prison was equipped with a full range of torture methods. In no time, a fat middle-aged man ran over quickly, with a sharp shaving knife in his hand. He smiled at Mo Junyang, trying to flatter him. Master, whose skin do you want? Whats your requirement? Mo Junyang seemed to have an interest in skinning and asked, Do you have different ways to skin a person? The middle-aged fatty smiled complacently and started to explain, like bragging, There are many differences. First of all, the skin peeled off must be complete. If some part is missing or injured, it will be a failure. A skilled worker would use almost the same strength for each move to ensure the even thickness of the whole skin And the time to skin should be proper. If you do the job for too long, you would make the victim bleed to death, and it will be not successful. You must He got more and more excited while speaking, and his turbid eyes showed the crazy light like a beast finding the prey, which was horrible. And his tone of enumerating his family valuables made the others tremble with their hair standing on end after hearing that. Shi Baojin in the room heard the vivid description and seemed to experience it. She couldnt control herself and went into a coma. Gee, Mo Junyang raised his hand and interrupted the fattys crap, ordering, Pour water on her. Soon, Shi Baojin was poured by two buckets of icy water and quivered. Then she sat up again. In the beginning, she was unaware, but when she glanced at the butcher, the nightmare came to her. No. No! Shi Baojin was scared out of wits and shrank back repeatedly. At the same time, she didnt give up struggling. Mo Junyang, I have told you everything. You cant kill me. You cant break your promise. I really didnt lie to you! You didnt lie to me? So you didnt see Qin Yanyan? Mo Junyang curled up his lips but there was no smile on his face. Shi Baojin glanced at Mo Junyang quickly and fear flashed in her eyes but she concealed it soon. She tried to control her fast-beating heart and act dumb, saying in a calm voice, Your Excellency, what did you say? I dont know anything. She still didnt believe that Mo Junyang would be so cruel as to skin her. The Shi Family wouldnt allow him to do something like that to her, and even the common people would stop him after seeing that. She had to try every means to stall Mo Junyang and win a chance to survive, but she underestimated his patience and cold-blood nature. Especially what happened to Shi Qingxue could turn this man into a killer. Mo Junyang ordered the middle-aged fatty, Let me witness the special skill as you said. The fatty grabbed the knife in his hand, with a bloodthirsty smile on his face and walked into the room step by step. The common guards Shi Baojin thought of as the sympathetic people who wouldnt allow Mo Junyangs tyranny had suppressed her limbs and fixed her in this death pit before she resisted. The knifes light was dazzling in the dark prison and approached Shi Baojin gradually. She almost fell apart and screeched, No. Dont skin me. I will tell you everything. It was Qin Yanyan who gave the poisonous needles to me and told me to find a chance to assassinate Shi Qingxue! Shi Baojin finally couldnt insist and started to confess. But the fatty didnt stop. He squatted next to Shi Baojin and uncovered the last cloth on her. Then he gesticulated with the knife on her and smiled indecently. I like this beautiful skin so much. Beauty, dont be scared. I will skin you accurately and quickly. I am sure you will feel comfortable Qin Yanyan said as long as I could kill Shi Qingxue and frame Prince Junjiu to make both you and him suffer great losses, she would keep me alive after that. I told the truth this time. Please dont skin me. No Shi Baojins last defense was defeated in the end, and she told everything quickly, afraid that Mo Junyang would get crazy and skin her. Seeing that his perfect guinea pig surrendered, the middle-aged fatty felt it was a pity and stopped his hand, turning to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang twisted the ring on the middle finger of his left hand and still showed a distant expression as usual. Nobody knew if he was satisfied with Shi Baojins answer this time. He just asked coldly, Does Qin Yanyan have the antidote? Shi Baojin didnt dare to lie to him. She didnt talk about it. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Baojin for a while again and knew that he couldnt get any more information from this woman, so he turned to leave. The fatty stopped him in a hurry and asked, with expectancy in his eyes, Master, how would you deal with her? He hoped that Mo Junyang could leave her to him and let him skin her. This must be a wonderful job! Shi Baojin trembled for a second and then struggled crazily, shouting at Mo Junyang, You have promised that as long as I tell you the truth, you wouldnt kill me. You cant go back on your word! But the mad roar didnt stop Mo Junyang, and he just left an emotionless word. Keep her alive for now. The middle-aged fatty displayed a contented smile, which was in sharp contrast to the desperation and frustration in Shi Baojins eyes. Chapter 136 - I Am Where She Is Mo Junyang walked out of the prison and happened to meet Duke Shi and his wife who came to denounce him. Nobody knew what the messenger told the Shi Family. Dong Hui was anxious like a crazy woman, and Duke Shi who was always calm couldnt conceal the fret and anxiety on his face. Dong Hui stood in front of Mo Junyang and questioned coldly, Your Excellency, you detained three ladies of our family. Do you think we are weak and can be bullied easily? Youd better release my daughters right now. Otherwise, I will take them back at the risk of my life. Mo Junyang didnt take the couple seriously, but because they were Shi Qingxues parents, he still explained simply, Qingxue was poisoned and Shen Luo is treating her in my mansion. What? Dong Hui opened her eyes wide in fear and became more nervous. Why did it happen? Who poisoned her? Can Doctor Shen cure her? A series of questions came from her mouth, like the firecracker. At the end, Dong Hui interrupted herself and said, No. I am going to see her. Mo Junyang found that the concern of the couple was not fake, and the coldness on his face faded, but he didnt agree with Dong Hui. He said, Before Qingxue is detoxified, she will stay in my mansion and wont see any outsiders. Who is an outsider? Dong Hui retorted Mo Junyang subconsciously and then realized something wrong. She questioned in a hurry, No. Why do you keep her in your mansion? She is my family! Mo Junyangs eyes were firm with an unassailable determination, and he stressed each word. Because I will do anything to save her, and I can save her. Dong Hui was shocked by this determination at first, but then she got angry. Anybody could say something nice, but how many of them could make it? Shi Junhe promptly stopped Dong Hui who wanted to confront Mo Junyang and stared at him. Seeing that the young man was unaffected, he gave up the plan to test him. He said seriously, You keep Qingxue in your mansion to treat her and dont let outsiders see her. I can understand that you are worried somebody would harm her, but you lock up Baoning and Baoyou in the prison. What do you mean? Mo Junyang didnt avoid his eyes. Qingxue was poisoned in the prison. It has nothing to do with Baoning and Baoyou. You keep the two girls in the prison. Dont you think you have gone too far? Shi Junhe looked at Mo Junyang disapprovingly. But Mo Junyang sneered with a distant expression, mocking. Anybody who caused Qingxues injury must pay for it, no matter if they did it intentionally or not. You should thank me for my kindness. If I am cruel, you can see their dead bodies now. The cold tone made the two people more than forty years old feel a chill down their spines, and they felt scared by instinct. After that, they were more furious. Dong Hui glared at Mo Junyang and got extremely mad at him, cursing ruthlessly, Stop joking! Baoning would never hurt her sister. I dont care what you are thinking about. Anyway, give Qingxue back to us now. Otherwise, I wont let you get away with it! Shi Junhe didnt say anything but stood behind Dong Hui, supporting her silently. However, Mo Junyang didnt show any fear but had a weirdly bright smile. If Qingxue He refused to speak out the word die, so he paused for a short while. His dark eyes seemed to have been attacked by a hurricane, and there was only craziness left. I will let all of you know who cant get away with it. Dong Hui moved backward instantly to avoid the coming storm. But it was useless. Even though her husband put his warm hand on her back, trying to give her a secure and comfortable feeling, she felt a chill from head to toe. And the pressure made her unable to breathe. Her reason told her that even if Mo Junyang looked horrible, he didnt dare to do anything to her, but she was still terrified. She couldnt understand the hidden meaning in Mo Junyangs words, but she was so scared and defeated. Shi Junhe interrupted in time, Have you thought that when you wrong the innocent people, you indulge the murderer? When you look for the chief criminals, they have gone and will be nowhere to be found. Where should you go? Where should I go? Mo Junyang repeated Shi Junhes words in a weird tone, as if he gave full vent to his hatred from the throat. He stared at his hand and continued in a hoarse voice, I am where she is. She would never escape from me. Mo Junyang said that to himself instead of Duke Shi and his wife. He didnt give the couple a chance to come back to reality from his crazy thoughts and expressed decisively, Shi Qingxue wouldnt leave my mansion. I will take responsibility for her. Then he walked around the two dumbfounded people and left. Dong Hui prepared to chase him, but Qu Yuebai who came in a rush stopped her. Qu Yuebai explained gently and politely, Please relax. His Excellency is nervous for Lady Qingxues poison. Hope you can give him some time. He will be sure to save her. Dong Hui sniffed at Qu Yuebais blind confidence and said crossly, I cant relax at all to leave Qingxue to him. Does he think that he can cheat everybody as he always pretends to be gentle and harmless? We wont be cheated by him. I dont care. If you refuse to give the ladies from my family back to us today, we will transfer the army. She thought she had seen through Mo Junyangs vicious nature and couldnt bear to put Qingxue in a tigers mouth. Moreover, Mo Junyang threatened her elder daughters safety. She could never endure it. But Shi Junhe was more thoughtful than his wife. He stopped the furious Dong Hui and stared at Qu Yuebai. Has His Excellency found the murderer? Qu Yuebai was amazed and thought, He deserves to be the most outstanding general in the Mo Country and has a horribly sensitive intuition. He even easily found the hidden meaning in my words, which I didnt notice. But he didnt deny or admit. He just replied respectfully, Duke Shi, please dont worry. His Excellency wont disappoint you. Shi Junhe didnt give up after Qu Yuebais vague answer and asked in a deep voice, Who on earth hurt Qingxue? Qu Yuebai smiled and didnt say anything. He showed that he couldnt tell anyone. You dont even tell us frankly who the murderer is. Why did you tell me to believe that you will save Qingxue and wont cover up for the murdererto kill her? Shi Junhes face turned cold all of a sudden. Stateliness was on his face, and he had a fierce look. Qu Yuebai moved two steps backward and smiled bitterly in secret. He thought, Only these two people dare to boldly question Mo Junyangs sincere love for Shi Qingxue. If any of us had said that, we would have been killed earlier. But then Qu Yuebai realized that Shi Junhe and Dong Hui, Mo Junyangs future parents-in-law doubted and were dissatisfied with him and would never marry their daughter to this jerk (Madam Shis emotional fluctuations). It would be pointless if he defended Mo Junyang, so he kept silent. Anyway, it was a fact. Seeing that Shi Junhe didnt win the negotiation, Dong Hui almost went ballistic. She pulled her husbands sleeve and roared, Why did you say so much to him? Lets transfer the Shi Army. I dont believe that he dares to lock them up. Dont talk nonsense. Although Shi Junhe rebuked her, he looked at Qu Yuebai, with threat in his eyes. Qu Yuebai pretended not to see the elders eyes and lowered his head, looking obedient and innocent, but in the other hand, he feared nothing with somebody at his back. If they transferred the Shi Army for other purposes than a war to cause trouble, and somebody accused him of being more powerful than the emperor, Shi Junhe would be killed. Moreover, every force kept an eye with hostility on the Shi Family and waited for Shi Junhe to make mistakes. Qu Yuebai was sure that Shi Junhe wouldnt take this risk for Shi Qingxue, or anybody. They were in a dilemma for quite a while. At last, Shi Junhe gave in first. Since His Excellency bragged that he can save Qingxue, I will believe him for once. If something happens to her Shi Junhes eyes darkened. He can see what I can do for my daughter. Then he returned to his mansion with Dong Hui. After leaving the prison, Mo Junyang rode to the fourth princes mansion, followed by Wei Ziye leading other two guards. When they arrived at the gate of the mansion, one of the guards recognized him and said he would report to the master. However, Mo Junyang kicked him away and then swaggered in under other servants astonished eyes. When the servants reacted and tried to stop him, Mo Junyang had stridden into the main hall. Mo Junhao and Qin Yanyan were having tea. Mo Junhao was stunned to see Mo Junyang standing at the door with a killing intent. After a short while, he forced a smile and walked to his cousin, greeting as usual, Junyang, what a surprise to see you. I am sorry that I didnt welcome you earlier He suddenly stopped and seemed to finally find his servants in a difficult position behind Mo Junyang. His smile froze and he said with displeasure, You are a rare visitor, but you indulged your subordinates to hurt my people. Will you give me an explanation? Mo Junyangs three guards who didnt take action from the beginning to the end were speechless. They were innocent but had to take the blame. Of course, Mo Junhao said that not to blame several guards, who were insignificant. He wanted to catch a big fish, Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang had hidden himself deeply these years, and Mo Junhao just indistinctly realized recently that this man was horrible. He was more frightened after thinking it over. Especially Mo Junyang never made mistakes, so he was more terrifying. Now Mo Junyang broke into a princes mansion without asking, and Mo Junhao got such a great chance to find fault with him. The latter felt excited at this thought. That was the price of impulsion. Mo Junhao stood with his head high and chest out, clenching his fists in his sleeves. He looked at Mo Junyang at the door, smiling, and imagined thousands of ways in one breath to deal with him. He watched Mo Junyang walking to him quickly. He approached Mo Junhao gradually and thenpassed by him. Mo Junhaos smile froze on his face. Mo Junyang walked around him and came to Qin Yanyan, looking down at her coldly. Give me the antidote. There was tension in the room and a storm was coming. Chapter 137 - Qin Yanyan Courted Death Qin Yanyan finally came back to reality from the astonishment and happened to meet Mo Junyangs dark and deep eyes like a pool in hell. She quivered and felt a chill down her spine. Then she restrained her fear soon and raised her head, looking dignified and natural. Your Excellency, I dont know what you are talking about. I will repeat it. I need the antidote. Mo Junyang stepped forward once more and his momentum was like a sharp edge and would penetrate Qin Yanyan. Qin Yanyan couldnt even sit steadily and turned to Mo Junhao subconsciously. He came up immediately and stood between the two. His eyes were cold, and there were shame and annoyance which couldnt be concealed. With a cold smile, he stared at Mo Junyang. Junyang, I dont know what wrong my woman did to make you threaten her in public. Mo Junyang leered at Mo Junhao, still expressionlessly. He didnt argue with Mo Junhao but looked at Qin Yanyan again, saying firmly, I wont beat around the bush. I know you poisoned Qingxue. I dont care what you want to do. I just need the antidote, now! Your Excellency, what did you say? I never poisoned Shi Qingxue, and I dont have any antidote. You cant talk nonsense and defame me. Qin Yanyan looked innocent and even recriminated him. Mo Junyang paused for a while and didnt say anything. His dark eyes seemed to cause a storm. Suddenly he said three words, The Qin Family. Qin Yanyan was petrified. What? Give me the antidote, and I will let go of the Qin Family, Mo Junyang offered and looked at Mo Junhao who was shocked by the news that Qin Yanyan had poisoned Shi Qingxue. Qin Yanyan didnt notice the danger signal in Mo Junyangs words but sneered, with complacency in her eyes. Huh! If I dont give you the antidote, what can you do to my family? She didnt believe that a silent dog of the crown prince could do anything to the powerful Qin Family. He just bragged, so nobody would believe him. But before Qin Yanyans smile spread, her neck was pinched and she was lifted all of a sudden. Before everybody reacted, Mo Junyang dared to kill somebody openly. He pinched Qin Yanyan so hard that he would take her life. Qin Yanyan felt suffocated and wanted to ask for help. She opened her mouth but couldnt make a voice. She could only make sounds Hmm or Ah from her throat. Meanwhile, she repeatedly patted the big hand which grabbed her neck, but she couldnt affect anything. If you dont want to die, give me the antidote! Mo Junyang pinched with more strength and ordered her coldly. Mo Junhao came to his senses and his face paled. He walked forward and wanted to save Qin Yanyan, but as soon as he approached them, Mo Junyang waved his palm at him and forced him to dodge. Seeing that Qin Yanyan rolled her eyes, Mo Junhao asked anxiously, Mo Junyang, do you want to kill my wife in my mansion? Are you out of your mind? Mo Junyang ignored him and just stared at Qin Yanyan. It seemed that if she didnt give him a reasonable answer, he would pinch her to death. Master, no. Wei Ziye came up to grab Mo Junyangs wrist and tried to calm his furious master down. You are pinching her neck. Even if she wants to answer, she cant speak. Let go of her! Hearing that, Mo Junyang weakened his strength. Wei Ziye seized the chance and pulled Qin Yanyan out of his masters grip, in case that Mo Junyang killed her by accident. Then it would be big trouble. Qin Yanyan was released and her body was weak. Without any help, she fell on the floor. She breathed fresh air deeply and enjoyed the joy of a survivor after a disaster. At the same time, the fear in her bone came to her again. Your Highness, help. Qin Yanyans face was full of tears and she reached out her hands to Mo Junhao to seek comfort. Mo Junhao hugged her in a hurry and kept a distance from Mo Junyang, in case this crazy man exploded suddenly. Mo Junyang was unmoved, and his eyes were fierce. He said after Qin Yanyan calmed down, Give the antidote to me. It was said that it was better not to do anything more than three times. Mo Junyang said that for the fourth time. It could be seen that he was in a bad mood. Mo Junhao was angry with Mo Junyang who ignored him repeatedly and dared to kill his woman in his place. That was provocation. Any man couldnt endure it. He pushed Qin Yanyan to hide behind him and gazed at Mo Junyang, warning in a deep voice, Mo Junyang, this is my mansion. Dont act recklessly. If you are rude again, my guards are not weak. When he spoke, more than ten guards from his mansion rushed in with broadswords in hands and surrounded Mo Junyang and his three men, ready to kill them as long as Mo Junhao gave the order. The crisis was on the verge of breaking out. Wei Ziye couldnt help but curse in his heart and told the two guards to be alert. He advised Mo Junyang in a low voice, Master, Lady Qingxue cant be detoxified for now. Dont be impulsive and cause trouble. After that, he had a weird feeling. Mo Junyang who was always calm and wise like a devil needed his advice unexpectedly. It was so inexplicable. But no matter how many absurd thoughts were on his mind, Wei Ziye advised while trembling. It was not wise to offend Mo Junhao in his mansion. He wouldnt get the antidote but might even be trapped by Mo Junhao. It would be unworthy. Mo Junyang looked at Mo Junhao and then glanced at Qin Yanyan. In the end, he turned to Wei Ziye and noticed the obvious worry in his eyes. Then he said, Lets go. Wei Ziye was overjoyed and nodded in a hurry. Yes. Perhaps Doctor Shen has developed the antidote. Mo Junyang neglected Wei Ziyes blind optimism and walked outside, but the guards didnt make way for him. Mo Junhaos face darkened. Junyang, you allowed your subordinates to hurt my people and you tried to harm my woman, but you want to leave without giving me an explanation. You dont take me seriously, right? Wei Ziye thought there was going to be a war. Mo Junyang was like a bomb now and would explode anytime, but Mo Junhao still pestered him. Would they leave after a fight today? What do you want? Mo Junyang seemed not to notice the anger in Mo Junhaos voice and asked indifferently. Mo Junhao sneered and his eyes were gloomy. You have done something wrong. Shouldnt you say something? I dont have time to talk with you now. After Qingxue recovers, I will do whatever you want with you. Mo Junyang looked distant and walked toward outside after saying that. The guard at the door still didnt let him go, and Mo Junyang kicked him away, walking out over the dead body on the floor. Wei Ziye hurriedly led the other two to chase him. All the guards in the mansion were frightened by Mo Junyangs ferocious look and didnt dare to act rashly. Then they turned to Mo Junhao. Mo Junhao was furious at Mo Junyangs arrogance. Seeing that the guards looked at him, he lost his temper. Why are you still here? Go back to your posts. The guards sighed with relief and knew that they didnt need to court death, so they left in haste. A bunch of punks! Mo Junhao looked at his fainthearted men and felt depressed. Qin Yanyan comforted him softly, Your Highness, dont worry. Today Mo Junyang has given us a chance to sue him. Lets report to His Majesty later and let him pay for it! Qin Yanyan was a spoilt girl since childhood and everybody doted on her wherever she was. She had never been humiliated in this way, so she hated Mo Junyang to the bone. She was anxious to kill him to vent her anger. Mo Junhao didnt listen to her crap but frowned and asked coldly, He said you poisoned Qingxue. What happened? I How would I know? He talked nonsense. I didnt do anything. Qin Yanyans eyes were evasive, and she avoided looking at Mo Junhao. Mo Junhao certainly didnt believe her words and pinched her jaw, forcing her to meet his eyes. Tell me the truth. Since she couldnt hide it from him anymore, Qin Yanyan told him frankly that she had seen Shi Baojin in the prison in private and incited her to poison Shi Qingxue for her. In the end, she said complacently, Huh! The Lethal Seven was given by a master from the western region. Its a kind of rank poison. What if they have a miracle-working doctor? Shi Qingxue is definitely going to die! When Mo Junhao heard the beginning of the story, he had a bad feeling, and at last, his face darkened to an extreme. He pointed at Qin Yanyan angrily and cursed, Bastard, see, what have you done? Mo Junyang wont let you go! Hearing that Mo Junhao cursed her, Qin Yanyan looked terrible and retorted with displeasure, He wont let me go? I wont let him go! Huh! I am going back to tell my father to kill him! Kill him? Mo Junhao laughed at Qin Yanyans naivety and said with no emotion, Didnt what happened to the Zhao Family make you realize the situation? Mo Junyang is as sinister and ruthless as any of us. I am afraid your family will be destroyed by him before you kill him. Qin Yanyan was stunned for a minute but still thought that Mo Junhao overestimated others and looked down upon himself. Can Zhao Ming be compared with my father? Mo Junyang just won luckily depending on the crown princes power. This time its not so easy. I dont believe that the crown prince would go against the prime minister because of a dog. Mo Junhao was speechless at Qin Yanyans blind confidence. Mo Junyangs warning seemed to be in front of him, and Mo Junhao felt restless. He wasnt in the mood to talk with Qin Yanyan and ordered, Mo Junyang is unpredictable. I dont want to be his enemy for now. I dont care what you want to do. Give the antidote to him first. Qin Yanyan certainly refused to do that. She finally succeeded in harming Shi Qingxue and hoped that she would be poisoned to death. How would she give out the antidote? And when she found that Mo Junhao anxiously told her to take out the antidote, a thought flashed in her brain. Her face twisted out of jealousy and darkened. Its not true that you dont want to be Mo Junyangs enemy. I am afraid that you dont want Shi Qingxue to die, right? You want to act like a hero and save the beauty, but she is living in King Ruis mansion now. I am worried that you will save a woman belonging to another man. What nonsense are you talking about? I do it for your good! Mo Junhao tried to persuade her, his face ghastly pale. He did think that it was a pity that Shi Qingxue would die, but he feared that Qin Yanyan courted death and would get him involved. But Qin Yanyan was furious and didnt believe him, screaming, Huh! Give up your plan! I tell you I would rather throw the antidote away than give it to Shi Qingxue. You! Mo Junhao was enraged, but seeing that Qin Yanyan wouldnt listen to him, he didnt want to say more. He left after speaking ruthlessly. Idiot, you will kill yourself sooner or later. Chapter 138 - The Qin Family’s Disaster On the first day, Shen Luo checked all the medical books and records in King Ruis mansion and finally found the notes about the Lethal Seven left by his master. But he just described the details of the victims symptoms and simply mentioned the development of the antidote. There was no formula for the antidote left. On the second day, Shen Luo produced the Lethal Seven according to his masters notes, but he still didnt know anything about the formula for the antidote. Mo Junyang was nowhere to be found. On the third day, there were rumors everywhere that Prime Minister Qin had beaten dozens of servants to death because of the theft in his mansion. The public condemned him on his cruelty and utter disregard for human life. In the afternoon, Qin Shirong went to the fourth princes mansion under cover and he looked sullen, as if his mother were dead. Mo Junhao had heard about the rumors and didnt believe that, but he realized the seriousness of the matter. The Qin Familys mansion had suffered loss by theft just on the same day, but the scandal was spread all over the city. There must be somebody behind the scenes. What was stolen? Qin Shirong clenched his fists and stayed silent for a while before saying with a sad face, Everything. What? Mo Junhao couldnt understand what he meant. When I checked the study this morning, I found that it was empty. Every document, including the stuff hidden in the secret drawers has gone. Mo Junhaos eyes widened in surprise. How is it possible? Do you know who did that? But thats the truth. I hid several secret drawers in the study, and all of them are empty now. And the guards on night shift didnt find somebody coming in. A bunch of punks! At the mention of what he had seen in the morning, Qin Shirong still felt it was a dream. Everything was gone without any sound, as if there were ghosts. Everything is missing? Hearing that, Mo Junhao squinted and felt threatened. What is included in everything as you said? Qin Shirong was the strongest power among the fourth princes followers and had much more connections with him than everybody could imagine. And till now, Mo Junhao wouldnt feel luckily and guess that the people who had stolen them were just common thieves taking action randomly. Qin Shirong shrank his neck when the prince stared at him, and he faltered, Nothing special. They are justjust accounts and others He didnt make it clear, but Mo Junhao knew that it was not as simple as he said. Mo Junhao thought of what he had given to Qin Shirong and what he had done. He didnt know how many things were recorded by Qin Shirong. He even wanted to kill his father-in-law. Your Your Highness, what should I do? Qin Shirong looked worried and apparently knew that he had caused big trouble. If I know, would I still sit here? Although Mo Junhao was respectful to his father-in-law at ordinary times, he couldnt look friendly this time. Qin Shirong didnt have the nerve to complain and said cautiously, I have sent some people to investigate and find out who was so bold as to enter my mansion to make trouble. After we catch the thief Mo Junhao was dismissive and sneered. Since he dared to take action, would he give you a chance to catch him? Or he has got your secrets, would he be afraid of you? He? Qin Shirong murmured in doubt and then his eyes turned fierce. He asked, Your Highness, you know who did it? What did he want? Mo Junhao rubbed his forehead tiredly and snorted. Your loved daughter brought trouble! Yanyan? Qin Shirong was stunned and had no idea what Qin Yanyan had done. He just defended her. She is a woman. What can she do? If you think its difficult to handle, I will take the responsibility on my own. I wont get you involved, Your Highness. It seemed that he meant Mo Junhao was incapable and even put the blame on a woman. Mo Junhao certainly understood that hidden meaning and sneered. He pointed out mercilessly, If your daughter hadnt poisoned Shi Qingxue to make trouble out of nothing, would you have been watched by Mo Junyang after he knew that? No. He was not just being watched. Now, Mo Junyang almost put a rope on Qin Shirongs neck. As long as Mo Junyang put forth a little strength, Qin Shirong would be killed. And all the fourth princes followers might be destroyed because of the loss of balance. Qin Shirong also realized that it might be hard to deal with, but he still explained for his daughter, Yanyan is simple-minded. Maybe she is wronged. Your Highness, please Mo Junhao didnt want to listen to his crap and expressed with no emotion, Now, the point is not whether I believe it or not, but do you think you can convince Mo Junyang with your lame excuses? Seeing that Qin Shirong was silent, Mo Junhao added, Prime Minister Qin, if you are eloquent, youd better persuade Yanyan to give out the antidote. Maybe it can be in exchange for your things. Qin Shirong immediately told Qin Yanyan to come here and carefully asked about the poisoning. Qin Yanyan was unhappy that Mo Junhao told on her and glared at him. Then she roughly told her father what had happened. She even expressed with displeasure, Its just a lady from the Shi Family. Whats the big deal? Just let her die. I dont believe that our big family would fear Bastard! Qin Shirong furiously slapped Qin Yanyan in the face and interrupted her ravings. Qin Yanyan covered her cheek in disbelief, with tears in her eyes. She cried, Father, you beat me? You actually beat me! Since I was a child, you have never laid a finger on me. Now, you beat your daughter because of a bitch. You have gone too far! After all, she was his daughter that he doted on for more than ten years. Qin Shirong felt sad for her and he was still angry. At last, he had to sigh helplessly. What do you know? Lady Qingxue is not a big deal, but now Mo Junyang has known our familys secrets. Do you want to have the whole family destroyed because of your jealousy? Qin Shirong was not as brainless as Qin Yanyan. He was clear that the power behind Shi Qingxue was not so simple like Qin Yanyan said. Especially he could clearly remember what had happened to the Zhao Family in the past few days. He didnt want to offend Mo Junyang at all! Why? Isnt Mo Junyang the crown princes Qin Yanyan said gloomily. She had never thought that Mo Junyang could do what he said. Qin Shirong interrupted her impatiently and ordered straightforward, Well. I dont care what you are thinking about. Anyway, just give out the antidote first to save Lady Qingxue and calm Mo Junyang, that devil. Qin Yanyan didnt refuse to take the antidote emotionally, but she still stood there. Qin Shirong had to advise her patiently again, I know you dont like Lady Qingxue, but its not time to mess around. After His Highness reaches his goal, even if you cut her into pieces, nobody would stop you. Do you hear me? Qin Yanyans face paled, but she was still unmoved. Yanyan! Qin Shirong called more loudly. Qin Yanyan raised her head to look at Qin Shirong and Mo Junhao, with fear on her face. After quite a while, she stuttered, But, I dont have the antidote! What? What? The two men stood up suddenly and asked in unison. I didnt know it would be like this. But the man gave me three needles with the Lethal Seven and told me that there was no antidote to this poison. I Qin Yanyan couldnt continue but shed tears. Qin Shirong fell in the seat powerlessly and mumbled in desperation, Damn it. We are done! Shi Qingxue was surely going to die, and the Qin Family would die with her! For the first time, Qin Yanyan saw her father so scared and also panicked. I didnt expect it to be like this! Father, I didnt mean it. I just wanted to teach Shi Qingxue a lesson Mo Junhao rolled his eyes in silence and thought, You just wanted to teach her a lesson? You want to take her life! But what was done couldnt be undone. Mo Junhao was not in the mood to scold Qin Yanyan anymore and started to figure out a way to make up for it. Obviously Qin Shirong thought so and the panic on his square face turned into meditation. After a long time, coldness flashed on his face, and he suddenly said to Mo Junhao in a lower voice, Your Highness, its too late. I am afraid that we are bound to be Mo Junyangs enemies. Wed better go the whole hog when he cant be distracted for now and others havent realized the situation. How about Before Qin Shirong finished his words, Mo Junhaos face darkened and he hurriedly cut in, Prime Minister Qin, please speak with caution! Qin Shirong had to shut up, but he still looked resentful, seeming to say, If we dont do that, do you have a better solution? Mo Junhao ignored him. At the moment, a eunuch of the emperor, Lord Liang was invited into the room, saying that the emperor told Prince Junhao to see him urgently in the imperial palace. The three of them were all astonished. Mo Junhao took out a moneybag from his pocket and gave it to Lord Liang. Lord Liang, thanks. Can I ask why my father summoned me? No, thanks. Its my duty. Lord Liang didnt dare to receive Mo Junhaos bribe and moved a few steps backward before bowing to the prince. Your Highness, its not that I dont want to tell you. His majesty just told me to bring you to the palace and didnt say anything else. Mo Junhao insisted on giving the moneybag to Lord Liang and said with a smile, Anyway, you deserve it. If you dont accept it, you just look down upon me! Thanks for your gift, Your Highness! Lord Liang finally accepted it in fear and then reminded him, trying to flatter him. Before I came out of the palace, I saw that His Majesty looked unhappy. Your Highness, you need to be careful. Thanks for reminding me, Lord Liang. Mo Junhao expressed his gratitude gently and then seemed to ask casually, Which official has seen my father today? Lord Liang answered frankly, There is no imperial court session today, and the officials dont dare to enter the palace to disturb His Majesty, but King Ruis heir came to the palace this morning. Oh! Mo Junhaos eyes turned cold, and he asked in a hurry, Do you know what he said to my father? His Majesty met His Excellency alone in the study and didnt allow the servants to serve them. I dont know what they were talking about. But they talked for a long time, about one hour. Lord Liang replied in details because he had received Mo Junhaos gift. Seeing that Mo Junhaos smile faded, Lord Liang thought that he couldnt help the prince and felt guilty. He had to ask cautiously, His Majesty wanted to see you urgently. How about Mo Junhao smiled. I am going to the palace with you to see my father. Afterward, he left directly and didnt care how scared Qin Shirong and Qin Yanyan were. Chapter 139 - An Invisible Fight In the study of the imperial palace. The emperor Mo Xiangbin sat in the hosts seat and looked cold and solemn. Mo Junhao stood across from him and lowered his head, obediently waiting to be scolded. They were silent for nearly fifteen minutes. Mo Xiangbin asked out of the blue, Junhao, are you going to admit your guilt? Mo Junhao played dumb. Father, I dont know what wrong I did to make you angry. Please forgive me because I am always obedient to you. He didnt admit his guilt and pretended soft. Even if Mo Xiangbin was mad, he would be moved more or less by his sons nice attitude. However, this time Mo Xiangbin didnt get soft-hearted and let him go as usual. He sneered. Somebody told me that you have a troop in secret and want to rebel. Is that true? Mo Junhaos heart skipped a beat and he didnt look calm as before. He hurriedly knelt down and kowtowed, defending himself. I have never wanted to. Somebody must try to frame me up. Please observe clearly, Father. He could be offhand with anything else, but he must deny this matter firmly and quickly. Mo Xiangbin was suspicious. If Mo Junhao answered hesitantly, he would be accused of being rebellious and would never turn the table. So the manor in the suburb of Bai City is not yours? The person who trains soldiers inside is not your uncle? Mo Xiangbin pointed out the truth expressionlessly and conveniently threw a stack of accounts on the table to Mo Junhao. What recorded in this account book are not the military supplies you sent to that manor? Mo Junhao didnt dare to dodge. The heavy book hit his head and then bounced to fall on the floor. He didnt pick it up because he knew that everything Mo Xiangbin said was true, and the evidence was solid. There might be even more evidence of his crime on the table. Father Mo Junhao called in a low and sad voice. He thought of all kinds of countermeasures in his brain quickly, but it seemed that every way out was blocked. His crime was confirmed. When Mo Junhao was extremely terrified, a eunuch reported from outside, Your Majesty, Lady Liu asks to see you. It was silent in the study all of a sudden. Mo Junhao felt that the pressure on him became lighter. Liu Yiyis arrival would be the best tranquilizer for Mo Xiangbin undoubtedly. He heaved a sigh of relief and couldnt help but raise his head secretly. He happened to meet Mo Xiangbins eyes with a faint smile. Then he was frightened and immediately lowered his head again. You have a good mother! Mo Xiangbin said with no emotion. Nobody could tell if he sighed simply or said with sarcasm. Mo Junhao didnt have the gut to ponder and echoed cautiously, Mother loves you most. I am only the witness of your love. Mo Xiangbin still looked serious, but Mo Junhao sensitively found that his eyes were less fierce. It was the best time. Mo Junhao clenched his fists and lowered his head more, admitting his mistake sincerely and sadly, I know its against the law to train soldiers in secret, and I didnt respect you. I am willing to take punishment, but I did that because I had no other choice. He admitted his mistake first and put him in a positive position. Then he defined training soldiers in secret as being against the law to avoid the crime of treason. At last he said he had no other choice to show that he was forgivable. And Liu Yiyi helped him outside. Although Mo Xiangbin didnt agree to see Liu Yiyi, he got softer when he faced Mo Junhao, saying casually, Tell me what makes you have no choice. Mo Junhao gritted his teeth and looked pitiful, as if he suffered humiliation but could do nothing. He responded with a sad face, If I can be proud, I know you love me most among all the princes, and I am always grateful, but the royal family is not like the ordinary family. Even if I want to respect my brothers and live in peace with others, more and more people intend to harm me since I was a child. He raised his head slowly and seemed to be pushed hard, with tears in his eyes. Father, you dont know how many times I was almost assassinated and had a close shave these years. Facing the approaching life and death crisis, even if I know its not right, I still cant help but think that its not enough just to win your love and I cant protect myself without some power. I With two drops of tears falling along Mo Junhaos cheeks, he instantly lowered his head to conceal them and murmured in a more depressed and helpless voice, I just want to survive. A man wouldnt shed tears easily until he felt really sorrowful. Mo Junhao explained sincerely and ninety percent of the words were true. Even a hard-hearted man would be touched. Moreover, Mo Xiangbin really loved and valued Mo Junhao. After hearing that, he was still angry, but his love as a father was aroused by the sadness and helplessness in Mo Junhaos words. They fell into a long silence again. Mo Xiangbin sighed at last. He looked stern, but in fact, he let it pass. You cant do it next time! He was afraid that Mo Junhao would be bullied and then added helplessly, I wont bother about the soldiers kept in Bai City, but if I find that you do the same in somewhere else, dont blame me after I turn against you. Thanks for forgiving me, Father! Mo Junhao was overjoyed and repeatedly kowtowed to express his thanks. Then he promised solemnly, I just want to protect myself and dont covet anything. And I dont plan to harm anybody else. Father, please dont worry. Mo Xiangbin snorted crossly. It will be fine if its true. Even if the truth wouldnt go on peacefully, the father and son thought alike and avoided talking about this matter. Just rethink about your mistake profoundly after you go back. As for Prime Minister Qin Mo Xiangbin said unhurriedly and then paused, which made Mo Junhao nervous again. He learnt a lesson and still lowered his head to listen, waiting for Mo Xiangbin to continue. Mo Xiangbin glanced at Mo Junhao with satisfaction and threw another stack of documents on the table to him, saying casually, I dont want to talk. Check by yourself. Mo Junhao hesitated and then opened the documents as ordered, browsing them one by one. He turned the pages more and more quickly, and he looked more and more terrible. At last, his face darkened. Mo Xiangbin saw that and sighed with a faint smile. Junhao, you have found a good father-in-law. I Mo Junhao showed what he felt on his face this time. He was truly annoyed. He wanted to say, I didnt find this father-in-law, Qin Shirong, but you forced me to marry his daughter. However, he was the one who got the advantage, so he had to take the blame silently. He looked more scared. I am guilty Mo Xiangbin asked in doubt, Qin Shirong took bribes and broke the law. What does it have to do with you? You will admit guilt for him? Mo Junhao was stunned and soon understood that Mo Xiangbin gave him a chance to disassociate himself from Qin Shirong. It was a matter of life and death. In a blink of an eye, he had made his decision. As an official, Prime Minister Qin should respect justice and the law. If he breaks the law, he should be punished. Even though he is my father-in-law, he cant get away with it. As for how to punish him, I will listen to you, Father, Mo Junhao answered in a forceful and sincere voice and expressed his opinion seriously according to the morality and law. Mo Xiangbin looked at Mo Junhao quietly for a while again and didnt show his emotion on his face. After a long time, he said slowly, Fine. It should be settled. Get up and write an imperial decree for me. Generally, it was the Imperial Academys job to write imperial decrees for the emperor, but as for some important or urgent ones, he might write by himself or tell somebody close to him that he trusted to do. Yes. Mo Junhao was favored by Mo Xiangbin but had never done such a job. He felt flattered to hear that. It was worthwhile to exchange Qin Shirong for Mo Xiangbins more intimacy and trust. The bright yellow imperial decree paper was unfolded in front of Mo Junhao. He grabbed a brush pen and waited for Mo Xiangbins instruction. The left prime minister Qin Shirong took bribes and ganged up for private interests, in defiance of the law. He would be dismissed from office and put in prison today Mo Junhao wrote every word on the paper as Mo Xiangbin said and then raised his head when his father paused. Seeing that Mo Xiangbin was pondering, he called in confusion, Father? Mo Xiangbin came to his senses and continued, He will be punished according to the law after the Supreme Court investigates. As soon as Mo Junhao continued to write, he paused suddenly and almost made a mistake on the imperial decree. He raised his head abruptly and looked at Mo Xiangbin in shock, remaining unmoved. The Supreme Court in the Mo Country was in the judiciary like the prison and could hear a case, but it was only in charge of the royal members mistakes and punishment all the time. It seldom asked about the common people or even the officials crimes. But Mo Xiangbin prepared to send Qin Shirong into the Supreme Court. Go on! Mo Xiangbin urged, as if nothing had happened. Mo Junhao soon realized the situation. The Ministry of Penalty was Mo Junhaos sphere of influence, and the Supreme Court was in connection with the Ministry of Rite, the solid followers of the crown prince. The Supreme Court was under the control of King Rui. Mo Xiangbin did that in order to give Mo Junyang a chance to vent his anger on Qin Shirong. Mo Junhao gave up his last fluke mind as he couldnt help the Qin Family. Then he lowered his head and wrote the imperial decree fully according to what the emperor meant. Seeing that Mo Xiangbin stamped it and a eunuch took it out to declare, Mo Junhao had complicated feelings. He felt lucky that he could escape from punishment and was reluctant at the same time. Qin Shirong was the most solid and reliable power among his followers. He had an invisible fight with Mo Junyang and suffered a lot. He was worried about his future plans. Before Mo Junhao figured out which feeling got the upper hand, the eunuch Lord Liang ran in hastily and then knelt down to report, Your Majesty, Lady Liu has something important to tell you. Please agree to see her. Mo Xiangbin leered at Mo Junhao and nodded. Let her in. Liu Yiyi walked in hurriedly and greeted Mo Xiangbin. Then she stood in front of him silently, without giving a glance at her son from the beginning to the end. Even though Mo Xiangbin was clear why Liu Yiyi came to the study, he saw that and nodded in secret. When he spoke, his voice was soft. Yiyi, why did you come to see me urgently? Your Majesty, Yanyan was taken away by some masked assassins. Please send soldiers to save her immediately! Liu Yiyi answered anxiously and told them the earth-shaking news. What? Mo Xiangbin stood up in astonishment. Mo Junhao was also shocked and his pupils shrank all of a sudden, but he felt happy in his heart. He got the chance to fight back. Chapter 140 - The Irreconcilable Hatred Mo Xiangbin asked instantly, What happened? Yiyi, tell us in detail. Just now, the servants from the fourth princes mansion came to tell me that not long ago, several masked assassins broke into the mansion suddenly and killed more than ten guards, and then Yanyan was knocked out and taken away. Liu Yiyi raised her head, with uncontrollable worry and panic on her delicate face. Mo Junhao exploded at once. Yanyan is always obedient and never makes trouble. Why would somebody harm her? He started to guess and seemed to think of something, and his handsome face twisted. But because Mo Xiangbin was present, he had to restrain his anger and then said coldly, In the capital city and under the emperors eyes, somebody dared to break into the mansion you gave to me in broad daylight and take away my wife. They just provoke and threaten me and even despise Gods power. You cant be tolerant to such evildoers. Liu Yiyi was also worried and murmured, Yanyan is carrying Junhaos baby, and that is your first grandson. I dont know what those assassins want to do. They dont even let go of a pregnant woman. They are too vicious. The mother and the son echoed each other with affection and reason, as if the assassins who had taken Qin Yanyan away were scoundrels guilty beyond forgiveness. However, all the three present knew who had sent the assassins. Mo Xiangbin returned to his seat and the expression on his face returned calm. He stared at the two in front of him and spoke casually till his stare made them feel guilty. Junhao, hope you can think over what I told you after you go back. Try to do your best. I am tired. You may leave now. He didnt talk about what happened to Qin Yanyan. Mo Junhao couldnt believe it and opened his mouth, trying to say something, but Liu Yiyi grabbed her sons arm in advance and shook her head secretly. Then they said goodbye to the emperor and left. Mother, what are you doing? Mo Junhao was dragged by Liu Yiyi out of the study and couldnt help but ask in rage after walking a few steps. Liu Yiyi still walked ahead expressionlessly. Till they went back to her residence, she loosened her grip and said crossly, Didnt you see your fathers face? If you had said more, he wouldnt have simply let us leave! Mo Junhao also found that Mo Xiangbins attitude was unusual, but he was reluctant. Are we going to let it pass? Mo Junyang harmed my right-hand man and then sent people to take my wife away. Isnt it obvious that he wants to embarrass me? Liu Yiyi rolled her eyes at him and said angrily, I dont want to talk about the Qin Family. As for what happened to Qin Yanyan, can it make you so mad? She liked nothing about Qin Yanyan except the baby in her womb, and that was all. Her son was young and didnt need to worry about children. If Qin Yanyan were to give birth to a boy and then get a higher position because of her son, she might make more trouble. He snatched my wife and its irreconcilable hatred. If I can endure it, wouldnt I be a coward? Mo Junhao gritted his teeth, as if he would rush to King Ruis mansion to fight with Mo Junyang next second. Liu Yiyi heard that and found something wrong, asking vigilantly, Snatch your wife? You know better than me why Mo Junyang sent people to take away Qin Yanyan. How could you say that he snatched your wife? Or the wife meant Mo Junhaos eyes turned cold and he denied in a hurry, I didnt mean that. Liu Yiyi raised her brows. I didnt say anything. Why did you deny it? I! Embarrassment flashed on Mo Junhaos face, but he soon calmed down and said in a deep voice, Anyway, Mo Junyang humiliated me several times. I cant let him go. I didnt tell you to let him go, but the current situation is unusual. I have no idea what secret about your father Mo Junyang has known, and this time he protected that man so much. If we act contrary to him, wouldnt we go against your father? Liu Yiyi comforted gently in a deep voice, Junhao, we cant do anything stupid. Mo Junhao frowned with displeasure and asked doubtfully, Mo Junyang has something on Father? How is it possible? You are still young and dont know about many things. Liu Yiyi sneered, with confidence on her face. She had been Mo Xiangbins favored concubine for more than twenty years and thought that she knew his every move. And she didnt want to hide anything from her son, so she replied, When your father was still the crown prince, he didnt have a good relationship with the third prince of the time, Mo Xiangrui. Later, he ascended the throne. Although he made Mo Xiangrui a king, he drove him away to the poor area in the north and kept King Ruis wife as a hostage. Then he summoned him back to the capital city for some reason, but they didnt wipe out their hatred. They fight each other till now and the gratitude and enmity are difficult to tell. How could an emperor treat his enemys son well? Now he doesnt kill Mo Junyang because It must be because he cant. Mo Junhaos eyes lit up and he was suddenly enlightened. Right! Liu Yiyi nodded and said with a smile, So His Majesty wouldnt indulge Mo Junyang for long! As an emperor, how could Mo Xiangbin tolerate somebody who threatened him with his secret? Especially it was his enemys son. When Mo Xiangbin got rid of the threat, it was the day Mo Junyang died. In fact, Mo Junhao thought more than that. Although he couldnt take revenge on Mo Junyang openly, he could tell somebody else to do that. Moreover, he could make use of the Shi Family. Mo Junhao smiled slyly at last. Liu Yiyi didnt expect that her son was planning a big show. Seeing that he was happy, she also laughed. Just wait to watch a play. The one who had the last laugh was the true winner. On the fourth day after Shi Qingxue was poisoned, the prime minister Qin Shirong was put in prison for offences, and all his family with servants, 132 people in total were locked up in the Supreme Courts prison. In the prison, Qin Yanyans hands were spread and she was tied on a cross. Her head was covered with a black bag and unclear voices came from her mouth, but nobody paid attention to her. Qin Yanyan didnt know what her situation was or how long had passed or even why she was here. She just felt pain all over her body and the silence around her frightened her more. Suddenly the bag on her head was lifted and the light came into her eyes, making her unable to open them. After a long time, Qin Yanyan finally managed to see the surroundings clearly. Then she struggled with much strength. Mo Junyang, its you? You tied me up and brought me here? Release me, now Her voice got sharper. It seemed that only the non-stop screams could make her feel less scared. Mo Junyang enjoyed Qin Yanyans performance till she didnt have energy to struggle. Then he put up a slender finger in front of his mouth to shush her, saying softly, Shh. Qin Yanyan became like a duck whose neck was pinched, and her voice stopped abruptly. Her eyes almost popped out of her head in surprise and fear. Good girl! Mo Junyang showed a satisfied smile, and his voice was rarely gentle. Qin Yanyan was so terrified that she had goose bumps all over, but she didnt dare to move a bit, with only tears falling from her eyes uncontrollably. Gee! Why are you crying? Mo Junyang sighed exaggeratedly, as if he really had a headache, and then said helplessly, Good kid, as long as you give me the antidote to the Lethal Seven, I will send you back to the fourth princes mansion, okay? He spoke like he discussed with her and behaved like a gentleman from the beginning. If the prison were not dark, perhaps somebody would believe that he tried to make a fair deal with Qin Yanyan. Oh, and if Qin Yanyan didnt look as if she saw a ghost, the play would be more lifelike. I, I Qin Yanyan opened her mouth several times but could only speak a word, and her tears messed up her makeup. Mo Junyang waited for nearly fifteen minutes and then lost his last patience. Say it now! The gentleness on his face disappeared, and it was replaced with horror that Qin Yanyan had never seen. No, I dont know. I dont Qin Yanyans legs softened. If she were not tied on the rack, she would probably be like the mud. Mo Junyang put his hand on Qin Yanyans right hand and suddenly put forth some strength without saying anything. Crack. Ah! Qin Yanyan screamed in pain, and her index finger was twisted to the back of her hand. Mo Junyang broke her finger unexpectedly. Are you going to tell me? he asked in a colder voice. Qin Yanyan shook her head repeatedly. I really dont know. I dont have the antidote. No! Crack! This time, four fingers were on the back of her right hand at the same time. Mo Junyang conveniently moved his hand to Qin Yanyans right wrist, with a bright smile on his handsome face all of a sudden, which was terrifying. Madman. You are a madman! Qin Yanyan shouted desperately. Another crack! Qin Yanyans right hand lowered down feebly, and it hurt so much that she wanted to die. I didnt lie to you. I really dont have the antidote, really Seeing that Mo Junyang reached out his hand to her right elbow, Qin Yanyan struggled hard again. No. No! At the moment, Wei Ziye ran in hurriedly and whispered in Mo Junyangs ear, The fourth prince Qin Yanyan heard three words indistinctly and had some hope after being desperate and frightened, with desire in her eyes. Mo Junhao came to save her! Mo Junyang saw that and said coldly, Since Lady Qin wants to see him so much, just let him in. Qin Yanyan stretched her neck in order to see her savior sooner. A shadow was on the ground in the corner of the prison under the light, and then the brisk footsteps could be heard. Qin Yanyan focused her eyes on the visitor in front of her and shouted, Its you? Where is His Highness? The comer was not Mo Junhao, but Lady Qins personal maid, Lianger. She didnt even look at Qin Yanyan but quickly walked to Mo Junyang and bowed. Master, good day. The savior became a disaster. Qin Yanyan was totally dumbfounded. Chapter 141 - She’s Dead Mo Junyang didnt care how shocked Qin Yanyan was and asked Lianger, Whats the matter? I have searched everywhere in the fourth princes mansion and didnt find the antidote to the Lethal Seven, and Qin Yanyan admitted that she didnt have the antidote, Lianger answered solemnly. Hearing that, Qin Yanyan didnt have time to bother about Liangers betrayal and nodded repeatedly, afraid that Mo Junyang wouldnt believe them. What she said is true. I really dont have the antidote. There is no antidote to the Lethal Seven. Even if you kill me, it wouldnt be helpful! Till now, Qin Yanyan was still na?ve and thought that he wouldnt torture her anymore if he found the truth. Mo Junyang indeed stopped and didnt hurt her anymore. And he repeated with a smile, It really wouldnt be helpful? Qin Yanyan nodded crazily. Right. Really So just let her go now! In that case, you dont need to stay alive. Mo Junyang said indifferently but sentenced Qin Yanyan to death. He winked at Lianger and the maid understood. She took out a dagger from her waist and pointed at Qin Yanyans heart, walking closer to her slowly. No. No!Read latest chapters at L istnovel.com Qin Yanyan screeched and watched the dagger approach her gradually. For the first time, the shadow of death was on her head, and she struggled to resist with all her strength, but she couldnt move a bit. Master. Wei Zichao rushed in anxiously. Mo Junyang gestured for Lianger to stop and looked with displeasure at Wei Zichao. Whats wrong? Wei Zichao seemed not to see Mo Junyangs frozen eyes and replied excitedly, Doctor Shen has developed the antidote to the Lethal Seven. He asked you to Go back to the Love Xue House at once. Before Wei Zichao finished his words, Mo Junyang had disappeared. Both Lianger and Wei Zichao were stunned. After quite a while, Wei Zichao came back to earth and couldnt help but sigh with emotion. Gee, Masters flying skill is so good that he is faster than a hurricane. Lianger didnt care about that and pointed at Qin Yanyan, asking, Master told me to kill her. Should I go on? Dont kill me! Qin Yanyan spoke harshly and the two looked at her. Then she hurriedly got soft and said something nice. Lianger, after all, you were my maid. I always treated you well and gave you a lot of food and clothes. You cant return kindness with ingratitude. If you let me go now, I promise to forget the past. No, I will treat you a thousand times better than before. Please do help me Qin Yanyan got thirsty after speaking so much, but Lianger was unmoved while listening. Wei Zichao looked with interest at Qin Yanyan up and down and said, Just keep her alive. Qin Yanyan was overjoyed. Otherwise, after Lady Qingxue wakes up, who will she take her anger out on? In the Love Xue House in King Ruis mansion. Mo Junyang walked in and grabbed Shen Luos collar, asking, Where is the antidote? Loosen your hand first! Shen Luo saved his collar from Mo Junyangs hand and said helplessly, I have developed the antidote Before Mo Junyang raised his hand to snatch it, Shen Luo moved his hand away and stopped him. Wait. Listen to me before doing anything. Mo Junyang said impatiently, Say it now. Shen Luo pointed at the antidote in his hand and sighed. I developed this antidote according to the Lethal Sevens property, but I cant be sure about the effect. If I give it to Shi Qingxue, the risk will be too high. What are you trying to say? Mo Junyang didnt want to listen to Shen Luo talking about how he made the antidote. Hearing the word risk, his excitement turned into indifference, aiming at Shen Luo. Shen Luo was scared and shrank his neck, but soon he was confused why he felt guilty. Then he raised his head with his back straight, complaining crossly, Why did you shout at me? I have checked all the medical books and records, and it was said that there was no antidote to the Lethal Seven. I have developed the antidote, and its amazing, okay? But without experiments, nobody can be sure He chattered on and on and got more emotional. Mo Junyang interrupted him. Cut the crap. Get to the point. Shen Luo was rendered speechless. He took a deep breath and forgave this guys rudeness because Shi Qingxue was still in a coma. The point is that we need to find someone to test the medicine effect first. It would be safer to feed Shi Qingxue the antidote after checking the effect. Now the problem is that I cant find a suitable person to take the antidote for the first time. The Lethal Seven could kill a person. They couldnt pick somebody randomly on the street and poison them. It was too inhumane. And the prisoners under sentence of death were generally tall and big men, different from Shi Qingxue. The conclusion from them taking the antidote would have risk. Where could he find a person similar to Shi Qingxue to join the experiment? Mo Junyang had wondered what Shen Luo was worried about. Hearing that, he told Wei Ziye to bring Qin Luoluo from the Supreme Courts prison. Is this person suitable for the experiment? What requirements do you have? How many people do you need? I will find them for you. Shen Luo was unable to reply. Fine, as long as Mo Junyang released his power, nobody could defeat him. Shen Luo stopped talking. After Wei Ziye brought the medical guinea pig, Shen Luo stabbed the same area on Qin Luoluos back neck with the needle with the Lethal Seven he had made. In an instant, Qin Luoluo went into a coma. Gee, at least the poison is right. Shen Luo sighed with emotion and took out the antidote to put it in Qin Luoluos mouth. After fifteen minutes, there was no difference. After two hours, she had no movement. After six hours, Wei Zichao withdrew his hand from Qin Luoluos nose and said calmly, Shes dead. Shen Luo could say nothing. He hurriedly stepped forward to examine her. After checking the dead body more than ten times, he stopped dispiritedly, with only one thought on his mind, Luckily, I didnt feed it to Shi Qingxue directly. Otherwise Shen Luo felt guilty and trembled, saying before Mo Junyang spoke, I am going to check what is wrong with this antidote. I will improve it immediately. Afterward, he fled. Wei Zichao pointed at the dead body on the floor and asked, How should we deal with this body? Without glancing at him, Mo Junyang turned around to go back to the Love Xue House. Wei Zichao looked resentful, and Qu Yuebai said helplessly, She is already dead. What do you want? Find a place to bury her. Ah? We need to bury her? Wei Zichao rubbed his nose and was reluctant. Thats too good for her. She was from the Qin Family. Qu Yuebai rolled his eyes. After all, she died for our experiment. What else do you want? Wei Zichao answered naturally, She is our enemy. Of course, the more miserable she is, the happier we are. Do you think its better to tear her body limb from limb or use some corpse powder to turn it into water? Qu Yuebai couldnt speak a word. He knew that anybody loyal to Mo Junyang were not good people. Stop messing around. Qu Yuebai didnt want to talk with Wei Zichao about something hardcore and ordered, Find somebody to put her in a coffin. Wei Zichao left unwillingly. Shen Luos second antidote was finished after overwork in the evening on the fifth day after Shi Qingxue fell into a coma. With the last experience, Shen Luo was obviously confident in the antidote this time and made two portions. He said solemnly, I think it must be no problem this time, but wed better find a weaker person to take the experiment. A weaker person? Mo Junyang was confused. Shen Luo was clear that the requirement was harsh, but he still insisted. I dont want to find a man to take it because men are stronger than women. Men can bear with some medicine, but women might not. We find a weaker person to test. If she can bear it, it must be okay with Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyang nodded to show that he understood and then said, Follow me. Do you have a candidate so soon? Hmm. Mo Junyang answered simply and prepared to walk out. But Shen Luo was unmoved and looked hesitant. Wait. There is another problem. Mo Junyang raised his brows and hinted that he should continue. Shen Luo took out two needles with poison and showed them to Mo Junyang, saying hesitantly, Its difficult to make the Lethal Seven, and one of the medicinal materials was left by my master, the leftover after he studied the Lethal Seven, and there was only a little. I tried to save it and only made three poisonous needles. So? So we have only two chances to test. Shen Luo was helpless. If he failed twice more, he could do nothing but feed Shi Qingxue the antidote. Mo Junyang looked at the two poisonous needles in Shen Luos hand. After a while, he took out one of them and said softly under Shen Luos surprised eyes, You only have one last chance. Shen Luo was shocked. No. Why? Mo Junyang put the poisonous needle under his arm and sat on the bedside again, looking at the bed. After a long time, Shen Luo got impatient and asked again. If you fail this time, feed Qingxue the antidote next time. Shen Luo was still confused. There is one poisonous needle left. What on earth do you want? He didnt believe that Mo Junyang would be stingy to Shi Qingxue, but he couldnt understand Mo Junyangs intention. Mo Junyang raised his hand and touched Shi Qingxues forehead gently, sliding along the arc of her face. His big hand almost covered half of her face, and he fondled her tender and fair skin with his rough fingers. This might be Mo Junyangs first time to touch Shi Qingxue so recklessly. The love in his eyes couldnt be concealed, which made Shen Luo heartbroken. He said gently, Leave the last Lethal Seven to me. I have promised that if I cant be with her, I will die with her. He raised his head and gave Shen Luo a bright smile, which was heart-stirring. Shen Luo, if I can die from the same poison as her, it will be happiness for me, right? YouShen Luo couldnt say more. In fact, he had more than one hundred reasonable ways in his heart to object Mo Junyang, but facing his smile, Shen Luo was unable to speak a word. He knew that he couldnt stop Mo Junyang this time. Lets try this antidote first! Maybe it can be effective Shen Luo changed the subject and urged Mo Junyang to lead the way. Mo Junyang led him to the Supreme Courts prison where Qin Yanyan was. Shen Luo pointed at Qin Yanyan. Do you want her to take the experiment? What experiment? As soon as Qin Yanyan saw Mo Junyang, she was like a mouse seeing a cat, and her hair stood on end. She was alert to every word of them. Mo Junyang ignored her and pointed at her belly, explaining, She is pregnant and hasnt eaten anything for two days. She might be the weak type as you said. Just give her the poison. I dont Qin Yanyan understood that the two wanted her to test the poison and was scared out of wits. Unfortunately, she was the meat on the chopping block and would struggle for nothing. Shen Luo was satisfied with this new guinea pig and grabbed her neck before stabbing. Qin Yanyan got unconscious. When he put the antidote in her mouth, his hand was trembling. What if he failed again? Would he really kill Mo Junyang? window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag(''js'', new Date()); gtag(''config'', ''UA-172659890-1''); Chapter 142 - Don’t Court Death Mo Junyang stayed silent for two seconds. Seeing that Shen Luo was still unmoved, he urged in a cold voice, Hurry up. Shen Luo showed a sad face. I am scared. Mo Junyang grabbed the antidote and put it in Qin Yanyans mouth. They both gazed at Qin Yanyan on the cross, with the utmost concentration. Fifteen minutes, thirty minutes, two hours Shen Luo couldnt insist and reached out his trembling finger to Qin Yanyans nose. Suddenly she quivered and came back to life. She opened her eyes and stared ahead blankly. It worked? Shen Luo opened his eyes wide pleasantly and looked at Mo Junyang in astonishment. Mo Junyangs frozen face melted and he said in a trembling voice, Check her pulse. Oh! Oh! Shen Luo answered in a daze and put his right hand on Qin Yanyans pulse. After a short time, the joy on Shen Luos face disappeared and turned into fear and panic. He lifted the bottom of Qin Yanyans dress and the fresh blood was dreadful, reddening her dress. Whats wrong? Even though Mo Junyang didnt have medical skills, he understood that it was not like the situation after she was detoxified. Shen Luo fed Qin Yanyan some medicine while explaining, The antidote was too much and she had metrorrhagia and lost her baby. As soon as Qin Yanyan came to her senses, she heard the news. Then she rolled her eyes and went into a coma again. But Shen Luo didnt care whether she was alive or dead. Seeing that she stopped bleeding, he gave some medicine randomly to Lianger next to her and then rushed back to King Ruis mansion. This time, if he couldnt win, he would perish. Two days later, Shen Luo took out the third antidote. After failing twice, he didnt have any confidence. Especially when he thought that this antidote would be fed to Shi Qingxue, he wanted to go back to the pharmacy. How about I think twice? Mo Junyang had stayed with Shi Qingxue these days and never left her. He raised his head and glanced at Shen Luo, stretching out his hand. Give me the antidote. Shen Luo hesitantly gave the antidote to Mo Junyang. Seeing that he was about to feed her, Shen Luo tried to stop him. Wait a moment. Let me study it more. I dont have confidence. Today is the seventh day. I fed her some pills to lessen the poison, and it could delay the attack. So she might be all right today. We Mo Junyang shook his head silently and didnt hesitate but held Qingxues hand more tightly. Then he put the antidote in her mouth and kept some water in his. Afterward, he bent down and put his mouth on her lips. When their lips met, the sweet spring water was transferred slowly. After the water came into Qingxues mouth, he was still unwilling to leave. He didnt dare to press hard and it was fine to keep close to her quietly. He took every moment as the last minute. Shen Luo stood aside and watched, with tears in his eyes. He couldnt bear to see that, but he knew that he didnt have a say at this time. He could do nothing but wait silently for the result. Nobody knew how long had passed, and then Shen Luo came back to earth suddenly, but Shi Qingxue lying in bed didnt wake up and Mo Junyang still lowered his head and bent down. Shen Luo said helplessly, Its almost the time. Let me check her pulse. Hmm, Mo Junyang answered in a low voice after quite a while but didnt move. Junyang! Shen Luo had to step forward and forcefully pull out Shi Qingxues hand from Mo Junyangs. Then he put two fingers on her pulse. The pulse was peaceful and regular, the same as ordinary peoples. Shen Luos eyes lit up and he stuttered out of excitement, Sheis all right. Her pulse is regular. She has been detoxified. Really? Mo Junyang frowned and grabbed Shen Luo, asking. Shen Luo nodded and answered firmly, Right. The poison was removed. She wont die. You can rest assured. However, Mo Junyang couldnt be confident as before even after the miracle-working doctor assured him. The doubt and hesitation couldnt be concealed in his sharp eyes. He kept murmuring, Really? Really? At the same time, he couldnt help but touch Shi Qingxue, no matter which part, as long as he could confirm that she was still alive. She was alive Mo Junyang trembled all of a sudden and asked, She has been detoxified. Why didnt she wake up? Shen Luo replied, Maybe she has been in a coma for so many days, so she cant wake up soon Thinking that last time Qin Yanyan woke up soon after taking the half-finished antidote, Shen Luo couldnt say more. Especially when he thought of some possibilities, he turned pale. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang sensitively noticed Shen Luos changing emotions and his eyes became cold. Shen Luo answered quickly, I am sure that Shi Qingxue has been detoxified and wont die, but He paused for a while and continued with hesitation, But one important medicinal material in the antidote can remove the poison of the Lethal Seven and might make the patient fall into a coma for some time which is uncertain. Coma? Uncertain? Mo Junyang repeated. Yes. I am sorry. This medicinal material is vital. Only it can remove the poison, and the last two times, they didnt faint, so I thought this time Shen Luo felt guilty and lowered his head. He hadnt expected that he finally saved her, but there was such an accident. He stared at Mo Junyang nervously, afraid that this man would kill him in a fit of rage after hearing that. His heart beat fast. However, Mo Junyang didnt kill him or even move. He just looked at Shi Qingxue in bed and was emotionless, like a statue. Junyang? Shen Luo called cautiously. Without looking at him, Mo Junyang just responded, I see. Go out now. Let me stay with her alone. Okay! Before Shen Luo closed the door, he couldnt help but remind again, Junyang, Shi Qingxue will be fine. Dont do anything stupid. Mo Junyang didnt reply. Shen Luo had to close the door and went out to the courtyard. Whats going on? A group of people waited for the news in the courtyard and surrounded Shen Luo as soon as they saw him. Shen Luo simply told them about the accident. Qu Yuebai screamed automatically, Shen Luo, what have you done? You are going to kill him. I I didnt want to! Shen Luo had a sad face and retorted softly, But without that medicinal material, the antidote wouldnt be effective. But what should we do now? If Shi Qingxue keeps sleeping, it will be better that she dies. Qu Yuebai had a headache and touched his forehead, thinking that they would suffer a lot in the future. Not necessarily! Maybe the current situation is just fine! A male voice cut in and attracted everyones attention. The speaker was Qu Yuebais twin brother Qu Yuexuan. Opposite to Qu Yuebais gentle and modest style, Que Yuexuans evil and arrogant character was deep in his bone. He could scare others and allure them when they were unaware. Qu Yuebai frowned and glared at Qu Yuexuan. What nonsense are you talking about? Qu Yuexuan shrugged and looked innocent. I didnt talk nonsense. If Shi Qingxue is bound to die, its better that she lies in bed. At least, it can calm Junyang. Otherwise, if she really died, he would All people present were clear about Mo Junyangs love for Shi Qingxue. Especially after Shen Luo said that Mo Junyang had kept a needle with the Lethal Seven, they approved Qu Yuexuans sophistry. Qu Yuebai was still restless, and he got more restless after Mo Junyang stayed with Shi Qingxue for one day and one night and never moved a step from her. If it went on like this, before Shi Qingxue woke up, their master would die from tiredness. Do you have any solutions? Qu Yuebais hair almost turned white because he was worried about Mo Junyang. If Shen Luo didnt feed Mo Junyang when he fed Shi Qingxue some medicine at intervals to keep her energy, the master wouldnt insist for long as he didnt eat or drink anything. Wei Zichao and the others looked at Qu Yuebai blankly at the same time and seemed to say, Isnt it your job to use the brain and figure out a way? Qu Yuebai was speechless. All of you need to think! I have a solution. Qu Yuexuan said unhurriedly. Qu Yuebai stared at Qu Yuexuan alertly. What are you going to do? Qu Yuexuan smiled like a harmless person but made others feel terrified. This solution might be You understand. All of them understood immediately. With Qu Yuexuans evil past, his solution wouldnt be peaceful and kind. Qu Yuebai thought for a while and then sighed helplessly. As long as you can distract Junyang, the method can beunusual. Fine. Even Qu Yuebai didnt have any objection, so Qu Yuexuan didnt scruple and asked Wei Ziye, By the way, how is the girl from the Qin Family? Who? Wei Ziye was confused. Qu Yuebai goggled at Qu Yuexuan. Be nice. Okay! Qu Yuexuan answered obediently and then asked seriously, The pregnant woman from the Qin Family. Didnt she have a miscarriage and lose much blood? Is she still alive? Wei Ziye nodded. Master didnt tell me to kill her, so Lianger fed her the medicine given by Doctor Shen to keep her alive. What? Is there anything wrong? Of course there is nothing wrong. It cant be better that she is alive, Qu Yuexuan replied exaggeratedly and sighed with relief, as if they were talking about his wife. Wei Zichao, Wei Ziye and the other guards couldnt say anything. Qu Yuebai knew well about his younger brother and rolled his eyes, cursing crossly, What solution is it? Why is it great that Qin Yanyan is alive? Qu Yuexuan raised his brows and smiled. If she were dead, who would be Junyangs punching bag? Zichao, Ziye, go to the Supreme Courts prison and bring all the members of the Qin Family to the dungeon of King Ruis mansion. We can have much fun. His eyes lit up excitedly, which made Qu Yuebai tremble. The latter was wise, without asking what was on Qu Yuexuans mind, and just frowned. His Majesty ordered to put the Qin Family in the Supreme Courts prison to wait for the judgment. But we will transfer them to King Ruis mansion without permission. What should we do if somebody finds that and tells His Majesty on Junyang? Then we can have a new toy. What a surprise. Qu Yuexuan pretended to lick his chops and desired for the picture Qu Yuebai described. Qu Yuebai was unable to say a word. Fuck, a bunch of psychopaths! He was too powerless to complain and left to avoid seeing that. Chapter 143 - We Are Brothers The brothers from the Wei Family, Zichao and Ziye soon transferred all the members of the Qin Family to the dungeon of King Ruis mansion. The news certainly couldnt be hidden from all people, but they thought alike and stayed silent. It undoubtedly indulged Qu Yuexuans abnormal hobby. Qu Yuexuan casually reported to Mo Junyang about his amusement, and the latter had no reaction. Then he started to have fun. In order to have more fun, he specially arranged the punishment field in the courtyard of the Love Xue House. The deserted and gloomy environment like the Cold Palace was the best place to kill people. The cross on which Qin Yanyan was tied was placed in the courtyard. Qu Yuexuans first toy was the eldest son of the Qin Family. He looked like a weak scholar with tender skin and was actually a playboy, Qin Yanyans brother. Qu Yuexuan was satisfied with him. Seeing that the young masters body softened like the mud after he was brought to the courtyard, Qu Yuebai was amused and helpless. What do you want after making a fuss? Do you want to beat up the brother in front of his sister? He was clear about his brothers evil thoughts, who would be happy after hurting somebody else and was the model of the abnormal people. However, after hearing that, Qu Yuexuan stared at him with disgust and filed the suit first. You are so cruel as to think of beating up somebody. You are too heartless. Qu Yuebai was rendered speechless. He put on a long face and opened his mouth several times, but he couldnt speak a word. Qu Yuexuan, who pretended kind-hearted and was inhuman inside, laughed and said casually, We are civilized and wont do something ruthless. It would be better to make him bleed when it comes to punishing him. Think about it. As long as we cut his wrist gently and see the blood all over his body come out from such a minor wound, after he losses all, we can get a bucket of blood and help Lady Qin enrich the blood and energy. What a good idea. Do you think so, everybody? Wei Zichao nodded repeatedly. Mr. Qu, can I do it? Let me do it! Wei Ziye also wanted to have a try. Shen Luo expressed, How can he lose all his blood after you cut his wrist? Let me feed a pill to him and I am sure that his blood will be drained, without any left. What do you think? The onlookers were silent. Oh, my God! What kind of people were they? They were so brutal. No! I can give you whatever you want. One hundred thousand taels of silver, is it enough? The young master was almost scared to go crazy by their words and begged for mercy shakily. He was not as conceited as always. Qu Yuexuan received the lance with special medicine from Shen Luo and smiled at the young master gently. Dont be afraid. Doctor Shen specially put some anesthetic on the blade to ensure that you wont feel the pain before you lose all of your blood. The young masters hair stood on end and he screamed, One hundred thousand is not enough? I will give you one million taels, of gold, okay? Dont kill me. I beg you. Dont kill me! Gee, one million taels of gold? The Qin Family is so wealthy. Qu Yuexuan seemed to be tempted by the young master and praised. The young master grasped the last life-saving straw and nodded crazily, trying to please him. Yes, as long as you let me go, I promise that you would never worry about food and can get whatever you want! Qu Yuexuan turned to Yuebai on purpose and asked, What do you think about his offer? Jabberwocky! Qu Yuebai was speechless at his brothers repulsive addiction and rolled at him. He grabbed the lance and cut the artery of the young masters right wrist. He did it quickly and decisively and finished the job before the others reacted. Then Qu Yuebai threw the lance back to Qu Yuexuan and ordered coldly, Collect the blood and dont spill it. If you make Junyangs place dirty, he would kill you. Qu Yuexuan received the lance by instinct and then came to his senses. His eyes lit up and he showed a beautiful smile. I know we are brothers. All people couldnt object. This evidence was indeed sufficient. The young master watched his fresh blood flow from his wrist and didnt feel pain, but the bright red blood soon covered the bottom of the basin, which was horrifying. No. No! His lips trembled and his body was fixed. He couldnt move except shaking his head, so he had no choice but to look at the basin with more and more blood, and his body went colder. Then he rolled his eyes and was scared to faint Qu Yuexuan first found something wrong and covered his nose, looking around. What smell is it? The others also looked around, and Wei Zichao pointed in disgust at the lower body of the young master. He wet his underpants. Gee. Coward. Its boring. Qu Yuexuan stretched out his hands in low spirits to show that he didnt have an interest now. What should we do? How about we cut him more to see if the blood would flow faster? Wei Zichao was still interested in the lance in Qu Yuexuans hand. Qu Yuexuan thought for a while and then suggested, Or we can engrave a flower on his body. It must be dramatic. But I dont know how to paint Seeing that these people got to a higher level, Qu Yuebai lost his last patience. I dont want to play with you. I am going to see Junyang. Remember to clean up all the mess of what you have done. In fact, they caused an uproar in the Love Xue House in order to attract the attention of the man in the bedroom. But Qu Yuebai opened the door, only to find that Mo Junyang was still the same as what he had seen six hours ago. He remained unmoved and took himself as a statue. Junyang, look what they are doing outside. They cut somebodys wrist and flesh If you dont stop them, believe it or not, they can turn the Love Xue House into an execution ground and nobody can live here anymore. Qu Yuebai tried to talk with Mo Junyang, but he rambled for a long time, while the man sitting on the bedside had no reaction. Mo Junyang was like a klutz with no sense and couldnt see, hear, smell, taste or touch which made Qu Yuebai have a wrong feeling. It seemed that Mo Junyang would disappear or die next second. Qu Yuebai was nervous and then had an epiphany, saying hurriedly, Junyang, you built the Love Xue House for Shi Qingxue. Think about it. If she finds what is happening outside after she wakes up, will she want to live in here? Qu Yuebai didnt know if it worked as he mentioned Shi Qingxue suddenly at this time, but he had no choice. He had to make every possible effort and give it a try. After quite a while, Mo Junyang finally turned to him. Before Qu Yuebai felt happy, Mo Junyang turned his head to stare at Shi Qingxue. He hadnt spoken for a long time and his voice was hoarse and sad. I guessed wrong. The Love Xue House is a nightmare to her. How would she want to live here? Qu Yuebai had no idea what had happened in the previous life and thought Mo Junyang was frustrated by his casual words. He explained in a hurry, I didnt mean that. Junyang, dont think too much. I am going to tell them to turn the Love Xue House to its original shape Mo Junyang shook his head. Dont bother. Its pointless. Its nothing! Qu Yuebai shook his head crazily and said quickly, Give me fifteen minutes. I promise to make the Love Xue House the same as before. Dont give up Qu Yuebai tried every means to find the former Mo Junyang who was confident and calm. However, Mo Junyang just shook his head tiredly and said with no emotion, Yuebai, thanks for your kindness. I wont do something stupid. Thats great! Being assured, Qu Yuebai heaved a sigh of relief, but thinking of the non-stop trouble caused by the people outside, he had a headache. Junyang, its a mess outside now. Especially Yuexuan brought the Qin Family to this mansion. I am afraid if you dont stop them, there would be something wrong. He didnt exaggerate just to scare people. Although Qu Yuebai had foreseen and agreed earlier for some reason, nobody but Mo Junyang could control the scene. Qu Yuebai seriously analyzed the possible consequences after Qu Yuexuan and the others kept making trouble and tried to make Mo Junyang pay attention to it. But the latter sat silently. After Qu Yuebai got thirsty and couldnt find any more excuses, Mo Junyang finally expressed, Let them have fun. If there is something wrong, I will take the responsibility. Qu Yuebai was rendered speechless and thought, Boss, you are so powerful! Young Master Qu wanted to cry but had no tears, feeling that all his worry and concern were in vain. Mo Junyang didnt worry at all, nor did he care or fear! Then He still didnt give up. The room door was pushed open by Wei Zichao. Master, the crown prince came and wanted to see you. Qu Yuebai was frightened and asked in an instant, Did he say what the matter is? Wei Zichao shook his head. No, he didnt, but he looks unwell. I am afraid that he heard about the rumors and came to To denounce him. Mo Junyang had silently forced Qin Shirong out of his position without asking Mo Junyu. It was rare that Mo Junyu could endure for such a long time, and because of that, it might be difficult to explain to him. They had to tell Mo Junyang to discuss with Mo Junyu and at least calm the crown princes followers. I am not available. Tell him to go back home, Mo Junyang said coldly and defeated Qu Yuebais imaginations. Qu Yuebai stomped anxiously and roared, Are you kidding? That is the crown prince, and your master in name. Can you refuse to see him as you like? Mo Junyang rubbed his forehead and said impatiently, The third princes followers were damaged, and the fourth princes followers suffered a great loss. I have done what I can for him. What else does he want? His hidden meaning was that he planned to quit and leave Mo Junyu alone. For the first time, Qu Yuebai found that a counselor could be willful like Mo Junyang. The problem was that Mo Junyang couldnt quit as he wished. He had to advise patiently, Junyang, Shen Luo said Shi Qingxue wouldnt die and you dont need to stay with her all the time. Just go to see His Highness. Seeing that Mo Junyang was still unmoved, he gritted his teeth and said, You need to carry everything through to the end. You dont want Shi Qingxue to think that you are irresponsible, right? For Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue was a switch which could turn on everything. His eyes became sharp at once. He turned to glare at Qu Yuebai and warned coldly, Dont threaten me with Qingxue next time. Otherwise, I wont show mercy. Then he gazed at Shi Qingxue with love and waved his sleeve, walking out. After a long time, Qu Yuebai came back to earth from the coldness and smiled bitterly, sighing with emotion. Even if you said firmly, you would do everything as long as it comes to her. Chapter 144 - The Crown Prince’s Anger Mo Junyu sat in the living room of King Ruis mansion, and a young man about 25 or 26 years old stood behind him. His name was Mo You, the crown princes distant cousin. Mo Junyang walked into the living room. Before he spoke, Mo Junyu asked him in a loud voice, Junyang, what the hell are you doing these days? Mo Junyang remained calm and found a seat randomly before asking, Your Highness, what do you mean? I wont say anything unnecessary to you. You forced Qin Shirong out of his position, and I didnt stop you, but you were related to Zhao Mings case earlier. Cant you restrain yourself? Why did you make everybody know that Qin Shirong was harmed by you? Mo Junyu was furious at Mo Junyangs recklessness and shouted in sheer exasperation, In less than one month, two important officials at the imperial court lost their positions and got killed, with their whole families destroyed, because of you. Will you be happy only after the imperial court gets unstable and all the officials in the capital city are frightened? In fact, these were not important. As a qualified crown prince, Mo Junyu wouldnt be scared by such turbulence. What he couldnt endure most was that Mo Junyang did everything silently without asking him in advance, and afterward, he didnt even give a reasonable explanation. He just didnt take his master seriously. However, Mo Junyang only raised his eyelids lazily, with no emotion on his face, and he said indifferently, Your Highness, I think you should be satisfied with the current situation, right? The crown prince who had got the advantage was unable to reply. Fine. Mo Junyu had been the weakest prince in the past, but he became the most stable force. He was the biggest winner after the turbulence, and he was insatiable to denounce Mo Junyangs deeds. But he was upset. Especially till now, Mo Junyang didnt regret it, which made the crown prince angry. Mo Junyang! Mo Junyu called Mo Junyangs full name, and his face was serious unprecedentedly. He stressed each word. I hope you can realize that you are in my boat. If you act willfully as before, I may reasonably reconsider our partnership. Oh, it even endangered their partnership, but Mo Junyang still had no emotion on his face. Qu Yuebai couldnt help but wipe the sweat on his forehead, explaining for his master, Your Highness, please dont be mad. His Excellency didnt want to irritate you, but it happened all of a sudden. Lady Qingxue is still unconscious, and he was worried about her Mo Junyus face was ghastly pale and he shouted emotionally, Qingxue is the reason that he did something without thinking? Shi Qingxue is so important, and would he Betray me because of her. Your Highness! Qu Yuebai interrupted Mo Junyu in a sharp voice and didnt have time to care if he respected ceremonial rites. He was afraid that if Mo Junyu said the next words, their partnership would end. He looked at Mo Junyang subconsciously and saw his face turning cold as expected, as if a storm would come. A conflict might break out at any moment, so Qu Yuebai added in a hurry, Your Highness, you are kind-hearted. Hope that you can give His Excellency time to rest for the sake of his effort of working for you many years. In the future, he would do everything for you like before. Mo Junyu regretted after shouting. A wise master would never threaten his subordinate with something he valued most and it was easy to lose control. Now that Qu Yuebai gave him a chance to change his mind, the crown prince seized the opportunity and comforted softly, Junyang, just have a rest in your mansion these days. I will help you in the imperial palace. Take care. Thanks, Your Highness! Qu Yuebai answered instantly and grabbed Mo Junyangs sleeve in secret. Mo Junyang met Qu Yuebais worried and anxious eyes and stood up slowly, bowing. Your Highness, goodbye. Qu Yuebai was speechless. Fine, Mo Junyang told the guest to leave, and it meant that he expressed his opinion. At this time, Qu Yuebai could hardly expect more. He comforted himself and smiled at Mo Junyu. Your Highness, bye. Mo Junyu glanced at Mo Junyang for the last time and then left. As soon as they went away, Qu Yuebais forced smile disappeared. He looked at Mo Junyang helplessly. I know you are not in a good mood and dont want to talk with him, but the crown prince is your ally you chose in the first place. If you fall out with him at this time, would you watch your efforts of many years become in vain? Mo Junyang was expressionless and leaned against the table, asking casually, So what? Qu Yuebai responded, Dont you care He bit his tongue and stopped. He didnt need to ask this question. Before Mo Junyang replied, Qu Yuebai was clear about the answer. Mo Junyang didnt care at all. Alright! I know you are not in the mood to get involved in the fight among the factions at the imperial court. Qu Yuebai had to lower his bottom line. But you cant ignore Yuexuan and the others. Didnt you see what a mess they made in the Love Xue House? Mo Junyang raised his brows and sneered. Didnt you allow them to? It was you who cut the young masters wrist, right? Uh Qu Yuebai was used to pretending to advise in earnest words and with good intentions. He heard Mo Junyangs words all of a sudden and found that he was exposed as a liar. He hadnt expected that Mo Junyang was in the bedroom, as numb as a stone but knew everything that was happening. It was horrible. Mo Junyang curled up his lips helplessly. To be honest, when I was in the bedroom, I thought if only I could become a stone and had no sense. Unfortunately Some abilities were deep in his cells. Even if he didnt want to hear, he couldnt ignore everything. Qu Yuebai pretended serious and didnt talk about his role in what Qu Yuexuan and the others were doing. He changed the subject. In fact, its fine to vent the feelings occasionally, but there should be a limit. Yuexuan and the others drained the young masters blood at first. Who knows what trouble he would make. Even though this mansion is our place, there might be one or two spies. Moreover, many people knew that the Qin Family was brought here Enough! Mo Junyang interrupted Qu Yuebai. You are more and more hesitant recently. The hesitant Young Master Qu gritted his teeth. Its all my fault. Mo Junyang took it for granted and nodded. Its great that you know it. A man should be manly. Otherwise nobody wants to marry you Hoho. Thanks for your concern, Your Excellency. Qu Yuebai was calm but rolled his eyes secretly. Mo Junyang waved his hand casually to show that he was generous and didnt want Qu Yuebai to feel grateful to him. Before irritating his subordinate, Mo Junyang concealed his arrogance and said seriously, Lets go to have a look in the Love Xue House. We cant let them do everything. Mo Junyu quickly walked out of King Ruis mansion and got into the carriage. His guard Zhou Ji gave him a cup of hot tea, but he waved his long sleeve and the teacup bumped into the wall of the carriage with a clang. Zhou Ji kept silent. Seeing that, Mo You waved his hand to tell Zhou Ji to leave and then advised in a low voice, Your Highness, you have known His Excellency for so many years, and you should be clear about his character. Why do you get angry to harm your health for that? The rage on Mo Junyus face faded and it was replaced with tiredness. He rubbed his temple and grunted, Of course I know about his character. That year, he saved me and he had only one requirement when he started to work with me. He just wanted Shi Qingxue. But after so many years, he went through many hardships with me. I asked him to treat me wholeheartedly and at least, he cant put me behind a woman. Did I ask too much? In the past few years, he was Mo Junyangs master and close friend and they trusted each other, while Shi Qingxue had stayed with Mo Junyang for just a few days, and they were actually not in a relationship. Why wasnt he as important as Shi Qingxue to Mo Junyang? As the proud crown prince and his jealous friend, Mo Junyu couldnt allow something like this to happen. Mo Junyu went to King Ruis mansion in person today and even threatened Mo Junyang. He wanted Mo Junyang to express his opinion and wished to see his loyalty, but unexpectedly Mo You, if Qu Yuebai hadnt interrupted me but let me finish my words, what would Mo Junyang have done? Mo Junyu smiled at Mo You, but there was no smile in his squinted eyes. Mo You lowered his head. I dont dare to guess. Come on! There is no outsider here. I want you to tell me frankly. Mo You pondered for a while and then suggested vaguely, His Excellency cares more about Lady Qingxue than everybody imagined. Mo Junyu soon understood what he meant and looked colder. Ha! Maybe if I go against that woman someday, he would give me up and help her. Mo You said in fear, Your Highness, you are the heir to the throne. Only you can abandon a useless pawn, and nobody dares to betray you. But He thought for a while and then stated honestly, But His Excellency is truly wild and might be hard to control. Cousin! Mo Junyu interrupted Mo You coldly and stared at him. After quite a while, he suddenly got frustrated. He sighed. Its you who said that. If somebody else had said it, I would have killed them! You, please remember that Mo Junyang is my savior. It cant change even if I have many conflicts with him. I never want to control him. Mo You gazed at Mo Junyu deeply but didnt surrender as usual. Instead he said forcefully, But you are the crown prince, the heir to the throne, Your Highness. Perhaps Mo Junyu could have friends and be a good brother of his subordinate, but he was the heir to the throne and must stay alert at any time. If there were possibilities of damaging the whole situation, he had to give up somebody no matter how much he didnt want to. Only in this way could he become a wise emperor. I Mo Junyu hesitated for a second and then continued, I know what you mean, but I believe Mo Junyang wouldnt betray me. I said that just because I was moody and guessed randomly. He would never go against Shi Qingxue. Mo You lowered his head and concealed his emotion. He didnt expose that Mo Junyu cheated himself but said sincerely, The late empress saved my life and told me to try my best to assist you. If I make you angry, please forgive me, Your Highness. The tension on Mo Junyus face relaxed finally. He helped Mo You up and said gently, Of course, I believe you are loyal to me and wont blame you for such a trifle. Dont worry. And you are right. I am afraid that I really need to prepare for the future. Mo Junyu looked into the distance with his deep eyes, as if lost in thought. Chapter 145 - Provoke the Shi Family It was unstable in Duke Shis mansion these days. Three ladies were outside and nobody knew if they were still alive. Shi Junhe was so anxious that he couldnt sleep or eat well. But no matter if he sent a message or asked to see the emperor, there was no reply. And Mo Xiangbin even cancelled the imperial court session in the morning these days probably to avoid seeing him. Shi Junhe couldnt figure out what Mo Xiangbin was thinking about, but he understood that the imperial palace didnt plan to interfere in the fight between the Shi Family and King Ruis mansion. Both King Ruis mansion and the prison were heavily guarded. He could never take her daughters back from Mo Junyang unless he transferred the Shi Army regardless of anything. Looking at his wifes always worried face, the old man could do nothing but sigh. Wenren Chi was also anxious and said impulsively, Father, how about I choose a team from the City Guardian Army to take back Baoning and Qingxue? Shi Junhe looked cold and rebuked, Dont mess around. The Shi Army is an armed force, and isnt your City Guardian Army the same? Moreover, there are all kinds of people in the City Guardian Army, and there might be more trouble. I am afraid that before you transfer your soldiers, you have lost your official position. And there was one more problem. Shi Qingxue and Shi Baoning were not in the same place. Even if Wenren Chi could find some people to save them, he couldnt save them together. But shall we watch them suffer and do nothing? Wenren Chi had heard that Shi Qingxue was poisoned and in a coma. He didnt know the poisonousness of the Lethal Seven, but he was restless as she had been unconscious for so many days. Shi Junhe sighed helplessly and was about to speak when Zhou Ruyu pushed the door open and entered in a hurry. She cried in front of him. Brother, you must save Baoyou! If you dont do anything, they would be done. It was Shi Junhes first time to see that Zhou Ruyu ignored her manners, and he got nervous. What happened? Can you make it clear? Mo Junyang went crazy. He actually skinned a daughter of our family and wants to kill them. Zhou Ruyu cried her heart out and was overcome with sadness. The three were scared by her words, and Dong Hui stomped with anxiety, cursing to the sky, Damned Mo Junyang. If he really dares to hurt my daughters, I will kill him at the risk of my life. Hui, be calm. Shi Junhe had seen a lot and calmed down soon after the shock. He held the furious Dong Hui in his arms and then asked Zhou Ruyu, Who did His Excellency skin? Who would he kill? Who has seen that? How are they now? The four questions were to the point and made Zhou Ruyu nervous. She felt lucky in secret. Fortunately she had prepared. Otherwise, she would be stunned to hear these questions. She covered her face and concealed the emotion on her face. Then she said in a sorrowful voice, Juncai happens to know a guard in the prison, who witnessed everything. Brother, if you dont believe me, you can ask that prison guard. While speaking, Zhou Ruyu gestured for a servant to bring a man dressed in the guards uniform in the prison. The man knelt down and kowtowed as soon as he saw Shi Junhe. My Lord, good day. Shi Junhe waved his hand to tell him to get up and asked in a deep voice, Who are you? What do you do? What have you seen? My name is Zhang You, a guard in the prison. I heard from my colleagues that His Excellency found a butcher to skin somebody in the prison. And two hours ago, I saw some people from King Ruis mansion carry out a stretcher from the prison, and the person on it was covered with a gauze all over which was stained with fresh blood. That was horrifying. Even though Shi Junhe had experienced a lot, he couldnt help but tremble after hearing Zhang Yous words. Dong Hui was frightened and almost fainted. Wenren Chi supported her, so she managed to stand steadily. Then she asked in a trembling voice, Who is it? Who was injured? Zhang You shook his head awkwardly. That persons face was covered with her hair. I could see indistinctly that it was a woman. I couldnt recognize her. Oh, yes. I saw that the stretcher was carried to King Ruis mansion. Zhou Ruyu said anxiously, Brother, listen. I didnt lie to you. The one who was injured must be Baoyou or Baoning. If you dont save them, both of them might be killed. Eh There was hesitation on Shi Junhes old face. On one hand, he thought Mo Junyang wouldnt be so cruel to the Shi Family, but on the other hand, the truth was in front of them, and he couldnt retort. Dong Hui didnt think as much as Shi Junhe. Hearing what Zhang You had said, she almost went crazy and didnt care about anything else. Junhe, nobody knows if Qingxue can stay alive. If we cant save Baoning, are you trying to take my life? Please transfer the soldiers to save her. Shi Junhe couldnt bear to see Dong Hui beg him and immediately nodded. Fine. We will take more than ten servants to King Ruis mansion. If it cant work, I will transfer the Shi Army, okay? Dong Hui certainly agreed and pulled his arm, heading to King Ruis mansion hurriedly. She was afraid that if they arrived late, she would lose two daughters. In King Ruis mansion, when Mo Junyang and Qu Yuebai returned to the Love Xue House, the young master of the Qin Family had been taken away, and Qu Yuexuan started a new amusement. He stood in front of the cross leisurely and touched his jaw with one hand while looking at the unconscious Qin Yanyan on the rack. Nobody knew what he was thinking about. What evil thoughts do you have? Qu Yuebai walked over and beat Qu Yuexuans head with his palm gently. While he was asking, his voice was more moderate than usual when he gritted his teeth, but he showed that it was not because he loved his brother, but he praised Qu Yuexuan fairly for distracting Mo Junyang. Qu Yuexuan screamed and dodged, covering his head. Then he complained to Mo Junyang, Junyang, discipline my brother. When you were not here, he almost bullied me to death! Oh? Why cant I see that? Mo Junyang turned a blind eye. Whoo, Little Yuexuan, climbs on the ground. He is only three years old, but he loses his mother. He is so poor Qu Yuexuan was addicted to acting. He sang an unrhythmical song and pretended to cry. Qu Yuebai was impressed but his face darkened. He slapped Yuexuan in the face mercilessly and rebuked in rage, If Mother hears your words, she would definitely kill you. Qu Yuexuan begged for mercy in a hurry. Good brother, I was just kidding. Dont be angry. I will give your legs a massage. Are you tired? I will pour you a cup of tea He behaved like a toady, which shocked others. The brothers would only joke around without doing anything proper when they were together, and Mo Junyang would stop them at ordinary times, but at the moment, perhaps it was really depressing, so he didnt feel annoyed but couldnt help smiling. Qu Yuebai sensitively observed that but he was wise and didnt point it out. He continued to talk nonsense with Qu Yuexuan. Then some servants carried a stretcher in. Somebody was lying on it, and the thick gauze covered the entire body except the head. The long and messy hair hid his face and nobody could see what he looked like. Who is it? Why is he covered all over? Qu Yuebai looked at the body several times in curiosity and didnt recognize the person. Qu Yuexuan smiled slyly. Shi Baojin. Is she beautiful? Qu Yuebai was unable to reply. He showed an inexplicable expression and was speechless at Qu Yuexuans twisted sense of beauty. He had to change the subject. Why did you have her brought here? Shi Baojin was the direct murderer causing Shi Qingxues condition, but Qu Yuexuan sent some people to bring her. Wouldnt he purposely make Mo Junyang angry? Mo Junyang raised his head and met Qu Yuebais worried and frightened eyes. He gave Qu Yuebai a smile to comfort him and said indifferently, I am fine and just want to know what Yuexuan is going to play? Haha, we are going to play a game, and we certainly need some audience. Qu Yuexuan walked to the cross excitedly and casually kicked the rack. You have had enough sleep. Wake up. Qin Yanyan had no reaction. Qu Yuexuan narrowed his eyes and smiled faintly. Its fine if you cant wake up. Anyway, we are just going to skin you. If you dont wake up, we wont need to use the anesthetic. Qin Yanyan was still unmoved, as if she were in a coma and couldnt wake up. But the three present were not ordinary people and saw through her trick to play dead. Gee. In this case, I wont show mercy. Qu Yuexuan smiled mysteriously and walked to Qin Yanyan with the lance in his hand. The cold blade was on Qin Yanyans face and made her tremble, but she still kept her eyes closed, thinking that she would be fine if she didnt wake up. Qu Yuexuan was playing hide-and-seek with Qin Yanyan and naturally didnt mind his mouse struggling for longer, so he didnt cut her but intentionally spoke out what he was considering. Where should I start to cut? The arm? Qin Yanyans left hand clenched and quivered all of a sudden. Oh, the belly is better. The skin here is softer and easier to cut. Qin Yanyans belly sank in tightly. Qu Yuexuan almost laughed out loud, and his brows showed that he was over the moon. Qu Yuebai concealed his smile and uprightly interrupted his abnormal brothers repulsive addiction. Stop messing around. If you want to skin her, find a butcher. Arent you afraid of dirtying your hands? He thought he was kind-hearted, but facing the chief criminal, Qin Yanyan, he didnt want to show mercy. If it werent for her, would they need to try every means to comfort Mo Junyang? But before we let her see what she would look like after losing her skin and be mentally prepared, what should we do if she is scared to death when she is being skinned? Qu Yuexuan looked terrified and patted his chest, wanting to prove that he was the most gentle and kind-hearted person by what he did. Just cut her eyelids first, and then she can enjoy it. Mo Junyang had kept silent earlier and watched the brothers from the Qu Family playing around. He suddenly spoke and frightened the two. The two looked at each other and thought at the same time, As expected, Mo Junyang is the real boss and would take action quickly and accurately with no mercy. Compared to him, it was so low that we teased the mouse. The brothers had no objection. One of them sent someone to find a butcher and the other dragged Shi Baojin to Qin Yanyan, smiling coldly. Lady Qin, are you still unwilling to open your honored eyes? Next second, Qin Yanyan opened her eyes wide. At the same time, a servant in the mansion ran in hurriedly. Your Excellency, Duke Shi and his wife brought more than ten servants to ask for the three ladies. They said that if you dont let them go, they would come in to start a fight. Chapter 146 - She Is Mine The three men in the Love Xue House were stunned. Qu Yuebai and Qu Yuexuan turned to Mo Junyang. They asked in unison, Junyang, what should we do? Mo Junyangs handsome face which finally relaxed became tense again and his eyes were cold. He didnt answer their question and nobody knew what he was thinking about. The brothers obviously thought it was difficult to handle. If they couldnt deal with it properly, the relationship between King Ruis mansion and the Shi Family would be at risk. Although they didnt care, the point was that Mo Junyangs beloved would be in a dilemma. How about Qu Yuebai thought it was better not to make trouble and suggested, Anyway, we have investigated and know it has nothing to do with Shi Baoning and Shi Baoyou. How about letting them go? As for three ladies the Shi Family asked for, Qu Yuebai turned a deaf ear. Needless to say, he knew that Mo Junyang would never let Shi Qingxue leave the Love Xue House, and he didnt need to think. But Mo Junyang didnt agree and said, Go out to have a look. It was a mess at the gate of King Ruis mansion. The servants of the Shi Family surrounded King Ruis mansion, but the guards of the mansion were not weak and blocked the gate, refusing to let them in. They were at swords points and a fight might break out at any moment. His Excellency is coming. Somebody shouted, and the two sides stopped arguing and made way for Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang glanced over everybody coldly and looked indifferent. What are you doing here? Dong Hui stepped forward and pointed at Mo Junyang, roaring, Mo Junyang, give my daughters Baoning and Qingxue back to me. And Baoyou! Zhou Ruyu echoed in a hurry, afraid that the first masters family wouldnt care about Shi Baoyou after saving Shi Baoning. Seeing that there was tension, Qu Yuebai tried to mediate, but Mo Junyang said in advance, What if I say no? Qu Yuebai was speechless and thought, The families related by marriage should live in peace. Your Excellency, you are so willful and arrogant. Arent you afraid that when you want to marry Shi Qingxue, the Shi Family would reject you? You! Dong Hui trembled with anger. If Shi Junhe didnt stop her, she might rush out to bite Mo Junyang to death. Wenren Chi moved a step forward and came to Mo Junyang, asking suddenly, Your Excellency, how is Qingxue now? All people were petrified. Even Mo Junyangs cold eyes were in doubt when he looked at Wenren Chi. According to Mo Junyangs character, he wouldnt want to talk with Wenren Chi, but anything about Shi Qingxue would make him soft-hearted. He answered, She hasnt woken up. Then Wenren Chi wanted to ask more. But Zhou Ruyu feared that undue delay would bring trouble and cried, My poor daughter Baoyou. She has done nothing but go out with Qingxue out of kindness. But she has to suffer a disaster for no reason. If something bad happens to her, how would I survive? She cried her heart out. And she talked about Shi Baoyou, but since Shi Baoyou was like this, Shi Baoning wouldnt be fine in this devils hands. As long as she could make Dong Hui nervous, it would be hopeful to save Shi Baoyou. Cover her mouth. Its so noisy. Mo Junyang ordered coldly, which ruined Zhou Ruyus daydream. All people were silent. No matter what they thought about Mo Junyangs tyranny, the guards of King Ruis mansion were loyal to their master. Before the people from the Shi Family reacted, they finished the job perfectly. Zhou Ruyu was pressed on the ground by three people, with a stinky handkerchief in her mouth. She couldnt move or speak, in an awkward position. Even though Dong Hui doubted Zhou Ruyus words, seeing that Mo Junyang was so arrogant as to hurt her in front of their family master, she exploded. Mo Junyang, dont think that you can act willfully as you are from the royal family. You locked up an officials daughters and tortured somebody in private. Do you think you can go unpunished? Go unpunished? Mo Junyang sneered and his cold eyes scanned the people from the Shi Family. At last, he looked at Shi Junhe. Duke Shi brought servants to break into King Ruis mansion. What would you say? Shi Junhes face stiffened and he hid the emotional Dong Hui behind him. He stared at Mo Junyang coldly. Your Excellency, if you didnt lock up three girls from my family for no reason and try to hurt them, how would I dare to disrespect the royal family? Who said its for no reason? Shi Baoyou and Shi Baoning tried to hurt the wife of King Ruis heir. I locked them up in the prison and wait for the judgment from the royal family. Why cant I do that? Mo Junyang said in a distant tone but was completely inflexible. Even if Shi Junhe brought soldiers here, Mo Junyang wouldnt let them go. Shi Junhe frowned. Your Excellency, you havent got married. How do you have a wife? Even if he wanted to frame somebody, why didnt he find a better excuse? Mo Junyangs expression didnt change. Shi Qingxue is my wife! Ridiculous! Qingxue is my daughter. When did she become your wife? Shi Junhe clenched his fists and trembled with anger. If he could be unreasonable, he would punch Mo Junyang. As a father, he wouldnt allow his daughter to marry such a horrible devil. He chose to forget that he had said Mo Junyang was not bad in the past. Even so, it was because Mo Junyang was good at pretending and cheated everybody. Shi Junhe took a deep breath and warned him, stressing each word. The marriage should be decided by parents. Your Excellency, please dont ruin Qingxues fame. Mo Junyang curled up his lips and his eyes were cloudy but determined. He also answered solemnly, I tell you. Since you couldnt protect Qingxue and she was harmed by her closest relative, you dont qualify to keep her. She is mine! The last three words were heavier than the blood oath and struck everybodys heart. Shi Junhe was shocked and couldnt speak because of Mo Junyangs determination to win Qingxue and the hidden meaning in his words. Shi Qingxue was in trouble because of her relative? No way! Dong Hui didnt believe Mo Junyangs words. Baoning is Qingxues sister and loves her so much. She would never harm Qingxue. You must be casting a bone between them. Huh! Thats the truth. Both Qingxue and Shi Baoning knew about it. Why do I need to cast a bone? Shi Qingxue was unwilling to investigate what had happened in the Peace Temple because of the kinship, but it didnt mean that Mo Junyang would pretend it never happened. He didnt talk about it because Shi Qingxue wanted to live in peace, but now she was not peaceful, so why would these people live in comfort? When they were in the Peace Temple, Qingxues right hand was seriously injured and was almost insulted Madam Shi, do you think your good daughter did nothing? Mo Junyang glanced at Dong Hui coldly. Even though she was not in the Peace Temple then, he didnt believe that she hadnt noticed anything. She just wanted to live in peace and made Qingxue sacrifice herself for nothing. Watching that Dong Hui stepped backward suddenly and looked frustrated because of his words, Mo Junyang felt happy out of the blue and the depression in his chest was vented out. He gazed at Dong Hui and said in a dreadfully cold voice, Relax. Whatever Qingxue suffered, no matter if it was serious or not, whoever it was, I would avenge her. Now, it is just a beginning. The coldness in his voice could scare people to death, but Shi Junhe didnt feel frightened for now. He asked Dong Hui, What happened in the Peace Temple as he mentioned? When did Qingxue get injured? And Baoning Junhe, we came to save Baoning. Dont get distracted by him. Dong Huis face changed and she interrupted Shi Junhe rudely. Shi Junhe wouldnt be cheated easily and questioned coldly, Tell me. Is what he said true? As Mo Junyang said, Dong Hui knew a little about what had happened in the Peace Temple, but she loved both daughters, and Qingxue never complained to her, so she pretended that she didnt know Dong Hui gritted her teeth and answered calmly, What he said is not true. He couldnt find the murderer, so he vented his anger on Baoning and the others. Junhe, dont be fooled by him. Baoning is your daughter. Are you going to watch this devil hurt and even kill her and do nothing? Dong Hui shed tears while speaking. She wiped her tears and drew Wenren Chi over. Chi, Baoning is your fiancee. Her father doesnt care about her. Would you leave her alone, too? Shi Junhe couldnt bear to see Dong Huis tears. As she cried, he could ignore everything. And she blamed him indirectly, so he comforted her awkwardly, Hui, dont cry. Baoning is my daughter. I will save her even at the cost of my life. I promise. Mo Junyang watched aside indifferently. Witnessing the affection of the Shi Family, he sneered and said mercilessly, Since Madam Shi accused me of venting my anger on Shi Baoning, I will confirm it, in case I am to blame for nothing. Your Excellency, are you going to be our enemy? Shi Junhe lowered his voice and asked coldly. Mo Junyang raised his brows and responded in a distant voice, Yes. So what? Now I just lock them up in the prison and feed them, but if Qingxue really He said gloomily, but when he was about to say that Shi Qingxues life was in danger, he couldnt speak a word. Even if it was an assumption, he didnt want to relate that word to Shi Qingxue. Then all of you dont need to stay alive! The ruthless voice declared the life and death of Shi Baoning, Shi Baoyou, and even the whole Shi Family. He was so conceited, but everybody felt chill from toe to head. At the moment, none of them would doubt Mo Junyangs words. Dong Hui was terrified and resentful. She plucked up courage from nowhere and suddenly shouted loud, Mo Junyang, dont forget that we are Qingxues parents. If you treat us like this, Qingxue would never forgive you! Mo Junyang was shocked. Obviously, these words were effective to him. Dong Hui was overjoyed and thought she had found Mo Junyangs weakness. Then she added more emotionally, Qingxue likes to protect her family. You dont respect us and hurt her sister. She would never marry you but would even hate you for a lifetime! She would rather die than be with you! The last words were Mo Junyangs most terrible nightmare in the previous life, and he could never shake off the memory. Mo Junyang raised his head all of a sudden and his dark eyes turned red, seeming to bleed, which was horrible. He stared at Dong Hui. Say it again. Chapter 147 - She Is the One I Want to Kill Dong Hui was frightened and moved a few steps backward. Then she bumped into Shi Junhe and finally stood steadily. But Mo Junyangs eyes with killing intent were like a pair of invisible hands and grabbed Dong Huis neck, which made her unable to make a sound or even move. Mo Junyang didnt plan to let her go and stepped forward, shouting more frightfully, Say it again! Dong Hui was so scared that tears fell from her eyes. She shook her head crazily and didnt dare to say anything. Ho! I was always polite to you for Qingxues sake, but you challenged my patience again and again! Mo Junyang laughed, but he was more dreadful than when he was expressionless. He stared at Dong Hui as if she were dead. Since you want to die, I will make your wish come true. As soon as he stopped speaking, he waved his claw-like hand, trying to hit Dong Hui. Shi Junhe stretched out his hand by instinct to resist, but Mo Junyang turned his claw into a palm and pounded him away. Shi Junhe bumped into several servants standing aside and spat blood. When he managed to stand firmly with the support of a pillar, Dong Hui was lifted by Mo Junyang grabbing her neck. Her toes left the ground and she rolled her eyes. It appeared that if Mo Junyang put forth a little more strength, Dong Huis neck would be broken. No! No! Shi Junhe and Qu Yuebai shouted almost at the same time, but the older man had been beaten by Mo Junyang and couldnt move. Qu Yuebai swiftly grasped Mo Junyangs wrist and yelled, Junyang, no. Fortunately, when Mo Junyang was mad, he didnt beat Qu Yuebai on impulse, but he didnt withdraw his hand. He just said with no emotion, Loosen your hand. However, Qu Yuebai grasped him more tightly and said in a deeper voice, Be calm. She is Shi Qingxues mother. She is the one I want to kill! The killing intent couldnt be concealed in Mo Junyangs red eyes. Mo Junyang was truly irritated and exploded. Even the words Shi Qingxue couldnt stop him from hurting somebody, and the target was Dong Hui. Seeing that Dong Hui would be strangled or scared to death, Qu Yuebai knew that if he didnt say anything to prevent Mo Junyang, it would end up with something irremediable. But what could he do? Qu Yuebai was restless and looking at the crazy Mo Junyang, he gritted his teeth. Then he made every possible effort and advised, Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue would wake up sooner or later. Do you want her to find that her mother has been killed by you after she wakes up? Didnt you say that she is your wife? Even if you dont care, would you want her to be spat on because she marries her mothers murderer He shouted more loudly and wanted to awaken Mo Junyang. But when he was speaking, he shrank back as Mo Junyang had no reaction. JunJunyang, are you alright? Qu Yuebai stopped and looked at the unmoved Mo Junyang, trembling with fear. Nobody knew which word of Qu Yuebais moved Mo Junyang, who loosened his grip unexpectedly. Dong Hui was like a kite losing its string and fell on the ground feebly, but nobody dared to help her up. They were afraid that if they offended the devil by accident, he would kill anybody. After a long time, Mo Junyangs eyes were not red anymore and returned dark as usual. He turned to Qu Yuebai and asked gently with uncertainty, She wont die. She will wake up. Right? Qu Yuebai got nervous and soon calmed down, looking at Mo Junyang, with a complicated expression in his eyes. Perhaps he should feel lucky. As long as Shi Qingxue wouldnt die, Mo Junyang wouldnt go crazy and everything could be under control. So he nodded seriously and answered firmly, Yes, Shi Qingxue will stay alive for sure. Mo Junyang went silent again. After quite a while, he looked at the people from the Shi Family and said indifferently, Get out of here. I dont want to kill you now. He was so conceited and willful, but at the moment, nobody would be silly as to provoke his patience again. Shi Junhe supported his badly injured body. He and Wenren Chi who helped Dong Hui looked at each other and led their people to walk back with a tacit understanding. When Qu Yuebai felt lucky that it would come to an end soon, Dong Hui who came back to reality from the shadow of death suddenly shook off Wenren Chi and stood in front of Mo Junyang again. Her eyes were resolute. I dont care. If you dont let my Baoning go today, I wont leave here until death. Qu Yuebai was speechless. He felt nervous again and stared at Mo Junyang subconsciously, afraid that the devil would go ballistic again. At the same time, he complained about Dong Hui in his heart. Fuck! If you want to show your braveness, please find another place to die a heros death. Why would you die in King Ruis mansion? Something beyond everybodys expectation happened. Hearing Dong Huis words, Mo Junyang didnt get angry, even with no emotional fluctuation on his handsome poker face. He looked at Dong Hui silently. When all people thought he was going to lose his temper, he waved at a guard next to him. Go to the prison and bring the two women. Qu Yuebai was astonished and his jaw almost dropped. The people from the Shi Family were overjoyed and their eyes lit up. Mo Junyang actually changed his mind and would let them go. It was a pleasant surprise better than a pie from the sky. Qu Yuebais astonishment turned into worry. Junyang, are you all right? It was said that if he wouldnt explode in silence, he would go crazy silently. Just now Mo Junyang wanted to explode, but he failed, so Qu Yuebai was worried that his master would go crazy. Mo Junyangs face relaxed suddenly and he even smiled at Qu Yuebai. You are right. Qingxue is still alive. I should be nice to her relatives. He loved Qingxue, so he loved her family? When Qu Yuebai was about to heave a sigh of relief, the other man continued unhurriedly, Anyway, they cant escape, right? The people from the Shi Family kept quiet. Qu Yuebai trembled for no reason. Although Mo Junyang told the truth, why did he feel like his master took all people from the Shi Family as the prey kept in the backyard and could kill them as he liked? Young Master Qu wanted to cry. Fortunately, the guards who went to bring the two girls from the prison finished the job soon, and Shi Baoning and Shi Baoyou came back unharmed to their parents. It made the Shi Family fear less. At least, they could go back home now. Dong Hui got her daughter back and hugged Shi Baoning, crying for a while. Then she couldnt wait to go back, but this time, Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi hesitated. Junhe, Chi, why dont you go? All people looked at the two in doubt. Shi Junhe glanced at Dong Hui in disbelief and then turned to Mo Junyang, saying awkwardly, Your Excellency, since you let Baoning and Baoyou go, please allow Qingxue to return home with us. Qu Yuebai heard that and wanted to curse. The people from the Shi Family are greedy. Arent they afraid that they would be in trouble? However, Dong Hui seemed unaware and thought she had frightened Mo Junyang, so she stood in front of him like before, with her hands on her hips, and said arrogantly, Correct. Duke Shis mansion is Qingxues home. She needs to go back home, too. She still ordered, but perhaps Mo Junyang was horrible to her, so she cleverly said that Shi Qingxue needed to go back home to resist the upcoming attack. Just as what all people felt lucky about, Mo Junyang didnt lose his temper but smiled at Dong Hui. Madam Shi, arent you too greedy? Dong Hui felt restless and pretended calm. Qingxue is also my daughter, so I will take her back home, too. Yes? Mo Junyang responded carelessly and then asked, If I say that you can take only one away between the two, what choice would you make? What do you mean? Mo Junyang glanced at Shi Baoning who was trembling in Wenren Chis arms and then leered at Dong Hui with a faint smile. Didnt you say that they are both your daughters? But I permit you to take only one away. Qingxue, or Shi Baoning. Who will you choose? Dong Hui stiffened. Your Excellency! Qu Yuebai glanced at Mo Junyang disapprovingly. The choice was too cruel for a mother. Mo Junyang ignored him and waited for a while but Dong Hui didnt answer. Then he looked at Shi Junhe and asked with a smile, If Madam Shi cant make a decision, I can let the decisive General Shi make the choice. Shi Junhes face was ghastly pale and he refused Mo Junyangs kindness without thinking, grunting, Your Excellency, since you know they are both my daughters, you should know that I wont make the choice. If you dont, you might take neither of them away. Mo Junyang set a difficult question and didnt care that he broke his promise. Of course, nobody dared to stand out and criticize him. Shi Junhes eyes were deep and he was firm. Even if you kill me, I wont make the choice. Mo Junyang tut-tutted and declared with pity, I am afraid that the ladies of your family No! Dong Hui hurriedly interrupted Mo Junyang and shouted, I choose Baoning. Let us go. What are you talking about? How can we Shi Junhe stopped Dong Hui in surprise and couldnt even finish his words. But Dong Huis face was calmer than before, as if it was set in stone and she repeated her words. At the same time, she looked up and said with threat and warning, Your Excellency, please keep your word and let us go. Of course I will keep my word. Mo Junyang laughed and meanwhile raised his brows, looking at Shi Junhe. He didnt look away until the older mans face turned red. He said slowly, But I am curious. If Qingxue knows that her mother chose her sister without hesitation who hurt her, what would she feel? She cares about her mother most and could even hand out the token granted by the Emperor to give her a chance of survival. It was given by Elder Duke Shi. When he mentioned the past, Dong Huis heart was filled with guilt, but as she found that Shi Baoning looked at her with vulnerable eyes, she got tough immediately. She didnt do anything wrong. No matter how much Shi Qingxue had done for her, when nobody knew if she was alive, Dong Hui had to choose Shi Baoning. Moreover, Mo Junyang was here and wouldnt let Shi Qingxue suffer. Dong Hui didnt realize that she pinned the hope about Shi Qingxues life on their enemy but thought as a mother, she should protect the weaker. In a sense, it was the real betrayal. Chapter 148 - She Has Woken up Dong Hui believed she was thoughtful and reasonable, but Shi Junhes astonished and disappointed eyes hurt her. She glared at Mo Junyang resentfully and thought it was Mo Junyangs fault. You did it on purpose. Why? Mo Junyang raised his brows with a faint smile, as if looking at a clown. Huh! Even if I choose Qingxue, you wont give her to me, right? So you didnt give me a chance to make a choice. Why did you say that much hypocritically? Dong Hui yelled angrily and put the blame on Mo Junyang. She was sure that Mo Junyang intentionally ruined the relationship of her family, and he would be happy to see them sad. Mo Junyang admitted without hesitation, Right. I wouldnt let you take Qingxue away. She is mine. When Dong Hui was about to show a complacent smile, his eyes turned cold and he leered at her. But what I did is one thing, and your choice is another matter. And you abandoned Qingxue and chose Shi Baoning at last, right? Dong Hui shouted emotionally, Because I know You have made the choice. Just because you are hopeless, you can abandon Qingxue? Mo Junyang harshly interrupted Dong Hui and left her no chance to argue. Dong Hui blushed with shame but couldnt deny what Mo Junyang had said. Maybe Mo Junyang had said that emotionally, but when it came to love, there was no need to choose rationally or maximize the profit. Hui, now that Baoning has been saved, lets go back home first! Zhou Ruyu might be the one with the firmest purpose in the Shi Family. She had made a fuss in order to save Shi Baoyou. Now the girls were saved, so she started to incite Dong Hui to leave soon, afraid that the delay would cause trouble. Dong Hui was still hesitant and looked at the family master subconsciously. However, when she made the choice, Shi Junhe was like a puppet whose energy was extracted and didnt say anything or even give her a glance. Mother. Shi Baoning suddenly called. Her daughters pale face made Dong Hui heartbroken, and she didnt care about anything else but said, Okay, lets go. Seeing that the people from the Shi Family left like disowned dogs, Qu Yuebai couldnt help but advise in a low voice, Junyang, since you planned to let them go, why did you make things difficult for them? Didnt you make them unhappy for no reason? Mo Junyang snorted. I just want them unhappy. My Qingxue did so much for her family, but why did they abandon her in the end? Its right if they are unhappy. Qu Yuebai couldnt speak a word and thought, Damn it. His Excellency is really irritated. Right, but have you considered what if Shi Qingxue knows it? The Shi Family was humiliated and tortured by Mo Junyang and wouldnt let it go. And Dong Hui was right. Shi Qingxue really cared about her family. After she knew that Mo Junyang had purposely hurt her parents, she would inevitably have hard feelings even if she wouldnt hate Mo Junyang for a lifetime as Dong Hui said. Mo Junyang paused for a while and then said, She wont know it. Qu Yuebai responded, Boss, there is no secret in the world. Even if you can control the people in our mansion, can you stop the outsiders from gossiping? Or do you want to lock up Shi Qingxue here forever? Mo Junyang turned to him and asked casually, Why cant I? Qu Yuebai was speechless and looked at Mo Junyang in shock. He wanted to ask Mo Junyang which question he had answered. But he was wise and didnt ask because the answer must be what he didnt want to hear. Facing the abnormal man who even planned to lock up somebody, Qu Yuebai thought he needed to persuade him. Junyang Shi Qingxue is a living person. You cant lock her up. Itsnot good! He stressed in order to make Mo Junyang realize the seriousness of the matter. Even though he seldom talked with Shi Qingxue, he knew more or less about her. He didnt know anything else, but according to her arrogant nature, she wouldnt be willing to let anybody control her life, even including her parents, let alone others. So If Mo Junyang wanted to put her under house arrest, he wouldnt succeed. Mo Junyang lowered his head and responded in a dispirited voice, I know. Then you Qu Yuebai wanted to continue. She is mine! Mo Junyang said all of a sudden, and the determination in his tone stunned Qu Yuebai. Then he made a vow stubbornly, No matter what happens, I wont let her leave me. As long as she doesnt leave me, its fine whatever she would do. I dont mindif she hates me! Qu Yuebai was astonished not only because his master was more abnormal, but he also noticed the fear behind Mo Junyangs determination. Mo Junyang feared that Shi Qingxue would leave, and he was more scared and restless because of her long coma and the fuss the Shi Family had made. At last, he got stubborn and determined to keep her stay here. It couldnt be changed. Qu Yuebai was worried and thought if things went on like this, it would be a tragedy, but he couldnt persuade Mo Junyang to change his mind! At the moment, Shen Luo ran over in a hurry. Junyang, big news! Qu Yuebai got nervous and asked instantly, Whats up? Was there something wrong with Shi Qingxue after they settled the turbulence? Shi Qingxue has woken up. Shen Luo looked stressed and gloomy, as if he didnt say that Shi Qingxue recovered but declared that she was dead. Mo Junyang disappeared before Shen Luo finished his words, and Qu Yuebai was left, speechless at Shen Luos facial expression. Cant you smile when you announce some good news, especially such big good news? Dont scare us to death, okay? Shen Luo was still in low spirits and rolled his eyes. Who told you that I announced some good news? These days, all of us prayed that Shi Qingxue would wake up earlier, and now it comes true. Why isnt it good news? Would it be good news only when she dies and forces Junyang to be mad? Qu Yuebai rolled his eyes constantly. But Shen Luo looked at him as if he were an idiot and cursed crossly, If its so nice as you think, wouldnt I be happy? Shi Qingxue is awake, but there is something wrong with her. What do you mean? Qu Yuebais eyes focused. He started to think that his heart always beat irregularly and he didnt know how long it could insist. Shen Luo opened his mouth but found that he couldnt explain, so he had to say, I cant make it clear for now. You will know after you come with me and have a look. When Mo Junyang reached the Love Xue House, he saw the servants standing outside the bedroom, and the door was closed. Nobody entered the room. He glanced at Xia Mang who squatted at the door begging miserably, and asked coldly, Whats going on? Qingxue is awake. Why dont you look after her in the room? What are you doing here? Xia Mang wore a sad face and answered while sobbing, Lady Qingxue was strange after she woke up and seemed not to know us. She didnt say anything but drove all of us out of the room. When we tried to open the door, she screamed Ah, and we dont dare to irritate her. But she hasnt eaten anything for nearly ten days, and she is so weak. What should we do if something happens to her when she is alone? Dont talk nonsense! Mo Junyang reproached in a low voice and interrupted Xia Mangs cry. He wanted to push the door open and enter the room to check on Shi Qingxue, but he put his hand on the door and didnt dare to push. He was afraid that she would be scared. After a short hesitation, he withdrew his hand and left the door, walking to another side of the bedroom. When he was about to move, Qu Yuebai came. Junyang, what are you doing Shush! Mo Junyang hurriedly made a gesture to stop him and lowered his voice. Dont talk. Qu Yuebai shut up obediently but was confused, watching as Mo Junyang opened the bolt of the window with a knife and briskly jumped in. Qu Yuebai was unable to speak a word. It was his first time to see a man enter his own bedroom like a thief. Could they live a good life? But next second, Qu Yuebai also jumped in, and the three people following them did the same. In the bedroom, Shi Qingxue didnt sit on the bed, but a sob caught their attention. They found that she squatted beside the door and curled up, with her head buried between her legs and her arms holding them, like a poor thing who was abandoned by the world. All of them were stunned and then turned to Shen Luo at the same time. Shen Luo shrank his neck under their glare and stretched out his hands innocently, obviously showing that this was something wrong he had mentioned. Mo Junyang took a deep breath and restrained his impulsion to beat up Shen Luo. It might be because he thought that it was great that Shi Qingxue was awake. He didnt lose his temper but stepped forward quickly, calling softly, Qingxue? The person in the corner trembled and hugged herself more tightly. And her sobbing voice became louder, as if she were crying. Mo Junyang felt heartbroken and couldnt control himself anymore. He grabbed Shi Qingxues wrist and pulled her into his arms. Ah! Ah As soon as Shi Qingxue was embraced, she screamed hysterically and beat and kicked him. She didnt control her strength and bit Mo Junyangs shoulder while struggling. Hmm! Mo Junyang groaned in pain but refused to let her go. Then he touched her head with his right hand and pressed her into his arms more closely. Dont be afraid. Its me. Qingxue, dont fear Nobody knew which act worked, and Shi Qingxue stopped struggling gradually. Her scream turned into sob and then disappeared at last. When Mo Junyang looked at her again, Shi Qingxue was sleeping. Her pale face was full of tears, which made Mo Junyang sad. He carried her and put her back in the bed. But when she was asleep, she didnt sleep well and her brows were wrinkled. Mo Junyang asked Shen Luo in a lower voice, What on earth is wrong with her? Shen Luo looked helpless and shrugged. I dont know. When I was about to feed her a pill to nourish her vitality, she opened her eyes all of a sudden. Before I felt happy, she pushed me away. Then no matter who got close to her, she screamed and even kicked us out. It didnt work as we comforted her. So I had to look for you. Then you have seen what she looks like. Chapter 149 - He Is Like a Mother When Shen Luo finished speaking, the others glared at him. Especially Mo Junyangs eyes seemed to skin him. Shen Luo was scared and begged for mercy immediately. There was no antidote to the Lethal Seven. I finally developed the antidote and didnt make an experiment. Its forgivable if there is something wrong. I didnt purposely make her become like this. What? Do you want to say that you are wronged? Mo Junyang leered at him. Shen Luo hurriedly straightened his back and corrected his attitude. No. No. I was wrong. I am guilty. Your Excellency, please give me a chance to atone for my past mistake. I will check on her right now and promise to cure her. Mo Junyang doubted that Shen Luo was a miracle-working doctor. However, because he had really detoxified Shi Qingxue, even though there was a hangover from that, Mo Junyang still made way for him and let him check her pulse. As soon as Shen Luo sat on the bedside and before he put his hand on her wrist, she seemed to feel it and shrank back suddenly. She sat up in an instant. Ah! Ah She waved her hands randomly and seemed to drive away all people close to her but she couldnt. She had to shriek powerlessly. She behaves like this. How can I check her pulse? Shen Luo was depressed. He reached out his hand several times but was beaten to retreat. His hand was red after being beaten, but he didnt succeed. He was nervous and couldnt help but suggest, How about I knock her out first Before he finished his words, Mo Junyang goggled at him. Get out. Shen Luo stood up resentfully to make way for him and mumbled, Whats the point after you came? She cant recognize you Before he stopped speaking, Shen Luo watched that Shi Qingxue, who was hysterical and would beat anybody she saw, rushed into Mo Junyangs arms and hugged him tightly, murmuring, Ah She was like a little frightened animal which finally found its mother and didnt let it go, which surprised all people present almost to drop their jaws. They were all dumbfounded and didnt know why it happened. Mo Junyang was confused by Shi Qingxues sudden behavior, but he hugged her waist back automatically and comforted her gently, Dont be afraid. I am here. I will be with you Mo Junyang soothed her for a long time and she finally popped out her head from his arms. As she was looking at his handsome face, her face full of tears looked stunned, and then she showed a joyful expression. Her big eyes looked at Mo Junyang, and she got closer to him hesitantly. Seeing that he had no reaction, she clung to his face cautiously and then stuck out her tongue to lick his cheek gently. Later, she put her face close to his and rubbed. All people were silent. Their eyes almost popped out in surprise and would even fall. Shi Qingxue looked like a kitten which found its favorite toy. She hugged him and didnt let him go. And she even licked him to confirm his existence before feeling relieved. Mo Junyang stiffened like a stone and didnt dare to move a bit. He could only let Shi Qingxue rub against his body without stopping, which made his heart beat fast and turned him on. He knew that he shouldnt, but he still couldnt control himself and turned his head. Shi Qingxues red moist lips kissed the corner of his mouth. My Lady! Xia Mang saw that and opened her eyes wide. She came up and tried to pull away this jerk who seized the chance to take advantage of her lady. However, Shi Qingxue seemed to have eyes on her back and hugged Mo Junyang to dodge. At the same time, she screamed and it seemed that Xia Mang would grab Mo Junyang from her. No matter how much Mo Junyang loved Shi Qingxues closeness to him, he found something unusual and pushed her a little farther away, asking, Qingxue, whats wrong with you? As soon as she was pushed, Shi Qingxue frowned with displeasure and wanted to get close to him again, but Mo Junyang grabbed her hands and she couldnt move a bit. She had to tilt her head and looked at him blankly, seeming to ask, Why are you grabbing me? Shen Luo! Mo Junyang turned to Shen Luo. Shen Luo hid behind Qu Yuebai and wanted to pretend that he was not here, but Qu Yuebai mercifully pushed him forward. He is here. Junyang, just ask him. Qu Yuexuan even added unhurriedly, If you want to punish him with the instrument of torture, I can help you. Shen Luo almost shed tears and said in a trembling voice, I dont know why she became like this. Logically, even if its the problem caused by the antidote, she shouldnt become stupid. Quack, you are stupid. Lady Qingxue was fine. Its all your fault! Xia Mang cursed furiously and vented her anger on Shen Luo because she didnt dare to be mad at Mo Junyang. Shen Luo wanted to cry but had no tears. However, the others present glared at him and obviously approved Xia Mangs accusation. Ah. Ah! Shi Qingxue suddenly cried twice, which stunned all of them. She seized the chance and cleverly got rid of Mo Junyangs control. She hugged him again, with a smile on her face, like a cat eating fish secretly. She was so complacent. All people were astonished again and looked at Shi Qingxue who changed her style, showing that they couldnt accept it. Uh Qu Yuebai came to his senses first and reminded in a low voice, Its great that Shi Qingxue can wake up. And she slept for so long. Shouldnt she get some food and recuperate? We can talk about anything else in the future. Mo Junyang finally came back to reality from the sweetness given by Shi Qingxue. Although he was unwilling, he was more worried about her health. He nodded and then ordered, Xia Mang, go with Shen Luo to prepare some food suitable for your lady. Yuexuan, go out to put the Love Xue House in order and clean up all the mess in the courtyard. Yuebai, prevent anybody from spreading the news. Before Qingxue fully recovers, we cant let anybody outside the Love Xue House know anything about her. The four looked at one another and nodded. Yes. Mo Junyang sat on the bed and still hugged Shi Qingxue who was sleepy. He fixed his cold eyes on Shi Qingxues face, with softness and comfort in them which he didnt notice. Shi Qingxue was asleep and there was no anxiety on her face. Instead, she had a contented and sweet smile, but she grabbed his clothes tightly, afraid that he would run away. Qingxue, my Qingxue Mo Junyang murmured, with desire and deep affection in his throat. Shi Qingxue seemed to feel it and moved a bit. Then she went deeper into his arms and almost buried herself there before getting quiet. Seeing that, Mo Junyangs tense face showed an excited and mysterious smile. Its wonderful! After two hours, Xia Mang brought the food prepared for Shi Qingxue to the bedroom and tried to feed her. However, Shi Qingxue hugged Mo Junyangs neck with strength. When Xia Mang got closer to her, she started to scream and threw anything to Xia Mang, such as pillows, pillow covers and perfumed medicine bags Xia Mang wasnt hit, but she didnt dare to forcefully approach Shi Qingxue. She had to ask Mo Junyang for help. Your Excellency, its Mo Junyang enjoyed the feeling when Shi Qingxue seemed to insulate them from the world and get close to him only. He wished that the others would stay away without disturbing them. But she had to have meals. Mo Junyang coughed and ordered seriously, Put the food on the table. I will take her to eat. Xia Mang trusted Mo Junyang, but it didnt mean that she could bear to see him taking advantage of her lady. But! But she couldnt stop her lady from clinging to Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue treated Mo Junyang in the same way as the newborn bird needed its mother wherever it went. The bird mother, Mo Junyang was also willing to spoil his little baby. Seeing that Shi Qingxue hugged him and refused to move, he didnt force her to stand on feet and walk but carried her to the dining table to have a seat. He was more cautious than treating a newborn baby. Xia Mang saw that and couldnt say anything. She gave Shi Qingxue a cup first according to her eating habit. Lady Qingxue would rinse her mouth with salt water before having meals every time. Shi Qingxue ignored Xia Mang. Mo Junyang received the cup and put it beside her mouth. Qingxue raised her head and glanced at him, with confusion in her big eyes. Hold some water in your mouth and then spit it out, Mo Junyang explained softly when he found that Shi Qingxue seemed not to know anything. Shi Qingxue was still unmoved and rolled her eyes, looking at him. Mo Junyang had to show her how to do it, and then put the cup beside her mouth, advising in a low voice, Do as I did. Drink some first. Ah, ah! Shi Qingxue could only make this sound. She was like a new baby and knew nothing. And she was curious about everything. She put her hand on Mo Junyangs hand with the cup and looked at him first. Then she hesitantly lowered her head and stuck out her tongue to lick the salt water in the cup. She tasted twice and then pushed the cup away unhappily, with her annoyed face, looking at Mo Junyang with complaint. Ah, ah! She seemed to complain, The water you gave me tastes bad. I dont want to drink it! Its not for drinking. Its used to rinse your mouth! Mo Junyang explained patiently and then pushed the cup to her again, but Shi Qingxue pouted and turned away without looking at the cup. Her body and language expressed that she disdained this stuff. Mo Junyang was willing to dote on Shi Qingxue, but she hadnt eaten anything for a long time. If she didnt rinse her mouth first, she would have no appetite for food. He held some salt water in his mouth again and then transferred a little to Qingxues red lips. When she reacted and tried to shrink back, he fixed her head, forcing her to raise it and accept him. Considering Qingxues feelings, Mo Junyang didnt transfer all the salt water to her but swallowed most of it by himself. Then he stuck out his tongue to open her teeth. When she focused on the salt water in her mouth which was hard to swallow, he licked and cleaned her mouth. After quite a while, when Xia Mang couldnt control herself and was about to push away this jerk who took the opportunity to philander her lady, Mo Junyang withdrew his tongue unwillingly. Shi Qingxue still looked confused and made sounds with her mouth, seeming to tell if the taste was good. Her lips were ruddy and shiny, which made Mo Junyangs eyes darken after seeing them. He restrained himself and turned away. Then he told Xia Mang to bring the cubilose. Well, we can eat cubilose porridge now. He grabbed a spoon of cubilose porridge and blew it first. Then he put it beside Qingxues mouth. Eat it. Chapter 150 - Feed a Child” Shi Qingxue smelt the sweetness of the cubilose and sniffed, but she didnt open her mouth. She tilted her head and looked at Mo Junyang in confusion. It seemed that she didnt know what he would do. Drink, this. Mo Junyang tried to explain with simple words and opened his mouth to have a try. He didnt like eating sweet food. Then he put the spoon beside Qingxues mouth, comforting her as if she were a child. Good girl. Drink it. Shi Qingxue put her hand on Mo Junyangs wrist like before and licked it gently. Then she licked her mouth, showing a happy smile. It was obvious that she was satisfied with the food. Mo Junyang also smiled. If you like it, eat more. Shi Qingxue let Mo Junyang put the spoon in her mouth and then swallowed the cubilose porridge slowly. When Mo Junyang took the second spoon, she didnt eat it but stared at him. Dont you like it? Mo Junyang had never fed a child. Especially Shi Qingxue couldnt say anything. Even though he was smart, he didnt know what she wanted. He put the spoon on Qingxues lips again, but she pushed it back and raised her hand to push it to Mo Junyangs mouth, gazing at him with her big bright eyes. Mo Junyang asked, Do you want meto eat? He was not sure. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak but repeated what Mo Junyang had done earlier, and put the spoon on his lips. Mo Junyang had to take a sip. When he prepared to swallow it unwillingly, Shi Qingxue couldnt wait to hold the spoon in her mouth and bite it before swallowing all. Meanwhile, she smiled at him sweetly. Xia Mang was speechless and thought her eyes would be blind. Oh, God. She ate something delicious and would let him taste it first. However, Shi Qingxue didnt think it was wrong. She sat on Mo Junyangs knees properly and held her face with both hands, smiling at him. She looked like a little woman saying, I am nice. I wait for you to feed me. Xia Mang watched and felt a stomachache, unable to see that anymore. Mo Junyangs intellect told him that Shi Qingxue was not normal, but he couldnt help liking that. There was even a moment that he felt it would be great if his Qingxue were like this for a lifetime. She relied on him only, and there was nobody but him in her eyes and world. It was one thousand and even ten thousand times better than his fantasy, because this was the reality. But Mo Junyang couldnt feel happy for long because after Shi Qingxue took only a few bites of cubilose porridge, she refused to eat more no matter how he comforted her. She just buried her head in his arms. When he asked, she didnt answer. When he pushed her, she cried and screamed, but she couldnt express what she wanted. Mo Junyang was almost going crazy and told Wei Zichao to bring Shen Luo here. Then wearing a long face, he asked, Can you cure her? Shen Luo had been in the pharmacy checking all the medical books and records in the past two hours and tried to find a way to cure Shi Qingxue, so he answered instantly, It looks like she suffers memory loss recorded in a medical book of my master. The patient would forget some people and something that happened in the past, and the serious ones might forget everything in the past or cant even speak. They have to act by instinct, like a newborn baby. Shi Qingxue seems Cut the crap. Just tell me, can you make her speak? Mo Junyang impatiently interrupted Shen Luos long speech and asked what he cared about most. Of course its no problem. Give me some time, and I can cure her Shen Luo promised without thinking, but while speaking, he suddenly found something wrong. Mo Junyang asked him like that and didnt urgently want Shi Qingxue to fully recover. It seemed that he just wanted her to express her feelings Shen Luo pondered carefully and felt scared. He trembled and looked at Mo Junyang, asking with caution, Junyang, how well do you want her to become? Was it the same as what he thought? Xia Mang heard that and replied hurriedly, Of course he wants you to cure Lady Qingxue and make her the same as before. She purposely stressed the words the same as before. Then she glared at Mo Junyang, seeming to question, You dont want my lady to fully recover? What do you want? Mo Junyang lowered his head and avoided Xia Mangs glare. Then he looked at the girl in his arms and asked in a hoarse voice, Can you cure her if you dont use those strange medicinal materials? It might be difficult. Shen Luo stretched out his hands helplessly and pointed at Shi Qingxue who curled up in Mo Junyangs arms. Look at her. She has forgotten everything in the past obviously, like an ignorant newborn baby. If I dont use medicinal materials to incite her, how can I make her recover? If you use the medicinal materials, can you promise that she wont have anything wrong unpredictable? Shen Luo frowned and responded, Memory loss is not a slight cold. Even my master left only one prescription without an experiment record. I dont dare to promise the effect. Xia Mang said crossly, Since you dont dare to confirm anything, why do you want to use it to treat Lady Qingxue? Is she your medical guinea pig? Shen Luo lowered his head and didnt say anything. Well, no need to talk about the medicine for now. Mo Junyang rejected Shen Luos treatment method. Then he added, You said it is difficult. In another word, you can make her speak without using medicine, right? Shen Luo expressed unwillingly, Since she is a newborn baby. She can learn to speak like a baby. While speaking, he suddenly smiled slyly. Anyway, she clings to you. You can teach her something, and then she might be nice in bed Mo Junyang threw a teacup to him without hesitation, and Shen Luo dodged cleverly, but a tea pot came soon and hit his left shoulder. He bared his teeth in pain. It hurts. He goggled in rage and complained in a loud voice, I just said something randomly. Why do you lose your temper? Cant you say something proper? Mo Junyang snorted and didnt think it was wrong to do that. Shen Luo resentfully stopped joking and didnt have the nerve to offend this killer anymore. I am serious. Anybody who raised a child knows that the baby learns to speak like the parrot. Moreover, Shi Qingxue is not a baby. As long as you teach her several times, she can naturally learn it. Junyang, if you dont believe, you can have a try. A low voice came soon and seemed to prove Shen Luos words. Junyang. All people were stunned. Mo Junyang reacted first and pulled Shi Qingxue out of his arms, asking in disbelief, What did you say? Ah, ah! Shi Qingxues face was red because it was buried in Mo Junyangs arms all the time. She still screamed randomly and they thought they had misheard when she spoke the word. But Mo Junyang didnt give up and grabbed Shi Qingxues arm with both hands, asking, Qingxue, can you call my name again? Shi Qingxue tilted her head and looked blankly at Mo Junyang, seeming not to understand what he said. So they just misheard her? Mo Junyang smiled bitterly and rubbed Qingxues head gently, saying with love, It doesnt matter, Qingxue. She didnt need to hurry. Shi Qingxue also showed a bright smile and shouted with a clear sound, It doesnt matter, Qingxue. Mo Junyang paused for a while. He was astonished and then overjoyed. He couldnt help but grip Shi Qingxues hand. You can speak? Its great. Wonderful You can speak Shi Qingxue still repeated Mo Junyangs words, but because he said quickly, she couldnt remember all of them. Then she forgot the next words after speaking that. She opened her mouth for a second and then closed it, lowering her shoulders with disappointment. Mo Junyang held Shi Qingxue in his arms and kissed her forehead. And then he whispered in her ear to comfort her. Its okay. Take it easy. Even though she couldnt pronounce properly, nor did she know what she was saying, it would be fine as long as she started to speak. Shi Qingxue raised her hand to touch her burning ear and turned away, trying to look at Mo Junyangs expression, but because he held her tightly, her face clung to his and couldnt move. She repeated what Mo Junyang did and whispered in his ear. Itsokay Take it easy. Shi Qingxue got more excited when she learned to speak and pronounced more properly. Especially she said the last three words quickly with the correct pronunciation. But before Mo Junyang felt surprised and pleasant, she started to resist him with much strength, seeming to refuse his hug. Mo Junyang had to loosen his hand and held Shi Qingxue to prevent her from falling on the floor. Meanwhile, he asked helplessly, Whats wrong? Of course Shi Qingxue couldnt answer but stared at Mo Junyang. Looking doubtful and then cautious, she hugged his neck and tried to pull him closer to her. Mo Junyang let her do everything and leaned forward with her hands Then Shi Qingxues ruddy and moist lips kissed his forehead. All people present were shocked once again. Mo Junyang raised his head subconsciously and touched the part where Shi Qingxue kissed. It was a kiss without any desire. That part was burning hot, and his heart was hot, too. Shi Qingxue didnt think that she did something amazing but nodded contentedly, satisfied with her performance. Shen Luo finally came back to earth from astonishment and found that Xia Mang was almost the same as him. He called in a trembling voice, Junyang Shi Qingxue suddenly turned to Shen Luo and followed his eyes to look at Mo Junyang. She pondered with her tilted head and learned from Shen Luo, calling slowly in the same tone, Junyang Her voice was tender, and she purposely prolonged it, seeming to play the woman. She just imitated like a child, but Mo Junyangs eyes lit up after he heard that. He looked like he was impressed and then answered seriously, I am here. Shen Luo and Xia Mang thought that they were already blind and wouldnt explain. Maybe the two single peoples resentment was too strong. Mo Junyang finally thought of his task before forgetting everything. He picked up an osmanthus cake from the table and gave it to Qingxues mouth, comforting gently, Good girl. Eat more. Chapter 151 - Raise Little Qingxue Shi Qingxue certainly refused to move and looked at Mo Junyang with her shining eyes. Mo Junyang had to take the cake back and took a bite. Then he gave it to Shi Qingxues mouth, soothing her helplessly. Are you happy now? Shi Qingxue showed a beautiful smile and acted like Mo Junyang, lowering her head to take a bite. She laughed with satisfaction and grabbed his hand. She bit it gracefully, eating like a little squirrel. Seeing that Shi Qingxue finished an osmanthus cake soon, Mo Junyang wanted to pick up another one for her, but his arm was gripped and couldnt move, so he had to ask, Would you like another one? Shi Qingxue didnt answer but still lowered her head, focusing on chewing the food in her mouth. After swallowing it, she stuck out her tongue and licked the fragments on Mo Junyangs fingertip. After that, she still enjoyed it and then held his index finger in her mouth. The warm feeling was from his index finger to his chest. He cowered in surprise but couldnt withdraw his hand. However, it made Shi Qingxue raise her head to look at him, with her bright and moist eyes, seeming to complain why Mo Junyang stole her food. She grasped his hand more tightly and protected her food. Mo Junyang felt thousands of ants climbing over his throat, and even his heart was itchy. He said in a hoarse voice, Let it go. However, Shi Qingxue sucked it several times with more strength and licked Mo Junyangs fingertip back and forth. Till she ate the last sweetness, she opened her mouth unwillingly, murmuring, Let it go. Xia Mang was speechless. And Shen Luo couldnt say a word. The two onlookers watched them and were dumbfounded. Especially Xia Mang went furious and wished to throw away and burn this man who took advantage of Shi Qingxue openly. Could he just forget about feeding and raising her and go away quickly? Your Excellency, Lady Qingxue has just woken up and cant eat too much. Let me help her have a bath. And you can take a rest. Xia Mang suggested respectfully but thought, Satyr, go away as soon as possible. Mo Junyang certainly knew what Xia Mang was thinking about, but she was right. Even though he was unwilling, he had to nod, considering Shi Qingxues condition. Tell someone to prepare some warm water first. I will carry Qingxue there later. Xia Mang glared and thought, She is not a child. You dont need to carry her. Dont seize the chance to defile my lady, okay? Alright. We will prepare the warm water. Shen Luo found that there was tension in the air and covered Xia Mangs mouth, dragging her out of the bedroom. Shi Qingxue was not involved and looked at the delicious food on the table several times. Till the sound of closing the door caught her attention, she turned to Mo Junyang. He said with a smile, Dont eat. Lets go to have a bath. Have a bath. Shi Qingxue repeated but didnt move. Obviously, she didnt understand what Mo Junyang meant. He didnt feel disappointed but rubbed her head with love, mumbling, Its not bad. Not bad. Hmm, good. Mo Junyang didnt consider letting Shi Qingxue stand and walk but carried her to the bathroom. Shi Qingxue hugged Mo Junyangs neck obediently. She was not as scared as she had been when she just woke up. And she was carried in his arms, looking around in curiosity. She murmured from time to time, and he couldnt hear what she was saying. Mo Junyang patiently followed her eyes and introduced one by one, This is the corridor. That is the beam-column. This is the flower pool. Those are lotuses Shi Qingxue repeated every word. She was so obedient and lovely. But after Mo Junyang carried Qingxue into the bathroom and saw Xia Mang reach out her hand after preparing everything, he was unwilling to give Qingxue to her. It was not good, even though Xia Mang was just a servant girl. He intentionally avoided Xia Mangs hand. Before she got mad, he said with sufficient reasons, You are powerless. I will carry her to the pool. Xia Mang was unable to reply. She was strong and could carry her lady. Moreover, Shi Qingxue could walk. You can say it if you are unwilling to let her go. Dont use her as an excuse! She thought. Huh! Mo Junyang ignored Xia Mangs eyes with killing intent and walked around her quickly. The bathroom in the Love Xue House looked ordinary, but in fact, when it was built, a stream was specially led in and a bath pool was made to store the spring water. It was warm in winter and cool in summer with sufficient water, but the mountain spring in summer was cool, and Mo Junyang was afraid that Shi Qingxue would catch a cold, so he told Xia Mang to put some hot water in the pool to make it warmer. Shi Qingxue was like a child who saw the water for the first time and was curious, but she grabbed Mo Junyangs sleeve tightly. She was afraid but looked forward to it. Dont be afraid. The water is not deep. Xia Mang will help you, and you wont suffocate in water. Mo Junyang put Shi Qingxue beside the pool to sit and didnt want to part with her, but no matter how unwilling he was, he couldnt take advantage of her when she was unaware. But after he loosened his hand, Shi Qingxue didnt let him get up. She hugged his neck with both hands and looked up at him. Mo Junyang still knelt and explained softly, You take a bath. I will wait for you outside. Be good. You take a bath. I will wait for you outside. Be good. She stressed each word, accurately and clearly. Mo Junyang was not in the mood to praise her improvement and just felt a headache. He pointed at himself, I will go out. Then he pointed at Shi Qingxue. You take a bath. Shi Qingxue felt confused for a while and then repeated what Mo Junyang did, pointing at herself. You take a bath. Fine, the person was wrong, but the act was right. When Mo Junyang was about to compliment her, Shi Qingxue pointed at him, saying, You take a bath. Then she pulled him closer to her with strength and clung to his neck, saying contentedly, You take a bath. You take a bath. Her language and act showed that she would take a bath with Mo Junyang. He was stunned, but Xia Mang was mad. It was no joking matter. He fed Shi Qingxue just now and had crossed the line of closeness. If they had a bath together, Mo Junyang would see her naked. The poor Xia Mang didnt know that he had seen her lady naked to the bone in the previous life. She would never allow something like this to happen. Xia Mang stepped forward and forcefully pulled Shi Qingxues hand away, regardless of the servants rules. She glared at Mo Junyang coldly. Your Excellency, please behave yourself. Mo Junyang glanced at Xia Mang and restrained the killing intent in his eyes as soon as it appeared, but before he controlled himself, Shi Qingxue didnt agree. Ah, ah! She shook off Xia Mangs hand and quickly hugged Mo Junyangs neck. She refused to sit beside the pool alone and insisted on entering his arms. When they clung to each other, she finally got quiet. The other two were astonished by her act. Mo Junyang didnt move but called cautiously, Qingxue? Shi Qingxue didnt repeat his word but held his neck closely, putting her face on his shoulder. She started to tremble and was apparently scared by Xia Mang who had forcefully separated them. Xia Mang regretted her reckless behavior which frightened her lady. Even though she thought the scene was offending to the eye, she didnt dare to act rashly anymore but said in a low voice, My Lady, are you okay? I will help you take a bath, okay? Shi Qingxue didnt move in the first place. After Mo Junyang comforted her patiently, she finally stopped trembling and popped out her head from his arms, peeping at Xia Mang. Take a bath. Xia Mang nodded repeatedly and pointed at Qingxue. Yes, you take a bath. Shi Qingxue thought for a while and also nodded, pointing at herself. You take a bath. Then she pointed at Mo Junyang. You take a bath. At last, she pointed at Xia Mang, seeming to recall something. After a pause, she said, I will go out. Xia Mang was unable to say a word. Although Shi Qingxue used wrong subjects, she clearly expressed one point from the beginning to the end. No matter what she would do, she would stay with Mo Junyang. But he is a man, and you are a woman. My Lady, you cant Xia Mang was so anxious that she almost shed tears. Looking at Shi Qingxue who wanted to be with Mo Junyang only, she didnt know what to do. Could she let Mo Junyang help Shi Qingxue take a bath? If the news spread, wouldnt Shi Qingxues fame be ruined? Mo Junyang frowned and looked hesitant, ordering Xia Mang, Dont force her if she doesnt want to. Of course, Xia Mang disagreed, No! Go to get a piece of gauze and cover my eyes. I stay with her, and you help her take a bath, okay? Mo Junyang suggested like an upright gentleman. Xia Mang still disagreed. Mo Junyang added, Perhaps you have another way. If you scare her again, I wont show mercy. Under the threat and warning, Xia Mang had to give in even though she was unwilling. Fortunately, Mo Junyang offered a good idea. As long as he sat beside the pool and grabbed Shi Qingxues hand, she obediently let Xia Mang wash her body. And Mo Junyang sat with his eyes covered as he said and remained unmoved till Shi Qingxue finished her bath and got changed. During the process, Shi Qingxue got accustomed to the water gradually and started to be naughty. She patted the water surface from time to time and then splashed water to Mo Junyang in secret. She got bold and suddenly threw water in her palm to Mo Junyang, fighting with water without being taught. Xia Mang washed Shi Qingxue carefully and didnt raise her head, so she naturally didnt notice that the gauze would be half-transparent when it was wet. It was the reason that he sat beside the pool with his back straightened and stayed unmoved. After Shi Qingxue was dressed, she couldnt wait to rush into Mo Junyangs arms, and he leaned to one side to avoid some key part. Then he hugged her and took off the gauze, asking seriously, Are you going back to have a rest? Shi Qingxue responded with a smile, Are you going back to have a rest? Will I carry you or you walk? Mo Junyang asked. Will I carry you Before Shi Qingxue finished, Mo Junyang carried her with one hand and thought that she chose the first. He took it for granted, which made Xia Mang goggle again. Wait! Xia Mang fearlessly stood in front of Mo Junyang again and said, The bedroom in the Love Xue House is yours, Your Excellency. It would be improper for Lady Qingxue to live. Please arrange a guest room. I will serve her to have a rest. Mo Junyang explained, The bedroom is the best room in the Love Xue House. I wont treat your lady badly. Of course you wont treat her badly, but you wont treat yourself badly! Xia Mang complained in her heart and then said seriously, Lady Qingxue is unmarried and it is not right for her to live in a mans bedroom. Your Excellency, please protect her fame. In fact, she wanted to say that it was not right for Shi Qingxue to live in King Ruis mansion and hed better send her back to the Shi Family as soon as possible, but she knew that Mo Junyang wouldnt let Qingxue go. She had to try her best to separate them and protect her ladys reputation. Facing the loyal servant Xia Mang, Mo Junyang couldnt say anything even though he was unhappy. He had to nod. Ill take her to a guest room. Chapter 152 - Against His Principles The Love Xue House was built according to the shape of the Cold Palace Shi Qingxue had stayed for three years in the previous life. Especially from the appearance, it looked shabby and crude. And the guest room was next to the bedroom. Compared with Mo Junyangs bedroom, the guest room was small and simple, without fancy furniture, but the materials of everything were top-grade. Shi Qingxue lived here and wouldnt be shabbily treated. Shi Qingxue was put on an unfamiliar bed. She looked around and then turned to Mo Junyang in doubt. She opened her mouth and couldnt speak anything but Ah, ah. You will live here. Mo Junyang pointed at Shi Qingxue and then pointed at this room. Shi Qingxue repeated what he did. You will live here. Mo Junyang was helpless and looked at Xia Mang, seeming to ask, Its what your lady asked. What can I do? Xia Mang said, Your Excellency, how about you go out first? Leave everything to me. Mo Junyang responded immediately, She will cry. He looked helpless and depressed. But Xia Mang didnt give up but said a lot patiently to advise her. Shi Qingxue didnt listen but grabbed Mo Junyangs hand, looking up at him with her face held in hands. She looked like she had nobody but him in her eyes and heart, which made Mo Junyangs heart melt. He didnt pretend to be upright anymore and interrupted Xia Mang coldly. Well. I promised I wouldnt take advantage of her difficulties, so I wont do anything. You are a maid. Dont need to say more. Go out now. Dont enter the room without permission. Before Xia Mang replied, Shi Qingxue repeated coldly, Go out now. Dont enter the room without permission. If Mo Junyang didnt say the same words, her voice and tone were the same as usual when she ordered, and Xia Mang almost thought Qingxue had recovered. Xia Mang was desperate and looked at Shi Qingxue, with tears in her eyes. Shi Qingxue didnt pay attention to her. Then Xia Mang turned to Mo Junyang. She thought that Mo Junyang didnt even move a bit when Shi Qingxue took a bath, so obviously he didnt intend to peep at her. He must be an upright gentleman and could be trusted. Then she knelt down and kowtowed. Your Excellency, please take good care of Lady Qingxue. I will wait outside. Mo Junyang waved his hand impatiently. After Xia Mang left, only he and Qingxue were in the guest room. His tense and serious face relaxed, and he felt lucky and murmured, Fortunately. He hugged Shi Qingxue tightly and pulled her in his arms. He admitted that he enjoyed the feeling of closeness. It seemed that only in this way could he confirm that Shi Qingxue belonged to him and nobody could snatch her. Fortunately. Shi Qingxue also held Mo Junyangs neck and her head rubbed his shoulder, like a kitten. Mo Junyang accepted Shi Qingxues closeness to him, and his cold eyes became soft gradually. His dark desire was not so strong as before because she got close to him. Even though Xia Mang was not here, he wasnt anxious to do anything to Shi Qingxue. It seemed that it was enough as long as he stayed with Qingxue quietly. Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue stayed secluded in the Love Xue House for a few days. They did everything together, eating, sleeping, playing, teaching and learning. Shi Qingxue still couldnt understand anything and just repeated what Mo Junyang said. She clung to him and couldnt part with him for a while. And she would hold onto him even when sleeping. Mo Junyang didnt feel impatient at all and seemed to enjoy staying with Shi Qingxue every day. Every time he put on shoes for her or covered her with the quilt, he showed a satisfied expression on his face. Their love made everybody jealous. As soon as Qu Yuebai entered the guest room, he saw that Mo Junyang was beside Shi Qingxue and looking at her sleeping face in a daze, with one hand hidden under the quilt and the other patting on it. The expression on Qu Yuebais face was hard to explain in just a few words. He thought Mo Junyang experienced raising a child in advance. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt give him much time to be emotional but turned to glance at him coldly. Whats up? Boss, you havent been out for several days. Dont look impatient when seeing me, okay? Qu Yuebai was speechless. These days, in order to give their master some time to get accustomed to the change, they dealt with everything outside the Love Xue House. But they were not Mo Junyang and couldnt make every decision for him. Qu Yuebai thought he was nice enough to come to see Mo Junyang till this time, but the latter dared to ask why he was here, which was too much. Mo Junyang didnt think it was wrong to leave everything behind and repeated nonchalantly, Whats up? Qu Yuebai sighed and didnt expect Mo Junyang to say something to thank him. He just stated directly, You havent been to the imperial court for more than half a month. The crown prince is nervous, and even His Majesty has sent people several times to ask. Just now, His Highness told his trusted follower to send a message and ask you to enter the imperial palace right away. He has something important to discuss with you. Mo Junyangs eyes darkened, and he stayed quiet for a second before responding, I see. Then he was still unmoved. Qu Yuebai had to repeat, His Highness said you need to enter the imperial palace right away! But Mo Junyang lifted a corner of the quilt and two hands together under it were shown. He said helplessly, I cant leave. Qu Yuebai was rendered speechless and thought, Ha, if you conceal the sweet and showy smile on your face, I might believe your words. Your Excellency! Qu Yuebai looked serious and said, Have you forgotten your duty? Mo Junyang went silent and was hesitating evidently. Now Lady Qingxue is stable. Even if you go out, she will be fine when Xia Mang and we look after her in the Love Xue House. He told the truth. Although Shi Qingxue still didnt want to part with Mo Junyang, these days, she had rested and recovered a little. She wouldnt refuse others to look after her, especially Xia Mang. Mo Junyang had to nod. You guard here. Dont let outsiders disturb her when she is sleeping. Of course. I will take good care of her and promise to give an unharmed Shi Qingxue back to you. Qu Yuebai agreed and promised. He didnt want to explain the evident fact that Mo Junyang just needed to go out for a while, perhaps less than four hours, and Shi Qingxue wouldnt have anything wrong. However, when Mo Junyang just withdrew his hand, Shi Qingxue suddenly opened her eyes and sat up. Her big eyes were confused. With one hand rubbing her eyes, and the other grabbing Mo Junyangs hand by instinct, she didnt let him go. Mo Junyang stopped again and turned to Qu Yuebai, seeming to say, Look. I have said that I cant leave. Looking at Mo Junyang who wanted to slack off in his job, Qu Yuebai rubbed his forehead and said feebly, Boss, you cant delay this matter. I beg you, okay? Mo Junyang was so capable as to force Qu Yuebai to beg him. In order to prevent his subordinate from going ballistic, Mo Junyang had to turn around and caress Shi Qingxues head, comforting her. Its early. Get more sleep. I am going out for just a while, okay? He seemed to soothe a child and just wanted to make Shi Qingxue sleepy with the gentle and pleasant voice. He had to let his baby fall asleep first. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue replied all of a sudden, No. Mo Junyang and Qu Yuebai couldnt say anything. Although Shi Qingxue could speak fluently these days, she just repeated Mo Junyangs words and had never expressed her feelings. But she said No. Did it mean that she could understand what he said? Mo Junyang pursed his lips and asked tentatively, Then I will stay with you, okay? Boss! Qu Yuebai goggled and seemed to complain how could Mo Junyang break his words? Mo Junyang expressed calmly that if he didnt offer the contrary, how could he tell if Shi Qingxue could understand what he meant? Then Shi Qingxue smiled with satisfaction and said clearly, Okay. You stay with me. She could even use the right subject and object and must have understood Mo Junyang before expressing her feelings successfully. Facing the expectancy flashing in Shi Qingxues eyes and the desire in her voice, Mo Junyang nodded shamelessly and agreed with love. Okay, Ill stay with you. MoJunyang! Qu Yuebai gritted his teeth and called Mo Junyangs name, regardless of the rules. He just goggled and clearly expressed that if Mo Junyang wouldnt go, he would tie him up and take him to the East Palace. Shi Qingxue seemed to feel something and peeped at the two men. She quickly got out of the quilt and sat on the bed, straightening her back. Then she reached out both arms to Mo Junyang, asking for a hug. She called sweetly, Junyang! Mo Junyang surrendered shamelessly again and said boldly with sufficient reasons, I have told him before. I have done everything I can do for him. And he needs to depend on himself in the future. It would be useless if he summons me to the East Palace. How about you do it for me Qu Yuebai ignored Mo Junyang who tried to leave everything behind again and responded seriously, I hear that the Zhao Country, Liang Country and Wei Country plan to send envoys to visit our country in the near future. He just hoped that his master should remember the state affairs even if he lost his mind when falling in love. Mo Junyang heard that and stopped joking. He pondered for a minute and then nodded, ordering, I will enter the imperial palace later. Go to bring Xia Mang here. Qu Yuebai finally heaved a sigh of relief and thought that Mo Junyang deserved to be the master he had chosen and could be sensible when it came to major issues of principle. After Xia Mang came, Mo Junyang explained a lot to Shi Qingxue that he had to leave for a while, but Shi Qingxue refused to let him go. Instead, she blinked her big eyes and smiled at him. I will be with you. Lets go to the imperial palace together. No matter how the others advised her, Shi Qingxue firmly and clearly expressed that she wanted to be with Mo Junyang, and it couldnt change. Qu Yuebai was anxious and suggested that they ask Shen Luo to give Shi Qingxue some medicine and make her fall asleep, but before he finished his words, Mo Junyang glared at him. Mr. Qu said sadly, What should we do? It is a period of trouble, and Shi Qingxue hasnt recovered now. If you take her out of the mansion, believe it or not, in less than two hours, the news will spread all over the capital city that King Rui and Duke Shi are related by marriage. Mo Junyang was stunned and then his eyes lit up like stars. Why not? Chapter 153 - Kiss and Hug Mo Junyang pondered for a while and believed Qu Yuebai had offered a practical suggestion. Earlier he had thought in a wrong way that the injured and weak Shi Qingxue should be under his protection and he should look after her, forbidding anybody to covet or hurt her. But Shi Qingxue was so intimate to him and unwilling to part with him. How could he give up such a perfect chance to declare his ownership? Go to prepare the carriage. We will enter the palace. Mo Junyang decisively carried Shi Qingxue and walked out. Qu Yuebai was depressed. He didnt want to ask who we were as Mo Junyang mentioned. The three sat in the carriage heading to the imperial palace. Qu Yuebai looked at the two hugging each other and thought he was a pest. He had to bring up the same question. Junyang, I think youd better figure out if you will take her into the palace. She is as pure as a child and has no ability to protect herself. Now you expose her outside. Are you sure you can keep her safe? Everybody had known that Lady Qingxue was the weakness of King Ruis heir. Mo Junyang snorted and held his jaw high, looking arrogant. His confidence deep in the bone was shown. Huh! My Qingxue is so excellent and dazzling. Why would she hide to avoid seeing anybody because others covet her? And I want to see who dares to harm her after the Zhao Family and the Qin Familys tragedy. The Zhao Family was destroyed partly because of some political interests, but the Qin Family was extinct just because they had to pay the price for hurting Shi Qingxue. Even though Shi Qingxue had woken up later, Mo Junyang still left all the members of the Qin Family to Qu Yuexuan. There was no need to mention the bloody process, but Qin Yanyan, the chief criminal of everything, was the last one to die. She had witnessed her family being tortured to death in front of her. After she was scared to fall into a coma, she would be awakened. When she was going crazy, she would be cured The butcher Qu Yuexuan expressed that he felt happy. All people who had connections with Mo Junyang thought quietly if they had offended him and then had the same conclusion, His Excellency is moderate to political opponents, but as long as you hurt Shi Qingxue, he would make you live a life that is worse than being dead. Under the precondition, even if somebody wanted to use Shi Qingxue to cope with Mo Junyang, they had to consider carefully. Unless they could kill Mo Junyang at one blow, nobody was willing to have a try and see the result after this devil went mad. Qu Yuebai thought for a while and silently accepted Mo Junyangs arrogance. Then he looked at Mo Junyangs gentle and handsome face when he comforted Shi Qingxue patiently, complaining in his heart, Ha, why do I feel that everything is what you want? Shi Qingxue had never been to the imperial palace. After getting out of the carriage, she followed Mo Junyang like a little woman and occasionally popped out her head from his waist to look around. She shrank back soon after she met the strangers eyes and called in low spirits, Junyang. Mo Junyang felt contented as he was the only one that Shi Qingxue could call his name correctly. He didnt care that his warm smile would scare the eunuch who led the way and pulled her hand, comforting gently. Dont be afraid. I am with you. Tell me if somebody bullies you. I will help you deal with them, okay? Qu Yuebai who was always bullied was speechless. All servants who could do nothing but serve people were silent. Your Excellency, I know you choose to be blind sometimes, but you need to be reasonable. When did I bully Lady Qingxue? They thought. In an instant, Shi Qingxue seemed to find her backup and held her head high, as proud as a peacock, walking forward briskly. Mo Junyang didnt stop her and just stretched out his hand in time to pull her when his peacock went in a wrong direction. So when Mo Junyu sat in a pavilion of the East Palace and prepared some tea and snack, waiting for Mo Junyang to discuss business, he saw the scene. King Ruis heir held Lady Qingxues hand and walked into the East Palace leisurely, with love and concern on his face, as if he held a priceless porcelain doll and walked outside cautiously, afraid that he would damage it. The crown prince was depressed for no reason. Mo Junyang, what are you doing? Mo Junyu stared at their hands together and asked with his teeth gritted. Mo Junyang looked as usual and seemed not to understand the crown princes question but asked, Your Highness, didnt you want to see me? Mo Junyu forced a smile. Can I ask why you brought Shi Qingxue here? She cant leave me. She Mo Junyu planned to mock at him but soon thought of something. He fixed his eyes on Shi Qingxue who leaned against Mo Junyang obediently and looked around without giving him a glance. He was surprised. Sheshe The crown prince was so shocked that he stuttered. Mo Junyang nodded and was about to explain when he heard Mo Junyu scream in horror, Mo Junyang, you made her lose her memory? Mo Junyangs face darkened. What nonsense are you talking about? Though in a sense, Mo Junyu told the truth. Mo Junyu stared at Mo Junyang in disbelief. If it werent for you, why would she become like this? The crown prince tentatively called Shi Qingxue twice, but she looked at him indifferently with an expressionless face. It was not what the normal Shi Qingxue would do. Its not me! Mo Junyang simply told him that Shi Qingxue had been poisoned and there was something wrong with Shen Luos antidote. Although they had different opinions, Mo Junyang wouldnt lie to Mo Junyu but would tell him what he wanted to know. Mo Junyu was astonished and relieved to hear that. He was astonished at Shi Qingxues great change and was relieved because Mo Junyang told him frankly. The crown prince thought he trusted King Ruis heir and should be trusted by him as well. After a while, he asked seriously, What do you plan to do? While asking, he looked at Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyang shrugged and declared his ownership once more. She is mine. I would never give her back to the Shi Family. Mo Junyu looked as if he understood and just asked the key question. The Shi Family wouldnt give up. These days, Duke Shi came into the imperial palace and asked to see my father almost every day. You know why. I promised to my father that you will cure Lady Qingxue, but now He looked at Mo Junyang disapprovingly. You shouldnt have taken her out. If Shi Qingxue was still in a coma, the Shi Family didnt have reason to ask for her. If she recovered, she could choose where she would go. But Shi Qingxue became like this. If somebody with evil intentions spread the rumor, the Shi Family could accuse Mo Junyang of making her stupid instead of having her cured. Wouldnt he give the Shi Family a chance to sue him? You should! Before Mo Junyang spoke, Shi Qingxue cut in all of a sudden. She looked serious and wasnt as na?ve and stupid as before. Mo Junyu almost thought Shi Qingxue had recovered. Mo Junyangs eyes lit up and he asked softly, What did you say? Shi Qingxue straightened her back and answered solemnly, You should take me out. Is Is she normal now? Mo Junyu asked in surprise. Shi Qingxue ignored Mo Junyu but smiled at Mo Junyang, reaching out her hands again. She played the woman in a sweet voice. Give me a hug. Mo Junyangs heart almost melted and he was anxious to pull her into his arms and do everything, but He glanced at the petrified Mo Junyu and was unwilling to let him see his baby looking so lovely. He restrained his impulsion and grabbed Shi Qingxues hands to put them on his knee, saying seriously, I will hug you after going back home. Now sit well. Shi Qingxue pouted with displeasure, but Mo Junyangs tone was serious, so she didnt mess around. She just lowered her head and rubbed his palm with her finger in his grip. He had no reaction, so she gently rubbed him again. Mo Junyus eyes fell on the joined hands of the two. Mo Junyang just pointed his index finger at the back of Shi Qingxues hand to warn her. Then he asked earnestly, Well, lets talk business. Why did you ask me to come? Do you know that the other countries will come to visit our country? Mo Junyang shook his head. Whats wrong? Mo Junyu had guessed that. Mo Junyang seldom went out these days. If Mo Junyu didnt insist on ordering him to come today, he might not know even if Mo Junjiu or Mo Junhao rebelled someday. Mo Junyu said helplessly after a sigh, It might not be that simple. The three countries will come to visit at the same time and revealed the news before they come, as if to compete. Why? Mo Junyang asked casually. When Qu Yuebai told him this matter, he had guessed that the purpose of their visit wouldnt be simple. Mo Junyu admitted soon, Of course they can get profits. What? Mo Junyu thought for a while and decided to tell this story from the beginning. You must have heard the story that the colorful phenix stayed on the eave. A thousand years ago, when the first Holy Monarch Zhou Youqiong was young, a colorful phenix stayed on the eave of his house for several days, and it was an omen of fortune. Later, a huge disaster fell on the Qin Continent, and Zhou Youqiong led his troop to deal with the critical situation and saved the whole continent, so he was elected by all countries as the ruler of the continent, the Holy Monarch. The emperors of the countries worshiped him and followed his orders. The colorful phenix became the most honored totem and mascot of the Qin Continent. The Holy Monarch held the highest position in the Qin Continent all the time and ruled the whole continent. In the beginning, even the emperor of each country needed the Holy Monarchs permission to take the throne and register. The emperors would go to or send somebody to the Holy Palace to visit the Holy Monarch at intervals and show their respect and loyalty. It was recorded in the history book of every country. Mo Junyang knew that, but he didnt have an interest in it. Theoretically, in fifty years, the situation that the Holy Monarch was respected and the four countries lived in peace had changed. Mo Junyang showed a cold smile. Now the Holy Monarch is a puppet and controlled by the Liang Country. And even the Holy Palace is occupied. Why do you need to talk about it? Right. Now, after one thousand years, time brought great changes to the world. The Holy Monarch was not as honorable as before, except that the bloodline was passed down by Zhou Youqiong. The current Holy Monarch was controlled by the King of the Liang Country, Yel Beichen. If the Holy Monarch didnt have a good reputation and it were not too difficult to overturn the throne, he had died long ago. It was right, but the Holy Monarch has a title after all. Otherwise, Yel Beichen wouldnt have threatened the monarch to order the emperors as soon as he ascended the throne. Mo Junyang expressed nonchalantly, It is just a title. Only Yel Beichen who is short-sighted would use an outdated mascot to show his position and prolong the fight for nothing If he is ambitious, he would replace the Holy Monarch. Even if he would cause turbulence in the Qin Continent, it couldnt be compared with the effect of the fact. If the short-sighted Yel Beichen heard that, he would say, Its my fault not to cause turbulence in the world. Chapter 154 - The Mascot Mo Junyu looked at Mo Junyang speechlessly. Could he be like a true man as he aggressively expected the world to be in turbulence? He took a deep breath and decided to ignore what Mo Junyang said, telling him his purpose. I just want to tell you that now, after one thousand years, there are rumors about a colorful phenix showing up. Do you know what it means? What does it mean? Mo Junyang smiled playfully. Does it mean that the mascot can finally be changed? The mascot Holy Monarch Zhou might be speechless. Mo Junyu goggled and showed his strong resentment. I am not joking with you. The colorful phenix shows up in the world and everyone will fight for it. The Qin Continent might be chaotic again. Mo Junyang shrugged and asked about the key point. So where is the honored colorful phenix as you mentioned? Not long ago, somebody hunted a colorful phenix in the eastern wasteland. The one who got it secretly told my father that he was willing to give it to him. But in less than half a month, the news spread, and the three countries revealed that they would come to visit and celebrate my fathers birthday, their purpose is obvious. Mo Junyu frowned and was worried about the mascot that he hadnt seen, that honorable phenix. Our country has only two generations till now and doesnt have a solid foundation or the ability to rule the Qin Continent. This phenix will absolutely cause our country huge trouble. Its a disaster, not fortune, so I advised my father not to accept the gift from the eastern wasteland, and its best to send this phenix to the Holy Palace. Mo Junyang raised his brows and looked at Mo Junyu, with admiration in his eyes. He thought that he didnt choose a wrong person. Under the great temptation, Mo Junyu could think calmly and choose the safest way to protect himself. Although he was coward, it was an essential quality to be a wise emperor. What did His Majesty say? Mo Junyus eyes were cold and his voice was bitter. When my father heard the two words, colorful phenix, he lost his mind. How could he listen to my advice? Maybe he is dreaming about controlling the Qin Continent. Mo Junyang was not surprised at Mo Xiangbins reaction. He pondered for a minute and then asked, Has the so-called colorful phenix been sent to the capital city? Mo Junyu shook his head and answered tiredly, My father also knows that if he has the colorful phenix now, the three countries would attack us at the same time, so he didnt urgently let the people from the eastern wasteland send it to the capital city. Probably he wants to tell somebody to bring the phenix secretly after seeing the envoys from the three countries off when his birthday party is over. While speaking, he gazed at Mo Junyang seriously. Junyang, I need you to help me deal with the envoys from the three countries and prevent them from making trouble in the capital city. Can you? Deal with them? Mo Junyang laughed and then asked lazily, Do you want me to kill all the envoys on the way? Mo Junyu put on a long face and goggled, responding crossly. Of course not! I am not kidding. Be serious! When he spoke the last two words, he raised his voice, trying to catch Mo Junyangs attention, but he scared Shi Qingxue a lot. Shi Qingxue trembled and moved closer to Mo Junyang. She stared at Mo Junyu with a weird expression, as if looking at a madman. Dont be afraid. I am here. Mo Junyangs voice was soft, and he patted the back of Shi Qingxues hand to comfort her. At the same time, he glanced at Mo Junyu coldly, warning him obviously. Then he refused indifferently. I am not free. Please ask somebody else. The crown prince was depressed and expressed helplessly, I didnt want you to look after them. My father has told me, Junjiu and Junhao to entertain the envoys. I am just worried that they would do something intentionally when they are in the capital city. I need you to give me a hand. In this aspect, Mo Junyu admitted that he was not as sharp-witted as Mo Junyang, so he asked for help sincerely. Mo Junyang didnt refuse him immediately and kept silent, lost in thought for a long time. Then Shi Qingxue yawned, with tired tears in the corners of her eyes. He reached out to wipe her tears and smiled. I will arrange it. He thought for a while and then added, I will tell Wei Zichao to enter the palace. You bring him with you these days. Mo Junyu opened his mouth in shock. Wei Zichao could defeat the No. 1 warrior and had excellent martial skills. Mo Junyang did that because he was worried about Mo Junyus safety and let Wei Zichao protect him. While thinking, Mo Junyu had complex feelings. He was happy and a sense of shame beyond expression came into his mind again, so he didnt even dare to meet Mo Junyangs eyes. He had to say, Thanks. Mo Junyang seemed not to notice Mo Junyus unusual expression and nodded, standing up. I am off now. Afterward, he took Shi Qingxue out of the East Palace. Mo Junyu looked at them in the distance. He saw that Mo Junyang held Shi Qingxues hand all the way, like treating a delicate porcelain doll, gently and carefully. His eyes fell on Shi Qingxue all the time, and it appeared that he was afraid that he would make her suffer injustice if he was careless. He treated her so devoutly and considerately. Mo You stepped forward and stated all of a sudden, His Excellency dotes on Lady Qingxue so much. No matter how much the others love her, they are not enough in comparison with him. Not everybody could be as powerful as Mo Junyang and could protect their loved ones exhaustively. Shi Qingxue is so lucky! Mo Junyu said casually, with envy and loneliness in his tone. Of course it was not that the crown prince had some improper feelings for Mo Junyang, but anybody hoped that the one they trusted could give them wholehearted concern and loyalty. The envy had nothing to do with love. However, Mo You frowned. But in this way, all people know that His Excellency loves Lady Qingxue. Wouldnt she be a target? Mo Junyu sneered and patted Mo Yous shoulder, asking, Who do you think dares to offend Shi Qingxue at the cost of life after Zhao Ming and Qin Shirongs cases? Unless they were desperate, nobody would want to provoke Mo Junyang with Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyang was so powerful. You are right Mo You still thought there was something wrong, but when he started to speak, he suddenly found that it was great that Mo Junyang had a weakness, Shi Qingxue. Anybody with a weakness could be controlled more easily. As long as they won over Shi Qingxue, although she was a fool knowing nothing, would they need to worry that they couldnt control Mo Junyang? Your Highness, shall we tell our people in the Shi Family Before Mo You finished his words, Mo Junyu interrupted him coldly. No need. Junyang and I dont need to pretend in front of each other. Mo You didnt know why Mo Junyu changed his mind all of a sudden and frowned, advising him, Your Highness, His Excellency is hard to control with his wild nature. I am afraid You dont understand! Junyang Mo Junyu couldnt find a good reason to convince Mo You and wrinkled his brows tightly. At last, he just made a conclusion forcefully. Anyway, tell the three spies in the Shi Family to retreat. Handle them thoroughly and dont let others find it. Do you understand? Mo You was clear about the meaning of handling them thoroughly. He felt sad for his trusted followers he had trained with effort. But seeing that Mo Junyu was determined, he had to agree. I will do it at once. On the other side, Mo Junyang took Shi Qingxue out of the imperial palace unhurriedly. As soon as they got in the carriage, a note came in from the window. Qu Yuebai read it first and frowned. Noticing that Mo Junyang looked at him, Qu Yuebai instantly gave the note to him. Junyang, read it. Mo Junyang scanned it randomly and then held it in his hand. The note turned into ashes soon. Wow! Before Qu Yuebai said something, Shi Qingxue shouted in surprise and stared at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang smiled with love and kissed Qingxues brows, coaxing her. There is no paper here. After we go home, I will perform for you, okay? Shi Qingxue touched her warm forehead and was distracted, so she didnt insist asking Mo Junyang to do magic tricks. She lazily rested her head on Mo Junyangs knees. Perhaps she was still weak after getting conscious, so she fell asleep soon. Junyang, its not that simple. Are you going to let it go and do nothing? Qu Yuebai tried his best not to jump off the carriage and reminded in a low voice. Mo Junyang smiled. Didnt he tell them to retreat? Whats more, Qingxue is not in Duke Shis mansion now. Even if they arrange somebody in the Shi Family, they cant do anything. Why are you so nervous? Qu Yuebai was not as generous as Mo Junyang. Lets forget what happened in the past. This time, the Shi Family came to our mansion to make trouble, and it might have something to do with him. If you continue to indulge him, arent you afraid that he will stab you in the back someday? Compared with the interest, the good relationship was fragile. Especially that man hoped to get more but was willing to give less. The superior was used to the subordinates loyalty and support, and gradually he would forget that loyalty and others effort didnt belong to him deservedly. Dont worry! Since Qu Yuebai still wanted to advise, Mo Junyang laughed. Yuebai, do you think I will be unmoved after being bullied? Qu Yuebai was stunned. Mo Junyang looked serious and coldness flashed in his eyes. He continued nonchalantly, He behaves just like a clown. Ignore him. You Qu Yuebai frowned and asked tentatively, Were you prepared? Of course. I wont teach a disciple but starve myself. Mo Junyang smiled slyly and confidently. Knowing that Mo Junyang wouldnt allow anybody to harm him, Qu Yuebai felt relieved and didnt ask about his arrangement. He absolutely trusted his master that he had chosen. Then he changed the subject. When you were in the East Palace, a servant from the mansion reported that Duke Shi came to ask for Shi Qingxue. I told somebody to let him go back. The news spread so soon! Mo Junyang looked gloomy, and nobody could read his mind. Qu Yuebai didnt plan to ponder on it and just nodded. Maybe as soon as you took Shi Qingxue out of the mansion, the message was sent to Duke Shis mansion. But it is surprising that Duke Shi came alone this time, and the messenger said he was nice. Even though you didnt see him, he didnt lose his temper. After being refused, he just left in low spirits and didnt pester them He was different from the majestic general in command of the Shi Army they had seen last time, and he left directly after being rejected, without insisting even for a while. It was hard to believe that he was determined to take his daughter back home. Mo Junyang lowered his head and thought for a minute. His tone softened and he explained casually, He knew that I wouldnt give Qingxue back to him. Why would he insist? Then why did he come? To show his existence? Ha! Mo Junyang laughed and couldnt help but caress Qingxues fair-skinned cheek, replying slowly, Qingxue has a good father. Chapter 155 - The Shi Family’s Fame and the Token Granted by the Emperor In no more than two days, the news that Shi Qingxue had woken up spread all over the capital city. Then it was said that Duke Shi came to King Ruis mansion to take his daughter back home but he was rejected. At last, somebody solemnly revealed that he had seen that the smart and talented girl Shi Qingxue had become a fool who couldnt recognize anybody or even speak. For a time, it was spread everywhere in the capital city. With Mo Junyangs shocking act that he went ballistic because of the beauty, when it was rumored that Shi Qingxue became a fool, many people secretly laughed at Mo Junyang and thought that he did everything in vain and lost more than gain. Somebody with evil intentions guessed that it was a rumor that Duke Shi came to pick up his daughter and was rejected. The fact was that the Shi Family had abandoned Shi Qingxue who was good for nothing. However, before the rumors to the disadvantage of Shi Qingxue caused a temporary clamor, they disappeared soon. In less than one day, nobody dared to say that Shi Qingxue was a fool. Everything spreading was about her good moral quality. Somebody spread the story that Shi Qingxue went to the Qingluo Mountain alone to help her father kill the bandits and saved his life, and soon the Shi Army confirmed it. The common people spoke highly of the Shi Army. After knowing that Shi Qingxue was Elder Duke Shis most favored granddaughter and General Shis youngest daughter, they praised her highly and nobody spoke ill of her anymore.Read more chapters at Lisnovel.com Later, the servants from King Ruis mansion disclosed that King Ruis heir doted on Shi Qingxue and would give her anything she wanted. He even swore that he would love her only all his life and he wanted to marry nobody but her. The woman was talented, beautiful and patriotic, and the man was powerful and deeply in love with her. They were a perfect match. All the talented men and beautiful women in the capital city took the couple as their idols or the model of their future husband or wife. Nobody dared to say anything unpleasant about them because the public would criticize. What? They lived together before getting married? The wind was strong. Nobody could hear that. In Duke Shis mansion, Zhou Ruyu witnessed that the public was partial to Shi Qingxue again, and her elder daughter was cursed after dying. And even her younger daughter was implicated and suffered a lot. She couldnt bear it and hurriedly ran to Mo Shujun to exaggerate embellishment to the rumors. Of course she expressed that Shi Qingxue was an unmarried woman but lived in a mans mansion with no sense of shame, and the news even spread all over the city. It ruined the fame of the Shi Family and embarrassed the other ladies in the family in the noble circle. Mother! Shi Qingxue is shameless and lives with a man without telling her parents, but Baoyou is dignified and virtuous, with a beautiful face and outstanding moral quality. She can even be the empress While speaking, Zhou Ruyu got excited and praised Shi Baoyou, forgetting everything. Mo Shujun glanced at her coldly. How dare you? What are you talking about? Dont you think our familys reputation is bad enough? And do you want the outsiders to think that our family is conceited and covets the position of the empress? Zhou Ruyu finally realized that she said something wrong and admitted her mistake. No, I didnt mean that. I just think Baoyou doesnt deserve to be cursed and I am worried about our familys reputation. Mother, please figure out a way. Otherwise, when our familys fame is ruined by Shi Qingxue, it would be too late!Read more chapters at L isnovel.com Nobody knew if Zhou Ruyu had persuaded Mo Shujun, whose face was serious. After a long while, Mo Shujun stated leisurely, Junhe has gone to pick up Qingxue. Why are you anxious? Zhou Ruyu heard that and turned pale with fear, thinking that if Shi Junhe took Shi Qingxue back home, wouldnt her plan be in vain? She didnt care if she looked too anxious and expressed directly, Shi Qingxue has stayed in King Ruis mansion for so long. It can be said that nobody would believe that she is still a virgin. Now he has gone to take her back home. Wouldnt it give the outsiders more reasons to curse our family? Mother, dont let Shi Qingxue come back. Ridiculous. Shi Qingxue is a member of our family. Where can she go if she doesnt come back here? Mo Shujun pounded the armrest and stared at Zhou Ruyu coldly, asking. Zhou Ruyu trembled with fear but then thought she was reasonable. She straightened her back and responded, Are you going to let her ruin our familys fame? Mo Shujun just looked at her silently, which made Zhou Ruyu shrink back repeatedly. At last, Zhou Ruyu pondered for a while before speaking in a low voice. Even if we wont stop Shi Qingxue, we should take back the token granted by the Emperor, right? She is not in our mansion now. Do you want her to give the token to somebody else? The token granted by the Emperor was a life-saving token for a large family. Even though Zhou Ruyu didnt qualify to keep it after it was taken back, she coveted it. If it were given to Shi Juncai, the outsiders would look up to the third masters family even when they had it and did nothing. The token granted by the Emperor Mo Shujun pondered for a minute and looked hesitant. Zhou Ruyu knew that she had a chance to win and continued to advise. I understand you are unwilling to abandon any member of our family, but you cant indulge them when they live on you while helping others secretly! And now Qingxue She pointed at her head and intentionally lowered her voice. There is something wrong with her. I hear that she doesnt know anybody but only listens to His Excellency. What if he covets our token? After he coaxes her, wouldnt our treasure go to him? She expressed with certainty and her worry was not groundless, which exposed what Mo Shujun cared most about. With her face turning cold, Mo Shujun sprang from her seat and roared. How can our familys treasure be given to somebody else? Ruyu, go to the Luotong Boudoir with me. We cant let her be cheated out of the token granted by the Emperor. Yes! Zhou Ruyu replied in a hurry. The news that Princess Royal and Third Madam led a group of servants to the Luotong Boudoir spread soon in the East House. When Dong Hui and Shi Baoning arrived, Mo Shujun had told some people to search everywhere in the Luotong Boudoir. Dong Huis face darkened, and she asked with displeasure, Mother, what are you doing? The Luotong Boudoir is Qingxues residence. Even though she hasnt come back, you cant ruin her boudoir, right? Mo Shujun looked at Dong Hui arrogantly and responded in a cold voice, How can you comment when I do something? Anyway, I want to get back the token granted by the Emperor, and its natural to check everywhere in the Luotong Boudoir. The token granted by the Emperor? As Shi Junhes wife, even if she had never seen that stuff, she knew that it was priceless. So she asked, Its what Father gave to Qingxue when he was alive. Mother, why are you looking for it at this time? What do I want or think about? Do I need to report to you in advance? Mo Shujun leered at Dong Hui and declared loftily, Dong, its me who gave you the position of the mistress in our family. If I want, I can take it back at any time. Youd better think it over. She obviously warned Dong Hui not to mind her business. Dong Hui felt humiliated, but Mo Shujuns status was above hers. If she spoke more, Mo Shujun would accuse her of disrespecting the elder and make her unable to turn the table. She was clear that this time, they couldnt save the token granted by the Emperor, so she stopped Shi Baoning who wanted to defend her and let the servants from the Shouan Hall and South House search the Luotong Boudoir. The servants in the Luotong Boudoir knelt on the floor and cried to beg for mercy, but they could only watch the precious paintings and rare stuff that Shi Qingxue loved very much being damaged by the searchers. However, after they checked every corner of the Luotong Boudoir, they didnt find the token granted by the Emperor, as if it disappeared in the void. Zhou Ruyu saw Mo Shujun frown and offered another suggestion. Its said that the servants in the Luotong Boudoir are most loyal to their master. Maybe it is hidden in one of them. How about letting me send people to seek again? Mo Shujun watched coldly and nodded. Zhou Ruyu immediately told her people to press the servants in the Luotong Boudoir on the ground in the courtyard and take off their clothes in public, no matter if they were men or women. As she explained, only in this way could they prevent something omitted. But anybody could see that Zhou Ruyu just wanted to insult the people in the Luotong Boudoir to provoke Shi Qingxue. The cries in the Luotong Boudoir were deafening. Shi Baoning couldnt bear to see that and stepped forward to ask. Aunt, you came to the Luotong Boudoir all of a sudden, and everybody was caught off guard. How could they hide the token granted by the Emperor? Whats more, the token is not a small thing to be put in the pocket. You can find it after taking off their coats. Why do you bother to embarrass them more? The servants are people. It the news spreads, the outsiders would think our family doesnt treat the servants as human beings. Can you take the blame? Then she bowed to Mo Shujun and begged in a lower voice. Grandma, you are kind-hearted. Please leave the servants in the Luotong Boudoir alive. Mo Shujun glanced over the servants on the ground coldly and then looked at Shi Baoning. After a long while, she agreed. Thats all for today. Mother! It was rare for Zhou Ruyu to come here and she was unwilling to give up unless she got what she wanted. She suddenly stated, One servant is not here. I remember that Shi Qingxue has a Rank-1 maid called Dong Shuang. She is absent now, and it must be her who hides the token granted by the Emperor. Otherwise, could such a big thing fly away? Speak of the devil. As soon as Zhou Ruyu finished her words, her people caught Dong Shuang at the door who tried to sneak into the crowd. Mo Shujun told somebody to bring Dong Shuang and then asked in a deep voice, Where is the token granted by the Emperor? I dont know what the token granted by the Emperor is or where it is. Princess Royal, please show mercy and pardon me, Dong Shuang stuttered. She looked guilty like a thief and almost admitted that she had taken it. Zhou Ruyu smiled slyly and pointed at Dong Shuang. Mother, it must be hidden by this maid, but she is stubborn and wouldnt confess until she is beaten up. How about you leave her to me? I will do it for you No need! Mo Shujun interrupted Zhou Ruyu coldly and ordered her Rank-1 maid, Zhu, Take her to the Shouan Hall. I will interrogate her with torture in person! Zhu answered and then told several guards to take Dong Shuang to the Shouan Hall. Chapter 156 - The Choice There was a small torture room in the Shouan Hall, and it was seldom used at ordinary times. Generally, the servants who made mistakes would come in to reflect, but all kinds of instruments of torture were inside. A stick with salt water, a torture-rack and so on were included. More than ten kinds of instruments were used to torture Dong Shuang, and she was almost beaten half dead till Mo Shujun asked coldly, Tell me. Where is the token granted by the Emperor? Dong Shuang couldnt even open her eyes, with blood all over her body, and she almost had her last breath. She repeated her answer feebly. I really dont know. It appears that you still dont know my capability before I show you Mo Shujun sneered and waved at the tormentor, gesturing for him to continue. At this time, somebody suddenly reported from outside, His Lordship asked to see you. Shi Junhe had come. The tormentor heard that and stopped, raising his head to look at Mo Shujun, but she ordered indifferently, Did I tell you to stop? Go ahead. But His Lordship The powerful people had a fight, and the servants would suffer. The tormentor was from the first masters family, and how could he go on since the master came? Trash. Mo Shujun glanced at this man and waved her sleeve, leaving the torture room. Shi Junhe was standing in the courtyard of the Shouan Hall. The sun was burning on the sky, and in just a while, he had sweat all over his head, but he didnt move a bit. Mo Shujun stood on the corridor for a while and said at last, Come in. The two sat face to face in the room for a long time, and then Mo Shujun asked nonchalantly, Whats up? Shi Junhe lowered his head, looking guilty and hesitant. Mother, I didnt finish my job. I couldnt take Qingxue back home. It turned out that Shi Junhe urgently went to King Ruis mansion to pick up Shi Qingxue before she fully recovered because Mo Shujun had ordered him. Hearing Shi Junhes report, Mo Shujun didnt feel surprised or disappointed but told him casually, I went to the Luotong Boudoir today. Shi Junhe still lowered his head and looked as before. Obviously, he had heard about it. He just explained in a hoarse voice, Qingxue went out in a hurry that day and couldnt have taken the token granted by the Emperor with her. In another word, the token granted by the Emperor must be in this mansion. She didnt take it, but it doesnt mean that her servants wouldnt covet it, Mo Shujun responded coldly and told the truth. The token granted by the Emperor is not in the Luotong Boudoir now.Read more chapters at Lisnovel.com Dong Shuang grew up with Qingxue since childhood, and she is the most honest and loyal. She would never have improper intentions. Shi Junhe cautiously defended Dong Shuang. Whats more, you tortured a maid badly for no reason. If the news spreads, somebody might comment on you. Please think twice, Mother. Mo Shujun could certainly notice that Shi Junhe tried to protect Dong Shuang. She was astonished and angry while clenching her fists under the wide sleeves. He even retorted her because of a maid. He was really her good son! The more furious she was, the brighter her smile was. She asked with sarcasm, Do you mean that the medal that your father got with his efforts of a lifetime would be given to an outsider? Shi Junhe, arent you afraid that your father would jump out of his grave in a rage? She called his full name and criticized him, with every word stabbing his heart, forcing him to lower his head with shame. After a long pause, he explained in a low voice, Qingxue is not an outsider. An unmarried woman stays outside every day with no sense of shame, regardless of the familys fame. We dont have this girl as our family! Mo Shujun pointed out Shi Qingxues blots one by one. Under Shi Junhes stunned gaze, she announced arrogantly, For the sake of the Shi Familys reputation and future prosperity, I will take back the token granted by the Emperor from her and disown her. No! Shi Junhe shouted in astonishment and looked at Mo Shujun doubtfully. All the powerful families concealed the members faults and protected their children. The masters wouldnt easily abandon any family member unless the one was unforgivable and the family might be destroyed before sacrificing him or her. Disowning her meant that she was abandoned by the family. In the past more than forty years since the country was established, there was no example in the noble circle.Read more chapters at L isnovel.com Shi Junhe looked sad and begged, Qingxue is your granddaughter. How can you be so cruel to her? Mo Shujun was unmoved and stated with no emotion, I will never allow anybody to damage the family property won by your father with his efforts. Anybody who dares to snatch it should be killed. Every word stuck Shi Junhes heart. He argued anxiously, But Qingxue didnt make a huge mistake. Even in the family rules, it just stipulates that the lascivious ones should move to the family temple to reflect for three years. It never said that somebody should be disowned. Moreover, Qingxue is just sick and rests in King Ruis mansion. She is not If you can take her back, I wont say anything, but Looking down at Shi Junhe, Mo Shujun asked meaningfully, Can you? Shi Junhe couldnt reply. Mother, I beg you. Please give Qingxue a second chance! Shi Junhe pleaded. Mo Shujun stayed silent for a minute and then agreed. I can, but I have a requirement. Shi Junhe asked in a hurry, What? Mo Shujun replied unhurriedly, I have a maid, Leng Yan. You have seen her, right? What do you think about her? Shi Junhe didnt understand what Mo Shujun meant and echoed her cautiously. She is a smart girl and deserves your love. Mo Shujun finally laughed, and gentleness was shown on her wrinkled face rarely. She has been working for me since she was a child. To be frank, she knows how to make me happy even more than my granddaughters. I always take her as my daughter. Shi Junhe didnt answer and lowered his head silently. He realized what Mo Shujun was thinking about and couldnt respond to her. Mo Shujun didnt notice Shi Junhes silent rejection, or she feared nothing with a bargaining chip. Since he kept quiet, she offered, I want you to make Leng Yan your concubine. Shi Junhe refused immediately, No. Seeing that Mo Shujuns face darkened, he explained hurriedly, Mother, I have a wife. How can I marry somebody else? Huh! A hen which cant lay an egg. What can she do? Mo Shujun bore a strong grudge against Dong Hui and compared her with a useless hen. She just laughed at Dong Hui who couldnt give birth to a son. It was unpleasant to hear. Before Shi Junhe refuted her, she added, Junhe, dont forget that Duke Shis mansion needs an heir. Shi Junhe stiffened and avoided Mo Shujuns eyes, playing dumb. I have children. Why did you say that we have no heir? Do you mean Shi Baoning or Shi Qingxue? One will marry somebody with a lower position, and the other has betrayed our family. How could either of them be the heir? Wouldnt Baonings baby have our familys bloodline? Shi Junhe asked all of a sudden and looked solemn. Mo Shujuns face fell, and she seemed to think of something. Then she stated angrily, The position of Duke Shi was won by your father and cant be given to somebody with a different family name. Shi Junhe sneered and asked, Would it be okay as long as their child has the family name of Shi? Mo Shujun screamed emotionally in an instant, What if he has our family name? Duke Shis heir cant have the bloodline of the Wenren Family. Shi Junhe gazed at Mo Shujun. Why not? Wenren Bo was Fathers chosen and trusted follower, and Wenren Chi is a child I brought up. If we give the title of Duke Shi to his child, we wont make our mansion decline but they can continue to lead the Shi Army. Wont it satisfy both sides? Because there are no good people in the Wenren Family. They have evil intentions! Mo Shujun shouted, looking ferocious, not as merciful and dignified as usual. With his eyes darkening, Shi Junhe asked in a low voice, Do they have evil intentions or you cant accept the Wenren Family, Mother? Mo Shujun felt her breath stop, and her eyes couldnt focus. She had no courage to look into Shi Junhes eyes. I Mo Shujun took a deep breath and straightened her back, stating seriously, I dont know what rumor you have heard of makes you ask such a question, but I did everything for the Shi Family. I have no guilt. Since her teenage, Mo Shujun followed the late emperor and Elder Duke Shi to fight everywhere, so she had an aura different from ordinary womens, which was shocking. Even though Shi Junhe didnt agree to Mo Shujuns attitude, he couldnt retort. He even doubted if he was qualified enough as the family master in this aspect. Junhe Mo Shujun suddenly softened and continued, Lets forget what happened in the past. As I said just now, I can let Shi Qingxue get away with it, but you have to marry Leng Yan. Mother Shi Junhe called helplessly. Obviously, he was unwilling, but he was not as determined as before. Seeing that, Mo Shujun explained, I just hope that Leng Yan can marry a good man and live a happy life. After she gets married, she will be a member of the East House. I wont force you to treat her the same as Hui. It is not too much, right? Shi Junhe still made a last-ditch fight. I am afraid that I cant make Leng Yan live a happy life and I will only let you down. Mo Shujun sneered. You cant make her happy or you dont want to? I wont say more to you. Choose one between the two. Will you agree to make Leng Yan your concubine or let me disown Shi Qingxue? Go back and think it over. Shi Junhe still wanted to say something, but Mo Shujun prepared to see him off. He had to leave this matter behind and then asked for her permission. Dong Shuang really doesnt know anything about the token granted by the Emperor. Whats more, it must be in our mansion. We can find it after searching for some more days. Mother, please permit me to take that maid away. Mo Shujun snorted in her heart. He is really caring. But I dont know if he does it for Shi Qingxue or That maid is really beautiful. Since you insist, take her away. Mo Shujun concealed her feelings and generously consented to his request. Shi Junhe walked out of the Shouan Hall but didnt feel relieved. He would never abandon Shi Qingxue, but he had to marry Leng Yan, just an unpresentable maid. He thought as long as she didnt love him, he would take her as a piece of insignificant furniture for display rather than for use in the East House, but would Dong Hui agree? Shi Junhe remembered that when Dong Hui just carried Shi Baoning, she offered him her maid to sleep with him, but he cherished Dong Hui then and refused. And the fifth lady Shi Baoyans mother Kou Lian went to his bed when he was drunk and then had a baby, but Dong Hui was magnanimous and let her keep the baby, allowing him to make her his concubine. She just took Kou Lian as a person not concerned in the East House. It happened so many years ago, and they were still in peace. And the current situation was almost the same as then. Maybe Hui wont make a fuss about it because I just do it for Qingxue? Chapter 157 - A Surprise Shi Junhe was worried that undue delay might bring trouble, so he went back to the East House and told Dong Hui about Mo Shujuns requirement. He even swore, Hui, dont worry. Its just a temporary expedient to marry Leng Yan. I wont get close to her. Lets take her as a piece of valuable furniture in the East House, okay? Dong Hui instantly roared, Shi Junhe! Dont forget what you promised to me when you married me. You will never love anybody else. Now you even want to have a concubine? You have gone too far! No, I didnt mean it! Shi Junhe wished that he had more mouths to explain. I said its Mothers requirement. If I want to save Qingxue, I have to marry Leng Yan. Otherwise, she will disown Qingxue. Dong Hui sneered and grunted, Dont mention so many excuses. I only remember that you promised to me, if you dare to have a concubine, we will end our relationship as a couple. Shi Junhe was shocked by Dong Huis cruelness and determination. After a long astonishment, he looked at her cold face and knew that she was not joking. He sighed deeply and touched his forehead wearily. What do you want me to do? Refuse Mother and watch her disown Qingxue? I Dong Hui was at a loss for words. Of course she didnt want something like this to happen, but she couldnt accept that Shi Junhe would marry another woman, even if as a concubine. She argued stubbornly, Anyway, Qingxue is living in King Ruis mansion now. Even if Mother will disown her, it wont give her any bad effect. Havent you heard about how great she is as the people in the capital city say? Nobody would care about this trifle. Perhaps she was afraid that what she said was too cruel, and she then added in a hurry, Moreover, the family tree is just a name. How would Qingxue care about it? I wont disown this daughter for this reason. I will give her everything that I should give. When she marries Mo Junyang someday, 64 dowries will be sent to King Ruis mansion. She wont suffer any loss Dong Hui thought she made a proper arrangement, but Shi Junhe felt sadder as he heard that. At last, he couldnt help but interrupt her, I am afraid that you are going to give up Qingxue, right? Dong Hui denied immediately, Of course not. Mo Junyang is the initiator of evil. If he didnt grab Qingxue forcefully, how would we have no choice? Now he refuses to let her go. We can do nothing. Shi Junhe couldnt bear to hear that allegation and expressed his opinion coldly and firmly, I am Qingxues father. I would never give up my daughter! So you can give me up because of her? Dong Hui cried, with tears all over her face. She emotionally patted Shi Junhes chest and cursed loudly, I am your wife that you will spend the rest of your life with! How can you treat me like this? How can you Dong Hui got more vehement while speaking, but seeing that Shi Junhe looked cold and stayed silent, she thought he would neglect her feelings and marry another woman to insult her. As if her heart were pinched, she felt the pain and could hardly breathe. Then she rolled her eyes and went faint.Read more chapters at Listnovel.com Hui! Shi Junhe shouted automatically and felt heartbroken. He carried Dong Hui and reproached Mammy Zheng who was standing outside. What are you doing? Call for a doctor! Mammy Zheng was petrified and then came to her senses after Shi Junhe glared at her. Then she ran out in haste. Shi Junhe put Dong Hui on the bed and grabbed her hand. He regretted and hated himself, wanting to slap himself in the face. Hui, wake up. Be well. Its my fault. If you really dont want me to have a concubine, I wont, but you cant have anything wrong Shi Junhe didnt look as calm as usual. He murmured without stopping and didnt know what he was saying. Doctor Qin came here in a hurry and didnt dare to delay. He checked Dong Huis pulse directly. The process was long and torturing. Shi Junhe was forced to make room for the doctor and walking back and forth beside the bed, like a cornered beast. In a short while, he had asked several times, How is she? Before Doctor Qin checked her pulse accurately, he was scared by Shi Junhe and sweated on his head. When he touched one point, he opened his eyes wide and surprise reflected on his face. Before he said something, Shi Junhe was panicked. What happened? Whats wrong with her? Dont lie to me. But Doctor Qins surprise turned into joy all of a sudden, and he stood up, bowing to Shi Junhe. My Lord, congratulations. Madam is pregnant. What? Shi Junhe was petrified. Doctor Qin continued happily, I wont make a mistake. I have checked three times. Its a smooth pulse. Looking at Dong Hui in bed whose face was pale, Shi Junhe was still confused, stuttering, But Hui is nearly forty years old. Its Duke Shi expressed that it was beyond expectation and he could hardly accept it. Doctor Qin explained seriously, Madam is pregnant at an older age, and this fetus is at risk. She cant go faint again like today. She needs to be calm so that she and the baby will be safe. Needless to ask, the doctor guessed that the couple had a quarrel and Dong Hui fell into a coma out of anger. Although it was not close to the fact, Shi Junhe heard that and couldnt help but feel guilty. He blushed and saluted. Doctor Qin, thanks for reminding me. I will be more careful in the future. And please take good care of my wife. Thanks very much. Doctor Qin was the exclusive doctor employed by the Shi Family. Winning the family masters trust, he hurriedly nodded to show his loyalty. My Lord, please dont worry. Madam is in good health these years. If there is no accident, she and the baby will be fine. But an accident had just happened. Shi Junhe looked gloomy and sat on the bedside, in a confused state of mind. He was clear why the unborn baby was affected, and just now he swore that if Dong Hui didnt want him to marry Leng Yan, he was unwilling to see her feeling sad. Moreover, he had such a perfect excuse. If Mother knows that Dong Hui is pregnant, she wont force me to marry Leng Yan! Shi Junhe thought and heaved a sigh of relief. He couldnt help but gently put his hand on Dong Huis belly. Even though he couldnt feel anything, his eyes softened, and he smiled, whispering, Baby, you came secretly and frightened your father, but you will save your mother and sister. Good kid Shi Junhe made a decision. After Dong Hui woke up, he shared the good news with her and expressed on the spot, Since you are unwilling, I wont marry another woman to make you unhappy. You can rest assured! Hearing that she was pregnant, Dong Hui was overjoyed and rubbed her belly again and again. When Shi Junhe assured her, a touched and happy expression was on her face. Shi Junhe reached out to hold her in his arms and comforted her softly. Then he stated firmly, I will report the good news to Mother and then tell her that I wont marry Leng Yan. Okay! Dong Hui heard that and felt happier, but she was afraid that somebody would make trouble out of it, so she reminded him in a low voice, Talk with Mother calmly. She will understand you. Remember that you cant argue with her in front of others. If somebody argued with the elder, no matter for what reason, the younger one was wrong from the beginning. Dong Hui didnt want to give others a chance to curse Shi Junhe for disrespecting the elders. Shi Junhe glanced at Dong Hui deeply, but she was in his arms with shyness and didnt notice the gloom in his eyes. In the Shouan Hall After learning the news that Dong Hui was pregnant, Mo Shujun was dumbfounded, as if she were struck by lightning. After Shi Junhe expressed his happiness fluently and mentioned that he wouldnt marry Leng Yan, he found that Mo Shujun was still stunned. He was in doubt and waved his hand. Mother, whats wrong with you? Go ahead! Mo Shujun responded subconsciously and happened to meet Shi Junhes astonished eyes. She realized that she was absent-minded evidently. She straightened her back and coughed before asking, You said Dong is pregnant? What a coincidence. Shi Junhe noticed Mo Shujuns doubt and felt uncomfortable, but he still answered frankly, Just now Hui felt unwell by accident. I asked Doctor Qin to treat her and found that she is pregnant. If you dont believe it, you can ask another doctor to check on her. Mo Shujun didnt feel awkward because of Shi Junhes words but showed a weird smile. She felt unwell by accident? Mother, what do you mean? Shi Junhe couldnt help but ask in a deep voice, looking unfriendly. Mo Shujun snorted and ridiculed. It happened in the past. Why are you so angry? Shi Junhes eyes were cold, and he didnt reply. You dont believe it? Mo Shujun pursed her lips and the smile in her eyes faded. I want to ask you. Do you remember that when Dong carried Baoning, she almost had a miscarriage by accident? Shi Junhe was stunned for a while. After nearly fifteen minutes, he remembered what happened then. He just asked in confusion, At that time, some distant relatives of Fathers came to visit, and it was messy in the mansion. As my wife, Hui wanted to take care of the guests, but she almost had a miscarriage because that girl, my cousin brought a musk sachet with her. As a result, Father told that family to leave our mansion, and I dealt with it in person. How could I forget it? Dong Hui had been pregnant for five or six months, and they thought there must be nothing wrong, but such an accident happened. Dong Hui managed to keep the baby, but Shi Baoning was born weak and always sick in bed. While the doctors told them that it was difficult for Dong Hui to carry another baby Till now, when he thought of it, he still felt scared and hated that cousin to the bone who had harmed Dong Hui. At the moment, Mo Shujun asked out of the blue, Do you know that I wanted to marry that cousin to you? Shi Junhe frowned and said nonchalantly, Mother, say whatever you want. On the second day after I told Dong about it, she almost had a miscarriage because of a musk sachet, which belonged to your cousin. Dont you think it was weird? Chapter 158 - Cry for Candies Shi Junhe was stunned and then shook his head to deny. No way! At that time, my cousin admitted without hesitation that the sachet was hers. Hui couldnt have framed her. Mo Shujun snorted and seemed to laugh at Shi Junhes foolishness, saying leisurely, Of course she had to say that it was hers. Otherwise, if others knew that she was an unmarried woman but secretly brought a sachet which was thrown away by a man, how would she have the face to live on? But later the sachet was checked and there was musk in it. It was too late for her to deny While speaking, she suddenly gave Shi Junhe a weird smile and then added in low spirits, Junhe, didnt you think that sachet looked familiar then? Shi Junhes face stiffened and he tried to argue after quite a while. No way! I promised Hui that I would never have a concubine, and she loves our children so much. How could she have framed somebody else to hurt others and herself He refused to believe it. Moreover, it had happened many years ago, and the truth couldnt be found. Now it was Mo Shujuns one-sided statement. Nobody knew the fact. Do you think that so many years have passed and my oral expressions cant be taken as evidence? And I wronged Dong? Mo Shujun accurately guessed what Shi Junhe was thinking about. He didnt answer. His silent resistance made her laugh again, but she mocked at herself. My son brought up by me actually believes an outsider but doubts his mother. How pathetic! No, Mother. I didnt mean that, Shi Junhe hurriedly explained. His dark-skinned face blushed with shame. Mo Shujun raised her hand and interrupted him. Her dignified face looked serious, and she stated firmly yet coldly, You dont believe me, but you might believe your father, right? He was open and aboveboard all his life and never told a lie. He knew it, but considering Dong Huis dignity and the baby in her womb, he had a talk with her and then kept it secret. In order to protect your relationship with your wife, we didnt tell you. Shi Junhe was shocked, and his unswerving heart was swayed. He knew that Mo Shujun loved Shi Lei so much. She might tell a lie for anything else, but she never said anything false when she talked about Shi Lei. If you dont believe me, you can ask Dong. If she still has consciences, she wouldnt ruin your fathers fame! Mo Shujun spoke frankly but with some inducing intention in her words. Would Dong Hui defame Shi Lei if she denied? However, Shi Junhe was too powerless to think about the hidden meaning in Mo Shujuns words. He was in panic and staggered out of the Shouan Hall, even forgetting to say goodbye. Dong Hui was sitting on the bedside and talking with Mammy Zheng about nourishing the fetus and relieving uneasiness of mind. Seeing Shi Junhe quickly walk into the room, she smiled at him. Junhe, you When she just started to speak, she found that Shi Junhe looked solemn and was about to lose his temper. She was nervous and had a bad feeling, so she changed the subject and showed her concern about him. Who made you angry? Shi Junhe wore a long face and waved his hand to tell the servants to go out. Then he stood in front of Dong Hui and gazed at her. Hui, I ask you. What happened about the sachet which almost made you have a miscarriage? I I dont know what you are talking about. Dong Hui negated it subconsciously, but her smile froze on her face in an instant, and fear flashed in her eyes. She quickly lowered her head to hide it, but Shi Junhe noticed that. Shi Junhe felt a bucket of ice water being poured from his head to toe, and even his heart was cold. He looked at Dong Hui with his eyes opened wide, feeling doubtful and heartbroken. In the end, he still wanted to give her another chance and asked, Mother told me that Father had covered up for you. Is that true? No Dong Hui still didnt want to admit it, but under Shi Junhes sad eyes, she couldnt say anything. The answer was completely bared. Shi Junhe stopped cheating himself and asked in pain, Why? That is the musk. It can kill an unborn baby at any time. Didnt you know that? Dong Hui lowered her head and clenched her fists, whispering in a sobbing voice, I knew, but under the circumstances, I had no choice. You had no choice? Shi Junhe felt it laughable. I promised you I wouldnt marry anybody but you. Even if there was something wrong, you could tell me. Would I have a concubine regardless of your feelings? Why did you hurt others and yourself? Since he said that, Dong Hui didnt hide anything from him anymore. She wiped the tears on her cheeks and raised her head, saying coldly, Right, you wouldnt ignore my feelings, but what about Princess Royal? If she insisted on telling you to have a concubine, wouldnt you give in? Shi Junhe didnt agree with Dong Hui and felt more confused. At that time, you once advised me to sleep with a maid, so I didnt think you would care about it. Why did you resist Mothers plan so much? Dong Hui sneered and seemed to laugh at Shi Junhe who was na?ve. A maid who can sleep with you is just a servant. After I gave birth to the baby, nobody would say anything even if I beat her up or kill her, but a concubine has a status. No matter how unwilling I am, I have to share you with her and let her spend several nights with you every month. Otherwise, others would say that I am jealous. They are totally different. Shi Junhe was petrified. He had never thought about this matter, nor did he expect that Dong Hui would think in this way. Maybe Dong Hui had a grievance of her own, but As you said, you could frame somebody innocent and even put your own daughters life in danger? Shi Junhes voice was deep and hoarse. It appeared that he suffered terribly but he couldnt tell anybody. Dong Hui was sorrowful, but she refused to admit that she was wrong. If she didnt do that, she couldnt win her loved mans heart, and she might even lose her position as Duke Shis wife. A woman involved in the fight for her husbands love would never stay out of rivalry in public or secret. Who could remain aloof? Even if Shi Junhe would blame her for being cruel, she could say nothing but just worried that Mo Shujun told him to have a concubine. You promised me. If I dont allow you to have a concubine, you wouldnt. You wont break your word, right? Dong Hui looked at Shi Junhe expectantly, with plea in her eyes. Shi Junhe felt sadder and smiled bitterly with self-mockery. Yes. How would I break my promise to you? Dong Hui felt joyful, but before her smile spread, she heard Shi Junhe. He expressed indifferently, So you can fear nothing? You sacrificed a daughter to keep your position as a dukes wife, and now you abandon the other daughter who did everything to protect you I didnt! Dong Hui denied and explained in a hurry, The musks amount was limited. I knew how to control it, and it wouldnt kill the baby. Shi Junhe didnt think it was comfort but asked coldly, What about Qingxue? How many times has she saved you and protected your fame? But you dont want to do anything for her? Dong Hui was rendered speechless and looked pale, but she bit her lower lip and looked as if she wouldnt change her mind no matter what he said. Shi Junhe lost his last hope. Without looking at Dong Hui, he continued casually, Have a rest at home and keep the baby safe. These days, I will send more people to look after you. If you like somebody, you can tell her to come. After all He showed a distant and cruel smile. After all you are the most important, right? After speaking, Shi Junhe seemed not to hear Dong Hui calling him and left. He felt sad inexpressibly. On one hand, he knew that what Dong Hui did was not inexcusable, but on the other hand, he didnt want to see his wife like this. The woman he loved most and the most kind-hearted and pure person in his opinion was so unacceptable. Who could understand his feelings when he was disillusioned? Shi Junhe walked out of the mansion and dismissed the servants. He walked alone aimlessly and came to King Ruis mansion before he realized it. He stood at the door and thought for a while. Then he couldnt help but ask to see the master. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang agreed to see him this time. He was led by a servant into King Ruis mansion. Looking at the three meaningful words on the entrance of the Love Xue House, he sighed deeply. Duke Shi, your wife has good news. Congratulations. Why do you look unhappy? Mo Junyangs nonchalant and lazy voice came from far away. Shi Junhe looked into the distance and found that Mo Junyang was holding Shi Qingxue and sitting in a pavilion while having tea leisurely. He looked at his daughters pure and happy smile and couldnt help stepping forward, shouting excitedly, Qingxue, are you okay? Shi Qingxue was grabbing the last cake from Mo Junyang and had a good time. Suddenly she heard somebody call her name. She could understand that she was Qingxue. She trembled with fear. Her hand shook, and the cake in it fell on the ground. Shi Qingxue was petrified for two seconds and then cried, like a child. Sweetness. Its gone Mo Junyang stopped teasing her and hurriedly wiped the tears on her face. Meanwhile he comforted her, We still have some. I will tell somebody to bring them for you. They taste better than this one. We will get some osmanthus cakes you like most, okay? Shi Qingxue had lost her memory but liked osmanthus cakes a lot to the point that as long as an osmanthus cake was given to her, she would be happy. As expected, hearing that there were osmanthus cakes, Shi Qingxue stopped crying. She grasped Mo Junyangs arm and moved closer to him, saying something to flatter him even if nobody taught her. Junyang, you are the best! She blinked her big eyes with tears and there were some on her long eyelashes, which made her look pure and attractive. Mo Junyang swallowed his saliva and turned away silently, crooning in a deep voice. I know Junyang loves me most. I will have osmanthus cakes for dinner and at night Shi Qingxue seized the chance and asked for more, wishing to make osmanthus cakes full of her life. Since Shi Qingxue got absurd while speaking, Mo Junyang resisted the temptation and interrupted her. No, the osmanthus cake is too sweet. If you eat too much, your teeth will go bad. You can have three pieces at most every day. Shi Qingxues smile disappeared soon and she pouted. Tears filled her eyes at once but didnt fall. She just looked with a grievance at Mo Junyang and protested quietly. Mo Junyang couldnt speak a word. No. He had to be tough and couldnt be defeated under the attack of Shi Qingxues tears. Junyang, I want to eat osmanthus cakes. Qingxue wants to eat Shi Qingxue begged pitifully. She shook Mo Junyangs sleeve, like a helpless child who was abandoned. It seemed unforgivable to refuse her. Mo Junyang thought he wouldnt be defeated by the plea. He didnt care at all. Then four pieces every day. You cant eat more! He couldnt help but compromise. After he said that, he regretted, but Shi Qingxues big eyes twinkled like the stars. They were sly but tempting. Chapter 159 - I Want the Marriage Certificate Shi Junhe witnessed Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxues interaction. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was so happy and Mo Junyang doted on her without limit, he felt sour and then joyful and relieved. He didnt know if it was Shi Qingxues best choice to be with Mo Junyang. But he admitted that even he couldnt be compared with Mo Junyang when he faced Shi Qingxue who had lost memory and was like a newborn baby. Shi Junhe had too many responsibilities and burdens that he couldnt give up. He would never and was unable to just consider Shi Qingxues feelings regardless of anything else. He was an incapable father who couldnt even protect his daughters fame. How could he fight with Mo Junyang for Shi Qingxue? Duke Shi, since you came to my home, please have a cup of hot tea. Although Mo Junyang was talking with Shi Qingxue, he also paid attention to Shi Junhe all the time. After watching the complicated expression on Duke Shis face, Mo Junyang offered mercifully at last. Shi Junhe didnt refuse and sat next to Shi Qingxue. Noticing her curious eyes like a strangers, he was sad but didnt show his feeling. Instead, he smiled at her warmly. Qingxue. Who are you? How do you know my name? Shi Qingxue didnt feel scared as usual when she met a stranger but automatically moved closer to Shi Junhe, asking in surprise. Shi Junhe smiled and raised his hand, trying to touch Shi Qingxues head, but Mo Junyang glared at him, so his hand remained in the midair. Looking at Shi Junhe and then at the big hand above her head, Shi Qingxue also smiled. Do you also think I am a good girl and want to praise me? No need. Its enough as I have Junyang. She just simply thought that she didnt need too many peoples praise, but her direct words stunned the two men, and then Mo Junyang was overjoyed, while Shi Junhe had a feeling of loss, but the two men had a tacit agreement and didnt continue Shi Qingxues subject. General Shi, why did you come here? Mo Junyang still asked lazily, but he called General Shi instead of Duke Shi, which showed his respect to Shi Junhe. Shi Junhe obviously felt Mo Junyangs sincerity. Thinking that the young man must have known what had happened in Duke Shis mansion, Shi Junhe didnt hide it from him. My mother wants to Realizing that Shi Qingxue understood what Qingxue meant, he held back what he was going to say. He glanced at her and said vaguely, Disownher. Mo Junyang was smart and immediately understood what Shi Junhe said. His handsome face was cold, and he leered at Shi Junhe coldly. General Shi, whats your plan? Do you want to get rid of this hidden trouble as a family master? Of course not! Shi Junhe denied decisively. He had never wanted Shi Qingxue to break up with the Shi Family, and he wouldnt do that, never. Mo Junyang raised his beautiful brows and looked Shi Junhe up and down for quite a while, asking with a faint smile, Have you figured out how to explain to Madam Shi or Princess Royal? If he didnt disown Shi Qingxue, he would have to surrender and marry Leng Yan as his concubine, but if he was unwilling to surrender, he would go against Princess Royal. The excitement on Shi Junhes face disappeared and was replaced with helplessness. He supported his forehead and said gloomily, I wont give her up, and I promised my wife not to have a concubine, but If he had to go against Mo Shujun for this reason, he wouldnt have a chance to win even when he was willing to, not to mention that he was unwilling. Mo Shujun was above him in the aspect of status. If he openly turned against her, he might be the next to be disowned. The crime was ready. He didnt respect his parent and should be punished. Mo Junyang heard Shi Junhes annoyance and tut-tutted, expressing nonchalantly, You can have one or two of them, but you cant get all. General Shi, its great to have a wish, but anybody cant be too greedy. Shi Junhe was astonished and listened to Mo Junyang who continued carelessly. Qingxue, Madam Shi and the baby, and Princess Royal, if you insist on considering for everybody, I can do nothing. If you plan to give up somebody, I can offer you a practical solution. Do you really have a solution? Shi Junhe was surprised and doubtful. Mo Junyang shrugged and smiled. It depends on whom you will choose. It was uncertain that there was threat hidden in these words. Nobody knew if Shi Junhe didnt notice it or he didnt care. His face was cold, and he responded seriously, Your Excellency, please help me. Thanks. Wait. Mo Junyang laughed and suddenly added, Of course I can help you, but do you want to gain without paying a price, General Shi? Shi Junhe was petrified. He frowned and pondered for a minute before replying. Your Excellency, if you can help me, tell me what you want. Mo Junyang rested his chin on one hand and stated unhurriedly, I want Qingxues marriage certificate. Shi Junhe was rendered speechless. He was ready for Mo Junyangs high price and had accepted that this man would be his future son-in-law, but Why did he still want to beat up this jerk? What was asking for return after helping somebody else? Mo Junyang just did that! Your Excellency, dont go too far. Shi Junhe gritted his teeth, and his voice was almost squeezed from between them. Unexpectedly, before Mo Junyang gave a reply, Shi Qingxue heard her name and got excited, asking him, What is the marriage certificate? Mo Junyang touched Shi Qingxues head and smiled. Its the proof to let you stay with me. Ah? Oh Confusion was still on Shi Qingxues face. She couldnt understand what proof meant, but it didnt prevent her usual prolonged voice, which was sweet and pleasant to hear. She tilted her head and thought for a while. Then she excitedly grabbed Mo Junyangs hand, asking anxiously, Then I will give you the marriage certificate, and I will stay with you, okay? Mo Junyang was satisfied and nodded. Mo Junyang, dont go too far! Shi Junhe couldnt control himself and shouted to interrupt the conversation of the two who acted as if there was no one else present. Even if he admired and relied on Mo Junyang, he would never allow this bastard to take advantage of his daughter when she knew nothing. Shi Junhe looked solemn and was about to explode, staring at Mo Junyang coldly. He didnt care if he would offend King Ruis heir and said harshly, Mo Junyang, you helped me a lot, and I am grateful. I wont have objections even if you love my daughter. But everything must have a precondition that she is sober, aware and willing. Otherwise, I would never allow you to defile her. After expressing his opinion firmly, Shi Junhe had an idea. Then he softened and continued unhurriedly, Whats more, Qingxue wouldnt be like this forever. She will recover. If she knows that you force her when she is unaware, what do you think she will do? Will she forgive you because she loves you, or His smile spread slowly. We dont know what she will choose, but we both know how stubborn she is. She would rather have nothing than have something with flaws. She wont accept something imperfect. After he finished his words, there was weird tension in the pavilion. Shi Junhe had a confident smile, thinking that he had found Mo Junyangs weakness. Even if he couldnt force Mo Junyang to listen to him, he could make the young man scruple. But he still felt restless and his feeling reached the peak when Mo Junyangs cold eyes fell on him. At the moment, he noticed the killing intent in Mo Junyangs eyes. Mo Junyang was not angry and shamed, but as a powerful man, he could easily kill anybody when facing the threat. Even though Shi Junhe spent most of his life in the battlefield and had killed countless people, he felt scared under this gaze. Even for a moment, he almost thought that Mo Junyang would kill him. It was silent. Junyang Shi Qingxue called him in a sweet voice all of a sudden. Before the two men reacted, she rushed into Mo Junyangs arms and hugged his neck with both hands. They were face to face, looking into each others eyes and his nose clung to hers. They could smell each others breath. Only in this way, the tension in the air disappeared, and the fight which was on the verge of breaking out didnt exist. In a blink of an eye, Mo Junyangs killing intent turned into gentleness and love. Shi Qingxue joyfully rubbed her nose against Mo Junyangs, like the small animals showing their affection by touching. She leaned against his arms. She yawned and whispered, Junyang, I am tired. Lets go back to sleep, okay? Mo Junyang glanced at Shi Junhe, who was looking at him. They stared at each other silently for nearly fifteen minutes. Then he said slowly, Lets talk about the marriage certificate another day. I will help you solve the problem. Qingxue is tired. Please go back home, General Shi. Shi Junhe had experienced the mixture of good and bad things and his energy seemed to be consumed up. He was exhausted and had to nod. Your Excellency, thanks very much. As soon as Shi Junhe went away, Mo Junyang held Shi Qingxues hand and prepared to go back to have a rest. Shi Qingxue still grabbed his arm and didnt move. With her head on his shoulder, she looked at the exit of the house. Till Shi Junhe was out of sight, she was still unmoved. Mo Junyang felt nervous and grasped Shi Qingxues hand with more strength. Ouch! Shi Qingxue shrank her hand in pain but couldnt get rid of his grip. She looked at Mo Junyang in confusion. He didnt let her go and gazed at her, asking, Do you remember everything? Shi Qingxue blinked. What? Her big eyes were confused, and she wasnt as sober as before. It seemed to be Mo Junyangs illusion. Mo Junyang didnt think he was dazzled, but meeting Shi Qingxues eyes, he just smiled and shook his head, answering gently, Nothing. Lets go back. No matter if Shi Qingxue regained her memory or thought of something, it would be great as long as she didnt leave him. Shi Qingxue gave him a bright smile. Okay. Chapter 160 - The Failing Relationship between the Mother and the Son Shi Junhe got good news in King Ruis mansion, but he didnt feel relieved after going back home. In fact he was anxious and asked somebody random for help. He had actually believed that Mo Junyang could solve his problem. After he thought it over, he believed that it was not that simple. His opponent was not an ordinary person but Mo Shujun. He couldnt go against her. Even though he was critical of what Mo Shujun did, it didnt mean that he could turn against his mother. Alas! Shi Junhe walked to the East House with complicated feelings. A young manservant ran to him in a hurry. My Lord, bad news. The people in the Shouan Hall said that Princess Royal made the maid Leng Yan her sworn daughter and would grant her marriage! Ridiculous! Shi Junhe rebuked him automatically and then realized Mo Shujuns intention. He had never expected that Mo Shujun who always paid attention to the status and rules would consider taking a lowly maid as her sworn daughter just to make him marry her. If Leng Yan became Princess Royals sworn daughter, it would be serious. Even if she couldnt be registered in the family tree, she would have a higher position and wouldnt be a maid in Duke Shis mansion. If Shi Junhe married Leng Yan, he couldnt take her as somebody insignificant as they had imagined. While thinking, Shi Junhe turned pale and grabbed that manservant, asking coldly, What on earth happened? I have told my mother that I wont marry Leng Yan. Why are there such rumors? The manservant trembled. I I dont know. The news about the sworn daughter and marriage was from the Shouan Hall. But I saw Leng Yan making a wedding dress urgently. Its not a rumor that she will get married. Wedding dress! Shi Junhe clenched his fists in a rage and wanted to beat somebody. The manservant shrank his neck in fear and didnt dare to meet Shi Junhes eyes. He just spoke haltingly. I know this news is So please dont worry, My Lord. I have told them not to spread the news. It is not widely circulated in the mansion, especially He smiled to flatter Shi Junhe and continued, Madam doesnt know. Shi Junhes tight face finally softened, and he patted his trusted servant, praising him. Well done. Go to the East House and warn the servants. Tell them to do more and talk less. Now Madam is pregnant. If there is something wrong because somebody gossips, I will show no mercy. Yes! The manservant agreed instantly, but then he asked hesitantly, But we cant keep it secret forever. When Princess Royal announces the marriage, Madam will know. Shi Junhe didnt retort him. And as he knew about this family, even if he compromised with Mo Shujun, somebody might not let him hide this matter, and then He could hardly imagine what would happen when Dong Hui knew this. Anyway, you tell them first. I have my plan, Shi Junhe ordered hurriedly and then strode to the Shouan Hall. In the Shouan Hall, Mo Shujun was drinking tea in the room leisurely. Seeing Shi Junhe, she was not surprised and just greeted casually, You are back. Obviously, she had expected Shi Junhe to come. With a long face, Shi Junhe asked coldly, Mother, why did you do that? She spread the news that he would marry Leng Yan and apparently wanted him to suffer. Mo Shujun put down the teacup and smiled. I told you that if you dont want me to interfere in Shi Qingxues case, you have to marry Leng Yan. But Hui is pregnant. I can let the Shi Family have an heir soon. Why do you still Huh! Hui, Hui Whats her good point? You are entranced by her. You can forgive her even after she was jealous and not virtuous? Mo Shujun interrupted Shi Junhe impatiently and vented her resentment of Dong Hui for the first time. Shi Junhe was clear that Mo Shujun and Dong Hui were not on good terms for a long time, but hearing Mo Shujuns complaint, he was stunned. After a long time, he stated helplessly, Mother, even if you dont like Hui, please dont irritate her for the sake of the baby in her womb. If there is something wrong with her, it might be two lives. Do you want to see such a tragedy? Mo Shujun didnt change her expression. No more words. Since you asked me not to punish Shi Qingxue, you should meet my request. You have to marry Leng Yan. The wedding date will be in one month. If you dont want everybody to know it, I can agree to arrange it in private. After all its just a concubine. In another word, she had given in. If he didnt listen to her, he would be unreasonable. And as long as he agreed to marry Leng Yan, it didnt matter how to do it. It would be okay after she was sent to the East House. It seemed to be a good term. Earlier, Shi Junhe might think Mo Shujun sincerely considered for him and hoped that he had an heir. But Dong Hui was pregnant now and the baby might be the future heir, but Mo Shujun still insisted on demanding him to marry Leng Yan. He couldnt help but think about her intention. Shi Junhe pursed his lips and looked at Mo Shujun seriously. Mother, I have promised to Hui that I wont marry anybody else. Now she is pregnant, and I wont break my promise. Please forgive me. I wont marry Leng Yan! Mo Shujun raised her brows and asked with threat, So you want me to drive Shi Qingxue out of the Shi Family? Shi Junhe shook his head, but before Mo Shujun nodded with satisfaction, he responded, You wont. Mo Shujun was astonished. Qingxue is not only my daughter but also the future wife of His Excellency, the future King Rui now. She has such honorable status. Unless you want to turn against King Rui, you wouldnt do something like this to hurt yourself and others. Moreover, Mo Junyang would never allow anybody to damage Shi Qingxues interest. In fact, Shi Junhe knew that but didnt speak out. He just stared at Mo Shujun calmly, whose face turned pale. You! Mo Shujun had never been threatened openly. She choked and got furious, but she couldnt retort him. Indeed, she was afraid of Mo Junyang, but Huh! So what even if you are right? Mo Shujun suddenly snorted. Before Shi Junhe reacted, Mo Shujun added haughtily, Now I cant control Shi Qingxue. Its true. But you She stared at Shi Junhe with a cold smile. But you are my son. Do you dare to refuse to listen to me? Mo Shujun threatened him with her status for the first time and suppressed him. He didnt have any chance to resist. Alright. I have made the arrangement. Just marry Leng Yan. Otherwise, I am not sure what will happen. Shi Junhe gritted his teeth and felt surprised and angry. Since Mo Shujun said that, it meant that she didnt care about their relationship as the mother and the son. He was sure that his mother didnt do everything as simply as she said. Goodbye, Mother. Shi Junhe finally spoke two words and then turned to leave. He didnt waste his energy on something that he couldnt stop. So he went back to the East House. Dong Hui was talking with somebody happily. She was stunned to see him. My Lord, whats the matter with you? Shi Junhe waved his hand and told the others to leave. There were only two of them in the room. Duke Shi knelt to Dong Hui unexpectedly and looked solemn. Hui, I am sorry. Dong Hui was petrified and stared blankly at Shi Junhe. After a while, she hurriedly helped him up. Junhe, what are you doing? Get up! But Shi Junhe refused to get up, and there was guilt on his dignified face. He replied in a hoarse voice, No, Hui. Just let me kneel. I have broken my promise. I cant do what I promised to you. A man cant kneel. I know your feelings for me. Shi Junhe was above anybody in Dong Huis heart. How could she make him keel to her? She insisted on helping him up and expressed seriously, feeling moved, What happened? Get up and tell me. We are a couple for twenty years. Even though we have conflicts, we love each other. As long as you tell me, the problem will be solved. Shi Junhe gripped Dong Huis hand and pulled her into his arms. He pondered for a long time and finally told her what Mo Shujun forced him to do. Dong Hui kept silent for long and didnt even change her expression. It made Shi Junhe restless again. Hui, I know I am good for nothing and dont dare to turn against Mother. You need to take care of yourself. Our baby So Princess Royal doesnt care if she will lose her son but forces you to marry that maid, right? Shi Junhe nodded in a daze and thought Dong Huis attitude was weird, but he didnt know what was wrong. It was scarier that Dong Hui laughed after that, out of character. Hui, are you okay? If you are mad, just tell me. Dont hide it, or you may harm your health. Shi Junhe grabbed Dong Huis hand nervously and tried to comfort her. However, Dong Hui took back her hand slowly and raised her brows with a sullen expression but had a smile. Who said I am mad? Its not your fault. I wont blame you. Shi Junhe finally heaved a sigh of relief, but Dong Hui continued in a cold voice, But, since Mother is not kind, dont blame me if I am cruel. Hui, what are you going to do? Shi Junhe was panicked and asked subconsciously. Dong Hui smiled silently and then responded, Dont worry. Its between me and your mother. I promise not to get you involved Looking at Shi Junhes cold face with concern, Dong Hui was touched. At least, the man she had chosen put her in his heart. Then she assured him, I wont get our children involved. Shi Junhe stated seriously, She is my mother anyway. Dont do anything recklessly. Otherwise, we will suffer. Moreover, I just came back from King Ruis mansion. His Excellency promised to help me solve this problem. We still have one month. How about we wait and do nothing for now? Maybe he has a solution. Even though Shi Junhe was angry with Mo Shujun who was autocratic, he still didnt hope that Dong Hui would go against her. It would bring them more harm than profit. However, when Dong Hui heard Mo Junyangs name, she didnt change her mind and turned away stubbornly. Shi Junhe couldnt persuade her and had to sigh. Chapter 161 - Prod the Prince After the hot summer, it was getting cool in the capital city in July. Everybody in the imperial palace were preparing for Mo Xiangbins 45th birthday party and the envoys from other countries. The people in the East Palace took the lead. After being told to receive the envoys, the crown prince Mo Junyu started to be busy with work and didnt have time to rest. After he finally arranged everything, a servant ran in a hurry to report. The envoy team from the Liang Country led by Prince Yel has arrived at the capital city. They beat a civilian on the way as soon as they entered the city. Lord Fu from the Ministry of Rite went to mediate, but the people from the Liang Country refused to go to the embassy and insisted that civilian in the way apologize. They aroused the publics resentment and made a fuss at the north gate of the city. Its quite serious. Lord Fu asked you to go there in person, since you might be able to comfort them, Your Highness. Hearing that, Mo Junyu was furious and thought, The people from the Liang Country apparently make a fuss out of nothing. He asked me to go there. Wouldnt he let me be a punching bag? But even if he complained in his heart, under the situation, he had to answer, Tell Lord Fu to calm down the envoys from the Liang Country. I will be there soon. After thinking for a while, he sent Zhou Ji to King Ruis mansion to ask Mo Junyang to come. At the north gate of the city, more than ten carriages of the envoys from the Liang Country came in two rows and occupied most of the main street. Some vendors would set stands on both sides of the street at ordinary times, but they had no room to do business now. However, the people from the Liang Country didnt realize that they were disturbing the public but stopped in the middle of the road in a big way. They blocked the city gate and stopped a civilian who was about to go out of the city. That man was more than thirty years old, with a tall and big figure and good-looking eyes, but the new blood stains on his face made him look embarrassed and ferocious. Especially the unyielding expression in his sharp eyes was terrifying. One of the envoys from the Liang Country, Wu Yalei was arrogantly rebuking this man in the way for their prince, but he shrank his neck under the mans stare, so he stuttered, What are you looking at? You have offended our prince. Even if you have ten lives, you cant afford to pay for it. Hurry up and apologize His Highness with a kowtow. Maybe he will feel better and spare you. The man was named Zhong Sheng. Zhong Sheng leered with disdain at the lofty second prince Yel Anchen. I am just a peasant from a remote village, but I know the rule that first come, first served. I walked on this way first. Even if God comes here, he cant tell me to make way. How dare you! Wu Yalei roared and told the guard to whip Zhong Sheng again. Zhong Sheng was badly bruised, but he was caught by other two guards and couldnt move a bit. He was really tough. Being beaten, he didnt cry in pain, and nobody could hear him say anything to apologize or ask for mercy. He spat some blood to the ground. Bastards from the Liang Country, you intruded our country and killed our people. You still want me to kneel to you? No way! Yel Anchen was thirty years old and a brother of the King of the Liang Country, Yel Beichen. As the second prince, he was conceited and looked down upon anybody else. He couldnt endure anybody who spoke evil of him. He ruthlessly grabbed the whip from the guard and hit Zhong Sheng with strength. Seeing that the master took action, the two guards had foresight and loosened their hands, letting Zhong Sheng fall on the ground after being whipped, with blood all over. Wu Yalei flattered him. Your Highness, you are so powerful. You beat him once but injured him more than the warriors. I admire you so much. Yel Anchen laughed complacently and responded arrogantly, Of course, I can take his life after whipping him once. Such a nobody tried to provoke me. He just courted death. While speaking, he whipped Zhong Sheng again and there was blood all over. No matter how strong Zhong Sheng was, he was tortured and went unconscious. The common people who passed by saw that and couldnt bear it. They asked for mercy. Even if this man shouldnt be in the way, he cant be beaten to death. Right, we are just passing by. It will be okay if we make way for each other. Why did you do something ruthlessly? You havent found it. Havent you seen the logo on the carriage? They are from the Liang Country. They are always overbearing and can do anything as they like. How would they care about our common peoples lives? Gee, they are bastards from the Liang Country! Werent they defeated by our Shi Army not long ago? How could they have the face to act recklessly in our capital city? The passers-by argued in louder voices and spoke much. At last, they all disdained the envoys and the Liang Country. Yel Anchen was always arrogant and had never been insulted like this. He was furious and waved the whip randomly in the crowd, curing, You foolish people. I am the second prince of the Liang Country. How can you comment on me? Shut up, all of you. Otherwise, I will beat you to death! He hit several innocent common people with the whip, but he didnt plan to stop. Instead, he waved the whip again. Your Highness, please dont be angry! Please! The Assistant Minister of Rite, Fu Jian had sweat all over his head and called Yel Anchen in a trembling voice. His Majesty has arranged the embassy for you. Please go to have a rest. Wu Yalei raised his brows and snorted. You insignificant official, havent you seen that our prince is humiliated by your foolish people? Are you going to stand by and do nothing as an official? Is this the way you treat your guests in your country? Fu Jian was rendered speechless by the three questions. He wiped the sweat on his forehead with his wide sleeve and said something nice to please them. Lord Wu, you are joking. You are our guests from far away. And our country is hospitable. How would we neglect our guests? Oh? How do you plan to deal with the people in the way? Wu Yalei was aggressive. It seemed that if they didnt kill some people, it couldnt show the importance of their honorable prince. Fu Jian knew that the people from the Liang Country liked to find fault with others, but he didnt expect that they were so difficult to handle. He tried to stall them and felt annoyed in his heart. Please dont be mad, everybody. This time His Majesty told our crown prince to receive you envoys. Although you arrive at the capital city ahead of time, our crown prince will come to welcome you later. Please wait a moment. He could only hope Mo Junyu to save the situation. When they were talking, Mo Junyu had come to the north of the city, but he didnt show up. It was because Mo Junyang he expected didnt come, but Qu Yuebai appeared. The crown prince got angry. Didnt Mo Junyang promise me to help me deal with the envoys who make trouble? I asked him to come, but he sent you here. What does he mean? Your Highness, please calm down! Qu Yuebai joked and tried to muddle through. His Excellency is busy recently, and this is merely a defeated general. You dont need to care so much about him. Just deal with him randomly. Mo Junyu showed a forced smile and gritted his teeth. He is busy? I think he is busy making out with somebody. Qu Yuebai just smiled silently and sighed in secret. Mo Junyang has fallen in love with Shi Qingxue for a long time. It is natural if he doesnt come because of what she said. I have nothing to say. Mo Junyu was clear about the answer and didnt waste his energy to ask more. He just snorted. I want to see how you can deal with him randomly as you are sent here alone. Qu Yuebai smiled gently and pointed at his luxurious carriage, expressing in a soft voice, His Excellency said you dont need to talk with such an insignificant role. Just sit in the carriage and watch the play. Its so simple? Mo Junyu raised his brows and didnt believe that proud prince would easily let it pass. I will see what trick you can play. After Mo Junyu got in the carriage he drove here, Qu Yuebai walked to the crowd and asked Fu Jian, pretending he didnt know what had happened. Then he frowned and stated disapprovingly, Lord Fu, its your fault. With cold sweat on his head, Lord Fu was speechless and thought he was going to be in trouble. It seemed that the crown prince wanted to sacrifice him to please the people from the Liang Country, but he would try his best not to be a scapegoat. Especially the comer was a scholar that he had never seen. Fu Jian wiped the sweat on his head and seemed not to understand Qu Yuebais words. My Lord, what do you mean? I just came to welcome the respected guests under the crown princes order. Now the guests have arrived. Where is His Highness now? Right! We have come to your city, but none of your masters is here. You just dont take the envoys from our country seriously, Wu Yalei complained and vented his anger on Qu Yuebai. Qu Yuebai didnt change his expression and smiled. We warmly welcome the respected guests from afar. His Highness has prepared good wine and delicious food in the embassy. Please come to have a taste, everyone. Yel Anchen didnt listen to Qu Yuebai and snorted with his chin held high. We havent dealt with the issue that I was offended. You want to let it pass after saying merely a few words? How can it be so easy? Uh Qu Yuebai awkwardly looked at the carriage behind him and the person in it had no reaction. Then he turned to Yel Anchen and said in a low voice, Your Highness, you are honorable and never stay with the civilians on the street for a long time. As the saying goes, you wont feel the stink if you are in a fish market all the time, and you wont sense the fragrance if you are always in a room with flowers. I dont know if you came here to Yel Anchen didnt like reading, but he still knew what the saying meant. Of course he understood that Qu Yuebai was mocking at him. If he often bothered about the vendors, he would lower himself to the same level as the vendors. Even though he was aware that Qu Yuebai was prodding him, the problem washe was convinced. Yel Anchen bared his teeth and goggled. What do you mean? Did you say that I am just qualified to bother about these vendors? Qu Yuebai certainly shook his head and expressed in fear that he didnt mean that. Our crown prince invited you to the embassy to enjoy flowers in the room. Okay! I will go with you to have a look. How nice is the embassy? Yel Anchen waved his hand and made a decision. But Wu Yalei got anxious and asked, Shall we let go of those people who insulted our prince? He wouldnt miss any chance to find fault. Chapter 162 - Mo Junyang behind the Scenes With his smile spreading, Qu Yuebai seemed not to mind Wu Yaleis abrupt question. He explained peacefully, Please dont worry, everybody. In our country, the criminals would never go unpunished. How would we let the guilty ones who harmed the relationship between two countries get away with it? Wouldnt the loss outweigh the gain? He said that, but the precondition was that the one who should be punished must be guilty. The simple-headed Yel Anchen didnt notice the hidden meaning in Qu Yuebais words. Hearing that, he thought this official from the Mo Country was eloquent, so he nodded. In this case, I will leave these nobodies to you. Dont let me down! Wu Yalei shouted hurriedly, Your Highness, we cant! Shut up! Yel Anchen impatiently interrupted Wu Yalei and stated coldly, I can make my decision. I dont need a spado like you to say more. Yel Anchen didnt lower his voice and revealed in public that Wu Yalei was a eunuch, which made the latter turn pale out of anger. Considering Yel Anchens status, Wu Yalei still smiled and escorted him into the carriage, but when he turned around, there was gloom in his obscene eyes. Qu Yuebai watched the two men all the time and showed a playful smile after seeing that, but he didnt say anything. He rode a horse and led the way in the front. After the envoys from the Liang Country came to the embassy, they made another scene. Yel Anchen looked at the big wooden house, which was different from the yurt he lived in in the Liang Country. He got angry once more. Is this the way you treat your guests in your country? Such a shabby wooden house is quite different from the yurt in the north. It is not windproof and cant keep warm. Do you want me to freeze to death? And is this fussy and unpractical design engraved on the wall used to dazzle me? Whats more, you treat me with this leftover food. Do you satirize me that I have never eaten delicacy? The servants in the embassy led Yel Anchen into the room and served food, but soon after he had a seat, he scolded them angrily and abusively. They couldnt understand. They had prepared the best food in a blue funk, and the chefs were from the imperial palace, but Yel Anchen started to criticize even before he tasted. All the servants looked at the crown prince Mo Junyu who sat in the hosts seat to ask for help, but he turned to Qu Yuebai. Since Mo Junyang told him to come, he should do something. Qu Yuebai kept silent and listened when Yel Anchen vented his anger. When the guest had nothing to say, Qu Yuebai asked calmly, Your Highness, do you have other requirements for the embassy? Qu Yuebai made a good impression on Yel Anchen. The latter didnt rebuke Qu Yuebai with a bad attitude like before and merely expressed coldly, Just change what I mentioned first. Right! Our prince always has the best clothes, food and accommodation. If you treat him badly in small matters, we doubt your sincerity to receive the envoys. Wu Yalei echoed and found fault, borrowing their princes power. Yel Anchen leered at Wu Yalei. Although he was dissatisfied with his subordinate who cut in without his permission, he didnt say anything because those words expressed what he was thinking about. Qu Yuebai seemed not to notice that the people from the Liang Country deliberately made things difficult for them. After hearing their requests, he understood soon. They wanted the Mo Country to let the prince from the Liang Country live a life like he was at home. But where they lived was thousands of miles away from here, and their customs and habits were totally different. They had big and beautiful houses to live, and who would live in a yurt in such hot weather in July? Did they want to roast themselves? Qu Yuebai complained in his heart but was amazed by his masters foresight, so he didnt worry at all when Yel Anchen and the others created difficulties. After they finished speaking, he told the servants to lead the people from the Liang Country to the courtyard. Outside the courtyard, nobody knew when several nice yurts were set up. Even in Yel Anchens picky eyes, he couldnt find any fault. Then, Qu Yuebai told somebody to bring out the food made of flour and all kinds of meat, to let Yel Anchen live a life like he was in the Liang Country. Under the astonished eyes of Yel Anchen and the others, Qu Yuebai explained leisurely, Your Highness, you are respectable, so all these are specially prepared for you. As for the guards and servants who came with you, I am afraid we have to make them suffer and live the same life as us. They have to stay in the rooms of the embassy and eat the leftover food cooked by the imperial chefs. But those are the food for the royal family in our country, and we wont make your subordinates suffer from injustice. Yel Anchen was speechless. He just found fault and intended to bring trouble on the Mo Country, seizing a chance to lose his temper in order to get more profits. No matter how conceited Yel Anchen was, he knew that compared with the poor Liang Country, the Mo Country was rich and peaceful. Otherwise the Liang Country wouldnt have come to the south several times to start wars. They just wanted to rob more resources. He wasnt really dissatisfied with the treatment. Seeing that he would have to stay in the shabby yurt, but his servants would stay in better rooms, Yel Anchen wouldnt agree. But it was him who said that he would stay in a yurt and eat the main food from the Liang Country. He asked for it, so he would have to accept it even if he had to suffer. Yel Anchen was angry and turned pale. Looking at his subordinates who were happy because they could stay in nice rooms soon, he was depressed. Even Wu Yalei couldnt help but ask, Then I Before he started, Qu Yuebai stated with a smile, Lord Wu, you are the second respected guest. How can we let you stay in a humble room and eat the leftover food? Rest assured, you will get the special treatment, almost the same as Prince Yel. Wu Yalei couldnt speak a word. He didnt think he could rest assured. Noticing that Yel Anchen and Wu Yalei looked depressed, Qu Yuebai felt happy for a while in secret. Then he pretended to talk to himself. But I hear that the people from the Liang Country always follow the etiquette that the guest would listen to the host. Prince Yel, do you think so? Mo Junyu witnessed everything and felt joyful. When Qu Yuebai glanced at him, Mo Junyu looked at the counselor disapprovingly, rebuking him. Mr. Qu, Prince Yel doesnt like to bother the ally and understands that people would do in Rome as Rome does. You did so many things in order to make him feel at home. However, if some people who dont know about our thoughtfulness find that Prince Yel stays in a yurt even at the embassy, they wouldnt think we are kind-hearted. On the contrary, they would guess that Prince Yel is picky and spites the ally. Although you did it out of kindness, you would make him condemned by the public. Qu Yuebai admitted his fault in a hurry. I was thoughtless. Please forgive me, Your Highness, Prince Yel. Since they gave him a chance to change his mind, Yel Anchen was not a fool and certainly took the opportunity. He softened his voice. It doesnt matter. Mr. Qu, you are kind enough. I am grateful. But as the crown prince said, since I came to your country to celebrate your emperors birthday on behalf of my brother, I should listen to the host. Its okay to stay in a room. It was joking. He begged his brother for three days and came to the capital city from thousands of miles away. He just wanted to enjoy the so-called luxurious noble life in the Mo Country and didnt come to suffer. Anybody who wanted to stay in the yurt could stay. Anyway, he wouldnt. However, Qu Yuebai said helplessly, But we have prepared the yurts. If nobody would stay, we will throw them away. It will be a waste and disrespect the Liang Country. Yel Anchens face was red because he was angry. Mo Junyus face was red too because he was amused. He didnt expect that Mo Junyangs assistant was so funny. He had got the upper hand, but he still pretended polite and let the other side make the decision, which made them unable to go ahead or retreat. Fortunately, such a man was his friend, not his enemy. Mo Junyu thought like this but didnt show any emotion on his face. He smiled at Yel Anchen. Since the yurts are prepared for Prince Yel. He will decide who should stay in them. You dont need to worry. Qu Yuebai looked enlightened all of a sudden and nodded in agreement. Right, Your Highness, you are considerate. Prince Yel Yel Anchen responded hurriedly, Lord Wu, you came with me from afar and had a tiring journey. I will let you stay in the nice yurt as a reward. Have a good rest. Afterward, he didnt give Wu Yalei a chance to refuse and ordered. It seemed that he was afraid that if he didnt decide in time, he would be the one to stay in the yurt. After a long time, the envoys from the Liang Country finally stayed in the embassy without complaint. Mo Junyu heaved a sigh of relief for now and couldnt help but ask Qu Yuebai, You are smart when you prodded him at the city gate. It was a perfect way to deal with the arrogant Yel Anchen. But how did you know earlier that it would be effective? The normal people wouldnt be prodded so easily. Not to mention the yurts. Even I was surprised to see that. Did you prepare them in advance? Mo Junyu asked while sighing with emotion. Mo Junyang had talented men still remained in concealment. In the past, Mo Junyu had seen Qu Yuebai several times but didnt take him seriously. He thought that was just an attendant and assistant employed by Mo Junyang and had never seen his ability. Unexpectedly, this man made his mark at the first shot. Qu Yuebai waved his hand in an instant and didnt dare to take credit to himself. Everything was arranged by His Excellency. I just did as he ordered, and I dont deserve your praise, Your Highness. Oh? Junyang arranged everything in advance? Mo Junyu raised his brows and apparently didnt believe it. Even if Mo Junyang had miraculous foresight, he couldnt arrange everything that didnt happen. Qu Yuebai nodded seriously and answered, Indeed it was His Excellencys plan. After receiving your order, he sent people to investigate the situation in the Liang Country and guessed they would send Yel Anchen here. And he made several plans according to Yel Anchens character. It was just one of the plans as His Excellency guessed. So it was His Excellencys contribution, and I dont dare to take credit. Yes? Mo Junyu replied, as if lost in thought. He smiled automatically and murmured, He deserves to be Mo Junyang! Qu Yuebai had secretly observed Mo Junyus expression all the time and finally sighed with relief. He made it clear. On one hand, he didnt want to take credit, and on the other hand, he wanted Mo Junyu to know about what Mo Junyang had done. These days, because of Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang had more conflicts with Mo Junyu. If he let the crown prince be suspicious, they would probably break up sooner or later. Now knowing that it was not that Mo Junyang didnt do anything, but he arranged everything in advance and kept the crown princes order in mind, Mo Junyu might be less suspicious. Chapter 163 - You Will Die First as You Are Capable Mo Junyu had expected that the envoys of the three countries would reach the capital city about ten days before Mo Xiangbins birthday, but the people from the Liang Country had come more than half a month ahead of time. No matter if the spies of the Liang Country were capable or there were traitors in the Mo Country, neither of the two reasons could make Mo Junyu happy. If a country couldnt clear up the spies, how would the people pull together? When he was thinking about the way to deal with the spies, a servant came to report that Prince Yel was feeling bored and asked the crown prince to hang out with him. Mo Junyu got the message and his face turned ghastly pale out of anger. He believed that the servant tried to say something nice, and Yel Anchen wanted him to distract them from boredom. A crown prince would be like a clown to make others laugh. How can you do that? Your Highness, you cant go. Mo You was furious, too and threw away the teacup in his hand, roaring. Mo Junyu was certainly unwilling to go, but Mo Xiangbin had told him to entertain the envoys from the other countries, so he couldnt refuse. He sneered. Of course, I dont want to amuse those idiots, but they apparently want to embarrass me. I have to follow my fathers orders. How can I refuse to go? Mo You pondered for a while and suggested, Doesnt Prince Yel want somebody to make trouble with him? His Excellency is always resourceful. Just tell him to go. I believe that with His Excellencys status and wisdom, he would be more than enough to cope with Prince Yel. Qu Yuebai complained in his heart, Why does it sound like he will die first as he is capable? You even make use of somebody so boldly with sufficient reasons. However, seeing that Mo Junyu looked at him, Qu Yuebai just smiled. Your Highness, if thats what you want, I am going back to King Ruis mansion now and will report to His Excellency. Okay! Mo Junyu answered instantly, but after thinking for a while, he shook his head hesitantly. Forget it. I will go to King Ruis mansion in person. Since Prince Yel asked me, I have to go there, even if I have to ask Junyang to help me figure out a way. Qu Yuebai thought, Perhaps the real reason is that you are afraid that I cant persuade Mo Junyang if I go alone. When they rushed to King Ruis mansion, Mo Junyang was having breakfast with Shi Qingxue in the Love Xue House. So they watched the scene that Mo Junyang sat next to Shi Qingxue, with one hand grabbing a spoon and the other holding her hands which moved randomly. He comforted her patiently, Good girl, just eat more, okay? After you eat enough, I will take you out to have fun. Shi Qingxue was forced to swallow the cubilose porridge beside her mouth and sniffed with disgust, murmuring, It tastes bad. I want no more. Mo Junyang grabbed another spoon of cubilose porridge and put it in Qingxues mouth, but she avoided it decisively. He sighed, Didnt you like to eat it? Have one more bite. No Shi Qingxue dodged and tried to find words. I am fed up with it. Junyang, no. Every time Shi Qingxue started to call his name in a sweet voice, Mo Junyang had to give in. He put down the spoon and frowned, seeming to talk to himself. I know you wont like something for long, but Shen Luo specially prepared the cubilose to nourish you. How can you refuse to eat? Shi Qingxue acted like a rascal and got into Mo Junyangs arms. She hugged his neck and played the woman. No! I wont eat anymore. I am full. Lets go out to have fun. These days, Mo Junyang felt that he lowered his baseline again and again. Now as the soft voice called him, he had no baseline and just agreed to Shi Qingxues reasonable or unreasonable requests. Fine. No need to eat. Lets go to have fun. Everybody was used to Mo Junyang doting on Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyu didnt mock at Mo Junyangs behavior this time but walked quickly to them, asking with enthusiasm, Qingxue, do you want to hang out? Shi Qingxue heard the voice and raised her head, glancing at Mo Junyu in confusion. Then she subconsciously went deeper into Mo Junyangs arms and asked in a low voice, Were you calling me? Mo Junyus face went stiff and he thought that Shi Qingxue actually couldnt recognize anybody, but he didnt express his thoughts. He just nodded with a smile. Its a beautiful day today. How about we go out to have a walk? Shi Qingxue was tempted but didnt agree immediately. She just blinked her big eyes and looked at Mo Junyang, like a child who was locked up at home and wanted to go out but had to ask for parents permission. Mo Junyang couldnt refuse her at all and nodded helplessly. Okay. You can go anywhere as you like. Then he turned to Mo Junyu and asked indifferently, Where are we going? Mo Junyu was clear that even if he persuaded Shi Qingxue, he had to explain to Mo Junyang. He laughed and told him why they came here. At last, he stressed, You promised to help me deal with the people from the Liang Country, and now I really need you to show up. And Qingxue is unwilling to stay at home all the time. Why not take her out to have a walk? He coaxed and enticed him with only one purpose. He wanted Mo Junyang to show up. Mo Junyang looked at Mo Junyu and didnt refuse him directly as before. He just replied, In this case, lets go to have a look. When they came to the embassy in a big way, the prince of the Liang Country, Yel Anchen was fighting with a warrior, his subordinate. His moves were ruthless and he would hit the opponents fatal parts every time. Soon he beat that warrior to be black and blue. After kicking the warrior away, he waved at him again. Get up. Go on. With a swollen face, that warrior knelt on the ground and kowtowed to Yel Anchen, asking for mercy. Your Highness, you are highly skilled in martial arts. I am no match for you. Please spare me. Gee, trash! Yel Anchen mumbled crossly and felt disappointed. Then he looked at Mo Junyu and the others, seeming to finally notice them. He greeted arrogantly, Here you come. Mo Junyu smiled all the time and praised, I hear that the prince from the Liang Country has excellent martial skills. Now I have witnessed. You deserve your fame. I am impressed. Yel Anchen didnt feel contented after the fight, so he didnt want to hear Mo Junyus nice words. He waved his hand and responded, Cut the crap. Arent you from the royal family in the Mo Country? Lets have a fight and see who will win. Wu Yalei who wanted to make trouble echoed, Right! Crown Prince, didnt you say that you would entertain us? Our prince likes to fight. Wont you satisfy him? Mo Junyu learnt reading and writing and hated to fight from childhood. Although he had learnt how to protect himself, he was inferior to the martial arts masters. Hearing that Yel Anchen wanted to fight, he had a headache but had to nod in agreement. Its not spacious enough to stretch up in the embassy. Prince Yel, if you want to fully spread, how about we go to the royal training ground? The royal training ground? Yel Anchen was confused to hear the words because in the north, there were few people and much land, and the buildings in the Liang Country were sparse. There were open spaces everywhere, and they could fight at any place. They had no special training grounds. On the way, hearing Mo Junyus introduction about the spacious and high-class royal training ground far away in the suburb of the capital city, Yel Anchen disdained on the surface that people in the Mo Country were troublesome and would set up training grounds to fight, but he was looking forward to seeing such a special training ground. When they reached the royal training ground, Yel Anchen was shocked. As a martial arts enthusiast who thought he was extraordinarily skilled in martial arts, he dreamed about such high-class equipment. If they said that as long as they were good at martial arts, they could show their strength anywhere, it was because they had no money to show off. Your Highness, you can fight now! Wu Yalei noticed his masters eyes filled with admiration and instantly grabbed his clothes, reminding him in a low voice. In fact, Wu Yalei was also amazed by the luxurious royal training ground, but he had seen lots of architectures in the Mo Country on the way, so he was not too shocked. Yel Anchen swallowed his saliva and showed that he was the most important and capable, speaking to Mo Junyu. Well, lets have a competition. Mo Junyu was aware of his ability and if he came to fight, he would embarrass himself, so he suggested politely, Prince Yel, you are exceptional, and I am afraid that I am inferior to you, but I have a warrior whose ability is uncommon. Maybe he can challenge you. Please allow him. Afterward, he pushed Wei Zichao who was burly forward. Yel Anchen couldnt stay idle and would get excited when he heard that he could fight. Seeing Wei Zichaos tall and big figure, he was satisfied and didnt consider their different status. When Yel Anchen was about to agree, Wu Yalei stopped him again and asked haughtily, Crown Prince, what do you mean? This is a prince from our country with honorable status, but you told a servant to fight with him? Dont you humiliate our prince? Mo Junyu explained in a hurry, I didnt mean that. But Zichao is skilled in martial arts and one of the top masters in our country. I tell him to fight with Prince Yel, so it will match Prince Yels exceptional martial skills. Yel Anchen liked to hear such words and was more anxious to fight with Wei Zichao, but Wu Yalei was here and wouldnt miss any chance to embarrass the royal family of the Mo Country. Wu Yalei expressed loftily, Anyway, our prince is here. If you just tell anybody random to fight, you would disrespect our country and ruin the relationship between the two countries. Mo Junyu was speechless at Wu Yaleis sophistry and subconsciously looked at Mo Junyang to ask for help. Mo Junyang was holding Shi Qingxues hand and explaining to her about the usage of everywhere in the training ground patiently and carefully, like a mammy who taught them when they were children. It looked strange. Mo Junyu pursed his lips and glanced at Mo Junyang meaningfully. Come to cope with this violent prince! Mo Junyang just glanced at him indifferently and then looked away, with an obvious intention. Handle your own business. Shit! If Mo Junyu could handle it, he wouldnt ask Mo Junyang! What should he do? Chapter 164 - Mo Junyang’s Weakness Mo Junyu was forced and had no choice. Even if he lacked confidence, he had to agree. Prince Yel, since you have an interest, I will keep you company. But please give me some time as I need to get changed first, okay? There were two kinds of mens clothes in the Mo Country. One was tight fit for daily life, and the other was specially designed for sports, as military uniform. Yel Anchen didnt have so much to consider. Their people were nomads and few of them made clothes, and most of the fabrics were exchanged from the neighboring countries. Only the royal members and nobles could afford to wear fabric clothes. Who would get changed before fighting? But Yel Anchen wouldnt admit that they were poor. He just looked unhappy. Arent we just going to spar? Why do you have so many rules? Are you afraid of me? How come? Since I want to fight with you, I should come when I am at my prime. And its to show my respect to you, right? Yel Anchen thought for a minute and believed it was right, so he nodded and let Mo Junyu go. When Mo Junyu left to get changed, Yel Anchen didnt want to stop. He crooked his finger at Wei Zichao, with provocation and boasted without shame, I hear that you are the No.1 warrior in the Mo Country? After I defeat your crown prince, lets have a fight. Let me see how incapable the No. 1 warrior in the Mo Country is! He looked lofty and despised everybody. It seemed that he had won Mo Junyu and then could beat up Wei Zichao. Wei Zichao was a marital arts master, but he didnt like to win or fight. He saluted and replied modestly, I am just a bodyguard of His Highness and cant deserve to be the No. 1 warrior. There are many people who are superior to me. Prince Yel, thanks for your praise, but I am not that good. The people from the Liang Country had never known what was modest, and Yel Anchen looked down upon everybody. He didnt find that Wei Zichao was being modest but thought he was powerless. So he snorted. Gee, all people from the Mo Country are cowards. You dont even have the courage to fight with me. Its ridiculous. Yel Anchen insulted too many people. No matter how good-tempered Wei Zichao and others were, they couldnt control their anger. They were anxious to beat up this prince from the Liang Country to let him witness who was a real martial arts master. But Mo Junyang was present. Even if his subordinates wanted to have a fight, they had to be ready for their bosss orders. They needed to restrain themselves. Only Shi Qingxue dared to say something at this time. She curiously looked at Yel Anchen and Wei Zichao several times. Now she knew what fighting was, but she disliked Yel Anchens arrogance. She whispered to Mo Junyang, Who is this? He likes fighting so much and must be a bad boy! Even if Shi Qingxue called him jerk, Mo Junyang would echo her with a smile, so he certainly wouldnt object to her honest complaint. He touched Qingxues head while smiling, showing an expression to indulge her. Whatever you said is right. He didnt notice that the people from the Liang Country turned ghastly pale in rage after hearing her words. Yel Anchen stomped out of anger and cursed, Idiot, what do you know? You dont have any ability but dare to judge me. Trash! In fact, Yel Anchen didnt know about Shi Qingxues current condition but just felt that she was abnormal. He didnt think much and cursed because she was a woman, and he couldnt beat her up. Yel Anchen thought he was generous, but after he finished his words, it became silent on the spot all of a sudden, and even the sounds of breeze could be heard clearly. Even if Prince Yel was thoughtless, he found something wrong. But he didnt realize that he had hit Mo Junyangs weakness accurately and was courting death. He even held his head high and questioned arrogantly, Why dont you speak? Do you all think you are too weak and dont have the face to say anything? Mo Junyang smiled but there was no joy on his face or in his eyes, which made him more frightful. Prince Yel, all of us have seen your ability and admire you. His tone was gentle and pleasant to hear, and his words were sincere. But the others were frightened by this voice to move a few steps backward and subconsciously got away from Yel Anchen. The devil was going to explode, and if they didnt want to be affected, they would have to keep a distance from the chief criminal. Yel Anchen didnt know anything and nodded with satisfaction, responding more haughtily, You are a nice talker. It happened that Mo Junyu came out after getting changed. Seeing that his people were alert and more panicked than going to the battlefield, while all people from the Liang Country were complacent, he asked in confusion, Whats going on? He had just left for less than fifteen minutes. Why did it become so weird? Mo Junyang even turned to smile at him and explained softly, Nothing. Its just that I admire Prince Yels braveness. Your Highness, hope you can give me a chance to learn martial skills from him first. Mo Junyu was petrified. In the beginning, no matter how he winked at Mo Junyang, the latter refused to fight. Why did he ask to fight with Yel Anchen now? Of course it was okay with Mo Junyu, but Wu Yalei didnt agree. Wu Yalei didnt know Mo Junyang and thought he was a nobody, so he pointed at Mo Junyangs nose. Who are you? Are you qualified to fight with our prince? Dont mess around. Mo Junyang didnt look like he was humiliated and saluted, answering in a warm voice, I am King Ruis heir. Although I am humble, my father is King Rui. I think I am qualified to fight with Prince Yel. Wu Yalei didnt expect that he had no insight and offended a big shot, so he kept silent resentfully. Yel Anchen didnt mind as long as he could fight. He wanted to beat up everybody from the Mo Country to show the power of the Liang Country. He looked down his nose at Mo Junyang and said scornfully, We can spar, of course, but you are so weak. What if I beat you to death by accident after you come up? Wouldnt I ruin the relationship between the two countries? The people from the Liang Country burst into laughter and seemed to see that Mo Junyang was beaten to death. While the people from the Mo Country kept quiet and thought at the same time, Hope that our master is not too furious. If he beats Prince Yel to death, it would be an international problem. Mo Junyang nodded in agreement and replied, Prince Yel, it made sense. Our competition shouldnt influence the relationship between the two countries. I have an idea. Lets sign a life-and-death document before fighting to show that we will take the responsibility by ourselves no matter if we are injured or dead, and nobody can blame each other or the country. Then you will have nothing to worry about when you fight. What do you think? He considered everything for Yel Anchen, but all people behind Mo Junyang opened their eyes wide in horror and seemed to see the tragedy after he exploded. Wu Yalei was not as brainless as the rash warrior, Yel Anchen. Even if he hadnt found anything earlier, he sensed something wrong from the weird expression of the people on the other side. He knew that the people from the Mo Country were always foxy and might have set a trap for them, so he stated, Why do you need to sign a life-and-death document? Our prince is precious. If he is injured, it must be your fault. Do you want to avoid taking the responsibility? This envoy didnt know that it was natural for the warrior to get injured and a scar was an honorable sign. He had a perfect assumption. The people from the Mo Country could be beaten randomly, and if they were injured or dead, it was because they were incapable, but their prince couldnt be wounded. If he was injured even on his skin, they could have an excuse to blame the Mo Country. Mo Junyang didnt retort Wu Yalei but echoed him meaningfully, Right, Prince Yel is precious and cant be injured. Yel Anchen had thought that what Wu Yalei said was harsh, and then Mo Junyang glanced at him meaningfully, so he felt that his identity as a warrior was looked down upon, so he lost his temper in an instant. He ignored Wu Yaleis objection and roared, I am the No. 1 warrior in the Liang Country, and its natural to get injured and bleed on the training ground. If you find fault after the competition, you are not a man. Isnt it just a life-and-death document? I will sign, but dont cry and ask me to show mercy later. Mo Junyang then told Qu Yuebai to bring two life-and-death documents and gave one to Yel Anchen, saying with no emotion, Prince Yel, you are a man. So Yel Anchen waved his hand and signed his life-and-death document. Then he threw it back to Qu Yuebai. Till now, he still didnt know he was going to die and asked haughtily, Will you change your clothes like your crown prince before you nerve yourself to fight with me? Prince Yel, you are so decisive, and I dont dare to delay. Lets get started! Mo Junyang stretched out one hand to invite him. Yel Anchen jumped up to the ring and shook his long hair with plaits, thinking himself handsome. Mo Junyang smiled and was about to get into the ring when Shi Qingxue grabbed his arm. Shi Qingxue didnt understand their conversation and just knew that Mo Junyang would fight against that man with plaits. She murmured nervously, You dont want me anymore? Although Shi Qingxue became open-minded these days and wasnt afraid of strangers anymore, and she was curious about anything new and wanted to learn more, it was when Mo Junyang stayed with her. After she woke up, they had never got parted, and she was unwilling to leave Mo Junyang for a second. Mo Junyang was happy as Shi Qingxue was close to him, but he had to teach somebody who insulted her a lesson. He patted the back of Shi Qingxues hand to comfort her and whispered in her ear in a voice that only the two could hear, Be nice. I will teach him a lesson for you. Just wait here and cheer for me, okay? Seeing that Mo Junyang hadnt come to the ring, Yel Anchen got impatient and shouted at him, Just admit defeat if you dont dare to fight. You are so hesitant. Are you a man? Shi Qingxue was still unwilling to leave Mo Junyang, but the man on the ring was hateful, and she wanted Mo Junyang to beat him. So she slowly let him go and said with a sad face, I am here waiting for you. Come back as soon as possible. It was just a competition, but they showed a tearful play of parting forever. All people standing behind them were jealous. Mo Junyang ignored Yel Anchens roar and went to the ring from the stairs unhurriedly after comforting Shi Qingxue. A fight would start soon. Chapter 165 - Beat up Prince Yelü As soon as Mo Junyang got into the ring, Yel Anchen tried to punch him first. When his fist was going to hit Mo Junyang, the latter dodged to the right and avoided his fist. Then Yel Anchen waved his left elbow and swiped to the left. Mo Junyang was forced to lean backward and finally avoided his attack. All people focused their eyes on the ring and watched that Yel Anchen assaulted Mo Junyang repeatedly and almost cornered him several times. Mo Junyang was about to be hit for a few times, but he escaped at last. The people from the Mo Country under the ring were scared by the shocking fight and their hearts beat fast. Although Mo Junyang wasnt hit from the beginning, the fight was too breathtaking, and Yel Anchen attacked Mo Junyang all the time. They hadnt seen Mo Junyang take action. Mo Junyang seemed to be forced without a way out, but Yel Anchen who got the upper hand didnt feel he won but got depressed for no reason. After waving his fist in succession before Mo Junyang dodged, Yel Anchen couldnt help but shout at him impatiently, Start your move. You keep dodging. Are you a man? Are you afraid of me so you dont dare to beat me up? Wu Yalei under the ring also mocked, Are you all cowards? You fight in the ring but dont even have the nerve to attack. Gee, its humiliating! Right You just dodge. All people from the Mo Country are cowards! The people from the Liang Country made a fuss in twos and threes. They commented on Mo Junyang and then criticized all people from the Mo Country. Although Shi Qingxue couldnt fully understand what they meant, she knew that they were speaking evil of Mo Junyang. She was unhappy. You are bad. Dont criticize Junyang Wu Yalei glanced at Shi Qingxue with disdain. Gee, an idiot who cant speak even learns to quarrel. Can you read? Aha The people from the Liang Country burst into laughter again. However, the people from the Mo Country peeped at the ring, seeing that Mo Junyang still concentrated on resisting Yel Anchens challenge. Nobody knew if he didnt hear Wu Yaleis words or he didnt have the energy to care, as he had no reaction. But Qu Yuebai didnt dare to take a risk and pushed away Shi Qingxue in secret, comforting her in a low voice. Qingxue, dont be anxious. Junyang can handle it. Just be well-behaved and stay here, and its the greatest help for him. As Mo Junyang was not beside her, Shi Qingxue trusted this man who often showed up in the Love Xue House. Although she was unwilling to, she nodded to assure him, I will be well-behaved. Mo Junyu who paid attention to the battle wasnt as confident as Qu Yuebai. He thought back and believed that he had never seen Mo Junyang fighting. Just because Mo Junyang would be unhurried whatever he did, Mo Junyu thought his cousin must be skilled in martial arts. But under the situation Was Mo Junyang even less powerful than him? When all people focused on the fight in the ring, nobody noticed that a slim figure left there sneakily. In the ring, Yel Anchen assaulted more and more impatiently, and Mo Junyang dodged with more difficulties. When all people thought the result had no suspense, Mo Junyang glanced at the crowd casually, and then he kept his distance from Yel Anchen at a surprising speed. Before Yel Anchen attacked once more, Mo Junyang looked at the crowd again carefully. Where is Qingxue? All people didnt know what had happened. Hearing Mo Junyangs question, they looked around and realized that Shi Qingxue was nowhere to be found. Mo Junyangs face turned ghastly pale and he instantly gestured for Yel Anchen to stop. Stop. I have something to do. Yel Anchen was frightened as Mo Junyang sped up, and when he calmed down, he was furious and excited. How could he let Mo Junyang stop? He waved his fist and rushed to Mo Junyang again. Why would I stop? If I cant injure you, I wont be called Yel Anchen! Come on While speaking, Yel Anchen raised his leg and tried to kick Mo Junyangs waist. When the audience thought Mo Junyang must be unable to avoid this offensive, something happened unexpectedly. He didnt dodge but raised his hand to resist downward. His fingers formed a claw and grabbed Yel Anchens ankle. Before Yel Anchen reacted, he felt his body was light and then he flew away out of control. The crowd saw that Mo Junyang lifted Yel Anchen easily like picking up a chicken and then threw him away gently. Yel Anchen made an arc in the air and fell on the other side of the ring seriously. It happened so soon. Before everybody came back to earth, they watched as Mo Junyang suddenly appeared beside Yel Anchen and dragged him up while asking indifferently, Shall we continue? Or are you going to admit defeat? Yel Anchen was irritated immediately and didnt realize how horrible the devil in front of him was. He didnt give in and howled, You are so weak. Let me teach you a lesson! Afterward, he raised his hand, trying to punch Mo Junyangs face. They were close to each other, and Yel Anchen moved at lightning speed. Logically, he could hit the target. But something surprising happened again. Mo Junyang wasnt hit but resisted Yel Anchen with his fist. Then nobody knew which part of Yel Anchens hand Mo Junyang pointed. The prince looked like all his strength was drained in an instant, and his fist and all his body softened. He screamed miserably. Ah! Wu Yalei shouted in shock, Your Highness! He was running to the ring, but Qu Yuebai stopped him in advance and said politely, Prince Yel and His Excellency are competing fairly. Before the outcome is decided, I think they dont want an outsider to disturb them. Wu Yalei, I will fight with this jelly fish alone. Dont meddle. Get out! Yel Anchen still hadnt found the great disparity and yelled at Wu Yalei, telling him not to mess around. Wu Yalei was just worried that he must be in trouble if there was something wrong with Yel Anchen. Since the prince said that, he stopped and told his subordinates to cheer for Yel Anchen. Yel Anchen seemed to burst and gathered up his strength to attack Mo Junyang again. But Mo Junyang lost his patience to play hide and seek with him. Facing Yel Anchens mortal blows, he dodged easily and then counter-attacked him in the same way. Every blow was deadly. At this time, even though Yel Anchen was over-confident, he came to know the gap between their strength, but Mo Junyang moved swiftly. Yel Anchen could hardly resist him and was unable to consider anything else. When Yel Anchen couldnt stand it and wanted to quit, Mo Junyang pinched his opponents neck and held back his voice in his throat, making him unable to admit defeat or ask for mercy. In everybodys eyes, the situation in the ring changed. Earlier, Yel Anchen attacked all the time, but now Mo Junyang beat up the opponent. In no time, Yel Anchen was black and blue, with fresh blood filling his swollen face. Mo Junyu and his people were happy to see that, but the people from the Liang Country were terrified. Even so, Yel Anchen still refused to stop the competition. Wu Yalei didnt dare to say more but had to watch their prince being defeated. Mo Junyang punched Yel Anchens chin upward and beat him to get out of the ring. When Wu Yalei and his people hurriedly ran to help Yel Anchen up, they found that their prince was full of blood, in a coma. Wu Yalei was nervous and angry and yelled at Mo Junyang, Even if you were fighting, you were so ruthless, Your Excellency. You have gone too far. If there is something wrong with His Highness What? Are you going to break your word after he signed the life-and-death document? Mo Junyang casually waved the life-and-death documents in his hand and stopped Wu Yalei from saying what he wanted. Wu Yaleis face darkened out of anger, but their prince was too stupid and had signed the unfair contract. Although in the beginning, he once believed that Yel Anchen would defeat Mo Junyang. Now he had no excuse to blame the Mo Country and had to endure it unwillingly. However, Mo Junyang didnt take this envoy seriously. After giving him a response randomly, he ran out of the ring and asked Qu Yuebai, I told you to take care of Qingxue. Where is she now? Since Mo Junyang asked the question in the ring, Qu Yuebai realized that he would be in trouble. When Mo Junyang beat up Yel Anchen to vent his anger, Qu Yuebai had sent some people to look for Shi Qingxue. But the problem was that Mo Junyang had finished, while none of the people he sent out had come back. They didnt notice when Shi Qingxue disappeared, nor did they know where she would go. Qu Yuebai thought of Shi Qingxues current condition. If she ran out of the royal training ground, she would He trembled and a chill on his back came to his head. He tried his best to explain, I have sent some people to look for her. Logically, there are guards at the exit of the training ground, and she should Seeing that Mo Junyang was going to explode, Qu Yuebai couldnt explain anymore and lowered his head silently. When Qu Yuebai thought he would be frozen to death by Mo Junyangs coldness, a slim figure quickly rushed into Mo Junyangs arms and shouted in surprise, Junyang, Junyang, you defeated that bad guy. You are so awesome! Mo Junyang wasnt tempted by Shi Qingxues flattery this time and still showed a long face, asking with no emotion, Where have you been? Ah! I am hungry. Lets go to get something to eat! Shi Qingxue avoided meeting his eyes and changed the subject, without answering Mo Junyang. But after she said a lot, she saw that Mo Junyang still stared at her indifferently. The excitement on Qingxues beautiful face disappeared and was replaced with caution. She peeped at Mo Junyang and knew that her plea for mercy wouldnt work. She had to pout and say unwillingly, I just took revenge for you. Junyang, dont be angry. Take revenge? The two men were confused to hear that. At the same time, another scream suddenly came from the people of the Liang Country. Chapter 166 - Dirty Tricks All people present were attracted by Wu Yaleis screams, so they didnt notice that Shi Qingxue lowered her head with a sly smile on her red thin lips. Mo Junyang paid attention to Shi Qingxue all the time, so how would he ignore her smile? Although he was surprised, he didnt change his expression. He held Qingxues hand and walked to the shed of the people from the Liang Country with the crowd. Wu Yalei still shrieked continually. The people from the Liang Country surrounded him and all showed anxiety on their faces but they didnt know what to do. Whats wrong with you? As the receptionist, Mo Junyu asked politely even though he was happy to see Wu Yalei suffer. One of the people from the Liang Country supported Wu Yalei who was in pain and unable to open his eyes, explaining worriedly, Lord Wu saw that His Highness was badly injured, so he wanted to send His Highness to the doctor at once, but as soon as we carried His Highness onto the stretcher, Lord Wu following behind suddenly covered his eyes and screamed. He said it was spicy, but we dont know what happened. Wu Yalei was still screaming at the moment, but when the others asked him with concern, he couldnt say what was going on. Mo Junyang glanced at Wu Yalei and then looked at Shi Qingxue hiding behind him with a grin. He instantly realized who did it and understood why Qingxue said she took revenge for him. He gently pinched the back of Qingxues hand and asked in a low voice, What did you do? Shi Qingxue looked around nervously. After confirming that nobody noticed them, she had a complacent smile as if she had won. She replied softly, I went to the kitchen and told a female cook to give me a bottle of chili water. When there was nobody, I pour the chili water on their felt hats behind. It was good news for Shi Qingxue that the people from the Liang Country would like to wear felt hats even in summer. After Shi Qingxue finished everything, nobody found it. Even Wu Yalei was a victim, and he didnt know what happened. Perhaps the official with a complicated mind would never think that somebody would take revenge with such a simple and violent way, using chili water. He thought he was poisoned and kept telling somebody to call for a doctor. Two of the people from the Liang Country were seriously wounded after coming to the training ground. They became a group without a leader and had to look at Mo Junyu for help. Mo Junyang expressed generously, Although the fists had blind force in the competition, Prince Yel was injured because of me. Let Shen Luo from my mansion treat them, okay? None of the people from the Liang Country disagreed, and without worry, they left the two patients to Shen Luo. Mo Junyu was not as carefree as these people, and he worriedly asked Mo Junyang in a low voice, Even though they spoke insolently and insulted Shi Qingxue, you have beaten him up, and Wu Yalei was hurt by you, right? Its enough. If you go farther, it will be difficult to handle it. Mo Junyang raised his brows and glanced at Mo Junyu to comfort him. Dont worry. I wont get you implicated. Only God knew what else Mo Junyang wanted to do. That night, after being treated by Shen Luo, Yel Anchen came to his senses from the coma. Hearing the servants talking about the embarrassing scene when he fell off the ring, he looked furious. He swept away the medicine bowl brought by a servant and cursed ruthlessly, Mo Junyang, you are skilled in martial arts but purposely pretended to be weak in the beginning and made me relax my vigilance and underestimate you, so I lost the game. Wu Yalei still didnt know he was tortured by the chili water. With a swollen face, he hated all people from the Mo Country. He tried his best to advise Yel Anchen, I have told you before. All people from the Mo Country are cunning and sinister and we cant underestimate the enemy. Your Highness, you fell in their trap, and youd better stay away from them in the future, in case you are fooled again. What are you talking about? I am a prince from the Liang Country and behave properly. How can they be my opponents? This time I was careless. When I rally forces again, I can beat up Mo Junyang! Yel Anchen spoke ruthlessly, as if he could make it come true no matter what he said. He couldnt endure being provoked. He was always arrogant and even wanted to provoke God. How would he consider if his strength was enough? Can you? When the two cursed excitedly, a cold voice cut in abruptly and scared them. Yel Anchen sprang from his bed, but because of his severe wound, he fell on the bed again. If Wu Yalei hadnt supported him swiftly, he would have fallen miserably. There was another sarcastic laughter in the room. When the two sat down in a flurry, Yel Anchen finally found a masked man in black in his room. Nobody knew when he came, and he stood in the corner beside the window. The light was dim, and the shadow was vague. Yel Anchen stared at the masked man alertly. Who are you? The masked man didnt reply but threw him a hidden weapon. Yel Anchen received it subconsciously and found it was a symbolic badge of the royal family of the Liang Country. He glanced at Wu Yalei automatically, who looked solemn and saluted the masked man respectfully. Lord Ying, good day. Can I ask what you want me to do as you came here? Before Wu Yalei went on the trip, the King of the Liang Country, Yel Beichen gave him a secret order. He would come to the Mo Country to celebrate the emperors birthday and inquire about the colorful phenix, and he should get in touch with a man named Ying. He didnt tell Wu Yalei how to contact Ying but only told him to do as Ying ordered after seeing him. Earlier, Wu Yalei was surprised. He didnt know how to contact Ying, so how would he get in touch with him? Unexpectedly, Lord Ying came to him in person. Lord Ying looked mysterious but spoke straightforward. He told the two simply, The colorful phenix hasnt been sent to the capital city. Be well-behaved these days and dont offend Mo Junyang again. Especially the woman next to him, Shi Qingxue, youd better not even look at her. Yel Anchen had also received Yel Beichens order, but he was always conceited and disdained this man who didnt dare to show his face. He asked with provocation, So what if I look at her? Lord Ying raised his brows and looked at Yel Anchen, asking with a faint smile, So what? Didnt you know today? Thats because Mo Junyang is mean and shameless and fooled me. If we fight openly, I wont lose! Yel Anchen didnt give up and retorted. He got more excited while speaking and bragged, Huh! I am not like you cowards. I will take revenge by myself. Wait and see. I will teach Mo Junyang a lesson tomorrow and let him Lord Ying leered at him coldly and was not in the mood to talk. He ran to Yel Anchen quickly and directly grabbed his shoulders to make him fall. When Yel Anchen reacted, he was lying on the floor and looked confused. With your strength, you cant even defeat me but you want to avenge yourself on Mo Junyang. You are na?ve! Lord Ying belittled Yel Anchen without mercy. Yel Anchen threw a fit in an instant and said resentfully, You launched a surprise attack just now. Otherwise I wouldnt have been defeated by you. Once more! This time Yel Anchen attacked first and forcefully aimed at Lord Ying, but before the prince touched his hair, Lord Ying dodged. Yel Anchen almost fell on the floor because he lost balance. Lord Ying seized the chance and pulled him, grabbing his shoulders to make him fall again. Yel Anchen fell on the floor once more without suspense. Are you convinced? Lord Ying walked to Yel Anchen and looked down at him, asking coldly. Yel Anchen still didnt want to surrender, but he was in pain and couldnt get up, so he could only groan. Wu Yalei was scared and hurriedly ran to help up Yel Anchen. He checked the prince carefully and was afraid that there was something wrong with his master. But he didnt dare to offend Lord Ying like he did in the daytime. He had to try to please Lord Ying. Anyway His Highness is His Majestys brother. Please show mercy, Lord Ying. We will do as you told us and wont irritate His Excellency. Please dont worry! Lord Ying walked two steps backward and glanced at Yel Anchen with disdain, saying nonchalantly, Your only purpose to come to the capital is the colorful phenix, and you cant behave rashly or publicize it, in case of unnecessary ramifications. If you ruin His Majestys plan, dont blame me. I have reminded you. After he left the warning, the candles in the room were put out and everything returned peaceful. After a while, Wu Yalei lit up the candles again, but Lord Ying was nowhere to be found. He heaved a sigh of relief and helped Yel Anchen who was in a trance go back to bed. He thought that Yel Anchens martial skills were undefeated in the capital of the Liang Country Mengan and he thought of himself as the No. 1 warrior in Mengan, but he was beaten by two strangers today. No matter how confident he was, he couldnt get tough now. But it was good news for Wu Yalei. He didnt want to serve a domineering master who looked down upon everybody. Now Yel Anchen was dispirited, and Wu Yalei immediately comforted in a soft voice, Your Highness, dont worry. His Excellency is merely a nobody, and you just keep him alive for now. When His Majesty controls the whole world someday, His Excellency will be at your mercy. Even if you cut him into pieces, nobody would dare to say anything. Please care more about His Majestys plan now, Your Highness! Yel Anchen disdained everybody else but respected Yel Beichen very much. After Wu Yaleis soft comfort, he was still reluctant, but he didnt dare to ruin his brothers plan. He had to say, Just let Mo Junyang live for more days. He pondered for a while and then added, And that Ying must be a bad guy, and he dares to humiliate me. After my brother defeats the Mo Country, I will kill him, too. Wu Yalei naturally nodded to echo him, Certainly. His Majesty loves you most and wont let you suffer any injustice. But my brother finally gave me a chance to come to the Mo Country. If I dont do anything but listen to that Ying, it is too depressing. How can I explain to my brother and the people of our country after I go back? Yel Anchen was still unhappy. Wu Yalei had to suggest, Although Lord Ying told us not to publicize, he didnt say that we can do nothing. In several days, the Zhao Country and the Wei Country would send envoys to the capital city, and then we can do something in secret to ruin their relationship. Then we can make things difficult for the Mo Country and wont get ourselves in trouble. It will be better. Yel Anchen didnt understand the dirty tricks, but seeing that Wu Yaleis eyes lit up as he spoke, he thought it must be a great idea and nodded in agreement. I dont trust Ying, so I will let you handle it. After you finish the job, I will give you rewards. Wu Yalei knelt down and thanked him in an instant. I wont let you down. Chapter 167 - Wait and See Several days later, the envoys from the Zhao Country reached the capital city of the Mo Country. This time the Zhao Country sent the third prince Zhao Haoran and the princess Zhao Niaoniao as well as some civil and military officials, with a bigger number of people than the Liang Country. However, the Mo Country and the Zhao Country kept a good relationship, so the officials waiting in the south of the city didnt feel threatened but welcomed them and happily led them to the embassy for the Zhao Country. But after the princess of the Zhao Country, Zhao Niaoniao entered the city gate, she refused to follow them to the embassy. She thought she was familiar with the city and people and told the driver to drive the carriage to the north of the city. She headed for King Ruis mansion. The Assistant Minister of Rite, Fu Jian saw that and had a headache. He couldnt stop the people from the Zhao Country and had to send someone to report to King Ruis mansion. Then he followed the envoy team of the Zhao Country. After Zhao Niaoniao got to the gate of King Ruis mansion, she jumped off the carriage and walked to the mansion, turning a deaf ear to Zhao Haoran who called her from behind. The guards at the gate didnt know Zhao Niaoniao and stopped her directly in the beginning, refusing to let her in. Zhao Niaoniao got furious and stood with her hands on her hips. She raised her beautiful chin and looked arrogant. I am a princess from the Zhao Country. Its fine that you dont kneel down and salute me after seeing me, but you dare to stop me. Be careful. I will tell my brother, Junyang on you and make you get punished. The guards didnt know that their master had any relationship with Zhao Niaoniao. Even though she threatened, they still refused to let her in without mercy and said that His Excellency didnt receive visitors recently. They tried to tell her to go back. Zhao Haoran who loved his sister most couldnt bear to see her being bullied, and he was going to teach these blind servants a lesson for her. A fight would start soon, and Qu Yuebai showed up in time. Qu Yuebai was clear about Mo Junyangs relationship with Zhao Niaoniao. Although he thought it was a trouble, he still invited her into King Ruis mansion and apologized to her. His Excellency has been resting in the Love Xue House these days and doesnt see outsiders. And the guards at the gate are new workers, so they dont know you two. Please forgive them as they offended you. Zhao Niaoniao wanted to get close to Mo Junyang and wouldnt be arrogant to his trusted follower in front of her. She thought she was easy-going and showed a shy smile with a nod. I wont bother about those servants. Mr. Qu, you have worried too much. She thought she had been to King Ruis mansion many times, but Mo Junyang always refused to take her to the Love Xue House. It happened that he was not here, so she felt excited and said to Qu Yuebai, I want to see Junyang now. Lead the way for me. She took it for granted, as if Qu Yuebai were her servant. Qu Yuebai didnt feel humiliated but was helpless. Thinking of what might be happening in the Love Xue House, he would look for trouble if he took the brother and sister there. If there would be a fight in the Love Xue House, who would be to blame? His Excellency has never received guests in the Love Xue House. I will take you to the living room and then ask him to meet you two, Qu Yuebai suggested in an indirect way. Zhao Niaoniao didnt understand the rejection hidden in Qu Yuebais words and waved her hand, expressing unblushingly, I am familiar with Junyang, and of course, Im not a guest. We will meet in the Love Xue House, and you dont need to bother him to go to the living room. Anyway, I havent seen his residence! A woman should be restrained, so Zhao Niaoniao said the last words in a low voice, like talking to herself, but it revealed her intention. Zhao Haoran frowned and couldnt endure that his arrogant sister lowered herself to such a level because of Mo Junyang. He said with displeasure, Its just the residence of a kings heir and its not worth visiting. You are a princess from the Zhao Country. He should come out to welcome you in person. How can you lower yourself to see him? Zhao Niaoniao got unhappy and pouted. She glared at Zhao Haoran and roared, Brother, as you dont know anything, dont speak randomly. Junyang must be too busy and too tired, so he doesnt have time to come out personally. Dont ruin my relationship with him, or else, I will get mad at you. Zhao Haoran was speechless as his sister forgot him when she was in love with somebody. Fine, a teenage girl fell in love for the first time, and the man she loved was the best no matter what happened, so she wouldnt let him be defamed, not even by her closest relative. Zhao Haoran didnt want Zhao Niaoniao to lose her temper and had to shut up resentfully. Then he glared at Qu Yuebai, seeming to say, Wait and see. The innocent Qu Yuebai could say nothing. He did nothing, okay? Why was he hurt in the end? Seeing that Zhao Niaoniao joyfully ran to the Love Xue House even though she was stopped, Qu Yuebai couldnt prevent her, so he had to follow the two and pray in secret. It was afternoon, and Shi Qingxue must be having a nap. As long as Zhao Niaoniao wouldnt see Shi Qingxue, there must be nothing wrong. At the moment, in the courtyard of the Love Xue House The lotuses still blossomed at the end of the summer. With the breeze, pleasant fragrance came over constantly. A small luxurious bed was placed beside the lotus pond, and Shi Qingxue was lying on her side on it. Her eyes were closed and her hands grabbed each other under her chin. She was sleeping soundly. Mo Junyang sat on a corner of the small bed and grabbed a fan with his right hand to fan the sleeping beauty from time to time. And he had a handkerchief in his left hand. When there was sweat on Shi Qingxues forehead, he would lightly wipe it for her, in case that she got a cold. He did everything gently and skillfully, as if he had done it in this way many times. His concentrated eyes with love fell on Qingxues quiet sleeping face, and his cold face showed gentleness that he didnt realize. When Zhao Niaoniao and the others came to the gate of the Love Xue House, they saw the peaceful scene. They had never seen such a warm Mo Junyang, and Zhao Niaoniao was stunned on the spot and couldnt react. Nobody knew if Mo Junyang didnt care or he was too absorbed, and he didnt find anybody at the gate. He focused his eyes on Qingxues face and looked at her shaking long eyelashes as she breathed. He felt his heart being tickled by a cats claw, and he was itchy. He controlled himself several times but couldnt at last. Mo Junyang lowered his head silently and tried to kiss Shi Qingxues cheek while bending Zhao Niaoniaos pupils shrank all of a sudden, and she shouted subconsciously, Junyang! Her voice was loud and sharp, like screaming. No matter how badly Mo Junyang wanted to do that, he lost his interest when hearing the voice. He frowned and raised his head. When he saw the brother and sister, he pouted and asked coldly, What are you doing here? Zhao Niaoniao had never cared about Mo Junyangs coldness in the past, but the vague figure lying on the small bed aroused her panic and alertness, and the scene offending to the eye made her nervous. She even ignored Mo Junyangs question and strode forward. Regardless of the difference between men and women, she reached out to pull Mo Junyangs arm and meanwhile stared with hatred at the person on the small bed, asking in a loud voice, Junyang, who is this bitch? Mo Junyang was displeased because he couldnt kiss Qingxue and got more discontented to hear Zhao Niaoniao insult her. He dodged before Zhao Niaoniao touched him and stated coldly, Its none of your business. He was worried that Shi Qingxue would be awakened and then softened, adding with no emotion, Its not a good place to talk. Please follow Yuebai to the living room, and I will be there later. No! Zhao Niaoniao refused harshly, and Mo Junyangs heartless attitude made her restless unprecedentedly. Since Mo Junyang didnt give her an answer, she couldnt help but shout at Shi Qingxue who was asleep, Who are you? How dare you steal Junyang from me? You are so bold. I will break your If Shi Qingxue couldnt wake up, she was not taking a nap but rested forever. She was awakened by the sharp female voice and fumbled next to her in a daze, but she didnt find the big hand which would show up beside her at any time as she expected. She felt nervous and couldnt sleep anymore. She opened her eyes all of a sudden and sat up. Seeing that Mo Junyang was in front of her, she stopped being alert and just felt a strong grievance. Shi Qingxue reached out both hands to Mo Junyang and murmured pitifully, I am sleepy. Give me a hug! Okay, I hug you. Continue to sleep. Mo Junyang got soft-hearted and tried to comfort her immediately and wipe away the grievance on her face. But Zhao Niaoniao stood between them abruptly again and cursed Shi Qingxue furiously, You shameless seductress. You dare to seduce my Junyang in broad daylight. I will tear your face! Afterward, she stretched out her sharp nails and tried to hurt Shi Qingxues face. If she hit the target, there must be fresh blood all over. Mo Junyang certainly wouldnt let Zhao Niaoniao hurt his sweetheart in front of him. He grasped Zhao Niaoniaos wrist in time and then threw her to the back with strength. Zhao Niaoniao was thrown several meters away by the force. If Zhao Haoran hadnt received her from behind promptly, she would have fallen on the ground. She glared at Mo Junyang in disbelief and had never expected that he would beat her up without mercy. But Mo Junyang didnt even give her a glance. He turned around and checked Shi Qingxue, asking her with concern, Are you injured? Let me see. I will call for Shen Luo All the onlookers were speechless. Just now even though they were in the distance, they had seen clearly that Zhao Niaoniaos hand didnt get close to Shi Qingxue from the beginning to the end. How could she get injured? Could His Excellency stop being blind? Of course Shi Qingxue wasnt wounded, but as soon as she woke up, she met a ferocious face, and her heart was hurt. Who is she? She is so scary. She clung to Mo Junyang and peeped at Zhao Niaoniao occasionally, with alertness in her eyes. Mo Junyang held her in his arms and coaxed her softly. Dont be afraid. I am going to drive her away, so that you dont need to see her. Qu Yuebai kept silent. Looking at Zhao Haoran whose face darkened and Zhao Niaoniao who paled, Qu Yuebai thought if he didnt say something, it wouldnt end. Qu Yuebai stressfully walked to Mo Junyang and reminded him in a low voice. Your Excellency, the third prince and the princess from the Zhao Country reached the capital city today and came to visit you specially. Chapter 168 - Regain Her Memory Qu Yuebai tried to stop Mo Junyang fearlessly. Mo Junyang wasnt blinded by the beauty at last and he pondered for a minute with a cold expression. But soon, he said politely and distantly, I am sorry. I am busy now and Im afraid that I cant talk with you two. Please go back to the embassy first, and I will come to apologize another day. Mo Junyang said that, and it was obvious that he took Zhao Haoran and Zhao Niaoniao as friends. But it was humiliation in Zhao Haorans opinion who was spoiled and respected by everybody since childhood. Zhao Haoran was furious. He held Zhao Niaoniaos shoulder with one hand and pointed at Mo Junyang with the other, cursing, Mo Junyang, who are you? Its your luck that Niaoniao loves you. Its fine that you didnt refuse her but let her love you in the past. Now you even dare to abandon her. Do you think the princess from our country can be bullied easily? He didnt refuse her but let her love him He abandoned her Qu Yuebai almost burst into laughter after hearing that. Mo Junyang stayed celibate and abused himself. Except for Shi Qingxue, nobody could attract him. Zhao Haoran even described Mo Junyang in this way, and he was just imagining. However, Mo Junyang didnt get mad, and he was really a gentleman. Even when Shi Qingxue curiously asked what abandon meant, Mo Junyang ignored Zhao Haorans provocation or anger and explained patiently, It means that you love somebody in the beginning but dont love him later. The brother and sister looked shocked as if they saw a ghost. Was it a joke? Mo Junyang who always thought highly of himself and refused to say anything useless would answer such a stupid question. It was so weird. Oh! Shi Qingxue was suddenly enlightened and nodded, showing that she understood. She turned to Zhao Haoran and Zhao Niaoniao and stretched out her index fingers to pull her eyelids. She made a face and stuck out her tongue, expressing in rage, Junyang loves me in the beginning and still loves me. He didnt abandon me. You are talking nonsense! Zhao Haoran was speechless at Shi Qingxues reasonable statement and wanted to retort, but he couldnt find a word. At last, he felt ashamed and angry, yelling at Shi Qingxue resentfully, Are you stupid? I am the third prince of the Zhao Country. I said that Mo Junyang was wrong, so it was his fault. Zhao Haoran spoke like that just to retort Shi Qingxue initially, but as soon as he finished, he and Zhao Niaoniao looked at each other and noticed something wrong from each others eyes. This woman seemed to be abnormal. How could a normal adult not understand what abandon meant? And she spoke and behaved weirdly, like a child Both Zhao Haoran and Zhao Niaoniao showed a surprised expression and then with disdain, as if they were looking at an idiot. Mo Junyangs eyes turned cold and he didnt give Zhao Niaoniao another chance to humiliate Shi Qingxue. He stood in front of Shi Qingxue and howled with killing intent, Get out of here. It was Zhao Niaoniaos first time to be treated cruelly by Mo Junyang. She couldnt accept it and covered her mouth, running out while crying. Zhao Haoran got more furious to see that and strode to Mo Junyang. He tried to lift Mo Junyang, but the latter dodged easily. He had to glare at Mo Junyang and spoke ruthlessly. Mo Junyang, how dare you make Niaoniao cry? I wont let you go. I will fight against you. Shi Qingxue blinked and interrupted in doubt, Why will you fight against Junyang? Of course I do it for my sister that I love! Zhao Haoran replied subconsciously. Afterward, he was confused as why he answered Shi Qingxues question. Then he shut his mouth and showed that he was annoyed. Shi Qingxue understood and nodded. Then she also raised her chin and stated, Then let me fight against you. Zhao Haorans eyes widened. Whwhy? Didnt you say that you will fight for somebody you love? You fight for your sister, and I fight for my Junyang. So I should fight against you, Shi Qingxue reasoned boldly. Zhao Haoran was astonished and couldnt figure out why a weak woman could challenge him and take it for granted. The big man Zhao Haoran looked Shi Qingxue up and down with his picky eyes and then refused with disdain. You are too weak. I wont fight with you. No. You are wrong. You have never fought with me. How do you know I am weak? Shi Qingxue retorted. Zhao Haoran could say nothing. He thought there seemed to be something wrong with Shi Qingxues words, but why couldnt he refute her? He felt depressed. At this time, Shi Qingxue raised her brows at him and asked casually, Are you afraid of me? You dont dare to compete with me, so you made excuses to cheat me, right? Are you kidding? How would I cheat you? Just fight! Zhao Haoran was provoked and responded immediately, accepting Shi Qingxues challenge for no reason. Shi Qingxues face lit up with pleasure and then she smiled at Mo Junyang flatteringly, trying to ask him to praise her. She seemed to say, I am awesome, right? I do it for you. In fact, Mo Junyang also thought this competition was weird, but his sweetheart was in a great mood. Of course he wouldnt mind letting Qingxue practice and get back at them. What? What if Shi Qingxue couldnt defeat Zhao Haoran? King Ruis heir who was skilled in dirty tricks wouldnt let something like this happen. Shi Qingxue who was in high spirits led Zhao Haoran to the royal training ground and wanted to compete with him at once. On the way, the wind made the third prince from the Zhao Country finally realize that it would be something humiliating if he fought against a woman. If he won, he won a weak woman. If he lost, he would be embarrassed. Zhao Haoran regretted a lot but couldnt go back on his word. He had to come to the training ground. Shi Qingxue looked at the ring and then at Zhao Haoran, asking, Shall we fight in the ring? Zhao Haoran heard that and showed an awkward expression. As the third prince of the Zhao Country, he always enjoyed wealth and honor and was puffed with pride. He never took the outsiders seriously, but at the same time, he was upright. He could cope with Mo Junyang mercifully, but he would never hurt Shi Qingxue who was delicate. What if he injured her? Zhao Haoran shook his head immediately and pointed at the archers field. Its boring to fight against each other. Lets compete on shooting. We will shoot ten arrows for each. The one who shoots more arrows in the center of the bulls-eye would win. He couldnt help but look at Qingxues fair-skinned and tender fingers again and thought this young lady looked like his sister who had servants all the time and never did anything. It was beyond her power to shoot arrows. Then he generously gave her some advantages. As for you, I allow you to stand in the place thirty meters away from the bulls-eye. Generally, the competitors should be 100 meters away from the bulls-eye. Zhao Haoran made the decision because he sincerely considered for Shi Qingxue. Unfortunately, Shi Qingxue didnt understand the princes good intention and asked in confusion, Shouldnt the competition be fair? If I stand closer to the bulls-eye than you but I shoot more arrows in the center, then who will win? Zhao Haoran was stunned and thought this girl was too confident or too ignorant. She actually thought she could win him. But he had done what he should. Since Shi Qingxue was ungrateful, he didnt insist but received the bow and arrows from a servant and stated heroically, Then lets wait and see. I will go first. Zhao Haoran stood in the right place and took out a long arrow. He put it on the bow, aimed at the bulls-eye and shot in one breath. The long arrow left the bow and was shot to the bulls-eye. Zhao Haoran hadnt got used to it as he shot the first arrow, and it didnt hit the center of the bulls-eye, but it was on it. He turned to Shi Qingxue automatically and saw her staring at him with no distractions, so he was complacent. He raised his brows and showed off in front of Shi Qingxue proudly. See? This is the real ability. He took out another arrow and then shot it. As he focused, he shot more smoothly and the arrows were closer to the center. The last three arrows were in the center of the bulls-eye. When it was Shi Qingxues turn, Zhao Haoran expressed generously, If you say that you will quit, I wont stop you. What a generous offer! But Shi Qingxue looked confused and asked, Why would I quit? Zhao Haoran was unable to say a word. The third prince gritted his teeth in secret and believed this woman was brainless. However, when he saw that Shi Qingxue walked to the place where he had been and learnt from him to grab the bow and lift the arrow, he found that her posture was almost the same as his, and she even did more accurately for some tiny movements Zhao Haoran looked serious and stared at Shi Qingxue with his inquiring eyes. While Mo Junyang and Qu Yuebai who stood behind Shi Qingxue all the time also paid attention to her. Qu Yuebai frowned and gazed at Shi Qingxue for quite a while. Then he turned to Mo Junyang and whispered seriously, Junyang, have you found that Shi Qingxue has changed these days? Nobody knew since when Shi Qingxue was not as ignorant as she had been when she just woke up. Except for being choosy in food, which was Lady Qingxues bad habit as Xia Mang said, she could almost take care of herself. Apart from that she would behave like a child sometimes, she was more like a normal person to understand and act. Moreover, Shi Qingxue was less than sixteen years old and her face looked young. She looked as if she was merely fourteen or fifteen, so they couldnt find something unusual when they talked. More importantly, when Qu Yuebai saw that Shi Qingxue shot the first arrow to the center of the bulls-eye, his face changed. He shouted in a low voice doubtfully, She, she regains her memory! Mo Junyangs eyes were deep and nobody knew if he heard Qu Yuebais words. He just stared at Shi Qingxue and watched her shooting the arrows one by one. All the long arrows were shot in the red center and some even replaced the former ones on the same position. She shot them much more accurately than Zhao Haoran. After shooting the ten long arrows, Shi Qingxue slowly turned her head to Mo Junyang and showed a bright and elegant smile. She looked like the dazzling Lady Qingxue as before. Chapter 168 - You Can Flirt with Me, but Why Can’t I Do That to You? After hearing her daughters suggestion, Jinguo Grand Princess looked displeased. And not until a long time later did she reply, Elder Lady Duanmu will be in the imperial capital soon after the Spring Festival and your Uncle Limiao is now in a state of nervousness. Its not a good idea to bother him during this period, is it? Song Yixiao heard the clear resistance and even some hidden scruples in her mother-in-laws voice, feeling shocked. When she was still confused, she heard the explanation of her sister-in-law, Youve watched Yourui grow up from childhood, so how could she not understand that you invite her to the imperial capital is to sincerely help her? That she is unwilling to be here is most probably feeling embarrassed. So no matter what we do, Im afraid she will still be in a dilemma! But your uncle Limiao is from the Jian Family, too! Jinguo Grand Princess frowned, Can Yourui accept his invitation while refuses mine? Finding she disagreed with her advice, Commandery Princess Qingjiang closed her lips slightly and stopped speaking. The hall was silent for a moment, then Jinguo Grand Princess said to Jian Xubai reluctantly, Ask your uncle Limiao tomorrow whether he is willing to give a hand about this. The couple took orders and left before it was getting late. After going out from the mansion, Song Yixiao asked her husband with confusion, Whats wrong with Mother today? Mothers second husband, Pei Ze, was a lifelong friend of Uncle Limiao. Jian Xubai kept silent for quite a long time. Not until they almost arrived at Duke of Yans mansion, did he answer faintly, There was a rumor that Pei Zes falling from his horse was because he had found Mother and Father He was in a bad mood, so he was venting his anger on his horse, but had an accident! The rumor was further supported by the fact that Mother married Father soon afterwards. Originally, Uncle Limiao, who had been raised by Elder Lady Duanmu since he was a kid, had not been very close to my father even though they are brothers. And that incident separated them even further. Later, Jian Limiaos wife and her baby died because of difficult labor. He was a one-woman man, unwilling to remarry. Therefore, he was alone and was inevitably lonely, My eldest uncle returned to hometown together with my grandfather and his family. The only children, who he could remove his emotion on, were us, the three children of his second brother. One of them, my sister, was afraid of my mother and had never left the house. And it was impossible for Uncle Limiao to meet her in her boudoir; Yiyou had always stayed by my father and learned literature and martial arts from him. So he didnt have much time to see Uncle Limiao; only I can stay out of the palace from time to time even though I was raised by my grandmother. Both my father and Yiyou didnt pay attention to me. Mother was also very busy. Therefore, only Uncle Limiao was willing to coax me! Jian Xubais plain tone of voice had a sense of loss and loneliness that could not be concealed, So Uncle Limiao and I became closer, which eased the tension between the two families. But the three of them still didnt meet each other except in Spring Festival or other festivals. Mother is obviously reluctant for what Roumei suggested just now. Its said that back then Uncle Limiao was furious at the Grand Princesss mansion over Pei Zes death, which disgraced my mother. Finally, not until Grandfather himself arrived, did my mother was given a way out! No one knew if Jian Limiao would love one thing on account of another and make a scene again for Pei Zes niece Pei Yourui. But in the end, Jinguo Grand Princess chose to turn to Jian Limiao, her younger brother-in-law, for help. Apparently, though she had remarried for three times and kept several men so far, she was not an unemotional person after all. She would like to risk her own disgrace to persuade her adopted daughter to stay with her and be taken care of. Song Yixiao didnt expect that she would learn such secret of her mother-in-law by just a curious question, so she felt embarrassed and thought, He even told me the secret of his own mother, which showed that he kept me on his mind indeed. If there is another thing like the thing about Lady Nuan, I can no longer distrust him! When she was thinking of that, a little sweetness arose in her heart, and she couldnt help but curved her lips again and again. Some time later, they returned to their mansion. The moment they entered, a servant came to report, A guest from regions south of the Yangtze River has just arrived, and has waited Your Highness for quite a long time! Regions south of the Yangtze River? Jian Xubai looked solemn after hearing this, Please ask him to wait a moment, and tell him that Ive just returned, so Ill meet him after changing my clothes! After entering the inner room, while changing clothes, he told his wife, It might be sent by Lord Gu! Seeing Song Yixiao looking at him confusedly, he knew she had forgotten and added, It was Gu Shao, a good friend of your grandfathers when he was alive. He was also my grandfathers closest rival at court. Originally, he had returned to his hometown of Hongzhou after retiring some years ago, but attracted by the scenery in regions south of the Yangtze River, he built a residence there. Only then did Song Yixiao suddenly realize, Have you sent someone to find him? Otherwise, why would this former court magnate send someone from far away to visit Jian Xubai, a junior for him, during the Spring Festival? Jian Xubai said, Hum, took the robe Song Yixiao handed over and put it on. Then he walked towards his wifes dressing table, checked his appearance hurriedly and said, Ill go to see. If it does him, he should not be snubbed! After all, the Crown Prince was trying to co-opt Gu Shao. So how could he ignore his emissary? After Jian Xubai left, Qiaoqin also came to report before Song Yixiao had time to think about it, Madam, the Yuan Family sent a message over, saying that if youre not busy tomorrow or the day after tomorrow, Marquis Boling would like to invite you over for a talk! It must be about the marriage between Yuan Xuee and her close relative proposed by my mother-in-law! Song Yixiao was clear in her heart. She replied, Ill ask my husband later whether were going somewhere to pay respects or need to stay at home in case of any visits tomorrow or the day after tomorrow. If not, I will come over! Qiaoqin promptly sent someone to reply to the Yuan Family. The servant who had been sent to the Yuan Family hadnt come back yet, but Jian Xubai sent a message over first, His Highness will accompany the guest. Please have dinner yourself, Madam! It seems that the guest was really sent by Gu Shao, otherwise there would be no need for such courtesy. Song Yixiao thought and said to the servants beside her, Tell the chef to cook a few dishes from regions south of the Yangtze River, and the taste of which should be lighter! That day, it was very late when Jian Xubai came back to his bedroom. Although he looked tired, it could be seen that he was not in a bad mood. He held his wife in the bed and kissed her for a while before releasing her, smiling, I may not be that busy when spring comes, so I can accompany you in the official holiday. There are quite a lot of places to go for a walk outside the imperial capital during March and April! Song Yixiao was curious, Lord Gu has agreed to come back and assist the Crown Prince? How is that possible? Jian Xubai spread out his fingers and inserted them into her long hair, combing it slowly and saying with a gentle smile, How could Lord Gu take a stand so easily with his status? Besides, it was a big deal for him to come back because of his status. Without Uncles permission, the Crown Prince couldnt make it. However, although the nephew he sent over is just a Scholar in terms of official rank, he is actually an available talent taught by Lord Gu! After I introduce him to the Crown Prince tomorrow, I wont have to worry about too much from then on. Song Yixiao was not clear about these things, so she didnt talk too much and just looked at him with a slight smile. Her face looked like jade under lamps. And her apricot-like eyes curved a little, brimming with light, which reminded him of the breeze that whipped through the falling flowers in the courtyard in late spring and early summer. It was warm with sweet languor. It was noticed by Jian Xubai. He reached out his hand and twisted her cheek, smiling, Whats wrong? I was wondering that it was so dark and quiet that even the wind and snow whistling can be heard inside the colored glass windows, but it is as warm as in March in the room because of the brazier. With one hand on her cheek, the other hand was drawing circles on her husbands shoulder and arm neither lightly nor heavily, saying with her charming eyes, There are just you and me right now Without finishing her words, Jian Xubai had already showed an expression of I see and rushed to undress, Youre right, the spring night is short. How can we waste it? Unexpectedly, Song Yixiao said slowly when smilingly seeing him tossed his underwear over the pedals, Its a pity Im on my period today! Jian Xubai, I had already taken off my clothes and you told me that? Meeting his suspicious gaze, Song Yixiao said calmly, If you dont believe me, look at the table. Its the ginger and brown sugar soup Jinxun cooked for me! Without saying a word, Jian Xubai walked out of the mosquito net, picked up the porcelain pot and poured out a cup of the soup to have a taste. Then he threw down the cup with a dark face, and turned back in anger, Youve gone too far!! At that time, Song Yixiao was already laughing so hard that she was almost stumbled, saying breathlessly, Oh! I, II justI didnt finish my words Its you who are in such a hurry. I am about to remind you, ok? Happy, huh? After standing at the table for a moment, Jian Xubai walked back into the mosquito net, sat down on the edge of the bed and stretched out his hand to lift his wifes chin. He asked her as if he was smiling, Very Interesting? Funny? His long eyebrows raised lightly. A light of cold flashed in the blink of his eyes. His bright red lips curved a little, and his look seemed to be cold and sarcastic, which was very different from the normal times. There was a kind of indifference that was beyond description. When Song Yixiao saw this, she regretted that she had gone too far, and was about to give in to let him cool down. Unexpectedly, Jian Xubai abruptly put her in the bed! She yelped in a low voice in surprise, but he just leaned over and patted her cheek with a playful smile, Dont regret in a few days! After picking up the robes on the ground, he sashayed away! There was a sound outside the door, which seemed like a calling for the servants to make preparation in the bathroom. Song Yixiao held the blanket in her arms for a while before she got up, made a face at the door with her mouth twitched, You can flirt with me, but why cant I do that to you when I am in a good mood? But thinking of her husbands look, she was somehow a bit daunted. She bit down on her fist, rolled a few times on the brocade quilt, and made a decision in her heart, Ill coax him recently so that he might forget about it after a few days! She had to admit that it wasnt hard to coax Jian Xubai most of the time. Both of them went to bed that night with complicated feelings, and it wasnt until the next morning that Song Yixiao found the opportunity to tell her husband about going to the Yuan Family, Will we visit any relatives these two days? If not, Ill go over there and make things clear with him, so that he doesnt have to keep worrying. When Jian Xubai heard this, he pondered for a moment and said, Ill take the guest to the Eastern Palace later, and you have to stay at home in case someone visits. If I return early, you will be able to go over there today! By the time he returned from the Eastern Palace, it was almost 5 oclock, not very early. But Song Yixiao was worrying, she still asked the servants to take the carriage and went out of the house. When she arrived at Marquis Bolings mansion, she was invited directly to Yuan Xuepeis study as expected, You grew up with Xuee, and youre Xubais wife. Im disabled, so Im not going to treat you as an outsider. Thats the reason why I invited you here to talk! Yuan Xuepei cut to the chase, Your mother wants to pair Xuee off with Lu Guanlun. Do you have anything to tell me? Chapter 169 - Go Away as Soon as She Can Remember Since Shi Qingxue shot the first arrow, Zhao Haoran was shocked with his mouth opened. Till she put down the bow and slowly walked to them, he was still dumbfounded and couldnt come to his senses from the shock. As a weak woman, Shi Qingxue could even shoot arrows and was more skilled than him? It must be a joke! No way! Zhao Haoran murmured and couldnt believe what he had seen. When Shi Qingxue passed by Zhao Haoran, she heard his words and tilted her head in confusion, gazing at him. What? No way? What he had witnessed was true and he couldnt argue. Zhao Haoran said that just because he was too astonished and didnt doubt Shi Qingxues ability. Hearing her question, the upright prince blushed. He had a weird feeling that he didnt admit defeat and felt his face burning. He waved his hand in a hurry and replied, No. I said nothing. He took a deep breath and his eyes were solemn, without disdain and arrogance. Then he expressed to Shi Qingxue seriously, You won the competition. I was defeated by you. If she shot only one arrow, they could say that she was lucky, but the result of ten arrows was there. Zhao Haoran had to admit that he was inferior to this woman who looked weak when it came to the shooting skill. Shi Qingxue smiled and didnt show a complacent expression like the common winner. Instead, she appreciated Zhao Haoran. You are skilled in shooting, but there was something wrong with your posture. After you correct it and practice more, you will make much progress. Hearing that, Zhao Haoran lost his last unwillingness and it was replaced with admiration for the girl in front of him. He asked joyfully, I will stay in the capital city in the following thirty days. Can I ask for your instructions about shooting in the future, Lady? He spoke politely and it was obvious that he admired Shi Qingxue from the bottom of his heart. Unfortunately, before Shi Qingxue spoke, Mo Junyang pulled her behind him and stated coldly, She is not available. Zhao Haoran glared at Mo Junyang and declared furiously, Mo Junang, I didnt beat you up because of this lady. If you provoke me again, I will show no mercy to you. You call her lady all the time. Do you know her name? Mo Junyang responded with no emotion and looked irritated. Zhao Haoran was stunned. Without giving him a chance to react, Mo Junyang pulled Shi Qingxue away. They walked for a long way one after the other and came to a corner in the training ground. Mo Junyang stopped, and the girl behind him stood still, too. But at the moment, he felt nervous for no reason and breathed out deeply. Then he turned around slowly and met Shi Qingxues smiling face. It was cunning and intelligent. Mo Junyang was attracted and blurted out, Did you regain your memory? Of course. If I were still the idiot as they said, how could I have won the third prince? Shi Qingxue laughed and admitted immediately. Mo Junyang was absent-minded and didnt have time to figure out if his feeling of loss was stronger than his joy. Then he asked, When did it happen? Seeing that Mo Junyang looked more serious than usual and became as cold as before, Shi Qingxue felt sad, but she still answered frankly, When I saw the third prince shoot arrows, I started to have vague memories. When I grabbed the bow, I felt that I had the same feeling, so I regained my memory gradually. But I just thought of the past in general and some memories are still unclear, and it is like a dream. I have done something, but I cant remember after I wake up. Mo Junyang nodded and was more concerned about her. Do you feel unwell? Do you need Shen Luo to check on you? Shi Qingxue hurriedly showed that she was strong and refused decisively. No. I am fine. I dont want to eat his medicine. Its too bitter. Afterward, she stuck out her tongue and looked lovely. Mo Junyang couldnt help laughing, and his tense expression softened gradually. Maybe because they were close these days, even though Shi Qingxue regained her memory, she didnt keep her distance from him intentionally, and there was love in her beautiful eyes. Mo Junyang was satisfied with that. As long as Shi Qingxue didnt stay away from him anymore, it would be no problem. When they came back to the archers field after they ended their pleasant conversation, Qu Yuebai had finished his job to tell Zhao Haoran to leave here. Then they got in the carriage going back to King Ruis mansion. Qu Yuebai sat for a while and looked at Shi Qingxue several times. At last, he called cautiously, Lady Qingxue. Shi Qingxue nodded with a smile and replied clearly, Its me. Que Yuebai relaxed immediately. But he didnt feel happy for long when Shi Qingxue suddenly turned to Mo Junyang. Junyang, I want to go back home later. Can I? Mo Junyang was surprised and then his face turned ghastly pale in an instant. There was horrible light in his deep eyes. He stared at Shi Qingxue and asked slowly, What did you say? Shi Qingxue was scared by the sudden coldness and stuttered an explanation. I said that I have stayed out of home for nearly two months, and my father and mother must be worried about me. I want to go back to see them Is it okay, Junyang? She tried to blink her big eyes and showed that she was innocent. Her blink was always effective to Mo Junyang. No matter how mad Mo Junyang was at her, he would surrender. However, unexpectedly, Mo Junyang didnt indulge Shi Qingxue like before or refuse. He just kept his terrible-looking expression quietly and made the carriage fall into weird silence. Seeing that Shi Qingxue looked confused, Qu Yuebai couldnt help but remind her, Lady Qingxue, stop. Junyang Even though he knew that Mo Junyang could hear him in the carriage no matter how low his voice was, he still whispered subconsciously in a euphemistic way, Duke Shis mansion is not far away from King Ruis mansion. If you want to see your parents, we can go to visit them by the way. If you think I am an outsider, I can get out of the carriage first. Junyang must be happy to go to Duke Shis mansion with you. No, I didnt mean that. Shi Qingxue waved her hand hurriedly and explained, I dont want to bother you, Mr. Qu. After all, there was big trouble in the past Thinking of the conflict between Mo Junyang and Duke Shi before she woke up, she sighed deeply and didnt continue what she was going to say. In fact, she understood what Qu Yuebai meant. It was fine if she wanted to see her parents, but Mo Junyang would keep her company and she couldnt leave King Ruis mansion. Do you remember what you promised to me in the fourth princes mansion? Mo Junyang suddenly asked, with a rarely serious expression on his handsome face. At Junhaos home? Shi Qingxue asked softly and seemed to be surprised at Mo Junyangs question, but she shook her head honestly. I told you that maybe because I was in a coma for too long, I cant remember something in the past. With gloom in his eyes, Mo Junyang asked, Then how about what happened in the past one month after you woke up? Shi Qingxues face turned red at once, and her beautiful and bright eyes looked around aimlessly. She didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang, as if she wanted to pretend that she didnt hear his question. But Mo Junyang didnt give her a chance to avoid it and asked again. Shi Qingxue had to nod with shyness and admit, I remember that. Before Qu Yuebai asked why, she explained, I dont know why. Is it strange? I remember everything that happened when I was ignorant But on second thoughts, its not strange. Its my memory after all. Your memory Mo Junyang repeated gently, with a complicated and odd expression. But he didnt give Shi Qingxue and Qu Yuebai any time to doubt and guess. His expression returned cold as usual. Okay. What? The other two were confused. Mo Junyang turned to look out of the window and replied impassively, I agree to let you go back home. The two felt astonished and looked at Mo Junyang for a long while, without reaction. But he didnt plan to explain and kept silent again. Till they reached the gate of King Ruis mansion, it was quiet and depressing in the carriage, and none of the three said anything more. After getting out of the carriage, Shi Qingxue wanted to speak to Mo Junyang, but the latter returned to the Love Xue House and locked himself up in the bedroom, without making any sound. Junyang, are you okay? Shi Qingxue stood at the door and shouted. There was no answer. Shi Qingxue had never been coldly treated by Mo Junyang. She was baffled and helpless. Looking at Qu Yuebai who was also anxious next to her, she shrugged. I just want to go back home. Why is he so angry? He doesnt even talk to me. It was not like this in the past While speaking, Qingxue felt grieved. Mo Junyang was always gentle and polite to her in the past. Although they seldom contacted each other, she thought he could be trusted and wanted to get close to him. Even when she was sick, she was more dependent on him than he on her. So she couldnt understand why Mo Junyang became so Dont you understand? Qu Yuebai glanced at Shi Qingxue with a strange expression. Seeing her nod, he sighed helplessly. Ill tell you. Do you think the feeling when you lose it after getting it is the same as when you have never got it? Shi Qingxue was stunned. To be frank, before you were poisoned, I only knew that Junyang loves you very much. I have never expected that he is always cold to everything but would show that he is abnormally possessive towards you. But Qu Yuebai looked into the distance with his deep eyes and added gently, But Mo Junyang is an ordinary person. Chapter 170 - Send Shi Qingxue Away Thinking of how nice Mo Junyang was to her these days and his ghastly pale face today, Shi Qingxue felt heartbroken. Its not that I insist on going back home. I am just Shi Qingxue couldnt help but speak. She had the only thought that she wouldnt make Mo Junyang show the same expression as when they came back, and she could do anything. However, before Shi Qingxue finished her words, the room door was opened all of a sudden. Mo Junyang still wore the same clothes and his expression returned peaceful, or rather, close to his distant expression as before, and any stranger couldnt approach him. He walked to Qingxue and looked at her with a softer expression, asking gently, Do you want to go back home? No, I Shi Qingxue didnt want to make Mo Junyang unhappy and tried to deny it in a hurry. But Mo Junyang nodded in advance. You havent been at home for a long time indeed, and General Shi and Madam must miss you very much. They should be happy if you go back home. While speaking, he had summoned Xia Mang and ordered coldly, Go back to the guest room and pack up your ladys clothes. Be quick and careful. Dont miss anything. And Mo Junyang ordered in details and was afraid that Xia Mang would forget something and make Shi Qingxue inconvenient, but his words stunned all people present. Shi Qingxues expression was shocked. Mo Junyang actually agreed to let her go back home, not to go back home only once but to live at home. How was it possible? Mo Junyang wished to stay with Shi Qingxue for twenty-four hours every day earlier, but how would he let her go all of a sudden, even without delay? Qu Yuebai stared at Mo Junyang and asked in a trembling voice, Junyang, are you okay? Dont frighten me. Mo Junyang smiled at Qu Yuebai unexpectedly and reasoned, No matter how much I want to make Qingxue stay, she is a member of the Shi Family. Its not a permanent solution that I keep their daughter at home for no reason. He looked at Shi Qingxue warmly and expressed gently, like a brother, You are supposed to go back home. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang with caution and asked in a low voice, I really cango back home? Mo Junyang smiled with apology and raised his hand, trying to rub Shi Qingxues head, but he thought of something and put it down. He didnt change his expression and answered directly, Of course you can. I was wrong in the past. I thought you would be hurt after going back home as you were injured by Shi Baojin, so I forcefully kept you in my mansion. But General Shi and Madam are your parents, and they wont treat you badly. Moreover, you have recovered now and its no problem if you stay at home. Shi Qingxue watched Mo Junyangs expression carefully for a while. After confirming that he meant what he said, she relaxed. She responded with a smile, I havent seen my parents for a long time, and I want to see them. Thank you, Junyang. Thanks for taking care of me these days. I wont forget you. She spoke sincerely, and her eyes were clean and pure. Mo Junyang looked away soon and stared at the void. After a while, he smiled. You are welcome. I told Xia Mang to pack up everything you used these days and take them to your home. Hope you wont dislike them. Qingxue shook her head in haste and replied, Of course I wont. Mo Junyang stopped talking and watched Xia Mang pack up everything. Then he told somebody to drive a carriage and send Shi Qingxue back home. Shi Qingxue had been comforted by Mo Junyang and really wanted to go home, so she didnt think much but got in the carriage and then left. However, Qu Yuebai who had witnessed everything couldnt be fooled easily. He asked Mo Junyang seriously, Junyang, whats wrong with you? Mo Junyang ignored him but went to the pharmacy to question Shen Luo, What did you tell Qingxue to eat? She regained her memory since childhood. What? Shen Luo was confused in the beginning. After he heard Mo Junyang talk about Shi Qingxues behavior, his eyes lit up, and he screamed, It actually works! I said I could make her regain her memory this time. Junyang, shouldnt you thank me? Shen Luo spoke quickly and excitedly with complacency. He didnt notice that Qu Yuebai winked at him. Mo Junyang was not as excited as Shen Luo imagined, and he wasnt even joyful. He asked coldly, So she has recovered as she became like this? Uh Shen Luo scratched his head and didnt understand why Mo Junyang asked such a question, but he still answered honestly, In fact, earlier, I couldnt be sure that she could recover because her medicine was used up several days ago. How much she could recover would depend on her luck. Unexpectedly, she can remember everything even including what happened after she went into a coma. It can be seen that she has perfectly recovered. But she cant remember what happened in the past one year, Mo Junyang stated in a hoarse and unclear voice. Shen Luo was astonished and then patted Mo Junyangs shoulder to tell him not to ask for too much. The medicine would probably bring some negative influence, and she recovered after losing only one years memory. Its a worthwhile deal. Dont ask for too much Shen Luo didnt finish his words but saw that Mo Junyangs handsome face was dead silent, which made everybody heartbroken after seeing it. He and Qu Yuebai looked at each other speechlessly and he was unable to continue. Qu Yuebai stared at Mo Junyang with concern and asked again, Junyang, are you all right? Mo Junyang turned around and looked out of the window into the distance, and his expression became more distant, as if he were covered with frost. He was indifferent and cut off from the rest of the world. After a long time, he murmured, I still lose her. Am I too conceited? Leaving these vague words, Mo Junyang went away directly. Shen Luo came back to earth after quite a while and then asked Qu Yuebai who frowned, Whats going on? Qu Yuebai roughly told him that Shi Qingxue regained her memory and went back home immediately. Is it so effective? Shen Luo was stunned and almost unable to speak a word. Although as Shi Qingxue turned better slowly, they had doubted if she would be blindly unwilling to leave Mo Junyang after she regained her memory. But they had fluky psychology and thought she wouldnt be so cruel. However, it happened indeed. Gee. I have tried every means to cure her, but she is such a heartless woman. My effort is in vain. Shen Luo complained crossly, but Qu Yuebai knocked his head heavily. Before Shen Luo protested, Qu Yuebai explained, You have wronged Shi Qingxue this time. In the beginning, she just said that she wanted to go back to see her parents, and then she found that there was something wrong with Mo Junyang, so she instantly gave up her plan to return home. But nobody knew what was wrong with Mo Junyang, and he generously agreed to let her live at home and told somebody to send her back. So he behaves weirdly now not because Shi Qingxue returned home? Shen Luo glanced at Qu Yuebai to condemn him, seeming to say, Why did you spread rumors? I thought they fell out with each other. In that case, His Excellency would go ballistic. Shen Luo trembled while imagining. Qu Yuebai glared at Shen Luo, like looking at an idiot. Its fine if others dont know. As you know Junyang, do you think he can let Shi Qingxue go, without delay? Shen Luo shook his head without thinking. No way. Thats it. Mo Junyang is so weird must because of Shi Qingxue, but Qu Yuebai couldnt figure out the relation, and he just thought there was something amiss. Shen Luos eyes lit up all of a sudden, and he shouted, I know why! Why? Shen Luo smiled leisurely. Junyang loves Shi Qingxue more when she lost memory but could let him control her. Now she has regained her memory, so he doesnt love her that much. As expected, he just loves Before he mentioned the word children, Shen Luo was beaten by Qu Yuebai. Qu Yuebai punched his chin ruthlessly. Shen Luo covered his chin in pain and complained, Why did you beat me up? Junyang said he is too conceited, so he lost her Didnt he talk about Shi Qingxue? Qu Yuebai stopped beating and was lost in thought. Of course he was not convinced by Shen Luos bullshit, but Mo Junyangs words were strange before he left. So he had to ask Mo Junyang. Before Shi Qingxue returned to Duke Shis mansion, the news that Mo Junyang sent her home spread in the capital city instantly. Qingxue didnt go to her residence, the Luotong Boudoir or to see her parents in the East House as soon as she went back home, but she went to greet Mo Shujun in the Shouan Hall first. She stood in the courtyard of the Shouan Hall, but for the first time, she was told that Princess Royal was taking a rest and wouldnt receive guests for now. If Mo Shujun refused to see her in the past, she would turn to leave at once. She wouldnt care about the rule that the elders could be unkind, but the young generation couldnt disrespect them. However, Shi Qingxue found magically that she was more patient after suffering the disaster. She didnt leave but smiled at the maid Leng Yan who sent the message to her. Its doesnt matter. I will wait here. I just returned home, so I have to greet Grandma before going back to my residence. This is the rule. Leng Yan, dont need to worry for me. Shi Qingxue was really a sweet talker. As long as she wanted to, it was easy for her to please anybody. Leng Yan liked Shi Qingxue from the beginning and the latter was polite to her, so she liked the lady more. After thinking for a while, she asked, Lady Qingxue, how about you wait here first? I will go to see if Princess Royal has woken up. Shi Qingxue nodded and was neither haughty nor humble, expressing, Thanks, Leng Yan. Leng Yan walked into the room and saw Mo Shujun sitting on the bed and having tea. Mo Shujun asked indifferently, Has she gone? Princess Royal, Lady Qingxue said she would wait outside till you wake up and wont leave until she greets you. Mo Shujuns eyes turned cold and she snorted. She has a better temper now, but she came to my residence to pretend to be obedient? I cant be fooled easily. There was only one door between them, and Mo Shujuns voice was not low. It was obvious that she wanted Shi Qingxue outside to hear so that the girl would leave in a rage. Chapter 171 - The First Fight after Going Back Home Shi Qingxue heard Mo Shujuns words, but she didnt leave or even move, as if she wouldnt go away until she greeted her grandmother. However, Leng Yan waited for a while but Mo Shujun didnt plan to give in. She thought, Its said that His Lordship dotes on his youngest daughter very much, and Shi Qingxue is outstanding in the mansion and even in the imperial palace. After I marry into the East House, I might need her help, so its better to do her a favor first. Then she explained to Mo Shujun, Lady Qingxue came to visit you as soon as she returned home. Obviously, she puts you before anybody else Mo Shujun was sophisticated and saw through Leng Yan immediately. She peered at Leng Yan with a faint smile and made her blush and unable to say more before she looked away. But she didnt rebuke Leng Yan. Instead, she thought, I have decided to marry Leng Yan to Junhe, but with Dong Huis position, even if Leng Yan has a child in the future, she wouldnt live happily. If she can win over Shi Qingxue, everything will be smoother in the future. At this thought, Mo Shujun smiled and asked, So Qingxue really respects me? Leng Yan answered respectfully, Princess Royal, you have brought her up, so she certainly takes you to heart. Mo Shujun laughed heartily and ordered Leng Yan purposely in a voice that could be heard outside, Since you ask for mercy for her, I will give her a chance. Go out and bring her in. Shi Qingxue was led into the room by Leng Yan. She looked calm as usual all the way and didnt seem to feel grateful because Leng Yan helped her. Mo Shujuns face darkened again, and she stayed silent when Shi Qingxue bent down to salute her. Qingxue hadnt suffered like this for a long time. After she squatted for less than fifteen minutes, she felt her legs numb, but she gritted her teeth and remained unmoved. After nearly another ten minutes, Mo Shujun put down the teacup and asked slowly and coldly, You know you should come back home, huh? Shi Qingxue looked peaceful and didnt feel resentful. She answered politely, I was poisoned and didnt recover in the past few days. King Rui and Mo Junyang kindly told me to recuperate in their mansion. I have recovered today, so I should come back home. She said those words in order to show that it was not that she didnt want to return home. After all, she hadnt recovered, and she might not help even if she came back. And at the same time, she told Mo Shujun when she had recovered, she returned home as soon as she regained her memory and came to greet Mo Shujun first. If Mo Shujun wanted to blame her, she would be unreasonable. The last point was hidden. She mentioned King Rui, so Mo Shujun couldnt reproach her for her relationship with Mo Junyang even if she wanted to. After all, as a younger, she should know that she couldnt refuse an elders kind offer. Mo Shujun was depressed and wanted to reprimand Shi Qingxue, but she could say nothing. At last, she had to snort crossly. You are a better talker. Shi Qingxue took it as a compliment and nodded happily with a smile. Grandma, you are a good teacher. Mo Shujun was unable to reply. For the first time, she was annoyed by her granddaughter repeatedly but could do nothing to her. She waved her sleeve furiously and told the girl to leave. Didnt you come to greet me? Now you have done. Why dont you leave? Grandma, since you said that, I wont disturb you when you have a nap. Shi Qingxue bowed to Mo Shujun quickly and then left under the old ladys astonished eyes. Mo Shujun wanted to retreat for the sake of advancing and ignore Shi Qingxue to frustrate her. She would ask her when the girl was dispirited. Nobody knew if the girl didnt understand or she played dumb, and she was kicked out. What depressed her more was that she couldnt tell Shi Qingxue to come back. Shi Qingxue didnt know how sulky Mo Shujun was. After leaving the Shouan Hall, she felt relieved. Especially at the thought that she could see her parents soon, she was overjoyed. She touched her chest and murmured, Its weird. Why does it change so much? Xia Mang followed her and didnt hear clearly, so she asked, My Lady, whats wrong with you? No, nothing! Shi Qingxue shook her head and got rid of the complicated thoughts. Go back to the Luotong Boudoir first to clean up for me. I will come after visiting my parents. Shi Qingxue joyfully stepped into the study of the East House. As expected, she saw Shi Junhe reading and Dong Hui accompanying him. Both of them were stunned to see her. Shi Junhe came to his senses first and asked with a frown. What are you doing here? Shi Qingxue was astonished this time. Why did Shi Junhe mean that she wasnt supposed to be here? But soon she remembered what Shi Junhe had said in the Love Xue House and believed that he was the one who loved her most. So, her grievance disappeared soon. Shi Qingxue moved closer to Shi Junhe with a smile and tried to please him. Father, I miss you so much. Of course I come back to see you as soon as I can remember you. So you have regained your memory? Shi Junhe was overjoyed and pulled Shi Qingxue over to check on her carefully. Then he asked worriedly, Do you feel unwell? Shall I ask Doctor Qin to examine you? Shi Qingxue enjoyed being concerned by her father, but she didnt want to take any medicine, so she hurriedly held Shi Junhes arm and acted like a spoiled child. I have fully recovered. Junyang cured me, and I am fine now. Dont need to bother Doctor Qin. Shi Junhe was stunned to hear that and raised his head subconsciously to look at the door. There was nobody. Shi Junhes expression changed all of a sudden and he asked Qingxue, Where is His Excellency? Didnt he come with you? No! I came back home. Why would he come with me? Shi Junhe blurted out, No way. He told us that he would never let you leave him. How could he easily let you go? Is there something wrong with you two? Ah? Shi Qingxue was petrified. She didnt think so much because she could see her parents after going back home. After Shi Junhe mentioned him, she suddenly realized that Mo Junyangs attitude was unusual today. But before Shi Qingxue could figure it out, Dong Hui held her shoulder and glared at Shi Junhe, pretending to be angry. Its great that our daughter comes back. It doesnt matter what Mo Junyang thought. Its better that he doesnt pester her. I dont want my excellent beloved daughter to be defiled by him. Shi Junhe shouted helplessly, Hui! Dong Hui didnt answer him but held Shi Qingxue to sit down. At the same time, she told Mammy Zheng to call for Shi Baoning. Is my sister in good health? Shi Qingxue asked in surprise. Dong Hui was more surprised than her. Didnt you ask Doctor Shen to cure Baoning? Shi Qingxues face stiffened, but Dong Hui didnt care and thought that the girl had just regained her memory and must be in a daze. Then she told Qingxue what happened these days. When she mentioned that she was pregnant, happiness was shown on her face automatically. Mother, congratulations. Little brother would be as heroic as Father after he grows up. Shi Qingxue also laughed. Dong Hui goggled at Qingxue and pretended to be mad at her. How do you know its a boy? Shi Qingxue took it for granted and nodded. You have two lovely daughters. This baby must be my brother. He will be a hero and inherit the title gained by Grandpa with his effort. While speaking, she looked at Dong Huis belly gently and continued in a low voice, He can make it. Her expectancy affected all people present and the room was full of silent warmth. When Shi Baoning entered the room, she saw that the three sat together and even if they fell into silence, any outsiders, including her, couldnt interrupt them. Shi Baonings face darkened, but soon she cheered up and asked in surprise and joy, Qingxue, are you okay? Shi Qingxue heard that and looked back, with a spoiled smile on her lips. Baoning, here you come. I am fine. Dont worry. How could I not worry? Because of me, you Shi Baoning mumbled and looked guilty. She stepped forward and held Shi Qingxues hand, looking her up and down. Seeing that her sister was fine, she heaved a sigh of relief, but she still added with apology, Qingxue, I am sorry. If I hadnt insisted on asking you to see Baojin for the last time, you wouldnt have been injured. At the mention of her being injured, Shi Qingxue wouldnt blame Shi Baoning. But it was impossible that she didnt take it to heart at all. She didnt want to see Shi Baojin. Even though Shi Baoyou cried and begged her, she was unmoved. However, Shi Baoning insisted, so Qingxue couldnt refuse her own sister. The smile on Shi Qingxues face faded, and she withdrew her hand, responding slowly, Its not your fault. Right! Nobody expected that Shi Baojin would go crazy and do something like that! Dong Hui noticed the weird atmosphere when the two sisters talked and hurriedly mediated. But she still gritted her teeth when talking about Shi Baojin. I think its not too much to cut such a crazy woman into pieces and throw her to a paupers grave. If she hadnt been punished and died, I wouldnt Mother! Shi Baoning shouted and showed a compassionate and worried expression in her eyes, whispering, The dead should be respected. Dont talk about this anymore. Just bless our brother. Hearing that, Dong Hui shut up immediately. She believed in God and looked awkward, afraid that her future-sons fortune would be affected if she said something wrong. But Shi Qingxue didnt think so and declared indifferently, Shi Baojin did that and should be killed according to the law. She didnt deserve to be pitied. Shi Baoning was shocked and stated, You are right, but In fact, you didnt have to have such a big fight. We are family, and no matter who is killed, it would make others laugh at us. Shi Qingxue paused for a while and looked at Shi Baoning distantly. She snorted and asked coldly, Do you mean that if I forgave Shi Baojin in the beginning and asked for mercy for her so that her life was spared, she wouldnt want to die with me desperately? So, its my fault? The questions were harsh and hurtful, and Shi Baoning paled in an instant. She waved her hand in a hurry and explained, No, I didnt mean that. I just think that you werent harmed at that time and could just say something to forgive Baojin. Chapter 172 - Return Kindness Return good for evil? Then what would return for kindness? Shi Qingxue asked with a sneer and looked into Baonings eyes. It turns out that in your heart, I am the same as any of our cousins in this mansion, right? I Shi Baoning couldnt say anything. She always thought herself just. As the eldest lady in the mansion, she wanted to be impartial so that she could deserve the title given by Mo Shujun. When facing anybody else at any time, she could boldly say that she was never partial. But Shi Baoning didnt even dare to meet Shi Qingxues bright eyes and avoided talking about the sensitive problem. She merely said, I just think we are cousins and should help each other Shi Qingxue interrupted her, Did Shi Baojin think that we were cousins and should show mercy when she did that to me? Sister, dont you always talk about being impartial? I treated Shi Baojin the same way she treated me. Isnt that fair? At the moment, Shi Baoning was really speechless. Dong Hui didnt want them to argue because of an outsider. She held Qingxues shoulder and advised her, Baoning doesnt want you to have too many enemies. After all, you can offend a gentleman but cant irritate a mean man. Sometimes you dont do anything wrong, but you would be hurt. We can do nothing about it. Shi Baoning nodded and grabbed Qingxues hand again, saying sincerely, Thats what I want to say. You are my younger sister, and I just hope that you are safe and sound, without being injured again. Right. I hope most that both of you live in peace and good health. If you argue about something irrelevant and ruin your kinship, wouldnt you make the third masters family mock at you? While speaking, Dong Hui pushed Shi Junhe and hoped that he could help her persuade Shi Qingxue. But Shi Junhe looked at Shi Baoning seriously and asked, When we were in King Ruis mansion, His Excellency had mentioned what happened in the Peace Temple. What was he talking about? Shi Baoning stiffened with an unfathomable expression. She was sad because Shi Junhe asked her this question, and meanwhile she was scared as what had happened in the past would be revealed. Her expression changed several times, but she couldnt speak a word at last. Shi Junhe then looked at Dong Hui and asked the same question. Under her embarrassed expression, he stated calmly, Although His Excellency is not a good person in many aspects, he wouldnt lie about this matter. So, I need to know what on earth happened then to make him condemn us. Shi Qingxue didnt know that her family had been to King Ruis mansion to ask for the ladies, so she didnt say anything but listened silently. However, Shi Junhe didnt get any information he wanted from the two, so he turned to Shi Qingxue and stated unhurriedly, Qingxue, you tell me. I No! Shi Baoning interrupted in haste as soon as Shi Qingxue started. With tears in her eyes, Shi Baoning looked in pain and humiliated. Tears fell along her cheeks. Father, I know you are always partial to Qingxue, but I am your daughter, too. You should be clear about my character. How can you question me because of an outsiders ungrounded suspicion? Shi Junhe still looked serious and asked, If you didnt do anything to hurt your sister, why are you afraid of my question? Shi Baoning argued anxiously, I am not afraid. I I just I just dont think you trust me. Afterward, she lowered her head in low spirits and looked like she was hurt. Shi Junhe was still unmoved and expressed impassively, In that case, I am going to find out the truth now, and then you can avoid suspicion. If His Excellency comes next time, I wont be speechless after he asks, like I was last time. I Shi Baoning had nothing to say. She felt depressed again and shed more tears, shouting at Shi Junhe in embarrassment and rage, You have gone too far. Shi Baoning covered her face and ran out of the study, and Dong Hui looked sullen, but she was guilty and didnt argue with Shi Junhe. She merely explained in a low voice, Baoning is just a child. Im afraid that she will do something stupid as she cant get over it. Im going to check on her. There were only Shi Junhe and Qingxue left in the study. Shi Qingxue was clear that Shi Junhe said that because he loved her, so she didnt say anything unpleasant to make him unhappy. She just sat next to him and kept him company. After a while, Shi Junhe came to his senses after Shi Baoning reproached him, but he still asked Shi Qingxue, Qingxue, tell me what happened in the Peace Temple. Ah Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded and stuttered for quite a while but just uttered some pointless words. Shi Junhe waited for a while and got impatient. He stared at Shi Qingxue and asked in a deep voice, What? When did you become so generous? Or do you want to hide such a matter from your father? No, I didnt mean that! Shi Qingxue denied in a hurry. Seeing that she couldnt avoid it, she had to confess, Okay, I will tell you. She held Shi Junhes arm like a spoiled child. Father, you know well about me. I am never merciful. I dont hurt anybody, but if somebody dares to offend me, I will let them pay for it at a higher price. In that case, why did you refuse to tell me what happened in the Peace Temple till I force you to answer? Shi Junhe was confused. Shi Qingxue stuck out her tongue in low spirits, looking naughty but lovely. Because I dont remember what happened in the Peace Temple. How can you investigate it? Shi Junhe was stunned and murmured after a long time, No. How is it possible? Didnt you say that you have regained your memory? Why dont you remember? Did you lie to me? You cant remember anything, but Mo Junyang told you to say that, right? Shi Qingxue was helpless as Mo Junyang left such a bad impression to Shi Junhe. She had to explain, No. I can really remember. In order to convince him, Shi Qingxue told Shi Junhe that she had won Zhao Haoran when they shot arrows in the training ground. She expressed complacently, If I didnt regain my memory, how could I shoot so accurately like before? After all, Grandpa and you taught me. Shi Junhe also smiled with relief and caressed Shi Qingxues soft hair with a gentler expression on his face. Its great that you dont forget. While speaking, he showed loneliness on his dignified face and lowered his voice. You dont know how worried I was. I feared that you would forget your father and only remember Mo Junyang. Father! Shi Qingxue had tears in her eyes. She suddenly thought that when she was a child, she had few chances to be with Shi Junhe. It was difficult to be a strict father, but he was gentle to her most of the time. When she was naughty and irritated Dong Hui, Shi Junhe indulged her and held her in his arms, preventing Dong Hui from punishing her. At that time, her fathers embrace was so tolerant and warm. She could still remember it, as if it were yesterday. Shi Qingxue couldnt control herself anymore and rushed into her fathers arms, whispering in a sobbing voice, No. I would never forget you purposely. Even if there is an accident, I would think of you soon and then come back to you quickly, so please dont feel sad anymore. Shi Junhe held Shi Qingxues face with both hands and gently wiped the tears under her eyes and on her cheeks with his rough fingers. He thought with emotion, I thought its fine that I treat two daughters fairly and dont ignore either of them, but till now, I am indifferent to Baonings tears but feel heartbroken to see Qingxues tearful eyes and want to give her anything nice. No wonder Baoning said I am partial. Well, stop crying. If you continue, you will be ugly! Shi Junhe comforted her with love. He changed the subject. You havent told me why you could come. Junyang told me to come back. He was afraid that if I dont return home after I recover, there will be much gossip, so he let me leave. While speaking, Shi Qingxue had a sly smile on her face. So, I went to the Shouan Hall to greet Grandma as soon as I came back home. Her big beautiful eyes were pure and clean, and the long eyelashes were shaking and attractive. Shi Junhe knew that his stupid daughter fully trusted Mo Junyang, so he couldnt be critical. He just reminded her seriously. I dont know if His Excellency told you that your grandma wanted the token granted by Emperor, but now that you are back, you should know about it. Shi Qingxue was petrified and didnt understand what Shi Junhe meant. Father, since you told me, do you hope that I could give the token granted by Emperor to Grandma? Of course not! Shi Junhe looked unusually solemn and grabbed Qingxues hand, sighing deeply. In fact, I should have told you something earlier. Hmm? Shi Qingxue looked confused and didnt know why her father got so serious. Shi Junhe touched Qingxues head helplessly. Do you remember your grandpas words when he gave the token granted by Emperor to you? Shi Qingxue nodded. Grandpa said that the token granted by Emperor can protect me. As long as I take it out, all the family must agree to my requirement. Besides, in fact, my father gave the token granted by Emperor to you for a more important reason. Shi Junhe pondered for a while and then continued frankly, All the noble families in the capital city know that the token granted by Emperor can protect a family, and many people covet this treasure. But my father thought such a life-protecting token was the same as a sugar-coated poison to a child in the family. Its sweet if you taste it for the first time and you would taste for the second time. As it goes on like this, you will kill yourself because of your willfulness someday. Recollecting the scene when Shi Lei talked with him, Shi Junhe had a deep yearning and felt depressed and helpless. He couldnt live up to his fathers expectations. Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see Shi Junhes expression and pretended to be relieved. Grandpa gave this sugar-coated poison to me. Did he want to tempt me to take the poison? Chapter 173 - Where Is the Token Granted by Emperor Hearing Shi Qingxues words, Shi Junhe was stunned but couldnt help laughing. His daughter had sharp eyes and was thoughtful, good at speaking sugared words. Nobody would dislike her. Shi Junhe was relieved and couldnt help but tease her, Its a poison, so it was given to you. Will you take it? Shi Qingxue raised her head arrogantly and responded with complacency, Huh! I am so wise. How would I take it as I know its a poison? Grandpa must know that I can resist temptation and help him keep the treasure, and anybody else cant. Am I right, Father? Shi Junhe could certainly notice that Shi Qingxue indicated that he was one of anybody else, so Shi Lei didnt give the token granted by Emperor to him. Although speaking from some aspect, Shi Qingxue was right, he was unable either to cry or to laugh. He tried his best not to laugh, and his expression turned solemn again. He gazed at Qingxue deeply and told her seriously, So you must protect the token granted by Emperor and cant take it out until you really have to. Do you understand? Shi Qingxue didnt expect Shi Junhe to be so solemn and was astonished, replying subconsciously, Sure. I would put away the stuff Grandpa gave to me and wont use it easily. Earlier, whenever my mother wanted to let Hui divorce me and send her home, you made a predisposition to give Hui the token granted by Emperor? Shi Junhe asked in an instant. Shi Qingxue was embarrassed by this question and felt helpless. Thats Mother! I didnt take it out easily. Shi Junhes dignified face was more serious and he demanded solemnly, Thats what I am talking about. If there is something like this in the future, even for me or your mother, you cant say that you would give the token granted by Emperor to anybody like you did last time. Are you clear? Why? How can I Shi Qingxue could hardly understand why Shi Junhe said that all of a sudden. Because Shi Junhe looked away and answered unhurriedly, Because this is the only thing your grandpa gave to you. He wanted you to keep it carefully. If you use it because of somebody else, your grandpa would be sad. Shi Qingxue still wanted to argue, but seeing Shi Junhes complicated expression with sadness, she couldnt say what she was going to say. She then nodded and responded in a serious tone, I see, Father. Dont worry. I will protect the token granted by Emperor and wouldnt let anybody use it. Anybody she mentioned included herself. Shi Junhe smiled bitterly and thought that his father gave the token granted by Emperor to Qingxue that year in order to keep her alive, but now he cheated her purposely to prevent trouble before it happened He got such a result and didnt know if it was overcorrected. But Shi Junhe didnt have extra energy to think about it. He just nodded and then told Shi Qingxue that Mo Shujun personally led some people to search the Luotong Boudoir the other day just to look for the token granted by Emperor and even beat up her servants. Shi Qingxue was petrified and had never expected that Mo Shujun would do something like that. How could she Qingxue opened her eyes wide in disbelief and couldnt continue to question because Shi Junhes serious expression had told her the truth. She stayed quiet for a while and then asked in a hoarse voice, Was Dong Shuang beaten up? How is she now? I told Doctor Qin to examine her and then sent her back to the Luotong Boudoir. Your mother told some people to clean up the Luotong Boudoir for you, and it is generally the same as before. But the servants searching the room were not careful then and might have damaged a lot of your treasures. I have told Hui to replace some for you, but something Shi Junhe couldnt continue. When Shi Qingxue was only four or five years old, Shi Lei founded a loft in the East House as her bedroom for her teenage period. Shi Lei loved Qingxue since she was a child and knew that she liked playing, so he specially gave her many valuable playthings, including famous writings, paintings and ancient porcelains, which were rare and unique and couldnt be found anywhere else after they were damaged. How could they replace them to make up? Shi Qingxue didnt let Shi Junhe continue and asked coldly, So Grandma took the token granted by Emperor away at last? Father, as you told me so much, do you want me to take it back from Grandma? No! Shi Junhe was surprised this time. He looked at Shi Qingxue in confusion and hesitated for a while before speaking. The token granted by Emperor was not in the Luotong Boudoir, and my mother didnt find it. You Logically, Shi Qingxue had kept the token granted by Emperor, but Mo Shujun couldnt find it after searching everywhere in the Luotong Boudoir. Qingxue must be able to guess that. As a result, Shi Qingxue was more surprised than Shi Junhe. She didnt find it? How is it possible? The Luotong Boudoir is not big, and I didnt She didnt hide it on purpose. She didnt finish her words, but she had expressed it clearly. It was silent in the room. They looked at each other speechlessly and seemed not to know what had happened. Shi Junhe frowned and asked hesitantly, So do you mean that you didnt hide the token granted by Emperor anywhere else, but my mother couldnt find it in the Luotong Boudoir? Of course. I had the token granted by Emperor since long ago, but I kept it in the closet in my bedroom all the time and wouldnt take it out easily. They can find it and dont need to rummage through chests and cupboards. After all, Shi Qingxue had never expected that somebody would search her bedroom in a big way when she was still a lady in the family. They fell into silence again. Judging from each others words, they had got the information that the token granted by Emperor was supposed to be in the Luotong Boudoir, but it disappeared, and even its owner Shi Qingxue didnt know where it was. Was it like my mother said? Somebody coveted your thing in secret and stole it? Shi Junhe thought of Dong Shuang again, who was still suspicious, and it might be her after Shi Qingxue said that. However, Shi Qingxue affirmed, It cant be Dong Shuang. She and Xia Mang are absolutely loyal to me and she would never steal my things. Moreover, Dong Shuang is stupid from childhood. How could she have played such a cute trick? You are right, but the token granted by Emperor cant go away. Shi Junhe was helpless. The token granted by Emperor was given by the late emperor and was a royal gift. It was fine if it was used, but if it was gone and the emperor blamed them, it would The token granted by Emperor was registered as a property of the Shi Family, and even if somebody stole it, they couldnt use it. Who would be so idle as to steal a royal gift from the Shi Family? Shi Qingxue shrugged and showed a weirdly relieved expression on her face after feeling astonished. She stated leisurely, It doesnt matter. In fact, if Grandpa didnt want the young generation to act willfully because of the token granted by Emperor, he should have refused when the late emperor gave it to him. If he couldnt refuse, he should have destroyed it as soon as he got it. If it were me, I wouldnt let the young generation know about its existence. It would indulge the children who are lazy or make trouble and make them fight for it. This stuff is good for nothing except that it should be worshiped, right? Shi Junhe pondered for a while and thought Qingxue was right, but could she boldly say that it was better after it was gone? He sighed helplessly and then explained, You are right, but it was given by your grandpa. You cant abandon the gift given by him before he passed away because you are not on good terms with your grandma. Shi Junhes words exactly revealed what Shi Qingxue was thinking about. For a minute just now, she really had the intention that she would just give the token granted by Emperor to Mo Shujun if the latter wanted it so badly. Anyway, she didnt need it But she cared much about what Shi Junhe said. Shi Lei gave it to her specially, and why would she give it to somebody else? Even if that was her grandma, it was not okay. At this thought, Shi Qingxue faced Shi Junhe with more courage and delight. No. Since you told me, even if you ask me for the token granted by Emperor in the future, I wont give it to you. Shi Junhe was not irritated but nodded with relief. Hope you can do as you say. Shi Qingxue patted her chest and assured him, No problem. After a pause, she asked hesitantly, But I should find the token granted by Emperor now, right? If the token granted by Emperor was gone when she owned it, she wouldnt have the face to see her grandfather even after she hung herself. Shi Junhe frowned. Since you are sure that it was not stolen by that maid, there is only one possibility. Upon hearing that, Shi Qingxue was astonished and then realized. She thought for a minute and agreed with Shi Junhe, responding, I might have hidden the token granted by Emperor, but She shrugged helplessly, I have forgotten. Shi Junhe was speechless and wondered why somebody could be so calm when she forgot something so important. Fine, you hurry up and go back to think it over. Before you remember, dont come here to see me. Shi Junhe was angry and kicked Shi Qingxue out of the study. Shi Qingxue could do nothing. Even though she was unwilling to go back to the Luotong Boudoir, she had come back home and could only return to her boudoir. While thinking, she missed Mo Junyangs Love Xue House. She was carefree there. Qingxue, are you okay? A surprised voice came from ahead. She raised her head and saw Wenren Chi run to her in a hurry. Wenren Chi still wore the military uniform of the City Guardian Army. Apparently, he hurriedly rushed to visit Qingxue as soon as he got the news that she came back home. Facing Wenren Chi she hadnt seen for a long time, Shi Qingxue was overjoyed and rushed to him with a smile. Big brother, where have you been? I was wondering why I didnt see you in Fathers study. Wenren Chi thought that Qingxue blamed him as he didnt come immediately, so he explained with apology, I led the City Guardian Army to patrol in the city this morning and I got the news just now, so The City Guardian Army? Shi Qingxue repeated in surprise and came out of Wenren Chis arms, looking him up and down. Gee, arent you in the Shi Army all the time? Why did you become a member of the City Guardian Army? While speaking, Shi Qingxue was confused. According to her memory, Shi Junhe should be in the battlefield far away, and Wenren Chi was in the Shi Army, but everything she had seen was different. What was the weirdest was that she took it for granted in the beginning. Shi Qingxue suddenly realized that something important might have happened during the period that she couldnt remember. Chapter 174 - Calumny The news that Shi Qingxue had recovered and come back home spread quickly in Duke Shis mansion, and Zhou Ruyu might be the most restless. Zhou Ruyu had finally managed to kick out her most powerful enemy. Before she tortured everyone in the first masters family to death, Shi Qingxue had come back unexpectedly, which made her furious. No, she couldnt let Shi Qingxue have a chance to swagger in Duke Shis mansion. After making a decision, Zhou Ruyu rushed to the Shouan Hall. Mo Shujun had just finished dinner and was enjoying the cool in the courtyard. Mother, good evening. Zhou Ruyu was anxious but didnt dare to act recklessly. She greeted Mo Shujun respectfully. Mo Shujun glanced at Zhu who served her, and the maid understood. Zhu greeted Zhou Ruyu and then led the other servants to leave and stay several meters away, letting them talk in private. Tell me. Why did you come to me late in the evening? Mo Shujun asked indifferently and didnt even look at Zhou Ruyu. Zhou Ruyu was seen through and looked awkward, but she was thick-skinned and soon smiled, trying to please her. Mother, I hear that Qingxue came back today? Mo Shujun leered at Zhou Ruyu and smiled faintly. Didnt you come to me because you got the news earlier? No. I come to visit you every morning and night. I am worried that you are too tired today, so I came earlier. I am afraid that I will disturb you when you have a rest. Mo Shujun smiled and didnt say whether she believed it or not. Zhou Ruyu thought Mo Shujun believed it and then seized the chance to explain her purpose of coming here. I hear that Qingxue came to greet you as soon as she returned home today. Its obvious that she is a good child. A good child? She just did it to act in front of outsiders. Do you think I am blind and cant see through her? At the mention of this matter, Mo Shujun was angry and looked colder. Zhou Ruyu was happy to see that, but she still pretended worried. She expressed with concern, You know how naughty Qingxue is. Why do you get mad at her? If you get sick out of anger, it will be unworthy. Zhou Ruyu wanted to speak evil of Shi Qingxue. Unexpectedly, Mo Shujun didnt get mad at Shi Qingxue but reproached her coldly, Since you said that I have brought her up, you dont need to tell me about her moral quality. I, I didnt mean that. Zhou Ruyu forced a smile and secretly cursed Mo Shujun who was partial. She didnt pretend to be virtuous and innocent anymore. She added frankly, I know you love Qingxue, Mother. But all people witnessed what she had done in the past few days. She and her cousin hurt each other, and then she lived in King Ruis mansion as an unmarried woman. She just humiliated our family. In the past, His Excellency announced in public that he wouldnt let Qingxue go, but now he let her return home without saying anything. What would the outsiders think? They would think that Qingxue slept with His Excellency, and later he got tired of her and abandoned her. This Shut up! Mo Shujun shouted in rage and interrupted Zhou Ruyu ruthlessly. She stared coldly at Zhou Ruyu and cursed, Since you know its our familys scandal, you should keep your mouth shut and not speak a word. How can you talk nonsense to disgrace our familys name? I warn you. If I hear that you or your people make irresponsible remarks outside and defame the Shi Family next time, I wont spare you! Zhou Ruyu almost shrank her head into her neck when being cursed, but the more obedient she looked, the more resentful she was. Shi Qingxue had done something out of line and ruined the Shi Familys fame, but Zhou Ruyu was wrong as she told the truth. Zhou Ruyu concluded that Mo Shujun was partial, but she didnt know that if something was done but wasnt spoken out, the outsiders would forget it soon. On the contrary, if she didnt do something but many people talked about it, no matter how she proved her innocence, people would comment on her. It was said that gossip was fearful, and that was true. Zhou Ruyu was unhappy as Mo Shujun was unmoved after Shi Qingxue became a laughingstock, but Mo Shujuns attitude was evident, and Zhou Ruyu couldnt comment, so she just brought up the same matter. Mother, even if you can forgive Qingxue easily, what she has done these days is enough to prove that she cant take the great responsibility for the token granted by Emperor. You said that you will take it back. Now she has come back home, and we cant let her keep such a valuable thing anymore. Otherwise, nobody knows what trouble she would make. After saying that, Zhou Ruyu shrank her neck by instinct and was afraid that Mo Shujun would rebuke her again. Unexpectedly, this time, Mo Shujun just glanced at her nonchalantly and didnt curse her. She merely announced, I know how to deal with it. You dont need to worry. Zhou Ruyu knew well about Mo Shujun. Hearing that, she was aware that it was possible to take the token granted by Emperor back. As long as Shi Qingxue didnt have the protection of the token, a younger whose fame was ruined would be at her mercy, but she didnt bother about this matter more. Instead, she suggested warmly, Since Qingxue has recovered and returned home, shouldnt we hold a family dinner to welcome her and get rid of her bad luck? Zhou Ruyu spoke with a strong sense of righteousness, but she lowered her head while speaking and was worried that Mo Shujun would notice something wrong. Nobody knew if Mo Shujun was tired or was convinced by her. She yawned and waved her hand. You can make the decision for such a trifle. Dont need to ask me. After getting the order, next day, Zhou Ruyu excitedly held a dinner party to welcome Shi Qingxue. But all people from the first masters family knew that it was a dangerous dinner. Shi Qingxue was clear that she wouldnt live carelessly like she did in King Ruis mansion after she came back home, but when Zhou Ruyu provoked her, she was depressed. She was forced to attend such a family dinner and listen to Zhou Ruyus sarcasm, who flattered her on the surface but harmed her in secret. Her weird tone was annoying. The most upset was that Shi Qingxue couldnt leave the table. She picked up the teacup obediently with a perfect excuse to refuse to drink liquor that she had just recovered and couldnt drink. She patiently waited for Zhou Ruyu to finish speaking and then smiled. Aunt, thanks for your blessing. I will live in safety happily in the future as you expected. After all She paused for a while intentionally. After she attracted all peoples attention, she continued meaningfully, After all, only few people in the family would hurt others, and most of us live in peace. Am I right, Auntie? Zhou Ruyus face stiffened, and she was rendered speechless. The label of hurting the family was stuck to Shi Baojin. Even though she had been killed by Mo Junyang, she couldnt get rid of it, and Zhou Ruyu was humiliated as her mother. Zhou Ruyu was depressed and reluctant, saying crossly, Right, Qingxue, you are always friendly and kind. You never hurt your cousins. Shi Qingxue smiled and didnt reply Zhou Ruyu, as if the older woman were putting on a one-man show boringly. Zhou Ruyu didnt get any reply and shut up resentfully soon. But she was a busy woman. After sitting for a short while, she suddenly talked to Mo Shujun with a smile. Speaking of the harmonious family, ours is well-known in the capital city. Now Brother has returned home with victory, and my son Baozhao and daughter Baoyou have come back to us. We are really a happy family. Mo Shujuns dignified face finally showed some gentleness and she nodded with a smile. I am old. I just hope that the children can love each other and wont disturb my peaceful life with something pointless or ruin our familys moral standards. Yes, Mother (Grandma)! All the young generation answered obediently. Zhou Ruyu stated all of a sudden, We are harmonious, but there is some flaw. Oh? How? Mo Shujun raised her brows and her expression was confused or what. Mother, have you forgotten? We have many people around the table, but not everybody is here. Mo Shujuns face darkened, and she seemed unhappy. Zhou Ruyu suddenly realized that her words would make others misunderstand her, so she explained in a hurry, More than one year has passed, and we dont know how Baoyan is in the family temple. The other day, I sent somebody to visit her, and she said she missed her grandma. The fifth lady Shi Baoyan had tried to kill Shi Qingxue and after it was exposed, Mo Shujun told her to meditate in the family temple as a punishment more than one year ago. All people heard Shi Baoyans name and felt astonished, as if they had forgotten her. It was rare for Zhou Ruyu to remember a young girl as she was not Shi Baoyans biological mother or a member of the first masters family. Shi Qingxue glanced at Zhou Ruyu in secret and didnt say anything. She had known what Zhou Ruyu had planned to do, but she didnt want to get involved. Mo Shujun didnt like this girl whose mother was a concubine. Hearing that Baoyan missed her, she was unmoved and just rebuked, Since she is in the family temple as a punishment after making a mistake, she should focus on meditation and not consider something unrealistic. And you, dont send people to the family temple for nothing. Baoyan is from the first masters family. Even though her mother doesnt have a say, Hui can make the decision. As her aunt, you dont need to show her excessive attention. Zhou Ruyus face froze, and Dong Hui whose name was mentioned was also embarrassed. Although Dong Hui generously kept Shi Baoyan alive who was created when her husband was drunk, she felt uncomfortable to see her as the daughter was raised in the first masters family. So since Shi Baoyan was sent to the family temple, Dong Hui never asked about her except telling people to send her some necessities at intervals and just let her grow and die by herself. Now Mo Shujun said that, and it seemed that Dong Hui didnt care about the child as a mother. Dong Hui was depressed and didnt want to talk with Zhou Ruyu, but as Mo Shujun mentioned that, she had to answer respectfully, Mother, you are right. Although Baoyan is in the family temple, she is a daughter of our family and I wont maltreat her. Its right, but she is a girl, sixteen years old. She should get married. If she still stays in the family temple, it would be improper. Zhou Ruyu pretended to talk casually and revealed her intention. Chapter 175 - Incite Shi Baoyan Obviously, Zhou Ruyu suggested letting Shi Baoyan come back home in order to annoy the first masters family, so nobody from the first masters family replied her. She didnt feel frustrated but continued to advise Mo Shujun, Last time I saw Baoyan, she was thinner. She is so pitiful. After all, she is a child in our family. Do you think we should let her return home? Mo Shujun picked up the teacup and took a sip of tea. When Zhou Ruyu was anxious, Mo Shujun replied slowly at last, Since she is Junhes child, he needs to decide how to deal with this matter. Junhe, what do you think? Shi Junhe was clear that he couldnt stay out of it and was prepared, so he answered unhurriedly, She was sent to the family temple to redeem herself as a punishment after making a mistake. Now she hasnt stayed there for five years. If we let her come back easily, whats the point of the punishment? How can we see the power of the family rules? He said sincerely and reasonably and explained to Mo Shujun, but in fact he retorted Zhou Ruyu. Zhou Ruyu looked awkward but still argued, You are right, but the family rule can be changed. Baoyan should be punished as she made a mistake, but she has taken the punishment and it is enough. After all, she is your daughter, Brother. Hearing that, Shi Baoning was affected and couldnt help but plead in a low voice, Aunt is reasonable. Anyway, Baoyan is Before Shi Baoning finished her words, Shi Junhe glared at her coldly. She had tears in her eyes in an instant and lowered her head with grievance silently. Shi Junhe was furious and cursed secretly that Shi Baoning was brainless. She was taught to be kind and lenient with others but didnt know how to act according to different situations. He finally managed to retort Zhou Ruyu, but Shi Baoning helped the outsider, which irritated him. As expected, Zhou Ruyu continued Shi Baonings subject. Brother, look. Even Baoning said that. If you go your own way, it will be not good. Mo Shujun suddenly put the cover on the teacup, with a clear sound. She did it gently but made the people in the room quiet down. Then she stated slowly but with dignity, Theoretically, I shouldnt get involved in this matter, but Junhe, I want to remind you. Even if you give all your love to Qingxue, Baoyan is still your daughter. Dont be too partial. Shi Qingxue planned to keep silent in the beginning, but hearing that Mo Shujun put all the blame on Shi Junhe, she got unhappy. She defended Shi Junhe by instinct. Anybody who made a mistake should be punished. Father is impartial as he did according to the family rule. Or do you think Baoyan did nothing wrong but I was wrong, Grandma? Mo Shujuns expression froze. Of course, I didnt mean that, but Baoyan is sixteen years old now. If she stays in the family temple for three or five years at the marriage age, it might be difficult for her to marry a good man in the future. And if others wrongly think that Junhe maltreats his concubines daughter, it might be harmful. Shi Qingxue sneered in secret and thought they really knew how to pretend innocent and found such excuses. They were thick-skinned and asserted that they were family, so even the one who committed a capital crime could be spared. According to Shi Qingxues temper in the past, she didnt care how outsiders commented. If she felt unhappy, even God couldnt make her surrender. But looking at Shi Junhes dignified side face, Qingxue felt that she had grown up. She could understand her fathers worry and would consider for him first. Before Shi Junhe spoke, she explained, Grandma, you misunderstand Father. Father always loves us and certainly hopes that we are fine. Even though Baoyan was wrong, he is always tolerant to his children and sincerely hopes that she can come back home earlier. Afterward, Shi Qingxue turned to Shi Junhe, with helplessness and compromise in her eyes, indicating, Father, they made a fuss in order to take Baoyan back home to upset me. I dont feel grieved or scared, so please let Shi Baoyan return home. Qingxue would rather feel grieved than hear somebody comment on Shi Junhes reputation. Shi Junhe naturally understood Qingxues effort. Although he wanted to say that in fact he didnt care at all, under her tearful eyes, he nodded and agreed silently. Zhou Ruyu was more enthusiastic about taking Shi Baoyan back than the first masters family. She arranged the carriage and servants to pick up Shi Baoyan and even specially welcomed her at the city gate that day. When Shi Baoyan in the carriage saw Zhou Ruyu, there were tears in her eyes. She grabbed Zhou Ruyus hand and was moved. Aunt, only you care about me. Zhou Ruyu wiped the tears under Shi Baoyans eyes and responded with love, Kid, why are you crying? You are my niece. If I dont care about you, who would I care about? Let me see if you suffered. She intentionally stayed away from Shi Baoyan and circled her casually to show that she checked on the girl, but on the surface, she pretended to feel sad for her and sighed. My poor Baoyan. You have suffered a lot in the family temple. I was useless and begged your grandma and father for a long time before they finally agreed to let you come back. Alas When Shi Baoyan started her life in the family temple, she hoped that Shi Junhe would take her back home after he won the battle, but she waited for a long time. Then her father didnt come but sent a letter to rebuke her as she was cruel to Shi Qingxue and tell her to stay in the family temple to meditate and redeem herself, without mentioning when she could go back home. At that time, Shi Baoyan knew that her father was partial, and if she wanted to go back home, she had to depend on Zhou Ruyus help. Especially when Zhou Ruyu pleaded for her and gave her a chance to return home, Shi Baoyan took Zhou Ruyu as her parent and wouldnt guess if her aunt had done that with other intentions. She knelt to Zhou Ruyu and expressed seriously with sincerity, Aunt, nobody in the family but you cares about me, and I respect you from the bottom of my heart and take you as my mother. Hope that you can continue to pity me. Hearing Shi Baoyan showed her loyalty, Zhou Ruyu disdained her and thought, I have a precious daughter and dont need you to take me as your mother. You just deserve to be my pawn. However, she smiled gently and responded with helplessness, I naturally treat you as my daughter, but She sighed deeply on purpose and continued helplessly, But I am insignificant and dont have a say. Sometimes, even though I want to protect you, I can do nothing in front of your mother and Qingxue. Its them again! I know that they want me to die. Shi Baoyan gritted her teeth. At the mention of Dong Hui and Shi Qingxue, she was anxious to pounce on them and bite them to death. Her hatred toward them was too evident. Zhou Ruyu was frightened and hurriedly grunted, Baoyan, dont you understand? Even I have to yield to them. If you come back with this attitude and let them know that you bear a grudge against them, they wont let you go! Shi Baoyan didnt care and snorted. They wont let me go? I wont let them go! I have been incompatible with them since long ago! Zhou Ruyu was satisfied with Shi Baoyan who vented her anger on Shi Qingxue and the others, but at the same time, she was afraid that Shi Baoyan who showed her emotions all the time couldnt upset Shi Qingxue but might ruin her plan. So she rebuked Shi Baoyan coldly, I finally let you come back from the family temple and just wish you to live well at home. If you want to die, youd better go back to the family temple now. Then I wont try every means to help you come back. Shi Baoyan was scared by Zhou Ruyus sudden change but soon understood her effort. She was touched and felt reluctant. But would I have to live on just for the sake of remaining alive under their glory? They made me so miserable. I cant endure it. Zhou Ruyu caressed Shi Baoyans hair with love. Stupid kid, you should take revenge, and I didnt tell you to swallow humiliation silently. But you cant be impulsive anymore or play dirty tricks. You were too cruel and it could be easily found. You have to learn from history. Shi Baoyan was embarrassed to hear that. In fact, after one years mediation in the family temple, she had thought many things out. Even though she was still jealous of Shi Qingxue, if it happened again, she wouldnt harm Shi Qingxue with a way that could be exposed easily and had enough evidence. She looked at Zhou Ruyu with expectancy and begged her. I was stupid in the past and didnt have a clear mind like Shi Qingxue, so I was defeated by her. But its different this time. Aunt, with your help, I wont follow the same old disastrous road. I just want you to pity me and give me instructions. Baoyan had fallen into her trap, but Zhou Ruyu still pretended as if it were difficult. She said helplessly, I hope that you are fine, but we are family. You want me to help you cope with Qingxue. It might Shi Baoyan expressed her opinion in a hurry. I dont need you to take action. I just hope that you can figure out a way for me, and I will do everything by myself. Seeing that Zhou Ruyu was still unmoved, Shi Baoyan gritted her teeth and stressed, Aunt, you dont want the first masters family to be above you all the time, right? Zhou Ruyu was surprised and didnt expect that Shi Baoyan could see through her. In fact, Shi Baoyan had guessed that Zhou Ruyu helped her because she might want to make use of her, but so what? She would depend on anybody who helped her. As long as somebody helped her escape from disaster and take revenge on Shi Qingxue, she didnt care if she was a pawn. As Shi Baoyan said that, Zhou Ruyu stopped putting on airs and showed an expression that she could do nothing to Baoyan. Then she waved at the girl. Since you insist on fighting with Qingxue, I wont look on. I will tell you how to do it. She whispered in Shi Baoyans ear and didnt stop until the girl opened her eyes wide and looked doubtful. Zhou Ruyu then stopped Baoyan who was anxious to speak and ordered coldly, I have told you the way. If you need it, just do as I say. If there is something wrong, you can never take revenge. If they abandon you and send you to the family temple again, you cant go back all your life. Shi Baoyan was scared by the nightmare Zhou Ruyu mentioned and held back her unwillingness. She forced a smile. Aunt, dont worry. I wont make any mistake this time. Chapter 176 - Shi Baoyan’s Change” After Shi Baoyan came back to the East House, Shi Qingxue was always alert and afraid that Shi Baoyan would make trouble for her. But Shi Baoyan who had meditated in the family temple for one year seemed to be a different person and wasnt as vicious and sinister as before. It seemed that she had been edified by the burning incense in the temple. She looked gentle and peaceful. Others felt happy to see her and couldnt help but like her when they got along with her. Is the meditation in the family temple so effective? Can it turn a vicious person into a pure one? Shi Qingxue couldnt believe what she had seen, but Shi Baoyan came to Qingxue to show her guilt and ask for mercy as soon as she returned to the East House. Shi Baoyan said every word sincerely and didnt shuffle off her responsibility. She admitted her mistakes and expressed that she would mend her manners in the future. Even though Shi Qingxue had a prejudice against Baoyan in the first place and thought herself hard-hearted, she was moved by her half-sisters sincerity. When Shi Baoyan raised her tearful eyes and asked if Qing Qingxue could give her another chance for the sake of their kinship, Qingxue nodded automatically and replied yes. Its great! Qingxue, you finally forgive me. I am so happy! Shi Baoyan was so excited that she almost jumped up. Tears filled her eyes again, and she grabbed Qingxues hand emotionally, expressing her feelings. You dont know that since I realized my mistakes, I always considered apologizing to you. I was worried that you wouldnt forgive me, and I was afraid that I didnt deeply realize my fault. Today since I hear that you can give me another chance, I feel that the burden in my heart for a long time is finally removed. Thank you a lot! Shi Baoyans words and behavior showed her apology and sincerity, which made Shi Qingxue not so regretful as she had regretted being persuaded. Maybe Shi Baoyan really became a good person. Shi Qingxues expression softened, and she showed a smile, holding Shi Baoyans hand as she stated gently, Baoyan, dont be afraid. As long as you really want to mend your manners, of course we are still sisters. Perhaps they had grown up, and the conflict between them when they were young was not important anymore, so she forgave Shi Baoyan easily who had hurt her and even tried to kill her, accepting Shi Baoyan as her sister once more. Shi Qingxue thought so but didnt notice that Shi Baoyan displayed a cold smile that nobody paid attention to after being forgiven by her. So in the following few days, Shi Baoyan always stayed with Shi Qingxue with the reason that they should spend more time together as they just made it up. Probably because of her friendly attitude and interesting words, Shi Qingxue didnt show that she hated Baoyan, so both of them were happy to be together. But after staying at home like this for only a few days, Shi Qingxue was restless and felt that there was something wrong. She pondered and found that she didnt have the companionship of that man. Shi Qingxue counted with her fingers and murmured crossly, We have just separated for three days. Why do I feel uncomfortable all over? I didnt feel like this in the past. And what annoyed her most was that even if they couldnt stay together all the time like the last two months, Mo Junyang would come to visit at intervals and see her in the past. Why didnt she see him these days? He must miss me but feel shy to see me! Shi Qingxue mumbled. According to the rule of considering carefully and concluding boldly, she approved herself and then expressed generously, If the mountain cant come, I will go to it. For the sake that he looked after me for so long, I allow him to feel shy. Shi Qingxue planned to go out after finding an excuse randomly. Hearing that she would go to King Ruis mansion, Shi Baoyan moved closer to her and asked expectantly, I have never been to King Ruis mansion. It must be magnificent. If its okay with you, can you take me there, Qingxue? Seeing that Shi Qingxue was going to frown, Shi Baoyan added in a hurry, I promise that I wont disturb you when you have a date with His Excellency. Just take me with you, okay? Xia Mang heard that Shi Baoyan seemed to indicate that Shi Qingxue met Mo Junyang in private. Even though it was a fact in a way, she still couldnt help but furrow her brows. However, when she turned her head, she found that Shi Qingxue didnt seem to mind. She couldnt make it clear in front of Shi Baoyan and just kept it in mind. Meanwhile, she reminded Qingxue softly, King Ruis mansion is always heavily guarded. Last time, even the princess from the Zhao Country was stopped when she wanted to enter. She expressed in an indirect way that Shi Baoyan should better not come to embarrass all of them before being invited, but Shi Baoyan who looked much better than before didnt change as she was still thick-skinned and spoke with a flattering smile. Qingxue, whats your relationship with His Excellency? No matter how strict the guards in King Ruis mansion were with others, you can enter whenever you like. Shi Baoyan said that in order to express that Mo Junyang treated Shi Qingxue differently. After all, any ordinary woman hoped to get more special treatment from the man she loved, but unexpectedly, Shi Baoyan sucked up to her sister in a wrong way. Shi Qingxue didnt mind in the beginning, but after hearing that, she wrinkled her beautiful brows and stressed coldly, I am only a friend of His Excellency. Anyway, the rule in King Ruis mansion wont be changed because of me. If you want to go to their mansion, I can go with you, but after you arrive, you have to ask for permission first according to their rule. And dont say anything like that again in the future. Ill just pretend that I didnt hear. Shi Baoyao trembled and responded, Yes. But she scorned in her heart and thought, Now everybody in the capital city knows about your vague relationship with Mo Junyang. Why do you pretend? Dont you want to promote your status as King Ruis family has a different attitude toward you? Shi Qingxue didnt know what was on Shi Baoyans mind. Thinking that she could see Mo Junyang soon, she almost jumped for joy. But before she walked out of the mansion, an invitation from the embassy of the Zhao Country was sent to her. It was a letter written by Zhao Haoran to invite Lady Qingxue to compete on shooting in the training ground in the suburb of the capital. When Shi Qingxue heard about competing on shooting, she was tempted, but she wanted more to see Mo Junyang, so she talked to the messenger, Please send a message to Prince Haoran for me. I have something to do and need to go out. Lets compete another time. The messenger probably didnt expect that somebody would turn down a princes invitation, and his confident expression turned into worry in an instant. He wanted to speak for Zhao Haoran, but Shi Qingxue had got in the carriage, heading for King Ruis mansion. At the gate of King Ruis mansion, Shi Qingxue asked a guard to report and meanwhile thought that she would extort more osmanthus cakes from Mo Junyang when she saw him later. But fifteen minutes later, she couldnt enter the mansion or see Mo Junyang. Qu Yuebai came out and looked at Shi Qingxue apologetically, saying helplessly, What a coincidence. Junyang just went out a short while ago. If you want to see him, please come in to wait. Or if you need his help, I can do it for you. Qu Yuebai was the first assistant of Mo Junyang, and he expressed Mo Junyangs attitude mostly. Although Shi Baoyan didnt know about Qu Yuebais identity, she could guess his position as all people in King Ruis mansion respected him. She was jealous and cursed in secret, Shi Qingxue is really lucky. Not only His Excellency loves her, but all people in King Ruis mansion also listen to her. However, Shi Qingxue didnt cherish it. She wasnt joyful because of Qu Yuebais words but felt depressed, asking, I came to see him. Where has he gone? Qu Yuebais face stiffened, but Qingxue didnt notice and heard him answering gently, I dont know. How about you come into the Love Xue House to have a rest? Ah! No need. Shi Qingxue didnt find Shi Baoyans eyes with desire to enter King Ruis mansion and refused without thinking. Mo Junyang was not at home. The mere thought of the deserted house made Shi Qingxue sweat all over, and she didnt even want to give a glance at the house. Her emotion rose for no reason. Before Shi Qingxue could think it over, she heard somebody calling her name from behind. She looked back and saw Zhao Haoran who had just told somebody to send a letter to her. Your Highness, what are you doing here? Shi Qingxue was surprised but still stepped forward to greet Zhao Haoran. Zhao Haoran answered casually, I came to While speaking, he suddenly stopped and stared at Shi Qingxue in astonishment, shouting, Youyou speak No. Why arent you foolish now? Shi Qingxue was speechless. Probably only Zhao Haoran who was simple-minded could boldly say that she was foolish to her face. Shi Baoyan couldnt help laughing. Zhao Haoran finally realized that he said something wrong and apologized in a hurry, I am sorry. I didnt mean it. I It was funny to see a prince blush out of guilt and scratch his head. Shi Qingxues last anger faded and she burst into laughter. I was unwell indeed in the past, but now I am fine. At least I was normal when I won you. At the moment, Zhao Haoran didnt feel embarrassed anymore and announced resentfully, I was careless last time. If we compete once more, its uncertain who will be the winner. Shi Qingxue uplifted her brows and snorted. Really? Lets have another competition. Thats what I want. Zhao Haoran had planned to compete with Shi Qingxue and didnt feel happy because his offer was rejected. Now the girl came to him, so it was all that he could wish for. He hurriedly told the servants to prepare the carriage so that they could go to the suburb. Shi Baoyan suddenly cut in, What competition? It sounds funny. Qingxue, I want to go with you, okay? Hearing that, Shi Qingxue put on a long face and was finally fed up with Shi Baoyan who followed her all the time. What was the most annoying was that she couldnt refuse. Zhao Haoran asked impolitely, Who are you? Chapter 177 - Compete No matter how thick-skinned Shi Baoyan was, she couldnt help but blush after being questioned by Zhao Haoran. She stuttered, I am Qingxues sister, and my name is Baoyan. Your Highness, please just call me Baoyan. Oh! Zhao Haoran was not interested and said casually, I will go shooting with Qingxue, and it has nothing to do with you. Go back home first. Afterward, he didnt give Shi Baoyan a chance to speak and told Xia Mang to take her to the carriage back to the Shi Family. Then he got into another carriage with Shi Qingxue, heading for the training ground. As soon as they reached the training ground, Zhao Haoran brought the bow and arrows in high spirits and told somebody to bring two nice horses before saying to Shi Qingxue, We have competed on shooting last time, and it will be boring to do that again. This time, lets compete on shooting on horseback. Still ten arrows. Lets see who will shoot more rapidly and accurately, okay? Shi Qingxue laughed in secret and guessed that the prince must be afraid of losing to her again when they shot while standing, so he had such an idea. But looking at the two treasured horses, she was tempted and agreed immediately. Okay. No problem. Who will be the first? Zhao Haoran was reluctant to fall behind and responded at once, Of course I will be the first. I will show you my horsemanship. He directly bestrode his horse, looking handsome. Then he bent slightly to receive the long bow and arrows from the servant. He kicked the horses stomach and it ran slowly. Then he took out a long arrow and aimed at the round jackstraw in the big circle. In the blink of an eye, the sharp arrow flew away from the bow. Whoosh, it hit the middle of the jackstraws head. Accurate! Shi Qingxue watched and her eyes lit up. She couldnt help praising in a low voice. Zhao Haoran didnt look complacent as before. After he hit the target for the first time, he instantly took out the second sharp arrow and continued to make the horse circle. As soon as he aimed at the jackstraw, he raised the bow and shot its mouth. He did everything smoothly and elegantly. Perhaps the most capable riding master was the same when performing his shooting skill. Shi Qingxue watched as Zhao Haoran shot the arrows one after another. At last, the ten sharp arrows made the jackstraw like a sieve. It was magnificent. Then Zhao Haoran jumped off the horseback and walked to Shi Qingxue. He even wore a shy smile and asked with a hidden meaning, Do you think my archery can attract your attention? Shi Qingxue laughed and thought this prince was childish. He wanted her praise but still acted like it was a piece of cake, which amused her. But she was a grownup and wouldnt bother about a child. Since Zhao Haoran wanted to be praised, she would satisfy him. Right. You are really good at shooting on horseback Shi Qingxue suddenly stopped and had only one thought. She was just sixteen years old, while Zhao Haoran was already eighteen. Why did she think that he was younger than her? Before Zhao Haoran got overjoyed, Shi Qingxue stopped speaking and looked at him with her pale face, as if she had seen a ghost. He shouted unhappily, Huh! I know you are capable and would look down upon me. No need to say more. Its your turn now. Shi Qingxue looked at the long bow and arrows handed to her. Although she knew that he misunderstood her, she felt her brain was messy and had no energy to explain. She received the bow and arrows blankly and stepped on the stirrup to get on the horseback. Shi Qingxue hadnt ridden a horse for a long time. As soon as she was on the horseback, the horse made her swing, and she almost fell off. Then she managed with effort to calm down. She breathed deeply and kicked the horse, taking out an arrow before aiming and shooting as Zhao Haoran did. She did everything like him. The first arrow left the bow quickly and was shot to the jackstraw. The long arrow got closer to the target, but it changed the direction and flew away beside the jackstraws head in the end. Shi Qingxues first arrow missed the target unexpectedly. Shi Qingxue on horseback paused for a while, but soon she came to her senses. She rode the horse and ran around the jackstraw before taking out another arrow. This time the sharp arrow left the bow and shot the jackstraw at last, but it was shot aside and hit its shoulder. Then she shot all of the rest arrows successively, and they hit the jackstraw in different parts. They hit the arm, chest, belly Only the last three arrows were shot to its head. Shi Qingxue stopped the horse slowly. Zhao Haoran didnt need to say anything, and she knew that there was a great disparity between their results. Maybe she was good at shooting, but her horsemanship was ordinary. And few people could combine the two skills. A lot of people couldnt accurately figure out both the perfect distance and speed, and it was normal if they were unable to hit the target. Qingxue was not surprised at all but just felt depressed. Zhao Haoran walked quickly to Shi Qingxue and was about to brag when he heard Shi Qingxues voice. You have won. He planned to show off, but the result was announced before he got complacent. He was not happy. And looking at Qingxues gloomy face, Zhao Haoran was not so happy anymore but felt guilty somehow. Especially he had been practicing shooting on horseback these days How about I teach you to ride? Zhao Haoran blurted out. Shi Qingxue raised her head in surprise and with disbelief. Zhao Haoran regretted as soon as he finished his words. He stuttered to explain, I just think that you are good at shooting and dont want you to waste your skill. Forget it if you dont want to. Afterward, he turned away arrogantly and showed that he wouldnt insist. Shi Qingxue was stunned and then couldnt help laughing out loud. Her depression was gone and she thought this prince was so interesting. He cared about it so much but still acted like he just said that casually and it was up to her. Hey, why are you laughing? I dont want to help you on purpose. Dont flatter yourself. Zhao Haorans face turned red and pale occasionally as Qingxue laughed at him, and he became angry because of shame, shouting at her. No, its nothing. Shi Qingxue hurriedly held back her laughter. In order not to make Zhao Haoran lose his temper, she looked joyful and stated seriously, I am just happy that I have an awesome master like you. But arent you afraid that after you teach a disciple, you will be overshadowed? It was not Shi Qingxues brag. She was skilled in shooting. If she learnt most of horsemanship from Zhao Haoran, she could definitely compete with him. Zhao Haoran was also confident. Pointing at the two nice horses, he uplifted his brows. Lets have a try. I will teach you the first step. Get on the horseback swiftly. While speaking, he had trodden on the stirrup with one foot and swiftly crossed the horseback with the other to tread on the other stirrup steadily. His did that smoothly in the blink of an eye. Shi Qingxue watched with her eyes full of excitement. Then Zhao Haoran waved at her and raised his chin. Come up. Shi Qingxue was unable to say a word and silently walked to her horse to check the height difference between her and the horse. Then she looked at Zhao Haoran. Zhao Haoran didnt find that Qingxue had no martial skill and howled, Come up quickly. Just use the flying skill. Its quite easy. Shi Qingxue was speechless as she was not so powerful. She had to hold onto the saddle like before and step on the stirrup with one foot. She exerted much strength and finally supported herself. Perhaps a lot of energy was consumed when she competed earlier. As soon as she got on the horseback, she began to swing again, and the horse was restless. Zhao Haoran rapidly grabbed the rein in front of Shi Qingxue and supported her shoulder with the other hand, frowning. You are so weak. You cant even get on the horse. Have you learnt horsemanship? Shi Qingxue whispered, No. She answered timidly. Zhao Haoran was speechless this time. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and then murmured after a long while, I was too young then. My grandpa said he would teach me horsemanship when I grew older, but later he fell off the horse and got injured, and he didnt recover. So I Later, Qingxue had chances to ride horses, but by instinct, she didnt want to learn horsemanship. And today she agreed with Zhao Haoran on impulse, so it happened. Zhao Haoran looked awkward and apologized, I am sorry. I didnt I am fine. Shi Qingxue smiled to show that it was nothing. She took back the rein from Zhao Haorans hand and expressed positively, Since you said that you would teach me how to ride, then please help me. Thanks. Zhao Haoran wanted to comfort Shi Qingxue, but he was clumsy of speech and could only find such simple words as I am sorry. He even disdained himself about that, so he didnt have the face to say that. He had to pretend that nothing had happened and change the subject. Follow me. You just need to ride more and find the feeling by yourself. Just learn from me. He waved the horsewhip with strength, and the horse ran like a flying arrow. Shi Qingxue didnt shrink back and waved the horsewhip, urging the horse to chase him. Zhao Haoran intentionally instructed Shi Qingxue to know well about horsemanship. When they were far away from each other, he would slow down, and when Qingxue almost caught up with him, he urged the horse to run quickly again. They made the horses run one after the other for a long time and left the training ground to enter a forest. They didnt stop but competed with each other. When they felt tired, they were in the forest behind the training ground. Zhao Haoran stopped first and asked Shi Qingxue with a smile, How are you feeling now? Shi Qingxue laughed loud. I feel happy. I havent been so happy while running for long. In her memory, the last time she was so reckless was when Shi Lei was in good health, and he took her to the military camp of the Shi Army to exercise. Then lets go back later to try shooting. In fact, as long as you are skilled in horsemanship and practice more, you will make progress soon. Zhao Haoran wiped the sweat on his forehead and spoke excitedly, with admiration for Shi Qingxue in his words. Shi Qingxue felt shy as he praised her. Dont say that. If you make me feel that I can hit the target at every shot in only one day but it turns out that I cant hit anything, I will be embarrassed. Chapter 178 - Mo Junyang’s Worry Zhao Haoran looked at Shi Qingxue, with certainty and obvious admiration in his expression. I mean it. I have practiced archery since childhood and seldom slack off. Although I dont dare to say that I can make every shot tell, I am second to none in the Zhao Country. However, when I saw your posture when you were shooting that day, I knew that somebody in the world is fit for shooting innately. Every movement of you was accurate. No matter how confident I am, I admit defeat in front of you. Eh, you are exaggerated. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but cover her mouth to chuckle. If Zhao Haorans eyes were not upright and sincere, she almost thought that he was flirting with her. So Shi Qingxue didnt feel offended, but she didnt take his words seriously either. She changed the subject casually. We have run for a long time today. Lets compete next time. And, do you remember the way back? Shi Qingxue stared into the distance on horseback and found the surroundings unfamiliar, so she looked awkward at once. Zhao Haorans face stiffened, too. He looked back and found that there were no roads. Just now he intended to show off his horsemanship and didnt take the path but went anywhere as he liked. He forced a smile and pointed at a direction randomly. Maybe its here? Shi Qingxue leered at him in doubt. Really? Zhao Haoran argued, Do you have a better choice? Shi Qingxue looked around and finally had to say, Okay! Just try as you said. The two made the horses walk in the direction as Zhao Haoran pointed at, but when they went back, they didnt dare to run quickly. After all, if they got lost again, they couldnt manage to go back. After nearly fifteen minutes, they finally walked through the ground full of leaves and saw two paths. They had to make a choice between the two. Shi Qingxue looked at Zhao Haoran once more. Zhao Haoran leisurely stroked his beard which not even existed. After quite a while, he pointed to the left. This way! Shi Qingxue didnt remember whether they came from this path. Even though she didnt believe Zhao Haoran, she had to accept his idea and walk in that direction. In no time, a scream suddenly came from ahead. There was somebody. Before Qingxue felt pleasantly surprised, she saw that Zhao Haorans expression changed and he urged the horse to where the voice came from. Then she had to follow him. Shi Qingxue saw a horse and two people on the crossroad in the front far away. Before she saw their faces clearly, she heard Zhao Haorans roar. Mo Junyang, what are you doing? It stunned the four people present. Shi Qingxue looked into Mo Junyangs eyes from several meters away and meanwhile saw Zhao Niaoniao who tried to rush into his arms. Before she could react, she grabbed the rein on impulse. She turned around and waved the horsewhip. The treasured horse ran quickly like the wind, and Shi Qingxue disappeared from the other threes sight instantly. Being held by Mo Junyang in his arms as her foot was injured, Zhao Niaoniao felt happy, but Zhao Haorans arrival disturbed them, so she shouted in anger, Brother, I just wrenched my ankle. Junyang carries me out of kindness. Why were you shouting? I Zhao Haoran was used to his sisters behavior as she ignored anybody else when she saw Mo Junyang and he doted on her, so he didnt get angry. Knowing that Zhao Niaoniao was not bullied, he didnt say anything and turned around to look for Shi Qingxue but to find she was nowhere to be found. Carry her. A deep male voice came from behind. Before Zhao Haoran came to his senses, he saw Mo Junyang throw the wounded Zhao Niaoniao to him. Mo Junyang didnt care if Zhao Haoran could catch her or not but went away on horseback. Junyang! Zhao Niaoniao shouted in a rage, but Mo Junyang ignored her and soon disappeared. Shi Qingxue urged the horse to run all the way and used almost all the skills she had just learnt just to avoid seeing the offending scene. This morning when she saw Zhao Haoran in King Ruis mansion, she felt a little restless, and when she found that Mo Junyang and Zhao Niaoniao hugged each other closely, she was more depressed. She didnt even have the courage to ask but just ran away. When she came back to earth, she found that it was strange around again. She got lost once more. Shi Qingxue slowed down and grabbed the rein, letting the horse go ahead. Even if she might be unable to go back because she got lost, she refused to turn around and was even unwilling to look back to keep the guideposts in mind. It seemed that there was a fierce beast behind, and it could swallow her as soon as she looked back. Its so boring! Shi Qingxue murmured crossly. She didnt understand what was wrong with her. She just rode the horse in low spirits and took it as a walk. Be quick! When Shi Qingxue moved forward on horseback, a low voice urging a horse came from behind all of a sudden. She felt nervous and looked back subconsciously, seeing a figure rushing to her in the forest full of trees. Shi Qingxue trembled and raised her hand to whip the horses ass, running away by instinct again. The anxious voice calling her was left to the wind. Mo Junyang followed Shi Qingxue and whipped his fast horse, but Shi Qingxue was in panic and didnt take the right path. Her horse ran crazily, and they were farther away from the main road. After a while, Mo Junyang finally realized that there was something wrong. Just now Qingxues horse ran quickly and smoothly, but now it was almost crazy and she was off balance as if she would fall off the horse at any time. It was too dangerous! Qingxue, its too dangerous. Stop, now! Nobody knew if Shi Qingxue heard him or not, but her horse still sped up, and a cliff was in the front. Mo Junyangs pupils shrank suddenly and he stepped on the horseback, seizing the chance to jump. Then he jumped off behind Shi Qingxue in an instant. You Shi Qingxue was startled. Mo Junyang hugged her waist with one hand and pulled the rein with the other, shouting in an anxious and hoarse voice, Dont move. There is something wrong with this horse. He tried to stop the horse forcefully, but he found that it was restless. It hissed miserably and rushed forward risking its life. Even Mo Junyang who grasped the rein couldnt stop the horse. The cliff was right under their noses, and the two would rush down it with the horse next second. Shi Qingxue was so frightened that she stiffened, letting Mo Junyang hold her and roll after jumping onto the grass field. There was a hill aside. Mo Junyang embraced Qingxue and rolled down along the grass slope. On the way, they bumped into several raised stones, and he blocked them for Qingxue with his body, but he still heard the girl in his arms suddenly grunt. Mo Junyang gritted his teeth, regardless of the chance that he might dislocate his arm and abruptly grabbed one small stone to stop by force. Before he settled himself, he hurriedly helped Shi Qingxue up and asked worriedly, Whats wrong with you? Shi Qingxue was still in shock and stared at him blankly without saying a word. Where is your injury? Tell me now. I will check on you. Mo Junyang was more anxious and wanted to examine her. He reached out his hand to Qingxue but then withdrew it hesitantly. Shi Qingxue raised her head and glanced at him. Her face was bright red and attractive, as if it were under the sunglow. Then she lowered her head again and said glumly, I wrenched my right ankle. When they fell from the hill, she was tripped by a stone by accident, and she felt a severe pain on her right ankle. Now she felt that her right foot was numb. Mo Junyang didnt care about anything more and stretched out his hand, trying to check her right foot, but she dodged. With tears in her eyes, Shi Qingxue stated angrily, I am fine. the one who is injured must be the princess from the Zhao Country, right? She came from her country far away to pursue you in the capital city. Doesnt she want to marry you? Why did you chase me? You should continue to hug her closely. Mo Junyang opened his mouth and wanted to explain that he hugged Zhao Niaoniao just because her foot was hurt and her horse ran away. He wasnt interested in her at all and nothing would happen between them. But looking at Shi Qingxues furious face, he immediately realized why she was angry. He had complex feelings as he was happy, but he had more feelings of loss and didnt know what to do. Mo Junyang stiffened, like a hard rock. Then he stood up and changed the subject coldly. Since you are fine, lets hurry up and go back. He raised his right hand and whistled with his thumb and index finger. His horse in the distance hissed loudly and ran back to them. Can you get up? Mo Junyang stood with his back to Shi Qingxue, asking impassively. Shi Qingxue was stunned. It was true that she was mad at Mo Junyang, but she didnt lose her mind and found that his reaction was unusual. His indifference was worse than his amity and solicitude in the past, not to mention his considerate concern and care when she was in the Love Xue House. Mo Junyang seemed to take her out of his world. Qingxue was in panic and blurted out, Have you fallen in love with the princess from the Zhao Country? Of course not! Mo Junyang denied decisively and turned his head to gaze at Shi Qingxue all of a sudden. His eyes were serious, and he stressed each word. I never want anybody except Shi Qingxue. He did so in his two lives. He added in his heart silently. Shi Qingxue heard her name and felt joyful, but then she suddenly thought of Mo Junyangs attitude. She mumbled resentfully, Why are you so cold to me? Even sometimes when I see your eyes looking at me, I think you hate me. I Mo Junyang felt his body was rigid and clenched his fists with secret light flowing in his dark eyes. Mo Junyang had to admire Shi Qingxue as she was really sensitive. For a moment, maybe he once hated her. However, he didnt want to confess these words to the girl in front of him. He didnt answer but said, Its getting dark. Lets go back first. Chapter 179 - The Sudden Rain Shi Qingxue was angry at Mo Junyangs avoidance and refused to give up, snorting at him in a rage. She ignored Mo Junyangs hand which tried to help her up and said coldly, Your Excellency, thanks for saving me. I dont dare to bother you anymore. I will just walk back by myself. While speaking, she didnt mind the pain on her right foot and supported her hands on the ground, struggling to stand up. Then she kicked with her leg randomly and staggered down the hill. Mo Junyang looked sullen at once and withdrew his hand awkwardly. Then he stood in front of Qingxue again, saying straightforward, You dont know the way back. He told the truth. Shi Qingxues joy disappeared soon and she felt more furious. She didnt even show her face and blocked Mo Junyangs hand indifferently. Its none of your business. Even if I get lost, its no big deal. Duke Shis family is not as wealthy and powerful as King Ruis mansion, but we have enough people to look for a lady who is missing because she likes playing. Your Excellency, please suit yourself. Mo Junyang tried to get away from Shi Qingxue, but when she stopped smiling at him, he felt heartbroken. When he saw Shi Qingxues back as she walked with her injured foot, he felt sad for her. Then he left all the scruple behind. Damn it. He just couldnt bear to see that Shi Qingxue was injured without him taking care of her. Mo Junyang strode to Shi Qingxue. Under her astonished eyes, he carried her in his arms without demur and didnt ride his horse but walked down the hill. Shi Qingxue was caught off guard and was under the control of Mo Junyang. Then she subconsciously put her arms around his neck. After a short while, she suddenly came to her senses and withdrew her hands in a hurry. She twisted her waist and tried to get out of Mo Junyangs arms while howling, Let go of me. I dont want you to carry me. Put me down Mo Junyang had powerful strength, and he tightly embraced Qingxues slim waist with his hands, locking her up in his arms. Shi Qingxue wouldnt surrender easily. Even though she couldnt stop Mo Junyang, she didnt give up and even started to push his hands away without considering the fact that she would suffer if he loosened his hands. Stop moving! Mo Junyang suddenly shouted in a cold and deep voice. Shi Qingxue was scared and raised her head all of a sudden, only to meet the mans deep eyes, which were angry indistinctly. She didnt want to bother him, but whywas he mad at her? Shi Qingxue felt wronged for no reason and struggled with less strength. She lowered her head despondently and thought, Just let him hug me if he likes to. Anyway, its not me who would be tired. They kept this posture and walked down the hill, with silence around them. Neither of them spoke a word in the next thirty minutes. Shi Qingxue still lowered her hand and didnt even move a bit. Probably even God couldnt bear to see the embarrassing silence between them. When they moved forward, the lightning and thunder scared Shi Qingxue to get deeper into Mo Junyangs arms, but soon she reacted and moved rigidly. Big drops of rain fell continuously. In no time, the sounds of rain water were around, and the rain began to pour down, making them unable to see clearly and difficult to move on. There were just spacious lawns around with nowhere to hide. Mo Junyang had to stop and put Qingxue on the horseback. At the same time, he took off his coat to cover her head, asking, The rain is too heavy and wont stop soon. I remember there is a cave in the front not far away. Lets go to take shelter from rain first, okay? Although Shi Qingxue was still angry with Mo Junyang, she wouldnt deliberately speak contrary to him at this hour. She merely agreed in a low voice and entrusted herself to him. They soon came to a low cave on the hillside only one arm taller than a grown-up man. Mo Junyang reached out his hand and could touch the top, and it was not deep. They came to the end after walking less than ten meters. Fortunately, there was hay and dry wood in the cave. Perhaps some hunters would stay here occasionally. Mo Junyang kept the horse at the entrance to the cave and then told Qingxue to have a rest on the hay, while he piled up the wood to make fire. He was used to bringing a firelighter. Although there was no food, he could make fire and warm himself. The rain wetted them and outlined Shi Qingxues nice figure clearly. Mo Junyang glanced at her and soon looked away, saying casually, Warm yourself and dry your clothes. Then he concentrated on drying his coat while sitting with his back to Shi Qingxue, as he didnt dare to pay attention to the girl behind him. The light of fire swayed in the dim cave, and it was peaceful and warm. They still didnt talk, but it was not as awkward as before. Instead, it was comfortable. At least Shi Qingxue thought so. The fire was bright and warm. Although she was still wet and sticky all over, she felt comfortable from the bottom of her heart and tired at the same time. So she leaned against the cave wall and remained unmoved, focusing her eyes on Mo Junyangs broad shoulders and back till her eyelids flickered constantly. She didnt insist but closed her eyes slowly. When Mo Junyang couldnt help but look back after he dried his clothes, he saw Shi Qingxue leaning against the wall with her eyes closed. He pursed his cold lips chronically but then relaxed. He stood up and walked to Shi Qingxue. Staring at her ruddy face in the firelight, he showed a smile involuntarily and gave up the plan to wake her up. Then he covered her with his dry coat. Mo Junyang was stunned when he touched Qingxues wet coat. Then he checked her other clothes, which were still wet. It meant that she sat there for so long but fell asleep in wet clothes, without planning to dry herself. You are so naughty! Mo Junyang rebuked her angrily in a low voice and subconsciously reached out his hand to feel her cheek. It was horribly burning. Mo Junyang finally realized that Shi Qingxues red face didnt result from the firelight, but her fever. He hurriedly woke her up despite his anger and shouted anxiously, Dont sleep. You have a fever. Take off the wet clothes and dry them beside the fire. Shi Qingxue felt her head was heavy, as if there was a big stone inside. It was difficult to open her eyes, and she was even unwilling to move her finger. She just said unhappily, Hmm. Then she remained quiet and unmoved again. Get changed first. Sleep after changing your clothes. Mo Junyang persistently helped Shi Qingxue up and didnt allow her to abuse herself. Dont disturb me! Shi Qingxue furiously patted Mo Junyangs hand away and then curled up, leaning against the wall. Mo Junyang could do nothing to her but cautiously carry her to the fires side, comforting her softly. Take off your coat and dry it, okay? In case you get a cold. Maybe because his voice was too soft this time, Shi Qingxue didnt get mad although she still showed a resentful expression on her face. She just shrank in his arms and murmured, No! Fine! I will help you Mo Junyang sighed deeply and gently took off Qingxues coat. When her wet underwear was revealed, he didnt dare to move. He hugged her more closely and put his dry coat on her. Shi Qingxue felt more comfortable and her tense face relaxed. She reached out her arms to embrace Mo Junyangs waist and put her face close to his chest, like a kitten warming itself beside a stove. Mo Junyang gazed at Shi Qingxues red sleeping face. After a long while, he finally couldnt help but slowly caress her tender face with his rough thumb. He felt bitter and showed deep pain in his dark eyes. If Shi Qingxue were awake, she would be surprised at Mo Junyangs strong emotional response. But she closed her eyes and didnt see that or hear the mans murmur in a deep and hoarse voice. I once thought that it was fine no matter what happened, as long as you were Shi Qingxue. But do you know how happy I was when I knew that you came back, too? Even if you would hate me with the memory of the previous life, I felt happy. Not until then did I realize that I always looked forward to your coming back! Because only with you, my life will be meaningful. But now, you are here but you dont remember me. I dont know what to do. If I have never owned you, maybe I can endure losing you or getting a substitute. ButI lost you after I owned you Mo Junyang didnt go on but closed his eyes and concealed all his emotions. It seemed as if nothing had happened. When Shi Qingxue woke up again, it was the next morning. She lay on the hay and was covered with Mo Junyangs coat, but he was nowhere to be seen. Junyang She called in a low voice like a cats, as if talking to herself. While Mo Junyang with sharp ears heard that and stiffened all of a sudden. With his back straight, He gazed at Shi Qingxue on the hay and blurted out, Can you remember? Shi Qingxue looked at where the voice came from and her eyes lit up. She shouted in surprise, Junyang! Her bright smile was gorgeous like the flowers in summer, as if they didnt quarrel the previous day. But after calling him, she was stunned again and looked at Mo Junyang in doubt, asking, What can I remember? Mo Junyang felt nervous and awkwardly avoided Shi Qingxues eyes, pretending to be calm. Nothing. I guessed wrong. Shi Qingxue was smart. Even though she didnt have the memory of the previous life, she understood what Mo Junyang was asking after thinking for a second. And she recalled something, so she instantly got the answers to all the questions in her heart. Her fair-skinned face turned red and pale occasionally, and she opened her eyes wide to goggle at Mo Junyang, asking anxiously, So did you treat me like this because I forgot everything in the past one year? No! Mo Junyang denied hurriedly, but his face was stiff, so it seemed that he told a very poor lie which revealed the truth. After Shi Qingxue understood it, she was more confused. She knew that she had forgotten many things, but wasnt she Shi Qingxue because she forgot those things? Chapter 180 - His Light When Shi Qingxue straightforwardly spoke out her doubts, Mo Junyang stiffened, like a statue. For a long time, Mo Junyang didnt move or reply. But Qingxue got the affirmative answer from his ghastly pale face. Right, without that memory, she was not Shi Qingxue anymore. At least, it was true in Mo Junyangs opinion. Shi Qingxue was still doubtful, but another kind of pain spread over her chest. She didnt even understand why she was in pain, but the pain was severe. However, Shi Qingxue was strong enough. The more pain she felt, the stronger she pretended to be. Facing Mo Junyang, she was more fearless and asked coldly, Mo Junyang, I want to know how you feel about it. She confronted him directly. Even if there were immense dangers and difficulties ahead and she would bleed, she would keep going. This was Shi Qingxue at this age. After going through everything in the previous life, Shi Qingxue became smart and calm, but she was not as decisive and brave as before. Mo Junyang was stunned and looked blankly at Shi Qingxues face. He suddenly remembered that in the previous life, he was attracted by Shi Qingxue who was so dazzling. Even though they were enemies then, with one respected and one lowly, and as a girl everybody doted on, she had never shown any warmness to Mo Junyang, a hostage, she was always sparkling and forthright. She was his light! Shi Qingxue didnt know what was on Mo Junyangs mind. Seeing that he looked at her in a daze, she was more resentful and poked his shoulder, asking the question once more. Then she glared at him and insisted on getting an answer. Why was she not her? Mo Junyang was speechless, or rather there was no answer. One was the girl he cared for all the time, and the other was the girl he had a crush on in the first place. Why was there any difference? After a long time, he smiled again and looked more relaxed than before. Even his eyes and brows were not that cold. He answered frankly, I dont know, either. Maybe you will get the answer only when you can remember. Shi Qingxue was stunned for a while and then accepted this reason, but she still looked gloomy. In fact, I asked my father. He told me that you helped me a lot in the past one year, probably more than all that I can remember. But it was just one year. If you really mind, cant you just tell me? Mo Junyang replied in his heart, It was not just one year but a lifetime. However, he just responded casually with a smile, Nobody can tell you what happened in your memory. Only what you can remember is true. But if you dont give me a clue, how can I recall? Shi Qingxue softened. Mo Junyang stared at her for a minute and then looked away, saying distantly, I am sorry. Shi Qingxue was angry and anxious to rush to him to bite on his neck. In fact, these days, there were strange but familiar pictures flashing in Qingxues brain occasionally, which made her respond by instinct. Or rather it made her express her feelings. For example, with the memory of the last fifteen years, she should be close to Mo Shujun, but now she was only alert to and disappointed at her grandmother, so as soon as she returned home, she went to see Mo Shujun first to prevent anybody from gossiping. Another example, she should be on intimate terms with Dong Hui, but as for the doubts about Mo Junyang, she subconsciously knew that she couldnt get an answer from Dong Hui, so she asked Shi Junhe. It was difficult to describe everything that happened during the period, but she was clear about one point that the memory belonged to her. It seemed to be covered with a gauze and was there but couldnt be seen clearly. So she was angry at Mo Junyangs distance because she lost her memory, but she had never been angry with him. However Shi Qingxue slyly rolled her eyes when Mo Junyang couldnt see her, and she had an idea. She didnt yell at Mo Junyang but even smiled joyfully. In that case, I think we shouldnt see each other before I can remember what I have forgotten. What? Mo Junyang looked back suddenly and thought he must have misheard. Shi Qingxue nodded boldly and replied casually, Right, you hear me. I am dependent on you now. If you are too close to me, I wont be willing to recall what happened in the past because She suddenly stopped speaking. Mo Junyang inquired nervously, Because what? Because perhaps I dont want that memory, I have forgotten it easily, right? Shi Qingxue said as if by the way, in a relaxed and unconcerned tone as if she talked about the weather today. Then as expected, she saw that Mo Junyangs face stiffened, and he seemed to be in pain, helplessness, anxietywith complex feelings. Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang didnt feel happy, but she said that intentionally. Huh, he made her sad, so she would get back at him. That was fair. Qingxue pretended not to see that. She twisted her ankle and had a try, but she didnt feel the pain. Perhaps Mo Junyang had massaged for her when she was asleep. She felt happy in secret but meanwhile was guilty. Seeing Mo Junyangs gloomy face, she couldnt help but suggest, Its dawn now. We didnt go back home last night, and they must be worried. Lets go back first. Mo Junyang stared at Qingxue and wanted to say something but refrained himself. He opened and shut his mouth several times but just nodded at last. I will send you back home. Because Qingxues clothes were dried after being wet in the rain and they were wrinkled, as Mo Junyang insisted, she went to King Ruis mansion to get changed first. But Mo Junyu urgently summoned Mo Junyang, and the latter had to enter the imperial palace at once. Then she was sent back to Duke Shis mansion by Qu Yuebai. It was reasonable, but as people spread the news, Dong Hui heard that Shi Qingxue still pestered Mo Junyang after being abandoned by him and came to him. She slept with him and even changed her clothes after spending one night with him. But she couldnt win his heart back. At last, she was sent back home by Mo Junyangs subordinate, with a miserable ending. Dong Hui burst into anger after hearing that. Even though she knew that most of Zhou Ruyus words might be false, it was true that Shi Qingxue had stayed outside last night and changed her clothes before she was sent back by a servant from King Ruis mansion And facing Zhou Ruyus ridicule with a faint smile, Dong Hui exploded and hurriedly told someone to call for Shi Qingxue. Zhou Ruyu felt happy secretly but pretended to be worried. Hui, dont be anxious. Its normal that a child is ignorant and wouldnt think twice before doing anything. Moreover, Qingxue is just a sixteen-year-old girl and its understandable that she couldnt resist the temptation Ruyu, speak with caution. You just heard the gossip and we havent found the truth. Dont say anything randomly to ruin Qingxues fame. Dong Hui coldly interrupted Zhou Ruyus sarcasm and looked at her with warning. Zhou Ruyu was rebuked directly and didnt get angry but raised her handkerchief to wipe her lips, concealing the disdain on her face. She had thought she would win, so she wouldnt care about Dong Huis last struggle. Shi Qingxue couldnt get rid of her bad name this time as she ruined the familys reputation since she was impure. Qingxue was brought to the East House and saw the room full of women, even including Zhou Ruyu. She couldnt figure out what was going on. Dong Hui displayed a stiff expression and gazed at Shi Qingxue, asking, Qingxue, where did you go yesterday? I went to the training ground to compete on shooting, Shi Qingxue answered and still didnt understand why Dong Hui suddenly cared so much about her whereabouts. Zhou Ruyu then cut in coldly, Is that true? Why did I hear from the servants that the carriage went to King Ruis mansion? Qingxue, you cant lie to the elders because of shame. Shi Qingxue was confused. She told the truth, and why did she lie? And she answered Dong Hui. Why was Zhou Ruyu so bold as to claim to be an elder and reproach her? But at the moment, she finally realized what they wanted to ask. Qingxue looked calm and responded unhurriedly, I met Prince Haoran at the gate of King Ruis mansion. He invited me to the training ground to compete on shooting. Then She thought for a while and glimpsed at Shi Baoyan who kept silent from the beginning, adding all of a sudden, Baoyan was also there then. Zhou Ruyu didnt expect that Shi Qingxue would get Shi Baoyan involved in the fight. She was surprised and had to look at Shi Baoyan as she asked, Baoyan, what did you see? Tell your mother frankly. Shi Baoyan didnt dare to look at Dong Hui and seemed to be scared, explaining in a hurry, I insisted on asking Qingxue to take me to King Ruis mansion to have a look, but then the servant said that His Excellency was not at home and couldnt see us. Then Qingxue met Prince Haoran at the gate. He asked her to go to the training ground. Probably they thought I would disturb them, so they told the servants to send me back home first. Most of her words were true, but Shi Baoyan said that anxiously, which made people confirm Shi Qingxues crime. She pestered His Excellency first, and after being refused, she hooked up with the prince from the Zhao Country, but at last, she still slept with His Excellency Gee, the plot was a good example of a slut. Zhou Ruyu smiled with satisfaction and didnt speak but turned to Dong Hui. She wanted to see how Dong Hui could help Shi Qingxue clarify herself. Dong Hui became anxious and quickly walked to Shi Qingxue, grabbing her hand. What happened? Did Baoyan tell a lie? At this hour, as Dong Hui almost couldnt protect her daughter, she wouldnt care that her words would make people comment that she was partial to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue stared at Shi Baoyan all the time. Hearing the truth told by her half-sister, she was depressed. As expected, the disloyal would never become loyal, and the bad would never become good, right? Qingxue, answer me! Dong Hui almost shed tears as she saw Qingxue in a trance. Shi Qingxue then turned to Dong Hui and nodded with a smile, saying honestly, What Baoyan said is true. Zhou Ruyu finally couldnt help but show a sinister smile as she was going to win. Chapter 181 - The Hypocrisy and Sincerity As soon as Dong Hui heard the beginning, she felt dizzy and almost couldnt stand steadily. Shi Qingxue wanted to tell the truth, but she didnt expect that her mother would be so scared. She hurriedly supported Dong Hui and asked, Mother, whats wrong with you? Call for a doctor At the moment, Shi Baoning walked over in haste and supported Dong Hui to replace Qingxue forcefully. There was anger which was not obvious but clear in her pretty eyes, but she controlled herself and stated coldly, Let me take care of Mother. Go to call for the doctor first. Shi Qingxue didnt need to call for a doctor in person. Shi Baoning just didnt want her to support Dong Hui. While Shi Qingxue listened to Shi Baoning and went out to bring Doctor Qin. After Doctor Qin checked Dong Huis pulse, he explained, Madam is pregnant and should better relax and keep calm. She cant get mad or be provoked. Otherwise, it would be harmful to the mother and baby. I will give her a prescription for calming the nerves. Just have a try and I will check the effect. She should be very careful in the first three months of pregnancy. It would be bad if there is a sign of miscarriage. Hearing that Dong Hui went into a coma and the doctor came, Shi Junhe rushed over in a hurry. He was anxious and angry while listening to Doctor Qins instructions. He told a servant to go with Doctor Qin to get the medicine and then asked Mammy Zheng to stay with Dong Hui beside the bed. Then he led other people on the spot to another room. What happened? Shi Junhe asked in a deep voice and looked terrible. Zhou Ruyu replied casually, I am afraid that you need to ask your daughter. Shi Junhe turned to Shi Baoning and Shi Qingxue, asking coldly, What did you two do? You know that your mother is weak recently, but you still make her angry. She loves you so much all the time. Before Shi Qingxue spoke, Shi Baoning felt wronged. Father, of course I know Mother is tired and I never dare to annoy her. How can you blame me before asking? Shi Qingxue was shocked and turned to Shi Baoning in disbelief. Shi Baoning also told the truth, like Shi Baoyan did. They spoke frankly but tried to shift the blame. Anybody who was not brainless could hear their hidden meaning. However, when Shi Baoyan said that, Qingxue just felt no more than disappointed. Anyway, she didnt truly love Shi Baoyan. To return perfunctory feelings with false affection, it was a fair deal. But she was treated with hypocrisy after she loved somebody with sincerity As long as Shi Qingxue thought of the profound meaning of her sisters words, she felt pained with tears in her eyes, as if her heart had been stabbed. Sister, you can even defend our half-sister Shi Baoyan out of kindness who has made a big mistake and is distant to you, no matter if she was wrong. And I am your sister! You are supposed to be the closest to me except our parents, but you are unwilling to intercede with Father for me, and even cant wait to dissociate yourself in the beginning. Is it that you dont like me? Or do you think that a strong woman doesnt need her relatives protection? Shi Qingxue couldnt figure it out and felt extremely unhappy. It seemed that her eyes were burnt by a raging fire and it hurt her, but she still restrained her urge to shed tears. She lowered her head and hid her weakness. Right, even if she could be pitied and treated well when she showed that she was weak, she would only be strong. Qingxue, whats going on? Shi Junhe turned his questioning eyes to Shi Qingxue and didnt soften because she was his favored daughter. Shi Qingxue didnt feel scared and told him that she was brought to the East House this morning and Dong Hui and the others questioned her. Zhou Ruyu heard that and got furious. She interrupted, Qingxue, you are so irresponsible to say that. You stayed out for a whole night, regardless of your fame, and made your mother angry. Do you mean that we interfere too much? Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes in secret and thought, Right! Shi Junhe glimpsed at Zhou Ruyu and asked coldly, Ruyu, its the East House here. I teach my naughty daughter a lesson. I am afraid that you dont qualify to interrupt, right? Zhou Ruyu was clear that it was more difficult to incite Shi Junhe than Dong Hui, so she was worried that she would go for wool and come home shorn. Then she had to shut up resentfully and cursed in her heart, Huh, he is really partial. Shi Qingxue has admitted, but he is not angry. She glanced at Shi Baoyan meaningfully in secret. Shi Baoyan understood and stepped forward, defending Shi Qingxue hurriedly, Father, Qingxue was brainless and didnt mean to make Mother angry. Please forgive her because she is young. Shi Junhe thought her words were unpleasant to the ear, but it was the truth that Shi Qingxue made Dong Hui angry and fall into a coma, so he didnt say anything but turned to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was as calm as before and asked Shi Baoyan, Baoyan, do you mean that I did something wrong and made Mother angry? What wrong did I do? Shi Baoyan didnt expect Shi Qingxue to be so calm. She was stunned for a while and then advised her patiently, Qingxue, dont try to deny. Now Father is mad. As long as you apologize to him, he would forgive your meeting a man secretly and staying outside for one night. Meet a man secretly? What a crime! Baoyan, when you went out with me yesterday, why didnt you say that? You kept telling me that you have never seen the magnificent King Ruis mansion and insisted on having a look. You wanted to enter the mansion even when you knew that His Excellency was not at home. Shi Qingxue taunted and peeled off Shi Baoyans hypocritical mask. Shi Baoyan had thought that once Shi Qingxue was exposed, she would be panicked, but unexpectedly she could point out something wrong with her behavior and make her unable to reply. What Shi Qingxue said was true. Many people in the Luotong Boudoir knew that she insisted on asking Shi Qingxue to take her out yesterday, and she couldnt deny it, but she blamed Shi Qingxue now, and it seemed that she waited to find fault with Qingxue. But it was a fact that Shi Qingxue dated Mo Junyang. Shi Baoyan didnt feel scared after being nervous for a while. There was such a great chance in front of her. Even if it would make her father dislike her, she would ruin Shi Qingxues fame. Shi Baoyan pretended to be awkward and responded purposely, I didnt know then. I thought you had got Mothers permission, so you could go out. If I had known that you didnt tell Mother, I would have stopped you from doing anything wrong even if I risked my life. She said she didnt know and wanted to dissociate herself. It was a worthwhile deal. Shi Qingxue sneered. Baoyan, as you said, I went out with permission, but you suddenly wanted to go out with me. Did you tell our parents? Qingxue, our parents are present. Since you did something wrong, you should admit your mistake. Why did you tell a lie? Shi Baoning cut in harshly. Obviously she was mad because Shi Qingxue still refused to admit her mistake. Shi Qingxue was petrified. Her expressionless face didnt change because Shi Baoning criticized her. She didnt even give Shi Baoning a glance. However, Shi Junhe looked at Shi Baoning with displeasure and asked indifferently, Baoning, why are you so sure that Qingxue told a lie? I Shi Baoning believed that it was Shi Qingxues fault, and moreover, it was so clear, so she said that. But she knew why Shi Junhe asked such a question. Because she was Shi Qingxues sister, she shouldnt have said that before the truth was found. Father, I just get mad at Qingxue because she made Mother so angry, so Shi Baoning blushed and explained hesitantly, but she couldnt help blaming Shi Junhe in her heart as he was partial. Did Shi Junhe love Shi Qingxue so much that he didnt blame her after she made his wife faint? Yes? Shi Junhe didnt show his opinion. Then he impassively said something beyond everybodys expectation. Qingxue told me before she went out yesterday. So the crime of meeting a man secretly was not existent. No way! No way! Zhou Ruyu and Shi Baoyan denied at the same time, and even Shi Baoning looked at Shi Junhe in disbelief. Shi Junhes expression didnt change. Why? Do you think that I will help Qingxue tell a lie? As the first reaction, all the three thought Shi Junhe was lying, but soon they realized that it was impossible. With Shi Junhes upright character, he would never tell a lie in order to cover up for Shi Qingxue. In another word, Shi Qingxue told Shi Junhe and got his permission before going to King Ruis mansion yesterday, but Shi Baoyan suddenly went out with Shi Qingxue without asking for her parents permission. Shi Baoyan got nervous and expressed hurriedly, But, Qingxue didnt return home last night, and yesterday she didnt see His Excellency but went with Prince Haoran (the third prince of the Zhao Country) Baoyan, please speak with caution! Shi Qingxue suddenly interrupted and warned Shi Baoyan. Its fine if you defame me. Prince Haoran is from the royal family of the Zhao Country and a respected guest of our country. You cant slander him recklessly. So please think twice before speaking. Can you take the responsibility for your words? Shi Baoyan was frightened and trembled. There was hatred in her heart, but she didnt dare to provoke the royal familys majesty, so she could do nothing but shut up. Seeing that Shi Baoyan was scared, Zhou Ruyu got anxious again. She finally found Shi Qingxues fault. If she let Shi Qingxue turn the table, she didnt know when she would have something on this girl. She glared at Shi Baoyan a few times secretly, but the latter pretended not to notice. Then she had to aim at Shi Qingxue. Even though you told your father before you went out, its true that you didnt return home last night. We didnt wrong you. Prince Haoran asked me to compete on shooting in the training ground, and I couldnt refuse his kindness, so I had to go with him. Later we went to the mountain behind the training ground to practice horsemanship, but I didnt know why my horse got panicked all of a sudden and ran crazily. Then His Excellency saved me, but we got lost as a result. Unfortunately, there was heavy rain. His Excellency and I had to take shelter from rain and spend the night in a cave. At dawn today, His Excellency was worried that I would be commented when I returned home in a sorry state, so he kindly invited me to King Ruis mansion so that I could change my clothes and asked his subordinate to send me back home. That was what had happened. Aunt, if you dont believe me, you can go to ask in King Ruis mansion or the embassy of the Zhao Country. Neither His Excellency nor Prince Haoran would lie because of me. The people in Mo Country were open-minded and wouldnt strictly forbid the unmarried women from going out. Although Shi Qingxue shouldnt have spent one night outside, it was an emergency, and it couldnt be commented. Under the situation, Zhou Ruyu couldnt blame Mo Junyang because he should have left Shi Qingxue alone and come to tell her family that Qingxue sprained her ankle on the training ground, so he left her in a cave and came to inform them to pick her up. Chapter 182 - Turn the Table Zhou Ruyu and Shi Baoyan could say nothing and just looked at Shi Qingxue in despair. They hadnt expected that with so solid evidence, Shi Qingxue could still turn the table, as if she had been prepared and waited for them to fall into her trap. Shi Baoyan immediately realized that everything must be Shi Qingxues plan. She intentionally showed her slip and planned to change the situation when they came to tell on her, with a purpose to embarrass them and make Shi Junhe hate Shi Baoyan. Shi Qingxue was so mean. Shi Baoyan imagined and went to extremes while thinking, so she hated Shi Qingxue more. Especially when Shi Junhe asked what else they could say, Shi Baoyan gritted her teeth and glared at Shi Qingxue secretly for several times. Shi Qingxue pretended that she didnt see that and didnt give them a chance to speak. She said that Dong Hui was unwell and needed to rest quietly, so she kicked out the outsiders. There were only Shi Junhe, Shi Baoning and Shi Qingxue left in the room. Qingxue, I am sorry. I got you wrong! Shi Baoning restrained her ashamed feeling and apologized. Shi Qingxue stared at Shi Baoning for a long time and still couldnt shake off the uncomfortable feeling. She asked Shi Baoning, Did I offend you? Shi Baoning was stunned and then turned away, explaining in a hurry, What are you talking about? I just saw that you made Mother so angry that she went into a coma, so I was anxious and impulsive. Its my fault. I apologize to you. Shi Baoning never hesitated to apologize, and she spoke much more sincerely than Shi Baoyan and the others, but Some mistakes couldnt be corrected by an apology, and some injuries couldnt be cured by an apology. Shi Qingxue stayed silent for quite a while. At last she expressed her forgiveness simply. Its all right. Her voice was indifferent and distant. It was forgiveness, but expressed some other meanings. Shi Baoning noticed that. She wanted to make it up for her sister, but seeing Shi Qingxues cold expression, the same as Shi Junhes, she was embarrassed and couldnt say a word. She just had to escape. I am going to see if Mother has woken up. I will tell her the truth, and she wouldnt be mad anymore. Afterward she left hurriedly, as if a ghost were chasing her from behind. Shi Junhe sighed after seeing that and comforted Qingxue, Dont blame Baoning. Shehas her own difficulties. His comforting words made Shi Qingxues eyes become red, but she still restrained her urge to cry. She bit her lips stubbornly and didnt show her weakness or hypocritically say that she forgave her sister. She just looked at Shi Junhe and prevented her tears from falling. Shi Junhe certainly understood Qingxues grievance, but he knew better than anybody why Shi Baoning treated her like this. He couldnt help but think that if he had noticed Wenren Chis grudge and dealt with it earlier, Wenren Chi would only want to marry Shi Qingxue, and the two sisters might have fewer misunderstandings. But it might not be like what he imagined. If Shi Baoning couldnt marry the man she loved, she might hate Shi Qingxue as a result. Alas, love was so torturing. Fine! I dont want to mention this matter again, but I have to tell you something, Shi Junhe stated seriously. Shi Qingxue responded, I am all ears. Shi Junhe paused for a second and seemed to look for proper words. Later he finally continued in a deep voice, I dont want to interfere in your relationship with His Excellency. I know your moral quality and you wont do anything to embarrass our family, but Qingxue, people will talk! You should take todays issue as a warning. Although you managed to get out of danger and make them shut up, they wouldnt give up easily. So I hope that you can be cautious when doing anything in the future. Try not to be set up or give others a chance to comment on you. Father, do you want to say that a gentleman should stay away from danger? Shi Qingxue chuckled, and obviously, she listened to her fathers advice carefully. Shi Junhe nodded. Exactly. The people of our country are open-minded and allow the young men and women to choose their future spouses, but the marriage should be granted by the elders, with a matchmakers introduction and betrothal gifts from the man. The formal process should be needed. Remember that it is always unadvisable to have sex before marriage! If His Excellency wants to marry you, and you want to marry him, he should tell his family to ask a matchmaker to send our family betrothal gifts. If he is a gentleman, he shouldnt have almost ruined your fame repeatedly. In the past, Shi Qingxue couldnt endure being taught, but she knew that Shi Junhe said that just for her own good, so she didnt feel bored but was happy. She smiled at Shi Junhe and expressed casually, Father, rest assured. I wont see Mo Junyang these days. Dont worry that those people would trip me up. What? Shi Junhe was astonished and then asked anxiously, What do you mean? You wont see him? Did you have a quarrel with Mo Junyang? Did he bully you? Is he going to Abandon her! Father! Shi Qingxue instantly interrupted Shi Junhes guess in case that he misunderstood more as he thought. Seeing that her father still looked unhappy, she had to explain again, Its not like what you imagined. Its my proposal that I wouldnt see Mo Junyang. I have just recovered and need time to think about the future. Really? Shi Junhe was still doubtful. Shi Qingxue nodded hurriedly. Really. Think about it. I am so smart. If I was bullied, I would take revenge, no need others to tell me. How would I swallow insult secretly? Hearing Qingxues unexpected explanation, Shi Junhe thought it was true, but he was unable either to laugh or to cry. He had to say, Fine. You have your own idea. I wont mind your business. Shi Qingxue grinned at once and replied sweetly, Dont worry. I wont let you down. Hmm! Shi Junhe had confidence in Shi Qingxue in this aspect. He didnt bother about this matter but told her, You were not at home yesterday, so the invitation from the third princess mansion was sent to me. Yuzhen? Is she married? A princess would have a mansion only after marriage, so Shi Qingxue asked, but she remembered that Mo Yuzhen was unmarried. Shi Junhe knew her forgetfulness and simply told her about Mo Yuzhens news. Then he asked, Will you see her? Shi Qingxue took it for granted and nodded. Then she asked in surprise, Why not? Have you forgotten that Yuzhen is my best friend? Eh Shi Junhe realized why Mo Yuzhen suddenly sent an invitation after losing contact with Qingxue for so long. But he didnt plan to explain so much to Qingxue. He just reminded her briefly, Go if you want to. Anyway, be careful at any time. Mo Yuzhen invited the noble ladies in the capital to enjoy the scenery of the Moon Lake. She did that in order to entertain Zhao Niaoniao, the princess of the Zhao Country from afar as well as to keep a good relationship with the noble families for the third prince, Mo Junjiu as usual. Shi Qingxue felt that she hadnt seen Mo Yuzhen for a long time, so that day, she told Xia Mang to make preparations and went to the Moon Lake early. As a result, Mo Yuzhen was scared when she saw Qingxue. Yuzhen, did you miss me? Shi Qingxue rushed to Mo Yuzhen and hugged her neck while laughing, like a spoiled child. Mo Yuzhen hadnt enjoyed Shi Qingxues closeness for long and got stiffened. She stood there blankly and didnt move or respond to her. Shi Qingxue said a few words and then found something wrong. So she stood straight and looked at Mo Yuzhen in confusion. Whats wrong with you? Are you unhappy? No. No, Mo Yuzhen denied in a hurry. Maybe the feeling of regaining something that was lost was too strong, and it took her a long time to confirm that it was the reality, not her illusion. At the same time, Mo Yuzhen confirmed that she wanted Shi Qingxues friendship. Seeing the doubt on Shi Qingxues face, Mo Yuzhen changed the subject in an instant. Its great that you came so early. I am worried that nobody would help me prepare for the activity. Shi Qingxue looked at the servants behind her and felt surprised. Dont you always tell the servants to do these things? Why do you want to prepare by yourself? Huh. My brother insists that I should invite Zhao Niaoniao. What can I do? Mo Yuzhen stated scornfully. Prince Junjiu? Shi Qingxue was astonished and then understood instantly. Mo Junjiu still didnt have a wife. Mo Yuzhen blinked at Shi Qingxue and laughed meaningfully. You know that, and I wont explain. Anyway, you hurry up and help me. You have good taste and the decoration you arrange can surely satisfy Zhao Niaoniao. Shi Qingxue shrugged helplessly and responded, I am afraid that I will disappoint you this time. Ah? Eh I have seen the princess from the Zhao Country for only twice and parted in discord every time. Do you think she will enjoy the dinner party arranged by me? Shi Qingxue explained casually. And there was something important. For example, the rumor that Zhao Niaoniao loved Mo Junyang and once wanted to marry him had spread in the capital long ago, so it was unnecessary for her to say more. Mo Yuzhen patted her forehead and said with annoyance, How can I forget that? She mumbled crossly, Its my brothers fault. Perhaps he wants to He wanted to take the throne so badly, so he considered marrying Zhao Niaoniao to get the support from the Zhao Country, but she had fallen in love with somebody else. No matter how hard she tried, it would be in vain. Mo Yuzhen was in low spirits, and Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see that, saying after thinking for a while, Hmm, if His Highness really wants, maybe he can start with Prince Haoran. Tell you a secret. Prince Haoran loves his sister very much and distains His Excellency Zhao Niaoniao loves. Mo Yuzhen got the important information but didnt feel overjoyed. Instead, she looked at Shi Qingxue in confusion and asked, Dont you dislike my brother? Whydo you help him? Ah? Obviously, Shi Qingxue also just realized this point and got dumbfounded for a minute. Then she grabbed Mo Yuzhens arm and smiled calmly. Hmm, I really dont like your brother, but you are my best friend. How can I let you down? Well, anyway its still early now. Even if I help you prepare for the party, nobody would know as long as we dont tell anybody. Lets get started Qingxue didnt give Mo Yuzhen time to be in a daze but energetically went with her to check what they would need for the activities. Chapter 183 - Threaten and Tempt The Moon Lake was at the foot of the Moon Mountain and far away from the noisy capital city. In early autumn, the breeze rippled the shining water on the surface of the lake, and it looked quiet and beautiful, like a princess who had been sleeping for one thousand years. The party was held by the Moon Lake, and there was a corridor set up around the lake, decorated with roses, like a fantastic wonderland. Shi Qingxue told the servants to collect the scattered petals and put them on the ground, which looked like a square flower sea. Its so beautiful! Mo Yuzhen could hardly look away from the beautiful scenery in front of her eyes. She grabbed Qingxues hand and shouted joyfully, Qingxue, how come you got the idea of decorating it like this? It is like the residence of the fairies in the sky. Its so beautiful that I cant believe what I have seen. Its nothing. I learnt it from a book and thought it must be great. It happens that I have a chance to try. I havent expected that it turns out to be so nice. Shi Qingxue was also surprised. In the beginning, she just wanted to make a special spot to attract attention, but the result was beyond her expectation. Anyway, its perfect! Mo Yuzhen didnt care about the cause and effect. She didnt believe that Zhao Niaoniao would be indifferent to the scene which even fascinated her. Mo Yuzhen moved closer to Shi Qingxue and whispered, Hmm, my brother will come later. He will come to a girls party Shi Qingxue understood it before she finished her words, sighing helplessly. Mo Junjiu did so much in order to please Zhao Niaoniao. And Shi Qingxue doubted if Mo Junjiu could succeed. After all, the princess from the Zhao Country was still in love with Mo Junyang seemingly. She shrugged to show that she didnt want to get involved and just reminded, Dont say that I am not loyal to friends later. Shi Qingxue didnt want to talk with others insincerely and might leave in the middle of the party. But she was not lucky enough. The noble ladies were satisfied with the decoration after coming and surrounded Shi Qingxue to ask many questions especially when they heard that it was her idea. Gee, isnt it just an archway made of petals and branches? Is it rare? You are so inexperienced. A sarcastic female voice stood out in the buzz. Everybody quieted down soon and looked at Zhao Niaoniao at the same time who was speaking. Zhao Niaoniao looked at Mo Yuzhen with provocation, or rather Shi Qingxue behind her. Mo Yuzhen was hot-tempered and would go ballistic before, but now she still remembered what Mo Junjiu had told her to do, so she restrained her anger and stated casually, Of course petals and branches are common to see, but what they can make depends on a persons imagination and design. What a pity that Princess Niaoniao has different taste from us. She mocked at Zhao Niaoniaos weird taste as she cant appreciate the beauty of the archways. Zhao Niaoniao certainly understood it and blushed out of anger, but as so many people were looking at her, she couldnt lose temper because of such a trifle. She just turned her sharp eyes to Shi Qingxue and sneered. Right. I have heard long ago that Shi Qingxue has many original ideas and is quite capable. I have witnessed your creativity. Can I see how capable you are? She asked for permission but obviously didnt give Shi Qingxue a chance to refuse. Follow me! She left two words and then walked ahead. Zhao Niaoniaos maid instantly stood in front of Shi Qingxue and arrogantly made a gesture to invite her. You! For the first time, Mo Yuzhens authority was provoked. She couldnt endure it even if the other party was a princess from an allied country and her future sister-in-law. Shi Qingxue grasped Mo Yuzhens hand in advance and silently suppressed her anger. Then she said impassively, Your Highness, since you think highly of me, I will agree. The maid thought Qingxue could be bullied easily and got more conceited, holding her chin high. You are sensible. Shi Qingxue unhurriedly accepted her arrogance but asked when passing by, I will be sensible in front of somebody special. Do you think your lady will make things difficult for our country because I kill a maid? This was a Rank-1 maid of Zhao Niaoniao, and she always behaved like a tyrant. Even the noble ladies would respect her. It was the first time that her identity was pointed out directly, and she couldnt refute, so she looked terrible in an instant. Then Mo Yuzhen added to warn her, Its easier for me to kill you than to kill an ant. If you dont believe me, you can have a try. The maid trembled and was unable to speak. After threatening the maid, Shi Qingxue felt happy and followed Zhao Niaoniao into a forest. There was nobody else around, and it appeared that they would talk in private. Shi Qingxue thought that Zhao Niaoniao asked her to come here alone not to see her capability or compete with her. I can satisfy one of your requirements. While Qingxue was thinking, Zhao Niaoniao spoke straightforwardly. Shi Qingxue was stunned for merely a second and then nodded at once. Okay! Zhao Niaoniao was unable to reply. At this time, Shi Qingxue didnt ask why but gave an answer beyond expectation. How would she continue? Your Highness, you are so kind. Even if I dont deserve it, I cant turn down your offer, Shi Qingxue added leisurely and made Zhao Niaoniao shut up with her face turning pale, red and then black. It was colorful. After quite a while, Zhao Niaoniao managed to restrain her anger and laughed scornfully. I dont want to say something useless. I can meet one of your demands under the condition that you cant pester Junyang. A demand? Shi Qingxue repeated with interest and felt it laughable and amazing. Zhao Niaoniao wanted to tempt her with private interests? Zhao Niaoniao didnt think her offer ridiculous but stressed solemnly, Right, whatever demand is okay, as long as you promise not to see Junyang in the future. The condition was more strict as not to pester was replaced with not to see because Zhao Niaoniao had a strong feeling that Shi Qingxue was a threat to her. In fact, they had met only twice and never talked with each other, but Zhao Niaoniao firmly believed that Mo Junyang treated this woman in a special way. She wouldnt let such a dangerous and greedy woman get close to him. She thought Shi Qingxue was greedy as the latter showed an interest in her temptation. Shi Qingxue almost laughed loud but controlled herself. Then she pretended to be serious and stated, If any requirement is okay, I want the Zhao Country to become a kingdom of our country. Zhao Niaoniao was petrified and stared at Shi Qingxue blankly. What did you say? Even though the princess from the Zhao Country had experienced a lot, she thought her ears were tingling as she was scared by the high price Shi Qingxue had asked. Shi Qingxue smiled. You heard me! Confusion was shown on Zhao Niaoniaos face, and after a long time, she realized that Shi Qingxue messed her around and then became angry from shame. Shi Qingxue, I am serious. Dont intentionally bring up such an unrealistic offer to joke with me, okay? Shi Qingxue blinked innocently. No. You said whatever demand is okay. Zhao Niaoniao was speechless. Seeing that the princess was about to go crazy, Shi Qingxue made a gesture of submission and said on purpose, Fine, I know that, with your ability, its difficult for you to do something like this. Then I will make it easier. Zhao Niaoniaos face fell. What? Hmm, just give up your position as a princess, Shi Qingxue replied leisurely. The princess of the Zhao Country turned ghastly pale and pointed her trembling finger at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue, dont push me too hard. Gee? Did I push you? You said that Huh! You just mentioned something unrealistic and purposely made difficulties for me. Didnt you bully me? Zhao Niaoniao goggled in anxiety. Shi Qingxue showed that she was innocent. Its fine that you cant do the first thing. I just told you to give up your position as a princess, and you can make it after saying something. Why is it unrealistic? Just admit that you dont want to give up your position as a princess, and I wont put you in an awkward position! What a pity. If Junyang knows that he is not as important as a status to you, what will he think? You! Zhao Niaoniao was provoked and blushed with shame. She almost blurted, I can give up my position as a princess but controlled herself in the end. Zhao Niaoniao had the awareness of this point. She was clear that Mo Junyang didnt love her. Even if he agreed to marry her, it must be because of her social status. But she didnt mind. She wanted to marry Junyang and would feel contented as long as she could help and own this man. While the status as a princess of the Zhao Country was her greatest advantage to make her the future King Ruis wife. She wouldnt give it up after Shi Qingxue provoked her with only a few words. Zhao Niaoniao raised her chin arrogantly, even though she was not tall enough to look down at Shi Qingxue, and then expressed coldly, Do you think that I have no idea about your intention? Dont you just want to ruin the relationship between me and Junyang? But he is not here, and you are bound to fail. Oh. Shi Qingxue shrugged and didnt care. Anyway, she just felt bored and joked about this princess. Even if Zhao Niaoniao really agreed to give up her position as a princess, would she be not a princess of the Zhao Country? That was impossible. So it gave Shi Qingxue a chance to refuse Zhao Niaoniao openly. Your Highness, since you cant make it, please forgive me. I cant do it, either. She couldnt avoid seeing Mo Junyang or even give him up. She had decided not to see Mo Junyang before she regained her memory, but when she could remember the past, she would still make it clear to him. She had never thought that she would lose her memory thoroughly, and she would be able to remember everything someday. Shi Qingxue, dont decline my kind offer. You will suffer. I just dont want to hurt you, but it doesnt mean that I cant do anything to you. Zhao Niaoniaos voice was cold. She failed in tempting Shi Qingxue, so she threatened her. Shi Qingxue wasnt afraid but laughed. I wonder what you are going to do to me, Your Highness. Chapter 184 - Cheat on Him” Zhao Niaoniao didnt expect that Shi Qingxue could keep calm under her threat. She was surprised and thought this woman was so fearless. No wonder her brother raved about this woman after seeing her only twice. Shi Qingxue must know that he loved courageous women, so she seduced him intentionally. The princess thought with jealousy and hated Shi Qingxue more, imagining that Shi Qingxue was a bad woman who liked to flirt with men. I am a princess of the Zhao Country, and you are just a noble lady. Even your father should respect me. Do you think your emperor will refuse if I ask him to let you be my maid? Shi Qingxue thought Zhao Niaoniao would deal with her viciously, but it was merely Gee, was she just a simple-minded girl? Even though Shi Qingxue knew that the girl in front of her was her rival in love, she didnt hate this little princess but just thought the other party was inexperienced. Or this was a baby who had been raised under protection and she thought everybody would serve her and make her happy. She was afraid of nobody and would cause trouble whenever she saw anybody, the same as the Shi Qingxue in the past. Shi Qingxue suddenly stopped smiling and looked stunned. When wasthe past? She was just a young girl, fifteen or sixteen years old. Why did she feel that she was old and had experienced many vicissitudes of life? What are you thinking about? I didnt joke with you. If you really irritate me, I Zhao Niaoniao couldnt endure it as Shi Qingxue was absent-minded and ignored her. Then she shouted and cursed in a rage. Shi Qingxue raised her head slowly and looked more indifferent than before. She said impassively, Your Highness, you are capable. Hope that you wont let me down in the future. Then she left and didnt care how exasperated Zhao Niaoniao was because of her words. Shi Qingxue returned to the party. Before she calmed down, she saw that the crown prince Mo Junyu led a group of men to intrude the girls playground in an imposing manner and talked with the noble ladies happily. After all, the unmarried crown prince was attractive to the noble ladies, and he also brought the royal members of the Liang, Zhao and Wei countries as well as the other princes of the Mo Country. It was safe to say that all the excellent men of the Qin Continent gathered here. A woman wouldnt worry about her future even if any of these men liked her and took her home as his concubine. The noble ladies were anxious to please them. Who would refuse them? As soon as Shi Qingxue came back, her eyes seemed to be conscious and helped her look for Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang was in the rear of the group of royal members. His white clothes and cold expression made all the noble ladies shrink back at the sight of him, and they just dared to peep at him from time to time. So the place around Mo Junyang was the safest area. Shi Qingxue couldnt help laughing in secret, but before she grinned, she happened to meet Mo Junyangs deep eyes. Both of them were stunned and looked at each other from more than 15 meters away. After quite a while, they seemed to come back to reality and looked away awkwardly at the same time. They just peeped at each other involuntarily. Shi Qingxue didnt know that Mo Junyang did the same as she, so she felt shy and angry secretly. Why did she care about him so much but he was so distant to her? Shi Qingxue was unwilling to lower herself. She was determined not to see Mo Junyang before she regained her memory. Even though she met him by accident, she wouldnt talk with him. Before Zhao Niaoniao came out to chase her, Shi Qingxue informed Mo Yuzhen and then went to a path to the Moon Mountain. It was a long time since the spring outing dinner last time, and the scenery on the Moon Mountain changed a lot. Some of the yellow fallen leaves flew to her head occasionally, and some were stuck between the leaves in the tree. They were blown away by the breeze or fell on the ground So the surroundings were also lonely and quiet. Shi Qingxues tense expression finally relaxed, and she even leaned against a big tree and raised her head with her eyes closed, letting the sunshine fall on her eyes through the dense leaves. It was like a sunshine sea, beautiful and warm. Its comfortable here and perfect for somebody to hide alone, snatching a little leisure from a busy life. A gentle and unfamiliar male voice disturbed Shi Qingxue. She had to open her eyes, to see a strange man standing about three meters away and looking at her with a smile. He was a graceful gentleman like jade. Shi Qingxue thought of such words and it was her first impression of him. Although they were beautiful words, Shi Qingxue was not happy and even complained in her heart, Since you know that its perfect for somebody to hide alone here, dont disturb me as I snatch a little leisure from a busy life. She frowned and looked the man up and down silently, just bowing to him. The man raised his brows in surprise. Do you know me? Shi Qingxues lips curled up. The fourth prince came to visit our country on behalf of the Wei Country. Even though I am inexperienced, I should know your name. Whats more, werent you at the party just now? The fourth prince of the Wei Country, Wei Shuye looked more astonished. He had noticed Shi Qingxue at the party, but it was shown on her face that she was fed up with the party and she left in less than fifteen minutes. There were so many people at the party, but she paid attention to him and remembered him? When I arrived at your country, I heard of you, the sixth lady of the Shi family, and everybody who has seen you will praise you for your wisdom. I see you today and you are equal to your reputation. I admire you! These words were flippant, but Wei Shuyes voice was sincere and his attitude was earnest. It was not hypocritical at all, and it was comfortable to hear that. Anybody would think that he meant it. Shi Qingxue maintained her composure and looked at Wei Shuye again, with more caution in her eyes, but soon she turned away and responded just to show her politeness, Your Highness, thanks for your words. I dont deserve it. How so? Only judging from your choice of the scenery, I can guess that you are intelligent and learned. Wei Shuye wasnt stingy with his praise. Shi Qingxue got more confused while listening and thought, I just find a place randomly to be indolent, but it has something to do with the intelligence? She was clear that Wei Shuye wanted to flirt with her, but she still pretended that she knew nothing and just returned a smile to his eyes full of affection. Then she turned around and looked away, remaining quiet. Wei Shuye didnt feel awkward and continued, I am a new comer. I like the beautiful scenery of the Moon Mountain, but I am not familiar with it. I want to enjoy the view but I am afraid that I will get lost. Can you be my tour guide? With an objective evaluation, it was not a bad time for Wei Shuye to invite her. He was polite and didnt say too many words to make the young girl feel disgusted. It was the best way to pursue a girl. However, hearing his invitation, Shi Qingxue just yawned in low spirits and said vaguely, I am sorry. I am lost now. I think I cant take you to hang out. Wei Shuye was speechless. He had never seen such a person like Shi Qingxue who didnt play by the conventional wisdom and ruined all his backup plans. He felt embarrassed and stopped smiling. Shi Qingxue seemed not to notice that. Before Wei Shuye answered, she slowly closed her eyes as if she was exhausted and still leaned against the big tree. Nobody knew if she was closing her eyes and resting her mind or fell asleep. Wei Shuye guessed that he behaved anxiously this time and made her dislike him. Moreover, Shi Qingxue always persisted in her old ways and didnt even bother to be offhand with him, which was like how others commented on her. She didnt like him, so she just left him alone, which was not difficult to guess. A dim light flashed in the fourth princes eyes, but soon it disappeared. He directly walked to Shi Qingxue and sat down. He didnt have physical contact with her but they were so close that others might misunderstand after seeing them. Then he laughed to flatter her. In this case, I will wait with you. Shi Qingxue was about to yawn but stopped and turned to Wei Shuye in disbelief. No, thanks. I dont dare to disturb your view tour. Please help yourself. Wei Shuye remained unmoved and expressed, No, you wont. Its great to stay here and enjoy the beautiful scenery. If I walk alone aimlessly and get lost, wont I make the servants do more jobs? Shi Qingxue forced a smile and thought, Aha, I believe that all the servants are happy to look for you. Unfortunately, no matter how resentful she was, she respected Wei Shuye on the surface. When she couldnt stand it but wanted to go back and he said he would go with her, she just hesitated for a while and then nodded to agree. On the way back, Wei Shuye was sensible and didnt ask why Shi Qingxue knew the way all of a sudden but talked about what he had seen and heard on his journey from the Wei Country to the capital of the Mo Country. Wei Shuye was so capable that no matter how boring the topic was, it sounded interesting after he talked about it. Even though Shi Qingxue was impatient in the beginning, she was obsessed gradually and even forgot to keep her distance from Wei Shuye. When she reacted, all people at the party peeped at her in a weird way, which made her blush. Gee, she was with Mo Junyang not long ago and they seemed to be in love with each other. Now the prince of the Wei Country has come, and she pays attention to him at once. Women are so changeable! After the masked man in black taught him a lesson, Yel Anchen was well-behaved and stayed at the embassy of the Liang Country, practicing swordsmanship and swimming. He lived a happy life. But he still bore a grudge against Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue and intentionally moved close to Mo Junyang to tell the truth in order to ruin the relationship between Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue. Unfortunately, Mo Junyang didnt take him seriously. After hearing the long speech, he said casually, Your Highness, thanks for your concern about Qingxue, but just let me worry about such a trifle. Yel Anchen failed in sowing discord and got impatient in an instant. Arent you afraid that she will fall in love with another man? No man would endure his woman cheating on him. Yel Anchen was sure that Mo Junyang pretended to be calm. Chapter 185 - Why Would I Endure? Mo Junyangs cold but handsome face changed because of Yel Anchens words. He looked ghastly pale, with anger on his brows. Yel Anchen wasnt afraid at all but got excited secretly, thinking, Huh, I just want to drive Mo Junyang crazy. But Mo Junyang said coldly, Prince Yel, please speak with caution. If you ruin the fame of a noble lady from our country, I am afraid that it will influence the two countries diplomatic relation. Yel Anchen was speechless for a while. If Wu Yalei didnt stop him from behind, he might fight against Mo Junyang again. For a moment, the mens group fell silent, in embarrassment. Mo Junyang looked low-key, but he was stubborn and hot-tempered, and even Mo Xiangbin could do nothing to him. While Yel Anchen was like a bomb which could explode at any time, and he didnt know what apologizing was. When the two were at loggerheads, about to cause trouble, Mo Junyu hurriedly stood between the two and changed the subject with a smile. Prince Yel, you came to the Moon Lake for the first time and I think you have never seen the beautiful scene here. How about I take you to walk around? Your Highness, you are so thoughtful. Our prince came to enjoy the scenery, so he is naturally happy to go with you. Wu Yalei was afraid that Yel Anchen would fight with Mo Junyang once more, so he answered on behalf of his master in a hurry, despite of being a backseat driver. At the same time, he winked at Yel Anchen in secret. Master, calm down. His Majesty told us to be low-key and not to offend King Rui no matter what. Dont cause trouble at the critical moment. Yel Anchen was resentful, but thinking of Yel Beichen, he endured it no matter how unwilling he was and silently followed Mo Junyu to the lakeside. The others enjoyed themselves everywhere in twos and threes. Before the war started, it was stopped by Mo Junyu. Qu Yuebai wiped the sweat on his forehead and sighed deeply, unable to do anything to his masters behavior. Cant you always keep calm? You know that Prince Yel irritated you on purpose. Why did you fall into his trap? Although Mo Junyang didnt make trouble for Shi Qingxue and the fourth prince of the Wei Country as Yel Anchen hoped, it was not a wise choice to confront Yel Anchen. Mo Junyang showed an indifferent smile and leered at Qu Yuebai. I can keep calm, but why would I endure this time? Qu Yuebai couldnt reply. Fine, he knew that his master was like this. If Mo Junyang was unhappy, he could even provoke the God, so it was understandable that he attacked Yel Anchen in speech. Moreover, Yel Anchen even commented on Shi Qingxue. He just courted death! Qu Yuebai looked up at Shi Qingxue in the distance and then glanced at Wei Shuye behind her. He said hesitantly with a frown, Shi Qingxue and Prince Shuye appear to be too close indeed The two met for the first time today, and they went everywhere together, talking happily. Anybody would doubt that if they had some secret relationship. Gee, when did you become like this? You like to gossip? Mo Junyang goggled at him impatiently and rebuked him without mercy. The gossiping Qu Yuebai scowled with his face stiffening, looking at Mo Junyang for a long time without saying anything. However, after speaking, King Rui ignored him and went away alone in the opposite direction to Shi Qingxue. It appeared that he went to enjoy the beautiful scenery alone. While Qu Yuebai looked at Mo Junyangs straight back for quite a while and couldnt help but smile slyly, grunting, So what even if you pretend to be indifferent? Dont you think that I can see that you were in a bad mood? You just suffer from a false sense of pride. Wait till Shi Qingxue is snatched away. Then you will cry! Qu Yuebai was unhappy and openly cursed that his master would be single for a lifetime. The party by the Moon Lake was held because Mo Junjiu wanted to hook up with the princess from the Zhao Country, Zhao Niaoniao, but she was nowhere to be found after having a heart-to-heart talk with Shi Qingxue. Mo Junjiu waited by the lake for a whole day and was finally told that Zhao Niaoniao had gone back to the embassy alone because she felt unwell. Mo Junjiu was angry and reproached all the servants in charge of the party. Mo Yuzhen couldnt bear to see that and was bursting to say, Brother, Zhao Niaoniao is in love with Mo Junyang since long ago. Even though he refused to marry her, this princess has the passion of love and wont marry anybody but him. Why do you get involved in this mess? Mo Junjiu was perturbed and interrupted Mo Yuzhen crossly, What do you know? Zhao Niaoniao is a princess of the Zhao Country and is quite favored. I hear that her position is not inferior to any princes in her country, and Prince Haoran cares about her a lot. If I marry her and win the Zhao Countrys support, would I worry that Father wont make me the heir to the throne? After hearing that, Mo Yuzhen went silent. She was also the most favored princess of a country, but Zhao Niaoniao had the ability to make comments on the country, while Mo Yuzhen was favored because her father loved her. She was clear that she was just a pet of Mo Xiangbin. When he was happy, he would tease her, but he would never do something to change the countrys situation because of her choice. It was uncertain who was luckier, but Mo Yuzhen really envied Zhao Niaoniao. However, she didnt express her feeling but pointed out casually, Since you are clear that she has the ability, you know that nobody can make her choose another one. No matter how much you do, it will be in vain. She wants to marry Mo Junyang from beginning to end. Dont talk about that guy! Mo Junyang furrowed his brows with displeasure and looked disgusted. After what had happened earlier, Mo Junjiu naturally knew that Mo Junyang couldnt be offended, so he had never thought of something unrealistic, such as getting back at Mo Junyang. Butit didnt mean that Mo Junjiu didnt hate Mo Junyang. He was just waiting for a chance. When Mo Junyang had a life-and-death fight with his enemy, Mo Junjiu would gain the benefit. Mo Yuzhen bit her lower lip. She was not in the mood to argue with Mo Junjiu, so she just stated impassively, I dont want to mind your business, but please dont make trouble for me in the future. This time, if Qingxue didnt help me cope with Zhao Niaoniao, there might be something troublesome. If you dont give up on Zhao Niaoniao, please figure out a way by yourself next time to pursue her. Forgive me. I wont help you! You! Mo Junjiu was flustered and exasperated, seeming unable to believe that Mo Yuzhen could be so heartless. After being mad for a while, he snorted crossly. You just talk about Qingxue all day long. She is close to you recently, so you are on cloud nine and think that she will take you as her best friend like before. Stop daydreaming! You and Shi Qingxue will be like this for a lifetime. No matter how nice you are to her, after she makes use of you, she wont talk to you as she did. Mo Yuzhens pain was mentioned, and she couldnt maintain her composure on the surface. She glared at Mo Junjiu fiercely. Shut up! Mo Junjiu paused for a while but then laughed more recklessly, satirizing her. Did I say anything wrong? Dont you think that I know how many gifts you sent to Duke Shis mansion but they were returned to you? Shi Qingxue obviously wanted to split up with you then, right? So what even if it is true? Mo Yuzhen didnt care or hide it from him. She raised her chin haughtily and said firmly, Its my own business. I am happy to please Qingxue. Gee. I cant interfere if you are happy. I just dont want to see you waste your effort. Mo Junjiu spoke coldly and even rebuked her harshly, You should know that you are not on the same side, and you will split up in the end. If you were willing to help me pursue her or draw over the Shi family, there would be no such trouble now. It sounded that it was Mo Yuzhens fault. Mo Yuzhen was shocked and then looked at Mo Junjiu with hatred in her eyes. Dont be sarcastic! If it werent for what you have done, would Qingxue break with me? I didnt have a fight with you because I still take you as my brother. Even if nobody thinks that you have a chance, Mother and I will support you without hesitation. But if you want to go farther and make use of the only friend your sister acknowledges, dont blame me when I turn my back on you. Mo Junjiu got petrified as he was criticized by his sister to his face. Then he wanted to retort subconsciously. Before he spoke a word to retort, he was frightened by Mo Yuzhens indifference. He had never realized more clearly how serious Mo Yuzhens words were. Alright. I didnt tell you to sever connections with Shi Qingxue. Mo Junjiu smiled flatteringly and softened his tone to apologize. It was my fault. I didnt expect that it would cause a conflict between you and Shi Qingxue. Moreover, isnt she nice to you after she recovered from ignorance? Just forgive me once. Mo Yuzhen wouldnt be mad for long because he was her brother after all. She softened after being coaxed and then said crossly, Brother. I am sincere with you. You would rather put up a good show for Fathers birthday party than flatter Zhao Niaoniao. Nothing is better than leaving a good impression on Father. Dont you think I want to? But you know how partial Father is to Junhao. Mo Junjiu scratched his hair in annoyance. But you cant stand by and do nothing, right? Rest assured! Mo Junjiu showed a confident smile again, with evilness which could hardly be concealed in his bright eyes. I wont let anybody steal the show from me at this party. Just wait and see! Mo Yuzhen frowned and asked suspiciously, What do you want to do? All people in the world are ignorant and think they can have a chance to control the world after getting the colorful phenix, and even Father who is always wise believes this rumor. He was anxious to tell somebody to send it to the capital as soon as he heard that there was one in the east and even wanted to get it before his birthday so that it can celebrate his birthday. But he has never thought about what disaster it would cause. Mo Yuzhen had also heard about the legend of the colorful phenix and even eavesdropped that somebody would give it to Mo Xiangbin, but she had never expected that it had something to do with Mo Junjiu. She got nervous at once and hurriedly grabbed Mo Junjius arm, warning him seriously, The colorful phenix is the spiritual pillar of the whole Qin Continent. Dont act rashly. Chapter 186 - God’s Will Mo Junjiu looked at Mo Yuzhen unhurriedly and smiled. Why are you anxious? Father knows that the colorful phenix would cause the public to criticize but still wants to have it sent to the capital. Nobody would be to blame if there is something wrong. Mo Yuzhen was astonished and responded subconsciously, But I have heard that Father told somebody to send the colorful phenix to the capital after his birthday party. How would It was said like this, but its a long distance from the east to the capital, and the colorful phenix is so priceless. If there is an accident, nobody can take the responsibility. Of course the earlier it is sent to the capital, the safer it will be, Mo Junjiu replied leisurely. But Father told them to send the colorful phenix later just to prevent the evil intentions of the envoys from the other countries. If it is sent to the capital in advance, it would cause much trouble. Father wont do that. Mo Yuzhen spoke with certainty, but Mo Junjiu just showed a sneer. Then it depends on whether he can resist the temptation. When they were talking, a servant ran in a rush to report, The colorful phenix has been sent to the imperial palace. His Majesty is meeting the envoys in the imperial garden. Speak of the devil! Mo Yuzhen turned to Mo Junjiu by instinct. The latter lowered his head and pondered for a while before showing a mysterious smile all of a sudden. A show is about to begin. What are you going to do? Mo Yuzhen asked alertly. Mo Junjiu walked ahead to the imperial palace and answered nonchalantly, I am going to do nothing but watch a play. Gee. Arent you always curious about what the colorful phenix looks like? Lets go together to have a look. Mo Yuzhen hesitated and remained unmoved. Mo Junjiu then added, Shi Qingxue is favored by Grandma. She will surely join the fun for such a spectacular event. Are you sure that you wont come? Mo Yuzhen immediately followed Mo Junjiu. Meeting her brothers eyes with a faint smile, she smiled embarrassedly and explained, I wanted to see it. Its not because of Qingxue. Mo Junjiu was not in the mood to expose her thoughts. He just glanced at her and then told people to arrange a carriage heading to the imperial palace. However, Mo Yuzhen was worried all the way and couldnt help but ask in a low voice, This thing, hmm, have you discussed with Grandpa? Will they Mo Junjiu interrupted her impatiently at once, I know what to do. I dont need those old men to comment. Seeing that Mo Yuzhen was still hesitant, he continued unhurriedly, Grandpa was the one who told me to cast a bone between Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi. In the beginning, Mo Junjiu still wanted to marry Shi Qingxue and hoped to get her and her family property. How could he think of such a trick to split the Shi family? If Liang Yuanming didnt say that the Shi family might be close to the crown princes followers and they couldnt let that family become stronger, how could he do such a hard but thankless job? Upon hearing that, Mo Yuzhen kept silent. Although she still thought that Mo Junjiu advanced rashly to do something to the colorful phenix, she was not on good terms with her grandpas family. Now she heard some disgusting inside news, so she didnt want to have contact with Liang Yuanming. She just said, Its great that you know what you are doing. Dont worry. We just came to watch a play this time, and somebody else is playing. When Mo Junjiu and Mo Yuzhen came to the imperial garden, there were many people standing in it. Obviously they came to see the legendary holy bird, the colorful phenix. As soon as Mo Yuzhen came in, her eyes fell on Shi Qingxue first. Then she showed a big smile automatically and even winked at her in secret. If there werent a crowd of people staring, she might run to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue also noticed Mo Yuzhen and smiled at her secretly to greet her when nobody paid attention to her. Then the prince from the Liang Country, Yel Anchen stood casually in front of a big black box and judged arrogantly, Is this the legendary colorful phenix? Why is it covered with a black cloth? Cant it show its face? His voice was meaningful, but he looked at Mo Xiangbin and the big black box from time to time. Evidently he doubted if this stuff which was valued and sent to the capital with caution was the colorful phenix. Speaking of which, it was reasonable that Yel Anchen suspected that. The colorful phenix was a holy bird of the whole Qin Continent and the last time one showed up was one thousand years ago, so it was almost equal to a legend. After all, nobody confirmed if it was fabricated on purpose because the first Holy Monarch wanted to enhance his political power. Mo Xiangbin was sure that so many people would enter the imperial palace to see the colorful phenix because everybody was well-informed and he couldnt hide it. At the same time, he wanted to show off indeed. After all Zhou Youqiong who had a colorful phenix stay at his residence became the Holy Monarch, and now he was the one who owned the second colorful phenix. Who knew if he could replace Holy Monarch Zhou? Mo Xiangbin didnt lack ambition but public opinion and opportunity. Now he just started to make a show, but he was frustrated, so he was quite depressed. Fortunately, the person who brought the colorful phenix found something wrong on Mo Xiangbins face, so he hurriedly explained, The colorful phenix hates the light and likes darkness. It fears noises and likes to be quiet. And it was on a long journey, so it will be unaccustomed to the changing environment. I am afraid that the holy bird would be frightened, so I dont dare to take the black cover away. Your Majesty, please find the colorful phenix a place suitable for it to stay, so that it can have a rest and be shown to the world earlier. His words were pleasant to hear, but the question was, which place was suitable for the colorful phenix to live and recuperate? Mo Xiangbin was in a dilemma. He wanted to take the colorful phenix back to his bedroom, but he was afraid that it was not a right place for it to live, and it would be troublesome if there was an accident. The Empress Dowager Ling Ruiyin said in time, It needs to estimate, so its better to leave it to the Bureau of Astronomy. Your Majesty, do you think so? Hearing the words Bureau of Astronomy, Mo Xiangbin turned to Mo Junyu but soon looked away in secret. Afterward, he looked at Mo Junyang, with his inquiring eyes. Unfortunately, Mo Junyang was still indifferent like before and didnt even look at him. Mo Xiangbin hesitated for a while and then nodded. Tell the people of the Bureau of Astronomy to come here. After getting the order, the director of the Bureau of Astronomy rushed over and took out his tools to foretell as soon as he heard the emperors command. There were turtlebacks, beast bones, cinnabar, brush pens and so on. He had all kinds of equipment, which was shocking. After about thirty minutes, the director, Shi Guiyi reported seriously, Your Majesty, I asked God just now, and the answer is, the colorful phenix has the fire element and should be in the south. It is supposed to live in the south of the imperial palace, the Qianzheng Palace, which is the most suitable. The Qianzheng Palace was also named East Palace, the residence of every crown prince in the history. Now it was naturally Mo Junyus residence. All people stared at the crown princes followers. Mo Xiangbin looked at Mo Junyu again and asked meaningfully, Crown Prince, what do you think? Mo Junyu looked astonished and saluted Mo Xiangbin in a hurry. The colorful phenix is valuable and should be taken good care of. The East Palace is where the crown prince lives, but I am incapable, and Im afraid that I can hardly take the heavy responsibility to look after it. Unexpectedly, he tried to refuse? Yes? Mo Xiangbin replied, making no comment. But Ling Ruiyin said, Since the Bureau of Astronomy has got the result after checking the position, we should do as God told us. Mo Xiangbins expression didnt change, and he stated casually, But Junyu said that If there is no enough manpower in the East Palace, just send more servants to help. We cant make the holy bird suffer. As Ling Ruiyin thought, the colorful phenix should live in the Qianzheng Palace after the Bureau of Astronomy checked. If they put it in another place, it would suffer. Mo Xiangbin didnt answer but turned to the other princes. Mo Junjiu echoed Ling Ruiyin first, Grandma, you are right. If there is any problem, we can solve it. We cant make the holy bird suffer. I believe Junyu thinks so, right? Mo Junyu didnt expect Mo Junjiu to support him and kept silent in surprise. In fact, anybody present could see what was going on with this show. The Bureau of Astronomy belonged to the Ministry of Rite, which was Mo Junyus sphere of influence. They were not surprised at the result of Shi Guiyis prediction. Junhao, whats your opinion? Then Mo Xiangbin looked at Mo Junhao. The colorful phenix was the symbol of the throne in some aspect. No matter where it would be kept, it was Gods will when the common people heard about it, even if it was useless in reality. Mo Junhao didnt want Mo Junyu to get such a great advantage without paying anything, but he suspected that there was a trap as Mo Junjiu was unusual. After pondering for a while, Mo Junhao didnt risk to ask to look after the colorful phenix and responded obediently, Father, you are the emperor and stand for Gods will. No matter what decision you make, God wont have any objection. Mo Xiangbin laughed finally and glanced at Mo Junhao approvingly. Then he slowly showed his modesty. You are right. Since the Bureau of Astronomy has predicted that its proper to keep the colorful phenix in the East Palace. Lets just keep it there for now. Yes, Father, Mo Junyu lowered his head and answered in a trembling voice. Although Mo Xiangbin didnt see the crown princes face, he felt unhappy. However, he didnt show his emotion and his tone was colder. As I entrust the colorful phenix to you, I hope that you can try your best to look after it. If there is something wrong, I wont spare you! He spoke harshly. It could be seen that it was not a cushy job to take care of a priceless bird, but Mo Junyu still assured solemnly, I will live up to your expectations, Father. Wait! Seeing that the people of the Mo Country had arranged the colorful phenixs residence just in a few words and it had nothing to do with him, Yel Anchen got angry, although it was none of his business. He glared at the big black box in front of him and asked with displeasure, Your Majesty, the envoys from several countries came from afar in order to celebrate your birthday and see the holy bird, but you want to hide it now. Are you going to privately take possession of the holy bird? Chapter 187 - The Colorful Phenix Is Inferior to a Chicken All people present were clear about what the holy bird of the Qin Continent, the colorful phenix stood for. The one who got the colorful phenix could control the world. The Mo Country got the colorful phenix, if nothing else, all people on the Qin Continent might think that the emperor of the Mo Country would replace the declining Holy Monarch Zhou and rule the continent. He was much more justifiable than the King of the Liang Country who threatened the Holy Monarch and gave orders. Since Mo Xiangbin dared to show the colorful phenix, he was ready to cope with the other countries coveting eyes. So he answered unhurriedly, The holy bird of colorful phenix naturally belongs to all people on the Qin Continent, but it is tender and valuable. We cant take it out and show it to all people, right? He was reasonable. Yel Anchen was unable to speak a word. Then Mo Xiangbin added slowly, Whats more, the colorful phenix is tired and scared after a long journey and needs to have a rest. In a few days, after it has enough rest, all of you can see it. What do you think, everybody? Zhao Haoran was merely passionate about martial arts. Although he visited the Mo Country on behalf of the Zhao Country, he had no interest in the so-called holy bird. He would rather compete with Shi Qingxue. We are guests and should listen to the host. We will do whatever you like, Your Majesty. Wei Shuye immediately expressed gently, We came to the Mo Country to celebrate your birthday, Your Majesty. Even if we dont have the opportunity to see the colorful phenix now, I think you wont disappoint us at the birthday party. So why would we be anxious? Yel Anchen had nobody to support him, so he couldnt make things difficult for them. He stated unhappily, Since you said that, just wait till the birthday party. I hope that you wont break your words then, Your Majesty. Mo Xiangbin was speechless. When did he say that he would let them see the colorful phenix at the birthday party? In this case, even if Mo Xiangbin wanted to keep the colorful phenix in secret, he had to let them see it at least once. The colorful phenixs residence was decided. Before anybody saw its beauty, it was sent to the East Palace. No matter what others would think, Mo Junyu was satisfied with the result. Especially when he met Mo Junyang, he couldnt help but ask complacently, Junyang, did I do a good job this time? Mo Junyang showed a poker face, responding impassively, What? Do you think you can take the throne as long as you control the colorful phenix? Mo Junyu looked embarrassed and argued in a low voice, Even if I wont necessarily take the throne after owning the colorful phenix, at least, with it, Father wont act rashly no matter how much he values the other princes. Mo Junyang didnt express his opinion but glanced at the big black box casually. Just raise your colorful phenix carefully. Dont let others steal it. Seeing that Mo Junyang was about to leave, Mo Junyu hurriedly stopped him. Everybody hopes to see the holy bird. Now the colorful phenix is kept in the East Palace. Arent you going to see it before leaving? Its just a wild bird. Is it worth seeing? Mo Junyang didnt look excited, as if the holy bird was inferior to a chicken in his eyes. Mo Junyu was dumbfounded, thinking that Mo Junyang was arrogant and didnt even take the holy bird seriously. However, if Mo Junyu knew that in the previous life, Mo Junyang defeated the other three countries and destroyed the power symbol of the Qin Continent for thousands of years, the Holy Monarch and there was only one ruler, Emperor Ruishang left on the continent, he might not be so surprised. Mo Junyang didnt plan to explain to Mo Junyu but left the East Palace directly. When he passed a row of bo-trees after walking out of the gates of the East Palace, he suddenly stopped in his tracks and said casually, Get out! He waited for a while and there was no sound. It was so quiet around that there was only his breath. Qingxue. He called the name indifferently but accurately. This time, Shi Qingxue couldnt take chances anymore and walked out from behind a tree. How did you know that I am here? Shi Qingxue asked awkwardly. She hadnt expected that she would be found immediately after she hid herself so well. It was really a blunder. Mo Junyang asked in reply, What did you hear just now? Shi Qingxue looked more embarrassed and rolled her eyes, with no courage to look at Mo Junyang. She stuttered for quite a while but didnt give an answer. Hmm? Mo Junyang waited patiently. Seeing that she couldnt hide it from him, Shi Qingxue had to respond frankly, I have heard everything, but I didnt mean it. Speaking of which, she was resentful. She came to the East Palace secretly just to see the colorful phenixs majesty, and she didnt want to eavesdrop on their secret conversation. But Mo Junyu must be on cloud nine as he got the colorful phenix. As soon as he entered the gates of the East Palace, he was anxious to show off in front of Mo Junyang. His voice was very loud, so Shi Qingxue heard that, but she didnt listen in. Mo Junyang bit his lower lip and seemed at a loss for words. He stared at Qingxue with his deep eyes for a long time and then expressed hesitantly, You I didnt want to see you! Shi Qingxue denied firmly and didnt care if she would expose herself unwittingly while trying to cover up as she said in such a hurry. She didnt look at Mo Junyang and rubbed her hands, saying, It appears that I wont see the colorful phenix today. I am going home now. Afterward, she turned to leave. Mo Junyang grabbed her arm before she left and furrowed his brows, asking with displeasure, Why do you want to run away? Shi Qingxue was more flustered while hearing his voice and argued in an instant, I said I wouldnt see you, so I wont see you on purpose. Dont worry that I will pester you. Before she finished her words, Mo Junyang interrupted her coldly, I didnt agree. Ah? Shi Qingxue was stunned and didnt understand what Mo Junyang meant. Mo Junyang grabbed her harder. He wouldnt hurt her, nor would he let her run away. I said, its a one-side agreement that you wont see me before you regain your memory. I have never agreed. But Shi Qingxue was hesitant. After a minute, she asked softly, Dont you dislike who I am now? Her voice was low and depressed. Even though she tried to control herself, grievance couldnt be concealed in her tone. No matter how indifferent she pretended, when she knew that Mo Junyang kept a distance from her because she lost her memory of one period, she felt heartbroken. If she was still the spoiled and arrogant lady from the Shi family, she wouldnt care when others didnt like her. But in her heart, Mo Junyang was not one of the others. She couldnt ignore Mo Junyangs attitude toward her. And because she felt guilty in front of him for some reason that she couldnt explain, she thought she was inferior to him. She couldnt lose temper but had to swallow her grievance. She was so depressed. But Mo Junyang was different in her eyes. The man was nice to her, cared about her and looked after her. She kept everything in mind. She couldnt give up on him, so she would rather make herself suffer. She considered for Mo Junyang and stayed away from him. She didnt want to annoy him, but he got mad at her. Was it fair? Shi Qingxue couldnt help glaring at Mo Junyang in secret, but he met her eyes. Mo Junyang gazed at her and stated straightforwardly, I didnt say that I dont like you. Dont you know who I love? Shi Qingxue opened her eyes wide, and her face started to burn automatically. She had been bold with sufficient reasons, but now she became shy under Mo Junyangs gaze. Who did Mo Junyang love? Perhaps all people in the capital knew the answer to this question. II Shi Qingxue began to stutter again. She gritted her teeth and her words were squeezed out of between them. I dont care who you love! Afterward, Qingxue goggled at Mo Junyang fiercely once more with anger in her eyes and shouted, I wont talk to you! After declaring, she ran away in a rush. Mo Junyang didnt chase her but stared deeply at the direction where Shi Qingxue left. After a long time, he sighed slightly. The news that a colorful phenix was captured in the east and sent to the capital soon spread all over the Mo Country. It was said that the colorful phenix showed up to shock the world as God blessed the Mo Country and Holy Monarch Zhou was declining The people in the Mo Country talked about it and it became more mysterious. There were all rumors that the emperor of the Mo Country would replace Holy Monarch Zhou. Now Holy Monarch Zhou was weak. Even if there was a rumor in the Mo Country that Holy Monarch Zhou was dead, nobody would do anything as long as it was not put into practice. Mo Xiangbin wouldnt care about such rumors but hoped that the rumors would spread farther away. Father, tomorrow is your birthday. Shall we confirm the colorful phenixs condition in advance, in case that it cant be shown at your birthday party? Then it would probably embarrass you, Mo Junjiu suddenly suggested when all people enjoyed the scene and chatted in the imperial garden. Mo Junyu knew that Mo Junjiu would find fault with him, so he answered in haste, This morning, the person who fed the colorful phenix reported to me that it was fine. It wont disappoint you tomorrow, Father. You are right, but we must make sure that there is nothing wrong at Fathers birthday party. We should check it carefully, so then we can be relieved. Mo Junjiu spoke with righteousness and put Mo Xiangbin above everybody. If Mo Junyu refused, it would appear that he didnt attach importance to his fathers birthday party. Mo Junyu sneered in secret and thought, Do you want to find fault with me when I look after the colorful phenix? Since you want to see it so badly, I will let you see it today. Then he responded with a faint smile, Since Junjiu is so anxious to see the colorful phenix, of course I wont say no. Father, Grandma, please come to the Qianzheng Palace. In order to offer the colorful phenix a more comfortable environment, Mo Junyu specially chose a quiet hall in the south of the East Palace as the residence of the phenix and the feeder. At the same time, he sent many soldiers and had it heavily guarded to ensure the phenixs safety. Mo Junyu was confident that outsiders would never act recklessly in his East Palace. Even if he guessed that Mo Junjiu might play some tricks, he wasnt afraid. He led all people to the residence of the phenix and told the feeder to open the room door, introducing with a smile, See. The colorful phenix is sleeping in the cage. All people stared at the room and kept silent in astonishment. Chapter 188 - The Coming Storm at the Party How, how beautiful it is! Somebody sighed with emotion first, and all people came back to earth, but the shock and admiration couldnt be concealed on their faces. It was at dusk and almost getting dark outside, and the door and windows around this room were covered with black heavy cloths, with no light from outside. However, the room which was supposed to be dark as night shone with dazzling colorful light, which was gorgeous and brilliant, even covering all people at the door. Chirp Suddenly the clear and long birdsong came from inside. They saw a round bird cage in the middle of the room, and it was about three meters tall and two meters wide. There was a big bird as tall as a grown-up man in the bird cage. Its head was like a chickens, but it looked more exquisite and vivid than the common chicken. It had a long and sharp beak and a tall and thin neck like a swans. It was slender and delicate, with a long tail which was curved with a beautiful arc and lowered to the floor. It was covered with colorful feathers all over and shone with every hue. It was exactly a phenix in the ancient myths and legends. All people present had read some books about a phenixs appearance and must have imagined what this colorful phenix looked like. But when they saw the colorful phenix, all their imaginations and conjectures were powerless. They just felt shocked. Mo Junyu was complacent to see that. He had specially asked the feeder, and the latter told him that the colorful phenix was unique as it had a colorful coat, able to shine all over its body in the darkness, and it would surely bring people a visual feast. Junjiu, are you satisfied with the colorful phenixs condition today? Mo Junyu asked Mo Junjiu on purpose. After feeling amazed in the beginning, Mo Junjiu looked terrible and stared at the colorful phenix in surprise for a long time. When Mo Junyu asked him, his face was stiff. As long as Father is satisfied. Mo Xiangbin was contented indeed and nodded constantly. The colorful phenix is true to its name! Junyu, you did a good job! Thanks, Father, Mo Junyu responded respectfully and lowered his head, so his expression couldnt be seen. Mo Junyu was the crown prince, but Mo Xiangbin didnt like him these years. He had been rebuked by his father for many times and had seldom heard his praise. It was his first time to be praised with feelings shown on his fathers face, but it was because he took care of a bird. Mo Junyu just thought it sarcastic and suddenly remembered that Mo Junyang called the colorful phenix wild bird. Gee, it was just a wild bird, but these people took it too seriously. The crown prince is steady. Dont worry when he looks after the colorful phenix, Your Majesty! Ling Ruiyin praised Mo Junyu in time, and Mo Xiangbin rarely nodded to echo her. It made Mo Junjiu furious. He glared at Mo Junyu but didnt dare let the elders notice him. He glared secretly like a thief, which was in vain. Mo Junyu ignored him, and it made him almost explode. Shi Qingxue watched these peoples reactions and her joy and amazement after seeing the colorful phenix were replaced with sighing. The royal family was the most heartless, and every member was a good actor. What are you thinking about? A deep male voice appeared beside Shi Qingxues ear all of a sudden, and she was frightened. She looked back, to see Mo Junyang standing behind her when she was unaware. She stepped backward by instinct and didnt reply. Mo Junyang noticed that Qingxue obviously tried to avoid seeing him, and his eyes darkened, but he didnt point it out. Instead, he just asked the question again. Of course Shi Qingxue wouldnt tell Mo Junyang about her messy thoughts. She blushed and shook her head slightly. Nothing. She wouldnt speak out the disgraced, blind and disorderly conjectures. Mo Junyang thought Shi Qingxue didnt want to tell him as she still hated him. He opened his mouth but didnt ask more. With his deep eyes, he looked at the crowd with different thoughts in front and lowered his voice, whispering in her ear, Find an excuse tomorrow night and dont enter the imperial palace. What? Shi Qingxue thought she had misheard and raised her head in confusion, happening to meet Mo Junyangs deep eyes. Her heartbeat quickened abruptly, and she lowered her head in panic, faltering casually, Tomorrow is His Majestys birthday, and all the noble families and everybody in a high position have been invited. The Shi family would be invited every time, and Shi Qingxue had never been absent from such a party. She thought Mo Junyang said something wrong. But Mo Junyang just looked at her with a complicated expression and seemed to see another person through her. He murmured, It will be fine if you can remember If Shi Qingxue remembered what had happened in the previous life, she would know that nothing good happened at the party of Mo Xiangbins 45th birthday. Mo Junyangs other identity was revealed at this party and he almost died. The fight between Mo Junjiu and Mo Junhao reached the peak then as they started a war. Although in this life, Mo Junyang made a plan in the beginning and consolidated at every step so that perhaps his identity wouldnt be exposed, Mo Junyu was added in the fight for the throne, and the envoys from the other three countries would create difficulties. It would be a mess. Anybody who was involved would be in trouble. If Shi Qingxue remembered everything, she wouldnt want to get involved. However, hearing Mo Junyangs words, Qingxue believed that he thought she was a hindrance. Her face fell, and she goggled at Mo Junyang with displeasure, responding crossly, I am sorry that I disappoint you. I cant remember anything. Mo Junyang paused for a while and then opened his mouth, trying to say something, but in the end, he didnt explain to Shi Qingxue that he was not disappointed. Mo Junyang just felt it was a pity that at last, she had forgotten what happened between them. Seeing that Mo Junyang didnt speak, Shi Qingxue was angrier. I know you dont want to see me, so dont worry. If I come tomorrow, I wont show up in front of you or greet you! Afterward, she felt something wrong. She didnt get close to Mo Junyang today. These days, Mo Junyang talked to her every time, so it was not her fault. Shi Qingxue got bolder with sufficient reasons and raised her sharp chin, glaring at Mo Junyang with her big round eyes. She seemed to say, Its all your fault. Dont put the blame on me. Mo Junyang understood Shi Qingxues hidden meaning at a glance and felt amused. Then he couldnt help but raise his hand to touch her head. Qingxue bent over nimbly and avoided his first move. When she was about to protest, he didnt give up but pressed her head gently and then rubbed it with his big hand. The sudden act with affection petrified Shi Qingxue. She looked up at Mo Junyang blankly and met his gentle eyes with love. It was the same as what she remembered. Shi Qingxue hadnt seen it for a long time, and she stood still in a daze, hearing the mans deep voice. Right, its my fault, so be good and stay at home tomorrow. Dont come, okay? Be good okay Such words seemed to be played repeatedly and resounded in Shi Qingxues brain without a stop. The voice became louder and louder and occupied her mind. At last, with a bang, it exploded, and Shi Qingxue felt the heat rose from her heart along her neck and spread to her face. She felt so hot that she was going to explode. As if she were burnt, she quickly moved aside, avoiding Mo Junyangs hand and didnt even dare to look at him. Dont touch my hair! She complained crossly but mostly felt shy. Mo Junyang just smiled. Its great that you know. Shi Qingxue goggled. When did she agree not to come tomorrow? But under Mo Junyangs eyes like water, Qingxue couldnt go against him like before. She stuttered for quite a while but couldnt say anything. In the end, she replied vaguely and then ran away. Although Shi Qingxue was displeased at Mo Junyangs unclear attitude, she still listened to his sincere advice and planned to malinger in order not to attend the birthday party tomorrow. Unexpectedly, next morning, before she asked Doctor Qin to examine her, the order from the Shouan Hall came to the East House, the first masters family should send at least two ladies to the party in the imperial palace. There were strict rules for the noble families to attend the party in the imperial palace. Generally, a noble family would only let the first masters lineal members join the party. If they wanted to bring the favored ones other than the lineal members, the number of them must be the same as the lineal members. For example, in Duke Shis mansion, although Shi Junhe and his two brothers were Shi Leis legitimate sons, Shi Lei had passed away, and Shi Junhe inherited the title of duke. So even though the Shi family didnt divide into three families because Mo Shujun was alive, the second master Shi Junfeng and the third master Shi Juncai were not pure lineal members. So if the second masters and the third masters families wanted to attend the party in the imperial palace, the first masters family should send as many members as them. The second master Shi Junfeng was slow-witted and Mo Shujun didnt like him, so he was always alien to such a party, but the third master Shi Juncai joined every party. And this time, in the third masters family, Shi Juncai and his wife, as well as the second young master Shi Baozhao and the fourth lady Shi Baoyou wanted to take part in the party. It meant that the first masters family should send two people to meet the demand besides Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi, who was adopted by Shi Junhe and more lineal than Shi Baozhao logically. It was no wonder that Mo Shujun forcefully gave such an order to the first masters family. However, Dong Hui was pregnant for less than three months and was an elderly parturient woman. It was a period that the baby was not stable, and she shouldnt walk too much and get tired at ordinary times, so she couldnt take part in the party at this time. Then only Shi Baoning and Shi Qingxue were left in the first masters family. Leng Yan, please tell Grandma that Mother and I are not feeling well, and I am afraid that we cant attend the party. Shi Qingxue didnt plan to follow Mo Shujuns order. But Leng Yan who was always easy-going in the past suddenly got tough, and she looked cold, answering politely, My Lady, dont joke with me. Who dares to disobey Princess Royals orders? Whats more, its a great honor to attend His Majestys birthday party. Others want to join it but dont have the qualification. Nobody would malinger randomly and refuse to go like you do. If you really cant make it, I can report to Princess Royal for you. She loves you so much, so she wont force you, but, I dont dare to send a false message for Madam. Please understand me, My Lady. Leng Yang made it clear that the first masters family must send two more people. Shi Qingxue could malinger and escape, but Dong Hui couldnt avoid it. Then she was going to see what choice Shi Qingxue would make. Chapter 189 - The Colorful Phenix Almost Died Mo Shujun had granted Leng Yan to be Shi Junhes concubine, so Leng Yan desired to please Shi Qingxue who was favored by Shi Junhe, but she wouldnt mind making things difficult for her rival in love Dong Hui. Shi Qingxue knew Leng Yans intention and didnt bother to think about how to convince Mo Shujun to agree that she and Dong Hui wouldnt attend the party in the imperial palace. Mo Shujun perhaps hoped that Dong Hui would lose the baby in her womb and wouldnt consider so much. Shi Qingxue had to sigh helplessly and agree. In this case, please tell Grandma that my sister and I will attend it in time, Leng Yan. My mother is not feeling well and its better for her to stay at home to rest and keep the baby safe. Leng Yan was surprised. As far as she knew, the sixth lady of the Shi family was a spoiled girl and always stood upon her pantoffles. Others listened to her all the time, and she had never made herself suffer. So Leng Yan didnt expect that Shi Qingxue would agree to join the party in the imperial palace. She smiled sarcastically. My Lady, you are so nice to your parents. I admire you! Shi Qingxue smiled and didnt reply Leng Yan, but her clear eyes seemed to reflect the maids evil intentions. Leng Yan felt snubbed and was embarrassed. Then she left after a short while. My Lady, didnt you say that yesterday His Excellency advised you not to attend the party in case that you are in trouble? Why did you agree? Xia Mang couldnt help but ask in a low voice. Shi Qingxue smiled bitterly in hopelessness. I know that todays party will be a mess, but what can I do? Believe it or not, if I behave like a child and refuse to go, Grandma would force Mother to suffer from tiredness by saying that she doesnt respect the elders. Even though whether she attended the party had nothing to do with disrespect, it depended on Mo Shujuns mouth. Whatever the old lady said, outsiders would believe her. Xia Mang could do nothing and was more worried. You are at the eye of the storm, and if something happens to you at the party, I dont know what trouble you will be in. What should we do? These days, Shi Qingxue had suffered a lot from the comments. Xia Mang didnt want to see her lady being criticized. However, Shi Qingxue didnt mind and shrugged, comforting Xia Mang warmly, If you owe too many debts, you wont be worried. Whats more, would I be easily handled? Dont worry! We will find ways to deal with different situations. If somebody dares to bully or provoke me, I will make them pay for it at a higher price. In the Mo Country, people would celebrate their birthdays when they were 40, 45, 50, 55years old. Since the throne was passed down to Mo Xiangbin, he had ruled the country for more than twenty years, and it was in unprecedented prosperity. Now that the holy bird colorful phenix showed up in the world, the country held all the aces and had everything. Mo Xiangbin wanted to throw a party on his 45th birthday. The common people didnt complain but cheered up. On his birthday, there were lanterns and colored hangings all over the capital city, and the common people told each other to celebrate. It was more lively than the new year. At the party in the imperial palace, there were singers and dancers, and the noblemen filled the hall. Everybody smiled and waited to see the holy bird colorful phenix. Qingxue, come to me. Before Shi Qingxue sat in her seat, the Empress Dowager summoned her. She had to run to Ling Ruiyin under all the noble ladies envious eyes. She bowed and asked obediently in a clear voice, Your Majesty, good day. What can I do for you? Ling Ruiyin smiled with her eyes narrowed. Although she had wrinkles on her face, she looked amiable. She grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and stated mysteriously, Qingxue, I give you a task today. You finish it for me, okay? At your command, Your Majesty, Shi Qingxue answered obediently. Even though she was favored by Ling Ruiyin, she couldnt afford to refuse at the moment. Good girl! Ling Ruiyin nodded with satisfaction and then pointed to the princes, expressing unhurriedly, His Majesty told the princes to welcome the colorful phenix in the Qianzheng Palace. I cant walk fast, so I send you as a special envoy to invite it to the party for me so that everybody can worship it. This is not a difficult job. Do you have the confidence to finish it? Hearing Ling Ruiyins words, Shi Qingxue was shocked and peeped at Mo Junyang by instinct. Mo Junyang also paid close attention to her and furrowed his dashing eyebrows. Obviously he was unhappy as Shi Qingxue got involved in this mess, but he couldnt speak on the occasion. Qingxue, why dont you give me a response? Would you report to somebody before doing it? Ling Ruiyin joked and noticed the girls movement apparently, but she didnt care. Shi Qingxue replied in her heart, Of course, I dont want to do it. It was honorable on the surface to welcome the holy bird for the Empress Dowager, but only she was clear about the danger. She didnt have a chance to reject it, so she responded in a hurry, Your Majesty, its my pleasure that you choose me. I will surely finish the job and wont let you down. Good, good kid! Ling Ruiyin smiled contentedly and pushed Shi Qingxue close to Mo Junyu. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but look at Mo Junyang again, hoping that he would go with her, but then Mo Xiangbin suddenly said, Junyang, come to me. The emperor summoned him. Even though Mo Junyang was arrogant, he had to obey. Shi Qingxue had no choice but to follow the princes silently to the East Palace. Welcoming the colorful phenix was that four princes entered its room in the Qianzheng Palace and carried the bird cage with the phenix in it to the party, with one prince under each corner. This job looked dirty and low, but because they carried the colorful phenix, it was honorable. If the second prince were not old enough or justifiable, he didnt have the qualification to carry the holy bird because his mother had died and his father didnt love him. As for Shi Qingxue, she just needed to follow them all the time and watch them send the colorful phenix to the party. Then she would finish her job. Shi Qingxue wanted to do nothing all the way, but Mo Junjiu didnt let her pass. When they were at the door, he said, Its better to ask Lady Qingxue to open the door. After all, she is on behalf of Grandma! Mo Junjiu spoke in a weird tone and seemed to ridicule her. Evidently, he didnt take it seriously as Ling Ruiyin chose Shi Qingxue instead of Mo Yuzhen to represent her. But his proposal was adopted. After all, only Shi Qingxues identity wouldnt cause a fight, and the princes would refuse to accept one another. Shi Qingxue was desperate and had to walk to the room door. She took a deep breath and thought she was silly to do so, but she felt nervous involuntarily and her hand on the door handle even trembled. Ah! Suddenly a sad scream came from the room and shocked all people. Shi Qingxue hurriedly pushed the door open. The colorful light they expected had gone, but only the light from outside brightened the room. The colorful phenix in the bird cage which was supposed to be vigorous fell asleep, and its colorful feathers dimmed, let alone shining like the previous day. Its clear and beautiful eyes were lazy, and the long and sharp beak was stuck between the bamboo barriers. Dark red blood dripped from the beak one drop after another, and there was a pool of blood on the floor. Ah! Ah! The colorful phenix screamed feebly again and dragged everybody back to earth. All people rushed into the room in panic. Shi Qingxue didnt dodge in time, so she was pushed abruptly and staggered forward. Fortunately, somebody helped her, and she didnt fall on the floor. Be careful! Shi Qingxue stood steadily and looked up, to see that the second prince Mo Junwen supported her worriedly and asked with concern, Is there anything wrong with you? Shi Qingxue shook her head blankly. He helped her walk several steps to the corner and then loosened his grip, standing half a meter away from her. He cared about her all the time but didnt look flirtatious. Seeing that Qingxue was fine, he paid attention to the crowd again, behaving naturally and calmly. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but look Mo Junwen up and down. To be honest, she could hardly remember the second prince and had never paid attention to him who was raised by another concubine because his mother had died. The last time she noticed him was when she tried to make a match for Shi Baojing and Mo Junyang. She While thinking, she paused and her face looked terrible all of a sudden. When did she make a match for Mo Junyang and Shi Baojing? It must not be what she did, but it appeared in her brain abruptly like a streak of lightning and then burst, making her thoughts a mess. Qingxue, whats the matter with you? Mo Junwen turned his head and found Shi Qingxues pale face, so he asked kindly in a low voice. Shi Qingxue raised her head suddenly and glared at Mo Junwen, with a complicated expression. Then she asked, You have seen my cousin Baojing in the Juxian Restaurant, right? Her question was from nowhere, and it happened so long ago. Others could temporize randomly. But Mo Junwen was too honest or guilty, and his square face became red. Before he spoke, he had confessed. Shi Qingxue understood instantly, but then her heart sank. She had really forgotten many important things, and she didnt feel happy when she remembered that. I Mo Junwen stuttered for quite a while and couldnt make it clear. Qingxue didnt want to inquire about the privacy of Mo Junwen and Shi Baojing. Since he didnt say it, she thoughtfully looked away and turned to the colorful phenix surrounded by the crowd. Whats wrong with the colorful phenix? Mo Junwen realized Shi Qingxues kindness and then explained, I hear that it was poisoned, and it is still alive. Junyu has told somebody to call for Doctor Shen. Maybe he can save it. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Although she could feel Mo Junwens honesty, but wasnt he too frank? If others heard his words and tone, Mo Junwen wouldnt get away with it. If a prince wanted to live a good life in the imperial palace, hed better have a mother from a powerful family, like Mo Junjiu as even Mo Xiangbin was afraid of him. If his mothers family was not strong, he must have sharp eyes and find a good backup. If he was not sharp-eyed, he should have a glib tongue and at least make Mo Xiangbin happy. However, Mo Junwen had none of those, so it was no wonder that he lived a worse life in the imperial palace than some favored servants. Nobody knew if Mo Junwen didnt realize it or he didnt care at all. Then he whispered to Shi Qingxue, They will have a fight again this time. It has nothing to do with you. How about you go out first to avoid getting involved? Unexpectedly, he still considered for Shi Qingxue whole-heartedly? Chapter 190 - The Crown Prince Was Almost Deposed Shi Qingxue was extremely astonished and almost stared at Mo Junwen blankly for a long time before she came to her senses. But she had complicated feelings and was restless. Logically, they barely had connections in the past, and Mo Junwen had no reason to consider so much for her. Would he do it because he felt pity for her? Of course Shi Qingxue wouldnt believe such a ridiculous reason. But Mo Junwen was calm from the beginning, so she couldnt doubt that he did that just to please her. It was unnecessary and impossible. Then Before Shi Qingxue figured it out, Shen Luo was brought by somebody in a hurry. Behind him were the emperor Mo Xiangbin and the royal family members as well as noblemen, who were supposed to be at the party. Mo Junyus face darkened, and he glared at Mo Junjiu. Mo Junjiu didnt deny it but shrugged and told the crown prince directly that he had informed the emperor. Something so big happened to the colorful phenix. We cant hide it from Father. You win because you are so cruel! Mo Junyu forgot the gentleman style and brotherhood and whispered in Mo Junjius ear coldly. Then he walked quickly to Shen Luo. He pulled Shen Luo into the room in haste and stated in a low voice, The colorful phenix is still alive. Please do save it. Thanks. Shen Luo was unable to reply. He was a miracle-working doctor, but when did he say that he could even cure a bird? But he worked for Mo Junyang, who was a loyal follower of the crown prince. No matter how much he wanted to say, he had to bite the bullet and step forward to examine it as Mo Junyu invited him in front of so many people. The colorful phenix was out of breath and could hardly breathe in. Shen Luo had been a doctor for many years and thought that it would die in two to four hours. Shen Luo sighed and dipped the black blood the colorful phenix had spat with his index finger. When he was about to put the finger in his mouth, Shi Qingxue stopped him. Be careful. It must be poisonous. Shen Luo raised his head and found that Shi Qingxue stood behind him, with evident concern in her eyes. Gee, it appeared that he didnt waste time on looking after Shi Qingxue in the past few days. Shen Luo felt warm and relaxed a lot. He shook his head at Shi Qingxue, responding softly, Its fine. After pausing for a while, he glanced at the crowd who paid close attention to the room in the distance but didnt dare to step forward while advising her gently, Go out. Be careful. You might get yourself into trouble. It was the second time that Shi Qingxue was advised, and she was not foolish. Then she shrank back, trying to hide herself. But it was too late. Qingxue, come to me. The Empress Dowager, Ling Ruiyins voice came, so Shi Qingxue had to walk to her obediently and bow to admit her fault. Your Majesty, I let you down as I failed in welcoming the colorful phenix. Please punish me. Its not your fault. Ling Ruiyin kindly grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and patted it. Then she looked at the room again before asking worriedly, But you need to tell us what has happened. Yesterday the colorful phenix looked in high spirits, but why did it become like this today? Shi Qingxue glimpsed at the pool of blood on the floor and thought, Isnt it obvious? The colorful phenix was poisoned. But Ling Ruiyin asked her and apparently wanted her, a neutral to justify Mo Junyu. Your Majesty, I followed the crown prince and the others as you told me to Shi Qingxue told everything after she came to the East Palace and before she saw that the colorful phenix fell on the floor as it was poisoned, and then she mentioned what happened before all of them gathered in the East Palace. She told everything frankly without showing any personal feelings. Ling Ruiyin grabbed Shi Qingxues hand more tightly all of a sudden, but soon she relaxed, and nobody noticed except Shi Qingxue. She maintained her composure and asked, Could it be that the colorful phenix has never been to the central land and falls ill as it is unaccustomed to the food and weather in the capital city? She just talked nonsense. If nobody saw the colorful phenix full of vigor the previous day or there were no suspicious dark blood on the floor, somebody might believe her words, but now everybody stayed silent. They couldnt refute her, and nobody would echo her. Ling Ruiyin felt awkward, so she turned her encouraging eyes to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak a word. She was merely an innocent outsider. Its not true, Shen Luo stated abruptly, which attracted everybodys attention. He gave a conclusion calmly, The colorful phenix became like this because it was poisoned. If I guess right, somebody intentionally poisoned its drinking water, and it drank it by accident, so it was poisoned and fell on the floor. Remaining poisonous water is found in the colorful phenixs mouth and the bamboo tube containing water, which is the best evidence. At this time, nobody would doubt Shen Luos words. Mo Xiangbin got furious and was about to rebuke Mo Junyu who looked after the colorful phenix, but Ling Ruiyin sighed and spoke first. Its difficult to deal with. I dont know who is so vicious and wanted to poison the holy bird. Your Majesty, you cant tolerate such an evil-doer. She said a few words and tried to make Mo Xiangbin get mad at the poisoner. It was said that the person who did it was to blame. There was nothing wrong with her logic. Mo Junjiu cursed in his heart that Ling Ruiyin was too partial, but he had to pretend that he agreed with her. He just whispered as if by accident, Grandma, you are reasonable. But Junyu has made the Qianzheng Palace heavily guarded, and something like this shouldnt have happened, unless Mo Junjiu stopped when he was about to mention the key point and even showed a terrified expression on his face, as if he found something significant, which was more suspicious. Junjiu, what are you thinking about? Mo Xiangbin asked in a deep voice. Mo Junjiu shook his head repeatedly and answered modestly, Nothing. I just guess. Dont take it seriously. It was easier to attract others attention as he said something like this. Mo Xiangbin expressed soon, No matter what you guess, just say it. Who do you think is the poisoner? If I find that its true, I wont spare him. Ugh Mo Junjiu purposely showed that he was in a difficult position and said after stuttering for a long time, I just think that outsiders are unable to poison it, and the one who can do it is probably from the Qianzheng Palace Mo Junyu couldnt help but interrupt him before he finished his words and then reproached him coldly, Junjiu, with no evidence, you cant speak at random. Mo Junjiu shrank his neck, as if he were frightened, and stopped talking. Mo Xiangbin immediately glared at Mo Junyu. I havent rebuked you as you didnt take good care of the colorful phenix, but you are so bold as to interrupt when I want to find the truth. Is it that somebody from your palace poisoned the colorful phenix as Junjiu guessed and you want to cover up for the criminal? Mo Junyu turned pale with fear and hurriedly knelt down, denying, Father, I was wronged. I looked after the colorful phenix carefully these days as the feeder told me and didnt dare to neglect it. Its just that Junjiu slandered the people in my palace and I was furious, so I interrupted him. I would never want to cover up for the criminal. Mo Xiangbin raised his brows and sneered. How can you be sure that the one who poisoned the colorful phenix is not from the Qianzheng Palace? Uh Mo Junyu was pushed so hard that he had cold sweat on his forehead, but he couldnt find any words to answer. It was because he didnt know who the hell had poisoned the colorful phenix. Mo Junyu was anxious out of wits, while Mo Junjiu played a kind person again. Father, dont be mad. Junyu cares about the people in his palace and its forgivable that he cant tell right from wrong. Mo Junjiu appeared to justify Mo Junyu, but in fact, he blamed his brother as the latter defended his servants before investigating. To make it pleasant to hear, Mo Junyu trusted his subordinates, but on second thought, he was the crown prince and should keep calm at any time. He could convince everybody only when he was reasonable. And it was a taboo to trust somebody blindly and be partial. Hearing Mo Junjius words, Mo Xiangbin turned ghastly pale. Without giving Mo Junyu a chance to explain, Mo Xiangbin announced, The crown prince is immoral and didnt take good care of the holy bird. I will deprive him of his title for now, and he will be grounded in the Qianzheng Palace. He will be punished after the colorful phenix recovers from its illness. After he made the imperial decree, there was an uproar in the crowd. All people present were clear that Mo Junyu probably could hardly escape this time, but none of them, including the initiator of evil expected that Mo Xiangbin was so cruel as to directly deprive Mo Junyu of his title as the crown prince and put him under house arrest in the East Palace. Was he going to depose the crown prince? Mo Junyu paled and looked up at Mo Xiangbin in disbelief. His lips trembled, but he couldnt say a word to complain about his fathers cruelness. After declaring the punishment, Mo Xiangbin didnt look at Mo Junyu but walked quickly into the room. He stared at the colorful phenix and was gentle to Shen Luo but concerned about the phenix. Doctor Shen, how is the colorful phenix now? Since you know that it was poisoned, you must know how to detoxify it. The colorful phenixs safety is related to the safety and rise and fall of the Mo Country and also represents the prosperity of the Qin Continent. It cant have anything wrong. If you can cure it, I will satisfy you, no matter if you ask for wealth or honor or a title of nobility, but if you dare to slack off, dont blame me when I am heartless! Shen Luo was speechless. He was flattered and allured with interests but was threatened at last. Shen Luo heard that and couldnt help but roll his eyes secretly, but his emotion was not affected. There were too many to complain, and he was powerless. I will try my best! Shen Luo bent over and answered politely. In fact, he was not afraid of Mo Xiangbins threat at all, but the colorful phenix was really rare, and it was a pity that it died innocently in the fight for the throne as soon as it was sent here. He glanced at Mo Junyang in secret, and the latters eyes were cold and emotionless, so he thought the other party agreed with him. But the colorful phenix was poisoned too seriously, and I just keep it alive with some pills. Im afraid that it is not so easy to cure it. Mo Xiangbin thought Shen Luo needed some rare medicinal materials, so he stated at once, As long as you can cure the colorful phenix, you can use anybody and anything. Chapter 191 - Who Could Win? Shen Luo didnt beat around the bush but said, Everything I need to treat the patient is in King Ruis mansion. If you want me to take good care of the colorful phenix, you need to send it to King Ruis mansion. Uh Mo Xiangbin was in a predicament. He finally got this holy bird, but he had kept it for just a short time and hadnt seen it for several times. Now he must send it away. He felt uncomfortable when it was out of his control. Mo Junjiu was nervous to see that and questioned at once, The colorful phenix is the holy bird. How can you take it away as you like? If there is something wrong, can you take the responsibility? Mo Xiangbin thought Mo Junjiu was aggressive but didnt stop him. He just asked, Doctor Shen, dont you have another way? Shen Luo lowered his head and answered impassively, I am just a doctor and dont know anything about the geomantic omen or the Eight Diagrams. I can do nothing but provide the best solution to cure the colorful phenix. If you insist on keeping it in the imperial palace, I cant do my best. Please forgive me, Your Majesty. Mo Xiangbin was speechless and thought that the capable men were always violent-tempered. Since he ascended to the throne, it was the first time that he was threatened, although in a soft way. Huh! Just say it if you are not capable. I dont believe that no other miracle-working doctor in such a big country except you can cure the colorful phenix! Mo Junjiu yelled at Shen Luo arrogantly. Then he turned around and bowed to Mo Xiangbin, advising in a deep voice, Father, there are many talents in our country, and the imperial doctors are all excellent. If Junyu hadnt insisted on sending for a miracle-working doctor, I would have asked an imperial doctor to treat the colorful phenix. The colorful phenix is the holy bird of the Qin Continent, and many people want to own it. If we send it to King Ruis mansion randomly, who can ensure its safety? He mentioned the holy bird and its safety, seeming to say that the colorful phenix would die after it left the imperial palace. Why didnt he remember where it had been poisoned? Shen Luo pouted. Even though somebody doubted the safety in King Ruis mansion, his master looked calm and didnt want to get involved in this matter. Perhaps Mo Junyang thought that since Mo Junjiu wanted the colorful phenix so badly, just gave him that useless and dying wild bird. While imaging, Shen Luo thought that he had guessed what Mo Junyang was thinking about, so he didnt reply. Mo Junjiu waited for Shen Luo to retort, and then he would ask an imperial doctor to cure the colorful phenix quickly so that he could embarrass Shen Luo, but the miracle-working doctor stood by and turned a deaf ear, which made him unable to say what he wanted to. He was depressed and helpless. It was awkward on the spot for no reason. Mo Junjiu had no choice but to continue, Father, I think there are many imperial doctors in the palace, and it would succeed even if we ask an imperial doctor to detoxify the colorful phenix. And I have sent somebody to the Imperial Academy of Medicine to bring a doctor. They must have arrived now. How about Mo Xiangbin ignored him and then asked Mo Junyang who kept silent, Junyang, what do you think? Your Majesty, its up to you. I have no objection. Mo Junyang answered casually with indifference and wasnt as joyful as anybody who could get the colorful phenix. Mo Xiangbin knew well about Mo Junyang and thought that this guy might turn up his nose at this holy bird. Junhao, whats your opinion? Mo Xiangbin didnt make a decision but turned to Mo Junhao. Mo Junhao stared at Mo Junyang all the time, as if lost in thought. He came to his senses after being stunned for a while as Mo Xiangbin suddenly called him. He looked hesitant and answered, Everybody has seen Doctor Shens medical skills, and he could cure the first lady of the Shi family whose disease was difficult to handle, so he deserves to be a miracle-working doctor. But the Imperial Academy of Medicine has the most outstanding doctors in our country, and it is said that there is strength in numbers. I cant make a choice for now. So Father, please make a decision. He spoke a lot and didnt offend anybody but at last left the hot potato to Mo Xiangbin. Mo Xiangbin was so angry that he goggled. If he could make a decision easily, he wouldnt have asked them. All of them didnt want to take the responsibility. Mo Xiangbin naturally wanted to keep the colorful phenix in the imperial palace, and it was the best to keep it around him. However, the old doctors in the palace could certainly cure the common diseases quickly, but when it came to the incurable diseases, they would even ask for permission repeatedly with caution before using any medicine because they were afraid that they would be to blame if there was something wrong. However, in this way, even the minor illness would become a serious one after they delayed. Mo Xiangbin was worried that the colorful phenix would die because of their delay. I believe in Doctor Shens medical skills. Since he said it will be the best if he takes the colorful phenix to King Ruis mansion to treat it, then Mo Xiangbin pondered for quite a while and decided to take a risk at last. Father! Mo Junjiu couldnt bear to see that and shouted in a hurry to interrupt Mo Xiangbin. He hurriedly walked to Mo Xiangbin and advised, Now the one who poisoned the colorful phenix hasnt been found. After we send it to King Ruis mansion, if the consequences would be unthinkable! He didnt complete the sentence after if, but what he wanted to express was evident. He just doubted that Mo Junyang might be the one who poisoned the colorful phenix. Mo Junjiu knew that it would be exposed easily after he said that, but in order to keep the colorful phenix, he had to make the mess worse. He was clear that he might offend Mo Junyang, but he gritted his teeth and then said something with hidden meanings. After all, Junyang and Junyu are on good terms. The people in the crown princes East Palace were still suspected, and Mo Junyu was under house arrest as a punishment. Then could his right-hand man be fully trusted? He aimed at Mo Junyang, but the latter didnt refute him. Mo Junyang looked indifferent as before, as if he didnt hear Mo Junjius words, and he didnt care at all. Mo Junjiu got excited secretly to see that. He didnt explain? It was great! He didnt explain, which meant that he admitted it silently. Before Mo Junjiu put the blame on Mo Junyang, Mo Xiangbin looked ghastly pale and rebuked him, Ridiculous! What do you mean? Do you suspect that Junyang poisoned the colorful phenix? The emperor looked ferocious and disgusted. It seemed that as long as Mo Junjiu replied yes, he would be cursed severely. Mo Junjiu couldnt speak a word. He had been Mo Xiangbins son for so many years and watched him spoil Mo Junhao for many times but had never seen him speak for anybody, making his position clear. It was absolutely trusting. Mo Junjiu darted a look at Mo Junyang fiercely, with resentment and jealousy, thinking, Why can Mo Junyang easily get what I want while I have to try every means to please my father and win his trust, taking each step cautiously as if treading on eggs? Mo Junyang still ignored Mo Junjiu as he saluted Mo Xiangbin, saying nonchalantly, Your Majesty, thanks for your trust. I will send more people to guard my mansion and ensure the colorful phenixs safety. Your Highness, please dont worry. Todays tragedy wont repeat. He said the last words to Mo Junjiu meaningfully, which scared the third prince. Mo Junjiu was guilty and didnt dare to meet Mo Junyangs eyes. He just stood straight on purpose, being outwardly strong but inwardly weak. I dont need to worry about anything. Dont speak at random to slander me. I am just afraid that the colorful phenix would have something wrong. Shen Luo watched their interaction and was affected. A thief accused somebody else of the theft boldly with sufficient reasons. It was impressive. Unfortunately, his trick was inconspicuous in Mo Junyangs eyes. The latter turned a deaf ear to Mo Junjius words and told Shen Luo, In this case, take the colorful phenix to my mansion first and take good care of it. Shen Luo understood Mo Junyangs hint and then stated, The colorful phenixs life is in danger and it needs to be cured as soon as possible. Otherwise, the consequences would be unimaginable. But I am just a civilian. Even if you trust me and allow me to carry the holy bird of the Qin Continent away, I wouldnt dare to. Your Majesty, please tell somebody to come to King Ruis mansion with me and take care of the colorful phenix. If there is any problem later, I can discuss with him. Good idea. Its permitted! Mo Xiangbin felt joyful and agreed in an instant. With his trusted follower guarding the colorful phenix all the time, he would feel relieved. Then he immediately ordered, So I will tell Quan to follow you all the way. If you need anything, you can tell him to do. Thanks for your kindness, Your Majesty. Shen Luo bowed to express his thanks. Afterward, he sent the colorful phenix out of the Qianzheng Palace with the people from King Ruis mansion. Then Mo Xiangbin also left. He didnt take a glance at Mo Junyu from beginning to end, as if this prince had been abandoned completely. After hearing Mo Xiangbins cruel imperial decree, Mo Junyu was in a trance. Everybody went away, but he still stood alone blankly in the courtyard outside the colorful phenixs room. He looked stagnant like an idiot. Mo Junyus cousin Mo Yu felt heartbroken to see that and hurriedly stepped forward to advise him, Your Highness, dont lose heart. His Majesty is furious and its normal that he would vent his anger. Dont get dispirited because of that and make others laugh at you. Mo Junyus lips curled up, and he wanted to smile at Mo You, but he failed and just felt bitter. Didnt Father embarrass me enough? The emperor deprived him of his title in public and put him under house arrest in the East Palace. That was humiliating him in front of others. Just for the sake of an animal! Mo Junyu couldnt restrain his anger anymore and called the colorful phenix animal. Mo You was frightened and hurriedly covered Mo Junyus mouth, shouting, Your Highness, the East Palace is not safe now. You cant say something like this randomly. If somebody tells His Majesty, it would be a disaster! Mo Junyu turned pale suddenly and then looked dejected at last. He leaned against the door pillar, feeling deflated. He looked sad and then expressed with self-mockery, Father is about to depose the crown prince. What will be worse? Ugh Mo You was speechless and then argued clumsily, We will figure out a way. The Empress Dowager left with His Majesty. If she intercedes with His Majesty for you, maybe things will change. Or I will go to His Excellency. He is always resourceful Mo Junyus face stiffened instantly and he murmured in embarrassment, He once warned me because of the colorful phenix and told me not to get involved in this mess, so I didnt discuss with him about what happened later. Now there is something wrong and I ask him for help, so he wont help me. Chapter 192 - A Disaster Mo You didnt expect that Mo Junyu and Mo Junyang had different opinions, but under the situation, he didnt have time to hesitate, so he had to take a chance. He gritted his teeth. We should have a try. You and His Excellency are on the same side, and everybody knows that he is your follower. If you fail, can he live a good life? It was out of the question if Mo Junyang wanted to follow somebody else. He had a label as the crown princes follower. Even though he was capable, other factions wouldnt trust him. While thinking, Mo Junyu felt relieved and nodded. You, please have a talk with him. I wasnt thoughtful and made him suffer this time. Ask him to figure out a solution for me. I will express my thanks someday. He surrendered. Any other subordinate would exhaust his energy to do everything for his master if he was treated in this way by his master, but when it was Mo Junyang, Mo Junyu felt depressed and worried, with no confidence. Mo You had the same feeling and didnt dare to ensure him. He just said, Todays party probably couldnt go on. I just saw that His Majesty and the Empress Dowager went to the Moral Hall. I am going there to have a look. Maybe the Empress Dowager could persuade His Majesty. After speaking, he sighed and then left worriedly. The Moral Hall was where the emperor had a rest and met somebody informally at ordinary times, but it was not a place that Mo You could enter randomly. Without being summoned, Mo You had to wait outside obediently. At this time, Mo Xiangbin and Ling Ruiyin sat face to face in the room with a cup of tea in hand for each, but they didnt drink. They just held the teacups, as if they were competing on who would get impatient first. At last Ling Ruiyin sighed and asked first, I know that you dont like Junyu all the time. This time he did something to seek quick success and instant benefits, but after all, he is the only child of you and Xiaozhen. You put him under house arrest in the Qianzheng Palace in public. Arent you afraid that you would break his heart? Mo Xiangbin snorted and looked unkind. Break his heart? I trusted him, so I gave him the important job to take care of the colorful phenix, but he made it a mess. Isnt he afraid that he would break my heart? But Junyu didnt mean it! After he listened to your order, he tried his best to take care of the colorful phenix all the time. I can say that he attached more importance to the colorful phenix than himself. So how would he poison it? Ling Ruiyin defended Mo Junyu helplessly. Apart from anything else, Mo Junjius accusation that Mo Junyu or the people in the East Palace had poisoned the colorful phenix was ridiculous, and it was impossible! She thought that somebody was jealous and intentionally framed up Mo Junyu in order to make him lose his title as crown prince. Ling Ruiyin analyzed everything for Mo Xiangbin fairly. She didnt merely justify Mo Junyu. After all, as the Empress Dowager, she couldnt bear to see anybody disturb the peaceful imperial palace. Afterward, she advised in all earnestness, Your Majesty, I know that you get mad because the colorful phenix was poisoned, but I hope that you can always keep vigilant. Dont do anything on impulse to make the family sad and the enemy happy. It would be too late if you regret in the future. Mo Xiangbin calmed down and pondered. Then he thought that there were many doubtful points. What was the most obvious was that Mo Junjiu seemed to respect his fathers opinion but said something meaningful every time. He made everybody pay attention to Mo Junyu and even wanted to drag down Mo Junyang. He was like a clown! Mo Xiangbin was angry, but his eyes were sharp. He wasnt blinded, but it was just that he was not in the mood to expose Mo Junjiu on the spot. He could easily guess who supported Mo Junjiu in doing those things. Even so, the crown prince cant get away with it as he didnt take good care of the holy bird. Do you want me to forgive him and do nothing, Mother? Mo Xiangbins tone softened, but obviously, it was unrealistic to make him let go of Mo Junyu. Ling Ruiyin made it in another word and advised him softly, You should punish him, but will you depose the crown prince because of such a trifle? Mo Xiangbin was speechless. When he knew that the holy bird was almost unable to be saved, he really had such a plan. But now the colorful phenix was still alive, and it was just poisoned. After Ling Ruiyin talked into him, he really thought he had made an issue of it. Whether the heir to the throne was stable would greatly influence a countrys stability. No matter how valuable the holy bird was, if he deposed the crown prince, he had no sufficient reasons. Moreover, Mo Xiangbin suddenly thought of somebody, and he didnt insist anymore but softened. Looking at Ling Ruiyins eyes with concern, Mo Xiangbin prepared to agree. The eunuch Quan couldnt wait and staggered to push the door and enter the room before asking for permission, and he looked terrified as if all his family died. Mo Xiangbin frowned with displeasure and questioned coldly, You disrespectful bastard, cant you see that I am talking with the Empress Dowager? You just ran in rashly. Do you want to die? Quan knelt down on the floor all of a sudden, with tears falling from his eyes. Your Majesty, bad news. The colorful phenix, it It has died What? Mo Xiangbins hand trembled and the teacup fell on the floor, with hot water splashing him all over, but he seemed to be unaware. He was stunned and looked horrible. Ling Ruiyins expression also changed. She looked at Quan in horror and asked anxiously, Whats the matter? Wasnt it still alive when we saw it in the Qianzheng Palace? Then she thought of something seemingly and changed her tone, asking, Didnt Doctor Shen say that he can keep the colorful phenix alive? Why did it die? She tried to put the blame on Shen Luo because he couldnt cure it. However, nobody knew whether the young eunuch played dumb or he didnt understand Ling Ruiyin who tried to induce him. He explained in a twitter, I dont know what happened. When we arrived at King Ruis mansion and opened the cloth covering the bird cage, we found that the colorful phenix closed its eyes and fell on the floor in the cage. We tried to awaken it, but it had no reaction. I reached out my hand to touch it and found that it was dead. Doctor Shen said that we found it too late, and he could do nothing. Gee, he told the truth in detail but proved Shen Luos innocence. The fact was that the colorful phenix died too soon, even before Shen Luo started to treat it. They couldnt blame him for his ineffective treatment. Ling Ruiyin returned to her seat powerlessly and knew that it was a disaster. She peeped at Mo Xiangbin, to see that he was still shocked and remained unmoved. Your Majesty Ling Ruiyin called worriedly and wanted to say something but stopped herself. Mo Xiangbin came back to earth all of a sudden and his eyes became sharp and ferocious. He stared at Quan and roared, Tell all the princes to come here! I will ask those bastards! Quan had been working for Mo Xiangbin for five or six years and it was his first time to see the emperor so angry that he even called his sons bastards. Was he going crazy? He peeped at Ling Ruiyin, but before he got a response, Mo Xiangbin continued furiously, You didnt hear me? Would you hear clearly after I cut your ears? I am going to! Quan quivered and then got up in a hurry. Wait. Ling Ruiyin stopped Quan, with a moments hesitation on her aged face with wrinkles, but soon she said, Tell Junyang to come, too. He is not an outsider and should know this thing. Nobody knew which words affected Mo Xiangbin. He was like a furious lion earlier, but he was not so angry anymore soon. And even his eyes looking at Ling Ruiyin were not as distant as before. Quan hurriedly responded and then staggered out to declare the imperial decree. The two left in the Moral Hall fell into silence again. Ling Ruiyin was impatient and brought up something else. Junyang Mother, before finding out the chief criminal who poisoned the colorful phenix and investigating the case thoroughly, I dont want to talk about this matter. Mo Xiangbin frowned and interrupted Ling Ruiyin distantly and quickly. He got stiff again, and there was an invisible wall between the mother and son. Ling Ruiyin couldnt understand Mo Xiangbins intention, but she was disappointed. She started to guess something but stopped in an instant. It was not that she was not suspicious, but unexpectedly, she didnt dare to think more. All the royal family members who had shown up in the East Palace gathered in the Moral Hall, and even Mo Junyu was summoned. All of them stood and lowered their heads silently, but it could be seen from their solemn expression that they had known the news that the colorful phenix had died. Mo Xiangbin sneered in his heart. He didnt doubt that Quan had spread the news. The servant that he had cultivated was definitely loyal. Then it must be that all these people, including the second prince Mo Junwen he had never paid attention to, had good spies. All of you are talents! Mo Xiangbin spoke sarcastically and looked cold. The princes knelt on the floor and looked terrified, begging in unison, I am guilty. Please scold me, Father. They even did the same to admit their faults, and it was difficult to tell it true or false. Looking at the similar faces, Mo Xiangbin couldnt tell who was sincere or hypocritical. Under the situation, he didnt hurry to find the real murderer but asked slowly and nonchalantly, Guilty? How so? All of you are loyal and protect the emperor. Why are you guilty? You just tell me. Junjiu? Mo Junjiu was called alone, and he looked more panicked, while the gloom on his wrinkled brows didnt scatter. He replied in a deep voice, I cant share your worry and can do nothing while seeing you angry, Father. I am guilty. This answer would be perfect at ordinary times. But Mo Xiangbin was not in the mood to laugh and reproached, I can see that all of you dont share my worry but try your best to cause trouble to me. Do you think that I live in comfort as an emperor, right? His words were harsh and every one could stab their hearts. All people didnt dare to take a deep breath. Chapter 193 - Who Is the Murderer Mo Junjiu was unwilling as Mo Xiangbin vented on him for no reason. He looked terrified, saying, I am willing to share your worries, Father. Share my worries? Mo Xiangbin snorted and glanced over the crowd coldly before asking slowly, Now the colorful phenix has died. If the other three countries know it, do you think they will let it go at that? As long as we can find the one who poisoned the colorful phenix to take the blame, the other three countries cant cause you trouble. Mo Junjiu spoke with certainty, as if he had found the murderer. Mo Xiangbin raised his brows. Oh? So do you know who the murderer is? Mo Junjius face stiffened, and he couldnt say a word. How could he point anybody out as the murderer? He just wanted to find a scapegoat randomly and shift Mo Xiangbins attention. Unexpectedly, Mo Xiangbin really asked Mo Junjiu to tell him who the murderer was. I dont know, Mo Junjiu answered helplessly. Mo Xiangbin seemed to have expected and showed no emotion on his face. In this case, how would you share my worries? Mo Junjiu leered at Mo Junyu and Mo Junyang, with resentment flashing in his eyes, but he soon restrained it. He gritted his teeth and replied, Its difficult to find the one who poisoned the colorful phenix, but its easy to find somebody to take the responsibility. After all, there are many people who should be responsible for it. He said the word many casually on purpose, full of meaning. Mo Junyu certainly knew that Mo Junjiu indicated that he could be the fall guy, so he got angry instantly. Junjiu, I have no animosity against you and I am your elder brother. Even if you are jealous of me, you dont need to add insult to my injury at this time, right? Mo Junjiu shrugged innocently and expressed, Junyu, what do you mean? I dont understand. I just told the truth. After all He prolonged his tone and continued slowly, The colorful phenix was poisoned in your East Palace and died in King Ruis mansion. You and Junyang can hardly get away with it, right? Gee, it was not enough to drag down Mo Junyu, and he even tried to harm Mo Junyang at the same time. Hearing Mo Junjius words, even Mo Junhao who always stayed out of the matter thought that the third prince was too eager for quick success and instant benefits and too greedy. Junjiu, I am afraid that your words are improper. The colorful phenix had died before it arrived at King Ruis mansion. How can you blame Junyang? Mo Junhao interrupted leisurely. He seemed to speak for Mo Junyang but fixed his eyes on Mo Xiangbin all the time. Mo Xiangbin showed a satisfied smile after hearing that and nodded approvingly. Junhao, you are right. I told all of you to come here in order to ask you to help me find the murderer and settle this crisis, not to let you suspect each other and drag down anybody. Junjiu, you are not a good talker. Just shut up and stay back! His tone was distant. Mo Junjiu realized that Mo Xiangbin said a lot but didnt want to blame Mo Junyu and Mo Junyang. However, he was reproached because he stood out. He was reluctant. At the moment, the empress Liang Jingxian stepped forward and grabbed Mo Junjius hand, playing the peacemaker gently but above suspicion. Junjiu was just anxious to share your worries, so he didnt think that much. Your Majesty, please dont blame him for the sake of his love for you. Mo Xiangbin waved his hand coldly and didnt want to say more. Liang Jingxian seemed not to have seen it and forcefully pulled Mo Junjiu to stand at the back. Mo Junjiu still wanted to explain, but Liang Jingxian goggled at him to warn him silently, Enough! Dont you think you have a lot to be suspected? He noticed the hidden meaning in Liang Jingxians eyes but felt more depressed. If Liang Jingxian and Liang Yuanming were willing to give him a hand, why would he try a dangerous move at this time? And he didnt believe that his mother and the others had no idea what he wanted to do. They just allowed him tacitly. But now there was something wrong, so they just blamed him. Unfortunately, nobody would care about Mo Junjius broken heart, and everybody still paid attention to the colorful phenix at the moment. Mo Junhao pondered for a while and figured out a reliable solution. Father, although the colorful phenix is dead, nobody knows the news except the people in this room, and they dont even know that it was poisoned. As long as we dont tell anybody and you say that you have let it fly after your birthday, nobody would know that it has died, and the other three countries wouldnt have a chance to make things difficult for you. What do you think? Mo Xiangbin was stunned as he hadnt thought of such a solution, but the holy bird was well-known far and near. How could it be easy to keep it as a secret? He turned to Mo Junyang and asked gently, Junyang, what do you think about Junhaos idea? He asked naturally, the same way as he asked for Mo Junyangs opinion many times before. So Mo Xiangbin had never expected that somebody hiding in the dark had grudge in his fierce eyes after seeing that, but the grudge disappeared soon and nobody had noticed it. Mo Junyang kept silent all the time like a statue and was unhurried even when Mo Junjiu accused him. He didnt plan to retort. Till Mo Xiangbin asked him, he raised his head slowly and scanned the crowd in the Moral Hall. His eyes were indifferent even with no force, but nobody knew why the people under his eyes felt shivers down their spines, and they avoided his gaze without previous arrangement. They felt guilty surprisingly. When Mo Junyang looked at him, Mo Junhao felt nervous, as if his life and death were in the hands of the other man, and then he felt disappointed. He and Mo Junyang always had disagreements and belonged to different factions, so perhaps Mo Junyang wouldnt agree with him this time. Beyond Mo Junhaos expectation, Mo Junyang then replied impassively, We can try the fourth princes solution. Even Mo Junhao opened his mouth wide in astonishment, let alone others. He looked at Mo Junyang with his wide eyes, as if seeing a ghost. Only Mo Xiangbin nodded with satisfaction. Since Junyang said that, lets just do it. All of you, keep your mouths shut about what happened today. If I know that it is revealed, dont blame me when I am heartless. Seeing that Mo Xiangbin planned to minimize the problem, Mo Junjiu became more reluctant. Regardless of Liang Jingxians stopping him, he suddenly inquired, Lady Qingxue has also known it. What should we do? He was not stupid and just mumbled, but his voice was loud enough to make everybody present hear clearly. Mo Junyang was the first one to react, but his reaction was slight. He just glanced at Mo Junjiu, who trembled for no reason and couldnt say what he was about to say to make things worse. His glance was too horrible. Mo Junjiu thought of the Qin familys extinction somehow. But his question was to the point. Shi Qingxue also knew that the colorful phenix was poisoned. No matter if she knew that it had died, it was great hidden trouble. Mo Junhao spoke for Shi Qingxue first unexpectedly. He patted his chest and guaranteed, Qingxue knows about the seriousness of the matter. Even if she knows it, she wouldnt tell anybody. Father, if you are still worried, now I can go to Duke Shis mansion to tell her. Then it would be no problem. After speaking, Mo Junhao seemed to glance at Mo Junyang unintentionally, with provocation which couldnt be concealed in his eyes. He was not blind and had found that after Shi Qingxue recovered, she kept away from Mo Junyang unexpectedly. Although he was surprised, he cared about the result more. Now that Mo Junyang gave him a chance to steal his girlfriend, Mo Junhao would be an idiot if he didnt take it, and he had a feeling somehow that Mo Junyang would have no objection this time. When all people turned to Mo Junyang subconsciously, he seemed not to have heard Mo Junhaos words. He lowered his head and his lips curled up. Judging from the side of his face, he looked distant and strangers couldnt get close to him. But he didnt say anything. Mo Xiangbin was in doubt, but he didnt ask. Instead, he just nodded at Mo Junhao indifferently. Ill leave it to you. Mo Junhao asked, How should we deal with the colorful phenixs dead body? A lean camel is bigger than a horse. The poisoned colorful phenix was still a treasure. Mo Junhao couldnt help but get excited. He had figured out this idea and it satisfied Mo Xiangbin. So his father might let him handle the colorful phenixs dead body. Try to keep it a secret. Dont tell anybody. Since the colorful phenix has been sent to King Ruis mansion, I believe that Junyang can arrange for its body. Mo Xiangbin said a few words casually and ruined Mo Junhaos fantasy. Mo Junhao was so furious. Why was he told to do the most tiring job? But Mo Junyang got the colorful phenix while he didnt need to do anything. Even a mere cold dead body was enough to make Mo Junhao so jealous that his heart distorted. But he was good at pretending, and a smile was always on his face. He talked to Mo Junyang, Junyang, thanks for dealing with it. Mo Junyang glimpsed at him lazily, and with a sneer, he responded meaningfully, You are welcome. Your Highness, you are the most tired Mo Junyang stopped at a point, but Mo Junhao thought that Mo Junyang laughed at him secretly as he did something in vain. He got more furious as he was thinking. Then he almost couldnt restrain his anger. Mo Xiangbin waved his hand wearily and wanted to drive all of them away. Okay, I am exhausted today. If there is nothing else, all of you can leave now. Then he saluted Ling Ruiyin and stated indifferently but retained his majesty, Mother, you are tired today, too. Go back to rest earlier. Okay. Ling Ruiyin intended to justify Mo Junyu, but from beginning to end, Mo Xiangbin didnt give her a chance to speak. Ling Ruiyin could do nothing but let the maids help her go back to the Empress Dowagers residence. When she walked to the door, Mo Xiangbin suddenly declared, Crown Prince, stay. Everybody on the spot was stunned, and even Mo Junyu looked at Mo Xiangbin in disbelief. It was because of nothing but Mo Xiangbin calling him crown prince. Didnt Mo Xiangbin have a plan to depose the crown prince? All people had this thought in mind, but they had no chance to think, as all of them were asked to leave the Moral Hall. The Moral Halls gate was closed, and what Mo Xiangbin would discuss with Mo Junyu remained a mystery. Chapter 194 - Cannon Fodder Mo Xiangbin talked with Mo Junyu in the Moral Hall for nearly two hours, and nobody knew what they were talking about, but as the servants guarding outside revealed in secret, the crown prince Mo Junyu had tears in his eyes when he left, and he covered his face with a hand. Then he returned to the Qianzheng Palace and didnt come out again. The crown prince was still under house arrest. All people were more confused. What did the emperor want to do? Even Mo You who could enter the Qianzheng Palace freely couldnt see Mo Junyu. Mo You had no choice but to go to King Ruis mansion and ask Mo Junyang for help. He repeated what Mo Junyu had said and then expressed with a frown, His Highness admitted that he was too impulsive this time, but it has happened. Please help him because we are on the same side, Your Excellency. Mo Junyang snorted and then stated impassively, I have warned him not to become the target of all people, but he insisted on courting death. Who can he blame? Mo You was speechless. For the first time, he found that the cold Mo Junyang was so bitterly sarcastic. Obviously he was irritated by Mo Junyus impulsion. His Highness is just Mo You could hardly speak out. In fact, he was clear that Mo Junyu was too impulsive, but the current situation was a mess, and they couldnt blame him for his impatience. After all, all his brothers cast covetous eyes on the position of crown prince. If Mo Junyu didnt take actions, should he await his doom? Mo You spoke with emotions and reasons and wanted to persuade Mo Junyang with his eloquence. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang expressed straightforwardly, If he wants to take actions, he must have the ability. All people know that the Ministry of Rite is his sphere of influence, but he still dares to let Shi Guiyi do something. Does he think that anybody else is blind? Mo You was retorted and couldnt speak a word. He smiled in embarrassment and questioned with threat, His Highness knows that he was wrong. Your Excellency, whats the point as you keep mentioning this mistake? Its pointless. Mo Junyang nodded approvingly and then added, So I dont plan to meddle in this mess. Mo You turned pale with fear and didnt dare to be arrogant. He begged with profound respect and humility, If you dont care about His Highness, he would die this time. You havent seen that since he left the Moral Hall, he is like a dead-alive person and just locks himself up in the bedroom, refusing to see anybody. I feel sad to see that. I am afraid that he will be dispirited and cant cheer up. Im not joking. Your Excellency, please think twice. He kept mentioning that they were in the same boat in order to arouse Mo Junyangs sense of group honor. In other harsh words, they were grasshoppers on the same rope. Could Mo Junyang live a good life if the crown prince was deposed? Lord Mo, please go back! Mo Junyang declared coldly to kick out the guest and turned a deaf ear to Mo Yous long speech. Mo You was upset, but his position was lower than Mo Junyangs and his identity was not as honorable as Mo Junyangs, so he couldnt forcefully order him to do anything. He knew well about Mo Junyang, and even if Mo Junyu came to ask for mercy, it might be ineffective. Alas! Mo You pulled a long face and looked back at Mo Junyang while walking, hoping that he could change his mind. Unfortunately, after speaking, Mo Junyang just held the teacup and poured himself tea to drink alone, ignoring Mo You. Qu Yuebai stepped forward and made a gesture to invite him out politely. Lord Mo, take care. Mo You expressed, Your Excellency, please think it over. If you change your mind, you can send somebody to my mansion and inform me. Looking at Mo Yous back disappearing in King Ruis mansion like a disowned dog, Qu Yuebai tut-tutted, Junyang, are you really going to give up on the crown prince and find somewhere else to go? He asked with excitement instead of worry. This was another man who was anxious to see the world in disorder. Mo Junyang shook his head and didnt keep it from him. I dont have such a plan for now. Qu Yuebai was surprised. Since Mo Junyang didnt plan to give up on Mo Junyu, why did he behave mercilessly when Mo You pretended to be pitiable and appealed to his mercy? Do you just want to fool Mo Junyu? Qu Yuebai mumbled, seeming to talk to himself, but in fact, he spoke to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang raised his brows and smiled. Why cant I? Mo Junyang said that, but Qu Yuebai was surer that his master refused when Mo You asked for help not because of this. Mo Junyang did everything with a purpose and always hit the target directly. Moreover, it was an emergency. If unnecessary, he wouldnt do anything pointless in order to teach Mo Junyu a lesson. But why? Well, I know what I should do. Dont need to meddle. If you are free, go to help Luo! Mo Junyang simply interrupted Qu Yuebais speculation. He kept Qu Yuebai in suspense and didnt want to make him happy. Qu Yuebai rolled his eyes secretly but asked, Now the colorful phenixs body is in Luos hands. With his ability, such a trifle is nothing to him. Why does he need my help? Are you going to He glared at Mo Junyang in doubt and continued, Kick me out intentionally? Mo Junyang raised his slanting brows and stared at Qu Yuebai for quite a while before admitting with a faint smile, Right. So why dont you get out of here now? Qu Yuebai was speechless. He had never seen somebody do something evil so boldly. Was this a real gentleman? Even though the colorful phenix has died, many people covet it, Mo Junyang added gloomily all of a sudden. Qu Yuebai finally realized why Mo Junyang sent twice more guards outside King Ruis mansion after he came back from the imperial palace. He couldnt control himself and murmured, These people are so bored. Mo Junyang ignored him and glanced at the door. His intention was evident, Goodbye. Mo Xiangbin thought he had kept the news as a secret that the colorful phenix had died, but on the second day after the birthday party, Yel Anchen came to see him. Yel Anchen stated straightforwardly, Your Majesty, you promised to let us see the colorful phenix at your birthday party, but later you left the party and didnt come back. You are the emperor. Do you want to break your word? Mo Xiangbin was nervous but had to pretend calm on the surface. He replied as he had prepared, I have promised, and I will never break my word, but the colorful phenix hasnt fully recovered and cant see the guests, so I didnt invite it out to let all people enjoy it yesterday. Yes? But why did I hear that the colorful phenix was sent to King Ruis mansion yesterday? Yel Anchen was aggressive and knew a lot obviously. Mo Xiangbin had expected it and answered according to routine, After the Bureau of Astronomy checked, they found that King Ruis mansion is suitable for the colorful phenix, so I told Mo Junyang to take care of it. At the mention of Mo Junyang, he glanced at Yel Anchen meaningfully. Mo Xiangbin showed that he knew that Yel Anchen had been beaten up by Mo Junyang in the royal training ground and even felt happy. Yel Anchens face fell, and anger was written on his brows. Upon seeing that, Wu Yalei pulled Yel Anchens sleeve from behind and managed to restrain this furious lion. But yesterday I heard that the colorful phenix had died. Your Majesty, how would you explain? Yel Anchen controlled his anger and revealed something shocking. This was the purpose of his visit. Mo Xiangbins heart missed a beat, and he thought that it was bad news. Although Yel Anchen said he heard that, he must have got the exact message, so he came to provoke. Mo Xiangbin couldnt temporize in only a few words. He was restless and showed anxiety on his face. Yel Anchen got confident again and complacency was on his brows. He continued, Your Majesty, wont you give an explanation? I have nothing to explain. Its just bullshit, Mo Xiangbin stated forcefully, but he felt guilty and nervous inside. He secretly winked at Quan who was in the corner. Quan understood immediately and ran out sneakily. Wu Yalei saw that and stepped forward to help Yel Anchen. Your Majesty, although the colorful phenix has been given to you by the common people in the east as they dont know the rules, it doesnt mean that you can keep the holy bird of the Qin Continent for your own. Please think twice. In another word, no matter how powerful you are as the emperor of the Mo Country, you are just an emperor in name under the control of Holy Monarch Zhou. The colorful phenix belongs to Holy Monarch. If you take forcible possession of it, do you want to rebel? Mo Xiangbin had the ambition, but he couldnt say it for now. His face softened, and he pretended that they could discuss it, saying with a smile, Lord Wu, you are right. The colorful phenix belongs to the people of the Qin Continent. No matter how much I respect it, I dont dare to take it as my own. I just take good care of the colorful phenix for the people of the Qin Continent. He said that the holy bird which stood for the Holy Monarch was the property of the people on the Qin Continent. Even though he disguised replacement of concept, he could be supported by many people. He was correct. There was nothing wrong. Wu Yalei was speechless and couldnt say anything tactfully to tell Mo Xiangbin to send the holy bird back to the Holy Palace. Now the Holy Monarch suffered a disastrous decline. With some words unpleasant to hear, who was willing to give the holy bird colorful phenix to a loser? Even Wu Yalei would refuse to do that. Would they let Mo Xiangbin be perfunctory? Wu Yalei was anxious as he tried to find some words to argue, but Yel Anchen got impatient as he waited. He ignored Wu Yaleis hint of keeping calm and stepped forward, saying directly, Stop acting. We are all clear that the colorful phenix has died and was poisoned by the people of your country. Mo Xiangbin lacked confidence and could argue off to cope with Wu Yalei who beat around the bush and didnt get to the point after saying a lot, but once somebody revealed the fact straightforwardly, he was unable to reply. Prince, you are joking. The colorful phenix is raised well in King Ruis mansion. How is it possible that its dead? Mo Xiangbin finally answered. He tried to sit straight and found back his confidence. Prince, did you come to me because you were fooled by somebody? Then he pretended to say casually, Nowadays, some people have evil intentions. Prince, you should be more careful before doing anything, in case that somebody makes use of you but you dont know. Anybody who was suspicious must be fooled by Mo Xiangbins words or at least think if he might be cannon fodder. But Yel Anchen snorted. Dont talk in circles. We all know what on earth happened. Lets just talk about the next things to do. Chapter 195 - Greedy Mo Xiangbin was stunned and didnt understand what the next things meant as Yel Anchen mentioned. Yel Anchen looked calm and didnt seem to come to find fault with him. Of course this time Yel Anchen didnt come to find fault with Mo Xiangbin. The evidence against the Mo Country had fallen into his hands, and he came to blackmail. The Zhao Country and Wei Country still havent known that the colorful phenix has died. Its not difficult to keep it a secret. It only depends on what Your Majesty will do. Yel Anchen said meaningfully. This opening speech like negotiation was not fit for Yel Anchen who was hot-tempered and straightforward, and Mo Xiangbin knew it was not his idea at a glance. But Mo Xiangbin was not in the mood to think about who was behind Yel Anchen. He was nervous under the threat and blurted out, What do you want? As soon as he spoke, Mo Xiangbin regretted. Didnt it mean that he confessed before interrogation? But he had said that and couldnt draw back. He had to watch as Yel Anchen smiled and then grinned, saying at leisure, Its easy. As long as you agree to my three requirements, I dont mind keeping this secret for you. It is up to me if I would bring up the old story in the future. Yel Anchen thought evilly. Under the situation, Mo Xiangbin was clear that it was pointless to argue with Yel Anchen, so he had to ask, What do you want? If the conditions were not too limiting, he might as well pay some money to solve the problem. He could avoid disaster by paying money. While Mo Xiangbin was thinking, Yel Anchen came straight to the point. He stated forcefully, First, the Mo Country is productive of iron mine. You need to specially arrange a channel to send iron mine to our country, giving at least three thousand carts of iron mine to our emperor every year. It seemed not difficult. After all, the iron mine in the Mo Country was so much that it couldnt be used up. Second, the Mo Country needs to send three thousand dan of grain to the Liang Country every year in the future. The Mo Country was in the east as a rich land where fish and rice were abundant. Only three thousand dan of grain was not a big deal. As long as they planted the grain, they didnt worry that the people in the Liang Country would learn their planting technique. Mo Xiangbin nodded in his heart again. When he was about to speak, Yel Anchen added arrogantly, Third, the Mo Country should give all the five cities in the north to the Liang Country. What? Mo Xiangbin sprang up from his throne emotionally. He looked shocked and furious and could hardly believe that Yel Anchen dared demand such an exorbitant price. Yel Anchen raised his chin and replied with disdain, I have told you about my requirements and wont repeat. I believe that Your Majesty has heard them clearly. Mo Xiangbin was too angry. He laughed and snorted. Prince, you are so bold. You want our countrys grain and mine, and it is not enough? You even want our territory. Do you think that my people in the Mo Country are weak and would be bullied by you? Yel Anchen didnt mind but shrugged and hit his vital part. Anyway I have mentioned my requirements. The answer is just one word, yes or no. Your Majesty, if you insist on refusing, I dont mind letting all people in the world know that the holy bird on the Qin Continent was killed by the emperor of the Mo Country. Then I am not sure how the common people would react! Mo Xiangbin was not as aggressive as before and lost his momentum in an instant. He softened and asked, The Mo Country and Liang Country are on good terms for many years, but you are so overbearing, Prince. Im afraid that it would influence the two countries diplomatic relation, right? He had no choice but to mention the friendship. Yel Anchen snorted and almost burst into laughter. Last year, the two countries had a fight. Because of the damned Shi Army, his brother, the king of the Liang Country, Yel Beichen was injured. The Liang Countrys army was defeated utterly. Before coming, Yel Anchen hated the people of the Mo Country to the bone, and later, he had been humiliated by Mo Junyang on the training ground. He was anxious to lead the army to the south and destroy the Mo Country. How would he care about the two countries relation? Your Majesty, if you are determined to refuse, I have nothing to say. Yel Anchen didnt give him a chance to negotiate. He feared nothing as he had something to rely on. If the news was exposed, Mo Xiangbin was the only one who would be nervous. So what if the Mo Country had become stronger? Could they defeat three countries alone? The Wei Country always played a coward and kept neutral, but when there were profits to share, they would be more diligent than anybody. In front of the interest, there was no diplomatic relation. Mo Xiangbin was deflated as he knew that Yel Anchen was difficult to deal with. Would he really agree to Yel Anchens greedy conditions? He couldnt do that! When Mo Xiangbin was in a dilemma, Wu Yalei stood up and pretended to be a good guy. Since Your Majesty has mentioned the two countries diplomatic relation, rationally, we need to make a concession. Yel Anchen goggled with displeasure. Mo Xiangbins eyes lit up while joy was shown on his face. We have made an offer and wont force you to make a decision right now, Your Majesty. So we will give you three days to think it over. Please give us an answer in three days. Wu Yalei spoke slowly and disappointed Mo Xiangbin who was excited. It almost made Mo Xiangbin have a heart attack. Mo Xiangbin took a deep breath and finally calmed down. But they didnt ask for his permission. After saying that, Wu Yalei pulled Yel Anchen out of the imperial study. Mo Xiangbin was left alone in the room and sighed, worried a lot. Wu Yalei, we have agreed to let me handle this matter, and I did as the guy named Ying said. Why did you interrupt? Dont you want to stay alive? As soon as they left the imperial study, Yel Anchen couldnt help but vent his anger on Wu Yalei. In the imperial study, he had driven Mo Xiangbin into the corner several times, but Wu Yalei insisted on playing a good guy to mediate. It was boring. If Yel Beichen hadnt repeatedly told him not to argue with Wu Yalei in front of outsiders and embarrass the Liang Country, Yel Anchen would have fallen out with him. Yel Anchen respected his elder brother very much. Although he was hot-tempered, he did everything that his bother told him to do. He could endure it earlier. But now that there was no outsider around, he exploded. Wu Yaleis ears buzzed under the roar. He restrained his urge to cover his ears and lowered his head, saying humbly, Your Highness, please calm down. We have the evidence against the Mo Country and they have to agree to our requirements sooner or later. I just dont want to worsen the relation between the two countries. Yel Anchen snorted. Huh, our Liang Country is so big. Would we be afraid of the Mo Country? We will have another fight at worst. This time I will go with the army in person! It seemed that as long as he went to the battlefield, they could win the Shi Army and defeat the Mo Country. Wu Yalei tried not to roll his eyes and mentioned Yel Beichens golden rules again. Before we came, His Majesty told us that we came to the Mo Country this time in order to get some profits, and we should try our best not to have conflicts with them. After all, our country was just defeated Before he finished his words, he had to change his words under Yel Anchens glare. We cant resort to violence anymore. The displeasure on Yel Anchens face was evident, but he stopped yelling. He just complained crossly, My brother is always brave and battlewise. Why is he afraid of the Mo Country with a lot of cowards. Its not fun! Lord Wu was speechless and talked to himself, Maybe Mo Xiangbin looks like a coward, but everybody in the Shi Army is like a wolf or poisonous snake which can bite people. Being beaten once, they would be half dead even if they wouldnt die. Yel Anchen didnt experience the war last year, so he didnt know the power of the Shi Army. Even Wu Yalei, a person who always supported his country, understood one principle. As long as the Shi Amy existed, the Mo Country would exist. Unfortunately, he couldnt tell Yel Anchen about such principles, and the prince wouldnt understand. Wu Yalei had to lower his head and play a coward once more, coaxing Yel Anchen in different ways to make him go back. However, it was a small world. Before they walked out of the imperial palace, they bumped into Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang still looked cold, distant and arrogant. Yel Anchen got angry at the sight of Mo Junyang and straightened his back, almost raising his chin to the sky while leering at Mo Junyang. It seemed that there were words on his face, I despise you. He swore to disdain Mo Junyang with the attitude. But Mo Junyang didnt even give a glance at Yel Anchen. He looked ahead and his expression didnt change when he passed by Yel Anchen unhurriedly. There was nothing around in his eyes. He just didnt take anybody seriously. Yel Anchen hadnt expected that Mo Junyang would ignore him. He raised his chin for a long time and felt the sour pain, but Mo Junyang just passed by him casually, taking him as nothing. He was stunned for a long time and then came to his senses, going ballistic. Mo Junyang! Yel Anchen roared furiously, regardless of his conceited pose. He turned around and came quickly to Mo Junyang, standing in his way. Mo Junyang had to stop with his cold eyes falling on Yel Anchen. Whats up? His voice was indifferent, and he frowned, without concealing his impatience. Yel Anchen was more furious and pointed at Mo Junyangs nose, cursing, How can you have the face to ask me whats up? Mo Junyangs eyes darkened and he patted away the finger in front of him, saying coldly, Cut the crap. Say what you want. Yel Anchen was unable to reply. The prince of the Liang Country was cold-shouldered for the first time, so he flew into fury. However, Mo Junyang couldnt be irritated anyway and just frustrated him. As a result, Yel Anchen lost his interest no matter how furious he was. Yel Anchen bore with the anger and couldnt curse anymore. If it were somebody else, Yel Anchen would have started a fight. But it was Mo Junyang. The prince clenched his fists but endured it all the time and didnt wave them. He was no match for Mo Junyang. Of course, Yel Anchen would never admit this fact. He just told himself constantly that he didnt take actions because he had promised his brother not to stir up trouble. It was not because he feared Mo Junyang. Definitely not. After comforting himself, Yel Anchen still couldnt endure it. A fight was on the verge of breaking out. Chapter 196 - So Overbearing At a glance, Wu Yalei knew that something bad would happen, so he rebuked loudly in a hurry, How dare you! Mo Junyang raised his brows and lowered his head, glancing at Wu Yalei impassively. Wu Yalei was frustrated in an instant. But he still gritted his teeth and insisted, Your Excellency, in the final analysis, you are just a kings heir. But you dont salute our prince after seeing him. Instead, you totally ignored him. Is this the etiquette in your country? Of course not, Mo Junyang retorted indifferently. Without giving Wu Yalei a chance to continue to blabber, Mo Junyang added, This is my etiquette. What? Do you have objections? Wu Yalei and Yel Anchen were petrified. No matter how they thought about it, they didnt expect that Mo Junyang would have such an attitude. He was so cold and overbearing. For the first time, they saw that somebody could be so domineering with sufficient reasons. Even Yel Anchen thought that he couldnt compare with this man. And Mo Junyang said that to make the Mo Country stay out of this matter, and what would happen next was his personal behavior. Even though Wu Yalei had a silver tongue, he couldnt get the subject back to a countrys level. Would he bicker with Mo Junyang directly? He was a coward and couldnt be Mo Junyangs opponent. Even if Lord Ying didnt tell him, Wu Yalei didnt dare to confront Mo Junyang. Mo Junyangs mere glance could make Wu Yalei feel a chill down his spine and have sweat on his forehead. Wu Yalei shut up resentfully without protest. Mo Junyang finally turned to Yel Anchen and asked slowly, Anything else? Dont talk nonsense if you have nothing to tell me. I am very busy. Mo Junyang didnt speak out the last words, but the other two noticed the impatience in his words. Wu Yalei grabbed Yel Anchens arm tightly, afraid that this irritable prince would fight against Mo Junyang regardless of anything as he got mad. God bless! All the gods and Buddha, dont make this happen. Wu Yalei felt that the sleeve he grabbed moved forward, and it seemed that Yel Anchen would wave his fists. He felt scared at once and closed his eyes, looking pale. He was done! Wu Yalei kept his eyes closed to await his doom and didnt dare to see the upcoming fight. After a few minutes, he didnt hear the sounds of fight. Gee? Was there no sound in a fight? Wu Yalei was confused and opened his eyes slightly. Yel Anchen maintained his ferocious look and clenched his fists with his arm raised in the midair, but he seemed to be fixed and didnt start to punch after a long time. Mo Junyang had walked around them long ago and moved on. Wu Yalei looked at Mo Junyangs back and then at Yel Anchen. He supported his chin subconsciously, in case that it dropped when he was open-mouthed. Idiot, shut your mouth, Yel Anchen cursed crossly. Then he waved his sleeves and walked quickly in the direction opposite to Mo Junyang. It seemed that he would win if he walked faster than Mo Junyang. Wu Yalei realized immediately that Yel Anchen became angry from shame. He shut his mouth sensibly and followed Yel Anchen out of the imperial palace. At this time, he should ask or say nothing. Yel Anchen returned to the embassy of the Liang Country, and the servants hurriedly served him with the tea and cakes he liked most at ordinary times. He didnt even give a glance and wiped all of them to the floor. Crack There were fragments all over the floor. In an instant, all the servants were scared by Yel Anchens unreasoning anger and knelt on the floor, kowtowing to ask for mercy. Get out! Yel Anchen kicked away the maid who knelt in the front blocking his way and entered his bedroom. Wu Yalei saw that from behind and trembled with fear. Facing the servants in tears and moaning with pain on the floor, he wanted to cry, too. In fact, he could only think. He had to bite the bullet and follow Yel Anchen into his bedroom. Your Highness, you have severely frustrated the emperor of the Mo Country this time. Even if it is not set in stone for now, he will agree sooner or later. Why are you so anxious? Wu Yalei distorted the truth intentionally, trying to cloud Yel Anchens hostility and distract him. But Yel Anchen didnt fall into his trap. He goggled crossly. Are you blind? I didnt get angry because of this matter. The blind Wu Yalei was speechless. Even though he knew that the prince would never consider others feelings while speaking, he just wanted to kill Yel Anchen at this moment. I will kill Mo Junyang in person sooner or later! Yel Anchen was unaware that he had offended somebody and just spoke ruthlessly. After speaking, he thought it was not enough and then frowned ferociously. No. I will take out his muscle and bones and see him die miserably and slowly. Then I will vent my resentment! Wu Yalei thought, Like you can do it. Lord Wu was sensible and didnt point it out because he was clear that once he said that, the prince would definitely turn angry from embarrassment again. Your Highness, dont be mad. As you said, you will take Mo Junyangs life sooner or later. Why are you so anxious? Wu Yalei tried hard to comfort Yel Anchen, worried that the prince would be unable to control himself and run to King Ruis mansion to confront Mo Junyang. No! While thinking, Yel Anchen got angrier and gritted his teeth. He squeezed out the words one by one between his teeth furiously. I cant wait. I am going to kill him now! Wu Yalei turned pale in fright. Yel Anchen waved his hand and prevented Wu Yalei from stopping him, ordering coldly, Tell Lord Ying to come here. I have something to order him to do. What big talk. It seemed that Lord Ying was merely his dog. While he could summon Lord Ying and wave him away at will. Wu Yalei knew that he couldnt stop Yel Anchen, so he had to pin his hope on Lord Ying. After all Even if Lord Ying couldnt persuade Yel Anchen, it seemed fine to win him with violence like he did last time. He and Lord Ying had agreed to meet in a secret way, but whether he could see Lord Ying was up to the latter. This time, nobody knew if Lord Ying was in a good mood or had known that Yel Anchen was going to explode, and he showed up in Yel Anchens bedroom soon unexpectedly. He was still covered with black clothes and only a pair of bright and deep eyes were revealed. Whats the matter? I have finished what you told me to do. You must do something for me. Yel Anchen raised his chin and mentioned his request boldly. It appeared that Lord Ying should do anything for him without complaint. Lord Ying knew that Yel Anchen just thought so. Although he disdained it, he didnt point it out but patiently coped with this ignorant playboy. What do you want? I want to kill Mo Junyang. You figure out a way for me. Yel Anchen probably had the only self-awareness that he didnt know how to kill somebody without resorting to force. The simple-minded prince with a strong body didnt have the talent to harm others secretly. He had to ask Lord Ying for help, but he didnt show an attitude of begging somebody. Instead he loftily demanded, Right now! Lord Ying couldnt say a word. You told me earlier not to be showy at the birthday party, and I did as you said, so I endure it till now. If you dont help me this time, dont hope that I will do anything for you in the future. Yel Anchen even threatened him. Lord Ying felt it laughable and leered at Yel Anchen. Are you threatening me? He wondered if he should praise Yel Anchen as the latter finally used his brain or realize that the prince was actually brainless. They did everything for the Liang Countrys interest, but Yel Anchen threatened him with something like this. Any normal person with a brain couldnt be so foolish. Yel Anchen didnt realize that he did something stupid but even retorted arrogantly, Right. Threaten you. Whats wrong? Lord Ying finally lost his patience because of Yel Anchens foolishness, and his eyes turned cold instantly. He knew that it was useless to beat around the bush in front of this simple-minded person, so he looked steadily at Yel Anchen and stressed each word, Then I tell you. No way! Its impossible! He was not as stupid as Yel Anchen. These days, he observed carefully and found many things that he hadnt found before. For example, Mo Xiangbins attitude toward Mo Junyang was unusual. He was even gentler to Mo Junyang and trusted him more than his sons. It was surprising. Before he sorted out everything, he wouldnt take actions rashly. Moreover, Mo Junyangs strength was obvious, and they couldnt kill him easily as they thought. If they were careless, it was more likely that they would be killed by him. Unfortunately, Yel Anchen wouldnt listen to them reasoning. Yel Anchen just knew that he was depressed as he had been embarrassed by Mo Junyang. Now even his subordinate dared to disobey him. Would he have prestige as a prince? I am not discussing with you. I am ordering you! Lord Ying didnt take it seriously and sneered. Order me? You are not qualified. Lord Ying said sarcastically as if he was afraid that he wouldnt irritate the prince to death, which made Yel Anchen fly into a rage. Wu Yalei had a headache as he listened, sighing that he was out of luck and lived a bad life as all his masters were difficult to deal with. If things went on like this, before they took actions against outsiders, they would have an internal fight. Lord Ying, I have something to report to you. Wu Yalei was aware that he didnt qualify to speak at this hour, but under the situation, he had to say, After His Highness and I left the imperial study today, we met Mo Junyang on the way when we walked out of the palace. On one hand, he explained why Yel Anchen was suddenly raged. And on the other hand, more importantly, he changed the subject. Both of them paid attention to him as he had expected and waited for him to continue. Wu Yalei was frightened by the fierce eyes of the two and felt a lot of pressure. He clenched his teeth and continued, When we were in the imperial study, I noticed that the emperor of the Mo Country had secretly told a young eunuch to go out. Then as soon as we left, Mo Junyang entered the imperial palace in a hurry and headed to the imperial study. So I guess that the emperor must have specially sent for Mo Junyang. Wu Yalei didnt need to explain why the emperor asked Mo Junyang to come. Even Yel Anchen, a simple-minded person understood that Mo Xiangbin must want Mo Junyang to figure out a way, but did Mo Junyang really have the ability to save a desperate situation? Chapter 197 - Be Criticized by the Public Yel Anchen didnt believe that. He snorted. Anyway, the colorful phenix was killed by the people of the Mo Country, and they cant escape. What can they do even if he asks Mo Junyang? No matter how capable Mo Junyang was, could he call black white? As for this point, the prince of the Liang Country still knew nothing about a politicians level. Lord Ying glanced at Yel Anchen, not in the mood to explain more to him. He just pondered over it. Theoretically, he didnt think that the end would change dramatically with Mo Junyang involved. But because of Mo Junyang, Lord Ying was not certain about his guess. When you saw Mo Junyang, what did he look like? Lord Ying asked Wu Yalei cautiously and wanted to get more information so that he could make an accurate judgment. But his question just made Wu Yalei want to cry. Wu Yalei had to smile bitterly. Lord Ying, you know what kind of person Mo Junyang is. He No emotion could be seen from his frozen face. Lord Ying also realized that his question was stupid, so he waved his hand and changed the subject. Well, I will investigate this matter carefully. Dont meddle. Wu Yalei had never planned to meddle, so he expressed his thanks secretly and nodded in agreement. My Lord, thank you for handling it. Hmm. Since you gave the emperor of the Mo Country three days to think it over, you just stay in the embassy these days and be well-behaved. Dont cause complications. After saying that in a hurry, Lord Ying directly turned around and left. Yel Anchen suddenly realized that Lord Ying didnt promise him to deal with Mo Junyang. Stop! He shouted at the outside in a rage, but Lord Ying had disappeared earlier. Yel Anchen smashed teacups again and wanted to smash the table, but Wu Yalei stopped him. Wu Yalei tried hard to advise him, Your Highness, dont be mad. Lord Ying is really an awesome person. You will suffer losses if you act rashly before knowing well about him. Although Yel Anchen stopped, he didnt believe Wu Yaleis words. Why is he awesome? Isnt he just a dog raised in the Mo Country by my brother? He said something to humiliate others without thinking. Wu Yalei was so nervous that he hurriedly covered Yel Anchens mouth regardless of anything and begged. Master, you cant say that. I tell you something, and then you will understand. Yel Anchen paused for a while and then leered at Wu Yalei to ask silently, What? Wu Yalei looked around subconsciously, as if he had to confirm that Lord Ying had gone away and nobody would eavesdrop. Say it now! Yel Anchen was interested in Wu Yaleis words indeed, but he got impatient because of the latters neurotic attitude. Your Highness, think about it. We had an agreement of three days with the emperor of the Mo Country less than two hours ago. Wu Yalei pointed it out meaningfully. Yel Anchen thought about Wu Yaleis words but couldnt find anything unusual, so he roared impatiently, Get to the point. Dont beat around the bush. Wu Yalei had no choice but to say straightforwardly, Only three were in the imperial study then, we and the emperor of the Mo Country. Even if we talked about this outside, there must be nobody around But under the situation, Lord Ying exactly knew the agreement between us and the emperor of the Mo Country. Dont you understand what it meant? Do you mean? Yel Anchen finally realized and the impatience on his face was replaced with pondering. Wu Yalei nodded seriously. Right, this Lord Ying is unpredictable. He knew it in such a short time, and he must have his way. So before we find out his identity, we cant act blindly. It would be a disaster if we ruined His Majestys plans. No wonder Wu Yalei told him repeatedly. He was afraid that something bad would happen. While the main reason was that it was difficult to talk into Yel Anchen, and the best way was to mention Yel Beichen. Huh! Yel Anchen snorted unwillingly but didnt say more, agreeing to Wu Yaleis arrangement silently. He just asked, What would we do next? Wu Yalei shook his head. We dont need to do anything. Since His Majesty told us to listen to Lord Ying for this matter, at least he is on the same side with us for the colorful phenixs issue. As for other things, we need to think it over. Other things naturally meant that Yel Anchen wanted Lord Ying to help him deal with Mo Junyang. Yel Anchen frowned in a rage, but soon he controlled himself and didnt lose temper. He just expressed crossly, Fine, I know what to do. You dont need to gab. Go out. I am going to bed. Gee, he still persisted in his old ways. Wu Yalei complained in his heart but respectfully said goodbye and retreated. Mo Junyang was summoned by Mo Xiangbin urgently and didnt delay. He entered the imperial palace directly. Even though he was stopped by Yel Anchen halfway, he didnt waste a lot of time. Only Quan was scared with cold sweat all over. The prince of the Liang Country is difficult to deal with! Quan couldnt help but sigh with emotion. Mo Junyang glanced at Quan and asked, Why did he enter the imperial palace today? Probably because of Mo Xiangbins evident attitude, this trusted follower of the emperor didnt hide it from Mo Junyang. He simply repeated Yel Anchens words. Then he looked around cautiously and lowered his voice. I guess that the prince has known what happened to the colorful phenix and came to threaten His Majesty with this accusation. Mo Junyang nodded to show that he understood but didnt express his opinion. He just entered the imperial study. Mo Xiangbin was walking back and forth in front of the desk and looked anxious, as if he would die a heroic death soon. Seeing Mo Junyang enter the room, the emperor stepped forward and grabbed his hand before the young man saluted, saying joyfully, Junyang, you finally come. Mo Junyang kept silent. Mo Xiangbin knew about his character and didnt mind. He asked hurriedly, Quan must have told you why the people from the Liang Country came to me, right? What are their requirements? Mo Junyang asked. Three conditions, the iron mine, grain and Mo Xiangbin could hardly speak out the last requirement. Mo Junyang looked up at Mo Xiangbin for a while and asked all of a sudden, Your Majesty, are you going to agree with them? Mo Xiangbin was seen through and felt ashamed. He smiled awkwardly and tried to defend himself. In fact, as they said, we have much iron mine and grain anyway. We wont be affected if we give them three thousand carts and three thousand dan randomly Whats the last requirement? Mo Junyang hit the nail on the head. Mo Xiangbin couldnt avoid it and lowered his head in low spirits, answering frankly, They want the five cities in the north next to the Liang Country. Mo Junyang nodded and his expression didnt change. Nobody could notice if he was angry or didnt care. It made the emperor of the Mo Country more anxious. Junyang, whats your opinion? Your Majesty, what do you think? Mo Junyang asked in reply. Mo Xiangbin stiffened after being asked and stopped walking, supporting the desk. He was like a cornered beast and could do nothing but be honest. He licked his lower lip and spoke out the words one by one with difficulty. As a matter of fact, in my opinion, the five cities next to the Liang Country are poor areas. They dont pay tax to the country every year, and the local officials would ask the country for money with the reason of disasters. So, if the bastards from the Liang Country insist, I have no choice, and I want Mo Xiangbin stopped and peeped at Mo Junyang. Then he looked away soon and thought that his action would damage an emperors majesty. So he coughed falsely and tried to put on airs. I just want to say that anyway our country has a vast territory and abundant resources, and it doesnt matter if we lose one or two cities The main battlefield of the war between the two countries last year seems to be these five cities, right? Mo Junyang asked unhurriedly. Mo Xiangbin couldnt answer. Mo Junyang looked at Mo Xiangbin and continued, Your Majesty, if you really plan to give out these five cities, how would you arrange for the more than one hundred thousand common people in the cities? Mo Xiangbin was speechless. He had never thought about this question, but he realized that it was an urgent and hot potato after Mo Junyang mentioned it. He would abandon the common people in the cities, and then he would be criticized by the public. After all, nobody hoped that he would have another nationality after he woke up. But if they would take care of the people and give five empty cities to the Liang Country, letting them be citizens of the Mo Country it was unrealistic. The common people attached importance to their hometown and wouldnt be willing to move. Even if they were willing to move, where could he find such a large area to accept so many homeless people? While thinking, Mo Xiangbin felt a headache. At last, he shrank his neck and stated spiritlessly, All the common people are alive and must have their own thoughts. I cant make decisions for them. Of course, they can do whatever they want. In the end, Mo Junyang got confident. Right. Even though he was the emperor, he couldnt take care of everybody. What the common people want is not to hand over their home they have lived for long with a bow, Mo Junyang said at leisure. Mo Xiangbin was deflated. All his excuses were ruined in an instant. He felt that his coat was taken off, and he was ashamed. Junyang, what do you think I should do? Yel Anchen even threatened me with the colorful phenixs death. If the news is spread, I will be a sinner on the whole Qin Continent! Mo Xiangbin had tears in his eyes. He had no choice indeed. He couldnt take the blame Didnt the fourth prince say that? As long as they dont see the colorful phenixs dead body, they have no evidence no matter how certain they are. Mo Junyang looked cold and questioned impassively, Now the people from the Liang Country just probed, but we are timid. Would we be controlled by them in the future? Or dont you think that they would want more? Chapter 198 - Expose It Simply Without thinking, Mo Xiangbin shook his head. He knew well about the greed of the people from the Liang Country, who were like blood suckers. They wouldnt give up until they sucked all the fresh blood. I know that you are telling me not to quench a thirst with poison, but I have no choice! Mo Xiangbin expressed with frustration. He had a headache and rubbed his forehead, sighing helplessly. Junhaos solution must be under the condition that they dont know the fact that the colorful phenix has died, but now they have known it. What do you think the chances are that we can keep it a secret? Such a lie could be exposed soon. Mo Junyang didnt care and shrugged. So what even if we are exposed? Mo Xiangbin goggled and seemed to assume that Mo Junyang thought it too simple. If this news spread, a war would be triggered at any moment. Mo Junyang saw through Mo Xiangbins mind at a glance and didnt shrink back. Instead, he sneered. It has happened. Since we cant avoid it, just face it. Dont talk about the consequence first. I think nobody in the Mo Country is willing to be a coward. If they want to fight, just have a fight! His words were forceful and resounding. Mo Xiangbin was so shocked that he couldnt speak a word. After quite a while, he thought there was something wrong. It shouldnt be as easy as Mo Junyang said. You are too young and thinks many things simple, Mo Xiangbin stated in all earnestness and patted Mo Junyangs shoulder, seeming to comfort him. Too many things are involved in it, and we cant fight at will as you said. There was a war in our country last year and the common people were miserable. How can you bear to drag them to the battlefield again? Moreover, the colorful phenix is the holy bird of the whole Qin Continent. Once the other two countries join the battle, the Mo Country would be under siege from the Liang, Zhao, Wei countries and be in danger. How can we win? Every word was excellent and seemed reasonable. But Mo Junyang sneered and sniffed at him, saying straightforwardly, Your Majesty, you have said so much. The point is that you dont have the courage to fight to death. Mo Xiangbin opened his mouth, about to deny. Mo Junyang stopped him and expressed first, You talk about the common people, the national power and the diplomatic relation, but in my opinion, they are not the reasons to shrink back and admit defeat. How so? Mo Xiangbin frowned and questioned. First, last year our country experienced a war, but was the Liang Country safe and sound? Their king led the army in person but lost that war. They suffered more losses than our country and their soldiers must be discouraged. Even if their king wants to start another war, I believe that the common people in their country wont agree. Second, these years, the Mo Country enters an unprecedented period of prosperity and development and the national power is the strongest in the history. Our national treasury is full and our people live in peace. If we have to fight against another country, none of the royal family members, noblemen and the common people will allow the enemies to ruin their life! At least in the aspects of power and financial resources, the Mo County was equal to and even stronger than the Liang Country. Mo Xiangbin didnt think about these points, and now Mo Junyang pointed them out one by one. He had to admit that Mo Junyangs words made sense. If they fought, the Mo Country might not be defeated by the Liang Country. You are right, but once the news about the colorful phenix is exposed, the Liang Country might not be the only enemy we would face. Even if we can defeat the Liang Country, we will both suffer losses and become others prey at last. Mo Xiangbin still didnt agree with Mo Junyang in words and tried to find excuses to deny the advantages as Mo Junyang mentioned. Mo Junyang raised his brows, with objection shown on them. He sneered and responded with certainty, Its impossible. Mo Xiangbin wanted to say that nothing in the world was impossible. The Zhao Country is a neighboring country of our country and the Liang Country and had been harassed and invaded by the Liang Country frequently at ordinary times, but it got peaceful gradually after allying with our country. Your Majesty, if you have been to the border of the three countries and had a look, you would know that the common people at the border of the Mo and Zhao countries live in peace with each other. Anybody who ignores the amity of the two countries and starts a war rashly would be condemned as a sinner through the ages. Mo Junyang analyzed the situation from the human relationship and then brought up an everlasting truth. Whats more, the lips being lost, the teeth feel cold. If the Zhao Country helps the Liang Country destroy our country, can they be sure that the greedy people from the Liang Country wouldnt swing round and catch them off guard to destroy their country? If the Zhao Country wanted to share the profit, they would help the Mo Country resist the greedy and ruthless people from the Liang Country. Mo Junyang didnt need to explain such a simple principle. But Mo Xiangbin still wanted to pretend to be blind and deaf. He didnt give up. There is another country, the Wei Country. This country always keeps silent, but if they join the fight, they cant be belittled. The Wei Country is in the mountain area in the southwest, and its difficult for them to come to the Central Plains. They have to send tens of thousands of soldiers to cross the rivers and mountains after a long journey and fight in our country. Do you think it is realistic? Mo Junyang asked in reply with a faint smile. He made Mo Xiangbin speechless. The reason was obvious and the fact was in front of them. The Wei Country was too far away from the other three countries. It was not that this country wanted to keep silent all the time, but its geographical position decided everything. If they wanted to fight, they had to think twice and realize that half of the soldiers would die on the way. Mo Xiangbin stayed silent. He understood that. The fact was that he was too weak and didnt have Mo Junyangs determination and courage to fight regardless of anything. After a long pause, Mo Xiangbin finally asked, As you said, a war is the last choice. What about before that? Do you have a solution? He had a reason to ask such a question. After the conversation, Mo Xiangbin could almost be sure that Mo Junyang had another plan. He looked at Mo Junyang with expectancy first and hoped that the young man could give him a positive answer. But Mo Junyang didnt speak, and his expressionless face couldnt comfort Mo Xiangbin. Mo Xiangbin couldnt help but feel panicked again. He stared at Mo Junyang anxiously and promised him, Junyang, as long as you can help me cope with this crisis, I will instantly grant the marriage of you and the sixth lady of the Shi family. Mo Junyang raised his head all of a sudden, with a ferocious look flashing in his deep eyes, but before Mo Xiangbin realized what the young man was thinking about, Mo Junyangs eyes returned to normal and nothing unusual could be found. Its my obligation to share your worries, Your Majesty. Mo Junyang stood straight and bowed to Mo Xiangbin naturally. He didnt show the momentum to challenge the emperors majesty but looked exactly like a loyal courtier. Mo Xiangbin curled his upper lip and thought, I know Mo Junyang is capable, but he wouldnt do anything for nothing. He is just like an evil wolf. If Mo Xiangbin didnt give him some presentable profits, Mo Junyang could ruthlessly fold his hands and see others die. What do you plan to do? Mo Xiangbin was still curious. What kind of good ideas would Mo Junyang have? Mo Junyang smiled and replied indifferently, The one who caused trouble should be responsible for it. Mo Xiangbin frowned in doubt and didnt understand. Do you mean to let Junyu Be the fall guy? He didnt finish his words because he believed that Mo Junyang wouldnt have such a bad idea to make somebody a scapegoat, like Mo Junjiu did. Mo Junyang certainly shook his head. Mo Xiangbin finally heaved a sigh of relief but was still doubtful. He was not in the mood to guess and asked directly, Just tell me about your solution. I dont have the energy to guess anymore. Only two days had passed. He was quite happy to hear that the colorful phenix had been sent to the capital, but now he was exhausted mentally and physically to the same level. If he had known earlier that the tribute would become like this, he would have controlled himself, not telling them to send the colorful phenix to the capital so early. The debt should be paid by the one who owed. Just tell the one who killed the colorful phenix to pay for it! Mo Junyang pointed it out simply. Although in his opinion, the colorful phenix was just a wild bird which was useless and could only be a mascot, in many peoples eyes, it was much more valuable than the life of most people. Mo Xiangbin put on a long face again and stated helplessly, If we can find the murderer, I will just push out the murderer. Why would I feel sad? The murderer who poisoned the colorful phenix hid himself so well. Mo Xiangbin had sent two groups of people to search everywhere in and outside the East Palace but didnt find any clue leading to the murderer. The murderer seemed to have fallen from heaven and didnt leave any sign. They still didnt know how the colorful phenix was poisoned. Even though there was poison in the water. The question remained a dead end. Mo Junyu took care of the colorful phenix carefully and entered the room with the feeder every time he gave it water and food. He tested if the food was poisonous before he fed the phenix, so there must be nothing wrong with the food. Unless you also say that Junyu is the poisoner, Mo Xiangbin expressed with no confidence, even if a lot of people would echo him and ask him to convict Mo Junyu as long as he said that. Mo Junyang shook his head and stated bluntly, You know that the crown prince is not the murderer. Mo Xiangbin kept quiet and then sighed at last, speaking out what was on his mind. I know that the crown prince is resentful all the time as I treat him coldly these years, and he wants to do something practical to impress me. He was the emperor, so how would he be unclear about this? He just didnt say anything. Mo Junyang didnt want to get to the bottom of how Mo Xiangbin played a kind father in his heart. He interrupted the emperors confession impassively. The crown prince is not the murderer, but only he can find the murderer. Mo Xiangbin was shocked and looked at Mo Junyang in disbelief, uncertain about what he had heard. Do you mean that he knows who the murderer is? How did you know? Did he contact you? He asked three questions successively like shooting arrows, and Mo Junyang didnt have time to reply. Till he asked all of them, he realized that he was too emotional. He smiled awkwardly and stopped to look at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang didnt answer Mo Xiangbins questions but took two steps forward to grab a wolf-hair brush pen from the shelf. Then he took out a piece of paper to write. Chapter 199 - He Gives up on Me First Mo Xiangbin didnt know what Mo Junyang wanted to do, and his doubtful eyes followed the young man. He looked at Mo Junyangs slender and forceful fingers and then looked down slowly, to see the words on the paper. In the beginning, he didnt pay attention to it and just thought Mo Junyang was so bored as to write the book About the Qin Continent from memory in front of him. But he didnt stop Mo Junyang. After Mo Junyang quickly finished about two or three hundred words from the book About the Qin Continent, he hung the brush pen back on the shelf. He picked up the paper and put it beside his mouth to blow it from top to bottom. After the ink on the paper was dry, he gave it to Mo Xiangbin. Mo Xiangbin received it and unfolded it. Looking at the boring words on it, he didnt read them carefully but asked, When I was a prince, I read the book About the Qin Continent and even recited some famous essays under the masters instruction. Why do you show it to me now? Your Majesty, do you know which story on the book the words on the paper are from? Mo Junyang asked. This is Mo Xiangbin wanted to answer but found that he didnt remember the words on the paper. He couldnt tell which chapter these words were from. Beyond expectation, Mo Junyang didnt keep him in suspense but revealed the answer. They are from About the Qin Continent, The Colorful Phenix, Nirvana and Rebirth. He gave the accurate answer and made Mo Xiangbin who thought he knew well about the book feel embarrassed. He blushed in shame and didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang. This time, Mo Junyang thoughtfully lowered his head and looked at the paper again. Then he said with consideration, Because the colorful phenix became a legend one thousand years ago, the chapter of The Colorful Phenix cant provide valuable preferences except for giving the learners amusement while they are studying. Even the masters wouldnt specially explain it but would only tell the students to read it at home if they are interested. Its normal that you dont remember it, Your Majesty. Mo Xiangbin nodded repeatedly and took the chance to say yes. Right, I wonder why this chapter looks unfamiliar. My master left it out and didnt teach me. When the colorful phenix showed up on the Qin Continent, I thought that the book About the Qin Continent must have records about the colorful phenix, so I read the chapter of The Colorful Phenix. Hearing that, Mo Xiangbin showed relief and admiration on his dignified face. He thought, No wonder I trust Mo Junyang so much. There are so many children. Although this child has a weird character and doesnt respect me as much as the princes, he has never disappointed me. He never let the emperor down. Mo Xiangbin wasnt disappointed but merely felt more surprised every time he talked with this young man or got close to him. For example, this time, the news that the colorful phenix showed up in the world spread more than one month ago, but he believed that nobody except Mo Junyang would think about reading the book About the Qin Continent which had been passed down for a long time and was often heard and well-remembered. Mo Xiangbin stopped himself from thinking more and paid attention to the paper again. He wanted to see what words Mo Junyang planned to show him. After reading them, Mo Xiangbin restrained his expression, and silence and seriousness were shown on his face. After about fifteen minutes, he raised his head and stared at Mo Junyang solemnly. Is this your solution? The book About the Qin Continent? Mo Junyang nodded silently. Mo Xiangbin laughed and looked more mysterious. Gee, I never knew in the past that the holy bird colorful phenix has such a magical function. It seems that the murderer cant escape anyway, right? As long as the colorful phenixs dead body is still in our hands, the murderer will have nowhere to hide. Mo Junyang took the paper back slowly and folded it twice carefully, as if it was the winning treasure to capture the real murderer. Mo Xiangbin was relieved and even joked, If we find that the real murderer is that person, it would be fun. Hmm, Mo Junyang responded casually, and his tense and cold face looked as usual. Nobody could observe his emotion. He put the paper back in Mo Xiangbins hand. Its proper to tell the crown prince to deal with it. But Mo Xiangbin was confused. You can finish it by yourself, but why do you Give somebody else a chance to take the credit? These years, Mo Junyang was always low-key and didnt take the credit for himself. He even let others take the credit. But Mo Xiangbin knew that it was not that Mo Junyang was timid and afraid of attracting attention and getting himself into trouble. Mo Junyang just didnt care or want. He even turned up his nose at these things. But the more Mo Junyang did like this, the more confused Mo Xiangbin was. It couldnt be because Mo Junyang was selfless. As soon as such a thought flashed in Mo Xiangbins brain, he sniffed at it and put it all behind. Mo Junyang was not even close to being kind, let alone being selfless. Then why? Mo Junyang pursed his lips and said simply, The crown prince of the Mo Country cant be deposed. These words showed Mo Junyus significance to the stability of the Mo Countrys current situation. The heir to the throne stood for a countrys future, even though it was a crown prince nobody liked. Even if Mo Xiangbin deprived him of his title like before, it would cause turbulence after the news spread, not to mention that he was deposed. So, even though Mo Xiangbin deprived Mo Junyu of his title, he didnt issue an edict till now because he was afraid that many things would be implicated and he could hardly wind this matter up. Sojust do as you said! Mo Xiangbin sighed and had complex feelings. He sighed with emotion because of Mo Junyangs overall vision, and he thought even he couldnt compare with this young man, let alone the princes who fought for the position of the heir to the throne at outrance even regardless of the countrys safety. Mo You failed in convincing Mo Junyang and then went back to the East Palace in low spirits, feeling that he was too ashamed to see Mo Junyu. But he had to report to Mo Junyu about something. He could only bite the bullet with a blush. He was helpless and guilty. Its my fault. I am not a good talker and cant persuade His Excellency. Please punish me, Your Highness. Mo Junyang smiled bitterly and waved his hand, with a sad expression, but he was not surprised at all. He had expected such a result. Mo Junyang is resolute and never changes his mind because he is confused after he makes a choice. I hurt him first, and its not surprising that he will abandon me, Mo Junyu said incisively, but panic and sorrow couldnt be concealed in his tone as he would be abandoned. Mo You felt heartbroken and anxious to see that, but he could do nothing. He thought hard and could only figure out a way. How about I go to beg the Empress Dowager once more? No. Grandma has done so much for me this time. I dont want to bother her anymore. In the imperial palace, the only person who sincerely loved him was Ling Ruiyin. Even if Mo Junyu was imprisoned, he didnt want to consume this true love excessively. But Mo You still wanted to say something or do something. In a word, he couldnt stand by and watch Mo Junyu being defeated. Mo Junyu shook his head wearily again and said in a deep voice, Well, I am tired today. Go back home to have a rest. If there is nothing, dont come to the East Palace in case that you are implicated. If Mo Xiangbin showed the only consideration for this son, it was probably that he didnt kill all the crown princes followers but just took actions against him alone. He protected the crown princes force to some extent. After all, as long as the crown princes followers were not frustrated and he was still alive, he had a chance to turn the tables. Your Highness, I have some words. I dont know if I can say. It meant that he had to say it. Mo You refused to leave but looked at Mo Junyu persistently. Mo Junyu hesitated, but he couldnt bear to forcefully kick out this cousin who was loyal to him. He merely raised his hand and rubbed his temple continuously, saying in a deep voice, Go ahead! The late empress Mo You intentionally slowed his voice, afraid that if he brought up the late empress, he would make Mo Junyu sad. But he still insisted, Before my aunt succumbed to an illness, she once grabbed my hand and yours, telling me to help you govern the Mo Country, Your Highness. Even if you wont leave a good name for posterity, you cant be a sinner in the history or a mediocrity in peoples eyes. I have seen that you always work hard these years and fight for this goal. Why do you plan to give up just because of a little frustration? Mo Junyu opened his mouth at once and tried to retort. But meeting Mo Yous bright eyes, he couldnt say what he wanted to. For something, he couldnt cheat others. Mo Junyu couldnt help but remember the past. That year, he suffered a fatal attack of smallpox, and even Ling Ruiyin almost gave him up, but he didnt give up himself, while God didnt give him up but brought Mo Junyang to him. However, this time Thinking of what happened in the Moral Hall earlier, Mo Junyu raised his hand to cover his eyes, and his handsome face looked ferocious in pain. Its not that I want to give up, but he wants to give up on me! Mo Junyu murmured and complained in a low voice that could hardly be heard, venting the agony and struggle he had restrained all the time. Mo You was stunned but soon realized who he was as Mo Junyu mentioned. These years, only Mo Xiangbin could make Mo Junyu so sorrowful. Mo You opened his mouth and was about to comfort Mo Junyu, but he shut up at last. Under the situation, what else could he say? Mo Junyu just lost his mind only for a short while. Afterward, the ferocious look on his face disappeared, as if what Mo You had seen earlier was a painting, and nothing was left after he wiped it away. I am fine. You go back first. Mo Junyu ignored Mo Yous shocked expression and spoke calmly. Mo You planned to say more, but they were at a stalemate again. Even if he wanted to cheer for Mo Junyu, he was at a loss for words, so he had to shut his mouth. At this time, Quan ran into the East Palace in haste with an imperial decree. Quan came to Mo Junyu and stood, putting the bright yellow scroll in front of his chest and shouting sharply, Your Highness, His Majesty told you to do something. Please accept the imperial decree right now! Mo Junyu was petrified and then seemed to think of something. He looked terrible and then trembled. Is Father going to depose the crown prince? It finally comes. Chapter 200 - Cheat Obviously Quan held his breath and prepared to announce this good news. Unexpectedly, as soon as he started, he didnt bring the crown prince surprise but shocked him. He was a servant used to serving respected people and could guess what the master was thinking about as soon as he saw the other partys reaction. Especially Mo Junyu didnt conceal his emotions. Your Highness, dont get me wrong. I came to tell you good news. This is really big good news! Quan explained hurriedly and was worried that Mo Junyu would misunderstand, so he came straight to the point. Wouldnt the crown prince be deposed? Mo Junyu showed a stiff expression and looked at Quan in doubt. Quan nodded all of a sudden and spoke out what was on the imperial decree simply and quickly. His Majesty knows that you were framed by evil-doers this time Before Quan finished his words, Mo Junyu stood up abruptly. He grabbed the imperial decree from Quan and opened it to read. Quan had done the job to read imperial decrees for so many years, but perhaps it was his first time to see that the scroll was grabbed from him. He was dumbfounded but soon came to his senses as a tough person. He continued sharply, His Majesty said that he gave you a chance to atone for a crime by meritorious actions. As long as you can capture the real murderer who poisoned the colorful phenix within three days, he can let what happened pass. Let it pass. It meant that the punishment to Mo Junyu could stop and his identity as the crown prince could be secured. His Majesty also told me to give this to you. Quan gave Mo Junyu a note. He purposely lowered his voice and told him mysteriously, As long as you do it according to the instruction, you can surely find the real murderer. The emperor even told him how to capture the murderer. He cheated so obviously. Mo Junyu couldnt wait to open the note and got stunned to see the ink on it. It was the familiar handwriting, and he recognized it at a glance, as the note was written by Mo Junyang. Junyang the crown prince mumbled. Quan explained to him naturally, The prince of the Liang Country came to make trouble in the imperial study just now. Although His Majesty managed to deal with him, he still told me to ask His Excellency to come. They talked in private in the imperial study for a while. Then His Excellency left, and His Majesty issued an imperial decree for you and told me to explain to you about everything, Your Highness. Is there anything that you dont understand? This was the reason why Quan told him everything in one breath like shooting. Mo Junyu pondered for a minute and then understood why Mo Xiangbin told Quan to do so. His father didnt want him to misunderstand Mo Junyang and think that Mo Junyang didnt do anything to save his life. In fact, even if Mo Junyang didnt get involved in this matter, Mo Junyu just thought that he was hurt but wouldnt blame him. But he had just heard Mo You say that Mo Junyang decided not to help him, and then he knew that Mo Junyang silently helped him so much. Look at Mo Junyangs silent actions. If Mo Xiangbin didnt mention it, Mo Junyang wouldnt tell him. Mo Junyus thoughts changed in an instant, and such feelings were beyond description. He was panicked, moved and relieved At last, all of them turned into a faint smile, and he couldnt help but call softly, Junyang, my brother. Mo You had tears of joy while seeing that. He grabbed Mo Junyus arm and expressed happily, Your Highness, its wonderful! I know that His Majesty wont give up on you. Look, isnt this the chance? Lets do quickly according to the hint, and we can find the murderer He saw clearly what was on the paper and paused for a while before asking in confusion, Isnt it the chapter of The Colorful Phenix in the book About the Qin Continent? What kind of solution is it? Mo You just talked to himself, but his voice was loud and he didnt control himself. And he didnt expect that his voice could be heard by the two people beside him and enter another persons ears. The secret spread silently, but the three were unaware. Quan shook his head to show that he just sent the imperial decree and didnt know what Mo Xiangbin and Mo Junyang talked about. He continued to repeat Mo Xiangbins orders. Anyway, please do it as soon as possible, Your Highness. Dont tell anybody else in case that there are unnecessary ramifications. Mo Junyu nodded cautiously and told his servant to give Quan a valuable gift before sending him out of the East Palace. Mo You then asked, I have a doubt. The solution His Excellency offered is more like a legend. The colorful phenix is magical and its eyes can tell the life and death The murderers inverted reflection in water has nowhere to hide. The essay About the Qin Continent, The Colorful Phenix, Nirvana and Rebirth had the records of the holy bird colorful phenix. It was said that its glazed eyes could record anything evil in the world. If somebody had evil intentions to it and harmed it, its glazed eyes would record the case. Even if it died, the record wouldnt disappear. It sounded ridiculous, and who knew if it was effective? After all, only two rare colorful phenixes had showed up since one thousand years ago, and normal people wouldnt have evil intentions to such a treasure, so it couldnt prove what was in the book. To say the least, even if the words in the book are true, we can only use this method under the condition that the murderer saw the colorful phenix before poisoning it. Now the fact is that we dont know how the colorful phenix was poisoned. What if the murderer harmed it in a special way without facing it? Wouldnt this solution be useless? Mo You asked two crucial questions successively. There was no answer. Mo Junyu got excited just now, but he became listless soon. It was not easy for him to justify himself. It was not a simple job. The colorful phenix must have seen the murderer before death. Suddenly, a clear voice cut in and disturbed the two who were in low spirits. The two raised their heads at the same time and looked at the voice source. They didnt know since when Shi Qingxue stood at the gate of the East Palace and looked at them calmly. And the last words were from her mouth. Mo Junyu didnt think about why Shi Qingxue suddenly showed up here. He walked to her quickly as if seeing a savior. Qingxue, what are you doing here? Come in first. Shi Qingxue smiled at him and pursed her lips. I came here as I hope to have a look at the room where the colorful phenix stayed. Mo Junyu was sophisticated and immediately understood that she came to investigate the colorful phenixs death. Of course he was happy. However, when he led Shi Qingxue to that room, he couldnt help but guess why she wanted to do something like this to get herself into trouble. I was also present that day. I cant stand by and watch that the holy bird was poisoned but there was no explanation, so I have to confirm something, Shi Qingxue pouted and explained in a low voice. Mo Junyu was seen through and smiled in embarrassment. He hurriedly changed the subject. By the way, what do you mean by saying that the colorful phenix must have seen the murderer? Take it literally. The colorful phenixs room was still covered with the black heavy cloth outside, and there was no light inside. Shi Qingxue didnt tell anybody to lift the black cloth but brought an oil lamp into the room. Mo Junyu stood at the door and was unwilling to enter, just asking, Three groups of people entered and searched here but didnt find anything wrong. Qingxue, what do you want to find? He meant that she couldnt find anything. Shi Qingxue didnt comment on Mo Junyus action to frustrate her enthusiasm but replied vaguely, I want to find something Your Highness, can you tell me where the three groups of people searched? Seeing that Shi Qingxue still didnt give up, Mo Junyu responded straightforwardly, We have searched everywhere before, on the floor, the door and windows, the pillar We even searched on the beam and tiles and checked everything but didnt find the poison. In another word, they still didnt know how the murderer poisoned it. Right, there is one place that they didnt check! While Mo Junyu spoke, his eyes lit up. He looked at Shi Qingxue excitedly and added in a hurry, The bird cage. Its in King Ruis mansion. With that, he was going to walk outside. Shi Qingxue hurriedly stopped him and reminded, We will certainly go to King Ruis mansion. Now we just check this room once more, and some clues can only be found here. For example? Mo Junyu stopped in his tracks and stared at Shi Qingxue curiously. For example, how did the murderer poison the colorful phenix? Shi Qingxue didnt keep him in suspense but spoke out the purpose of her arrival. Mo Junyu thought for a second and then stated with certainty, Anyway, there is nothing wrong with my people. The murderer must be an outsider and might be Junjiu. Your Highness, please speak with caution. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and looked obedient. Mo Junyu laughed awkwardly and didnt bother about this subject anymore. He asked, They searched everywhere in this room and didnt find any clue. We dont know how the colorful phenix died. How do you plan to seek? We will just waste time here. Its better to have a look at the bird cage. I doubt that somebody put the poison in the cage in the beginning. Then why did the colorful phenix die from the poison after so many days? Doctor Shen said that the poison would have an effect soon and is quite powerful. It would explode in an instant. So he assumed that the bird was poisoned at night before the birthday party at the earliest. Shi Qingxue didnt mind and shared all the information she had known so far with Mo Junyu, making him lose heart once more. Then she comforted him, Your Highness, dont be anxious. The murderer killed it, and some clue must have been left. They didnt find it earlier because they didnt use the right method. This time, lets try another way. What do you plan to do? Mo Junyu didnt dare to put on airs but asked Shi Qingxue seriously and politely. Shi Qingxue raised her head and looked around. Then her eyes fell on the beam above the bird cage, and she pointed to somewhere, asking, Did you send somebody up to check there? We naturally checked, but we didnt find peoples footsteps Mo Junyu paused for a minute and seemed to think of something, looking hesitant. After quite a while, Mo Junyu continued hesitantly, But we found a sign on the top of the beam, as if something was stuck to it. I think that when they were cleaning up this room, the servants found a stain so they wiped it away. And I dont think its strange. Hmm, Shi Qingxue replied vaguely and didnt express her opinion about his guess. She just gave the oil lamp to Xia Mang and told her, Put it out. Then she closed the room door from inside. Mo Junyu watched as the light was blocked gradually and shouted at once, Its so dark in the room. We can see nothing after you close the door, right? Chapter 201 - The Real Cause of Death If you dont have a try, how do you know that you cant see? Shi Qingxue smiled slyly and continued to close the door. Did she think that she was the colorful phenix and could shine? Before Mo Junyu showed the speechless expression on his face, something magic happened. As soon as Shi Qingxue closed the door, all people felt it was dark indeed, but in the blink of an eye, a beam of bright light came from a little hole in a corner and fell on the floor of the corner. The lights diameter was no more than 1 or 1.5 meters, but because of the bright sun at noon, it was enough to make people roughly tell the direction in the darkness. How, how can this happen? Mo Junyu stuttered. This room was arranged by him as the feeder asked. It should be kept away from light, in case that the colorful phenix was scared. But it could be seen that no matter the door was opened or closed, the light in the room would never be less. Could it be that the colorful phenix No. The colorful phenix was poisoned to death, Shi Qingxue explained as she noticed Mo Junyus doubt at a glance. Mo Junyu didnt believe her and pointed at the hole in the corner. How would you explain it? Shi Qingxue shrugged. I have to say that the colorful phenix didnt fear the sunshine as much as we imagined. I have read the chapter of The Colorful Phenix in the book About the Qin Continent. It is recorded in it that the colorful phenix likes to be in darkness and lives in the deep of the forest where there is no sunshine all year round, but it doesnt mention that the colorful phenix cant see any light, and She suddenly stopped when she was about to talk about the crucial part. Mo Junyu turned to her and urged, And what? Why dont you continue? Nothing. The following words recorded have nothing to do with this matter. But we can know that the colorful phenix didnt die because of this light. However, this light might be helpful to something. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and focused her eyes on the track of the light. Mo Junyu still didnt understand. Since you said that the colorful phenix didnt die because of the light, why did you say that its death had something to do with the light? Havent you found that the lights location is weird? Shi Qingxue blinked and reminded wickedly. Mo Junyu walked to the location where the light fell and then looked at the place where the bird cage was, feeling more confused. The two places are about six meters away. No matter how it diffuses, the light cant affect the colorful phenix, right? Could it work from another space? Shi Qingxue laughed and then waved Xia Mang over, whispering in her ear, Xia Mang, put this Mo Junyu saw Xia Mang receiving something from Shi Qingxue, but he didnt see clearly what it was because of the angle at which he stood. Considering his identity, he disdained to ask. He had to restrain his curiosity and stared at the two girls. He wanted to see what they could do. Xia Mang took the stuff and jumped up to the beam, flying over quickly. She didnt stop on the beam and moved rapidly, as if she wanted to show her flying skills. Mo Junyu opened his eyes wide and felt more suspicious. He indistinctly noticed that the roof Xia Mang passed was the place that he mentioned where a sign was left but there was nothing. He saw that something seemed to be put on it, but it was too dark in the room, and he couldnt see what it was. Then Xia Mang walked to him and bowed. Your Highness, please step aside. I need to put something on the place where you stand. Mo Junyu raised his brows and didnt speak but made way for Xia Mang. Xia Mang stood where Mo Junyu had been just now, and the light shone her face. She moved a step backward and let the light fall on her chest. Then she turned to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue shook her head and waved at Xia Mang. Back up. Let the light shine your feet. After doing as Shi Qingxue told her, Xia Mang looked at her again and took out something from her pocket after Shi Qingxue nodded. Mo Junyu was confused by the two girls mysterious behavior. He couldnt control himself and asked, What on earth are you going to do? Shi Qingxue smiled and kept him in suspense. Your Highness, keep calm. You will know later. Xia Mang took out a round copper mirror this time. She put the copper mirror on where she stood. Then she made it stand. The light from the corner of the eave happened to fall on the surface of the copper mirror. After she adjusted the angle, the light then reflected the beam. It happened to fall on where Xia Mang had touched. Something magic happened in an instant. After the light met somewhere on the eave, it reflected once more and happened to shine the place where the bird cage was. If Mo Junyu remembered correctly, it shone the bamboo tube which contained the spring water for the colorful phenix to drink. Mo Junyus eyes widened like the dead fishs, and he was so surprised that he couldnt speak a word. How can it happen? He could hardly believe what he had seen. It was just a beam of light far away from the bird cage and was supposed to have nothing to do with it. After reflecting twice, it happened to fall on the bird cage. So the colorful phenix was killed by this light! Mo Junyu almost shouted excitedly. He finally found the murderers way to kill the colorful phenix, and the evidence was ready. Because he remembered who had stood where Xia Mang was. Shi Qingxue hurriedly interrupted Mo Junyus imagination and reminded again, Your Highness, I have said that the colorful phenix likes to be in darkness, but it doesnt mean that it would die under light. It was poisoned to death. And the clues we have got are not enough to prove who arranged everything. After all there is no mirror in this room, right? Hearing that, Mo Junyu was deflated. Shi Qingxue was right. Even if he went to tell Mo Xiangbin about his discovery, the latter might not believe him. He didnt have any presentable evidence. And he couldnt deduce who the murderer was because there was a sign that somebody touched the beam or somebody had stood at a place. Mo Junyu really got anxious and scratched his hair fretfully regardless of his dignity, asking Shi Qingxue, If these are useless, why did we work for so long? It was just a waste of time! Shi Qingxue was speechless. She and Xia Mang were the only two people who worked all the time. Why did Mo Junyu think that he was working, too? I came here just to confirm the murderers way to kill the colorful phenix, and now I have found it. Mo Junyu showed the expressions that he knew it. From the beginning, I said that somebody killed the colorful phenix with this light, but you insisted that it was poisoned to death. Shi Qingxue didnt know how to explain to him about the simple reason that the light couldnt kill the bird. She sighed and explained from the start patiently, Doctor Shen has found the residual poison in the bamboo tube in the bird cage, but because the poison would work easily, if it had been put in the bamboo tube early, the colorful phenix would have been poisoned earlier. Then he guessed that somebody put the poison in the spring water you had prepared at the birthday party No way. Every time I prepared the spring water for the colorful phenix, I would taste it first. Mo Junyu denied this conjecture. Shi Qingxue also nodded and expressed approvingly, Right. It means that the poison could only be put in the bamboo tube and then be mixed with the water. After drinking it, the colorful phenix was poisoned. Mo Junyu retorted again, But didnt you say that the poison worked soon and if it had been put in the bamboo tube, the colorful phenix would have been poisoned earlier? Right! Shi Qingxue nodded once more. Mo Junyu felt that he was puzzled by Qingxue. Why did she nod no matter what he said? So how did the colorful phenix die? Shi Qingxue smiled and gave Mo Junyu a small square towel. Smell it first. Can you guess what it is? Mo Junyu did as she asked him and smelt it. Then he turned away in an instant. He covered his nose in disgust. What is this? It smells like a bad egg? Sulphur and white phosphorus. Shi Qingxue revealed the answer. Seeing that Mo Junyu was still perplexed, she explained in detail, Doctor Shen found the remains of these two materials in the water, and they can burn easily at the ordinary temperature, so its likely that somebody put the poison covered with the two materials at the bottom of the bamboo tube. Because they wont melt in water, and the poison wont be mixed with water, the colorful phenix wont be poisoned after drinking such water. But with the light, the heat gathered at the bottom of the bamboo tube and the temperature rose Before Shi Qingxue finished her words, Mo Junyu understood. After the two materials burnt, the poison came out, so the colorful phenix was poisoned after drinking the water. But who figured out such a vicious way? It was so complicated. Once they neglected a detail, they might not find the truth. Shi Qingxue pondered for a while and then reminded vaguely, If somebody wanted to kill the colorful phenix in this way, there must be several preconditions. First, he had a chance to get close to the bamboo tube from the beginning. Second, he can enter this room freely. Third She didnt continue but looked at the floor where the mirror was. The mirror on the roof could be taken away afterward, but the mirror on the floor must be taken away on the spot. Otherwise it could be found immediately. Mo Junyus eyes darkened and anger was shown on his face, but he restrained it soon. He had one more question. Even if everything was Junjius plan, how could he figure out accurately how we would arrange the colorful phenixs residence? Shi Qingxue lowered her head and replied casually, He didnt need to guess as long as you did according to his plan. You are joking. How would I listen to him? Mo Junyu sneered and thought what Shi Qingxue said was impossible. He added solemnly, I have no experience in feeding the colorful phenix, so I did everything as the feeder asked Mo Junyu turned pale all of a sudden and stopped speaking. He didnt need to say the following words. The so-called feeder was Mo Junjius man. Mo Junyus expression changed continuously and then he fell into silence. Shi Qingxue had to change the subject. Next, lets go to King Ruis mansion to have a look. Mo Junyu didnt understand. We have confirmed the cause of the colorful phenixs death. Why are we going to King Ruis mansion? Shi Qingxue pointed to the imperial decree and the paper in his hands and laughed complacently. Next we should test if the holy bird colorful phenix is really so magical that it can tell the life and death. Mo Junyus eyes lit up again at once and he stated in a hurry, Right. Why havent I thought about it? You just proved that the murderer had met the colorful phenix before he killed it, so the phenix must have recorded what he looks like. Shi Qingxue smiled and kept silent to agree. When they reached King Ruis mansion, Mo Junyang had arranged the place to test. Obviously, he had expected their arrival. But when he found Shi Qingxue, he was stunned evidently. Shi Qingxue pretended that she didnt notice Mo Junyangs emotional change and explained why she was here. And she simply told him about her test in the East Palace. While listening, Mo Junyang frowned more. He interrupted Shi Qingxue with displeasure. This matter has nothing to do with you. Just go back home first. It was awkward on the site. Mo Junyang kicked Qingxue out? Nobody knew why Mo Junyang who always listened to Shi Qingxue and was gentle to her only would say something like this. He even spoke in disgust obviously. Everyone present couldnt accept it. Xia Mang looked at Shi Qingxue worriedly, afraid that her lady would lose temper as a result. My lady, Xia Mang called cautiously in a hurry as she saw that Shi Qingxues face darkened. Chapter 202 - Capture the Murderer Shi Qingxue didnt hear Xia Mangs low voice. She clenched her fists and restrained her anger, gazing at Mo Junyang with her beautiful eyes. She didnt beat around the bush but asked directly, Why do you kick me out? Mo Junyangs expression didnt change, but he felt Shi Qingxues anger and couldnt bear to hurt her feelings. He softened his tone and advised again, You have nothing to do with this case and dont need to get involved. There was worry hidden in his last words. Shi Qingxue noticed it but ignored him. She opened her eyes wide and snorted at Mo Junyang. This is my personal affair, and even my father doesnt interfere. Why do you stop me? Why? She was aggressive. It appeared that Shi Qingxue kept her distance from him, but only she knew that she wanted an answer from him. An answer about the relationship between her and him. Mo Junyang avoided meeting Shi Qingxues eyes and seemed not to understand her hidden meaning. Then he said to Qu Yuebai, Arrange it for His Highness. If we want the colorful phenix to tell the life and death, maybe only His Highness can do it because he took care of the phenix for the longest. Mo Junyu hurriedly nodded. Thanks, Junyang. Mo Junyang gave a nod and entered the room directly without looking at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was unable to say a word. Since childhood, it was her first time to be neglected completely. My Lady, are you all right? Xia Mang asked worriedly. She didnt dare to speak loudly as she was afraid that she might irritate Shi Qingxue whose face turned pale and red occasionally. Shi Qingxue suddenly laughed, but no smile could be seen in her eyes. She expressed coldly, Great! Great! Mo Junyang, when I wanted to keep away from you, you appeared to be unwilling to part with me to distract me. Now I try my best to help you, but you insist on keeping your distance from me While speaking, she felt wronged and then couldnt continue. So she swore in her heart, I am not under your control. If you dont like me, I will abandon you. I dont give you a thought! Because of Mo Junyangs cold attitude, Shi Qingxue was not in the mood to watch a show. She waved her sleeves and turned to leave. Xia Mang realized that something bad would happen, so she hoped that Mo Junyang could change his mind, but he didnt say anything till Shi Qingxue walked out of the gate of Love Xue House. She sighed and walked quickly to catch up with Shi Qingxue. My Lady, wait for me. Qu Yuexuan watched such a good play from beginning to end. In the beginning, he laughed secretly and thought that he had no regret as he finally saw that Mo Junyang was frustrated. But in the end, seeing that Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang seemed to break up, he couldnt laugh anymore. Till Shi Qingxue disappeared, Mo Junyang didnt speak a word but stood straight like a statue. Qu Yuexuan couldnt help but joke, Junyang, why? You love her so much but behave like this intentionally. Its not like your style. He wouldnt believe that Mo Junyang did it for a purpose. Mo Junyang was so overbearing. Even if he did it for Shi Qingxues good, he would never push her away. Mo Junyang raised his brows and showed an unexplainable expression. Whats like my style? Qu Yuexuan was unable to reply. In his opinion, Mo Junyang would only pull her into his arms and stay with her even if they died. Mo Junyang would never leave her for her sake. Enough! Qu Yuexuan couldnt control himself and lectured Mo Junyang, I know that you get annoyed because Shi Qingxue lost the memory about you and her, but why do you always push her away? Mo Junyang kept silent for quite a while. When Qu Yuexuan almost thought that Mo Junyang would be stubborn and reluctant to admit, the latter stated in a low voice, She is not her anymore. Mo Junyang knew that he shouldnt think in this way, but Shi Qingxue couldnt remember what happened in the previous life. When he looked at her pure and beautiful eyes, he thought there was a gulf between them. Even though he would be affected sometimes because of Shi Qingxue, the gulf couldnt disappear. Perhaps, in the beginning, the one who attracted him was this pure, beautiful and fascinating lady from the Shi family. But the one he loved and missed for two lives was Shi Qingxue who was not perfect, and she was not even pure anymore. Sometimes, he even thought that he was nice to Lady Qingxue, which meant that he betrayed Shi Qingxue. Because Lady Qingxue deprived Shi Qingxue of her chance to reborn. It was unreasonable, but he could do nothing, and he couldnt stop himself from thinking in this way. Qu Yuexuan was confused by Mo Junyangs words. What? She is not her? Even though Shi Qingxue lost her memory of one year, it is not that serious, right? It was more than one years memory. She forgot their past. The previous life was his painful memory which he couldnt forget. Qu Yuexuan thought Mo Junyangs emotion was unusual, but he didnt know why. He had to comfort Mo Junyang. If you really care about the fact that Shi Qingxue lost her memory, it is fine that you part with her temporarily. Then he couldnt help but remind, But she will be able to remember what happened in the past. I am going to see what you will do then. If Shi Qingxue came to get back at him then, it would be fun. Qu Yuexuan thought secretly. Mo Junyang smiled bitterly and talked to himself, No. She wont come back again. But he didnt want to share this sadness with anybody. Even though it was Qu Yuexuan, Mo Junyang didnt want to say more. He pushed Qu Yuexuan out. Go to help your brother. Whether we can succeed will be revealed tonight. Qu Yuexuan was not as confident as Mo Junyang and complained indifferently, It happened just two or three days ago. Why are you anxious? How can you be sure that the murderer can be captured tonight? Qu Yuexuan thought that the murderer would not be so stupid or get the news so soon. He will, Mo Junyang responded with certainty. Meeting Qu Yuexuans doubtful eyes, he pursed his lips and explained, The East Palace is not a secret place, andQingxue went there in such a big way today. Even if he didnt believe it in the beginning, he must know it now. Of course he was the murderer. Qu Yuexuan finally knew why Shi Qingxue suddenly went to the East Palace to confirm the murderers way to poison the colorful phenix and made it widely known. But as he understood, he rolled his eyes at Mo Junyang and judged accurately, Asshole. Mo Junyang accepted it silently. He didnt retort and just kicked Qu Yuexuan. Get out. Probably it was Qu Yuexuans first time to see his boss so arrogant. He was resentful and wanted to beat others, but he could do nothing to his master. He had to do as Mo Junyang ordered. At night, there was a grand evocation in King Ruis mansion. Que Yuebai named it accurately as he looked at the scene with people singing and shouting like calling up supposed supernatural forces by spells. The bird cage with the colorful phenixs dead body was sent back to a room which was heavily guarded. It was said that twenty-four hours later after the evocation, they could see what happened before the colorful phenixs death from its glaze eyes. King Ruis mansion was armed at all points and the soldiers coming and going surrounded the mansion and especially the Love Xue House, in case that the murderer came to ruin the carcass and destroy the evidence. Hey, do you think the murderer would come tonight? a soldier guarding at the door asked his colleague standing across from him. He had stood for one night but didnt even see a bird, let alone the murderer. He just fed the mosquitoes his blood. The man opposite him stamped his numb foot and replied crossly, Who knows? I think he doesnt dare to come. After all, we have so many people guarding here. If he comes, wouldnt he fall into the trap? The murderer wouldnt be so foolish! The first one nodded approvingly and was about to speak when he felt the pain on the back of his neck suddenly, and then he fell on the ground. Bro, whats wrong with you? The man opposite him hurriedly moved forward to help him, but the first one sank into a coma, and nobody knew if he was dead. He realized that an enemy came to attack them, so he wanted to cry for help, but he felt his neck was chilly, and he didnt know what would happen later. Outside the room, a masked man in black withdrew his dagger silently and wiped the blood stains away from it, sneering, You just sent two underlings to guard the door? Mo Junyang, do you think that nothing will happen as you have the mansion surrounded? He said that but didnt dare to be careless. Then he quickly helped the two soldiers get back to their original positions. In darkness at night, the two dead guards appeared to remain at their posts. The masked man in black took out a silver needle and gently opened the lock on the door before slowly pushing it open. The bird cage was in the room, and he even saw the colorful phenixs dead body in the cage. However, he didnt enter the room in a hurry but watched his step with caution. As expected, a tiny and long line was on the top of the threshold. As long as he stepped on it if he didnt pay attention, he would touch some device. Gee, can this small trick baffle me? The masked man in black snorted. He raised his foot and crossed the long line rapidly and carefully. After he stepped into the room, he closed the door quickly, in case that the patrolling soldiers found him later. The colorful phenix was close at hand, but the masked man didnt take actions against it anxiously. Instead, he looked around carefully. After confirming that there was nobody in the room, he approached the colorful phenix cautiously step by step. When the colorful phenix was close to him and he could get it at once, the mans eyes lit up. He couldnt wait to reach out his hands. A respected guest comes from afar. I am sorry that I didnt welcome you. A cold voice came from a corner all of a sudden and scared the masked man. He withdrew his hands abruptly and looked around with his bright eyes. He didnt see anybody like before. Was there a ghost? The masked man pondered in doubt and looked around with caution again, to see nothing. He just saw the walls. And the voice had some effect and seemed to come from a wall. The wall! While thinking, the masked man trembled. But soon he thought of the purpose of his arrival and gritted his teeth, reaching out to the colorful phenix again. When his hands were about to touch the cage door, the room became bright at once. The masked man was stimulated by the light and closed his eyes suddenly. Before he reacted, he felt a chill on his neck. He immediately realized that it was a sharp weapon. It could take his life at any time. No matter how conceited the masked man was, he didnt dare to act rashly. He opened his eyes but was frightened by what he saw. He didnt know since when the originally empty room where only he had been was full of people. The leader was naturally the crown prince Mo Junyu, and Qu Yuebai and Qu Yuexuan stood next to him. Guards surrounded them, and the one who put a sword on his neck was Mo Junyangs guard, Wei Zichao. These people seemed to show up from nowhere quietly, which was scary. The masked man subconsciously wanted to move, but Mo Junyu warned first, Dont move randomly. If you are injured, dont blame me. I have reminded you in advance. The cold voice was like the voice which appeared earlier, and there was complacency in it. He was certain to win and the enemy was in his hands. Wasnt it something worth being complacent? As expected, the masked man was so scared that he didnt dare to move. But Mo Junyu didnt let him go. He waved at Wei Zichao and ordered, Take off his mask. I want to see who dares to break into King Ruis mansion at night. Even though all people knew the masked mans identity, Mo Junyu still said that. The masked man got nervous and stared at Mo Junyu. His eyes were ruthless, as if he would eat Mo Junyu. Mo Junyu was not affected but urged loudly, Zichao, why dont you take actions? Wei Zichao didnt do anything in the beginning but looked at Mo Junyang standing in the corner silently, seeing that his master had no reaction. So he withdrew his sword and stepped forward, trying to take off the mans mask. Chapter 203 - Be Careful Not to Crush it When Wei Zichao was about to touch the masked mans face, the latter suddenly took a big step backward and raised his right leg, trying to kick Wei Zichao. Wei Zichao leaned to one side to dodge and saw that the masked man planned to run away. He hurriedly started a move and his hands fastened on the mans shoulders. The masked man in black bent and tried to avoid him, but Wei Zichaos hand followed him like a shadow. The masked man moved several times but couldnt shake off Wei Zichaos hand. Instead, he was locked by Wei Zichao. He was captured like a turtle in a jar again. If you move again, I will disable your arm, Wei Zichao grunted. Different from Mo Junyus sarcastic voice, Wei Zichaos voice was forceful with threat. He wasnt joking. If the masked man dared to move randomly again, Wei Zichao would crush his bones next. The masked man in black noticed Wei Zichaos serious tone and didnt dare to move. He lowered his head as if he admitted defeat. Mo Junyu laughed complacently again. This time he didnt need anybodys help and moved forward, taking off the mask of the man in black. He grinned and stated softly but cruelly, Junjiu, welcome to King Ruis mansion. Right, this masked man in black was the third prince Mo Junjiu. After being exposed, Mo Junjiu didnt play dumb but glared at Mo Junyu. He howled first, Let go of me! If you dare to hurt me, I will tell Father to punish you because you harm your younger brother. Gee, Junyang, listen. How bold he is! Mo Junyu wasnt scared by Mo Junjiu at all but pretended to sigh with emotion and spoke to Mo Junyang who was standing in the distance. Mo Junyang didnt give him a response, but Mo Junyu didnt feel bored. Instead, Mo Junyu smiled at Mo Junjiu and expressed at leisure, How about we go to Father and reason things out? Then he can ask why you didnt sleep at midnight but came to King Ruis mansion wearing night suit. Mo Junjius face with an overbearing expression froze at once, as if his neck was pinched, and he couldnt say a word. He was in the hands of somebody else and had to lower his head. No matter how unwilling Mo Junjiu was, he had become the meat on Mo Junyus chopping block and could do nothing but let the other party cut him. He clenched his fists and gritted his teeth, saying, What do you want? Mo Junyu shrugged and replied indifferently, I want nothing but to ask you to see Father in the imperial palace. I didnt do anything. Dont try to slander me! Mo Junjiu stated and hurriedly dissociated himself clearly from everything. Mo Junyu casually played with the jade ring on his pinkie. Oh? Can I ask why you came to King Ruis mansion alone sneakily and broke into this room? Mo Junjiu insisted, I am curious about what the colorful phenix looks like. Cant I come to have a look? Then he even raised his chin, showing, What can you do to me? Mo Junyu almost laughed because he was angry at Mo Junjiu who was shameless. Then he turned to Mo Junyang, asking, Junyang, somebody broke into your mansion at night. Wont you say something? Mo Junyu wanted to drag Mo Junyang into the battlefield several times and even forced him to confront Mo Junjiu. Before Mo Junyang spoke, Qu Yuebai cut in with displeasure, Your Highness, His Excellency just guards the colorful phenixs carcass under orders. And we have to rely on you to capture the real murderer. He said rely on, but in fact, he just passed the buck. But Mo Junjiu had been captured on the spot. Even if he pestered them, when they sent him to the imperial study, Mo Xiangbin would have a judgment. Mo Junyu was unwilling to give a one-man show, but Mo Junyang had too many loyal subordinates. In somebody elses mansion, he had to restrain himself even though he was the crown prince. So he let Mo Junyang go. Then he stated at leisure, Junjiu, since you care about the colorful phenix so much, you must be willing to witness its ability to contact the living and dead. It happens that Doctor Shen has a kind of medicine. We dont need to wait twenty-four hours, but we can see the effect immediately after using the medicine. How about we see it together? Then he told Wei Zichao to release Mo Junjiu. Mo Junjiu could move freely and his hands and legs were still numb. He was dumbfounded and obviously didnt expect that his random excuse could convince Mo Junyu. He was still in a daze. Then Shen Luo gave Mo Junyu a small medicine bottle. Mo Junyu waved the medicine bottle at him meaningfully and smiled. This is the magic medicine as Doctor Shen said. There is only one bottle in this world, so it is priceless. Mo Junjiu didnt have extra energy to think about why Mo Junyu told him about this matter. When he saw the medicine bottle, his eyes widened, and he was anxious to rush over and smash this bottle. Mo Junyu seemed not to see the desire in Mo Junjius eyes and asked with a smile, Junjiu, dont you want to stay here because you are curious about the colorful phenix all the time? How about you pour this medicine on it and see what effect it will have? It seemed as if somebody gave him a pillow when he was sleepy. Mo Junjiu nodded hurriedly, even afraid that Mo Junyu would regret. He stepped forward and grabbed the medicine bottle. Nobody stopped him during this period. But when he was about to smash the medicine bottle to the floor, he hesitated. This medicine could only make the colorful phenixs eyes show the murderers appearance in advance. If he smashed the medicine bottle, he couldnt prevent the phenix from revealing the murderer, but he would tell everybody that he was the murderer! Right! This was Mo Junyus scheme. Mo Junyu intentionally showed his weakness and would accuse him after he fell into the trap. Mo Junjiu thought that if his father knew that he had smashed the medicine bottle, it would be useless no matter how he argued. Mo Junjiu said to himself that it was a close call and hurriedly grasped the medicine bottle, but he didnt dare to put forth too much strength, as he was afraid that Mo Junyu purposely made the bottle fragile and it would be crushed easily. Then he couldnt dispute anyway. Mo Junjiu glanced at Mo Junyu evilly and thought, Huh, you want to harm me, but you dont know somebody waits behind to hurt you. This time you give me such a good chance, and I will accept it without hesitation. He turned around and blocked Mo Junyus eyes. In a corner where nobody could see, he took out another medicine bottle from his pocket and replaced the one in his hand quickly. Nobody found that the medicine in his hand was not the magic medicine made by Shen Luo but corpse powder which could make a big bull disappear in a flash. Mo Junjiu walked close to the colorful phenixs carcass again. This time he did it in public. He even saw that when the colorful phenixs carcass disappeared, the complacent faces would become scared and restless. Then there would be no evidence. When he raised his hand and prepared to pour the powder, his wrist was grabbed forcefully all of a sudden and couldnt move a bit. Mo Junjiu immediately realized that he might have been exposed. Then he tried to ruin the colorful phenixs carcass first regardless of anything. However, Wei Zichao had much strength. Even though Mo Junjiu tried to exert all his strength, he couldnt resist, and the other man grabbed the medicine bottle from his hand in an instant. Mo Junjiu shouted in panic, Give it back to me! Then his acupoint was knocked next second, and he couldnt move anymore. Receiving the medicine bottle from Wei Zichao which was different from the one he had given to Mo Junjiu earlier, Mo Junyu laughed again. Junjiu, this time, can I ask what you are going to do? He didnt wait for Mo Junjius answer. Then he handed the medicine bottle to Shen Luo, gesturing for him to check what was in the bottle. Shen Luo smelt the bottle mouth and then came to the conclusion. Corpse powder. Mo Junyu had a bigger smile on his face. I gave you the medicine which could make the colorful phenix reveal the murderer, but you are going to pour corpse powder on its carcass. Gee, you want to ruin the carcass and destroy the evidence! What will you say? The murderer and evidence were found, and he really couldnt argue anymore. Even though Mo Junjiu had a silver tongue, he couldnt explain. Moreover, once he got anxious, he would only roar. Mo Junjiu finally knew this was Mo Junyus way to fool him. Mo Junyu had known that Mo Junjiu had corpse powder but wanted to lure him to take it out and didnt stop him until he was about to pour it on the colorful phenix. Mo Junyu, you are cruel! Mo Junjiu didnt waste his energy to struggle. He glared at Mo Junyu ruthlessly, as if he was going to pounce on the crown prince and bite him to death. Mo Junyu looked innocent and retorted unhurriedly, Junjiu, what you said is surprising. You killed the colorful phenix and then were afraid that you would be exposed. Now you have broken into King Ruis mansion at night and wanted to destroy the carcass, the evidence. Why did you say that I am cruel? Mo Junjiu couldnt outargue Mo Junyu. Then he raised his chin and announced with disdain, So what even if I killed the colorful phenix? I am the empresss son and the whole Liang family is behind me. Father wont do anything to me. Even if there is something wrong, I am sure that you will be the only one who is in trouble! He said that with certainty and seemed to see that Mo Xiangbin wouldnt blame him for the sake of the empress and the Liang family. When the people from the Liang Country came to cause trouble, Mo Xiangbin would still push Mo Junyu out to be the fall guy. He laughed arrogantly and complacently. Mo Junyus face darkened instantly. He didnt laugh anymore. Even if what Mo Junjiu said wouldnt happen, something was true. For example Mo Junyu had no power or strong background, so he would be the first one on Mo Xiangbins victim list. Looking at Mo Junyus dark face, Mo Junjiu laughed more happily. He wanted to attack more after winning but heard a deep roar from outside the door. I dont know that the Liang family is so powerful as to protect a bastard who killed the holy bird and framed his elder brother. It really surprises me! The room door was opened at once, and nobody knew since when Mo Xiangbin stood at the door, with the Empress Dowager Ling Ruiyin and the empress Liang Jingxian who looked terrible standing next to him. Mo Junjius brain exploded in an instant and he was petrified. Even when all people greeted the emperor and the Empress Dowager, he had no reaction. Junjiu, kneel down and kowtow to your father to admit your mistakes. Say that you did something wrong just because you lost your mind! Liang Jingxian hurriedly howled in a low voice and hoped to make Mo Junjiu regain his consciousness. Since she was told to stand outside the door and wait and was not allowed to say anything, she guessed that she couldnt save the situation today, but she didnt expect that her son was stupid to this level. It was fine that he didnt ruin the carcass smoothly, but he said something treacherous in front of Mo Xiangbin on impulse. He just courted death! Mo Xiangbin was furious and felt heartbroken because of Mo Junjius conceited words. How would he care about Liang Jingxians hint? He sneered. Empress, dont need to defend your loved son. Apart from anything else, only tonight, how many chances have I given him to make him stop? However, he didnt stop but even said something atrocious. Your son really widens my horizon! Hearing that, Liang Jingxian trembled and subconsciously wanted to say more, but Mo Xiangbins cold eyes stabbed her and made her feel cold all over. She didnt dare to speak more but had to take the rebuke. Mo Junjiu finally came back to earth, but meeting Mo Xiangbins icy and piercing eyes, he couldnt say anything to admit his fault. He just lowered his head in low spirits. Seeing that, Mo Xiangbin sneered. I think you have nothing to say! Guards, come in! Chapter 204 - Hug Her Tightly A group of guards rushed in and surrounded Mo Junjiu, waiting for Mo Xiangbins order. Mo Xiangbin didnt give anybody a chance to advise him and made a decision. From today on, your title as the third prince is deprived and you will be imprisoned in the Ten-commandment Palace. You cant get out without permission. The Ten-commandment Palace was also called Cold Palace where the emperors concubines would be imprisoned after being abandoned when it was not suitable to put them in prison. It was cheerless and deserted. Shi Qingxue had stayed here for several years. Now there was nobody in the Cold Palace, while Mo Xiangbin put Mo Junjiu inside without hesitation. He didnt even give Mo Junjiu a chance to protest. When the latter was shocked and about to speak, a guard covered his mouth in advance and dragged him away. Liang Jingxian didnt make effort to defend Mo Junjiu but watched him being taken away. All the others kept silent. After a while, Mo Junyu stated, Father, although we have found that Junjiu killed the colorful phenix and tried to destroy its carcass, it would be better not to spread the news. If outsiders know it, the consequences might be unthinkable. Mo Xiangbin was still in a rage and looked at Mo Junyu coldly. He just responded indifferently, I have left this case to you. You handle it. Yes! Mo Junyu replied respectfully. Seeing that Mo Xiangbin turned around and went back to the imperial palace, he showed a smile gradually. When he looked at Mo Junyang again, a calm and grateful expression was shown on his face. Thanks very much, Junyang. Mo Junyang shook his head silently and didnt take credit, but he was not modest. Mo Junyu was used to Mo Junyangs poker face and didnt care. He just asked in confusion, Speaking of which, why do you know that Mo Junjiu would use corpse powder to destroy the evidence? Right, although Mo Junyu was the leading actor in the play, it was Mo Junyang who figured out this way. But Mo Junyu didnt understand how Mo Junyang guessed what was on Mo Junjius mind. You leave first. Mo Junyang didnt answer Mo Junyus question but waved away his subordinates. Only the two were left in the room. Mo Junyang mentioned the hidden trouble casually. Although you exposed Mo Junjiu easily this time and His Majesty imprisoned him, this case is not over yet. You need to be careful, Your Highness. Mo Junyu asked in doubt, Be careful of what? The Liang family Mo Junyang replied three words simply. He pursed his thin lips slightly and pondered for a while before adding, The empress and the families related to the royal family by marriage are entangled. Moreover, Mo Junjiu has prepared for so many years and nobody knows what secrets he has kept. You should be cautious. Hearing that, Mo Junyu just thought that Mo Junyang worried in case the sky should fall, so he expressed complacently, Junyang, this time, you get the news later than I do. What? Mo Junyang was confused. Mo Junyu showed a brighter smile but didnt explain. Instead, he stated arrogantly, Lets have a bet. I bet that even if Mo Junjiu wants to do something, the Liang family wouldnt support him anymore. Believe it or not, he is abandoned. Abandoned? Mo Junyang repeated this word playfully and looked indifferent as always. Nobody could see if he believed Mo Junyus words. He just continued after a while, Your Highness, since you are confident, I wont say more. Its late and cold at night. Please go back home! The next day, the news that the third prince Mo Junjiu was imprisoned spread among all the factions. The reason was unknown. But all people from different factions kept silent in unison surprisingly, as if they got some news. Only Mo Yuzhen was anxious like ants on a hot pan and walked back and forth after hearing the news. She could do nothing but go to the empress Sunshine Palace at last. Mother, what did Junjiu do? Why is he imprisoned? You must help him! Mo Yuzhen was so anxious that she almost shed tears. But Liang Jingxian just sat still in her seat and looked indifferent on her dignified and gentle face, asking in reply, Did you go to the imperial study? Mo Yuzhen was stunned and doubt was written on her face. She didnt understand why Liang Jingxian knew where she had been. But she still answered frankly with tears in her eyes, I wanted to ask Father to show mercy and not to imprison my brother, but Father refused to see me and sent a servant to tell me that if I insist on interceding with him for my brother, I cant see him. Liang Jingxian smiled knowingly and had expected Mo Xiangbin to do that. She stretched out her fair-skinned and slender right hand and held Mo Yuzhens sad face, saying with love, Stupid child, is it your first time to know how cruel your father is? You beg him at this time. Wont you look for trouble? Mo Yuzhen sobbed and managed to stop crying. But shall we ignore my brother? This is not the ordinary punishment but imprisonment. Think it over. Since our country was established, was there any prince imprisoned? If Father refuses to retract his order, Junjius future would be ruined forever! How could a prince have a chance to take the throne after being imprisoned? Liang Jingxian looked sad and sighed helplessly, This is his destiny. What can we do? You Mo Yuzhen paused for a while and looked at Liang Jingxian hesitantly. She finally realized something wrong. As Mo Junjius mother, Liang Jingxian always silently supported Mo Junjiu in fighting for the position of the heir to the throne behind the scenes, but she could be so calm when facing her sons defeat. It was strange! Mother, what are you going to do? Mo Yuzhen asked with hesitation. Liang Jingxian seemed not to notice the enquiry in Mo Yuzhens eyes and withdrew her hand slowly. She cast down her eyes and replied casually, This is your fathers decision. What can I do? But Junjiu Mo Yuzhen got anxious as she saw that Liang Jingxian was so passive. However, Liang Jingxian interrupted her indifferently, I have warned him earlier that he shouldnt be rash, but he acted willfully and even planned to harm the colorful phenix. He just courted death, and I can do nothing. Mo Yuzhen opened her eyes wide and couldnt believe that the woman in front of her was her mother who always loved and indulged her. This woman even said something so heartless. Mo Yuzhen opened her mouth but couldnt make a sound. Under Mo Yuzhens direct glare, Liang Jingxian felt awkward. She coughed and comforted Mo Yuzhen, as if nothing had happened. Well, I know that you feel sad for your brother, but this matter is settled. It is useless no matter how worried you are. You just go back first. Dont need to worry about his case! Mo Yuzhen couldnt be driven away so easily. She refused to move and looked at Liang Jingxian stubbornly, questioning, Mother, what are you going to do to help Junjiu? Liang Jingxian thought, What can I do? I have to let it be. But her daughter would probably go ballistic if she said so, so she responded vaguely, We will figure out a way. Its just a matter of time. Mo Xiangbin was in a rage and wouldnt listen to anybodys advice, but he wouldnt lock up Mo Junjiu in the Cold Palace for a lifetime. He would release Mo Junjiu sooner or later, so they didnt need to be anxious. While speaking, Liang Jingxian thought it was reasonable and nodded seriously. Mother! Mo Yuzhen shouted angrily and looked at Liang Jingxian, with queries in her eyes. This so-called way was equal to abandoning Mo Junjiu. How could it be called a way? Liang Jingxian turned away to avoid seeing Mo Yuzhens face and expressed coldly, I have said what I should and can say. It wont change anything even if you are here. Just go back home now! You have married into the She family, so you are a member of that family. Dont come to the imperial palace frequently if there is no need to. She didnt even want to see Mo Yuzhen. Mo Yuzhen took a big step backward spiritlessly, and her beautiful face with makeup was messy in tears. She put on a smile but looked uglier than when she was crying. Usually, Liang Jingxian might have rushed to hug her loved daughter and comfort her softly and then cut the people who bullied her daughter into pieces. But now, she still sat straight and didnt give a glance at Mo Yuzhen. She turned a blind eye to Yuzhen who was sorrowful. Mo Yuzhen shed tears for a while and soon raised her hand to wipe away the tears from her face. She concealed her frailty. She gazed at Liang Jingxian and asked, stressing each word, Mother, I just ask you for a frank answer. Are you going to abandon my brother? Liang Jingxian didnt say anything, as she admitted everything silently. Mo Yuzhen smiled sadly again. She felt that somebody put some coptis in her mouth, which was unbearably bitter. But she endured the pain in her heart and glanced at Liang Jingxian deeply. Then she turned around and walked out. When she was at the door, she stopped in her tracks. She didnt look back but said sorrowfully, Even after abandoning Junjiu, Father wont agree to let the sixth prince take that position. Liang Jingxian stiffened all of a sudden. She retorted subconsciously, No way. Mo Yuzhen didnt want to explain and left these words before walking out of the empress Sunshine Palace. After leaving the Sunshine Palace, Mo Yuzhen went to Duke Shis mansion. Shi Qingxue was surprised to see Mo Yuzhen and hurriedly took her into the bedroom. She asked in a hurry, Yuzhen, whats wrong with you? Dont frighten me! Although Mo Yuzhen didnt say anything or show any emotion on her face, Shi Qingxue was her best friend for many years and found at a glance that there was something wrong with her. Hearing Qingxues concerned voice, Mo Yuzhen couldnt control herself anymore and rushed into Qingxues arms. She sobbed and couldnt make a sound. Shi Qingxue was tightly hugged by Mo Yuzhen. She wanted to have a look at Yuzhen but couldnt move a bit, so she had to raise her arms and hug back. She soothed Mo Yuzhen gently. What happened? Tell me first, okay? Mo Yuzhen sniffed and managed with effort to stop crying. Then she came out of Shi Qingxues arms. My father imprisoned Junjiu! As soon as she started speaking, she couldnt help crying. Big drops of tears fell down, and she felt so sad. Hearing the news, Shi Qingxue was also astonished and looked at Mo Yuzhen, with worry in her eyes. She knew that Mo Yuzhen was close to Mo Junjiu. Otherwise, with Mo Yuzhens character, she would never have admitted her destiny and married She Changfeng. Now Mo Junjiu was imprisoned, and it was natural that Mo Yuzhen was so sad. But Qingxue pursed her lips and hesitated for a minute. Then she pointed out frankly, The colorful phenix was killed by His Highness. Mo Yuzhen paused for a while and didnt dare to meet Shi Qingxues eyes. She just said ambiguously, Its just a bird. Its no big deal that its dead, but Junjiu is my fathers child. Even a tiger wont eat its cubs. How can my father Before Mo Yuzhen finished her words, her mouth was covered by Qingxue hurriedly. Shi Qingxue looked outside nervously and realized that it was her bedroom and Xia Mang was guarding at the door. Then she breathed a sigh of relief. She looked at Mo Yuzhen seriously and warned her in a deep voice, Yuzhen, you are always more cautious than me and know what you shouldnt say. How can you be brainless on something like this? Mo Yuzhen really couldnt restrain herself. She buried her face in Shi Qingxues arms again and cried in a muffled voice, I know! I know that I will give others a chance to find fault with me. I wont help my brother but would bring trouble on myself. But I have no choice! Qingxue, I have no choice How can I stand by and watch my brother suffer? But I can do nothing to help him! You tell me what I should do? What should I do? Mo Yuzhen cried loudly and couldnt stop. Chapter 205 - Find Fault Shi Qingxue was speechless. She couldnt give the answer Mo Yuzhen wanted. Mo Junjiu ended up like this because he deserved it, and he couldnt blame anybody. But she couldnt say that to Mo Yuzhen. She had to hug her friend tightly like many times in the past when Mo Yuzhen had a grievance but she could do nothing. She just comforted Mo Yuzhen silently. She told Mo Yuzhen with her action, I cant help you, but I will be with you forever. Mo Yuzhen cried for a while. Till her eyes were swollen and her voice was hoarse, she raised her head slowly and sat straight again. Shi Qingxue felt sad to see that the arrogant and beautiful face became haggard. She hurriedly took out her handkerchief and carefully wiped away the tears left on Mo Yuzhens face before pouring a cup of tea for her. Mo Yuzhen was unwilling to open her mouth, so Shi Qingxue made some efforts. She coaxed and cheated Mo Yuzhen, pouring the tea into her mouth. After Yuzhen calmed down a bit, Shi Qingxue asked Dong Shuang to come in, telling her to prepare ice bags and put them on Mo Yuzhens red and swollen eyes. Mo Yuzhen just sat blankly and looked dull, with no reaction. But she saw Shi Qingxues busy work and felt warm in her broken heart. Qingxue, dont do so much for me. I am fine. Mo Yuzhen grabbed Qingxues arm and didnt want to let her go. Shi Qingxue glanced at Mo Yuzhen hesitantly. But your eyes are swollen. If we dont reduce the swelling in time, it would be more obvious tomorrow. Mo Yuzhen shook her head and insisted, I just want to stay with you alone for a while. Under the situation, how would she care if she could show her face? Shi Qingxue could do nothing to Mo Yuzhen and had to sit down. She sat with her quietly, but it was the comfort that Mo Yuzhen most needed. They sat face to face for a long time and then there was a knock on the room door. Xia Mang stated in a low voice outside the door, My Lady, the Empress Dowager summoned you urgently and told you to enter the imperial palace right now. Hearing that, the two girls in the room were surprised and then looked at each other at the same time. After a moments silence, Mo Yuzhen expressed in a hoarse voice, I want to enter the imperial palace, too. Mo Yuzhen was the most favored princess and could enter the imperial palace whenever she wanted to even after she got married, but during the sensitive period, she obviously wanted to see Mo Xiangbin with the excuse of accompanying Shi Qingxue. In another word unpleasant to hear, she wanted to make use of Shi Qingxue. So as soon as she said that, Mo Yuzhen lowered her head with shame, afraid of seeing disdain in Shi Qingxues bright eyes. There was hesitation in Shi Qingxues eyes indeed. She stared at Mo Yuzhen for quite a while and then nodded at last. Okay! Mo Yuzhen raised her head suddenly, as if she didnt believe that Shi Qingxue would agree with her. She would just cause trouble to herself. While Shi Qingxue gave Mo Yuzhen a sweet smile and added frankly, Yuzhen, you and I are like sisters and even closer than sisters. How can I not make your wish come true? Even if this decision might make others get mad at Shi Qingxue, she found it her duty to go forward and not to turn back. Mo Yuzhen couldnt help but have tears in her eyes again, and she sobbed. Qingxue! Shi Qingxue hurriedly held Mo Yuzhens face with both hands and rebuked her seriously, You cant cry. If you cry, I wont take you to the imperial palace. No, I didnt cry. Mo Yuzhen noticed the comfort in Qingxues angry voice and felt warmer. Afterward, she wiped her face in embarrassment and then smiled at Qingxue. Shi Qingxue continued with her straight face, I can take you to the imperial palace, but you must agree to my requirement. Mo Yuzhen nodded in a hurry. I agree. Qingxue couldnt help laughing and then asked helplessly, Dont you ask me what requirement? I wont ask. Anyway you wont hurt me, Mo Yuzhen replied without thinking. Shi Qingxue felt warm yet with a heavy heart. After thinking it over, she warned Mo Yuzhen seriously, Since you know that I wont hurt you, promise me that you must act cautiously after entering the imperial palace, and dont behave recklessly. Dont ask His Majesty to show mercy to His Highness as soon as you see him, okay? Mo Yuzhen was seen through and redness rose to her face from her neck. She lowered her head and pondered for a minute. Then she nodded to assure Qingxue. She expressed cautiously, too, Okay. I promise you that I wont be impulsive after seeing my father or get you into trouble. Shi Qingxue opened her mouth and wanted to say that she was not afraid that Mo Yuzhen would get her into trouble, but she feared that Mo Yuzhen would bring trouble on herself yet couldnt save Mo Junjiu. However, it was better that Mo Yuzhen had scruple than that she acted rashly. Then she didnt explain but suggested, So lets enter the imperial palace. Shi Qingxue told Dong Shuang to prepare a carriage and ordered Xia Mang to put on make-up for Mo Yuzhen. After everything was finished, they went into the carriage and headed to the imperial palace. On the way, Mo Yuzhen looked at Shi Qingxue several times and wanted to say something but stopped herself. Shi Qingxue sighed helplessly and asked, Do you want to ask why Her Majesty told me to enter the imperial palace? Mo Yuzhen nodded in an instant, with a complicated expression of envy or jealousy. But she brought up another subject in a low voice. Grandma is so nice to you and will think of you no matter what happens. Not to mention why Ling Ruiyin told Shi Qingxue to enter the imperial palace, the single summons was enough to show Shi Qingxues importance to Ling Ruiyin. Yes? Shi Qingxue asked in reply coldly. Meeting Mo Yuzhens doubtful eyes, Shi Qingxue didnt plan to explain. She continued the last subject. If I guess correctly, Her Majesty summoned me because of the colorful phenixs case. She has told me before. Under the situation, the news that the colorful phenix has died cant be hidden, and the people from the Liang, Zhao and Wei Countries wont let it go at that! The colorful phenix was given by the people from the east to my father. What does it have to do with them? Why would they comment? Mo Yuzhen still didnt understand the relationship between the two. Shi Qingxue glanced at her helplessly and told her about the obvious reason. The colorful phenix is the holy bird and symbol of the Qin Continent since ancient times. Now there is a superior, Holy Monarch Zhou above His Majesty. Do you think that the other three countries would stand by and watch our country take the holy bird without sharing with them even if Holy Monarch Zhou doesnt say anything? The one who got the holy bird would control the world. Even if he didnt have the strength to conquer the world, it would be nice to use the colorful phenix to guide the people. Mo Yuzhen still didnt understand and stated in confusion, Even so, now the colorful phenix has died, and it would be pointless no matter how they fight. To put it bluntly, she still didnt know why Mo Xiangbin made such a fuss about a dead bird. Shi Qingxue was not in the mood to roll her eyes this time and asked in depression, The holy bird was poisoned to death. Do you think they would give up easily as we made such a big mistake? Mo Yuzhen was speechless and couldnt say anything to retort. Right, if she knew somebody made a mistake, she would surely take the chance and cause trouble. Then Grandma summoned you Probably the people from the Liang Country came to find fault again. The servant who was told to send the message took Shi Qingxue and Mo Yuzhen into the imperial study. Yel Anchen from the Liang Country and Zhao Haoran from the Zhao Country were standing inside. They were at daggers drawn, and crises lurked in four corners. Mo Xiangbin didnt even pay attention to Mo Yuzhen who shouldnt come. He just pulled a long face and asked indifferently, Prince Yel, you came to visit our country but insulted the emperor and officials of our country repeatedly. I am afraid that it will harm the diplomatic relation between the two countries. Shi Qingxue secretly observed the reactions of the people present. It must be that Yel Anchen had said something arrogantly once more and irritated Mo Xiangbin. Yel Anchen didnt care about the so-called diplomatic relation. He raised his chin with disdain and responded coldly, The colorful phenix belongs to the whole Qin Continent, but you want to occupy it. Now you blame me as I ruin the diplomatic relation between the two countries, Your Majesty. Why? When did I say that I would occupy the colorful phenix? Prince, dont slander me. Mo Xiangbin had to say so under the circumstances. Yel Anchen then asked, Your Majesty, why dont you want us to see the colorful phenix? Speaking of which, Prince Haoran and I havent seen its true colors, right? Zhao Haoran might be the one who didnt care about the legend of the colorful phenix at all, and he came here only because Yel Anchen insisted on asking him to. He was asked all of a sudden and felt confused. Then he echoed Yel Anchen and nodded. Since we have come, we should have a look at the colorful phenix before leaving. Mo Xiangbins back stiffened and he looked at Mo Junyang automatically, but soon he sat straight and declared in a dignified manner, The colorful phenix is unwell and cant see any guest. Gee, you said the same to us before, and now you still want to fool us with this excuse. Yel Anchen stared at Mo Xiangbin sternly and meaningfully. Was the colorful phenix in an accident? Of course not! Mo Xiangbin denied firmly. In that case, please let us see the colorful phenix, Your Majesty. Otherwise, we came on behalf of our kings but cant even see it in the end. How would we explain to our kings after going back? These words showed what was on Zhao Haorans mind, so he echoed, Anyway, we have to see the so-called holy bird with our own eyes, so that we can report back. Mo Xiangbin lied boldly, but in fact, how would he have the colorful phenix to show them? He couldnt tell somebody to carry the stiff carcass and show it to them. He was in an emergency but could do nothing, and he couldnt ask Mo Junyang for help. Yel Anchen was more aggressive and continued to push him. Even if the colorful phenix is in poor health, we wont take it away. We just want to see it for once. Can we make the holy bird die after seeing it? He intentionally stressed the word die to remind Mo Xiangbin that he had known the fact that the colorful phenix had died. Mo Xiangbin was more restless after this glance and thought of the requirements Yel Anchen had mentioned. Maybe, maybe such requirements were not harsh, and he When Mo Xiangbin was almost about to give in, a clear and impassive voice cut in. Prince Yel, you also know how respectable the holy bird is. If you want to see it, you should naturally choose a lucky day first. All people moved their eyes and at last looked at the door. Shi Qingxue was standing there. Yel Anchen got angry as soon as he saw Shi Qingxue. He left what he prepared to say behind and shouted at her in a fret, Who are you? Do you have a say here? He provoked Shi Qingxue with disdain and thought he was superior. But after he said that, the others fell into weird silence again. Even though Yel Anchen was careless, he noticed something wrong. But he didnt understand why. He still asked, Did I say something wrong? He provoked Shi Qingxue in front of Mo Junyang. Wasnt he afraid that he would be taken down by Mo Junyang? All the onlookers silently prayed for Yel Anchen. Shi Qingxue remained good-tempered and smiled. She didnt mind Yel Anchens provocation. She retorted indifferently, I know that I am inferior to you, but the colorful phenixs identity is obvious and nobody can belittle it. Or do you think that its no big deal if you belittle the colorful phenix, Your Highness? Yel Anchen didnt take the colorful phenix seriously and was about to answer without hesitation, Of course Wu Yalei hurriedly grabbed their prince and shouted more loudly than him, Of course not! He complained in his heart. Shi Qingxue just said something to lure them to get hooked. Yel Anchen was impulsive and would say something wrong accidentally to give others a chance to find fault. Wu Yalei had to resist Yel Anchens eyes which would eat him and bite the bullet to interrupt, You said that you would let us see the colorful phenix at His Majestys birthday party, but we didnt see it that day. Who knows if you mentioned the so-called lucky day just to be offhand with us again? If you say that the lucky day would be in next year, wont you just temporize obviously? Chapter 206 - The Colorful Phenix Dances Lord Wu, you worry too much. Our country is fortunate as the colorful phenix shows up, and this is a great event once in thousands of years, so we dont dare to neglect it, Shi Qingxue answered in a warm voice. Yel Anchen stated impatiently, Cut the crap. You just tell me directly when you can let me see the colorful phenix. Seeing that Yel Anchen was distracted by Shi Qingxue and didnt mention that the colorful phenix had died, Mo Xiangbin was overjoyed and still wanted to temporize. Prince, calm down. I can let you see the colorful phenix sooner or later, but before we choose a lucky day, we need the Bureau of Astronomy to ask God. We cant be rash. How about you Yel Anchen snorted and asked straightforwardly, Your Majesty, do you think we are idiots and easy to fool? I tell you. If we cant get the information about seeing the colorful phenix, we wont go back today! Wu Yalei nodded in a hurry and prevented Mo Xiangbin from saying the next reason. If you really need to ask God, just tell the people from the Bureau of Astronomy to come now. It wont take a lot of time, right? Mo Xiangbin had no room for maneuver and was speechless again. Shi Qingxue immediately replied, Prince Yel, Prince Haoran, please dont be anxious. His Majesty certainly doesnt want to waste your valuable time, so he has told the director of the Bureau of Astronomy earlier to ask God and predict, but the message hasnt been sent here. After speaking, she paused for a while and looked at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang understood and nodded at her. Then he turned around and walked outside. Xia Mang was waiting outside. Seeing Mo Junyang, she secretly put a note in his hand. Mo Junyang opened it and frowned after seeing the words on the note. He stood there for a long while. Mo Xiangbin didnt know what would happen, and he was anxious and confused. He couldnt help but shout, Junyang. Mo Junyang conveniently screwed up the note and put it in his sleeve before returning to the imperial study. Meeting Mo Xiangbins nervous eyes, Mo Junyang said casually, The Bureau of Astronomy has predicted, and the result comes out. The noon tomorrow is the best time to worship the colorful phenix. Everyone, if you want to see its true colors, you can come to the imperial garden at noon tomorrow. Then you will know what it looks like. As the first reaction, Yel Anchen thought it was impossible and Mo Junyang was lying. Seeing that the people from the Mo Country didnt turn back unless knocking into the wall, Yel Anchen didnt hide anymore. He shouted directly, The colorful phenix was killed by you, but you said without shame that we could see it tomorrow. Do you think that we can be fooled easily? What? The colorful phenix has died? Zhao Haoran asked loudly in surprise and could hardly accept the change. Yel Anchen nodded and raised his chin at Mo Junyang with provocation. Right, the colorful phenix was killed by the people from the Mo Country. They desecrate the holy bird and try to hide it from us. They just dont take us seriously Prince Yel, please speak with caution, Mo Junyang indifferently interrupted Yel Anchen. He was not afraid of Yel Anchen and continued coldly, The holy bird is raised well in my mansion. You have never seen it, but you talked about its life and death groundlessly. Its fine if its true, but if the colorful phenix is in an accident because of your indiscreet remarks, perhaps you cant take the responsibility. You! Yel Anchen hadnt expected that Mo Junyang would put the blame on him with just a few words. He was scared and furious. But he was clumsy and unable to retort, so he was going to lose temper. Wu Yalei took the risk once more that Yel Anchen would get back at him later and stepped forward to grab their princes arm, interrupting, Your Excellency, you spoke so strongly. Its just that our prince is worried after hearing that the colorful phenix was killed, so he asked. After all, you always hide it and dont let us see it. Its no wonder that we would have this suspicion. Mo Junyang didnt mind and expressed, We will know the truth tomorrow. You cant wait one day, everyone? Yel Anchen couldnt even wait fifteen minutes longer, but Wu Yalei tried hard to hint him from behind, so this prince had to cease fire. He waved his sleeves and left even without saying goodbye to Mo Xiangbin. However, Mo Xiangbin and Ling Ruiyin in the imperial study sighed with relief in unison and didnt pay attention to the trifle. They just asked Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang, How could you agree to let them see the colorful phenix? Shi Qingxue comforted them, Your Majesties, Yel Anchen already knows that the colorful phenix has died, and it will be pointless if we try to cheat them. Instead, it would only make the people from the other two countries believe his words. Under the situation, we can make them shut up only after showing them the colorful phenix. Mo Xiangbin had a headache and asked anxiously, But the colorful phenix has died. What can we show him tomorrow? Didnt they dig their own graves? No. I can let them see the flying colorful phenix tomorrow. Shi Qingxue showed certainty on her face and was determined to make it. Mo Xiangbin was joyful, but soon he was in doubt. The colorful phenix was not any other bird, and they couldnt find a similar one randomly to cheat them. Even though they could fool Yel Anchen and the others who had never seen the colorful phenix, they couldnt capture a parrot or mynah and say that it was the colorful phenix. Can you make the colorful phenix come back to life? Mo Xiangbin looked at Shi Qingxue doubtfully. Shi Qingxue smiled and shook her head, but she didnt explain. She just said in a low voice, Your Majesty, dont worry. With His Excellencys help, we wont let you down. As he heard Mo Junyangs name, more trust was shown in Mo Xiangbins eyes. But he still asked Ling Ruiyin cautiously, Mother, whats your opinion? I specially told Qingxue to come because I know that she can share your worries. Just leave this matter to the young generation. Hearing that, Mo Xiangbin didnt say more. This case is related to our countrys safety. I will leave it to you. Dont disappoint me! After telling them everything relevant, Mo Xiangbin supported Ling Ruiyins arm and went to her residence. From beginning to end, he didnt give a glance at Mo Yuzhen. Mo Yuzhen didnt plead him unexpectedly but remained silent all the time. She was unusually quiet. After a while, she asked Shi Qingxue in a deep voice, Was everything caused by my brother? The Liang Country pushed hard and almost forced Mo Xiangbin into despair. And the Zhao Country and Wei Country cast covetous eyes from behind, ready for any fight. Before that, Mo Yuzhen didnt expect that the colorful phenixs life and death were so significant. She even thought that her father made a fuss about it. But now she couldnt say that. After asking, Mo Yuzhen even felt too ashamed to demand an answer from Shi Qingxue. As soon as she finished her words, she lowered her head and left with shame. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang were left, standing face to face. Shi Qingxue tried to be the first to speak. I didnt want to get involved, but the Empress Dowager told me to do so. She has said that she hopes I can figure out a way to show the colorful phenix to the public for a short while. I cant disobey her order. She blinked to show that she was innocent. Mo Junyang pursed his lips all the time. Hearing Shi Qingxues explanation, he looked calm after being angry and just asked, Whats your solution for tomorrow? Gee? You dont have a solution? Shi Qingxue tilted her head in doubt and asked in reply, Why did you agree with me just now? Shi Qingxue thought that they could cooperate with a tacit understanding because Mo Junyang had a solution and echoed her. Mo Junyang looked indifferent and just stared at Shi Qingxue, without explaining or speaking. Shi Qingxue met his eyes for a minute and then looked away awkwardly. She lowered her head and asked in a muffled voice, What do you mean? Mo Junyang was unable to reply. He couldnt explain to her that it was because he trusted and indulged her unconditionally. He looked down and saw Qingxues spinous hair stick. Mo Junyang couldnt help but raise his hand. When he was about to put it on Qingxues head, he restrained his urge to rub her hair. Then he withdrew his hand. He asked to evade the crucial point, What do I need to do tomorrow? At the mention of the issue tomorrow, Shi Qingxue was distracted at once and looked serious, responding, I need a person with skillful martial arts to help me do something, and then At noon next day, the envoys from the Liang, Zhao and Wei countries gathered in the imperial garden and waited for the colorful phenix to show up. Shi Qingxue asked everybody to sit in the seats in the north of the imperial garden and then told some people to carry the bird cage to the platform, away from the crowd. The bird cage was still covered with a black heavy cloth and nobody could see what was inside. Then more than ten servants ran to cover around the platform with a big black cloth. It was more than one meter high. Even though the auditoria were tall, all people sat there and couldnt see clearly what was around the platform. Yel Anchen instantly protested, Didnt you say that you would show the colorful phenix to us? Now it is surrounded, and what can we see? Will we hear you chirp like a bird? He thought that Shi Qingxue planned to make a bird chirp several times to fool them, so he exposed her without mercy. Shi Qingxue wasnt nervous but mentioned the Bureau of Astronomy as the excuse again, saying, This is what the Bureau of Astronomy asked us to do. Anyway, the colorful phenix is the holy bird and we certainly should be careful, right? Yel Anchen couldnt outargue Shi Qingxue and became angry from shame. He put down the cup heavily and said coldly, Huh, I am going to see what trick you can play. Dont think that I have never seen the colorful phenix so you can fool me. I have read the book About the Qin Continent carefully, and it mentions the colorful phenixs appearance and habits clearly. They randomly caught a pheasant and tried to say that it was a phenix, but he could not be fooled so easily. Shi Qingxue shrugged and winked at Mo Junyang. The latter nodded and summoned Wei Zichao before whispering in his ear. Wei Zichao listened to the order with a straight face, and his expression didnt change. The others couldnt guess what Mo Junyang had told him from his face. After that, Wei Zichao found two powerful and burly men dressed in black clothes and told them to stand on both sides of the bird cage. Loud music suddenly appeared and resounded in the platform, coming into all peoples ears. All of them seemed to hear a bird dancing in the enthusiastic performance around the platform. The sun hung in the sky at noon. It was dazzling and scorching. A lot of people sat in the stands. Even though there were umbrellas above their heads, affected by the loud sound, they got impatient inevitably under the sun. Even Mo Xiangbin couldnt help but ask Shi Qingxue, When will the colorful phenix come out? Chapter 207 - A Ray of Light Goes to the Sky Mo Xiangbin just finished his words. A hurried and sharp chirp suddenly appeared, and all people watched a ray of bright and colorful light rush out of the bird cage quickly. It made a beautiful arc on the platform and flew over it, and then it slowly fell on a tall bodhi tree at the other end of the platform. Then it disappeared. Its the colorful phenix! Somebody in the crowd shouted, and then all people had reactions gradually. But they still looked dull and hadnt come back to earth from the wonderful view. They mumbled involuntarily, How fantastic! Even the people from the Mo Country who knew that the colorful phenix had died couldnt help but rub their eyes after seeing that. They couldnt believe that the colorful phenix was still alive. After a long time, Yel Anchen finally came to his senses and didnt forget to stretch out his neck to check the bird cage, hoping to see the wonderful view once more. However, after Shi Qingxue told some people to take away the black cloths outside the bird cage and the platform, the scene didnt show up again. The bird cage was empty, and the colorful phenix had flown away. Yel Anchen didnt believe it and asked, Where is the colorful phenix? Of course it has flown away. Didnt you see it? Shi Qingxue answered in an instant. No! I have seen that the colorful phenix fell on that bodhi tree. Do you want to keep it in your country? Yel Anchen pushed hard and demanded Shi Qingxue to show them the colorful phenix. Seeing is believing. At the moment, he finally believed that the colorful phenix was still alive, and he just wondered how to get it so that he wouldnt let his brother down. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue blinked in surprise and asked in reply, Prince, didnt you say that you have read the book About the Qin Continent? Why dont you know that the colorful phenix flies after entering the nirvana realm? What? Yel Anchen certainly had never read such a boring book. What he knew about the colorful phenix came from Lord Yings instruction and the legend which was often heard and well remembered. He didnt know about the nirvana at all. Then Shi Qingxue took out a book About the Qin Continent and put it in front of Yel Anchen, turning the pages to the chapter of The Colorful Phenix, Nirvana and Rebirth. She pointed at the sentences on it and read every word, The colorful phenix shows up rarely, once in one thousand years. Now it has been in the world for more than ten years and made the countries and people peaceful, with a lot of contributions. At noon on the tenth day of Lunar August, its nirvana becomes a beam of colorful light and goes back to heaven After she finished reading, she explained as she saw the others confused expression, Today is the tenth day of Lunar August and the time for the colorful phenix to fly to heaven as the nirvana. Didnt you see that it became a beam of colorful light and flew to the sky? But its said in the book that one thousand years ago, the colorful phenix went to heaven after being in the world for more than ten years. However, this time, only two or three months passed since the colorful phenix was found. How can it become nirvana so soon? Its just that your country wants to occupy the colorful phenix, and you hide it intentionally. Yel Anchen didnt know about these records in the book About the Qin Continent and thought that there was something wrong by instinct. Shi Qingxue was evasive and responded simply, We found the colorful phenix not long ago, but it doesnt mean that it just arrived at the Qin Continent, right? However, you have seen that the colorful phenix became a ray of light and flew to the sky, and it is true. If you dont believe me, you can go to look for it under the bodhi tree and check if it is hidden in the tree by us. She spoke calmly and even stepped aside to make the opposite big bodhi tree exposed in Yel Anchens eyes. Seeing that, Yel Anchen was hesitant and asked, Who knows if you secretly sent people to hide in the tree and conceal the colorful phenix when it stopped there for a rest? Shi Qingxue expressed that she couldnt make it as Yel Anchen guessed. Although the bodhi tree was tall and big and could cover all the sky, its trunk was straight and if somebody was hiding in it, he couldnt flee secretly under all peoples eyes. Obviously, Yel Anchen knew this point and was rendered speechless by Shi Qingxue. But he was reluctant! Flying to heaven must be a lie. He turned to Wu Yalei, and the latter stepped forward, saying, Lady Qingxue, since you have said that we can check the bodhi tree, then we will do as you say. Shi Qingxue frowned slightly and didnt expect that Wu Yalei was so persistent, but she didnt refuse his request. She moved one step backward and made way, with a gesture to invite him. Help yourselves. Wu Yalei was not as confident as before after seeing Shi Qingxues calmness. He believed that the colorful phenix must have been hidden in some place, and at the same time he thought that Shi Qingxue was so calm and wouldnt give them a chance to find the evidence against her. With hesitation, Wu Yalei led some people to walk along the path that the colorful phenix had passed and then circled around the bodhi tree. And he even told somebody to fly to the tree and check for quite a while. Then Wu Yalei came back slowly and reported to Yel Anchen, with a grim face. Your Highness What? Have you found the colorful phenix? Before Wu Yalei finished his words, Yel Anchen asked in a hurry. We have checked everywhere that the colorful phenix might be hidden, but Wu Yalei paused for a minute. He spoke out his conclusion helplessly. But we found nothing. No way! The colorful phenix must be hidden somewhere! Yel Anchen didnt have any evidence but insisted that the people in the Mo Country had hidden the colorful phenix. Then he declared that he would send more people to search more places. Under the situation, not only the people from the Mo Country thought that Yel Anchen was unreasonable, but Zhao Haoran also got impatient. The ins and outs are mentioned in the book About the Qin Continent, but you repeatedly doubt that His Majesty has hidden the colorful phenix, while you cant show any evidence, Prince. I am afraid that others would think that you have some plots. Yel Anchen jumped as if somebody stepped on his tail. I just worry that somebody wants to privately take possession of the colorful phenix. What plot can I have? Prince Haoran, arent you afraid that something like this would happen? Zhao Haoran kept silent for a while. He wasnt afraid at all. Especially after he saw the amazing scene that the colorful phenix flew to heaven as the nirvana, his only thought was that he had finished his job. I just believe what I have seen. Just now all of us saw that the colorful phenix became a beam of light and flew to the sky. What should we worry about? Zhao Haorans tone was cold and he just temporized. He didnt want to go along with Yel Anchen in the evil deeds. No matter how aggressive Yel Anchen was, he couldnt be too reckless under peoples watchful eyes. Yel Anchen got furious and waved his sleeves to leave once more. Zhao Haoran also stood up and bowed to Mo Xiangbin. Your Majesty, I came to your country under orders to celebrate your birthday and to see the legendary holy bird, the colorful phenix. Now I have achieved both goals. Please allow me to return to the Zhao Country with the envoys. Mo Xiangbin wanted Zhao Haoran to leave quickly, so he agreed at once and gave a lot of gifts to this prince and Wei Shuye who also asked to return home. As soon as the outsiders left, Mo Xiangbin couldnt wait to summon Shi Qingxue. He asked in a hurry, Qingxue, where is the colorful phenix? Where did you hide it? Your Majesty, the colorful phenixs carcass is still in King Ruis mansion, and we didnt bring it here, Shi Qingxue answered honestly. She thought, If we brought the colorful phenixs carcass here openly, wouldnt we give Yel Anchen a chance to question us? But Mo Xiangbin didnt believe her and stated, There is no outsider here. Dont cheat me, Qingxue. You have obviously saved the colorful phenix. Let it out quickly! I didnt cheat you. The colorful phenix has died, and you have seen it, Your Majesty. Why Shi Qingxue was more puzzled than Mo Xiangbin. At that time, Mo Xiangbin had personally sent somebody to check the colorful phenixs carcass, but why did he think that it was still alive like Yel Anchen did? But just now you Mo Xiangbin didnt finish his words and showed a doubtful expression. Just now all people had seen the colorful phenix fly out of the bird cage to the bodhi tree. Shi Qingxue couldnt help laughing and then explained helplessly, Your Majesty, you have misunderstood. That was only a small trap. I just read the story about the colorful phenixs nirvana one thousand years ago from the chapter of The Colorful Phenix in About the Qin Continent, so I was inspired and figured out a way to make everybody think that the colorful phenix flew to heaven as nirvana on the tenth day of Lunar August once more. Then what did we see just now? Even though Shi Qingxue made it clear, Mo Xiangbin still hoped. Maybe the colorful phenix was still alive. There was no colorful phenix just now. What you saw was just a ray of colorful light. Ling Ruiyin thought back and nodded, It was a ray of colorful light indeed, but wasnt it the colorful light that the colorful phenix became after its nirvana? Of course not. It was just the water light that I asked Wei Zichao to make with a skill. Shi Qingxue revealed the fact, but all the others present except Mo Junyang were still confused. She couldnt explain it clearly, so she had to ask Wei Zichao to arrange the platform again. Music appeared again and everything was like before. Then a chirp rushed to the sky, and all peoples eyes focused on the bird cage covered with black cloths again. Next second, another beam of colorful light shot to the sky from the bird cage. Something more magic happened. This time, the colorful light didnt disappear but stopped in the high sky all the time and made a beautiful and colorful arc. Wow! All people exclaimed again and looked at the colorful light, unable to take their eyes off it. Then Shi Qingxue told the servants to turn off the music. Everybody still stared at the colorful light for a while. Suddenly somebody found something wrong. Ling Ruiyin turned her head and looked around. Then she listened carefully before asking in confusion, Why is there water sound? Have you heard it? Others nodded one after another, showing that they also heard the strange sound. Shi Qingxue told somebody to take away the black heavy cloth. And what happened on the platform could be seen in a glance. Wei Zichao stood next to the bird cage with a long water tube in his hand. The water sprayed out of the tube, and the so-called colorful light was added on the mark of the water. How is it like this? Ling Ruiyin marveled at it. All people understood that after the mystery was revealed that the colorful phenix became the light, and it was just the inconspicuous water light. If Shi Qingxue hadnt intentionally played the loud and exciting music, it might have been exposed as soon as the water sound appeared. But why was the water light colorful? Shi Qingxue smiled slyly and pointed to the sun at noon. Because of the sunshine. When the sun is burning after the rain, we can occasionally see the colorful rainbow. Its mysterious and attractive, regarded as the good omen. But when I was a child, my grandpa took me into the deep mountains to exercise, and I once saw a colorful rainbow which lasted for a long time under a waterfall because the waterfall fell with its back to the sun and the reflected sunshine formed a beam of beautiful and colorful light. So I asked Wei Zichao to make the water pillar shot opposite to the sun with his internal force. Under the scorching sun, the scene was formed before your eyes. All people finally showed that they were suddenly enlightened and clapped to praise Shi Qingxue for her wisdom as she could think of such a wonderful way to make the false impression that the colorful phenix flew to heaven as nirvana. You deserve to be Elder Duke Shis most loved granddaughter. Your courage and intelligence just take after him! Shi Qingxue just saved Mo Xiangbin from embarrassment, so he was generous to highly praise her and then gave her lots of gifts for girls. Afterward, he paid her a high compliment. Shi Qingxue was modest and didnt take the credit for herself. She said that it was the ancestors idea and she just borrowed it. Ling Ruiyin grabbed Qingxues hand with satisfaction and complimented, Dont be modest. Even if something like this happened in the past, why didnt others figure out such a way? Girl, you didnt let me down! Your Majesty, thanks for your words. Shi Qingxue scratched her hair with shyness. Shi Qingxue gave a play about the colorful phenix flying to heaven as nirvana and concealed the fact that it had been poisoned to death. Yel Anchen planned to find fault but couldnt make it, so he had to endure it. After the people from the Zhao Country and the Wei Country returned home, he had to go back to his country resentfully with the envoys. Before leaving, he specially went to King Ruis mansion and spoke to Mo Junyang cruelly. Mo Junyang, wait and see. I will make you suffer a living death sooner or later. Mo Junyang ignored him and turned around to return to his room. Qu Yuebai was afraid that the prince would go crazy after seeing him so furious, so he said something pleasant to hear and sent him away. Yel Anchen returned without accomplishing anything, so he hated Mo Junyang and even all people from the Mo Country and swore that he would destroy this country someday. Nobody knew how much trouble he would cause in the future. Chapter 208 - The Mid-autumn Festival On the fifteenth day of Lunar August, it was the Mid-autumn Festival. The Mo Country had just escaped from a great disaster, so the emperor was overjoyed. Mo Xiangbin held a dinner party in the imperial garden and invited the noblemen and officials in the capital city to attend with their families. Shi Qingxue did a brilliant feat for the colorful phenixs case, and Mo Xiangbin specially invited her to join the party. She enjoyed the glory and had to come. However, she didnt feel happy at all. It was time for family reunion on the Mid-autumn Day, but Shi Junhe was told to lead the army personally to suppress the revolt in Yang City in the south and hadnt returned home. The celebration and cheerfulness in the courtyard of Duke Shis mansion were in sharp contrast to the silence of the first masters family. How could Shi Qingxue be happy? If it werent for Dong Hui feeling unwell, Shi Qingxue even wanted to go to see his father instead of attending such a boring party. Girl, you are a good talker with a silver tongue. Why dont you want to contact others? Dong Hui reached out her hand and poked her daughters forehead. She didnt care about Qingxues complaint. Shi Qingxue pouted and retorted, How did you say that? Look, how close I am to Yuzhen, and the fourth lady of the Feng family, and Leng Jing She mentioned all the ladies she contacted frequently to show that she wasnt asocial. Dong Hui frowned more and was disappointed at her passivity. Whats the point of making friends with them? Havent you seen that the fourth prince has gained power recently? Your younger uncle tries hard to find a way to flatter him these days. Didnt you keep a good relationship with him in the past? Why do you stay away from him now all of a sudden? Whats his good point? Why would I keep a good relationship with him? Shi Qingxue retorted subconsciously. Why? Didnt you call him brother in the past? Even if you love Thinking that Shi Qingxue kept her distance from Mo Junyang obviously these days, Dong Hui didnt mention his name. But she spared no effort to make a match for Shi Qingxue and Mo Junhao. In the past, Dong Hui didnt like Mo Junhao because she was na?ve and didnt know the importance of power in hand. She thought that only depending on Shi Junhes love and guilt for her, she could be undefeatable in Duke Shis mansion. But this large mansion was womens world. Shi Junhe was busy at work and would be on the battlefield everywhere all year round. When something happened to her sometimes, wouldnt her husband be powerless? In the end, she had to depend on herself and her daughters who shared destiny with her. Shi Qingxue couldnt answer Dong Huis question as she didnt know why she suddenly felt disgusted with Mo Junhao. However, the fact was obvious, and she didnt like Mo Junhao. It seemed that every part of her body was rejecting a worm which looked gentle and harmless but was vicious indeed. Mother, stop. In the past, I was ignorant so I didnt know about the distance between men and women and didnt pay attention to it. Something like this wont happen in the future. Shi Qingxue stopped Dong Huis imagination. She told her mother straightforwardly that it was impossible that she would be with Mo Junhao. Dong Hui didnt know what Shi Qingxue was thinking about and thought the girl was shy, so she said with a smile, Stupid girl, what are you talking about? You and the fourth prince are distant relatives. Its always good to keep in touch with the relatives. Havent you seen that your aunt always takes Baoyou to the fourth princes mansion recently? She must covet the position of his wife. Shi Qingxue looked down and didnt give a response. She felt unhappy. Dong Hui didnt realize it and talked endlessly. In the past, your grandma always hoped to make a match for you and the fourth prince, so you should consider it. If you are Mother! Shi Qingxue couldnt help but interrupt Dong Hui. Meeting Dong Huis astonished eyes, she didnt avoid them and stressed each word. Dont bother about it. Its impossible for me to marry Mo Junhao. She didnt even address her mother respectfully as she didnt want to hide her hate for Mo Junhao. Dong Hui still wanted to persuade her, but she held back what she was going to say as she saw the impatience on her daughters face. The mother knew best about her daughter. Shi Qingxue was tough and even Shi Junhe might be unable to persuade her if she made a decision, so it was useless to advise her. Dong Hui had to say, Forget it. Lets stop talking about this matter. His Majesty will hold a dinner party tonight and your grandma, Baoning and all the third masters family will attend. You cant be naughty. Just join it. Do you hear me? Shi Qingxue lowered her head and answered powerlessly, I see. Be careful at home. If there is something, just tell Mammy Zheng to do it. Protect the baby. Dong Hui was pregnant for less than three months. Moreover, she was at an advanced maternal age, in poor health. Even if she stayed at home every day, there was a risk that she might have a miscarriage. Shi Qingxue would worry if Dong Hui was at home alone, but if she refused to join the party She didnt need to think about it. Shi Qingxue told Dong Hui to be careful for a long time. Dong Hui felt warm and meanwhile thought her daughter too wordy. She pushed Shi Qingxue out and told Shi Baoning who was next to them, Take her away at once. She is so wordy even before she gets married. Who would dare to marry her? Mother! Shi Qingxue called loudly with displeasure and thought that her kindness was wasted totally. At the same time, Shi Baoning tried to hold back her laughter. She grabbed Shi Qingxues arm and stopped her from saying more. And she nodded at Dong Hui and promised, Okay, I will take her away immediately, and she wont annoy you. Shi Qingxue blushed with shyness as Shi Baoning echoed Dong Hui. She knew that she might have talked much and didnt like what she was normally, but it was because she was worried as Dong Hui was not in a good state these days. However, these people didnt thank her, so she got mad. Qingxue walked into the carriage in a rage and found a seat in a corner, without giving a glance at Shi Baoning. Seeing that, Shi Baoning couldnt help but show a relieved smile. It seemed great when Shi Qingxue was like this. After Shi Qingxue lost temper for a while, the silent treatment couldnt go on anymore. Anybody would be terrified when he was stared in this way. Then she turned to Shi Baoning. She frowned and asked awkwardly, Baoning, whats wrong with you? Shi Baoning paused for a while and her dignified and kind face looked unnatural, but soon she controlled herself. She showed Qingxue a gentle smile with love and replied casually, Nothing. Its just that I havent seen you lose temper since long ago, so I was in a daze. Shi Qingxue looked embarrassed and was open-mouthed. She didnt know how to reply and just turned away in embarrassment, murmuring, I didnt lose temper. Shi Baoning smiled and didnt say more. In fact, she didnt speak out all that was on her mind. After Shi Qingxue was poisoned, Shi Baoning could hardly remain calm but felt guilty. She even thought that she would lose Shi Qingxue, her good sister. Not until then did she realize that her jealousy was insignificant, not worth mentioning when they faced death. Even though her sister was detoxified and recovered later, she didnt dare to hope that Qingxue could live and joke with her like before, as if nothing had happened. She got what was an extravagant hope to her all of a sudden, and no wonder she would show a doubtful expression. Shi Qingxue didnt know about anything. She was forced to attend the dinner party, so she wasnt in the mood to chat with others. She sat in her seat and felt bored while listening to music and watching the performance. Occasionally she looked at the colorful lanterns hung around. She planned to avoid talking with others and kill time for the night. Qingxue, you seem to be bored. How about letting me enjoy the lanterns with you, so that we wont waste the full moon and beautiful scenery tonight? Mo Junhao walked to Shi Qingxue and invited her gracefully. It seemed that he didnt expect that Shi Qingxue might refuse him. Did Shi Qingxue want to enjoy the lanterns with Mo Junhao? Of course she didnt want to! She even found an excuse that she didnt want to walk as her leg hurt. Mo Junhao said first, My father said that your contributions cant go unnoticed as he could deal with the envoys from the three countries successfully this time, so he told me to keep you company. Even if you dont like me, would you turn down my father? Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes secretly and thought, You are so shameless as to mention Mo Xiangbin as an excuse. Can I refuse? She forced a smile and nodded indifferently. Thanks, Your Highness. Mo Junhao seemed not to see Shi Qingxues displeasure and leaned to one side to make way for her. Then he even asked as if he was close to her, Qingxue, you used to call me brother all the time, right? Why are you so distant now? I dont dare to cross the line, Shi Qingxue answered impassively. She didnt want to get close to Mo Junhao at all. Even if Mo Junhao was prepared to be cold-shouldered, he couldnt help but stiffen. After a moment, he smiled again but the expression on his face was twisted. You have grown up and know how to keep away from men now. Shi Qingxue was speechless and thought, If I dont grow up, wouldnt I be bullied by you and have nothing left? She ignored Mo Junhao and just stood up. She didnt care what he was thinking about. The servants made the colorful lanterns surround the dinner party and hung some on both sides of the path to the imperial garden. The scene was dreamy and attractive. Mo Junhao walked ahead and tried to walk on the path. Shi Qingxue saw that it was silent in the front and then looked back at the people in the party who were chatting in twos and threes. Nobody knew if all people intentionally kept away from the two, and it seemed that they made room for a young couple to date in secret. Gee! Shi Qingxue disdained them secretly but was confused. She thought she had seen the scene before. It seemed that it had happened in the past. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that Mo Junhao dared to do something to her under the peoples watchful eyes. When she started walking on the path, she felt dizzy and hurriedly stopped. She raised her hand to rub her forehead involuntarily and subconsciously looked back at the party. Whats wrong? Who are you trying to look for, Qingxue? Mo Junhaos casual voice suddenly appeared in Shi Qingxues ears and they were close to each other in an instant. Shi Qingxue felt uncomfortable and withdrew her hand. Then she stepped backward and walked away from Mo Junhao. She asked indifferently, Your Highness, dont you want to enjoy the lanterns? Lets go. She automatically ignored Mo Junhaos questions. Cruelness flashed in Mo Junhaos sharp eyes, but he soon concealed it. He smiled again and walked forward. After he walked for only a few steps, he mentioned the old stories. Qingxue, I remember that you liked bunnies most when you were a child. Once Elder Duke Shi personally made a bunny-shaped lantern, and you liked it very much after seeing it at that time. You hugged it and didnt let it go. In the next few days after the Mid-autumn Festival, you brought that bunny-shaped lantern all the time, even to school and to bed. Even though Shi Qingxue didnt like Mo Junhao, as he talked about what happened when she was a child, especially the good memories left by Shi Lei, she couldnt help but smile faintly. They were finally in harmony, and it was cheerful, full of laughter around. At this time, a guard staggered into the party and shouted in a hurry, Your Majesty, bad news! Bad news! The City Guardian Army was attacked when the soldiers were patrolling in the city, and the city gates were broken! Hearing that, all people turned pale with fear. Chapter 209 - Scared the Shit out of Them Mo Xiangbin sprang from his seat in shock and questioned that guard, What on earth happened? The guard knelt on the ground with a pale face and couldnt speak fluently. Somebody, somebody leads soldiers to break the south gate and they come to attack the imperial palace. Our people cant stop them. Your Majesty, youd better run away! Bastard, what are you talking about? Mo Xiangbin got furious and stepped forward to kick away this guard. Mo Junyu reacted first and stopped Mo Xiangbin from killing the guard. Then he advised in a deep voice, Father, now the most important thing is to check who is so bold as to turn against the imperial court, and then we have to figure out a way to resist the enemies. This guy who upset us deserves to die, but he just came from outside and knows better about the situation. We need to keep him alive and give him a chance to make amends. The guard also realized that he had said something wrong, so he kowtowed repeatedly to admit his fault. He slapped himself in the face and echoed Mo Junyu. I know I was wrong. Your Majesty, please spare me. I swear to protect you and wont shrink back. Fine. Get up and answer my questions! Mo Xiangbin interrupted the guard impatiently. In an emergency, he listened to Mo Junyus advice and dragged up the guard, asking, What is going on outside? Tell me now. The guard didnt dare to delay and told them in detail that they had been attacked when they were patrolling tonight. It was the City Guardian Armys job to guard the capital city at night, but it was the Mid-autumn Festival, so only a half of the soldiers were patrolling, and they were not on high alert like before. Even some guards on duty had drunk. Nobody expected that something bad would happen at such a big day. They just patrolled as the daily task and prepared to go back to the camp to celebrate the festival after going around randomly. At this time, the south gate was broken all of a sudden, and a group of soldiers dressed in military officers uniform of the Mo Country rushed in, defeating the soldiers from the City Guardian Army who hadnt reacted. The guard who came to report was named Wu Zhi, the leader of a patrolling team of the City Guardian Army. He escaped under the cover of his subordinates and ran to send the message. When I entered the imperial palace, the unknown army had conquered the south street and headed to the north. They are going to attack the palace! Wu Zhi tried not to show that he was dispirited. But every word he had said scared all the women and children as well as the old to wet themselves. Even their emperor looked anxious and didnt know what to do, not to mention saying something to comfort the frightened noblemen. Your Majesty, the rebellious soldiers came from the south palace, and the first to be attacked would be the front halls. The womens residence would be safer. Mo Junyangs distant voice was heard and poured into the boiling brains of all people, like a clear stream. Even if he couldnt calm them down, his logical explanation gave them some comfort. The imperial garden of the Mo Country was between the front halls and the womens residence at the back and was safer than the front halls. Hearing Mo Junyangs words, Mo Xiangbin seemed to have found a savior and kept grabbing his hand while asking in anxiety, Junyang, do you have a solution? Please order the women, the old and young to hide at the back and the officials to stay here and resist the enemies with you to protect the imperial palace. Mo Junyang unhurriedly arranged for the people present and all of them nodded repeatedly while looking at him with expectancy. It seemed that Mo Junyang was everybodys savior. Mo Xiangbin instantly told them to do as Mo Junyang said and then asked, What should we do next? We dont even know who the betrayers are. How would we resist the enemies? The enemies in the dark could frustrate them easily. Moreover, these betrayers had broken the first defense of the capital city in a flash and scared the shit out of the City Guardian Army. No wonder all people present including the emperor and officials didnt have the confidence to fight back. Mo Junyang still looked calm. Meeting all peoples anxious eyes, he told Wei Ziye to go out to inquire about the situation. Then he started to transfer soldiers in no hurry. Now the Shi Army is still suppressing the traitors in the south and might not be able to help in time, but we still have imperial guards in the capital. We can tell the City Guardian Army to guard the river between the north and the south of the capital first, especially the bridge on the river, to stop the betrayers from entering the north of the city. Then we order the imperial guards to divide into two parts to guard the outer ring and inside of the imperial palace respectively, so they would form three layers of defense line. Hearing the arrangement, Mo Xiangbin stated joyfully while his eyes lit up, Right! Right! Just do as you say. They can guard the imperial palace. It would be fine as long as they insist till the Shi Army returns. The emperor got confident, and the others were not as puzzled as before. They just surrounded Mo Junyang, as if they would be safer as long as they were closer to him. After hearing the news that the betrayers attacked the city, Mo Junhao stopped trying to please Shi Qingxue and rushed back to the party. But all peoples attention was on Mo Junyang, and even Mo Junhaos followers didnt notice him. Mo Junhao lowered his eyes and pretended to ask casually, Who is so bold as to challenge the royal familys power? After he said that, all people were stunned. In fact, they should first investigate who the enemies were, but all people thought about their lives just now and didnt care even if they thought of this matter. Till now, Mo Xiangbin got furious after Mo Junhao mentioned it. How could Mo Xiangbin endure it when somebody challenged the royal power so brazenly? He asked Wu Zhi, Who is the leader of the betrayers? Wu Zhi trembled and answered, I dont know. The betrayers are dressed in military officers uniform of the Mo Country, and they just have a white cloth tied up on the right arm as a difference. They have fifty thousand people. The cavalrymen and foot soldiers fought in the front and we didnt see a leader He said a lot but didnt have a useful conclusion. Mo Xiangbin threw Wu Zhi to the ground impatiently and cursed loudly in a rage, A bunch of punks! Father, dont be angry. Take care, Mo Junhao expressed with concern in a hurry and stepped forward to support Mo Xiangbin who almost fainted out of anger. After Mo Xiangbin managed with effort to stand steadily, he shook off Mo Junhaos hand and even ignored him, just asking Mo Junyang, Junyang, where do you think the betrayers came from? Mo Junyang shook his head as he didnt know. He answered calmly, Your Majesty, dont worry. No matter who they are, we will get the result soon. As soon as he finished his words, a eunuch rushed in, as if to confirm his words. Your Majesty, bad news. Bad news Mo Xiangbin felt his head buzzing and blood rising. He was shaky again. He insisted and rebuked the eunuch, Bastard, I am still alive. Do you want to curse me? The young eunuch was terrified and his legs softened. He knelt on the ground instantly. I was wrong. I just Mo Xiangbin didnt have the patience to listen to him and waved one hand to interrupt him. Cut the crap. What else happened? Why are you in such a hurry? The young eunuch quivered and responded, I guard the Cold Palace under orders. Just now I sent dinner for the third prince and then found, found that His voice got lower and lower, and at last almost nobody could hear him. Mo Xiangbin was not in the mood to guess what a servant was thinking about. He kicked this eunuch away and reproached angrily, Didnt I provide you with food? Speak loudly. What happened to the third prince? After all, that was his biological son. Even though Mo Xiangbin spoke ruthlessly, put Mo Junjiu under house arrest and deprived him of his title earlier, he couldnt bear to make Mo Junjiu suffer from injustice in daily life. After being kicked to fall backward with hands and legs in the air, the eunuch felt that his internal organs were not in the right places, but he didnt have the nerve to shout ouch. He got up at once and reported while trembling, His Highness is missing! What? All people were astonished. The Cold Palace was heavily guarded. Anybody from outside couldnt enter and the people inside couldnt get out. The guards patrolled three times every day. How could he be missing easily? But when they thought of the rebellious soldiers attacking the city, everything was obvious. Mo Xiangbin suddenly fell backward, and Mo Junhao supported him swiftly, but the emperor turned ghastly pale and almost fainted in fury. At this time, Wei Ziye who had gone out to inquire came back. He ignored the weird atmosphere and reported to Mo Junyang, The rebellious soldiers attack aggressively and have crossed the river. They are heading to the imperial palace. The City Guardian Army has retreated to the outside of the palace. The first defense line was broken. All people panicked again. Mo Xiangbin was supported by Mo Junhao, but he stared at Wei Ziye and questioned resentfully, Have you found out who their leader is? Wei Ziye glanced at Mo Junyang hesitantly and didnt know if he should answer. Tell me now! Mo Xiangbin stepped forward and shouted angrily. It seemed that if Wei Ziye didnt speak, Mo Xiangbin would kick him. Wei Ziye had to reply honestly, I saw the third prince on horseback in the rebellious army in the distance. Mo Xiangbin heard the truth and rolled his eyes before going into a coma. Father! Your Majesty! All people surrounded him and Mo Junhao shouted at the servants in a hurry, Call for a royal doctor, now! Carry His Majesty to his bedroom first! Its not safe to be here. But without His Majesty, how can we resist the enemies Havent you seen that His Majesty has passed out? How can he resist the enemies? If something happens to him, can you take the responsibility? The crown princes and the fourth princes followers argued violently and nobody wanted to surrender. Their leaders Mo Junyu and Mo Junhao didnt say anything and let their followers quarrel. They stayed next to Mo Xiangbin who was in a coma and played good and dutiful sons. Mo Xiangbin was awakened by the screams and felt that his head was buzzing. He was so furious that he roared, What are you arguing about? Do you want to irritate me to death? I dont dare to! We dont dare to! For a moment, everybody around was as silent as a winter cicada. Mo Xiangbin didnt want to tell who was sincere or hypocritical. He pushed away his two sons in front of him and waved at Mo Junyang standing in the distance. Junyang, come here. As soon as he woke up, he called Mo Junyang. His trust and love for his nephew even made Mo Junyu unhappy who sided with Mo Junyang, let alone Mo Junhao. Mo Junyang seemed not to notice the different expressions on all peoples faces and walked to Mo Xiangbin unhurriedly. His hands were grabbed by Mo Xiangbin, and he just asked casually, Your Majesty, what can I do for you? Mo Xiangbins face was dark and still pale. He just grasped Mo Junyangs wrist and almost left scratching symbols on his hand. But he still insisted and sat up, telling Mo Junyang while stressing each word, I will let you handle this case. You must capture that rebellious bastard for me. Iahem I will ask that beast. How How did he Mo Xiangbin was breathless and couldnt even speak. Mo Xiangbin recovered a little after Mo Junyang patted his back, and then demanded, Anyway, I will give you anybody or soldiers if you need. You must deal with it for me. Mo Junyang pondered for a while before replying directly, I need the command power of the imperial guards. Hiss! All people gasped after hearing that. They looked at Mo Junyang with hidden meanings in their eyes and didnt expect that he dared to have a daylight robbery at the crucial moment. Even if Mo Junyang really needed the command, he shouldnt speak out straightforwardly. Any emperor didnt want to give it out. Wasnt Mo Junyang courting death? Even if he could kill all the rebellious soldiers and capture Mo Junjiu as Mo Xiangbin hoped, it would be uncertain after that. The capable subordinate would be abandoned by the master after finishing the important jobs. It was a result which could be expected. Everybody gazed at Mo Xiangbin and waited for him to lose temper. Chapter 210 - Power in Hand However Mo Xiangbin didnt lose temper, and even his expression didnt change. He took out a jade token symbolizing the royal power from his pocket and gave it to Mo Junyang. Take it, and then you can transfer all soldiers in the Mo Country. When anybody sees it, he sees me. Kill anybody who dares to disobey you! Wow! There was another uproar in the crowd, but Mo Xiangbin was in a rage. Even if they had objections to his decision, they just looked at one another, and nobody dared to irritate him at the critical moment. They had to watch Mo Junyang put the jade token which represented the supreme power of the Mo Country in his pocket. After ordering, Mo Xiangbin closed his eyes and looked like a deflated ball, lying on the bed still. Mo Junyu felt terribly worried to see that, but Mo Xiangbin didnt give him a chance to speak. He had no choice but to ask Mo Junyang, Junyang, the rebel army came threateningly. How do you think we should resist? As he asked, it meant that the crown princes followers supported Mo Junyang as the leading role. Even if the fourth princes followers had objections, they could do nothing but hold back. You stay here to protect His Majesty, the officials and noblemen. I will give you two hundred elite imperial guards to guard outside the residences of His Majesty and the Empress Dowager. Nobody is allowed to get close to them. Mo Junyang came straight to the point and spoke out his arrangements without unnecessary words. Mo Junyu agreed with him, but Mo Junhao was reluctant to do nothing important and said in public, Since Junyu will stay here to protect my father, I should do my best to help. Junyang, please give me some soldiers as the officials families and common people in the capital city also need protection urgently. He mentioned what many people were thinking about. Everybody present had families at home. If the war continued, the first to be killed would be their families and relatives. The fourth princes followers echoed Mo Junhao and hoped that he could hurry to lead the soldiers to protect their families, and even some of the crown princes followers looked at Mo Junhao expectantly. They didnt speak but showed anxiety and gratitude in their eyes. Mo Junyu pursed his lips and noticed at a glance that Mo Junhao wanted to leave a better impression on all the officials and to win them over. He asked with displeasure, Junhao, you split the army. Then who will lead the soldiers to resist the betrayers? Mo Junhao passed the buck to Mo Junyang. Father has told Junyang to capture the betrayers, so I dont dare to take the credit for myself. I can only try to do what I can. He paused for a while and then glanced at Mo Junyu meaningfully, adding slowly, Junyu, if you worry about it, you can assist Junyang. I can finish the easy job to protect Father. He could win the favor of the officials by protecting their families, while if he stayed in the imperial palace to guard the emperor and Empress Dowager, he would make a favorable impression on the emperor and could ensure his own safety. It was a lucrative job. After all, nobody was willing to confront the rebel army. It was dangerous and would give others a chance to comment. Mo Junyu certainly couldnt give it to Mo Junhao, but he couldnt pester Mo Junhao at this hour. After weighing, he had to give the most difficult job to Mo Junyang. Junyang, thanks for leading the army to resist the enemies. The crown prince said that with difficulty and didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang when he spoke. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt express any displeasure. His indifferent face was emotionless and nobody could see what was on his mind. He just responded impassively, Okay. Then Mo Junyang gave more orders and told them how to guard the imperial palace and protect the families of the noblemen in the city. He made everything messy in order. The frightened noblemen, officials, generals and soldiers got relieved gradually and thought that this rebellion was not so terrifying. Everybody, if you have no objection, please do as His Excellency ordered as soon as possible. Mo Junyu gave the final word and set it in stone at last. Meanwhile, he entrusted Mo Junyang seriously, This time, many things are relevant. Junyang, hope you can do your best. Mo Junyang nodded and agreed silently. Before leaving, he just summoned Wei Zichao and gave his order calmly. Stay with Qingxue all the time to ensure her safety. You cant let her get hurt. Wei Zichao didnt feel a grievance as he was assigned to protect a woman when a war was coming. He ignored the weird expression in all peoples eyes around and stood straight, patting his chest to promise, I will complete the task. But at this time, Qu Yuebai walked forward and pulled Mo Junyang to one side. He looked worried and stated in a low voice, I wanted to tell you about this matter just now. Whats wrong? When you told me to escort the women to the back earlier, I didnt see Shi Qingxue walk there. At that time, I thought she stayed with you, so I didnt care about it. But just now I searched the party and didnt see her Seeing that Mo Junyangs face darkened in an instant, Qu Yuebai couldnt continue what he wanted to say. After seeing that, Mo Junyu thought it would be bad. Mo Junyangs beloved woman was missing, and how could they expect him to fight against the enemies? The crown prince hurriedly told the servants to come and asked them one by one where Shi Qingxue was. After he asked several servants, a eunuch who looked ordinary finally came out and whispered, I seemed to see that Lady Qingxue followed this guard and went out. While speaking, he pointed to Wei Ziye. What? Mo Junyu was shocked and didnt dare to look at Mo Junyangs face. Then he instantly summoned the guard who watched the palace gate and asked him. The gate guard replied while trembling, Lady Qingxue robbed a horse and went out of the palace on horseback. Why didnt you stop her? Mo Junyu shouted in exasperation at the guard. The young guard was frightened and shrank his neck, defending himself in a sobbing tone. Lady Qingxue had the Empress Dowagers token, and I couldnt stop her. Moreover, at that time, Shi Qingxue looked irritable and waved the long whip, with killing intent. She would start a fight at any time. No matter how bold the young guard was, he didnt dare to stop her. Qu Yuebai asked calmly, Did you see where she went after leaving the palace? The young guard knew that and answered in a hurry, I saw that she rode the horse to the north street. She must have returned to Duke Shis mansion. Madam Shi didnt attend the party in the palace today, and its understandable that Qingxue worried about her mothers safety. Duke Shis mansion is not far away from here. I will go to their mansion first. We can dispatch the soldiers to go to the other mansions, and it wont be delayed. Mo Junhao asked to save Shi Qingxue, and meanwhile he didnt ignore the other officials families. All people agreed and urged Mo Junhao to set out. Mo Junyang didnt go against Mo Junhao because of Shi Qingxue. He only ordered Wei Zichao, You go with him. After you find Qingxue, just stay with her. Yes! Wei Zichao nodded and replied. He was about to go away. But Mo Junyu didnt agree. He stopped Wei Zichao and expressed unwillingly, Junhao has taken so many people to save Lady Qingxue, and she will be fine. Zichao is so capable of fighting, and its better if he stays in the imperial palace to protect my father. If you still feel worried, just tell Zhou Ji to go to Duke Shis mansion with Junhao. Mo Junyang shook his head to refuse without thinking, and he spoke out his reason straightforwardly. Zhou Ji is not powerful enough, and he is not good at fighting alone. After speaking, he ignored Mo Junyus changing expression and pushed Wei Zichao out directly. Then he told Qu Yuebai something. Afterward, he brought a spear and left the imperial garden. Zhou Ji felt unhappy as Mo Junyang disdained him directly. But he didnt dare to reveal his emotion in front of Mo Junyu who was about to explode. He just asked cautiously, Your Highness, what shall we do next? Mo Junyu glanced at him coldly and said crossly, Havent you heard His Excellencys orders? Do as he said. Uh Yes! Zhou Ji was affected by his masters anger and became humbler. Seeing Zhou Jis obedience and thinking of Wei Zichaos face which was neither haughty nor humble, Mo Junyu felt more irritable. Both of them were guards, but why were they greatly different? The crown prince was depressed. Mo Junyus fear of Mo Junyang rose to the extreme because Wei Zichao left. He clenched his fists, and cruelness flashed in his sharp eyes. He made a decision in his heart secretly. Hearing that the rebel army attacked the capital, Shi Qingxue realized that something bad would happen. She was from a military family and was sensitive to such rebellion. And she had been taught many times. As soon as a rebellion started, the first to be killed would be the powerless families of the generals and soldiers. As long as a generals family was under control, no matter how brave and skillful in fighting that general was, he would become weak and collapse at the first blow in front of his familys life. Even though the Shi Army was not in the capital for now, they would confront the rebel army sooner or later. So the family members in Duke Shis mansion, especially Dong Hui couldnt fall into the hands of the rebellious soldiers. Otherwise, everything would be messed up. Shi Qingxue didnt have time to tell Mo Junyang and immediately robbed a horse, rushing to the mansion. However, when she reached the mansion after urging the horse, many soldiers surrounded at the gate. Everybody was dressed in military officers uniform of the Mo Country, with a white cloth tied up on the right arm. What are you going to do? Let go of Madam! Let go of her! A clamor came from the gate. Several soldiers dragged Dong Hui to Mo Junjiu, and Mammy Zheng followed behind, pounding a soldiers back repeatedly and trying to grab Dong Hui back. Al last, that soldier got impatient and pushed Mammy Zheng away. Mammy Zheng fell backward and bumped into the gate post. Then she went into a coma silently. Zheng! Dong Hui shouted anxiously and wanted to look back. Mo Junjiu instantly pulled her to him and threatened her without mercy. Madam Shi, dont move randomly. Otherwise, you will get injured later. I have reminded you. While speaking, he glanced at Dong Huis belly. Dong Hui was scared and covered her belly with both hands. She stared at Mo Junjiu with fear and alertness, shouting while trembling, Your Highness, my husband has never offended you. Why do you bully his family? Arent you afraid that His Majesty will blame you? Mo Junjiu sneered and seemed to laugh at Dong Huis foolishness. He said at leisure, Now its time to change dynasties. Do you think I will care about this? I want to see how my father would blame me after the winner becomes the emperor. Dong Hui finally realized that Mo Junjiu was truly going to rebel. The blood drained from her pale face, and she started to tremble involuntarily, as if she were extremely frightened. Mo Junjiu nodded with satisfaction and pushed Dong Hui back to his subordinates, telling them to watch her. But before the man approached Dong Hui, she started to struggle desperately somehow, and his subordinates couldnt even catch her. Chapter 211 - A Cat Whose Tail Was Stepped on Mo Junjiu didnt have the patience to waste time here with Dong Hui, so he grabbed her collar and pulled her to him, cursing ruthlessly, Do you think that I dare to do nothing to you? Dong Hui had known Mo Junjius intention and didnt fear at all. She even spat at him and sneered. Never try to threaten my husband with me. I would rather die than make your wish come true. You! Mo Junjiu raised his hand in a rage and tried to slap Dong Hui in her face. Whoosh! A long arrow was shot past in front of Mo Junjiu accurately. Mo Junjiu was so scared that he loosened his hand instantly and moved a few steps backward before standing steadily with fear. He hurriedly turned his head, to see Shi Qingxue on horseback was putting an arrow on the crossbow, ready to shoot the next one. Shi Qingxue, what are you going to do? Mo Junjiu knew that Shi Qingxue was good at shooting, so he didnt dare to irritate her. He immediately moved backward to dodge. Shi Qingxue didnt change her posture and stared at Mo Junjiu coldly. Let go of my mother! Mo Junjiu finally realized that he had a good shield, Dong Hui, so he pulled her right away to stand in front of him and even grabbed a dagger, waving it on her neck. He threatened, Shi Qingxue, youd better be well-behaved. Otherwise, if I stab her, two lives would be lost. Shi Qingxue was terrified and her hand with the crossbow paused. She still pretended to be calm. Let her go now! I think its you who should put down the weapon and fold your hands for capture, or else Mo Junjiu put the dagger closer to Dong Huis neck, and a red sign could be seen. It appeared that if Shi Qingxue didnt put down the crossbow, he would make Dong Hui bleed. Dont hurt my mother! Shi Qingxue shouted with fear and obediently threw the crossbow to the ground. Get off the horses back! Mo Junjiu ordered again. Shi Qingxue did as he said. She stared at Mo Junjius hand and forced herself to speak calmly. What on earth do you want? Mo Junjiu played with the dagger in his hand indifferently and smiled slyly. I have admired General Shi for a long time. Since he is heartless, I will have to ask Madam Shi to persuade him. He just wanted to make use of Dong Hui to threaten Shi Junhe to tell the army to retreat. He was so despicable. Shi Qingxue gritted her teeth in anger but didnt dare to act rashly. She just paid close attention to Dong Huis condition. When she looked at her mother, she could hardly retain her composure. Dong Huis face was ghastly pale, with cold sweat on her forehead. If she was not grabbed by Mo Junjiu, she might fall into a coma at once. Mo Junjiu, let go of my mother! Shi Qingxue yelled in anxiety. She walked two steps forward but then stopped under Mo Junjius threatening eyes. She shouted furiously, Dont you want a hostage? I will be your hostage! But Mo Junjiu snorted. You are alone now, but I have a troop here. Do you think that you can escape from me? Its uncertain! An unhurried male voice cut in. Then they saw Mo Junhao on horseback come to Shi Qingxue rapidly, with Wei Zichao and more than ten guards following him. There were not many people, but it was difficult to cope with them. Mo Junjius eyes got fierce again and he gazed at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue, do you think that you can save your mother after you bring so many helpers? Shi Qingxue took another step forward and negotiated with Mo Junjiu calmly. You know that my mother is pregnant. Even if she stays at home at ordinary times, she has the risk to lose her baby. When you capture her, you can hardly move a single step, let alone taking her to see my father. So what? Do you think I will care if she is going to lose her baby? Mo Junjiu snorted, as if Shi Qingxues consideration was stupid. Shi Qingxues expression didnt change, and she just asked in reply casually, My mother is carrying the future heir of Duke Shi. Your Highness, I dont think that you want to become my fathers mortal enemy, right? Her last words had the hidden meaning of threat. Mo Junjiu paused involuntarily. The assistant Cao Qicai behind him hurriedly stepped forward and advised in a low voice, Your Highness, what Lady Qingxue said makes sense. If you bring a pregnant woman, it would cause much inconvenience indeed. What shall we do? I finally capture a hostage. Can I let her go? Mo Junjiu grunted in a fret and was unwilling to let her go. Cao Qicai glanced at Shi Qingxue meaningfully and said, There is more than one family member that General Shi cares about. Mo Junjius eyes lit up all of a sudden, and he clapped joyfully, ordering Shi Qingxue, Since you love your parents so much, I will satisfy you. You come over alone, and I will let your mother go back home. What do you think? Shi Qingxue nodded without hesitation. Okay! No! Mo Junhaos voice was heard soon, and he grabbed Shi Qingxues arm anxiously, stopping her from walking forward. Dont be silly. If you fall into his hands now, it would be difficult for you to escape! Shi Qingxue shook off his hand and responded coldly, Since I dare to come here, I dont plan to escape. No matter what happens, I cant stand by and watch my mother being tied up and taken away. But Mo Junhao still tried to convince her, but Shi Qingxue looked at him seriously for the first time and suddenly expressed, Mo Junhao, I owe you a favor this time. What do you mean? Mo Junhao frowned with displeasure. It was not because Shi Qingxue called his name, but the way she spoke and her tone were distant, as if she wanted to stay away from him. It was annoying! Shi Qingxue didnt have the energy to consider Mo Junhaos sensitive thoughts and explained in a hurry, My mother is frightened and should see a doctor right now. Later I will replace her. Please immediately send her to King Ruis mansion and ask Doctor Shen to take care of her till my father returns. Can you? Mo Junhao was upset as Shi Qingxue would turn to Mo Junyang and go to King Ruis mansion every time she was in trouble, and he wanted to find an excuse to refuse her. Shi Qingxue added at once, Your Highness, if you can help me, I will owe you a favor, and I will repay you for your kindness someday. Mo Junhao paused for a while and furrowed his dashing eyebrows involuntarily as he was thinking. Soon he made a decision. It was difficult to hear Shi Qingxues promise. Moreover, if he kept Dong Hui with him at this critical moment, it would be useless, so he nodded in agreement. However, at this time, Wei Zichao disagreed and said forcefully, No! My Lady, His Excellency told me to protect you regardless of my own life. I cant let you take a risk! Afterward, he even wanted to grab Shi Qingxue and take her away. Shi Qingxue certainly wouldnt listen to him. She took out a dagger from her pocket and held it between them, ordering in a low voice, Dont move! Wei Zichao stopped as expected, but he looked at Shi Qingxue with disdain and surprise which could hardly be concealed in his eyes. They were not at the same level on martial skills. Shi Qingxue showed a dagger to Wei Zichao, like a kid threatening his parents with a knife. It was dangerous and useless. Wei Zichao could restrain Shi Qingxue easily with only one hand. With no fear in her eyes, Shi Qingxue even smiled at Wei Zichao and stated indifferently, I cant defeat you indeed, but if I want to do something to myself, you probably cant stop me, right? While speaking, her hand turned around, and the sharp blade of the dagger pointed to herself. Wei Zichao was shocked and shouted in a hurry, My Lady, dont be impulsive. I will listen to you. It was no joking matter. If Shi Qingxue injured herself by accident, it would be not enough even after he killed himself in front of Mo Junyang. He finally understood what Qu Yuebai meant before he left. After you see Shi Qingxue, act according to circumstances. If you have a conflict, no matter what happens, just do as she asked. At that time, he had thought that Qu Yuebai worried too much, but now he realized that Shi Qingxue was forceful and stubborn and liked to risk her life. Nobody could persuade her. Wei Zichao had to obey Shi Qingxue and meanwhile promised that he would send Dong Hui to King Ruis mansion in safety. Mo Junhao was afraid that Wei Zichao would take the credit for himself, so he said in a hurry, Qingxue, since you leave it to me, I will naturally do it as my job and wont let you down. Shi Qingxue put away the dagger and slightly nodded at them to express her thanks. But my brother takes a wrong way now and it is dangerous. I am worried about you Mo Junhao showed his concern hypocritically to express that he cared about Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue ignored him and turned to walk to Mo Junjiu. Under all peoples watchful eyes, Shi Qingxue replaced Dong Hui. Both sides didnt act rashly even after Dong Hui was replaced with Shi Qingxue. After Mo Junjiu captured Shi Qingxue, he led his troop to the imperial palace. Although Mo Junhaos subordinates were skilled in martial arts, the two sides had a great difference in number of members, and they couldnt stop or even defeat Mo Junjiu, so they had to make way obediently to protect themselves. After Mo Junjiu controlled Shi Qingxue, he didnt dare to be careless and when he headed to the imperial palace while fighting, he let her follow him all the time. Shi Qingxue couldnt move freely, but she wasnt mistreated. She followed Mo Junjiu, and it was smooth on the way. They tried to attack the city, but in fact, they seemed to lead the soldiers to walk at night. Even if they were resisted, they could handle it easily in an instant. They came to the imperial palace, as if entering a place with nobody in. After a short while, Shi Qingxue found something wrong. The City Guardian Army stopping them was too weak. The opponents were like the crispy chickens which would be broken after being poked. It was obvious that they were cheating. However, as long as she thought that the top leader of the City Guardian Army was Prime Minister Liangs follower, it seemed that everything was understandable. When they were less than two or three kilometers away from the imperial palace, the darkness of night faded and it was before dawn. Suddenly Shi Qingxue felt the pain in her head, and then she was dizzy, as if the sky and earth were spinning round. Hmm! She covered her forehead with one hand and grabbed the rein with the other, so she wouldnt fall off the horses back as she was leaning downward. Her movements attracted Mo Junjius attention instantly. Are you okay? Mo Junjiu asked with insincere concern but showed an expression that he would watch a good play. He added at leisure, Do take care. If you are injured, I am afraid that Yuzhen would blame me. Shi Qingxue shook her head and got rid of the dizzy feeling. She insisted and sneered at Mo Junjiu. She exposed his insincerity without mercy. If you are really afraid that Yuzhen would feel sad, how would you do something rebellious? You are rebelling. Gee, her father and brother become enemies. How would she face you two in the future? Mo Junjiu exploded, like a cat whose tail was stepped on. He lifted the broadsword with one hand and aimed at Shi Qingxues vital part. Believe it or not, I will kill you now if you say more? The killing intent in his eyes was fierce, and he even wanted to kill Shi Qingxue to vent his anger regardless of anything after that. Chapter 212 - Come in Cao Qicai was afraid that Mo Junjiu would do something irretrievable on impulse, so he hurriedly stepped forward to grab Mo Junjius arm, trying hard to persuade him. Your Highness, you cant do that. You cant. You will need this woman to cope with General Shi and His Excellency in the future. If you kill her now, it would be troublesome. Mo Junjiu looked resentful and was still unwilling to let her go. He even boasted without shame, The Shi Army is still in Yang City far away now. When they come back, I have already conquered the imperial palace. Then wouldnt he bow to me and listen to me? Cao Qicai was speechless as Mo Junjiu was so conceited. He knew that Mo Junjiu couldnt be forced, so he had to comfort this prince slowly. You are right, but its better to fight less. After all, Your Highness, you are He was rebelling and trying to usurp the throne. He would have a bad name, and if he killed too many people, it would be difficult to keep his position as an emperor in the future. Cao Qicai said a lot patiently and finally stopped Mo Junjiu. Mo Junjiu glared at Shi Qingxue and spoke ruthlessly. Youd better be well-behaved. Then I can keep you alive for the sake of Yuzhen in the future. Otherwise Huh! After that, he saw that Shi Qingxue didnt say anything, and he thought he had frightened her, so he was satisfied. He ignored Shi Qingxue and then waved his broadsword to point ahead, shouting at his subordinates, The imperial palace is right in the front. Everybody, kill. If you kill one person, you will be rewarded with some gold. If you capture a nobleman or a general, your official position would be promoted. Anybody who can break the imperial palace successfully for me will be rewarded generously. After he said that, everybody got excited. The rebellious soldiers rushed to the imperial palace with enthusiasm. They came aggressively and frightened the City Guardian Army outside the imperial palace to throw their helmets and armor at a loss and flee everywhere. They scattered like birds and animals even before closing the gates of the imperial palace. Aha! God helps me. I will see who can stop me this time! Mo Junjiu laughed complacently and lifted the broadsword, walking in swaggeringly through the gate, as if entering a place with nobody around. However, when they came to the imperial garden, there was nobody at the party, and the decorative lanterns were out, making the dim dawn more frightful and colder. Cao Qicai couldnt help but tremble. He walked to Mo Junjiu and whispered, Your Highness, there seems to be something wrong. Its too quiet here! They came in but met almost nobody resisting them all the way. Even though they had spies in the imperial palace, the situation was too abnormal. Mo Junjiu goggled at Cao Qicai impatiently and snorted crossly. I have arranged everything, and it would be no problem even if we intrude into my fathers bedroom now. What the hell are you worried about? But the resisting soldiers on the way were much fewer than the palace guards I estimated. I am afraid Cao Qicai explained cautiously. Mo Junjiu waved his hand and interrupted him directly. He declared with certainty, It must be that they are afraid and hide themselves. Dont be wordy. We will rush to the imperial harem to capture them alive. In less than two hours, everything will be set in stone. Then even if my father can summon the Shi Army urgently to return to the capital and protect him, it will be too late! After speaking, Mo Junjiu ignored Cao Qicais prevention and insisted on leading the soldiers to attack the imperial harem. When they reached the gate of the imperial harem, suddenly there were deafening drumbeats around. All the rebellious soldiers were scared out of wits and didnt know where the shocking sounds came from. When they were petrified, loud shouts came from behind. The rebel army is right in the front. Kill! Then countless palace guards suddenly appeared from the empty imperial garden with long swords in hands and came to attack them in unison. It happened all of a sudden, and all the rebellious soldiers were terrified. They resisted the enemies with effort but were scared by the palace guards fierce momentum, so they felt dwarfed. After both sides fought for only a short while, the rebel army started to retreat in defeat and had to move to the harem to hide. Mo Junjiu saw that the situation changed dramatically and the palace guards who had been defeated with no power to fight back attacked them unexpectedly, and his people became weaker while fighting. He stamped in fury and shouted at his subordinates, You are not allowed to escape. Kill! If you win the battle, I will reward you handsomely. But when they wanted to keep alive, the temptation of money and power was not so powerful. A young general taking the lead ran to Mo Junjiu in frustration and reported with a sad face, Your Highness, the enemies are too violent. In less than fifteen minutes, we have lost nearly one hundred people. If things go on like this, it would be a disaster. You are lying. Mo Junjiu grabbed that young general and didnt believe his words. It was no joking matter. He brought only more than three hundred people in total beforehand to attack the imperial palace, preparing to conquer the palace quickly and capture Mo Xiangbin alive. But he lost one third of the soldiers in an instant. How would he fight later? The young general looked depressed. Your Highness, if you dont believe me, you can go to the front line and have a look. We have brought few elite soldiers. If we lose one, our power would be weaker. Your Highness, we cant go on like this. Lets just retreat first and wait till the reinforcement comes. Cao Qicai advised in time, What General Xiao said makes sense. Now the enemies are fierce but we are weak. Its improper to confront them. Wed better find a place to stay first and after the main force attacks the imperial palace, we will collaborate from within with them to attack the enemies off guard. Mo Junjiu was still reluctant to retreat, but as Cao Qicai said, they would come to no good end if they confronted the tough. He punched the palace wall to vent his anger and left a big white hole on the red wall. Where do you think we should retreat? Mo Junjiu asked Cao Qicai helplessly. Cao Qicai thought for a while and then suggested in a low voice, How about we go to the Ten-commandment Palace first? There is a secret passage to the outside of the imperial palace. Even if there is an accident later, we will have power to resist. What do you think At the mention of the Ten-commandment Palace, Mo Junjiu and Shi Qingxue trembled at the same time. They both looked embarrassed. Mo Junjiu even rubbed his arms and asked with displeasure, Whats the good of that place? Who wants to go back there? Cao Qicai kept silent and stared at Mo Junjiu, waiting for his final decision. Mo Junjiu could do nothing, so he bit the bullet and responded, Fine. Lets go to the Ten-commandment Palace as you said. The third prince had been locked up in the Cold Palace for a few days, so he didnt want to go back there to suffer, but it was surprising that Shi Qingxue who was quiet all the time protested fiercely as soon as she heard that they finally decided to go to the Cold Palace. No, I am not going to the Cold Palace. No! Shi Qingxue turned back and wanted to run to where they came from. Mo Junjiu grabbed Shi Qingxue and pulled her forward with strength, saying mercilessly, Huh! Its not up to you! Wherever I take you to, you should come in obediently. Otherwise, I will drag you in. Dont cry then. Cao Qicai promptly tried to persuade Shi Qingxue. My Lady, stop struggling. Your life and death are under the control of His Highness. Just behave yourself in case that you suffer a lot. It will be helpful to everybody. Shi Qingxue knew that what Cao Qicai said was right, but hearing the name of the Ten-commandment Palace, she felt that cold water was poured to her, making her cold from head to toe and from body to heart. She had only one thought in her brain that she would never return to the Cold Palace. Never! But now she was a captive. Even though she was unwilling to, Mo Junjiu forcefully dragged her into the Cold Palace. The scene of the deserted and cheerless Ten-commandment Palace showed up in front of her. She should have never seen it, but as soon as she saw it, she had a strong feeling that it looked familiar. She was panicked and quivered uncontrollably. She felt the headache more and more serious and had to punch her head desperately with her fist before she calmed down a bit, so that she wouldnt be dazzled by the chaotic memories. At the moment, there was another uproar from outside the Cold Palace. Mo Junjiu and the others paid attention to the outside, ready to resist the enemies. Nobody found there was something wrong with Shi Qingxue. After Mo Junjiu dragged her to stand under the big tree in the courtyard, he ignored her. Your Highness, the soldiers left behind saw His Excellency lead the palace guards to the Ten-commandment Palace. They will reach the gate in less than fifteen minutes. What should we do? A dogface rushed into the Cold Palace in haste and knelt in front of Mo Junjiu to report. He shouted loudly and almost lost his voice. Mo Junjiu didnt expect that Mo Junyang acted so soon. He was horrified and resentful, and his face was almost twisted. He yelled at the dogface, You, a bunch of punks. I just need you to stop somebody but you still failed. I provide for you but you give me nothing? Get out of here! After that, he kicked that man away. He ordered the soldiers to close the gates and keep staying in the Cold Palace persistently. At the same time, he strode to Shi Qingxue and grabbed her arm ruthlessly to pull her over. Then he sneered resentfully. You are so valuable. Mo Junyang knew that I have captured you, so he comes so soon to fight. He is really going crazy because of a beauty. Shi Qingxue endured the headache and looked at Mo Junjiu coldly. She didnt speak, nor would she give in. Mo Junjiu got more furious as she looked at him with disdain in her eyes. If Cao Qicai didnt stop him, he might dig out Shi Qingxues eyes in a rage. Huh! Dont be complacent. So what even if Mo Junyang comes here? You are in my hands now. What do you think he would do? While speaking, Mo Junjiu showed a confident smile. He stared at Shi Qingxue insidiously like a poisonous snake and laughed hideously. Everybody says that Mo Junyang loves you to the bone. I am going to see what he can do for you in front of power. At the moment, the gate of the Cold Palace was kicked open, and more than ten palace guards came in one after another, surrounding the rebellious soldiers who hadnt reacted. Then Mo Junyang dressed in a military officers uniform brought a spear and walked in with blood all over his body. All people present were shocked by his strong malicious intent and stopped moving. Mo Junyang walked to the courtyard step by step, as if he would penetrate the enemys throat with his spear next second. Mo Junjiu finally came back to earth. He moved a few steps backward in horror and then managed to stop. Afterward, he threw his chest out and met Mo Junyangs eyes, shouting, Mo Junyang, dont come near me! Mo Junjiu tried hard to show that he was fierce, but he trembled and couldnt conceal his fear. Mo Junyang ignored him and continued to stride forward. He had crossed the large part of the courtyard and was about to approach the big tree in the corner. Mo Junjiu had a brain wave and suddenly understood Mo Junyangs intention. He rushed to the big tree in advance and grabbed Shi Qingxue from Cao Qicai. He put a sharp blade on Qingxues neck. Then he looked at Mo Junyang threateningly and yelled, I warn you. Dont get close to us. Otherwise I will show no mercy. Afterward, Mo Junjiu was afraid that he couldnt frighten Mo Junyang, so he got heartless and left a blood stain which was not shallow nor deep on Shi Qingxues neck. Fresh blood flew out of the wound and fell along the cold edge, showing a bright red flower on her fair-skinned neck. Mo Junyang stopped as expected and just stared at Mo Junjiu with his malicious eyes, asking coldly, What do you want? Chapter 213 - Kneel Down and Beg Me Mo Junjius hands hidden in his sleeves were full of sweat, and his back was sweaty. But he finally heaved a sigh of relief. As he saw that Mo Junyang was threatened by him, his fear and worry turned into hatred and complacency. He had nursed a grievance against Mo Junyang and would get back at him this time. Mo Junjiu raised his chin arrogantly and said, Its up to your behavior. Let her go. Whatever you want, I can satisfy you! Mo Junyang didnt want to waste time with Mo Junjiu, so he made an offer. Cao Qicai got overjoyed after hearing that and responded, You let us leave here first. Dont chase us! As soon as Mo Junyang showed up, Cao Qicai realized that they were going to be defeated. If they didnt give up, they might be unable to retreat, let alone conquering the imperial palace and usurping the throne. The most important thing was to run away from the imperial palace and return to their base, so they could plan for the future. It happened that they had captured Shi Qingxue, who could be a bargaining chip. However, no matter how perfect and reasonable Cao Qicais plan was, it couldnt compare with Mo Junjius hate for Mo Junyang. Mo Junjius plan had been ruined by Mo Junyang several times and he bore a grudge against Mo Junyang for a long time. He had thought hundreds of times about how he would humiliate Mo Junyang. Now he had such a great chance, so how would he miss it? Then he shouted loudly, Its not so easy. If you really want to save Shi Qingxue, just kneel down and kowtow to me. After I get happy, maybe I will release your sweetheart. Wow! As soon as he made such a humiliating offer, everybody behind Mo Junyang got resentful. Even Cao Qicai couldnt help but gasp and wonder if Mo Junjiu was insane. Mo Junjiu even wanted to insult Mo Junyang in public. Would he really fight against Mo Junyang till death? If it were somebody else, Cao Qicai wouldnt be so frightened. After all, they had a bargaining chip. But thinking that their opponent was Mo Junyang, he couldnt help but feel a shiver down his spine. In the past, Mo Junyang wiped out the Zhao family and killed all the members of the Qin family without a warning, which was spread till now. All people felt terrified to hear that. If not necessary, nobody wanted to offend such a malevolent man. However, Mo Junjiu made a fuss about it. Even though sometimes Shi Qingxue could be used to threaten Mo Junyang, it was just a threat. Nobody knew what Mo Junyangs bottom line was. More importantly, they couldnt have a try easily. If there was something wrong with Shi Qingxue Thinking about the Shi familys reaction and recalling Mo Junyangs methods, Cao Qicai believed that he could prepare for his own funeral now. Your Highness, in the emergency, its improper to do something unnecessary. Lets just leave the Cold Palace first, Cao Qicai advised patiently, hoping to bring Mo Junjiu back to earth. However, Mo Junjiu thought about nothing but the scene that he defeated Mo Junyang, and he became dizzy with success. He didnt consider the gain and loss, so how would he listen to Cao Qicais advice? Mo Junjiu impatiently shook off Cao Qicais hand and rebuked him coldly, Its none of your business. Just stay aside and watch Shi Qingxue for me. Afterward, he didnt care when Shi Qingxue was shaky and almost went into a coma. He just left her to Cao Qicai and confronted Mo Junyang. He yelled haughtily again, Kneel down now. If you dont kneel down, I wont ensure your womans safety. Mo Junyang showed a gloomy expression and stared ahead. He wasnt looking at Mo Junjiu but his eyes passed over Mo Junjiu and fell on Shi Qingxue who was unconscious. He furrowed his brows tightly, and his cold face was full of killing intent. Shi Qingxue felt a serious headache and her mind was crowded with many familiar and strange memories seemingly, which were mixed with her former memories. She wanted to sort them out, but they became messier. At the same time, what was happening around made her unable to calm down to put her messy thoughts in order. Shi Qingxue raised her heavy eyelids and stared at Mo Junyang standing in the distance, with only one thought in her brain. She couldnt let this man suffer a grievance or insult because of her. NoNo! Mo Jun Shi Qingxue opened her mouth with difficulty, and the feeble voice came from her vibrative throat, but nobody could hear it. She wanted to move, but all her strength seemed to have been drained. She couldnt even raise her arm, not to mention getting rid of Cao Qicais grab. At last, her eyelids fell and everything was in darkness. Before she fainted, a cry came from her ears and brain at the same time. Qingxue! Shi Qingxue didnt know how long she had slept. When she woke up, she was lying on a soft and comfortable queen bed, with a gorgeous and simple curtain above her head. It looked familiar, as if she had seen it before. You are finally awake! Shen Luos surprised and pleasant voice came into her ears. Shi Qingxue tilted her head slightly and saw the miracle-working doctor Shen Luo standing beside the bed with a bowl of medicine in his hand. He looked joyful and relieved. You Shi Qingxue tried hard to sit up. When she was about to ask, she felt dizzy again. Shen Luo hurriedly supported her and comforted her. You have been in a coma for more than one day, and you are still weak. Take some medicine and have a rest first. Shi Qingxue rubbed her forehead. When she was not as dizzy as before, she turned her head to look around the room. It wasMo Junyangs bedroom. She frowned and asked in confusion, Why am I here? Shen Luo gave the medicine to her and meanwhile told her what had happened when she was in a coma. Dont worry. Madam Shi is safe now, and she has been sent back to your mansion. Shi Qingxue got anxious in an instant and asked emotionally, My family is not safe now. Why did you send her back? Didnt they send a sheep to a tigers mouth? Relax! Shen Luo realized that he didnt make it clear, so he added in a hurry, Your father led the Shi Army to return from Yang City in time and stopped the rebel army which hadnt entered the city, collaborating from outside with the imperial guards in the city. They have steadied the situation in the city. Your father took Madam Shi back home in person. Shi Qingxue finally sighed with relief and didnt refuse the medicine Shen Luo gave to her. But the smell of the medicine was too terrible. Although she didnt complain, she couldnt help but wrinkle her nose. She stared at the medicine bowl in her hand unhappily, and she might be more hesitant and annoyed than when she faced the enemy. Shen Luo saw that and tried his best to hold back his laughter. He intentionally didnt remind Shi Qingxue that he had prepared the plum but urged, Take the medicine quickly. If it goes cold, it would be not good. With a sad face, Shi Qingxue glanced at Shen Luo and had to close her eyes and pinch her nose. Then she took it in one breath. As soon as the bitter medicine entered her mouth, she almost spat it out, but under Shen Luos watchful eyes, she had to swallow it. At last, Shen Luo saw that she felt bad, so he took out a candy and put it in her mouth, like doing magic tricks. He said with a smile, Well, I wont tease you. This candy is specially made by me. Hold it in your mouth for a while, and then you wont feel the bitterness. After Shi Qingxues tongue tip touched the hard stuff in her mouth, it was full of sweetness. She clicked her tongue and didnt forget to glare at Shen Luo to complain about his repulsive addiction. Shen Luo ignored her calmly and said while smiling, Stay here and have a good rest. Junyang has gone out to chase Mo Junjiu who is escaping and would come back soon. Shi Qingxue swallowed the cube candy quickly and asked in haste, Wasnt I kidnapped by Mo Junjiu in the Cold Palace? Why am I here? Thinking of what happened then, Shi Qingxue still felt terrified and was more worried about Mo Junyangs situation later. Did that idiot kneel to Mo Junjiu? Shi Qingxue frowned, and Shen Luo explained in a hurry after seeing that, Cao Qicai works for the crown prince. Although you were in a coma then, as soon as Mo Junjiu left you to him, he took you back to King Ruis mansion from the Cold Palace. Without you as the bargaining chip, Mo Junjiu retreated in defeat soon. They had to run to the outer ring of the city along the secret passage in the Cold Palace. How about Junyang Shi Qingxue was still worried about Mo Junyang. Shen Luo soothed her gently, Junyang stayed with you one hour ago, but this time he has to capture Mo Junjiu and bring him back to the imperial palace under orders. Just now a spy came to report. Mo Junjiu has run away to the north, so Junyang has to lead people to bring him back. Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief at last, but thinking for a while, she was still worried. She uncovered the quilt and got up. I am going to have a look. After speaking, she put on her coat and grabbed the long crossbow on the bedside, preparing to walk out. Shen Luo hurriedly stepped forward to stop her and said with a frenzy of rage, You have just woken up and are still weak. You want to go out now, but arent you just going to suffer? Moreover, your parents are safe and sound now, so no need to worry about them. Just stay here till you recover. Isnt it okay? He thought that Shi Qingxue was still worried about the safety of Duke Shi and his wife. But now he didnt dare to let Shi Qingxue go. If there was another accident, he would be killed by Mo Junyang. However, Shi Qingxue showed a bright smile to Shen Luo. I am well. I have recovered, so you dont need to worry about me. Her tone was firm and her attitude was persistent. Shen Luo couldnt stop Shi Qingxue but had to watch her leave on horseback. Qu Yuexuan comforted him. Alright. Now the situation in the capital is steady, and she wont be in danger as she goes out now. Whats more, she brings a crossbow in her hand, right? This stuff is horribly powerful in her hand and can even hit the target at every shot. The ordinary person cant get close to her easily. Earlier Mo Junjiu could control her only because he had captured Dong Hui and she could do nothing but fold her hands. Shen Luo was still worried and murmured, I feel that she is different from before, but But he was not sure what the difference was. Qu Yuexuan waited a long time but didnt hear Shen Luos following words, so he rolled his eyes impatiently. Come on. How would she be unusual? Dont be nervous. More than five kilometers away from the north city of the Mo Country was the imperial mausoleum, with the first emperor of the country and the royal family members inside. The setting sun looked lonely and quiet, as if it was stained with blood. Mo Junjiu rode a fast horse in the front, with more than ten loyal guards following him, while Mo Junyang led some people and chased them on horseback. They ran and chased and passed through a dense forest. In the end, they came to the imperial mausoleum of the Mo Country. Mo Junjiu stopped. He grabbed the rein after he passed the forest and stopped the horse. He turned around and confronted Mo Junyang. Several guards attacked Mo Junyangs people from behind quickly and accurately, wanting to strike first to gain the initiative. They fought against Mo Junyangs subordinates. Both sides had few people, but everybody was elite and fought at close quarters. In no time, there were dead bodies all over the ground and both parties suffered great losses, but neither side could win yet. Chapter 214 - Close Questioning Mo Junjiu realized that if they continued to fight, it would only consume his strength, so he hurriedly shouted stop. He yelled at Mo Junyang, Mo Junyang, I have never offended you or stood in your way. Why do you insist on chasing me? Mo Junyang replied indifferently, You have done something wrong, so you should be punished. Junjiu, just fold your hands for capture! Huh? Am I the only person who did something wrong? Junyu and Junhao covet the throne as much as I do. If you are really loyal to my father, why dont you punish them but just try to capture me? Mo Junjiu looked resentful. In fact, from the beginning, he had seen the capability in Mo Junyang and had the intention to win him over, but Mo Junyang seemed to stick to the rule that the eldest legitimate son should inherit the position, like all the stubborn officials. Even though the crown prince was good for nothing, he just supported Mo Junyu firmly. Mo Junjiu was angry with him almost to death. However, Mo Junyang was fathomless and won Mo Xiangbins favor, which made Mo Junjiu love, hate him and jealous of him, but he could do nothing. Mo Junyang stared at Mo Junjiu and wasnt shaky because of his resentment. He just pointed out calmly, The crown prince and the fourth prince have never led soldiers to rebel. Mo Junjiu was rendered speechless and became more reluctant. He shouted loudly, My father forced me. If he wasnt so cruel as to imprison me in the Cold Palace, why would I go so far? I just want to fight for a bright future. Why was I wrong? Its not my fault! He stressed each of the last words. He was courageous with sufficient reasons and fearless. However, Mo Junyang didnt take Mo Junjius empty show of strength seriously. He looked at Mo Junjiu, with indifference and no emotion in his eyes, as if looking at a humble ant. He seemed to be disdainful and told Mo Junjiu with his attitude silently, You asked for it. Mo Junjiu got furious under Mo Junyangs glance. He exploded at once and didnt consider if he should preserve his force. He led the only ten remaining guards and attacked Mo Junyang recklessly. Both sides had another fight, but Mo Junjiu was more furious this time and killed several enemies successively. While fighting, Mo Junjius people surrounded Mo Junyang unexpectedly. Several guards of Mo Junyang wanted to save their master, but they were blocked by Mo Junjius subordinates or were killed under the horses. At this time, three sharp arrows suddenly flew out of the forest and aimed at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang avoided the first two arrows, but the third arrow shot the horses front leg, and the treasured horse leaned forward. He had no choice but to jump off the horses back. At the moment, Mo Junjius people surrounded Mo Junyang heavily and waved their broadswords to chop him. It was dangerous. The broadswords passed over next to Mo Junyangs skin or hair several times and almost injured him seriously. At the same time, another cold arrow flew out of the forest but aimed at Mo Junyang from behind. Mo Junyang was fighting against the two soldiers in front of him and didnt notice the crisis from behind at all. When Wei Zichao looked back, he saw that the long arrow had crossed the enemies siege and was about to hit Mo Junyang. Master! Wei Zichao shouted automatically. At the crucial moment, almost all people thought that Mo Junyang would be shot. Another sharp arrow flew from another direction at high speed and passed over the surrounding people. It dashed before the first arrow hit Mo Junyang. Two arrows clashed and the strength canceled each other out. Both of them fell on the ground behind Mo Junyangs back. Later, three long arrows flew from the second arrows direction and were shot to the forest. Next second, three screams could be heard. Three soldiers dressed in the secret guards uniform were shot and fell from the trees. They fell on the brushwood and went silent. There were people lurking. All people present had this thought at the same time and got stunned. They stopped fighting. Mo Junyang took the chance and quickly waved his sword to kill the two people in front of him. He jumped and got out of the encirclement. When he wanted to grab a horse, the sound of hooves came from behind. Get on the horses back, a familiar female voice ordered. Mo Junyang was always calm, but after he heard this voice, he was dumbfounded for almost three seconds. He seemed to be fixed and didnt move a bit. The person behind him shouted again, Get on the horse now. Mo Junyang finally came to his senses and turned his head. As expected, he saw Shi Qingxue on horseback stop in front of him and reach out her fair-skinned hand to him. Mo Junyang raised his hand subconsciously and put it in Qingxues hand. He used the leverage lightly. Then he jumped and flew to the horses back before falling behind Shi Qingxue steadily. Shi Qingxue didnt talk with Mo Junyang but gave the rein to him, saying, You ride the horse. Mo Junyang soon got into it. He grabbed the rein with his left hand and lifted the sword with his right hand, rushing to the enemies weak point. Before the other party reacted, he quickly waved his sword and killed the first two men in the way. Shi Qingxue promptly lifted the arrows and pulled the crossbow, hitting two treasured horses front legs. The soldiers on horseback became like balls and rolled off the horses. Then they were killed by Mo Junyangs people under the horses. Mo Junjiu saw that the situation changed dramatically and it was harmful to him. He didnt want to fight anymore and left the remaining soldiers to resist Mo Junyang, while he urged the horse to run crazily. However, this time, Mo Junyang didnt purposely let Mo Junjiu go. He took out three darts from his pocket and shot them one by one. The first and second dart hit the two front legs of Mo Junjius horse respectively. And the horse leaned forward immediately. The third dart hit Mo Junjius thigh. Mo Junjiu was injured and fell off the horses back. Your Highness! A guard who followed Mo Junjiu closely all the time saw that and shouted with grief. He jumped off the horses back at high speed and ran to Mo Junjiu to hug him. It happened in a flash. When Mo Junyang urged the horse to rush to Mo Junjiu, the latter pinched his neck with one hand while sobbing and reached out the other hand to Mo Junyang, seeming to ask for help. A lot of black blood flew from Mo Junjius wounded thigh, which was soaked in blood in an instant. How can this happen? Shi Qingxue was astonished. He was just hit by a dart, and it was on his thigh with thick skin and much flesh. It couldnt kill him. Mo Junyang furrowed his dashing eyebrows and glanced over Mo Junjiu and the guard who hugged him. Then he turned around to look at Wei Zichao. He ordered calmly, Send for Shen Luo from my mansion and then made a simple stretcher to take him back. Yes! Wei Zichao instantly went away with some people. Mo Junjiu had only three guards left. Their master was defeated, so they were all like homeless dogs with no will to fight. They put down their weapons and went back to the capital. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang still shared a horse at the end of the crowd. Their horse walked slowly and seemed to delay intentionally. In no time, they were away from the people in the front. In the beginning, neither of them spoke. Shi Qingxue couldnt bear it and grabbed the rein from Mo Junyang, but she just grasped it in her hand. She asked in a low voice, YouDont you want to say something to me? As soon as she opened her mouth, she wanted to bite her tongue. She came to get back at Mo Junyang. How could she be so weak? No way! Shi Qingxue clenched her fists and encouraged herself in secret. Then she turned her head aggressively and prepared to confront Mo Junyang, but she met the mans eyes as deep as the sea. She felt terrified and couldnt say what she wanted to say. She got unconfident again for no reason. You You Mo Junyang looked away before Shi Qingxue spoke. They spoke at the same time and then looked at each other again. At last, they fell into silence. Mo Junyang looked deeply at Shi Qingxues spinous bun and let her speak first, like a gentleman. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and murmured, Did Mo Junjiu do anything to you when you were in the Cold Palace? Mo Junyang was stunned and didnt expect that Shi Qingxue would ask such a question. He didnt give a response after a long while. Shi Qingxue raised her head in confusion. Her eyes were clear, but she could hardly conceal her concern about him. She looked at him and asked, Tell me. Were you bullied by him? At last, her voice was anxious. Mo Junyang stared blankly at Shi Qingxue for quite a while, and sadness flashed in his eyes. Before Shi Qingxue saw it clearly, her eyes were covered by a pair of big warm hands. The mans deep and hoarse voice appeared. Dont look at me like this. His voice was helpless, with unspeakable sorrow hidden. Shi Qingxue also felt heartbroken. What happened? Was Mo Junyang really humiliated by Mo Junjiu in the Cold Palace? At the thought of this possibility, Shi Qingxue was restless. This was almost what she worried most all the way, but Mo Junyang kept her in suspense and was unwilling to tell her. She grabbed Mo Junyangs hand in anxiety and confronted this man. What on earth happened? Tell me! Nobody knew what was wrong with Mo Junyang. He didnt dare to meet Shi Qingxues eyes and turned away again. He didnt explain and even kept silent. Shi Qingxue could do nothing as he was so stubborn. She sighed and mumbled, But with your character, you wont be indifferent after you are bullied. It must be like Even though Mo Junyang had sharp ears, he couldnt hear her last words clearly. Shi Qingxue didnt say that to him. Seeing that Mo Junyang didnt plan to talk about what happened in the Cold Palace, she didnt want to force herself to think about that place like a nightmare. She just asked, What was going on just now? Did you put poison on the dart? Mo Junyang was expressionless, but since Shi Qingxue didnt insist on asking what happened in the Cold Palace, he heaved a sigh of relief. He answered her question for the first time. No. But he looked like He was poisoned. It was not that Shi Qingxue didnt believe Mo Junyangs words, but his behavior was too suspicious. Mo Junyang shook his head. Nobody knew if he didnt want to reply or he really didnt know. He didnt say anything. He became dumb again. Shi Qingxue glared at the man helplessly and wanted to complain. Suddenly she remembered that Mo Junyang didnt like talking in the past and looked cruel, but he was graceful, and his occasional smile gave people a wrong feeling. Others might think he was gentle. But after she lost her memory, Mo Junyang became silent and seemed to return to be gloomy, making people feel frightened for no reason. Shi Qingxue certainly wouldnt fear Mo Junyang. She didnt fear him, and she even felt sad as the man changed. He had become Shi Qingxue stopped her imagination. It was pointless if she thought about Mo Junyangs change. It was better to figure out a way to change him. But before this, she had to ask for payment of a debt. Huh. You can keep silent if you dont want to say. Wouldnt I ask Mo Junjiu? Shi Qingxue still talked about what happened in the Cold Palace. She must make it clear first. So she didnt care about Mo Junyangs changing emotions. She grabbed the rein and headed to King Ruis mansion. The accident happened when they reached King Ruis mansion. Shen Luo stood at the gate. As soon as he saw them, he walked to them in a hurry. He looked solemn and said in a deep voice, Mo Junjiu, has died. Chapter 215 - Fainted with Anger Hearing the news about Mo Junjius death, Shi Qingxue responded subconsciously, No way! How could Mo Junjiu have died? However, Shen Luos serious expression told them that he didnt lie. It was silent at the gate of King Ruis mansion and nobody knew what to say. Mo Junyang asked, Where is he now? Qu Yuebai frowned and said helplessly, Some people came from the imperial palace and took Mo Junjius dead body into the palace just now. The Empress Dowager issued a decree and told you and Lady Qingxue to enter the palace right away. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang thought alike and looked at each other, seeing a grim expression in the other partys eyes. A storm was brewing. Both of them kept silent and entered the palace after telling the subordinates to do something later. They came to Mo Xiangbins bedroom. Mo Xiangbin just woke up and was overjoyed to see Mo Junyang. He waved at Mo Junyang to let him come over and asked, How is the rebellion now? We do as you hoped and the capital is safe now. The rebel army outside the city is surrounded by the Shi Army. Mo Junyang told him about the current situation simply. Mo Xiangbin nodded repeatedly and asked with joy, How about the bastard Mo Junjiu? Have you captured him? Mo Junyang hesitated for a moment and still nodded. Good. Good. Good! Mo Xiangbin said this word three times successively and seemed to have vented his spleen. Then he told the servants to bring Mo Junjiu and cursed resentfully, This bastard has overthrown the basic standards of morality. I will teach him a lesson today. However, after he had finished his words for a while, all people around him didnt move but looked weird. Mo Xiangbin frowned with displeasure and shouted at the eunuch Xiaode who served him, Didnt you hear what I told you? Hurry up and bring him to me. Xiaode was awkward and looked at Mo Xiangbin. Then he glanced at Ling Ruiyin who stayed silent with her dark face. He was anxious and helpless. Bastard, why are you hesitating? Do you want me to beg you? Mo Xiangbin cursed impatiently. He was going to grab Xiaodes collar, but because he was weak, he fell on the bed as soon as he sat straight. Ling Ruiyin was scared and hurriedly stepped forward to support him, advising him patiently, Your Majesty, you have just recovered. Dont get angry. Mo Xiangbin supported his weak body with effort and waved his hand nonchalantly. I am fine. Nobody knew if he didnt notice something wrong or subconsciously ignored some possibility. He insisted on gazing at Xiaode and requested an answer. Xiaode had no choice under his gaze but to kneel on the floor, replying while trembling, When His Excellency tried to capture His Highness under orders, an accident happened His Highnesswas poisoned to death! What? Mo Xiangbin turned pale in astonishment. He roared and spat fresh blood on Mo Junyangs black military uniform as a general. His eyes rolled upward and he fell into a coma. Your Majesty! Father! Ling Ruiyin and Mo Junhao shouted at the same time and elbowed their way to the bedside. But Mo Xiangbin was unconscious and couldnt be awakened no matter how they called. Mo Junhao was anxious and instantly told somebody to call for a royal doctor. All the royal doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine came here and filled the emperors bedroom. All people were in a flurry, but after fifteen minutes, the royal doctors knelt all over the floor, while there was no convincible diagnosis result. Whats wrong with His Majesty? Tell me! Ling Ruiyin was as restless as ants on a hot pan and kept walking back and forth, looking at the bed constantly. The council of the Imperial Academy of Medicine, An Lin knelt in the front and faltered, His Majesty, might have a stroke. I am afraid What? Ling Ruiyin trembled and almost fainted. Shi Qingxue immediately stepped forward to support Ling Ruiyin, comforting her. Your Majesty, be careful. Ling Ruiyin waved her hand and supported her forehead, sighing deeply. Then she stared at the royal doctors on the floor and ordered coldly, I dont care what method you will use. Be sure to cure His Majesty. Otherwise, you can kill yourselves. Yes. Yes! Every royal doctor displayed a sad face and could do nothing but bite the bullet to take the deadly job. Then they started to get busy with their work. They gave the prescription, selected medicinal materials, boiled medicine and then brought the medicine. A stroke was horrible, but somebody had suffered from this disease before, so the royal doctors did everything quickly. In less than an hour, a bowl of medicine was brought to the bedroom. Ling Ruiyin hurriedly stepped aside. An Lin held the medicine bowl in both hands and came up to feed Mo Xiangbin the medicine. There was a new problem. Mo Xiangbin was unconscious. No matter how hard they tried, they couldnt make him swallow the medicine. They finally fed him a bowl of medicine, but most of it was poured on the collar. The patient couldnt swallow the medicine, so they were powerless no matter how good the medicine was. The royal doctors were anxious with sweat on their heads, while Ling Ruiyins eyes were red, and she was going to shed tears. Shi Qingxue was also nervous and turned to Mo Junyang. She hinted, Why dont you tell Shen Luo to come and have a try? Mo Junyang shook his head slightly and didnt speak. Shi Qingxue was stunned and then understood. Mo Xiangbin was not an ordinary person. A stroke was not a serious disease, but it was troublesome. If Shen Luo could cure Mo Xiangbin, everything would be fine, but if there was something wrong, many people would be implicated. Mo Junyang wanted to be low-key, but others didnt want him to stay out of this matter. At the moment, Mo Junhao advised Ling Ruiyin. Grandma, now all the doctors are at a loss what to do. How about we ask the miracle-working doctor Shen in King Ruis mansion to come and have a try? Uh Ling Ruiyin looked hesitant and didnt agree at once. No matter how famous Doctor Shen was, in the bigwigs eyes, he was just a folk doctor and they didnt dare to ask him randomly. Mo Junhao advised again in a sincere tone, Doctor Shens medical skills are superb. Maybe he can cure Father at once. Moreover, with one more person, we will have more hope. We should have a try. Ling Ruiyin finally changed her mind and nodded, telling Xiaode to call for Shen Luo in King Ruis mansion. At the same time, she urged the royal doctors to continue to feed Mo Xiangbin the medicine. Your Majesty, have a seat first. Seeing that Ling Ruiyin was almost out of breath for several times, Shi Qingxue nimbly told a young eunuch to bring a chair, so that Ling Ruiyin could stay next to Mo Xiangbin. Ling Ruiyin smiled at Shi Qingxue with comfort but insisted and didnt sit down. Instead, she looked at Mo Junyang who was quiet all the time. She asked distantly, His Majesty just told you to capture Junjiu, but why did you make him die? What exactly happened? Mo Junyang merely kept silent and didnt plan to explain even after quite a while. Shi Qingxue felt anxious for him as she saw that. He is an idiot. Mo Junjius death has nothing to do with him. Why doesnt he explain? If Mo Junyang didnt explain, later all people would think that Mo Junjiu had been killed by him. Shi Qingxue waited a long time and saw that Mo Junyang was still dumb. She couldnt help but explain for him, Your Majesty, when His Excellency chased His Highness, I was present and know what happened then. His Highness death was an accident and has nothing to do with His Excellency. Shi Qingxue affirmed, and all peoples eyes fell on her in an instant. Mo Junyang also turned to her and showed a complicated expression. He wanted to say something but stopped himself. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes in secret and ignored him. She continued to explain to Ling Ruiyin, His Highness wanted to run away on horseback then, and His Excellency had no choice but to shoot three darts, which hit the horses front legs and His Highness thigh respectively. His Highness fell off the horses back but wasnt injured. However, it showed that he was poisoned. So His Excellency promptly told Wei Zichao to take His Highness to see a doctor, but the poison was strong and attacked quickly, so His Highness died soon. Didnt it mean that His Excellency put poison on the darts so my son lost his life? Liang Jingxian suddenly cut in in a harsh voice. She was standing at the door of the bedroom. Seeing that all people looked at her, she walked to Ling Ruiyin quickly and begged loudly, Mother, you need to seek justice for me. Junjiu cant die for no reason. Ling Ruiyin frowned and was about to speak. Shi Qingxue responded smartly, Your Majesty, His Excellency didnt put poison on the darts, and Doctor Shen found the same poison on His Highness naked skin and clothes, so he guessed that His Highness had put poison on himself. Such poison would work only after it enters the blood in the human body, and it doesnt matter when it is on the skin. But His Highness was hit by the dart and the poison liquid flew into his body through the wound, so he was poisoned to death. This tragedy was just an accident. After all, nobody expected that His Highness would put poison on himself. His Excellency just tried to capture His Highness under orders. How would he hurt His Highness intentionally? Your Majesty, please investigate this matter thoroughly. Perhaps Ling Ruiyin accepted Shi Qingxues explanation. Although her face was still dark, she didnt look at Mo Junyang as fiercely as before. Liang Jingxian thought that it was messed up and hurriedly shouted in anger, This is a one-sided statement and you just guessed that. Why would my son put poison on himself? The swords and knives on the battlefield are blind, and he wouldnt be so stupid as to court death. You must want to cover up for Mo Junyang and deny his crime as he killed my son with poisonous darts, so you find an excuse to fool my mother-in-law! Every word of hers was hurtful and piercing. She shouted in a sad voice, which was enough to move many people. Shi Qingxue calmly waited Liang Jingxian to finish her words and then said, What I said is true. Your Majesty, if you dont believe me, you can send people to have a look at the scene now. His Excellency shot three darts then and the other two hit the horses legs. As long as you return there to see if the horse was poisoned, you would know if there was poison on the darts. Her voice was calm and forceful. She was really confident, so she dared to say that. No matter how pitiful Liang Jingxian was, she was powerless when she faced the truth. So you mean that my son courted death? Since Liang Jingxian couldnt outargue Shi Qingxue, she started to pester the girl. She pointed at Shi Qingxues nose and cursed loudly, Shi Qingxue, Yuzhen takes you as her best friend, but you repay her in this way? My son was alive but died so soon. Shouldnt the murderer take the responsibility? Shi Qingxue was speechless. In fact she really wanted to say that Mo Junjiu asked for this ending. But in order not to irritate Liang Jingxian, she was sensible and didnt point out the truth. She just said indifferently, In front of the evidence, nobody can tell a lie. I am Her Highness good friend, but I cant say something false because of our friendship. Your Majesty, please forgive me. Liang Jingxians expression changed and she yelled, I dont care. My son died, and you have to take the responsibility! Give my son back to me Enough! Ling Ruiyin had a headache and rubbed her forehead, stopping Liang Jingxians cry. She cursed crossly in a low voice, You are the empress but make a scene in front of the young generation. Whats wrong with you? Liang Jingxian paused for a while and looked stiff. After a while, she was still reluctant and argued, Mother, Junjiu is your grandson, too. You cant Chapter 216 - Want…More We need His Majesty to decide it. Now he hasnt woken up, but you are shouting here. Do you hope that he wont wake up? Ling Ruiyin yelled at Liang Jingxian angrily. Liang Jingxian hurriedly lowered her head to admit her fault and responded loudly with fear, I dont dare to! Ling Ruiyin glanced at her and coldly told her to leave. Since you dont dare to, just be well-behaved. Otherwise, you will have to go back to the Sunshine Palace. Liang Jingxian shut up and stepped aside unwillingly at last. But she still stared at Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang resentfully. Shi Qingxue pouted with no emotion and didnt give Liang Jingxian a glance. She stepped forward to support Ling Ruiyin and advised her softly, Your Majesty, dont be anxious. His Majesty is lucky and God will help him. He will be fine. You need to take care of yourself. Otherwise, after His Majesty recovers and sees that you are so worried about him, he will be sad. Ling Ruiyin was comforted by her and finally showed a faint smile. She didnt refuse Shi Qingxues support but sat in the chair beside the bed. She sighed deeply and helplessly. Hope everything will be like you said. Sure! Shi Qingxue answered with certainty. As soon as she finished her words, a young eunuch shouted outside, Doctor Shen has arrived! Ling Ruiyin was overjoyed and shouted in a hurry, Tell him to come in now. Shen Luo was instantly pushed to the front and asked to examine Mo Xiangbin. Fortunately, the person who brought him the imperial decree had roughly told him what happened, so he was not confused. He took the pulse for Mo Xiangbin and then lifted his eyelids to check for a while. Then he picked up the medicine bowl and dipped a little with his pinkie before licking it. Then he turned to the council of the Imperial Academy of Medicine, An Lin. Is this the medicine to cure a stroke? Although An Lins job was grabbed, he didnt complain at all as Shen Luo arrived. Instead he welcomed Shen Luo. He nodded in a hurry and told Shen Luo about the prescription in detail. Then he showed a sad face. Now His Majesty has the symptom of stroke obviously, so I gave the common prescription to cure a stroke in the Imperial Academy of Medicine. It should work, but But Mo Xiangbin couldnt take any medicine. All the royal doctors showed that they could do nothing. Shen Luo furrowed his brows and glanced at the medicine bowl in his hand. Then he turned his head and looked at Mo Xiangbin who was in a coma. He pondered for a while and then saluted Ling Ruiyin. Your Majesty, with His Majestys condition, I am afraid that the ordinary way of feeding him the medicine might be ineffective. If you have no objection, I can give an acupuncture treatment to His Majesty and make him wake up first. Then I will treat him later. Do you agree, Your Majesty? Ling Ruiyin didnt know anything about this. Seeing that all the doctors were at a loss, she pinned all her hope on Shen Luo. So she wouldnt disagree but nodded repeatedly. Doctor Shen, I believe in your medical skills. Now I entrust His Majestys life to you, and it is related to the safety of the Mo Country. Please do cure him! After Shen Luo said yes, he took out the bag of needles that he often used from his pocket. He put them on the bed, and all the royal doctors were sensible and made way for him. At the same time, they stayed not far away from him and waited for his instructions. Shen Luo skillfully put needles on Mo Xiangbins main and important acupoints from head to toe. After about thirty minutes, there were needles all over Mo Xiangbins body, but he still didnt have any reaction. He seemed to have died. Even the royal doctors who were professional were in anxiety, not to mention Ling Ruiyin and the others who waited restlessly. But nobody said anything recklessly. If they disturbed Shen Luo at the critical moment and there was something wrong, nobody could take the blame. After putting the needles, Shen Luo deleted something on An Lins prescription and optimized it, making a new prescription. Then he gave it to An Lin and stated, I have made a new prescription. Please check it, Council. After An Lin and the others received it and had a look, everybody didnt feel unconvinced anymore. All of them praised Shen Luos excellent prescription. Shen Luo deserved it, so he wasnt modest. After about fifteen more minutes later, he returned to the bedside and started to pull the needles. He pulled the needles in the opposite order, from toe to head. Everybody stared at Shen Luos hands and turned their eyes from the bed end to the head of the bed. When Shen Luo was about to pull the last needle, everybody felt suffocated, as if the air around was frozen. AhemAhem! As soon as Shen Luo withdrew his hand, a fit of coughing came from the bed. In the beginning, all people were still stunned and didnt react. Shen Luo helped Mo Xiangbin sit up and patted his back while advising, Your Majesty, your vital energy is fixed in your chest now, and you need to cough to let it out. Dont hold back. All people finally came back to earth and surrounded him, asking with concern, Your Majesty (Father), are you okay? Are you feeling better now? Do you still feel unwell? Everybody spoke and almost crowded Shen Luo out from the bedside. At last, Shen Luo couldnt bear to see that and stated coldly, His Majesty needs to have a rest. Please be quiet, everybody. As the doctor ordered, even though all people present were big shots in the Mo Country, they obediently shut up and didnt dare to say more. There were only Mo Xiangbins loud coughs in the room. After quite a while, Mo Xiangbin finally stopped coughing but was still in a daze. He stared at the faces with concern beside his bed and asked in confusion, Whats wrong with me? Shen Luo gave him a professional explanation. Your emotions changed a lot these days and you didnt have enough rest. Whats more, you always worked hard for a long time in the past, and all the minor illnesses were hidden. Just now you couldnt insist, so you had a stroke. Although you have woken up now, you still need a long time to rest, so that you will recover gradually. As Doctor Shen said, you need to take care, Father! Mo Junhao jostled his way through the crowd first and came to the bedside, looking at Mo Xiangbin with concern. Liang Jingxian refused to admit being inferior and also elbowed several royal doctors out of the way, shouting in a sharp voice, Your Majesty, how are you feeling now? Should the royal doctors take the pulse for you? In the final analysis, she still didnt trust Shen Luos medical skills. Mo Xiangbins head was still in a mess, and it was difficult for him to hear Shen Luos words, but there were harsh buzzes around his ears from time to time. He felt a serious headache and interrupted them angrily, Shut up, all of you. Everybody stopped talking suddenly, like a duck whose neck was pinched. Mo Xiangbin took a deep breath and slowly remembered what had happened before he fainted. He couldnt help but clench his fists and suddenly raised his head, asking the people present, Did Junjiu really Even a vicious tiger would not eat its cubs, even though in the beginning, Mo Xiangbin showed that he was so angry at Mo Junjiu. Facing the life and death, he was just an ordinary father. He felt heartbroken to lose his son. Mo Xiangbin was a man but sobbed even before saying the word die. All people didnt dare to reply. They looked at one another and then lowered their heads, keeping silent. At last, Ling Ruiyin expressed in a warm voice, Your Majesty, now you just need to have a good rest and keep healthy. Dont care about anything else. Leave everything to your subordinates temporarily. Her words indirectly admitted the truth that Mo Junjiu had died. Mo Xiangbin felt dizzy again, but this time, he straightened his back and nobody noticed that. When he felt better, he raised his hand to cover his face, showing that he didnt want to see anybody. Then he ordered in a hoarse voice, All of you, go out first. I want to have a good rest. Ling Ruiyin wanted to comfort him, but it looked like Mo Xiangbin was unwilling to talk. She had to leave two young eunuchs to serve him and then tell all the doctors to wait outside. Then she worriedly led the others to leave his bedroom. When all people walked out of the door, Mo Xiangbin suddenly demanded, Junyang, dont leave now. Come over. Everybody was stunned and even Mo Junyang had a surprised expression flashing in his eyes. However, Mo Xiangbin didnt give them a chance to question but told Quan to ask them to leave. Even though all people were curious about why Mo Xiangbin told Mo Junyang to stay, they had to walk out of the bedroom one after another. Shi Qingxue prepared to go back home to have a look, but Mo Junhao stopped her in the imperial garden. Your Highness, what can I do for you? Shi Qingxue didnt want to cope with Mo Junhao and even her tone was cold obviously. Mo Junhao seemed not to feel it and the smile on his handsome face was gentle with love. We cooperated not long ago, Qingxue, and you said that you owed me a favor. Why are you so cold to me as we havent seen each other for only one day? Shi Qingxue knew well about Mo Junhao and was not surprised as he suddenly asked her to return a favor. She just asked calmly and indifferently, What do you want? She didnt try to deny what she had said. She owed Mo Junhao a favor indeed because of Dong Hui, and she was willing to return it, but if Mo Junhao wanted more, she couldnt give him. Mo Junhao still wanted to get close to Qingxue and intentionally didnt speak out what he wanted. Instead, he smiled insincerely. What are you talking about? Qingxue, I just want to get close to you and dont want you to repay me. God knows about my love for you, and you should know it. Shi Qingxue didnt speak. She couldnt help but remember what happened in the past. If she heard that Junhao who she respected and admired most expressed his feelings for her in the past, she would be overjoyed. Then she would rush into Mo Junhaos arms without hesitation, which meant she push herself into an abyss. Gee! Shi Qingxue sighed with emotion in a low voice. She didnt give Mo Junhao a response, but she showed a sarcastic smile on her face involuntarily. Needless to say anything, she expressed her disdain clearly. Even though Mo Junhao was thick-skinned, he was embarrassed in front of Shi Qingxue who behaved like this. He stiffened and couldnt continue to speak. After ignoring Mo Junhao for a while, Shi Qingxue was finally fed up with his hypocritical face. Then she stated slowly, I have said that I owe you a favor, and I wont break my promise. Your Highness, if you need me to do anything, I will try my best But it should be reasonable. Shi Qingxue didnt speak out the last words, but the indifferent expression on her face showed everything. Mo Junhao paused and couldnt speak after a long time. He originally imagined that he would get closer to Shi Qingxue because of Dong Huis issue and then mention their good memories to arouse her love for him. At last he would propose marriage to her Everything would be natural. However, Shi Qingxues cold and distant attitude made him defeated in the beginning. Mo Junhao saw clearly that Shi Qingxue didnt like him but even hated him. She wouldnt change her mind. Mo Junhaos eyes became cold in an instant and he stared at Shi Qingxue, asking in a fearful voice, Qingxue, you love Junyang so much and dont even spare a glance for my love. But I dont know if he can repay you as much in the future. After all, for his sake, you even lied to my grandma. Chapter 217 - Regained Her Memory Shi Qingxue looked stern and immediately understood that Mo Junhao mentioned that she had defended Mo Junyang just now. This man was narrow-minded. He couldnt get something, and he didnt want to see somebody else own it. Qingxue knew much about Mo Junhao and certainly wouldnt fall into his trap easily. Her expression didnt change, and she replied coldly, What I said to the Empress Dowager is true, and I didnt tell a lie. Your Highness, why did you say that I lied? Huh! He wanted to sound her out? Sorry. It was impossible. Annoyance flashed in Mo Junhaos eyes, but he cheered up soon. He continued to ask in disbelief, Yes? But why do I think it is confusing? I am afraid that its not as simple as you said, right? Every word hinted that Mo Junyang had something to do with Mo Junjius death. Even though there were only two people in the imperial garden, Shi Qingxue was annoyed as Mo Junhao beat around the bush. But she had to cope with him cautiously. After all, if she was careless, sometimes others would have a chance to comment. She paused for a while. When she raised her head again, anger was shown in her eyes as she had been humiliated, but she concealed it. So Qingxues lively and adorable face stiffened. She questioned Mo Junhao in a cold tone, I have said that I didnt lie. Why do you say such words to suspect me repeatedly, Your Highness? If you dont believe me, we can go back to the Empress Dowager and tell her in front of you. Then I can ask you which words of mine are false. Afterward, she gazed at Mo Junhao with her clear and bright eyes. Her gaze made him look away and avoid meeting her eyes in embarrassment silently. Mo Junhao just wanted to get something useful with bare hand and lure Shi Qingxue to say some information. How would he have evidence to charge Shi Qingxue with lying? But he didnt expect that Shi Qingxue would be so calm and even offer to talk with him in front of Ling Ruiyin. He didnt dare to. So he shrank back at once. Mo Junhao smiled awkwardly. I just said that casually. If you think its unpleasant to hear, just take it as a joke. Why should we go to my grandma? It would be not good if we disturb her. Shi Qingxue remained unmoved and snorted. Your Highness, you said with certainty and it seems that it is true, so I dont dare to take it as a joke. If you spread it randomly as a joke in the future and some people who dont know the truth misunderstand me, I wont be able to explain clearly even if I have ten thousand mouths. Do you think so, Your Highness? She left the question back to Mo Junhao effortlessly. Mo Junhao was rebuked by Qingxue and couldnt even force a smile. He still wanted to talk with Shi Qingxue, but her cold attitude didnt give him this chance. He was reluctant to give up. After a stalemate, Mo Junhaos face was about to distort. He finally snorted ferociously. I have heard that Lady Qingxue has a silver tongue and is capable of defeating others in speech. I have witnessed that today, and you are equal to your reputation. Shi Qingxue seemed not to notice the sarcasm in Mo Junhaos words. Her lips curled up slightly and she accepted his praise, saying modestly, Thanks! Your Highness, you flatter me. I always like to tell the truth and cant make up a story. Comparing with your ability to fabricate rumors, I am much inferior. She sneered at Mo Junhao by the way. She made Mo Junhao furious, and he forgot his gentleman style and gracefulness. Pointing at Qingxue, he snorted coldly. Shi Qingxue, dont be complacent. Mo Junyang is just the heir of King Rui anyway. What can he do even if he is favored now? The situation would change sooner or later. The emperor will be another person and everything will change. Who can be sure what will happen in the future? He even dared to say something rebellious. If Mo Junhao was not crazy out of anger, he just feared nothing with somebody at his back. No matter which, Shi Qingxue didnt care. She responded impassively, Lets wait and see. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was determined to go with Mo Junyang to darkness, Mo Junhao gave up the plan to win her over. He rolled his eyes and had a vicious plan. On the surface, he concealed his rage and turned to be indifferent, saying calmly, Qingxue, you protect Junyang so much. Havent you considered your bestie, my half-sister Yuzhens feelings? You know that the man you protect has killed her brother. Or you dont care about Yuzhens emotions at all? He said a lot and still wanted to relate Mo Junjius death to Mo Junyang. And he even wanted to ruin Shi Qingxue and Mo Yuzhens friendship. He was so despicable. Mo Junyang had nothing to do with Mo Junjius death, and Shi Qingxue should spit at him and curse him boldly. But when she heard Mo Yuzhens name, she still couldnt help but be distracted. She kept silent. It happened to become Mo Junhaos evidence against her. Mo Junhao could hardly conceal his complacency but still pretended to be sad. My poor sister takes you as her best friend all the time. She likes what you like and hates what you hate no matter if it is right, but you He intentionally said something vague and made others lost in wild and fanciful thoughts. Shi Qingxue got angry at once and couldnt control herself. She retorted loudly, The right or wrong should be clear. How can we make irresponsible remarks because of the friendship? Mo Junhao immediately showed that he was frightened by Shi Qingxue and waved his hand to stop her. Right. Qingxue, you are upright and support the reason regardless of the friendship. I have nothing to say. But I dont know what my sister would think about. After speaking, Mo Junhao looked behind Shi Qingxue meaningfully. Shi Qingxue was astonished and followed Mo Junhaos eyes to look back, to see Mo Yuzhen standing behind her three meters away and staring at her sadly. Shi Qingxue was nervous and wasnt as confident as before. She just looked at Mo Yuzhen silently for a long time and didnt know when Mo Junhao left. Both of them stood face to face from far away and didnt speak. It seemed that they were competing on willpower. Shi Qingxue felt almost one century had passed and then finally heard Mo Yuzhens hoarse and depressed voice. Didhe tell the truth? What? Shi Qingxue didnt know since when Mo Yuzhen stood behind her or how much she had heard. She wasnt sure what Yuzhen wanted to ask. Mo Yuzhen stepped forward and asked in a sorrowful tone, My brotherdied As soon as she spoke, tears poured out of her eyes and flew all over her face in an instant. But she still insisted. Did Mo Junyang do it? Shi Qingxue was heartbroken to see that and almost stepped forward to hold her friend in arms, but what they were talking about didnt allow her to do so. She looked at Mo Yuzhen and also replied seriously, No. You are lying! Mo Yuzhen cried more loudly. Shi Qingxue looked sad and felt pity for Mo Yuzhen, but she had to tell the princess in a firmer tone. I didnt lie to you. His Highness death has nothing to do with Mo Junyang. You are a liar! Mo Yuzhen shook her head desperately and refused to believe Shi Qingxues words. Her cry was harsh and sorrowful. Shi Qingxue wanted to comfort her but didnt know what to say. Suddenly, Mo Yuzhen raised her head and stared at Shi Qingxue fiercely while shouting angrily, You lied to me! Mo Junyang killed my brother. He is the murderer. Its him. Its him Why do you still cover up for him? Why do you In the beginning, Mo Yuzhen shouted more and more harshly, and later she asked more and more powerlessly. She shouted herself hoarse and couldnt make a sound while sobbing. Shi Qingxue didnt blame Mo Yuzhen for her improper behavior, but she refused to change her mind. She just insisted, It has nothing to do with Mo Junyang. Even if you want to take revenge, you Why does it have nothing to do with him? Mo Yuzhen interrupted Shi Qingxue in a loud voice. She questioned harshly, If he didnt insist on chasing my brother, how would it happen later? Its his fault. He killed my brother! I wont let him go, ever! Yuzhen, enough! Shi Qingxue finally couldnt control herself but yelled in rage. As soon as she stopped, they fell into silence. Qingxue took a deep breath and softened her tone, continuing, Yuzhen, His Highness rebelled first. Mo Junyang just went to capture him under His Majestys order. Later an accident happened, and nobody wants that, but you cant put all the blame on Mo Junyang. Its too despicable! The word despicable knocked Mo Yuzhens heart and made her lose her momentum in frustration. She was depressed but still reluctant and defended Mo Junjiu. What wrong did my brother do? Why was he dead? Its unfair. Its unfair to him. Was it fair to the people and soldiers in the country who died because of his rebellion? Shi Qingxue coldly asked in reply. She didnt want Mo Yuzhen to deceive herself like this and pointed out the truth seriously and indifferently. Yuzhen, His Highness committed the crime of rebellion. Even though he was a prince, he couldnt go unpunished. But Mo Yuzhen refused to accept the truth and still shook her head arbitrarily, shouting, I dont care! I dont care about anybody else. I just know that my brother was nice to me, and he shouldnt have such a miserable ending! He never treated you unfairly, right? Mo Yuzhen seemed to find a savior and suddenly raised her voice. She looked at Shi Qingxue with expectancy and wanted to get a positive answer. It seemed that as long as Mo Junjiu never treated them unfairly, he shouldnt be blamed. However Shi Qingxue just looked at Mo Yuzhen calmly and asked indifferently, If you say so, what do you say after he sowed discord between my father and brother and almost made them die on Qingluo Mountain? Mo Yuzhen stiffened and looked at Shi Qingxue in disbelief, shouting automatically, Have you regained your memory? Shi Qingxue opened her mouth, but before she could reply, somebody held her tightly from behind all of a sudden. The warm and familiar breath approached her from behind and came into her ears. She couldnt help but shrink her neck, while she was held in arms more tightly. It seemed that the person hugged her hard, as if she were the last life-saving straw. Shi Qingxue was held and her arms hurt, and she couldnt move a bit. Shi Qingxue didnt need to look back but knew who was hugging her, but that was why she was scared and angry. She shouted in a sweet voice, Mo Junyang, let me go. Thinking that Mo Yuzhen was still looking at them not far away, Shi Qingxue felt that her face was burning, and she wanted to find a hole to hide herself. But Mo Junyang wouldnt give her the chance. The man hugged her forcefully and refused to let go of her. He whispered in a deep voice in her ear like swearing, I wont. I will never let you go. For the first time, Mo Junyang hugged her tightly and didnt let her go, ignoring her feelings. He continuously kissed Qingxues ear tip and hair end. It seemed that only in this way could he be closer to her. The deep and hoarse voice came from his throat. You finallycome back! I didnt think that I could see you after waiting forever Chapter 218 - I Warn You Not to… This voice seemed to be exhausted, and Shi Qingxue almost shed tears after hearing it. She had never seen Mo Junyang so weak in her two lives, and she was heartbroken. Shi Qingxue ignored the outsiders present and turned around with difficulty. She faced Mo Junyang with tears in her eyes and whispered, I am fine. Dont be like this If he was like this, she couldnt get back at him boldly. Mo Junyang seemed not to hear her words and hugged her stubbornly, refusing to loosen his arms. He murmured, Its great that you are fine. I thought I caused your death again, me again His voice almost disappeared at last. Shi Qingxue was stunned. After a long while, she understood the hidden meaning in Mo Junyangs words. Mo Junyang, this idiot even took the blame for her committing suicide in the previous life and thought if he hadnt forced her then, she wouldnt have died. While she had been poisoned this time, which was the same situation, and he thought that he didnt protect her well. Oh, God! Shi Qingxue realized that and felt curious and helpless. She didnt know how to comment on Mo Junyang and just cursed in a low voice, Idiot. Although Shi Qingxue wanted to make everything clear with Mo Junyang once and for all, it was not a good time. With Mo Yuzhen present, Shi Qingxue couldnt say many things. Youwait for me, Shi Qingxue said to Mo Junyang in a hurry and then turned her head to face Mo Yuzhen. She was prepared to feel embarrassed, but when she met Mo Yuzhens eyes with a complicated expression, she couldnt help but blush again. Qingxue tried not to feel shy and didnt get rid of Mo Junyangs hands from beginning to end. She lowered her head and took a deep breath. Then she raised her head and gazed at Mo Yuzhen, saying calmly with certainty, Right. I have regained my memory. Mo Yuzhens eyes were hurt by Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyangs interaction, and she felt terrible in the beginning, but now she was not shocked anymore. She even sighed with relief for no reason after hearing Shi Qingxue admitting it. Then she felt extremely sad. She and Shi Qingxue would become strangers eventually. Mo Yuzhen didnt have the face to defend Mo Junjiu in front of Shi Qingxue. She just licked her dry lips and stated with difficulty, So we didnt talk in the past Shi Qingxue didnt reply, but evidently she planned to give tacit consent. Mo Yuzhen turned pale in an instant and shouted automatically, Why? My brother has died. He has paid for it with his life. Why cant you forgive him? Why are you going toabandon me? She made a complaint in a sobbing tone and could hardly control herself. Shi Qingxue finally couldnt bear to see that and moved her legs, but Mo Junyang stopped her. He didnt let her go. Shi Qingxue stood between them and couldnt advance or retreat, which was like their relationship. No matter who she chose, she would hurt the other at last. But she had chosen Mo Junyang since she was reborn, and now she would be more determined. If Mo Yuzhen insisted on taking revenge on Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue would become her enemy in the end. Shi Qingxue pursed her thin lips. She had made the decision, but when she was about to speak, it seemed that there was something heavy on her mouth, and she could hardly open it. At last, Mo Junyang expressed coldly, I didnt kill Mo Junjiu. Even Mo Yuzhen was astonished, let alone Shi Qingxue. They didnt expect that Mo Junyang would explain. And he explained so firmly and clearly. Mo Yuzhen looked at Mo Junyang and all her momentum disappeared. She just shouted feebly, You lied to me. Mo Junyang shook his head and didnt defend himself. He just spoke out the key point indifferently. But Mo Junjiu didnt die in an accident. What? What? Shi Qingxue and Mo Yuzhen screamed at the same time, shocked by the sudden news Mo Junyang had revealed. Mo Yuzhen wanted to accuse Mo Junyang of shifting the responsibility intentionally, but she was clear that it was impossible. Mo Junyang was distant and arrogant, and he disdained to tell a lie for such a matter. Who is it? She firmly believed that Mo Junyang had told the truth and had known something. But it was almost impossible to make Mo Junyang explain. He would hardly answer once even if she asked a hundred questions. As expected, Mo Junyang didnt plan to explain but just warned impassively, I dont care what way you are thinking about to take revenge, but I can tell you exactly that with your capability, even if you take actions, you would just let somebody take your life. Gee! What a ruthless judgement. Shi Qingxue was left speechless. Mo Yuzhen goggled reluctantly and asked furiously, You dont tell me who the murderer is or allow me to take revenge. Do you have a secret relationship with the murderer? Mo Junyang ignored Mo Yuzhens groundless guess. In fact, if he didnt consider Shi Qingxues feelings, he wouldnt want to care about Mo Yuzhens life and death. He said expressionlessly, If you really want to take revenge, just control yourself and stay still first. Everything will be clear someday. Otherwise, you cant avenge Mo Junjiu, which is the best. I can be sure that if you act rashly, you will be used by the murderer and get nothing. King Ruis heir gave such a long explanation for the first time, and it was so rare and commendable. So Qingxue easily forgave this mans malignant tongue and advised Mo Yuzhen, Yuzhen, although I still dont know how many things behind this matter, there must be a lot which would be implicated. If you trust me, just listen to Junyangs advice. I really dont hope that you would be in trouble. Even if Mo Yuzhen was resentful earlier, she was moved by Shi Qingxues sincere concern. She lowered her eyes and nodded slightly at last, responding softly, I know what to do. You Mo Yuzhen hesitantly glanced at Mo Junyang who was like a guard standing behind Shi Qingxue and added gently, You should be careful, too. Be careful of what? Mo Yuzhen didnt say more and left directly. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue wanted to have a good talk with Mo Junyang if they had the chance, but when she faced him alone, she was timid. You As soon as she started, she was hugged by Mo Junyang once more. Mo Junyang demanded in a deep and hoarse voice, You cant go again. Shi Qingxue couldnt control herself and her nose became red, with tears in her eyes. Let go of me first! What are you doing? Cant we talk? She intentionally said in a loud voice so that she could prevent herself from crying. Seeing that Mo Junyang didnt plan to let her go, she clenched her fist and knocked his chest twice to vent her anger. She didnt dare to put forth much strength. She didnt hurt him, and it seemed that she was flirting with him. Shi Qingxue was astonished by her thought and pushed Mo Junyang away in a hurry, but she couldnt conceal the blush on her face spreading to her ears. I warn you. Dont go that far! She warned him randomly but her momentum was much weaker. She lowered her head and her voice was sweet and soft, as if she were playing the woman. Mo Junyang just pursed his lips and gazed at Shi Qingxue with his deep eyes. It seemed that he was afraid that she would disappear if he blinked. He didnt say anything, and Shi Qingxue also thought that if they continued to stay in the imperial garden, it would not be safe. She had to grab Mo Junyangs arm and walk out. I dont have a carriage. Send me back home. In fact, it was just an excuse to make them stay alone. Mo Junyang nodded silently and opened his mouth. He wanted to say something, but in the end, he just followed Shi Qingxue quietly. Shi Qingxue got into the carriage and sat in the corner. As soon as she sat down, Mo Junyang sat next to her. He didnt leave any space between them. You Shi Qingxue wanted to speak, but Mo Junyang lowered his eyes again, like a criminal waiting for the trial. He was willing to admit his fault and receive the punishment. Shi Qingxue was heartbroken to see his expression. She had prepared to blame him in the first place, but she couldnt say a word. She took a deep breath and grabbed Mo Junyangs hand. When Mo Junyang looked at her, she said, stressing each word, Mo Junyang, my death in the previous life was my fault. Even if I have to get back at others, the targets of my hatred would be only Mo Junhao and the third masters family in my mansion, and you are not included. Do you know that? Embarrassment showed on Mo Junyangs handsome face immediately as he was seen through and he was sad when the old stories were mentioned. After a long time, he stated in a low voice, If I hadnt forced you then, you wouldnt have If Mo Junyang regretted anything in his two lives, he almost hated himself as he rushed into the Cold Palace regardless of anything. He cared about Shi Qingxue a lot in his heart, but he treated the woman he loved like that. At last, he had to watch his beloved woman die in his arms. Every time Mo Junyang thought of that feeling, he felt a terrible headache. His heart seemed to be punched severely and it hurt so much that he almost couldnt breathe. More than fifty years later, he always couldnt help but wonder whether everything would be different if he hadnt broken in or forced Shi Qingxue. There was no answer to this question. Till he knew that Shi Qingxue came back, too, his guilt and panic relieved a little. So he always held back his crazy emotions. No matter if he wished to grab his beloved or ignored everything to show his cruelness, he didnt dare to let Shi Qingxue find that. He was unwilling to do anything that might make him lose Shi Qingxue. He consolidated at every step and tried to behave according to what Shi Qingxue liked, wanting to hug her into his arms step by step. Mo Junyang thought he did everything well and even got Shi Qingxues promise that she would try to love him. But what happened next slapped him. Seeing that Mo Junyang got more emotional while speaking, Shi Qingxue interrupted him loudly at last. No! Its none of your business! She leaned forward and raised her hands to hold Mo Junyangs face and let him look at her. Then she explained seriously, Dont mention that Shi Baojin harmed me in this life. Its because I wasnt alert enough to her, and it had nothing to do with you. Just in the previous life, I had taken the poison before you attacked the Cold Palace. It wouldnt affect me no matter if you came to the Cold Palace or not. I wanted to die simply because I thought it was unnecessary to stay alive. If she didnt want to comfort Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue wouldnt be willing to talk about the old stories. What happened then was not worth remembering. However, Mo Junyang seemed to enter a dead end and couldnt come out. He expressed stubbornly, If I stopped you in time and helped you kill Mo Junhao or I attacked the imperial palace earlier, you Shi Qingxue was astonished as she had never expected that Mo Junyang had thought in this way. But as long as she thought of this mans love, everything was understandable, and she felt sour again. Mo Junyang, its not true! Shi Qingxue gritted her teeth and found that she couldnt hide it anymore. In the end, she said, Ididnt die in the previous life. Chapter 219 - Have an Affair Mo Junyang looked blankly at Shi Qingxue and didnt understand what she meant. In the previous life, he kept her dead body in person and put it around him. Nobody was clearer than him whether she was dead or alive. So he didnt speak but stared at Shi Qingxue in confusion. Technically, my body died, but my soul was alive. Do you understand? Shi Qingxue finally told him about her biggest secret. When she met Mo Junyangs shocked and doubtful expression, she laughed with relief. She joked. What? After we experienced something weird that we were reborn after death, you still dont believe that the soul might exist? Mo Junyang shook his head to deny and asked cautiously, So you He wanted to know why Shi Qingxue didnt come to see him. She didnt show up because she hated him? But all these questions were piercing. As long as he asked, he would have nowhere to hide. At a glance, Shi Qingxue noticed what Mo Junyang wanted to ask, and she laughed. I didnt show up not because I didnt want to, but I couldnt. At that time, even if I stood in front of you, you couldnt see me. Where were you then? Mo Junyang was seen through, so he didnt hide it anymore. He asked the question that he cared about. Shi Qingxue didnt answer directly this time but asked in reply as if chatting with him, Werent you always curious about why I dont hate you at all in this life after we were at daggers drawn as each others enemy as the ending in the previous life? Mo Junyang nodded and couldnt help but add, I never wanted to be your enemy. But he was always silent and cruel and hid all his feelings. Who could see what he was thinking about? Shi Qingxue complained in silence but on second thought, wasnt it like this? Who knew what was on Mo Junyangs mind? I stayed with you all the time till you died. Shi Qingxue suddenly said that, which was like a loud thunder. No matter how calm Mo Junyang was, he was shocked and his eyes widened. He didnt have any reaction. Qingxue still continued calmly, More than fifty years in total, nearly twenty thousand days! But, but I dont Mo Junyang stuttered. However, when he started, he found that he was so weak and not like himself. So he shut up but could hardly conceal the annoyance on his face. Why didnt he have any feeling? If he knew earlier that Shi Qingxue was still alive, he would try every means and give up anything to make her come back. If you have found my existence in the beginning, under the situation, we probably cant be like this. Shi Qingxue snorted crossly and interrupted Mo Junyangs imagination. Although Shi Qingxue didnt hate Mo Junyang, she never liked him. Who would like an enemy that always looked gloomy and hateful at a glance? They were not abnormal Do you mean Mo Junyang? Uh, he was just abnormal and couldnt be mentioned in the same breath. Since they were talking about this, Shi Qingxue didnt hide it anymore but frankly told him what she thought about. She changed her attitude toward Mo Junyang and even felt guilty because she had stayed with Mo Junyang for fifty years after death in the previous life. Although guilt was not love, it caused her to love. Otherwise, she was decisive in love and hate and would strike Mo Junyangs name off the list before he showed up. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang seriously and stressed each word. So dont feel guilty or be stupid as to think that you killed me. Although the ending in the previous life was not beautiful, if we didnt experience those things, we wouldnt be like this. She was close to him and trusted him. That was what Mo Junyang didnt dare to think about even in his dream. But now it came true. Mo Junyang had kept it to himself for two lives and it always tortured him, but because of Shi Qingxues honesty, he could let it go. His handsome face which was tense all the time finally relieved a little, but he was still confused. Why did you always stay with me? In Mo Junyangs dreams, Shi Qingxue always hated him to the bone and even if she was alive, she wouldnt give him a glance. She wouldnt get close to him after death. Shi Qingxue was speechless. How would she explain? Would she say that she just saw that Mo Junyang kept her dead body and didnt mistreat or bury her in the beginning, so she was curious and stayed around him to check, but she found the mans inexplicable and deep love for her? Then she was curious about what Mo Junyang would do after killing the enemies, so she stayed. Later she saw that Mo Junyang was almost killed by his political opponent, and she also got nervous. At last, till Mo Junyang died of a serious disease, she couldnt leave him. Even after Mo Junyang died, her soul scattered and disappeared. She couldnt speak out these facts. Seeing that Mo Junyang wanted to get an answer modestly, Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and closed her eyes. She became shameless and put the blame on Mo Junyang. I couldnt go anywhere must because you couldnt leave me. Somebody else must jump up and curse Shi Qingxue as she was shameless after hearing her words. But Mo Junyang heard that and nodded as he thought so. He showed a happy feeling on his face. Great. The corners of Shi Qingxues mouth twitched. What do you mean? Mo Junyang was shocked and turned away in embarrassment after realizing that he spoke out what was on his mind. Shi Qingxue stretched out her index finger and pointed at Mo Junyangs cheek. Then with strength, she poked his face and made him face her. She pouted and asked, What do you mean by saying great? Mo Junyang couldnt avoid meeting her and had to tell her frankly with difficulty, Its great that you can never get rid of me. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply and thought, Your Excellency, is it good that you are so crazy about me? The corners of her eyes twitched, and she was speechless. She didnt want to continue to talk with him. Before today, I almost didnt dare to imagine that I can own you one day. Mo Junyang seemed to be talkative and raised his hand to cover Shi Qingxues, grabbing her firmly. Shi Qingxue opened her mouth and wanted to correct him. She was not his. However, when she saw Mo Junyangs eyes with expectancy which couldnt be hidden, she swallowed what she was about to say. She didnt have the courage to meet Mo Junyangs eyes but lowered her head with shyness to conceal her blush and irregular heartbeats. Fortunately, the imperial palace was not far from Duke Shis mansion. After a while, the coachman knocked on the door from outside. Master, here is Duke Shis mansion. Shi Qingxue got out of Mo Junyangs arms in haste and murmured, I am going home. After that, she didnt care what Mo Junyang would reply but pushed the door and jumped off the carriage. Mo Junyang followed her and got out of the carriage. He stood beside the carriage silently, and he didnt say anything or ask her to stay. He just watched Shi Qingxue enter the mansion with his deep eyes. He was like a gambler who bet all on a single throw and could do nothing to Shi Qingxue no matter she asked him for anything or gave him anything. He just faced it calmly. He was sad and lonely, and even the air around seemed to stagnate. Shi Qingxue just looked back once and felt heartbroken. She couldnt continue to walk but immediately turned around to return to Mo Junyang. She grabbed his hand and shouted gloomily, Dont be like this! Mo Junyang just smiled and didnt say anything. Fine. You go back with me to see my father. Shi Qingxue admitted defeat. Even if it might cause many gossips after she brought Mo Junyang back home, she couldnt care about so much as she saw him show his fragility to her frankly and repeatedly. She ignored the inquiring eyes of the guards at the gate and even held Mo Junyangs hand, walking into Duke Shis mansion aboveboard. As soon as they entered the courtyard, they bumped into Zhou Ruyu and Shi Baoyou. Zhou Ruyu walked furiously in the front, and Shi Baoyou chased her anxiously. They were astonished to meet. Shi Qingxue didnt want to talk with these people and just called Aunt, Baoyou distantly. Then she prepared to walk away. Wait a moment! Zhou Ruyu stood in front of Shi Qingxue. She questioned arrogantly, Anyway, I am your aunt, but you didnt show respect after seeing your elder. You are so capable! Shi Qingxue was unable to respond. This woman just had nothing to do and found fault with her. She rolled her eyes in secret and didnt want to argue with Zhou Ruyu. She bowed to them. Aunt, Baoyou, good day. I have something important and need to see my father, so I have to go now. This was the highest courtesy Shi Qingxue could give to Zhou Ruyu. But Zhou Ruyu still didnt give up and stared at Qingxue and Mo Junyangs hands holding together. Then she started to give a lecture patiently. Qingxue, I know that you are always bold and unrestrained, but there are rules in the Shi family. You are an unmarried woman, but you hold a mans hand and walk in the mansion as if there is nobody around. The people who know the truth would say that you are on good terms, but those who dont know it might criticize as the rules in our family are improper and the girls are dissolute! It seemed that she advised kindly, but every word of hers was sarcastic and piercing. However, when Zhou Ruyu spoke, she was cautious and avoided mentioning Mo Junyangs name. She didnt want to confront him. But she didnt expect that. Would Mo Junyang ignore her as she just aimed at Shi Qingxue? In the beginning, Mo Junyang didnt take Zhou Ruyu seriously or plan to get involved in their conversation. But Zhou Ruyu even dared to comment on his relationship with Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyangs expressionless face looked cold at once. If Shi Qingxue didnt hold his hand, Zhou Ruyu might fall on the ground next second. Even so, Zhou Ruyu was scared by Mo Junyangs fierce eyes and moved one step backward. She was like a duck whose neck was pinched and couldnt make any sound. Shi Qingxue dared to hold Mo Junyangs hand and walk into the mansion in public, and she was prepared to be picked on by the third masters family. Hearing Zhou Ruyus accusation, she just laughed coldly. Aunt, you said that I am unmarried, and nobody could be hurt even if I get close to a man at ordinary times. But Aunt, you and your cousin Shi have a good relationship, right? I dont know if Grandma and my uncle know that. When she asked the last words, Shi Qingxue raised her brows meaningfully. Zhou Ruyu stiffened like a pheasant whose hair was plucked out and shouted angrily, Dont talk nonsense! Thats not true. If you dare to speak randomly, be careful. I will tear your mouth. Shi Qingxue certainly wouldnt be scared by Zhou Ruyus outwardly strong but inwardly weak threat. She continued to laugh. We can know if I talk nonsense or not after investigation. While speaking, she turned to Mo Junyang and asked intentionally, I hear that this month Lord Shi Zhi came back to the capital to report on his work, right? Mo Junyang glanced at Zhou Ruyu coldly and then nodded before answering Qingxues question. Yes. Lord Shi is the son of the sister of the wife of the Marquis of Wuyang, so after he returned to the capital, he stays in the mansion of the Marquis of Wuyang. This month, the third madam returned to the mansion for three times during the period when Lord Shi was having a rest. Zhou Ruyu kept silent. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Although Shi Qingxue always knew that Mo Junyang had spies all over the capital and everything in the city couldnt escape from his eyes, was he a gentleman as he spoke out others secret relationship so clearly and straightforwardly? And it happened not long ago, but Mo Junyang could say that in detail. His great insight was enough to frighten anybody. Mo Junyang didnt specially point out Zhou Ruyus vague relationship with Shi Zhi, but what he said honestly made Zhou Ruyu have no nerve to take a deep breath. She feared that Mo Junyang would reveal other shocking news. Shi Qingxue held back her laughter and enjoyed for a long time while watching Zhou Ruyus stiff face. She finally got contented. She was about to let Zhou Ruyu go, but Shi Baoyou stated at the moment, Qingxue, my mother is always plain-spoken and straightforward. Maybe she said something unpleasant to hear, but she didnt have the evil intention. She just thinks that she is an elder and should be responsible for you. Qingxue, you are broad-minded. Please forgive my mother. If she said something to offend you, I apologize to you for her. Her warm and gentle voice sounded sincere, and even her expression was full of guilt. After hearing that, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but frown. She stared at Shi Baoyou for quite a while, with her bright eyes. She suddenly smiled. Baoyou, do you mean that what I said to Aunt is not advice but with evil intentions? Chapter 220 Shi Baoyous expression stiffened and she shook her head in a hurry. No. I didnt mean that I just Baoyou, since you didnt mean that, why did you say that she offended me? Shi Qingxue quickly interrupted Shi Baoyou. She made a conclusion directly. In the final analysis, you still think that even if Aunt said something wrong, I am not broad-minded or respectful to her as I bother about her. Shi Baoyou was speechless. She just wanted to save Zhou Ruyu from this argument. She did as she had done many times in the past and thought that if she showed her weakness and admitted defeat, she could minimize the problem. She didnt expect that Shi Qingxue was so difficult to handle, and she couldnt respond to every word. She would be wrong no matter how she answered. Shi Qingxue didnt want to give Shi Baoyou a chance to argue or show the white feather. She changed the subject and lowered herself first. She said in a weak tone with grievance like Shi Baoyou did, Fine. You are older than me, so no matter what you say, you are right. Baoyou, you told me not to bother about it, so I dont dare to. Shi Baoyou was unable to reply. Probably, Shi Baoyou pretended to be weak for so many years, but she was beaten back most miserably with most grievance this time. After all, her cousin Shi Qingxue did everything as she said. What else could she say? No matter how slick in social relations Shi Baoyou was, she had to laugh awkwardly. Qingxue, you are so generous. Thanks! Shi Qingxue accepted it with no guilt. Then she asked impassively, What can I do for you? Zhou Ruyu and Shi Baoyou couldnt say a word. Before they thought about anything to say, Shi Qingxue continued indifferently, Oh. Since you have nothing to say, I am going back to the East House first. Afterward, she held Mo Junyangs hand and walked to the East House. After they walked far away and entered the courtyard of the East House, Shi Qingxue slowed down and took a deep breath unhappily. She murmured, Its so troublesome! She didnt say what she meant exactly. Mo Junyang suddenly stated, Shi Baoyou, she Hmm? Shi Qingxue responded gently and raised her eyes to look at Mo Junyang, waiting for his next words. Mo Junyang coughed and then pointed out simply, She is not a good person. Shi Qingxue smiled and nodded. I have guessed that. After a pause, she continued with interest, But how do you know that? Mo Junyang was always an onlooker and saw everything most clearly, but he never commented. She was curious why Mo Junyang changed all of a sudden. But Mo Junyang stopped talking and even stared at her gently, looking obedient and weak. If Mo Junyang were not tall and big, he would be like a little woman. Shi Qingxue imagined about the little woman Mo Junyang and felt chill. She waved her hand as if to admit defeat and couldnt help but complain, Enough. If you pretend again, you will be exposed. Huh! Dont think that she didnt know how insincere Mo Junyang was as he showed his weakness and grievance. The grievance on Mo Junyangs face disappeared and he stood straight. He didnt defend himself at all. He was so obedient. Even though Shi Qingxue knew that he pretended, she couldnt bear to blame him. Humph! Shi Qingxue snorted crossly and didnt want to talk with Mo Junyang. She didnt hold his hand and walked forward directly. Mo Junyang finally knew that he was in trouble because he pretended, so he hurriedly stepped forward and grabbed Qingxues hand. Then he admitted his mistake in a soft voice. It was my fault. Dont be mad at me. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes at him and complained in a bad mood, I havent mentioned what you did when I lost my memory. You were distant and cruel. You stayed away from me on purpose and suddenly turned hostile again and again Even though after she regained her memory, she knew why Mo Junyang was hesitant, she felt really sad then and wouldnt let him go so easily. Mo Junyang looked around and couldnt avoid her, so he admitted his fault and confessed, I just think that Shi Baoyou hides her intentions very well, and I am afraid that she would harm you again, so I want you to be careful of her As for the crimes Shi Qingxue mentioned just now, Mo Junyang couldnt explain, so he evaded the crucial point and pretended that he didnt hear her. Shi Qingxue saw through Mo Junyang at a glance, but she paid attention to his word again, which was meaningful. Do you think she did something in Shi Baojins case? Shi Qingxue immediately guessed the hidden meaning in Mo Junyangs words. Mo Junyang looked cold and responded directly, No matter if she did something, it had something to do with her. He didnt conceal his killing intent and showed all his true colors to Shi Qingxue. He wanted to kill Shi Baoyou. Shi Qingxue kept silent. Although Mo Junyang looked horrible, Shi Qingxue just felt that he was real and veryhandsome. Shi Qingxue sighed with emotion as his beautiful face disturbed her, and meanwhile she cursed herself secretly as she was not determined, but she couldnt conceal her face which was more burning. Forget it. Do what you want to. She purposely said that in a loud voice and then lowered her head to walk forward. Mo Junyang didnt chase her in a hurry. Shi Qingxues behavior gave him much confidence undoubtedly. He was almost sure that she wouldnt give him up again. So he felt peaceful from the bottom of his heart and even walked forward much more lightly than before. Shi Qingxue walked too fast and found that Mo Junyang still moved slowly behind her. She looked back and frowned at him with displeasure. She intentionally shouted to show that she disliked him, Walk faster! Mo Junyang wouldnt disagree but showed a smile with love. Okay! Then he walked to Shi Qingxue in just three steps and held her hand naturally, looking at her, with joy in his eyes and brows. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak a word. She almost didnt know Mo Junyang. Was this the emperor who was terrifying and made everybody tremble after hearing his name? This was not him! Shi Qingxue was desperate as she didnt have any resistance to such a man. Mo Junyang reached out his hand to her ear and pinched it gently. Then he laughed. You have a blush! His voice was deep and magnetic. Ah! After hearing this voice, even the ear could get pregnant. Shi Qingxue hurriedly saved her ears from Mo Junyangs hand and rubbed her face to release the blush. She pretended to be angry and glared at the man. If you waste more time, I wont talk with you! This time she didnt dare to look at the man but walked quickly into the main hall of the East House. Only Dong Hui was there. Mother! Shi Qingxue joyfully ran to Dong Hui. She looked her mother up and down first and confirmed that she was all right. But she still asked worriedly, How are you feeling now? Dong Hui was about to say with a smile that she was fine, but she raised her head and saw Mo Junyang standing at the door. Her face stiffened and she didnt answer but asked Qingxue in a low voice, What is he doing here? Dong Hui still didnt know that Shi Qingxue had regained her memory and thought the two young people didnt talk with each other. Shi Qingxue remembered that before she fell into a coma, Dong Hui had shown that she didnt like Mo Junyang for no reason and insisted on telling Qingxue to have blind dates. She didnt want Qingxue to get close to Mo Junyang. For a moment, the smile on Qingxues face faded, but she still answered Dong Hui, His Excellency and I have something to tell Father. Where is he? At the mention of Shi Junhe, Dong Huis attention was brought away, and her face wrinkled. She snorted with displeasure. Your grandma summoned him. I dont know when he can come back. Her tone was meaningful Shi Qingxue immediately understood that Mo Shujun summoned Shi Junhe not to praise him, but didnt her father have a great merit this time? If Shi Junhe didnt come back in time to settle down the rebellion, nobody knew how the capital would be harmed. Her father was a big hero of the Mo Country. Dong Hui sneered. But who knows that somebody shrank back? Who are you talking about? Shi Qingxue thought of Wenren Chi subconsciously, but on second thought, she denied it at once. Her brother was taught by her father and inherited the merits of the Shi family and Wenren family. He would never shrink back. Dong Hui didnt answer but glanced at Mo Junyang, silently telling Qingxue to ask him. As soon as Shi Qingxue turned her head, Mo Junyang explained, Third Master Shi led the soldiers to stop the rebel army outside the boundary river under orders, but they retreated instead of fighting and made the rebel army cross the boundary river. His Majesty gave the order and declared him guilty as a deserter. His position was deposed and he will be punished after the war is settled. Uh Qingxue was speechless and didnt know how to comment on her uncle Shi Juncai. So Grandma wanted Father to ask His Majesty for mercy for my uncle? Dong Hui nodded with displeasure. Although the rebellion has been settled down temporarily now, His Majesty is furious, and I hear that he fainted out of anger several times because of the rebellion, but your grandma tells your father to ask for mercy. Wouldnt he irritate His Majesty? He might be unable to save Shi Juncai, but he would probably be in trouble. Father wont go, Shi Qingxue expressed with certainty all of a sudden. Dong Hui looked at her doubtfully and didnt know why she was so confident. However, Shi Qingxue didnt have time to explain. She told Dong Hui something in a hurry and then brought Mo Junyang to the Shouan Hall. Why are you sure that General Shi wont ask for mercy for Third Master Shi? Shi Qingxue walked forward in haste and replied casually without looking back, My father disdains the deserters most. Now the deserter is his brother and he already cheated as he didnt capture my uncle to the execution ground. Its impossible to make him ask for mercy for my uncle. But Mo Junyang retorted, Its not sure. The princess royal gets involved, and thats his brother. If General Shi wants to stay out of it, it may not be so easy. My father wont give in, Shi Qingxue replied without thinking. When they reached the Shouan Hall, it happened that Shi Junhe walked out. He looked exhausted as if he had been in a big war. Shi Qingxue hurriedly walked to Shi Junhe and grabbed his arm with concern, asking, Father, are you okay? Shi Junhe shook his head silently and brought them out of the Shouan Hall. Then he reminded in a deep voice, Your grandma is not in a good mood these days. If you have nothing important, dont disturb her. He thought the two came to greet Mo Shujun. Qingxue pouted and didnt hide her disdain for Mo Shujun. She murmured, I came to see you? Why? Shi Junhe was confused. Shi Qingxue said boldly, Of course I am afraid that you were bullied by her. Did she make things difficult for you? Shi Junhe shook his head and was about to say no. Suddenly he realized that Qingxue didnt call Mo Shujun grandma from beginning to end. He couldnt help but frown and rebuke in a low voice, You are naughty. She is your grandma. How can you speak like this? Shi Qingxue also knew that her behavior would give others a chance to comment on her, but under the situation, she couldnt peacefully take Mo Shujun as her respected grandma. She talked about something else. Then she asked, Father, what were you talking about? Chapter 221 Shi Junhe glanced at Shi Qingxue, to find that she was still playing dumb, so he was annoyed but felt laughable. He didnt rebuke her but turned to Mo Junyang, joking. Does she act shamelessly in this way in front of you? Mo Junyang got astonished as he was asked suddenly. Then he finally understood the hidden meaning in Shi Junhes words. He stood straight and nodded at Shi Junhe seriously. Then he smiled. She is nice, great. It seemed that Shi Qingxue should act so shamelessly in front of them. Shi Junhe was silent for a long while and finally couldnt help but laugh. Only you can endure her. He shook his head and sighed. Well. Lets go back first. While speaking, he led the two back to his study. As soon as Shi Qingxue entered the study, she asked Shi Junhe about what happened in the Shouan Hall. What can she say? She just said something like, I am Juncais brother and cant leave him alone anyway. Shi Junhe sat in the chair and rubbed his forehead in pain while sighing helplessly. Shi Qingxue understood but soon looked at Shi Junhe cautiously. Father, what do you plan to do? Shi Junhe shook his head with a hesitant expression. Obviously, he had no way for now. Do you plan to help Uncle get away with it? Shi Qingxue asked with displeasure. The evidence of his crime is solid. How can he get away with it? Shi Junhe stated coldly, in a resentful tone. Although Shi Junhe was not close to Shi Juncai, after all, they were brothers and blood was thicker than water, so they had the ties of kinship. Moreover, he once hoped that his brother could be promising. But so many years had passed, and Shi Juncai was just an official at the imperial court all the time because of the ancestors. He didnt finish anything by himself. No matter how Shi Junhe pinned his hopes on him in the past, he was disappointed after a long time. Now Shi Junhe just hoped that his brother could do his own job and live a life honestly without ruining their fathers fame. Unexpectedly, Shi Juncai couldnt even do such a simple job. He disobeyed the orders on the battlefield and escaped. It was a serious crime, and even if Shi Junhe committed it, he couldnt pay for it with his life. Shi Juncai didnt have military exploits or outstanding achievements, so he didnt have a chance to be dealt with leniently. More importantly, on the battlefield, the Shi Army was brave and battlewise. Shi Juncais behavior humiliated the Shi family. Even Shi Junhe couldnt forgive Shi Juncais disgusting conduct, let alone asking for mercy for him. Hearing Shi Junhes words, Shi Qingxue raised her brows and glanced at Mo Junyang, seeming to say, See, I have said that my father wont ask for mercy for my uncle. But in this case, Princess Royal might not give up, right? Mo Junyang changed his attitude as an onlooker and asked. He hit the nail on the head. Shi Junhes face stiffened and he sighed with frustration after quite a while. Right. My mother insisted on telling me to ask His Majesty for mercy and said that I should protect my brother anyway. Shi Qingxue was quite clear that Mo Shujun was partial to Shi Juncai, and she pouted unhappily. What if no? Shi Junhe stayed silent again. After a long while, Shi Qingxue even thought that he wouldnt say anything. Then Shi Junhe whispered, If I dont agree, she wont take me as her son! And she would spread the news in the capital and let all people know that Shi Junhe was unfriendly to his brother and folded his hands while seeing his brother die. Shi Junhe didnt speak out the last words. But only what he said was enough to make Shi Qingxue explode. She has gone too far! How can she do that? Shi Qingxue shouted angrily. Shi Qingxue didnt care about Mo Shujuns insincere kinship, but Mo Shujun even said that she would disown Shi Junhe. If the news spread, others wouldnt say that Mo Shujun was not kind but would just say that Shi Junhe didnt respect his mother so she didnt want to take him as her son. The Mo Country paid attention to respecting the elders. Mo Shujun just wanted to ruin Shi Junhe. Shi Qingxue trembled with anger and shouted Its too much several times successively, but under Shi Junhes silent and serious expression, she couldnt say something more excessive. But if she didnt say, she felt absolutely suffocated. She was too furious. Mo Junyang patted her shoulder from behind and comforted her quietly. Then he turned to Shi Junhe and asked, Since Princess Royal said that, she was sure that you can save Third Master Shi. But His Majesty is in a rage and it would only make things worse if you enter the palace now to ask for mercy. It is impossible for Princess Royal not to think of this possibility. So whats her route of retreat as she prepared? Shi Junhe was stunned and didnt say anything for a long time. He was convinced by Mo Junyangs logical argument indeed and admired him to a higher level. He just said a few words, but this young man had guessed what he wanted to conceal, which made General Shi have nowhere to hide. He was embarrassed but relieved. He didnt hide it anymore but turned to look at Shi Qingxue with his sad eyes. Juncai committed a serious crime this time. Even if he wont implicate our family, he may escape from death but cant go unpunished. Shi Qingxue was confused as her father gazed at her. He can stay alive. Isnt it great? What else do they want? Shi Junhe remained silent. Mo Junyang laughed playfully and helped Shi Junhe answer her. What do they want? Of course he wants to be released and regain his official position. Are you joking? Shi Qingxue opened her eyes wide in astonishment and could hardly believe what she had heard. But the two mens expressions told her that she didnt mishear it. She was more speechless and thought those people were so greedy. But on second thought, she believed it was impossible. The evidence of Uncles crime is obvious, and its difficult to save his life. How can you make it as you said? Mo Junyang shrugged and laughed meaningfully. We cant make it, but you can. Shi Qingxue frowned and subconsciously wanted to tell Mo Junyang not to joke, but she thought that he wouldnt be so bored as to joke like this. She had to ask, What do you mean? The token granted by Emperor. Five words revealed everything. Shi Qingxue finally realized that Mo Shujun didnt hope Shi Junhe to ask for mercy but coveted the token granted by Emperor in her hands. She didnt think much and refused directly. No way. I wont give out the token granted by Emperor. In fact, Shi Junhe had expected that Shi Qingxue would have such a reaction, and he didnt look surprised. He just felt exhausted, like a cornered beast. Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see that, and she was not as firm as before instantly. She bit her lower lip and asked with difficulty, Father, what do you think? Do you hope that I can give out the thing which stands for Grandpas exploits for a lifetime and then make the Shi family have a worse name? A person from the Shi family was guilty but didnt admit it. Instead, he wanted to go unpunished depending on the privilege. If the news spread, the honor of the Shi family for one hundred years would be ruined. At the thought of this possibility, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but have tears in her eyes. She almost cried. She was unwilling to give out the token granted by Emperor to save Shi Juncais life not because she coveted it. The token granted by Emperor was the only thing left to her by her grandpa. She didnt want to waste such a treasure. Father Seeing that Shi Qingxue was hesitant and sad, Shi Junhe kept silent for a while and finally chose to tell her the truth. Back then, when your grandpa gave you the token granted by Emperor which should be kept by the family master, he didnt plan to let you inherit it. Shi Qingxue was stunned and didnt understand why Shi Junhe mentioned the old story all of a sudden. Shi Junhe continued, Your grandpa just simply loved his little granddaughter, so he gave you the thing which represents his honor and exploits for a lifetime. And he told me and your grandma that no matter when, even if the Shi family is in a hopeless situation, we cant force you to give out the token granted by Emperor. Father Shi Qingxue expressed in a daze and felt that she seemed to find some secret. Love was shown on Shi Junhes face, and he stared at Shi Qingxue deeply, stressing each word. So the token granted by Emperor in your hands doesnt belong to the Shi family, but it belongs to you only. Anybody else cant covet it. So from the beginning, Shi Junhe didnt want to mention this matter because he didnt plan to let Qingxue give out the token granted by Emperor. Shi Qingxue displayed a bright smile instantly and asked with joy, Really? Shi Junhe nodded seriously. Qingxues smile was sweeter. However, soon her smile faded and she looked worried. She murmured, But how would you explain to Grandma? Shi Junhes face darkened, too, but after a pause, he waved his hand. Dont need to worry about it. I will figure out a way. Shi Qingxue pouted and didnt believe Shi Junhes words. However, before she spoke, Mo Junyang stated first, General Shi, since you have a solution, Qingxue and I wont ask about it. Shi Qingxue glared at Mo Junyang in a rage, as if her eyes could eat him. When did she agree not to ask about this matter? Why did Mo Junyang make decisions for her? However, Shi Junhe took Mo Junyangs words seriously and expressed joyfully that the young man was smart. Then he changed the subject. By the way, what else do you want from me? Shi Qingxue was unhappy as the two men ignored her and made decisions for her, but when it came to dealing with Shi Juncais case, the two men thought alike and didnt give her a chance to cut in. It annoyed her a lot. She didnt want to answer Shi Junhes question and just knocked Mo Junyangs arm with her elbow, hinting with her eyes, Didnt you want to see my father? Why not say something? Mo Junyang smiled at her to comfort her. No hurry. I will tell him. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes in secret. Who is in a hurry? I dont like to talk with you. Mo Junyang accepted it calmly and looked at her with love. If you dont want to speak, I will speak for you. Shi Junhe watched the young couples eye contacts, and it seemed that there was love around. It gave this old man goose pimples. But he didnt say anything to disturb them. He just watched quietly and showed a relieved smile automatically. Till this young couple finally ended their conversation, he showed them that he had watched a good play. He joked kindly, Have you finished? Can you tell me now? Father! Shi Qingxue blushed because of his joke and stamped her foot, wanting to find a hole to hide herself. Mo Junyang kept calm all the time and answered seriously, No, we havent finished, but we can continue later. Shi Junhe was speechless. Probably only such a man as Mo Junyang was so bold as to flirt with the daughter in front of the father. However, Shi Junhe couldnt get mad at Mo Junyang seemingly. He stayed silent for a while and then asked peacefully, What do you want to tell me? Mo Junyang answered, When the rebellion started, His Majesty promised to grant the marriage of me and Qingxue as long as I settled down the rebellion. Chapter 222 - Discussing the Marriage The father, General Shi was unable to reply. Could he eat his words? He really wanted to beat this man to death who coveted his daughter so aboveboard and boldly. Although Shi Junhe had been mentally prepared for the truth that his beloved daughter belonged to Mo Junyang partly, when he had to face this matter He felt sad and didnt want to give out his daughter at all. Your Excellency, you suddenly told me about this. Are you sure that I will marry my daughter to you? Shi Junhe asked in a cold and sharp voice. Mo Junyang shook his head and looked modest. But before Shi Junhes face softened, he heard the young man say slowly, I am just sure that I will marry Qingxue. In another word, it didnt matter if Shi Junhe agreed. Shi Junhe was speechless. Probably it was the first time for Shi Junhe to hear such a proposal without following the rules, and he couldnt answer. All the words he had prepared in his heart were useless. General Shi was annoyed and amused. At last, he had to look at Shi Qingxue helplessly, asking while joking, Now even your father cant decide your marriage. I can only ask you. What do you think? Shi Qingxue was also petrified by Mo Junyangs sudden proposal and didnt react after a long while. Shi Junhe directly dragged her into the center of the whirlpool. Father! Shi Qingxue was shy and angry. She couldnt answer Shi Junhes question. Shi Junhe seemed not to notice his daughters shyness and continued to ask with interest, Good girl, tell me. Will you marry him? Shi Qingxue glared at Shi Junhe. How could he force her to answer? No matter how bold and open-minded she was, this matter would test how thick-skinned she was. Oh, look at you. You dont want to! Shi Junhe thought that Shi Qingxue looked unhappy because she was dissatisfied with this marriage. Before Qingxue answered him, he turned to Mo Junyang and pretended dumb, telling him, I am sorry. My daughter doesnt want to marry you. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak a word. However, Mo Junyang seemed not to understand Shi Junhes joke and suddenly turned to Qingxue. He didnt say anything, but his face and eyes showed that he was hurt. He felt wronged to the extreme, as if Shi Qingxue did something unforgivable. Shi Qingxue was speechless for a long time and at last, she couldnt help but roll her eyes at the two actors, complaining, Its fine if you joke. You echo each other, and it seems that I am an immoral woman who abandons him. Perhaps Shi Junhe thought that it was not right to banter with his daughter, so he pretended to cough twice and then passed the buck. I just follow His Excellencys words. Mo Junyang saluted Shi Junhe and expressed respectfully, General Shi, just call me Junyang. Shi Junhe was astonished and then sighed with emotion in secret. Gee, it must be the best treatment I have got after I have known Mo Junyang for so long. But he thought that Mo Junyang was so respectful and modest in front of him and took him as his father-in-law. General Shi felt sad and didnt want to joke anymore. He looked serious and asked, Your E Junyang, since you mentioned that, I wont say something useless to you. I know you love Qingxue and you wont abandon her after she marries you. But the marriage is never something about two people. Now you are in a high position and liable to be attacked. How would you ensure that Qingxue wont suffer injustice after marrying you? In the beginning, Shi Qingxue felt shy because they suddenly discussed their marriage, and she hadnt reacted. Then she heard that they talked about the family life after marriage. It changed so fast! But Mo Junyang got accustomed soon and looked serious, responding, I will handle everything well. Qingxue just needs to rest assured and be the mistress in King Ruis mansion. The mistress of King Ruis mansion Shi Junhe repeated in a low voice and an inexplicable and confused expression was shown on his solemn face. Mo Junyang then promised as he thought Shi Junhe was worried, And she is the only mistress. I will never marry anybody except her all my life. My love spreads and doesnt change for two lives. If I break my promise, I will die miserably! Shi Qingxue couldnt say anything. She was scared by Mo Junyangs sudden vow and then remembered that Mo Junyang didnt marry for a lifetime after she died in the previous life. She felt sad and didnt hesitate if she should be reserved. She had nothing but this man on her mind. She stood up and stared at Shi Junhe, saying seriously, Father, I believe him. He wont break his promise. Shi Junhe still didnt give up and even rolled his eyes at her, rebuking her crossly, You are going to marry him, so you certainly believe him. Shi Qingxue felt shy again and argued, No. I just know that he wont abandon me. Logically, she had been betrayed in the previous life and should understand the mens cold-blooded character deeply. In fact, it was true. If another man swore that he would love one woman forever, she wouldnt believe him. Even her father Shi Junhe had to marry the fifth lady Shi Baoyans mother Kou Lian as his concubine under the pressure, and now Mo Shujun forced him to marry another concubine. He loved his wife so much, but he would be powerless sometimes. Moreover, men were born to be dissolute. However, everything was different when it was Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue had confidence in this man. Shi Junhe snorted. You say that he wont abandon you, but the heart is in his body. How can you be sure that his heart wont change and he would love you forever? General Shi had seen many young couples who loved each other a lot when they were young, but as time went by, they hated and complained about each other. Even he and Dong Hui still loved each other like before, but the storm and conflicts hidden in love couldnt be ignored. Shi Junhe was self-contradictory. On one hand, he didnt want to talk with Shi Qingxue about these problems. He hoped that his little daughter would keep her purity forever and wouldnt get hurt. On the other hand, he was clearer than anybody else that reality was cruel. If they were not prepared in advance, once the disaster came, it would be like giant earthquakes and landslides. Shi Junhe said seriously, but Shi Qingxue smiled all of a sudden. Her smile was as bright as the sun. She said to Shi Junhe, There will be all kinds of possibilities and panic in the future, but shall we stop and refuse to move ahead because of that? Whats more She raised her beautiful brows and glanced at the two men, smiling with confidence. If I dont have the ability to make my man unable to leave me, I wont regret it even after I am abandoned miserably. Great, great! Shi Junhe said the word twice successively, and his depression disappeared as a result. Right, he should have confidence in his daughter. Then he saw that because of Shi Qingxues few words, Mo Junyang showed a shocked expression on his face which was always emotionless and opened his thin lips slightly but didnt make a sound for a long time. Obviously he was moved by Qingxues trust. In this case, how would Shi Junhe qualify to suspect their love? Fine. Shi Junhe sighed in a low voice. He sighed with emotion and relief. A married daughter will be a member of another family. My daughter is still unmarried, but she helps another family now. What else can I say? He showed the signal of surrender. Mo Junyang who was always calm and confident showed an overjoyed expression involuntarily after hearing that. He was not calm anymore and his emotion could hardly be concealed. He even seriously nodded at Shi Junhe to salute and promised again, I wont let you down. Gee, dont be so sure. Shi Junhe waved his hand first and made an agreement with Mo Junyang in advance. If you treat Qingxue unfairly in the future, even though you are in the royal family and have much power, my family wont give up because of that. Mo Junyang certainly agreed. Shi Junhe finally smiled with relief and teased Shi Qingxue again. Its said that the child is the father of the man. No wonder before your grandpa passed away, he started to worry about your future husband. Do you still remember that when you were a child, you boasted without shame that you would be the most honorable woman in the world? Shi Qingxue was stunned and shy. She said something so shameless when she was a child? Otherwise, why did we name your residence Luotong Boudoir when we gave it to you? Shi Junhe laughed helplessly. The phenix would only stay in a phoenix tree (Wutong). Qingxue was favored in the Shi family and was ambitious when she was young. At that time, all people in the family thought that she would marry Mo Junhao in the future, and Mo Xiangbin favored Mo Junhao so much, so she would surely be the empress at last. Even though Shi Junhe and his wife didnt want Shi Qingxue to marry Mo Junhao, they didnt stop her. Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded this time and couldnt speak a word. It was because she seemed to remember what she had said when she was a child, more than what Shi Junhe had mentioned earlier, and there were many things that she had forgotten. The unhappy memories made her look terrible. Whats wrong? Shi Junhe just joked, but Qingxues behavior made him unable to react all at once. Shi Qingxue just shook her head and didnt want to say more. Mo Junyang guessed something and maintained his composure, helping Qingxue answer the question. Qingxue has just woken up and so many things happened. She is tired and needs to have a rest. Please forgive her. Shi Junhe raised his head to glance at Mo Junyang, annoyed by his random excuse. It was obvious that he told a lie and didnt plan to hide it from Shi Junhe. But just his honesty made Shi Junhe unable to ask more. Forget it. I dont want to mind your business. If you have nothing to say, just go back first. Shi Junhe had a lot of troublesome things and didnt have time to guess what these young people were thinking about. Shi Qingxue was in low spirits. After saying goodbye, she walked out with Mo Junyang. As soon as they walked to the door, Shi Junhe called them. They looked back at the same time, and Shi Junhe stated seriously, Qingxue, you are still a member of the Shi family now. Hmm? Shi Qingxue didnt understand why her father said that all of a sudden. Shi Junhe added in all earnestness, You need to go back home when its getting dark. Shi Qingxue was speechless. General Shi who had the experience showed that he could understand that the young people would forget time when they were in love, but before marriage, they should restrain themselves, in case that others commented on them. He pointed out seriously, At least you should be less close and cant stay out at night. Shi Qingxue blushed and shouted hurriedly, Father, I wont talk with you! She felt extremely embarrassed and ran away. But Mo Junyang was still calm and nodded at Shi Junhe to cooperate with him, answering, General, please dont worry. I will send Qingxue back before the night of curfew. He meant that he wouldnt part with Shi Qingxue so soon. Shi Junhe couldnt reply. The general felt depressed and watched Mo Junyang taking Shi Qingxue away from their mansion again. Chapter 223 - Clear the Air Mo Junyang knew Shi Qingxue was in a bad mood, so he took her to the Moon Lake to relax. When they arrived there, it had completely darkened. It was dark around the Moon Lake, with only a little fluorescent dots between the grass and the lake. It was quiet and pleasant. As soon as Shi Qingxue stepped out of the carriage, she was attracted by the scene in front of her. After they stood quietly for a while, Mo Junyang asked gently, Are you feeling better now? Shi Qingxue was stunned with her mouth slightly opened, but she didnt bother to ask how Mo Junyang knew she was in a bad mood. She couldnt hide her emotions at all in front of Mo Junyang. But she didnt answer immediately. She walked slowly to the lake and faced the breeze for a long time. You know what? Shi Qingxue finally said. The voice was gentle and seemed to be sad, My grandfather gave the Luotong Boudoir to me when I was eight years old, and it was named at that time. But at the beginning it was not named Luotong Boudoir. Mo Junyang walked to Shi Qingxue and stood beside her. Hearing Qingxues question, he paused, and then nodded, I know, it was originally called Qingxue Boudoir. Shi Qingxue was a little surprised that Mo Junyang actually knew it, but then she understood what he was thinking. She made a reluctant smile, and then said, So, you also know why I insisted on changing the name? Mo Junyang hesitated, shook his head, and admitted, At that time, my power was still weak. Although I wanted to have your information, it was still beyond my capacity sometimes. It was just because the name changing provoked much discussion. This also revealed the fact that he had always sent someone to monitor her. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes secretly. It was amazing that she didnt feel angry at allCMo Junyang did too many perverted things, so it was not rare to do so. But after Mo Junyang said this, she was not that depressed. She smiled bitterly, and continued, At that time, the fourth prince who was 12 years old, my brother Hao, told me that he wanted to marry the noblest woman in the world. The noblest woman, in my young heart, equaled to brother Haos wife Then so many things happened later. She at that time had always wanted to be the bride of Brother Hao! She turned around to look at Mo Junyang, and smiled bitterly, Looking back now, I would do that kind of thing just because I wanted to be his wife. So Mo Junhao took advantage of me since I was little and there were things like that in the previous life The tragic ending. All the curse is due to my own greed. Mo Junyang kept silent for a long time, but seemed to be comforted by Qingxues words. He even smiled, Fortunately! Shi Qingxue stared at him depressed. She already started to suspect her life. It was obvious that all tragedies in the previous life were asked for by her. He could actually laugh. As if she did it well! Although Shi Qingxue was a little bit happy that Mo Junyang didnt ridicule her being stupid. Was it good to not distinguish right from wrong? Mo Junyang understood Shi Qingxues doubts and smiled more happily. He stretched out his hand and gently embraced Shi Qingxue in his arms. He came to her ear and whispered softly, Qingxue, you know what? I can give you whatever you want. Prosperity, wealth, the title of Empress or the whole world. Its no big deal. I only have one request. When Shi Qingxue heard Mo Junyangs indifferent but sad words, she felt heartbroken. Although Mo Junyang did have the ability to get what he said, it still seemed too mad, right? In the whole world, there was probably only Mo Junyang, who could have everything that everyone dreamed of, wanted nothing but her What a fool! Shi Qingxue couldnt help commenting. Looking at Mo Junyangs affectionate gaze, she couldnt help but say, Then what do you want? Mo Junyang almost pressed his thin lips to the tip of Qingxues ear, and slowly said, I want your heart, can younot give it to others! Shi Qingxue was stunned, and she felt hot and sore in her eyes before she realized it. Then, tears ran down her cheeks. You Just as Shi Qingxue said, her voice choked. She couldnt say anything, but there were more and more tears. Mo Junyang fixedly looked at Shi Qingxue, demanding an answer, Okay? Shi Qingxue said, Yours. It is all yours She yelled out loud with no scruples. If a girl was too proactive, she would be less valuable. If she was not reserved, she would be considered slutty She no longer wanted to care about such words. She just wanted to tell Mo Junyang what she really thought. She kept crying with her arms around Mo Junyangs neck, while she was still berating Mo Junyang for saying such things, You are a bastard! How can you say such things! It makes me, it makes me, cry It was the first time for Mo Junyang to see her cry. He did not rush to comfort her. He only stretched out his fingers and gently stroked her cheek to wipe away the tears. Then he took it to his mouth and licked it. Bitter and unbearable. But Mo Junyang smiled slightly, full of happiness. Great! The tears are for me! Shi Qingxues heart felt sadder. She put her arms around Mo Junyang recklessly, crying loudly. Tears slipped into the mouth, bitter and astringent, hard to swallow. But the more so, the more she felt sorry for Mo Junyang. This big fool! Mo Junyang also hugged Qingxue tightly, uncontrollably, and couldnt help but lower his head to keep kissing Qingxues white neck. He was silently saying that he had accumulated the love of two lifetimes. That night, Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang both cleared the air, which had been frustrated for two lifetimes. They just felt happy, and everything seemed wonderful. They even kept lovey-dovey until the last moment of the curfew. Then Mo Junyang reluctantly let Qingxue get out of the carriage. When he sent Qingxue into the house of Shi family and stood at the gate, he kept staring at Qingxue. Shi Qingxue took two steps, and as soon as she turned around, she saw his deep eyes. How could she leave? But she had to return home. She had no choice but to run back to Mo Junyang quickly. She gently tiptoed high, closed her eyes, and kissed on his cheek. Then she didnt dare to look at Mo Junyang, and ran back a little quickly before she could stop. She didnt look back, and just said softly, You just suppressed the rebellion, so you must be very busy these days. I will come to you again in a while. After that, Shi Qingxue covered her hot cheeks, and ran back to the Luotong Boudoir without waiting for Mo Junyangs response. Mo Junyang still stood there, until Shi Qingxue had completely disappeared from his sight. He still did not move. He just kept watching. Two words were in his heart: So great! The dream for many years, at this moment, finally came true. Though Mo Junyang was confident, he still had a feeling of dreaming. Not real at all. He could only persuade himself that all this was true only by recollecting the words Qingxue said at the side of Moon Lake over and over again. Master, lets go back? There will be the curfew in a while. Im afraid there will be trouble driving on the road at that time. In the end, the guard who drove couldnt wait any longer, and took the initiative to say something. He didnt dare to speak too loudly, for he was afraid to make Mo Junyang angry. However, he thought too much. Mo Junyang was not angry, instead, he was in a good mood and gave him a gentle smile. Seeing it, the guard was so scared that he felt weird and unreal. Ma-master? Was this really their ruthless master? Gosh. Although the master looked gentle and kind, he was still scared in his heart! Mo Junyang still smiled. He just glanced at the guard and said lightly. Im in a good mood today, so I wont care about your being silly. Lets go! Then he quickly got into the carriage. After Shi Qingxue recovered her memory, she indeed had some comfortable days in her boudoir. She was irritated by Mo Junyangs bloody military uniform in the Cold Palace and luckily restored the memory of her previous life. But there were also drawbacks. When she first woke up, her head was muddled and her memories were crumpled up. Even if they belonged to her, she couldnt tell which memories belonged to her previous life and which memories happened in this life. So even though she admitted that she had recovered her memory at that time, in fact she was still unconfident. But after two days of recuperation, she finally got better. Her head was no longer muddled and those memory fragments were also arranged in order and placed in her mind. Shi Qingxue was happy, but Xia Mang hurried to inform her, Sixth Lady, Madam wants you to see her. Mom? What for? Shi Qingxue asked in confusion. Knowing her current situation, Shi Junhe relieved her of the etiquette every morning and twilight, and specifically asked everyone in the mansion not to disturb her and let her take a few days to rest. Dong Hui also knew about this, so even though she cared about her, she just asked Mammy Zheng to send some tonics. She didnt need her to meet her. Xia Mang took care of everything. But Dong Hui suddenly called her over. Seeing Xia Mangs face, she felt it didnt seem to be a good thing. Xia Mang shook her head, put her lips and replied, I dont know. The little maid who passed the message didnt say it. But I She looked up at Shi Qingxue, and was about to speak, but saying nothing. Okay, you dont need to do so! Just say what you want to say! Shi Qingxue knew Xia Mang too well, so she just asked Xia Mang to speak without waiting for her to ask if she could say. When I went to prepare the meal for you just now and passed by the East House, I saw Third Madam enter it. What? Shi Qingxue stood up and hurried out. While walking, she frowned and said, Dont you know my mom hasnt been feeling well recently? She just needs a quiet recuperation. How could you not tell me when seeing Third Madam enter the East House? Shi Qingxue had completely regarded Zhou Ruyu as a black sheep. She didnt even want Zhou Ruyu to approach Dong Hui at all. However, when she hurried to the East House, she didnt see Zhou Ruyu, but Dong Hui sitting in the courtyard with an unhappy expression. It was not a good sign. Qingxue calmed down before stepping forward. She performed a salute for luck in a proper manner, and carefully greeted her, Greetings, mom. Wish you good luck. Dong Hui rarely turned her head and glanced at her, and then turned back, holding up the tea bowl on the table. She sipped it and then slapped the tea bowl down heavily. She asked Mammy Zheng angrily, Why is this tea so hot? Do you want to scald me? Mammy Zheng knew that Dong Hui was angry, and she didnt dare to argue that this tea would never scald her mouth. She knelt down and admitted her mistake, Its all my fault. I will give you another cup of tea at once! While instructing the little maid to clean up the broken tea bowl, she also directed a second-class maid to pour tea. For a time, everyone was commanded and busy. Shi Qingxue was safe and sound, but she was not blind, so she soon realized that Dong Hui was angry with her. She sighed, waved her hands and let the maids go. She gave a salute to Dong Hui again, Mom, if you have any dissatisfaction, just tell me. Dont be angry and hurt yourself! Chapter 224 - Mom Who Was Against the Marriage Dong Hui snorted heavily towards Qingxue, You are powerful now! How can I be dissatisfied with you? Shi Qingxue looked helpless and sighed, Mom. How did I make you unhappy? Just say it directly. Why do you say so? Say it directly? Dong Hui instantly seemed to get the power. She stiffened and asked coldly, Then Im going to ask you, are you still my daughter? Do you still obey my words? Of course Im your daughter. When Shi Qingxue just responded, Dong Hui got more powerful and blustered, Then I ask you not to see Mo Junyang again, why dont you listen to me? I! Qingxue didnt expect that Dong Hui was angry about it, and she was speechless for a while. But immediately she realized that something was wrong. It was different at the moment. If Dong Hui felt that Mo Junyang was at odds with Shi Junhes position, and he might have hindered Shi Junhes career, so she would stop it. But Mo Junyang had clearly requested the emperor to grant the marriage, and even Shi Junhe had already acquiesced. Why was Dong Hui still so fiercely opposed? Unless Shi Qingxue asked Dong Hui tentatively, Mom, did daddy tell you Dong Hui thought Qingxue was changing the subject again, and interrupted Shi Qingxue impatiently, What? Sure enough, he didnt say. Otherwise Dong Hui couldnt be so calm. No, nothing. Shi Qingxue was embarrassed to tell Dong Hui that Mo Junyang was going to marry her. But Dong Hui felt that she just wanted to change the subject and coldly said, I dont care what you think in your heart. Anyway, today is the last time I tell you. If next time I hear someone from outside gossip about you and Mo Junyang, dont say Im your mom! Mom! Qingxue exclaimed, full of surprise. She didnt understand. Why would Dong Hui hate Mo Junyang to such a degree? Mo Junyang did behave somewhat indifferently and ruthlessly, even cold-blooded, and didnt have a pleasant character. But Dong Hui shouldnt be like this just for his status. Shi Qingxue frowned. When good fortune came, her mind was clear. She hurriedly asked, Did someone tell you something? Junyang You should call him His Excellency Mo! Dong Hui forcibly interrupted Shi Qingxues question and kept trying to make a clean break between them. Dong Hui didnt explain too much. She just made a conclusion, In short, he and us are not in the same way. You are not allowed to get close to him. Shi Qingxue paused and asked, Then do you think who is on the same way with us? The fourth prince Dong Hui hesitated, but quickly looked at Qingxue firmly. She highly praised, He is good. His character and appearance, family background and talent are not inferior to other princes. Your grandmother admires him very much, and your Third Aunt uses all the relationship, hoping that her daughter can marry him After hearing this, Shi Qingxue finally understood why Dong Hui changed her attitude. It turned out that she was still competing with Zhou Ruyu. Mo Junjiu had failed. His power was basically shared by the Crown Prince and the fourth prince. Mo Junhao had become the strongest force among the powers who want to be the emperor. Zhou Ruyu wanted to find a good husband for Shi Baoyou, but she wasnt qualified to be Crown Princes wife. So she began to think about being the fourth princes wife. Shi Qingxue had predicted such a result before. But she really couldnt understand why Dong Hui tried hard to let her and Mo Junhao get together again and again. Mom! Shi Qingxue shouted in a deep voice. She looked at Dong Hui seriously, and emphasized again by saying word by word, I said, I dont like Mo Junhao and we are impossible! Dong Hui looked awkward when her purpose was found out. She forcibly said, Then I also tell you, I will never allow you to be with Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue, According to the current situation, Dong Hui couldnt decide it. Qingxue curled her lips. She didnt want to irritate Dong Hui, but seriously pointed out, Since you dont want me to be with Mo Junyang, you have to give a decent reason! You cant deny the man I love by just one sentence! At this moment, she did not deny her love for Mo Junyang. Dong Hui might also feel Qingxues seriousness and perseverance. However, when she arranged a blind date for her before, she still obeyed. But so many things happened later. Those things that Mo Junyang did for Qingxue were clear to all. Not to mention that Shi Qingxue would be touched, even she herself Well! Dong Hui sighed heavily, and finally decided to tell the truth, I dont allow you to be with Mo Junyang because his identity is too troublesome and there are endless troubles. I dont want my daughter to spend the rest of her life in a place full of conflicts and deceit! Qingxue, cant you think about my worries? I will definitely not harm you! Shi Qingxue was shocked and took a big step back, staring at Dong Hui in disbelief, and asked in surprise, What troublesome status? Mom, what do you know? Wasnt itthat thing she knew? Dont ask! Dong Hui reflexively said. She immediately realized that Shi Qingxue would definitely not be dismissed by such words, so she had to tell the truth, Its not that I dont want to tell you. It is just because I heard it secretly from your grandmother. I am not clear about the details, either. It turned out that Dong Hui went to the Shouan Hall to pay respects to Mo Shujun one day. At that time, she didnt know what had happened, and there was no one in the courtyard. So she went to Mo Shujuns bedroom alone. When she walked to the door, she heard Mo Shujun talking with others, a voice she had never heard. She heard, Its okay if Qingxue hooks up with Mo Junyang. His identity will bring him trouble sooner or later. In this case, Shi Baoyou can have the fourth prince. Dong Hui didnt hear it very clearly. She was also so panicked when suddenly hearing such a private conversation. She left the Shouan Hall without carefully thinking about it. But she still learned a very important thingCcouldnt marry Mo Junyang! Qingxue, I can allow you to do anything you want before. But marriage is related to a womans whole life! You must not be fool. Just listen to me, okay? Seeing that her orders didnt work, Dong Hui wanted to persuade her gently. There was no easier way to persuade Shi Qingxue with both threats and pleading. When Shi Qingxue heard what Dong Hui said, she breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, the information that Dong Hui knew was not complete. Otherwise, once such words were spread out, Mo Junyang would probably have more trouble. Mom, you also know that you didnt hear it clearly. So how can you judge Junyang to be a bad person just by those words? Shi Qingxue also said in a gentle voice, trying to persuade Dong Hui. Dong Hui snorted, Anyway, your grandmother has said that it was not a good thing! Then how do you know that she didnt lie to you? Shi Qingxue asked her. How is it possible? Dong Hui thought that Qingxue was joking. She didnt know I was outside at the time? Shi Qingxue was expressionless and even smiled, How can you be sure that she didnt know? At that time, you didnt hear clearly who the other person in the room was, did you? Ever since Dong Hui said that there was no servant in the Shouan Hall, Qingxue suspected it was a trap. It might make sense for others, but for Mo Shujun, who was followed by lots of maids all the time, how could she allow servants of the Shouan Hall to neglect their duties? Moreover, every servant didnt work at that time. This was simply because someone deliberately wanted Dong Hui to break in without knowing it, and the purpose was to let her hear the conversation. Really? Dong Hui still denied, but she was not that sure. But on second thought, she said firmly, Even if your grandmother said it on purpose, she must have heard something. If Mo Junyang is really that good, why did your grandmother speak ill of him? Shi Qingxue didnt expect Dong Hui to be so stubborn. She said anxiously, Of course she doesnt want me to marry Junyang! Dong Hui lowered her head and thought for a moment, and believed what Qingxue said gradually. However, after a while, when she raised her head again, the expression in her eyes changed again. Indifferent and firm. No, its better to be careful about this kind of thing, Dong Hui directly asserted. She thought she was considerate and persuaded Qingxue with all her heart, Qingxue, in this world, marrying a good man is really too important. It is related to your whole life, and love is definitely not enough. If you dont know about it clearly, you will only suffer after you get married. Just like me. Isnt what I suffered not enough to alert you? Shi Qingxue, She kept silent for a while, then suddenly raised her head and asked, If you knew that the situation of the Duke Shis family was like this, and even knew that you would suffer, would you not marry my dad? I Dong Hui was stunned and speechless by such a sharp question. Shi Qingxue waited for a while, and saw that Dong Hui only looked at her with an expressionless face without speaking. She was clear. She smiled slowly, and said gently, Since you can accept all of this, how do you know I cant accept? Dong Hui was completely speechless! It was true. Even she knew and suffered the humiliation and trouble brought by Mo Shujun and the Third Masters Family, she never regretted marrying Shi Junhe from beginning to end. In this way, how could she stop Shi Qingxue? Dong Hui was ashamed. But due to her commanding appearance as a mother, she still said toughly, This is different! Mo Junyang is different from your father. Your father loves me and treats me well, and even for me Shi Qingxue couldnt help but blurt out, If it were Mo Junyang, Shi Baoyan would never be born! Dong Hui suddenly became mute. Her face flushed, and she began to tremble. Mom! Qingxues tough attitude suddenly softened again. She didnt dare to irritate Dong Hui again. She squatted in front of Dong Hui, and cautiously admitted her mistake, Mom, I didnt mean that. I just want to tell you that Mo Junyang is the person I want to marry, this life Qingxue took a deep breath, her delicate little face showed a solemn expression, and she said word by word, In this life, I will only marry him. Mom, please, please allow us to get married! After all, Dong Hui loved her daughter. Hearing Qingxue begging her like this, even if she still had concerns in her heart, she just stroked Qingxues small face lovingly. She smiled slightly and sighed, You are my most beloved daughter. Since you have begged me like this, how can I refuse? Shi Qingxues beautiful face suddenly got a happy smile. She was so delighted and laughed, Mom, mom! You are the best mom! I love you most! Dong Hui was amused by Qingxues sweet words. She stroked her delicate nose and teased, Well, you just argued with me. Now as soon as I agreed, I become the best mom? Shi Qingxue was embarrassed. She scratched her head with her small hand, and looked around with her big eyes. Then she said in embarrassment, Mom, why do you always rake up my fault? Dong Hui laughed, and was about to tease again. But Mammy Zheng rushed in in a hurry, with an anxious and serious expression on her face, Madam, bad news! Dong Hui frowned unhappily, and reprimanded her in a low voice, Zheng, tell me slowly. Dont forget the manners! Madam, its really a big deal this time. The princess royal, together with people of the Second Masters Family and Third Masters Family is rushing to the East House angrily. They want to condemn you! Mammy Zheng hurriedly said this terrifying news. Chapter 225 - The Shi Family Won’t Have This Member Dong Hui was shocked and sprang from her seat instantly. She goggled at Mammy Zheng in astonishment. For what? What did I do to them? Anxiety could hardly be concealed in her angry tone. After all, Dong Hui feared Mo Shujun. Hearing that Princess Royal was coming to denounce her, she was frightened. Shi Qingxue hurriedly stepped forward and helped her mother return to her seat, comforting her softly, Mother, dont worry. We still dont know what happened. If we are anxious, others would think that we are guilty. Right. I cant be anxious. Dong Hui came to her senses and nodded repeatedly. But she was still worried, so she told Mammy Zheng next to her, Dont stand here. Hurry up and go to find my husband. Bring him back. Mammy Zheng came back to earth soon after Dong Hui roared and didnt dare to delay. Then she went out in a hurry. Where are you going? Mo Shujuns cold voice came from the gate of the East House. Mo Shujun led a group of people to block the gate of the East House. Mammy Zheng wanted to fight her way out to send a message, but before she approached the gate, she was stopped. Mo Shujun didnt even plan to ask Dong Hui but told somebody to capture Mammy Zheng. Even though she was arbitrary as always, she was too rude and forceful this time. Was she determined to fall out with Dong Hui, or did she have something secure to rely on so she feared nothing Shi Qingxue pondered for a while in secret and stopped Dong Hui from getting angry. Then she saluted the people who came to cause trouble and smiled. Grandma, good day. Mo Shujun was furious and unwilling to make any perfunctory remarks. She snorted coldly and ignored Qingxue. Shi Qingxue wasnt angry. When they were at daggers drawn, if she was uncalm, she would easily give others a chance to find fault with her. She wouldnt be so stupid as to give them a chance to comment on her. Grandma, why did you bring my aunts to visit the East House all of a sudden? She didnt ask Mo Shujun why she detained Mammy Zheng forcefully, so she didnt give Mo Shujun a chance to rebuke her. Mo Shujun couldnt find an excuse to explode, and some of her fury disappeared. She just looked at Dong Hui coldly and reproached, See what you have done. You just humiliate our family! Why did I choose such a wife for Junhe? You are immoral and ruin the familys fame! Each of her words was hurtful and depreciated Dong Hui. And she even added insult to injury. Dong Hui was provoked by this denouncement and trembled, unable to stand steadily. She almost went faint. Shi Qingxue quickly supported Dong Hui and shouted in anxiety, Mother, are you okay? Dong Hui turned pale and shook her head. No. We should call for a doctor and let him check on you. Shi Qingxue was worried and turned her head, telling Xia Mang to ask Doctor Qin to come. Before Xia Mang walked out of the East House, she was stopped by the servants and forbidden to go out. Shi Qingxue finally frowned but restrained her anger. She asked Mo Shujun distantly, Grandma, what do you mean? Mother is pregnant, and I want to ask a doctor to come to examine her. Isnt it okay? Zhou Ruyu pretended to be casual and said coldly, Who knows if the baby in her womb is a descendent of our family? If not, Brother was cheated and needs to raise her son! What nonsense are you talking about? Shi Qingxue rebuked without mercy. Facing Zhou Ruyu, Shi Qingxue was not afraid that others would say that she had no respect for the elders. She stared at Zhou Ruyu coldly and warned her, If you dare to say something improper, I will show no mercy. Dont blame me. As Zhou Ruyu was stared at by Shi Qingxues cold eyes, she was frustrated like a deflated balloon. But she was reluctant and turned to Mo Shujun, saying with a grievance, Mother, look. I know that I am her aunt, but I am in a low position in this family. I dont even have prestige in front of the younger generation. I have to bear it after she yelled at me Mo Shujun was old and experienced and knew what Zhou Ruyu wanted to do as soon as the latter started speaking, but she wasnt in the mood to talk with Zhou Ruyu, and she stated coldly, Since you bear it, stop talking. Zhou Ruyu was speechless. Mo Shujun didnt care how depressed Zhou Ruyu was and then turned to Dong Hui again. She stared at Dong Hui for quite a while and then affirmed, You know what you have done. I am not in the mood to talk with you. Today you just go back to the Dong family, and I will tell somebody to send the divorce paper in two days. From now on, you have nothing to do with Duke Shis mansion. I dont want to ask if the bastard in your womb is Junhes baby, and the Shi family wont have this member. At this moment, even Dong Hui was terrified, let alone Shi Qingxue who was in shock and couldnt speak a word. Dong Hui always thought that Mo Shujun hated her so much because she couldnt give birth to a son for Shi Junhe. Every doctor who had examined her and even Shen Luo had said that the baby in her womb might be a son. She almost thought that she would see daylight, but unexpectedly, Mo Shujun didnt even care about her grandson. Dong Hui felt dizzy and almost went into a coma. Mother! Shi Qingxue screamed and hurriedly supported Dong Hui. Then she told a maid to pat Dong Huis chest to comfort her. After a long time, Dong Hui finally managed to recover. Mo Shujun watched her all the time. After they were busy with saving Dong Hui for a while, she expressed indifferently, Stop pretending! Dong, havent you played enough tricks? Now Junhe is not here. Who do you want to show to? Grandma, what do you mean? Shi Qingxue couldnt stand it and questioned. She tried not to argue with Mo Shujun, but Mo Shujun was more and more overbearing depending on her identity and was almost insatiable, so she didnt consider the elders dignity. Grandma, I dont know what Mother has done to offend you, and you even brought people to the East House in person and declared that you would terminate a marriage for my father. Her word for was ingenious. Although logically, as Shi Junhes mother, Mo Shujun had the right to terminate a marriage for her son, women were in high positions in the Mo Country. If a woman didnt make a big mistake but was divorced without careful consideration, the mans family would be criticized. So generally, a mother-in-law wouldnt act on her own and divorce the wife for her son because she was afraid that she would be denounced. But Mo Shujun thought that she had the evidence this time, so she wasnt afraid of Shi Qingxues query. She glanced at the second master Shi Junfengs wife Zhang who followed her all the time and called her impassively, Zhang, tell everybody what you saw downstream of the boundary river last night. Tell us everything frankly. At the mention of last night and the river, Dong Hui turned pale and felt scared. Shi Qingxue noticed that and felt nervous, suddenly realizing that Mo Shujun didnt fabricate rumors this time. However, before she figured out a way to cope with it, the second madam Zhang Qiuyan quickly stood out and stated honestly, Last night, my mother was sick, so I returned home to serve her. When I came back, I passed the river and saw When she mentioned the key part, Zhang Qiuyan stopped and stuttered. She couldnt speak a word after a long time. She glanced at Shi Qingxue from time to time, as if she was afraid that Shi Qingxue would get back at her. Shi Qingxues face darkened, and she snorted. Aunt, just say it if you want to. Why do you look at me? Right, Qiuyan, Mother asked you, so you just say it directly. Even if there is something, Mother would seek justice for you. Zhou Ruyu stepped forward and grabbed Zhang Qiuyans arm to show that they were close. It appeared that she comforted Zhang Qiuyan, but in fact, she just incited her sister-in-law. Zhang Qiuyan gritted her teeth and told them everything. Last night, I saw Hui secretly dating a strange man in the Valentines Pavilion by the boundary river. They hugged each other and looked intimate. Nonsense! You are lying. I didnt do that! Dong Hui shrieked and instantly stood up from the stone stool. She was about to rush to Zhang Qiuyan. It seemed that she tried to tear off the mouth which talked nonsense. Shi Qingxue hurriedly stopped Dong Hui from acting rashly. At the same time, she stared at Zhang Qiuyan and asked calmly, Aunt, you returned home yesterday to serve your mother who was sick. Why did you come back at night? It seems unconventional. Zhang Qiuyan seemed to have expected that Qingxue would ask such a question, and she replied in an instant, At night, my mother recovered a lot, and it happened that my husband sent a message, saying that he didnt feel well and he told me to come back earlier if I had nothing to do in my parents mansion. I was worried about my husband then, so I rushed back home at night. Shi Qingxues expression didnt change. She nodded and seemed to believe Zhang Qiuyans explanation. But before Zhang Qiuyan sighed with relief, Qingxue asked all of a sudden, If I remember correctly, your parents mansion is in the southwest of the capital, while the boundary river flows from west to east, but the Valentines Pavilion is in the southeast of the river. Why did you cross the whole south city before you came back to our mansion, Aunt? Zhang Qiuyan had a headache. It was said that the sixth lady of the Shi family was clever and difficult to deal with. Today she had seen it. Shi Qingxue didnt find fault with Dong Hui dating a man secretly, but she made a fuss about the reason why Zhang Qiuyan showed up in the Valentines Pavilion. It seemed irrelevant, but Zhang Qiuyan couldnt refuse to answer. After all, if there was something wrong when she passed the Valentines Pavilion, what she said as a witness would be unreliable. But she couldnt answer it. This issue was just a Zhang Qiuyan peeped at Zhou Ruyu subconsciously, and Shi Qingxue who stared at her all the time noticed that. She would certainly understand who was playing tricks. Zhou Ruyu cursed idiot in secret and didnt care if Shi Qingxue would suspect her. She stepped forward and explained for Zhang Qiuyan forcefully, Qiuyans aunt lives in the southeast, and its not surprising that she wanted to visit her aunt by the way. Zhang Qiuyan nodded in haste. Right, thats it. I just went to see my aunt. Afterward, Zhang Qiuyan swelled out her chest and became more confident, aiming at Shi Qingxue. Last night, I really passed the Valentines Pavilion. If you think I was lying, you can ask the coachman and all the maids and servants in the West House. Anyway, I am not the only one who has seen your mothers date last night. She was really cruel. If Shi Qingxue didnt believe her, Zhang Qiuyan would tell more people to come. Wasnt she going to let everybody in the city know that Dong Hui secretly dated a man? Even though Shi Qingxue was bold, before the truth was found, she didnt dare to get more people involved in it. She softened and smiled at Zhang Qiuyan gently, saying expressionlessly, Aunt, you get me wrong. Its not that I dont believe your words, but the dew is heavy in autumn, and it was at midnight. You were far away from them, so could you see their faces clearly? Did you make a mistake? Anyway, her testimony couldnt decide the crime. Zhang Qiuyan shouted immediately, Who said that I dont have the evidence? Chapter 226 - Who Is that Man Shi Qingxue looked nervous and asked instantly, What evidence? Zhang Qiuyan took out a handkerchief from her pocket unhurriedly and showed it to Dong Hui. Hui, you must know this, right? Why did you keep it? Dong Huis expression changed and she reached out her hand subconsciously, trying to grab it. Zhang Qiuyan dodged swiftly and took one step backward. Then she stared at Dong Hui as if watching a good play. Hui, this is the evidence, and I cant give it to you now. Mother, whats this? Shi Qingxue stepped forward and grabbed Dong Huis arm, asking in a low voice involuntarily. She never doubted Dong Huis love for Shi Junhe and wouldnt believe that Dong Hui would have an affair with another man, but now the evidence was suspicious, and she had to ask first. However, Dong Hui turned away and looked guilty. Dong Huis personal maid Linlang grabbed Qingxues clothes secretly and advised her in a soft voice, My Lady, dont ask. Just figure out a way to fool them or try to ask His Lordship to come. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. Even Dong Huis personal maid said the word fool. Even if Dong Hui didnt have an affair with another man, what Zhang Qiuyan had seen last night must be true. Mother, you Shi Qingxue wanted to ask, but she didnt know where to start. She couldnt openly ask Dong Hui who she had seen at midnight yesterday. Even if there was no outsider, she couldnt ask about something like this, not to mention that there were outsiders. Even Shi Qingxue had a headache and didnt know what to do at the moment. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was silent, Zhou Ruyu became arrogant and stepped forward to unfold that handkerchief. She waved it in front of Dong Hui and showed it to everybody. Then she pretended to be surprised and asked, Gee, why is there a word Hui embroidered in this handkerchief? While speaking, she seemed to understand and asked Dong Hui on purpose, Hui, this is your name. Is this handkerchief yours Dong Hui denied in a hurry, No! Zhang Qiuyan cut in with disdain, Hui, its pointless to lie in front of Mother. Last night, so many people saw that, and I picked up this handkerchief in the Valentines Pavilion after you left. Even though there is a word Hui in the handkerchief, why are you sure that it is mine? There are so many women whose names have the word Hui. What can you prove only with this point? Dong Hui gritted her teeth and denied firmly. Even if all the evidence was against her, she couldnt admit it. If she admitted it, everything would be messed up. However, Zhang Qiuyan had been taught how to cope with this situation. She didnt look at Dong Hui but explained to Mo Shujun respectfully, Last night, I felt something wrong, but under the situation, I was afraid that it would become worse, so I didnt dare to stop them. Mo Shujun nodded slightly. You have done the right thing. Zhang Qiuyan then continued, Later, I saw that Hui and that man got separated after walking out of the Valentines Pavilion. Then I went to the pavilion and had a look before picking up this handkerchief. I know that it is something serious, so I dont dare to act arbitrarily, but I came back too late last night and was afraid that I would disturb you, so I didnt dare to tell you until today. Mo Shujun nodded again to show that she understood. Then she turned to Dong Hui and snorted. Dong, what else can you say? I Dong Huis face turned pale and red occasionally and looked terrible. She wanted to deny but felt that any word was powerless. Shi Qingxue watched that and felt anxious. She winked at Dong Hui frequently. What on earth happened last night? If they couldnt explain this issue, Dong Hui would never be clarified. However, Dong Hui pursed her pale lips and didnt explain after a long time, showing that she was guilty. Zhou Ruyu was complacent and intentionally said to Mo Shujun in a loud voice, Mother, now the evidence is solid, and I think Hui has nothing to say, but this issue is related to our familys fame. If the news spreads, the outsiders would laugh at us. More importantly, our family is in trouble now and my husband is still suspended from his job. If he is criticized because of the familys bad reputation, I am afraid Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes automatically and disdained her aunt. Zhou Ruyu was so shameless. Shi Juncai was suspended because he was a deserter on the battlefield, but she had the face to talk about it. She knew that the princess royal cared about Shi Juncai, so she intentionally got him involved. As expected, as soon as Zhou Ruyu finished her words, Mo Shujuns expression changed. Then she looked at Dong Hui, as if she was going to eat her alive. Dong Hui was scared and moved a step backward. She planned to speak. But Mo Shujun waved her hand to stop Dong Hui and rebuked coldly, Alright, dont need to say anything. I dont care whom you have an affair with, but now, just pack up and get out of this mansion, and you cant mention this matter again. If the news spreads, I will make you pay for it. Zhang Qiuyan and Zhou Ruyu had echoed each other for a long time, but it was not as hurtful as Mo Shujuns words. Dong Hui felt dizzy again and this time she couldnt insist anymore. Her eyes rolled, and she went into a coma. Mother! Hui! Two voices appeared at the same time. As soon as Shi Qingxue supported Dong Hui, Shi Junhe rushed to the gate. He hugged Dong Hui from Qingxues arms and carried her, trying to stride out, regardless of all people looking at him. The servants who blocked the gate had been brought by Zhou Ruyu from the third masters family. Although they were under Zhou Ruyus control, facing the aggressive master of the Shi family, they wondered if they should step aside. Ill see who dare to stop me! Shi Junhe goggled coldly and looked powerful. The two servants at the gate became cowards at once and made way for him obediently. But Mo Shujun asked at this time, Junhe, this woman has cheated on you. Would you still protect her and think that I did something wrong? Shi Junhe didnt look back. He just turned his head and responded indifferently, I dont dare to, but Hui is unwell. I will send her to see a doctor first. If you have something else to ask, just talk with me in the main hall later, Mother. After speaking, Shi Junhe didnt care about Mo Shujuns attitude but carried Dong Hui to leave the East House. Shi Qingxue had seen everything and couldnt help but show a thumbs-up sign. He was really handsome! Ahem! Shi Qingxue pretended to cough twice and awakened all people. Then she continued slowly, There are many doubts in my aunts words. You think my mother is immoral, and you are too arbitrary. Huh, she gave her private thing to a man, but she is not immoral? What is immoral? Should we catch them having sex? Zhou Ruyu snorted crossly, and perhaps she thought that she had fallen out with the first masters family, so she didnt show mercy while speaking. But now Shi Junhe had come back and his attitude was obvious. Shi Qingxue was confident and wasnt afraid of Zhou Ruyu who was perverse. Shi Qingxue raised her sharp chin and looked at Zhou Ruyu coldly. Its uncertain. After all, we need to investigate if this private thing is really my mothers. Moreover, if you capture a thief, you need to find the stolen goods. If you say that she has an affair, you need to tell us who that man is. You didnt even find the man but affirmed, and it is difficult to convince others. Who said we dont know who that man is? The man is Zhang Qiuyan couldnt help but blurt out, about to retort Shi Qingxue, but before she finished her words, her mouth was covered by Zhou Ruyu. Shi Qingxue found the breakthrough and then questioned, Who do you want to talk about? Zhou Ruyu didnt give Zhang Qiuyan a chance to say anything but spoke on behalf of her. Just now Brother said that we should go to the main hall if we have something to ask. Lets go there first. Mo Shujun nodded in agreement and then led the people from the Shouan Hall to leave. The people from the second and the third masters family followed them. Xia Mang came to Qingxue and sighed in a low voice. Fortunately, the hearts of His Lordship and Madam are linked, and he came back in time. Otherwise, we dont know how to deal with this matter. He came right at that time, and it was like the scene in the story. Shi Qingxue showed her disdain for her maids foolishness and spat at her. Are you stupid? How would there be such a coincidence in the world? Of course I asked my father to come. Gee? How? Xia Mang was confused and then her eyes widened in astonishment. Why didnt she know when Shi Qingxue went to ask for help? As soon as Mo Shujun came, she told people to block the whole East House, and the servants in the house could hardly fly away even if they had wings. How could she have a chance to send a message? Shi Qingxue felt guilty and turned away, temporizing. Anyway, the helper came, and thats fine. Xia Mang still couldnt understand and asked, But My Lady, how did you send somebody out? Aha, Xia Mang, you dont know Lady Qingxues foresight. Dong Shuang jumped to Xia Mang and stated with a smile. Xia Mang patted her chest as she was scared by Dong Shuang. You scare me. Didnt you go out to do something under orders? Why did you come back so soon Before she finished her words, Xia Mang understood. When Shi Qingxue received the message that Dong Hui told her to go to the East House, she told Dong Shuang to leave and do something. At that time, Xia Mang was curious about what the lady told Dong Shuang to do. They were mysterious and didnt tell her. She thought twice and knew that perhaps Dong Shuang went to ask for help. But My Lady, why did you expect that Princess Royal would come to the East House to cause trouble? Xia Mang was still confused. Could Shi Qingxue foresee it? Dong Shuang had a big mouth and exposed the lady directly. Because in the beginning, Lady Qingxue asked His Lordship to come not to help Madam out of a predicament but to Shi Qingxue covered Dong Shuangs mouth and rebuked her crossly, You are big-mouthed and tell outsiders everything. Dong Shuang blinked with a grievance and still didnt know she had touched her ladys injury by accident. She was wondering when Xia Mang became an outsider. Xia Mang realized something from the master and servants interaction. Shi Qingxue thought that she might not convince Dong Hui, so she told Shi Junhe to come back to help her. But unexpectedly, he didnt save her but helped Dong Hui out of a predicament. My Lady, this time, it might be a good thing that Madam is in a coma. Xia Mang was not as brainless as Dong Shuang. She was sensible and changed the subject, pointing out seriously, Madam is so weak now. If there is something wrong with her because she is angry while they ask her to her face, it would be troublesome. Shi Qingxue nodded and knew that was it, but Even though Mother has escaped now, if we cant find where the handkerchief came from and who the man was, this case wont close. She sighed helplessly. Xia Mang raised her brows in surprise and asked, Do you mean thatwhat Second Madam and Third Madam said is true? Chapter 227 - The Childhood Sweetheart Shi Qingxue kept silent for a long time. When Xia Mang almost thought that she tacitly approved, the lady shook her head slowly. She replied, I dont know. I am not sure. Then Xia Mang spoke in haste. Qingxue raised her hand and stopped Xia Mang from asking more, saying simply, My father said we should talk about everything in the main hall. Lets go there first. When she reached the main hall, all the mistresses in the Shi family had arrived. It appeared to be a trial. They waited a moment, and Shi Junhe came unhurriedly. He wasnt surprised when the main hall was full of people. He just walked slowly to his seat and stated impassively, Alright. What do you want to say now? Just say it! Zhou Ruyu winked at Zhang Qiuyan in secret, and the latter stepped forward, telling him what she had seen last night. Brother, what I said is true. If I say something wrong, I will be struck by lightning. In the end, she vowed solemnly and almost stretched out three fingers to swear. Shi Junhe listened to her from beginning to end and stayed silent. After Zhang Qiuyan finished speaking, he expressed casually, Qiuyan, youd better not swear randomly. What if you are really struck by lightning? Zhang Qiuyan wanted to stress again that what she had said was the truth, but when Shi Junhe looked at her coldly, she felt a shiver down her spine and panicked for no reason. She was really frightened and stuttered, with no confidence. Zhou Ruyu was afraid that Zhang Qiuyan would ruin the plan and hurriedly stepped forward, cutting in with sarcasm, Brother, what are you talking about? We and Hui are sisters-in-law and keep a good relationship. If nothing like this happened, why would we lie and frame her? I know you feel pity for Hui as she is pregnant, but you cant ignore the difference between right and wrong. Shi Junhe didnt get angry after she commented on him. He just looked indifferent, and nobody knew what he was thinking about. Shi Qingxue was anxious after waiting for long, so she didnt want to wait anymore. She retorted Zhou Ruyu coldly, You said that my mother has an affair with a man, but you didnt tell us who the man is. Is that the truth as you said? Whats more, Aunt Qiuyan said she was in the Valentines Pavilion last night, and its understandable that she affirmed, but you didnt go to the pavilion or pick up the gift. How can you be so sure that my mother has an affair? Zhou Ruyu was speechless and wanted to say that Zhang Qiuyan had shown the solid evidence and she believed the evidence. But before Zhou Ruyu replied, Shi Qingxue glared at her and warned her silently, If you want to harm my mother, dont blame me when I show no mercy. Qingxue stretched out her fingers and waved four of them in front of Zhou Ruyu. Zhou Ruyu turned pale immediately. Others might not understand what Shi Qingxue meant, but Zhou Ruyu understood. Shi Zhi was the fourth son in the Shi family. Zhou Ruyu was a little scared, but on second thought, she had only one chance to defeat Dong Hui. If she missed this chance, she would hardly find another one. Moreover, so what even if Shi Qingxue knew her secret? She had no evidence, and if she revealed it, who would believe her? Qiuyan has shown the handkerchief with your mothers name in it. Can it be false? Zhou Ruyu swelled out her chest and tried hard to be confident. But after she spoke, she was still weak. She had to turn to Mo Shujun for help. Moreover, when Qiuyan took out the handkerchief, your mothers reaction showed that she was guilty obviously. We are not blind. Do you want to fool your grandma? Shi Qingxue bit her lower lip and knew that she could hardly explain Dong Huis emotional reaction. Even though she had a silver tongue, she couldnt easily clarify Dong Hui. Shi Junhe looked at Zhang Qiuyan and asked coldly, Who was the man Hui met last night? Ah? Zhang Qiuyan didnt expect that Shi Junhe would ask so directly. Her honest face looked awkward again, and she didnt know if she should speak out. Then she turned to Zhou Ruyu secretly. Zhou Ruyu glanced at her in secret, with her fierce eyes, and Zhang Qiuyan was scared to shrink her neck, but she didnt understand what Zhou Ruyu meant. Did Zhou Ruyu tell her to say it or not? Shi Qingxue noticed their eye contacts and moved one step forward to block their eyes. She questioned Zhang Qiuyan in a cold voice, Just now when I asked you in the East House, you planned to say that mans name, but you dont say it now. Is there something wrong? Otherwise, why did you see my mother clearly but you didnt see that mans face? Shi Qingxue tried to mislead her. After all, even if Zhang Qiuyan saw that mans face, it didnt mean that she knew him. But Zhang Qiuyan was nervous and couldnt think. She just thought that she said something wrong. She gritted her teeth and revealed at a breath, That man is the Confucian scholar Yan L, the student of the famous scholar Dong Biren, Huis childhood sweetheart. Brother, you must be familiar with him, right? When Shi Junhe heard Yan Ls name, he was nervous and didnt speak. Shi Qingxue was confused by his abnormal attitude. She had heard about Yan Ls name from childhood. This man was the most favored student of Dong Huis father Dong Biren. He also hated the officialdom, so he learned knowledge from Dong Biren all the time, and his character was similar to Dong Birens. He was conservative and stubborn, but he was kind-hearted. Every time Shi Qingxue went to her maternal grandpas mansion when she was a child, she could see Yan L and called him Master, and Yan L loved her very much. However, Shi Junhe seemed to dislike Yan L, and Little Qingxue who defended her father didnt know the truth, but she still stayed away from Yan L. But now, the words childhood sweetheart made her frown. She couldnt help but complain, Mother is too careless. No matter how open-minded the people in the Mo Country are, the childhood sweetheart would easily make others comment. And now, the evidence against Dong Hui was in the hands of the enemies, and they would be dragged down at any time. Qingxue looked up at Shi Junhe and saw that his face was ghastly pale for a long time. He must be angry. She thought that it was bad and knew that this matter couldnt be denied. At this time, she had a brain wave and suddenly figured out a way. Although it might not be the best one, it would leave no room for a route for escape so that they would fight for their dear lives out of desperation and eventually won the battle. At least, she couldnt let these people decide Dong Huis crime on the spot. Aunt, you said that Master Yan is my grandpas student, so he is not an outsider. What Shi Qingxue said was shocking. She tried to explain this matter as Dong Hui and Yan L once studied together. Even though it appeared to be phony, she made Zhang Qiuyan and the others unable to answer. After all It was common to see her fathers student and keep in touch. If they didnt see each other in the Valentines Pavilion at midnight. Zhang Qiuyan goggled and tried to retort, but Shi Qingxue spoke first and continued to mislead them, explaining clearly and logically, Since he is not an outsider, how can you say that she saw another man secretly? Whats more, Master Yan is living in the Dong familys mansion and stays with my grandpa all the time. Since he came to see my mother, it must be because my grandpa misses my mother, but he cant walk freely, so he asked Master Yan to send a message to her. At the moment, Zhang Qiuyans eyes widened, and she couldnt speak a word. And even the others were open-mouthed and their jaws almost dropped. They had seen somebody with a silver tongue, but they saw somebody who was so choplogic for the first time. Shi Qingxue could call black white and confuse right and wrong, and perhaps nobody was more capable than her. Even though all people knew that it was not true, they couldnt find any fault with her or retort her. Seeing that Zhang Qiuyan was silent again, Zhou Ruyu glared at her in a rage and asked coldly, How would you explain the handkerchief with the word Hui? Shi Qingxue shrugged and responded indifferently, She lost it by accident. Who will be always careful, right, Aunt? Zhou Ruyu responded, This is your mothers private thing. How can she lose it as she likes? You should find a convincing excuse. She just didnt believe it. Qingxue didnt expect her to believe it, and she replied casually, Nothing is impossible. Last night under the cold frost and heavy dew, people could hardly recognize others. My mother didnt keep it well and lost it in the Valentines Pavilion by accident. And later Aunt Qiuyan picked it up. It proves that Aunt Qiuyan and my mother are destined to meet, but it cant explain that my mother would give the handkerchief to Master Yan. Or do you want to change your mind and say that you saw it? Of course not. Zhang Qiuyan was forced to this point and had to answer. But Shi Qingxue winked at Shi Junhe secretly, and the latter looked dignified, waving his hand to interrupt Zhang Qiuyan. He stated coldly, Yan L is a student of Huis father. He saw her at midnight must because there was something urgent at her fathers home, so they sent him to see her. Brother, even if you want to cover up for Hui, you need to find a better excuse. Zhou Ruyu sneered and sniffed at Shi Junhes explanation. After all, even if there was something urgent, they would tell somebody to send a message to Duke Shis mansion. Who would meet in the remote Valentines Pavilion at midnight? Shi Junhe was exposed, but his expression didnt change. He didnt even give a glance at Zhou Ruyu. Then he just talked to Mo Shujun distantly. I think the truth is found. Mother, if you have any doubts, Yan L and the Dong family are not outsiders. You can send somebody to ask the Dong family. Zhou Ruyu and Zhang Qiuyan were speechless. Even Mo Shujun goggled and didnt say anything after a long time. Shi Qingxue heard that and couldnt help but give Shi Junhe a thumbs-up sign in secret, praising, Bravo! If they sent people to ask the Dong family, even the idiots knew how to explain to them. Dong Hui never admitted it, and as long as the Dong family said that they asked Yan L to send a message, Zhou Ruyu and the others couldnt say anything even if this matter appeared to be suspicious. The storm was settled down by Shi Junhe. It happened that Xia Mang came in hurriedly and whispered in Shi Qingxues ear. Then she gave the lady something sneakily. Shi Junhe noticed them, but he was far away and couldnt see what Xia Mang gave to Qingxue. He just found it was like a letter in the distance. Ahem Qingxue! Shi Junhe called and winked at her. He asked silently, What happened? Shi Qingxue unfolded the letter and scanned it quickly. Soon she finished reading. She raised her head and smiled at Shi Junhe slyly with relief. Dont worry. I know what I should do. Shi Junhe frowned in confusion and stared at Qingxue. He wondered what tricks this girl would play. Shi Qingxue turned to Zhou Ruyu who was reluctant and staring at them. Suddenly she showed a sweet and charming smile on her pretty face. Shi Junhe saw that and felt restless. Then he looked at Zhou Ruyu, with compassion in his eyes. Gee, Zhou Ruyu would be in trouble this time! Chapter 228 - Give Her a Taste of Her Own Medicine As Zhou Ruyu noticed that Shi Qingxue stared at her, she felt nervous for no reason, thinking that there was something wrong. But she could hardly restrain her anger and was unable to calm down to think so much. Instead, she glared at Shi Qingxue ruthlessly, seeming to ask, Ill see what you can do to me. Shi Qingxue shrugged and looked away, bowing to Mo Shujun. Then she expressed calmly, Grandma, Aunt Qiuyan considers the Shi familys fame and as soon as she found that there was something that might ruin our familys reputation, she told you before she had time to find the truth Shouldnt I do that? Zhang Qiuyan realized that Shi Qingxue was critical of her as she slandered Dong Hui before she knew the truth, so she exploded the grievance from Shi Junhe and shouted to Shi Qingxue angrily. She goggled at Shi Qingxue fiercely and asked intentionally, Mother is the real mistress in the Shi family. Shouldnt I report to her when something happened in our mansion? Although there were many dirty tricks in this matter, it was impossible if Shi Qingxue wanted to denounce her with this reason. Zhang Qiuyan retorted quickly and felt complacent at last. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue didnt deny her words but nodded in agreement. Aunt, you did the right thing. Gee? Shi Qingxue cooperated with her, which made all people feel unaccustomed. They all looked at her in doubt. She showed an innocent and obedient smile and added slowly, So, I want to learn from you, Aunt. She purposely stressed the word learn. While speaking, she meaningfully glanced at Zhou Ruyu and made her feel restless. Zhou Ruyu suddenly had a bad feeling, but before she did something She saw Shi Qingxue unfold the letter given by Xia Mang again and show it. Ahem Qingxue intentionally cleared her throat and when all people looked at her, she smiled and explained, I just got an interesting letter. Of course I should share it with you at once, Grandma. Zhou Ruyu frowned and stared at the letter in Shi Qingxues hand. When she looked at it, she felt more terrified. She couldnt help but blurt out, Wait a moment. Shi Qingxue certainly ignored her and read every word on the letter clearly. My dear cousin Shi, when you see this letter, you seem to see me. I havent seen you for a long time and miss you very much. I still remember that day when we took a boat in Moon Lake. We love each other deeply Shut up! Zhou Ruyu shouted with fear and rushed to Shi Qingxue crazily, trying to grab the letter from her hand. Shi Qingxue was prepared and leaned to one side, avoiding Zhou Ruyus attack. Xia Mang was swift-handed and stood between them. She seemed to stop them, but in fact, she grabbed Zhou Ruyus wrist forcefully and prevented her from approaching Shi Qingxue, advising in a warm voice, Third Madam, please dont be angry. If you are hurt, it would be bad news. Zhou Ruyu was pinched and felt severe pain in her wrist, so she couldnt exert strength. However, at this time, Shi Qingxue pretended to be ignorant and looked at Zhou Ruyu, asking in a sweet voice, Aunt, I just want to read a letter that I picked up by chance for Grandma. Why are you so emotional? It seemed that she didnt know it was a love letter to Shi Zhi written by Zhou Ruyu. Qingxue paused for a while and then seemed to think of something. She lowered her head, murmuring, Gee, speaking of which, why is this handwriting in the letter similar to Aunt Ruyus. I remember that the wife of Marquis of Wuyang was from the Shi family. This She appeared to talk to herself, but her voice was not loud but was enough to make all people hear clearly. In the end, she suddenly raised her head and glared at Zhou Ruyu in horror, shouting, Aunt, is this a love letter to Lord Shi written by you? Zhou Ruyu just felt the blood all over her body surged to her head, and her face was ghastly pale. She retorted in a sharp voice, Bullshit. I dont have an affair with my cousin Shi. Dont talk nonsense to wrong me. Otherwise, be careful, and I will tear off your mouth! Gee, when Zhou Ruyu wronged Dong Hui and said that she had an affair with somebody, she just intentionally beat around the bush like Shi Qingxue did but every word was hurtful and forced Dong Hui almost to faint. Now it was the circulation of causes and effects, and she got the retribution. Unfortunately, seeing Zhou Ruyus rattled and ugly face, Shi Qingxue lost interest in teasing her. She concealed the ignorant expression on her face and returned to be distant. Qingxue showed an indifferent smile to Zhou Ruyu and questioned coldly, Just now, Aunt Qiuyan only took out a handkerchief, and you affirmed that my mother has an affair. Now what can the letter in black and white prove? She stopped for a while and avoided Zhou Ruyu, giving the letter to Mo Shujun. Then she stated impassively, I dont dare to act arbitrarily. Please handle this matter, Grandma. Since Shi Qingxue started to read the letter, Mo Shujun realized that the case today wouldnt end easily, but she didnt expect this girl to find the solid evidence to prove that Zhou Ruyu had an affair with somebody. Since Shi Qingxue dared to show this letter in public, she must have confirmed that this letter was written by Zhou Ruyu, whose attitude could also prove everything. A letter was more convincing than the handkerchief with the word Hui in it Zhang Qiuyan had taken out. Before Mo Shujun checked the letter, she could be sure that Zhou Ruyu had an affair. But hesitation was rarely shown on Mo Shujuns tense face, and she didnt receive the letter from Shi Qingxue at once. If she received it, she would surely get the result. Mo Shujun didnt worry if Zhou Ruyu would be hurt. An incapable daughter-in-law had an affair, and it was fine if her reputation was ruined, but if Shi Juncai was implicated, it would Grandma? Shi Qingxue called her softly and moved the letter in her hand forward. She forced Mo Shujun to reach out her hand and receive the letter. Mo Shujun unfolded it and found it really was Zhou Ruyus handwriting. She didnt have the chance to feel lucky anymore and raised her head all of a sudden. She glared at Zhou Ruyu. Zhou, see what you have done! You just humiliate our family. Zhou Ruyu shrank her neck as she was glared at, but she was reluctant to admit her guilt. She just conducted desperate struggles. Mother, please trust me. I really didnt do that. She suddenly goggled at Shi Qingxue and accused her quickly. It must be her! She fabricated this letter on purpose and just wanted to frame me. Mother, please observe carefully and prove my innocence. So this letter wasnt written by you? Mo Shujuns eyes rolled, and something bright flashed in her old and sharp eyes. Zhou Ruyu understood instantly and shouted in a louder voice, Right. It was not written by me. If you dont believe me, I can point out something wrong, Mother. After hearing that, Mo Shujun really stretched out her hand and gave the letter to Zhou Ruyu, asking casually, How would you prove that this letter was not written by you? Zhou Ruyus eyes lit up, and before Shi Qingxue stopped her, she grabbed that letter. She tore that thin letter into pieces openly in an instant and then threw them to Shi Qingxue. You! Shi Qingxue was open-mouthed and laughed because she was too furious. All people present were stunned. They never expected that Zhou Ruyu could ruin the evidence in public. After doing that, Zhou Ruyu didnt feel guilty at all but smiled at Shi Qingxue with provocation. Huh! Didnt you talk about the evidence? Where is the evidence now? Xia Mang yelled in a rage, Didnt you ruin the evidence just now? How do you have the face to ask where the evidence is? Zhou Ruyu refused to admit her fault in a flagrant way. Did she think that everybody was blind and foolish? She even swelled out her chest and stated shamelessly, I dont care. Anyway, the evidence has gone now. Only you have seen the letter, and there is no witness, so you just framed me. Shi Qingxue wanted to say that she was convinced as Zhou Ruyu could act shamelessly in such an aggressive way. She smiled and turned her clear eyes to Mo Shujun again, stating expressionlessly but seriously, Grandma has also seen the letter, and she is the witness. While speaking, Shi Qingxue stared at Mo Shujun all the time, and her eyes were bright and clean, with admiration and love, and expectancy that was not obvious but existed. She thought secretly, Grandma, this is the last time. Hope that you wont let me down anymore. Mo Shujun looked solemn and nobody could see her emotion. When Shi Qingxue looked at her, she even turned away slightly and avoided her granddaughters eyes. Then she stated impassively but in a dignified manner, The words in the letter were like what Qingxue said indeed, but I dont know Zhous handwriting, so I cant tell if this letter was written by her. As soon as she finished her words, some people around took deep breaths. Mo Shujun said that and denied the fact that Zhou Ruyu had an affair, and she indicated that Shi Qingxue might have done it evilly in order to frame Zhou Ruyu. Nobody was so capable of lying as Mo Shujun. Zhou Ruyu escaped from the crisis and showed a big smile on her face immediately. She even smiled at Shi Qingxue with provocation, seeming to say, Huh, so what even if you found the evidence against me? You still cant do anything to me at last. Shi Qingxue didnt look at Zhou Ruyu but her eyes still fell on Mo Shujun stubbornly. She stared at her grandma till the expectancy in her eyes disappeared gradually. In the end, she turned to be indifferent. Mo Shujun pursed her lips slightly. After a while, she even showed a smile with comfort and talked to Qingxue, Qingxue, were you cheated by the outsiders? Now too many people envy Duke Shis family and its normal that they want to cast a bone among us through you. Since the truth can hardly be found, lets not mention it again. The princess royal announced, and even though all people were critical of her as she was partial to the third masters family, they didnt dare to say anything but yes obediently. However, Shi Qingxue didnt agree and looked at Mo Shujun more coldly. Mo Shujun was always in a high position, and even if she was wrong, others should comfort her. She had softened and tried to make peace, but Shi Qingxue still yielded to neither the carrot nor the club, so Mo Shujuns face turned cold immediately. Qingxue, you Grandma, since you said that you cant recognize the handwriting on this letter, we can ask somebody who can recognize it to tell us, Shi Qingxue suddenly suggested coldly. She said that, which meant that she didnt want to let it pass easily. Mo Shujun paused for a while and lowered her head to look at the pieces of paper on the floor first. After confirming that even somebody with a skillful hand couldnt make the letter return to what it had been, she was relieved. She looked at Shi Qingxue forcefully and distantly. Qingxue, I know that you are stubborn, but this matter has nothing to do with Zhou. Now that you dont even have the only evidence, why would you find somebody who can recognize it? Shi Qingxue smiled and asked in reply, Who said this letter is the only evidence? Mo Shujun was surprised and questioned, What do you mean? Chapter 229 - Why Didn’t You Marry Me? Shi Qingxue flicked the pieces of paper on her body and asked casually, Aunt, you have a good relationship with Lord Shi and contact him frequently, so there must be more than one letter that you have written to him, right? Zhou Ruyu seemed to think of something and turned pale with fear. She yelled at Shi Qingxue, regardless of her manners, Shi Qingxue, dont slander me. Thats not true. Then she turned her head and asked Mo Shujun for mercy in a hurry. Mother, dont listen to her bullshit. She lied to you. She was terrified and just told a very poor lie which revealed the truth. Mo Shujun cursed idiot in secret and ignored Zhou Ruyu. She pretended calm and asked, Qingxue, do you mean that you have other letters? Where are they? Show them to me now. When she spoke, she was anxious involuntarily. Mo Shujun soon came back to earth and shut up. Then she sat straight and showed that she was impartial, stating in a dignified manner again, Qingxue, since you have the evidence, show it to me. I will uphold justice for you. Shi Qingxue smiled but spoke with no emotion. A letter is so fragile. What if it accidentally becomes She looked down at the floor and then continued, If it becomes the white snow all over the floor again, it would be bad. Do you think so, Grandma? Mo Shujun was speechless after hearing the question. Her face looked stiff, and she appeared to be angry, but she couldnt vent it. Shi Junhe stayed silent from the beginning. Seeing that, he coughed in a low voice. When Qingxue looked at him, he glanced at her to warn her, Dont go too far. Shi Qingxue gave him a glance with comfort. Dont worry. I know what to do. Afterward, she didnt push Mo Shujun too hard but stated flatly, I dont dare to keep such important evidence by myself, so I put some letters in His Excellencys mansion, and he happens to have a subordinate who can recognize everybodys handwriting and easily find if these love letters were written by Aunt Ruyu. No! Without hesitation, Mo Shujun tried to stop her. It was no joking matter. Now it was exposed and humiliating. If they let Mo Junyang get involved in this matter, the fame of Duke Shis family would be ruined. Shi Qingxue thought that Mo Shujun didnt believe in the capability of Mo Junyangs subordinate and then said unhurriedly, Grandma, if you dont think that persons ability is reliable, there must be such capable men in the imperial palace. I can go to beg Empress Dowager. She might be willing to help us for my sake. What do you think? Mo Shujun stopped breathing for a while. At the moment, she certainly understood that Shi Qingxue was threatening her. If she still covered up for Zhou Ruyu, Shi Qingxue dared to tell the emperor about this matter. Mo Xiangbin was angry as Shi Juncai was a deserter on the battlefield. Now that Shi Juncai committed one more crime as he couldnt discipline his wife strictly and would attract everybodys attention again in the capital, he would never turn the tables. Mo Shujun glanced at Zhou Ruyu vaguely and ruthlessness flashed in her eyes. In an instant, she showed an amiable smile to Shi Qingxue and asked gently, Kid, why would you make a mountain out molehill? When did I say that I dont believe your words? She paused for a moment and her voice became deep. Leng Yan, forward my order. The third madam Zhou is immoral and ruined the familys reputation. Lock her up in the South House. Nobody can let her out without my orders. Mo Shujun changed her mind quickly all of a sudden. Zhou Ruyus complacent smile was frozen on her face, and she looked at Mo Shujun in disbelief. However, Mo Shujun didnt give her a chance to react and waved her hand, telling the servants to drag Zhou Ruyu away. No! No, Mother, you cant do this to me! Zhou Ruyu was dragged out and then came to her senses. She suddenly started to struggle. Several maids could hardly catch her, and she almost ran away for a few times. For a moment, the main hall was in chaos. Curses, screams and cries were mixed and intolerable to the eye. Clap! Suddenly a slap was heard and the main hall returned to silence. All people stared at the door, and Shi Juncai stood there out of breath. He had slapped Zhou Ruyu in her face and didnt give up. Seeing that she still stood there blankly, he rushed to grab her hair and cursed, You are a shameless slut. You dare to cheat on me. I will beat you to death! Shi Juncai and Zhou Ruyu were not close at ordinary times, and the couple were apparently friendly but in fact not so. Howevera man couldnt endure his wife who had an affair. Shi Juncai burst into anger and didnt show mercy when he beat her. After he slapped her for several times, her face was red and swollen, and the jewelry on her head fell all over the floor. She was like a crazy woman. Shi Baoyou secretly asked Shi Juncai to come in order to help Zhou Ruyu out of a predicament, but unexpectedly, he didnt care about their love at all but beat her as soon as he came. He was so ruthless that he wanted to kill his wife seemingly. Father! No. Dont beat Mother. Stop beating her! Shi Baoyou was scared and tears fell from her eyes. She hurriedly came to stop him. Shi Juncai was out of mind because he was angry, and he waved away Shi Baoyous hand, kicking Zhou Ruyu to fall on the floor. He still felt it was not enough and spat at the floor, cursing, Bitch. Slut. You just like to sleep with another man. I will divorce you and make you unable to show your face. Before that, Zhou Ruyu was like a puppet out of control and lost her spirits, without fighting back no matter how he beat or cursed her. Nobody knew which word Shi Juncai had said irritated Zhou Ruyu. Her eyes became red all of a sudden, and she got up from the floor. She didnt fear Shi Juncai but even raised her head to beat him, shouting angrily, You are such a loser. Why did you beat me? Shi Juncai was stunned after being hit, but soon he reacted and got more furious. He rushed to Zhou Ruyu and fought against her. Both of them cursed and seemed to kill each other. Bitch, you dare to beat me. I will take your life! Shi Juncai was dragged away by the servants but still cursed Zhou Ruyu cruelly, ready to pounce on her at any time. But Zhou Ruyu swelled out her chest and didnt look scared at all. She just showed her disdain for Shi Juncai. She leered at Shi Juncai coldly and snorted. You are a loser. You became an official just because of your ancestors. You are not good at writing or fighting. If I didnt rush about and help you, you must be still a Rank-7 petty official now. Shi Juncai, listen to me carefully. You are the last one who has the qualification to say that I am a slut. Not to mention Shi Juncai, even the onlookers were scared by Zhou Ruyus bold words. However, they were suddenly enlightened at once. Why was Third Master Shi promoted smoothly when he was incapable even though he was not as lucky in his career as Shi Junhe? It turned out that Zhou Ruyu helped him and depended on Gee! The expressions of all people changed when they looked at Shi Juncai. Shi Juncai felt his face was burning. In fact, he felt something wrong before, but he would never admit that he was lucky in his career because his wife had sex with others. Wasnt it humiliating him? You crazy woman, dont talk nonsense or try to evade your responsibility. I was promoted because I did a good job and the superiors recognized my worth. It had nothing to do with you. Shi Juncai hurriedly disassociated himself from Zhou Ruyu and took an oath devoutly. It seemed that he told the truth. But all people had their own thoughts of the fact. Zhou Ruyu didnt waste her energy to retort but just spat at Shi Juncai with disdain. She sneered. Why are you complacent? You can hook up with the fourth prince just because of the fame of the first masters family and my father. Otherwise, how can His Highness give a damn about you? Pah, you even want to serve the emperor and make a great contribution. Why not check how much you are worth? Ruyu, speak with caution! In the beginning, Shi Junhe didnt want to get involved in the mess of the third masters family, but noticing that the couple said more and more recklessly, he couldnt help but howl in a low voice to prevent Zhou Ruyu from saying those treacherous words. Shi Junhe looked serious and powerful and frightened Zhou Ruyu. Zhou Ruyu was frustrated and in front of Shi Junhe, she didnt look like a shrew who made a scene on the street. Tears fell from his eyes instantly. She gazed at Shi Junhe and cried sadly, complaining, That year, Princess Royal came to visit the mansion of the Marquis of Wuyang, and I saw you for the first time under a peach tree. You just returned with victory from the battlefield then. You looked heroic and graceful, full of youthful spirits. You dont know that I have heard about many of your brave acts from my mother before. She said that you followed your father to the battlefield far away at a young age and made outstanding achievements. I always wondered what kind of person you were. When I saw you in the flesh, I almost loved you at first sight. Everybody was shocked and gasped after Zhou Ruyu revealed this secret all of a sudden. But Zhou Ruyu didnt feel anything wrong and continued to stare blankly at Shi Junhe. So later Princess Royal came to my parents mansion to make a match, and I was so happy that I couldnt fall asleep for several days. But when we were engaged and exchanged the gifts, you told me that I wouldnt marry the big hero in my heart, but She had hatred in her eyes suddenly and pointed at Shi Juncai, adding resentfully, But I would marry you, such a loser who is lazy, greedy of money and beauties but good for nothing! You! Shi Juncais injury was hurt, and he glared at Zhou Ruyu, seeming to want to eat her alive. However, as it went to this point, Zhou Ruyu feared nothing and was not afraid of Shi Juncais glare. She turned her head and gazed at Shi Junhe again, showing a crazy expression. Junhe, Junhe! Why didnt you marry me? Why did you marry the bitch, Dong Hui? She married you but couldnt give birth to a son for you. And she didnt allow you to marry a concubine. Doesnt she obviously want you to have no male descendants? Why did you marry such a vicious woman? Shi Junhe furrowed his brows more tightly. He originally wanted to ignore Zhou Ruyus crazy words, but hearing that she even defamed his beloved wife to his face, he got angry at once. He strode forward and slapped Zhou Ruyu in her face. You dont have the right to comment on Hui. If I hear you slander her again, I wont show mercy. Dont blame me. Zhou Ruyu was beaten and moved two steps backward. After she managed to stand steadily, she didnt realize that she was beaten by a man she loved secretly all the time. She covered her cheek and raised her head, giving Shi Junhe a hurt look. You beat me? You even beat me because of that woman of loose morals? Aha! Dont tell me that you really dont know Dong Huis relationship with her fathers student at all. Or are you so generous that you dont even care when your wife has an affair? Shi Junhes eyes were cold, and he wasnt irritated by Zhou Ruyu. Instead, he warned her coldly, I will mind the business of Hui and me. It has nothing to do with you. I have nothing to do with you, too. Please mind your own business. Zhou Ruyu took several steps backward again and leaned against a pillar. It was more obvious in her eyes that she was hurt. She was sad, angry and depressed All kinds of emotions were shown on her face and mixed at last, which made her swollen face more ferocious. But Shi Junhe didnt care about Zhou Ruyus feelings. After warning her, he turned around and faced Mo Shujun. Seeing Mo Shujuns unpredictably changing expressions, he just bowed calmly and said impassively, Mother, we cant meddle in the matter of the third masters family, so I will leave it to you. I am going back with Baoning and Qingxue first. Afterward, he didnt mind Mo Shujuns reactions but led his two daughters to leave. When he walked to the door of the main hall, Zhou Ruyu roared from behind suddenly, Shi Junhe, you leave me alone and go away today, and I will make you regret in the future. Shi Junhe stopped for a while and then strode out, ignoring Zhou Ruyus cries and curses behind him. Chapter 230 - Take a Bite of the Sweet Food, and You Won’t Feel Sad Anymore The turbulence in the Shi family ended up with Zhou Ruyus being imprisoned in the South House and Zhang Qiuyans copying the family rules for three hundred times as a punishment. Dong Hui was stimulated and went into a coma, and Shi Junhe and Shi Qingxue tried their best to protect her, so she got away with it. But she was damaged and stayed in her bedroom to recuperate. Shi Junhe didnt enter Dong Huis room for three days with the reason that he was busy with work. Although the people in the East House kept it as a secret, and even most of the servants didnt find the problem, Shi Qingxue knew that Shi Junhe and Dong Hui were at odds. Shi Junhe didnt ask Dong Hui about the matter that she dated Yan L in the Valentines Pavilion secretly at midnight. Maybe he was afraid that it would irritate Dong Hui, or he was waiting for her to explain to him. Dong Hui didnt talk about this issue with Shi Junhe. Nobody knew if she thought that it was no big deal, or she wasguilty. Shi Qingxue was almost depressed to death by her parents silent treatment, and she was not in a good mood even when Mo Junyang took her to visit the lake and enjoy the scenery. Mo Junyang told the boatman to stop the boat by the lake, and he got up, preparing to leave the boat. Shi Qingxue finally came to reality from her thoughts and also stood up, asking in a hurry, Where are you going? Didnt you say that we would have a trip on the lake? She also realized that she was not herself today, and she was afraid that Mo Junyang would get mad, so she hurriedly grabbed his sleeve and didnt let him go. Idiot! Mo Junyang looked back and showed her a gentle smile, which confused her. Her small hand loosened a little, and she heard Junyang saying slowly, Wait for me here. I will be right back. Nobody knew if Shi Qingxue was numb because Mo Junyang called her idiot intimately or the man looked peaceful or even happy. After he left, she stood at the bow blankly for a long time and looked at his back going away. He disappeared and then came into Qingxues sight again after a while. He had a paper bag in his hand. When he returned to the boat and stood in front of her, Shi Qingxue finally sighed with relief. Then she looked at the bag in Mo Junyangs hand with curiosity. Whats this? Here you are. Have a try! Mo Junyang gave her the paper bag. He didnt explain what was inside. Shi Qingxue was puzzled and opened the bag to have a look. Then she shouted with pleasure at once, Its the sweet cake! The Shi familys rules were strict and they never allowed the children to eat the food sold by the street venders outside as they said that they were not clean. Qingxue ate the food secretly only several times when she was a child because her grandpa took her out alone and bought some for her. After her grandpa passed away, she didnt have a chance to eat this kind of sweet cake. Although the chefs in the mansion made sweet cakes later, they tasted different, and the cake which was so sweet that it could make her narrow her eyes just existed in her memories. Shi Qingxue held a piece of sweet cake with fragrance and lowered her head to take a bite. The familiar sweet taste made her shout in joy, Its so delicious! Mo Junyang also laughed and raised his big hand to put on her head. Then he rubbed it gently. You once told me that after you eat something sweet, you will feel better. When did I say that to you? Shi Qingxue had food in her mouth and asked unclearly. Doubts flashed in her big eyes, and she looked at Mo Junyang. Why didnt she remember that? Logically, the memories about what happened before this life were kept in her brain, and if what happened between them, she shouldnt have forgotten. Mo Junyang didnt plan to explain and smiled at her. Forget it. Its not important. But his smile seemed to be darker than before. Shi Qingxue saw that and didnt feel happy again, as if even the cake was not so sweet. She chewed it slowly and at last, she felt it tasteless, so she put down her hand and gazed at Mo Junyang. You She bit her lower lip with difficulty and raised her eyes to peep at Mo Junyang. Then she lowered her head quickly. After hesitating for a long time, she asked in a low voice, Did it happen between us in the previous life? Mo Junyang caressed Qingxues hair slowly and in the end, he stopped and withdrew his hand. After quite a while, he whispered, Hmm. It was as she expected. Shi Qingxue was relieved and started to try hard to think of what had happened in the past. At the moment, she knew that the two lives were about her childhood, but there were differences more or less. What made her suffer was that she clearly remembered the childhood that she didnt experience in person in a sense, but she couldnt remember the childhood in the previous life because too many years had passed. Shi Qingxue thought for a long time and the hot sweet cake began to go cold, but she still couldnt remember that. Seeing that Mo Junyang was silent, she hurriedly put the sweet cake in his mouth and tried to please him. Taste it. Its so sweet. Mo Junyang didnt refuse but chewed it little by little following Shi Qingxues hand. Shi Qingxue cautiously observed Mo Junyangs expression. After confirming that he was in a better mood, she asked, I cant remember many things in the past. Can you tell me? Mo Junyang stopped eating and moved backward, showing that he wouldnt eat it, but he saw that Qingxue still raised her hand and looked at him with expectancy. He couldnt bear to make Qingxue raise her hand all the time, so he had to say, I am full. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that and still raised her hand, demanding stubbornly, Tell me. Mo Junyang pursed his lips and fell into silence. After a long while, he stated in a deep voice, You have forgotten it. Even if I tell you, you wont know that. Shi Qingxue shook her head repeatedly and explained in a hurry, No, I wont. As long as you remind me, I will remember it soon. She said that seriously, and Mo Junyang couldnt help but believe her words. Gee, even if it was not true, could he bear to let her down? Mo Junyang shook his head with a bitter smile. He had known that he could never refuse Shi Qingxue, so he stopped struggling and took her back to the boat. Then he asked slowly, Do you still remember when we met for the first time? He was afraid that Shi Qingxue would misunderstand, so he stressed purposely, Not in this life, but at the beginning of the previous life, when we first met each other. Shi Qingxues face wrinkled in embarrassment, and she felt depressed. How could she remember what had happened so many years ago? Perhaps she bullied Mo Junyang as he was a hostage. At this thought, Shi Qingxue wanted to cover her face and find a hole to hide. Seeing Shi Qingxues expression, Mo Junyang guessed that she couldnt remember anything. Maybe he was mentally prepared, so he didnt show a disappointed expression. He explained casually, You were only five years old then. You were brought into the imperial palace by the old general for the first time. It was Empress Dowagers birthday party, and you were dressed up and very beautiful. You had two round buns on your head, as pretty as a little fairy. It seemed that the little girl with three heads and baby fat in his memory was in front of his eyes, and his stiff smile became gentler. He was so gentle, like the warm spring, which could melt a person in it. Shi Qingxue was complacent as she was beautiful and adorable when she was a child, but she couldnt help envying the little girl that Mo Junyang missed so much. Although she knew that she thought like this because she got into a blind alley, she still pouted with displeasure. She grabbed Mo Junyangs sleeve and shouted, Continue to speak. You cant miss her. Mo Junyang was amused and helpless as she was jealous, and he had to continue, You were so young and didnt know anybody, but you werent afraid at all in an unfamiliar environment. When the elders didnt notice, you went away sneakily and even got lost in the imperial palace Shi Qingxue opened her eyes wide all of a sudden. Its that time! She finally remembered it. When she was five years old, her grandpa happened to return with victory from the battlefield, and it was the empress dowagers birthday party. In the daytime, her grandpa took her to walk on the streets and alleys in the capital, and she tasted much food that she had never eaten, and the sweet cake was one of them. She liked eating sweet food and walked away after tasting the other food, but she insisted on asking her grandpa to buy several pieces of sweet cake for her before putting them in her pocket. After entering the imperial palace, she thought of nothing but the sweet cake. As soon as she finished talking with a group of unfamiliar adults, she found a quiet place with nobody around and continued to eat her sweet cake. As a result, when she was satisfied and prepared to go back to look for her grandpa, she found that she got lost. She couldnt return to where she had been after walking here and there, so she was anxious and almost cried. Later she found a big brother who was dirty all over his body with blood stains in a corner. Then she ran to him quickly and looked at him with expectancy, saying many nice words as she wanted to beg him to take her back to the party. But the big brother Mo Junyang glared at her coldly. I wont go! He yelled loudly and was cruel and distant. But the little fairy Shi Qingxue was bold and wasnt frightened. She even realized with a broad and long-term view that this big brother must be too clever and wouldnt be bought over with the empty nice words, and she needed to give him something practical. So in order to go back home, little Qingxue took out the most valuable thing at hand, the sweet cake and made a deal with the clever Mo Junyang who couldnt be seduced. When she was trying to market her sweet cake, she thought of the big brothers unhappy face and said that after he ate something sweet, he would make all his injuries and bad feelings fly away! The adult Mo Junyang would surely contemptuously dismiss such words, but the sweet cake was undoubtedly a big temptation for the young and hungry boy. The big brother Mo Junyang ate the little fairy Shi Qingxues last sweet cake and then took her back to the party. When he left, he was beaten again by the princes who disliked him. But nobody knew if it was the psychology effect or the sweet cake was really so magical, and for the first time, Mo Junyang didnt feel so much pain that he couldnt get up after being beaten. Therefore, Mo Junyang always remembered that sweet cake and the little fairy who gave it to him. He thought about her for a long time, even though when he saw her again, everything changed, and that little fairy had become a teenage girl and couldnt remember him. All Shi Qingxues memories returned to her brain, and her face stiffened in an instant. Seeing that Mo Junyang was still looking at her, she complained first, You yelled at me then and refused to help me. And you even cheated me out of my last sweet cake. Mo Junyang was also stunned and then became overjoyed. You remember that? Hmm! Mo Junyang knew that she misunderstood and hurriedly explained, When you saw me, I was Mentioning the period when he was in the most difficult position in his two lives, Mo Junyang felt awkward and his voice was lower. I just had a fight with the princes and was hungry for a long time, so I was bad-tempered. Dont be mad. Shi Qingxue wasnt mad at Mo Junyang, and she knew that he said he had a fight must because when they were young, Mo Junhao and the others bullied him, a hostage, depending on their identity. When she was an ignorant child, she did that many times. She felt more ashamed and stuttered to explain, I wasnt mad. I justjust She couldnt speak it out, but she didnt want Mo Junyang to misunderstand her, so she had to prove with her actions. She walked to the man quickly. Then she grabbed his hand and lowered her head, whispering, I was joking with you. They had said that, so it would be pointless if they continued to argue. But Mo Junyang was unwilling to let go of Shi Qingxues hand, and he brought her to him conveniently. Before Shi Qingxue spoke, he asked, Are you unhappy today because of the issue in your family? Chapter 231 - No Red Face. No Red Ears Shi Qingxue nodded, kind of acknowledging what Mo Junyang had asked. Mo Junyang thought for a while, and then cautiously conjectured again, That letter was useless? Although he also had spies in the Shi family, he only learned about Shi Qingxues daily life, and he didnt know about the important things. Shi Qingxue shook her head, and hesitated for a moment. Then she told Mo Junyang what had happened in the East House and the hall that day. Thanks to your letter you gave to me that day. So I was able to bring down Zhou Ruyu, although not very successfully Mo Junyang frowned, Your grandmother She was very suspicious. Due to the relationship between Mo Shujun and Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang didnt say clearly. But Shi Qingxue understood what he meant. She did not get angry, but looked very happy, as if she had found a confidant. She held Mo Junyangs hand excitedly and said, You also think her attitude is very strange, right? I told my father about this, but he didnt take it seriously, and even lectured me that I must not disrespect the elders. But now the princess royal often plays favorites, who isnt like the dignified and fair princess royal in my memory at all. If people who dont know about her see how she behaves, they must think my dad was raised by a stepmother! Mo Junyang suddenly paused and looked at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was confused by his sudden action, and asked with doubt, What, whats up? I just gave you an example. The way my grandmother treats my dad and the Third Uncle is more and more different. I know. Mo Junyang didnt explain his strange reaction just now, but only said, Dont worry, I will check this out for you. Shi Qingxue suddenly smiled happily and linked arms with Mo Junyang affectionately, Brother Yang, you are the best! Mo Junyang looked askance at her with an enigmatic smile. When she wanted his help, she would call him Brother Yang, or she would just call him by his full name. And Mo Junyang had already got used to it! Of course, he would never admit that he was pleased by Shi Qingxues affectionate behavior so he let her go. Just as they were talking happily and having fun, there was a sudden noise from the outside of the boat. There seemed to be a woman yelling outside. They looked at each other, and both of them felt confused. At this moment, Qu Yuebai walked in, whose head was covered with sweat. He said helplessly to Mo Junyang, Junyang, this time your big trouble is back. Huh? Trouble, back? Shi Qingxue felt that there were big question marks in her mind. She didnt understand why the trouble could come back. Did Mo Junyang have the trouble which once left and at the moment came back? Qu Yuebai nodded and sighed, King Ruis foster daughter, Mo Linlang, has returned to the capital with King Rui. It is said that she will not leave here for a while, and she lives in King Ruis mansion. Mo Linlang? Shi Qingxue heard this name for the first time. Even in her previous life, she had never heard that King Rui had a foster daughter. However, the King Rui of the previous life was still in the Rui Prefecture in the north and never returned to the capital. So it was not surprising that she didnt know many things. After Mo Junyang heard what Qu Yuebai had said, his expression was as cold as before, with not much difference. Qu Yuebai thought that the big monster Mo Junyang must be unhappy at the moment. For he didnt smile even when Shi Qingxue was here. He didnt want to rile Mo Junyang who was already very unhappy at all. But the noise outside continued, and got louder and louder. Qu Yuebai had no choice but to risk being vented on by Mo Junyang and said, Infanta Mo heard about your boat tour on the lake today, so she ran over by herself. She is stopped by Wei Zichao outside temporarily and doesnt come in. Of course temporarily. Mo Linlang was King Ruis foster daughter and Wei Zichao couldnt stop her for too long for King Ruis sake. However, Mo Junyang was very direct and just said, I will not see her. Let her go back. Qu Yuebai was too sad to cry. If he could let Mo Linlang go back, he wouldnt even come in to rile Mo Junyang. However, Boss Mo had given the order. The poor message carrier Qu Yuebai had to go out again and do as Mo ordered. Shi Qingxue was still curious. She even stood up and wanted to go outside, but was held by Mo Junyang, Dont go. Why not? Mo Linlang is the foster daughter of King Ruis. Then isnt she your sister? How do you behave as if you dont like her? Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang was respectful to King Rui. So she thought he wouldnt be unfriendly to his family. Mo Junyang shrugged with unconcern. He just glanced at her meaningfully, and said slowly, Apart from you, which woman else do you think I like? Shi Qingxue was speechless Gosh! Why did he speak so provocatively? No. No red face. No red ears! Alright, I wont tease you! After enjoying Shi Qingxues shyness and loveliness, Mo Junyang finally let her go. However, before Qingxue could say Thank you, someone pushed open the door of the boat and a figure moved quickly to them. Before Shi Qingxue could see the person, she was pushed away hard. She was unprepared, and pushed directly to the window. The huge and stable boat even started swaying because of her impact. She felt a lot of pain. It hurt so much. Brother Yang, I finally see you! Do you miss me? Shi Qingxue barely tried her best to open the eyes and looked at the girl in gorgeous clothes in front of her, who should be about the same age as her. She wore a light make-up on her small face, which made her vigorous and attractive. Her big bright eyes stared straight at Mo Junyang, full of joy and adoration. If Shi Qingxue hadnt found out the girl liked Mo Junyang at this time, then her two lives were worthless. However, Shi Qingxue had only one thought in her mind. This beautiful girl turned out to be Mo Linlang, the Infanta Mo! Shi Qingxue was sure that there was no Mo Linlang in her previous life, and she did not expect that in this life it would bring Mo Junyang a woman who loved him so much! Mo Linlang behaved in a spoiled manner and received no response at all. She also got used to it and kept talking. However, this time Mo Junyang did not respond at all even when she got dry for having talked too much. Instead, he withdrew his hand from hers, took two steps back, and kept her at a distance. Mo Linlang was speechless. Outrageous! Her eyes began to tear up, but she suddenly stared at Shi Qingxue who was watching aside, Who are you? Why are you watching me? Shi Qingxue was speechless because she was really innocent! Before Qingxue began to explain, Mo Junyang stepped in front of her and stared at Mo Linlang with a cold face, Who allows you to talk to her like this? He defended Shi Qingxue but ignored Mo Linlang. The attitude was totally different. Not to mention that Shi Qingxue was shocked, Mo Linlang was also stunned after being rebuked by him. Mo Linlang had always known that Mo Junyang didnt like her, but for King Ruis sake, he never rebuked her. She didnt expect that he would lose his temper to her for a strange woman, which was really unreasonable. Mo Linlang didnt dare and wouldnt get angry with Mo Junyang. But those bright eyes stared intensely at Qingxue, as if she wanted to eat Qingxue. Mo Junyang once again hid Qingxue completely behind him, so Mo Linlang couldnt see her. When Mo Linlang looked at him accusingly, he just said coldly, Go back. Brother Yang, youve really gone too far! Mo Linlang covered her face and ran out crying. Shi Qingxue still stood behind Mo Junyang in a daze, and did not recover from the sudden conflict just now. It came too suddenly. Mo Junyangs indifference and toughness all went into her mind. She was still depressed by the rift between her parents, and she couldnt help but worry whether she and Mo Junyang would be like this one day. She began to think further and further, and got more and more confused But Mo Junyangs defending was undoubtedly the most powerful cardiac stimulant for her. No matter what the future would be, at least Mo Junyangs concern and defending for her at the moment was real. Mo Junyang also stood still with his own intention that others didnt know. Shi Qingxue could only see Mo Junyangs back. He was so tall and stalwart. Even one glance could give her infinite senses of security. She tentatively took a small step forward and whispered, Jun, Junyang. Mo Junyang did not move. Then she boldly stepped forward again, and almost touched Mo Junyangs back. She lowered her head slightly, and her forehead just touched Mo Junyangs back. She leaned on him lightly, and they could feel each others heat. Shi Qingxue said slowly, Thank you. Mo Junyang wanted to turn around and see Shi Qingxues expression at this time, but he also wanted to keep their postures. He straightened his back and stood still. He looked down a little and stared at the front corner. Dark light was flashing in his intense eyes. He asked dully and hoarsely, For what? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but stretch out her small hands, and wounded her arms round Mo Junyangs waist. They once again got closer. At this time, she felt so peaceful, Thank you, for falling in love with me! It sounded light-hearted, and even a little bit happy. It was the first time that Shi Qingxue had faithfully expressed her inner thoughts to Mo Junyang. She just said what she thought, but didnt realize how influential her words would be. Mo Junyang felt that the last rational string in his mind was completely broken. He couldnt stand it anymore. He held Shi Qingxues wrist with one hand, pulling her, and turned around quickly. When he met Shi Qingxues surprised gaze, he directly stretched out his other hand to squeeze Qingxues chin. And raise it slightly. The rosy and attractive red lips were close at hand, and Mo Junyang directly put his thin lips on them. Ah! Hmm Just as Shi Qingxue shouted, her mouth was gagged by Mo Junyangs mouth. She felt that Mo Junyang suddenly became a beast that had been hungry for a long time in winter, and tightly held the only prey in his arms, biting and licking bit by bit. She thought as if she would be swallowed by him! Shi Qingxue wanted to protest. But when she opened her small mouth, his flexible tongue got in and kept moving in her mouth. After a while, she felt her entire mouth numb, and the strength of her whole body seemed to be taken away. Fortunately, Mo Junyangs arms were wounded tightly round her waist, otherwise she would be too embarrassed. However, Shi Qingxue didnt have the energy to think so much at this time. Mo Junyang seemed to be about to drive all her senses, constantly touching her sensitive spots and making her weaker and weaker. Her consciousness began to indulge in it, together with Mo Junyang. After some time, Shi Qingxue felt all the air in her lung was sucked away. She seemed to have been dead and alive again and again. After repeating this many times, Mo Junyang finally stopped kissing her reluctantly, but still refused to let her go completely. They remained intimately attached. Shi Qingxues hypoxic brain did not recover for a while, keeping the posture of looking up. Maybe for she was shy or hadnt breathed for too long, her face was so red and lovely, and her red lips were even tenderer. Mo Junyang only glanced at it, and almost lowered his head to kiss her again. His senses told him that Shi Qingxue was sure to be angry if he did it again, so he stopped. But the fire in his eyes was burning more and more fiercely, as if to ignite him and Shi Qingxue together. As soon as Shi Qingxue realized what was happening, she felt as if her lower body was being pushed against by something tough. She didnt look down, but blushed first. Chapter 232 - Behave in a Spoiled Manner and Point out the Mistake You, why did you do that? Shi Qingxue stammered. But because of her weak vigor, she did not dare to look at Mo Junyang. She was about to question him, but she behaved in a spoiled manner. Mo Junyang hugged Qingxue tighter. He was hugging his baby. He lowered his head again and touched Qingxues hot red face with his cheek. His ear touched her hair, so affectionate. This action which was showing weakness made Shi Qingxue no longer angry. Although she was still embarrassed, she did not dodge. She controlled her shyness and felt Mo Junyangs silent affection. Then, she gently, slightly, and actively touched Mo Junyangs face. Like a kitty showing love. Mo Junyang was suddenly stiffened, and immediately held her in front of him excitedly, staring at her in disbelief. The surprised look seemed to ask, You actually actively kissed me! The reactions were so strong that Shi Qingxues rare courage finally disappeared. Annoying! Stop, stop looking at me! Shi Qingxue was ashamed and annoyed, and glared at Mo Junyang. Couldnt she take the initiative? No. Mo Junyang shook his head, but still looked so shocked. Shi Qingxue was so ashamed. She silently scolded Mo Junyang several times in her heart, but was still so irritated. Whatever. She no longer cared about it and pulled Mo Junyang, who had not realized, and kissed his thin lips. Their lips were touched and their eyes met. It seemed that time stood still. Oops. She used all her courage and she couldnt continue. What should she do? Shi Qingxues whole body went rigid. Facing Mo Junyangs handsome face so closely, she wanted to quit again. However, how could Mo Junyang easily let her go when the meat was delivered to him? Before she could run away, Mo Junyang once again held her waist with one hand. You kissed me first. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Although it was true, nobody could say it so cheekily except Mo Junyang. After Mo Junyang said it, she couldnt even ran away, but only had to continue touching his lips with hers. The movements were maladroit, cringed and jerky. As far as her kissing skill was concerned, it was not attractive at all. But Mo Junyang felt that Shi Qingxue had completely appealed to him. But he also didnt want to lose the opportunity of enjoying it when Shi Qingxues rarely took the initiative, and stiffened himself into a piece of wood. He only infinitely magnified his senses, enjoying the closeness at this moment. Shi Qingxue did not want to see Mo Junyang again for a long time after the boat tour on the lake. Every time the invitation was sent to her from King Ruis mansion, she told Xia Mang to receive it, and asked the message carrier to go back. But she never kept the appointment. When they sent an invitation in order to pay a visit, she asked Xia Mang to give it to Shi Junhe. She just hid in Luotong Boudoir and wouldnt go out at all. As long as Shi Qingxue remembered what happened on the boat, she flushed with shame and wanted to kill herself. How could she be obsessed and really kiss him? And, and Looking back on her actions at the time, she was really ashamed. She had never been so bold in her two lives. How could she have the face to see Mo Junyang! Ahhhhh! Sixth Lady, do you bicker with His Excellency again? This was the third time Shi Qingxue had refused the invitation of King Ruis mansion. Xia Mang finally couldnt help but ask in a low voice. These days, her master always blushed from time to time and muttered constantly, as if she had been shaken up. But when she was asked about it, she didnt say anything. As a maid, Xia Mang was anxious, but she also vaguely guessed that Qingxues abnormality was very likely related to Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue was taken aback by Xia Mangs question and categorically denied, Of course not! That was it! Xia Mang didnt dare to make her unhappy, and only asked in a low voice, I find you are always unhappy these days. Do you want me to accompany you for a walk? No! Shi Qingxue refused again without even thinking about it. Seriously? If she went out, wouldnt she just be caught by Mo Junyang? In fact, she was not really angry with Mo Junyang, but needed some time to calm down. She was not escaping! Shi Qingxue just stayed in the Luotong Boudoir, deluding herself. She refused to go anywhere. But one thing she guessed was right. Mo Junyang was really waiting at the door of the Duke Shis mansion. When he was about to enter the door, Qu Yuebai hurried over, saying that the emperor wanted him to go to the palace as quickly as possible. Mo Junyang didnt want to involve in those affairs, but Qu Yuebai added softly, I heard from the eunuch who carried the message that Lord Chen, the Imperial Censor, reported your future father-in-law in front of His Majesty. Are you sure you will not enter the palace now, well, helping him? This question was really very subtle. Mo Junyang looked up at the gate of Duke Shis mansion and finally sighed. He turned around and went into the carriage, Go to the palace. Qu Yuebai showed a triumphant smile and said secretly that he was wise. He could accurately get hold of his masters lifeblood! In the future, there was no need to worry about his master being slack in work and his inability to deal with it! Sixth Lady. Good for you. When Mo Junyang walked to the Imperial Study, it was full of ministers, and several adult princes were also standing in the front. Mo Xiangbin liked to carry out on-site teaching when discussing matters with ministers, so it was not surprising for Mo Junyu and others to appear here. But besides them, Mo Junjing, the sixth prince also followed Mo Junhao. This was the first time, which made people wonder about lots of things. Mo Junyang calmly looked Mo Junjing up and downChe was also born by Empress Liang. But when Mo Junjiu was still alive, this legitimate son lived in the palace like an invisible person. He didnt fight or battle, as if he had no interest in imperial power at all. But Mo Junjiu died. Mo Junjing became Empress Liangs only son. His true character was finally revealed. Well, interesting. Mo Junyang sighed with emotion, without attracting anyones attention, and silently stood in the last row. Mo Xiangbin sat on the Dragon Throne, with the memorial in his hand, and said nothing. It was not until he saw Mo Junyang that he threw the memorial to Chen Kang, the Imperial Censor, and asked coldly, What is the meaning of your memorial? Chen Kang replied fairly, Shi Juncai, the captain of the imperial guards, was ordered to resist the rebel army near the boundary river. But when the rebel army came, he fled without a fight. According to the soldiers at the time, the number of his soldiers was much more than that of the rebel army. Even if there was a fight, he could also defeat the opponent. But he would rather disobey the order in the battlefield and let the rebel army cross the river. His intention was really suspicious. Everyone had guessed that Chen Kang would talk about Shi Juncais escape from the battlefield, but they didnt expect that he could make up so much. He even alluded to Shi Juncai that he might do it in order to help the rebel army. Nonsense! Though Shi Junhe didnt intend to intercede for Shi Juncai. After hearing it, he couldnt help being furious, You just guess without evidence. Isnt it too casual? Chen Kang sneered and asked aggressively, I am the Imperial Censor and supposed to supervise all the improper matters done by the officials. Now I am just telling one of the possibilities, but you get so angry. Are youfearing something? You! Shi Junhe was so angry and looked pale. He stared at Chen Kang angrily, and scolded, You mustnt talk nonsense in front of His Majesty! Chen Kang calmly bowed to Mo Xiangbin, and then slowly said, Some people say that before the rebellion of the third prince, he had many close conversations with Wenren Chi, the Right Guardian of the City Guardian Army. He even once appeared in General Wenrens private residence. Is that true? He suddenly mentioned an old thing that happened long ago. Even though Shi Junhe was ready to deal with Chen Kangs questions, he didnt expect that Chen Kang would impeach him with the meeting between Wenren Chi and Mo Junjiu! And to some extent, Chen Kang was right. Mo Junjiu indeed wanted to collude with Wenren Chi, and he once agreed. But this definitely had nothing to do with the rebellion. The problem was that the real truth and the fact in front of everyone were different. It was hard for Shi Junhe to explain. When Chen Kang saw Shi Junhes face in embarrassment, he immediately knew that he had caught Shi Junhe on the hip. He asked more aggressively, General Shi, please answer my question. Am I right? Well Shi Junhe couldnt speak, and nodded very slightly. He immediately tried to defend Wenren Chi, General Wenren is loyal to His Majesty and never has the intention of rebelliousness. Please check it out clearly. Chen Kang sneered, but did not immediately refute Shi Junhe. Instead, he continued to ask calmly, General Wenren! Isnt he raised by you? He is from the Shi Army! Shi Junhe didnt figure out why Chen Kang would mention this for a while, but he nodded, Yes! He is my adopted son and I know his character clearly. He will never do So he also obeys all your orders, right? Chen Kang suddenly interjected softly. The ministers did not understand at the beginning. It was meaningless to say that the son listened to the father. But Chen Kang just claimed that Wenren Chi had colluded with Mo Junjiu, and the next moment he said that Wenren Chi listened to his adoptive father. Then he presumed that Wenren Chi would follow all the requests of the adoptive father. Well Chen Kang, what do you mean?! Shi Junhe was angry, black in the face. He pointed directly at Chen Kang, and asked loudly, Are you doubting my loyalty to His Majesty? There was sudden inspiration sounds in the Imperial Study. The ministers bowed their heads, and wanted to sew their mouths and cover their ears. They didnt want to get involved in what would happen! Chen Kang shrugged indifferently, and said coldly, You said it. I didnt say anything. You! Shi Junhe was a great talent, but he was a military official. When confronted with the Imperial Censor, who worked with mouth, he would easily get angry and speechless. Just at this time, Chen Kang hypocritically let the emperor make the final decision, What does the General Shi really think in his mind? Your Majesty can definitely make a correct judgment. Your Majesty, the three generations of the Shi family are loyal to you. The Shi Army is also loyal and tough, with no other thoughts. Please check it out and exonerate the Shi family as well as the Shi Army! Shi Junhe knelt down in front of Mo Xiangbin, and pleaded in a low voice. Mo Xiangbin hadnt spoken before, and his stern eyes glanced around the ministers one by one, until everyone lowered the head. Then he slowly said, General Shi first quickly suppressed the riot in the Yang City and then settled the civil strife in the capital. You did meritorious service for our country. You must be tired. Since then, I will especially allow you to recuperate at home. When you have enough rest, it will not be too late to come back and serve me! The beginning of these words was praise. But before Shi Junhe got happy, he found the rest of the words had the intention of dismissing him! Well, not completely dismissed. It just let him recuperate in the mansion, which was probably considered as suspended with pay. But it was hard to be reinstated! For a while, it was silent in the Imperial Study with no one speaking. In the end, Shi Junhe broke the silence first. Chapter 233 - A Big Secret After hearing the emperors edict, Shi Junhe didnt even say a word to retort but just knelt down and expressed his thanks to the emperors kindness. Mo Xiangbin didnt plan to say more seemingly and waved his hand, telling all the officials to leave. After most of them left, he suddenly said, Junyang, stay. It was not the first time for Mo Xiangbin to tell Mo Junyang to stay and discuss with him alone, and all the officials were not surprised. At most, they just looked at Mo Junyang several times before leaving. As something so serious had happened, the high officials hurried to return after walking out and wanted to discuss with the ones in the same faction, and even the minor officials planned to make comments. They left in threes and fives and whispered to each other. Gee, the Shi family has been powerful in the officialdom for so many years and attracted much attention. Many people must be jealous of them. Right! The Shi Armys fame and capability are famous in the whole Qin Continent, let alone in our country, and nobody is not convinced. They have such a horrible army. Dont you think that His Majesty fears them? It was horrible that the army had the military capability, and they won the peoples respect. If such an army rebelled, perhaps the common people would clap and praise them. They looked at one another speechlessly and didnt dare to say more. After a while, one of the officials changed the subject and asked in a low voice, Why do you think His Majesty told His Excellency to stay alone this time? Who knows? They must have something important to discuss. His Excellency is favored by His Majesty recently. Another one stated coldly with jealousy, Right. Even the serious crime of killing a prince can be ignored easily. I dont know what nice words His Excellency said to His Majesty. I heard that the empress knelt in the Qianqing Palace several times and asked His Majesty to seek justice for the third prince, but His Majesty even refused to see her. He obviously doesnt plan to punish His Excellency Somebody revealed the news in a low voice. But then a weak voice retorted, But why did I hear that the third prince died in an accident and it has nothing to do with His Excellency? Gee, who can explain the relationship in the royal family clearly? Anyway it has nothing to do with us. Lets just watch a play. All the gossips ended up with an indifferent tone. At the same time, the imperial study was silent and depressing, with an atmosphere that was low and made people almost unable to breathe. Mo Xiangbin wanted to wait for Mo Junyang to ask him, but after a long time, the young man didnt speak. He was helpless and had to start a conversation. Do you know how many people have sent memorials to me to impeach you these days? Mo Junyang shook his head and kept silent. You! Alas Mo Xiangbin could do nothing to Mo Junyang who was quiet. He sighed and stopped keeping Mo Junyang in suspense. More than ten! They all asked me to punish you as you killed a prince. The empress has pestered me several times recently and declared that she wouldnt give up easily until she avenges Junjiu. I stopped them temporarily. I can stop them for now but cant stop them forever. Junyang, you are in danger this time! Mo Xiangbin pointed out this fact sadly, and his dignified square face was full of helplessness. Mo Junyang raised his head and glanced at Mo Xiangbin. He opened his mouth and wanted to say something, but he thought of something and then lowered his head again in silence. Kid! Mo Xiangbin strode to Mo Junyang and stared at him. After a long time, he asked seriously, I want to ask you now and you should answer me honestly. Did Junjius death have anything to do with you? Mo Junyang pursed his lips and shook his head slowly after quite a while. No. No? Mo Xiangbin repeated it and sighed with relief, murmuring, Great, great When he calmed down and looked at Mo Junyang again, his square face was not as depressed as before. He just frowned and asked, But now the gossips against you cause a great clamor and all people think that you are the murderer. What do you plan to do? Mo Junyang still shook his head and looked indifferent. Let it be. Perhaps only Mo Junyang could keep calm when all people denounced him. But Mo Xiangbin was anxious. He couldnt help but glare at Mo Junyang with warning. Then he sighed helplessly. You dont care about this and that. What on earth do you want? He said this and that vaguely, and only Mo Junyang understood what he wanted to express. Mo Junyang looked at Mo Xiangbin deeply and suddenly stood straight before bowing to the emperor officially. He expressed casually but firmly, Your Majesty, you have many children and have a successor, so you dont need to bother about what happened in the past. Mo Xiangbins face stiffened, and he looked embarrassed as he was seen through. Ahem! He coughed twice and started to temporize. I merely think that a man should have lofty aims and need to be ambitious. Otherwise, how would you have a foothold in the world? Ambitious? Like the third prince? Mo Junyang replied with no emotion. Mo Xiangbin was rendered speechless and cursed in his heart, Good boy, you look quiet at ordinary times, but when you speak, you are not afraid of making others speechless. Fortunately, I have recovered from Junjius death. Otherwise, I would die because I am too angry. All people in the country including the officials and noblemen were obedient to him like quails. Only Mo Junyang was not afraid of him and would say something occasionally to make him furious. Even so, Mo Xiangbin admired this child who was unhurried while facing anything difficult. Wasnt Mo Junyang like him when he was young? The emperor laughed as he felt he was lucky, so he didnt want to bother about Mo Junyang. He just looked at Mo Junyang seriously and confirmed again. Junyang, what the power and glory will bring you is beyond your imagination. But you dont want it? Mo Junyang just stayed silent, but his clear and determined eyes expressed his thoughts. Mo Xiangbin shook his head and kept quiet for a while. In the end, he still didnt give up and asked, You dont want anything? It was impossible. A person must have desires. Mo Junyang nodded this time, and before Mo Xiangbin got happy, he heard Mo Junyangs voice. Your Majesty, you once agreed to grant the marriage of Qingxue and me after the turbulence is settled down. Mo Xiangbin was unable to reply. Perhaps it was Mo Xiangbins first time to see somebody talk about love relationship with such a cold attitude. The strong feeling of being incongruous overwhelmed. Till now Mo Xiangbin still couldnt understand Mo Junyangs persistent love for Shi Qingxue. Why is it her? The little girl from the Shi family is smart and attractive indeed, but many girls from the noble families are almost at the same level as her and even some of them are better than her. Why do you love her so much, Junyang? Mo Xiangbin wondered what Mo Junyang was thinking about, but he was destined to be disappointed. Mo Junyang never expressed his love for Shi Qingxue to anybody else, not to mention that he would explain why he loved her. The imperial study fell into silence at once. After a long time, Mo Xiangbin asked meaningfully all of a sudden, The Shi family Junyang, didnt you see what happened in the imperial study just now? So what? Mo Xiangbins face fell slowly and looked solemn. He analyzed coldly. I admit that the Shi family served all our people. The Elder Duke Shi, General Shi and his future son-in-law, Wenren Chi made a great contribution to the country, but I kept them in mind and all people in the country kept their contributions in mind. Didnt the people in society say that if the Shi Army wins, the Mo Country would exist, and if the Shi Army is defeated, the Mo County would be destroyed? You still havent realized the warning now? Mo Junyang smiled faintly and retorted straightforwardly, You are afraid that General Shi would raise his arm in the future and make himself the emperor and then all the people agree, so the Mo Country would have another ruler, right? Even Mo Xiangbin tried to conceal it when he talked about this matter. He didnt dare to speak out what he guessed as he was afraid that it would come true. But Mo Junyang feared nothing and exposed him regardless of anything else. It made Mo Xiangbin feel embarrassed, and he wanted to rebuke the young man, but meeting Mo Junyangs dark eyes, he wasnt confident. He stated awkwardly, You should know that what I fear might happen. Even if Shi Junhe doesnt have this ambition now, we are not sure that he wont have it in the future, and we dont know if he would be incited by his subordinates. He guessed more. Anyway, Shi Junhe was a hidden trouble. Mo Junyang didnt make comments and shrugged, saying indifferently, I dont know what General Shi would think if he hears what you said. Perhaps because they had mentioned it directly, Mo Xiangbin removed his mask as a gentle man and revealed his sinister character. He sneered and asked directly, I just talk about my worries with you. How would he know? Mo Junyang asked in reply, You told General Shi in public to rest at home today. Dont you think he understands your scruple about him? Shi Junhe probably knew that Mo Xiangbin didnt trust the Shi familys loyalty anymore, so he silently accepted the imperial edict under the situation. Mo Xiangbin argued, I have said that there is something wrong with the Shi family. Think it over. If Shi Junhe is really innocent, how would he not argue while he is stubborn? So my decision is right. Your Majesty, since you have made a judgment, I have nothing to say. Mo Junyang didnt have the plan to change Mo Xiangbins mind, so he directly admitted the emperors words. However, Mo Xiangbin didnt get happy as a result but frowned. What do you think? Nothing. The Shi family is nothing to me, Mo Junyang replied honestly. He never took the Shi family seriously. It was not that he didnt like them, but he didnt care about them. Even Shi Qingxue is nothing to you? Mo Xiangbin asked then. Mo Junyang was rendered speechless by Mo Xiangbin for the first time and went stiff for quite a while. Afterward, he answered calmly, It has nothing to do with Qingxue. Mo Xiangbin had a bigger smile and asked, It really has nothing to do with her? The Shi familys rise and decline are related to her life. What does she have except her identity as the sixth young lady of the Shi family? Me, Mo Junyang responded firmly, although in a hoarse voice. What? Even Mo Xiangbin didnt understand this word from nowhere. Mo Junyang licked his lower lip and explained, stressing each word, I said she has me besides the Shi family. Mo Junyang would never put Shi Qingxue in danger once more. Mo Xiangbin was stunned and realized Mo Junyangs determination again, even though his persistence was just for Shi Qingxue. However, with the precondition that Shi Qingxue would never betray the Shi family, Mo Junyang would choose to or be forced to help that family as the girl obviously protected her family. At the thought of this possibility, the emperor looked unhappy and expressed coldly almost in a threatening tone, The Shi family contributes a lot and can frighten the throne. I would never allow that family to be powerful alone and threaten the country. I would never spare anybody or any force that may threaten my throne. In the end, he almost spoke with killing intent. Unfortunately, the person standing in front of Mo Xiangbin was Mo Junyang who never knew what fear was. He just pursed his lips and answered unhurriedly, Then just make the Shi family have no chance to harm the country. You Mo Xiangbin never expected that Mo Junyang didnt even have the plan to resist but sided with him. Even though Mo Junyang showed a poker face as before, the emperor still felt this kids loyalty to him. As expected, even though they have few chances to stay together, the bloodline would never be cut off. He deserved to be Mo Xiangbinsgood boy! Chapter 234 - Mo Junyang, a Child of Another Man Seeing the emperors old face wrinkled with a smile, Mo Junyang knew that Mo Xiangbin started to imagine too much again. But he didnt explain. His silence made Mo Xiangbin think that the young man had no choice but to give up Shi Qingxue because of him. He had more love and guilt towards Mo Junyang. Junyang Mo Xiangbin pondered for a while. Although he couldnt say sorry, the emperor still expressed generously, You dont need to worry about Junjius death. I will help you solve the problem. He offered an attractive compensation. Mo Junyang nodded slightly. Your Majesty, thanks for your kindness. Mo Xiangbin rarely showed his gentleness and closeness to Mo Junyang, but unfortunately, this man had no reaction at all, like the hardest stone on an iceberg. The distance he showed in his tone was the same as when he knew their real relationship for the first time. So many years had passed. Logically, even a stone should have been warmed, but Mo Junyang didnt change at all. Mo Xiangbin was guilty to this kid, so he didnt mind Mo Junyangs distant attitude. He even once thought that Mo Junyang behaved well and nobody would suspect their relationship. But hearing that this child still called him like an ordinary official, the emperor felt uncomfortable. Anyway this was his child and he called another man father because he had no choice. Why wasnt he close to his father in private? Was he inferior to King Rui? Mo Xiangbin thought with jealousy and refused to let Mo Junyang go in words. He complained with displeasure, Kid, why do you always call me Your Majesty? There is no outsider here. Cant you call me Your Majesty! Mo Junyang suddenly interrupted Mo Xiangbin in a loud voice. Meeting Mo Xiangbins unhappy eyes, he still said, being neither haughty nor humble, Walls have ears. Your Majesty, youd better be careful, in case that it causes unnecessary disturbances. Mo Xiangbin instantly came to his senses and realized. He looked around subconsciously and then confirmed that there were only them two in the room, but he didnt dare to say more. He just coughed twice and didnt have the plan to pester Mo Junyang. He waved his hand and sighed. I have nothing to say. You go back first. Yes. Mo Junyang bowed and said goodbye, and he didnt change his attitude from beginning to end. When he left, his straight back was in Mo Xiangbins eyes. The emperors expression was full of appreciation, but soon it turned into sadness and helplessness. At last, he sighed silently. Why was such a good kid somebody elses? As soon as Mo Junyang walked out of the imperial study, he met a eunuch in the courtyard, who was from the East Palace. Your Excellency When the young eunuch called, Mo Junyang shook his head at him and stopped him from continuing. He just stated impassively, Today I havent paid respect to the crown prince. Please lead the way for me. The young eunuch was ordered by Mo Junyu to send a message to Mo Junyang and hoped that he would go to the East Palace right away. But before he finished his words, Mo Junyang expressed that he would go to the East Palace. It made the new comer, the young eunuch feel that he was hit by a meat pie falling from the sky. The fortune came all of a sudden, and he was in a daze. Fortunately, at the crucial moment, he still remembered the crown princes order and hurriedly ran to be in front of Mo Junyang to lead the way. Although he led the way, perhaps Mo Junyang had been to the East Palace more times than this new comer, and he quickly walked in front of the young eunuch. He strode into the East Palace and then saw Mo Junyu who was sitting in the pavilion in the courtyard and making tea. Your Highness, nice to see you. Mo Junyu stood up and tried to support his hand with a smile. We dont need the mere courtesy. Come on. I have made tea. Its the new tea sent from the south and tastes good. Have a try. The crown prince let Mo Junyang sit in the chair with enthusiasm and personally poured a cup of tea for him. He even gave the tea to Mo Junyang. Anybody else might be scared by Mo Junyus hospitality to tremble. But Mo Junyangs expression didnt change, and he unhurriedly picked up the tea cup, tasting it carefully. He made the tea fragrance circle around in his mouth and then nodded, praising, Its good tea indeed. Aha! I know that you would like it. Come on and drink more. My subordinates sent me a lot. I will tell somebody to send two bags to your mansion tomorrow. Mo Junyu waved his hand and gave Mo Junyang many rewards. Although the tea was nothing, it meant that he favored and attached importance to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang expressed his thanks again. Thanks for your kindness, Your Highness. What he said and did was as Mo Junyu expected. Mo Junyang accepted his rewards, but he didnt change his attitude at all. Even though Mo Junyu knew that Mo Junyang was distant and ignored his warmth, he still felt frustrated inevitably. He pretended to be angry and spoke to Mo Junyang cautiously with displeasure. Dude, we are brothers for so many years, but you never change your attitude. Somebody who doesnt know might think thatyou look down upon me. Mo Junyu asked the last words meaningfully. Too many things had happened these days. Even though he trusted Mo Junyang a lot, he had to be alert. He stared at Mo Junyang all the time with his sharp eyes, as if he would make Mo Junyangs heart have a hole, so that he could tell what was inside. Was he loyal or not? However, he didnt have any kind of reaction as Mo Junyu expected. Mo Junyang just lowered his eyes and kept silent. His expression never changed. How would Mo Junyu make a judgment? The crown prince was frustrated and gave up his plan to sound out. He asked directly, Father told you to stay alone. Why? As for Mo Junyang whose mind was circuitous, it was more effective to speak straightforwardly than to beat around the bush. If you asked directly, at least Mo Junyang would tell you when he wanted to say it, but if you beat around the bush, he would be more circuitous than you. Then you would never get what you wanted from him. His Majesty talked with me about the third prince and the Shi family, Mo Junyang answered directly as Mo Junyu had imagined. He even told the truth. Mo Junyu frowned and questioned unhappily, Junjiu has died. Why did Father still talk about him? Doesnt he think that Junjiu harmed the capital a lot? Although the rebellion was put down after lasting only a few days, when the rebel army entered the city, they set fire, killed and robbed, and the common people suffered a lot. The last the common people could accept was that the people who harmed them were from the royal family, and it was their most deadly blow. The person they trusted and even supported tried to kill them, and nobody could accept it. Now the capital was still in a mess. So Mo Junyu was displeased as Mo Xiangbin still missed Mo Junjiu. He didnt even conceal it in front of Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang shook his head and explained, No. Somebody impeached me in front of His Majesty and said that I killed the third prince, hoping that His Majesty would punish me seriously, and the empress He didnt finish his words, but he had made it clear. Oh, I see! Mo Junyu understood but suddenly thought of something. Then he looked at Mo Junyang, with hesitation in his eyes. After a long time, he asked hesitantly, So many things have happened these days, and I was too busy to ask you. What happened when you chased Junjiu that day? Why did he die? Did somebody do something? From the beginning, many members of the royal family didnt believe that it was a coincidence. But Mo Junyu didnt turn his suspicious eyes to Mo Junyang because he knew this man well enough. Mo Junyang would never do that. Even if Mo Junyang really wanted to kill Mo Junjiu, with his intelligence, he could figure out thousands of secret ways to cause Mo Junjius death and nobody would find it. He would never be like this and make himself everybodys target because of Mo Junjius death. Mo Junyu was concerned about Mo Junyangs current situation, with worries in his eyes. But Mo Junyang looked distant and raised his deep eyes to stare at Mo Junyu, with a piercing and complicated expression that others didnt understand. What, whats wrong? Mo Junyu was stared and felt awkward. He rubbed his hands and then picked up the tea cup again to take a sip. Nothing. Mo Junyang looked away. He lowered his eyes and then added unhurriedly, Your Highness, you guess right. What? Mo Junyangs lips curled up and he smiled faintly. The third prince didnt die in an accident, but somebody killed him. How is it possible? Mo Junyu opened his eyes wide in surprise. He frowned and pondered for quite a while. Then he still shook his head and murmured, Really? You were on the spot then. Why was there somebody who killed Junjiu in front of you? Mo Junyang shook his head and simply told Mo Junyu what happened then. Mo Junyu expressed more firmly, It appears that it was an accident. Nobody had the chance to kill him, unless somebody poisoned him earlier, but it was impossible. Didnt Doctor Shen say that it was an acute poison and the victims would die soon after they are poisoned? He couldnt figure out why after pondering for a long time. It seemed that this was just an accident and there was no other explanation. When the third prince was shot and fell on the ground, the first one who got close to him was not me, Mo Junyang stated impassively. He went straight to the heart of the matter. Mo Junyu was suddenly enlightened but soon denied it. Its still not right. The one who could stay with Junjiu at last must be somebody loyal to him after being cultivated carefully. Why did that man harm him? With a faint smile, Mo Junyang looked at Mo Junyu and asked in reply, Why is it impossible? Cao Qicai was an assistant trusted by the third prince, but he followed you later, Your Highness. Mo Junyus face stiffened, and redness was shown on his neck at once and then went to his head. Cao Qicai was a spy Mo Junyu had arranged around Mo Junjiu, and he had lurked for many years and was used till the end, with a perfect effect, but he never talked about this matter with Mo Junyang. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang had found it long ago, which made Mo Junyu feel ashamed. After a long while, he expressed with difficulty, This I just, just want to prepare for a rainy day. He was afraid that Mo Junyang would think too much, so he hurriedly said, Cao Qicai seized the chance this time and won Junjius trust, so he saved Shi Qingxue without being hurt. At the mention of Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang didnt say more as expected but nodded at Mo Junyu seriously. Thanks a lot. Mo Junyu just wanted to change the subject, but when he heard Mo Junyang express his thanks seriously, he felt guilty involuntarily. Aha, we are brothers. Dont need to say anything useless. But if this matter is like what you guessed, it means that somebody murdered Junjiu and wanted to frame you purposely. This person is so evil. Mo Junyu realized this matters seriousness and looked solemn soon. Who do you think this man is? Its Junhao or Mo Junyang shook his head in silence. Nobody knew if he was unclear or he simply didnt want to say. Somebody bullied you, but why are you still like this? I am worried. Mo Junyu was anxious and said aggressively. Mo Junyang was still unmoved, but seeing that Mo Junyu almost went crazy, he explained helplessly, What is the point of being worried? Since he dares to do something like this, he must be sure that we cant find the evidence against him. But we cant stand by and do nothing, just allowing him to wrong you. Mo Junyu didnt like Mo Junyang who always stayed out of the way. This time he would force Mo Junyang to listen to him. Chapter 235 - Harm and then Help Him We dont need to As soon as Mo Junyang started, Mo Junyu thought this man was stupid and didnt resist the enemies even when they were in front of him, so he got angry. Are you kidding? I wont allow them to wrong you. If you are really unwilling, then I didnt mean that. Mo Junyang interrupted Mo Junyu helplessly. Before the crown prince lost temper, Mo Junyang had to tell him what Mo Xiangbin had promised. His Majesty said that he would help me solve this problem, so we need to do nothing but wait for the result quietly, and He paused for a while and his deep eyes fell on Mo Junyu. Then he continued indifferently, And if we leave this case to His Majesty, we might get an unexpected result. For examplefind the real murderer behind it. Yes, yes! Mo Junyu answered in a daze and didnt react after a long time. Although he firmly believed that Mo Junyang would never kill Mo Junjiu, he never expected that Mo Xiangbin didnt suspect Mo Junyang at all but even said that he would help Mo Junyang solve the problem. Even the most favored fourth prince Mo Junhao never had this special treatment. But Mo Xiangbin gave it to his nephew Mo Junyang. He remembered that Mo Xiangbin trusted Mo Junyang more and was closer and better to this guy these days even than him and Mo Junhao. Mo Junyu had a sour feeling for no reason. He forced a smile and joked with jealousy, Father treats you better and better, and the ones who dont know the truth would think that you are his son. Mo Junyangs hands hidden in his sleeves got stiff all of a sudden, but the expression on his face didnt change. After a while, he responded slowly, Your Highness, you are joking. As soon as Mo Junyu finished his words, he also thought that what he said was laughable. If Mo Junyang was really a prince, even without the help of his mothers family, it was uncertain who would take the throne in the future as he was so capable. And Mo Xiangbin favored him. Then Mo Junyu was scared by his imagination and hurriedly shook his head to get rid of this absurd thought. Meanwhile he felt lucky in secret. Fortunately, Mo Junyang was not a prince and sided with him. After working with Mo Junyang for so many years, Mo Junyu reached the only conclusion that he shouldnt be this mans enemy. The calmer Mo Junyang looked, the more fathomless he was. Mo Junyu did something and thought that nobody observed it, but Mo Junyang noticed it unexpectedly. However, Mo Junyang didnt say anything but looked on coldly. After quite a while, Mo Junyang asked unhurriedly, Your Highness, why did you tell somebody to ask me to come? Ah? Oh! Mo Junyu stopped his wild imagination. He replied seriously, You have seen what happened in the imperial study today. The Shi family is powerful and attracts much attention, so Father fears them. If we dont do anything now, perhaps the Shi family would hardly be saved. So Mo Junyu knew Mo Junyang better than Mo Xiangbin. From the beginning, he didnt ask Mo Junyang for his opinion. With Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyu thought that this man wouldnt stand by and do nothing when the Shi family declined even if he didnt like that family. Mo Junyang didnt negate but just asked, Your Highness, do you have a solution? This As soon as Mo Junyu started, he thought of something and suddenly changed the subject. He stated, In fact, all people know that the members of the Shi family are loyal, and Shi Junhe is not an exception. Duke Shi of this generation is Fathers most loyal official. Junjiu couldnt buy him over, and Junhao cant lure him. And even Icant. So Shi Junhe is the only one that Father can trust. However But the emperor is suspicious, and the Shi family is powerful in a high position, winning the popular support, which makes the emperor unhappy. Seeing that Mo Junyu stuttered with difficulty, Mo Junyang spoke for him. Noticing that he finally aroused Mo Junyangs interest, Mo Junyu nodded repeatedly with a smile. Exactly, so I said that the Shi family is in danger this time, and I just got the news that Junhao plans to protect the Shi family, too. Oh? Mo Junyang showed some interests on his cold face but soon returned calm. He asked impassively, Why? I remember that Imperial Censor Chen who impeached the Shi family seems to be the fourth princes follower. He found somebody to impeach the Shi family and then wanted to save them. Did he have nothing to do? Mo Junyu sneered with disdain for Mo Junhao. My brother Junhao is sinister. He told Imperial Censor Chen to impeach the Shi family. When the family is in danger and cant turn the tables, he would help them. He did Shi Junhe such a great favor, would he be afraid that Duke Shis family wont follow him? But the emperor is suspicious. How would the fourth prince succeed when he wants to help them? Isnt he afraid that he would go for wool and come home shorn? Mo Junyang asked in reply indifferently and nobody knew if he believed Mo Junyus words. Mo Junyu showed a bigger smile and explained unhurriedly, So I said that Junhao played a trick skillfully to leave no room for maneuver for escape so that he will fight for his dear life out of desperation. Because all people think so, Imperial Censor Chen impeached the Shi family, but nobody would think that he was told by Junhao. Nobody knew he had made preparations. Mo Junyangs eyes blinked, and he asked in a deep voice, Do you mean that he has a way to make His Majesty trust the Shi family again? What is it? Gee, its said that rich water should be kept in ones own fields. The Shi family is loyal but not stable enough and might rebel someday. After all, there is an example that the ancestor of the Zhao family made himself the emperor even though he was a high official. No wonder Father is suspicious. But have you seen any family related to the royal family by marriage rebel when the prince they support is still alive? Mo Junyu spoke directly and didnt conceal the smile on his face. He didnt worry that Mo Junyang wouldnt believe him because what he said was the truth. So the fourth prince prepares to offer that he would marry a young lady from the Shi family as his wife when that family is in a desperate situation and make Duke Shis family become his follower. Then the Shi Armys force would return to the royal family, so His Majesty wouldnt need to fear the Shi family, and the family wouldnt worry that they would be suspected by him, Mo Junyang expressed in a clear voice slowly. Perhaps it was his first time to speak out so seriously what Mo Junyu wanted to express. Mo Junyu nodded repeatedly and rubbed his hands, saying in an excited voice, Thats his plan. Now I dont need to say, and you should be able to guess which young lady from the Shi family he wants to marry. Last year at this time, Mo Junhao coveted Shi Qingxue and wanted to marry her. He even didnt mind ruining her fame. Although he didnt succeed in the end, it didnt mean that he had given up this plan. Especially now, the Shi family faced such a big temptation, and Mo Junhao would try his best to marry the beauty. It is really a good way to get a wife and the power. Mo Junyu tut-tutted and praised, but Mo Junyang gave him a cold glance. So you wanted to do so, too? The crown princes heart trembled because of the glance, and he waved his hand instantly, defending himself. I just said that and never have any improper feeling for Shi Qingxue. But I am not sure about Junhao. The crown prince didnt fear that it would become more serious, and he was skilled in causing trouble. Anybody else might roll his sleeves and fight against the enemy. Mo Junyangs face became much colder, but at least he didnt lose temper. He just stared at Mo Junyu casually. After a long while, when Mo Junyu felt restless by his stare and almost couldnt control himself, Mo Junyang asked indifferently, Your Highness, since you said that, you must have a way to solve this problem, right? Mo Junyu was seen through and the smile on his face stiffened. A moment later, he forced a smile. I just Your Highness, have you found that you would forget your identity every time you are nervous or want to hide something? Mo Junyang asked abruptly. Mo Junyu was speechless. Being exposed all of a sudden, the crown prince blushed. He opened and shut his mouth several times, but he couldnt speak a word. He didnt expect that Mo Junyang would observe so carefully and could guess his mind correctly from his slight movements. All his small tricks couldnt escape from Mo Junyangs eyes, right? While thinking, Mo Junyu trembled. I As soon as Mo Junyang started, he realized that he said something wrong again and hurriedly coughed twice. Then he continued, I do have a solution, but I need your help, so that I can be sure that there is nothing wrong. Mo Junyang didnt make comments. Your Highness, what can I do for you? Perhaps Mo Junyangs words scared him, so Mo Junyu stopped playing tricks and stated directly, First of all, Father trusts you. As long as you marry Shi Qingxue, it can make him stop worrying to some extent, but more importantly, we need to solve this crisis from the root. The root? Mo Junyang repeated these two words with interest. Your Highness, what do you think is the root? Mo Junyu looked serious and answered forcefully, The military power. Then he gave chapter and verse and explained, After the first emperor of the Zhao Country took the throne, the military power was scattered and it made him restless even when he ate and slept. Later, he drank with the military officials and demanded them to give out the military power, so he solved the problem that the military power wasnt under his control without starting a war and protected the officials who helped him establish the Zhao Country. In this way, we can ensure the Shi familys safety and stability, but I am afraid He leered at Mo Junyang and then continued after seeing that the latter had no reaction, I am just afraid that Shi Junhe is unwilling to To be frank, Shi Junhe had such a powerful Shi Army in hands, and it was the fortune that was built by his father and other elders. Probably nobody would be willing to give it out. This is the way I mentioned. Its easy to say, but it is uncertain if we can put it into effect. After all, I am not familiar with General Shi, and I cant advise him to make a right decision. His hidden meaning was that Mo Junyang, the future son-in-law of the Shi family would have to take the job to try to persuade Shi Junhe. Of course, Mo Junyu had a secret thought, which was the most important, and he hadnt spoken it out. For example, when the military power of the Shi Army was taken back, who would control it? It might cause another uproar at the imperial court. Chapter 236 - Will You Sell Your Daughter? Shi Junhe walked out of the imperial study and left the other officials whispers behind. Then he went back to the mansion directly. Even so, the news spread much faster than he had guessed. When he entered the gate of the East House, before he went back to his bedroom, somebody from the Shouan Hall came to send a message that the Princess Royal asked him to see her. Shi Junhe met Shi Qingxues doubtful eyes and sighed helplessly with a bitter smile. Mother got the news so soon. Father, what happened? Shi Qingxue felt nervous after seeing Shi Junhes smile and thought that something bad would happen. Nothing. Shi Junhe shook his head slowly and pushed Qingxue back into the study. He patted her head and comforted her. Be good and wait here for me. I will tell you after I come back. With that, he followed the maid from the Shouan Hall to leave. Shi Qingxue stood at the door and had a stronger bad feeling. She wouldnt listen to anybody obediently. As soon as Shi Junhe walked out of the gate of the East House, she ran out of the mansion. When Shi Junhe came to the Shouan Hall, he saw that Mo Shujun was sitting in the reception room and anxiety could hardly be concealed on her dignified face for the first time, so he felt restless involuntarily. But he quickly calmed down and touched his sleeves, coming up to greet her. Mother, why did you ask me to come? Even before Shi Junhe saluted her, Mo Shujun waved her hand at once. What on earth happened? Why did His Majesty depose your official position? What did you do? You must have done something wrong and made him angry. Otherwise, with our familys fame and position She asked three questions successively, and Shi Junhe didnt even have a chance to cut in. Then Mo Shujun started to answer herself. Shi Junhe had to patiently wait for Mo Shujun to finish her mutter. Then he comforted her. The Imperial Censor impeached me in front of His Majesty as he doubts that our family colludes with the rebel army. Although His Majesty didnt believe his words, he still told me to rest at home temporarily. Mother, dont worry. His Majesty doesnt have the plan to depose me. I just have a rest at home, and You have lost your official position. How would you save Juncai? Mo Shujun showed her concern about Shi Juncai when she started to speak. As soon as she finished her words, both of them were stunned. Shi Junhe thought that Mo Shujun cared about him at least, even though it was related to the Shi familys honor and disgrace. He was moved, but he didnt expect thatfrom beginning to end, Mo Shujun was most worried about and cared about Shi Juncai most. Shi Junhe lowered his head and concealed the disappointment in his eyes, but he couldnt speak more. The air was full of embarrassment and silence. Logically, Mo Shujun just revealed that she was partial, so she should figure out a way to win back her eldest sons heart. But she didnt think she was wrong. She admitted that she was partial to her youngest son, but he was younger than her eldest son and inferior to the latter in the position and ability, so shouldnt he get more love? Shi Junhe was an elder brother and should protect his younger brother. While thinking, Mo Shujun was more dissatisfied with Shi Junhe. However, she didnt express it on her face but showed that she was concerned about Shi Junhe. She advised patiently, Junhe, even if you dont do it for your younger brother, you cant just stand by and watch as you are suspended and your title of nobility are deprived. The position of Duke Shi is a title of nobility left to you by Shi Lei, and it was the medal he won after he was on the battlefield for most of his life. If it is deprived by His Majesty, how would I face your father after I die? How would you explain to him in the future? The second generation of an official Shi Junhe kept silent for a long time and then smiled at Mo Shujun, saying indifferently, Now the situation at the imperial court changes strangely and can hardly be foreseen. Its common to rise and fall, and my father wont blame me. Mo Shujun was speechless. The Princess Royal mentioned Shi Lei just to arouse Shi Junhes aspiration. After all, if he lost something left by his ancestor, anybody would be too ashamed to face his ancestor after he died. Unexpectedly, Shi Junhe was strange, or he knew well about his father. He knew that Shi Lei went to the battlefield and wanted to protect the country because he thought that they started a war, which made the people in the Mo Country who were in trouble suffer the disaster caused by the war and get separated from their relatives, so he always wanted to give the common people a peaceful world. As for the title of nobility, Shi Lei refused from the beginning when he could be a king even though he was not from the royal family, which could show that he never cared about the status and identity. If the late emperor didnt insist on making him the duke, Shi Lei might would rather be an ordinary general in the military camp than get involved in the mess of the officialdom. As Shi Leis son, Shi Junhe grew up under his instructions, and even if he didnt learn all from his father in the aspects of temperament, temper and ability, he learnt most of them. Since he came back with the soldiers after they defeated the army from the Liang Country, Shi Junhe expected that something like this would happen. And he started to make a plan since then. Now Mo Xiangbin didnt have any convincing evidence against the Shi family, and at most he made groundless accusations like today, so he wouldnt do anything to Shi Junhe. But it didnt mean that Shi Junhe couldnt choose to retreat at this time. After hearing Shi Junhes plan, Mo Shujun got furious and didnt care about her identity. She just pointed at him and cursed, Are you kidding? The Shi family has the honor and status because Shi Lei and I built and accumulated it step by step. I have managed for so many years with effort and finally made the Shi family have a foothold in the capital, on a par with any other noble family. But you are unwilling to do anything now and will watch the Shi family decline. Is this what you should do as a son? Shi Junhe didnt want to make Mo Shujun angry and repeatedly shouted at once, Mother, please dont get mad. After Mo Shujun calmed down a little, he sighed helplessly. Its not that I am unwilling to fight for it. The rules in our family are always to exercise strict self-discipline, respect justice and abide by the laws, and be a pure official of His Majesty, never join the fight among the factions. And because of this, I didnt want Qingxue to marry Mo Junyang in the past because I was afraid that our family would be regarded as the crown princes follower. Its just that I want to be quiet but the wind doesnt stop. Even though the Shi family is low-key and doesnt fight against anybody, the people who like to meddle still dont want to let us go. We wont let them go, Mo Shujun responded forcefully because she was not satisfied with Shi Junhe as he was a coward. It appeared that anybody who dared to be unconvinced would be retorted to death. Shi Junhe stated, Mother, His Majesty fears our family because we are powerful with a high position. If we cause trouble again, probably our family cant be protected in the future. Mo Shujun finally realized that she said that under the impulsion, so she smiled awkwardly and explained in a hurry, I just said it casually. Whats the most important now is to win back His Majestys trust in our family. When your father was alive, our familys position at the imperial court was more powerful than now, but we still won His Majestys trust. Who dared to have any objection? But after Shi Lei left the title of nobility to you, the Shi Armys influence was reduced by one fourth, and you are always completely unknown at the imperial court, so I am worried for you after seeing that! Mo Shujun spoke generously and showed her resentment as Shi Junhe didnt live up to her expectations. She spoke relaxed but didnt think of something. Shi Lei helped the late emperor establish the country, and the two shared hardships together, so their friendship was unusual. The late emperor took Shi Lei as his brother and certainly wouldnt suspect him. Later Mo Shujun married Shi Lei. Shi Lei married the emperors sister. Even if he didnt do anything but be the emperors brother-in-law at leisure, perhaps nobody dared to show disrespect to him, not to mention that he had an inconvincible Shi Army. With all the conditions together, of course, Shi Lei could be inferior to only one person, and the late emperor wouldnt be alert to him. After Shi Junhe became the duke, the closeness and trust between the emperor and official became less, and they were just the monarch and his subject. Mo Shujun didnt ask about the situation in the country or care about the imperial court and the royal family, so their influence reduced a lot. Shi Junhe always followed his fathers instructions and hid his capabilities in order to make the Shi family get rid of peoples attention and protect them. But now he was in the center of peoples watchful eyes again, and he felt that he disappointed his father. Mother, you were born in the royal family, but dont you know this principle? His Majesty never needed an official who might threaten his throne and would give up that official no matter how capable and obedient he was. Shi Junhe sighed helplessly and didnt know how to explain to Mo Shujun about this simple principle. If he didnt retreat, he would wait for others to drag him down. It was the same. Mo Shujun still didnt give up the idea but expressed, In this case, you can just win back His Majestys trust. I have seen him grow up and know his character. As long as he is willing to trust you, he would protect you even if you are denounced by the public. Shi Junhe opened his mouth and suddenly didnt know what to say. He had to ask Mo Shujun modestly, Mother, what good idea do you have to make our family win back His Majestys trust? It depends on what you would do. Mo Shujun kept him in suspense. Seeing Mo Shujuns expression, Shi Junhe guessed that she must have a good idea and want him to pay a price. Even though he didnt believe that she had a good way, who didnt want himself to be in a better situation? He hurriedly bowed to Mo Shujun and said respectfully, Of course I hope that our family would be prosperous forever. If you have a way which wont break the heavenly principles but can make our family have a solid foothold at the unstable imperial court, please tell me, Mother. I will do anything I can and wont refuse. Mo Shujun was satisfied with Shi Junhe who was sensible, so she nodded and stated with a smile, You dont need to do anything dangerous. To be exact, this time, the one who needs to do something is somebody else. Who? Shi Junhe frowned and suddenly had a bad feeling. Qingxue! Shi Junhe asked expressionlessly, Qingxue is just a weak girl. What solution can she have? Mo Shujun rolled her eyes almost inelegantly and disdained Shi Junhes thoughtlessness, but the smile on her face was more excited. Why cant she have a solution? We can marry her to the fourth prince. As long as she becomes his wife, the Shi family would be related to the royal family by marriage once more, and the Shi Army would be His Majestys most loyal army. How would His Majesty doubt the Shi familys loyalty? And in this way, the Shi family would be always prosperous, and both the first master and the third masters families would gain a lot. You dont need to be unable to sleep every night out of fear of the emperors power like now Mother! Since Mo Shujun suggested marrying Shi Qingxue to Mo Junhao, Shi Junhe was stunned and couldnt react after a long while. As Mo Shujun was more absurd while speaking, Shi Junhe finally couldnt stand it and interrupted her. Mother, you know that Qingxue is my daughter, not something for sell. And she loves somebody else and wont agree to marry him. But Mo Shujun looked cold and rebuked, What are you talking about? Qingxue is a young lady in the Shi family and a good girl our family has raised with a lot of money. Now the family is in danger, and shouldnt she do something for us? Moreover, a childs marriage is decided by the parents. Even if she has objections, she needs to listen to me and marry the man I choose for her. Shi Junhes eyes almost popped out of their sockets because of Mo Shujuns shocking words. After he controlled himself for quite a while, he finally swallowed what he wanted to say. His face was stiff, and he said coldly, I know that you want to do good to the family, but I would never sell my daughter to seek interests and give her happiness in exchange for the whole familys glory and wealth. Please forgive me, Mother. Perhaps it was Mo Shujuns first time to be refused so straightforwardly by Shi Junhe. It made her frozen on the spot, like a basin of cold water poured to her head. Before she said more, Shi Junhe lowered his head and continued slowly, And this is Fathers will before his death. If he knows that we bully his most loved granddaughter after he died, wouldnt we break his heart? Chapter 237 - Your Head Falls Shi Junhe exactly knew what Mo Shujun cared about most. His words break his heart made Mo Shujun unable to say anything forcefully. Mo Shujun took a deep breath and swallowed her aggressive momentum, staring at Shi Junhe coldly for a long while. Shi Junhe didnt surrender. He was gentle and respected his mother. If he wasnt forced to have no choice, he was certainly unwilling to turn against Mo Shujun. He had thought that as they talked about this matter, it was unnecessary to say more. Unexpectedly, Mo Shujun kept silent for a while and then suddenly said with a smile, Junhe, you really love your daughter very much. I wonder to what level you can protect your wife. Shi Junhe paused and looked at Mo Shujun abruptly. Mother, what do you mean? Mo Shujun came back to her seat and responded slowly, Do you think that I am old and brainless and totally forgot what happened in the East House the other day? I have explained about that matter. Its the Dong family Shi Junhe was hurried and wanted to clarify Dong Hui. However, Mo Shujun just waved her hand and snorted coldly and forcefully. Come on. You said that just not to make all of us lose face. You and I know the truth. If I will really investigate, do you think that Dong can get away with it? Shi Junhe didnt know what Mo Shujun wanted to do, so he stopped speaking. Mo Shujun wasnt anxious and continued unhurriedly, Even if Dong dated Yan L late at night under the Dong familys permission, do you think she can protect her fame after the news spreads? Others wont be as reasonable as me and accept a daughter-in-law who goes out and dates a man secretly at midnight. Shi Junhe was shocked and shouted in a hurry, Mother, you cant do that. You will ruin Huis future. I can do anything. Now you dont even care about the familys honor, so I dont mind making the familys fame worse. Mo Shujun refused to give in. Earlier, Shi Junhe dared to cover up for Dong Huis date with another man in secret with that reason because he knew that Mo Shujun cared about the Shi familys reputation and wouldnt be willing to make the family have a bad name. But now Mo Shujuns opinion was obvious. If Shi Junhe didnt figure out a way to save the Shi familys identity and status, she wouldnt mind ruining both sides. Dong Huis blemish was true. As long as it was revealed to the public, she would be denounced by all people. Shi Junhe couldnt bear to see that. But the offer Mo Shujun made was to marry Shi Qingxue to Mo Junhao. It was General Shi fell into silence, and Mo Shujun sat there, drinking tea at leisure. She didnt say anything to force her son but gave him enough time to think it over. She believed that he would make the best decision. After nearly ten minutes, Mo Shujun put down the tea cup and smiled, asking, Junhe, have you made a decision? Shi Junhe was silent all the time and asked all of a sudden after a while, The Shi family members are always His Majestys loyal officials. I dont know since when we side with others. He secretly satirized Mo Shujun as she sold Duke Shis large family to Mo Junhao without asking him, the family master, in order to help Shi Juncai contribute to the emperor. Mo Shujun looked awkward and rubbed her hands restlessly, but soon she put them down and pretended calm, replying, I did everything in order to regain the glory of the Shi family as usual. Junhe, you need to understand something. Now the Shi family looks honorable, but its like a trunk with no leaves. How can we say that its luxuriant? Your honor alone is not enough. Shi Junhe thought, Of course, perhaps you only hope that Shi Juncai would be honorable all his life, right? He kept quiet, and Mo Shujun didnt feel awkward but continued, Whats more, the emperor is suspicious, and even if you want to be a loyal official, it would be pointless when you cant win his trust. You still need to make a plan for yourself as soon as possible. Mother, you said so much just because you hope that all our family can follow the fourth prince. Shi Junhe was unwilling to beat around the bush with Mo Shujun and hit the nail on the head, pointing out her purpose directly. Mo Shujun was exposed and didnt feel embarrassed but stated boldly, Anyway, I have said what I should say. Next it depends on what you will do. Shi Junhe stayed silent again. Mo Shujun was generous and decided to give him more time. She softened her tone. Anyway, His Majesty just told you to rest at home now. Then you go back to think it over during this period. I hope that you can remember one thing. No matter how persistent you are, you cant defeat the cruel reality. Sometimes, you need to surrender when you should. Shi Junhe looked cold and didnt make comments after hearing Mo Shujuns words. He just bowed and said goodbye. Mother, have a good rest. I have to go now. After he quickly walked out of the gate of the Shouan Hall, he sighed deeply. His serious and dignified face didnt soften but became more fierce and depressed because he thought of something. The young manservant Shi Jie who waited for him aside saw that and didnt dare to walk forward. He tried to stand like a wallflower as he was afraid that his master would vent his anger on him. Why are you standing in the corner? Come to me now! Shi Junhe noticed Shi Jies movements and ordered coldly. Shi Jie smiled in embarrassment and walked over while rubbing his nose with one hand. At the same time, he didnt forget to defend himself. I am afraid that I will disturb you when you are thinking. Shi Junhe was not in the mood to talk with him and asked directly, Whats up? Shi Jies legs got closer and his butt stiffened. He instantly stood straight and reported, His Excellency came to visit you and he is waiting for you in your study. Lady Qingxue asked me to come here and tell you that she wants you to go back as soon as you finish everything. He said a lot quickly and smoothly as he was afraid that if he stuttered, he would make his master unhappy. However, after he heard Shi Jies words, Shi Junhes face got more tense and solemn. He stood at the gate of the courtyard in the Shouan Hall for nearly fifteen minutes. Then he shook his head as if to give up and stated tiredly, Lets go! As soon as Shi Junhe came into the study, the two people who were sitting together in the room, intimate to each other, face to face and nose to nose suddenly got separated at once when their lips were close. Shi Qingxue even took a few steps backward successively. When she stood steadily, the blush on her face hadnt faded, and she explained, trying to conceal something but failed. I just talked with him and didnt do anything. Mo Junyang was speechless. The wolf who had kissed the sheep shook its big tail and didnt speak. Shi Junhe was unable to reply. The depressed father almost had a heart disease. Shi Junhe leered at Shi Qingxue and smiled faintly. Yes. I didnt say that you did something. Why are you so anxious? Shi Qingxue couldnt answer and blushed. She lowered her head all the time and her chin almost went down to her chest. She grabbed her clothes nervously and rubbed with her hands The two men couldnt help laughing. Mo Junyang even walked to Qingxue and stretched out his slender and straight finger to support her chin gently. Qingxue raised her head in doubt and blinked, asking silently, Whats wrong? Mo Junyang held back his laughter and raised her chin before saying with love, Your head almost falls. Shi Qingxue goggled and bared her teeth in silence. Your head almost falls She thought she was forceful and glared at Mo Junyang to show her anger, but he had a brighter smile and even raised his head to pat hers. Then he smiled gently. Whatever you do. Fine. Shi Qingxue thought that her face was so burning that it could fry eggs. Ahem! Her father coughed twice and stopped their bad behavior when they showed their love as if there was nobody around. Shi Qingxue was frightened but the shyness on her face couldnt be concealed. She had to lower her head and run to Shi Junhe quickly. She held his arm and changed the subject stiffly. Father, how are you? Did Grandma make things difficult for you? If in the past, Shi Junhe would show a cold face and criticize Qingxue as she disrespected the elder, but this time, perhaps he was too tired, or he was hurt by Mo Shujun. He didnt retort Qingxue but raised his hand to rub his brows. Then he responded, Nothing. Mother just asked me about what happened today. Shi Qingxue instantly realized what Shi Junhe meant even though he didnt finish his words. She pouted and expressed with disdain, Huh! She cares about this matter so much must because she hopes that you would save my uncle, but unfortunately, she fails this time even if she wants to! With this thought, Shi Qingxue suddenly believed that it was not difficult to accept that Shi Junhe was told to rest at home. I am just afraid that what Princess Royal covets is more than this. Mo Junyang suddenly cut in, which made the father and daughter look back at the same time. Shi Qingxue didnt see the surprise and doubt in her fathers eyes but glared at Mo Junyang with displeasure. Dont curse us. What should we do if it comes true in the future? Shi Junhe was surprised at Mo Junyangs honesty and acuity. After quite a while, he patted the back of Qingxues hand and shook his head with a bitter smile. Probably it has come true. Uh Shi Qingxue kept quiet for a while and then asked in depression, What else does she want? This time it was Shi Junhes turn to stay silent. He glanced at Qingxue and then met Mo Junyangs deep eyes, with a lot of thoughts. To be frank, he was unwilling to tell Qingxue what had happened. He didnt hope that his beloved daughter he had protected carefully would be stained with the ugly calculation and measuring, but he didnt have a way to consider both. He had to turn to Mo Junyang for help. Shi Junhe simply repeated what he discussed with Mo Shujun and emphasized her requirements. While speaking, he secretly observed Mo Junyangs reaction all the time. When he mentioned that Mo Shujun wanted to marry Shi Qingxue to Mo Junhao, Mo Junyangs eyes became much more indifferent obviously, so he got relieved a little and continued. Thats it. Huh! She is daydreaming. I would never marry Mo Junhao, let alone to be her sons stepping-stone. Shi Qingxue arrogantly raised her beautiful chin and spat at Mo Shujuns wishful thinking. Shi Junhe had expected that his daughter would disagree fiercely, but hearing her words, he was helpless. He couldnt help but point at her brows. What are you talking about? Dont forget that I am your grandmas son, too. Uh Shi Qingxue stuck out her tongue resentfully and hurriedly pleased him. I didnt talk about you, and I care about you a lot. Why do you get mad at me? She said much quickly. In the end, she was in the right. Girl, so you are reasonable, and I am wrong! Shi Junhe smiled bitterly and wanted to pinch Shi Qingxues nose to punish her. Mo Junyang reached out a hand to block between them. The father and daughter were stunned and turned to Mo Junyang in concert without previous arrangement, with doubts in their eyes. What was he going to do? Chapter 238 - Reveal Each Other’s Secrets Mo Junyang dragged Shi Qingxue backward and then said seriously, Lets get to business. Shi Qingxue was confused. Shi Junhe was shocked. Huh! He knew that Mo Junyang was just jealous and even Qingxues father wasnt allowed to touch her. Mo Junyang ignored Shi Junhes glare and asked impassively, General Shi, whats your plan? At the mention of this, the future father-in-law, Shi Junhe who prepared to be arrogant was frustrated immediately. He shook his head helplessly. Probably Mother wants to ruin both sides this time. If I refuse her decisively, I am afraid that Although Shi Junhe loved his daughter and wouldnt force Qingxue to marry Mo Junhao, he couldnt stand by and watch Mo Shujun ruin Dong Huis fame. Even though Dong Hui asked for everything. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue sniffled and cautiously glanced at Shi Junhe. She wanted to say something but stopped herself. Come on. Ask what you want to! Shi Junhe goggled at her crossly. He cursed secretly, Good girl, you are skilled in pretending. You are curious, but you dont ask, and you still pretend to be pitiful in front of me. The father who loved his daughter unconditionally felt depressed. Shi Qingxue hurriedly smiled sweetly. I just care about you. Shi Junhe rolled his eyes and snorted. I can see that you are curious and want to ask what happened between your mother and Master Yan, right? Ah? He guessed right. Shi Qingxue couldnt conceal her emotions in front of the people she was close to, and panic was shown on her face as she was seen through. Shi Junhe didnt want to wait for her reply and gave her the answer directly. You call Yan L master and he is your maternal grandpas student. Your grandpa is a famous Confucian scholar in the world and has many students. Yan L is one of the top ones and stays with your grandpa, studying hard. And your mother is your grandpas only daughter and grew up at home since childhood, so she became a talented girl as she was influenced by what she constantly saw and heard. Since she just came of age, she was famous in the whole capital city and many men wanted to marry her. Talking about the story, Shi Junhe showed a smile of nostalgia on his face involuntarily. Hearing that he praised Dong Hui but didnt come to the point, Shi Qingxue flattered him in time. Father, you are awesome. So many people wanted to marry Mother, but she loves you only and didnt spare a glance for anybody else. Shi Junhe knew that Qingxue flattered him, but he still couldnt help showing a happy smile on his face. After a while, he finally tightened his face and snorted. Dont flatter me. Dont think that after you say that, what happened between your mother and Yan L would be ignored. Uh Shi Qingxue got embarrassed at once and didnt know what to say. She secretly waved at Mo Junyang for help. Then Mo Junyang asked, Whats the special point of Yan L? Hearing the voice, Shi Junhe realized that Mo Junyang was also present. He glanced at Mo Junyang and then frowned, but soon he felt relieved. He didnt take Mo Junyang as an outsider and sighed before saying directly, Yan L is different to Hui indeed. He is much older than her. Perhaps Shi Junhe wanted to take an example, and his eyes happened to fall on Shi Qingxue. He glanced at Qingxue with curiosity in her eyes and then looked at Mo Junyang who was as calm as usual. An evil thought arose in his heart in secret. He looked at Mo Junyang meaningfully but said to Qingxue on purpose, Perhaps its like the relationship between you and Chi. Yan L also watched Hui grow up and took care of her since her childhood. As soon as he finished his words, Shi Junhe saw that the expression in Mo Junyangs eyes changed, and the coldness was obvious, but because Shi Qingxue was present, he had to control himself. There was nothing more depressing than this, right? General Shi thought with satisfaction. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue didnt understand Shi Junhes hint. She was suddenly enlightened and said, I see. No wonder Mother is so close to Master Yan. It turns out that he is kind of her elder brother. Compared with the two disappointing sons in the Dong family, Yan L was excellent. Shi Qingxue thought that she knew the relationship between Dong Hui and Yan L. She nodded and meanwhile showed disdain on her red face, snorting. Those people are so dirty. Mother and Master Yan are sister and brother and close to each other. Its no big deal to see each other, but they said like that, and I She stuck out her tongue in embarrassment and felt ashamed because she misunderstood her mother. Shi Junhe and Mo Junyang looked at each other and saw the helplessness in each others eyes. They could do nothing as Shi Qingxue automatically thought of her relationship with Wenren Chi, or their relationship in her eyes, so she certainly thought that the relationship between Dong Hui and Yan L was perfectly clean. Only they themselves knew the truth. At least, as for this issue, Dong Hui couldnt be as open-hearted as Shi Qingxue. Fine, lets stop talking about this matter. Shi Junhe thought that and suddenly lost his interest in talking. He waved his hand and forcefully ended this subject. Then he looked at Mo Junyang. Thats it. Do you have a solution, Junyang? Mo Junyang pondered for a while and then said impassively, I will quote Princess Royals words. I do have a solution, but it depends on whether you will use it. Hearing that, Shi Junhe guessed that the so-called solution must be not simple. He had no choice but to ask, Say it. When Mo Junyang was about to speak, there was a knock at the studys door. Shi Junhe made a gesture of stop and shouted to the outside, Whats up? Come in and say it. The person guarding outside was his personal servant Shi Jie. If there was nothing important, he wouldnt knock at the door, so Shi Junhe told him to come in. Shi Jie looked anxious and walked to Shi Junhe, whispering in his ear. Then he stood straight and asked, My Lord, the person is just outside now. Will you see him? Why did he come here? Shi Junhe was confused about this guests sudden visit. Shi Jie shook his head and answered in a low voice, He didnt tell me. He just asked to see you. Shi Junhe pondered for a while and then nodded. Okay. Tell him to wait in the living room. I will come later. After Shi Jie left, Shi Junhe turned to Mo Junyang and asked, What is the solution you mentioned just now? Tell me. He would see another guest. No need, becausethe solution has come to us, Mo Junyang replied slowly. In order to prevent Zhou Ruyus scandal from influencing her beloved sons fame, Mo Shujun chose to keep it a secret, but Shi Qingxue forced her, so she had to deal with Zhou Ruyu. In the end, she just locked up Zhou Ruyu in the South House and forbid her to go out. What eyes did not see was regarded as clean. However, Shi Juncai detested Zhou Ruyu to the bone, especially when he saw that after she was locked up, she didnt give up but incited Shi Baoyou to ask for mercy for her. He couldnt help but snort with disdain. Dont you think that you are disgraced after doing something dirty? Mother didnt tell me to divorce you, and she is kind enough. You even want her to let you out? Stop daydreaming. You just be good and stay here for a lifetime. They had been a couple for many years, and Shi Juncai accurately knew what Zhou Ruyu feared most. Didnt she want to compete with Dong Hui all the time? Now she was locked up in the South House, and there was no the third madam in Duke Shis mansion, so wouldnt she be depressed to death? As expected, Zhou Ruyus expression changed dramatically, and she was about to lose temper, but she controlled herself and then sneered. Whats your good? Arent you suspended and staying at home? I knew that you are afraid of death, but I didnt expect that you became a deserter on the battlefield. You are so disgraced. Shi Juncai was satirized and blushed. He shouted at Zhou Ruyu in a rage, Woman, what do you know? I just recuperated and built up energy to wait for an opportunity so that I can capture all of them in the future. This is a military tactic Right! Your military tactic made you lose your official position. You are so awesome! Zhou Ruyu repeatedly said that Shi Juncai lost his official position, which injured his wound and made him almost explode. He slapped Zhou Ruyu in her face without mercy and cursed, Shut up! F**k! You are shameless and dont qualify to mind my business. Zhou Ruyu was beaten and fell on the floor seriously. Her cheek got red and swollen instantly. Shi Baoyou hurriedly rushed up and supported Zhou Ruyu. Meanwhile, she begged, Father, Mother, stop fighting! We are a family. Why do you quarrel? Who is his family? Zhou Ruyu covered her face and spat at the floor, saying with disgust, You are both descendants of the Shi family. Your big brother can hold his ground and protect his wife, but what about you? What did you do? There is no outsider here. Dont pretend that you know nothing. Sometimes I met my cousin Shi, and didnt you go with me shamelessly? Why did you say nothing then? Didnt you want to cotton up to Shi hoping that you can get promoted and richer? What nonsense are you talking about? Shi Juncai was exposed and couldnt help but rush to Zhou Ruyu again. He grabbed Zhou Ruyus hair and knocked her head on the floor, cursing ferociously, Bitch, if you speak recklessly again, I will skin you. Zhou Ruyu didnt surrender and scratched Shi Juncais face with her palm, leaving a long blood stain on his cheek. Then she spat blood on the floor and disdained him. Shi Juncai, I am not a woman with no title who can let you play with her. If you dare to beat me, I will fight against you till death. Just fight. I will beat you to death today! Shi Juncai wiped his face and rushed to Zhou Ruyu again to punch and kick her. Shi Baoyou was forced to step aside while they were fighting. She was shocked and sad, but she couldnt stop their fight, so she had to cry powerlessly, Father! Father, stop beating Mother. Dont beat her But Shi Juncai didnt stop, and nobody could persuade him. Seeing that Shi Juncai wanted to beat Zhou Ruyu to death, she couldnt control herself anymore and rushed up to stand between them. She begged in tears. Father, stop. If you continue, Mother would be beaten to death! Shi Baoyous beautiful face was filled with tears, and she cried pitifully. No matter how selfish Shi Juncai was, he couldnt bear to see that his beloved daughter was so sorrowful. He stopped and took two steps backward. Then he glared at Zhou Ruyu whose face was full of blood and warned silently, If you dare to talk nonsense in front of my daughter, I will kill you. Shi Juncai was Shi Baoyous gentle father. He turned around to comfort her. Baoyou, stop crying. I was just angry. I wont beat her. Dont cry anymore. Perhaps he had never done something like this, and he was not skilled in it. He made his concern strange. But after hearing that, Shi Baoyou was moved and then blinked her tearful eyes, nodding at Shi Juncai. She turned her head to beg Zhou Ruyu. Mother, dont get mad at Father. Just be soft to give in and let it pass! Shi Baoyou wanted to patch up the quarrel and reconcile the parties concerned, but Zhou Ruyu was unwilling to. Zhou Ruyu was stubborn, and she had been beaten by Shi Juncai. How would she endure it? She got up from the floor all of a sudden. Chapter 239 - Have the Evidence against You Zhou Ruyu stood up. Although she was in an awkward position, she pointed at Shi Juncai and rebuked angrily, Shi Juncai, you sell your wife to gain interests. When you are in trouble, you put all the blame on me. You are irresponsible and not a man! You even dare to covet your elder brothers title of nobility. Dont daydream even in the next life! How dare you say that! I Shi Juncai exploded again and suddenly raised his hand. Shi Baoyou trembled but still stood in front of Zhou Ruyu firmly. Seeing Shi Baoyou, Shi Juncai raised his hand above his head and didnt continue to beat but just reproached, Baoyou, step aside. I will teach her a lesson today and tell her who the master of this family is! Come on! You are such a coward. Do you have a face to say that you are the master of the family? What did you do for this family? You cant even protect your son and daughters. How do you qualify to Shi Baoyou anxiously covered Zhou Ruyus mouth and begged her. Mother, I beg you. Dont say more, okay? Zhou Ruyu and Shi Juncai were ready for a war and could fight again at any time, but as Shi Baoyou shed tears, the father and mother looked embarrassed and ceased fire. Shi Juncai coughed twice and changed the subject to relieve her. Baoyou, dont listen to your mothers nonsense. I am capable. I am staying at home and have nothing to do now, but soon I will regain my official position No. The fourth prince even promised to promote me. Soon you will be a Rank-4 officials legitimate daughter, and you will be better in the future. Just let those snobbish people cry who dared to cotton up to Shi Qingxue and look down upon you in the past. Although Shi Baoyou didnt think that a Rank-4 officials legitimate daughter was different from her, she still cooperated with him and echoed him, which made Shi Juncai burst with joy and laugh loudly. Seeing Shi Juncais complacent face, Zhou Ruyu was angry and then started to say with sarcasm, Huh, you just depend on your ancestors. Without the support of the Shi family and my family, how would His Highness give such a coward as you a glance? She called him coward and loser all the time, and even Shi Baoyou felt unhappy after hearing that. Moreover, Shi Juncai was sensitive and would get angry easily. He was anxious and mad, so he raised his hand again. You dare to beat me again! Zhou Ruyu didnt dodge but swelled out her chest in front of Shi Juncai, sneering. If you beat me again, dont blame me after I reveal the dirty things you did. Shi Juncai narrowed his eyes in alert and questioned, What do you want to do? Zhou Ruyu showed a confident expression and conveniently tidied up her messy clothes before saying unhurriedly, If you push me too hard, I will turn your and Mothers plans into nothingness. You would never become Duke Shi, and I will let all people know that your mother Shut up. Shut up! Shi Juncai shouted in a rage and tried hard to cover Zhou Ruyus mouth. Zhou Ruyu turned her head and shook off Shi Juncais hand. With ferocious eyes, she said, stressing each word, Just have a try if you dont believe me! Shi Juncai pointed at Zhou Ruyu for quite a while, and he clenched his fists and loosened them several times. In the end, he didnt dare to beat Zhou Ruyu and just spoke ruthlessly. You win this time! After leaving these words, he waved his sleeves and left Zhou Ruyus room, going to his concubine for comfort. Zhou Ruyu didnt care since long ago and just ordered Shi Baoyou calmly, Go out and tell a maid to come in to help me wash up and change my clothes. Yes, Shi Baoyou responded quickly but remained still. She looked at Zhou Ruyu with curiosity and then asked hesitantly after a long time, Mother, what did Grandma do as you mentioned just now? Zhou Ruyu could frustrate Shi Juncai at once who was arrogant, and it must be nothing insignificant and related to whether he could inherit Duke Shis title of nobility in the future. This Curiosity could hardly be concealed in Shi Baoyous eyes. However, Zhou Ruyu just patted the back of Shi Baoyous hand and smiled meaningfully. Buddha says that you cant say it. Dont ask. As long as I am alive, I wont let anything bad happen to you. It doesnt matter if you know this secret! Shi Baoyou pouted with displeasure, but she was her mothers good daughter, so she didnt continue to ask but nodded obediently. I see. I am going to tell a maid to come in for you. Zhou Ruyu got changed and cleaned up, but the bruise after she fought against Shi Juncai couldnt be concealed for now. Shi Baoyou had to ask Doctor Qin for some good-quality ointment for wounds and put it on Zhou Ruyus body. Fortunately, Zhou Ruyu was grounded these days and didnt have to go out to see guests. Otherwise, nobody knew what the gossips would be like. I am fine. Take it easy. Zhou Ruyu didnt care about the wounds on her face. She grabbed Shi Baoyous hand and pulled the girl to sit next to her, asking slowly, I didnt ask you. You go out of the mansion frequently these days. What did you do? Ah! Shi Baoyous face blushed immediately. She lowered her head with shyness and answered obsequiously, Nonothing. Zhou Ruyu didnt believe her and looked cold, asking, Tell me frankly. Did you go out to do something dirty? Like your sister At the thought that Shi Baoyou might go out to do something randomly and get pregnant before marriage, like Shi Baojin did, Zhou Ruyu was scared with cold sweat, and her face got pale. Shi Baoyou hurriedly defended herself. No, of course no. Tell me now. What did you do after going out? Shi Baoyou could do nothing after Zhou Ruyu forced her. She hesitated for quite a while and then answered vaguely, Itsthe fourth prince wanted to see me. The fourth prince? Zhou Ruyu was stunned for a while and obviously didnt expect that the answer was like this. Although she had the plan to make Shi Baoyou become the fourth princes wife, she knew herself well enough. Mo Junhao was ambitious and might not have an interest in Shi Baoyou because of her identity. And she couldnt bear to make Shi Baoyou his concubine, so it delayed. She heard that Shi Baoyou had connections with Mo Junhao, and it could be imagined how complex her feelings were. Perhaps because Shi Baoyou told the truth, she didnt hide anything and continued to confess even before Zhou Ruyu asked. His Highness has seen me for many times and asked about Qingxue every time. He grew up with her since childhood and they love each other, so he wants to marry her, but he doesnt know what wrong he has done, which made her angry, and she firmly refuses to marry him regardless of their love. So he wants to know more about Qingxue through me and then win back her heart. Shi Baoyou went out to see Mo Junhao almost every day recently, and they talked a lot, but they just talked about Shi Qingxue. She had heard that the fourth prince Mo Junhao was open-minded and graceful, and he was the top one among all the princes in the aspects of capability and appearance. Baoyou had doubted that in the past. After seeing Mo Junhaos bearing and style of speaking these days, she knew that the hearsay was true. She said with jealousy involuntarily, Qingxue is so lucky. His Excellency protected her in the past, and now His Highness cant forget her. This is almost all womens dream. Zhou Ruyu kept her countenance and observed Shi Baoyous expression, saying all of a sudden, You can be like her. Shi Baoyou stared at Zhou Ruyu in surprise and then couldnt help but laugh. Mother, dont joke about me. How would I be so capable as Qingxue as to make all men love her. Zhou Ruyu snorted and cursed because Shi Baoyou was too timid. You are a treasured daughter I have raised with much money, and you are precious, not inferior to Shi Qingxue. Whats more, you have studied the Four Books and the Five Classics, and you are good at playing the zither and the game of Go, drawing and writing. As for your grace of a noble lady, its much better than Shi Qingxues who always goes to the military camp and isnt like a girl from a powerful family. Why can she win the love of so many noblemen but you cant? It depends on whether you dare to hope! Shi Baoyou was tempted by Zhou Ruyus beautiful blueprint, and expectancy was shown on her face with nice makeup. But in a short while, she lowered her head in frustration and said in depression, Its of no use. The fourth prince said that his love for Qingxue can be proved by the heaven and the earth, and the sun and moon. He would never love anybody else. Oh? So you like him? Zhou Ruyu asked abruptly. Shi Baoyous face blushed in an instant, and she shook her head repeatedly. Then she denied in a hurry, Of course no. Zhou Ruyu smiled and didnt deny it at once. She just asked, Why did you think of the fourth prince first after I mention that you can win the love of the noblemen? Because Shi Baoyou argued hurriedly, but as soon as she started, she opened her mouth and couldnt find an excuse after a long time. Then meeting Zhou Ruyus eyes which could see through everything seemingly, she couldnt tell a lie. She got stiff for a while and then admitted it honestly in the end, but soon she said in disappointment, So what even if I love His Highness? He loves Qingxue only from beginning to end. How can I steal him from her? You are stupid. You know well about Shi Qingxue. She is so arrogant that her tail can go to the sky. She refused His Highness in the past, and how would she agree to marry him in the future? Zhou Ruyu almost rolled her eyes because of her daughters purity. But Shi Baoyou didnt believe Zhou Ruyus words and restrained the blush on her face. Then she defended Mo Junhao seriously. His Highness is so nice. Even if Qingxue cant think it through for now and gets mad at him, she will come back to him after she remembers his good points in the future. At the moment, Zhou Ruyu didnt even want to roll her eyes. Why did she raise such a foolish daughter? It was not that Mo Junhao couldnt forget Shi Qingxue, but he just coveted Duke Shis family behind her, more exactly, Shi Junhes influence. Zhou Ruyu didnt make efforts to explain so many things to Shi Baoyou. She reached out her hand and poked the girls forehead gently, snorting. Stupid child. You have also said that His Excellency loves Shi Qingxue, too. Do you think that His Excellency would agree if His Highness wants to marry Shi Qingxue? This time, nobody could blame Zhou Ruyu as she looked up to somebody else and frustrated herself. It was that Mo Junyang was too horrible in many peoples eyes. So Mo Junyang was like a monster in her heart. Although Mo Junhao was capable, he couldnt compare with Mo Junyang. Moreover, Shi Qingxue loved Mo Junyang apparently. It was not easy for Mo Junhao to be the third one. Really? Shi Baoyou looked at Zhou Ruyu in doubt. It seemed that she wanted to believe her, but she still hesitated. Zhou Ruyu couldnt bear with her daughters indecisive and weak character and decided to push her. Chapter 240 - Zhou Taught Her Daughter Zhou Ruyu softened her tone and looked at Shi Baoyou with love. Baoyou, you are my only daughter. Will I harm you? Of course no, Shi Baoyou answered quickly and firmly. Zhou Ruyu nodded with satisfaction and advised patiently, Since you believe that I wont harm you, why dont you believe my words? Shi Baoyou hurriedly shook her head. No. I believe your words, but She lowered her head again and murmured with a grievance, I am justnot confident. Hearing that, Zhou Ruyu softened at once. She comforted her daughter in a hurry. Why arent you confident? You just need to remember that you are not inferior to Shi Qingxue. You can surely get what she can get if you want to. Really? Shi Baoyou was still unconfident. Zhou Ruyu nodded devoutly. And the fourth prince must have feelings for you, but because of Shi Qingxue, he doesnt dare to express his love for you. Shi Baoyou was stunned and looked joyful but doubtful. How is it possible? Why is it impossible? Didnt His Highness want to see you these days? Zhou Ruyu asked with certainty. But it is because he wants to know more about Qingxue, and he Zhou Ruyu snorted and interrupted Shi Baoyou. There are so many ways to know more about Shi Qingxue. If he wants to make her happy, he can even go to the Luotong Boudoir to see her. Can she avoid seeing him? Gee? Shi Baoyou blinked in doubt and didnt think of this point seemingly. Zhou Ruyu continued, So His Highness must have his own thought. Otherwise it is unnecessary to know something about Shi Qingxue from you. He knows that you came back to the mansion not long ago and you are not close to Qingxue. If he just does that for Shi Qingxue, he can talk with Shi Baoning. She is Shi Qingxues sister and should know more about her, right? Shi Baoyou was suddenly enlightened and nodded repeatedly, saying yes. There was expectancy in her charming eyes. So His Highness likes me more or less? Zhou Ruyu gave a positive answer in a hurry and then replied, Sure. There is no pure relationship between a man and a woman nowadays. He must have feelings for you. Otherwise, he wouldnt come to see you frequently. But Qingxue Shi Baoyou was happy and worried and couldnt ignore her cousin. No but! Love is never to consider for your rival in love. Moreover, Shi Qingxue doesnt love His Highness. Even if they are together, they wont be happy. Do you hope that His Highness will be not happy? Zhou Ruyu stated logically and showed a signal in her words that Mo Junhao should belong to Shi Baoyou. As expected, Shi Baoyou hurriedly shook her head and responded anxiously, Of course not. I hope most that His Highness can have all his wishes come true and be happy In this case, why are you hesitant? Express your feelings for him as soon as possible, in case that somebody else does that before you. You need to know that many people covet your boyfriend, His Highness. Zhou Ruyu purposely said vaguely and incited Shi Baoyou to see Mo Junhao. Shi Baoyou lowered her head with shyness and retorted in a low voice, His Highness is not my boyfriend. Mother, dont say that randomly. It will be bad if somebody else hears that. Zhou Ruyu didnt care and waved her hand, with a meaningful smile. Even though he is not yours now, he will belong to you in the future. Why cant I say that? She wished to spread this matter in the whole world. Then it would be impossible if Mo Junhao didnt want to marry Shi Baoyou. But she was still grounded in the South House now and couldnt go out, let alone making a match for Mo Junhao and Shi Baoyou. Baoyou, when will you have a date with His Highness today? Zhou Ruyu asked with concern. Shi Baoyou had no doubt about her mother and answered frankly, His Highness said yesterday that he would come to see me after the imperial court session in the morning today and prepared a big gift for Qingxue. He hopes that I can help him give it to her. In the beginning, Shi Baoyou talked and laughed happily, with expectancy shown on her face as she would see Mo Junhao, but later, at the thought that he wanted to see her because of Shi Qingxue, she couldnt help but feel depressed. Zhou Ruyu saw through Shi Baoyou at a glance but didnt comfort her at once. Instead, she expressed, Look! This is because you shrink back all the time and you are unwilling to fight for your love. Look at Shi Qingxue. Although she always looks arrogant and seems to disdain all the powerful and wealthy men in the world, she is sinister, which is beyond your imagination. She lures His Excellency and His Highness. You should know how capable of seducing men she is. Qingxue does that, and it is not fair to His Highness! Shi Baoyou looked heart-broken and spoke evil of Shi Qingxue for the first time, but she did that for Mo Junhao. Zhou Ruyu nodded in an instant and took the chance to defame Shi Qingxue. Right. So how can you stand by and watch such a good man as His Highness being hurt by an evil woman? With anger flashing in her eyes, Shi Baoyou was unwilling to do that, but soon she got depressed again and explained almost in a sobbing tone, But His Highness said that he just loves Qingxue, and I can do nothing! Pah! His Highness just He did that for the influence behind Shi Junhe. Otherwise, which man with a backbone would face others coldness with warmth? But Zhou Ruyu didnt dare to say that. She was afraid that Shi Baoyou could hardly accept the facts. She advised earnestly and tirelessly in a euphemistic way, Baoyou, you were born in a large family. Even though I protect you and dont make you stained with the dirty things in the family, you must be familiar with the fact that men are fickle in love, right? Shi Baoyou was stunned and soon understood what Zhou Ruyu wanted to express. There was less expectancy on her face, but it was not difficult for her to accept it. She just nodded peacefully. Mother, I know. The noble families are like this. A man can have many concubines and love a lot of women. Its impossible for a nobleman to love only one woman. Even my eldest uncle Shi Junhe said that he would marry only one woman Dong Hui all his life, and it was pleasant to hear. But in the end, he broke his promise several times. He didnt keep his word but made Dong Hui have a bad name as a jealous woman, and he was not that good. As for the princes, especially Mo Junhao who might have a higher position in the future, she shouldnt wish that. Since I fell in love with His Highness, I know this principle. Zhou Ruyu patted the back of Shi Baoyous hand to comfort her and then continued, So His Highness wont love only one woman. Even if he loves Shi Qingxue indeed now, love cant be wasted. Shi Qingxue treats him like this, and he must be grieved. If a woman shows up at this time, a considerate woman who can listen to him expressing his depression and comfort him, after a long time, who do you think he would love? While speaking, Zhou Ruyu kept staring at Shi Baoyou, and her hint was obvious. Shi Baoyou was tempted by Zhou Ruyus wishful thinking and couldnt help but ask, What should I do now? Zhou Ruyu pondered for a while and then responded, In our country, we dont encourage women to be reserved and shy. If you meet a man you like, you should pursue him boldly. You are capable if you can win his love. Dont shrink back. Otherwise, you will regret it for a lifetime. She said solemnly in the end. Her eyes still fell on Shi Baoyou, and it seemed that she saw another self through her daughter. In the peach blossom forest that year, she also loved a man at first sight, but at that time, she thought that she was the eldest legitimate daughter of the Marquis of Wuyang, and she didnt say anything or do anything. She just waited for the Shi family to propose marriage These days, she had imagined for many times. If she boldly walked forward to express her love when she saw Shi Junhe for the first time, would he accept her? She knew Shi Junhe earlier than Dong Hui. If she expressed her love first, would her life in the future be totally different? She didnt need to ask Shi Junhe, and she could get a positive answer. So when she dreamed at midnight, she had shed tears with regret and sorrow countless times for her pride when she was young. Why couldnt she take the initiative? Everything Dong Hui owned should belong to her. Seeing the sour and sad emotion in Zhou Ruyus eyes, Shi Baoyou was thoughtful and didnt speak, giving her mother time to calm down. After quite a while, Zhou Ruyu came back to earth. She instantly wiped the tears beside her eyes and turned away to conceal her embarrassment. Then she continued, What I said to you is invaluable advice, so you must take actions. You cant regret it after everything is set in stone. Then it would be too late. Mother, I see. Shi Baoyou grabbed Zhou Ruyus hand and nodded seriously. Meanwhile she gave an order to herself in secret. She would express her feelings after she saw Mo Junhao later. Mo Junhao still didnt know what he did these days finally aroused a beautys feelings. He prepared a gift carefully and then told somebody to drive a carriage to Duke Shis mansion. When he reached the gate of Duke Shis mansion, Shi Baoyou happened to go out. She came exactly in time as he had told somebody to send a message in advance. Mo Junhao nodded with satisfaction and walked to the carriages door. He reached out his slender arm from inside and smiled at Shi Baoyou gently. Come on. The carriage fence is tall. Let me pull you up. Shi Baoyou finally controlled her emotions, but as soon as she met Mo Junhaos eyes full of affection, her face blushed again. She didnt dare to stretch out her hand but lowered her head, saying shily, I dont dare to trouble you, Your Highness. It doesnt matter. Grab my hand. Mo Junhao didnt care but smiled. At last, he showed a cold face on purpose and threatened her. Be quick. Or I will get out of the carriage and carry you up. He threatened, but it was more than vague words and made her face get red and her heart beat fast. Shi Baoyou was afraid that Mo Junhao would do that, so she restrained her shyness and reached out her hand. As soon as her small fair-skinned hand got close to Mo Junhaos big hand, it was held by him. Be careful! Then he put forth strength, and she was pulled to get into the carriage. Although Shi Baoyou was mentally prepared when Mo Junhao spoke, she was scared while he did that, and she screamed in a low voice, Ah! As soon as she finished her words, she was pulled into the carriage by Mo Junhao and fell into his arms. She sat on Mo Junhaos thighs, and her back leaned against his firm chest. His warmth came to her through his clothes. Mo Junhao didnt notice their intimate contact and held her waist randomly. He held the part of her body accurately. If his arms went up a little, he could touch her soft breasts. Shi Baoyou didnt dare to move and went stiff, like a stone. What? Are you nervous? Mo Junhao whispered in Shi Baoyous ear. His hot air made Shi Baoyous face red. Chapter 241 - Coax Shi Baoyou trembled and shrank her neck, calling in a low voice, YourYour Highness. Hmm? Mo Junhao answered casually but didnt stop touching her. He joyfully watched Shi Baoyous charming expression with a blush. She wanted to dodge but controlled herself and didnt do anything. She was so fascinating. After a long while, he finally enjoyed enough and asked unhurriedly, What do you want to tell me? Shi Baoyou stiffened and seemed to be covered with gooseflesh. She leaned aside slightly and met Mo Junhaos eyes. Then she answered softly even though she felt ashamed, Your Highness, I love you. Before she finished her words, she lowered her head with shyness, and even the back of her neck was red. But as a result, she didnt see that because of her words, Mo Junhao was stunned for quite a while, with astonishment and doubt flashing in his eyes. They kept a secret relationship for many days indeed, but Mo Junhao thought that Shi Baoyou should know that he wanted to marry Shi Qingxue, and they would flirt with each other at most. After they got married respectively in the future, perhaps they could have some relationship. They could see through something like this but wouldnt speak it out. It was a common game of adults. Mo Junhao hadnt expected that Shi Baouyou would be so na?ve as to express her love for him directly, and she didnt speak in a euphemistic way. Your Highness? Shi Baoyou didnt hear Mo Junhaos answer after a long while, so she raised her head in doubt. Mo Junhaos expression changed and he smiled warmly. With his hand caressing Shi Baoyous hair, he asked gently, Baoyou, do you really love me? Shi Baoyou thought that Mo Junhao didnt believe her, so she nodded and stressed, Really! Your Highness, you are energetic and handsome, and your talent is famous in the capital. We stay with each other these days, and I have seen your gentleness and love for Qingxue. I dont know why I Shi Baoyou wanted to express her feelings, but in the end, she was so shy that she couldnt go on, and she lowered her head again. Everybody could know her feelings after seeing her expression like a girl falling in love. Although Mo Junhao thought that Shi Baoyou didnt deserve him and he would never marry her, anybody would feel happy after knowing that he was loved, by a beauty. Anyway, Shi Baoyou was Shi Juncais daughter. He would do it out of consideration for somebody else. Shi Juncai was useless indeed, but Mo Shujun attached importance to this son, and it was fine if Mo Junhao got close to Shi Baoyou. Moreover, Shi Qingxue was so difficult to please. In order to leave a good impression on her, he had kept away from booze and women for a long time, and he couldnt stand it anymore. Now a beauty got close to him, and he was tempted more or less. But he must be careful and couldnt reveal it. Otherwise, if Shi Qingxue heard about it, nobody knew what would happen. At this thought, Mo Junhao was gentler to Shi Baoyou. When Shi Baoyou couldnt continue to speak, he reached out to pull her into his arms and stated in a soft voice, Well, dont need to say more. I understand your feelings. Shi Baoyou was healed by Mo Junhao in an instant and suddenly looked up at him. She hadnt concealed the expression on her face which showed that she wanted to cry, but joy burst out of her eyes. Then, Your Highness She looked at Mo Junhao with expectancy and hoped that he could say I love you, too. I certainly like you, too. Mo Junhao spoke out what Shi Baoyou expected most. However, before Shi Baoyou smiled again, Mo Junhaos eyes darkened, and helplessness was written on his handsome face. He added after a sigh, But, Baoyou, you need to understand that I am a prince and I cant do many things of my own free will! Shi Baoyou paused for a while. Mo Junhao didnt wait for Shi Baoyou to answer but pretended to be helpless. I cant decide my marriage since long ago. How is it possible? Dont you want to marry Qingxue? While saying that, Shi Baoyou involuntarily showed jealousy and grievance on her face which couldnt be found easily. Mo Junhao noticed that and felt laughable, but he pretended depressed. He grabbed Shi Baoyous hand and didnt allow her to shrink back. Then he expressed in a deep voice, Since we talk about this, I dont want to hide it from you anymore. Yes! I told you these days that I want to marryShi Qingxue, but thats because I have no choice. Shi Baoyou pursed her lips with displeasure and asked in a low voice, Why? You are a prince. Cant you marry anybody as you like? Mo Junhao shook his head with a bitter smile and sighed. No, of course! If we are from ordinary families, I can certainly choose the one I love. When he said the words the one I love, he looked at Shi Baoyou gently with affections in his eyes, seeming to express his indefinite love for her. Shi Baoyou finally showed her displeasure, but it disappeared in an instant. She looked at Mo Junhao worriedly and asked in doubt, Then why cant you now? Because I am not alone now. All my followers hope that I can take the throne, lead the country to be prosperous and bring them glory and wealth in the future. My marriage is not the pure love but the tie of interests since long ago, so I have to marry Qingxue. Mo Junhaos voice was deep and hoarse, with endless sorrow hidden in it. Even an ordinary person would understand his difficulty and helplessness after hearing that, let alone Shi Baoyou who loved him. Shi Baoyous displeasure was gone, and she just felt sad for him. She hurriedly grabbed Mo Junhaos hand and expressed, Your Highness, I understand your difficulty and wont force you anymore. Dont be so sad. Mo Junhao shook his head and stared at Shi Baoyou with expectancy. Will you blame me? Of course not! Its not your fault, Shi Baoyou replied quickly. Then she sighed deeply and continued in a soft voice, In fact, I know that even if you dont fight for it, others would force you to. Unfortunately, I can do nothing to help you. Its great that you can understand me. Seeing that he finally convinced her, Mo Junhao almost showed a smile of victory on his handsome face. Shi Baoyou sighed again. Dont worry. I wont pester you anymore in the future. Mo Junhaos smile was frozen on his face. No. You Baoyou, will you break up with me? Mo Junhao couldnt help but question her loudly. Of course not. Shi Baoyou denied it in a hurry. Before Mo Junhao sighed with relief, she continued in a disappointed voice, But you will marry Qingxue. I will be too immoral if I am between you. I cant do that! Mo Junhao had planned to persuade Shi Baoyou to be his secret lover, but he didnt expect that this woman was so na?ve and stupid. If she couldnt marry him, she would stay away from him. What would he play with? He raised his hand and forced Shi Baoyou to look up at him. Then he asked, stressing each word, Dont you love me? Shi Baoyou was forced, so she had tears in her eyes instantly. Then she stubbornly turned away and kept quiet. Answer me, Mo Junhao turned her head back and requested coldly. Shi Baoyou could do nothing but stutter, Yes, I love you! If you love me, just be with me. Mo Junhao thought Shi Baoyou was pure and ignorant and wouldnt understand if he beat around the bush, so he said straightforwardly. Shi Baoyou heard the man she loved say what she dreamed of, and then she looked joyful, but soon, she got worried. She understood what Mo Junhao meant by saying be with him. She wouldnt be the fourth princes wife, and even in order to avoid arousing suspicion, she probably wouldnt be his concubine. She could only be his lover without a title. Even though Shi Baoyou loved Mo Junhao, she couldnt do something so shameless and immoral. But No but! Mo Junhao interrupted Shi Baoyou rudely, and only displeasure was left on his face. He was annoyed enough after he was refused by Shi Qingxue. Who was Shi Baoyou? He liked her, which was her great fortune, but she wanted to refuse him? Shi Baoyou kept silent after Mo Junhao yelled at her. She raised her tearful eyes and looked at him with a grievance. Mo Junhao instantly realized that he frightened her, so he softened at once and comforted her gently, Dont be scared. I didnt mean it! You yelled at me! Shi Baoyou endured it in the beginning, but after he comforted her, tears fell from her eyes. Mo Junhao got helpless as she cried easily. He had to put his palms together and beg for mercy. Baoyou, good girl, stop crying. When you cry, I feel heartbroken. Shi Baoyou rarely turned her head willfully and retorted softly, No. You love Qingxue, not me. Why is it not you? If I dont like you, why did I come to see you frequently these days? Why did I forget my identity in front of you? Mo Junhao hurriedly explained. It was exactly the same as Zhou Ruyus analysis. Hearing that, Shi Baoyou showed the sweet happiness on her face involuntarily. She was not as angry as before, but she just lowered her head and whispered, Even so, you wont marry me! No matter how generous and graceful Shi Baoyou showed, she couldnt be generous when she faced the man she loved. Bitterness and jealousy were hidden in her query. Mo Junhao noticed that and felt more complacent in secret. As expected, Shi Baoyou loved him to the bone. He needed to seize this chance and keep her. He rolled his eyes, and suddenly he had a plan. Mo Junhao asked firmly all of a sudden, Who said that I wont marry you? Shi Baoyous eyes widened, and she gazed at Mo Junhao in doubt. She didnt know if she should believe his words. Baoyou, the woman I really love is not anybody else but you Cant you believe my love for you for the sake of my sincerity? Mo Junhao said sadly. Shi Baoyou was certainly visibly moved and just asked in depression, What about Qingxue? Till now, Shi Baoyou hadnt made a distinction between her and Shi Qingxue, and she always compared herself with Qingxue involuntarily. She didnt have a clear estimation of herself at all. Mo Junhao tut-tutted secretly but still looked calm. He said firmly, I have said that I need to marry Shi Qingxue because I have no choice. Why dont you believe me? While speaking, he grabbed Shi Baoyou and swore devoutly, Baoyou, I know that you suffer from injustice as you are with me but have no title. But rest assured. After I succeed someday, I will treat you like the empress. Even so, you wont believe me? Yes Shi Baoyou hurriedly denied his words and didnt want him to misunderstand her. Seeing that Shi Baoyou was tempted, Mo Junhao asked instantly, So you agree with me? Shi Baoyou was still hesitant. After a long time, she finally made a decision and nodded slowly and firmly. Hmm. Great! Mo Junhao was so happy that he held Shi Baoyou in his arms and kissed her lips without scruple. Chapter 242 - There is not only one who covets Qingxue Hmm. Shi Baoyou moaned charmingly. Her red face looked surprised in the beginning and her arms and legs started to struggle, but Mo Junhao almost didnt put forth strength before he held her entirely. They kissed each other soon. Mo Junhao started to move his hand recklessly. He tore off Shi Baoyous coat and then untied her underwear and The beautiful body was revealed and looked attractive. Mo Junhao stared at her with his eyes widening and shining. Shi Baoyou didnt resist but just had a blush, shouting in a low voice with shyness, Your Highness, stop looking at me! Its Her sweet voice seemed to invite Mo Junhao to have a try. He didnt hesitate to bend down again, kissing and licking her neck. Then he moved his lips downward little by little Hmm. Ahh Shi Baoyous face was red and she trembled all over. She even moaned from time to time as Mo Junhao moved. Mo Junhao was aroused and more excited as she moaned. He was almost about to make love to her. Shi Baoyou suddenly stopped Mo Junhao and begged in a low voice, Your Highness, no. Mo Junhaos breath was stuck in his chest, and he was almost choked to death. He thought that Shi Baoyou wanted him but just pretended to refuse him, so he pressed her hands. However, she struggled violently and looked scared while shouting repeatedly, No. Your Highness, no This voice was sharp and harsh. It was romance, but it seemed that he would rape her. Mo Junhao lost his interests at once and loosened his hands, letting Shi Baoyou go. As soon as Shi Baoyou was let go, she walked backward quickly and pulled her clothes to cover her body. She did that anxiously and alertly, which made Mo Junhao feel unhappy. He was angry and couldnt help but grunt, What are you doing? She suddenly stopped halfway, and it could almost kill a man. Tears fell from Shi Baoyous eyes at once, and she didnt speak. It seemed that he bullied her. Mo Junhao could do nothing as she looked grieved. He was afraid that he couldnt deal with it if it went on like this, so he had to patiently coax her and soften his voice. Why are you crying again? Well, I wont bully you. Dont cry, okay? You are crying, and it makes me feel sad. When he didnt comfort her, Shi Baoyou just sobbed and looked pitiful, but when he spoke, her tear gland seemed to be activated, and she suddenly burst into tears. Mo Junhao had a headache as she cried, and he thought, Dont women like sweet words? Why didnt it work after he said so many sweet words? When he was in doubt, Shi Baoyou didnt fear him seemingly and even rushed into his arms all of a sudden. She broke out crying. PurrYour Highness, dont dislike me. Mo Junhao was confused. He bragged that he had dealt with many women since he was young, but he had never seen anybody who was like Shi Baoyou. She feared him very much just now, but seeing that he was angry, she rushed into his arms regardless of anything. Her naked body was close to his skin. Mo Junhao was aroused again, but after what happened just now, he calmed down soon and gazed at Shi Baoyou, without doing anything. He just asked calmly, What do you mean? When he kissed her, he slowed down purposely because he was afraid that she might refuse him. No matter how pure Shi Baoyou was, it happened like this, and she certainly knew what he wanted to do. No, its not that I am unwilling to, but, but Shi Baoyou explained in a flurry but in the end, she showed that she felt awkward. Mo Junhao had been refused by her just now and didnt have the patience to coax her, so he just looked at her indifferently. Shi Baoyou peeped at Mo Junhao and then lowered her head again, saying in a lower voice, We havent got married, so we cant Mo Junhao was speechless. The fourth prince was furious and almost spat blood because of Shi Baoyous words. He hooked up with Shi Baoyou just to meet his need which might arise any time in the future, but she said that they couldnt as they didnt get married. Wasnt she playing with him intentionally? If they couldnt, why would he see her? Mo Junhao never planned to marry Shi Baoyou. But he couldnt say that openly. He disdained Shi Baoyou in secret but had to show that he understood her. Then he thoughtfully put on clothes for her that he had taken off. And he smiled at Shi Baoyou considerately. Dont worry. If you are unwilling to, I wont force you. Shi Baoyou was moved and held her red face, seeming to muster up her courage before kissing Mo Junhaos lips gently. And then she shrank back quickly and lowered her head, whispering, After you marry me, we will She didnt continue and covered her face with shyness. She didnt see that Mo Junhao watched coldly and remained unmoved after her kiss. After she finished her words, he just changed the subject casually. I remember that I have something important to do today. I am afraid that I cant tour the lake with you. I see, Shi Baoyou sensitively felt Mo Junhaos sudden indifference and murmured in disappointment. She still looked at Mo Junhao with expectancy and hoped that he would say more. However, Mo Junhao just avoided her eyes impassively. I will tell a guard to send you back home. Okay. Shi Baoyou had to answer obediently but didnt give up. She couldnt control herself and demanded in a soft voice, I have a presumptuous request and hope that you can agree, Your Highness. Mo Junhao was quite impatient, but he couldnt show that he was heartless, so he had to ask, What request? Shi Baoyou looked shy again and pointed at the jade pendant on Mo Junhaos waist, requesting softly, I hope you can give me something that is close to you, Your Highness. Mo Junhaos eyes fell on his waist as she gestured. That was an ordinary jade pendant, and he often wore it just because he found that its color was nice. It was not valuable, but after all, it was something close to him. It would easily cause some people to gossip if he was careless. He was hesitant. Shi Baoyou hurriedly explained, I dont covet your possession, but I cant see you frequently, so I miss you very much. Hope that I can have something to place my feelings on. Please make my wish come trueYour Highness. Every man hoped that he could be loved and missed by a beauty, and it satisfied Mo Junhaos strong vanity. He made use of the opportunity and agreed, but he didnt become dizzy because of the beauty. When he took off the jade pendant and gave it to Shi Baoyou, he didnt forget to remind her. I can give you the jade pendant, but you need to put it away and cant give it to anybody else. Your Highness, I would surely take it with me as you give it to me. How would I give it to somebody else? Shi Baoyou felt sad and looked depressed again because Mo Junhao doubted her in this matter. However, Mo Junhao didnt love Shi Baoyou so much, and she annoyed him just now, so he didnt have the plan to comfort her. He said something randomly to Shi Baoyou and then told a guard to help her get out of the carriage. After Shi Baoyou got out, she was sent back to the mansion by Mo Junhaos guard. So she didnt see that a young man got into the carriage from the other side after she left. The young man walked into the carriage. After seeing Mo Junhao, he didnt bow to the prince but sat down. What was more, he even joked, Your Highness, you are so fortunate. One more beauty fell in love with you, and you are so lucky to be loved by pretty girls. This man was named Luo Ziyuan, the second legitimate son of the Minister of Penalty, Luo Sen. Meanwhile, he was a secret assistant of Mo Junhao. He seldom showed up at ordinary times and even pretended that he didnt know Mo Junhao, but they kept a good relationship in private and were almost like brothers. Mo Junhao didnt get angry because Luo Ziyuan didnt behave. He just leered at Luo Ziyuan coldly and asked impassively, I can give her to you. Do you want her? Gee! Luo Ziyuan shouted exaggeratedly and asked purposely, This is a great beauty. You are willing to give her to me? Why am I not? Mo Junhao yawned with boredom and didnt love Shi Baoyou sincerely as he showed in front of her. He played a good role as he turned his back on her. Even Luo Ziyuan who claimed to be inconstant in love thought that he was inferior to Mo Junhao after seeing that. That lady may feel sad to death after seeing that you are so heartless. Mo Junhao kept silent and agreed that he was heartless. Luo Ziyuan tut-tutted, So it appears that she is right as she chose not to have sex with you. Otherwise, after you are intimate with each other, she would be abandoned by you cruelly. Right, Luo Ziyuan stood outside the carriage from the beginning and heard every sound inside. Even though he didnt see them with his own eyes, he could guess how vivid it had been in the carriage just now. But he hadnt expected that Mo Junhao changed his attitude on the spot after Shi Baoyou refused to sleep with him. It was different from this princes style as he was always gentle to women. Mo Junhao sneered. Who is she? She is just a toy. A toy should behave like a toy. She even wishes to get what she shouldnt get. So I should teach her a lesson. He would lure her and then beat her. That was it. Arent you afraid that she wont get back to you after you treat her cruelly? Mo Junhao shrugged. To be honest, he wasnt afraid at all. Shi Baoyou had refused to have sex with him, but what she said and did could show that she loved him to the bone. How would she give him up so easily? Even if Shi Baoyou gave him up, it didnt matter. From the beginning, he just wanted to flirt with Shi Baoyou, and the result was not important. After realizing Mo Junhaos plan, Luo Ziyuan looked astonished. Then he criticized in his heart after quite a while, Asshole. Gee, since you are so clear-minded, why cant you forget Lady Qingxue alone? Luo Ziyuan asked in confusion. Although in the eyes of the shrewd people, the fourth prince Mo Junhao tried his best to pursue Shi Qingxue all the time must because of Shi Junhes influence, Luo Ziyuan stayed with Mo Junhao most of the time and saw everything clearly. Mo Junhao did fall in love with Shi Qingxue. Qingxue Mo Junhao called Shi Qingxues name and looked in a daze for a moment. His eyes were blank, and he seemed to be lost in his memories and could hardly come back to reality. After a long while, he murmured and sighed deeply, She is really different. I dont know what to say, but to me, she is different from the other women. In the beginning, I thought that she was obstinate and even spoilt, but I dont know since when she seemed to shine. She didnt insist on staying with me all day long. She is confident, smart and graceful. Although she is still arrogant, she isnt annoying at all. Mo Junhao thought of Shi Qingxue, with a smile on his lips and tenderness on his face. Luo Ziyuan had sharp eyes and instantly found that Mo Junhao loved her, which was greatly different from his insincerity to others. However Your Highness, dont forget that now not only you want to marry Lady Qingxue. Werent you unwilling to have a conflict with His Excellency all the time in the past and even planning to steal him from the crown prince? If you do something to win Shi Qingxue, I am afraid that it will be difficult to draw His Excellency over to your side, right? Luo Ziyuan reminded him calmly. From the beginning, he didnt approve of Mo Junhao marrying Shi Qingxue. After all, if Mo Junhao wanted to get the power of the Shi Army, he had many ways, and even ruining Duke Shis family was a good way! Chapter 243 - Can You Make Something of Your Life Hearing Luo Ziyuan talk about the old story and mention their conflict again, Mo Junhao instantly waved his hand and interrupted him. Fine. I have my plan for this matter. Dont worry. Luo Ziyuans expression stiffened and his face darkened. He stopped talking. It was the first time for Mo Junhao to interrupt him so arbitrarily. Even though the prince was polite, Luo Ziyuan still felt unhappy. At the same time, he confirmed his thought more. Shi Qingxue was a disaster. She influenced the prince so greatly even before she married him. If she really became the fourth princes wife, the consequence would be beyond imagination. Shi Qingxue couldnt be kept. If Shi Qingxue knew Luo Ziyuans thought, she would sniff at him and tell him that he worried too much. The atmosphere in the carriage got tense at once. After a while, Mo Junhao coughed twice and changed the subject abruptly. By the way, I told you to investigate something. How is it going on? Your Highness, as you guessed, Third Madam Shi is grounded in the South House in secret, but most of the servants in Duke Shis mansion dont know why she is grounded. I have inquired about it everywhere and learnt that it is because she secretly dated her cousin Shi Zhi. Luo Ziyuan solemnly reported to Mo Junhao about the information he got after inquiring. He didnt miss anything, but he showed that he was unhappy. Mo Junhao pretended not to have seen it but sighed with emotion. Its him. After pondering for a while, he asked, Does Lord Shi know the third madams current situation? All people in Duke Shis mansion keep it a secret and he must not know it for now. But Lord Shi loves the third madam very much and would know it sooner or later. Mo Junhao got excited immediately and asked with a smile, Can you guess what he would do then? He can even promote his lovers husband. And he wont stand by and do nothing when his lover is in trouble, Luo Ziyuan said with certainty, but he couldnt figure out what method Shi Zhi would use. Would he make use of his influence and protect Zhou Ruyus position in the Shi family or take the chance to let her get rid of the Shi family and marry him? But Mo Junhao laughed. Its great that he loves her. As long as he loves somebody, he has a weakness, so we wont be afraid that we cant use him. Lets just wait. Luo Ziyuan was unable to reply. Young Master Luo had to admit that this prince could find the key to the problem if he used his brain, but He wanted to ask, Then what would happen as you love Shi Qingxue? However, once he mentioned this subject, they would argue with each other, so he was sensible and didnt say anything. Mo Junhao didnt know that Luo Ziyuan had so many thoughts. He asked after pondering for a while, What about the other thing? Er, this Luo Ziyuan thought that he was smart, capable and resourceful, but he could do nothing this time. He stuttered for a long time and had to admit in the end, I just found that the third madam must have evidence against Shi Juncai and Princess Royal, and this evidence is significant. But I dont know what on earth it is for now You havent found it after the investigation? Mo Junhao raised his brows slightly because he was surprised as Luo Ziyuan was baffled. Luo Ziyuan blushed with shame and explained, It may be related to something about the last generation, and it happened decades ago. I wasnt born then, and you gave me so little time. Its normal that I havent found it for now. At the worst, I will help you find it later. I didnt blame you. Why are you anxious? Mo Junhao comforted him in a hurry. He wittily changed the subject. Fine. I leave it to you, and you dont need to be anxious. Since you said that this matter can be kept as a secret for twenty years, it must be a big secret. I give you a suggestion. Its difficult to do something to Princess Royal, but you can make an effort on Shi Juncai. He is mercenary and sensual Luo Ziyuan understood at once and patted his forehead, sighing with emotion. Why didnt I think of that? I know what to do. Just wait for the good news from me. In the South House in Duke Shis mansion Zhou Ruyu was sitting in her room and drinking tea, but what she was thinking about was not the tea. She looked up at the door from time to time and looked excited, joyful and anxious occasionally Till Shi Baoyou came in slowly, Zhou Ruyu sprang from the chair all of a sudden and walked to her. Whats up? Shi Baoyou knew that her mother asked about what happened between her and Mo Junhao. Before she spoke, she blushed with shyness. Zhou Ruyu got overjoyed immediately and clapped while laughing. Wonderful. I know that my daughter is excellent and bound to be the empress. Now you suffer from injustice as you are just the fourth princes wife, but dont rush. You will live a good life in the future. You Mother, Mother! Thats not true. Shi Baoyou hadnt expected that Zhou Ruyu misunderstood her, so she stopped her mother in an instant. Zhou Ruyu still didnt know that Mo Junhao didnt agree to marry Shi Baoyou, and she continued happily, What? Listen to me. Now the fourth prince is powerful. As long as you steady your position as his wife, in the future Mother! His Highness didnt agree to marry me! Shi Baoyou shouted hurriedly. He didnt agree to In the beginning, Zhou Ruyu didnt hear clearly and talked endlessly, but she stopped halfway, like a duck whose neck was pinched. She looked at Shi Baoyou with fear and couldnt speak a word. Shi Baoyou nodded again and responded in depression, His Highness said that he likes me, too, but he has to consider for his followers. As you guessed, he needs to marry Qingxue, so So he wants to be with you but refuses to marry you? Zhou Ruyu asked harshly. Shi Baoyou hurriedly tried to cover Zhou Ruyus mouth and advised her. Mother, talk in a lower voice. Its not good if others hear that. He dares to do something so heartless but fears that others would hear it? Zhou Ruyu shouted in a louder voice, as if she wouldnt stop until all people in the world knew it. Thats not true. Mother, stop! Shi Baoyou was shy and guilty. She was so anxious that she almost cried. Zhou Ruyu didnt continue to yell. She kept silent for a short while and then asked, What did you tell him? You left for so long. Shi Baoyou was afraid that her mother would make a scene when she was emotional, so she told a maid to guard outside and then closed the door carefully. Later she told Zhou Ruyu in a low voice about what Mo Junhao had said to her. She didnt dare to hide anything from her mother, but at last, she couldnt help defending Mo Junhao. His Highness is forced. Dont blame him. I am satisfied as long as he loves me sincerely. Zhou Ruyu didnt yell anymore, but she looked grim. You dont know when he can fulfill this promise, but he bought you over? Can you make something of your life? She was disappointed and poked Shi Baoyous forehead, but she couldnt vent her anger. Then she cursed in a low voice, Sure enough. None of the men is good. If he wants you, he would say many sweet words, but when you want him to do something, he cant say anything. Shi Baoyou lowered her head in silence. However, Zhou Ruyu still refused to let her go and cursed crossly, Stupid girl, I told you to please His Highness. Even if you cant be his wife, its fine to be his side concubine. But you just asked him for a jade pendant which can be seen everywhere. What is it used for? Can it have a baby? You make me angry! Mother, please dont talk in this way. I feel sad Shi Baoyou finally couldnt control herself and rushed into Zhou Ruyus arms while crying. She wiped her tears and cried with a grievance, In fact, I knew that His Highness wont marry me, but II can do nothingI just love him, and I am not as capable as Shi Qingxue. How would I make him marry me? II In the end, she sobbed too much to speak. Zhou Ruyu felt sad while hearing that and comforted her daughter softly at once, although she was angry. Fine, I wont say more. Stop crying. Your crying makes me heartbroken! Perhaps Shi Baoyou was irritated, and she cried more loudly. Mother, what do you think I should do? What should I do? Er Zhou Ruyu also looked helpless and sighed secretly. Who was to blame? She could only say that Shi Baoyou was out of luck because she didnt have a capable father. Once Shi Juncai had the desire to advance and talent like Shi Junhe, with Princess Royals help, even if he couldnt be Duke Shi, it was no problem for him to be a Rank-2 or Rank-3 official. Baoyou, under the situation, dont think too much. Since His Highness refused to marry you, we will give him up. I will look for a good husband for you, a better man than him! Zhou Ruyu said that, but she was clear that in the present climate, there was no better husband than Mo Junhao in the Mo Country. Exceptthe crown price. But all their family were about to follow the fourth prince. Not to mention that they wouldnt follow Mo Junyu, he might be unwilling to marry Shi Baoyou. At this thought, Zhou Ruyu sighed deeply again and advised helplessly, Baoyou, just accept your destiny. But Shi Baoyou was stubborn this time and shook her head crazily, crying, I just love His Highness. I dont want to marry anybody else except him, not anybody else. Mother Child, why are you so stubborn? Zhou Ruyu was furious and wanted to rebuke her. Suddenly she thought of something and her expression stiffened. Regardless of Shi Baoyous tearful eyes, she grabbed the girls arm and questioned seriously, You stayed with him in the carriage alone for so long. Did something happen? Shi Baoyou stopped crying abruptly and looked at Zhou Ruyu in surprise, asking in silence obviously, How did you know that? Zhou Ruyu was anxious and cursed in a rage, Child! Didnt I tell you repeatedly that you cant do something immoral like your sister did? Why did you forget my words? I am so angry! You havent married him but lost your virginity to him. Wont you be controlled by him and have your day in the future? Zhou Ruyu was so mad that she wanted to beat Shi Baoyou to death, but seeing that the girl shrank back in fear, she couldnt do that. She had to cover her chest while crying, You just irritated me to death Shi Baoyou didnt expect that Zhou Ruyu misunderstood her, and she was cursed seriously even before explaining, so she was confused. She came back to earth after quite a while and explained in a hurry, No, Mother, thats not true. I didnt lose my virginity to His Highness. Although he wanted me, I said that Her voice was unclear and low, like a mosquitos in the end, but Zhou Ruyu heard it clearly. It took Zhou Ruyu a long moment to understand what her daughter meant. Then she showed a bright smile on her old face in an instant and grasped Shi Baoyous arm tightly again. Great, great! You deserve to be my good girl. Its great that you didnt lose your virginity Zhou Ruyu felt lucky and breathed out deeply. It seemed that she came to life again. But Mother, I want to marry His Highness. Good mother, can you figure out a way for me, okay? Shi Baoyou grabbed Zhou Ruyus sleeve and begged. Zhou Ruyu looked baffled. What way can I have? I She suddenly paused and her eyes lit up with beautiful light at once. She continued joyfully, I have an idea. Chapter 244 - Please Check the Evidence against You Shi Baoyou also got excited and hurriedly grabbed Zhou Ruyus hand. Her face was wrinkled, and she begged, Mother, what idea do you have? Tell me now! Nobody knew if Zhou Ruyu really had a solution. Anyway, she calmed down and even patted Shi Baoyous hand, saying with a smile, Dont rush. Let me think about it. Shi Baoyou didnt dare to urge her mother and just looked at her with expectancy. She got nervous gradually. After a long while, when Shi Baoyou almost couldnt wait anymore, Zhou Ruyu clapped again and stated with joy, Hmm, lets do it. Mother, what on earth is it? Tell me now. Do you want me to die of anxiety? Shi Baoyou asked anxiously once more, and all her feelings were shown on her face. It made Zhou Ruyu burst into laughter, and she joked, You are shameless. Do you want to marry His Highness so much? This Shi Baoyou was really anxious. After Zhou Ruyu mentioned it, she remembered that she should be shy, so she hurriedly lowered her head. She whispered in embarrassment, Mother, dont joke about me, okay? Tell me what good idea you have. Zhou Ruyu was coaxed by Shi Baoyou and nodded repeatedly, saying yes, but she didnt talk about the idea. Instead, she waved at Shi Baoyou and told her to bring a brush pen and a piece of paper. Although Shi Baoyou was anxious, she could do nothing to Zhou Ruyu, so she had to do it obediently. She kept looking at Zhou Ruyus hand, and the latter didnt avoid her but wrote a few words in the white paper, Lunar January tenth. Then she folded it and gave it to Shi Baoyou, telling her seriously, Give this to your grandma and then tell her that you want to marry the fourth prince. Ask her for help. Gee? Mother, what does this date mean? Shi Baoyou was confused and didnt understand why such three words could convince Mo Shujun to help her. Mo Shujun supported Shi Qingxue now. Zhou Ruyu didnt plan to explain and just waved at her, saying simply, Anyway, just do as I told you. Dont ask too much about other things! After telling her, Zhou Ruyu was still worried and explained carefully, Put away this note and dont unfold it after you walk out of this gate or show it to anybody else. Just give it to your grandma. If she asks you, you just say that you didnt read the words in the note. Do you understand? But Shi Baoyou still wanted to ask. Zhou Ruyu responded, Dont you want to marry His Highness? Shi Baoyou shut up obediently in a hurry and walked out with the note. When Shi Baoyou reached the Shouan Hall, Mo Shujun just finished dinner. Seeing her granddaughter, she merely looked up lazily. What are you doing here? I came to greet you, Grandma, Shi Baoyou was well-behaved and answered. She sat with Mo Shujun quietly for quite a while and then finally couldnt control herself. Afterward, she took out the note from her pocket and gave it to Mo Shujun with her trembling hand. Mo Shujun didnt receive it and just looked at Shi Baoyou, asking indifferently, Whats this? ItsMother told me to give it to you. She said that you must read it. Shi Baoyou was afraid of her grandmother who was dignified and enjoyed wealth and honor, so she spoke cautiously all the time. If others didnt reveal their relationship, the people who didnt know it couldnt tell that they were grandmother and granddaughter. Mo Shujun was in a high position for many years and was used to being treated respectfully, so she didnt think that there was something wrong with Shi Baoyous behavior. But she blinked while hearing Zhou Ruyus name. After a long time, she winked at Leng Yan, who then walked forward to Shi Baoyou and expressed respectfully, My Lady, just give it to me. Shi Baoyou expressed her thanks in a hurry. Thank you, Leng Yan. Leng Yan gave the note to Mo Shujun and didnt open it by herself. Mo Shujun grabbed the note in her hand and rubbed its cover with her fingers, as if lost in thought. Then she unfolded it after a long while. When she saw the words in it clearly, her expression changed, and she looked at Shi Baoyou grimly, questioning, Did you read this note? Shi Baoyou paused with hesitation and struggled for a moment, wondering if she should tell the truth. In the end, she chose to nod but expressed in a euphemistic way that she didnt read it secretly. Mother wrote this note in front of me. I dont know what the words in the note mean, and I asked her, but she said that you would understand everything as long as I gave it to you. Mother told me that if you asked, I should answer that I didnt read the note, but I think its not good if I cheat you Mo Shujun could find at a glance if Shi Baoyou was telling a lie. Hearing that, she sighed with relief and meanwhile sneered involuntarily. You are sensible. If I know that you hide something from me, I wont spare you. I dare not! Shi Baoyou responded instantly and peeped at Mo Shujun, to find that her eyes fell on the note with unknown meanings again and she didnt plan to question her, so she heaved a sigh of relief. But after Mo Shujun received the note, she kept silent for a long time, seeming to forget that Shi Baoyou was here. Her old face changed unpredictably and her emotions couldnt be told. Shi Baoyou waited a moment and secretly raised her eyes, looking at Mo Shujun with expectancy. Then she asked while trembling, Grandma, what do the words in the note mean? Mo Shujun seemed to be shocked by Shi Baoyous words, and there was a horrible and cold light in her old eyes all of a sudden, which scared Shi Baoyou to quiver. But soon Mo Shujun concealed all her emotions and returned calm. Leng Yan, guard outside. Dont allow anybody to enter, including the ones who come to pay respect. Yes! Before leaving, Leng Yan stared at Shi Baoyou deeply and then walked out slowly. There were only Mo Shujun and Shi Baoyou left in the room, and it was tenser. Shi Baoyou couldnt stand it and moved aside. It seemed that Mo Shujun would be not so horrible if she stayed away. Mo Shujun noticed the girls movements and sneered involuntarily. Tell me what you want me to do to help you. Shi Baoyou was surprised and wondered why Mo Shujun knew that she would ask for help before she spoke. Mo Shujun didnt even want to sneer and just snorted. If your mother is not forced and helpless, she wouldnt think of this way to threaten me! But I remind you first that there is only one chance. Speak after you think it over! Shi Baoyou didnt expect that Mo Shujun didnt even ask what matter it was but said that she would help her, and she didnt need to explain so much. So she stopped thinking and nodded. No need. I have only one request from beginning to end and hope that you can feel pity for me and let me marry the man I love. The man you love? Mo Shujun repeated the words playfully and thought of what the servants told her. She didnt need Shi Baoyou to continue and helped the girl finish her words with certainty. Do you want to marry Junhao? Yes, yes. You are so clever, Grandma. Shi Baoyou didnt consider asking why Mo Shujun guessed it and just answered obediently. Mo Shujun sneered and looked Shi Baoyou up and down meaningfully. After a moment, she commented impassively, Your mother has a good plan! Shi Baoyou was clear that Mo Shujun didnt like Zhou Ruyu, but she still couldnt help defending her mother. No! Mother wants to make my wish come true because she knows that His Highness and I love each other. Grandma, please Love each other? Mo Shujun couldnt be fooled easily and went straight to the heart of the matter, pointing out, Why do I remember that Junhao loves Qingxue? Shi Baoyou blushed with shyness because of Mo Shujuns direct words, but she controlled herself and continued, His Highness grew up with Qingxue and must have feelings for her, but he has promised me, so Mo Shujun retorted without demur, If he really promises you, you wouldnt have to come here to ask me for help today. Shi Baoyou was rendered speechless again. She didnt expect that Mo Shujun was so acute, so she didnt dare to tell a lie. She just listened to her grandma obediently and didnt say anything. But it made Mo Shujun happy. After a while, Mo Shujun asked again, Junhao is a prince and a powerful competitor to fight for the position of the heir to the throne, and you cant be his wife because you say that you want to. Except those unrealistic, what qualification do you think you have to steady the position? Shi Baoyou pondered for a while and took out the jade pendant given by Mo Junhao from her pocket. Then she showed it to Mo Shujun. She replied more firmly, His Highness and I really love each other. Grandma, please help us. In the beginning, Mo Shujun listened lazily. When she saw the jade pendant in Shi Baoyous hand clearly, she trembled and sat up on the bed all of a sudden. She stared at Shi Baoyous hand and asked coldly, How did you get this stuff? His Highness loves me and gave it to me. Shi Baoyou just let Mo Shujun see it clearly. It seemed that she was afraid that it would be snatched, and she put it back into her pocket in a hurry. Mo Shujun was old and experienced. She saw through Shi Baoyou at a glance and asked with a faint smile, What? Are you afraid that I will snatch something from you? No, I didnt mean that. Grandma, dont misunderstand me. I Shi Baoyou also realized that her movement was too abrupt, so she scratched her head and wanted to explain. But Mo Shujun waved her hand and stopped Shi Baoyou, saying indifferently, Fine. I know what you want. I will do it in due course. Go back now. Hearing that Mo Shujun said so much but didnt make a promise, Shi Baoyou didnt want to leave and just looked at her grandma with expectancy, asking anxiously, Grandma, you will help me and make my wish come true, right? I know what to do. You just go now! Mo Shujun still didnt give a definite answer. But Shi Baoyou hesitated. Although she didnt resist Mo Shujun openly, she stuttered and said in silence obviously that she wouldnt go away if Mo Shujun didnt make a promise. Child! Mo Shujun rarely sighed. After all, this was her granddaughter that she appreciated, so she didnt rebuke her forcefully. She pondered in secret for a while and then added, Fine. Dont worry. I will talk about it with Junhao. She would just talk about it, and it was not a definite answer. But this time, Shi Baoyou didnt dare to push her. She nodded in a hurry. Grandma, please help me. Chapter 245 - Marry Me If I Win What you said is true? Hearing Mo Junyangs words, Shi Qingxue looked astonished. Mo Junyang raised his brows slightly and laughed. What? You dont believe it? Yes. I just think the two arestrange! Shi Qingxue didnt conceal her emotions and replied frankly to Mo Junyang. Although she had heard that Zhou Ruyu planned to make a match for Shi Baoyou and Mo Junhao, she just thought that Zhou Ruyu was daydreaming. The two had no contact and would never be together. Unexpectedly, just a few days later, the situation changed dramatically, which surprised her. Strange? Mo Junyang repeated the word and then stayed silent all of a sudden. Shi Qingxue didnt realize Mo Junyangs changing emotions and thought that he didnt understand what she meant. She nodded and continued to explain, Right. In the previous life, Mo Junhao married Shi Baojin, who was my uncles legitimate daughter. She was ambitious and coveted the position of the fourth princes wife for a long time, and she knew him since long ago, so it is understandable. But Baoyou and Mo Junhao had nothing to do with each other in the past, and the third masters family wants to make a match for them. It is In order to get the power, they really didnt care about the feelings of the two? Shi Qingxue sighed involuntarily. But Mo Junyang sneered. You said that Shi Baojin was ambitious, but why are you sure that Shi Baoyou doesnt have her intentions? Er Shi Qingxue didnt think of this matter and was in a daze for a moment. She retorted subconsciously, No way? Baoyou doesnt look like She shut up halfway before Mo Junyang reminded her. Men couldnt be judged by their looks. After pondering for a while, she still thought this matter was uncertain. She added, Even if the third masters family wants to, Baoyou is inferior in identity. I dont think Mo Junhao would give in. Shi Qingxue was not stupid. Now the news spread everywhere, and Mo Junhao showed that he cared for her so much and couldnt forget her, even though she didnt take it seriously. He wouldnt change his mind and love somebody else at the critical time. Unless Unless Mo Junhao stopped coveting me! At the thought of this possibility, Shi Qingxues big eyes lit up like the stars in the sky at night, which were dreamy and fascinating. She looked at Mo Junyang with expectancy and requested silently, Let them be a couple and then I can get rid of him. Lets do something. Mo Junyang was instantly pleased by Shi Qingxues expectant eyes and what she meant. He didnt look cold and even showed a warm smile. But he shook his head slowly. We dont need to do anything. Lets just watch a play. Is it so easy? Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and finally understood that Mo Junyang planned to leave this matter to Mo Shujun. Then she looked at Mo Junyang doubtfully and pouted. Although Grandma is always partial to the third masters family, she wouldnt have no clear estimation of herself and go to propose marriage for Baoyou, right? She had thought that Mo Shujun said that just to fool Shi Baoyou randomly because she had no choice after the girl pestered her. I dont think she would lower herself and propose marriage for a grandchild, who she didnt care about in the past. In the previous life, Mo Shujun loved Shi Qingxue so much, even if she just spoilt this granddaughter on the surface. But she never made a match for Shi Qingxue and Mo Junhao, and she even seldom asked about their marriage. She just let them do whatever they liked. Mo Shujun was in a too high position for more than half a lifetime. Perhaps except her husband Shi Lei, anybody, even including the late emperor, couldnt make her lower her honorable head. So Shi Qingxue didnt think that Mo Shujun would do something like that for Shi Baoyou. However, Mo Junyang responded simply, I think she would do it. Humph, I dont believe it. Anyway, she and I have lived in the same mansion for so long. I certainly know her better than you. Shi Qingxue still firmly believed that she guessed right. Mo Junyang didnt retort her in a hurry and just playfully crooked his finger to her. When Shi Qingxue got close to him, he gently poked the tip of her nose and chuckled. How about we have a bet? Lets bet. Who cares? Shi Qingxue rolled her sleeves up and was about to start. But before they talked about the stake, Wei Zichao quickly walked to them and reported in a low voice, Your Excellency, just now a spy came to tell me that Princess Royal was taken out of the mansion by a carriage to a country house in the suburbs. They found after investigation that the house belongs to a follower of the fourth prince. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Damn it! Was it necessary to do that? As soon as she agreed to bet, the answer was revealed. They just didnt give her a way out. Shi Qingxue covered her face and felt too ashamed to look at them. Mo Junyang nodded and then waved Wei Zichao away. Later, looking up at Shi Qingxue who prepared to flee, he stated calmly, So I won? Hmm, Qingxue Hearing Mo Junyang call her name with a nasal voice, Shi Qingxue had goose bumps. She didnt dare to run away and made it worse, sitting straight with a snort. Forget it. You must have got some special information in advance, so you know that she would go to see Mo Junhao. If there is no accident that I dont know, she would never do that. Mo Junyang uplifted his brows again and stared at Shi Qingxue, with admiration in his eyes. She deserved to be the girl he loved. Her thinking was so acute. Before he spoke, she had guessed. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue just resorted to sophistry, but while speaking, she thought it was right and Mo Junyang must have fooled her. Then she looked up at Mo Junyangs expression and soon understood everything. Great. You really hide something from me. Tell me now! She snorted at Mo Junyang with displeasure and became bolder with sufficient reasons. Mo Junyang didnt get angry but smiled with love. However, he still kept her in suspense. How about you guess? Who would guess! Shi Qingxues heart seemed to have been scratched by a cat, and she became extremely curious. Mo Junyang said the words you guess, as if cold water was poured to her and made her feel utterly disappointed. But the situation was more powerful than her. Shi Qingxue pouted and hurriedly changed. She looked obedient and adorable, calling in a sweet voice, Brother Junyang, just tell me, okay? She was still young, and her voice had a high pitch. Moreover, she intentionally softened her tone, so she called Brother Junyang in a charming voice. Even she herself had goose bumps after hearing that, but Mo Junyang looked as if he was happy to hear it, and then he nodded with satisfaction. He narrowed his eyes slightly and crossed his legs like a boss, continuing to order, Its great if I can hear a song now. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply and cursed in secret. She pretended to be obedient, but it didnt work, so she showed her true colors and glared at Mo Junyang, saying furiously, Mo Junyang, if you are capable, just say that again. Unfortunately, she made threatening gestures and got mad, but in Mo Junyangs eyes, she was just like a kitten which lost temper. It would scratch him occasionally, but it wouldnt make him feel the pain or itch. But in order not to make his kitten run away out of anger, Mo Junyang cooperated with her and showed that he was under her control. He answered frankly, Because Zhou Ruyu has the evidence and threatened Princess Royal, asking her to help Shi Baoyou marry Mo Junhao. Hearing about a big secret, Shi Qingxue wasnt angry anymore and looked at Mo Junyang with her whole attention. After he finished his words, her pretty face still looked absent-minded. After a long time, she murmured, No wonder! But what was written in the note? It could make Grandma listen to Zhou Ruyu? Shi Qingxue was more confused. If that note was so useful, why didnt Zhou Ruyu take it out to protect herself when her scandal was exposed? She cant be so selfless and do something for others instead of herself. Would she make her daughters wish come true in spite of her grievance? Shi Qingxue snorted with disdain. She said that, but she didnt believe her words at all. Mo Junyang analyzed for her. When you threatened Princess Royal, you said that if she was partial, you would let others know this matter. Under the pressure from outside, she couldnt protect anybody even if she wanted to. Zhou Ruyu didnt think of threatening Princess Royal with this matter probably because this secretcant be shown in public. Shi Qingxue supported her chin and pondered for a while, agreeing to Mo Junyangs argument. Then she asked with expectancy soon, So you know what secret is hidden in that note? Mo Junyang laughed and interrupted Shi Qingxues imagination cruelly. No, I dont know. You are so capable. How can you not know it? Shi Qingxue didnt believe Mo Junyangs words and started to say something nice generously. Dont leave me in suspense! Brother Junyang, tell me now! Generally, if Shi Qingxue played the woman to this point, Mo Junyang would have no backbone and spill the beans. But! This time, Mo Junyang just shrugged and smiled helplessly. I really dont know. Shi Qingxue still didnt give up but stared at Mo Junyang. After quite a while, seeing that his expression was the same and he didnt seem to lie to her, she believed him, although he always liked to cheat others. The excitement on her face faded in an instant. She snorted with displeasure. I dont know the most crucial clue, and I am so annoyed. Its pointless even if we say so much. She was frustrated. Why are you anxious? Even if we dont know now, we can find it soon after investigation. Mo Junyang was still at leisure and looked as calm as before. But Shi Qingxue didnt believe him and blinked in doubt. Didnt you say that there is only a date written in the note? What can you find? Anyway she didnt believe that Mo Junyang was so capable. How about we make a bet? Mo Junyang giggled and brought up the opening words casually. Shi Qingxue nodded before thinking. Okay. We will bet if you can find the evidence in Zhou Ruyus hands. If you can, you win, and otherwise, I will win. Okay. Whats the stake? What do you want? Mo Junyang smiled and expressed casually but firmly, If I win, I want you to marry me. Although Mo Junyang had talked about this matter with Shi Junhe long ago and Shi Qingxue knew his determination to marry her, and she even agreed silently, she never talked about this with Mo Junyang because she was shy. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang proposed marriage to her all of a sudden. She was scared, and at the same time, her face was burning uncontrollably. Qingxue lowered her head with shyness and complained in a low voice, How can you ask me about this to my face? Didnt you discuss the marriage with Father? Why do you ask me? Even though she was always bold and unrestrained, she couldnt hide the shyness of a young girl. Mo Junyang was shameless and even asked her directly. It annoyed her. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang didnt shrink back but explained solemnly, What others said is pointless. Their promises dont work in my eyes. I just want to hear you say that you agree to marry me Shi Qingxue was shocked by his cautious expression and soon understood why Mo Junyang was persistent to do that. She pondered for a while and then nodded in agreement. Okay. I accept this stake. She thought for a moment and then added with a snort, But I tell you in advance that since you take this matter as a bet, if you lose, I wont agree to marry you. Shi Qingxue raised her beautiful chin and intentionally looked ferocious, staring at Mo Junyang. Humph! Why did he take something like this as a bet? After waiting for long, Mo Junyang finally heard Shi Qingxue agree. Even if she wanted the stars in the sky, he would figure out a way to get them, so he naturally said yes. But Shi Qingxue couldnt help thinking, Even if Mo Junyang is so capable as to go to the sky, he cant find the old stories decades ago easily. Hum! I will wait for the good news from you! Chapter 246 - A Mistake that All Men in the World Would Make For the first time, Mo Shujun asked to see Mo Junhao and requested that the place should be secret. He almost instantly guessed her purpose and contacted a country house. Then he took Mo Shujun there secretly. After seeing Mo Junhao, Mo Shujun showed her concern about him as a convention first, and he answered her. They talked happily. Junhao, you told me that you wanted to marry a lady from my family in the past. What do you think now? Mo Shujun kept her countenance and sounded him out. Mo Junhao replied respectfully, I dont dare to keep it from you, Great-aunt. I want to marry a girl from Duke Shis mansion indeed. It would be helpful to me and Duke Shis mansion currently. Please make my wish come true. He just considered the interests and didnt talk about his feelings, but it was easier to move Mo Shujun. Mo Shujun nodded in secret and appreciated Mo Junhao as he judged the hour and sized up the situation. She pondered for a while and then asked, You want to marry a girl from the Shi family, and I have no objection, but there are many unmarried ladies in the family. Do you want to just be related to the Shi family by marriage or marry a certain lady? Mo Junhao didnt expect that Mo Shujun would ask such a sharp question, so he was in a daze for a moment. In his opinion, Duke Shis mansion could assure the prosperity now, which owed to Shi Junhe alone. The ladies from the second masters and third masters families were the legitimate daughters from the Shi family in name, but they couldnt compare with Shi Qingxue. Mo Shujun must be clear about this point, but she still pretended that she didnt know anything and regarded them as being in the same category. She perhaps wanted to sound him out. At the thought that the outsiders gossiped that this Princess Royal didnt love her eldest son but favored her youngest son, Mo Junhao felt nervous involuntarily. It appeared that Mo Shujun came to propose marriage for the third masters family. Mo Junhao hesitated for a moment. Although he was tempted by Mo Shujuns support, he didnt know what was stuck in his heart. He expressed beyond his control, Great-aunt, please observe clearly. I grew up with Qingxue since childhood and we love each other deeply. I hope that I can marry her. Please support us. After he said that, Mo Junhao realized whom he loved. As expected, he still wanted to marry Shi Qingxue most. Mo Shujun looked at Mo Junhao in silence, which made him feel restless and lower his head quietly. Then she suddenly asked, Why did I hear that you gave Baoyou your jade pendant that you always brought with you? Mo Junhao was shocked once more. It just happened one or two days ago, and he even repeatedly told Shi Baoyou not to tell anybody else or show the pendant to anybody, but she still told others unexpectedly. As expected, all women were unreliable. Mo Shujun waited for a moment but Mo Junhao didnt answer, so she continued to question, Did I slander you? Mo Junhao hurriedly softened and avoided Mo Shujuns sharp eyes, mumbling, No! I did give the jade pendant to Baoyou. Mo Shujuns old face darkened instantly and she queried aggressively, Since you want to marry Qingxue, why did you flirt with Baoyou? Do you think that the girls in my family are your concubines and you can be with anybody if you want? I dont dare to. Mo Junhao lowered his head to apologize in a hurry, avoiding Mo Shujuns gaze. But Mo Shujun refused to let Mo Junhao go easily and sneered. Why dont you dare to? You are bold enough! I heard the servants in my mansion say that you came in a carriage to pick up Baoyou at the gate of my mansion almost every day recently. Do you think that nobody knows that if you and Baoyou dont say? Mo Junhao was unable to reply. He finally realized that Mo Shujun had known everything earlier and first intentionally lured him to speak out his true feelings. Then she talked about Shi Baoyou and forced him to be speechless. At the moment, Mo Junhao regretted it a lot. Why did he get soft-hearted and give Shi Baoyou the jade pendant? If she didnt get that jade pendant, perhaps he had a chance to argue, but now The evidence was in the hands of the other party, so what could he say? It was not a wise choice to irritate Mo Shujun at this critical moment. Mo Junhao instantly gave up struggling and bowed to Mo Shujun, saying with a smile, Great-aunt, you observed carefully. I dont dare to tell a lie anymore. I like Baoyou indeed, but I love Qingxue, too He changed the subject and smiled shyly and vaguely. You are experienced and should know that men cant resist the temptation in love relationship. I just made a mistake that all men in the world would make. Humph! Mo Shujun snorted and didnt say anything. Mo Junhao explained and flattered her in a low voice at once. Whats more, all the ladies you have raised are excellent. Even if I dont want to be attracted, I cant control myself! Mo Shujuns lips curled up coldly, and there was no smile in her eyes. She just satirized indifferently, You are honey-mouthed! Mo Junhao immediately said that he dared not. But his attitude was shown. He wanted to marry Shi Qingxue and also be with Shi Baoyou. Although it was too much to marry two sisters, there was precedent in the past. In the history, Monarch Yao married his two daughters, Ehuang and Nying, to a man, which was a story passed down with approval. Moreover, Shi Qingxue and Shi Baoyou were just cousins, not as close as Ehuang and Nying. You have a good plan! Although Mo Shujun understood that any man wanted to marry more than one woman, when it happened to her, and especially she was the two girls grandmother, she still felt unhappy after hearing Mo Junhaos words. After a moment of silence, Mo Shujun asked, Since you like the two girls, do you plan to marry both of them? Mo Junhao smiled with shyness and prepared to nod, but Mo Shujun asked with a faint smile, Do you think that with Qingxues character, would she agree to share her husband with other women? Mo Junhaos smile was frozen on his face, and he couldnt speak a word after a long time. Maybe they didnt know Shi Qingxue as well as before, but all people were clear about her stubbornness and arrogance. If Shi Qingxue was pushed too hard, she would do something as an honorable death was better than a disgraceful life. Mo Junhao was in a difficult position. Although the arrogance in her bone attracted him deeply, at the same time, it brought him much trouble. He carefully observed Mo Shujuns expression and said cautiously at the same time, I also worry that something like this would happen, so I want to marry Qingxue first. Then Seeing that Mo Shujun would get mad again, Mo Junhao explained at once, Great-aunt, dont get angry. Its not that I dont want to marry Baoyou, but the general trend forces me to, and I have no choice. Mo Shujun questioned coldly, Oh? Whats the general trend? It makes you even unable to give a lady a title that should belong to her? As they talked about this, Mo Junhao set his mind at rest and said frankly to Mo Shujun. I want to be related to your family by marriage because I want to shelters myself under your prestige and make Duke Shi and myself benefit each other. But all people can see that Duke Shi loves Qingxue. After I marry her, I will be his son-in-law, but if I want to marry Baoyou at the crucial time I am afraid that we wont be related by marriage but become enemies then. Probably because Mo Junhao was sincere and analyzed to the point, Mo Shujuns anger faded gradually, and she didnt push him anymore. She pondered for quite a while and then asked worriedly, When do you plan to marry Baoyou? Mo Junhao promised unhurriedly, As soon as I get the power someday and can have a say in front of everybody, I will naturally give Baoyou a title and wont let her nurse a grievance. Please trust me, Great-aunt. Mo Shujun didnt trust Mo Junhao at all. This man was too ambitious and wanted too much, but he was adaptable to circumstances. Even though Mo Shujun had seen countless people, she was not sure about what Mo Junhao was thinking about. But she didnt speak out her worry and just gave a dispensable response, I will wait and see. With that, she left with Leng Yans help. In the carriage, Mo Shujuns old face was tense, and she didnt get relieved. Seeing that Leng Yan respectfully sat on her knees and poured tea for her, she had an idea and asked all of a sudden, Yan, I never keep anything from you. Do you think the fourth prince is reliable? Leng Yans hand trembled when she was pouring tea, but soon she calmed down and put the tea pot back on the table. Then she answered, Princess Royal, I dont think His Highness dares to cheat you. Moreover, even if he wants to break his word in the future, as long as you insist, would you fail? Mo Shujuns face lit up with happiness because of this hidden flattery, and her depression and annoyance had gone. She couldnt help but pull Leng Yan to her leg and caress her hair, saying with a smile, Kid, you are a nice talker. Leng Yan let Mo Shujun do whatever she liked and leaned against the old ladys thigh like a kitten. Her obedience made Mo Shujun happier. Mo Shujun didnt hide anything from this maid and talked with her freely. She asked, What do you think? Should I make Baoyous wish come true by letting her become the fourth princes wife or do the prince a favor and let him marry Shi Qingxue first? Er There was hesitation on Leng Yans face with light makeup. After a long time, she replied cautiously, I think its better to marry Lady Baoyou to His Highness first. Mo Shujun raised her brows in surprise. Although she didnt retort, she was curious about the reason why Leng Yan made such a conclusion. Leng Yan pondered for a moment and then added in a low voice, I said that because I made the judgement under the current situation. Think about it. You hope that Lady Qingxue would marry His Highness just because you want to seize the chance and stop His Majesty from suspecting the Shi family. The Shi family becomes the fourth princes follower instead of an identity with an unknown standpoint, which can make His Majesty rest assured, but the three brothers in the Shi family lived in the same mansion as a whole. In fact, the ladies in the family are the same. Cant the Shi family be counted as the fourth princes follower after he marries Lady Baoyou? Wouldnt Duke Shi support the third masters career? Of course not! How dare he? Mo Shujun snorted coldly and put on her momentum. It seemed that if Shi Junhe dared to refuse to help Shi Juncai, she could accuse Shi Junhe of disrespecting the elders. Leng Yan was clear that the Princess Royal was partial, so she was sensible and didnt tell the truth. She echoed with a smile, Princess Royal, you are right. Since no matter if His Highness would marry Lady Qingxue or Lady Baoyou, it would have the same effect when it benefits the Shi family, it is better for you if Lady Baoyou becomes the fourth princes wife. Mo Shujun paused for a while and her eyes were sharp. Why did you say that? First, Lady Baoyou is the third masters eldest legitimate daughter, so if she makes something of her life in the future, she would help her father first. You also want the third master to have great attainments, right? Mo Shujun nodded and looked at Leng Yan, indicating that she should continue. Second, Lady Baoyou is obedient and listens to you all the time. She doesnt dare to keep anything from you. Even if she becomes the fourth princes wife or even gets a higher position in the future, she doesnt dare to disobey you. But if it is Lady Qingxue, she would At the mention of this, Leng Yan didnt continue, but she expressed what she wanted to. Mo Shujun totally agreed with her. In the past more than one year, she felt that her control and influence on Shi Qingxue weakened gradually, and it was even uncontrollable. Even though Mo Shujun thought that she was superior, she didnt dare to be sure that she could restrain the willful girl in the future if she helped Shi Qingxue get a higher position. By comparison, the soft Shi Baoyou was much better indeed. But Mo Shujuns eyes blinked, and she stared at Leng Yan, asking suddenly, Besides these two points, there is another reason, right? Yan, why dont you tell me what you are thinking about? Chapter 247 - It Is Done and Can’t Be Undone Leng Yan racked her brains to please Mo Shujun and didnt expect that the old lady changed the subject all of a sudden and focused on her, so it scared her. She hurriedly knelt on the floor and straightened her back, preparing to beg for mercy. Mo Shujun raised Leng Yans chin and expressed gently, Stupid child, what are you afraid of? I just want to know what you are thinking about and dont plan to denounce you. Leng Yan secretly pinched her thigh, and her eyes were full of tears in an instant, but she controlled herself and didnt let the tears fall. She looked at Mo Shujun pitifully and expressed her loyalty again. Princess Royal, you are wise. I have been brought up by you since childhood, and I am definitely loyal to you and would never betray you. She spoke solemnly like swearing. But Mo Shujun was suspicious and even doubted a child that she had brought up. However, she didnt show it but caressed Leng Yans long hair more affectionately. Then she stated with a smile, I have raised you, and how would I suspect your loyalty? But tell me first. You want Junhao to marry Baoyou instead of Qingxue because you have your own plan, right? Leng Yan was seen through, and embarrassment flashed on her face. She didnt dare to fool the old lady but nodded honestly. Princess Royal, you are so smart. I do have my own selfish motive. Just tell me. Er Leng Yan gritted her teeth and after a long time, she said each word with difficulty. Princess Royal, you feel pity for me and want to marry me to Duke Shi as his concubine, so I am grateful to you, but I have no foundation in the first masters family and I cant win Duke Shis heart. If First Madam gets more power, I am afraid that I will Tears fell from Leng Yans eyes along her cheeks, hitting her clothes and the back of her hand. She didnt wipe them but stared at Mo Shujun as a weak girl. Mo Shujun was hard-hearted and wouldnt soften because of anybodys tears. She just looked at the girl indifferently. Leng Yan waited for a moment but Mo Shujun didnt comfort her, so she had to lower her voice. She continued, I know that its improper to have this thought, but I really have no choice. You granted my marriage to Duke Shi, but if I cant live a good life in the East House in the future, wouldnt it humiliate you? Once it had something to do with Mo Shujun, the old ladys expression changed, and she softened fast obviously. She even patted the back of Leng Yans hand and soothed her. Yan, dont worry. I will marry you to Junhe because I believe that he is capable and can make you happy. You have followed me for so long. Would I treat you unfairly? Leng Yan lowered her head and responded obediently, I know that you are nice to me, Princess Royal. Hmm, good girl! Mo Shujun probably realized that it was pointless if she still bothered about Leng Yans secret thought, so she praised the maid and let it pass. After a while, she asked hesitantly, As you said, its better to make Baoyou become the fourth princes wife, but Junhao wouldnt give in easily. How do you think I should make him agree to marry Baoyou as his wife? It was a big problem. Mo Shujun had said a lot to Mo Junhao just now, and he was respectful and humble enough, but from beginning to end, he didnt promise her that he was willing to marry Shi Baoyou. Instead, he showed his wish and determination to marry Shi Qingxue in his words. But Leng Yan laughed and pointed out meaningfully, Princess Royal, you are wrong. His Highness is a prince, and his marriage cant be decided by himself alone. Oh? Do you mean You are the Princess Royal. Not to mention that His Majesty respects you, you can even say something to the Empress Dowager. Moreover, Lady Baoyou is not inferior to anybody else. If you enter the imperial palace to ask His Majesty to grant the marriage of Lady Baoyou and His Highness When it is done and cant be undone, would His Highness dare to disobey the imperial edict and refuse to marry her? Hearing this idea, Mo Shujun was overjoyed and said great repeatedly, but in a short time, she hesitated. It was nothing else. Although she could reach her goal after she did that, if she irritated Mo Junhao, she might lose more than gain. Its not that we dont give him a chance to marry Lady Qingxue, but Lady Baoyou is older than her. No matter if she would be his wife or she would marry earlier, it is right and proper. It will depend on his ability if he wants to marry Lady Qingxue in the future! Leng Yan responded unhurriedly and gave Mo Shujun a reason to cope with Mo Junhao. In the end, she was afraid that Mo Shujun wouldnt be tempted, so she mentioned what the old lady was worried about recently. Princess Royal, arent you worried that Duke Shi has conflicts with you recently and everything will be uncontrollable? He doesnt want to marry Lady Qingxue to His Highness. Now that you help him finish it, he will thank you. Mo Shujun forced Shi Junhe to marry Shi Qingxue to Mo Junhao because of the Shi familys interests. Although Shi Junhe didnt object, the relationship between the mother and son became the worst, and Shi Junhe didnt even come to greet her these days. On the surface, the Princess Royal looked as if nothing had happened, but as her personal maid, Leng Yan knew that the old lady was restless. If she satisfied Shi Junhe on Shi Qingxues marriage this time, he would become the good son who respected the elders like before. After allthe mother and son wouldnt bear a grudge. All kinds of temptations were in front of her, so Mo Shujun finally agreed. Okay. I will enter the imperial palace tomorrow to ask His Majesty to grant their marriage. Then after the imperial edict is issued, even if the fourth prince has objections, he has to hold it back first. If he wants to marry Shi Qingxue, we will see if he has the ability to snatch a bride from Junyang! The next day, Mo Shujun was dressed up rarely. When she prepared to enter the imperial palace, she suddenly heard a servant report to her. An imperial edict will come from the palace, and Duke Shi told everybody to accept it in the main hall. Mo Shujun came to the main hall in haste. Except Zhou Ruyu who was grounded in the South House, all the others had arrived. Shi Junhe stood in the front and looked serious. Even the second masters family who always had no sense of presence were present. All people came here, as if something significant would happen. Junhe, why did you gather all people in the main hall suddenly? Mo Shujun didnt see a eunuch who came to send the imperial edict, so she walked to Shi Junhe and asked. Shi Junhe greeted Mo Shujun politely and answered with no emotion, Mother, somebody from the imperial palace sent a message, saying that some people would come to send an imperial edict at 8:15, so I summoned all people in the mansion to wait for the imperial edict. Mo Shujun had seldom seen Shi Junhe behave so distantly, so she wasnt used to it. But she was an elder and wouldnt lower herself to improve their relationship. Instead, she questioned in a colder tone, Now all the three of you are out of work and staying at home. Why is there an imperial edict from the palace? Did you do something wrong? Shi Junhe lowered his head and seemed not to notice that Mo Shujun sounded him out. He answered respectfully, I dont know. His words made Mo Shujun feel heartbroken, unable to speak a word. What could she say? The imperial edict hadnt arrived, and it was normal that Shi Junhe didnt know. Humph! Mo Shujun knew that Shi Junhe didnt tell her the truth, but she could do nothing. She had to go back to the masters seat, but her dignified face was dark all the time and she didnt look happy in front of Shi Junhe. Shi Baoning saw that and felt uncomfortable. She grabbed her fathers clothes in secret and silently told him not to sulk with her grandmother. Shi Junhe gently flicked Shi Baonings hand away in silence, even without giving her a glance. He was also cold to her, and it was greatly different from his gentleness and love when he treated Shi Qingxue. Shi Baonings eyes darkened at once, and she moved backward, remaining quiet. For a moment, the bustling and noisy main hall changed slightly. All people had different expressions on their faces, but they quieted down in concert without previous arrangement. Even though some people whispered to one another occasionally, their voices were as low as the mosquitoes. After a long time, when almost all the onlookers felt that the pressure was about to depress them, a loud voice appeared. Here are the imperial edicts. The voice was like the sound from the heaven and made all people excited in an instant. They saw that Mo Xiangbins most favored eunuch Quan strode in and two young eunuchs followed him, with an imperial edict in each ones hand. Quan stood in front of all people and then got an imperial edict from the young eunuch on his right first. He unfolded it and read, The emperor issued the edict, Duke Shi is loyal to me. This time he led the Shi Army to defeat the rebel army and ensured the imperial capitals safety. He contributes to the country but doesnt get arrogant or rash, which is rare and precious. So the title of General of the State is given to him, and this is a Rank-1 official position. Hope that he can be diligent with self-reliance and work hard in the future. Thanks for your kindness, Your Majesty. Shi Junhe knelt down and kowtowed before receiving the first imperial edict. However, before all people showed any emotion, Quan added, All of you, please keep calm. Its not late to kneel and thank His Majesty after I read the second imperial edict. Then he got the imperial edict from the young eunuch on his left and continued to read, The emperor issued the edict, the second lady from the Shi family is gentle, dignified and virtuous, so the Empress Dowager loves her very much. She can marry the second prince and the title as his wife is given to her. They will get married on the tenth day of the first lunar month next year. What? This time, before Shi Junhe received the imperial edict from Quan, there was an uproar in the crowd. The daughter of the second masters concubine Shi Baojing who was always unknown to the public would marry someone of a much higher social position and become the second princes wife? Even though the second prince Mo Junwen had no power, she would marry above herself. All of them discussed animatedly at once and showed a doubtful expression. Not to mention that the people from other families didnt expect that Shi Baojing was so lucky, even her parents Shi Junfeng and Zhang Qiuyan goggled at her in surprise. Shi Baojing looked quiet and calm, the same as the description about her in the imperial edict. Ahem! Quan coughed twice and reminded them that the ceremony of declaring the imperial edicts hadnt been finished. Shi Junhe glanced over the crowd with displeasure and then led all of them to kneel and kowtow to express their thanks to the emperor after all people behind him quieted down. After putting away the imperial edicts, Shi Junhe put a money bag in Quans hand and stated politely, The people in my mansion dont know the rules and offended His Majesty. Please forgive them, Lord Quan. Although Quan was merely a eunuch, he came to read the imperial edicts, so he stood for the emperor. Just now the people from the Shi family behaved like that. If Quan talked about it after he went back, and somebody with evil intentions made a fuss about it, they could be accused of disrespecting the emperor. General Shi, its not so serious. Two happy events come at the same time, and its normal that they are overjoyed and forget everything inevitably. It was not offending. Quan flatteringly smiled at Shi Junhe and gave the money bag back to him. He expressed modestly, Its my honor to run errands for His Majesty and send the imperial edicts to you. I dont dare to get money from you. Quan said that sincerely and wasnt reluctant at all. Although he would get some profits when he sent the imperial edicts, he was willing even if he got nothing from Shi Junhe. What? You told him that Shi Junhe had been deposed by the emperor lately, so why was he worthy of flattery? Chapter 248 - Regain His Official Position Quan would surely spit at the speaker and disdained this short-sighted person. Although Duke Shis family appeared to be out of luck recently, didnt everything in the world change every day? Now didnt they rise up again? Moreover, the foundation of the Shi family was deep obviously. Even if Shi Junhe wasnt promoted, Quan was willing to flatter this big hero in all common peoples hearts. Lord Quan, you deserve it. You work for His Majesty, and I cant let you suffer from injustice! Shi Junhe insisted on giving the money bag to Quan, and the latter pushed it away as a form but then put it in his pocket. At the same time, the smile on Quans face was brighter. Thanks for your reward, General. Lord Quan, you are welcome. Did His Majesty say anything after issuing the two imperial edicts? Shi Junhe pretended to ask casually. Quan didnt doubt him and replied, No. His Majesty approved Before he finished his words, Quan suddenly reacted and covered his mouth. He looked scared. Whats wrong? Shi Junhe also got nervous and asked him in a hurry. But Quan refused to continue anyway. Instead, he talked about something else. Now, General, two happy things happen to you, and all people envy you. Well, I wont disturb you as you will celebrate. I am going back to the imperial palace to report to His Majesty. After saying that, he left the mansion in a hurry as if a ghost chased him in spite of Shi Junhe asking him to stay. Quan was more suspicious. What on earth did he want to say just now? Shi Junhe touched his chin, lost in thought, and even his happiness after he was promoted to a Rank-1 official faded a lot. The others in the room didnt think so much as Shi Junhe, and all of them were shocked by the two pieces of good news. Especially the people from the second masters and third masters families took pleasure in Shi Junhes misfortune in secret as he was suspended. But he regained his official position after so short a time? Oh, he didnt just regain his official position, but he was promoted to Rank-1. He was so lucky! However, different from the third masters family who were simply jealous, the second masters family would have a princes wife soon. Even though Shi Baojing was just a concubines daughter, the second madam Zhang Qiuyan was happy, as if her daughter became a princes wife. She had a big smile on her face and grabbed Shi Baojings hand, saying gently, Baojing, you are so lucky and even the royal family takes a fancy to you. If you rise in the world in the future, dont forget your mother and siblings. Shi Baojing had lived almost twenty years and never been treated by his fathers wife so well, so she felt disgusted. But so many people looked at them, and even though she knew that they just acted, she had to cooperate with her, so she responded in a more respectful and intimate voice, I have been brought up by Father and you. How would I dare to forget you? Zhang Qiuyan thought that Shi Baojing was weak and could be controlled by her. After she said something with civilities, she thought that she had drawn the girl over to her side, so her greed was aroused and she even started to inquire about the second prince Mo Junwen. I have heard that His Highness has been raised by Concubine Tao, who is famous as she has a lot of wealth and connections. His Majesty granted your marriage, so you will surely get many betrothal gifts and rewards. You cant privately take possession of them What are you talking about? Shi Junfeng rebuked in a low voice and stopped Zhang Qiuyan from humiliating herself. As soon as the imperial edict arrived, as the wife of Shi Baojings father, she began to keep thinking about the girls betrothal gifts and rewards but didnt mention how many dowries she would give her. If the news spread, others would curse her. Shi Junfeng didnt pay any attention to this concubines daughter at ordinary times, but he was happy after hearing that she would marry a good husband. So he seriously said something to encourage her and then congratulated Shi Junhe. Later he quickly led his family to leave the main hall, a place where he was apt to get into trouble. It was no joking matter. If he didnt leave, he would be in trouble. After the second masters family left, there was much space in the main hall. The rest didnt speak and all of them had different expressions and thoughts, but they kept silent with a tacit agreement. Or they didnt dare to speak. They just peeped at Mo Shujun and waited for her reactions. Although two happy events came at the same time, Mo Shujun didnt look joyful. She stared at Shi Junhe, and the latter met her eyes calmly. After a stalemate, Mo Shujun suddenly clapped and praised, Junhe, you are awesome. You solved all the problems before asking me. Shi Junhe seemed not to have noticed the sarcasm in Mo Shujuns words, and he even nodded at her, saying softly, Hope that the result didnt disappoint you, Mother. Was Mo Shujun disappointed? Of course not. After all, the Shi familys reputation and status had been protected. As they had imagined before, the three brothers of the Shi family lived together, and perhaps it was almost the same no matter which lady married into the royal family. But the problem was that they had prepared to ask the emperor to grant Shi Baoyous marriage by themselves and then the Shi family could officially become the fourth princes follower and Shi Junhe would owe them a favor. Unexpectedly, before they took actions, Shi Junhe finished everything in secret. He ruined all their plans. And it became a laughingstock. Even though it was good news, Mo Shujun wasnt happy at all. She even indistinctly felt that Shi Junhe intentionally went against her. Otherwise, she was an elder and it was impossible that she didnt know such a big event in advance that Shi Baojing would marry Mo Junwen. She didnt even notice any clue. It was obvious that Shi Junhe purposely hid it from her in order to take revenge on her because she had forced him before. At this thought, Mo Shujun certainly didnt show a friendly face to Shi Junhe. She waved her sleeves and left the main hall. Gee. Big Brother, you are so capable as to irritate Mother so much! Shi Juncai said in a cold tone. Shi Junhe leered at Shi Juncai and asked indifferently, What? What do you want to tell me? Brother Shi Juncai wanted to satirize Shi Junhe as he was promoted and wanted to disown his mother, but he was terrified as soon as Shi Junhe glanced at him coldly. When Shi Juncai faced Shi Junhe, only one word coward was written all over his body, not to mention that he would retort with sarcasm like he did in front of Zhou Ruyu. He hurriedly flattered, No. I just want to congratulate you as you regain your official position. Congratulations As a sycophant, he was so miserable that one couldnt bear seeing him. Shi Junhe knew well about his youngest brother and didnt want to say more. He just nodded and then led Qingxue and the others back to the East House. Shi Juncai was irritated by Shi Junhes arrogant attitude. As soon as his big brother left, he spat at the floor and cursed, Why are you so complacent? Were you just promoted? The fourth prince agreed to promote me to a two ranks higher position. Just wait and see. Someday I will let all people know that you are inferior to me! Shi Junhe was promoted and successfully solved the crisis of the family which might be wiped out. It was wonderful news. However, he didnt get relieved because of that. After he came back to the East House, hearing Shi Baoning ask him joyfully, he was absent-minded and answered from time to time. Father, you regained the official position this time, so does it mean that His Majesty wouldnt suspect our familys loyalty? Is Chi out of trouble? And Shi Baoning had many questions to ask Shi Junhe. However, after she spoke out everything, she found that Shi Junhe didnt listen to her seriously. She raised her voice and called involuntarily, Father! What? Shi Junhe was dragged back from his thoughts suddenly and looked at Shi Baoning in confusion. Shi Baoning sighed and spoke again. I said As a result, as soon as she started this time, Shi Junhe waved his hand to silently tell her not to speak. Then he turned to Shi Qingxue who was drinking tea quietly and asked, Qingxue, is His Excellency in his mansion now? Shi Qingxue was summoned all of a sudden, so she was scared to be choked. AhemFather, what, what are you talking about? She wiped the water beside her mouth and meanwhile looked at Shi Junhe in surprise, curious about how her father could ask her such a question. It seemed that she was Mo Junyangs housekeeper. Shi Junhe merely thought about the two imperial edicts which made his wish come true and didnt realize how meaningful his question was. Seeing that Qingxue stuttered, he was rash and stood up, telling Shi Jie who was outside, Shi Jie, prepare a carriage. Yes! Shi Jie answered quickly and ran to make preparations. Shi Junhe walked into the inner room and changed into casual clothes, planning to go out. Shi Qingxue was scared by his rash actions and instantly chased him. Father, whats wrong with you? Isnt good news as the imperial edicts arrived? Why are you more restless even than before? Its not so simple. Wait at home. I will talk with you after I find the truth. After saying, Shi Junhe left the mansion and headed to King Ruis mansion. Shi Qingxue sighed helplessly and looked back, preparing to chat with Shi Baoning, but she met her big sisters distant and complicated eyes. Big Sister? Shi Qingxue was frightened and then stared at her. Shi Baoning returned gentle and peaceful as usual. It seemed that what Shi Qingxue had seen just now was merely her illusion. Whats up? Shi Baoning looked calm with a smile on her lips, without showing any trace. Shi Qingxue shook her head and thought that she must be oversensitive, but she still asked worriedly, Are you unhappy? Why? Now Father is out of trouble and Baojing would have a good husband. Why would I be unhappy? Qingxue, what are you thinking about? Shi Baoning showed a brighter smile. But as Shi Baoning acted like this, Shi Qingxue felt it stranger. However, Shi Baoning didnt give her time to ask. She stopped smiling and said impassively, Well, since Father told you to wait for him, I wont disturb you. I will go back to the Jingshu Boudoir first. Eh, Baoning Shi Qingxue was confused when Shi Junhe told her alone to wait for him. He had said that to the two sisters. Did Shi Baoning imagine too much? Shi Qingxue pouted speechlessly, but she had no chance to explain as Shi Baoning left too fast. Whats the matter with Baoning? I feel that she is strange, Shi Qingxue murmured in confusion. In fact, she had felt Shi Baonings weird hostility to her occasionally since long ago, and it was slight, but it existed all the time. In the beginning, she had thought it was a wrong impression, but after so long, she knew that it was not. Shi Baoning did have hostility to her, but why? Shi Qingxue was depressed and wanted to scratch her hair. If she were another girl, any girl from the second masters or third masters family, even including Shi Baojing she admired, she would treat her the same way as she was treated. But Shi Baoning was different. Shi Baoning was her sister. How would Qingxue be distant to her? Even if she was cold occasionally, it was only because she got mad at her sister, and she would make her happy in no time. However, she pleased others in a way that never failed, but when it was in front of Shi Baoning, she would only meet with a mild rebuff. It depressed Shi Qingxue a lot. How about I talk with Chi? Baoning listens to Chi all the time, and it must be no problem. Shi Qingxue who was simple-minded still didnt know why Shi Baoning was jealous of her, but she stepped on the black spot accurately. It was uncertain what on earth would happen in the future. Chapter 249 - There Was Something Wrong with…the Imperial Edicts After seeing Mo Junyang, Shi Junhe didnt beat around the bush and asked, Whats the matter with the two imperial edicts? Why did His Majesty agree so soon? Mo Junyang told Shi Junhe to sit down and then personally poured him a cup of tea. Then he responded unhurriedly, Soon? Isnt it the same as what we expected? Lady Baojing and the second prince love each other, and we just told His Majesty about it. Then Qingxue asked the Empress Dowager for mercy, so the marriage was decided. And His Majesty would naturally issue the imperial edict these days. Fine. Even if the marriage of Baojing and His Highness can be decided easily, what about my official position? His Majesty suspected me a lot earlier. Can he stop suspecting just because of the marriage? And he even gave me the title of General of the State. Doesnt he fear that I will threaten the throne this time? Nobody knew if it was because he spoke to Mo Junyang, and Shi Junhe said frankly and almost without scruple. Moreover, Shi Junhe didnt talk freely because he was brainless in anxiety. He wanted to say that since long ago, but he never spoke it out. He had worked for Mo Xiangbin for so many years and knew well about the emperor. The emperors were suspicious and sensitive. They liked to make blind and disorderly conjectures and beat around the bush, and they were a little weak. They would change their minds easily and ponder over repeatedly when they dealt with affairs, so they would make a decision with difficulty after a long hesitation. Mo Xiangbin had all the common weaknesses of an emperor, and he was much worse. If Mo Xiangbin really suspected Shi Junhe, he wouldnt stop suspecting in just a few days and even put him in an important position again. Did Shi Junhe suddenly thought of a possibility, and his expression changed greatly. Its not like what you guessed. The imperial edicts are not fabricated, and His Majesty did approve. Mo Junyang told the truth in time and stopped Shi Junhe from conjecturing. Shi Junhe sighed with relief and sensitively found something wrong in Mo Junyangs words. Approve? This word was meaningful. Mo Junyang didnt deny it but nodded. Right. The imperial edicts were drafted by a member of the Imperial Academy, and the crown prince decided at last. His Majesty just permitted the Imperial Academy to draft the imperial edicts in the beginning, and then he didnt ask about them anymore. Shi Junhe was so surprised that he could hardly speak. After a long while, he murmured, How is it possible? The crown prince was chosen as the heir to the throne for so many years, but His Majesty never delegated powers to him. Only a few days passed, and why did he The emperor delegated powers so soon, which almost made Shi Junhe think that Mo Junyu would force his father to retire. Mo Junyang stated slowly, There was foregleam long ago. His Majesty had a stroke last time. Although he was saved, he hasnt fully recovered. And the doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine said that His Majesty is in poorer health recently and it seems that it doesnt work no matter how he is treated. His Majesty is unable to deal with the state affairs as well as he would wish, so he has to leave some jobs to the princes. The shock on Shi Junhes face still hadnt faded, and he asked after quite a while, Thenwhat did Doctor Shen say? Can he do nothing? His Majesty refused to see Shen Luo recently. Mo Junyang spoke impassively and revealed a piece of shocking news. Why? Shi Junhe didnt understand. Even he, an outsider knew Shen Luos ability. Was Mo Xiangbin brainless because he was too old? He was even unwilling to let Shen Luo treat him? Mo Junyang still shook his head. After pondering for a while, he explained in another way, Its not that His Majesty is unwilling to see Shen Luo alone, but he refuses to take the medicine that the doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine gave him becausehe received a great master from the west lately. A great master? Shi Junhes face stiffened, and he suddenly guessed something bad, so he asked in a hurry, A great master in which field? Mo Junyang showed a faint smile and replied slowly, This man is proficient in refining elixir and cultivating. What? Its absurd! Shi Junhe pounded the table and stood up, with shock and anger which could hardly be concealed on his dignified face. He rebuked emotionally, His Majesty is brainless. Just a few years passed, but did he forget why the former dynasty was ruined? It was the Qi Dynasty before the Mo Dynasty. The last emperor of the Qi Dynasty didnt deal with the state affairs because he was absorbed in refining elixir. Then he left all the affairs to the officials who flattered him, which made the country in a mess, and he was in bad condition because of the elixir. Soon after the late emperor of the Mo Dynasty rebelled, the last emperor of the Qi Dynasty died because he took too much elixir, and he didnt even see his country being destroyed. No. Absolutely no! While thinking, Shi Junhe believed that there was something wrong, and he couldnt stand by and watch while Mo Xiangbin indulged in refining elixir and ignored the state affairs. I need to enter the imperial palace to see His Majesty. But as soon as he stood up, he was stopped by Mo Junyang. General Shi, relax. Why are you stopping me? Dont you know why the former dynasty was ruined? Now His Majesty is about to commit the same error. We are officials. Shouldnt we advise him directly to wake up, not to be fooled by evil people? While speaking, Shi Junhe got more emotional and wanted to have wings and fly into the imperial palace. Mo Junyang was still unmoved. When Shi Junhe almost couldnt stand it, Mo Junyang asked in reply unhurriedly, Is it useful? Shi Junhe had a breath stuck in his chest and was almost suffocated to death. You He pointed at Mo Junyang and couldnt speak a whole sentence after a long time. This man would either remain quiet or irritate others to death when he started to speak. The young man went straight to the heart of the matter, and Shi Junhe didnt even have a chance to retort. Shi Junhe was not stubborn. When he knew that it didnt work, he wouldnt continue with the slight hope instead of finding a better way. He sighed deeply and pinned his hopes on Mo Junyang again. We cant watch His Majesty indulge in cultivating, right? He would ruin his health sooner or later. Then the Mo Dynasty would be in danger! But Mo Junyang pointed out calmly, It wont be like that. His Majesty left most of the state affairs to the crown prince and the fourth prince. With their reviews at the imperial court and the officials assistance, nothing bad would happen for now. Shi Junhe kept silent. He was just anxious and didnt think more about Mo Xiangbins delegating powers. Now hearing Mo Junyangs words, he suddenly found that Mo Xiangbins best decision must be choosing the right people to take over his jobs. After all, both the crown prince Mo Junyu and the fourth prince Mo Junhao wouldnt see that what belonged to them was in a mess as long as they wanted to take the throne, so they would definitely deal with it wholeheartedly. As Mo Junyang said, they didnt need to worry that something bad would happen to the Mo Country for now. But Shall we stand by and watch when His Majesty does something wrong? Shi Junhe still couldnt accept Mo Junyangs indifference, and he thought, Even though Mo Xiangbin is not your father, he is your uncle, your fathers brother. How can you not care about him? However, if Shi Junhe knew Mo Junyangs big secret, he might be more astonished. General Shi, you like to learn from the history and must have read many books about history. After reviewing the history of one thousand years in the Qin Continent, please tell me which emperor could be persuaded to come back when he was absorbed in refining elixir. Huh? Mo Junyang asked calmly. Shi Junhe was rendered speechless again by Mo Junyangs question. Correct! In the history, after an emperor was absorbed in refining elixir, even if he was once a wise emperor, he would become fatuous in the end. We really have no way? Shi Junhe asked with difficulty and still didnt give up. He couldnt watch Mo Xiangbin become degenerate. Mo Junyang shrugged, with helplessness shown on his face rarely. We are not sure. Just wait. Even Mo Junyang said that. No matter how worried Shi Junhe was, he could do nothing. At last, he sighed helplessly. Mo Shujun came back to the Shouan Hall in a rage and then waved her sleeves to wipe the tea pot, teacups and incense as well as plates on the table to the floor. The sounds of smashing scared the servants to kneel all over the floor, and all of them cried for mercy. Why are you crying? I am still alive. Do I need you to cry for my death? Mo Shujun was more annoyed by the sobs and cries, so she couldnt control herself and roared at them. All people were frightened like quails and curled up, falling into silence at once. But Mo Shujun was still dissatisfied and cursed the servants again who were kneeling, Fine, all of you are useless. Get out of here! All people hurriedly went away while trembling. Only Leng Yan seemed not to be afraid of Mo Shujuns anger and still followed her quietly. Mo Shujun didnt kick her out. After she calmed down, she asked slowly, Yan, what do you think is on Junhes mind? Leng Yan commented directly, He is probably mad at you, so he didnt tell you about something so important in advance. Humph! I have guessed! I havent seen him for only a few days, but he became much more capable! Mo Shujun couldnt help but snort. Seeing that the princess royal was about to lose temper again, Leng Yan changed the subject in a hurry. But as I observed just now, Duke Shi also looked shocked when the two imperial edicts arrived today, so I guess that he was probably not sure about what happened this morning, so he didnt tell you the truth. Why didnt he know? It was his plan! Mo Shujun shouted emotionally and retorted Leng Yan. Leng Yan feared that she would irritate Mo Shujun again, so she lowered her head at once and didnt speak. After a while, Mo Shujun calmed down and then asked, Are you sure that Junhe didnt know that he could regain his official position? Er Leng Yan didnt dare to say that she was sure. If she said something wrong, Mo Shujun might kill her. But she couldnt refuse to answer Mo Shujuns question, so she had to say vaguely, I just saw that shock seemed to flash in his eyes when he heard Lord Quan read the first imperial edict in the main hall, but I dont know what on earth he was thinking about. I am afraid that you know him better than I do, Princess Royal. At last, she flattered Mo Shujun with no trace. As expected, Mo Shujuns cold face softened and she even nodded at Leng Yan. You must not misjudge. When I left, I also saw that he looked serious and didnt relax as he regained the official position. Perhaps there is something wrong? At this thought, the princess royal was relieved a lot. But after they did that, the marriage of Baoyou and Junhao probably wouldnt be granted. Mo Shujun couldnt help but sigh deeply. She had hoped that Mo Junhao could promote Shi Juncai, but now they couldnt get married, so perhaps Mo Junhao wouldnt fulfill what he had promised earlier. Its uncertain. Leng Yan cut in abruptly, which made Mo Shujun turn to her. She excitedly pulled Leng Yan to squat down beside her leg and then asked, Yan, do you have another good idea? Leng Yan replied unhurriedly, I just think that under the situation, the fourth prince might be more anxious to be related to Duke Shis family by marriage. Why did you say that? Chapter 250 - Shi Baoyou Is Not Qualified Leng Yan sat on her knees in front of Mo Shujun all the time but didnt feel tired. She even looked up and explained carefully, Princess Royal, look. Now Lady Baojing would marry the second prince. Although his mother has passed away, he was still raised by Concubine Tao. Even so, what does it have to do with us? Mo Shujun looked down upon Shi Baojing who was a concubines daughter and didnt think highly of a prince who was unknown to public in the imperial palace. She would just let them get married, which was not worthy of expecting. But Leng Yan didnt think so. She reminded cautiously, Princess Royal, why dont you think that the second prince is a force? Oh? Mo Shujun finally got interested and stared at Leng Yan, silently ordering her to continue. A lean camel is bigger than a horse. If we help the fourth prince win over the second prince, then wouldnt the fourth prince have a greater chance to win the fight for the title of the heir to the throne? After Leng Yan mentioned that, Mo Shujun was suddenly enlightened at last. She nodded repeatedly and clapped while laughing. Right! Why didnt I think of this? Good girl, you are so smart. I am really old and didnt even think of this. Leng Yan shook her head in a hurry and explained with shyness, I have been brought up by you, and you are a good teacher, Princess Royal. Kid, you are so smooth-tongued! Mo Shujun laughed again. She thought for a while and then asked, I will go to ask His Majesty to grant Baoyous marriage and make her the official wife of the fourth prince now. What do you think? I think, perhaps another way is better. Leng Yan pondered for a moment and then advised. Oh? There is another way? Mo Shujun fully trusted Leng Yan, and there were rare closeness and expectancy in her tone even when she asked. Leng Yan was complacent in secret but didnt dare to show her feelings. Instead, she answered more humbly, I think, if you can make Lady Baoyou the side concubine of the fourth prince for a period first, it would probably be better! How so? Mo Shujun was surprised at Leng Yans strange idea, but because all the methods this maid had offered satisfied her, she didnt get angry but waited with interest for the girl to continue. Princess Royal, think about it. The fourth prince wants to marry a lady from the Shi family as his wife because he admires your prestige and influence and wants to do Duke Shi a favor, so that he can ask Duke Shi to repay him for his kindness in the future. But Duke Shi is out of trouble now and even gets prompted, so the fourth prince doesnt have a chance to do him a favor. If you want him to marry Lady Baoyou as his wife, I am afraid that he might be unwilling. Mo Shujun thought it over and it was true, but she was astonished. But didnt you say that as long as the Shi family is related to the fourth prince by marriage, it means that the Shi family would be his follower, so wouldnt he get profits? Why is he unwilling? Leng Yan couldnt help but pout secretly, and she thought, If it is Shi Qingxue who would marry him, Mo Junhao must be overjoyed, but it is Shi Baoyou If I can say something that doesnt sound good, Shi Baoyou is not qualified. Even she, a maid could know such a simple answer clearly. But Mo Shujun still couldnt see through it because of her blind feelings. When it came to something related to Shi Juncais family, she was like a blind person. Leng Yan sighed with emotion as Mo Shujuns illustrious name for a lifetime would be ruined by Shi Juncai, but she didnt dare to say that to the princess royal. Instead, she had to try every means to comfort the old lady, so she said, After all, Lady Baoyou is inferior in her identity. Whats more, if we give in and make her the fourth princes side concubine, then we can do him a favor and it will help you control the whole situation better. In the beginning, Mo Shujun was confused, but soon she understood. Right! I almost forget this. She nodded and thought that it was true. Although Shi Baoyou looked obedient now, nobody dared to be sure what she would be like after she became the fourth princes wife. If she becomes like Shi Qingxue, my sincerity will be in vain. Mo Shujun looked serious and started to ponder. If I want to control this girl, I cant give her a too high position in the beginning. The more easily she gets it, the more easily she would be complacent in the future and forget who helps her. I need to let her know who she should thank as she can live a good life and make her have no nerve to disobey me even if she gets the position that all women dream about. Seeing that Mo Shujun had thought through, Leng Yan didnt say more but lowered her head obediently, flattering in a low voice, Princess Royal, you are wise. Mo Shujun chuckled and raised Leng Yans chin again, looking up and down carefully. After a long while, she suddenly sighed with emotion. Yan, you are matchlessly clever. If I have choices, I cant bear to marry you to Junhe as his concubine. You suffer from injustice. Dont blame me. I dont dare to! Leng Yan didnt know what was wrong with Mo Shujun, who brought up this matter all of a sudden. She was scared and answered in a hurry. She was afraid that Mo Shujun wouldnt believe her, so she added firmly, I have been raised by you since childhood. No matter what you tell me to do, I dont feel grieved, Princess Royal. Mo Shujun still stared at Leng Yan, which made the latter have sweat on her back and stiffen all over her body. Then she suddenly laughed again and helped the maid up. Stupid child, I just said that casually. Why are you so scared? You are too cautious. Although its good to be cautious, if you are too cautious, you will live a difficult life. As long as I can make your wish come true, I dont think life is difficult. No matter how pleasant Mo Shujuns words were, Leng Yan was humble and didnt indulge herself at all. It satisfied Mo Shujun especially. Then she said great several times before letting Leng Yan go. However, as soon as Leng Yan closed the door, Mo Shujuns smiling face darkened. She gazed at the wooden door deeply and looked cold, thinking, Leng Yan is thoughtful and smart, but she knows too many things. If I keep her with me, I am afraid that Its time to deal with her Mo Shujun sighed in a low voice and lay on the small soft bed, closing her eyes slightly. In the tenth lunar month, it was getting cold. In the autumn, golden fallen leaves could be seen everywhere, and it was depressing. But there was good news successively in Duke Shis mansion, and the family wasnt influenced by the desolate late autumn at all. Especially when Shen Luo affirmed that Dong Huis baby was stable, all people in the East House sighed with relief because they didnt need to worry every day that she might miscarry when they were careless. Dong Hui touched her belly joyfully with a gentle smile. These days, in order to protect the baby, she lived alone all the time, and Shi Junhe never entered her room. Although she was confident as Shi Junhe wouldnt hook up with any woman outside, it was not good if a couple lived apart for long. Now the baby was safe, and Shi Junhes moving back could be put on the agenda. But Dong Hui didnt have the face to ask about something like this in person. She was a woman and had the right to keep reserved. She would let Shi Junhe ask for her permission to come back. However, Shen Luo had checked her pulse for several times, and Shi Junhe was present every time and heard the doctors conclusion, but he didnt mention once that he would move back to the bedroom. He still stayed alone in the study at night. It appeared that he planned to live in the study and wouldnt mention that he would live with Dong Hui until the baby was born in safety. He was so well-behaved that he made Dong Hui feel depressed. Dong Hui had no choice but to find a little helper. The little helper Shi Qingxue looked confused after hearing Dong Huis words. Doesnt Father live in the study comfortably? Why would he move back to the bedroom anxiously? Even if he moves back, he cant do that with you, and he still has to sleep on the small hard bed. He can see you but cant sleep with you. So how sad would he be? Shi Qingxue spoke recklessly and didnt feel shy. She said whatever she wanted to say and talked about sex directly. Dong Hui was shy and angry, cursing her crossly, You dont know the rules. What did you say? Shi Qingxue was puzzled and looked at Dong Hui in a daze. She had no idea why she didnt know the rules. You Alas, you irritate me to death! Dong Hui was annoyed as she saw that Qingxue wouldnt go until she understood why. Then Dong Hui thought that Qingxue was old enough, and, as her mother, it was time to teach her. Then she continued, The doctor said that the baby is not stable in the first three months of pregnancy, and its forbidden to have sex, but after three months, the couple can do it occasionally. Now my baby has been in the womb for four months, so your father can certainly move back! Oh! Shi Qingxue looked as if she understood and then nodded repeatedly, responding, I see. You must be afraid that Father cant stand it, so you are anxious to tell him to come back. Dont worry. I am going to tell Father now. I will let him understand your effort. As soon as Shi Qingxue finished her words, she quickly ran out of the room like a rabbit before Dong Hui came to her senses. When Dong Hui reacted and wanted to rebuke her as she spoke recklessly, Shi Qingxue had run away and was nowhere to be seen. Naughty girl! After leaving Dong Huis bedroom, Shi Qingxue ran to the study in a hurry. She craned her neck and looked at the room. As expected, she saw that Shi Junhe was sitting inside and reading official documents attentively. When she was wondering if she would enter and disturb him, a voice came from inside. Since you are here, why dont you come in? Qingxue was scared and raised her head immediately, but Shi Junhes eyes still fell on the official documents, as if the voice she had heard was her illusion. But she wouldnt think so. She stood straight obediently and then walked into the room slowly. Afterward, she stood in front of Shi Junhe and greeted respectfully, Father. What can I do for you? Shi Qingxues eyes rolled and she wondered how much possibility that she would be beaten if she talked in the same way as before with Shi Junhe about the matter that he should move back. She thought it over and knew that she would surely be beaten. In an instant, she didnt dare to act recklessly and asked indirectly, Father, the small bed in the study is hard, right? You must be uncomfortable when you sleep on it If he wasnt comfortable when he slept, he should hurriedly move back to the bedroom. Qingxue had a good plan. But before she finished her words, Shi Junhe looked up at her and asked straightforwardly, Did your mother send you to tell me to move back? Shi Qingxue coughed. Ahem She was almost choked by her saliva and then managed with effort to recover after coughing for a long time. Then she looked at Shi Junhe in surprise, with doubt written on her face. Why did you know that? Shi Junhe sneered. I am your father. You are so complacent. Cant I guess what you are thinking about? Heehee Qingxue hurriedly smiled flatteringly and tried to please him. It must be that you and Mother mentally communicate with each other and think alike. Shi Junhe was stunned for a moment and the smile on his face faded. After a long time, he asked impassively, What did your mother say? Mother said she misses you a lot and thinks that the study is shabby, so she told me to advise you to move back soon. Then she wouldnt worry every day and night if you eat or sleep well. Shi Qingxue spoke without hesitation and was good at embroidering the truth. Outsiders couldnt see anything wrong. But Shi Junhe just glanced at her and stated indifferently, You lied to me. Chapter 251 - I Will Avenge You Shi Qingxue had been exposed by Shi Junhe for twice, and she was too powerless to ask him how he found it. She had to crane her neck and tried to struggle, insisting. I told the truth. Mother really misses you. If you dont believe me, you can go back to ask her. Shi Junhe didnt care when Shi Qingxue prodded him into action. How can I be unclear about your mothers character? Even if she really misses me, she wouldnt tell you her feelings. Dont fool me. He sat in the chair and remained unmoved. Father! Shi Qingxue smiled flatteringly again and blinked innocently. Generally, once she acted like this, showing her master stroke to him, even if Shi Junhe was reluctant to admit defeats, he would make her wish come true. However, this time, Shi Junhe looked impassive and even waved at her impatiently, as if driving away flies. Fine. Theres nothing that you can do here. Just go out to have fun by yourself. Didnt His Excellency always ask you to ride a horse on the training ground? You like to ride a horse most at ordinary times. Why dont you go to the training ground but idle about at home? She was greeted with a strong feeling that he disliked her, and even her master stroke was ineffective. Shi Qingxue thought that it was like a thunderbolt out of a clear sky, and she was dumbfounded. Her father even disliked her? Go now! Dont stay here. Shi Junhe didnt give her time to restore her equilibrium but waved at her again to kick her out. However, Shi Qingxue was stubborn. How could she be driven away so easily? She pouted with displeasure and whispered, But Mother told me to Fine, fine. I know what I should do. You are a kid and dont mind the adults business! Shi Junhe stopped her from saying more and just answered. However, he was merely perfunctory. After Shi Junhe responded to her, he even shouted at the door and summoned Shi Jie. Go to prepare a carriage for Qingxue. She is going to ride a horse on the training ground. Send a letter to King Ruis mansion and ask His Excellency to take good care of her. Yes! Till Shi Qingxue was sent to the gate of King Ruis mansion, she didnt come back to earth from the bad news that her father disliked her. Mo Junyang raised his hand and waved in front of her, and she suddenly cried out. Purr Mo Junyang, my father dislikes me unexpectedly. I am so poor! Although she complained tearfully, it was the same as playing the woman. Only Mo Junyang cooperated with her and asked hurriedly with a frown, Whats the matter? Tell me. I will avenge you. He looked serious. It seemed that as long as Shi Qingxue said that she was bullied, he would instantly go to Duke Shis mansion and beat up his future father-in-law. Shi Qingxue thought of Mo Junyangs criminal record and believed that it was quite possible. She was scared and shook her head in a hurry. Then she didnt dare to act like a spoilt child randomly and stated frankly, No. I was joking. I just want to Oh? What do you want to do? Mo Junyangs face softened and he asked with interest. Qingxue stuttered, I just want, want to She couldnt speak out the words play the woman even if she was beaten to death. However, Mo Junyang gazed at her, which made her face blush like a red apple which had just been washed. She was so lovely and attractive. He really wanted to bite her. Mo Junyang was itchy. When she almost couldnt stand it, he looked away like an upright gentleman. In fact, he had a good laugh at her. Ahem So we are going to the training ground now? Shi Qingxue wished that Mo Junyang didnt bother about this matter anymore, and she didnt expect that he was teasing her, so she nodded repeatedly. Great. Lets go now! Shi Junhe kicked Shi Qingxue out of the study and then prepared to continue to check the official documents. They were put in front of him for quite a while, yet he didnt even read one word. In the end, he had to throw the documents back to the table top and then supported his forehead tiredly while sighing. It happened that Mammy Zheng came to the study at the moment and asked respectfully, My Lord, Madam told me to ask you if you will go to the bedroom and have lunch with her as the lunch is ready. Because special attention should be paid to the pregnant womans food, since they knew that Dong Hui was pregnant, her food was prepared specially and she never had meals with the others. Mammy Zheng came to ask Shi Junhe, and it was obvious that Dong Hui gave him a chance to make peace. Shi Junhe leered at Mammy Zheng with a faint smile and didnt expose them. Instead, he nodded, replying, I see. I will come later. Mammy Zheng didnt expect that it went so smoothly, so she was joyful and expressed her thanks. It seemed that she didnt come to ask him but to beg him. Shi Junhe was not in the mood to talk with her and waved her away directly. He sat in the chair for about fifteen more minutes and then finally made a decision. Then he stood up and went to Dong Huis bedroom. As soon as she saw Shi Junhe, Dong Hui walked to him with a smile, saying happily, Junhe, you are tired. I specially told the servants to prepare the food you like to eat. Lets just have lunch now. Since Shi Junhe entered the room, he stared at Dong Hui all the time, to see that she smiled at him and talked to him calmly and intimately as usual. However, it made his heart sink. After a long time, he responded, Madam, thank you. Hearing Shi Junhes form of address, Dong Hui frowned with no trace, but soon she looked normal and sat with him to eat. Although there was a lot of food on the dining table that she couldnt eat, she still sat with Shi Junhe to show respect to him and offered him dishes and soup. She was more thoughtful and intimate to him than before. However, Shi Junhe felt that the food in his mouth was tasteless and he couldnt swallow it. He ate more slowly and put down the tableware in the end, looking at Dong Hui deeply. Dong Hui looked as if nothing had happened and even raised her bright eyes, gazing at Shi Junhe. Then she asked innocently, Why do you stop eating? Shi Junhe was in a daze under Dong Huis stare and suddenly had a weird thought on his mind. He finally remembered why he fell in deep love with Dong Hui at first sight and why he loved his naughty youngest daughter most. Not to mention anything else, this pair of bright and clever big eyes could arouse the softness at the bottom of his heart at any time. Unfortunately Shi Junhe shook his head and shook off the messy thoughts. Then he turned his head and ordered the servants, All of you, go away. You cant come in without my order. Yes! All the servants replied in unison. Then they left the bedroom one after another under Mammy Zhengs leadership. Mammy Zheng walked at the end. When she closed the door, she didnt forget to give Dong Hui a glance to encourage her. Dong Hui thought that Shi Junhe would talk about living together and could hardly conceal her excitement. She pinched her hand hard and then managed with effort to pretend calm. Junhe, what will you tell me? Dont you have something to tell me? Shi Junhe asked in reply. It was beyond Dong Huis expectations and made her prepared answer stuck in her throat. She couldnt speak a word. She was astonished first and thought that Mammy Zheng had said something wrong in front of Shi Junhe, yet soon she guessed if Shi Qingxue had spilt the beans or Stop guessing. I found it out myself. Shi Junhe interrupted Dong Hui who was lost in various fancies and conjectures. He looked steadily at Dong Hui with a bitter smile on her face. Then he continued, We are a couple for so many years. Do you think that I am unable to guess what you are thinking about? Dong Hui blushed first because of Shi Junhes words a couple for so many years, but then his deep voice made her heart sink to a low point in an instant. Junhe! She raised her head in haste and wanted to explain. However, Shi Junhe waved his hand again and interrupted her, saying forcefully, You are pregnant, and your task of a top priority now is to recuperate and give birth to a healthy baby. Dont worry too much about anything else. I will handle everything. This voice was distant, but his concern could hardly be concealed. Shi Junhe loved his wife after all. Of course, Dong Hui noticed that and felt happy, so she ignored that a woman should be reserved and expressed softly, Thanks for your concern, but Doctor Shen checked me and said that the baby in my womb is steady. Dont worry. Its great that it is safe. At the mention of the baby, Shi Junhe looked gentler. You suffer a lot as you sleep in the study these days. Now that the fetus is four months old, you can move back! Dong Hui said slowly and stared at Shi Junhe with expectancy again. The smile on Shi Junhes face stiffened, and he suddenly stopped talking. He stayed silent for a moment and then shook his head, replying casually, No need. The baby is more important. I am afraid that if I come back, I will disturb you when you have a rest. Dong Hui explained in an instant, No. When you are not here, I cant sleep well. Shi Junhe was quiet again. After a long time, he still shook his head and said indifferently, Its troublesome to move here and there, and I am used to sleeping in the study now. Lets just be like this for now. Junhe! Dong Hui was anxious and tried to grab Shi Junhes sleeve. Nevertheless, before she touched it, he avoided her subconsciously. Her hand stopped in the midair and didnt move up or down. Both of them froze for a moment and seemed not to realize the current situation. Dong Hui waited about fifteen minutes but Shi Junhe didnt apologize to her or grab her hand. He just let it stiffen in the midair and seemed to dislike her. Dong Huis heart fell to the lowest point instantly, and she restrained her urge to cry. Afterward, she withdrew her hand and forced herself to continue smiling, stressing each word while asking, Junhe, are you really unwilling to move back? Looking at Dong Huis smiling face which was even uglier than what she looked when she was crying, Shi Junhe was moved and almost wanted to pull her into his arms. Nevertheless, he still clenched his fist in the end and avoided Dong Huis eyes with expectancy, insisting, I still Tears fell from Dong Huis eyes at once. She couldnt stand it anymore and asked in tears, You dont call me Hui or sleep with me anymore Do you really dislike me? Of course not! Shi Junhe denied it firmly and wanted to explain, but he shut his mouth helplessly at last. He just repeated, You are pregnant and should keep the baby safe. Dont think too much about anything else! She had been happy before, but she was irritated now. She couldnt bear it anymore and shouted at Shi Junhe, You lied to me! I think you still bother about the matter that I met my fathers student. I have said that there is nothing happening between us. Why dont you believe me? Its not that I dont believe you. Dont Shi Junhe repeated powerlessly, yet the weariness and gloom on his face said obviously, Thats not true. He does care. Huh, you said that you believe me, but tell me how many times you have looked at me after that happened. How many times have you talked with me alone? He would only avoid seeing her or be indifferent to her. Dong Hui almost went crazy because of Shi Junhes silent treatment. Shi Junhe clenched his fist and suddenly raised his head, asking, What do you think I should do? What? Shi Junhe forced a smile and demanded, Tell me what I should do after that happened. Dong Hui finally understood what Shi Junhe meant, and she answered subconsciously, Isnt it that you dont care? Even after Mother and the others forced me in that way, you just protect me. I thought you wouldnt care Dont care? Do you think it is possible? Shi Junhe sneered and his eyes were distant. When could they think that he didnt care while his wife had an affair with another man as he protected her? Chapter 252 - I Won’t Ask You to Stay if You Want to Leave Dong Hui was startled and speechless, looking at Shi Junhe in a daze. Shi Junhe didnt play dumb and asked with a bitter smile, Do you dare to say that nothing happened between you and Yan L, and you are innocent? Its true. That night I just Dong Hui thought that Shi Junhe was mad because he misunderstood what happened that night, so she was anxious to give him an explanation. However, Shi Junhe just shook his head and asked impassively, Have I told you that I dont want you to meet Yan L? Dong Hui stiffened and had to nod, yet soon she explained, But it happened for a reason that night. Listen to my explanation. Fine, stop. I dont want to know what was going on that night. Shi Junhe waved his hand wearily and didnt want to listen to Dong Hui. Because it was pointless. No matter if something happened between Dong Hui and Yan L, it didnt matter anymore. The people who should misunderstand had misunderstood, and the people who wanted to find fault with her had got the evidence against her. Was it necessary to investigate? The indifference in Shi Junhes eyes hurt Dong Hui. She was scared and grieved. Then she nervously grabbed his hand, begging, Junhe, dont be like this. I really didnt cheat on you. You should trust me! Shi Junhe gently pushed away Dong Huis hand and responded distantly, I have said that it doesnt matter. I dont care about this matter anymore. You dont need to No, its not true! Dong Hui interrupted Shi Junhe in a harsh voice and stared at him desperately. She stressed each word. I said that I just met Yan once and nothing happened. Why do you still suspect me? Shi Junhe got rash probably because of Dong Huis roar and couldnt help saying furiously, You know that Yan L has improper feelings for you, but you still met him in private. What do you want me to think about? Huh! Tell me! Dong Hui opened her eyes wide in disbelief and looked as if she was frustrated. She hadnt expected that Shi Junhe would speak evil of Yan L, as if their relationship was unpresentable, so she shouted more emotionally, What bullshit are you talking about? Yan is upright. How can you say that he is so evil? You really disappoint me. You are disappointed? Shi Junhe sneered and his eyes were dark. He stated in a sharp voice, You have a secret relationship with Yan L all the time. I am desperate. Shi Junhe! Dong Hui screamed loudly out of anger and looked at Shi Junhe with sorrow in her eyes. It seemed that she couldnt accept that he talked about the relationship between her and Yan L like this. However, after Shi Junhe finished his words, he didnt dodge but stared at Dong Hui, protesting silently. Dong Hui was irritated almost to death by his attitude, and she trembled in a rage. After a long time, she finally managed with effort to calm down. She restrained her urge to cry and then expressed in a sobbing voice, Fine, fine! I see. You look down upon me and dont want to be with me now. I wont force you. I am leaving now, okay? Afterward, Dong Hui stood up from her chair in an instant and shouted to the outside, Zheng, come in. Come in! Mammy Zheng was guarding outside while trembling all the time. In the beginning, she didnt hear the voices in the room. Till they quarreled in louder voices, even the people outside heard them. She hurriedly drove the servants around away as she was afraid that the secret would be heard. Hearing Dong Huis order, Mammy Zheng walked in instantly. Madam, what can I do for you? Dong Hui pointed to the room stiffly and responded in a cold voice, Since somebody starts to dislike me, I will go back to my parents home and wont humiliate myself here. Go to pack up for me now. Hearing that Dong Hui would go back to her parents home after they quarreled, Mammy Zheng was anxious and quickly knelt in front of her, begging, Madam, Duke Shis mansion is your home! How can you leave home just because you are angry? Tears fell from Dong Huis eyes immediately as Mammy Zheng advised her. She wiped her tears and meanwhile leered at Shi Junhe, saying coldly, I am detested by somebody. Whats the point if I still stay at this home? Id better leave as soon as possible so that I can give his new wife a room in the future. What nonsense are you talking about? Where is the new wife? Shi Junhe had a headache and touched his forehead. He was helpless as Dong Hui was unreasonable and made trouble out of nothing. Nevertheless, Dong Hui got emotional again and pointed at Shi Junhe, cursing, You didnt talk nonsense and slander me and Yan? Shi Junhe kept silent as he saw that Dong Hui mentioned Yan L again after beating around the bush. He looked as if he wouldnt change his words no matter what she said, which made Dong Hui furious. She shouted again that she would go back to her parents home. Noticing that something bad would happen, Mammy Zheng turned around and knelt to Shi Junhe. She kept kowtowing and begging for mercy. My Lord, Madam is not good-tempered, but she loves you wholeheartedly, and even the gods in the heaven can testify her. Please coax her. Now she is pregnant. If she goes back to her parents home, wouldnt she be bullied by her greedy relatives? Seeing that Mammy Zheng begged for mercy for her, Dong Hui yelled more angrily, Zheng, dont beg him! He doesnt like me, and I dont care about him. I have stayed in this mansion for long enough and cant stay here for one quarter more. You pack up for me right away. I am going back to my parents mansion now. After speaking, she walked back to the wardrobe in person and pulled out her clothes since Mammy Zheng refused to do that. She spat at her husband. Shi Junhe, I tell you. You force me to leave today. In the future, even if you go to my parents home and kneel to me to beg me, I wont come back. Mammy Zheng was furious and anxious. She told her lady not to be so impulsive and begged Shi Junhe at the same time. However, Shi Junhe just stood by and watched aside. Hearing that Dong Hui said something cruel without hesitation, he merely furrowed his brows. After a long time, he couldnt help but say coldly at last, Since you want to go back, just go. With these words, Shi Junhe didnt care about Dong Huis reactions and waved his sleeves while leaving directly. So he didnt know that after he went away, the bedroom fell into silence. Hearing his heartless words, Dong Hui stiffened on the spot and still raised her hand to pull out her clothes. She was unmoved like a rigid statue. Mammy Zheng came back to earth first. Seeing that Dong Hui was shocked, she hurriedly rushed forward and helped the lady sit at the bedside. Then she pressed Dong Huis chest continuously and cried, Madam, dont frighten me After a long time, Dong Hui suddenly breathed in and straightened her back. She finally recovered, but soon tears fell from her eyes, and she couldnt stop them anyway. Zheng! Junhe wants to abandon me From the beginning, Dong Hui didnt want to leave, yet Shi Junhe just bothered about her relationship with Yan L, so she wanted to force him to be soft by saying that she would go back to her parents home. Before Shi Junhe spoke out those heartless words, she had thought that Shi Junhe would compromise in the end, but unexpectedly Dong Hui looked at Mammy Zheng in despair and asked endlessly, What should I do? What should I do Mammy Zheng was also in tears after hearing that and grabbed Dong Huis hand, advising her. Madam, listen to me. Dont be mad at His Lordship this time. He is angry now. Just give in and admit your mistake. This thing Admit my mistake? Dong Hui shook her head emotionally and added in a rage, I didnt do anything wrong. Why should I admit my mistake? I wont admit it. He misunderstood me first. He should apologize to me Madam! Mammy Zheng was helpless because of Dong Huis stubbornness. Dong Hui was wrong as she met another man in private and even many people knew that. Shi Junhe was kind enough as he protected her in front of outsiders. Was he not allowed to be mad? If he was not mad, he would be a coward and deserve to be cheated on. Mammy Zheng told Dong Hui each reason and hoped that the madam could realize that she could win back her husbands love only if she apologized to him right away. Madam, go to see His Lordship now. Otherwise, it will be too late. I Dong Hui hesitated. After a long moment of hesitation, she looked at Mammy Zheng in embarrassment and added with annoyance, I have just said something cruelly, but I will change my mind and apologize to him, admitting my mistake I, I feel ashamed! Madam, its not the time to consider your dignity now. Dont be stubborn anymore Dong Hui was hesitant and wrinkled her face more, yet in the end, she didnt agree. Instead, she stated, No, I cant lower myself to that level. If I admit my mistake now, it means that I admit that I have an affair with Yan. How would I have the face to stay in this family in the future? Mammy Zheng almost went crazy because Dong Hui didnt listen to her, and she thought, You have met Yan L privately late at night. Doesnt it mean that something happened between you two? Should he catch you having sex? However, Dong Hui just thought that her relationship with Yan L was pure, and she didnt listen to Mammy Zhengs advice. She was unwilling to go to see Shi Junhe. Mammy Zheng had no choice but to suggest, How about asking Lady Qingxue to beg her father for mercy. She is favored by him, and maybe he will stop being mad at you? Dong Hui also thought this was a practical solution, so she hurriedly told somebody to look for Shi Qingxue, but a servant reported, Lady Qingxue went out of the mansion this morning and hasnt come back. She asked, Where did she go? The servant replied, His Lordship told somebody to send her out of the mansion in person, and I dont know where she is. After hearing that, Dong Hui was disappointed and couldnt help complaining about Shi Qingxue, A young lady from a powerful family doesnt stay at home, yet she just goes out all day long. She is so misbehaved. I will teach her a lesson later! Mammy Zheng knew that Dong Hui was so angry that she started to vent on Shi Qingxue. She didnt defend Qingxue but offered another suggestion. How about asking Lady Baoning to talk with her father? She is gentle and His Lordship likes her. Her words would be effective, too. Right, right! Dong Hui agreed repeatedly. Since Mammy Zheng still sat without doing anything, Dong Hui shouted angrily and anxiously again, Why dont you bring Baoning for me as soon as possible? What are you doing here? Mammy Zheng instantly stood up and walked out. When she was on the way, she was stopped by Dong Hui. Wait. Just ask Baoning to see her father. Dont waste time here. Yes, yes! As soon as Mammy Zheng went away, Dong Hui was sorrowful again and began to sigh with a sad face. Junhe, we are a couple, but why are you so cruel? Dont you care about our love as we are a couple for so many years? Soon after she sighed, she shook her head first and denied it. No, he wont be so heartless. He loves me so much. As long as Baoning says something nice to him, and I am soft to him later, this matter will pass. Dong Hui waited in the bedroom for nearly one hour and looked at the room door for many times, yet Shi Junhe didnt come. When she was almost restless, she saw that Shi Baoning walked in with a worried face, with Mammy Zheng and the manservant Shi Jie following her. The three entered the room. Dong Hui craned her neck to look at the outside all the time but she didnt see anybody, so she had to ask, Where is your master? Shi Baoning and Mammy Zheng didnt speak. Only Shi Jie took a step forward and bowed to Dong Hui, saying seriously, His Lordship said that if you really insist on going back to your parents home to expect the baby, he wont stop you. Madam, you can go whenever you want. If you want to come back, just send him a letter. After speaking, Shi Jie knelt to Dong Hui on one knee again and continued before Dong Hui asked, I have sent the message, and His Lordship is waiting for me to report back. I have to say goodbye now. Chapter 253 - Go Back to Her Parents’ Home Dong Hui sat on the bed in a daze and looked expressionless. Her face was stiff like a statue. It scared Mammy Zheng and Shi Baoning a lot. They pinched her palm and beat her chest. After quite a while, they finally made Dong Hui come to her senses. Ah! Dong Hui cried out loudly at once and held Mammy Zheng tightly. She didnt know what she should do. Mammy Zheng also cried and hugged Dong Hui, advising, Madam, just listen to me. Dont be stubborn. Go to ask His Lordship to forgive you. You are a couple for so many years, and he wont tell you to go back to your parents home. Dong Hui cried and her eyes were red, but hearing Mammy Zhengs advice, she stiffened and didnt say anything. Mammy Zheng noticed her hesitation at a glance and felt anxious and angry, yet she could do nothing as Dong Hui was stubborn. Then she warned in a cold voice, Madam, if you are still stubborn, you have to return to your parents home. If the news spreads, you wont have the face to live in this family! Unexpectedly, her provocation was ineffective but made Dong Hui go to extremes. She stood up from the bed abruptly and sadness flashed on her face. However, in a flash, it turned into firmness. Huh! Shi Junhe is determined to kick me out this time. If I stay, I will lose face. I have parents, and I am going back now. I will see who will give in first in the future! After that, she didnt care about Mammy Zheng and Shi Baonings tearfully begging but started to pack up. Seeing that Mammy Zheng stood still, Dong Hui roared angrily, Why are you still standing here? Go to pack up for me immediately. I cant order you? Mammy Zheng had no choice but to wink at Shi Baoning, hoping that she could figure out a way. Then she obediently went to pack up for Dong Hui. At the moment, Shi Baoning was also anxious with sweat all over her head and wanted to persuade Dong Hui, yet she was not as silver-tongued as Shi Qingxue, and she didnt know how to convince her mother. She just said the same words. She couldnt stop her but pushed her into the carriage. Seeing that it was irremediable, Mammy Zheng stomped in a rage. Before she went into the carriage with Dong Hui, she pulled Shi Baoning aside in secret and stated in a low voice, My Lady, now perhaps only Lady Qingxue can help Madam. His Lordship loves Lady Qingxue most. As long as she mediates, it will be successful As Dong Hui was urging her in the carriage, Mammy Zheng didnt have time to say so much, so she lowered her voice and mentioned another key point. If she cant, she has the token granted by Emperor Leaving the hint, Mammy Zheng hurriedly went into the carriage and didnt notice that Shi Baonings expression changed after she heard that. Shi Baoning stiffened at the gate and didnt have any reaction. Seeing that she remained unmoved for a long time, her maid Jing Zhuang grabbed her sleeve and called in a soft voice, My Lady, lets go to look for Lady Qingxue as soon as possible! Shi Baoning suddenly reacted and then heard Jing Zhuangs words. Her face darkened and she asked, Do you also think that Qingxue is more capable than me? Ah? No, I Jing Zhang didnt know why she irritated Shi Baoning, and she was scared, asking for mercy in a hurry. When she was about to slap herself, she was stopped by Shi Baoning. The gloom on Shi Baonings face faded at once, and she returned gentle as usual. She nodded at Jing Zhuang with a smile. You are right. Only she can make it. I would merely be rebuked by Father, and he even doesnt look at me. Hearing that, Jing Zhuang felt a chill down her spine all of a sudden, and she was in panic for no reason, but soon she thought that she worried too much. The first lady was still so gentle. However, why did she say that with jealousy? Jing Zhuang shook her head and got rid of her messy thoughts. Then she talked business. I have inquired about it just now. I heard Shi Jie who prepared the carriage say that His Lordship sent her to King Ruis mansion. Shall we go there to have a look? Hearing the words King Ruis mansion, Shi Baoning was scared. Mo Junyang left a horrible impression to her in the past, so she felt terrified at the thought of him. Not to mention going to King Ruis mansion, even when Mo Junyang came to Duke Shis mansion, she would have to keep out of the way. However, she realized that Shi Junhe had sent Qingxue to King Ruis mansion, and she had a feeling that was hard to explain. Her father tried to make a match for Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang obviously. She didnt like Mo Junyang. However, on second thought, after Shi Qingxue married him, Shi Baoning wouldnt need to worry every day that Wenren Chi would My Lady, what are you thinking about? Jing Zhuang waited a long time and didnt see Shi Baoning do anything but her face changed unpredictably, which made this maid feel restless. Shi Baoning came back to reality and spoke to Jing Zhuang calmly. Since Father told Qingxue to go to King Ruis mansion, he must have something important to tell her to do. If we disturb her at this time, it would be bad once we ruin something. But Madam Although Jing Zhuang didnt know why Dong Hui suddenly went back to her parents home in a rage, even she, a servant knew that it was urgent, and they couldnt delay. Since ancient time, the woman would be divorced and go back to her parents home only after she made a big mistake. Even though Dong Hui asked to go back, outsiders wouldnt care about the reason. If they talked in confusion, they might say something unpleasant to hear. Shi Baoning pursed her lips and expressed helplessly, I will talk with Father again. Maybe now he is not so angry as before. Then While speaking, she walked to the study, but she still looked worried all the way and wasnt confident about what she would do next. Anyway, this time Shi Junhe allowed her to enter the room. Father, nice to see you. Shi Baoning bowed to Shi Junhe restlessly and didnt dare to raise her head. She just waited in panic. In the beginning, Shi Junhe didnt speak. He merely raised his cold eyes and looked Shi Baoning up and down. After quite a while, he nodded slightly. Hum. Then he didnt say more. Shi Baoning was used to being passive and prepared to wait for Shi Junhe to ask her what she wanted. Then she would persuade him to bring Dong Hui back from her parents home. As a result, he ignored her, which made her words stuck in her heart, and she couldnt speak. Father. Shi Baoning looked up at Shi Junhe with a grievance and seemed not to understand why he was so distant to her. However, Shi Junhe just turned away rigidly. At last, he probably didnt want it to be too embarrassing, so he asked, Your mother went back to her parents home? Seeing that her father cared about her mother, Shi Baoning didnt feel grieved anymore and hurriedly nodded. Yes, she just got into the carriage. She was smart and then added sadly, When I saw Mother get into the carriage, tears didnt stop falling on her face and she was in a daze. I am worried that there would be something wrong with her. Why didnt you go back with her? Shi Junhe asked in reply casually. Shi Baonings face stiffened and she was unable to reply. Shi Junhe didnt plan to denounce her. Before she answered, he asked, Did Mammy Zheng go with her? Yes, Shi Baoning responded obediently and didnt dare to say that Dong Hui was miserable. Shi Junhe trusted Mammy Zhengs moral quality and capability. Hearing this response, he nodded with satisfaction and didnt ask about this matter anymore. He stared at Shi Baoning, to see that she stood in front of the table and looked nervous and bashful, so he didnt want her to worry too much. Then he said, Fine. You are tired today. Go back to have a rest first. If they said that Shi Baoning was like Shi Junhe, it must be because of her stubbornness. All the family members came down in one continuous line and nobody was an exception. They wouldnt give up until they achieved the goal. They were like Shi Junhe and Dong Hui. She came to beg for mercy for Dong Hui. Now she hadnt started to speak, so how would she go away easily? She scratched her sleeve and wrinkled it nervously. After stuttering for a long time, she asked, Father, Father, can you bring Mother back? Its not good as she went back like this. Its Before she finished her words, she couldnt continue. She could do nothing. She was afraid of Shi Junhes majesty at ordinary times and couldnt act like a spoilt child in front of her father as Shi Qingxue did. It was fine if she could communicate with Shi Junhe normally, not to mention that he showed a cold face, so she didnt know how to beg for mercy to move him. As expected, Shi Junhe didnt listen to her but rebuked her, You dont qualify to mind the elders business. If you are so free, just think more about your marriage to Chi in the near future. Shi Baoning was frustrated after being rebuked, so she retreated in defeat. Nevertheless, she was reluctant and raised her tearful eyes, looking at Shi Junhe stubbornly. She always thought that if Shi Qingxue said that, she wouldnt be refused so cruelly at least even if he wouldnt agree. Father, in your eyes, am I really inferior to Qingxue? Shi Baoning couldnt control herself and finally asked. Shi Junhe was vexed because of Dong Huis issue and didnt expect that Shi Baoning asked such a question. He was stunned and kept silent. In Shi Baonings eyes, this reaction was tacit consent. Shi Baoning smiled sadly and tears fell from her eyes automatically at last. I got it What did you get? A clear voice came from outside. Then they saw that Shi Qingxue dressed in a military uniform ran in from outside in high spirits. In the beginning, she was joyful, but after she saw the expressions of the two in the room clearly, she became astonished immediately. Baoning, why are you crying? Shi Qingxue hurriedly moved closer to her sister and asked, trying to wipe the tears on her face in a flurry. However, as soon as Shi Qingxue raised her hand, Shi Baoning took a step backward and made it stiffen in the midair. For a moment, it was silent in the room. Shi Qingxue was startled again. Before she understood why she was disliked, Shi Baoning ran out even without giving an explanation. Before Shi Baoning left, her aggrieved tears flashed by in front of Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was stunned for a while and then tried to chase her sister subconsciously. Baoning! Qingxue, stop chasing her! Shi Junhe stopped her and looked serious. Shi Qingxue had to stop in her tracks, but she still turned to Shi Junhe in confusion and asked, Father, what on earth was going on? Why did you make my sister cry? Shi Junhe just came back to earth from Shi Baonings denouncement and looked gloomy, so he replied crossly, She thinks too much. Who can she blame? His voice was indifferent. Obviously he was angry. Shi Qingxue was sensible and didnt irritate Shi Junhe. She just cautiously talked about the funny things that happened to her and Mo Junyang on the training ground, hoping that she could take the opportunity to distract her father. When Shi Junhes face was not as tense as before, she mentioned something embarrassing that happened today. In the end, she intentionally gritted her teeth and complained, Mo Junyang is too narrow-minded. He is not as skilled as me, but he didnt admit it. Moreover, he made me lose face, too. You dont know how many servants there were on the training ground, and all of them looked at us. I dont have the face to see anybody! Shi Qingxue said exaggeratedly and specially showed her hand to Shi Junhe, complaining, Look. My hand was injured because of him. Hearing that she was injured, Shi Junhe was worried and hurriedly looked at her, to find that her fair-skinned hand was only red even without scratched skin. Her father crossly shook off her hand and glared at this girl who could fool others when she was exaggerated. Is this the injury as you said? Chapter 254 - Do You Believe that It Is a Misunderstanding? Shi Qingxue didnt notice the reproach in Shi Junhes eyes at all seemingly and shouted more exaggeratedly, Why arent I injured? Havent you seen that a large part of it is red? Shi Junhe looked at her coldly and ignored her when she acted like a spoilt child. Seeing that her father was so hard-hearted, Qingxue rolled her eyes and cried out instantly, Purr, Father, you dont love me at all! In the past, once I said that I was hurt, you would ask me and be afraid that there was something wrong with me. Now my hand is red after I fell on the ground, but you dont care. As expected, I have become a wild child nobody loves. Little Qingxue lost her mother when she was just three years old While speaking, she even sang a song in a sobbing voice. It made people feel sad. Even though Shi Junhe knew that Shi Qingxue just pretended, he was moved by her words, but the lyrics were really Duke Shi showed a straight face and rebuked crossly, What nonsense are you talking about? Your mother is fine. Shi Qingxue blinked and asked quickly, Where is she now? Shi Junhe was speechless. He realized why this daughter came to please him and complain about her misery. She beat around the bush and just wanted to beg for mercy for Dong Hui. However, obviously, she said much more tactfully than Shi Baoning. Although he didnt nod in agreement, he felt that his heart was shaky indeed. Shi Junhe met Shi Qingxues pure and clean eyes and couldnt help but sigh in secret. No wonder Baoning said that I am partial. Although both of them are my children, my little Qingxue can relax me easily with only a few words and almost makes me open-minded in silence How would I not like and spoil such a child? Father, Father Shi Qingxue waited a moment but Shi Junhe didnt give a response, so she started to call him like an old monk chanting. However, her voice was sweet, and as she called, it seemed that she played the woman. It stopped Shi Junhe from feeling angry and emotional. He sighed deeply and patted Qingxues shoulder, asking directly, Did you come to beg for mercy for your mother, too? Shi Qingxue peeped at Shi Junhe and saw that he looked peaceful, so she thought, He finally stops sulking. She was relieved and didnt play tricks anymore. Then she nodded and admitted it, advising cautiously, Father, dont be mad at Mother, okay? Do you know what she has done? You ask me not to be mad? Shi Junhes voice was cold and unfriendly. It appeared that he would get angry again. Shi Qingxue thought it was bad and explained with a quick answer, I dont know. But I think that you love Mother so much and must not want to be angry with her. Just be broad-minded and forgive Mother! Although her words couldnt solve the contradiction thoroughly, it really stopped Shi Junhe from being alert. He fell into silence again and looked out the window with a complicated expression, without saying anything for a long time. Qingxue didnt dare to disturb him and just waited obediently, wondering how she could comfort her father. What? Why didnt she talk with Dong Hui and ask her to admit her mistake? As soon as this thought just appeared on Qingxues mind, it was given up by her. She had seen Dong Huis stubbornness as once she affirmed anything, others couldnt move her easily. Especially there were many conflicts that she couldnt ask about as a daughter. It was better to ask Shi Junhe, this man to bow and rise at will, and it would be easier to solve the family conflicts. Qingxue, do you think that I should go to bring your mother back now? Shi Junhe asked all of a sudden. He even left this question to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was stunned and then blinked before answering with a nod, Yes, you should. After speaking, she was afraid that Shi Junhe would get mad, so she explained hesitantly, We are family, so we should live together. If we get parted because of personal feelings, we would only give outsiders a chance to comment, and Shi Qingxue racked her brains and tried to analyze the necessity from all sides that he should bring Dong Hui back home. Shi Junhe listened to Qingxue quietly till she finished her words and then whispered something in her ear. After hearing that, Qingxue was out of sorts again. When she walked out of the study, it was nearly at dusk. Xia Mang waited outside all the time and walked to her immediately when she came out, asking, My Lady, whats up? What did His Lordship say? Nothing. Shi Qingxue waved her hand wearily and didnt want to explain so much. Instead, she led Xia Mang back to the Luotong Boudoir. Seeing that, Xia Mang didnt ask more. After going back to the Luotong Boudoir, Xia Mang thoughtfully did everything for Shi Qingxue who was tired for one day, giving her time to ponder. Next day, Shi Qingxue still hadnt figured out a way, and she was like a deflated ball. She hid in the courtyard of the Luotong Boudoir and rested her head on her hands at the stone table lazily, pretending dead. Dong Shuang was worried to see that and then teased her in a soft voice. My Lady, are you going to compete on archery with His Excellency today? This girl thought that her lady liked shooting arrows, so it must be right if she recommended her to continue to play. Shi Qingxue didnt even want to move her finger and said gloomily, I played for one day yesterday but got annoyed before I felt happy. It was not fun at all. No matter how stupid Dong Shuang was, she knew that Qingxue was annoyed by the conflict between Duke Shi and his wife. Although she wanted to make her lady happy, she had no good idea, so she had to turn to Xia Mang for help. Xia Mang looked serious and walked forward, suggesting softly, If you cant convince His Lordship, how about asking Young Master to have a try? Chi? Shi Qingxue spoke out Wenren Chis name questioningly. Then her beautiful eyes lit up with gorgeous light. Right! Why didnt I remember that I can ask Chi? Chi and Baoning will get married soon, even if When they get married, as their biological mother and foster mother, Mother should come back home. While thinking, she believed that it was true, so she didnt stay in the courtyard in depression anymore. She hurriedly told Dong Shuang to prepare a horse as she planned to go to see Wenren Chi in the military camp of the City Guardian Army. My Lady, you rode a horse for half a day yesterday, so you must be tired if you ride a horse again. Xia Mang reminded her euphemistically. Of course, the most important was that if a woman rode a horse on the street openly, it was not good, but she didnt say that. Shi Qingxue didnt care about something like this and replied casually, A carriage moves too slowly. I cant wait. Afterward, she hurriedly ran into the room and changed into a tracksuit. Then she led Dong Shuang to the military camp of the City Guardian Army. Wenren Chi was training soldiers. He was stunned for quite a while after seeing Shi Qingxue and then asked in confusion, What are you doing here? Shi Qingxue was anxious and didnt keep Wenren Chi in suspense. Finding that he was not busy, she pulled him aside and roughly told him in a low voice what happened in the mansion these days. In the end, she couldnt control herself and had tears in her eyes, muttering, Chi, you havent been back home for a long time and didnt ask while so many things happened at home. Did you really abandon us? Since Shi Qingxue knew that Wenren Chi bore a grudge against Mo Shujun, she didnt force him to go back home anymore, but as a result, he seemed to break away from the Shi family. If he wasnt Shi Baonings fiance, Shi Qingxue almost thought that she would lose a brother. Of course, it wasnt that Wenren Chi neither cared to inquire nor to hear about the Shi family. He had heard about what happened in the family these days, yet he didnt know if he qualified to ask. Now Shi Qingxue suddenly asked him, and he didnt know what to say. They kept silent for a while, and then Shi Qingxue felt the tense atmosphere, so she tried to save the situation in a hurry and said, Chi, I didnt mean that. In fact, I came today because I have something to ask for your help. Wenren Chi naturally wouldnt refuse, so he asked after nodding, Whats it? Hmm Shi Qingxue told Wenren Chi what she was worried about. Her pretty face wrinkled. She had no choice. Otherwise, she wouldnt want to disturb Wenren Chi because of something insignificant. After Wenren Chi heard Shi Qingxues words, his heart beat quickly and his expression changed. She lowered her head and didnt see his unusual expression but continued, I dont know why it became like this. Anyway, only you can handle this matter. While speaking, she put her palms together and it looked like she was begging. Wenren Chi restrained his shock and tried to pretend as if nothing had happened, asking slowly, What do you want me to do? Gee? Shi Qingxue just wanted Wenren Chi to do something, yet she didnt consider what he should do to solve it, so she was dumbfounded for a moment. She pondered for a while and then asked with little hope, How about you ask Baoning first what on earth she is thinking about? Wenren Chi met Qingxues pure eyes and felt guilty for no reason. He couldnt calmly face her expectancy and dependence. He walked forward quickly for a few steps and avoided Qingxues eyes, saying with tolerance, I am afraid that I have no solution. Shi Qingxue was confused by Wenren Chis weird actions and moved a step forward rapidly. She didnt give up and ask, Why dont you have a solution? Baoning loves you so much and must listen to you. If you ask her, she will surely Ah! She strode forward in a hurry and didnt notice her feet. Before she finished her words, she was tripped by something and didnt stand steadily. Then she rushed forward directly. Hearing that, Wenren Chi looked back and saw the dangerous scene, so he reached out his hand in haste to catch her. However, he was in panic and couldnt grab Shi Qingxue but fell on the ground with her. When they were about to fall on the ground, Wenren Chi forcefully switched their positions. Then he fell before Shi Qingxue while she pressed him. Shi Qingxue fell on Wenren Chi heavily and her position was awkward. Her head knocked his and her nose bumped into his. Even her lips went close to his Both of them were stunned by this accident and met each others eyes for a long time, looking blankly at each others face magnifying infinitely. Till a scream came into their ears, they were dragged back to reality. Shi Qingxue supported her body and looked at the voice source subconsciously, but unexpectedly, her waist was touched by somebody. She couldnt exert strength on her hand and fell back on Wenren Chi again. With this angle, their lips didnt meet again this time, yet because she turned her face away, Wenren Chis lips kissed her ear. The hot air went into her ear and made her tremble. Her body softened again. What are you doing? Shi Baoning walked quickly like wind to the two people who had fallen on the ground, and she questioned angrily. Seeing Shi Baonings tearful face, Shi Qingxue instantly realized that her sister misunderstood, so she explained in haste, Its not what you have seen. Baoning, you misunderstood She explained and meanwhile wanted to get up, but the more anxious she was, the more easily she would make a mistake. She tried several times yet couldnt stand up successfully. Instead, she put her and Wenren Chi in a more awkward position. Shi Qingxue almost wanted to cry because of her stupidness. When she was at a loss what to do, suddenly she felt that her body was light and she was picked up by somebody at once. She reached out her hands to hug the persons neck subconsciously. Afterward, she raised her head to have a look and then got startled. Chapter 255 - Shi Qingxue Is Mine Mo, Mo Junyang! Shi Qingxue cried out in a daze. She hadnt expected that this man would show up here and happen to help her out of the embarrassment. Mo Junyang just smiled at her gently. Its me. Were you injured? Shi Qingxue shook her head blankly. I will carry you to get changed, okay? She nodded in a trance. For a moment, only Mo Junyang was left in her eyes, and she forgot anything else. Mo Junyang naturally wouldnt mention it. He just glanced at Wenren Chi casually and ignored him when he tried to speak but stopped himself. He directly carried Shi Qingxue away. It was none of his business how the two would end this. He carried Qingxue to his carriage, and her daily clothes had been prepared inside earlier. Seeing that Qingxue still looked confused, Mo Junyang was angry with her as she was not alert, and meanwhile he was happy because of her bluntness. At least, till now, she hadnt found Wenren Chis feelings for her, so she still belonged to Mo Junyang alone. Till Mo Junyang started to take off Shi Qingxues clothes, she came back to earth and hurriedly grabbed them. What are you doing? Your clothes are dirty. I help you get changed. Mo Junyang showed the clean clothes in his hands and spoke boldly with sufficient reasons. Shi Qingxue was speechless. But would anybody help a person of the opposite sex get changed randomly? They hadnt been engaged, right? I will do it myself! Shi Qingxue grabbed the coat from Mo Junyangs hands. When she was about to unbutton her coat, she saw that the man still sat there. She put on a straight face again. Before she spoke, Mo Junyang stated calmly, This is my carriage. Shi Qingxue was shocked. So he wouldnt leave, right? Qingxue was rendered speechless by Mo Junyang successively. How would she surrender? She furrowed her brows and narrowed her eyes, saying threateningly, So you want me to get changed outside? Mo Junyang immediately realized that he irritated his kitten. Things always reversed themselves after reaching an extreme. If he insisted on staying in, perhaps Qingxue really dared to get out of the carriage. Even though he knew that she wouldnt get changed in public, he didnt allow her to borrow Wenren Chis tent to get changed. At this thought, Mo Junyang gave in almost instantly. Fine. I will get out of the carriage and guard for you. After speaking, he really got out and acted like a gentleman, helping Shi Qingxue close the door of the carriage. Then he covered it with a curtain and hid the beauty inside. Mo Junyang was sinister and narrow-minded, thinking, I cant enjoy it, so others cant even desire to see it. When the carriage was dark with only the light of a legendary luminous pearl left, Shi Qingxue finally had time to look at her clothes. When she felt, although Wenren Chi was below her, there was still much mud on her clothes, and they were so dirty. She pouted in disgust and found that there were all kinds of clothes for her in the carriage. Then she didnt hesitate to choose the underwear that she liked before getting changed. Qingxue was locked up in the carriage and didnt hear any sound from outside. She didnt know when she got changed, there was a war outside. Wenren Chi watched Mo Junyang carry Qingxue away and opened his mouth subconsciously, but he couldnt make a sound. He lay on the ground for a moment more and then sat up till Shi Baoning called him. He covered his forehead and asked in a deep voice, What are you doing here? Shi Baonings eyes widened in disbelief. She hadnt expected that Wenren Chi could calmly ask her what she was doing here after he did something like that with Shi Qingxue. Huh! Of course you didnt hope that I would come. If I didnt show up, you would still hug a soft body and feel happy now, right? Shi Baoning sneered. Her voice was louder and louder, and at last, it almost became sharp. It was the first time for Shi Baoning to speak to Wenren Chi in such a loud voice, and she vented her anger and jealousy. Wenren Chi was stunned as Shi Baoning yelled at him. He stared at her blankly for quite a while and then apologized, I didnt mean that. It was just an accident. However, Shi Baoning didnt believe him and shouted furiously, Do you think that I am blind? Just now your hands were on her waist and you kissed her face. I have seen it clearly. Do you still want to cheat me? I Wenren Chi opened his mouth and wanted to deny it. However, meeting Shi Baonings tearful face, he had been bold with sufficient reasons but became guilty. Even though it was really an accident just now, he had improper feelings, so he couldnt be calm and fearless. Shi Baoning yelled in one breath and expressed her anger. Then she waited for Wenren Chi to explain to her, and it was fine even if he just coaxed her. Nevertheless, after she waited for a long time, her fiance didnt say anything nice but her heart sank because he lowered his head in silence. Did headmit it? Shi Baoning felt dizzy at once and moved a few steps backward before she managed to stand steadily. Then she raised her head and pointed at Wenren Chi with her trembling hand, shouting in despair, Wenren Chi, I am your future wife. How can you treat me like this? Do you have a clear conscience? Her voice was loud and almost spread to the training ground. Many soldiers in the distance craned their necks to have a look. Wenren Chi was finally alert and got up, taking Shi Baoning far away. Then he expressed in a deep voice, Dont make a scene in the military camp. It would bring a bad influence. Noticing that Baonings face was ghastly pale, he couldnt bear to see that and explained, Nothing happened between me and Qingxue. She just takes me as her brother. Dont imagine idly. This was absolutely the truth. Wenren Chi spoke frankly, and Shi Baoning believed it. However, she didnt relax as a result. She sneered and asked in reply all of a sudden, How about you? What? Qingxue takes you as her brother. What do you think she is? Shi Baoning stared at Wenren Chi with her sharp eyes, which seemed to penetrate him. Wenren Chi avoided her eyes in embarrassment and replied, Dont talk nonsense. If others hear that, it would influence Qingxues fame. Hearing that, Shi Baoning turned pale again, seeming to hate and blame him. In the end, her face changed and became a weird smile abruptly. Fine, fine! Wenren Chi, you covet my sister. You arent afraid that it would harm your reputation or I would be sad, but you are worried if it would ruin her fame. You love her so much! Shi Baonings loud laughter was harsh, and she stared at Wenren Chi ferociously. The sound of her complaint was as sad as a cuckoo which cried to bleeding. Wenren Chi looked at Shi Baoning in panic. He just said that subconsciously and didnt think a lot. He hadnt expected that she would go to extremes. And Shi Baoning seemed to be crazy and didnt give him a chance to explain. She cried and ran out of the military camp. Wenren Chi wanted to chase her, yet when he ran to the gate of the military camp, Shi Baoning was nowhere to be found. Only Mo Junyangs carriage was left at the gate, and he leaned against a tree with a smile while watching a play. The two mens eyes met in the scorching air with flare flashing. In the beginning, neither of them spoke. They looked at each other in silence. Till the air around became tenser because of the pressure of the two, Wenren Chi finally couldnt control himself and questioned coldly, Why did you come here? You should have nothing to do with the City Guardian Army, right, Your Excellency? Mo Junyangs expression was also distant, even with a murderous look. He left the trunk and stood straight before walking over at leisure. Then he stopped in front of Wenren Chi and stared at him, saying slowly, Dont covet Qingxue. Wenren Chi was rendered speechless. He opened his mouth, trying to retort, but he found that he was guilty. Youd better be well-behaved. If you dare to play those tricks again, I can make you have a living death, Mo Junyang added in a cold voice with a warning. Wenren Chi felt guilty, and as Mo Junyang stared at him in this way, he was embarrassed because he was seen through. He suddenly realized that Mo Junyang probably knew everything and had even found his dirty thoughts At the thought of this possibility, Wenren Chi blushed immediately and then felt furious for no reason. He glared at Mo Junyang. Do you qualify to order me like this? After he yelled, Wenren Chi thought that it was true. Although he didnt qualify to express his love to Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang, such a bloodthirsty man should stay away from her, too. Facing Wenren Chis provocation, Mo Junyang just showed a smile unhurriedly with coldness and disdain. He said, Shi Qingxue is mine. His voice was not loud yet firm enough. It was like thousands of soldiers and horses rushing past in an impregnable manner, to the goal. Wenren Chi was shocked by Mo Junyangs imposing manner and took one step backward. Then he stopped in his tracks. An ashamed feeling surged in his heart. Wenren Chi suddenly thought that the man in front of him was so excellent as to make people hate him. He thought, Why? Why can Mo Junyang like Shi Qingxue boldly, but I have to bear the feud of two families and restrain my love for her all the time? I met Shi Qingxue first, and Mo Junyang came late. Does he qualify to marry the woman I protect with care? Asshole! Wenren Chi lost his mind out of anger for a moment and tried to punch Mo Junyang regardless of anything else, planning to teach this man who intended to defile Qingxue a lesson. Mo Junyang quickly dodged to one side and meanwhile grabbed Wenren Chis wrist, asking coldly, What are you doing? Wenren Chi withdrew his hand and waved his fist again, snorting with a sneer. What am I doing? Of course I am going to beat you up! Mo Junyang moved a step backward and kept away from Wenren Chi, with dangerous light in his cold eyes. I dont want to fight against you. Dont go too far! However, Wenren Chi still refused to retreat and tried to kick Mo Junyang, forcing him to move back continuously, yet the two didnt fight at close quarters. Mo Junyang, if you are a man, dont shrink back. Lets have a fight openly. If I win, you are not allowed to pester Shi Qingxue! Because Mo Junyang retreated, Wenren Chi was more furious and yelled at him. Mo Junyangs face turned cold after he heard that, and he paused again while dodging. Then he directly raised his leg to resist Wenren Chis attack. The latter felt that his leg was numb, so he was forced to take a few steps backward. They confronted each other in the distance again. What are you doing? As soon as Shi Qingxue got changed, she heard the quarrel outside. She couldnt hear clearly what they were saying, but judging from the sounds, she could guess that it must be noisy outside. She hurriedly opened the door and then got out of the carriage, to see that the two looked cold and seemed to try to kill each other. She was scared and instantly ran to between them. Seeing Shi Qingxue, Wenren Chi was astonished and kept recalling if he had said what he shouldnt say. When he was about to explain, she said with apology, Chi, Mo Junyang is not good-tempered. If he offended you, please forgive him for my sake, okay? Wenren Chi couldnt speak out what he was going to say and just gazed at Shi Qingxue blankly. Qingxue was to Surprise also flashed in Mo Junyangs cold eyes when he gazed at Shi Qingxue, but soon, it seemed that the ice had melted, and the warm breath covered his whole body. He looked gentle. Qingxue Mo Junyang muttered. Shi Qingxue was begging Wenren Chi not to be mad. It was fine that she saw Mo Junyang with no reaction like a wood, yet he still held her back, so she couldnt help rolling her eyes at him in private, saying silently, You are a bad guy. Why did you offend my brother? You are so lame as you even need me to beg for mercy for you. Her eyes stabbed Mo Junyangs chest, like a knife. Unfortunately, he was thick-skinned and didnt feel the pain but felt itchy, with a bigger smile on his face. Mo Junyang couldnt restrain his excitement and took one step forward, walking to Shi Qingxue. Under her astonished eyes, he held her face gently. What, whats wrong? Shi Qingxue was shocked. Mo Junyang lowered his head slowly. Qingxue! Wenren Chi couldnt stand it and shouted. Shi Qingxue was suddenly awakened and pushed Mo Junyang away in an instant, wiping her face and covering her mouth. The harder she tried to conceal it, the more it attracted attention. At the same time, she glared at him. Mo Junyang took it as the glad eye. He didnt get angry but raised his hand to touch Qingxues face fearlessly, with a warm smile on his face. Shi Qingxue was stunned again. Fortunately, it didnt take her a long time, and soon she came to her senses again. She wasnt in the mood to talk with Mo Junyang, this rascal. Instead, she just tried to explain to Wenren Chi in a flurry. However, Wenren Chi just stared at them deeply, and his anger turned into frustration in an instant. Even Shi Qingxues heart was partial to Mo Junyang. Did Wenren Chi have the qualification to denounce him? Wenren Chi smiled with self-mockery and didnt listen to Shi Qingxues explanation. Then he turned to leave. Shi Qingxue was confused and wanted to chase him, yet she was stopped by Mo Junyang. Whats up? Shi Qingxue glared at him crossly and thought that it was this mans fault as he irritated Wenren Chi. Mo Junyang naturally wouldnt explain Wenren Chis feelings. He smiled and asked vaguely, Dont you want to know how to improve your relationship with Shi Baoning? Shi Qingxue paused for a while and didnt think about why Mo Junyang knew her worries. Then she nodded repeatedly. She showed a bright and beautiful smile and looked at Mo Junyang in supplication. Yes, I do. Tell me now! Chapter 256 - Leng Yan’s Affair At night, in the Shouan Hall. Leng Yan was doing embroidery slowly in her bedroom under the dim oil lamp on the table. Suddenly the oil lamp was blown out by the wind. Leng Yan was frightened and hurriedly took out a firelighter from her pocket, planning to light the oil lamp again. At the moment, the sound of opening the door came into the quiet room, and then some low footsteps were heard. Who is it? Leng Yan turned around and looked at the door, asking in a low voice. There was no answer, and the sounds stopped. In the darkness, Leng Yan couldnt see anything. With sweat on her back and palms in fear, she still forced herself to calm down. Then she asked, Rouer, are you back? Say something! Rouer didnt answer, but the footsteps in the room appeared again and approached her gradually. Then they got close to her. Leng Yan couldnt insist anymore and turned around, planning to run away. However, as soon as she ran to the bedside, a tall and big figure behind her rushed to the bed and pressed her. She was scared and wanted to shout, but the person seemed to have guessed what she was thinking about and covered her mouth before she spoke. The warm breath was next to her ear and made her tremble all over. Her heart was filled with fear. Little beauty, did you miss me? The person laughed weirdly in a deep and hoarse male voice, and Leng Yan stopped struggling immediately, but soon she quivered with rustling. The man was satisfied with Leng Yans reactions and then laughed evilly again. Good beauty, you are available for so long and must miss me a lot. I will make you happy! While speaking, the man had taken off Leng Yans coat and her nice figure was revealed. When she was about to struggle, the man pinched her sensitive part with his rough hand, while tears fell from her eyes as she felt the pain, yet she stiffened like a stone and didnt dare to move anymore. She just let the man do what he liked. Leng Yan lay on the bed and let the man move willfully. Tears kept coming out of her eyes, and then fell along the corners of her eyes silently. After a long time, another thud appeared in the room, and then the light was on, which scared the two in bed. The man on top of her reacted first and turned over, rolling to the inside of the bed. Then he pulled the quilt to cover himself tightly. As a result, Leng Yan was caught off guard and her naked body was shown to the public. Absurd! Mo Shujuns loud curse was heard. She had walked around the table to the bedside. Looking at the dirty scene on the bed, she was so angry that she knocked her crutch, pointing to the two in bed and cursing, Why not put on your clothes? You are an evil son. You will really irritate me to death! The man, Shi Juncai curled up like a quail and trembled as he was rebuked. He didnt dare to speak a word to retort. After Mo Shujun finished her lecture, he greeted cautiously, Mother! Get dressed and come down! Shi Juncai rolled down from the bed like a ball at once and meanwhile begged for mercy while trembling. Mother, Mother, I No! What? Look at what you have done! Mo Shujun suddenly raised her hand and wanted to slap Shi Juncai in his face, but seeing that he was trembling in fear, she stopped her hand in the midair and couldnt bear to beat him up. She sighed deeply and was so mad at Shi Juncai that she could hardly stand steadily. The maid behind her supported her, so she didnt fall. Evil son, I dont want to discipline you when you are dissolute at ordinary times as long as you dont cross the line, but look at what you are doing. Dont you know that she would marry your brother soon? How can you, how can you do that to her Mo Shujun cursed and coughed at the same time. In the end, she could hardly speak. Shi Juncai knelt on the floor as a punishment and grabbed his ears in the beginning to listen to his mothers lecture obediently, yet at last, he was more resentful while listening. Then he couldnt help retorting, It was your fault. I told you that I like Leng Yan long ago, but what did you tell me? You said that she is your maid and I cant defile her. However, you gave her to my brother as his concubine soon. Why? I am your son. You dont leave such a beauty to me but him? While speaking, he was bolder with sufficient reasons and complained about Mo Shujun in the end. Mo Shujun was furious because of his rebellious words and raised her crutch again, hitting him severely. She hit his solid back with winter clothes and he almost couldnt feel the pain, yet he still shouted exaggeratedly, Ouch! It scared Mo Shujun. She thought that she had injured him and hurriedly walked up to check on him. However, Shi Juncai was stubborn and refused to let her check while retorting, Just beat me to death. Anyway, I am not as capable as my brother. I know that you dislike me since long ago. Just beat me to death today. Beat me While he was speaking, he intentionally raised his head and showed his face, letting Mo Shujun beat him. Nevertheless, Mo Shujun loved her youngest son to the bone, and even if she touched him at ordinary times, she was afraid that she would hurt him. She had beaten him just because she was too angry, and she even regretted it afterward. How could she bear to beat him again? Seeing that Shi Juncai had tears in his eyes, she softened her tone and comforted him in spite of her anger. Kid, you want to make me sad? You know that I love you most but you said that to break my heart. You are going to irritate me to death! The princess royal would lower her dignified head and forget her honorable identity only in front of her youngest son Shi Juncai. However, Shi Juncai looked as if he wasnt comforted and even wanted more, shouting, You dont even want to give a maid to me, but you said that you love me? I dont believe it! Mo Shujun was not a fool. Hearing that, she could certainly understand that Shi Juncai asked her in another way to give Leng Yan to him. In fact, since Shi Juncai said that, Mo Shujun would just give any other maid to him as a reward. However, it couldnt be Leng Yan. Mo Shujun had told all people in the mansion that she would marry Leng Yan to Shi Junhe as his concubine, yet she gave this maid to Shi Juncai as a reward. What would it be like? Even if Shi Junhe didnt care, in the outsiders eyes, it would ruin Shi Juncais fame. She couldnt let Shi Juncai do something so stupid. Mo Shujun looked serious and pulled Shi Juncai to her, saying in all earnestness, Juncai, I will let it pass, but you need to remember that Leng Yan is your brothers woman. Even if you take away all the other maids in the Shouan Hall, I wont say anything. However, only she cant go with you! Do you understand? Shi Juncai was still resentful. Kid, just listen to me. Would I harm you? Mo Shujun grabbed Shi Juncais hand more tightly and analyzed for him seriously. Its not that I dont want to give Leng Yan to you, but dont you think it over? At the crucial time, if you forcefully take her to your residence, how would the outsiders speak of you? You havent regained your official position now. If somebody who is brainless takes it as the evidence to denounce you, do you want to be an official? Shi Juncai pondered for a while and then realized that it was true. Although he was still reluctant, he controlled himself and answered unwillingly, Okay. This time he will get what I want. They had a heart-to-heart talk and totally forgot that Leng Yan was also in the room whom they were talking about. Nevertheless, in the eyes of these two members of the nobility, a maid was really a commodity that could be bought and sold randomly, and the difference was the price. They talked about her because they thought much of her. Leng Yan restrained her anger while trembling and kept her head lowered, letting the two comment on her with contempt and insult. Mother, I slept with my brothers woman just for you. Dont be mad at me. Shi Juncai rolled his eyes and started to talk nonsense again. Mo Shujun goggled at him and responded crossly, The woman I will give your brother must be a pure maid at least. You slept with her first and leave the trouble to me. How can you have the face to say that you did that for me? Shi Juncai didnt care and commented with bullshit, Whats the good of a virgin? They are unskillful with no allure, and its not fun to have sex with them. I should teach her a few times at least before I can taste her charm. I really helped my brother. What nonsense are you talking about? Mo Shujun was furious and cursed in a loud voice. Suddenly she found something wrong and looked at the bed. There were only water stains on the messy sheet, and she knew what they had done at a glance, but there was no blood on it, which meant Mo Shujun slapped Shi Juncai once more in a rage. Naughty boy, I thought you just lost your head for the moment, but you even After cursing Shi Juncai, she still didnt vent her anger and then aimed at Leng Yan who kept silent, rebuking harshly, You dont have a sense of self-love. I provide you with good food and clothes and love you like my daughter. Look at what you have done. You even seduced Juncai repeatedly. Its a pity that I love you so much. From their identity and what happened just now, it could be seen that Leng Yan was forced. However, Mo Shujun pretended blind in this thing and put all the blame on Leng Yan, while the maid was weak and endured her reproach in silence. Shi Juncai couldnt help but cut in. Mother, why do you curse her? Isnt it good? Bullshit! Perhaps Mo Shujun lost her mind out of anger and even spoke out dirty words that she had never said at ordinary times. Shi Juncai didnt care and even smiled. Mother, isnt it great? I sleep with my brothers woman, and he will raise my child in the future. It is much easier than what we have planned. When Dong Hui didnt have a son, Mo Shujun and Shi Juncai planned to give a child to Shi Junhe as his foster son to inherit the title of nobility in the future. However, Dong Hui was like an old female cat which protected its babies and refused to raise somebody elses son no matter how nice he was. So their hope came to nothing. Mo Shujuns eyes lit up and she pondered even though she had been excited. After a while, she didnt say yes yet her tone softened a lot. She just rebuked crossly, Pregnant. If it is so easy as you said, your brother might have had a son now. Shi Juncai smiled scornfully and snorted. Its because my brother is useless. If I were him, I might have had many children. I think that he is incapable. Even if you give Leng Yan to him, she wont have a son in the future. Its better to let me do it! I get her pregnant, and he will raise my baby. How wonderful it is! So our title wont be given to an outsider, right? Probably only such a jerk as Shi Juncai could say that he took his brother as an outsider. However, Mo Shujun didnt retort unexpectedly. Instead, she was tempted by his words and looked at Leng Yans belly carefully, as if there was a baby. After a long time, Shi Juncai didnt hear Mo Shujuns response, so he got impulsive, deciding to show his master card. He would see how Mo Shujun disagreed after he said that. Chapter 257 - Marry a Woman Who Is Pregnant with Somebody Else’s Baby Shi Juncai told Mo Shujun directly, She is carrying my baby now. What? Mo Shujun was petrified this time, and even Leng Yan looked shocked and glared at Shi Juncai in disbelief. Mo Shujun came to her senses soon. Seeing that, she thought that Shi Juncai talked nonsense, so she raised her hand, trying to beat him again. Shi Juncai wasnt afraid but craned his neck. If you dont believe me, you can ask her if her menstruation stops for two months. I have calculated the dates last time Mo Shujun was stunned. She didnt know if she should be surprised as a man knew a womans privacy, the menstruation or sigh because Shi Juncai could take the opportunity. After quite a while, Mo Shujun came back to reality gradually and turned to Leng Yan. The maid also looked scared yet didnt deny Shi Juncais words. It meant Seeing that his master card worked, Shi Juncai got complacent and continued to brag, Look. I have said that I am capable. Then he looked Leng Yan up and down with his picky eyes and said excitedly yet with contempt, This womans womb is disappointing. Otherwise, she should have got pregnant earlier. Fortunately, I worked harder later Hearing Shi Juncais impudent remarks, Mo Shujun blushed even though she was experienced and aged. She couldnt help but rebuke, Why are you complacent? You got her pregnant in silence, and fortunately, I have known that now. Otherwise, when her belly is prominent, what will you do to deal with it? Then it is uncertain if the baby can be kept, let alone marrying her to your brother. At the moment, Shi Juncai started to feel scared and asked nervously, What, what should I do? Mother, figure out a way now! This is my baby, your grandchild! Well, dont be nervous. I am pondering. Mo Shujuns face darkened, and it appeared that she was pondering. After a long while, she said unhurriedly, Her belly wont be prominent until the third month of gestation. We just need to tell your brother to marry her and sleep with her before then. When the baby is born, we can say that its premature labor The mother and son discussed it and made a plan, feeling satisfied. They didnt consider that Leng Yan was present who was the topic of their talk. They talked casually, as if she was a commodity that could be handled by them. She didnt even have the right to express her will, let alone the autonomy. After the mother and son finished their discussion, Shi Juncai leered at Leng Yan who sat on the bed on her knees. She was dressed in messy clothes after being humiliated, so he got excited again and smiled at Mo Shujun shamelessly. Mother, its late now. Will you go back to sleep? After she went away and the door was closed, he could continue. At the thought of the passion in bed, Shi Juncai almost watered, ignoring that a pregnant woman couldnt have sex in the first three months. Mo Shujun could certainly guess Shi Juncais lust. Since she was determined to tell Shi Junhe to marry Leng Yan, she couldnt let Shi Juncai ruin the plan at the crucial time. Control yourself. Before she gets married and goes to the East House, you cant cause trouble. Mo Shujun pinched Shi Juncai, preparing to walk out. Before leaving, she glared at Leng Yan warningly. Be well-behaved. If something like this happens again, I wont spare you. After speaking, she didnt care about Shi Juncais miserable scream and directly took him away. The room returned silent. The little maid Rouer was worried involuntarily as she saw that Leng Yan dressed in thin clothes sat on the bed and remained unmoved for a long time. Yan, you are pregnant now and should be careful. Dont get a cold. When Rouer took out the brocade quilt and was about to cover Leng Yan with it, the latter seemed frightened and shrank back crazily. She cried wildly, Take it away. Take it away! Dont let something so dirty get close to me. Get out Rouer was terrified and then saw that Leng Yan curled up and hid at the end of the bed, refusing to get out. Okay, okay. I am going to get a new quilt for you. Rouer was afraid that she would irritate Leng Yan, so she had to run to her bed and bring her quilt for Leng Yan which was worse. This, this is my quilt. Its clean. Dont take a dislike to it In fact, Leng Yan was so cold that she stiffened, but she still couldnt stop feeling disgusted as Shi Juncai touched her. Now Rouer gave her a clean quilt. Although she disliked it a lot at ordinary times, she didnt care about anything and rushed over to cover herself with that quilt. It seemed that only in this way could she feel safe. Seeing Leng Yans reactions, Rouer felt sad and comforted her clumsily. Yan, are you okay? Shall I make a bowl of ginger soup for you? Leng Yan trembled and curled up at the foot of the bed, and her eyes fell on the corner with no focus seemingly. She was out of sorts. She didnt answer or react, like a fool. After a long time, a sobbing voice came into Leng Yans blank brain indistinctly. She looked up, to see that Rouer with tearful eyes sat next to her and looked pitiful. It seemed that the person who had been bullied and insulted was Rouer. Why are you crying? The one who was bullied is not you but me. Leng Yan rolled her eyes at Rouer crossly. Rouer hurriedly wiped her tears and looked at Leng Yan with her red and swollen eyes, saying in a muffled voice, I think you dont deserve it. You were forced. How could Princess Royal comment on you like that? And the third master has Leng Yan glanced at Rouer with her sharp eyes, and the latter swallowed what she was going to say, responding vaguely, I just think that they treat you badly. What is good or bad? In their eyes, we are just dogs raised by them. It is fine to give a dog food to raise it. Then we should be loyal to them. Otherwise, they would kill us at any time! Leng Yans eyes were cold, with terrifying resentment. Rouer was scared by Leng Yans resentful eyes and shrank her neck subconsciously. Then she started to quiver again. However, Leng Yan didnt look gloomy anymore and began to laugh all of a sudden. She raised her cold and pale fingers and caressed Rouers face back and forth. Till Rouer trembled in fear, Leng Yan asked with satisfaction, Why are you frightened? You are my dowery given by Princess Royal. As long as I live a good life, I will provide you with good food and wont treat you badly. Do you understand? Yes, I understand. I am your maid. I dont dare to Rouer was so terrified that she couldnt speak fluently. Leng Yan didnt force Rouer to say something nice and just waved her hand, ordering coldly, Well. Clean this bed for me first. I am going to bed. With that, she ignored the other party and covered herself with Rouers quilt, going to this little maids bed. Rouer didnt dare to protest and quickly cleaned up everything. Then she turned around and stated, Yan, the bed has been cleaned. You can sleep now. Leng Yan looked up at her bed and felt disgusted again as she remembered that Shi Juncai acted willfully on top of her, which made her almost throw up. She didnt even want to glance at that bed, let alone going back to sleep. She wanted to set fire and burn that bed. But she couldnt. If she burnt the bed now, Mo Shujun would surely ask her, and then she couldnt hide her thought from that old shrewd lady. If the old lady knew that Leng Yan disliked her beloved son so much, this maid would suffer a lot. So she had to endure it. After waiting a moment, Rouer saw that Leng Yan didnt speak, so she had to call again, Yan? Well, you have taken good care of me today, so I will give my bed to you as a reward. Leng Yan temporized and occupied Rouers bed, making an arrangement forcefully. I will sleep on this bed from now on! Rouer was used to her bed and was unwilling, but facing Leng Yans impatient face, she didnt dare to say anything. Then she obediently switched the things on their beds. After she cleaned up, Rouer saw that Leng Yan still leaned against the head of the bed with her blank eyes and dumbfounded face. Then she walked to Leng Yan and asked worriedly, Yan, are you really all right? Leng Yan suddenly awakened and sat up. Noticing that it was Rouer, she was relieved yet got angry. She was furious and pounded Rouers shoulder heavily. Then she cursed, Bad girl, do you want to scare me to death? Rouer was beaten yet didnt dare to scream in pain. She was obedient and explained cautiously after Leng Yan vented her anger, Yan, dont be mad. I am just afraid that there is something wrong with you, so I want to show my concern for you. Leng Yan didnt believe her words and even laughed with sarcasm, snorting maliciously. Stop pleasing me insincerely. I feel disgusted after seeing that. We were servants, and I have taught you most of the things that you know now. Do you still want to cheat me? Leng Yan was fed up with flattering Mo Shujun all day long and still had to look at the same face. She just felt disgusted. Rouer looked grieved and defended herself in a low voice. Yan, you get me wrong. I am really worried about you. You said that I am your maid. If something bad happens to you, I will suffer a lot, too! It was necessary to say that Rouer looked weak and cowardly, but she came to the point as she said that. Leng Yan didnt believe in the kinship or friendship or kind concern. Only the profit was the most reliable. Rouer pointed out the fact that they were in the same boat, and it relieved Leng Yan a lot. Right, Rouer belonged to her and wouldnt betray her. At this thought, Leng Yan finally showed a gracious face to Rouer and even patted the bedside. Fine. I know that you really care about me. You are tired after working for one night. Just sleep on this bed. We havent talked heartily for a long time. Rouer was scared by Leng Yans changeable emotions today and was afraid that she would go crazy once more. However, she couldnt restrain her desire for her bed, so she neatly went to her bed and lay well. After a while, she turned away and saw that Leng Yan still stared at the ceiling with her eyes widening and looked serious, so she turned over secretly and asked in a low voice, Yan, are you still thinking about the matter that Princess Royal would marry you to the first master? Perhaps Leng Yan was depressed as she swallowed her annoyance, and she didnt rebuke Rouer as the latter meddled. Instead, she muttered, Rouer, what do you think I should do? They made a plan so easily, but once there is something wrong, I will die! It was pathetic that Mo Shujun and the others didnt care about her life or death, and they were just worried about the unborn baby in her womb. A human life was so worthless. Rouer also thought this plan was dangerous. Now Leng Yan was pregnant for more than two months, and even if she could get married soon, the fetus was three months older. If things went on smoothly, they might deceive everybody, but if there was an accident For example, Shi Junhe felt something wrong and found another doctor to feel her pulse or Leng Yan really had premature labor by accident There were so many accidents. If there was a problem in no matter which period, Leng Yan would be doomed eternally. Hearing Rouers words, Leng Yan felt sad. She certainly knew that. However What can I do? Our lives are in the hands of our masters. If we protest, we would only die! Rouer stuttered for quite a while with difficulty and then suddenly had a brainwave. She suggested joyfully, Yan, how about we go to see the first master tomorrow and tell him the truth. He is kind and would surely save our lives! Chapter 258 - The Negotiation Tellthe first master. Leng Yan repeated Rouers words and started to think about the feasibility of this suggestion. Rouer nodded repeatedly and looked more excited. Right, right! If the first master knows this matter, he wouldnt let Princess Royal and the others fulfill this plot. Then you just need to ask him to show mercy and you wont marry him with a grievance. Perhaps he will make you get rid of the identity as a slave and find a place for you as he is soft-hearted. The words get rid of the identity as a slave mentioned what Leng Yan desired most. She felt tempted involuntarily, but thinking of Mo Shujuns methods, she was scared and shook her head repeatedly. If Princess Royal knows that I reveal the secret, she wont let me go! She would be skinned alive at least, and she might even have a living death. Leng Yan had been working for Mo Shujun for so many years and seen her punish the servants who didnt listen to her, and she didnt want to experience it in person at all. No! The first master is so nice and you help him out of this embarrassment, so he would surely protect you. After everything is settled, we will leave this cage which traps us for half a lifetime and live a life freely outside. Isnt it great? Rouer was optimistic. And she thought that once Shi Junhe heard about this matter, he and his mother would become enemies. Shi Junhe would protect somebody that Mo Shujun wanted to kill. In the beginning, Leng Yan was moved by Rouers words, yet hearing that they would leave Duke Shis mansion, she felt terrified. She was not like Rouer who was stupid and didnt know the hardships. The common people outside were poor, and it was better to be a maid in a powerful and wealthy family. Leng Yan was a high-grade maid in Duke Shis mansion. Although she was not spoilt, at least she didnt worry about her food and clothes, and she could get rewards from the master occasionally. Even the clothes they wore and the quilt were what the poor people couldnt afford to use all their lives. She wouldnt get rid of the identity as a slave yet live a poor life. Leng Yan knocked at Rouers head crossly and rebuked, Whats the good of the life outside? I dont want it even if you give it to me. Its more comfortable to be a maid in the Shi family! Whats more She suddenly thought that if she really married Shi Junhe as his concubine, wouldnt she get rid of the identity as a slave and almost become a master in the East House? And I am carrying a baby of the Shi family now. Logically, Princess Royal would protect me. After the baby is born, my position in the East House would be steady, and if I give birth to a boy, with her support, my baby would be the heir of Duke Shi. After the first master dies, my son would be Duke Shi, and I would be Duke Shis mother! While thinking, Leng Yan got happier. In the end, her eyes lit up, and it seemed that she had seen the beautiful future when she became an old lady in Duke Shis mansion. Hearing that, Rouer got more worried and couldnt help reminding her, Yan, dont forget that Madam is also pregnant now. The doctor has said that her baby is likely to be a boy. After you get married, you might become a thorn in Madams flesh, let alone enjoying a good life. Thinking of the womens fight in order to make their sons inherit the title of nobility, Rouer couldnt help trembling. Leng Yan was also scared to think about it, yet the temptation that she could be the mistress in Duke Shis mansion soon excited her more. She forced herself to calm down and then stated casually, Then we will make her unable to give birth to the baby. Isnt it fine? Rouer was stunned. Next morning, Mo Shujun told somebody to bring Shi Junhe to the Shouan Hall and said that she had something important to discuss with him. Because the mother and son had more conflicts gradually these days, Shi Junhe seldom came to sit around in the Shouan Hall with the excuse that he was busy with work. In order to win back Shi Junhe, Mo Shujun specially told the servants to prepare his favorite breakfast and invited him to eat with her. It was a great favor. Mo Shujun thought that she rarely softened first and Shi Junhe should cool down this time. However, when Shi Junhe came to the Shouan Hall and saw the delicacy on the table, he just glanced at it and then asked, Mother, what can I do for you? Mo Shujun was irritated by Shi Junhes coldness and got mad again, but thinking of what she would say next, she restrained her anger and showed a gentle smile. Kid, I havent had a meal with you for a long time, so I specially prepared your favorite food and want to have a chat with you. Dont you give me the chance? Shi Junhe paused for a while and then answered impassively, I dare not. After replying, he sat down obediently. They had breakfast quietly. Mo Shujun wanted to start a conversation several times, but seeing that Shi Junhe looked indifferent, she didnt know what to say. She was used to being lofty. Generally, others said something nice to make her happy, and although she could soften occasionally, she could never lower herself to please a younger generation all the time. She also kept silent and lowered her head while having breakfast. After breakfast, a pot of hot tea was served on the table, and Shi Juncai finally asked unhurriedly, Mother, what do you want to tell me? If there is nothing, I am busy with work You work all day long. Would you disown your mother when you are working? Mo Shujun was irritated as Shi Junhe temporized and reproached him in a loud voice involuntarily. Shi Junhe didnt flatter Mo Shujun in fear as he did in the past. He just lowered his head and replied, I dare not. Then he stayed silent again. Mo Shujun was helpless because of Shi Junhes distant attitude. For the first time, she knew that her eldest son that she had brought up personally would be angry. If they confronted the tough with toughness, they wouldnt need to say anything. The Princess Royal had to lower her honorable head and soften her tone again. Its just that I know that as you put down the rebellion and kill the rebel army these days, you must be tired, so I want to ask how you have been recently. Wont you give Mother so little time? Perhaps it was the first time for Mo Shujun to forget her identity in front of Shi Junhe. Even though he couldnt forget what his mother had done, he was unable to be completely indifferent. Idare not! Thanks for your concern, Mother! Shi Junhe responded in a hoarse voice. His tense face started to soften slightly. Seeing that, Mo Shujun was clear that it was a good omen, so she kept up the good work. Right. We are mother and son after all. How would we bear a grudge against each other? Mother did something wrong in the past, and I apologize to you. Dont be mad at me, okay? Shi Junhe had never heard that Mo Shujun spoke to him so gently, so he was stunned and all his anger had gone in an instant. He finally raised his head and looked at Mo Shujun, feeling moved. With emotions in his eyes, he nodded and expressed hoarsely, Okay. The tense atmosphere in the room relaxed immediately, and they talked in peace, almost as harmonious as before. Mo Shujun suddenly asked, Junhe, you have finished everything these days, and you should put something on the agenda, right? The smile on Shi Junhes face faded. Mother, what do you mean? Have you forgotten that you promised me that you would marry Leng Yan? Since Mo Shujun said that, she wasnt afraid that Shi Junhe would be unhappy, and she continued unhurriedly, At that time, you said that you would go to Yang City to settle the rebellion and you didnt have time to consider this matter, so I agreed with you, yet now the problem in Yang City has been solved. Would you want to break your word again? Shi Junhe finally found an excuse then that he would go to settle the rebellion to avoid marrying another woman. However, he could avoid it for a moment but not for a lifetime. He couldnt escape from this thing. At this time, Duke Shi couldnt help but want to curse Mo Junyang. That bloke had promised to handle this matter. However, a reason that he would settle the rebellion was not enough. Now Shi Junhe was forced by Mo Shujun to this level, yet he was unwilling to surrender. He gazed at Mo Shujun and begged seriously, Mother, please observe clearly. I really dont want to marry Leng Yan. Hope that you wont make things difficult for me. Shi Junhe feared that he would make Mo Shujun angry because he was against her will, so he hurriedly added, Mother, if you really care about Leng Yan, I can look for a good husband for her. It would be much better than marrying me, an old man anyway. If she sincerely considered for Leng Yan, she wouldnt refuse Shi Junhes offer. It was better to be a poor mans wife than to be a rich mans concubine. Moreover, the family that Shi Junhe would introduce wouldnt be too bad. However, Mo Shujun wouldnt think so. She was determined to marry Leng Yan and her baby to Shi Junhe. Obviously Shi Junhes decision made her lose face. She stared at him with displeasure and looked cold, asking while stressing each word, What if I insist? Mother Hearing that Mo Shujun mentioned her identity again, Shi Junhe felt a chill and then sighed helplessly, Why? Mo Shujun sneered and questioned, I will ask you once more. Will you marry her or not? Shi Junhe was pushed in this way repeatedly and got furious. He showed a cold face and shook his head, refusing in silence. Great, great! Mo Shujun burst into laughter but soon her face darkened all of a sudden, and she stated gloomily, Then we will talk about what Dong has done. Shi Junhe got nervous yet restrained his restlessness, pretending calm while asking, What did Hui do to make you unhappy? Mo Shujun didnt beat around the bush and stared at Shi Junhe sternly with her sharp eyes. I wont say anything pointless to you. Dong Hui is not loyal as your wife and doesnt respect her mother-in-law. She is not gentle to her children. I want you to divorce her! Mother, you Shi Junhe was anxious and wanted to defend Dong Hui. However, Mo Shujun directly waved her hand and interrupted him, asking coldly, Or do you want me to spread the news all over the city that she secretly dated another man in the Valentines Pavilion at midnight and make her and her family unable to keep a foothold in the capital city? Shi Junhes breaths paused and he had never expected that Mo Shujun would be so heartless. Nevertheless, Mo Shujun told him in a cold voice, If you dont believe it, you can see whether I would do that. Shi Junhe couldnt reply. It was because the expression on her face told him that she would really do that. Then, even if Shi Junhe could resist the pressure from the public opinion and insist on refusing to divorce his wife, probably the saliva of the noblemen in the capital could drown Dong Hui. Moreover, if he didnt satisfy Mo Shujun, perhaps she would cope with Dong Hui in a worse way. For example, she might accuse Dong Hui in front of the emperor and the Empress Dowager, and then Dong Hui would be doomed eternally. Shi Junhe was scared with sweat by his imagination and looked at Mo Shujun, with bitterness and helplessness in his eyes. Mother, you know that Hui is innocent. Even if you are mad at me, why would you aim at her? Would you be happy only after ruining her? I dont want to ruin anybody, but somebody insists on refusing to satisfy me. Then I wont make him live in peace, Mo Shujun replied distantly. She looked at Shi Junhe and snorted. Its not too much to deal with somebody like he deals with you. Whats more, both of us know if Dong Hui is innocent. Do you joke around when you dont talk with her these days? Shi Junhe was rendered speechless, feeling anxious and helpless. At last, he just sighed. He gave up in the end. What do you want me to do? Just tell me. Mo Shujun nodded with satisfaction and didnt keep him in suspense. She stated, I have said earlier that as long as you marry Leng Yan, I can let it pass. Moreover, even if she gets married and moves to the East House, she is a concubine and wont shake Dongs position. Is she so jealous that she cant even accept a concubine? Its none of her business. I dont want to have a concubine. Shi Junhe defended Dong Hui by instinct, while Mo Shujun laughed at him. He shut up resentfully. Then Mo Shujun responded, Since its your business, you can decide if you will marry her. Give me a definite answer today! Shi Junhe was forced to a corner. He was unwilling, but thinking of Dong Hui, he had to surrender. I am willing to marry Leng Yan Mo Shujun was overjoyed. However, before she praised Shi Junhe as he was sensible, he added unhurriedly, But, I have a request. Chapter 259 - Cover up for You at the Risk of My Life Hearing that Shi Junhe had a request, Mo Shujun got unhappy, but since he had agreed with her, she still controlled herself and planned to listen to him first. What on earth did he want to do? What do you want? Shi Junhe pursed his lips and pondered for a while. Then he replied, I hope that I can marry her as a concubine in a low profile. Dont spread the news or let all people know it. Can you promise me, Mother? Mo Shujun pondered for a moment and soon understood why Shi Junhe asked her to do that. Although she was resentful as Shi Junhe still considered for Dong Hui, she didnt want to make the bad relationship between her and her son worse, so she nodded in agreement. Since you requested that, I can promise you. Mo Shujun nodded at leisure. Then she made her requirement naturally. But I demand you to marry Leng Yan in five days. Shi Junhe was stunned and asked, Why are you so anxious? Five days is not enough for us to prepare the marriage. You You want to make it simple, and I satisfy you. Why arent you happy? Mo Shujun asked in reply calmly. Then she added unhurriedly, You dont need to worry about the preparation for the marriage. In the past few days when I decided to marry Yan to you, I have ordered some people to prepare it. If you want, its no problem to get married right away. Shi Junhe had to nod helplessly. Fine, in five days. After the major issue was discussed, Mo Shujuns face softened, and then she looked at Shi Junhe with her gentle eyes, smiling. Junhe, dont worry. I am your mother and wont harm you. I have brought up Yan and her moral quality and appearance are outstanding. I am unwilling to let her be a mans concubine randomly if it werent you. Hearing such words, Shi Junhe wasnt comforted but felt sad. However, he knew that it would be useless no matter what he said to Mo Shujun, so he stopped talking and indifferently accepted her arrangement. Mother, if there is nothing else, I am leaving now. Shi Junhe stood up and bowed to Mo Shujun respectfully. He was even more distant than he had been when he came into the Shouan Hall. Mo Shujun thought that Shi Junhe finally agreed with her, so she didnt care about the minutia. She just waved her hand and let him go away. Shi Junhe strode forward and didnt stop until he walked to the gate of the Shouan Hall. Then he looked back at the courtyard that he was familiar with. He used to come here frequently when he was a child, a teenager and even a young man, and it bore a lot of his happy memories. However, at the moment, he looked at it but felt cold, and even the person in the room, his mother became strange. Would a mother force her child like this? Shi Junhe had such a question on his mind involuntarily. He racked his brains yet couldnt figure out why. However, all the hopes he had laid in Mo Shujun became disappointment. Maybe in the beginning, he shouldnt expect that Mo Shujun would consider for him. Shi Junhe shook his head with a bitter smile and turned around, walking back to the East House. Shi Qingxue had just changed into a tracksuit to ride a horse. When she was about to go out, she bumped into Shi Junhe whose face was pale. She was scared and walked to him hurriedly. Father, whats wrong with you? Do you have a heatstroke? Are you all right? I am going to bring Doctor Qin for you, okay? She spoke fast and before Shi Junhe answered, she planned to run out to bring a doctor, yet Shi Junhe stopped her. I am fine. Dont be anxious. Shi Qingxue looked Shi Junhe up and down in disbelief and saw that although his face was pale, his eyes were energetic, and he was just tired, with no sweat. He didnt look like he was sick. So she heaved a sigh of relief and patted her chest, complaining exaggeratedly, Father, where are you from? You look so miserable. Anybody who doesnt know the truth would think that you were mistreated. She just joked around. Unexpectedly, after pausing for a moment, Shi Junhe nodded with approval and murmured with a bitter smile, Right. Hmm? Shi Qingxue had sharp ears and noticed Shi Junhes voice at once. Then she gazed at him again. Nevertheless, Shi Junhe didnt want to talk about something dirty with her. He changed the subject impassively. Are you going to ride a horse and shoot arrows with your Brother Junyang today? Noticing his ridicule, Shi Qingxue blushed as expected. She looked away and muttered, What my Brother Junyang? He is not mine! Gee! I mainly asked if you are going to ride a horse today. Why did you only pay attention to whether His Excellency is yours? Shi Junhe teased her with a smile on his dignified face. The blush on Shi Qingxues face spread to her ears, and she felt that her whole body was hot. She stomped with shyness and glared at Shi Junhe resentfully, shouting in a sweet voice, Father, how can you tease me? You have gone too far! After a daughter grows up, she wont listen to her father. I am sad! Perhaps Shi Junhe was addicted to pretending a gentle father, and he even pretended to cry while pinching his throat, as if it was true. Father! Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes and didnt know how to comment on her fathers bad behavior of joking. Shi Junhe enjoyed Qingxues blush and shyness, and then he stopped joking and returned to be a gentle father. He pushed her out and said softly, I wont joke about you. Arent you going to ride a horse? Go now. Dont keep him waiting. The father was afraid that Shi Qingxue would get mad again, so he was sensible and didnt mention the sensitive words such as your Brother Junyang anymore. Shi Qingxue glared at Shi Junhe for longer. Seeing that he didnt care, she probably knew that if she continued, she would get nothing but make her eyes sour and ache, so she gave up. She pouted and nodded with displeasure. I am off now. Looking at Shi Qingxue turning around and then walking out, Shi Junhe sighed with relief, thinking, Oh, my gosh. I finally convinced her. Otherwise, if Qingxue continued to ask, he wouldnt know how to answer. However, before Shi Junhes face softened, Shi Qingxue who walked to the gate suddenly looked back. Under his astonished face, she walked back quickly and then stood in front of him. Shi Qingxue raised her head and met Shi Junhes surprised eyes, with displeasure. Then she complained angrily, Father, you tried to fool me. Shi Junhe didnt expect that his thought couldnt be concealed. He sighed helplessly in secret and meanwhile still pretended calm. What are you talking about? When did I fool you? Dont worry too much. Go to Ride a horse with His Excellency. He couldnt speak out the last words under Shi Qingxues more severe eyes. The two stood at the gate of the East House and looked at each other speechlessly for a long time. Shi Junhe felt guilty, while Shi Qingxue was furious. At last, Shi Qingxue was magnanimous and forgave Shi Junhe who hid something from her. She pouted and said, I will forget that you fooled me this time, but as a compensation, you should tell me what is wrong with you. Afterward, she ignored Shi Junhes unwilling gaze and forcefully pulled his arm, walking into the study with him. Shi Qingxue sharply observed that what her father tried to hide from her must be something significant. As soon as they entered the study, she specially closed the door and windows. Then she pushed Shi Junhe to be seated in the chair. She ran quickly to sit down across from Shi Junhe and looked at him anxiously, asking in silence. There is nothing indeed. Dont think too much. Shi Junhe was still struggling as he was unwilling to get Qingxue involved in the conflict between him and Mo Shujun. Shi Qingxue pouted in an instant and looked sad, as if she was going to cry. She seemed to say, If you dont tell me, I will cry! Shi Junhe was speechless. Although he knew that Shi Qingxue might pretend to be like this, he couldnt bear to let her cry. He could do nothing but tell her how Mo Shujun threatened him. Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded while hearing that. She had known since long ago that Mo Shujun didnt like the first masters family and Dong Hui, but it was the internal affair in Duke Shis mansion. Mo Shujun was proud, and how would she let outsiders laugh at their family? Father, are you joking? Mothers issue Fine. If the news spreads that she dated a man secretly, it would harm the whole familys fame. How would Grandma do that? Shi Qingxue asked in a low voice and still looked stunned. Shi Junhe also could hardly believe that Mo Shujun would do something like this, yet it was the truth. Mo Shujun threatened him with Dong Hui and the Shi familys fame, forcing him to marry Leng Yan. Why? Whats the good of Leng Yan? Why would Granma force you to marry her? If Mother cant give birth to a son for you and the family has no heir, Grandma would have a reason to force you. However, now even Doctor Shen said that Mothers baby is likely to be a boy. How can she force you like this? While thinking, Shi Qingxue thought it was strange. Shi Junhe also wanted to know why, yet Mo Shujun wouldnt give him an explanation. He just shook his head and sighed helplessly. Anyway, thats it. Thats your grandmas requirement. Even though I am unwilling, she Shi Qingxue still wanted to protest, but seeing Shi Junhes weary and distressed face, she couldnt speak out what she was going to say. Right! Once it was possible for Shi Junhe to protest, he wouldnt surrender. How do you plan to explain to Mother? Shi Qingxue asked worriedly. These days, she finally understood that Dong Hui couldnt accept that Shi Junhe would have another concubine. If Dong Hui knew that Shi Junhe would really marry Leng Yan, she would go crazy. Shi Junhe also looked helpless and sighed after a long time. Then he smiled bitterly. Fortunately, your mother has gone back to her parents home. I asked Mother to keep a low profile while handling this matter. I think this news wont spread to your mother. Ah? You plan to cheat Mother? Shi Qingxue screamed. When she met Shi Junhes bitter eyes, she understood and sympathized with her father gradually, even though she had been resentful. Right, it was too much as her father hid something so important from his wife while he would have a concubine, and he shouldnt do that. But wasnt it the unusual time now? Dong Hui was pregnant and couldnt get emotional. If she knew it, it might influence her emotion and the innocent baby in her womb at the least. If she couldnt accept it The consequence could hardly be imagined. As soon as Shi Qingxue thought about it, she shook her head in a hurry and got rid of her wild imagination. Meeting Shi Junhes eyes with expectancy, Qingxue didnt even need him to beg her, and she nodded to assure him. Rest assured. I will keep it a secret and wont let the news spread out of the mansion. After thinking for a moment, she felt that she couldnt make sure. Then she kept looking at Shi Junhe with her big eyes, telling something silently. Shi Junhe was scared by her stare and hurriedly begged for mercy. Just say what you want to say. I will agree with you no matter what it is. Stop looking at me in this way! Heehee! Shi Qingxue smiled flatteringly in an instant. Then she sat straight and gazed at Shi Junhe seriously, starting to fight for benefits for her mother. Father, you are forced to marry Leng Yan, and I wont say anything, but after she enters the East House, she can only remain idle like a piece of furniture. You cant have other thoughts because she is young and beautiful. In the beginning, Shi Junhe thought that Shi Qingxue planned to make an unreasonable offer, so she was so serious, while he hadnt expected that this smart girl wanted to say that. He didnt know if he should laugh or get angry. In the end, he raised his hand and knocked on Qingxues head heavily, rebuking in a deep voice, Girl, what are you thinking about? Does your father have a lust for beauty? I know what to do even if you dont remind me. Shi Qingxue didnt get mad after she was rebuked. Instead, she showed a brighter smile to Shi Junhe. In fact, she trusted her father, yet when it came to something like this, they still needed to make an agreement in advance. Otherwise, if in the future, her mother knew that she took part in this thing, wouldnt she be skinned alive? Father, I just cover up for you at the risk of my life. Chapter 260 - There Is Nothing Good The people in the East House were determined to keep it a secret as Leng Yan would get married and move in. All people shut their mouths. Not to mention the outsiders, few people in the mansion knew that Leng Yan would move to the East House in three days. Some people knew it and remained mute as if their mouths were sealed as they were afraid that Shi Qingxue would find that they were gossiping. Since Shi Junhe agreed to marry her, Leng Yan started to dream about being a happy concubine, but unexpectedly, after a few days, few people congratulated or flattered her. Even when she bumped into some people on the way, their bantering eyes seemed to take off her clothes as they would watch a play. It embarrassed and depressed her. However, after Mo Shujun promised Shi Junhe not to spread the news, she didnt care and remained unmoved when she watched others laugh at Leng Yan. Leng Yan finally couldnt endure it and had an evil plan. She intentionally came to Mo Shujun and pretended obedient, asking, I have heard that Madam hasnt returned from her parents home these days. I am going to marry the first master soon. If his wife is not present, the marriage would be unpresentable. If the news spreads, the people who know the truth would say that the first master doesnt like to be in the limelight, so he didnt inform Madam who has gone back to her parents home, but the ones who dont know it might comment on Madam as she is jealous and cant accept another woman. Mo Shujun was old with sharp eyes and found at a glance what Leng Yan wanted to do. However, she didnt expose this maid and still pretended ignorant, asking, Oh? How do you think we should deal with this matter? Madam has been in her patents mansion for a few days, and its improper to stay out all the time, so I suggest that we should send somebody to bring her back. Then when the first master and I get married, the mistress wouldnt be absent, which doesnt follow the rule. Leng Yan shamelessly beat around the bush and at last spoke out her purpose. In the beginning, hearing that Leng Yan would go to bring Dong Hui back from her parents home, Mo Shujun was stunned and thought, Is this girl so sensible and obedient? Isnt she afraid that it is a problem whether they would get married if Dong Hui returns to the mansion? But she looked Leng Yan up and down carefully. Till she saw the secret light in the maids eyes, she understood everything. Nevertheless, she still pretended to be moved and cooperated with her. Its rare that you are so sensible and thoughtful, and I am relieved. Since you want to bring Dong back to witness your marriage, I will help you this time and personally go to her parents home with you to bring her back. Okay? Leng Yan was so frightened by Mo Shujuns unexpected answer that she couldnt make a sound to respond. She guessed that the best result was that Mo Shujun agreed to send her to pick up Dong. Unexpectedly, the Princess Royal was willing to lower herself and go to the Dong familys mansion. Did Mo Shujun think of Dong Huis nice character suddenly and want to bring her back? Leng Yan glanced at Mo Shujun in secret, to see that the old ladys expression seemed to be painted on her face and she controlled it accurately. Leng Yan couldnt see anything false. However, as a result, Leng Yan suspected more. She thought involuntarily, As expected, she wants to watch a play and doesnt think it is troublesome. Obviously, Mo Shujun wanted to watch the fight between Leng Yan and Dong Hui. However, it happened to satisfy Leng Yan, so she kept silent obediently. They had their own thoughts yet with the same goal, so they went to the Dong familys mansion in a carriage in high spirits. In the Dong familys mansion, Dong Hui was being rebuked by her mother Ouyang Yuxin crossly. You came back home without telling us in advance. Do you think that you are unmarried and can do whatever you want lawlessly? Ouyang Yuxin was from a military family and didnt learn to be a noble lady but learnt from the soldiers who had loud voices. She cursed without mercy and criticized Dong Hui as if she was worthless. Dong Hui had tears in her eyes, feeling wronged and reluctant. She couldnt help retorting, What could I do except coming back home under the situation? Junhe suspected that I have an affair with another man. I tried so hard to explain to him, yet he refused to listen to me anyway. Ishall I still stay there and be humiliated by him? It is your fault! I have warned you then that since you would marry into Duke Shis mansion, you should break up with Yan L. Its better that you wont see him forever, in case that somebody else comments on you. You agreed with me then, but look, what have you done these years? Ouyang Yuxin cursed in a loud voice with disappointment. Dong Hui shrank her neck yet still didnt think that she should be denounced. She straightened her back and retorted harshly again, I have said that nothing happened between Yan and me, and we have no secret relationship. That time we met at midnight just because he hadnt seen me for a long time and he was afraid that somebody would comment. How would I know that somebody would see that? You dont curse the women who gossiped but your innocent daughter? Till now, Dong Hui hadnt realized it was wrong that she met Yan L in secret, and she still put the blame on the second madam and third madam who found that. It seemed that as long as the second madam and third madam didnt find it, the secret date of her and Yan L wouldnt exist. Ouyang Yuxin was furious and goggled because of Dong Huis weird statement yet could do nothing to her. Fortunately, at the moment, a servant reported as the Princess Royal came to visit them. The two women in the room were scared and looked at each other speechlessly for a long time. Even when Shi Junhe would marry Dong Hui and the betrothal gifts were sent to the Dong family, Mo Shujun didnt visit them as she thought that she was honorable. However, even before the Dong family sent an invitation, Mo Shujun came in person unexpectedly. Did the sun rise from the west? Dong Hui didnt like Mo Shujun and couldnt help but frown. She asked with displeasure, What is she doing here? Ouyang Yuxin pounded Dong Huis back and yelled at her crossly, What nonsense are you talking about? You call her mother. Why dont you go out and welcome her now? I wont. She dislikes me all the time and has told Junhe several times to divorce me so he can marry another wife. She has come now, and there must be nothing good. I have been back home. Why would I go out to be humiliated by her? Dong Hui seemed to pin on the chair and refused to move. Ouyang Yuxin was furious to blush because of her daughters stubbornness and wanted to beat and curse her again. Suddenly she had a brainwave and stopped her hand. Then she looked at Dong Hui joyfully. I know why she came. Why? Dong Hui asked in low spirits. Ouyang Yuxin was too excited, so she didnt notice Dong Huis emotion. She just pulled Dong Hui to her cheerfully and analyzed. Duke Shi must feel unwell because he knows that as the mistress, you are not at home, but he cant lower himself to beg you to go back, so he asked Princess Royal to come. He thinks that as long as Princess Royal came, you would consider her dignity. No matter how mad you are at him, you would respect her. While speaking, the mother thought that it was true and nodded repeatedly, coming to a conclusion. Girl, Princess Royal personally came to beg you to return home. No way? Dong Hui had fought against Mo Shujun for so many years and thought that she knew well about her mother-in-law. She didnt think that Mo Shujun would do that for her. However, Ouyang Yuxins explanation was reasonable indeed, which moved her inevitably. It must be like this. I wont guess wrong! Why not get up now? Lets go to the main hall and have a look now. Then well know what is going on. Ouyang Yuxin dragged Dong Hui and took her to the main hall. Although Dong Hui was still unwilling, she anticipated Mo Shujuns visit. When they walked to the main hall, the servants had served tea to Mo Shujun. Dong Hui hadnt seen Mo Shujun for a long time and suddenly saw that she sat in the chair drinking tea peacefully and didnt look distant as usual, so she felt less resentful. Ouyang Yuxin winked at her from behind, so Dong Hui had no choice but to walk forward and bow to Mo Shujun, greeting respectfully, Mother, nice to see you. How are you today? Mo Shujun rarely showed a pleasant smile to Dong Hui and answered casually, I am fine. Hui, you have been staying out for a few days. Are you used to staying in your parents home? Dong Hui was about to reply yes, yet Ouyang Yuxin poked her waist and stopped her. Ouyang Yuxin talked to Mo Shujun warmly. Ms. Mo, you havent visited our family for a long time. We didnt take good care of you. Please forgive us. Ouyang Yuxin wanted to get close to Mo Shujun, but Princess Royal was used to being called respectfully. She suddenly heard that the other party greeted her as a peer, so she frowned and her dignified face got tense again. Seeing that, Dong Hui knew that her mother mentioned Mo Shujuns taboo, so she pulled Ouyang Yuxin to stand behind her at once and said apologetically, My mother is too happy to see you. If she offends you, please forgive her, Mother. Mo Shujun wouldnt forgive her at ordinary times, and she might even go away. Nevertheless, thinking of the purpose of her visit, she controlled herself and just responded indifferently, It doesnt matter. Dong Hui was surprised as Mo Shujun was so considerate, so she thought of Ouyang Yuxins analysis again and was expectant. She looked at Mo Shujun and asked, Mother, what brings you here this time? Mo Shujun took a sip of tea and then said unhurriedly, I know that you have left home for a long time, so I specially came to ask if you have stopped feeling angry. Can you go back home with me? These were the most pleasant words out of Mo Shujuns mouth that Dong Hui had ever heard. Dong Hui had tears in her eyes instantly, and it seemed that all her grievance had gone because of Mo Shujuns words. As expected, Mo Shujun came to bring her back for Shi Junhe. Although Dong Hui hoped to see Shi Junhe most, she was clear about his pride, so she wouldnt refuse to go back to the Shi family before her husband lowered himself to beg her. Even if Shi Junhe told two daughters to pick her up, she might be moved and go back home with them. Now Shi Junhe had even asked Mo Shujun to come, and it was a great favor for Dong Hui. Dong Hui was shocked in joy. Seeing that Dong Hui remained unmoved, Ouyang Yuxin pushed her and reminded her in a low voice. Say yes now! Dont put on airs Yes, yes Dong Hui stuttered a reply. She wanted to say something politely to show that she was not self-willed and it was not that she would go back home only after an elder came to ask her. Unexpectedly, Mo Shujun put down the teacup and said slowly, Its great that you are willing to return home. I am worried who would take charge of Junhes marriage in three days if you refuse to go back. What? Ouyang Yuxin screamed and almost thought that she misheard. She hurriedly turned to Dong Hui, to see that the latter was also stunned and even stiffened like a stone. Hui, Hui, are you okay? Dont frighten me! Ouyang Yuxin cautiously called Dong Hui twice, but there was no answer. She was scared and didnt have time to ask Mo Shujun what she meant by saying that. She instantly helped Dong Hui sit down and beat her daughters chest. After quite a while, Dong Hui suddenly breathed in and came to her senses. Then tears fell from her eyes. Dong Hui looked at Mo Shujun in disbelief and asked, stressing each word, What do you mean by saying that? Mo Shujun pretended to be surprised and asked in reply, Didnt Junhe tell you? Seeing that Dong Hui stared at her blankly in silence, she continued, In three days, he would marry my maid Leng Yan. He agreed more than one month ago. I thought that he had told you, but this kid didnt tell you something so important. He is too naughty. I will Ms. Mo! Ouyang Yuxin finally couldnt bear to hear that and shouted harshly, interrupting Mo Shujuns sarcasm. Chapter 261 - A Loud Slap in Her Face It was Mo Shujuns first time to be interrupted, yet she didnt get angry. Instead, she just looked at Ouyang Yuxin indifferently. Madam Dong, what do you want to tell me? Ouyang Yuxin showed a cold face and rebuked angrily, When your son married my daughter, he promised that he would never have a concubine. We didnt bother about his concubines daughter, but you dare to tell him to take another concubine. Do you think that the members of the Dong family can be bullied easily? Dong Huis mother was quick-tongued and said a lot. Unexpectedly, Mo Shujun didnt even want to glance at Ouyang Yuxin, and she responded loftily, That was in the past, and its different now. When Dong got married, she didnt say that she would make our family have no descendant. The biggest impiety was having no descendant. The descendant was not a child but a boy who could inherit the title of nobility. Dong Hui didnt give birth to a son in the past twenty years. If she married into another noble family, she should obediently help her husband take a concubine to have a son or wait for being divorced. Ouyang Yuxin knew that they were in the wrong, so she was not so aggressive, yet when she glanced at Dong Huis slightly prominent belly, she stood with her head high and chest out again, asking, Who said that Hui cant give birth to a son? Now isnt the baby in her womb the future heir of Duke Shi? Mo Shujun glanced at Dong Huis belly and sneered. We dont know whether the fetus is a boy or a girl. Before it is born, nobody knows its gender. Whats more, its uncertain if she can give birth to it in the end. For the first time, Ouyang Yuxin and Dong Hui heard that a grandmother disliked her daughter-in-law and even evilly cursed her grandson. Its so hard to believe that! Tears fell from Dong Huis eyes without a stop again, and Ouyang Yuxin was furious. She pushed Dong Hui once more and told her to reason with Mo Shujun, but Dong Hui just lowered her head and shed tears. She didnt know how to fight for her right, which made Ouyang Yuxin angrier. However, at the moment, Mo Shujun seemed to think that it was not hurtful enough, and she expressed intentionally, Fine, its late now. Hui, hurry to pack up and then go back with me. She said that, as if she really came to take Dong Hui back to their mansion. Leng Yan stood in front of Mo Shujun obediently as a wall flower all the time, and she felt happy while seeing that Mo Shujun irritated Dong Hui so much that she shed tears, yet she didnt expect that the Princess Royal really invited Dong Hui back to the mansion, so she was restless. If Dong Hui really went back, wouldnt Leng Yan be in a lower position in the East House? Leng Yan hurriedly winked at Mo Shujun, but the latter pretended not to have seen that and just urged Dong Hui to pack up. It made Leng Yan anxious. However, obviously, Leng Yan didnt know about Dong Hui well enough. Dong Hui was arrogant and stubborn. She came back to her parents home because she got mad at Shi Junhe. Now Mo Shujun made her so angry, so how would she go back home with her mother-in-law obediently? Then she turned around and ignored Mo Shujun, regardless of the basic etiquette. Mo Shujun didnt get mad and just sighed, taking it as a pity. Fine. It appears that you are still angry with Junhe, and even though I came to ask you, you are unwilling to go back. Dong Hui still didnt answer her. In this case, I wont force you. Of course, Mo Shujun didnt specially come to ask Dong Hui to go back home, and her daughter-in-laws reactions satisfied her. Then she pushed Leng Yan forward and put on airs. Yan, Hui is unwilling to witness your marriage to Junhe, and its that you dont have the good luck, so I cant force her. But after all, she is the mistress. Even though she is not in the East House, you cant show disrespect to her. Do you understand? Leng Yan certainly knew what Mo Shujun wanted to do. She ignored the other two peoples ghastly pale faces and replied in a clear and loud voice, Yes, I see. You will be Junhes concubine, and Hui is his wife. Do you know what you should do? Mo Shujun reminded her once more. Leng Yan immediately picked up the hot tea which had been prepared earlier and walked gracefully to Dong Hui. She seemed not to see Dong Huis eyes which would eat her alive and then bowed with a smile. I hear that when a woman gets married to a man as his concubine, she would serve tea to his wife and greet her. Now you are unwilling to go back to our mansion, and I am afraid that I cant serve tea to you when I get married, Madam, yet I cant ignore the rules. Please accept it. Afterward, she raised the teacup with both hands and gave it to Dong Hui. However, it was not a cup of tea but a loud slap in Dong Huis face. Dong Hui couldnt be impolite to Mo Shujun, but would she let a maid step on her? She didnt care if this was Mo Shujuns personal maid and just waved her hand, wiping the teacup in front of her to the floor. Bang! Leng Yan also leaned forward and fell on the floor with a grunt. Madam, I know that you dont like me and think that I snatched His Lordships love, yet I cant control who he wants to marry. No matter how angry you are and how much you dont want him to have a concubine, you cant Tears fell from Leng Yans eyes at once. She looked pitiful, as if she were bullied by a local tyrant. Dong Hui was furious, but hearing that Leng Yan satirized her indirectly as she was jealous, she could hardly breathe and passed out. Hui! Ouyang Yuxin turned pale with fear and summoned the maids in a hurry. What is going on? A deep male voice cut in. All people in the main hall looked at the voice source, to see that Dong Huis father Dong Biren was standing at the door, with Shi Junhe and Shi Qingxue on both sides behind him. Seeing that her husband came, Ouyang Yuxin seemed to find her backup and cried out at once. She started to complain tearfully that Mo Shujun brought a concubine to provoke them and irritated Dong Hui to fall into a coma. Dong Biren had no reaction after hearing that, while Shi Junhe strode in and came to Dong Hui, asking with concern anxiously, Hui, Hui, are you all right? Ouyang Yuxin was angry about Mo Shujuns behavior and therefore hated Shi Junhe. She pushed him away from Dong Hui and reproached in a rage, Get out! Who allows you to get close to my daughter? Nobody in your mansion is nice. You abandoned my daughter, and even after she came back home, she was humiliated by you! It pissed me off! Since you dont care about my daughter, we dont like your family! All of you, get out of here! After speaking, Ouyang Yuxin didnt give Shi Junhe a chance to explain and just ordered the servants to carry Dong Hui into the inner room. Meanwhile, she stopped Shi Junhe from following them in. Shi Junhe wanted to break in, but Dong Biren stated in a deep voice behind him, Duke Shi, this is not the imperial court or your mansion here. You cant act willfully. Shi Junhe was in awe of his father-in-law and didnt dare to behave recklessly, so he had to stop in his tracks. However, it seemed that Mo Shujun couldnt bear to hear others rebuke her son, and she yelled again, You talk about your family all the time. It seems that your family is priceless, but in fact, it looks beautiful on the surface while its messy inside. Look at the daughter you have brought up. She has a lot of shortcomings and even dares to have an affair in secret. She is Mother! Shi Junhe couldnt stand it anymore and roared in a low voice, interrupting Mo Shujun. He glared at Mo Shujun almost with his questioning eyes for the first time, hinting, You promised me not to reveal this matter. Why did you break your word and even come to the Dong familys mansion to do something like this? Mo Shujun shrank back under Shi Junhes eyes and suddenly had a bad feeling, thinking that it was terrible this time. However, she was always arrogant. Even though she thought that she might have gone too far, she wouldnt lower her head. Contrarily, she held her head high and looked into Shi Junhes eyes in silence. Neither of them spoke a word. At last, Dong Biren told them to leave. You two came from afar and said what you should and shouldnt say as you wanted. And you have said enough. Please go back home now! His voice was distant and majestic, above suspicion. Mo Shujun wanted to retort, but facing this father, she felt guilty, so she ceased fire and went away with Leng Yan. Shi Junhe still wanted to see Dong Hui, while he was stopped by Dong Biren. Dong Biren stated, I dont care what difficulty you have. Whats done is done, and it has happened, so its no need to say anything pointless. Just go back first. Shi Junhe could do nothing but leave in frustration. Dong Biren stood in the main hall for a while and saw Shi Junhe walking out of the mansions gate. Then he looked away slowly and his eyes fell on a corner. Why dont you go away? Of course he asked Shi Qingxue who had sent a message to Shi Junhe and came with him. Hearing her grandfather Dong Biren order her to leave, the young generation Shi Qingxue was obviously much bolder than Mo Shujun and Shi Junhe. She was thick-skinned and smiled. I came to play the game of Go with you today, Grandpa. The stones and board havent been displayed, but you want to kick me out. Do you hate me, too? Dont you want to see me? Dong Biren could speak bluntly to Shi Junhe, yet he would never get mad at this smart and lovely little granddaughter anyway. He just showed a cold face and didnt have time to speak. However, Shi Qingxues eyes were full of tears in an instant, and she started to complain in a sobbing voice, Purr, I am so sad. I didnt do anything, but you dislike me. I am so poor. My paternal grandpa left me, and now even my maternal grandpa wants to abandon me Logically, Dong Biren was the kind of person who was impatient to hear others cry, and he thought that this was improper. However, nobody knew why Dong Biren didnt get impatient but started to feel sad for her when he looked at his little granddaughters tears. Especially when he heard Shi Qingxue bring up his old friend Shi Lei, he sighed with emotion and thought, If Shi Lei knows that I made his beloved granddaughter cry, the old guy may fight against me till death. Fine, fine. Stop crying. I dont dislike you! Dong Biren never comforted anybody else, so he just softened his tone and said stiffly. Shi Qingxue stopped at a certain point. She had been shedding tears, but in the blink of an eye, her tears were gone, and her big sparkling and bright eyes were fascinating. Nobody could find that she had cried. At the moment, Dong Biren certainly knew that this little girl just purposely pretended to be pitiful and wanted him to feel sorry for her. What was more annoying, he knew the truth yet didnt get angry unexpectedly. He just rubbed Shi Qingxues nose crossly. Kid, you learnt from your grandpa who was smart. No wonder he loved you so much. Hearing that somebody praised her as she was like Shi Lei, Shi Qingxue had a complacent and confident smile on her face, seeming to say, Right? He was proud of me. Of course, she wouldnt be so shameless in front of outsiders or speak out what was on her mind. She just blinked and changed the subject. Grandpa, lets play Go. I havent played with you for a long time and I am out of practice. In the beginning, Dong Biren worried that Shi Qingxue would ask for mercy for Shi Junhe, but unexpectedly, when he softened, she was still willing to play Go with him seriously, so he was more satisfied. He didnt refuse Shi Qingxue to support his arm, and they went to the study. On the way, it was a quiet and beautiful environment, and it was matched with Dong Biren, a famous Confucian scholar. Shi Qingxue hadnt been to the Dong familys mansion for a long time, and she felt happy to see the grass and trees which were the same as before. She couldnt help but stop and watch them carefully. When your grandpa came here that year, he also couldnt walk forward while seeing the grass and flowers. However, I laughed at him as he was a military official but learnt to mingle with men of letters and posed as a lover of culture. Do you know how he replied to me? Dong Biren suddenly talked about the old stories. And it was something about Shi Lei that Shi Qingxue most wanted to know. She looked at Dong Biren with expectancy and asked for an answer, What did he say? Chapter 262 - Another Secret Dong Biren looked into the distance, with nostalgia in his deep eyes. After a long time, he stated, Shi Lei replied that he learnt it from me. Its said that things of a kind come together and people of a mind fall into the same group, so he was the same kind of person as me Listen. He just acted shamelessly. Dong Biren said the last words with a smile after he turned to Shi Qingxue. Before Shi Qingxue responded, he continued, At that time, I said he was captious, but he didnt admit it and insisted that what he said was the truth, and he asked me to find a reason to retort him. He even argued that if I, a Confucian scholar couldnt find an argument, then it proved that he was right. Shi Qingxue didnt know that Shi Lei was so fun when he was young, and she was anxious to know more. Grandpa, did you find a reason to retort him? Dong Biren glanced at Shi Qingxue gloomily and asked in reply, Didnt you learn from that old guy to act shamelessly? I cant even retort you. Do you think that I found a reason later? Shi Qingxue was stunned, and after a long while, she realized that Dong Biren said in an indirect way that she acted shamelessly. She didnt retort but laughed proudly and nodded to echo him. As you said, I learnt it from my grandpa. So if there was a problem, he had to find her paternal grandpa. She didnt say the last words, while the complacency on her face showed her feelings. After many years, when Dong Biren saw somebody act shamelessly again, he was powerless to resist it as always. He looked at Shi Qingxue and sighed with emotion yet felt relieved. He murmured, Your grandpa didnt waste his effort on you. Shi Qingxue lowered her head while feeling guilty and looked dejected. But I didnt finish what he expected. She paused for a while and then expressed in a hoarse voice, When my grandpa gave me the token granted by Emperor, he said that he hoped it could protect me for a lifetime, but I know that in fact he pinned his hope on me. Unfortunately, I Unfortunately, she didnt make Duke Shis mansion prosperous gradually yet it fell apart while it looked peaceful on the surface. Qingxue thought that she was guilty in front of Shi Lei and later even had no courage to visit his memorial tablet in the ancestral hall. Dong Biren didnt know what had happened in the previous life, so he thought Shi Qingxue was modest. He caressed Shi Qingxues head and stated with affection, You have done a very good job, but you are powerless to do something Why are you feeling guilty? In the past Dong Biren recalled the past, with unspeakable emotions on his face. It was depressing and complicated. He didnt look at Shi Qingxue and seemed to be immersed in his emotions. Then he mumbled, If Shi Lei didnt do something like that because of the herb, perhaps everything wouldnt happen today. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue fell into self-loathing and could hardly extricate herself. She was stunned to hear Dong Birens words suddenly. Then she finally realized that they were not on the same page seemingly. The herb? Right! Dong Biren replied with emotion. The herb would be used to save a life, but unexpectedly, the life couldnt be saved, yet the happiness of several generations was ruined, including your parents and even you Dong Biren abruptly stopped talking. He met Shi Qingxues confused eyes in embarrassment and realized what he had said. Then he hurriedly shut his mouth and didnt say more. Shi Qingxue thought by instinct that what Dong Biren said might be about a big secret, and how would she stop in this way? She grabbed her grandfathers sleeve and shook it constantly. Grandpa, why did you stop? What is that herb? Can it save a life? Why didnt it make it? Did somebody else use it? Or somebody with evil intentions didnt give the herb to my grandpa? What on earth happened? Tell me now! Shi Qingxue asked all her questions quickly, and before she got the answer to the last question, she replied to herself. She talked rapidly, yet Dong Biren was astonished while listening. Dong Biren hadnt expected that Shi Qingxue would find some clues from his few words after he just spoke casually and didnt reveal anything. Moreover, what she concluded was close to the truth, even though she didnt know that. Dong Biren made a lot of efforts to restrain his shock and pretended to be calm, interrupting Shi Qingxues guess. Fine. Dont make blind conjectures. I just said that casually and it has nothing to do with you as the young generation. Dont waste time on something like this. It has nothing to do with us? Shi Qingxue murmured and suddenly had a brainwave. She blurted out, Does it have something to do with my paternal grandma? Dong Biren turned pale in surprise and looked at Shi Qingxue in a daze, remaining silent. However, at the moment, his silence revealed something. Shi Qingxue got the answer from Dong Birens expression. Nevertheless, she wasnt satisfied as a result because she was more and more doubtful. It has something to do with my grandma? What is the relationship? Does it have something to do with my father, or Shi Qingxue lowered her head and whispered, beginning to think divergently. Dong Biren heard that and felt his scalp numb. He stopped her in a hurry. Fine, fine. Girl, why do you guess randomly? Dont you want to see your mother? If you dont go, I will kick you out. His threat was quite effective. Shi Qingxue immediately shut her mouth and made a gesture of silence, expressing that she wouldnt ask him anymore. After a while, she peeped at Dong Biren cautiously. Grandpa, can I go to see Mother now? Go. I knew that you didnt come to play Go with me sincerely. If you dont see your mother, how would you be in the mood to play? Dong Biren seemed to dislike Shi Qingxue and waved at her. Then he turned around and didnt want to talk with her. Shi Qingxue was seen through and didnt retort. She just giggled. Then she stated, I am going to see if Mother is well. Then I will come again to play with you. Dong Biren was anxious to send this girl away, in case that she sounded him out and lured him to reveal all the secrets, so how would he dare to let her play Go with him? Unexpectedly, hearing that Dong Biren didnt want her to play with him, Shi Qingxue refused to leave. Her big eyes got red in an instant, and it seemed more effective than anything. Grandpa, you dislike me again Purr, I know Shi Qingxue repeated what she had performed in front of Dong Biren. Logically, Dong Biren should be immune from this. However, as soon as he saw the red and swollen eyes like a rabbits, he could do nothing but get helpless and feel sad for her. Fine. You won. Just ask what you want to. Shi Qingxue was quite complacent in her heart and secretly made a gesture of victory. However, when she faced Dong Biren, she was obedient. She looked at Dong Biren seriously and expressed sincerely, Grandpa, I hope that you can frankly tell me what happened that year. Is there a secret that I dont know yet I should know? From Shi Qingxues serious eyes, Dong Biren seemed to see his bosom friend who was fearless to the truth. He was in a trance for a moment. After quite a while, he murmured, They are old stories, and the people involved passed away long ago. Whats the point of mentioning them again? Shi Qingxue didnt shrink back at all and just stressed each word. I am a weak woman, but since I promised my grandpa, I should protect the Shi family and never give it up. Now the family is shaky, yet I always think that I am confused and cant find the root of the problem, let alone defending against disasters and punish the evil people. So, Grandpa, please consider my filial piety and tell me what you know. Afterward, she thought that Dong Biren kept the secret because he was probably afraid that if the news spread, it would do harm to the Shi family, so she raised her right hand and swore, I swear, I will keep my mouth shut after I learn the truth from you today. I will never tell anybody else. If I break my word, I will Before she finished her words, Dong Biren interrupted her forcefully. Dong Biren spat to the floor several times and whispered, Take no offense at a childs babble. Please forgive her After that, he looked at Shi Qingxue again and sighed as if complaining. If your grandpa knows that I force you to swear, he would jump out of his coffin and pinch me to death. Grandpa, its none of your business. I am willing to Dong Biren shook his head and stopped her from speaking more. The old man sighed deeply and then explained slowly, In fact, its not a secret. However, because the person concerned was guilty, it made this thing become a taboo in all peoples hearts. The person concerned, all people, guilty The more Dong Biren explained, the more confused Shi Qingxue was. She almost cried. Who would unravel the mysteries in this way? When she was about to protest, Dong Biren waved his hand again and talked to her almost in a solemn tone. To be honest, it is not a secret, but as an outsider, I shouldnt talk about this thing. So, my little girl, dont force me anymore, okay? Shi Qingxue goggled speechlessly. Could she say no? The little girl was fooled by the old man and couldnt ask more, and she couldnt make a scene and insist on asking her grandpa to tell her about this matter. Fortunately, the old man didnt intend to hide it from his granddaughter. He pondered for a moment and then suggested, If you want to know, you can go to the Shi familys ancestral graveyard to have a look. You are so smart, and maybe you can find a clue. With that, Dong Biren left directly. Shi Qingxue was left alone and puzzled. She didnt have a clue. Humph! You dont tell me, but I can check it by myself. The only thing that Shi Qingxue could be sure of was that this matter had something to do with Mo Shujun. As long as she knew this point, she wouldnt give up investigating. She encouraged herself in secret and ran slowly to Dong Huis bedroom. Shi Qingxue hoped that there was nothing wrong with her mother after she was irritated by Mo Shujun so much. However, anyway, she couldnt hide the fact that Shi Junhe would marry Leng Yan as his concubine. At this thought, Shi Qingxue felt that the future was hazy. Chapter 263 - The Divorce Settlement Three days later, Duke Shis mansion was decorated with lanterns and colored hangings, in a festive atmosphere. After Mo Shujun fell out with Shi Junhe in the Dong familys mansion, she became brazen. She broke her promise that she wouldnt let everybody know about Shi Junhes marriage to a concubine. Now all people in the mansion knew that the maid Leng Yan would marry the first master as his concubine, and some people were jealous of her. Some people were happy and some were sad. Early in the morning, Shi Qingxue prepared to go out. When she walked out of the East House, she saw that Shi Jie rushed in with a letter in his hand hastily. He even forgot to bow to her after seeing her and just ran to the study. Qingxue was confused and subconsciously told him to stop. What is it in your hand? Shi Jie seemed to finally notice Shi Qingxue in front of him. His face stiffened, and he greeted dully, My Lady, nice to see you. While speaking, he shrank his hand to his back and wanted to hide the letter. But everything couldnt escape from Shi Qingxues eyes. She was just curious about what Shi Jie was going to do in a hurry. Now seeing that he was stealthy and suspicious, she was more curious even though she hadnt planned to read the letter. She ordered coldly again, Show me the letter in your hand. Shi Jie stiffened and refused to move, begging in embarrassment, My Lady, dont make things difficult for me. This letteris to be sent to His Lordship. Shi Qingxue sneered and said impolitely, I didnt say that this letter is not written to my father. I just want to know who sent an urgent letter to him today. Cant I? No, no! Shi Jie didnt dare to offend this master, yet he didnt want to give the letter to her, so he was at a loss for what to do next. Shi Qingxue waited a moment and then got impatient. She stepped forward directly and grabbed the letter from Shi Jies hand. My Lady, dont unfold the letter. Shi Jie wanted to say, This is not a letter to you, and you cant unfold it. However, before he said that, Shi Qingxue looked at the envelop in a daze. At the moment, Shi Jie suddenly realized that sometimes if they wanted to know who wrote the letter, they didnt need to unfold the letter, and they just needed to check the handwriting on the envelop before confirming it. Especially Shi Qingxue couldnt be more familiar with the handwriting on this envelop. It was her mother Dong Huis. Mother wrote to Father? Shi Qingxue turned to Shi Jie and asked blankly. Shi Jie knew that he couldnt hide it from her, so he had no choice but to answer frankly, Last night, the Dong family sent somebody to tell me to go to their mansion this morning, and I couldnt tell His Lordship in advance as it was Madams order. I had to do it. As a result, when I reached their mansion, Madam personally gave this letter to me and asked me to tell His Lordship that Shi Jie looked baffled and couldnt go on. Shi Qingxue urged him anxiously, What did Mother say? Tell me now! Madam saidwe are done and will never see each other. Shi Qingxue was petrified, while the letter slipped out of her grasp and then fell on the ground, like a leaf in autumn. Shi Jie was shocked by Shi Qingxues reaction and wanted to pick up the letter, yet he didnt dare to. He remained unmoved while kneeling for a long time and then called cautiously, My Lady, My Lady! Shi Qingxue was suddenly awakened and her big eyes became red in an instant. Dong Hui wanted to divorce Shi Junhe unexpectedly. This was what Shi Qingxue had never expected. Why was it like this? Didnt Dong Hui love Shi Junhe deeply all the time? Why did shegive up so easily? She had explained to Dong Hui that day, and then Dong Hui expressed that she understood and even promised We are done and will never see each other. Did her mother even want to abandon her and Shi Baoning? As Shi Qingxue thought about it, more and more tears fell from her eyes uncontrollably. She didnt feel it, but it frightened Shi Jie. Shi Jie thought in depression, If His Lordship knows that I made Lady Qingxue cry, would he kill me? My Lady, My Lady! I beg you. Stop crying, okay? How about Shi Jie had no choice and ignored all the rules. He gave the letter to her with both hands and then added, I never went to the Dong familys mansion and have never seen this letter. Everything never happened. Is it okay? Shi Jie was helpless, so he figured out such a lame idea. The letter was put in Shi Qingxues hand, and she came to her senses after being in a trance for quite a while. Then she murmured, Lets pretend that nothing has happened? Shi Jie nodded in haste. Anyway, this letter was to be sent to Shi Junhe. As long as it wasnt sent, what Madam said about the divorce would be invalid, and Shi Jie didnt need to get a scolding. After all, when he guessed that this letter might be a divorce settlement, he was much more depressed than now. Now that the young lady could carry the can for him, he was relaxed. Shi Qingxue grabbed the letter, with many thoughts in her brain. She was not as optimistic as Shi Jie, who thought that it would be fine as long as the letter wasnt sent to Shi Junhe. But now the letter was in her hands, and perhaps she could do something to save the situation. The first person Shi Qingxue thought of was Mo Junyang, so she instantly went out with the letter. As soon as she walked out of the gate of the East House, she bumped into Shi Baoning. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was in a hurry, Shi Baoning couldnt help but ask, Are you going out to play around today? Shi Qingxue didnt notice Shi Baonings improper words. Seeing her elder sister, she seemed to see a savior and hurriedly walked to her. She thought involuntarily, Although Mo Junyang is capable, anyway distant waters are powerless against near fires. She and Shi Baoning were of a mind, and maybe Shi Baoning could help figure out a way to win back Dong Huis heart. So she immediately told Shi Baoning what had happened. Hearing that, Shi Baoning frowned deeply and looked Shi Qingxue up and down distantly for a long while, which made the latter nervous. Then she asked coldly, Why did you unfold Fathers letter without permission? Shi Qingxue was speechless. She had thought that something important occurred to Shi Baoning, while the latter paid attention to something insignificant unexpectedly. She couldnt help sighing with disappointment. Then she reminded Shi Baoning to focus on the main point, but the other party pestered her. Qingxue was so angry that she gave the folded letter to Shi Baoning and said coldly, See? I didnt unfold Fathers letter. Are you satisfied? Shi Baoning glanced at the sealed letter and blushed with shyness instantly. She asked in embarrassment, Since you didnt unfold the letter to Father, why do you know that Mother wanted to divorce Father? Shi Qingxue couldnt control herself anymore and rolled her eyes. Mother said something to break up. What can it be except a divorce settlement Cant you use your brain and think it over? Fortunately, later she finally remembered that this was her elder sister, so she didnt speak out those words. Otherwise, the sisters would become enemies. Shi Baoning stayed silent as she was unable to retort Qingxue. After a long time, when Shi Qingxue almost couldnt wait anymore, Shi Baoning asked unhurriedly, What does it have to do with you? What? Shi Qingxue asked in reply and almost thought that she misheard it. However, her elder sisters serious expression told her obviously that she didnt mishear it. Shi Baoning rebuked her as she meddled in other peoples affairs. Shi Qingxue instantly felt a rage surging in her heart for no reason, and she could hardly control herself. She almost lost temper, but fortunately her sanity reminded her at the crucial time. She just pointed out coldly with her face darkening, The people involved in this matter are our father and mother. They will get a divorce. Do you think it has something to do with us? Shi Qingxue thought that she had made it clear, and no matter how numb Shi Baoning was, she should be aware. Unexpectedly, Shi Baoning just looked indifferent and snorted coldly. All men like to abandon the old for the new and love the beauties. It is not surprising that Mother made such a choice. We are her daughters, and shouldnt we support her? Shi Qingxue felt extremely astonished at the moment. She finally realized what was wrong, or what was wrong with Shi Baoning. It seemed that once they mentioned that Shi Junhe would have a concubine, Shi Baoning was strange and always made sarcastic comments. She was even critical of society. Baoning, you Shi Qingxue stared at Shi Baoning in doubt. The suspicion flashing in her sisters eyes scared Shi Baoning, and she almost thought that she revealed what she was thinking about. Shi Baoning pretended calm and interrupted Shi Qingxue. Whats wrong with me? I am fine. The more Shi Baoning pretended, the stronger feeling Shi Qingxue had. She gazed at Shi Baoning for quite a while and then was suddenly enlightened. Then facing Shi Baonings nervous expression, she asked seriously, Does Chi love another woman and want to have a concubine, too? Shi Baoning was dumbfounded. However, Shi Qingxue thought that Shi Baoning tacitly approved as she was in a daze, so she cursed resentfully, Hump! Chi is so bad. No, I have to teach him a lesson. While speaking, she even rolled her sleeves, and it seemed that she would fight against Wenren Chi to avenge Shi Baoning. What nonsense are you talking about? Shi Baoning blurted out after she came back to earth. This time, it was Shi Qingxues turn to be startled and at a loss. Shi Baoning restrained her restlessness and continued coldly, I told you not to meddle. Dont you understand? You are an outsider. Why do you get involved in the relationship between me and my fiance? Do you want to ruin our relationship? Answer me! The aggressive tone and unreasonable words were like sharp arrows and penetrated Shi Qingxues chest, with much fresh blood. She was hurt and raised her head, looking at Shi Baoning. It seemed that she hadnt realized till now why she considered for her elder sister out of kindness but Shi Baoning thought she was evil and even criticized her. After Shi Baoning vented her anger on Shi Qingxue, she happened to meet her younger sisters pure eyes. There were injuries, doubts, confusion and all kinds of emotions mixed in her eyes, yet there was no hatred toward Shi Baoning. Even though Shi Baoning was rude and even abused her sister, Shi Qingxue didnt bear a grudge against her. However, because of this, Shi Baoning felt more ashamed and didnt have the courage to face Shi Qingxue, so she covered her face and ran away. Eh! Baoning! In the beginning, Shi Qingxue felt she was hurt, but soon she was confused by Shi Baonings contradictory actions. So what on earth was wrong with Shi Baoning? Was she frustrated by the fact that Wenren Chi fell in love with another woman, so she couldnt control her emotions and became so moody? Shi Qingxue didnt know that what she thought was far away from the truth and believed that she guessed right. Then she arbitrarily decided to have a talk with Wenren Chi when she was free. It was wrong to be a jerk. But the top priority now was to handle the major issue at hand. Shi Qingxue looked down at the hot potato in her hand and felt annoyed. So what should she do now? Qingxue, why are you standing here? Shi Qingxue suddenly woke up and looked back, to see Shi Baojing staring at her with concern. Baojing Shi Qingxue called in a low voice and asked, What are you doing here? Shi Baojing smiled with shyness and whispered, Uncle and His Excellency helped me last time, and I keep it in mind all the time, but because I am busy with the family affairs these days, I just have time to visit you now. I am sorry. Please forgive me. Shi Qingxue knew that Shi Baojing talked about her marriage to Mo Junwen, so she waved her hand and smiled. You and His Highness love each other, and we just brought a romance to a happy ending, and you helped us solve a big problem. We just benefit each other. No bother at all. I need to thank you. If you didnt speak for me, I am uncertain what would happen to me today. Now my wish comes true, and you have helped me a lot. Mentioning what had happened that day, Shi Baojing still felt scared and lucky. Chapter 264 - A Tongue Shi Baojing thought of that day when her mother in name Zhang Qiuyan forced her to get married. The second madam Zhang Qiuyan would marry her to an official, a widower, who was cruel, with a lust for women. He was rude in bed, so he killed several wives. If Shi Baojing didnt know that Zhang Qiuyan chose such a husband who would kill her, she almost gave up her relationship with Mo Junwen and prepared to listen to her parents and get married. Fortunately, later Mo Junwen found that officials bad habit and tried his best to persuade her to refuse this marriage, and he even said that he was willing to give up his title as a prince and rove with her all over the world. Even Mo Junwen could give up everything so bravely because of her, so Shi Baojing suddenly got reluctant. She finally fell in love with somebody, and more rarely, he returned her so much love. If she gave up so easily, it would be a pity. However, Shi Baojing was a concubines daughter that nobody in the family loved, and Mo Junwen was a prince unknown to the public. Neither of them could decide their marriage. Shi Baojing was helpless, so she had to ask the members in the East House for help. To be honest, even after she knelt to Shi Junhe and told him the truth and her request, she still didnt have confidence at all. Shi Baojing didnt think that she deserved their help. However, what happened next was beyond her expectation. Frist, Shi Qingxue forcefully asked Shi Junhe and Mo Junyang to help her. Then Shi Junhe and Mo Junyang asked the emperor for mercy for her. At last, Shi Qingxue went to see the empress dowager because of her. A hopeless marriage was decided unexpectedly. Till now, Shi Baojing still felt it was unreal. Seeing that Shi Baojing praised her exaggeratedly, Shi Qingxue blushed and hurriedly grabbed her cousins hand, stopping her from speaking more. Come on, Baojing. If you continue to praise me, I will be too shy even though you dont feel embarrassed. And the truth is not all like what you said. We have made use of your marriage, but why do you still While speaking, Shi Qingxue felt more awkward. She leered at Shi Baojing cautiously with guilt. Shi Baojing laughed heartfully. Dont worry. I really want to marry Junwen. You are our savior since you agree to bring us together. Really? Shi Qingxue looked Shi Baojing up and down again and then confirmed that her cousin wasnt reluctant at all, judging from her calm expression. So she patted her chest and got relieved. Its great that you can marry a man you love. You have a good husband, so you will escape from the quagmire in the Shi family. Now I am so annoyed by the mess that I dont know what to do. Shi Qingxue had no choice but to complain to Shi Baojing as she tried to grasp any straw. At the moment, she forgot to keep it a secret. First, she really needed somebody to share her worry and help her solve the problem, even though it seemed that Shi Baojing wasnt suitable to be such a character. Second, Shi Qingxue trusted Shi Baojing who didnt like to gossip. More importantly, the two girls were in the same boat, so Shi Qingxue didnt need to hide this thing from her cousin, and perhaps she couldnt hide it. Shi Baojing patiently listened when Shi Qingxue endlessly talked about what had happened these days and vented her annoyance. Then she understood everything roughly. Do you mean that Aunt wants to divorce Uncle because he is forced to marry the maid Leng Yan? Shi Qingxue glanced at Shi Baojing to show that the latter was smart and praised Shi Baojing who summed up her recent annoyance exactly. No. Dont praise me so soon. I cant figure out many things. Shi Baojing waved her hand modestly, with confusion shown on her peaceful face. What? Just ask me! Shi Baojing lowered her head and pondered for a moment before asking about what confused her most. I remember that Uncle Juncai likes the maid named Leng Yan very much. How would he agree to let her marry your father as his concubine? Shi Qingxue never thought about this question, so she answered casually, Perhaps because Grandma arranged it. Shi Baojing shook her head seriously. No. You and I know that Uncle Juncai is bossy. If he likes something, he would never give it to anybody easily. Moreover It was his elder brother Shi Junhe that he was always jealous of. Even if it was something that he didnt like, as long as it was Shi Junhes, he would want to grab it from his elder brother. Moreover, it was what he liked. Wouldnt he get it even after he made a scene? And Mo Shujun loved Shi Juncai so much. As long as he asked for it, she wouldnt disagree. Right. Then why did Grandma give her maid to Father forcefully? And she gave the maid to him so anxiously, as if that were a hot potato, and she wants to give it away hurriedly. Shi Qingxue reacted gradually and couldnt help but mumble. Shi Baojing suddenly thought of something and turned pale. She nervously pulled Qingxue to a corner and then whispered, When I went to greet Grandma one day, I heard something outside the rockery in the Shouan Hall She said the last words vaguely. Shi Qingxue didnt hear it clearly and then saw that Shi Baojing blushed. She was confused. What did you say just now? I didnt hear it clearly. And, why did you blush? Shi Baojing was angry and stomped because Shi Qingxue was numb. She could do nothing but stress, That thing! I heard that Uncle Juncai and Leng Yan hid in the rockery and did that thing. And they made loud sounds while doing that. Anybody can understand as soon as he hears it Shi Qingxue realized it at last. Before she felt embarrassed, she got angry. Howhow could they do something like that? Shi Qingxue cursed loudly out of anger. What made her more furious was that Shi Juncai had slept with Leng Yan, but how did he have the face to marry Leng Yan into the East House? Didnt that maid have an affair before marriage? Although Shi Qingxue didnt like Leng Yan from beginning to end, it didnt mean that she could allow that woman to cheat on her father. More importantly, it was fine if she had an affair. They could be absurd and harm themselves, yet they would even mess up the East House unexpectedly. It was unforgivable. No! I cant allow Leng Yan to marry my father. I am going to tell him to stop the ridiculous marriage now. Shi Qingxue gritted her teeth and turned to run back. Shi Baojing instantly stopped her and advised in a low voice, Qingxue, dont be impulsive. We have no evidence. Even if we tell Uncle now, it will be pointless. We cant ask him to tell Grandma that Leng Yan has an affair with Uncle Juncai, so he wont marry her, right? With no evidence, we will just give others a chance to make a false countercharge. Shi Qingxue stiffened for a while and soon realized that she was impulsive. I She sighed deeply and grabbed her braid, starting to rack her brains to figure out a way. Seeing that Shi Qingxue looked hesitant, Shi Baojing couldnt help but say with guilt, I am sorry. I did nothing to help you. She wanted to help, yet she had no good idea except offering a clue. EspeciallyLeng Yan would get married today. Dont say that. You have provided me with a thread. Shi Qingxue didnt mind and waved her hand. She didnt think that Shi Baojing should apologize to her. She bit her lower lip and began to think about the doubtful points of this issue little by little. For example, Mo Shujun was anxious to marry Leng Yan to Shi Junhe, which was a big problem. Otherwise, Mo Shujun loved ostentation and wanted to humiliate Dong Hui, so she would spread the news everywhere and even invite all the noble families that she knew. Then she could give Dong Hui a loud slap in the face. But she didnt do that. Perhaps she didnt have time to invite them Shi Qingxue murmured for a long while. While listening, Shi Baojing was more puzzled and didnt understand what was wrong with Qingxues questions and where they should find the evidence to prove what happened between Leng Yan and Shi Juncai. Qingxue, what on earth are you thinking about? If we really have no way, how about forgetting it We cant forget it so easily. Without hesitation, Shi Qingxue objected to Shi Baojings advice to shrink back. However, she smiled slily at Shi Baojing and said, I have an idea. Shi Baojing looked at her blankly and asked after a long while, What idea? Aha, I am afraid that I need your help! Shi Qingxue put her palms together to beg her cousin. Shi Baojing nodded before asking. Tell me what you want me to do. You help me later After hearing Shi Qingxues words, Shi Baojing frowned more and couldnt help mumbling in the end, Can it really work? Shi Qingxue showed a sly smile. How would we know that it wont work before we have a try? The maid Rouer secretly took out the thing she had prepared in advance and gave it to Leng Yan, showing a restless expression on her face. Yan, how about we dont do it? If somebody finds it, we will suffer a lot. Cut the crap. Give it to me now. Leng Yan grabbed the thing from Rouers hand. Seeing that Rouer was still timid, Leng Yan rolled her eyes and said crossly, What are you afraid of? If there is something wrong, I will take the blame, and its none of your business. Moreover, if we dont succeed this time, we will die. Dont you want to live a life that everybody admires? Rouer was tempted by Leng Yans words, yet she hesitated after thinking for a moment. She said softly, But I am still afraid that the first master It will be fine. Anyway, hurry to go back to our room and pack up now. Leng Yan comforted Rouer casually for a while and then pushed her out, telling her, After I marry the first master tonight, you can bring our luggage and move into the East House openly next morning. Rouer was scared but could do nothing to Leng Yan. She had to obediently do as Leng Yan ordered. When she returned to the bedroom in the Shouan Hall, it was at dusk, and the light around was dim. In late autumn, winter was coming and leaves fell on the ground all the way. In the quiet corridor, there were low and weird sounds. Rouer was feeling guilty. After she took only two steps, she was quite terrified. She ran back to the room and lit the oil lamp on the table. Then she was relieved a bit. Dont be frightened. There will be nothing wrong. Rouer kept murmuring. When she finally stopped trembling, she got up and planned to pack up. Rouer walked to her bed first and suddenly found that there was a bulge in the middle of the quilt. She was doubtful and started to feel frightened again. However, at the moment, the thing in the quilt moved seemingly, which scared her so much that she screeched and retreated to the table. When she fixed her eyes on it, she found that there was nothing unusual in the quilt. It seemed that she was just dizzy. Rouer nerved herself again to walk forward quickly and then lifted the quilt. A tongue with fresh blood was lying on her bed and it seemed to shake once. Then the tongue flew to Rouer all of a sudden and dashed into her arms, as if it had consciousness. Rouer was petrified. Till her hands were wet, full of fresh blood, she suddenly woke up. Ah! She screamed sharply and shook her hands abruptly, throwing the tongue out of her arms. Then she turned around, trying to run away. At the moment, it was dark around suddenly. Rouer couldnt see anything. Before she stopped screaming, there was green light in the room. It was like hell. Ah Rouer was terrified by the horrible scene before her eyes, and her legs softened. Then she fell to sit on the floor. Chapter 265 - Hear a Case in Hell at Night Rouer sat on the floor on her knees and looked at the place in shock where the light scattered in the front, asking in fear, Who, who is there? In the beginning, there was no sound. She tried to support herself and walk forward to have a look, but when she was about to get up, she heard a deep and hoarse male voice from ahead. The maid Rouer! I am here! Rouer subconsciously answered, and then a terrified feeling rose to her head from her sole. Who was calling her? There was only one person in the room. However, when she started to think about this question, the deep male voice continued to grunt, Are you going to admit your guilt? What, what guilt? Rouer responded in panic and then looked around all of a sudden, but it was silent and there was nobody except her. As soon as she finished her words, a loud and clear sound of knocking on the table with a wood appeared and scared her. Do you still want to find an excuse to justify yourself? The male voice in the front suddenly roared, and it came to her from afar, seeming to shout in her ear. It was like a magistrate interrogating a criminal and scared Rouer to have soft legs. She just wanted to protest, but she gave up the plan immediately. She merely replied while trembling, I admit my fault. I admit it. Please spare my life, please, My Lord! I am Bao Zheng from Kaifeng. Somebody accused you of killing him in hell. Is it true? Most of the common people had heard the story that Bao Zheng heard a case in the human world in daytime and in hell at night, and they were in awe of this impartial magistrate. Of course, Rouer was not an exception. She heard the story about Bao Zheng since childhood and was taught not to do anything evil. Otherwise, the victim or ghost would report to Lord Bao and sue her. Then she would be unable to sleep well at night. At this thought, Rouer trembled, but then the expression on her face was stagnant for a moment. When did she kill somebody else? My Lord, please observe clearly. Although I made a mistake, I never killed anybody. I dont know what you mean by saying my guilt. Please investigate it carefully, Lord Bao Rouer hurriedly knelt on the floor and kowtowed desperately to ask for mercy. The Lord Bao in front of her kept silent. After quite a while, he finally softened his tone. Oh? You said that you didnt commit a crime. Have you done something evil recently as the victim accused you in front of me? Er Rouer hesitated for a moment and didnt want to speak. Then another sound of knocking on the table with a wood appeared. How dare you! When I hear a case, how can you hesitate and refuse to tell the truth? Do you force me to use the instruments of torture? Rouer was frightened and sat on the floor on her knees again. Then she trembled and planned to speak out everything. I dare not. I will tell you everything. Say it now! Rouer gritted her teeth and told him that Leng Yan colluded with Mo Shujun and the others. Leng Yan wanted to marry Shi Junhe, as she planned to fight for the title of Duke Shi with the baby in her womb. And Leng Yan had told somebody to buy poison and prepared to kill Dong Hui and her unborn baby. Rouer exposed their evil intentions clearly. After that, she kowtowed crazily again and begged, My Lord, please investigate it carefully. I am just a servant and can only do as the masters say. How can I have the right to make decisions? And Leng Yan and the others have decided, so I just went on errands and helped her bring the poison from the drugstore. I didnt do anything evil except that. My Lord, please spare my life because I confessed honestly and regret it sincerely. I dont dare to do anything evil in the future. Rouer finished her words while trembling with fear, and it fell into weird silence again around her. Unfortunately, she was scared out of wits. Otherwise, if she raised her head, she could find that the so-called Lord Bao was another person. Are you willing to sign and confirm the paper about what you said tonight? Then it can be the sworn evidence to show and confront others in court. The faint voice appeared again, and Rouer hesitated once more. It was fine to tell Lord Bao, but if she had to confront Leng Yan and even Mo Shujun and the others, she didnt have the nerve to. What? Isnt what you said tonight the truth? Do you know that if you cheat me, you will go to hell and your tongue would be cut off and thrown into an oil pan Rouer suddenly thought of the tongue with fresh blood on her bed, and she was so scared that her heart almost came out. She hurriedly shouted, Stop, stop! I am willing to sign. As long as you can spare my life, I am willing to do anything In order to stay alive, Rouer ignored that she would offend Mo Shujun and agreed to any request. Then, she saw that a paper with what she had said recorded flew down to her, as if it appeared out of thin air. Rouer didnt feel doubtful anymore. She grabbed the brush pen in a flurry and signed her name on the paper. Then she put her fingerprint on it. Afterward, the paper rose slowly and then disappeared on the roof. Rouer was so frightened. At last she couldnt stand it and fainted as she could hardly breathe. It was deadly silent in the room. After a while, the green light faded gradually, and the orange light was on. A lady came out of the corner in front of Rouer. She brought an oil lamp in her hand and wore the costume of Lord Bao, walking slowly before standing in front of Rouer. Gee, she cant stand the fear and even went into a coma. Its a pity that I was worried that I dont know how to end it. The speaker was the sixth young lady of the Shi Family, Shi Qingxue. Later, she put the oil lamp on the table and took off her heavy costume, asking Shi Baojing who was packing up in the room, Whats up? Is the statement clear? Can it be the evidence? Shi Baojing brought a stool and stepped on it, tiptoeing to take down the paper hung in the midair. She checked it carefully and then nodded, answering, Its okay. Lets hurry to pack up and go back. Shi Qingxue conveniently wrapped the costume, threw it on the table and then started to clean up the battlefield. At the moment, under the light, it could be seen indistinctly that the weird paper hung in the midair was penetrated by two transparent tiny threads. With the height difference of the threads, when it slid, Rouer saw the horrible scene just now. The tongue with fresh blood on the floor was a fresh pig tongue stolen from the kitchen by Shi Qingxue and her people. Then they put some chicken blood on it, so it looked so terrifying. They covered the room with a black cloth around. As long as Shi Baojing pulled it in the darkness, the black cloth would be put down and cover the whole room, with no light entering. The green light in the room later was made of powder of friars lantern. Shi Qingxue specially asked a wandering performer for it, and when it was lit, it would show green light. It was suitable to disguise the room as hell. Qingxue, you just played small tricks. Why was Rouer fooled so easily? Shi Baojing asked in doubt. Although it went on well as Qingxue expected earlier, after they made their wish come true, Shi Baojing still felt it unrealistic. It went on too smoothly. Shi Qingxue shrugged and chuckled. Somebody was guilty, and we gave her psychological suggestions in the beginning to break her defense line mentally. It would be false if she werent scared. But, the saying that Lord Bao hears a case in the human world in daytime and in hell at night is a lie obviously. How would she believe it? Shi Baojing felt it inconceivable. We should never try to figure out what the guilty criminal thinks about. Shi Qingxue smiled slyly and didnt want to bother about this matter. Instead, she grabbed Shi Baojings hand and walked to the East House in haste. The sun had set and it was getting dark. At this time, perhaps Leng Yan had been carried into the East House. If they didnt go to stop them, it might be too late. Qingxue, Qingxue, why are you in such a hurry? Shi Baojing was out of breath and chased Shi Qingxue from behind. She asked in confusion, Havent we got the evidence? If we show the evidence to Uncle later, he can handle this matter He could even get the evidence against Mo Shujun and the third masters family. Shi Qingxue didnt stop and said quickly, Rouer must have just come back after seeing Leng Yan, and I can see that she seemed to finish doing something evil. I am worried and think that something bad would happen. Lets hurry up. In Shi Junhes bedroom in the East House It was Shi Junhe and Dong Huis residence, but Dong Hui had gone back to her parents home these days, and Mo Shujun forcefully told Shi Junhe and Leng Yan to get married in this room. She said that the first madam was not present, and at least they should let her room witness their wedding night. Of course, Shi Junhe didnt agree, but he could do nothing to his aggressive mother. He had to decorate the bedroom randomly and prepared to find another room for Leng Yan after tonight. Leng Yan wore a wedding dress and sat on the bedside, waiting for her groom to uncover the red scarf over her head tonight. She didnt know how long she had been sitting. Till there was cold sweat on her crossed hands, she heard the sound of pushing the door. Leng Yan stopped breathing and sat with her straight back. At the same time, she secretly looked for Shi Junhe under the red scarf out of the corner of her eye. After a while, a pair of mens shoes showed up before her eyes. Her groom had come. She suddenly held her breath and expected. However, after a long time, he didnt do anything, and the heavy scarf was still over her head. My Lord? Leng Yan called in a sweet voice with charm and doubt. Shi Junhe merely stood in front of Leng Yan for a moment and then returned to the chair at the table. He sat down and said coldly, Uncover the scarf by yourself and then talk with me. Leng Yan paused for a short while, with anger flashing on her face hidden under the scarf, but she controlled herself soon. She called in a more charming voice again, My Lord, it is our wedding today. If I uncover the scarf, it will be unlucky. Please feel pity for me. In Leng Yans eyes, although Shi Junhe looked dignified and it was difficult to get close to him, he was always gentle to the servants and never rebuked them unless they made a mistake. Moreover, she had married him. As long as she said something nice, he would get soft-hearted. However, Shi Junhe sneered and snorted. Do you think you are somebody? You are just a concubine. Do you have a say here? If you dont want to uncover the scarf, I dont mind sending you back like this to the Shouan Hall. Huh? Hearing Shi Junhes threat, Leng Yan didnt dare to put on airs and obediently took the scarf off her head. The face with beautiful make-up was shown. Anybody would feel pity for her after seeing it. Chapter 266 - Check if She Is Pregnant Leng Yan intentionally raised her face with tears and looked at Shi Junhe, calling pitifully, My Lord. Shi Junhe was completely indifferent and didnt even give Leng Yan a glance. If you are tired, have a rest on the couch. Dont lie on the bed. After Shi Junhe said that casually, he picked up the book he had brought and read it. No matter how Leng Yan acted seductively in front of Shi Junhe, it was useless. Leng Yan made all kinds of poses to pretend to be pitiful and lure Shi Junhe, but she couldnt arouse him at all, which made her furious. She could hardly keep the faint smile on her face. Fortunately, Shi Junhe concentrated on reading the book and didnt pay attention to her. Leng Yan sat on the bed for quite a while and finally felt reluctant as she would waste a night. Later, she got up from the bed and walked slowly to Shi Junhe. Then she picked up the wine pot on the table and poured a cup of wine, giving it to him. Shi Junhe ignored her. Leng Yan bowed to Shi Junhe and pretended to be pitiful again. My Lord, I know that you love nobody except Hui, so I dont hope that you would love me. But anyway, I am your concubine that the princess royal gave to you as a reward. Even if you dont care for me, please have a drink with me for the sake of the princess royal. It is to give my only wedding all my life an end. Please do me a favor, My Lord. Tears fell from Leng Yans eyes and hit the back of her hand. Her voice was pitiful and sincere. It seemed that she was forced and had no choice but to beg for mercy shamelessly. Even though Shi Junhe didnt like Leng Yan, seeing that a weak woman was full of tears in front of him, he couldnt be heartless. He gazed at Leng Yan for a long while and finally sighed, receiving the wine cup from her. Only this cup of wine, Shi Junhe expressed indifferently and told Leng Yan that he wouldnt do more. Leng Yan nodded in a hurry and promised that she wouldnt have too much extravagant hope. Shi Junhe lowered his head and pondered for a moment, gently stroking the edge of the wine cup with his fingers, as if lost in thought. He didnt notice that Leng Yans eyes rolled as his fingers moved and the expression on her face changed unpredictably. She was complacent for a while and then nervous After a while, Shi Junhe seemed to wake up suddenly and picked up the wine cup without looking at Leng Yan. When the wine cup was almost close to Shi Junhes lips, the room door was pushed open. Father, dont drink it! Shi Qingxues voice was heard before she arrived. It made Shi Junhe and Leng Yan look at the door at the same time. They saw that Shi Qingxue pushed the room door and ran in hurriedly. She grabbed the wine cup from Shi Junhe and glared at Leng Yan coldly, roaring, Father, you cant drink this wine. Leng Yan was scared by Shi Qingxues sharp eyes and moved a big step backward. She shrank her neck with guilt and then thought that there was no evidence against her, so she instantly raised her head. She looked at Shi Qingxue and questioned first, Lady Qingxue, I know that you dislike me all the time, but this is the bridal chamber of His Lordship and me, and it is our wedding night. No matter how unreasonable you are, you shouldnt make trouble here, right? Shi Qingxue snorted. If you are not guilty, why would you be scared when I show up? Lady Qingxue, what are you talking about? I am well-behaved and have never done anything evil. Now that I have married into the East House, I and your father will be of one mind in the future. How would I be like what you said? Yes? How would you explain this wine? Shi Qingxue put the wine cup in her hand in front of them. When Leng Yan subconsciously reached out her hand and wanted to grab it, Shi Qingxue took it back. She was not an idiot and wouldnt impulsively help Leng Yan destroy the evidence at the crucial moment. Shi Junhe still didnt realize what on earth was going on. He looked at Shi Qingxue in doubt and asked, Qingxue, whats wrong with this wine? Before Shi Qingxue answered, Leng Yan interrupted in a hurry, Nothing. Its just the common tonic wine. Tonic wine? Shi Qingxue smiled meaningfully and slowly asked in reply, What kind of tonic wine can make the drinker unconscious and have no idea what he is doing? Hearing that, Shi Junhe suddenly glanced at Leng Yan with his cold eyes. He did that with great momentum. Leng Yan explained in haste, My Lord, please listen to my explanation. I just wanted to win your love, so I sent somebody to an alley and get the medicine to serve noblemen. It wont harm your health but will only make you happy and seem to walk on clouds almost like a fairy. After saying that, she was afraid that Shi Junhe wouldnt believe her, so she specially stressed, If you still suspect me, you can ask Doctor Qin or even Doctor Shen Lady Qingxue is familiar with to check it. Then you will know if what I said is the truth. Leng Yan didnt say it rashly, and she spoke by the card, as if it was true. Even though Shi Junhe fully trusted his daughter, he felt doubtful involuntarily. He didnt suspect that Shi Qingxue told a lie, but he was worried if she was cheated by somebody else. However, Shi Qingxue was even calmer than Leng Yan who thought that she had won. Hearing Leng Yans words, Shi Qingxue didnt retort but nodded with a smile. I have this plan, too. Afterward, she turned around and spoke to Shi Baojing. Baojing, please send somebody to call for Doctor Qin. After pondering for a moment, she was still worried and put a jade pendant in Shi Baojings hand, saying secretly, Find a reliable servant to send this to King Ruis mansion and ask Doctor Shen to come, too. Shi Baojing answered seriously and left quickly. There were only three people with different expressions left in the room. Shi Junhe was still confused and then asked Shi Qingxue, Qingxue, you came here in a rush not just for a cup of wine, right? In fact, it was needless to check it, and Shi Junhe believed that Leng Yan wouldnt poison him. After all, on this occasion, Leng Yan would do that only if she was crazy. Otherwise, after she took actions, she couldnt escape. So Shi Junhe believed that Leng Yan said she had merely added philter to the wine, and he didnt think that it was necessary to ask a doctor to check it. Shi Qingxue nodded at Shi Junhe and admitted it. Father, you observed carefully. Since I arrived in such a hurry, of course, I came not just for a cup of wine. While speaking, she suddenly gazed at Leng Yan sharply and stated straightforwardly, I suspect that your concubine Leng Yan is pregnant now. What? No! Shi Junhe and Leng Yan shouted almost at the same time. One of them looked confused and surprised, and the other was in panic. It happened that Shi Junhe paid attention to Shi Qingxues words and didnt look at Leng Yan. Otherwise, Leng Yan disguised clumsily and everything would be revealed. Shi Qingxue was satisfied with the two peoples reactions and enjoyed the scene for a while in a great mood. Then she explained unhurriedly, I know that what I said is unbelievable, so I planned to ask both Doctor Qin and Doctor Shen to come. They are wise doctors and wont misjudge. Am I right, Leng Yan? It was the first time for Shi Qingxue to call Leng Yans name so officially with no disdain, but it made the maids heart sink. Leng Yan felt that she was like a frog which was targeted by a poisonous snake, and the other party could bite her to death at any time. But Leng Yan finally reached this point with difficulty and could soon live a good life as a master, so how would she be willing to give it up? She took a deep breath, and the panic on her face was concealed soon. She looked calm and courageous with sufficient reasons. Then she stared at Shi Qingxue and stated calmly, Lady Qingxue, please speak with caution. I dont have an honorable identity like you, but I am a maid of the princess royal anyway, and the marriage was granted by her. If I can say something boldly, I represent her face. Lady Qingxue, you said that you would check my body with no evidence. Although I am well-behaved and dont fear it, you cant bully me willfully. Leng Yan said that with certainty and reasons. Even though Shi Qingxue had known that the maid wouldnt surrender easily, she was left speechless with wonder because Leng Yan was so shameless. Leng Yan had the face to mention Mo Shujun unexpectedly. But did she really think that Mo Shujun could do everything? Since she knew Mo Shujun and Shi Juncais dirty plans, Shi Qingxue got the worst impression of her grandma, and she wouldnt care whether she would harm the princess royals dignity after she did that. Humph! Do you think that you can escape from the disaster after you say that? Shi Qingxue snorted and didnt plan to listen to Leng Yan talking endlessly. She would check as soon as Shen Luo and the others came. They would know if she was pregnant after checking. Seeing that Shi Qingxues eyes were resolute, Leng Yan felt scared again. She had never known that Shi Qingxue was so bold that she didnt even take Mo Shujun seriously. Leng Yan had to look at Shi Junhe for help who kept silent all the time. My Lord, Lady Qingxue doesnt care about the princess royals dignity, and dont you care, either? If the news spreads, the outsiders may merely say that you suspect that I am immoral, but if they make it worse, they would comment on the princess royals family disciplines. Can you bear to see that? Family disciplines? Shi Qingxue coldly interrupted Leng Yan and pointed out with no mercy, Are you family of my grandma? How can you mention the family disciplines? If we really find something, she just raises an ungrateful dog at most. Moreover, you have married into the East House now, so you have nothing to do with the Shouan Hall. Even if outsiders gossip, they would comment on my father at most, and how would they blame my grandma? Stop confusing the public. Step by step, Shi Qingxue broke Leng Yans dream about taking Mo Shujun as a shield, and she was determined to expose this maids ugly face. Leng Yan understood Shi Qingxues determination almost in an instant, so she felt desperate and sat on the floor in frustration. However, Shi Junhe expressed in a deep voice at the moment, Qingxue, you cant do that. What? The two girls looked at Shi Junhe at the same time. Shi Qingxue looked puzzled, while Leng Yans eyes lit up. Shi Junhes face fell and he shook his head at Qingxue, saying solemnly, You cant check her body now. Why Noticing Leng Yans face with the light of hope, Shi Qingxue shouted angrily at once. Nevertheless, before she finished her words, she understood something while reading Shi Junhes gloomy face. Even though she didnt care about Mo Shujun, Shi Junhe wouldnt totally ignore his mother as he didnt know the truth. What should she do? Should she tell the truth directly or give it up? Chapter 267 - Make a Choice Shi Qingxue hesitated. After a moment of silence, under Shi Junhes eyes almost with a plea She gave up the simple and cruel idea of checking Leng Yans body to expose her true face. When Leng Yan got complacent once more, Shi Qingxue took out a pill from her pocket and gave it to her. Meeting Leng Yans doubtful eyes, Shi Qingxue smiled and said casually, Since you are unwilling to be checked, I wont force you. Eat this pill. Whats this? Leng Yan stared at that pill alertly and didnt want to move. It was joking. She knew that Shi Qingxue felt hostility towards her and she would eat this pill only if she was a fool. Dont worry. It wont take your life. Shi Qingxue saw through Leng Yan at a glance and smiled faintly, explaining, It wont harm you, but it is tonic. Leng Yan looked at Shi Qingxue and still didnt believe her. Her eyes seemed to ask, Are you so kind-hearted? Shi Qingxue took it for granted and nodded, expressing that she was always kind-hearted. Then she said unhurriedly, But some kinds of medicinal materials have been added to this tonic. I wonder if you will mind. What medicinal materials? Leng Yan hurriedly asked. Flowers carthami and musk As soon as Shi Qingxue started to speak, she saw that Leng Yan turned pale. She wasnt anxious and added, But since you said that you are not pregnant, if you eat the two kinds of medicinal materials, it will strengthen your physical health instead of harming you. What do you think? Eat it? Shi Qingxue intentionally pushed the pill to Leng Yan again and urged her to eat it. Leng Yan stared at the pill in Shi Qingxues hand and couldnt be so hard-hearted as to receive it. As long as she ate it, her baby couldnt be saved. However, at the moment, she didnt even have the right to refuse. She couldnt refuse to eat the pill with the same excuse that she had used earlier. After all, as Shi Qingxue said, she would help Leng Yan if the latter ate the tonic. It was under the condition that Leng Yan wasnt pregnant. Whats wrong? Its just a pill with tonic. Cant you make a decision? Shi Qingxue pushed unhurriedly. Leng Yan raised her head resentfully and glared at Shi Qingxue, silently expressing her grievance, I didnt offend you. Why do you aim at me? Shi Qingxue met her eyes calmly, even with a colder gaze. Humph, you provoked my mother first. I just get back at you in a crueler way. After all, Leng Yan was the one who felt guilty. Under Shi Qingxues gaze, she didnt have confidence anymore. She lowered her eyes, with lots of thoughts in her brain. On one hand, she would never give up the position that she almost got; on the other hand, Shi Qingxues pill would make her lose her only backup. And even after she ate it and proved her innocence, probably she couldnt end it smoothly, but After pondering for a long time, Leng Yan pinched her thigh with strength and made a decision in the end. She raised her head again to look at Shi Qingxue and received the pill from her while trembling. Then she stressed each word. Okay. I will eat it. Raising the pill in front of her, Leng Yan had tears in her eyes. No matter how inhuman she was, when she had to do that, she was still unwilling to. After all, she would take the life of the baby in her womb. Baby, dont blame your mother. I have no choice but to sacrifice you in order to gain glory and wealth. If you want to blame somebody, just blame the heartless members in this family. They forced me to do so. Leng Yan closed her eyes and prepared to put the pill in her mouth. But at the crucial moment, a small hand blocked between her mouth and the pill. Leng Yan opened her eyes, looking at Shi Qingxue and her hand in astonishment. You Looking cold and serious, Shi Qingxue grabbed the pill under Leng Yans startled eyes and sneered. Although I will expose all the evil things you have done, I am not so cold-hearted as to kill an innocent baby. Leng Yan, you are the babys mother, but you are so cruel that you can sacrifice the baby in your womb in order to protect your glory and wealth. Does such a person like you deserve to be a mother? Even a vicious tiger will not eat its cubs. You are worse than a beast. Leng Yan felt too ashamed to show her face after Shi Qingxue commented on her to the point, and she couldnt raise her head. Shi Qingxue stared at Leng Yan sternly and stressed each word. Leng Yan, if you have conscience, just admit what evil you have done. There is no secret in the world. Do you really think that you can hide it from everybody? I will give you the last chance to tell the truth. Maybe I can spare your life for the sake of the innocent baby in your womb. Leng Yans mental defense was broken by Shi Qingxues exact and harsh judgment. She almost kowtowed and admitted what she had done, let alone retorting Shi Qingxue. Leng Yan didnt say anything, and Shi Junhe noticed her attitude of tacitly admitting it. He didnt think that he needed to ask more. He leered at Leng Yan coldly and questioned, Who is the babys father? Leng Yan raised her face and glanced at Shi Junhe sadly with a complicated expression in her eyes. At last, she lowered her head again and stayed silent. She knew that her dream about becoming Duke Shis concubine turned into nothingness, but she still had a ray of hope. Even though she wasnt carrying Shi Junhes baby, it was a descendant of the Shi family, and maybe she could marry into the third masters family after Shi Junhe abandoned her. Although Leng Yan hated the third master Shi Juncai who was mercenary and sensual and had nothing to do all day long, it was better to be a concubine in the third masters family than be a maid in the Shouan Hall who was as lowly as a dog. As long as she was lucky and gave birth to a son, perhaps in the future he had a chance to Leng Yan made up her mind and gritted her teeth, refusing to reveal any information. Shi Junhe asked her several times but didnt get an answer, which made him furious. Although he didnt like Leng Yan at all and he married a concubine this time just to finish a job, it didnt mean that he was willing to be fooled like an idiot. And he wouldnt be completely indifferent after being fooled. Father, dont be mad. Let me hear this case. Shi Qingxue patted her chest and looked confident. Shi Junhe stopped talking and stepped backward to make room for Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue walked to Leng Yan once more. As soon as she stood, Leng Yan shrank her neck as expected. Gee, Leng Yan was so scared even before Shi Qingxue spoke, and it was Since you cant hide the fact that you are pregnant, why do you insist on covering up for somebody else? If you tell us who got you pregnant before marriage or who incited you to fool my father, maybe I can let you get away with it, Shi Qingxue said slowly, with temptation in her words. Leng Yan was tempted while listening and almost told the truth. However, at the last minute, she still gritted her teeth and turned away, without saying a word. If you insist on refusing to tell us, it means that you will take all the blame alone. Not to mention that my father wont forgive you, even my grandma probably then Shi Qingxue was good at giving methodical and patient guidance. In another word, if Leng Yan didnt tell them who the babys father was, Shi Qingxue would spread the news. Leng Yan would be a concubine but got pregnant before marriage, so she would be drowned in a pig cage, which might not be a severe punishment. If it was worse, she would probably be executed with fire. However, nobody knew what Leng Yan considered. After hearing Shi Qingxues words, she didnt feel scared anymore but even looked at the lady complacently, with her eyes seeming to say, Just spread it. I am not afraid. At the worst, I will die with others. Leng Yans thought was not a daydream. After all, Mo Shujun cared for her fame so much and wouldnt let the news spread. Under the pressure, no matter how unwilling the people in the mansion were, they had to keep it a secret. And Leng Yan was carrying Shi Juncais baby, which was a treasure to protect her. As long as the baby was in her womb, she would be fine Gee. When Leng Yan had a beautiful dream, Shi Qingxue sighed with emotion. With a faint smile, she looked at Leng Yan and asked unhurriedly, Leng Yan, till now, do you think that I really have no idea who your babys father is? What? You know? Shi Junhe interrupted in surprise and looked at Qingxue doubtfully. If Shi Qingxue knew who the man was, why didnt she capture him and send them to the government but talked so much? Duke Shi had never expected that the father of Leng Yans baby was his younger brother Shi Juncai. He just thought that Leng Yan didnt have self-respect and slept with a servant, and she attempted to marry him to deceive everybody. Shi Qingxue glanced at Shi Junhe, silently telling him to keep calm and then took out the paper that Rouer had signed, showing it to Leng Yan in a flash. Seeing that Leng Yans face got ghastly pale, Shi Qingxue finally revealed the answer and exposed this maids intentions. Do you think that Grandma would show mercy to you anyway because you are carrying Uncle Juncais baby? But why dont you consider how she would kill you and ruin the evidence in order to protect her most favored son after such a scandal is exposed? She purposely stressed the words kill you and ruin the evidence, which made Leng Yan out of mind at once. She emotionally shouted at Shi Qingxue, No way! The princess royal wont do that to me! I am carrying a child of the Shi family. How would she Her sharp shout stopped abruptly. Leng Yan met Shi Junhes angry eyes and suddenly realized that she spilled the beans, which meant that she admitted everything that Shi Qingxue had said. At the moment, Leng Yan made it worse and yelled at the father and daughter, Right. My babys father is the third master, so you cant do anything to me. You cant. Otherwise, the princess royal wont let you go. Shi Qingxue sneered and almost didnt know how to comment on Leng Yans naivety. She was not in the mood to explain so much to Leng Yan and just asked with a smile, Who do you think is more important, your unborn baby or Grandmas most beloved son? You can give up your baby without hesitation in order to gain glory and wealth. What do you think Grandma would do if this baby may threaten Uncle Juncais bright future? I Before Leng Yan had the momentum, she was frustrated soon. Leng Yan understood that Shi Qingxue didnt cheat her. Mo Shujun was hard-hearted. As long as it would be helpful to Shi Juncai, she could wipe out any obstructor, including Leng Yan and the baby in her womb. Chapter 268 - The First Protest Leng Yan didnt have any chance of winning. She straightened her back and knelt to Shi Qingxue, begging in tears, My Lady, it was my fault. I am blind and brainless, so I offended you. Please dont mind as you are broad-minded. Please spare me this time. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips coldly and didnt say anything. Seeing that she couldnt change Shi Qingxues mind when she begged, Leng Yan made up her mind and expressed her loyalty firmly. If you can spare my life, I am willing to accuse Princess Royal and the third master with Rouer. She was afraid that Shi Qingxue couldnt realize her importance, so she tried hard to stress, Although you have Rouers statement with her signature, after all, she is an outsider. With her one-sided words, you cant prove anything. Perhaps they will make unfounded countercharges then. But I am different. I am a person concerned, and the baby in my womb is the solid evidence. Even if the third master wants to deny it, he cant. Shi Qingxue expressionlessly listened to Leng Yan defending herself. After a long time, she said unhurriedly, So if needed, you are willing to stand out and speak out who is behind the scenes, right? Leng Yan nodded repeatedly and agreed without hesitation. Shi Qingxue finally nodded with satisfaction and then looked at Shi Junhe with her eyes indicating, Father, what else do you want to ask? However, since Shi Junhe knew that the father of Leng Yans unborn baby was Shi Juncai and it was Mo Shujuns plan, he was in a trance. He heard the truth in his ears but it seemed that it couldnt be transferred to his brain anyway, and he couldnt deal with it accordingly. When Shi Qingxue looked at him, he wanted to smile at her, yet he was exhausted physically and mentally and couldnt even purse his lips. He just pressed his temple wearily. I Shi Junhe licked his dry lower lip and managed with effort to say, I will leave it to you. I need to stay alone. Afterward, Shi Junhe gave Rouers confession back to Shi Qingxue and turned around to leave the bedroom, returning to the study. Shi Qingxue knew that her father must be in a bad mood, so she didnt pester him but shouted at the person who was recording outside all the time, Xia Mang, bring it in and tell her to sign it. Xia Mang walked in with a piece of paper with Leng Yans confession recorded on it and put it in front of her. After checking, Leng Yan knew that on the paper it was what she had said and admitted just now. It turned out that Shi Qingxue had planned beforehand and waited for Leng Yan to admit her guilt. However, under the situation, Leng Yan had no choice but to sign her name. Shi Qingxue put away the two records of confession and then showed a relieved smile. Seeing that Leng Yan looked frustrated, Shi Qingxue comforted her casually. Dont worry. I am not the kind of person who would break a promise. Since I have promised to protect you, I wont let something bad happen to you and your baby. Next, just wait and see. After finishing everything, Shi Qingxue returned to the study to see Shi Junhe. Shi Junhe lay on the wooden couch and looked absent-minded. He hadnt come back to reality from the sudden bad news. Father, are you okay? Shi Qingxue looked worried and walked close to the couch cautiously. Shi Junhe closed his eyes and rested his mind. Hearing Shi Qingxues voice, he didnt answer but asked in reply casually, How long have you known it? At the moment, Shi Qingxue didnt dare to hide it from him, so she honestly reported to him about what she had done today. Letter, what letter? Shi Junhe was stunned and suddenly sat up on the couch, gazing at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was afraid that her father would be irritated more, so she said vaguely, Its, its that Mother told somebody to send a letter She didnt want to reveal that Dong Hui asked for a divorce and forcefully changed the subject. Father, anyway, we have found the evidence against Grandma and Uncle Juncai now, and you dont need to marry Leng Yan. Lets figure out a way to pick up Mother and then our family live together happily, okay? Shi Junhe was probably hurt by Mo Shujuns dirty plans. Hearing that Shi Qingxue seemed to plan to break up the family and live apart in her words, he didnt object to it but even considered it carefully. You seem to have found the evidence against your grandma indeed, yet if you cant deal with this matter well, we will be in trouble. Shi Junhe lowered his eyes and pondered for a moment before analyzing seriously. Shi Qingxue nodded in a hurry to express that she was clear about his worry. Shi Junhe thought it over and then added, It must be not so easy to live apart. Logically, after Shi Lei passed away, the three brothers in the Shi family should have lived apart or at least checked the financial state in the family. If they broke up the family thoroughly, Shi Junfeng and Shi Junhe should even move out of Duke Shis mansion. After all, the person who would inherit the title of nobility was Shi Junhe, not them. However, Mo Shujun cared about her youngest son and wanted Shi Juncai to get promoted because of Shi Junhe. She said that she was still alive and didnt want to see the three brothers live apart, so she forcefully trapped the whole large family in Duke Shis mansion. Shi Junhe was not stupid and certainly knew it, yet he respected his mother and protected his brothers, so he didnt say anything but listened to Mo Shujun. However, Mo Shujun had done something like this and crossed the line repeatedly, and he was disappointed at Shi Juncai, so he didnt reject the plan to live apart at all. Nevertheless, how would they break up the family? How would they ask for Mo Shujuns permission? It was Shi Juncais golden age to build up his career. Many people helped him for Shi Junhes sake. Without the backup Shi Junhe, even if Shi Juncai could be a Rank-4 official, he would be unable to get promoted no matter how much effort he would make. Shi Qingxue listened to Shi Junhe expressing his worry. In the end, he turned down her idea and thought that even if they had the evidence against Mo Shujun and Shi Juncai, they wouldnt break up the family and live apart for now. Father, dont worry. Let me handle it. Shi Qingxue smiled and interrupted Shi Junhe who talked endlessly, taking this challenging job. Shi Junhe disagreed at once. No way. It is the resentment among us, the elders. I shouldnt have let you help me do so many things. How can I leave the trouble to you? Moreover, she is your grandma. If you make her unhappy after saying something, she can accuse you of disrespecting the elders at any time. How could Shi Junhe bear to let his beloved daughter suffer from injustice? Shi Qingxue didnt think so but asked, She can accuse me of disrespecting the elders at will. Cant she treat you in the same way? Speaking of which, my kinship with her is not as strong as yours, and I am just a young lady. I am young, so I am ignorant. She cant be too harsh on me. However, you are different. You are an official of a high rank, and you are already in a drizzle of gossip. A lot of people keep an eye on you and wait for you to make a mistake. If they keep commenting on this matter, perhaps there would be much trouble. Before Shi Junhe prepared to speak more, Shi Qingxue pressed his wrist and said softly with a smile, Father, listen to me this time. I promise that I will finish the job and wont let you down. Shi Junhe met Qingxues calm and sincere eyes and could certainly feel her kindness. Although he still felt that it was improper, he nodded in agreement at last. Okay. I will let you handle it. He pondered for a moment and then reminded her, It is your grandmas fault indeed this time, but you need to be careful while negotiating with her. Dont give others a chance to criticize you. Okay! I am sure to finish the job. Shi Qingxue waved her hand carefreely and seemed not to take it seriously. Her attitude made Shi Junhe worry more. When he planned to advise her more, Shi Jie said anxiously from outside, My Lord, somebody from the Shouan Hall came just now and asked why you still stay in the study at your wedding night? He told you not to cold-shoulder the bride. Pah, is she a bride? She is just a bitch. Shi Qingxue felt that Shi Junhe suffered from injustice, but because of her grace under the family education, she couldnt say such a dirty word. She had to secretly curse the people in the Shouan Hall. Shi Junhe looked unhappy and just replied indifferently, I see. Shi Qingxue turned to Shi Junhe in disbelief. Father, are you really going to spend the wedding night with Leng Yan? At the mention of the woman Leng Yan, Shi Qingxue looked disgusted as if seeing something dirty. Right. Sometimes the dirty things didnt disgust people, while the ugly heart made people feel so sick that they wanted to throw up. What nonsense are you talking about? Even if it didnt happen just now, I wouldnt get close to her. MoreoverShi Junhe stopped and then looked at Shi Qingxue playfully, asking with a smile, Is she still in the bedroom now? Shi Junhe didnt believe that with her narrow mind, Qingxue would let Leng Yan continue to occupy Dong Huis room. Shi Qingxue was seen through yet didnt feel embarrassed. Instead, she admitted it calmly. Right. I have told her to go away. Since Grandma told you to go back to the bedroom, why dont you return to have a rest now? After that, the father and daughter smiled at each other and noticed the sly expression in each others eyes. However, before Shi Qingxue got happy, she looked serious again all of a sudden. She gazed at Shi Junhe and said solemnly, How long have you been away from the bedroom? Less than one hour, right? But the news has spread to the Shouan Hall There were spies from the Shouan Hall in the East House. The father and daughter had this thought at the same time and stayed silent in concert without previous arrangement. After quite a while, Shi Qingxue asked in a low voice, Father, what do you think we should do? Shi Junhes eyes flashed and he returned calm, saying impassively, Forget it. By the way, when you dealt with Leng Yan Rest assured. I can keep it secret. Now nobody knows that she has disappeared from the bedroom, Shi Qingxue answered quickly and confidently. Even so, Shi Qingxue still felt reluctant. Why should they be exhausted from running about on missions in order to cope with the dirty tricks of Mo Shujun and the others after they were fooled? Humph! They make us feel bad, and I will make them unable to sleep well tonight. Shi Qingxue made up her mind and then left the East House swaggeringly, heading to the Shouan Hall. Chapter 269 - Confront, Expecting a Fluke When Shi Qingxue reached the Shouan Hall, Mo Shujun was drinking tea at leisure in her room. Grandma, nice to see you. Shi Qingxue bowed to greet her politely yet distantly. Mo Shujun leered at her coldly and snorted. What are you doing here? They disliked each other since long ago. Although they remained in amity on the surface, when the two were alone in a room, they didnt need to pretend. Shi Qingxue certainly thought so and didnt care about Mo Shujuns distance. She shrugged and smiled. Since I come to disturb you so late at night, of course, I have something important to talk about with you. Disrespectful girl, dont you know what time it is now? You still came to disturb me at bedtime. I indulge you too much at ordinary times. Mo Shujun suddenly rebuked her granddaughter, and it seemed that Shi Qingxues arrival was a serious crime. Shi Qingxue frowned slightly and looked at Mo Shujun for a while. Then she smiled faintly. Grandma, since you are going to bed, I wont disturb you. After saying that, she didnt even explain but turned around to leave, as if she came mainly to greet Mo Shujun, so anything else was insignificant. When Shi Qingxue walked to the door, she seemed to be called up something suddenly and stopped. Then she looked back and smiled at Mo Shujun meaningfully. Grandma, you have sent the maid Leng Yan to the East House, so if she makes a mistake in the future, it will be handled by the East House, and I wont disturb you because of that. Wait! Hearing that it was something about Leng Yan, Mo Shujun got nervous and spoke involuntarily to stop Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue seemed not to understand why Mo Shujun was nervous, and she continued unhurriedly, Grandma, dont worry. Even if Leng Yan really commits a crime, we wont blame you. What did she do? Mo Shujun certainly understood that Shi Qingxue would punish Leng Yan, so she questioned instantly. Although she didnt care about Leng Yans life or death at all, Leng Yan was conceiving Shi Juncais baby, who might have a chance to be the third Duke Shi, so Mo Shujun couldnt let anything bad happen to the maid for now. Moreover, the unexpected conflict in the first masters family was an opportunity for them. Mo Shujun would never let the first masters family drive Leng Yan away so easily. Shi Qingxue didnt conceal her emotions and directly showed an indifferent smile in front of Mo Shujun, snorting. Leng Yan is immoral and impure. Before she married Father, she slept with somebody and got pregnant. How would I spare such a bitch? When she said the last words, she almost gritted her teeth and looked resentful, as if she was anxious to skin Leng Yan alive. Mo Shujun opened her eyes wide in astonishment and didnt know if she should worry because the secret was exposed that Leng Yan was pregnant before marriage or be shocked as Shi Qingxue and the others knew the truth so soon unexpectedly. And judging from Shi Qingxues expression, she wouldnt let Leng Yan go. Er Mo Shujun hesitated and didnt know what to say. On one hand, even if the people in the East House had known Leng Yans situation, Mo Shujun still wanted to protect Leng Yans unborn baby, which was Shi Juncais descendant, and if he had one more child alive, he would have more chances; on the other hand, she suspected Shi Qingxue said that to trick her. When Mo Shujun looked hesitant, Shi Qingxue continued slowly, Grandma, dont need to suspect me. I have asked Doctor Qin and Doctor Shen to find the truth, and Leng Yan is pregnant indeed. Whats more, she has admitted it and written a confession. No way! After Mo Shujun screamed in shock, she realized that she forgot herself, but the surprise on her face didnt fade away. She didnt believe that Leng Yan would let the doctors examine her and even admit that she was pregnant. Wasnt she courting death? Shi Qingxue smiled and asked in reply, Grandma, you said no way. Do you think that Leng Yan isnt pregnant or she wouldnt admit her guilt? Mo Shujun wanted to say both, yet from Qingxues confident and calm expression, she could see that the girl didnt intentionally trick her but must have found some evidence this time. At this thought, Mo Shujun stopped herself from retorting. She pondered for a while and soon made a choice. She looked furious and yelled at Qingxue, Leng Yan is so absurd! I trust and like her so much and even married her to your father. Even though she is a concubine, she isnt treated unfairly. But I never expect that she doesnt have self-respect. She had an affair and even got pregnant. She wants your father to take the responsibility? How dare she do that? I wont spare her! Mo Shujun spoke with justice and looked upright, full of righteous indignation. It seemed that she didnt know that Leng Yan had done something so dirty and that she never got involved in it. However, Shi Qingxue just looked at her grandma peacefully, with her calm eyes, as if she had seen through everything. It made the liar feel a chill down her spine, unable to talk her head off. Mo Shujun clenched her fists and forced herself to calm down. Then she asked, By the way, where is the evil servant Leng Yan? Give her to me. I will deal with her for you. Shi Qingxue replied with no emotion, You have sent her to the East House, and we wont trouble you to deal with a servant, which is something insignificant. I need to. After all, I have raised her. I will give you an explanation. Mo Shujun softened her tone rarely and tried hard to get the job to punish Leng Yan. She was so enthusiastic that it seemed to be true. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was unwilling to answer, Mo Shujun asked, Where is Leng Yan now? Does she still stay with your father? Did they have sex at the wedding night? Mo Shujun realized that she shouldnt say something like this to an unmarried lady, so she shut up awkwardly and looked at Shi Qingxue vaguely. Shi Qingxue just pretended that she didnt see it. Then she responded casually, Such a shameless woman naturally cant be left in the East House. I have dealt with her. How dare you! As soon as Mo Shujun found an opportunity, she reproached loudly and aimed at Shi Qingxue. How can you act so impetuously? Although Leng Yan is only a maid and has made a mistake, you are just a young lady in the mansion. When you beat and curse the servants at ordinary times, I turn a blind eye and let you go. Now you even dare to kill somebody unexpectedly. Do you want to ruin the Shi familys fame? Mo Shujun got more emotional while speaking, with her old eyes twinkling. It seemed that as long as she kept bothering about Leng Yans case and put the blame on Shi Qingxue, she couldconfuse the public. But could Shi Qingxue be fooled by her so easily? She was quite patient and stated unhurriedly after Mo Shujun said a lot quickly, Grandma, dont be emotional. When did I say that I have killed Leng Yan? Mo Shujun was speechless and looked at Shi Qingxues calm face. Then she realized that this girl just lured her into telling the truth. The princess royal had never been tricked to her face in this way, so she immediately got angry and put the teacup on the table heavily, demanding forcefully, Since you didnt kill Leng Yan, just Grandma, please keep calm. I still want her to help me find her babys father. Who on earth is the man she slept with? For the second time, Shi Qingxue spoke before Mo Shujun asked her to give out Leng Yan, which shocked the old lady again. Mo Shujun couldnt help but turn away with guilt and tried her best to calm down. After a long while, she coughed to clear her throat and then expressed seriously, I am just angry because Leng Yan did something shameless behind my back. I am not trying to stop you from finding the truth. Shi Qingxue instantly nodded in agreement. Exactly. Grandma, you certainly feel sad for Father and dont want him to be implicated for no reason and suffer from injustice. Fortunately, after the case was exposed, Leng Yan told us who the man is and admitted her guilt, so I plan to send her to the government and ask them to handle it. What do you think? Without thinking, Mo Shujun retorted harshly, No. After that, she realized that she was too emotional, so she hurriedly softened her tone and pretended to be gentle, grabbing Shi Qingxues hand. Then they walked into the inner room and sat down. Mo Shujun explained again, Kid, you are too serious. Moreover, with only several witnesses and their testimonies, you rashly confirm the mans identity. Its too premature. Shi Qingxue smiled and echoed Mo Shujun. Grandma, you are right. Its something significant, and we cant confirm it rashly. Whats more, Leng Yan said that her babys father is Uncle Juncai. No way! Mo Shujun roared in panic more emotionally, Leng Yan must have told a lie. No matter how badly-behaved Juncai is, he would never have an affair with his brothers concubine. Right. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue didnt retort Mo Shujun but continued to nod with a smile. I think so, yet Leng Yan recorded everything on the confession. Although I dont believe it, for something, we have to investigate it. Only after we find the truth can we prove Uncle Juncais innocence. Do you think so? Mo Shujun certainly knew that was true, but she was guilty and knew that she couldnt let Shi Qingxue and the others investigate it. If they investigated it, something bad would happen. I think if you really investigate this case in a big way, it would harm Juncais fame and surely be related to our whole familys reputation. In my opinion Mo Shujun wanted to make concessions to avoid trouble and keep it a secret with her identity once more. However, Shi Qingxue responded quickly, If somebodys fame would be harmed, Father is the one who is hurt most. Now since he doesnt mind revealing it to the public and wants to seek justice for himself, how can I bear to let him down? Do you think so? But Mo Shujun was reluctant and wanted to say more, while Shi Qingxue continued, If we really investigate this matter and find the truth, we will do Uncle Juncai justice, which is the key point. Or dont you mind if outsiders censure Uncle Juncai because he has an affair with his brothers concubine? Of course I do, Mo Shujun replied without hesitation. Not to mention letting outsiders harm Shi Juncais fame, even when Shi Qingxue said that in the room where there were only two people, Mo Shujun was unhappy. Mo Shujuns eyes rolled, and a vicious plan came to her mind. Chapter 270 - Return Everything that You Owe Me Mo Shujun looked at Shi Qingxue and stated forcefully, Kid, I can see that you have evil intentions and want to frame your uncle purposely, right? Juncai seldom talks with you at ordinary times. Although he doesnt spoil you, he never offends you. How can you be so heartless as to put all the blame on your innocent uncle? She cursed and shouted. It was obvious that she thought that Shi Qingxue made irresponsible remarks and intentionally framed Shi Juncai. She was really good at making false countercharges. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but tut-tut to praise her grandmother. Nevertheless, she didnt hurry to retort or explain. Instead, she pretended to look at Mo Shujun doubtfully. Grandma, why did you say that? I never show disrespect to Uncle Juncai. In this case, give Leng Yan to me. Then it can prove that the maid talked nonsense and it has nothing to do with you. So I naturally wont blame you. Mo Shujun finally showed her evil heart, demanding Shi Qingxue to give out Leng Yan. Fierceness couldnt be hidden in her eyes. If Leng Yan was in her hands, would she stay alive? Grandma, please keep calm, Shi Qingxue smiled and stated unhurriedly. Since you said that Leng Yan just talked nonsense, it needs to be proven. Mo Shujun interrupted, The baby is in her womb. Cant she make malicious remarks randomly about who the father is? If she is well-behaved and admits her guilt, maybe I can spare her life, but if she insists on fabricating a charge against Juncai, I wont spare her. She spoke with justice. Judging from her words and serious expression, she affirmed that Shi Juncai was not to blame. Even though both of them knew the truth. Mo Shujun dared to brazenly put all the blame on Leng Yan just because the baby in her womb was not born and it could prove nothing. Shi Qingxue was clear about this point, too. Looking at Mo Shujuns ugly features, she didnt want to argue with her endlessly. She stared at Mo Shujun and expressed directly, Grandma, maybe you dont know that the government has an advanced technology. Even if the baby is not born, it can be matched with the biological father and then they can eventually confirm who on earth the father is. No way! Mo Shujuns eyes widened in astonishment. Why didnt she know that the medical skills in the country were so advanced? In fact, Mo Shujun guessed right. The ordinary doctors in the country were not so capable indeed, while Shen Luo might be able to do that. However, if he confirmed the truth, it would only give Mo Shujun an excuse to resort to sophistry. Shi Qingxue said that, which was really to trick Mo Shujun. She continued, But if we do that, the baby in Leng Yans womb cant be kept alive. Although we have to find who the father is, we cant kill an innocent baby for no reason. Do you think so? Mo Shujun had fallen into Shi Qingxues trap. Hearing the girls words, she nodded repeatedly and replied in a hurry, Right. No matter what happens, we cant do something so evil. Wed rather not find the truth than harm our familys fame because of that. Such words seemed so righteous with sufficient reasons and justice. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and knew more about Mo Shujuns shamelessness. However, she didnt give Mo Shujun a chance to feel lucky. She smiled and stated, So I have arranged for Leng Yan temporarily. After she is pregnant for nine months and gives birth to the baby, we will send them to the government and let them check if its father is my uncle. Then we will know the truth as soon as they check. You cant do that! Mo Shujun yelled emotionally. After the baby was born, wouldnt it be solid evidence? Mo Shujun realized that she was too emotional after yelling and then hurriedly put on a dignified face, explaining, Kid, what nonsense are you talking about? It is the domestic affair in our family. If you report to the government, wouldnt it be embarrassing? Are you going to ignore the familys fame? Shi Qingxue sneered and didnt pretend politeness and compliance. She just retorted, Uncle Juncai has an affair with his brothers future concubine but keeps it a secret. He got her pregnant yet still plotted to marry her to his brother. Shouldnt he be punished? Mo Shujuns face stiffened, and she didnt give in but argued, You dont have evidence. You cant talk rubbish. So I just wait for the evidence to be born and then ask the public to be witnesses, in case that somebody suspects that I frame him on purpose. Shi Qingxue retorted Mo Shujuns condemnation softly. Mo Shujun was rendered speechless. After a while, when she still tried to struggle, Shi Qingxue continued coldly, By the way, I forgot to tell you just now, Grandma. Leng Yan said in her confession that you have found her secret relationship with my uncle earlier yet insisted on marrying her to Father, trying to deceive everybody and make her unborn baby Duke Shis heir Her soft and calm voice revealed all Mo Shujuns dirty thoughts and made her feel too ashamed to show her face. When she was about to retort that it was Leng Yans one-sided statement, she saw that Shi Qingxue took out Rouers confession, which clearly proved this point. Even if she argued that the two maids framed her intentionally, as long as Shi Qingxue handed out the two confessions and had Shi Juncai and Leng Yans baby checked, it would be useless no matter what Mo Shujun said. Mo Shujun looked at Shi Qingxue resentfully and finally understood. Shi Qingxue had all the evidence against her, and she said a lot earlier just to trick her and then see her being forced to be speechless in a hopeless situation. What on earth do you want? Just say it! Even though Mo Shujun was at a disadvantage, she was still unwilling to lower her dignified head. She asked in such a tone, as if she was the one who got the upper hand. Shi Qingxue knew Mo Shujuns character and didnt mind. She just stared at Mo Shujun coldly and stressed each word. Both of them are your biological sons, while you help one of them fool the other. Dont you feel ashamed? Mo Shujun turned away and avoided Shi Qingxues questioning eyes. She just repeated coldly, Since you came to see me at this hour, you must want to negotiate with me. What do you want so that you wont make things difficult for Juncai? Just tell me. Make things difficult for him? She said that, and it seemed that Shi Qingxue was unreasonable and made trouble out of nothing. Shi Qingxue snorted as she was disappointed at Mo Shujun thoroughly. Her grandmother was so partial. In order to make her youngest son gain wealth and glory, she even allowed a woman to cheat on her eldest son. How could she expect Mo Shujun to make a fair decision? Grandma, since you are willing to do so much for my uncle, I will say it directly. With her gloomy eyes, Shi Qingxue gazed at Mo Shujun, adding coldly, Before Grandpa passed away, he suggested that Father and his brothers should live apart, but in order to consider your feelings, Father never mentioned this matter. However, Uncle Juncai did something so evil, and I fear that he would harm Father because of the title of nobility in the future. In order to make everybody live in comfort, lets choose a lucky day and let the three brothers break up the family and live apart, without influencing one another. Mo Shujun stared at Shi Qingxue in surprise and seemed not to have expected that Shi Qingxue as one of the young generation should talk with her about breaking up the family. Wasnt she joking? However, Shi Qingxues eyes were cold and serious, with full momentum. Even if Mo Shujun had one hundred excuses to reject Shi Qingxues request, she was shocked by the girls eyes. After a long time, Mo Shujun came back to earth from Qingxues strong pressure. She sat straight and tried to make herself look powerful. The ancients said that when the parents were alive, the brothers wouldnt live apart. I am still alive now. You are a kid, but you incited your father to break up the family. If the news spreads, arent you afraid that others would curse him as he doesnt respect the elders or love his brothers? Shi Qingxue understood that Mo Shujun prepared to block the road of breaking up the family on the excuse of the filial piety. I just want to fulfill Grandpas wish before he passed away. Why would that mean that Father does not respect the elders or love his brothers? Shi Qingxue retorted boldly with sufficient reasons. Her hidden meaning was that, in the saying that when the parents were alive, the brothers wouldnt live apart, the parent referred to the father, the family master. As a mother, Mo Shujun didnt have the right to stop them from breaking up the family, even though the mother was a princess royal. In another word, Shi Junhe didnt break up the family in the past because he respected the elder, and now he asked to live apart, which was also reasonable. Mo Shujun was rendered speechless by Shi Qingxues words, and her last excuse vanished in a flash. Although she was reluctant, she had to agree. Okay. Next spring, I will ask the elders in the clan to break up the family for the three brothers. Cant you wait such a short period? Mo Shujun knew that Shi Juncai hadnt regained his official position and needed to ask others for help depending on Shi Junhes fame. If the news spread that they broke up the family, it would be bad news to Shi Juncai undoubtedly. Even if they would really break up the family, she had to wait till Shi Juncai gained the fourth princes support. Shi Qingxue certainly understood Mo Shujuns intention, but she considered something else, so she didnt say no. Both parties soon reached an agreement about the plan to break up the family. Mo Shujun immediately wanted to kick Shi Qingxue out, yet before she spoke, Shi Qingxue expressed unhurriedly, Its a long time before the next spring. Since we wont live apart in this period, I am afraid that I have something insignificant and need your help, Grandma. Mo Shujun frowned and asked with bad grace, What? There are so many members in the family to take care of and a lot of domestic affairs to deal with. We cant live without the mistress. Mother had a misunderstanding with you because you insisted on telling Father to have a concubine, and she is still in my maternal grandparents mansion now. Please consider the general situation and go to their mansion to talk with Mother and address the misunderstanding. Then she would come back home earlier. Shi Qingxue said that tactfully, but she made it clear. Mo Shujun must go to the Dong familys mansion again to bring Dong Hui back home as she once went there with Leng Yan to humiliate Dong Hui. Dong Hui had been insulted by Mo Shujun, and she would get back at her. Mo Shujun didnt react in the beginning. After she gradually understood what Shi Qingxue meant, her old face turned ghastly pale in an instant. She pounded the table with a bang and roared at Shi Qingxue furiously, How dare you! Chapter 271 - Let’s Go Back Home Mo Shujun was so angry that she even burst into laughter. She glared at Shi Qingxue ferociously and snorted. Do you think it is possible? Was she joking? She could hardly agree to let Dong Hui return to their mansion, and Shi Qingxue even dreamed that she would go to the Dong familys mansion to beg Dong Hui to come back. The girl just tried to step on her dignity. Humph! They couldnt try to think about it. Mo Shujun wouldnt surrender because of that. Shi Qingxue shrugged indifferently and stated, In this case, tomorrow I will give the two confessions in my hands to the government to put on record. If the people in the government dont handle it, I still have a say in front of the Empress Dowager. I believe that she is willing to uphold justice for me. You Mo Shujun trembled out of anger. She had never expected that Shi Qingxue would be so reckless as to ruin Shi Juncais fame. Are you threatening me? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Shujun horizontally and even pursed her lips in a good mood, saying impassively, How would I dare to? Its just that you should pay the debt you owe. Mother has suffered from too much injustice in this mansion. I just want to make her feel better. Is it too much? Moreover, if you go to the Dong familys mansion, you would do her justice and it appears that you love your daughter-in-law. Even if the news spreads, it will be a story passed on with approval and benefit everybody. If you insist on refusing, I will have nothing to say. Knowing that Mo Shujun attached importance to the public opinion, Qingxue didnt force her to lose face in public but figured out a way to protect each partys fame. However, in this case, Mo Shujun couldnt express her annoyance, so perhaps she was more depressed. Mo Shujuns old face changed sharply, with hatred, reluctance, anxiety, worry In an instant, she suddenly concealed all her emotions and lowered her head, saying in a calm and hoarse voice, Okay. Ill go. Shi Qingxue finished something important and finally showed a satisfied smile. However, on second thought, she didnt have confidence in Mo Shujuns moral quality, so she suggested, Its no need to choose a lucky day. I am willing to go to the Dong familys mansion with you tomorrow and we can have a talk with Mother. Mo Shujun raised her eyes and glanced at Shi Qingxue in silence. She just coldly told the girl to leave. Okay. You have finished what you want to say. Get out of here now. The next morning, Mo Shujun got into the carriage and went to the Dong familys mansion once more. However, different from her complacency and planning to watch a good play the other day, she felt resentful and entered the gate of the Dong familys mansion unwillingly. This time, she was treated much worse than last time. Dong Hui said that she was ill and didnt come out. Only Ouyang Yuxin came in an unhurried manner. Ouyang Yuxin saw Mo Shujun and thought that the princess royal came because of her daughters divorce settlement, so she indifferently told her to leave the mansion. Hui has clearly said in the letter what she should say. Now we have nothing to talk about. Get out now. Perhaps it was Mo Shujuns first time to hear somebody tell her to get out, so she was embarrassed and furious. However, Ouyang Yuxin was a peer and Mo Shujun couldnt put pressure on her as an elder. And Shi Qingxue had the evidence against her, so the princess royal didnt dare to leave. She endured everything in depression. Shi Qingxue watched aside for quite a while and finally enjoyed Mo Shujuns dejection enough. She felt that her mother wiped out a humiliation, so she was satisfied. Since the main purpose of her arrival today was to take her mother back home, she couldnt force Mo Shujun to a corner. Qingxue thought for a while and then walked forward. She pulled Ouyang Yuxin to one side and explained in a low voice, Grandma, there is a misunderstanding for what happened last time, so my paternal grandma came in person this time to address the misunderstanding and ask Mother to go back home. Hearing Shi Qingxues words, Ouyang Yuxin was joyful at first and thought that Dong Huis luck came after hardship as the Shi family finally came to pick her up, so she wouldnt be looked down upon as an abandoned woman. However, on second thought, she remembered that Mo Shujun acted like a tyrant here last time and made Dong Hui suffer from injustice, so she felt that her daughter didnt deserve it. Ouyang Yuxin concealed her smile and intentionally shouted loudly, Misunderstanding? How can it be a misunderstanding? Didnt you tell Duke Shi to have a concubine? He already had a wedding, right? How can you say that its a misunderstanding? Shi Qingxue started the subject but didnt plan to explain for Mo Shujun, and she merely winked at her paternal grandma. Mo Shujun understood. Although she was reluctant, she paused for a moment and then softened. Yuxin, its really a misunderstanding. The maid Leng Yan is badly-behaved. How can she marry Junhe? I made a mistake in the past, and they didnt have a wedding. If you dont believe me, you can ask Qingxue. She knows everything. For the first time, Ouyang Yuxin saw that Mo Shujun was so soft and even called her name intimately, so she felt surprised. Hearing that Shi Junhe didnt marry Leng Yan, she was not so angry. She just insisted and was unwilling to give in easily. You said that he would marry another woman, and you even let a vicious servant bully the mistress, yet now you say that nothing happened? Duke Shi didnt get married? So you played the villain in the past and now play the hero. You said everything and our family can do nothing but listen to your orders? Its unreasonable. If you dont give us a logical explanation today, I wont let it go so easily. Ouyang Yuxin spoke quickly and asked Mo Shujun all the questions. Her mean words were like sharp knives and stabbed Mo Shujun, who felt the pain all over her body. Mo Shujun took a deep breath, thinking that she had come here and suffered from injustice. If she retreated at this hour, it would be unworthy. It was better to comfort Dong Hui first and take her back home. Anyway, she was Dong Huis mother-in-law and it was easy to cope with her in the future. At this thought, Mo Shujun restrained herself again and even showed a flattering smile on her face. Because she was not skilled, she looked weird. She softened her tone and then explained, In the pastI didnt handle it well and hurt Huis heart. I dont want to defend myself, but anyway, we are family. Today I came specially because I want to have a heart-to-heart talk with her and then ask her to go back home with me. Then our family would get together. Is that okay? Holy crap! This was probably Mo Shujuns first time to forget her honorable identity and behave like a civilian in front of outsiders since she became the princess royal. Not to mention Ouyang Yuxin, even Shi Qingxue couldnt help but sigh with emotion as Mo Shujun was able to bow and rise at will. Humph! You just said something nice! Ouyang Yuxin still looked angry, yet she softened obviously. After all, Dong Hui was Mo Shujuns daughter-in-law and would return to live in Duke Shis mansion in the future. If Ouyang Yuxin worsened their relationship, it would be bad. Ouyang Yuxin murmured for a while and then finally agreed. Okay. Since you are so sincere and have promised to treat Hui well, I will forget this misunderstanding and wont bother about it anymore. I will let Hui go Before she said the word back, a cold voice cut in. I wont go back. Dong Hui walked out of the inner room with a ghastly pale face and glanced over the crowd coldly, expressing her determination. Ouyang Yuxin just thought that her daughter started to act rashly again, so she hurriedly walked forward to pull Dong Hui out of anger and cursed in a low voice, What nonsense are you talking about? The princess royal came in person to pick you up, and she has apologized. Your husband didnt plan to have a concubine behind your back. Why are you still stubborn? Dong Hui directly waved away Ouyang Yuxins hands and walked a few steps forward. She looked at Mo Shujun horizontally and stressed each word again. I have divorced Shi Junhe. I wont go back. Divorce? Mo Shujun didnt know this thing. Hearing Dong Hui suddenly talk about a divorce, she looked confused and turned to Shi Qingxue. Seeing that, Shi Qingxue knew that something bad would happen. She walked forward in haste and grabbed Dong Huis arm to beg her. Then she asked in a low and sad voice, Mother, will you abandon us? Dong Hui was stunned by Shi Qingxues pitiful expression. Shi Qingxue decided promptly and pulled Dong Hui into the inner room. The latter loved her daughter and didnt reject but followed Qingxue in. There were only two people in the inner room. They stood face to face in silence for quite a while. Dong Hui wanted to stress her determination once more, while Shi Qingxue stated in advance, Mother, the letter you sent yesterday was blocked by me. I didnt give it to Father and others dont know this matter. What? Dong Hui was petrified and then expressed angrily, You are messing about. Shi Qingxue acted shamelessly like a dead mouse feeling no cold and craned her neck. I just did it. I dont allow you to divorce Father. You cant. You cant She shouted more and more loudly and it sounded that she was unreasonable. However, her face was full of tears and she was fragile, unable to withstand even a single blow. Even though Dong Hui lost her confidence in Shi Junhe, she couldnt be completely indifferent to Shi Qingxue who acted like this. She didnt forcefully bring up the divorce anymore but sighed. Why did you do that? Its the elders business and has nothing to do with you. Even if, even if I divorce your father, we While speaking, Dong Hui sobbed. They had been a couple for so many years. How would a divorce settlement and the words that they would never see each other separate them? Seeing that Dong Hui softened, Shi Qingxue took the opportunity and told her mother what had happened these days, including Mo Shujun and the third master familys plot, the real reason why Leng Yan anxiously married her father and Shi Junhes helpless surrender. In the end, she stressed, Mother, do you think that Father is willing to marry Leng Yan? Grandma threatened him with the fact that you saw Master Yan secretly last time. She said that if he didnt agree, she would ruin your fame. In order to protect your reputation, Father could do nothing but agree to marry Leng Yan I know that you didnt expect that, while everything has an exception. Father is so loyal to you, yet are you unwilling to make a concession? Knowing the truth that she had never expected, Dong Hui was dumbfounded and murmured, I didnt know. I didnt know Junhe You know that Father is nice in every aspect, but he likes to keep silent when he does something. He did it for your good, yet he didnt say anything, so there is a misunderstanding between you. Mother, now I have made it clear and beg you not to be mad at Father. He must feel sad, too. As Shi Qingxue spoke, tears fell from her eyes uncontrollably again. She really didnt want to see that her parents got a divorce because of such a misunderstanding. It was not worthwhile. Dong Huis stunned expression faded away gradually and she started to feel sad for Shi Junhe. In fact, she didnt really want to part with Shi Junhe. She loved him so much, yet she had no other way to stop him from marrying another woman, so she had to ask for a divorce in despair. However, it was different now. She knew the truth and understood Shi Junhes helplessness, so she began to feel sad. She couldnt help but say furiously, So everything was your grandmas plan? She even attempted to tell your father to marry a pregnant woman? Dong Hui almost gritted her teeth when she spoke out the last words. She was clear that Mo Shujun didnt like her all the time, while she had never expected that the old woman would treat her biological son so cruelly. It was so Since Dong Hui started to bear a grudge against Mo Shujun instead of Shi Junhe, Shi Qingxue nodded repeatedly and added the trimmings. Thats right. Father is so miserable. He didnt even have a say in this matter from the beginning but had to follow Grandmas orders, and he couldnt protest. Fortunately, we found the evidence against Leng Yan later, so the tragedy was avoided. So the old woman came to apologize unprecedentedly this time, and it is your plan? Dong Hui hated Mo Shujun to the bone and didnt call her Mother anymore. Shi Qingxue smiled and held her face with both hands, trying to ask for Dong Huis praise. Did I do a good job? Dong Hui looked expressionless and glared at Shi Qingxue for a long time. Then she finally couldnt help but smile while rubbing the girls nose tip. Smart girl. Nobody is more capable than you. Shi Qingxue raised her chin arrogantly. I am always smart. After laughing, she continued seriously, Mother, Grandma has shown her attitude now. After you go back, nobody dares to speak evil of you. Please return home. Dong Hui looked serious and pondered for a long while. At last, after Shi Qingxue begged her, she nodded. Okay. Lets go back home. Chapter 272 - A Good” Son Who Harms His Mother At last, Dong Hui returned to Duke Shis mansion. Leng Yan who made a scene in the East House disappeared at the wedding night, and all the servants carefully concealed mentioning it. It seemed that this thing never happened. The next day after Dong Hui returned to the mansion, some servants fished up a maids dead body from the well behind the Shouan Hall. After an identification, it was the maid Rouer who had lived with Leng Yan. She died for no reason, and all her body was white and hot after being soaked in the well water. It looked quite scary. There were gossips in the mansion gradually that the geomantic omen of the room where Leng Yan and Rouer lived was bad and it took peoples lives, so the two people who lived there disappeared or died. The rumor spread that there were ghosts in the mansion, but soon other gossips replaced it. Qingxue, Rouer was Shi Baojing hadnt expected that a living person passed away in only a few days. Although Mo Shujun said to the public that it was just an accident, it happened all of a sudden and shocked people. Why it was Rouer that had an accident, not anybody else? Shi Baojing had a horrible thought flashing in her brain and looked at Shi Qingxue nervously. Shi Qingxue also looked serious and cold. After a long while, she shook her head and stated in a deep voice, I dont know. Even ifshe wont leave the evidence against her. How did she forget that with Mo Shujuns character, she would wipe out the source of trouble? Even though she could do nothing to Leng Yan who was hidden, she wouldnt allow Rouer, a nobody to betray her and live well in front of her. Mo Shujun was always good at punishing someone as a warning to others. Shi Baojing still could hardly believe it and murmured after a long time, No way? Rouer didnt know anything. How could Grandma She is too merciless. In order to protect her most loved son, what cant she do? Since Mo Shujun agreed to break up the family and go to the Dong familys mansion to bring Dong Hui back in order to protect Shi Juncai, Shi Qingxue had known more about this doting mother. As long as she could do good to Shi Juncai, this princess royal could ignore any rule. Shi Baojing wanted to retort, but she opened and shut her mouth for a long time yet only made pointless sounds. After a long while, she sighed gently at last and expressed with annoyance, Even so, she killed somebody because of something insignificant, and she has gone too far even though Rouer was just a maid. Shi Baojing was merely a concubines daughter and knew how difficult the fight among women was. If she was compassionate, she might make herself fall into the abyss beyond redemption, so how would she be soft-hearted? However, Mo Shujun didnt need to be like this. Rouer did reveal Mo Shujuns evil deeds in her confession, but the evidence was too weak and couldnt defeat the princess royal. Mo Shujun did so much just for Shi Juncai. Gee, what great maternal love. Shi Qingxue taunted and commented coldly. Shall we need to do anything? After all, Grandma has killed Rouer, and then perhaps Leng Yan They could have mutual noninterference with the Shouan Hall and the third masters family because they had Leng Yan in hands. The unborn baby was the wonderful evidence, and they couldnt let Mo Shujun kill Leng Yan. Shi Qingxue patted Shi Baojings shoulder and finally showed a relieved smile. She replied casually, Dont need to worry about it. There will be nothing wrong with Leng Yan. But now I have a more important job. What? Shi Baojing looked confused and sensitively noticed from Shi Qingxues sly smile that there was a scheme. What trick did this girl figure out? Mo Junhao sent a message and came to Duke Shis mansion in person, asking to see Mo Shujun. It was greatly different from his secretive attitude in the past. Mo Shujun also felt surprised, yet Mo Junhao was Shi Juncais backup in a sense, so she saw him. Princess Royal, nice to see you In the beginning, Mo Junhao didnt speak out his intention but just greeted Mo Shujun respectfully. And then he chatted with her for a long time. He talked about everything and seemed to visit Mo Shujun specially. Mo Shujun talked cheerfully with Mo Junhao about the history and the current situation while looking him up and down secretly. She pondered on the purpose of his visit. Mo Shujun pondered for a long time yet couldnt figure it out, and she prepared to think that he came to flatter her. At the moment, Mo Junhao suddenly asked, I heard that Duke Shi plans to break up the family with his brothers? Mo Shujuns dignified and serious expression stiffened. She was astonished and nervous, but soon she returned normal. She denied it with justice. Junhao, where did you hear of such nonsense? I am still alive. How would we break up the family? Did some idle people make irresponsible remarks behind my back and slander the Shi family with evil intentions? Mo Shujun was methodical in speech, as if it were true. However, in her heart, she cursed the bastard who spread the news. Humph! It must be Shi Qingxue and the others again. In order to force her to break up the family, they even spread the scandal everywhere, as if they could gain more profits. So what I have heard is false? Mo Junhao frowned slightly. He looked at Mo Shujun meaningfully. Mo Shujun was guilty but controlled herself, without avoiding Mo Junhaos eyes. She gave him a positive answer. Right. Next second, Mo Junhao pretended to be surprised, asking, Gee? Its surprising. Why did the third master tell me about this matter? Did he lie to me when he told me everything earlier? What? Mo Shujun shouted, ignoring her manners, and she couldnt remain calm on her face anymore. It was no joking matter. She tried hard to keep it a secret because she didnt hope that it would implicate others, but before she finished everything, Shi Juncai told somebody else about this matter. She was so upset. Mo Shujun wanted to beat up Shi Juncai right now, yet the reality didnt allow her to. She met Mo Junhaos questioning eyes again and pretended to be calm, answering, So what even if we break up the family? I will live with Juncai. With my support, would you refuse to help him? Since they said that, Mo Shujun was not in the mood to play the hypocrite but showed the temptation. Shi Junhes identity was alluring indeed, but wasnt the princess royal honorable? She would help Shi Juncai snatch the title of Duke Shi sooner or later, and then her youngest son would be the most honorable. However, the condition Mo Shujun offered was not presentable in Mo Junhaos eyes. He didnt make it clear but stated cautiously, Father deposed the third masters official position in person then. Even if I want to help, Im afraid that I can do nothing. Please forgive me, Princess Royal. Although he said that, both of them knew that if Mo Junhao really wanted to help Shi Juncai, it was a piece of cake to regain his official position. Mo Shujun goggled with displeasure and snorted coldly. Since you call Juncai the third master, anyway he is your elder. Is this the way you treat elders? Facing Mo Shujuns aggressive pressure, Mo Junhao just pursed his lips and didnt answer, yet this silent attitude made the old lady unable to do anything. After all If Mo Junhao was really unwilling, she couldnt point a gun at him and force him to agree. Humph! Dont you just think that Juncai would have no bright future after losing the support from Duke Shi. Mo Shujun exactly spoke out what Mo Junhao worried about most. Seeing that he didnt agree, she snorted. Everybody says that the affairs of the world are inconstant. We dont know who will be more capable in the future. Mo Junhao paused for a while and then smiled softly at Mo Shujun. Afterward, he expressed unhurriedly, Princess Royal, dont be mad. Its not that I am unwilling to help the third master, but Hearing Mo Junhaos words, Mo Shujun understood that he started to ask for profits. She cursed Mo Junhao badly in her heart, yet after pondering for a moment, she suddenly stated, I got a piece of news, and you must have never expected it. Even many people dont know it, but it is related to the secret about who will take the throne in the future. What? Mo Junhaos expression stiffened, and he gazed at Mo Shujun all of a sudden. Then he softened again and said slowly, I know well about your maternal love, but What? Do you think that I cheat you intentionally in order to help Juncai? Mo Shujun sneered and accurately pointed out what Mo Junhao was thinking about. Mo Junhao put on airs and kept silent. However, Mo Shujun was more unhurried than him and even coldly told him to leave. Since you dont believe me, I have nothing to say. Prince Junhao, please go back home. She even called Mo Junhaos title and began to kick him out. She looked as if she was confident to win, which made Mo Junhao wonder if she really knew a secret that he didnt know. At this thought, Mo Junhao softened immediately and smiled at Mo Shujun flatteringly. He didnt ask directly but casually changed the subject. Princess Royal, I heard that you asked Father to grant a marriage the other day? Mo Shujun hadnt expected that Mo Junhao got the news as soon as she went to see Mo Xiangbin and the emperor hadnt even told her if he agreed to let Shi Baoyou marry Mo Junhao as his side concubine. Gee, this prince was really a good source of information. So what? Mo Shujun was startled, yet she didnt give in while speaking. Instead, she continued coldly, Do you want to tell me that you are even unwilling to take responsibility for Baoyou now? Mo Junhao didnt dare to irritate Mo Shujun, so he answered hurriedly, Of course not. I have promised to marry Baoyou, and I wont break my word. Now you have helped me finish something important. Humph! Mo Shujun was in a bad mood as she had been retorted by Mo Junhao just now. She snorted coldly and then turned away, ignoring him. Mo Junhao made persistent efforts and continued, After Baoyou becomes my side concubine, the third master will be my father-in-law. Then it will be reasonable if I ask Father to help him. Hearing the other party mention Shi Juncai, Mo Shujun was finally tempted and turned to him, saying impassively, Oh? So you are really willing to help Juncai. Mo Junhao smiled and expressed with a different attitude, We are family and should help each other. Do you think so? He had given Mo Shujun a chance to make peace, so she took the opportunity. She nodded and answered, Right. We are family. In this case, what you said just now Mo Junhao was nervous and couldnt wait to ask. He had a premonition that the secret Mo Shujun would reveal next would be shocking beyond his imagination. Chapter 273 - Crossing Necks After saying goodbye to Shi Baojing, Shi Qingxue went to King Ruis mansion. Because of Leng Yans case, she almost didnt see Mo Junyang these days. It was not that they didnt contact each other. For example, Mo Junyang helped her hide Leng Yan. Even if Mo Shujun was capable and dug the ground, probably she couldnt find the maid. However, Shi Qingxue hadnt apologized to Mo Junyang. She came to King Ruis mansion alone and wanted to give Mo Junyang a pleasant surprise, but as soon as she reached the gate of the mansion, a carriage stopped at the gate and prepared to set off at any time. The guard Wei Zichao knocked at the door of her carriage and said in a low voice outside, My Lady, my master invited you to share a carriage with him later. Shi Qingxue sat in the carriage and surprise could hardly be concealed on her face. She had been out for only a short while, yet Mo Junyang knew it? Did he follow her all the time? My Lady? Wei Zichao didnt hear Shi Qingxues answer after a long time, so he called again gently. Shi Qingxue finally came back to earth and replied in a hurry, Okay. She bit her lower lip and got out of her carriage. Then she got into Mo Junyangs carriage. Mo Junyang closed his eyes and rested his mind while sitting in the carriage. As he saw her, a faint smile was shown on his stiff face involuntarily, as if seeing Shi Qingxue was enough to make him happy and relieved. Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Shujun always didnt like to show his emotions. If he was not relieved, he wouldnt express his feelings even when he loved her to the bone. It was not that he was unwilling to, but this man was used to restraining himself since long ago. During the long period in the previous life, Mo Junyang had early experienced the fickleness of human nature and the inconstant relationships, so he was clear that if he clearly revealed his emotions, it would only make himself more powerless. Only indifference was the best weapon to protect himself. So in the previous life, even though Mo Junyang loved her deeply, Qingxue didnt know that until she died. However, now, Mo Junyang was more and more relieved in front of her. It seemed that as time passed, he lost his hard shell in disguise little by little and showed his soft heart. Shi Qingxue knew that even if Mo Junyang really followed her and inquired about her in the past, he would make it perfect and not let her find it. It was difficult to accept something like this, even though he was out of kindness. However, this time, he didnt hide it at all. No matter if he intentionally didnt hide it or he subconsciously gave up hiding it, Either reason made Shi Qingxue soft-hearted for no reason. She didnt get angry but felt happy. Nevertheless, on the surface, she still put on a straight face. As soon as she got into the carriage, she complained, You sent people to follow me! Mo Junyang was about to speak when he suddenly heard Shi Qingxues words. He was dumbfounded, but soon his face got stiff and looked embarrassed. He opened and shut his mouth several times yet didnt make a sound. It appeared that he was hesitant, at a loss for what to do, so he had to lower his head and admit his guilt obediently. Gee, he was not lovely. Mo Junyang was good at arguing and could fool her with a random excuse. He could mix the spurious with the genuine, and probably even she would be fooled. However, the man was so honest in front of her, which made her unable to blame him boldly. Her face remained cold for a short while but then changed. She walked to Mo Junyang slowly. As soon as she sat down, she met Mo Junyangs surprised and confused eyes, which seemed to ask, Arent you mad at me? Why are you willing to sit next to me? Some things were best left unsaid Shi Qingxue just felt that her face got burning again soon. Humph! She was considerate of the man, but why did she make herself bashful? She turned away and pretended to cough twice. Then she stressed seriously, I wont bother about it because you helped me. Really? Mo Junyang heaved a sigh of relief obviously and loosened up abruptly, leaning against Shi Qingxue subconsciously. Shi Qingxue hurriedly reached out her hand to resist Mo Junyangs chest. The blush on her face spread to the tips of her ears. She stated in haste, Stop! We are talking about business. What are you doing? Nobody knew if Mo Junyang was too nervous just now. He restrained his negative emotions hard all the time because he hadnt seen Shi Qingxue for long. He couldnt tell the girl that he was extremely restless these days. For several times, he even wanted to ask Shi Qingxue if she regretted it. Could he go to Duke Shis mansion to snatch her? The dark emotions had rooted in his heart since long ago, and they were not shown at ordinary times. Even nobody knew that. However, they existed indeed. Now Shi Qingxue was sitting in the flesh in front of him, and she was so lively, arousing all his emotions. He urgently needed a vent. He couldnt speak out, so he just wanted to get close to Shi Qingxue desperately to confirm that she belonged to him. She was his! Shi Qingxues small hand couldnt stop Mo Junyangs movements. He wrapped her both hands with a single hand without putting forth strength and just approached Shi Qingxue constantly. Their faces clung to each other, and they were like mandarin ducks with crossing necks, while they could sense each others breaths. Mo Junyang kissed Qingxues neck slowly, like a dragonfly skimming the surface of the water. He kissed gently yet intimately. At long intervals, his unclear voice could be heard. Say it. Shi Qingxue had goose bumps all over her body and felt that every part on her neck touched by Mo Junyang was scorching. She wanted to dodge, while she couldnt as her body was soft. Shi Qingxue tried to cry yet had no tears and almost wanted to shout, Is this what you should do when you talk about business? Is it? Jun, Junyang Dont, Shi Qingxue shouted in a trembling voice. Hearing that, Mo Shujun paused. Perhaps he felt Shi Qingxues feelings, so he controlled himself and stopped. He turned his face slightly and looked at Shi Qingxue at short range, asking in a hoarse voice, Are you afraid of me? Shi Qingxue was stunned and then realized that the man misunderstood her. Although she trembled a lot, it was merely the physiological reaction. Who wouldnt have goose bumps when she was treated in this way? It was better to say that she was shy than that she was afraid. From Mo Junyangs eyes, Qingxue found that he restrained himself and knew that if she nodded, he would push her away even if he had improper thoughts. I Shi Qingxue licked her lower lip and at last shook her head honestly, whispering, No. Soon she felt that he breathed more slowly. Shi Qingxue was more guilty with complicated feelings. She hesitated for quite a while and then turned her head slightly. Afterward, she secretly and gently kissed Mo Junyangs neck, like he did just now. She kissed slowly to comfort him. They were like mandarin ducks with crossing necks. When Shi Qingxues red lips fell on his neck, she clearly felt that the mans Adams apple bobbed. Before Mo Shujun spoke, she felt shy first and hurriedly explained, I, no, I just She said a lot yet couldnt express what she wanted to. Shi Qingxue was down-hearted and moved backward like to give up. She kept a distance from the man to look at him horizontally and then murmured, Anyway, I mean that! You know it. Mo Junyang didnt say anything but stared at Qingxue deeply. Judging from his expression, nobody knew if he understood her feelings. After a long time, Mo Junyang finally moved. He slowly moved close to her again as if to have a try. Seeing that she didnt dodge, he continued to approach her. Then he kissed her lips gently. Like Shi Qingxues action, this kiss was not sexual but to make a vow. It was the proof that they loved each other. Shi Qingxue finally relaxed and raised her hand to rub her face in an instant. She pretended to be relieved and expressed, Well. Lets talk about business now. I came to see you this time because I have something to tell you. Mo Junyang nodded. I know. You know? Shi Qingxue tilted her head doubtfully. Do you mean that you know that I came to tell you something or you know what I will tell you? I know that you want to have a look at the ancestral mausoleum of your family. Shi Qingxues actions gave Mo Junyang a lot of confidence, and he spoke so frankly that it was not like his style. However, it didnt surprise Shi Qingxue. What surprised her was that Mo Junyang knew her intention. Shi Qingxue stared at Mo Junyang in doubt, which made him feel restless. Then she murmured with a weird expression, Mo Junyang, are you living in my brain? Why do you know everything that I want to do? Mo Junyang heard that and smiled, responding pleasantly, I hope I am. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She shook her body full of goose bumps and shouted angrily, Stop! I know that you are good at saying honeyed words, but can you not be so She didnt know if it was disgusting, while it was strange anyway. Shi Qingxue had no idea how to comment, so she shut up. Perhaps Mo Junyang really got relieved. Hearing Shi Qingxues words, he didnt have negative responses but even smiled happily, with affection on his face. He seemed to say, Okay. Whatever you say, I will listen to you. Qingxue had goose bumps again because of her imagination. She wisely gave up this subject and then stated, Since you know it, lets go there as soon as possible. Although I dont think that a shocking secret can be hidden in the ancestral mausoleum, since my maternal grandpa said that, maybe there are really some clues. Your maternal grandpa? Scholar Dong told you? Mo Junyang told the coachman to drive the carriage to the ancestral mausoleum of the Shi family in the suburb of the capital city. Suddenly he heard Qingxues words, and he was stunned. Shi Qingxue was also stunned and asked in reply, Dont you know? Dont you know everything about me all the time? When she asked the last question, she couldnt help but leer at him. Mo Junyang was at a loss whether to cry or to laugh and said honestly, Although I have spies in Duke Shis mansion and know many things that happen in the capital, I dont want to pry into so much and even have informers in your maternal grandparents mansion. Yes? Shi Qingxue doubted Mo Junyangs words. She knew that Mo Junyang could do anything as long as he wanted to. Mo Junyang answered gently, I wont lie to you. Shi Qingxue was unable to speak a word. God! She told this guy not to say honeyed words, yet why did he say that all of a sudden? She endured the blush and turned away. Then she pretended to be serious and continued with the subject. Oh, I seeHow did you know it? Mo Junyang winked at her slyly and kept her in suspense. I certainly have my own source, but the information I know must be almost the same as what you know. We will know everything only after we go to the ancestral mausoleum and check. Shi Qingxue nodded and didnt ask more. She just wondered what shocking secret was hidden in a place where there were dead people. Shi Qingxue still didnt know that after she reached the ancestral mausoleum of the Shi family, she didnt find the shocking secret but was shocked by what she saw. Chapter 274 - Be Buried in the Same Grave after Death The ancestral mausoleum of the Shi family was a treasure place with good geomantic omen in the northern suburbs of the capital city. It was said to be the ancestral mausoleum, but in fact, only Shi Lei was buried here. However, Shi Lei was far-sighted and cleaned up the large ground, saying that it would be the place for all the family members to rest in peace in the future. The geographic position of the ancestral mausoleum was wonderful indeed, with a broad view, and it was quiet yet not too horrible. Every time Shi Qingxue came to pay respect to her grandpa, she would give him thumbs up. You know what? I hated here most when I was young. I always thought that this place took my grandpa away from me. On Tomb-Sweeping Day and the Winter Solstice every year, I was unwilling to come here then. And I came here while sobbing only after Father had to tell me to kneel in the ancestral hall as a punishment. Looking at the familiar surroundings, Shi Qingxue softly told Mo Junyang about her na?ve and sincere thoughts when she was a child. When she recalled the days, she still felt sad. Even now, the ancestral mausoleum was still a place which made her sorrowful. But after I grow up, I know that Grandpas death was inevitable, so I dont bother about it anymore, and meanwhile I want to be buried here after I die in the future. Then I can accompany Grandpa all the time. In the beginning, Mo Junyang silently listened to Shi Qingxue talking about the stories that he didnt know and wanted to know more. Till she said that she would be buried here, too, he finally couldnt control himself. However, he didnt want Qingxue to see through his selfish thought, so he just replied in a muffled voice, Oh. Shi Qingxue was not a fool. Mo Junyang knew most about her. Perhaps she didnt know so much about him, yet she was the one who knew most about him absolutely. She turned her head and saw Mo Junyang who was obviously unhappy but restrained himself and didnt express it. She felt angry and meanwhile was amused. She was just impatient as he held back his emotions. If she didnt know earlier that Mo Junyang was like this, she might want to ignore this guy who tried to hide his jealousy. Nevertheless, she pondered seriously for a while and then suggested in a low voice, The environment is nice here. In the futureI mean She tried hard to find proper words and then stressed each word to explain. If there is a chance, would you like to be buried with me in the same grave here? She said that, like to invite him to die together with her, and to Mo Junyang, it was like the sound from heaven. His gloomy eyes lit up at once seemingly and he suddenly looked at Shi Qingxue. Then he nodded seriously. Shi Qingxue was nervous when she spoke, yet she got relieved and smiled slowly later. She didnt turn to Mo Junyang but looked out of the window, mumbling, Its great to be buried in the same grave after death. Mo Junyang certainly agreed without hesitation. However, we need to discuss something first. Shi Qingxue suddenly thought of something and got serious. She stared at Mo Junyang and demanded solemnly, You cant, you cant What? Even though Mo Junyang knew well about Shi Qingxue, he couldnt know everything that was on her mind. After Shi Qingxue started to speak, she found that it was difficult to mention that thing. She stuttered for a long time and then closed her eyes, saying quickly, If I die before you, you cant do the same as before. Do the same meant that in the previous life, Mo Junyang refused to bury Shi Qingxue after she died yet told Shen Luo to protect her dead body with a special method. Then her corpse didnt decay but she was intact like sleeping. Fine. Although she looked beautiful indeed, it was scary. Mo Junyang even hugged her while sleeping every night, which scared her, a ghost, with her body hair standing on endLater, even Shen Luo was unable to continue to protect her corpse, and she thought that Mo Junyang would finally bury her. However, this weirdo still didnt give up unexpectedly. At last, he would rather hug the white bones while sleeping every night than let her go. Shi Qingxue didnt want to judge if Mo Junyang was right to be so persistent in the previous life, nor was she afraid that he would make her a mummification. She just didnt want him to repeat his life. It was not nice. And in this life, she was willing to give him all the nice things. Mo Junyang stayed silent. He had never thought of the possibility then that Shi Qingxue was still alive, so he did many thingsthat he couldnt speak out to Shi Qingxue. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue had witnessed everything. His thick-skinned face blushed rarely. Okay. I agree with you. Mo Junyangs voice was deep and hoarse, with resolution seemingly. Shi Qingxue indistinctly noticed that it was weird, but she thought that he agreed with her, so she didnt ask more. And she didnt know what decision Mo Junyang made at the moment. Speaking of being buried in the same grave, I am confused all the time. After Grandpa passed away, his grave was fully closed and he didnt plan to be buried with Grandma. Shi Qingxue talked about the stories in her family, like making small talk. In the past, she didnt understand why Shi Lei was so insistent on this matter alone after he and Mo Shujun loved each other for a lifetime. Shi Lei even told Mo Shujun to be buried in the royal mausoleum with her honorable identity as a princess royal after she died. He seemed to consider for his wife, but now, Shi Qingxue thought that this arrangement was strange. Shouldnt a couple in deep love want to be buried in the same grave after they died as they slept together when they were alive? Even Mo Junyang who was so weird didnt escape from this assumption. Why did Shi Lei ask Mo Shujun to enter the royal mausoleum and even try not to let them see each other forever? Isnt it surprising? Shi Qingxue couldnt figure it out. Mo Junyang looked at her and asked in reply with a faint smile, Maybe this is exactly what Elder Duke Shi meant? He had been fed up when he was alive, so he would never see her after he died. He was never stingy to conjecture others evil intentions, and his inference made Shi Qingxue have goose bumps all over her body. Shi Qingxue opened her mouth and wanted to retort, yet thinking that she knew more about Mo Shujuns moral quality these days, she suddenly couldnt find a reason to retort. If she were Shi Lei, she would probably divorce Mo Shujun who was like this. Oh! She is an honorable princess royal, and perhaps he couldnt get a divorce. Qingxue pursed her lips and didnt conceal her disgust for Mo Shujun. Shi Qingxue said that casually and took it as a joke. After Mo Junyang heard that, the fierce light in his eyes flashed, and he smiled knowingly. However, he didnt explain to Shi Qingxue about his reaction but changed the subject. We have arrived. Lets get out to have a look. There was a large area in the ancestral mausoleum of the Shi family, and carriages and horses were not allowed to enter. As soon as they got to the mud fence, Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang got out of the carriage and walked. Shi Leis grave was in the middle of the area. After walking for about thirty minutes, they finally reached the destination. Shi Leis grave should be in perfect order and cleaned by the grave keepers every day, yet it was ruined and had changed beyond recognition. There were fallen leaves and loess around the grave, which was desolate and cheerless. What was more unacceptable, the tombstone was pushed down and broken into two parts, lying on the ground, while the grave mound behind it was dug up, revealing a corner of the coffin which was buried deeply in the soil. Shi Qingxue was petrified by the messy scene which was ruined wantonly. After a long time, she called in a daze, Grandpa! As soon as she made the sound, tears fell from her eyes. Why did it happen? Shi Qingxue had this question flashing in her brain repeatedly, and she was stiff, unable to move a bit. Mo Junyang was shocked, too. He had never expected that Elder Duke Shis grave would be destroyed, but soon he calmed down and supported Shi Qingxue, asking in a soft voice, Qingxue, are you okay? Qingxue suddenly came back to earth and turned to Mo Junyang, exploding. She grabbed his clothes and yelled at him emotionally, Why did it happen? Who did it? I wont let him go! I will surely make him pay for it. When she was speaking, more tears fell. She was so fragile, greatly different from the girl who yelled emotionally. Looking at her, Mo Junyang felt heartbroken. He hurriedly held her in his arms and comforted her. Dont be afraid. I will help you. Mo Junyang was a doer. As soon as he finished his words, he winked at Wei Zichao, who directly lifted the grave keeper with one hand and dragged him over. The grave keepers family name was Wang, and he was once a servant in the Shi family. After Elder Duke Shi passed away, Mo Shujun chose him and told him to guard the grave in the ancestral mausoleum. He mainly cleaned Shi Leis grave daily apart from preventing the grave robbers from stealing something. Unexpectedly, this grave keeper Wang didnt clean Shi Leis grave from time to time as requested but dared to be forgetful of his duties and let the grave be destroyed miserably. As soon as she saw this quivering middle-aged man, Shi Qingxue got furious. She strode forward and grabbed the grave keeper from Wei Zichaos hand, questioning angrily, What on earth happened? Why did Grandpas grave become like this? Tell me! The grave keeper trembled in fear and didnt dare to look at Shi Qingxues face which seemed to eat him alive. He stuttered to beg for mercy. My Lady, please spare my life. I, I He wanted to defend himself, while the fact was before their eyes. He had never expected that Shi Qingxue would come all of a sudden, so he was not prepared and couldnt speak a word. Shi Qingxue was so mad that she threw him to the ground and impulsively took out a long knife from Wei Zichaos waist. She raised it high and prepared to cut the grave keepers head. Wei Zichao remained unmoved and didnt plan to stop her. Anyway, no matter what Shi Qingxue did on impulse, right or wrong, good or bad, Mo Junyang would take the responsibility. And the guards like him didnt need to worry. They just had to satisfy Shi Qingxue at any time. This grave keeper who fell asleep at the switch should be killed even in an ordinary family. Shi Qingxue could just kill him if she wanted to. When the long knife was almost less than one meter away from the grave keepers head and the man closed his eyes, awaiting his doom, everything stopped suddenly. It turned out that Mo Junyang grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and stopped her. Shi Qingxue abruptly turned to Mo Junyang, with bright tears in her eyes and on her face. She seemed to question him why he prevented her from killing this asshole. Mo Junyang patted the back of Qingxues hand and comforted her quietly. At the same time, he still grasped her hand and resolutely stopped her. Because Shi Qingxue trusted him beyond description, she controlled herself and didnt move, even though she was so angry. The grave keeper had thought that he could hardly escape from the disaster this time, but at the crucial moment, he was saved unexpectedly. When he looked at Mo Junyang, he seemed to see God and a savior from heaven. He staggered to get up and knelt on the ground, kowtowing to Mo Junyang to thank him. Thanks for sparing my lowly life, Master. Thanks, Master As a matter of fact, the grave keeper didnt know Mo Junyang, yet anybody who could save him was his master. He kowtowed crazily and seemed to take Mo Junyang as his second parent. In the beginning, Mo Junyang ignored the grave keeper. Till Shi Qingxue calmed down, his head was bleeding as he had kowtowed for so many times. Mo Junyang finally lowered his head and gave the grave keeper a cold glance. Then he asked indifferently, Who told you to dig up Elder Duke Shis grave and destroy his tombstone? The grave keepers grateful expression was frozen on his face. After realizing what Mo Junyang meant, he looked awkward and explained away in a hurry. No, I didnt. The grave was not He couldnt form a full sentence and just told a very poor lie which revealed the truth. Shi Qingxue was stunned by Mo Junyangs shocking words at first. Then she gazed at the grave keeper all of a sudden. After seeing his reactions, she understood everything immediately. Her flame of anger was overwhelming, and she threw away the long knife. Then she grabbed the grave keepers collar and suddenly punched his face, cursing resentfully, Asshole! Bastard! Give my grandpa back to me! The grave keeper was beaten and then fell on the ground, while Shi Qingxue still didnt let him go. She kicked him and questioned, Tell me. Who on earth told you to do that? Chapter 275 - Disturb the Dead Person The grave keeper was beaten hard, but he didnt dare to resist at all. He didnt resist and even accepted Shi Qingxues anger silently till his face became black and blue, almost not like a person. Mo Junyang walked forward and stopped Shi Qingxue again, saying in a deep voice, Stop beating him. Calm down. Shi Qingxue did stop, yet she still glared at the grave keeper resentfully and gritted her teeth, swearing, I will kill him! Her words made the grave keeper tremble out of fear, but soon he returned calm. It seemed that Shi Qingxue said she would only injure him instead of killing him. Mo Junyang glanced at the grave keeper coldly and agreed. Okay. He said it simply and decisively, almost without hesitation. He seemed to be a slave of his wife and agreed with Shi Qingxue unconditionally no matter what she said, which even scared her. Wei Zichao had a headache and looked at Mo Junyang and then at Shi Qingxue. He suddenly thought that his master had the potential to be King Zhou, the last ruler of the Shang Dynasty and didnt need his concubine Daji to lure him but just remained unmoved and let her make use of him at will. Master, a beauty would destroy a country. However, if Wei Zichao knew that in the previous life, even though Mo Junyang made great achievements, Mo Country submerged in the river of history soon after he died, and in the history, Mo Junyang was called Emperor Ruishang, the last ruler of the Mo Dynasty, Perhaps Wei Zichao wouldnt be so surprised. Mo Junyang didnt think that he said something shocking. After Shi Qingxue calmed down, he just took a glance at the grave keeper and made a demand indifferently and directly, Tell us the truth, and then we wont hack you to pieces. The grave keeper was unable to reply. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Wei Zichao didnt speak a word. They had different expressions on their faces yet thought alike, Mo Junyang is always overbearing. Does he think that when he makes an order and lowers himself, nobody dares to disobey him? Even if Mo Junyang wanted to combine threats with inducements, he should make a better offer. Not to hack him to pieces, if such a reason could make him say something, it would be weird. After all, he would be dead. Who would care if he could be killed with a whole body or hacked to pieces? The grave keeper glanced at Mo Junyang in silence and then lowered his head again without saying anything, just expecting bravely to die. Mo Junyang used all his patience in his two lives to get Shi Qingxue, and he was not patient with anybody else. He kept silent for only a short while and then sneered. You are not afraid of death. Do you want to know how many methods I have to make you have a living death? The grave keeper opened his eyes wide suddenly and looked at Mo Junyang in panic. He felt terrified from the other partys cold and aggressive attitude and knew that Mo Junyang didnt tell a lie. Hesitation flashed on his face, yet soon he suddenly got more determined and then lowered his head in silence. Gee. Mo Junyang didnt expect that this man was so stubborn. He never talked much. Seeing that the grave keeper put up a desperate struggle, he winked at Wei Zichao, who then smartly stepped forward and reported, I have sent somebody to ask a capable craftsman to handle it. I am sure that in less than half a day, he can repair Elder Duke Shis grave. Mo Junyang nodded and was confident in his subordinates ability. Then he raised his chin at the grave keeper on the ground, hinting, What about this guy? Wei Zichao thought that he was his masters considerate assistant this time and could deal with everything before his master ordered, so he would leave a better impression on Mo Junyang. He didnt react when he saw the hint all of a sudden. Then he looked at Mo Junyang in confusion and pointed to the grave keeper blankly. I have captured and brought him. Whats wrong? Was he alone when you captured him? Mo Junyang maintained his composure and asked. As soon as he finished asking, he saw that the middle-aged man looked flurried but soon concealed it and thought that nobody noticed it. As expected Wei Zichao nodded in a daze. Right, one man is enough to guard here in the wild. However, Shi Qingxue suddenly cut in at the moment, No. I am afraid that if one man stays in the wild, it is easy to cause the robbers to covet it, so we specially sent four people to watch the grave. Two people in a team work in turn. Generally, after they stay here for only about half a month, they can go back to our mansion or their own houses. She was afraid that there would be something wrong in the ancestral mausoleum, so she considered this matter, but unexpectedly, these people were so bold that they got paid monthly yet left their posts without permission and even helped the outsiders do something so evil to Shi Leis grave. At the moment, she calmed down and realized that it couldnt be done by the grave keeper alone, and it wouldnt do good to the grave keepers if they destroyed Shi Leis grave, so there must be somebody behind the scenes. She would never spare these bastards. But I didnt see anybody else in that small room. Are there Wei Zichao was uncertain. He lowered his head again and stared at the grave keeper, while the latter didnt cooperate with them from beginning to end, like a dead mouse feeling no cold, so perhaps they couldnt get any information even if they asked him. Wei Zichao looked at Mo Junyang in perplexity and didnt know what to do next. Go to his house and put all the members in his family in prison first. I will interrogate them after we go back, Mo Junyang ordered simply. Before Wei Zichao reacted, the grave keeper screamed, No! DontYou cant hurt my family He was stubborn just now, while he was so scared even before they did something to him, so everybody knew his soft spot. Wei Zichao ignored the grave keeper who clamored for mercy and took him away from the ancestral mausoleum after seeing that the craftsmen came. The craftsmen they had found were really capable. The four or five people cleaned up the surroundings of the grave first and then walked around the grave. After they talked for a moment, they came over with a serious expression on their faces. Whats up? Can you repair it? Since these people arrived, Shi Qingxue stood aside nervously all the time and intently watched their movements. An old craftsman cupped his hands respectfully in front of them and sighed with emotion. I dont know who is so immoral as to treat a dead person in this way. Arent they afraid that it would bring their descendants retribution? They just committed a sin. As Shi Qingxue heard that, tears fell from her eyes uncontrollably again. She nervously looked at the old craftsman, with plea in her eyes. Elder, it is She wanted to say that it was her grandpa who rested in peace here, yet seeing the scene, how could she speak out the sarcastic words rest in peace? The old craftsman just sighed with emotion casually, while unexpectedly, he made Shi Qingxue cry. Under Mo Junyangs cold glare, he had a shiver down his spine, and he hurriedly comforted her. Lady, please rest assured. Although the grave was damaged severely, it was not difficult to repair it. But But what? What do you need? I can get anything for you. As long as you can repair my grandpas grave for me, I can give you whatever you need, Shi Qingxue promised in a hurry. Although she knew that even if Shi Leis grave was repaired, her grandpa would never come back, it was fine as she had a place to worship him. The old craftsman sighed with emotion in his heart. This girl looks arrogant at a glance and shows that she is a noble lady from her bones, being honored innately. Just now I worried that this is a hard job, but unexpectedly, this is a girl respecting the elders. The old man had lived for so many years and seen the fickleness of the world. Many noblemen asked him to repair their ancestors graves or tombstones, and he could see whether the descendants were sincere or not at a glance. Then he didnt sound her out insincerely anymore. Instead, he said frankly, In fact, its not difficult to repair the tombstone and the grave behind it. However, just now I went to check behind the grave and found that the soil in the grave was loose and the coffin seemed to have been moved. I am afraid that it was damaged inside and covered again later in order to cover it up. Shi Qingxue was surprised and angry, yet soon she felt something wrong and asked in an instant, After those people destroyed my grandpas grave, why did they put the coffin back in it? Did they just want to find something inside? Was it done by grave robbers? In this case, the robbers put the coffin back in the grave later just in order to cover it up, yet they did it clumsily, and it is unreasonable. The old craftsman was skillful in the job, but hearing Shi Qingxues logical analysis, he was dizzy and couldnt explain why. Shi Qingxue knew that it was too much to make things difficult for an old man, so she immediately apologized and then asked, Since you said that its no problem to repair it. What is troublesome? The old craftsman looked baffled and stared at Shi Qingxue for quite a while. Then he said hesitantly, The coffin was moved, and it is not enough just to repair it outside. We need to find some people to dig up the grave and carry the coffin out first. Then we will fix the soil inside and put the coffin back in it before filling it with soil. Thats how to repair it. However, in this case Shi Qingxue listened intently and was satisfied with the old craftsmans careful work style. As he was stuttering, she asked in confusion, Isnt it good to do that? Is there any problem? If the coffin is moved, it would destroy the geomantic omen. The old craftsman had been working in this field for a long time and knew well about what the rich men scrupled about. Generally, the reach men were quite particular about life and death. When a baby was born, they would have ostentation, and when a person died, they would have many rites and taboos. When they chose a grave and buried a dead person, they paid attention to the five elements and geomantic omen in order to bless the descendants, while the word steady was very important in the geomantic omen. If the arranged array was destroyed, the result they wanted would surely be ineffective. Even if it was moved back to the original position, it might be useless and perhaps it would accidentally turn the good luck to a disaster. So once it came to moving a coffin, the old craftsmen would be quite cautious. After all, nobody wanted to move a dead persons coffin out of kindness but cause trouble as a result. The old craftsman unhurriedly explained to Shi Qingxue about the consequence. As expected, he saw that the girl furrowed her lanceted eyebrows deeply. He sighed with emotion in secret again. Gee, no matter how much the descendants respect the elders, when they have to make a choice considering the benefits, everybody is the same Will Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and looked confused, asking hesitantly, Will it disturb my grandpas peace? The old craftsman was stunned and hadnt expected that Shi Qingxue would react like this. Shi Qingxue didnt notice the old craftsmans reactions. She lowered her head and then murmured to retort herself, But Grandpas grave was destroyed so seriously. Can we handle it negligently? Alas. Under the situation, even if it is not good, we have to disturb him. She pondered for a long time and agreed to let them dig out the coffin first and then bury it again, and they needed to make everything damaged return to what it had been before. The craftsman had worked in this field for so many years and had never seen that when a coffin would be moved, a descendant first considered if it would disturb the dead person yet didnt care about the geomantic omen at all. He almost thought that he didnt make it clear and she misunderstood him, so he repeated his question and stressed that it might influence the offsprings future. The old man still didnt believe that Shi Qingxue wouldnt care about this matter. Chapter 276 - The Shocking News in the Ancestral Mausoleum After hearing the old craftsmans stress, Shi Qingxue giggled. She was proud but not arrogant and raised her chin, saying shyly, If the descendants raised by Grandpa need the ancestors blessing to keep the title of nobility and have a bright future, as his descendants, we would be ashamed before he jumps out of the coffin to curse us. Elder, just rest assured and do the job. As long as you can make it and wont disturb my grandpas peace, you dont need to worry about so much. Perhaps this old craftsman heard such words for the first time, so he was stunned and didnt have reactions after a long time. In fact, he knew that the ancestors blessing was the same as the ghost theory, and it existed if he believed, while it was fine if he didnt believe it. It was okay as long as he was always in awe of the ancestors. But! Knowing it was different from doing it. In this society, people would rather believe that it existed, and who dared to say confidently that he didnt care about this? The old craftsman sighed with emotion because Shi Qingxue respected the elders, and meanwhile he thought that she went a bit too far. However, as a craftsman, he couldnt say that. He merely nodded and asked casually, Who stays here? Shi Qingxue finally grinned complacently and explained to the old craftsman briskly, My grandpa was Duke Shi, and his title was given by the late emperor. He was the head of the Shi Army. Elder, please be sure to repair his grave. Not only me, but all people in Duke Shis mansion would also thank you. What? The old man forgot himself and shouted. It scared Shi Qingxue, and she looked at the old craftsman nervously, wondering if this old man happened to bear a grudge against Duke Shis family. Is, is this Elder General Shi? The old craftsman asked hurriedly and didnt notice Qingxues questioning eyes. Shi Qingxue nodded and responded proudly, Right! The Shi Army was set up by my grandpa. He was a good man and never did anything evil. Elder, youAre you my grandpas enemy? Before she finished her words, the old craftsman staggered and ran back to the tombstone which was broken to two parts. He suddenly knelt on the ground and cried sadly, Savior! You took care of my family those years and I keep it in mind all the time. I always want to see you again. Even if I cant return your kindness, it is fine to talk with you. I have never expected that when we meet again after many years, you are in the other world. The old craftsmans face was covered with tears and he cried his heart out. He was so sorrowful that it was almost difficult for him to kneel. But looking at the mess, he was irritated at once and cursed, I dont know which bastard was so bold as to do something so evil and refuse to make you rest in peace even after you passed away. He should be hacked to pieces. Shi Qingxue didnt expect that such an accident would make her meet somebody that Shi Lei had helped in the past. Shi Lei had done many good deeds all his life and never asked others to repay him, but unexpectedly, he was so miserable after death. At this thought, the flame of anger rose from Qingxues chest to her brain and almost burnt all her reason. She really wanted to go back and cut the grave keeper to pieces to feed dogs. Fortunately, Mo Junyang grabbed her arm and told her to calm down, so she didnt act on impulse. She restrained her anger and sorrow and walked to the tombstone, helping the old craftsman up. Elder, please get up now. Grandpa said that we do good deeds not to make others feel grateful but to live up to the standards of heaven and earth. Please dont kneel on the ground. If Grandpa knows it in the netherworld, he would be restless. The old craftsman wiped his tears while getting up shakily under Shi Qingxues support. My Lady, thanks for your concern. Its Elder General Shis blessing as he raised a granddaughter who respects the elders so much After knowing that Shi Qingxue was Shi Leis granddaughter, the old craftsman was much more respectful with grateful and deferential eyes, almost taking Shi Qingxue as Buddha. Since the old craftsman respected her because of her grandpa, Shi Qingxue felt restless, but as he was an old man and her grandpas old friend, she couldnt interrupt him abruptly. She restrained her embarrassed feeling with a blush and said to the old craftsman cautiously after he rattled enough, Elder, forget anything else first. Please repair my grandpas grave as soon as possible, okay? The old craftsman looked serious in an instant and nodded repeatedly, even patting his chest to assure Shi Qingxue. My Lady, please rest assured. I dont dare to promise anything else, but this is my profession, and the one sleeping in it was my savior. Even if I risk my life, I will repair the grave and return peace to Elder General Shi. Seeing that the old craftsman led the others and started to repair it in order quickly and proficiently, looking like an old hand at a glance, Shi Qingxue got relieved a bit. She stood under a tree and stared at the grave in the distance. After a long while, she suddenly called in a low voice, Junyang. Mo Junyang hurriedly pulled her into his arms from behind and didnt force her to turn around. He just comforted her gently, I am here. A simple and warm hug gave Shi Qingxue an indescribable sense of security. She leaned against him quietly for a moment and then said slowly in confusion, Although enemies feared Grandpa on the battlefield, and he was described as a killing god, in daily life, he was a nice and charitable person. In my memory, I have never seen him quarrel with anybody or lose temper, and he just spoke loudly at most when he trained the army and taught the soldiers a lesson. None of the outsiders has said that he was not a good person Shi Lei followed the late emperor to conquer the country and establish the dynasty, and all the officials at the imperial court survived from various disasters. Thus, all of them had a good relationship, which was not as fragile as nowadays. Moreover, Shi Lei was decent and never took the credit for himself. Such a person had many friends. So Shi Qingxue couldnt figure out anyway who would hate Shi Lei so much as not to make him rest in peace after he died. The sinner just had no conscience. Mo Junyang thought that there were many questionable points in this case and he couldnt understand for a moment. Meeting Shi Qingxues eyes with expectancy, he could do nothing but pat the back of her hand and comfort her silently. Facing Shi Qingxues furious yet confused eyes, Mo Junyang pondered for a while and then decided to reveal something. Qingxue, there are many doubtful points in this matter and it may implicate much more than what we have imagined. You want to know all the truth, right? Shi Qingxue thought that Mo Junyang was afraid that she would be impulsive and beat up the grave keeper recklessly like she had done just now, yet they couldnt find the chief criminal but might happen to help the criminals cover up the truth. She smiled in embarrassment and nodded in a hurry, admitting her guilt. I know that I acted rashly just now, and I promise that something like this wont happen anymore. Help me. We must find the chief criminal behind the scenes, and we cant let him find a scapegoat randomly and get away with it. I will make all people involved in this matter pay a huge price. Qingxue stressed each word solemnly, like to make a vow. Mo Junyang thought, You think that it is simple, but it is probably more complicated than what you have guessed. However, since Shi Qingxue guessed wrong, Junyang made the best of a mistake and changed the subject. Hmm, its great that you are mentally prepared. Dont worry. Leave it to me. I will give you an explanation. Mo Junyang was always heartless and his selfish nature was deep in his bone. Nevertheless, because of Shi Qingxue, he almost distorted his character and did everything as she liked and expected. No matter how it would change his inside. He wouldnt even let Shi Qingxue find it. Shi Qingxue relaxed after hearing his assurance. At the moment, even she didnt notice that she trusted Mo Junyang much more than a normal person trusted somebody else. She trusted somebody else more than herself, which would put her in danger. Even as long as the other party wanted to, any action could destroy her in a moment, and she wouldnt have a chance to find it. Even though what happened to Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang and their relationship were special, she trusted him too much. Although Shi Qingxue didnt think that it mattered, if she knew how much Mo Junyang had judged and weighed in this matter, nobody knew how horrible the consequence would be. She didnt think about what would happen in the future, but hearing Mo Junyangs promise, she felt relieved. However, before she spoke, somebody screamed beside the grave, which attracted their attention. Whats wrong? Seeing that the craftsmen seemed to have a surprised expression, Shi Qingxue hurriedly walked forward. At the moment, Shi Leis coffin had been carried onto the ground, and the old craftsman specially walked around it. Then he replied seriously, My Lady, with my experience of many years, I think that Elder Generals coffin might have been opened What? Shi Qingxue shrieked. Generally, the grave robbers would only steal the funeral objects in the grave after opening it and the ordinary people wouldnt open the coffin rashly. What would be inside except the corpse? It was not a grave of a member from the royal family who would hold jade in the mouth or wear jade clothes like chrysalis to protect the dead body. Nobody would seek bad luck for no reason. However, somebody had uncovered the coffin and then closed it, and his purpose was Shi Qingxue could hardly imagine how Shi Leis skeleton in it was treated. What should we do now? Shi Qingxue looked at the old craftsman nervously, at a loss. I am afraid that we should The old craftsman hesitated for a moment and then finally made a decision. Open the coffin. Even Shi Qingxue couldnt keep calm for now, and she glared at the old craftsman in surprise. The old craftsman instantly realized that his words would make people misunderstand him, so he hurriedly explained, I just worry that somebody did something evil to Elder Generals skeleton, and we should open the coffin to check it. Then I will be relieved. He said that, but no matter for what reason, if they opened the coffin, they would disturb the dead persons peace. At the same time, Shi Qingxue worried more about whether Shi Leis skeleton was still inside the coffin. Chapter 277 - Forestall Denouncement Shi Qingxue could hardly conceal her panic and turned to Mo Junyang for help. Mo Junyang looked at her and shook his head cautiously, saying in a cold voice, The coffin cant be opened for now. Shi Qingxue didnt want to open the coffin, but hearing Mo Junyang with no scruple say such words respectful to the dead person, she didnt understand. She raised her head and glanced at Mo Junyang in surprise. Then she pursed her lips, asking, Why? Mo Junyang kept silent for a while yet soon answered calmly, You dont qualify to. Shi Qingxue was stunned. Before she reacted, a roar was heard. Shi Qingxue, what the hell are you doing? Qingxue turned her head in the direction of the roar, to see that Mo Shujun led the second masters and third masters families to rush over and stopped not far away from her. Mo Shujun glared at her furiously and seemed to skin her alive. On the occasion, they found the witnesses and evidence. Shi Qingxue, look. What have you done? Mo Shujun trembled out of anger and shook off the servants hands which supported her. Then she walked over quickly and raised her hand, trying to slap Shi Qingxue in the face. However, with Mo Junyang around, Mo Shujun couldnt succeed. The man was like a hard rock. Before Shi Qingxue reacted, he grabbed Mo Shujuns wrist and then stood in front of Qingxue. Perhaps for the first time, Mo Shujun saw that somebody dared to stop her and even resist her openly and brazenly. And she didnt react until a moment later. She opened her eyes wide in a fury. Your Excellency, I teach my granddaughter a lesson. I am afraid that you dont qualify to get involved. In Mo Shujuns opinion, she was an honorable princess royal and an elder. Even if she was wrong, when she wanted to beat Shi Qingxue, the girl had to endure it. Moreover, under the situation, she had enough reasons to take actions. Even Mo Junyang didnt qualify to stop her. However, she didnt expect that Mo Junyang was much more reckless than she imagined. As long as Shi Qingxue was involved, he ignored any reasons and rules. He glanced at Mo Shujun coldly and responded in a decisive voice with no emotion, You cant hurt her. Mo Shujun was speechless. The princess royal took a deep breath and finally managed with effort to suppress her blood pressure which almost rose to her brain. She didnt beat the girl as she couldnt. Then she stepped backward and stared at Shi Qingxue coldly. If you dont give me an explanation today, I wont let you go. Shi Qingxues face returned calm, and she finally understood what Mo Junyang meant by saying that the coffin couldnt be opened. Even before she had the coffin opened, Mo Shujun assumed that everything was done by her, as if she was an unforgivable bastard as she even ruined her grandpas grave If Mo Shujun told the truth and Shi Qingxue was caught when she was doing something, maybe she would be scared, but now, she was even calmer than before. She looked at Mo Shujun and asked in reply, I made a last-minute decision to pay respects to Grandpa at his grave today and came from King Ruis mansion. Why did you happen to visit him, too, Grandma? Mo Shujun was unable to reply. The princess royal didnt expect that Shi Qingxue would ask her calmly when the witness and evidence against her were found and the question was so sharp that she couldnt refuse to answer. I heard that somebody was ruining the ancestral mausoleum, so I led them to rush over to have a check. I never expect that it would be you, bastard! Mo Shujun pretended to be calm and explained. Then her expression changed and she complained harshly, Your grandpa treated you well, but you have no conscience and even, even Mo Shujun was shaky out of anger and about to faint. Shi Juncai swiftly supported her and shouted anxiously, Mother, are you okay? Seeing that Mo Shujun was so angry that she was almost out of breath, Shi Juncai hurriedly asked Doctor Qin to check on her. Shi Juncai pointed at Shi Qingxue and planned to curse her. However, Shi Qingxue asked casually before he spoke, Since all of you came here as soon as you got the message, why is my father absent? If I guess right, Father is at home as he is not on shift today, but you should report for duty in the government, Uncle. Shi Juncai was in panic as somebody suddenly mentioned the doubtful point, and his face was distorted, weird and ferocious, as he was angry and terrified. II happened to go back home and then heard a grave keeper report to Mother about your evildoing, so I came here in a hurry with her. Cant I come? Shi Juncai straightened his back as if in this way it could make him look more confident. Nevertheless, because of his pose, he was like a shrimp with soft feet whose back was straightened. He imitated in a wrong way and became weird. Shi Qingxue ignored Shi Juncais howl and continued to question, So the grave keeper saw that I did something evil? Otherwise, how can you insist that it is me who ruined Grandpas grave, not anybody else? Shi Juncai didnt notice that he was misled by Shi Qingxue, but he was reminded by her. If the grave keeper didnt see that Shi Qingxue did something evil, even when she was on the spot, nobody would believe that she would ruin her grandpas grave for no reason. Otherwise, all people would believe that Shi Qingxue just happened to be at the crime scene as they knew that she was favored by Shi Lei and would never hate him and ruin his grave. Shi Juncai had many thoughts in mind and didnt talk with Mo Shujun but replied by his own decision, Of course, that grave keeper said so. Oh? Shi Qingxue answered lazily and asked with a smile, Uncle, can you let me see the so-called grave keeper? Shi Juncai thought that Qingxue wanted to confront the grave keeper, so he raised his chin arrogantly at once and snorted. You dont need to see him. If you have something to say, just tell the government. Rest assured. The people in the government would investigate this case clearly and then we will know who is right. He said that as if to show mercy to her. However, before Shi Juncai complacently told the servants to capture Shi Qingxue and send her to the government, he heard a low roar. Ill see who dares to send my daughter to the government. The speaker was certainly Shi Junhe who came later. As soon as Duke Shi showed up and just indifferently glanced at Shi Juncai, without even threatening him, Shi Juncai was frustrated like a mouse seeing a cat. He stuttered, Jun, Junhe, why did you come here? Humph! If I dont come, I dont know with what groundless charge you will bully my daughter. After Leng Yans case, Shi Junhe hated his brother to the bone who was disappointing and had evil intentions all the time. In front of Mo Shujun, he didnt show mercy at all when speaking. He showed his momentum as a big brother and even with indifference. It was almost all that Shi Juncai feared. He shrank his neck and didnt dare to say anything. At this hour, he should try to convince Shi Junhe with an argument and show the solid evidence, and then he would forcefully send Shi Qingxue to the government with Mo Shujuns support. Everything would be fine as long as the girl was in the government. But he was a coward. At first, Shi Qingxue led him by the nose, and then he was scared by Shi Junhe out of wits. He trembled and hid behind Mo Shujun. Not to mention arguing with Shi Junhe, even if he had to raise his head and meet Shi Junhes eyes for half a minute, it could take his life seemingly. Shi Junhe watched aside impassively and saw that Mo Shujun patted the back of Shi Juncais hand to comfort him silently. He was emotionless and just thought coldly, Sure enough, they are mother and son. Mo Shujun knew that her youngest son feared Shi Junhe, so she didnt blame Shi Juncai as he backed off. Instead, she complained about Shi Junhe. Junhe, what do you mean? Now your brother seeks justice for your father, but you dont help him. And do you even want to cover up for the criminal? Shi Junhe stared at Mo Shujun and felt that he couldnt face the words cover up for the criminal calmly for a long time in the future. Mother, you just saw Qingxue in the mausoleum, but you said that she ruined Fathers grave. I am afraid that this is groundless, Shi Junhe stated coldly. Mo Shujun pointed out unhurriedly, Somebody saw that Shi Qingxue ruined your fathers grave, so I came in a hurry. How can you say that there is no evidence? Somebody? Shi Junhe snorted and winked at Shi Jie. Shi Jie was smart and ran away quickly before Shi Junhe spoke. In less than fifteen minutes, Shi Jie brought a man who was soft all over his body. Under Shi Junhes hint, he threw the man to Mo Shujun. Shi Junhe asked, Is this the witness you mentioned, Mother? Mo Shujun gazed at the man and found that this was the grave keeper Zeng Caiwang who lived with the grave keeper Wang, but after he sent a secret message to her, she had hidden him in order to carry out her plan later. Unexpectedly, as soon as she started, he was found by Shi Junhe, and it appeared that he might have confessed everything. Mo Shujun had this thought flashing in her brain yet soon calmed down. She stared back at Shi Junhe indifferently. It is him who came to our mansion and reported to me. I remember that I told him to stay in the mansion. Why is he in your hands now? Judging from his appearance, did you torture him illegally? Nobody was so good at overawing others by displaying her power. Mo Shujun had arranged a witness and tried to frame Shi Qingxue. As a result, it was exposed, so she implied that Shi Junhe and others might have beaten a man in order to extort a confession. In this case, a witness with doubtful points couldnt be present at the court as evidence no matter what he said. Perhaps even if she couldnt defeat Shi Qingxue according to her plan, she wouldnt harm herself at least. Mo Shujuns plan was awesome. If on the right occasion, Shi Qingxue even wanted to give Mo Shujun thumbs up. As expected, an old demon was so evil when she played a trick. Nobody could discipline her. However, Shi Qingxue wasnt in the mood to fight against Mo Shujun with wisdom and courage at the moment. Seeing that Shi Junhe seemed to want to investigate the matter, she stepped forward at once, simply telling him what she had found after she came and the old craftsmans suggestion of opening the coffin. Compared with a young lady who would get married and leave this family eventually, the family master Shi Junhe had a say in whether the coffin should be opened. However, as a result, when he just frowned without saying anything, Mo Shujun shouted emotionally, The coffin cant be opened! She was emotional, angry and even flustered. It seemed that what they would open was not Shi Leis coffin but Shi Lei. After Shi Junhe was yelled at, no matter what was on his mind, it vanished in a flash. He turned to the old craftsman and bowed respectfully, saying, Elder, I dont want to disturb my father. Do you have other ways to repair his grave without opening the coffin? When Shi Junhe talked with the old craftsman, all people looked at the old craftsman, so nobody noticed that after hearing Shi Junhes words, Shi Juncai had a weird smile on his lips which were pursed all the time Chapter 278 - Open the Coffin The old craftsman was capable and outstanding in the field of repairing graves, but it didnt mean that he had X-ray eyes and could estimate the situation in the coffin when he didnt know anything. Generally, if others showed that they were unwilling to repair the coffin, the old craftsman would be sensible and do as the employer requested. However, it was different this time. The one who slept inside was his savior that he missed and expected to see for a lifetime. The old craftsman didnt want his savior to be buried back as it was even uncertain if his skeleton was in the coffin. Something like this was unacceptable to the old craftsman even when he just thought about it. My Lord, I know that I shouldnt disturb my saviors peace, but the coffin was destroyed so seriously. If we dont open the coffin, I am afraid The old craftsman didnt fear the powerful people, yet before he finished his words, Mo Shujun interrupted him forcefully. Shut up. This is our family affair. You are a lowly civilian. Do you qualify to speak? Her tone with disdain made people unhappy. However, Mo Shujun was always like this. Then she turned to Shi Junhe and ordered coldly, I have said that the coffin cant be opened. No matter how you plan to repair my husbands coffin, you cant disturb his peace. Otherwise, I wont spare you. But The old craftsman still wanted to argue on the basis of reason. Mo Shujun said forcefully and arrogantly, If you are not capable, I dont mind asking His Majesty to send the craftsmen of the royal mausoleum to take over your job. The old craftsman was speechless. Probably since this old man became the top worker in this field, he had never been retorted like this, so he was petrified. After he came back to earth, he was angry and wanted to leave. After he walked only a few steps, he was tripped by Shi Leis broken tombstone. He didnt fall on the ground, but as he saw the tombstones miserable condition, his heart seemed to have been stabbed. It hurt a lot. Not to mention leaving, even if he was told to walk one more step forward, it seemed to kill him. Right! Although he always disliked the noblemen of privilege who were lofty and supercilious, it was different this time. The one who suffered from injustice was his savior. How could he ignore it because of his integrity? It was not that the old craftsman was conceited. No other craftsman in the capital city dared to claim to be more capable than him. The old craftsman took a deep breath and shook off the depression that was in his chest since Mo Shujun came. Then he comforted himself. This old lady wronged her granddaughter without asking the reason as soon as she came, and after she found that there were leaks in her words, she didnt apologize but tried to shift the blame onto the grave keeper She is so unreasonable and must be not my saviors official wife. The old craftsman made a reasonable conclusion and then naturally eliminated the right answer, so he finally felt better. He was not in the mood to talk with Mo Shujun and just cupped his hands in front of Shi Junhe, telling him the truth. When I was young, Elder General Shi took care of me, and I always keep it in mind. Although now he is in the other world and I dont have an opportunity to repay him for his kindness, please give me a chance to help him a bit. When Shi Junhe heard Mo Shujun say that she would employ the craftsmen of the royal mausoleum, he was tempted, but seeing that this old craftsman was so sincere as he was about to leave after Mo Shujun irritated him yet endured it later. He thought that the old craftsman swallowed humiliation because he coveted the pay, but unexpectedly, he wanted to do the job for another reason. So Shi Junhe turned to Shi Qingxue involuntarily. Shi Qingxue nodded and explained, This is the best craftsman who can repair graves in the capital city, and compared with the showy craftsmen with no talent and raised by the royal family, he is much better. Before she finished her words, she held it back. There were two members from the royal family present. Even if she wanted to speak evil of them, she should comment behind their backs. However, it turned out that Mo Junyang approved of Shi Qingxue and even straightforwardly spoke out what she had no courage to say. The craftsmen raised by the royal family are useless. They have no pressure as they dont need to compete with others, and they are green hands with no experience. They are just good for nothing. You have employed him, and of course you will say that he is excellent. But Your Excellency, even if you want to depreciate the craftsmen of the royal family, you should tell the truth. You are not right to say that they have no pressure. Since the Mo Country was found so many years ago, a lot of graves of the royal family members have been built. You even dare to make irresponsible remarks that those craftsmen are not experienced? Mo Shujun retorted coldly and was obviously unhappy as Mo Junyang revealed the royal familys faults. However, Mo Junyang didnt fear her at all. He furrowed his beautiful brows slightly and asked in reply with a faint smile, Your Highness, do you really want me to explain why the craftsmen of the royal family dont have experience? You Mo Shujun was restless because of Mo Junyangs sarcasm. She was about to lose temper, but under his gaze, she felt a shiver down her spine. She was afraid that Mo Junyang would be reckless and reveal all the secrets of the royal family. Mo Shujun ceased fire, so all people naturally believed the insiders words. Shi Junhe didnt want to employ the craftsmen of the royal family anymore, but if he really had to order them to open the coffin, it would Anyway, I dont allow you to open the coffin. Junhe, if you dare to tell them to open it, I will impeach you in front of His Majesty as you dont respect your parents! Seeing that Shi Junhe seemed to be hesitant, she hurriedly warned him in a low voice. Her eyes were cold and insistent, telling Shi Junhe about her resolution. Under her stare, Shi Junhes shaky determination was more precarious. When he wanted to tell the old craftsman to try his best, Mo Junyang suddenly walked to him and whispered in his ear. Nobody knew what Mo Junyang said, yet soon all people saw that Shi Junhe turned pale. His face was gloomy and dark. Then Shi Junhe raised his head and glanced at Mo Shujun casually, as if by accident, which was pointless, while it made her turn pale, too. Junhe! Mo Shujun called nervously. As a result, Shi Junhe ignored Mo Shujun and ordered the old craftsman directly, Open the coffin! What? Mo Shujun was dumbfounded for a moment and then shouted angrily, I have said that you cant. Shi Junhe, didnt you hear me? If you dare to have the coffin opened, I will definitely If there is something wrong, I am willing to take the blame. Shi Junhe indifferently interrupted Mo Shujun. Before Mo Shujun said more, Shi Junhe waved his hand and told the old craftsman to prepare the tools to open the coffin. Mo Shujun seemed to be stirred up by Shi Junhe and suddenly yelled, Stop. Stop! She ignored her manners and told the servants to rush up. What was more, she tried to stop the craftsmen regardless of anything. However, Mo Junyangs people were prepared and blocked them as soon as they started to move. Mo Shujuns people didnt even get close to the coffin, let alone rushing up to stop the craftsmen. Mo Shujun was also blocked by Shi Junhe firmly and stayed out of the circle. She was so angry that she raised her hand to scratch his face and cursed at the same time, Shi Junhe, let me go. Let me go! Shi Junhe remained unmoved and stared at Mo Shujun peacefully. Mother, what are you afraid of? Is there a secret in Fathers coffin? Mo Shujun stiffened and abruptly stopped pushing him, but soon she asked in reply calmly, You were on the battlefield in the distance that year and didnt have time to come back for your fathers funeral. Your two brothers finished his funeral according to his wish. All people saw that. Can there be something ulterior? I just want to repair Fathers grave. If not, why did you stop me repeatedly and lose all your manners? Shi Junhe was cold and forceful and didnt feel guilty because of Mo Shujuns denouncement. However, Mo Shujun had a weird expression on her face. Fortunately, it didnt last too long. The old craftsman suddenly screamed, The skeleton has gone What! Something that all people feared most happened. All of them looked terrified and surprised, and Mo Shujun was not an exception. However, she didnt look at the coffin first but turned to Shi Juncai who stood behind her all the time. Mo Shujun thought that nobody noticed her reaction, yet unexpectedly, somebody saw all her movements. She nervously shook off Shi Junhe and quickly rushed to the coffin, craning her neck to have a look. It was empty! Why did it happen? Why? Mo Shujun murmured in a daze, as if all the sounds around couldnt be heard. Her ears and mind were blank, and she seemed to be in a haze. Shi Junhe didnt have time to care about Mo Shujuns reactions. When he saw that the coffin was empty, he furrowed his brows deeply. Nevertheless, in no time, he calmed down, as he was mentally prepared before. Then he arranged the rest jobs in order. Shi Leis skeleton had gone, and it was impossible to bury the coffin again at once, so they had to clean up the grave for now. If they wanted to bury it again, perhaps they should Fortunately, Mo Shujun seemed to be scared out of wits and didnt make more trouble. She didnt object to Shi Junhes arrangements, and all people following her were obedient like quails under Shi Junhes power. After Shi Junhe sent the family members away, he came to Mo Junyang. Restraining his anger, he questioned in a low voice, What on earth happened? Didnt you see it? Mo Junyang answered meaningfully. Mo Shujun couldnt explain the weird behavior of her, the second masters and third masters families with a random reason. She put the blame on Shi Qingxue after the grave was ruined and then attempted to confirm her crime quickly and send her to the government. After she failed, she tried every means to stop them from opening the coffin. Later, the coffin was found to be empty. Anyhow, it seemed Shi Junhe was distracted with a lot of thoughts in his brain. At the moment, the old craftsman suddenly said, Gee? He quickly walked to Shi Junhe and reported in a deep voice, Duke, there seems to be something wrong in Elder Generals coffin. While speaking, he led Shi Junhe to the coffin and pointed at somewhere inside, showing it to him. Chapter 279 - One More Dead Person? Shi Junhe looked outside and inside for several times but didnt find what was wrong as the old craftsman mentioned. The old craftsman had to point to a sunken part next to the jade pillow in the coffin and explained, A box must have been put here in the past. Hmm? Shi Junhe nodded yet still looked confused as he didnt know how a box would influence it. However, since the old craftsman said that, he still explained unnecessarily, Perhaps the people who buried my father put something inside that he liked. Although Shi Junhe didnt know what should be put in a box, this explanation must be the most reasonable. Nevertheless, the old craftsman looked baffled. He seemingly wanted to explain but didnt know what to say. This mark must be left under an eight-treasure box, right? Mo Junyang suddenly spoke out what the old craftsman didnt finish. The old craftsman goggled. How did you know it? Although the insiders in this field knew that the wealthy people in this country would put the ashes of a dead person in an eight-treasure box as a cremation urn, generally, the noble families wanted to bury the dead in soil to rest in peace, and almost nobody would be so miserable as to be burnt to ashes. It was normal that Shi Junhe didnt know it, but how did Mo Junyang know that? The old craftsman looked at Mo Junyang in doubt. Since a moment ago, he thought that this young man seemed to know everything all the time and even knew Ahem! Shi Qingxue coughed twice and interrupted the old craftsmans questioning eyes. She didnt want to hear Mo Junyang say that because he did that, as if nothing had happened. It would be scary. She hurriedly changed the subject. Elder, do you mean that somebody burnt Grandpa to ashes? Obviously it is impossible. When he passed away, I was young, but I can still remember something. He was buried in whole. When the coffin was covered, she watched aside. The three men believed her words. Shi Qingxue continued, If it was not Grandpa, would it mean that anotherpersons cremains were put in the eight-treasure box and buried together with him? However, as soon as she spoke out her guess, even she thought that it was unreliable. The people who were not extremely intimate wouldnt choose to be buried together. In the history, the emperor and officials had been buried together only for once. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that they were the late emperors cremains in the eight-treasure box. However, in this case, there was another question. Even when Mo Shujun demanded to leave a hole beside his grave so that the couple would be buried together after she died in the future, Shi Lei refused her with the reason that she should be buried in the royal mausoleum. Whom did Shi Lei want to be buried with? All people present fell into silence. After a long time, Mo Junyang stated first, Probably we wont get any clues if we stand here. Lets go back and consider carefully before making a decision. If they didnt open the coffin earlier but buried it in the grave again when they knew nothing, the next job was to find the bastard who had destroyed the grave. Nevertheless, since Shi Leis skeleton was missing, it was pointless to investigate who had ruined the coffin. The task of top priority was to find Shi Leis skeleton and the cremation urn as soon as possible which had also disappeared without any trace. Junyang, who do you think was buried inside? Shi Qingxue moved close to Mo Junyang and asked in a soft voice. Mo Junyang was pondering with his head lowered. When he came back to reality, he saw that Qingxue sat next to him closely, so he felt happy. He asked in reply with a smile on his face, I think that you should be clear about it. In what condition, a person wants somebody to stay with him in this way even after death? Shi Qingxue was stunned and disapproved of it involuntarily. But Grandpa and Grandma loved each other all the time Mo Junyang shrugged to express that he didnt know. The only member in the Shi family he cared about was Shi Qingxue, and he didnt have an interest in the relationship among the elders. Judging from the mark left under the eight-treasure box, it must have been here for a few years at least, yet we dont know if it was put inside when the coffin was buried or later Mo Junyang accurately spoke out all the doubtful points. For example, who had put the eight-treasure box in it? Or did the person who robbed the grave aim at the eight-treasure box or Shi Lei? Or whose cremains were in the box? All the questionable points made the case confusing and weird. Ill speak first! Shi Qingxue put up her hand anxiously. Meeting Shi Junhes doubtful eyes, she added seriously, This matter must have something to do with Grandma. Even if she is not the one who took away Grandpas skeleton, she must know what on earth happened. And Shi Qingxue paused for a moment, and Shi Junhe couldnt help but ask, And what? Qingxue leered at Shi Junhe secretly and shrugged, murmuring, She must know who the woman buried with Grandpa was. Nonsense! Shi Junhe furiously interrupted Shi Qingxue. When Mo Junyang brought up this matter vaguely earlier, Shi Junhe was unhappy. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue tried to convince Mo Junyang with an argument just now but soon she echoed him and talked about the elders privacy. Although Shi Junhe had conflicts with Mo Shujun, anyway, she was his biological mother. It was strange enough that there was an unknown cremation urn in Shi Leis coffin. If there was a ghost woman, the consequence would be unimaginable. He stared at Shi Qingxue coldly and ordered seriously, Dont mention this thing again in the future. He said this to Shi Qingxue, while he looked at Mo Junyang, with his stern eyes. Compared with Shi Qingxue who was ignorant of worldly affairs, Mo Junyang had more resources in hands. What he could do was probably much more than Shi Junhe imagined. Mo Junyang felt Shi Junhes inquiry, but his expression didnt change. Obviously he didnt plan to do as Shi Junhe said. I have promised Qingxue to find out anything strange. General Shi, please dont worry. Mo Junyang politely revealed his decision. Shi Junhe was speechless. Aha, he would be more worried. This is a domestic affair of the Shi family. I am afraid For the sake of Shi Qingxue, Shi Junhe didnt want to bother about this jerk who would irritate others with only a few words. As a result, before Shi Junhe finished his words, Mo Junyang expressed, Hmm, this is my business, too. The corner of Shi Junhes mouth twitched. This guy really didnt think that he was an outsider. I Shi Junhe tried to find proper words, but at last, he found that he didnt have nice words to express to Mo Junyang mildly. So he continued directly, It seems that I have never agreed to marry Qingxue to you. His tacit consent earlier was not effective. Mo Junyang smiled and responded casually, Only if Qingxue agrees. Shi Junhe suddenly glared at Shi Qingxue with his fierce eyes, which scared the girl. Er! She was wondering who the mystery guest in the eight-treasure box was and ignored the two men who quarreled childishly. When her name was mentioned suddenly, she was frightened. She moved backward by instinct and wanted to avoid the two mens covetous eyes, but she found that they stared at her more closely. Qingxue wanted to cry yet had no tears. I didnt say anything. However, Mo Junyang pointed out seriously, You said yes. You have promised to marry me as long as I can find the secret that the princess royal hides all the time. Shi Qingxue was stunned. It seemed to be true. Now I have found it. Mo Junyang announced the result directly and then looked at Shi Junhe who was dumbfounded. He even nodded gracefully and politely, saying slowly, Today is a lucky day. I will tell somebody to send the betrothal gifts to your mansion later. Hope that you wont dislike them, General Shi. Shi Junhe was speechless. It changed so quickly that Shi Junhe was startled and couldnt instantly retort Mo Junyangs wishful thinking. As a result, Mo Junyang thought that Shi Junhe gave tacit consent, so he decided. Its great that you have no objection, General Shi. Wait. Who said that I Shi Junhe was about to speak, while Mo Junyang unhurriedly brought up a new subject. General Shi, dont you want to know what secret your mother hides all the time? Shi Junhe paused for a moment and then asked seriously, What is it? Although I have guessed, under the current situation, I have no evidence. General Shi, if you really want to know, I am afraid that you need to do something. Mo Junyang didnt answer in a hurry but left a difficult problem to Shi Junhe. Perhaps because Mo Shujun behaved more and more weirdly recently, Shi Junhe pursed his lips and didnt object to the offer unexpectedly. He just asked, What? Break up the family. Shi Junhe probably understood Mo Junyangs plan to force them to a corner, yet he was still baffled. I have promised Mother earlier to break up the family after Baonings wedding. If I mention it rashly at this time, I am afraid It was fine if the people at the imperial court censured him. Now there was something wrong with Shi Leis grave, and he didnt have energy to consider breaking up the family. Moreover, Mo Shujun wouldnt agree. Not necessarily. Shi Junhe frowned. What? Under the circumstances, the princess royal may not be unwilling to break up the family. Are you kidding? Shi Junhe certainly didnt believe Mo Junyangs words. It was because even though Mo Shujun doted on Shi Juncai, she really loved Shi Baoning. Otherwise, she wouldnt have asked the Empress Dowager to give Baoning the title of Infanta. The princess royal wanted to see Shi Baoning get married. Nevertheless, Mo Junyang sneered and pierced to the truth with a single pertinent remark. No matter what the princess royal did, Shi Juncai has claimed ties of kinship with the fourth prince and would regain his official position soon, so they dont need you to mediate. As for Shi Baoning Maybe the princess royal really loves this granddaughter, but compared with the dowries which would be carried out of the Shi familys shared warehouse soon, I believe that she would make a choice. After all, when Shi Baoning got married, most of the enviable doweries would be carried out of the shared warehouse, which meant that they would use the three brothers property to put up a fa?ade for the first masters family. No way! Mother wont have such a thought. Shi Junhe retorted Mo Junyang without hesitation and didnt hide his indignation at this young man on his face. He even coldly glanced at Shi Qingxue. He cursed in secret, Look at the good husband that you have chosen. He thinks that everybody is evil. Shi Qingxue innocently shrank her neck to express that she said nothing just now. But She looked at Mo Junyang and then at Shi Junhe, saying flatteringly, Father, if you dont believe it, you can have a try. Anyway, even if this idea is not practical, Mo Junyang would have other ways to make Grandma agree to break up the family. Father, please rest assured. Shi Junhe was unable to speak a word. It was said that a daughter was the fathers debt that he had owed in the previous life, and he finally knew it today. A married daughter was another familys member indeed. Shi Qingxue spoke for Mo Junyang all the time even before marriage. And she was natural and calm, as if she didnt realize that she was partial to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang was happy. But Shi Junhe was mentally exhausted. Chapter 280 - Mo Shujun’s Decision No matter how resentful Shi Junhe was of Mo Junyang, he agreed to the young mans plan in the end. This matter was decided. However, after Mo Junyang returned to King Ruis mansion, General Shi finally realized a big problem. He grabbed Shi Qingxue who wanted to flee, questioning in a cold voice, Qingxue, why didnt I know that your marriage was decided? Seeing that she couldnt run away, Shi Qingxue hurriedly smiled at Shi Junhe flatteringly and acted like a spoilt child. Good Father! You are the best father in the world. Today you have worked for one day and must be I am not tired. Shi Junhe directly exposed Shi Qingxues small trick and continued coldly, Whats more, why did you come to the ancestral mausoleum with His Excellency today? You took him to see your grandpa before asking for my permission. You are getting bolder. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue obediently listened to Shi Junhe s lecture, but at last, she finally knew why he was mad, so she felt wronged and hurriedly explained, Father, you wronged me this time. Junyang and I came to the ancestral mausoleum not just to pay respects to Grandpa. Not just? Shi Junhe snorted and found fault with her crossly. Do you mean that you have other secrets except seeing the elder? Shi Qingxue was speechless. Probably her father vented his anger on her with all his strength as he was rendered speechless by Mo Junyang just now, which made her unable to resist. Father. Let it pass first and denounce me after Grandpas problem is solved, okay? Shi Qingxue really didnt know how to explain to Shi Junhe, so she had to mention the top priority again. As expected, Shi Junhe didnt ask more even though he still looked unhappy. He just said, Ill go back first to deal with the matter today. I must report to the government. Moreover, isnt another grave keeper in the hands of His Excellency? What are you going to do? Shi Qingxue innocently blinked, expressing that she didnt know anything. Shi Junhe asked, Come on. If you want to know and ask him, wont he tell you? Duke Shi had witnessed that Mo Junyang always followed Shi Qingxues advice and told her everything that he knew. If she asked, Mo Junyang would surely tell her. However, Shi Qingxue was carefree. But he said that he would handle it and could make the grave keeper reveal the secret, so I didnt ask him. Shi Junhe couldnt speak a word. The news that Elder Duke Shis grave had been destroyed and his skeleton had disappeared without any trace soon came into Mo Xiangbins ears. The emperor was furious and told the governor of the Capital Bureau to investigate this matter and be sure to capture the chief criminal and find Shi Leis skeleton. The governor of the Capital Bureau Zheng Liangcai urgently summoned his subordinates to investigate this case with all strength. However, as for this case, if Shi Qingxue didnt suddenly go to visit Shi Leis grave, nobody knew when it would be found. In another word, they couldnt confirm when the criminal did it or guess where the criminal took Shi Leis skeleton to. Why didnt they steal the treasures in the grave but a dead persons skeleton? It was a question that Zheng Liangcai didnt dare to think about. Zheng Liangcai investigated it in a blue funk. The first thing he considered was to see Mo Shujun and take the grave keeper Zeng Caiwang to the government to make inquiries. Even if Zeng Caiwang didnt steal what was entrusted to his care, as an ordinary person probably wouldnt steal his masters skeleton, it had something to do with his dereliction of duty. However, before Zheng Liangcai saw Mo Shujun, she told somebody to kick him out of the mansion. The princess royal was bad-tempered and wouldnt care about an underlings guess and speculations. She just told them to find Shi Leis skeleton, while she didnt plan to cooperate with them. Zheng Liangcai wanted to cry yet had no tears and didnt dare to ask Mo Shujun anymore, but he couldnt refuse to investigate it. Zheng Liangcai had no choice but to see Shi Junhe more restlessly and frankly told him about this matter. Thats what happened. I think that if we want to find the chief criminal, we must capture the grave keeper first and interrogate him carefully, but the princess royal While speaking, Zheng Liangcai cautiously observed Shi Junhes expression. As soon as he saw that Shi Junhe got unhappy, he shut up. Shi Junhe didnt lose temper yet was gentle to Zheng Liangcai. Did you ask to see Mother? Zheng Liangcai hurriedly nodded. However, the princess royal didnt give the man to me. I am afraid that she doesnt trust me. Duke Shi, can you ask her? Maybe Mo Shujun looked down upon him, while would she ignore her sons words? Zheng Liangcai had wishful thinking. However, Shi Junhe pursed his lips and shook his head. Sorry. I can do nothing in this matter. What? Zheng Liangcai didnt believe it. He thought that Shi Junhe lied to him, but Shi Junhe was an official of a higher rank than him. Even though Zheng Liangcai was depressed, he had to restrain it first and still patiently explained to Shi Junhe about the importance of interrogating Zeng Caiwang, asking for his cooperation. At last, he got rash involuntarily and said something unpleasant to hear. Shi Junhe didnt get angry. After listening to Zheng Liangcais eloquence calmly, he still shook his head. I am sorry. I am afraid that you need to investigate it in another way, Governor Zheng. Zheng Liangcai was unable to reply. He glared at Shi Junhe in silence, with complicated feelings. He couldnt say that Shi Junhe put on airs and ignored him. From beginning to end, Shi Junhe was gentle and polite and didnt look lofty, yet when he was asked to cooperate in this case, even after Zheng Liangcai talked for more than an hour, the duke didnt give him a positive answer but told him to find another way in the end. Governor Zheng felt distressed, while he could do nothing to Shi Junhe. After pondering for a moment, Zheng Liangcai decided to use the last tricky move, so he asked in a deep and hoarse voice then, Duke Shi, are you going to leave it behind? Shi Junhe stayed silent for longer and then shook his head, saying helplessly, If you have no way, just try your best, Governor Zheng. His Majesty wont make things difficult for you. With this promise, even if Zheng Liangcai couldnt find anything later, the family of the victim would protect him in front of Mo Xiangbin and make him have no worry. Logically, Zheng Liangcai should be happy after hearing that, but he felt it was more strange. He wanted to say more, while Shi Junhe waved his hand and didnt give him a chance. Fine. Its late now. I wont disturb you when you investigate the case, Governor Zheng. Zheng Liangcai couldnt say anything. The family of the victim wasnt anxious, and as an outsider, he couldnt say more. Zheng Liangcai came in a twitter and went away in frustration. Shi Junhe wasnt relieved. As soon as Zheng Liangcai left, Mo Shujun sent somebody to ask Shi Junhe to come to the Shouan Hall to discuss burying Shi Lei again. Shi Junhe went there but didnt understand Mo Shujuns intention. Now Fathers skeleton hasnt been found yet. How can we bury him? Would you leave your fathers coffin exposed outside and ignore it? Mo Shujun questioned harshly, Can you bear to make him unpeaceful even after death? Shi Junhe asked, Mother, do you have a solution? Mo Shujuns face softened a little. I think we should choose a lucky day and a suit of clothes that he wore most of the time when he was alive and then bury him again. It meant that they would make a fake body with clothes for Shi Lei. Shi Junhe was suspicious but soon restrained all his emotions. He looked calm and asked casually, What should we do with his skeleton? Mo Shujun answered, The case should be investigated, and his skeleton should be found, yet we cant delay burying him again. And there is no conflict. We can do the two jobs at the same time. She took it for granted and seemed not to realize that it was absurd to bury him with a fake body. Shi Junhe didnt mention it but asked, If we bury Father now, what should we do after we find his skeleton in the future? If they buried one person in the grave for three times, they would really make him unpeaceful after death, and the unpeaceful feeling would be tripled. However, Mo Shujun responded unhurriedly, I am still alive now. After his skeleton is found in the future, bury him with me. Shi Junhe finally understood. Why did Mo Shujun become unhurried while she was almost hysteric earlier because Shi Leis skeleton was gone? It turned out that she still planned to be buried with her husband. Nevertheless, on second thought, Shi Junhe felt that there was something strange. How could Mo Shujun be sure that they could find Shi Leis skeleton? Shi Junhe looked at Mo Shujun questionably and said slowly, I think it is improper. We would bury Father rashly even before we find the chief criminal. It seems that we make him rest in peace in advance, but in fact, we dont even give him an explanation at least. Fine. I have made up my mind and just tell you. You dont need to worry anymore. Mo Shujun made a decision forcefully once more and didnt want to ask Shi Junhe for his suggestion. When Shi Junhe wanted to speak again, Mo Shujun asked, I heard that you are still busy with preparing dowries for Baoning recently, right? Shi Junhe was surprised yet soon replied, as if nothing had happened, She and Chi would have a wedding next month, and we need to prepare some things according to the rule. He paused for a moment and then seemed not to notice Mo Shujuns feelings, saying with a smile, Mother, dont worry. Now we have a lot of money in the family treasury, and its enough to prepare dowries for Baoning. Moreover, Hui has private savings, so you dont need to help us. He said that, and it seemed that Mo Shujun asked him about this matter because she was afraid that Shi Baonings doweries were not enough and they wanted to ask her for financial help, which revealed her dirty thoughts. She paused for a long time and then her face was not stiff anymore. She still didnt look happy in front of Shi Junhe and just expressed indifferently, Although when a young lady gets married, her doweries can be provided by the familys treasury, you would break up the family with your two brothers soon. If you still use the stuff in the familys treasury for your private affair, perhaps others would comment on you after the news spreads, right? Mother, whats your opinion? Shi Junhe asked respectfully. Chapter 281 - Fight for the Family Property Mo Shujun directly spoke out her intention. I have asked the elders in our clan today to come and check the family treasury, breaking up the family for you three brothers. And it happens to take a load off my mind. After that, she added meaningfully, After all, you always hoped to break up the family as soon as possible, right? Mo Shujun was unwilling to prepare doweries for Shi Baoning with the shared property, but after she said that, it seemed that Shi Junhe couldnt wait to break up the family. Shi Junhe raised his head and glanced at Mo Shujun. He opened his mouth yet didnt say anything in the end, agreeing to Mo Shujuns arrangement silently. After a moment, he stated, I am going to tell Baoning and Qingxue to return home. Mo Shujun frowned and was unhappy as Shi Baoning and Qingxue went out randomly, but thinking that they were going to live apart soon, she was broad-minded and controlled herself, without making a comment. After lunch, all people in the Shi family gathered in the living room, waiting for the elders in the clan to lead some people to check the family treasury and their farmland, shops and manors. Perhaps because it was related to Shi Juncais vital interests, Mo Shujun let Zhou Ruyu out unexpectedly. The people from different families sat in different areas. The only problem was probably that even Mo Junyang came besides Wenren Chi who accompanied Shi Baoning in the first masters family. Zhou Ruyu was unhappy when she saw Wenren Chi. After seeing Mo Junyang, she exploded on the spot. Mother, arent we handling the domestic affairs of the Shi family today? Why are there outsiders present? She didnt mention the outsiders name, while all people present looked at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang remained unmoved and just leered at Zhou Ruyu casually, which made her shrink her neck. He expressed unhurriedly, Anyway, Duke Shis family is a noble family in the capital city. There is something wrong with Elder Duke Shis grave, and the problem hasnt been solved. Now the people in the clan are asked to help you break up the family. His Majesty is worried, so he specially sent me to check if you need anything. As soon as he finished his words, there was an uproar in the room. Zhou Ruyu had thought just now that if Mo Junyang insisted on staying here, she would ask Mo Shujun to kick him out, but he came on behalf of the emperor. Who dared to do that? Not to mention kicking him out, they didnt dare to play any trick. Mo Junyang represented Mo Xiangbin. If he found their faults, he would take their lives. The atmosphere in the living room changed in an instant. All people looked at one another speechlessly, and even the members from the third masters family who were itchy to have a try in the beginning quieted down and didnt say anything. Mo Shujun raised her head and glanced at Mo Junyang. She didnt say anything but turned around, telling the elder Shi Changfeng to start to check the property of the Shi family. Shi Changfeng was Shi Leis distant uncle and an old man of the highest rank among the elders in the Shi clan who were still alive, yet his children were disappointing, and the best descendant of him was only a Rank-5 or 6 petty official working in the Capital Bureau. They just relied on Shi Leis glory when he was alive. After he passed away, they merely flattered Mo Shujun to make a living. Since Mo Shujun mentioned that they would break up the family, he happily came to help. Although he was an old man over eighty years old, he wasnt like the other men at this age who looked wise like immortals. Instead, because he always narrowed his small eyes, he looked obscene. As soon as Mo Shujun looked at him, he smiled at her flatteringly. Your Highness, please dont worry. We have checked the family property, prepared the statistical information and divided it according to the ancestral rules. Please have a look. After saying that, he read the information about the houses and manors that the three brothers should have respectively in public. In the end, he added, All the three brothers in the Shi family are legitimate sons. Although the title of nobility was inherited by the eldest son, its better to divide the family property evenly. Before Shi Junhe spoke, Dong Hui was dissatisfied first. The law of the country stipulates that the eldest legitimate son inherits the title of nobility and should get at least forty percent of the family property. Now my husband doesnt ask for more, but it is improper to divide it evenly anyway. Hui! Shi Junhe frowned and rebuked Dong Hui in a low voice, trying to pull her back. Dong Hui refused. These years, she had been bullied by the people in the Shouan Hall and South House enough. She swallowed insult and humiliation silently and almost didnt live a good life for one day. Now they would finally break up the family, yet Mo Shujun still brazenly incited the elder in the clan to pocket what belonged to the first masters family. She was reluctant anyway. Even if others said that she was mean and greedy in the future, she would ask them to return the belongings of the first masters family on behalf of Shi Junhe. Shi Changfeng flattered Mo Shujun but didnt fear Dong Hui. He changed his attitude at once and rebuked mercilessly, The elders are talking now. As a woman, can you make irresponsible remarks? After he reproached Dong Hui, he turned to Shi Junhe. He was afraid that he would offend the duke, so he softened and just stated with displeasure, Junhe, I have watched you grow up since your childhood, and I always think that you are young, promising and upright, and you live up to your fathers instructions. He said something nice and thought that it was enough to move Shi Junhe. Then he suddenly changed the subject and continued harshly, Butyou are the eldest son in the family. Although the law is favorable to you, you should take care of your two brothers. Otherwise, if the news spreads, it would harm your reputation then. Am I right? Humph! If they didnt gossip and judge, how would the outsiders comment on something that conformed to the law and discipline rite? However, Shi Junhe didnt want to argue with them. The Shi family was wealthy. Besides the cash in the shared treasury, they had so many shops, farmland and manors which couldnt be used up even if he didnt work for a few lives. Moreover, Shi Junhe wasnt extravagant. Only his monthly salary was enough to feed the whole first masters family. Mother hopes to take care of my two brothers, and I have no objection. Shi Junhe spoke calmly and revealed Mo Shujuns plan directly. They blushed in embarrassment and didnt dare to look at Shi Junhe after a long time. Dong Hui asked, Even if it should be divided evenly, you should let each party own the same shops and manors. Why does our family get the shops which dont make money and the remote manors? Who says that your shops dont make money? Arent the satin shops in the north of the city good? Zhou Ruyu was reluctant to show weakness and retorted Dong Hui first. Afterward, she started to shed tears and show that they were poor. They are not like our shops near the south gate, which dont make money, and we even have to pay out of our own pocket. You said that its unfair. Is it fair? Zhou Ruyu spoke with a grievance, as if the third masters family was treated unfairly. Seeing that, Mo Shujun glared at Dong Hui coldly and rebuked, Dont speak if you dont know how to. You just fight as soon as you start to speak. Do you think that I have died and allow you to do whatever you like? After cursing, she forcefully looked at Shi Junhe and stated vigorously, When your father was alive, he had decided who should own these shops and manors. Although he didnt write it down then, I am clear about it. Dont you believe me? Mo Shujun bore witness shamelessly. Even though they knew that it was not true, Shi Junhe couldnt say anything. He couldnt charge Mo Shujun with lying. Not to mention that he didnt have evidence, even if he had, he couldnt reveal Mo Shujuns fault. Otherwise, wouldnt he ruin the Shi familys fame? Mo Shujun just knew that, so she dared to openly further her youngest sons interests. Shi Junhe merely stared at Mo Shujun calmly. He looked indifferent but gave others an invisible sense of pressure. After a long while, he responded, Just do as Mother said. Mo Shujun had prepared a lot of words to cope with Shi Junhe as she was guilty, but unexpectedly, he agreed without demur. It made her feel restless. She didnt believe that Shi Junhe was so generous. After all, they said that they would divide it evenly, yet in fact, he would probably get less than thirty percent of the property. Didnt he mind? After a moment, she tried hard to pretend to be calm. Junhe, its great that you can understand my effort. I believe that if your father knows it, he would be satisfied with your behavior. Mo Shujun praised him tentatively. Shi Junhe was emotionless and didnt say more. He just nodded at Mo Shujun politely and distantly. Then he remained silent. He really didnt mind at all? Seeing that Shi Junhe didnt care about the family property seemingly, Shi Juncai had another evil idea. Since you said that it would be divided evenly, Junfeng and I will move out of Duke Shis mansion, and we cant live in the main mansion in the future. Junhe, you need to make up for us, right? Otherwise, its unfair. Shi Qingxue didnt think that it was improper to divide the family property into three parts evenly. It was no big deal even if they occupied the shops which made money. Her family didnt care about such a small amount of money. Her uncles were also her grandpas sons. Even if they had conflicts, they shouldnt be treated unfairly in this matter. However, hearing Shi Juncai say something so shameless, Qingxue thought that her view of life was damaged. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but ask sarcastically, Uncle, what do you think we should do to make up for you and be fair to you? She purposely stressed the word fair to satirize Shi Juncais shamelessness. Nevertheless, Shi Juncai seemed not to understand and even smiled flatteringly. I wont ask for an unreasonably high price. How about this? The shops near the city gates in the northern suburbs are not prosperous all the time because the location is remote, yet it happens that they are in a row on the same street as my shops. Junhe, help me and give them to me. Uncle, which shops would you give us in return? Shi Qingxue couldnt control herself and retorted Shi Juncai again. Shi Juncai asked in disgust at once, They are just several shops. My brother can make big money. Would he bother about so much? He just planned to gain something for free. In the north of the city, it was a place where many noblemen lived and a highly prized real estate zone. It was impossible that the shops made no money because the location was remote. Shi Juncai wanted to get the shops which made most money from the first masters family, and he even had the face to say that he didnt ask for an unreasonably high price. He even tried to grab everything. Chapter 282 - Find It Since they are only several small worthless shops, wed better not make something unpresentable distain your eyes, Uncle. Shi Qingxue didnt have an interest in the family property, but she didnt want to see that something that belonged to Shi Junhe would be grabbed by others. So she instantly retorted mercilessly. Shi Juncai didnt hear Shi Junhes retort, while he was rendered speechless by Shi Qingxue repeatedly, so he felt embarrassed. He became angry from shame and cursed, When the elders are discussing, as a child, do you qualify to speak? In the beginning, Shi Junhe resigned himself to adversity and didnt fight for anything, but hearing Shi Juncai speak insolently to Qingxue, he roared coldly, Since the three families would live apart, all the family members can express their opinions. When Ruyu spoke just now, Mother and we didnt comment on her, right? As soon as Shi Junhe showed his coldness, Shi Juncai was scared and ceased fire. However, on second thought, he was reluctant, as if a piece of meat beside his mouth was taken away. How would the greedy Shi Juncai be willing to? He didnt dare to oppose Shi Junhe, so he winked at Mo Shujun crazily, with plea in his eyes, hinting, Mother, I really need those shops. Help me. Mo Shujun couldnt bear to see that Shi Juncai begged her, so she was about to speak, while Shi Qingxue stated decisively, Those shops cant be given to you. Mo Shujun glared at Shi Qingxue and rebuked in a cold voice, Even though you are a member of the first masters family, the family master is still Junhe. He hasnt said anything. How can you make a decision? Shi Qingxue answered unhurriedly, Grandma, didnt you say that the allocation of the family property was decided by Grandpa when he was alive? It means that this is Grandpas last wish, and nobody can disobey, right? She said the same words that Mo Shujun had spoken out to retort them, which made Mo Shujun and the third masters family turn ghastly pale but have nothing to say. After a while, Mo Shujun returned calm and expressed coldly, Since the family property has been divided, Junfeng and Juncai, just move out of Duke Shis mansion quickly tomorrow, in case that they dislike you in the future. Mother! Shi Junfeng and Juncai protested at the same time and expressed that as the allocation of the family property was just decided, they hadnt built the houses that they would live in in the future. How would they move out? However, Mo Shujun questioned, Didnt you get a few houses for each? Arent they enough for you to live in? She reproached the two on the surface, yet in secret, she just censured Shi Junhe who didnt care about his brothers life or death after they broke up the family. Shi Junhe looked calm and wasnt hurt by Mo Shujuns words. Perhaps she had said too many sarcastic words, so she couldnt hurt Shi Junhe since long ago. He just stated impassively, Anyway, my mansion is spacious. If you dont have a place outside to live in for now, of course you can live here. Before Shi Junfeng and Juncai were happy for long, Shi Junhe continued unhurriedly, But I have heard that you two have bought land and built houses outside, and some of your family members have moved in. Hmm, am I right? Shi Junfeng and Juncai turned pale suddenly, while Zhang Qiuyan and Zhou Ruyu glared at them. In Mo Country, it was acceptable if a man married a wife and concubines and even had sex with their maids or went to the brothels, and others wouldnt say anything, but if they let a woman live in another house illegally, it was a big problem. The ordinary people wouldnt be so bold. Generally, a man had a forceful wife, so even if he was randy, he didnt have the nerve to have concubines, and he had to let the woman live in another house. Nevertheless, neither of the two brothers in the Shi family had a forceful wife, but they had a mother who decided everything. How did they dare to have concubines openly without Mo Shujuns permission? So they let their women live outside. They thought that nobody knew it, yet everything was in Shi Junhes eyes unexpectedly. Mo Shujun glanced at the two brothers ferociously. Meeting Shi Junhes eyes with a faint smile, she blushed and was too ashamed to tell the two to refuse to leave Duke Shis mansion. In frustration, the two brothers told the servants to move. After Shi Changfeng and the others left and only the members of the Shi family were left, Shi Junhe said, Mother, just now you talked with me about burying Father again. I have considered for a while. Its better I have chosen clothes for your father, and it happens to be a lucky day after two days. You make preparations and have your father buried as soon as possible to make him rest in peace. Mo Shujun didnt plan to let Shi Junhe finish his words but arbitrarily announced her decision. Shi Junfeng and Juncai echoed Mo Shujun and praised her as she was considerate. And they even offered help with a little effort. They echoed one another cheerfully and elbowed Shi Junhe out, giving him no chance to cut in. At this time, it happened that a servant rushed in and whispered in Shi Junhes ear. Shi Junhes expression changed sharply and he stared at the servant, asking, Really? The servant glanced at Mo Junyang secretly, and nobody found it. Then he lowered his head again and said respectfully, My Lord, I told the truth. ElderLordis His voice was lower and lower and he stuttered, so the others just heard something roughly and got confused. Shi Junhe looked more solemn. Suddenly, he turned to Mo Junyang, with his questioning eyes, while the young man looked at him calmly, with his expression unchanged. The two men looked at each other for fifteen minutes under the weird atmosphere, till Shi Qingxue felt restless and called in a low voice, FaFather? Shi Junhe suddenly came back to earth, and his tense face relaxed. He smiled at Shi Qingxue subconsciously. Nothing. But judging from his expression, it didnt look like nothing happened. Shi Qingxue was still worried, but seeing Shi Junhes unusually serious expression, she held back her words. However, after comforting Shi Qingxue, Shi Junhe turned to Mo Shujun. Mother, I think its improper to bury Father only with a fake body of his clothes. Mo Shujun had made the decision, yet Shi Junhe stopped her repeatedly, so her face darkened in an instant, and she asked coldly, Now you have made your fathers skeleton disappear, but you are unwilling to bury him with a fake body. Do you want to make him unpeaceful after death? She said that, as if Shi Leis skeleton disappeared because of Shi Junhe. Shi Junhe didnt fear Mo Shujun who shifted the responsibility onto him. After she lost temper, he asked calmly, If I find Fathers skeleton, would you still insist on burying him with a fake body, Mother? What? Mo Shujun turned pale with fear for the first time and sprang from her seat. She was shocked and opened her mouth wide, glaring at Shi Junhe, unable to speak a whole sentence for a long time. Shi Junhe nodded seriously and explained, A servant came to report just now that Governor Zheng in the Capital Bureau has found Fathers skeleton and asked me to claim it, so we dont need to make a fake body for him, right? Mo Shujun didnt come to her senses and nodded in a daze. Of course, of course I am going to the Capital Bureau now. Shi Junhe hesitated for a moment and then looked at Mo Shujun, asking, Mother, are you going with me? Mo Shujun loved Shi Lei so much, and she must want to get his skeleton back as soon as possible. However, beyond expectation, Mo Shujun didnt nod. Her stunned expression was replaced with weariness. She touched her forehead and waved her hand. I am tired now, and since the governor told you, you go there. Afterward, she ignored others expressions and told the servants to help her return to the Shouan Hall. As soon as Mo Shujun entered the Shouan Hall, she straightened her back and got energetic. She walked quickly like the wind back to the hall for worshipping the Buddha where she sat in meditation at ordinary times. Her action scared the maid who followed her in a blue funk, and she thought that Mo Shujun became vigorous just before death. She asked nervously, Your Highness, are you okay? Shall I call for a doctor for you? Dont Mo Shujun had something in mind, yet this maids endless voice disturbed her, so she was dizzier. She couldnt help but rebuke in a low voice, Shut up! The maid stayed silent in an instant, like a quail. However, after the maid quieted down, Mo Shujun wasnt in a better mood. Instead, she glared at the maid crossly and cursed again, Useless thing. Fine, you dont need to serve me. Get out of here! The maid replied while trembling and was about to go out, but Mo Shujun ordered coldly, Close the door after going out. Just stay in the courtyard and dont allow anybody to get close to this room. If somebody comes to see me, tell them that I wont see any guests. Do you hear me? Yes, yes After the door was closed for quite a while, Mo Shujuns tense face softened a bit. She stared at the statue of Buddha in the room for a long time, as if lost in thought. Then she got up and walked over. She took out three sticks with incense and reached out to the everlasting lamp. She wanted to light them, yet she was not skillful as it was a job for the servants at ordinary times. She lit them for a long while before she made it. She inserted the three sticks with incense into the burner and then knelt to the statue of Buddha, kowtowing devoutly for three times. Buddha, please bless me. Later, she got up and walked to the statue, pressing its head. With a click, a crack showed up in the plank behind the statue and then became bigger gradually. It was a secret door unexpectedly. Mo Shujun picked up the everlasting lamp and walked in through the secret door. It was dark inside, and the everlasting lamp was dim and swaying, which made the dark room more scary. Mo Shujun didnt feel it at all and just moved forward with the oil lamp. Under the dim light, she looked mysterious. She walked to an innermost couch and then stood still. On the couch, it was covered with a white cloth. It seemed that there was something inside, which bulged slightly. Mo Shujun sat beside the couch and looked at its head. After quite a while, she raised her hand and lifted the white cloth, revealing the white bones in it. It was eccentric and terrifying. However, Mo Shujuns face which was tense all the time finally relaxed, and she smiled faintly, looking soft She bent over slightly and got close to the head of the skeleton, trying to kiss it. Yunyang When her lips were almost close to the white bones, there were sounds from behind all of a sudden. Mother, what are you doing? Chapter 283 - Who Took the Skeleton Away? Mo Shujun paused and suddenly raised her head, to see that Shi Junhe and the others stood at the entrance of the dark room and looked at her, yet she didnt know when they came. She turned pale with fear and questioned subconsciously, What are you doing here? Shi Junhe walked to Mo Shujun step by step and asked in reply, I should ask you this question, right? I am the family master, but I dont know since when we have a secret room, and Shi Junhes eyes fell on the white bones on the couch. Before he asked, Mo Shujun stood in front of the bones to prevent him from seeing them. She shouted anxiously, He is mine! In anxiety, Mo Shujun forgot her identity and was only worried about whether Shi Junhe would take the white bones away. Shi Junhe remained unmoved and just asked calmly, Mother, can I ask why Fathers skeleton is here? I Mo Shujun was speechless. She had never expected that Shi Junhe and the others would find this dark room. All of them came here and perhaps they had guessed something earlier, so they intentionally said that Shi Leis skeleton had been found, which scared her so much that she came to the dark room to have a check. Mo Shujun thought resentfully, They are so despicable. She glared at Shi Junhe and still refused to admit it. I dont know what you are talking about. Didnt you say that you had found your fathers skeleton? Why did you say that it is here? According to her words, it was Shi Junhes fault. Shi Junhe looked gloomy. Hearing Mo Shujun make a false countercharge, he didnt get angry but stated slowly, Somebody told me earlier that you dug Fathers grave and took away his skeleton, yet I didnt believe that you would do something like this to disturb his peace, so I set a trap to expose the person who stole Fathers skeleton. Unexpectedly They had confirmed long ago that the person who had stolen Shi Leis skeleton was a member of the Shi family, so Shi Junhe got the news that the skeleton had been found as soon as they broke up the family in order to frighten the criminal, who thought that the skeleton was missing and then personally led them to find it. I After hearing that, Mo Shujun couldnt speak a word again. She had never expected that she was exposed because she was too nervous. Even though the witnesses and evidence were present, she was still unwilling to give up Shi Leis skeleton. Instead, she denied it. This is notmy husbands skeleton. You made a mistake. Anyway, after turning into the white bones, everybody was the same. As long as she didnt admit it, it was not him. Mother, if you are in doubt, I can ask Doctor Shen to check it. He can find out whose skeleton this is. Shi Junhe spoke casually and interrupted Mo Shujuns wishful thinking as she intended to get away with it. Mo Shujuns chicanery was retorted, so she sat on the couch with a pale face. She didnt agree or go away. It appeared that if they dared to carry away Shi Leis skeleton, they should step on her. Shi Junhe stayed silent for a moment and then asked out of the blue, Mother, you know that a dead person should be buried to rest in peace. You and Father were a couple. Why do you refuse to give him the last peace? Please return Fathers skeleton and have it buried earlier No way! Mo Shujun interrupted Shi Junhe without hesitation, even though she didnt have any reason. Meeting Shi Junhes surprised eyes, Mo Shujun got shameless. No matter what you will say, my husbands skeleton is mine. I would never give it to you. After saying that bossily, Mo Shujun even raised her chin slightly. I am Yunyangs wife. Its reasonable that a couple should be buried together. Even though when Shi Lei was alive, he didnt agree to be buried with her. Shi Junhe certainly realized what Mo Shujun was thinking about, but on second thought, she cared about Shi Lei so much, so it was understandable. Moreover, because the person who had stolen the skeleton was Mo Shujun, and she refused to give it out, Shi Junhe couldnt forcefully demand her to do anything, and he even had to cover it up for her. After all A wife stole her late husbands skeleton just to be buried together. Was there something more absurd than this? Shi Junhe pursed his lips and wanted to cover it up. However, Shi Qingxue secretly grabbed his sleeve and hinted with her eyes, You cant let it pass. Shi Junhe shook his head helplessly and expressed in a low voice, If its my mother We cant Grandma asked to be buried with Grandpa, which is reasonable indeed, but Shi Qingxues brows uplifted, and she sneered. You cant let it pass as she ruined Grandpas grave and tombstone. Everybodys face stiffened and they thought of the miserable condition in front of Shi Leis grave and then remembered that when Mo Shujun went to the mausoleum, she tried to charge Shi Qingxue without asking for the reason. This She just made a false countercharge. No matter how thick-skinned Mo Shujun was, what she said and did slapped herself in the face. However, even so, Mo Shujun still wouldnt lower her head easily. She just avoided mentioning the truth with her dark face. I didnt ruin my husbands grave and would never do that. I just took away his skeleton and dont know anything else. She said that she didnt know anything else, and she just disassociated herself from this case. Shi Qingxue sneered and didnt expose Mo Shujuns lie at once. She just asked, Where is the eight-treasure box? Even in the dark and secret room, it could be seen that Mo Shujun looked unnatural on her face, yet soon she concealed it. She explained casually, What eight-treasure box? I dont know. I just took away Yunyangs skeleton. I dont know where the eight-treasure box in the coffin has gone. She didnt know again Mo Shujun thought that after she said she didnt know, she could disassociate herself, while unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue was waiting for her answer. After Mo Shujun said that, Shi Qingxue asked in reply instantly, Since you said that you dont know, how did you know that there was an eight-treasure box in the coffin? Didnt you say that Mo Shujun responded subconsciously. Before she finished her words, she realized that she was in a trap. Shi Qingxue had mentioned the eight-treasure box just now, but she didnt say where the box had been. Shi Qingxue smiled and then asked, Allow me to guess. Grandma, since you know the existence of the eight-treasure box, you must have seen that the people who buried Grandpa put the box in the coffin, right? Mo Shujun didnt want to prove herself wrong, so she had to admit this fact. But she retorted soon, So what even if you told the truth? The stuff in the eight-treasure box was put inside by the servants under Yunyangs order before he passed away. I have never seen it, so I certainly dont know what was in the box. When you took Grandpas skeleton away, you found that the eight-treasure box was gone. Why did you keep it a secret and allow others to destroy Grandpas grave? Shi Qingxue asked questions one after another, which rendered Mo Shujun speechless again. When she started to tell a lie, she didnt consider so much, so she needed to tell more lies to prove herself till she blundered repeatedly and couldnt go on. Mo Shujun was in this condition. Shi Qingxue couldnt be fooled easily like Shi Junhe, and she was forceful, so Mo Shujun couldnt suppress her only by force. Fortunately, at this time, a servant rushed to Shi Junhe and reported, My Lord, somebody outside the mansion said that he had something to give to a descendant of the Shi family as he had an agreement with the late lord. What? All people were stunned. He had an agreement with the late lord, and the late lord meant Shi Lei obviously, while the descendant of the Shi family must be Shi Junhe or others. As soon as Shi Leis skeleton disappeared, somebody came here, although it had been found. The comer just arrived in time, which made people imagine. Mo Shujun wished that somebody attracted all peoples attention, so she declared immediately, Since a guest has come, lets see him first and talk about anything else in the future. Afterward, she kicked all people out of the dark room and then went out at last. She locked this room and summoned two servants to guard at the door. She was so cautious, and it appeared that she was afraid that somebody would steal Shi Leis skeleton when she was not here. Shi Qingxue was unfavorably impressed by Mo Shujun, but she felt sad involuntarily after seeing her grandmas actions suddenly. No matter how evil and partial Mo Shujun was in the past, only for the sake of her love for Shi Lei, Shi Qingxue couldnt denounce her in this case. Shi Qingxue believed that Mo Shujun was not the one who had ruined Shi Leis grave. When Mo Shujun rushed to the mausoleum, her anger and shock were not affected. She didnt know in advance that Shi Leis grave had been ruined. However, in this case, why did she try to cover up something? Because she has known who ruined the grave and promised to keep it a secret for that person after she got the benefit, Mo Junyang explained gently. Shi Qingxue was pondering and didnt say anything, yet Mo Junyang accurately guessed her doubt and even gave her an answer. She didnt know whether she should be surprised at how Mo Junyang guessed what she was thinking about or at his answer. Qingxue pondered for a moment. Seeing that nobody noticed them, she still decided to let it pass. She just asked, Why did you say that? You have seen that she cares about Grandpa a lot. Somebody disrespected Grandpa, and even I cant endure it. As Grandpas wife, she must be angrier with the criminal than me and want to cut him to pieces, right? Mo Junyang nodded and replied, Logically, its true, but what if the benefit is attractive and the criminal is not somebody that she wants to punish? How attractive is the benefit? Shi Qingxue couldnt figure it out. For example Mo Junyang smiled meaningfully and looked at the room where all people came out, asking in reply, For example, Elder Duke Shis skeleton. Do you think this benefit is enough? It was enough indeed. Shi Qingxue was enlightened yet got more doubtful. Then she asked, Do you know who the criminal is? Why did he ruin Grandpas grave and steal his skeleton? He couldnt have done that in order to give it to Grandma. In this case, the criminal shouldnt have ruined the grave, but he would steal the skeleton secretly to flatter Mo Shujun. It was like a huge onion, and the truth was covered inside. It was difficult to strip off each skin, and the more they stripped off, the more confusing it was. Chapter 284 - A Manager Appeared out of Thin Air Seeing that Shi Qingxue lowered her head and pondered hard, Mo Junyang didnt baffle her but gave her an explanation in detail directly. Princess Royal doesnt worry about money or fame. In this world, few things can be used to lure her except what she cares about I see! Shi Qingxues eyes lit up. She answered quickly, Its Shi Juncai. Mo Junyang showed a faint smile. Qingxue was more confident and continued, Perhaps Grandma can get whatever she wants, but Shi Juncai has a lot of things that he wants yet cant get. With Shi Juncai, it is much easier to combine threats with inducements. Moreover, the criminal had Shi Leis skeleton as the bargaining chip. Wouldnt the negotiation be to the satisfaction of both parties? It just made Shi Lei who had passed away long ago suffer from injustice. He made a lot of outstanding military exploits for the country and his family when he was alive, yet he was taken as a bargaining chip and couldnt rest in peace after death. At this thought, Shi Qingxue was furious, and she instantly stopped feeling sad for Mo Shujun. She was so angry that she didnt notice that Mo Junyangs smile faded after he heard her analysis. He didnt interrupt her and just suggested after she finished her words, Forget it first. Lets go to the living room to have a look. Maybe the visitor who would give us something can answer our questions. Hmm? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang in doubt. She asked, Since somebody reported that Grandpas skeleton was found, I got surprisedThe servant came to send a message from the Capital Bureau is your subordinate, right? Mo Junyang didnt want to hide it from Qingxue and nodded honestly. I couldnt confirm that Elder Duke Shis skeleton was in her hands, so I figured out a way to cast a wide net and then made the criminal confess without torture and lead us to find the skeleton. Shi Qingxue didnt get angry after hearing that but nodded knowingly. Then she asked, Just now Qingxue, although I am capable indeed, I cant know everything. It has nothing to do with me this time. Mo Junyang raised his hands and expressed that he was innocent. Shi Qingxue looked Mo Junyang up and down doubtfully for quite a while. Then she asked with uncertainty, Really? Mo Junyang certainly nodded repeatedly. In fact, the person has come to this mansion. If you really want to know the purpose of the visit, just go to the living room, okay? Okay! Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang came to the living room of the mansion, and it was full of people standing inside. They hid behind the crowd secretly and listened to them. Shi Junhe asked about the identity of the person who came to give something. Who are you? What do you want to give to the descendant? A middle-aged man who was a little fat with an average height was standing in the middle. He looked serious and cautious. After confirming Shi Junhes identity, he stated unhurriedly, My Lord, I am the manager of The Yous Pawnshop. Today my boss gave me something and told me to hand it to you While speaking, he took out something covered with several layers of a red cloth from his pocket. It was thick with almost the size of a palm. Nobody could see what was inside. Seeing that, Shi Junhe hurriedly reached out his hand to receive it, but unexpectedly, the man avoided his hand and refused to give it to him. The manager of The Yous Pawnshop continued, Your daughter. All people were speechless. It was allowed to take a break while speaking, yet he took such a long break. Because of the middle-aged mans weird action, all people started to guess what it was at the same time. Why couldnt it be given to Shi Junhe but to his daughter? Was the boss of The Yous Pawnshop really Shi Leis old friend? What was their relationship? Why did he show up suddenly to give something to Shi Leis descendant in so many years after his death? All peoples brains were filled with the questions, like a snowball which became bigger and bigger after rolling. There was no answer, which made them have a headache. The manager didnt give them a chance to ponder over. He turned to the young generation standing behind Shi Junhe and asked politely, Who is Dukes daughter? Shi Baoning was pushed by Wenren Chi and then reacted, answering subconsciously, I am. The manager looked Shi Baoning up and down at first and then confirmed roughly. Then he nodded slightly and seemed to accept her words. However, he still demanded cautiously, My Lady, can you show your personal seal so that I can confirm your identity? He was afraid that Shi Baoning would get angry, so he added respectfully at once, Its not that I intentionally make things difficult for you, but its something significant. I was entrusted by my boss and dont dare to be careless. Please forgive me, My Lady. Shi Baoning hurriedly said that it didnt matter. When she took out her personal seal from her pocket and gave it to him, she couldnt help but ask, Even if I give my personal seal to you, how can you confirm that I am the person you are looking for? Even if there was Shi Baonings name on the personal seal, it was easy to forge a seal. Anybody could randomly make a seal with Shi Baonings name on it. If he had never seen it, he would be cheated easily, right? The manager smiled at Shi Baoning to make her rest assured. My Lady, please dont worry. Elder Duke Shi had predicted it, so when he entrusted it to me, he copied your personal seal for me as a reference. While speaking, he took out a piece of yellowish white paper and then opened it, comparing the mark on the paper with Shi Baonings personal seal. Before he finished his words, he stopped his hand suddenly at the sight of something and held back what he was going to say. My Lady, you are not The manager looked baffled, as if there was something that he could hardly speak out, and he stuttered. When the manager took out the paper to compare, Shi Baoning expected that they wouldnt be matched. Seeing his expression, she just explained calmly, Grandma and Father made the personal seal for me after I came of age, and Grandpa had passed away then, so So when this manager suddenly took out a mark to compare, they couldnt be the same. However, after hearing her words, the manager looked more embarrassed and expressed after stuttering for a long while, But my boss said that only if the personal seal is the same as the mark in my hands, can I He probably feared that he would offend Shi Baoning, so he added in a lower and lower voice at last, yet he still bit the bullet and continued to ask, My Lady, are you really Elder Duke Shis granddaughter? Perhaps because he was afraid that he would irritate Shi Baoning, he lowered his head and acted humbly after asking this question quickly. Fortunately, Shi Baoning was always gentle and just frowned with displeasure after being offended. She still nodded and answered, Of course, all people present can prove it. The manager wouldnt be so stupid as to ask the onlookers. He just didnt give up and asked, Are you Duke Shis daughter? Shi Baoning was unable to reply. Even Shi Junhe couldnt bear to see that this time. He responded for her, She is really my daughter. Sir, is there something wrong? The manager furrowed his brows tightly and blurted out, But isnt your daughter named Shi Qingxue? All people in the Shi family were speechless. Their expressions changed, and Shi Baoning even blushed in embarrassment. Shi Junhe goggled and didnt know how to answer this managers question. Did this middle-aged man come to sow discord among the members of the Shi family? He knew that Shi Junhe had two daughters but still said that only Shi Qingxue was his daughter. He seemed to deny Shi Baonings existence. Even though the middle-aged man was just a manager of a pawnshop, his words were hurtful. Shi Baoning was attentive, sensitive and suspicious. If it was Shi Qingxue who was treated like this, Shi Junhe wouldnt be so restless that he didnt even dare to glance at Shi Baoning. The manager still didnt know he had said something wrong but talked endlessly. My boss told me that Elder Duke Shis granddaughter is named Shi Qingxue, and there is her personal seals mark on this paper. The seal was made by the elder duke in person, and it couldnt have been forged. Isnt Lady Qingxue your daughter? Shi Junhe couldnt speak a word. Was it late to kill this manager? He stayed silent for a long time and then tried his best to answer calmly, I have two legitimate daughters, and Qingxue is one of them. You Hearing that Shi Qingxue was one of them indeed, the manager looked relieved and joyful, stating in a hurry, Lady Qingxue, please take out your personal seal and show it to me. He was worried that he would mess it up and be cursed by his boss after going back, so he forgot that the one he faced was Duke Shi. He cut in hurriedly and meanwhile turned to the people behind Shi Junhe and Baoning. Soon, his eyes were fixed on Shi Qingxue and then lit up at once. He asked happily in surprise, Are you Lady Qingxue? Shi Qingxue still felt awkward. When this manager called her name under the watchful eyes of all people suddenly, she was shy and angry, so she planned to deny it. The manager seemed to notice her attitude and instantly added, I have a relic of Elder Duke Shi. He gave it to my boss when he was alive and asked him to give it to you at the right time. Hearing that it was Shi Leis relic, Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to randomly tell him to go away. Although she thought that this man irritated Shi Baoning and had gone too far as he wasnt a good talker, her desire to know what Shi Lei had left to her gained the upper hand. She still nodded and took out her personal seal, giving it to the manager. Just check it by yourself if you want to. Because the manager had offended her sister, Shi Qingxue was unfriendly although she knew that she shouldnt be like this. At the same time, she reminded seriously, Grandpa did make the personal seal for me, but so many years has passed, and I have made it fall for many times as I was naughty when I was young. If it was ruined and there is something wrong, dont find fault with me. She said that like a rascal, while the manager didnt get mad after hearing that. Instead, he smiled with relief. When all people were nervously waiting for him to reveal the result, his smile looked weird. Especially when he glanced at Shi Qingxue at last, it seemed that there wasaffection in his eyes? Chapter 285 - Another Cranium Shi Qingxue was scared by the weird thought flashing in her brain, so she hurriedly shook her head and tried to get rid of it. They had never seen each other before, so it was her first time to see this manager today, and they talked only a little. Why did she think that he looked at her with love in his eyes, like an elder looking at a child? She was out of mind. Nevertheless, when she turned to Mo Junyang, she saw that he looked cold and stared at the manager of The Yous Pawnshop, with his cold and stern eyes. It seemed that if nobody stopped him, he would kill this bastard who dared to covet his woman after he went out later. Junyang? Shi Qingxue nervously grabbed Mo Junyangs sleeve and called in a low voice. Every time Mo Junyang showed such an expression, she felt restless even though she didnt realize what had happened. Then her worried eyes couldnt stray from Mo Junyang. It seemed that if she didnt do anything, she would eventually part with Mo Junyang and they would become strangers like they did in the previous life. Mo Junyangs eyes fell on the manager for only several seconds, and soon he returned calm and smiled at Qingxue to comfort her. He whispered, I am fine. Shi Qingxue deeply doubted Mo Junyangs words, but the manager spoke again after confirming her identity. You are Lady Qingxue as expected. Its great. I can finally live up to my boss expectations and give this stuff to you personally today. The manager directly put the stuff covered with a red cloth in Shi Qingxues hand regardless of anything and didnt let her refuse. Eh, wait. What on earth is it? Shi Qingxue was curious about Shi Leis relic, yet she was surprised as somebody suddenly put something in her hand. The manager didnt explain till now but looked at Shi Qingxue seriously. He lowered his voice, which could almost be heard only by him and her. The stuffshould be given to you, and I dont know what is in it, yet I need to tell yousomething. No matter what decision you will make in the end, please treat this stuff well. He spoke on and off, and especially at the critical moment, his voice was so low that even Shi Qingxue couldnt hear it clearly. After that, he continued before Shi Qingxue came to her senses, I have finished the job that my boss told me to do, so I wont disturb you. Goodbye! Eh, wait! Shi Junhe also concentrated on this mans words just now, but he didnt hear anything clearly. He was confused and prepared to ask this guy. Unexpectedly, the manager just glanced at Shi Junhe meaningfully and smiled. Then he left without saying anything. Nobody could persuade him to stop. Shi Junhe didnt tell the servants to stop him, and they couldnt beat this manager, so they had to watch him swagger out of the mansion. After the manager went away, it was weird in the living room again. Before the problem became more serious, Shi Junhe ended the meeting forcefully and told all people to return home. Seeing that Shi Junhe paid attention to the so-called Shi Leis relic, Mo Shujun heaved a sigh of relief, even though she was also curious about it. She didnt ask Shi Qingxue what was covered with the red cloth but went back to the Shouan Hall. Shi Junhe led his family to return to the East House. Qingxue, open it now and check whats inside, Shi Junhe ordered in a hurry after closing the door of the study. His tone was subtle. After all, in the misunderstanding in the living room, the one who was hurt most was not Shi Baoning ignored by an outsider, but Shi Leis eldest son, Shi Junhe. Shi Lei had a relic to give to his descendant. Even if it wouldnt be given to Mo Shujun, it should be given to the eldest legitimate son, right? Why should it be given to Shi Qingxue? Even though Shi Qingxue was his biological daughter, Shi Junhe couldnt help but look her up and down and wonder what charm this girl had to make his father entrust something important to her instead of him. Shi Qingxue didnt open the package in her hand at once as Shi Junhe said but asked in surprise, Father, havent you noticed that the man wasa little weird? Even Mo Junyang paid attention to the manager, and that man must be more than a lowly manager of a pawnshop. Shi Junhe didnt find the problem and just answered casually, Perhaps his boss told him what to say before he came, so he spoke in his boss tone involuntarily, which is not surprising. No, its not this problem, Shi Qingxue responded firmly. Then she seemed to recall the situation then and lowered her tone, with uncertainty. When he mentioned his boss later, he said the words such as expectations, live up to, as if As if what? Why are these words weird? Shi Junhe didnt think that there was something wrong with these words. For example, he didnt say anything, yet he still worshiped his father and wanted to live up to his expectations However, after Shi Qingxue heard that, her eyes lit up, and she looked joyful as if she found the key point. Then she nodded. Right, thats the problem. We would have such feelings more or less for the people we care about, the relatives and elders, but we wont mention our elders in a reminiscent tone like him, as if the elder has passed away. Baoning, you must have such a feeling, right? In order to seek resonance, Qingxue turned to Shi Baoning. Shi Baoning kept silent since she entered the room. When Shi Qingxue asked her out of the blue, she was stunned yet then sneered. Grandpa didnt take me as Fathers daughter. How would I dare to have such a feeling? Shi Qingxue was rendered speechless. She knew that Shi Baoning was sensitive and the managers words stabbed her heart like the sharpest thorn. Baoning, you misunderstand it. Shi Qingxue defended Shi Lei with difficulty. Grandpa must not think so. Its She racked her brains but couldnt find proper words. Meeting Shi Baonings eyes with sarcasm, Shi Qingxue felt that her heart hurt, as if being stabbed by a needle. Suddenly, she had a brain wave and stated decisively, Grandpa loved you so much and would never say something like that. Didnt I say that just now? The boss of the manager might have passed away, and his boss was entrusted by Grandpa and then gave the job to him. Three people were involved, so it is normal if he made a mistake. She tried her best to speak for Shi Lei and almost said everything nice as she didnt hope that Shi Baoning would misunderstand their grandpa. However, Shi Baoning remained unmoved after Shi Qingxues words. She just stared at her younger sister coldly, making her at a loss. Fine! Shi Junhe couldnt bear to see that and interrupted the two sisters stalemate. He forcefully ended this subject. Now its not the time to talk about this issue. Qingxue, just open it first and check what on earth it is. Seeing that all of them didnt pay attention to the suspicious manager, Shi Qingxue had to open the red cloth obediently and show the stuff inside. Gee? A white piece with an arc was revealed out of the red cloth, and it was like ahuman bone. Ah! When Shi Baoning realized what was in Shi Qingxues hand, she screamed and hid behind Wenren Chi. She trembled and didnt dare to look at Shi Qingxue. In the beginning, all people didnt overreact but were shocked by her action. Although Shi Qingxue also felt frightened, especially when this human bone was grabbed in her hand directly and being watched, she still restrained her fear and continued to observe the bone. She was so scared that she swallowed, while she still fumbled on the bone tentatively. Judging from this bones arc and size, it must be a cranium. Andwhen she touched the inside of the arc with her finger, she paused all of a sudden and subconsciously looked up at Mo Junyang. Here As soon as she started to speak, she was stopped by Mo Junyang. They were so close that they didnt need to talk but understood what the other party wanted to express only by a glance. Shi Qingxue wondered why Mo Junyang stopped her suddenly at this time, yet she shut up by instinct because she trusted this man. The others were petrified by the fact that the so-called relic was a cranium and didnt notice their interaction. After a moment, Shi Junhe said with certainty, This is definitely not my fathers cranium. Shi Qingxue nodded and took it for granted. Of course, I saw that the skeleton was intact in Grandmas dark room, and Grandpa would never ask somebody to cut off his cranium and then give it to me as a keepsake in a few years, right? Only at this thought, she felt horrified. If Shi Lei really did that, Shi Qingxue must not be his most loved granddaughter, but the most hated one. However, there was another question. If it was not Shi Leis, whose cranium was this in Shi Qingxues hand? It couldnt be that Shi Lei kept an enemys cranium after killing him and then told somebody to give it to his little granddaughter after he died, with a purpose to test if she was bold enough. On second thoughtit was incredible. When all people racked their brains but couldnt figure it out, Mo Junyang suddenly said, If I guess right, this cranium must be a womans. Shi Qingxue didnt doubt how Mo Shujun made such a conclusion and asked directly, Whose? However, Mo Junyang shrugged to express that he didnt know, either. Then he looked at Shi Junhe and stated casually, We can guess a little when we face only a cranium, and Qingxue said just now that the manager of The Yous Pawnshop is suspicious. General Shi, you can start with this. Shi Junhes eyes lit up, and he clapped. Right, lets investigate that manager first. After that, he summoned Shi Jie and told him to investigate. During the period, Mo Junyang grabbed Shi Qingxues hand, and they left the study. After Shi Junhe finished everything, only Dong Hui, Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi were left in the study. It became weird all of a sudden. Chapter 286 - Regard Goodwill as Malice After Shi Qingxue left the study, there was jealousy on Shi Baonings face apart from fear because of the cranium which showed up suddenly. It was indistinct, but all people present knew well about her and could certainly notice what she was thinking about. Dong Hui understood Shi Baonings grievance, yet both of them were her daughters, and moreover, it was not caused by Shi Qingxue. It was unreasonable no matter whether she blamed Shi Qingxue or comforted Shi Baoning. She wanted to cover it up and pretended as if nothing had happened. However, Shi Junhe stated, Hui, go out with Chi. I have something to tell Baoning. Junhe, this Seeing that Shi Junhe looked serious, Dong Hui was afraid that the father and daughter would have conflicts, so she planned to stop it. However, Shi Junhe just shook his head at her silently and firmly, motioning for her to do as he said. Dong Hui could do nothing but go out with Wenren Chi. When only Shi Junhe and Shi Baoning were left in the room, Shi Baoning couldnt control her grievance. Before Shi Junhe asked, she questioned first, What? Father, do you want to teach me a lesson again for Qingxue? Hearing Shi Baonings aggressive query, Shi Junhe kept his composure and asked in reply, Why do you think that I should teach you a lesson for your sister? Shi Baoning was speechless and her face looked terrible. After a while, perhaps because only Shi Junhe was here, she wasnt in the mood to pretend. She just snorted. Father, you dont need to be over fastidious in wording. I know that you will rebuke me again and dont think that I can treat Qingxue badly. You think that she is the most innocent, but have you considered my feelings? When Shi Baoning was speaking, tears fell along her cheeks, and anybody would feel sad for her after seeing that. She didnt wipe them but continued to look steadily at Shi Junhe with complaints in her eyes, questioning coldly, I am Grandpas eldest legitimate granddaughter and your first legitimate daughter. I should be superior to Qingxue in the age and status, yet when Grandpa entrusted somebody before death, he didnt choose me and probably forgot me. Otherwise, how would the outsiders not know that I am also your biological daughter? When we were in the living room just now Shi Baoning recalled the scene and looked sad and embarrassed. After a long while, she controlled herself and returned calm, adding, I think I am not inferior to Qingxue in any aspect, and I am clear about my status, so I learnt to restrain myself and be dignified since childhood. Although I cant be like Grandma, compared with Qingxue who is playful and willful since childhood, anyway I am Much better. She didnt finish her words and held back under Shi Junhes cold eyes in the end. However, she couldnt fully conceal the resentment and reluctance on her face. Shi Junhe saw it clearly and had complicated feelings which could hardly be spoken out. He understood Shi Baoning. When they were in the living room, he had the same doubt and wondered why Shi Lei chose Shi Qingxue who was young and didnt look reliable instead of him. And he was even a little jealous then, too. However, he didnt have those feelings now. Facing Shi Baonings envy that she didnt hide, Shi Junhe asked peacefully, What would you do if he chose you? What? Shi Baoning was stunned and then understood what her father was asking. If Shi Lei entrusted it to her, after the relic covered with the red cloth was given to her and she opened it, she suddenly saw the white bone inside As a result of the visual impact, Shi Baoning might be scared and threw away the relic from her hand. At this thought, Shi Baoning turned pale again and wasnt courageous with sufficient reasons anymore, yet she refused to show the white feather in front of Shi Junhe. Then she swelled out her chest. I, I know that it is a relic left by Grandpa. Even if it is scary, I will keep it carefully and wont make any mistake. Yes? Shi Junhe didnt make comments and asked in reply. He looked indifferent, and nobody knew if he believed her. When Shi Baoning was restless, he continued to ask slowly, Okay. All of us know that you will take good care of your grandpas relic. How about the next job? What would you do to fulfill his last wish? Shi Baoning looked at Shi Junhe blankly and didnt know what he meant. What last wish? The manager of The Yous Pawnshop didnt tell us what Grandpas last wish was. He just told Qingxue to take care of thishuman bone and didnt say anything else. She was also present then. Although the manager said his last words in a low voice and she didnt hear clearly, judging from Shi Qingxues confused expression, he must have not said something important. Shi Junhe smiled helplessly. Do you think that your grandpa would tell somebody to give us a cranium in so many years after death if he had nothing important to entrust? Did he do that just in order to leave a keepsake to the descendants? In that case, the stuff shouldnt be given to Qingxue or you but me. Shi Junhe calmly pointed out the fact. However, Shi Baoning couldnt accept it. She shouted emotionally, Grandpa didnt make clear what he wanted to do. He left a puzzling remark to us, and we certainly cant guess. Nevertheless, Shi Junhe shook his head and stared out of the window gloomily, responding impassively, No. Qingxue can guess it eventually. Although Shi Qingxue seemed to be confused like them for now, he firmly believed Shi Leis insight. He wanted to tell Shi Baoning that Shi Lei chose Shi Qingxue because the girl was capable, and they shouldnt be unconvinced. Nevertheless, his words seemed to step on Shi Baoning and made her angry again. In the final analysis, all of you think that Shi Qingxue is the most outstanding and I am incapable of doing anything. No matter how hard I am, I am no match for your most loved granddaughter and daughter, right? Shi Baoning questioned loudly and vented all her grievances that she had suffered these years because of Shi Qingxue. She had tears all over her face and still didnt stop complaining. I know that I am boring and dont know how to say something nice, and I am not as good at pleasing others as Shi Qingxue, but I always try to do the best these years because I want to be favored and praised by you. But how about you? Shi Qingxue can make you smile after saying something nice randomly, yet no matter how much effort I make, I cant be treated the same as her. Why? We are the same, and I am even an infanta. I am more honorable and dignified than her. Why do you dote on a bitch who doesnt know the immensity of heaven and earth but ignore me While speaking, Shi Baoning got more emotional and even defamed Shi Qingxue at last. Shi Junhe was so angry that he slapped her in the face and interrupted her. Shi Junhes chest went up and down, while he gasped and scowled tightly. Obviously, he was extremely furious. Great, great, great! Even though he was too angry, he laughed and said the word repeatedly, glaring at Shi Baoning with his sharp eyes like a hawks. Till Baoning had cold sweat on her back under his glare, he snorted coldly. I have never expected that Shi Qingxue is so filthy like a bitch in your heart. Its wonderful. You finally expressed your innermost feelings. Shi Baoning realized that she said something wrong, while she was unwilling to apologize for her words, so she lowered her head and remained silent. It appeared that she admitted it tacitly. Seeing that, Shi Junhe was in a rage and couldnt help but curse, Shi Baoning, think it over with your conscience. Didnt Qingxue do many things for you these years? She personally went to Mang Mountain to call for a doctor for you regardless of danger and took you to join the banquets after you recovered. Later she tried hard to make a match for you and Chi No! She didnt do those for me but for herself. Shi Baoning was unwilling to accept Shi Junhes one-sided denouncement and shouted loudly. Shi Junhe pouted and sneered. Oh? So you tell me. Why did she do those for herself? Shi Baoning pursed her lips. Now all people know that Doctor Shen is His Excellencys follower, and His Excellency acts upon whatever she says. She looked for the doctor on Mang Mountain just to make a show. She said that she did everything for me just to show that she is respectable, right? Shi Junhe was speechless. He felt that his anger rose to his brain from his lung in a flash and almost erupted, while he restrained himself and just looked at Shi Baoning, signaling that she should go on. Shi Junhe wanted to know how ungrateful this daughter was. She ignored her sisters sincere kindness but said that the girl did everything for herself. Baoning felt Shi Junhes cold and sharp eyes and had a headache, yet she still continued coldly, She did the same at the banquets. She said that she took me into the noble ladies circle, but in fact, she just made a show of herself in front of the royal family. She made herself stand out and got a good reputation as she loved her sister. She just achieved two goals at one stroke. Shi Junhe had never expected that Shi Qingxues kindness was being selfish and making use of others in Shi Baonings opinion. Even anybody with sharp eyes knew for whom Shi Qingxue did so many with absolute sincerity. For example, before Shi Qingxue went to Mang Mountain to look for the doctor, she didnt know that Shen Luo was Mo Junyangs follower and even almost lost her life on that mountain after being harmed by Shi Baoyan. For example, Shi Qingxue never liked to show up in the noble ladies circle. She came out every time because Shi Baoning was bullied, and she was forced to stand up for her sister. For example Everything was clear and obvious, yet never people should try to wake up a person who pretended to fall asleep. Shi Baoning arbitrarily thought that Shi Qingxue did everything for herself. Perhaps only in this way could she escape from the consciences censure. So how would she ponder deeply over the loopholes of her explanations? Shi Junhe didnt even sneer this time but only asked, Anything else? Qingxue tried every means to bring you and Chi together and make you get married at last. Did she do that for herself, too? Hearing that, Shi Baoning didnt feel guilty yet questioned in a sharp voice, If she really did that for me, why did she seduce my fiance behind my back? Chapter 287 - The Conflicts Between the Sisters Shi Junhe glared at Shi Baoning in disbelief and didnt expect that she would slander her sister unreasonably. He raised his hand and slapped Shi Baoning in the face again, cursing in a rage, Talk nonsense! Evil girl. Do you know who you are talking about? Thats your younger sister. Shi Junhe always thought that only he and his brothers had intramural fights, but unexpectedly, there were so many misunderstandings between his two daughters. At the moment, he was glad that Mo Junyang had taken Shi Qingxue away and only he heard what Shi Baoning had said just now. Even he was so angry, and he didnt dare to imagine how sad Shi Qingxue would be if she heard Shi Baonings heartless words. However, since Shi Baoning had expressed her feelings hidden at the bottom of her heart, she didnt fear anything and made it worse. She covered her swollen face after being slapped and didnt admit her fault. Instead, she sneered. Why are you angry? I just told the truth. Since Shi Qingxue dared to do something so dirty, she shouldnt fear that somebody would say it. You! Shi Junhe raised his hand again and wanted to teach this daughter a lesson who talked rubbish, but he saw that her cheeks were red yet she still goggled with her red eyes stubbornly. The gentle father Shi Junhe couldnt bear to beat her again, so he withdrew his hand resentfully. He was dispirited and sighed, asking helplessly, Do you really think so? Your sister, Qingxue It seemed that Shi Junhe didnt know what to say to Shi Baoning. He opened and closed his mouth several times and then finally made a voice. She has done so much for you but never asked you to repay her. Speak honestly. Is she really so evil as you said? Shi Baoning was speechless. She wanted to say something seemingly, while under Shi Junhes sad eyes, she couldnt say it. In the end, she lowered her head again and remained silent. Shi Junhe had consumed much energy when he was arguing just now. Although he wasnt angry anymore, he couldnt keep calm as before. Especially Perhaps Shi Baoning still thought that Shi Qingxue seduced Wenren Chi. YouThe father pursed his lips and seemed to try to find proper words. After a long while, he asked slowly, You have said a lot and hate her so much because of this matter, right? Do you think that Qingxue stole your future husband? Shi Baoning trembled and suddenly looked up at Shi Junhe, denying it in panic. No, no, I When she stuttered, it was better not to say that. Shi Baoning probably realized that she appeared to expose herself unwittingly while trying to cover up, so she shut her mouth again. After quite a while, she raised her head once more with her calm eyes, stressing each word. Right! Since we mention it today, I am not afraid of telling you the truth. In fact, Qingxue and I She thought it over and finally found proper words. I dont care about our arguments. You take her as the most loved and lovely daughter, and I am willing to love and care about her. I dont mind even when she does something out of the line occasionally, but Baonings eyes became extremely sharp all of a sudden, and she stressed seriously, But it cant be Chi. He is mine. I wont give him up to anybody, and even my sister should perish this thought! Since childhood, Shi Baoning was taught to be well-behaved and pay attention to etiquette, and she had never insisted on asking for anything. The only man she thought about all the time was Wenren Chi, and nobody could snatch him from her. Shi Junhe sneered after hearing that and said directly, Do you think that Qingxue will really snatch Chi from you? From beginning to end, she just takes Wenren Chi as her brother. Otherwise, why did she say that she would criticize Wenren Chi when she thought that he betrayed you? How did you know it? Shi Baoning didnt speak out the last two words, but the surprise in her eyes revealed her emotion. Shi Junhe asked, Do you think that I know nothing as I never asked about the misunderstandings between you two in the past? So what even if she really did that? Who knows if she Shi Baoning still wanted to argue that Shi Qingxue did so just to gain a good reputation. However, under Shi Junhes eyes which got deeper and sterner, she couldnt finish her words in the end. Shi Junhe looked at Shi Baoning, to see that she was in the wrong but refused to admit her fault, and a similar yet different figure flashed in his eyes involuntarily. Should he say that they deserved to be mother and daughter? Humph. Chi and Qingxue are only brother and sister from the beginning. You are too sensitive and think too much. Shi Junhe looked indifferent and pointed out the truth in a stern voice slowly. Even if there is something between them, its Chi Shi Junhe was impulsive and about to reveal the fact, but seeing that Shi Baonings expression changed sharply, he held back what he was going to say. He couldnt bear to make his daughter sad. He sighed deeply and added helplessly, Fine. Since you bear a grudge against your sister, perhaps its impossible for me to ask you two to be as close as before. Now I only hope that you can remain peaceful on the surface and dont let Qingxue know your feelings. Its not difficult for you to pretend, right? Shi Junhe couldnt eliminate Shi Baonings prejudice and hatred, and the only thing he could do was hide their estrangement forever. As long as Shi Qingxue didnt find how her sister treated her with hatred while she protected her sister all the time, she would never get hurt. It was uncertain if Shi Qingxue would find something wrong in the end as she was intelligent. And it couldnt be controlled by Shi Junhe. Shi Baoning stayed silent for such a long time that Shi Junhe almost thought that she didnt understand what he meant. When he was about to repeat it, he saw that Shi Baoning suddenly raised her head and smiled at him weirdly. She said in a cold voice, Father, you reallytake good care of Qingxue. It was not the first time that others implied that Shi Junhe was partial. His expression didnt change at all, and he responded impassively, Her elder sister has decided to stop caring about her. As her father, I cant love her in the same way, I have to do something on the surface and cover up this fact. Shi Baoning stiffened and couldnt speak out the aggressive and sarcastic words which were hidden in her heart. She suddenly thought of a fact. No matter what happened, she was Shi Qingxues elder sister. Apart from anything else, she should take care of her sister unconditionally. However Shi Baoning fell into silence. Shi Junhe wasnt in the mood to bother more about this matter. He waved his hand, gesturing for Shi Baoning to leave. Mo Junyang directly took Shi Qingxue back to King Ruis mansion. Shi Qingxue was thinking about the cranium in her hand all the way. Although she was terrified in the beginning, she didnt feel scared but was just confused even when she touched this cranium now. It was because she found the words the tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai engraved on the groove of the cranium when she touched it. The tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai again? What does this date stand for as it was hidden in the cranium? From the beginning, Shi Qingxue wanted to ask this question, yet Mo Junyang stopped her. Instead, he took her away from the study. Obviously, he didnt hope that she would reveal it in public. The tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai, this date was the secret that Zhou Ruyu used to threaten Mo Shujun and made the latter surrender. Now it showed up on this mysterious cranium unexpectedly. Did it mean The princess royals secret must be related to your grandpa and father. Mo Junyang spoke out what Shi Qingxue was thinking about. Shi Qingxues eyes lit up and she gazed at Mo Junyang, asking excitedly, So you know what Grandmas secret is? Mo Junyang hesitated for a moment and then nodded. Shi Qingxue was about to heave a sigh of relief when the man answered in a low voice, I am not sure. Shi Qingxue helplessly glared at Mo Junyang and thought that this man was too unreliable. He either knew it or not. What did he mean by saying that he was not sure? It made her happy for nothing. Shi Qingxue didnt want to talk with Mo Junyang and paid attention to the cranium again. She thought, If I remember correctly, Father was born in the Year of Yihai, but what did the tenth day of the first lunar month mean? After more than three months, the twentieth day of the fourth lunar month was Shi Junhes birthday. It is a period of one hundred days. But it must be unrelated. Qingxue laughed with self-mockery and thought that she was out of mind. She didnt have a clue, so she wanted to relate everything to it. Maybethe direction of your thought is right. Mo Junyang suddenly spoke again, which made Shi Qingxue raise her head. She looked at him in doubt. What do you mean? Mo Junyang considered what he should say and then responded, I said that I am not sure because I havent found the suitable evidence. Both the princess royals secret and the relic that Elder Duke Shi left to you must be related to a secret of the elders, but But what Shi Qingxue got nervous involuntarily and asked in a hurry. Once it was related to a secret, it must be something bad. We dont have enough evidence at hand. Even if we guess the truth, it cant prove anything. If the person concerned refuses to admit it, it is nothing. And Mo Junyang hesitated for a moment and then pointed out meaningfully, It would only make your father more annoyed unnecessarily. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue also got cautious and didnt ask Mo Junyang what he had guessed. She gently stroked the small words on the cranium. Grandpa asked somebody to give the cranium to me, and it must be right. I have seen the managers mark of my personal seal he used to compare. Although the paper was old, the mark was more complete than my personal seal. It must have been copied by my grandpa as soon as he made it for me. Mo Junyang nodded to express that she guessed right, but he reminded, Dont forget that even if the middle-aged man was entrusted to give you something, his movements and expression were suspicious, and there must be something wrong with him. Right. I think so. Shi Qingxue suddenly smiled slyly. So he must be a breakthrough. Chapter 288 - Find a Clue The Yous Pawnshop was famous in the capital city as an old brand with a history of several decades. The price in the pawnshop was reasonable, and it was popular in the neighborhood. After all, nobody hoped to make contact with a pawnshop, but when somebody was in need, a pawnshop would be better than his father. That man had been a manager in The Yous Pawnshop for more than twenty years. As long as they made inquiries, they knew that the man was named You Junle. It was said that he was the biological son of the pawnshops owner. Shi Qingxue didnt guess wrong. The owner of The Yous Pawnshop had passed away many years ago, and You Junle took over the pawnshop. However, You Junle was always the manager of the pawnshop. Even if he became the real boss, it didnt change much, so all people around called him Manager all the time. Do you think that he hid his real relationship with his boss because he thinks it is not important orhe hid it from us intentionally? Shi Qingxue asked in confusion. Although she asked such a question, her bright eyes expressed that You Junle just hid it from them intentionally. Mo Junyang playfully scratched Qingxues head and stated, Stop imagining wildly. If you have questions, lets ask him to his face. Shi Qingxue opened her eyes wide in astonishment and looked at Mo Junyang doubtfully. Have you found him so soon? Is it difficult? Mo Junyang pursed his lips indifferently. In fact, although You Junle had left Duke Shis mansion and cautiously escaped from all the spies sent by the Shi family, thinking that he was safe and sound, he never escaped from Mo Junyangs control. So when Shi Qingxue saw You Junle again, this fat middle-aged man was tied up and thrown to sit on the floor, in an awkward position. You Shi Qingxue helplessly glanced at Mo Junyang. Seeing that he took it for granted, she couldnt complain about him. She had to walk forward, personally tear off the dirty and stinky towel from You Junles mouth and take out a knife to cut off the rope around him. Then she told a servant to help You Junle sit up. Afterward, she said apologetically, I am sorry, Manager You. I and Junyang just need to ask you something and dont want to offend you. Please forgive us. You Junle always led a life of luxury and privilege and had never been treated so rudely, so he got angry involuntarily and leered at Shi Qingxue coldly, snorting impolitely, I have been tied up and brought here by you. You have tied me up but ask me to forgive you now. Lady Qingxue, dont you think it is too late? Shi Qingxue paused for a moment and then looked at You Junle, with surprise and doubt flashing in her eyes, yet she concealed it soon. She lowered her head and expressed obediently, Manager You, as long as you dont mind, its not late. You Junle was speechless. The middle-aged man was petrified by Shi Qingxues words, so he stopped being carefree and looked Shi Qingxue up and down seriously again. After a while, he laughed once more but with no provocation or sarcasm, different from before. This time he laughed sincerely even with admiration and just gazed at Shi Qingxue. It made Mo Junyang behind her look gloomy, while You Junle laughed more happily. Manager Youyou must know me, right? Shi Qingxue asked all of a sudden. You Junle was stunned and then smiled as if nothing had happened. You are Elder Duke Shis sixth biological granddaughter. How would I dare not know you? Oh? So you are familiar with Duke Shis mansion? Qingxue asked in a hurry. However, You Junle replied, I am just a lowly manager of a pawnshop. How can I know the people in Duke Shis mansion? My Lady, stop joking. Perhaps he knew that Shi Qingxue doubted his behavior in Duke Shis mansion earlier, so he added causally, I am merely lucky to send Elder Duke Shis relic to your mansion for my boss, so I had the chance to see you, My Lady. He purposely said that he was lowly, as if Shi Qingxue was a big shot beyond his reach while he was a civilian. However, Shi Qingxue didnt believe his words at all and pointed out without hesitation, If you really know me only because of this and even have never known anything about the Shi family before, how do you know that I am the sixth young lady in my family? You Junle was unable to reply. He intentionally joked with Shi Qingxue, but unexpectedly, his words exposed him. Fine, fine. Although You Junle had heard that Shi Qingxue was quite smart, he still thought that she was a girl at the age of sixteen or seventeen, and no matter how smart she was, there must be a limit, yet unexpectedly This time he had guessed wrong. However, You Junle didnt feel frustrated but was relieved as his secret was seen through. He admitted it frankly. Right, I did know who you are since long ago. You also know that my father has more than one daughter, right? Shi Qingxue looked cold. Since You Junle showed up in Duke Shis mansion, Qingxue thought that his behavior was weird and he said those words on purpose just to ruin the relationship among her family members obviously. She didnt know what this man attempted to do. Shi Qingxue didnt like him from the beginning, and she was in a worse mood after hearing him admit it. Feeling Shi Qingxues cold shoulder, You Junle was stunned and then laughed at leisure. So what if I know that? I just took out Elder Duke Shis relic, yet they tried to grab it from me, as if there were a treasure inside. While speaking, You Junle couldnt help but smile happily and slyly. Even though he knew the answer, he still asked, Were you scared? Shi Qingxue didnt try to ask You Junle if he had seen the stuff covered with the red cloth, nor did she wonder why he did that. She just asked, Whose cranium is it? You Junle was stunned for a while probably because he hadnt expected that Shi Qingxue would be so straightforward. After a pause, he responded casually, Its just a white bone. Perhaps Elder Duke Shi picked it up on the battlefield randomly and left it to you as a keepsake. Shi Qingxue certainly didnt believe You Junhles nonsense, so she sneered. Yes? Manager You, why did you pack it up so carefully if it is just a white bone picked up randomly? He packed it up with the red cloth layer by layer, and obviously he didnt hope that the stuff inside would be damaged. If he just wanted to scare them, he wouldnt do so much. The smile on You Junles face stiffened again, but soon he recovered. Maybe because he was seen through by Shi Qingxue, he didnt evade the subject under discussion but just reminded, My Lady, you are so smart and must have guessed the owner of the cranium, yet I cant tell you about this persons identity randomly. If you really want to know the truth, you can go back home to ask your grandma. Grandma doesnt know it, Shi Qingxue retorted subconsciously. However, when she met You Junles faint smile with sarcasm, she was distracted and suddenly thought of the date engraved in the cranium. Then she couldnt be so bold. Fine! Although she had guessed that Mo Shujun had something to do with the date, the tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai, You Junle seemed to stress it intentionally. Nevertheless, she couldnt find a clue for a moment, so she turned to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang smiled at her and then turned to look at You Junle. He sneered and asked out of the blue, I hear that you are the boss of The Yous Pawnshop now, right? You Junle was the one who knew a secret, but he was asked by Mo Junyang all of a sudden, so he got nervous, as if he lost his advantage. Especially when he met Mo Junyangs cold and frightening eyes, he felt cold all over and avoided his eyes with guilt. After a long time, he admitted it. Right, but it seems unable to prove anything, right? Mo Junyang didnt make comments and continued to ask, Was the previous owner of the pawnshop your mother? You Junle was so astonished that his jaw almost dropped. He gazed at Mo Junyang and couldnt speak a word for a long time. Even though his reactions gave Mo Junyang an answer. Shi Qingxue was shocked as Mo Junyang suddenly revealed this secret. Although they had got this news from the neighbors earlier, they just knew that You Junle was the son of the pawnshops owner. Nobody had told them that the previous owner of the pawnshop was a woman. Even if they guessed, they wouldnt turn in this direction. How do you know that the previous owner was a woman? Shi Qingxue stared at Mo Junyang and asked, Do you know her? She could only guess this. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyangs eyes fell on the cranium in her hand, and he suddenly laughed. He said casually, Her cranium is in your hand. How do you think I know it? What? Shi Qingxue was so shocked that she almost shook her hand and threw away the cranium. Fortunately, before she did that, she remembered that this cranium was a relic Shi Lei left to her, so she controlled herself and didnt move. However, Mo Junyangs words couldnt answer Shi Qingxues question but made her more and more doubtful. Why did Shi Lei have the previous owners cranium and even engrave the words the tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai in it? It was horrible even when people thought of it. And the two had such a relationship. Perhaps they bore a deep grudge against each other and made the other party unable to rest in peace even after death. Although You Junle tried to ruin the relationship among the members of the first masters family, yet he didnt cross the line, and it didnt seem that he avenged his mother. And if the two families had feud which couldnt be defused, You Junle wouldnt have the copy of her personal seal in his hands. After ruling out this possibility, another more absurd thought came into her mind. She shook her head in a hurry and looked at Mo Junyang by instinct, with plea and expectancy in her eyes. Mo Junyang didnt smile this time but nodded at her. Shi Qingxue was stunned. After a long time She seemed to come back to earth and looked at You Junle with obscure light in her eyes. Qingxue pursed her lips and asked softly, Sir, do you have another name? Chapter 289 - Reveal the Truth You Junle seemed to have expected that Shi Qingxue would ask him such a question. He paused for a moment and then nodded frankly, answering simply, Right. Is your Damn it. Shi Qingxue felt that her lips started to tremble. She quivered for a long time and then continued to ask, Is your family name Shi? This time her voice was softer and more hesitant. However, You Junle replied more directly than last time, Yes. Before my mother died, my name was Shi Junle. He seemed to think of something and showed a weird and excited smile. Then he stressed each word. My Lady, if you want to ask about my age, I can tell you that I am fifty years old, eight years older than your father. At the mention of Shi Junhe, there was disdain on You Junles face evidently. He looked the same as he did when he left Duke Shis mansion. You Junle, or Shi Junle looked down upon Shi Junhe. Shi Qingxue felt that a bomb exploded in her brain, and the words Shi Junle flashed in it repeatedly. She seemed to be possessed and guessed Shi Junles identity all the time. When she got more frightened while thinking, a pair of big hands with much strength covered her eyes gently. As the warm and familiar breath surrounded her, Qingxue relaxed for no reason, and the complicated thoughts in her brain vanished. She couldnt help but lean backward, as if the broad chest behind her was her most reliable support. Mo Junyang hugged Qingxue more tightly and meanwhile looked at You Junle mercilessly, with warning in his eyes. You Junle had heard about their relationship before. Although he was quite satisfied with Mo Junyangs behavior from selfish motives, he smiled at the young man with provocation. He just feared nothing as he had something to rely on. Aha! Because Shi Qingxue was here and had guessed his identity, You Junle would be fine even though Mo Junyang was reluctant. However, You Junle misjudged. Mo Junyang didnt get angry after being provoked but smiled at You Junle with more provocation. Then he expressed unhurriedly, Dont think too much. He is not Elder Duke Shis illegitimate child. He revealed the truth with no mercy. As expected, Mo Junyang saw You Junles shocked and hurried expression. You Junle blurted out, How did you know it? As soon as he finished his words, he suddenly shut up. However, he had confessed without torture. At the moment, even though Shi Qingxue couldnt see their faces, she guessed something roughly. On one hand, she was amazed as Mo Junyang knew so much, and on the other hand, she heaved a sigh of relief. Fortunately, she didnt have another paternal uncle for no reason. Qingxue raised her hand and put it on Mo Junyangs hand, silently telling him that she was fine. Then she finally got rid of his hug. The light entered Qingxues eyes, and she blinked. Then she got accustomed to it again. She pondered according to the clue offered by Mo Junyang and soon guessed You Junles identity. He must have been fostered by Shi Lei when he was alive. After the craniums owner passed away, he changed his family name because he was unwilling to have Shi Leis family name as he thought that his mothers death had something to do with Shi Lei. But now he was willing to fulfil Shi Leis last wish. He did that for his late mother and perhaps he still had feelings for Shi Lei. You Junle listened to Shi Qingxues analysis. Although it was slightly different from the truth, it was true in the main. And everything was deduced under the condition offered by Mo Junyang. This man was horribly acute. You Junle didnt try to retort but stared at Mo Junyang for a long time. He still couldnt figure it out, so he asked, Almost all people in the world who knew the relationship between my mother and Elder Duke Shi have passed away. Even if some people are alive, they have to keep their mouths shut under the threat of the princess royal. How did you know this matter? Oh? Which matter do you want to ask about? Mo Junyang evaded the crucial point and asked in reply. Anyway, he was not the one who was anxious, and he didnt need to give an answer in a hurry. You Junle thought that Mo Junyang intentionally beat around the bush, so he asked directly, How did you know that my mother was Elder Duke Shis official wife? Official wife? Mo Junyang repeated the words meaningfully. Then he raised his head and smiled at You Junle slyly, explaining, You told me just now. You Junle was speechless. Fine! Seeing that Shi Qingxues big eyes widened like lanterns, You Junle knew that he was fooled by the young man Mo Junyang again who was so crafty, and he couldnt deny it. You Junle kept silent for a long time and then sighed in the end. He raised his head and looked at Shi Qingxue again, with a sincere and firm expression in his eyes. Then he made it worse and said frankly, Almost all my secrets were revealed after you lured me into a trap, and its pointless if I try to cover it up. I am not afraid of telling you the truth. What? Shi Qingxue asked in a daze. This time, she experienced what was called brain explosion. It seemed that all the logic disappeared, and she had to follow others words. You Junle continued, My mother was named You Si and was your grandpa, Elder Duke Shis first wife. She was dead on the twentieth day of the fourth lunar month in the Year of Yihai. As for the cranium in your hand, on her death day after three years, your grandpa personally opened her coffin and took out her cranium. Then he engraved the words of the tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai in it as a keepsake. The rest skeleton of my mother was burnt to dashes and put in an eight-treasure box by your grandpa in person While speaking, You Junle purposely stopped and looked at Shi Qingxue who turned pale after hearing such a shocking story, asking with a smile, Speaking of the eight-treasure box, you must be familiar with it, right? Of course, it was familiar to Shi Qingxue. An eight-treasure box disappeared from Shi Leis coffin. If what You Junle said was true, it must be Shi Qingxue trembled and was unwilling to believe his words, but she couldnt find an argument to retort him. She suddenly thought of a possibility and looked at You Junle suddenly, asking, Is You Si really your mother? As soon as she finished her words, she realized that she said something improper, so she hurriedly explained, No. I mean, she is not your biological mother, right? You Junle glanced at Shi Qingxue with admiration yet replied seriously, Right. Although You Si is not my biological mother, I cant forget that she raised me. Then Shi Qingxue asked with more difficulty. When You Junle mentioned You Sis death, he intentionally stressed the date. Didnt he want to tell her that You Si died on the day when Shi Junhe was born? She didnt have extra energy to think about why You Si was Shi Leis official wife, which was unbelievable. She just wanted to know one key point, but she couldnt ask. Fortunately Shi Qingxue had Mo Junyang around her. Mo Junyang grabbed her hand and asked directly on behalf of her, How did You Si die? You Junle sighed with emotion as this young couple thought alike, yet he still told them the true answer. She died of a disease. At that time, my mother was seriously ill, but the doctor could do nothing because one kind of medicinal material was needed, while Elder Duke Shi couldnt find it after looking for it everywhere in the capital city. When he was almost desperate, the princess royal said that she had that medicinal material and was willing to give it to my mother What was the price? Mo Junyang asked straightforwardly. You Junle was speechless and glanced at Mo Junyang with complaints. The young people nowadays were not lovely at all. They didnt give him time to keep them in suspense, and they were so hateful. You Junle had no choice but to tell the truth. The princess royal demanded Shi Lei to marry her and wanted to replace my mother and become his only wife. She was a shameless outsider, and it was fine when she stole somebody elses husband, yet she even took advantage of another womans difficulties and wanted to elbow out his first wife because of her identity as a princess royal. At the mention of this story, You Junle couldnt conceal his disgust for Mo Shujun. He even disliked Mo Junyang, who was also a royal family member. If Mo Shujun was not a princess royal then, or if she didnt have that medicinal material to save a life, how could she become Duke Shis wife? Elder Duke Shi Agreed. And then? Mo Junyang thought that few people knew this issue that year because it would be a humiliation for Mo Shujun and perhaps there was no happy ending. As expected, You Junle continued, In order to save his wife, Elder Duke Shi had to endure his sorrow and divorce his wife, marrying another woman. However, when he got that medicinal material, my mother was incurably sick and couldnt be saved. She only left a baby who was only one hundred days old, and A baby who was one hundred days old? Mo Junyang incisively found the key point. He stared at You Junle and asked, That baby is the current Duke Shi, right? No way! Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded when she was listening to You Junle who told them how vicious Mo Shujun was and how she made effort to marry Shi Lei. Unexpectedly, they got more absurd while talking and even dared to say that Shi Junhe was a son left by You Si. Its impossible! Shi Qingxue denied it again. She didnt believe it, nor did she accept such an answer. However, You Junle just gazed at her deeply and admitted it in silence. Impossible, Shi Qingxue stressed for the third time. How could she believe such an answer? If it was true, and Shi Junhe was You Sis son, didnt Mo Shujun kill Shi Junhes mother as she was the chief criminal who stole You Sis husband and forced Shi Lei to divorce her and then delayed to make her die of the illness in the end? If the truth was known to the public, how would Shi Junhe show his face in the future? Seeing that Shi Qingxue denied the fact repeatedly and didnt believe it, You Junle thought that she tried to defend Mo Shujun. So he looked cold in an instant and stated angrily, What I said is the truth. If I tell a lie, I dont mind being struck by lightning. Although this matter was kept as a secret under the pressure of your grandma, the fact is the fact and cant be distorted. Dont you always think that you are quite smart? There are so many doubtful points. Havent you doubted them? Or how long will you deceive yourself? Chapter 290 - So What If She Accepted It? Shi Qingxue was petrified by You Junles aggressive questions. These questions were sharp-pointed and piercing to the bone, and You Junles stern eyes made her feel too ashamed to raise her head. In fact, she had accepted You Junles words in her heart. He didnt need to lie to them for something like this. Moreover, many signs showed that his words were not false. Shi Qingxue was speechless and couldnt bear You Junles attitude which changed sharply. She didnt want to face the truth from selfish motives as it was so difficult to speak out. But Manager You, you are joking, Mo Junyang suddenly stated coldly. He said that You Junle was joking, yet he didnt smile. He just looked horribly serious. You Junle was stunned, but he was confident, so he swelled out his chest and looked at Mo Junyang. What I said is the truth. If you dont believe me, you can Whether it is the truth is not decided by you, Mo Junyang retorted coldly. You Junle snorted. So I said that you can go back and ask your grandma. What did she do forty years ago? Or you dont dare to? He spoke aggressively on purpose and wanted to force them with provocation to go back and confront Mo Shujun. However, Mo Junyang had seen through this managers trick earlier and didnt get angry. He just expressed indifferently, Oh? I dont know that when you have no evidence, you will go back home and question your mother only after an outsider guesses something. Great, great You Junle probably hadnt expected that Mo Junyang was so powerful and could make him speechless after saying only a few words. His indifferent and playful tone made You Junle feel that he was offended. The latter wanted to say that it was different, but in fact, what was the difference? Before today, no matter what his real identity was, he was just an unrelated stranger to the Shi family. However, he just showed a cranium that he had got from nowhere and pointed out that Shi Junhe wasnt Mo Shujuns biological son, and he even told Shi Qingxue to return home and question Mo Shujun. It was difficult to understand even for an outsider. If Shi Qingxue did that, probably all people in the world would curse her as she was ungrateful. You Junle knew this point, but he couldnt bear that Shi Qingxue asked him about his resentment and then stopped. Would his mother You Si be buried deeply under the ground and unable to have her identity revealed forever? You Junle was reluctant, so he vented his grudge on Shi Qingxue. Unfortunately, he hadnt expected that Shi Qingxue had a protector who didnt allow him to humiliate and blame her wantonly. This young man just said something randomly, but it made You Junle feel so ashamed that he wanted to hide himself. You Junle lowered his head in frustration. I know that without evidence, you wont believe anything, right? After all, Mo Shujun is your family and lives with you for more than ten years, while I am just a man who hides under the ground and cant show the face, like a rat No You Junles sorrowful words moved Shi Qingxue, and she couldnt help but cry out in a low voice. In fact, before seeing You Junle, she was suspicious. Mo Shujun did something so cruel to the first masters family. Anybody seeing that wouldnt think that an elder who really loved them would do that. Shi Qingxue couldnt figure out why Mo Shujun did that. No matter how partial she was, there must be a limit. Mo Shujun had gone too far. Shi Qingxue had suspected that Mo Shujun was so heartless because Shi Junhe was not her child. However, this thought was too absurd. As soon as Shi Qingxue thought of it, she gave it up. Now You Junle showed up. It was more proper to say that she reconsidered a guess which she could hardly believe than to say that she was shocked. It was weird, yet it was not unacceptable. Perhaps what Mo Shujun did these days made them despair. Shi Qingxue bit her lower lip and almost left a blood stain on her red lip. Then she asked with difficulty, Why did you come to see me at this time? Andif I guess right, you told a lie in the living room. You Junle paused for a moment and then kept his countenance, asking, What? This stuff Shi Qingxue took out the cranium and showed it to You Junle, asking with certainty, Even if this was given to you by Grandpa, he didnt tell you to give it to me, but he hoped that you could give it to my father at the right time, right? After asking, Shi Qingxue stared at You Junle and wanted to find some clues from his expression. Surprised flashed in You Junles eyes, but soon he returned calm. He stayed silent for a while, and when he raised his head again, he looked unperturbed. He answered, Right, when Elder Duke Shi was dying, he gave this cranium to me and told me to give it to Shi Junhe if I wanted to avenge my mother in the future. He was impolite to call Shi Junhes name, but speaking of his identity, You Junle was Shi Junhes elder brother, so he had this qualification. Shi Qingxue frowned and asked in doubt, Why? Why did you do that? Because I dont trust him, You Junle replied straightforwardly and didnt conceal his hostility to Shi Junhe. You Junle didnt like Shi Junhe from the beginning and thought that this man who regarded an enemy as his mother since childhood wouldnt believe his words but would even forget who killed his biological mother because Mo Shujun had raised him. Such a man didnt deserve to be entrusted by him. However, Shi Qingxue, his niece in name showed her courage to take the blame for what she did since childhood, and she was a person of action, with daring and resolution, like Shi Lei. In the past, You Junle thought that his niece was spoilt, while she had really grown up these two years. She had been ignorant when she was young, yet she became more steady and smarter. You Junhe bet on Shi Qingxue, but now it appeared that he lost. Shi Qingxue glared at You Junle. Suddenly she saw that he looked gloomy, disappointed and frustrated, as if she bullied him. Ah, I didnt say that you belittled my father, but why do you look like this? You dont have enough evidence, so you should have expected that you will be suspected, Shi Qingxue complained crossly. You Junle was her uncle in name, even though she still doubted it. However, she couldnt regard him as an elder. Meanwhile, You Junle laughed and expressed directly, He has taken an enemy as his mother for forty years. Shouldnt I say something to belittle him? Shi Qingxue wanted to say that it was not that Shi Junhe was willing to. Nevertheless, before she spoke it out, she held it back. It was no joking matter. She couldnt say that. Once she said that, it meant that she admitted that You Junle told the truth. When Shi Qingxue was in a dilemma, Mo Junyang patted her shoulder and whispered in her ear to remind her. What he said must be true. What? Shi Qingxue didnt come back to earth in the beginning. She was stunned for a moment and then realized that Mo Junyang talked about You Junles statement. Since Mo Junyang said must, there was a great chance that it was the truth. Shi Qingxue gazed at Mo Junyang doubtfully and asked silently, Do you have evidence? And, how can I tell Father about something like this after going back home? She had a headache. However, Mo Junyang just smiled at her to comfort her. Then he turned to You Junle and asked with a smile, Manager You, thanks for telling us the truth. Since we have talked about it, how about we discuss it in detail? When Elder Duke Shi gave the cranium to you and told you to go to see Duke Shi with it if you wanted to avenge your mother. However, Elder Duke Shi passed away more than ten years ago. Why did you hide it all the time in the past but speak it out at this time? The resentment on You Junles face was more obvious. He looked at them, as if he could see Mo Shujun who killed his mother through them. Then he accused harshly, Before my mother passed away, she told me not to bear a grudge or make things difficult for Elder Duke Shi. I thought that this was her last wish. Since she didnt hope to mention it again, it was fine if I covered it up thoroughly, like a dead rat which cant show its face forever. But I didnt expect that Mo Shujun still pestered my mother as she just had a chance to be buried with her husband even after she died and gave up her title as a dukes wife, and her son was snatched away. Because of jealousy, Mo Shujun even dug up Elder Duke Shis grave and made them unable to stay together after death. Since she can ignore the earlier agreement and act perfidiously, I dont mind revealing her true features to the public. Shi Qingxue was frightened by You Junles stern words, but she couldnt speak a word after she opened her mouth. If she were the person concerned, she might be more resentful and do something more heartless, and she didnt have a reason to criticize You Junle for doing something wrong. However, it became like this. How should they end it? She couldnt go back with a cranium and ask Mo Shujun if Shi Junhe was her biological son. What? Dont you plan to tell your father about this matter? You Junle found Shi Qingxues plan at a glance and asked coldly. Shi Qingxue was nervous and about to speak when a deep male voice came from behind. No need to tell me. I have known it. The three looked back at the same time, to see that Shi Junhe was standing at the room door and staring at them, with a dark face. Que Yuebai followed Shi Junhe. Meeting the three peoples eyes, he apologized repeatedly, General Shi said that he had something important and wanted to see Lady Qingxue, and I couldnt stop him, so Mo Junyang leered at Qu Yuebai secretly, and the latter shut up obediently, stepping aside. They made contacts silently and nobody found it. Even Shi Junhe didnt know that he happened to overhear the conversation between You Junle and Shi Qingxue because somebody did it intentionally, and he just felt lucky that he came in time. He strode into the room and glanced at Shi Qingxue to comfort her first. Then he turned to You Junle. They looked at each other deeply for a long time. Then he finally lowered his head and called in a gentle voice, Brother. Chapter 291 - There Is No Way You Junle was shocked to hear Shi Junhe call him brother. After quite a while, he came back to earth from this form of address. Then his face darkened and he snorted with displeasure. Did you call me brother? Shi Junhes eyes were deep, with endless sorrow and depression seemingly. He stared at You Junle in silence. Just in an instant, it was enough to make You Junle soft-hearted. You Junle expressed that he looked down upon Shi Junhe, even with hatred. But he blamed this younger brother as much as he loved him. If You Junle didnt expect too much of Shi Junhe, how would he have a grudge against this younger brother because he was disappointed at him? He had known Shi Junhe for too long and even had watched when this younger brother was born. You Junle was just eight or nine years old then. Looking at the fat baby in the cradle, the awareness of being an elder brother made him think that he had become a man instantly who could stand up and fight. However, he had lived a happy life for merely one hundred days, and You Sis health became worse sharply, which made the shadow of death cover the happy family of four Thinking that everything was caused by that vicious woman Mo Shujun, You Junle hated her to the bone, and he returned hard-hearted even though he was moved just now. You Junle glared at Shi Junhe coldly and said crossly, If you take that woman Mo Shujun as your mother, you dont qualify to call me brother. Shi Qingxue also goggled as she was speechless. Even though she didnt like Mo Shujun, either, Shi Junhe had been raised by Mo Shujun for so many years. It would be too much for him to turn hostile to her suddenly. Shi Junhe didnt look good, yet he stared at You Junles eyes without dodging and just answered in low spirits, I know. Shi Junhe just said two words simply, and You Junle didnt understand in the beginning but thought that Shi Junhe was perfunctory. When he wanted to ask, suddenly his mind became intelligent at the approach of happiness, so he realized what Shi Junhe meant. Shi Junhe said that he knew and had called him brother. Didnt it mean that You Junle had tears in his eyes at once and couldnt help but walk forward and grab Shi Junhes hands, asking seriously and tenaciously, Really? Shi Junhe nodded cautiously and then replied tentatively, I will get back Fathers skeleton. You And Mothers skeleton, You Junhe added anxiously. He was still uncertain and scratched his head, explaining, I saw that the eight-treasure box with Mothers cremains was buried with Father, yet now it has disappeared. Nobody would covet a worthless eight-treasure box, and only the vicious woman Mo Shujun would do such a hard but thankless job. She was jealous of Mother from the beginning and tried every means to separate our parents even when Mother was alive, and she made them unable to get together after death. When he heard You Junles malicious words, Shi Junhes eyes darkened, but soon he returned normal. He just nodded and then promised, I will talk with her after going back. However Shi Qingxue cut in involuntarily in a low voice. The brothers reunited and opened their hearts to each other, which was supposed to be something happy, while what they were talking about made her unable to relax. She had to remind, Grand She stopped using the habitual form of address but couldnt call Mo Shujuns name directly, so she had to say, The princess royal loves Grandpa so much. Not to mention that she wont admit what happened more than forty years ago, even if we find the evidence and tell her to admit it, she wont give us the skeletons of Grandpa andGrandma. Shi Junhe and You Junle stayed silent at the same time. It was necessary to say that Shi Qingxue mentioned the key point. Forty years ago, Mo Shujun was just a princess royal and the late emperor hadnt steadied his position, yet she dared to force a meritorious statesman to divorce his wife and marry her. Now she was the emperors aunt, and even the Empress Dowager had to consider her dignity. Even if she was wrong, perhaps she wouldnt admit it. The three stopped talking. After a pause, they turned their heads at the same time and looked at Mo Junyang who didnt express his opinion. Mo Junyang was unhurried and let the three look at him. Till their eyes became sour after they stared at him for long, he was still indifferent. He didnt speak or get involved in their matter, as if he were just an onlooker. However, as he behaved like this, the three knew that he had a solution. But Junyang! Shi Qingxue bit the bullet and called him. Mo Junyang gazed at Qingxue gently with love. Huh? His raising tone was carefree, and his eyes with love seemed to say, As long as you ask me, I will even get the stars from the sky for you. Nevertheless, as a result, Shi Qingxue couldnt ask him for help. Ahem! After all, Shi Junhe was older and experienced. How could he not see through Mo Junyang? He coughed twice and then asked, Your Excellency, do you know how to get back the skeletons of Qingxues grandparents? Although Shi Junhe thought that it was his and You Junles responsibility, he understood that if it werent for Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang would stay out of this trouble, let alone help them find the skeletons of Shi Lei and You Si. So even though Shi Junhe didnt want Qingxue to owe Mo Junyang a favor, he still had to mention her. From the words the skeletons of Qingxues grandparents, Mo Junyang noticed Shi Junhes hidden meaning. It was true. Once Shi Junhe said my parents, Mo Junyang would say no even if he had a solution. However, since Shi Junhe mentioned Qingxue, Mo Junyang would answer more cautiously. General Shi, I cant answer you for now if I know how to do that. As soon as Mo Junyang started to speak, Shi Junhe showed a knowing and disappointed expression. He lowered his head and murmured with a sense of loss, Sure enough. Mo Junyang continued, Its because I dont know some things about the story of more than forty years ago. Manager You, hope that you can tell me frankly. Please ask. From the attitude of Shi Junhe and his daughter, You Junle understood that if he wanted to fulfil his wish, he had to ask Mo Junyang for help, so he would naturally tell the young man anything that he knew. Mo Junyang asked without hesitation, Did you say that when the princess royal demanded Elder Duke Shi to marry her, he had married your mother? What is the story in detail? Do you know? In the era of war, sometimes women needed to go to war. Mother was once a female soldier. She got to know Father and then married him on the battlefield. Later, in order to accompany Father, she gave up her career and went to the battlefield everywhere with Father as a maid. They had got married and become a couple then, but because of the chaos caused by war, they didnt tell their relatives and friends, and they didnt even show affection as a couple in the military camp and in daily life. So it gave Mo Shujun, the late emperors sister an opportunity that could be made use of. Mo Shujun thought highly of Fathers moral quality and talent, so she incited the late emperor to make a match for her and still didnt give up after being refused politely by Father. She found that Father treated Mother differently, so she started to make things difficult for Mother. In order to protect Mother, Father had to reveal the fact that they were married, which caused a lot of disputes then. Some people who didnt like Father even hurled insults at him and said that he abused his power for private purposes and provided for a concubine secretly even in the army. As a result, Father almost lost his position as a general. Fortunately, in the war between the Liang Country and Mo Country, we lost three cities in succession, and those officials who clamored to depose Father as a general came and flatteringly begged him to go to the battlefield. Father led the Shi Army and became famous after the war and saved the Mo Country, which made those long-tongued people shut up in the end. At the mention of those fence-sitters, You Junle looked sarcastic on his face involuntarily, with respect and worship for Shi Lei which he didnt notice. He mentioned Elder Duke Shi earlier and severed the bond to his adoptive father Shi Lei, but when he mentioned the past, he couldnt conceal his deep love for Shi Lei. Shi Qingxue noticed it, yet she wouldnt remind You Junle. She just asked in high spirits, What about later? What happened to Grandpa and Grandma? Now she could call You Si grandma with no difficulty and even couldnt help wondering with expectancy that what kind of heroine the woman who deserved his grandpa was. Hearing Shi Qingxues words, You Junle looked gloomy. After quite a while, he said in a deep voice, Since then, Mothers identity was known to the public, but considering Fathers career, she only had the title of General Shis wife, yet she wasnt treated differently from before, and she had to endure Mo Shujuns harassment all day long. Fortunately, later, Mother was pregnant with Junhe, and even the late emperor couldnt bear to see that, so he restrained Mo Shujun. We finally lived in peace for a period. But good times didnt last long. In less than two months, there were endless wars in the Mo Country again, and Father was not at home throughout the year. When Mother was pregnant, she became sensitive and depressive and worried about Father in tears all the time. After she gave birth to Junhe, she was Recalling those days, You Junle had tears in his eyes again and spoke in a sobbing voice. Shi Junhe didnt remember You Si at all, but perhaps the bloodline was really so magical. When he listened to You Junle talking about You Si, a womans figure started to come into his mind. Even though he couldnt see her clearly, it made him feel relieved and warm. He couldnt help asking, What disease did Mother suffer from? And what was the medicinal material that was needed? Hatred flashed in You Junles eyes and he got furious, yet next second, he restrained it forcefully. He spoke while gritting his teeth inevitably. I dont know, and nobody knew it. All the royal doctors and physicians in society could do nothing, but I know only one thing What? Shi Junhe suddenly had a foreboding and felt nervous. You Junle stared at Shi Junhe and stressed each word. I just know that Mother fell sick for the first time after Mo Shujun personally visited her and you, and in the end, the royal doctor who made the last prescription for Mother was found to be Mo Shujuns follower. Chapter 292 - Win the Bet After You Junle said that, there was deadly silence in the room. Shi Junhes face was paler than it had been when he entered the room, and there was almost no blood. After a long time, he finally found his voice. Do, do you mean that Mother was, was Even though Shi Junhe had seen a lot, he couldnt come back to earth from the shocking news and say the last words. Refusing to save a life and murdering were totally different. If she refused to save his mother, Shi Junhe might think that they were even and would become strangers. However, if she murdered his mother, as she had raised him and he owed a big debt of gratitude to her, how would Shi Junhe face the reality in the future? Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Junhe worriedly and called in a low voice, Father! Afterward, she couldnt help but glare at You Junle resentfully. Although she knew that he was innocent, who told this guy to make her father so hesitant? Shi Junhe suddenly came back to reality and met Qingxues worried eyes. He wanted to smile at her as a comfort, yet only to purse his lips feebly. It was weird and embarrassing in the room, and the only one who was not affected must be Mo Junyang. He asked calmly, As soon as Elder Duke Shis wife died of an illness, the princess royal married him and raised General Shi, but he was more than one hundred days old then. Was there nobody suspecting that? The tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai was Junhes birthday, and ten months earlier, my parents loved each other deeply. Father never talked with her, so if they said that it was his birthday, some people would suspect her relationship with Junhe soon. But three months later, Mother had been pregnant for three months and was nourishing the fetus at home, while Father was on the battlefield far away Before You Junle finished his words, Mo Junyang understood. The princess royal happened to be on the battlefield with the army and stayed with Elder Duke Shi then, right? You Junle snorted coldly, and what he meant was self-evident. At that time, news of victory spread from the frontier frequently, and it was about how Shi Lei and Mo Shujun worked together and resisted the enemies jointly. Obviously, it was sent by people under Mo Shujuns orders. It was to add insult to You Sis injury undoubtedly when she suffered from antepartum depression. She lost a lot of blood when she gave birth and fell sick after delivery, so it took her life in the end. It means that the princess royal said that she was pregnant during the war and then took General Shi as her son? Mo Junyang caught the key point accurately. However, he had another question soon. You must have stayed with Elder Duke Shis wife all the time then. Didnt the princess royal know you? If she knew that Shi Lei had an adopted son who was old enough to know that and was close to You Si, would Mo Shujun let go of You Junle easily? You Junle sneered. She thinks that I have died. That year, nobody knew why You Si sent You Junle away before Shi Lei divorced her, and the fact proved that she did a right thing. Later, Mo Shujun had tried several times to find You Junle, but she didnt find him, so she thought that he had died. Mo Junyang nodded to show that he understood this story. Then he pointed out accurately, It happened more than forty years ago, and now even few people who know it are still alive, but there is an important witness that the princess royal cant kill to hide the truth. Shi Qingxue immediately understood who Mo Junyang mentioned, and her eyes lit up. Do you mean the Empress Dowager? Before Mo Junyang nodded, she put on a long face again and stated in depression, But if the story was exposed, it can be a scandal of the royal family, and the Empress Dowager keeps a good relationship with the princess royal. How would she stand out? However, Mo Junyang shrugged and retorted impassively, As long as she gets enough profit, nothing is impossible. Shi Qingxue was speechless. On second thought, it was true. Nevertheless, there was another problem. How much profit could move Ling Ruiyin? The Empress Dowageris not necessary, and we have to find the midwife who delivered General Shi that year. As long as we prove General Shis real birthday, the princess royals lies will collapse without being attacked. You Junle looked helpless and sighed. Its pointless. Although when Father was alive, in order to maintain her image, Mo Shujun didnt kill all people related to Mother, as soon as Father passed away, the old people who served him died one after another, and all the old servants left in the Shi family are Mo Shujuns followers. Even if they know the story, they wont accuse her. Mo Junyang didnt make comments and smiled. Without denying You Junles words, he just asked casually, It depends on how much the princess royal did that year. Are you planning to confront her directly? Shi Junhe looked at Mo Junyang questioningly and soon denied it. No. She is alert to me now. If I ask her about this matter, wont I act rashly and alert her? Mo Junyang asked in reply, If we dont alert her, how can we catch her? Shi Junhe was unable to answer this question. He didnt know what to do, so he had to ask Mo Junyang for help. Your Excellency, do you have a solution? Mo Junyang walked to Shi Junhe and whispered in his ear. In the beginning, Shi Junhe listened to Mo Junyang calmly, but while listening, he wrinkled his face more deeply. At last, he was too surprised and couldnt help asking, Can it really work? You will know after trying. Mo Junyang laughed. Shi Junhe stayed silent for a while and accepted Mo Junyangs advice in the end. Then he left King Ruis mansion with You Junle. Nobody knew if Shi Junhe had too much in mind, and he didnt pay attention to Shi Qingxue before leaving but went away directly. Looking at her fathers receding figure, Shi Qingxue had complex feelings. She felt happy that he didnt teach her a lesson, and meanwhile she felt sad as he forgot her easily. After pondering, she turned to Mo Junyang. What way did you tell Father just now? Why was he more depressed seemingly? And he even ignore me. The sixth young lady who was always the apple of her fathers eye expressed that she had never been ignored by him. Mo Junyang scratched Shi Qingxues head with love and smiled. Anyway, its a good solution. Dont worry. In the end, before Shi Qingxue asked, he suddenly looked serious and explained, Its the enmity between the elders of two generations. If we have to investigate it, it almost has nothing to do with you. You dont have the qualification or right to bother about so much. So, even though you feel sad for your father, you cant stand out unless its absolutely necessary. Do you understand? I Shi Qingxue pouted with displeasure. She was going to retort, yet she held back. In fact, she knew that Mo Junyang was reasonable, but she would be unhappy if she couldnt help her father. I see. Shi Qingxue answered in depression at last and promised that she wouldnt do anything improper out of kindness. Seeing that she was not in a great mood, Mo Junyang intentionally changed the subject. Well, now we should talk about something very important. He purposely stressed the two words very important, which made Shi Qingxue raise her head in doubt. Then she asked confusedly, What? Our bet. Have you forgotten it? Mo Junyang said seriously and his expression made Shi Qingxue blush. She avoided his eyes in panic, while the voice in the past came into her ears. I just want to hear you agree to marry me At that time, Mo Junyang agreed to help her find out Mo Shujuns secret, and his only request was that she should agree to marry him. She had fallen in love with him since long ago, and even if there was nothing like this, she would marry nobody but him. However, Mo Junyang wanted nothing but her promise. Even though she was bold and straightforward, when it happened, she still blushed with shyness and pursed her red lips. She stuttered and couldnt speak a word. Mo Junyang didnt force her yet stared at her cheek deeply, remaining still. He loved her so deeply, and it never changed. Seeing that she couldnt escape, Shi Qingxue restrained her shyness and raised her head to look into Mo Junyangs eyes. Then she plucked up her courage and expressed in a soft voice, I agree. Mo Junyang was expecting Shi Qingxues promise all the time. Even though he was confident, before Qingxue spoke, his heart beat violently. When he heard the promise which was pleasant to hear, his dark eyes suddenly lit up and he couldnt help but grab her soft and fair-skinned hands joyfully. Then he held Qingxue in his arms. She didnt adapt to it and struggled for a moment. Then she was violently suppressed by him. Mo Junyang had lived for two lives, and for the first time, he thought that there seemed to be countless fireworks exploding with cracks in his brain, which made him lose all his reason. The only things in his eyes and on his mind were Shi Qingxue and the fact that she had agreed to marry him. She belonged to him. She finally belonged to him. Mo Junyang hugged Shi Qingxue tightly and spoke incoherently. Is this true? You finally said yes? Great. Am I dreaming? Qingxue, my Little Qingxue, tell me that I am not dreaming The mans deep and magnetic voice sounded beside Shi Qingxues ear and made her ears soft, as if they were burning on fire. Even her slim waist, back that he touched started to be burning hot. Shi Qingxues body softened. Because Mo Junyang hugged her tightly, so she wouldnt embarrass herself. However, the blush on her face couldnt be concealed anyway. Affected by Mo Junyangs joy that he rarely showed, she forgot to feel shy and also got happy. Qingxue put her hands on Mo Junyangs shoulders and pouted, speaking out what was on her mind softly, When I told you to give me some time, in fact, I never wanted to refuse you then. I just needed to think about some things carefully. Later, you said you would have a bet with me, and I didnt say that you must She softly explained to Mo Junyang about what she thought about. She felt embarrassed and stuttered, yet from beginning to end, she didnt stop speaking. She thought, Since Mo Junyang loves me sincerely, I should return his true love, so I can deserve his deep love for two lives. Shi Qingxue said endlessly on and off for a long time, but she didnt hear Mo Junyangs answer. She almost thought that Mo Junyang had fallen asleep. Junyang? Chapter 293 - Gain the Initiative and Wait for You to Fall into a Trap Shi Qingxue looked up at Mo Junyang, to see that the man was looking at her. His eyes were as deep as the sea and seemed to absorb her. Jun, Junyang! Shi Qingxue blushed again and her brain seemed to be blank. She just stuttered and called Mo Junyangs name. Mo Junyang smiled at her warmly, with endless spirits seemingly. Under his gaze, Qingxue looked around randomly with shyness. Fortunately, before the ambiguous atmosphere lasted long, Mo Junyang stated firmly, Thats it. Ah? Shi Qingxue still thought about the last subject and suddenly heard Mo Junyangs words, so she was surprised. What? However, Mo Junyang didnt plan to explain to her and rubbed her soft hair again, saying with a smile, Just let me handle everything. Shi Qingxue was more confused, yet she knew well about Mo Junyang. Since he had made a decision, although she might change his mind, she was willing to follow him somehow. Hmm, anyway, she had said what she should say, and it was fine as there was no misunderstanding. Shi Qingxue secretly pondered over what she had said just now. Even though she was shy, she was satisfied with her honesty. She gave herself a thumbs-up sign in secret and then let it pass easily, but unexpectedly, only a short while was enough for Mo Junyang to make things more serious. That day, as they broke up the Shi family, the second master Shi Junfeng and the third master Shi Juncai led their families and moved out of Duke Shis mansion. Although Mo Shujun loved her youngest son, with the pride as a princess royal, she was unwilling to live in a small house which was unknown. So she was still left in the Shouan Hall. At night, there was a theft case in Duke Shis mansion, and it was said that it was done by a strange thief Ling Yang, who walked around in the mansion and left a conspicuous sign, but nobody said what had been stolen. All people who knew the truth remained mute as if their mouths were sealed. Nevertheless, early in the morning next day, Mo Shujun couldnt control herself and came to the East House to see Shi Junhe. What do you mean? Hearing Mo Shujuns aggressive question, Shi Junhe played dumb. Mother, what are you talking about? Mo Shujun pursed her lips and sneered. A straightforward person does not resort to insinuations. I know that its your follower who did that last night. Give your fathers skeleton back to me. Shi Junhe responded unhurriedly, When Father was alive, he said that he hoped you would be buried in the royal mausoleum after death, Mother. Why do you insist on keeping his skeleton with you? Its unreasonable, and it makes him unable to rest in peace even after death. Mo Shujun once said that to teach Shi Junhe a lesson and wanted to cheat him and have Shi Lei buried with a fake body. However, it became a reason for Shi Junhe to retort her. Mo Shujun was exasperated, but it was different from before. She had Shi Leis skeleton in hands yesterday, so even if Shi Junhe had objections, he had to hold back. Nevertheless, now she had nothing, and she had to face Shi Junhes suppression, so she was furious. After a pause, she put on a straight face and stated like a rascal, I dont care. I am your mother, your fathers official wife. Cant I even be buried with him? Shi Junhes eyes darkened and he couldnt help but ask in reply in a low voice, Mother? Official wife? Are you really my mother and his official wife? The past that she had tried hard to hide was mentioned all of a sudden, so she was petrified and then all her body was stiff. When she realized that there was another person around, she managed with effort to calm down, yet her face still looked pale. She stared at Shi Junhe and pretended to be calm, asking, What nonsense are you talking about? Did somebody who is brainless tell you something in secret? Mo Shujun subconsciously absolved herself from responsibility and refused to admit it, but looking at Shi Junhes unmoved face, she felt nervous and roughly understood that perhaps she couldnt fool him with only a few words this time. She calmed down and then looked serious. Before Shi Junhe spoke, she expressed forcefully, I have raised you for so many years just to let you listen to outsiders who make mischief and ignore the kinship with your mother? Shi Junhe, dont go too far. If you really dont care about our kinship, dont blame me if I turn against you. I want to see how the country will treat an ungrateful son who abandons his mother. Before Shi Junhe said something, Mo Shujun rebuked him indiscriminately. He didnt get angry or panic. His face was emotionless like a dead persons. He looked at Mo Shujun and asked casually, Mother and son? Are you sure? Can I ask you? Do you still remember the date, the tenth day of the first lunar month in the Year of Yihai? Panic flashed in Mo Shujuns eyes, and she didnt even dare to meet Shi Junhes eyes. She just gritted her teeth and replied, I dont know what you are talking about. I just know that you are my son that I have brought up. If you dare to be disobedient to me, you just disrespect me, and I can make you lose all standing and reputation. When she said the words lose all standing and reputation at will, she seemed to joke and didnt show mercy. How would a mother who really loved her child say and do that? In fact, in the past years, Mo Shujun showed it obviously, especially after Shi Lei died. If Shi Junhe hadnt gained power and the position as the family master, he would have lived a miserable life. Even though Shi Junhe was the family master, most of the time, he had to love his brothers and give up the profit that belonged to him to his brothers. Shi Junhe was broad-minded and didnt care, and he was on the battlefield all year round, so when the three brothers lived together, their families could be harmonious. Shi Junhe always thought that Mo Shujun was just partial but still cared about her eldest son, yet in fact, he just thought too much and his preconceived idea kept a strong hold from the beginning. Otherwise, if an onlooker knew many things in their family, perhaps he could guess long ago that this eldest son was not Mo Shujuns biological son. Shi Junhe concealed the complex thoughts in mind and looked at Mo Shujun, asking solemnly, What makes you think that I disrespect you? And you need to make me lose all standing and reputation? You dont want to take me as your mother. Dont you disrespect me? Mo Shujun snorted and didnt give Shi Junhe a chance to say something else. Meanwhile, Shi Junhe just smiled and responded calmly, I dont forget that you have raised me and I owe you a debt of gratitude. Mo Shujun knew that Shi Junhe had known she was not his biological mother, and what happened more than forty years ago couldnt be hidden probably. However, she didnt care. She wouldnt allow this thing to be revealed, yet it didnt matter if Shi Junhe knew it. As long as there was no evidence, what could he do to her? Moreover, when Mo Shujun thought that Shi Junhe was depressed as he had to be respectful to her even though he knew that she was not his biological mother and he couldnt vent it, she felt happy. She thought, You Si, you have stolen Shi Leis heart for so many years, yet in the end, both your husband and your son are mine. Even though they are unwilling, they are mine. Mo Shujun looked at Shi Junhe and seemed to see a face which was also helpless in front of her more than forty years ago. She thought she could finally win and demanded complacently, Since you take me as your mother, just give your fathers skeleton to me. In fact, Shi Juncais career as an official developed along the right lines gradually, and it was not that Mo Shujun had to depend on this adoptive son. After she made use of him, she should kick him out as soon as possible. As long as Shi Junhe gave Shi Leis skeleton to her, Mo Shujun didnt mind making a clean break with him. Of course, when she needed his help, she was still his mother, and he had to listen to her. Otherwise, he just disrespected her. Mo Shujun had wishful thinking, but unexpectedly, Shi Junhes expression changed all of a sudden, and he asked in panic, Wasnt Fathers skeleton still in your dark room and kept by you yesterday? Why do you ask me for his skeleton now? You! Mo Shujuns eyes were ferocious and she was about to lose temper, yet she saw that Shi Junhe looked innocent and didnt know anything seemingly. She understood everything immediately. A thief came to the mansion yesterday. Even if something was missing, it was done by the strange thief Ling Yang. Shi Junhe knew nothing. He knew nothing and he was a victim. Before Mo Shujun exploded, Shi Junhe expressed worriedly, A thief dared to break into my mansion at night and steal Fathers skeleton. Such a lawless behavior cant be indulged. I am going to report to the government and ask Lord Zheng to capture the strange thief Ling Yang. Mo Shujun was speechless. Both of them knew who had taken Shi Leis skeleton away, but as Shi Junhe said that, it was the fault of the strange thief Ling Yang, and nobody knew if he was existent. It was more annoying that Shi Junhe wanted to report to the government. Earlier, Shi Leis grave had been ruined and his skeleton had been stolen, and the news had spread everywhere in the capital city. Now the information that Shi Leis skeleton was stolen from a dark room in the Shouan Hall would be revealed. Anybody knew who had stolen the skeleton the other day as long as they used their brains. Although Mo Shujun showed that she was bold with sufficient reasons in front of Shi Junhe, once the news spread, it must be a scandal. And after the scandal was revealed, she might not get Shi Leis skeleton back. At this thought, Mo Shujun was angry and anxious. She finally couldnt control herself and asked, What on earth do you want? Shi Junhe still looked innocent. What do you mean? Dont beat around the bush. Since you know who gave birth to you, I dont care if you call me mother. I just ask you a question. What should I do before you give your fathers skeleton back to me? Mo Shujun straightened her back and looked stiff, refusing to show the white feather in front of her enemy. Even if she had reached a dead end and could do nothing as Mo Junyang expected. Shi Junhe suddenly felt sad for this old woman with a wrinkled face in front of him. She loved a man crazily who had a loved wife and would never love her, and then she used a despicable and vicious method to marry this man. At last, it caused a tragedy for three people. You Si and Shi Lei had passed away long ago, and only Mo Shujun was left staying in the huge Duke Shis mansion. At last, she was obsessive about Shi Leis skeleton. She was hateful and pitiful. It was so sad. However, Shi Junhe didnt show sympathy for Mo Shujun. At the thought of that woman who was really innocent, he felt sad as he didnt even have a chance to call her mother. The mother and son were mentally connected. Even though he had never seen You Si, he couldnt help but feel warm with a sense of loss when he thought of her. Shi Junhe concealed his frail emotion and looked at Mo Shujun, demanding calmly, Please give my mothers cremation urn to me. Chapter 294 - It Becomes Serious Mo Shujun was mentally prepared. Even if Shi Junhe made an unreasonable and harsh demand, she would consider it as long as she could exchange it for Shi Leis skeleton. Unexpectedly, Shi Junhe mentioned You Sis cremains as soon as he spoke. Mo Shujun pursed her lips and remained lofty and dignified. I dont know what you are talking about. She insisted on denying it. Shi Junhe looked at Mo Shujun with his gloomy eyes. After a long while, he couldnt help but laugh and shake his head, murmuring, Aha! I am so stupid. Why do I still expect something from you? Its His voice was hoarse and feeble, and he stared at Mo Shujun deeply, gently speaking out a fact that both of them understood from their hearts but never said. You hate me from the beginning, right? If not for Father, perhaps you wouldnt have let me stay alive. Mo Shujun was exposed, and embarrassment flashed on her face, yet soon she returned calm and raised her chin slightly. Since you know that I gave you a chance to stay alive and I was forced to raise you for so many years, you should be grateful to me. Do you understand? She took it for granted, as if to have mercy on him, and then she demanded, As long as you give your father back to me, we are even. Shi Junhe was stunned. He had expected that Mo Shujun would be so obsessed with Shi Leis skeleton, which was what Mo Junyang taught him. It was the bargaining chip that he could negotiate with Mo Shujun when he had no advantage. However, he couldnt imagine anyway that Mo Shujun would be so shameless. Did she still think that she had raised him randomly and become his mother in name, so he would forget the evil things she had done and even be grateful to her and do everything for her? Shi Junhe snorted and didnt speak, while he looked at Mo Shujun coldly. After all, Mo Shujun had lived with Shi Junhe for so many years, so she noticed his change at a glance. She felt nervous, but she still refused to admit defeat. She arrogantly raised her head and questioned to forestall him by a show of strength, What? Do you dare to disobey me? Dont forget your identity. Oh? What do you want me to do? Shi Junhe lowered his head and asked impassively. Only judging from this voice, it seemed that Shi Junhe really compromised. Mo Shujun knew that it was not so simple, yet she was anxious to get back Shi Leis skeleton, so she didnt care about so much and required again, Dont play dumb. Hurry up and give your father back to me. Shi Junhe looked up at Mo Shujun, with sympathy in his eyes, and he stressed each word to disillusion her. Father is dead. Mo Shujun stiffened but soon asked calmly, I know. I just want his skeleton. He is my husband. Do I request too much? Do you know what is too much? Shi Junhe opened his mouth and almost blurted out to question Mo Shujun, yet when he looked at her face again which was calm and dignified in disguise, he just felt disappointed. And it was unnecessary to question her. He just pursed his lips coldly and mentioned what could hurt Mo Shujun without mercy. But why have I heard that when Father was alive, the only woman he hoped to be buried with was my biologic mother You Si, not Shut up! Mo Shujun got furious all of a sudden and interrupted Shi Junhe. At the moment, she was like a cat whose tail was trodden, and she was in a rage instantly, even regardless of her dignity and etiquette. She just interrupted Shi Junhe and didnt want to hear him reveal the hurtful truth. However, Shi Junhe wasnt frightened. After Mo Shujun lost temper, he continued, Father hoped that you would be buried in the royal mausoleum after death. Shi Junhe didnt understand in the past why his father made such a decision, but now he understood everything. Perhaps it was true that Shi Lei and Mo Shujun loved each other. After all, they had been a couple for so many years. Even though it was not a beautiful story in the beginning, after they lived together for decades, it was enough to defuse most of the conflicts. However, till death, the woman that Shi Lei thought about every day was You Si. Mo Shujun also knew this point probably, yet she was unwilling to accept the fact that she was not as important as a woman who had died decades ago to her husband, so she dug Shi Leis grave secretly. On one hand, maybe it was because she really hoped to be buried with Shi Lei in the same grave after death as she slept with him when they were alive, while on the other hand, it was because she was jealous of You Si. Mo Shujun glared at Shi Junhe resentfully and gritted her teeth. Nobody knew if she was angry because he revealed the truth or she hated the man who was unwilling to leave a spot next to him for her till death. So what even if what you said is true? Shi Lei is dead, and I am his official wife, so I qualify to be buried with him. Who was You Si? She was abandoned by him long ago and didnt have the qualification Mo Shujun almost screamed harshly. It seemed that the facts would be not true if she shouted loudly. Shi Junhe quietly listened to Mo Shujun till she vented her anger, although he couldnt help but get furious when he heard her belittle You Si. I think that you must be clearer about how you became Fathers wife than me, so I dont need to repeat it. Mo Shujun still didnt admit her fault until death. So what? Anyway, as a result, your biological mother was abandoned, and I became your fathers official first wife. Only because of this, you should be respectful to me. First wife? Shi Junhe uplifted his brows and sneered, saying indifferently, If I dont misremember it, according to the laws of our country, you should be his second wife, right? You! Mo Shujun was provoked, so the flame of her anger rose again. However, before she vented her anger, somebody coughed suddenly in the next room. Mo Shujun was stunned and then suddenly turned to the inner room. Who is inside? Shi Junhe stepped forward and stopped Mo Shujun who wanted to rush in, saying calmly, It happens that His Majesty has something important to discuss with me this morning, so he came to our mansion. He is in the study now Didnt Mo Xiangbin hear the conversation between them? Mo Shujun felt cold all over and glared at Shi Junhe in disbelief. She dared to come to Shi Junhe and ask him for Shi Leis skeleton mainly because she was sure that Shi Junhe didnt want to reveal the family scandal. So what even if he knew the truth? He would never let others know this matter. However, the fact was far beyond Mo Shujuns expectation. Shi Junhe had revealed the news and even reported to the emperor. Thinking that she had admitted earlier that she was not Shi Junhes biological mother, Mo Shujun didnt have the courage to go up and lift the curtain. However, she understood everything soon. The emperor came to Duke Shis mansion, which was something significant, and it couldnt and shouldnt be a secret. They just had a plan earlier and waited for her to fall into a trap. Mo Shujun goggled at Shi Junhe and rebuked in a low voice, You are so despicable. Shi Junhe felt that he couldnt face the word despicable for a period. He looked at Mo Shujun calmly and smiled faintly. What did you say? Do you have some secrets that His Majesty cant know? Mo Shujun was nervous. When she knew that Mo Xiangbin was in the room, she wouldnt be so stupid as to continue talking about the past with Shi Junhe. She just expressed loftily, I have a clear conscience, and there is nothing that I cant say. But you didnt tell me the big news that His Majesty would come to our mansion. Do you take me seriously? Aunt, please dont be mad. The thing that I will discuss with Junhe is confidential, so I told him not to tell anybody. Please forgive us. Mo Xiangbin lifted the door curtain and walked out. His reasonable words rendered Mo Shujun speechless before she reproached Shi Junhe. Mo Shujun was so angry. She finally realized that perhaps Mo Xiangbin sided with Shi Junhe this time. Even though she was the relative to the emperor, in the royal family, the interest stood for everything. For the interests, Mo Xiangbin could definitely abandon his aunt without hesitation, and she never expected him to help her. Your Majesty, it doesnt matter. The state affairs are the most significant. Since you have something important to discuss with Junhe, I wont disturb you. Mo Shujun forced herself to respond and pretended to be completely indifferent. When she was about to walk out, she heard Shi Junhes voice. Your Majesty, the remains of my father and mother disappeared, and I cant find them after a long time. Hope that you can allow me to have them buried together with fake bodies. Mo Xiangbin glanced at Mo Shujuns back secretly and then asked slowly, Have them buried together? If you just find your fathers skeleton in the future but cant find your biological mothers, what will you do? Shi Junhe seemed not to have seen that Mo Shujun stiffened and remained still, and he said directly, My fathers only wish before death was to be buried with my mother. If we cant do it, I believe that he doesnt have other wishes. I will have his fake body buried just for a comfort. When they discussed this matter, they didnt consider Mo Shujun, Shi Leis current wife from beginning to end. If they thought it over, it was reasonable. After all, Mo Shujun was still alive. Moreover, many people heard that Shi Lei wanted her to be buried in the royal mausoleum after death, and even the late emperor agreed. However, Mo Shujun still couldnt restrain her anger, nor did she care about the etiquette or dignity. She just yelled at Shi Junhe, Why? I am his official wife. Why can the bitch be buried with him but I am abandoned by him even after he passed away? No way. I will never allow something like this to happen. Give Shi Lei back to me now. Otherwise, I will show no mercy. Mo Shujuns eyes were dark and ferocious, with the determination to ruin both sides. Anyway, the truth had been reported to the emperor, and she couldnt hide it anymore, so she wouldnt care about her dignity. Shi Lei was hers, no matter if he was alive or dead. Chapter 295 - Complain About Each Other Shi Junhe was calm as before and wasnt frightened by Mo Shujuns aggressive attitude. Instead, he answered peacefully, I dont know what you mean. Fathers skeleton has been stolen by a thief, right? He refused to admit that he had stolen Shi Leis skeleton, just like Mo Shujun did. As long as Mo Shujun didnt give him You Sis cremation urn, Shi Junhe wouldnt give her Shi Leis skeleton. Mo Shujun pursed her lips and glared at Shi Junhe, with a ruthless expression in her eyes, as if to swallow him. Shi Junhe was fearless and met Mo Shujuns eyes calmly. After a long time, Mo Shujun suddenly laughed and said in a harsh voice, Aha! Dont you just want your dead mothers cremation urn? Shi Junhe looked at Mo Shujun and admitted it quietly. However, Mo Shujun laughed more weirdly and horribly. She goggled at Shi Junhe and stressed each word, declaring viciously, Dont even think about it. I am your fathers official wife. Only I have the qualification to be buried with him. That bitch cant even dream about it. Her cremation urn? Aha! I have thrown the useless box into a river and poured all her cremains into the river. I poured them in person. Didnt she want to be with Shi Lei forever? I will make them unable to see each other forever! Seeing that Shi Junhes face looked worse gradually, Mo Shujun got happy because of her screwy psychology. It was great. She finally spoke out her attainments. She just wanted to see that bitchs son in pain and hopelessness because of that. Mo Shujun spoke to her hearts content and her purpose was to irritate Shi Junhe. And she really made it. When Shi Junhe heard that Mo Shujun had personally poured You Sis cremains into a river, he felt that his brain exploded in an instant. Even before he came to his senses, he pinched Mo Shujuns neck with both hands tightly. For a moment, Shi Junhe really wanted to take Mo Shujuns life, even though this old woman was his mother in name. However, when he heard Mo Shujun moan in pain, Shi Junhe suddenly loosened his hands, as if they were burnt. Till he heard Mo Shujun cough with difficulty, he felt that his reason came back to his brain. He still looked ghastly pale and stared at Mo Shujun. He didnt step forward to check on her but questioned coldly, Is what you said true? Mo Shujun came back from the jaws of death. Facing Shi Junhes cold face, she felt scared more or less, yet she still struggled and sneered. Why would I cheat you? If you dont believe it, you can search everywhere in the Shouan Hall to see if you can find it. While speaking, she couldnt help but snort, and she seemed to talk to herself, murmuring, How would I let that bitch defile my house? That is the residence of me and Shi Lei. That bitch doesnt qualify to enter. As soon as I dug her out, I threw them into the river. I watched when she was farther and farther away from the capital and she wont come back forever. You! Shi Junhe got angry again and almost couldnt help but step forward to pinch Mo Shujun again. Fortunately, this time he realized that not only he and Mo Shujun were in the room. He restrained his anger and summoned Shi Jie to escort Mo Shujun who was out of mind back to the Shouan Hall. Then he cupped his hands respectfully in front of Mo Xiangbin. Something bad happened to my family. It was ungracious of me. Your Majesty, I am sorry to let you watch a play. Mo Xiangbin watched everything from beginning to end. Even when Shi Junhe was about to pinch Mo Shujun to death, the emperor remained unmoved and sat there at leisure. Hearing Shi Junhes words, he smiled gently. Every family has a skeleton in the cupboard. How would I blame you for such a trifle? Even though Mo Xiangbin said that, he thought, Wonderful! Its great if there is terrible internal disorder in each officials family. Once the evidence against them is given to me, all of them will be at the mercy of me. Moreover, Mo Xiangbin needed Shi Junhe to guard the country for him. As for Shi Junhe almost killed his aunt, the emperor thought, Its just an old woman courting death. I dont need to care about her. Although Shi Junhe knew that Mo Xiangbin was a witness invited by Mo Junyang, when he saw that the emperor was so easy-going, he was surprised, yet his surprise didnt last long. Or because Shi Junhe learnt the bad news that his biological mother was harmed by an evil person and her cremains were missing, he didnt have the energy to bother about so much. He talked with Mo Xiangbin in a hurry and then respectfully sent him back to the imperial palace. Shi Junhe originally planned to make use of the message that Shi Leis skeleton was in his hands and get his mother You Sis cremains back, but he didnt expect that Mo Shujun hated You Si so much that she even poured her cremains into a river mercilessly. Aha! Shi Junhe didnt even have the last chance to have his parents buried together. When he was in a trance and didnt know what to do, Shi Qingxue ran into the study in a hurry and told Shi Junhe another piece of bad news. Father, bad news The next day after Shi Junhe and Mo Shujun fell out, after a nights silence, both of them calmed down a bit. Shi Junhe didnt go to see Mo Shujun and pester her, but the news couldnt be kept a secret that Mo Shujun was just Shi Leis second wife and had killed his first wife and forcefully snatched the first wifes son, taking him as her son. For a moment, the truth spread everywhere in the capital. Because of Mo Shujuns identity as the princess royal and the royal family behind her, all people who knew the truth didnt dare to comment recklessly, but a lot of people said in secret that Mo Shujun was two-faced and vicious. Even though Mo Shujun wanted to keep her position in Duke Shis mansion, she was too ashamed to show her face under the public opinion. In only a few days, she went to her youngest son Shi Juncais mansion in dejection and lived with him. Seeing that, Shi Juncai couldnt help but complain, Mother, if you drowned my big brother when he was young and didnt know anything, so many things wouldnt happen till today, right? Although Shi Juncai was thinking all day long about how to kill Shi Junhe and gain the title of nobility, when he mentioned Shi Junhe, he kept respectful by instinct and didnt dare to call his name even though he was not around. Shi Junhes power accumulated year after year was so horrible. Mo Shujun was in a bad mood. Hearing Shi Juncais complaint, she showed a cold face and snorted. If I didnt raise him well, how would your father trust me? How would you be born? At the mention of this, Mo Shujun felt sad. On the surface, Shi Lei and she always respected and treated each other with courtesy in daily life, but what was the truth? In the beginning, Shi Lei was even unwilling to get close to her or enter her bedroom. If she didnt take care of Shi Junhe and ask him to see the baby occasionallyThen she did something to lure him, so something happened between them later. However, as Shi Juncai heard that, he showed more complaints on his face and looked at Mo Shujun resentfully. Since you love Father so much, why did you It was too difficult for him to say something like that. He was about to speak out, but he held back, while there was still resentment on his face. Mo Shujun felt guilty under Shi Juncais glare at first, yet soon she threw her chest out courageously and snorted. Even soso what? Did I treat you unfairly? Tell me. Shi Junhe was rendered speechless and lowered his head in frustration. Mo Shujun was still aggressive and said incisively, Juncai, others can say how bad and evil I am, but only you dont qualify to. I did everything just for you. Shi Juncais face turned red and pale in turn after he was reproached, and he opened his mouth, trying to retort. What do you want to say? Nobody else knew that matter, but you are disappointing. If you had practiced martial arts hard since childhood and won your fathers heart, with my help, would you have worried that you couldnt get the title of Duke? While speaking, Mo Shujun was more furious as Shi Juncai was disappointing. After Shi Juncai was born, Mo Shujun had three legitimate sons, yet she and Shi Lei knew that she didnt want Shi Junhe to inherit the title of nobility, and even from the law and discipline rite, she could find reasons to let one of her two sons inherit the title. However, neither of her sons was promising. One of them was cowardly and incapable, and even she didnt want to see him, not to mention that Shi Lei didnt give him a thought. The other, Shi Juncai, although he was intelligent by natural endowments, he was playful, lazy and opportunistic since childhood. He was not as diligent as Shi Junhe. So Shi Lei gave up cultivating Shi Juncai in the end and raised the son of him and You Si wholeheartedly till he became the second General Shi. Mo Shujun was so resentful. She hated Shi Lei who was partial, and at the same time, she couldnt help but blame Shi Juncai who was disappointing. Shi Junhe blushed and shrank his neck with guilt when he was rebuked, yet he nursed a grievance. If he didnt know the truth too early, which made him have a misunderstanding with his father, how would he Shi Juncai gritted his teeth and held back his grievance. Then he raised his head again and smiled flatteringly at Mo Shujun. Mother, at this late hour, its pointless to bother about what happened in the past. Wed better consider the present. Mo Shujun snorted but didnt object to Shi Juncais words. She just stated coldly, Even though I have moved out of Duke Shis mansion, I am still His Majestys only aunt and have an honorable identity, and now you have regained your official position, so you just need to work hard for the fourth prince and make some achievements in your career. Then I can ask for some profit for you after he takes the throne in the future, and you may not be inferior to Duke Shi. Hearing that he should do something practical, Shi Juncai put on a long face and looked unwilling. He was called child prodigy since childhood, and he could win Mo Shujuns favor naturally because he was capable except the bloodline, yet he was used to being lazy these years. If he had to work diligently, wouldnt it take his life? Shi Juncais eyes rolled, and he had another dirty thought. He started to incite Mo Shujun. Mother, its better to give me more profit, but we cant give up the title of Duke Shi to him without doing anything. You are Fathers official wife. Are you willing to see that Fathers title of nobility is inherited by that bitchs son and grandchildren? People should touch an enemys tender spot, and Shi Juncai accurately hit Mo Shujuns tender spot. Chapter 296 - You Are Not like Your Father It was like what Shi Juncai had expected. Hearing that You Sis descendants would occupy the position of Duke Shi for long, Mo Shujun put on a long face. I can steal her husband, and her descendants will never win my offspring. Before Shi Juncai got overjoyed, Mo Shujun poured cold water on him. Juncai, I made a mistake. The only person who will inherit your fathers title in the future is Junfeng. Mother! Shi Juncai had heard Mo Shujuns promise just now, yet he was disillusioned soon. A pie fell from the sky and didnt hit him but fell on Shi Junfeng who was an unimpressive fence-sitter. Even though Shi Juncai respected Mo Shujun a lot, he was furious after hearing that and asked in reply anxiously, Why? I Mo Shujun waved her hand and interrupted Shi Juncai. She just said, Dont worry. You are my most loved child, and I wont treat you unfairly, yet youd better not think about your fathers title. She made this decision forcefully and seemed not to see how terrible Shi Juncais face was. She merely stared at him quietly, as if seeing another person. After a long time, Mo Shujun suddenly said, You are not like your father at all. Her words made Shi Juncais indignation stuck in his throat and he couldnt spit it out, nor could he swallow it. At last, he had to lower his head cloudily. He clenched his fingers into two fists tightly. Mo Shujun was lost in thought and didnt notice that. On the third day of the lunar twelfth month in the forty-second year after the Mo Dynasty was founded. It was the wedding date of Infanta Baoning and General Wenren. The emperor granted the marriage in person, and the mansion of the Wenren family had dinner served separately as the guests arrived in succession, which made the whole capital city bustling with noise and excitement. The line of the people who carried dowries was five kilometers long, and people on horseback were sent to pick up the bride. It seemed that there was joy even in the air. The bride Shi Baoning was the happiest woman this day. The festive sounds of firecrackers and lively music from instruments such as suona as well as a great cheer gathered and wished happiness to her and Wenren Chi. Shi Baonings head was covered with a red bridal veil all the way, and she couldnt see anybody. She was joyful and flurried from time to time. She was quite nervous all day. When she came back to earth, she was led into the bridal chamber and then sat on the wedding bed, waiting for her groom. It was silent in the room. Shi Baoning managed with effort to observe the surroundings from the cracks under the bridal veil. It was brightly lit in the room with candlelight swaying. What she could see were all brand-new and exquisite furniture and decoration. Obviously, the master of the room made a lot of effort to make arrangements. The master of the room! At the thought of these words, Shi Baoning felt so happy that she was almost suffocated. She would become the mistress of this mansion soon. The only mistress. Shi Baoning was excited and restrained herself, so she didnt lift the bridal veil to check the room carefully. When she was restless, the room door was opened with a creak. Then deep footsteps came from afar and moved to the wedding bed step by step. Each footstep seemed to step on Shi Baonings heart, which pounded violently with the footsteps. Till the comer stood in front of Shi Baoning, her heart was in her mouth, which made her almost unable to breathe. She saw that a balance arm lifted her bridal veil gently from bottom to top. Shi Baoning raised her head and happened to meet Wenren Chis bright and stable eyes. Their eyes met, and Shi Baonings heart quieted down at once, and the surroundings disappeared in an instant seemingly. Her eyes could only hold him, and only she was in his eyes. After a long time, Wenren Chi reached out his hand to Shi Baoning and smiled faintly. Lets drink cross-cupped wine. Shi Baoning blushed and lowered her head with shyness. She moved her hand aimlessly for a long while and then reached out to Wenren Chis hand. She responded cautiously and gently, Okay. Wenren Chi looked at the shy woman and didnt get impatient. After he led Shi Baoning to have a seat at the table, he personally poured two cups of wine and then gave one to Shi Baoning. When Shi Baoning received the cup, the back of her hand got close to Wenren Chis boiling hot fingers by accident, and she was shocked and shrank back immediately. Then she lowered her head in panic again. She was so shy and hurried, greatly different from the first young lady of the Shi family who was always dignified and calm in Wenren Chis memories. Wenren Chi felt fresh and didnt dislike her. He didnt dislike Shi Baoning but even felt that she had a different style. She was so lovable that he was attracted by her. Wenren Chi couldnt help but chuckle. He involuntarily and even forcefully caressed Shi Baonings ruddy face with luster. When Shi Baoning raised her head in doubt, he showed a big smile again and said gently, Honey, you are so lovely. Shi Baoning was shocked. She didnt know whether it was because of Wenren Chis bright and gentle smile or his sweet form of address Honey. Shi Baoning just felt that her heart started to pound again and beat violently, with a loud sound, as if it were beside her ear. However, she didnt want to stop it at all, and she even liked such a feeling very much. At the moment, she confirmed that Wenren Chi loved her. Wenren Chi loved Shi Baoning. Wenren Chi had a smile on his face, looking at Shi Baoning who looked sluggish and attractive because of his words. He couldnt help but laugh more loudly and lower his head, moving close to her little by little. Then their lips met and they clung to each other. It was not a procedure of the wedding, yet the couple who kissed each other didnt care about this. They just thought about being intimate. First, their lips were together, and then they held hands. Later, their bodies Wenren Chis parents had died at an early age, and the elders in the clan were missing or dead in the chaos caused by war, so only Wenren Chi was left in the family. He had no elder. So the next day after the wedding, Shi Baoning didnt need to get up in a hurry to greet her parents-in-law. She just lay in Wenren Chis arms quietly and slept most comfortably. When Shi Baoning opened her eyes again, she happened to meet Wenren Chis clear eyes, as if he had watched her in this way for a whole night. Seeing that Shi Baoning woke up, Wenren Chi had a smile on his lips involuntarily and split her long hair on her cheeks, asking in a soft voice, Did you have a good sleep last night? Shi Baoning lowered her head with shyness and replied in a low, muffled voice, YesHow about you? I slept well, too. Looking at Shi Baoning who was so shy that her face became like a red apple, Wenren Chi couldnt help but purse his lips and flirt with her. With you around, how can I not sleep well? Shi Baoning was seldom close to others. Suddenly she heard Wenren Chis flirtation, so her face was more scorching. However, she didnt want to miss the chance to be intimate to Wenren Chi. She restrained her shyness and reached out to grab his hand, saying in a soft voice, II have the same feeling. Wenren Chi knew that Shi Baoning was introverted and shy, so he didnt expect her response, and he was stunned after hearing her low yet sincere answer all of a sudden. Then before he came to his senses, he raised Shi Baonings cute jaw and kissed her red lips. The quilt rose and fell like waves, and they just made love passionately. When they got up, the sun was high in the sky. A servant came to report that some visitors had come to the mansion. The only master and mistress in the mansion had to get up from the warm bed. Shi Baoning thought that there was no elder in this mansion, so it must be cheerless on the next day after the wedding, but some visitors came early in the morning unexpectedly. When she let Jing Yi comb her hair and dress her up, Shi Baoning couldnt help but ask curiously, Chi, do you know who came to visit us? The servant who came to report didnt tell them and just said that the butler Li asked them to see the guests in a hurry, so they must be significant. And obviously, they came at this hour in order to congratulate the new couple on their wedding and add happiness to the cheerless mansion. After all, the people who considered that the mansion would be cheerless on the next day after the wedding must truly care about Wenren Chi. With such kindness, no matter who came, they should be entertained with hospitality. Wenren Chi was putting on a coat by himself and frowned involuntarily after hearing Shi Baonings words. He lowered his head and pondered for a moment, yet then he shook his head. I dont know. But they came out of kindness anyway. Just go with me. Shi Baoning thought that even if Wenren Chi didnt ask her, she would come with him. Now she was invited by him, so she was happier, and the smile on her face was brighter. Her brother Chi really took her seriously. Okay, Brother Chi. Shi Baoning lowered her head and answered, yet the smile on her face and lips still couldnt be hidden. Wenren Chi saw that and suddenly pulled a long face, asking indifferently, What did you call me? BrotherChi, Shi Baoning repeated rigidly. Seeing that Wenren Chi looked unhappy, Shi Baoning got nervous and thought that she said something wrong. When she was regretful and racked her brains, trying to remedy it, she didnt notice that Wenren Chi showed a complacent smile involuntarily. He secretly waved away the servants in the room and stepped forward to pull her into his arms, letting her sit on his knees. Facing Shi Baonings surprised eyes, he finally couldnt help but laugh. He reached out his hand to pinch her cute nose and teased, We have been married. Why do you still call me Brother Chi? What should you call me? Hmm? Shi Baoning finally realized that Wenren Chi didnt get mad at her but Noticing the intimacy and sweetness in Wenren Chis words, Shi Baoning felt that her face was burning hot again, and the blush spread to her neck from her cheeks, which was fascinating. She lowered her head with shyness and whispered in a voice like a mosquitos, Honey Wenren Chi felt fresh and joyful after seeing that and refused to let Shi Baoning go. He forced her to call him honey several times and then let go of his beautiful wife with satisfaction. When they finally finished enjoying it and thought of the visitors in the living room, thirty minutes had passed. After they rushed to the living room, they felt surprised again to see the visitors. The visitors were beyond their expectations. Chapter 297 - Who Is Ungrateful? Wenren Chi looked serious and came to the living room. When he saw the people inside, surprise was written on his face. How Its you? After hearing that, Shi Qingxue who was talking with Shi Junhe raised her head and showed a beautiful smile. Chi, are you surprised? It turned out that the visitors were from Duke Shis mansion (they had lived apart from the second masters and third masters families) and Mo Junyang. The four were sitting and chatting in the living room in harmony like a family. Apart from Mo Junyang, the arrival of Shi Junhe and his wife as well as Shi Qingxue did make the new couple feel surprised and happy. And meanwhile they were confused. What brought you here? Seeing that his daughter and son who was also his son-in-law were in a daze, Shi Junhe was amused involuntarily and said loudly, Qingxue guessed that your mansion would be cheerless this morning, so she asked us to come here and have a free meal. What? We are not welcome? Of course yes! Wenren Chi answered in a hurry and showed a relieved smile on his face. Shi Qingxues head popped out from behind Shi Junhe, and she stated smilingly, Am I smart? I knew that you and Baoning would like it. Looking at Shi Qingxues beautiful and bright smile, Wenren Chi was in a trance, but soon he came back to earth and just pursed his lips, saying, Thank you! Shi Qingxue waved her head gracefully and expressed that she did so much not to make Wenren Chi thank her. The family talked and laughed. It happened that the butler Li came to report that it was time for lunch. Shi Qingxue smiled again and looked at Wenren Chi with expectancy. Brother, I havent visited your mansion for a long time. What delicious food did you prepare today? Wenren Chi heard that and couldnt help but laugh with affection. He raised his hand and rubbed Shi Qingxues soft hair. Its all that you like. You will surely be satisfied. Ahem! Before Shi Qingxue could express her happiness, she was stopped by Shi Junhes cough. Both of them looked at Shi Junhe at the same time, with their questioning eyes. Then Shi Junhe patted Qingxues head and pretended to be serious, instructing, Chi has married your sister. Why didnt you change the form of address? Although he taught Shi Qingxue a lesson, he glanced at Wenren Chi meaningfully. Wenren Chis smile was frozen and then faded gradually till it disappeared. Shi Qingxue didnt notice that. She held her head and her big eyes rolled. Then she looked as if she was suddenly enlightened. Afterward, she turned to Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi, calling in a sweet voice, Sister, Brother-in-law. Her voice was pleasant, and her bright smile was gorgeous, like a flower. However, the two people concerned didnt return her a smile that she expected after hearing that. Wenren Chis face was dark, and Shi Baoning looked stiff. Shi Qingxues smile also dimmed. For a moment, she was at a loss for what to do. She had realized that she might have done something wrong, yet for the first time, she couldnt figure out what wrong she had done. The living room fell into silence at once, and it was awkward. Fortunately, Mo Junyang was here. He was not good at breaking the ice, but he would never stand by and watch his sweetheart being bullied. Mo Junyang forcefully stood between Shi Qingxue and the couple. When Shi Qingxue couldnt see that, he gave a warning glance at the two. Although Shi Qingxue might not know the reason, he was clear about it. No matter what the couple were thinking about, they couldnt affect Shi Qingxue. Shi Baoning feared Mo Junyang originally for no reason. Only after he glanced at her, she felt that she was stiff all over her body and a shiver ran down her spine. She even trembled subconsciously. Wenren Chi also stiffened and then avoided Mo Junyangs eyes with guilt. Seeing that he achieved his goal, Mo Junyang didnt pay attention to the two anymore and then asked the butler Li, Where shall we have lunch? Li lowered his head and didnt notice the weird atmosphere in the room. He just answered respectfully, Lunch is in the main hall. Please go to the main hall, everybody. I dont know where it is. Mo Junyang said that to Shi Qingxue intentionally. Only he came to the Wenren familys mansion for the first time. Shi Qingxue switched her attention as expected. She excitedly led Mo Junyang to walk out and explained to him in high spirits, I know where it is. I tell you. I used to play hide-and-seek here when I was young They walked out of the living room in advance with Li. Shi Junhe just glanced at Wenren Chi peacefully and suggested, Lets go. Wenren Chi pursed his lips and nodded, without saying anything. He followed Shi Junhe and went out of the living hall. Only Dong Hui and Shi Baoning were left. Dong Hui grabbed her daughters hand and asked with a frown, What happened? Shi Baoning just came to her senses from Mo Junyangs glance and still felt scared. She shook her head in silence. Dong Huis face darkened, and she stared at Shi Baoning, rebuking in a cold voice, Dont think that your mother is a fool. You looked as if a word unhappy was written on your faces. Do you want to hide it from me? Tell me what happened. Did Chi bully you? Although both of them were her children in name, Dong Hui was partial to her biological daughter Shi Baoning. Hearing Dong Huis concerned words, Shi Baoning felt grieved at once, even though she hid it hard all the time. She couldnt help but rush into Dong Huis arms, calling in a sobbing voice, Mother! Mother Whats wrong? Dong Hui finally panicked. She looked and asked seriously just now, aiming at Wenren Chi, yet she didnt believe that he wouldnt be nice to Shi Baoning. How could a child raised by her be not good? Dong Hui supported Shi Baonings shoulder and tried to pull the girl out of her arms and ask. However, Shi Baoning hid in her arms all the time and shook her head crazily, refusing to raise her head, as if she was too ashamed to show her face. Dong Hui was anxious and angry, and she was helpless. She had to ask patiently, Since its not Chi, what happened? I, I Shi Baoning spoke on and off and couldnt explain it clearly after a long time. Dong Hui had to guess. I asked Jing Yi just now. She said that you were fine this morning Do you think that we came abruptly? Shi Baoning shook her head in a hurry and replied while sobbing, No. I am happy that you and Father came. Dong Hui heaved a sigh of relief and thought that they didnt do something wrong out of kindness, but suddenly she found something wrong with Shi Baonings words. She felt nervous and hurriedly raised Shi Baonings chin, asking anxiously, I and your father? So, you dont likeQingxue? Shi Baoning turned away in silence. Shegave tacit consent unexpectedly. After realizing this point, Dong Hui felt cold all over her body. She turned Shi Baonings face back emotionally and questioned harshly, Do you know what you are talking about? She is your sister. She is so nice to you. How can you be so ungrateful? Dong Hui couldnt say the rest. On one hand, such a question was too hurtful, and on the other hand, Shi Baonings sob made her heartbroken. Both Shi Baoning and Shi Qingxue were her daughters. It couldnt be denied that she was partial to the younger daughter at any time in the past except that she chose Shi Baoning when she thought at the gate of King Ruis mansion that Shi Qingxue would die. It was impossible that she could ignore either of them. After hearing Dong Huis question, Shi Baoning looked grieved and smiled bitterly. So, even you think that I am ungrateful and I am wrong, Mother? Dong Hui kept silent. In the past two years, Shi Qingxue had grown up quickly, and all people saw that she was nice to Shi Baoning and cared about her. Even though Shi Qingxue never claimed credit for herself, Dong Hui saw everything that the girl had done, and even the mother couldnt be so selfless in something. So it was really difficult for Dong Hui to believe that Shi Qingxue didnt treat her sister well. Shi Baoning certainly understood what Dong Huis silence meant, and she looked more gloomy. She lowered her head, sobbing. I know it. I know itShe is warmhearted and kind to everybody and cares about us. All people in our family, including Father and me have received many kindnesses from her and have been saved by her, so we should be grateful to her, right? Even if she crosses the line, we cant complain about her because we owe her Since Shi Baoning had gone too far while speaking, Dong Hui couldnt help but interrupt her harshly. Baoning! Shi Baoning stopped crying abruptly, and glittering tears were still on her cheeks. She looked pitiful. Dong Hui took a deep breath and restrained her anger and anxiety. Then she held Shi Baonings face and expressed with concern, Baoning, I believe that you wont talk nonsense. What you said just now It was too unpleasant to hear, and Dong Hui couldnt repeat it. She paused for a moment and then continued, I believe that you said that for a reason, but what kind of person is Qingxue? I dont need to say more. You have been her sister for so many years. Dont you know her character? Most of the time, she would rather let herself suffer than treat us unfairly. How can I believe your denouncement? Dong Hui said in distress but was unwilling to rebuke Shi Baoning who cried sadly. She had to ask in another way, Is there a misunderstanding? Or which brainless guy slandered her in front of you? Or did your grandma say something to you? At the thought of the last possibility, Dong Hui confirmed her guess. Then she lectured Shi Baoning sternly, Dont you know that till now? That old woman is not your biological grandma. She hopes that all the members in our family will be out of luck. Dont believe her words to ruin your relationship. She harbors evil intentions. No! Shi Baoning denied it anxiously. She had known the gratitude and enmity between her father and grandma, yet she had been brought up by Mo Shujun since childhood, and it was difficult for her to forget their kinship, so when she heard Dong Hui speak evil of Mo Shujun, she defended her grandma subconsciously. Dong Hui also knew that, so she didnt bother about this matter and just asked, What on earth happened? Tell me frankly. Shi Baoning bit her lower lip and lowered her head. After staying silent for a long time, she expressed gently, Mother, since childhood, I admire you and Father as a couple for a lifetime and there is no other women. I hope that I can be like you. Dong Hui thought that Shi Baoning was just worried that Wenren Chi would have concubines, so she heaved a sigh of relief and couldnt help laughing. When she planned to joke with her daughter, she heard Shi Baonings deep and depressed voice. So I cant accept the story about Ehuang and Nying as two sisters married one husband. Chapter 298 - Somebody Is Dead Dong Hui was petrified. After she realized what Shi Baoning meant, she looked scared and pushed the girl to sit straightly, shouting exasperatedly, Baoning, do you know what you are talking about? Shi Baoning gazed at Dong Hui, and the smile on her face was cold and sharp. Do you think that I will make irresponsible remarks if there is nothing like this? Dong Hui was speechless. She was unwilling to believe that Shi Qingxue would do something so absurd, but tears fell from Shi Baonings eyes at once. Shi Baonings face was soaked with tears and it seemed to be covered with fog. Anybody would feel pity for her after seeing that. Even a stranger couldnt bear to see a beauty shed tears and wouldnt rebuke her, let alone Dong Hui, her mother. As Dong Hui saw that Shi Baoning cried, she was not firm anymore. She just pulled the girl into her arms and comforted her gently. Stop crying! Why are you crying? I dont want to scold you. I just You dont believe me! Shi Baoning sobbed. She blamed her mother, yet because her voice was weak, Dong Hui felt sadder for her. Dong Hui got soft-hearted and denied it repeatedly. Its not that I dont believe you. Really. I believe that you are a good child and wont talk nonsense to slander anybody else. Dong Hui comforted Shi Baoning for a long time and then the girl gradually stopped crying, but her eyes were red, and she might be scared at any time, like a frightened rabbit. Looking at Shi Baoning in this condition, Dong Hui didnt dare to say something harsh, yet the fact that Shi Qingxue seduced Wenren Chi was like a story in The Arabian Nights for her. Dong Hui was in a dilemma and had to ask tentatively, Qingxue is not that kind of person. Is there a misunderstanding between you? Hearing that, Shi Baoning instantly looked as if she was going to cry again. She gazed at Dong Hui, with her tearful eyes. In the final analysis, you believe Qingxue, not me No, I dont mean that. Under Shi Baonings gaze, Dong Hui felt her blood freezing and her heart tightening. She just felt sad and couldnt ask more. After hesitating for a long time, Dong Hui raised her hand and wiped away the tears on Shi Baonings face, sighing helplessly. Fine, I understand what you mean. No matter what happened, I promise you that Chi will have only one wife, you, and he wont have a concubine or marry Qingxue At the mention of this matter, Dong Hui felt embarrassed. Till now, she still thought that it was a fanciful illusion that Shi Baoning thought about Ehuang and Nying. After all, Shi Qingxues identity was honorable, and she would never be a mans concubine, even if the husband was Wenren Chi. In the worst situation, even if Shi Baoning died of an illness and Wenren Chi would marry another woman, Shi Qingxue would never be a mans second wife. Hearing Dong Huis promise, Shi Baoning finally showed a smile on her face, and especially her eyes were bright and impressive. Dong Hui saw that and couldnt help but laugh. She joked, Gee! You are so happy after hearing that I wont let Chi marry another woman. If he really stays with you alone for a lifetime, wont you be overjoyed? Shi Baoning had a slow response and finally felt shy, yet she still restrained it and said honestly, Mother, I really love Brother Chi since childhood. The only man that I want to marry is him. Thanks for your help. Under Shi Baonings firm eyes, Dong Hui was unable to reply. It was because she suddenly remembered that in the past, before Shi Qingxue was close to Mo Junyang, Dong Hui considered that she would marry Shi Qingxue to Wenren Chi and their child would inherit the title of Duke Shi. As their mother, she almost had never thought about the marriage of Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi. However, God arranged everything. Shi Qingxue just took Wenren Chi as her brother and respected him all the time. She had never thought about marrying him, but Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi got married unexpectedly. At this thought, Dong Hui felt that she ignored Shi Baonings feelings, yet at the same time, she was more certain that Shi Qingxue didnt fall in love with Wenren Chi. Otherwise, the bride at this wedding wouldnt be Shi Baoning. However, Dong Hui couldnt bear to say it frankly. She sighed deeply in secret and still cheered up on the surface, assuring Shi Baoning, Dont worry. Something so absurd like the story about Ehuang and Nying will never happen in our family. The story about Ehuang and Nying had been told from mouth to mouth with general approval, but it only happened to Monarch Yao who was like a sage. If it happened to anybody else, it would merely a joke. Even if Shi Baoning didnt mention it, Dong Hui wouldnt allow something like this to happen in Duke Shis mansion. Dong Hui and Shi Baoning had a heart-to-heart talk. When they came to the main hall after they retouched the make-up, the others were sitting at the table. When Dong Hui entered the hall, she saw that Shi Qingxue and Wenren Chi sat together and talked closely while laughing from time to time. Their bodies were close occasionally. It couldnt be more normal. Shi Qingxue and Wenren Chi were sister and brother originally, and she was his wifes sister now. They were close but not indecent or improper. However, Dong Hui felt nervous after seeing that and couldnt help shouting, Qingxue! Shi Qingxue was talking with Wenren Chi about the anecdotes in the military camp in high spirits, so she was scared when Dong Hui suddenly called her name. She looked at Dong Hui in confusion. Mother, whats wrong? After Dong Hui called, she was regretful as she was possessed and couldnt control herself but shouted. And she called the name pointlessly, which would show that she had a dirty thought. Meeting Shi Qingxues pure eyes, Dong Hui was embarrassed, yet Shi Baonings deep eyes were on the other side. Dong Hui had to bite the bullet and wave at Shi Qingxue, saying, I havent talked with you for a long time. Come here and sit next to me. You sister and brother-in-law are a new couple, and you should let them sit together. Shi Qingxue tilted her head and looked at the other side of Wenren Chi as they had kept a seat for Shi Baoning. Then she turned to Dong Hui. She blinked. Although she was puzzled, she still got up obediently and supported Dong Huis arm to sit beside Shi Junhe. So Mo Junyang who originally sat next to Shi Qingxue was opposite to her. They looked at each other in a distance, like the Cowherd and the Weaving Maid who were separated by the Queen Mother cruelly. Mo Junyang had a straight face, and now he looked colder and showed that strangers couldnt get close to him. Even the servants who served food didnt dare to approach him. They hesitated and made a detour in the end, putting food on the table from the other side. Shi Qingxue was about to cover her mouth and laugh quietly, but she met Mo Junyangs cold eyes. She was not afraid of Mo Junyang, yet she still felt a shiver down her spine under his glare, so she hurriedly winked at him flatteringly. She tried to please him silently. I have no choice. Mother told me to sit here. Mo Junyang arched an eyebrow. Why did you chuckle? Shi Qingxue hurriedly covered her mouth and only showed a pair of big bright eyes which blinked. She looked lovely and witty. No. I didnt say anything. They exchanged love glances happily. However, from Dong Huis angle, she thought that Shi Qingxue ogled at Wenren Chi. She felt nervous again, and her face fell in an instant. However, before Dong Hui rebuked Shi Qingxue, a manservant from outside rushed to report, My Lord, bad news. The second master was found to have died suddenly at home this morning. Shi Junhe just grabbed his chopsticks. Hearing the sad news all of a sudden, his chopsticks fell on the table and then rolled to the floor. The silver chopsticks fell on the floor with a clash, which was clear in the silent main hall. Shi Junhe sprang from his seat and questioned the manservant, What did you say? This manservant was a runner. When he was questioned all of a sudden, his legs weakened and he knelt on the floor, repeating while trembling, The second masterwas found to be dead at home this morning, and the second madam told me to send a message to you and ask you to come immediately Before the manservant finished his words, Shi Junhe strode out of the main hall like storm wind, heading to the second master Shi Junfengs mansion. The others in the main hall came back to reality from the bad news of Shi Junfengs sudden death gradually and looked at one another speechlessly. Shi Qingxue made a decision. Lets go to have a look, too. Is there something wrong? Although Shi Junhe had known his real relationship with Shi Junfeng and Shi Juncai, anyway, they had been brothers for thirty or forty years, and he couldnt ignore them. Shi Junhe rushed to Shi Junfengs mansion, and Shi Baojing was standing at the gate waiting for him. Shi Baojing looked solemn, with sorrow that she couldnt hide. She sobbed as soon as she spoke. Uncleyou finally come. Shi Junhe patted Shi Baojings shoulder to comfort her in silence. Nevertheless, he looked gloomy. Dont cry. Tell me what happened. This morning, a servant went to Fathers bedroom to wake him up, but there was no answer all the time. Because Father got up late recently, we didnt care and thought that he was still asleep. Till one hour ago, I happened to have something to discuss with Father, so I went to see him. Seeing that he didnt answer, I felt restless and told a servant to open the door. Then we foundthat Father lay on the bed with his eyes open and had died long ago. Shi Baojing held back her tears and cried out as if she fell apart after she finally made it clear, yet nobody knew if she didnt make a sound when crying because of her character. She just shed tears silently and looked more pitiful. However, Shi Junhes brain was occupied with nothing but the news of Shi Junfengs sudden death, and he didnt have extra energy to care about her feelings. Take me to have a look at Junfengs bedroom. Before seeing Shi Junfengs dead body, Shi Junhe still refused to accept the fact that his brother was dead and insisted that seeing is believing. Shi Baojing nodded quietly and restrained her sorrow, leading the way. When they came into the masters house, the grieved crying in the room was deafening and extremely sad. Shi Junhe instantly recognized that it was the second madam Zhang Qiuyans voice. He paused for a while yet then rushed into the room more anxiously. The door of Shi Junfengs bedroom faced the north, and it was noon, but it was still dark in the room. As soon as Shi Junhe came in, he saw that Zhang Qiuyan knelt beside the bed and cried her heart out, while the person lying on the bed was the second master Shi Junfeng. His eyes were wide open, and blood flowed out of the seven apertures in his head and covered his face, which looked horrible. Chapter 299 - People Involved Shi Junhe stood blankly three meters away from the bed and seemed to be nailed, unable to move a bit. He just fixed his eyes on the dead body on the bed. Father. Shi Qingxues low voice dragged Shi Junhe back to reality and also attracted Zhang Qiuyans attention. As soon as she saw Shi Junhe, Zhang Qiuyan suddenly got up and rushed to him, crying, You bastard. Its you. You caused my husbands death. Its your fault. Her unreasonable denouncement made Shi Junhe in a daze. Zhang Qiuyan even waved her fist and wanted to punch him. Fortunately, Shi Baojing was swift-handed and stopped Zhang Qiuyan in time, shouting angrily and anxiously, Mother, stop! Shi Baojing summoned some servants and stopped Zhang Qiuyan from making a scene. Zhang Qiuyan would have accused this daughter of her husbands concubine of disrespecting her in the past, yet now Shi Baojing was the second princes fiancee. An unfavored prince was more powerful than an ordinary person. Zhang Qiuyan waved her hand but didnt dare to slap Shi Baojing while seeing her silent and indifferent face. Under Shi Baojings glare, Zhang Qiuyan withdrew her hand resentfully but didnt show mercy while speaking. I know that you want to make up to your uncle. Dont forget that the one lying on the bed is your biological father. Will you ignore your father in order to gain wealth and glory? She was fierce both in look and voice while criticizing the girl and mentioned the crucial point. If somebody with evil intentions made use of it, Shi Baojing would suffer a lot. However, Shi Baojing still looked calm and wasnt panicked or irritated as Zhang Qiuyan expected. After Zhang Qiuyan said that, Shi Baojing just responded indifferently, If you want to find the murderer and avenge Father, please keep your voice down, Mother. If you kick up a fuss, you may wrong good people, which is insignificant. If the murderer runs away because of this, can you take the blame? I Zhang Qiuyan still wanted to use lame arguments and perverted logic and say that Shi Junhe had killed Shi Junfeng, but she was clear that she said that because she thought that if they hadnt broken up the family and Shi Junfeng still lived in Duke Shis mansion, something like this wouldnt have happened today. So she put the blame on Shi Junhe for Shi Junfengs death. In fact, Shi Junhe was busy with Shi Baonings wedding yesterday and went to the Wenren familys mansion this morning, so he didnt have time to commit a crime. Zhang Qiuyan finally quieted down. Although she still didnt give in, she wanted more to find the murderer. So she stopped causing trouble and just shouted furiously, Since you are so awesome, hurry up and find the murderer to avenge my husband. If you cant, you should take responsibility for his death. In the end, Zhang Qiuyan just acted like a rascal. However, Shi Baojing promised Zhang Qiuyan something in order to placate her and prevent her from making a spectacle of herself. She had told somebody to report to the government and the governor of the Capital Bureau would come later. Then Zhang Qiuyan left after Shi Baojing comforted her. As for the others in the mansion, Shi Baojing pacified them all and they didnt create a disturbance. When the governor of the Capital Bureau Zheng Liangcai arrived, Shi Baojing could arrange the servants in the mansion in an orderly way to cooperate with the people from the government in investigation. Although Shi Junfeng was a lowly official, his elder brother was a Rank-1 official, so Zheng Liangcai didnt dare to neglect this case but trembled and brought the post-mortem examiners and runners. They cordoned the crime scene off, examined the dead body and asked the related people Shi Junhe waited in the main hall for the news in the company of Shi Baojing. During the period, he was in a trance all the time and it seemed that he hadnt come to his senses from the sad news of Shi Junfengs death. Shi Qingxue held Shi Junhes arm worriedly and asked cautiously, Father, are you okay? Shi Junhe smiled with difficulty and wanted to say that he was fine, but he couldnt speak a word after opening his mouth. At last, he gave up his plan to conceal it and sat in a chair under Shi Qingxues support. He rubbed his furrowed brows and sighed in a low voice. No, I am not fine at all. Shi Qingxue was not familiar with her uncle who was a fence-sitter and didnt have a sense of presence, so she didnt have feelings after he died. However, Shi Junhe and Shi Junfeng had been brothers for so many years, and they were almost at the same age and had grown up together since childhood, so he loved this younger brother deeply. Even though Shi Junfeng was timid, to some extent, Shi Junhe worried about him less than Shi Juncai. But unexpectedly Shi Junhe raised his hand and covered his face, concealing his fragility which was revealed unconsciously. After a long time, he asked in a deep voice, Baojing, has anything unusual happened in your family recently? Did your father become anybodys enemy? Shi Baojing was intelligent by natural endowments and good at observing. In the past, because of her identity as a concubines daughter, she had to pretend to fall asleep even when she was awake, yet after she became Mo Junwens fiancee, she knew that even if she stayed out of it, she couldnt jump out of the vortex. She was innocent, but it was her fault as she was talented. So these days Shi Baojing always consciously learnt more knowledge about the current situation. As Shi Junhe asked, she answered in an instant, Father is always cautious and never offends others randomly. Moreover, the political situation is unstable now, so he doesnt want to offend anybody. It is impossible for him to make enemies. Shi Junhe nodded to show that he believed it. The situation at the imperial court and in the whole country was unstable recently, and even Shi Junhe restrained himself a lot. Shi Junfeng wouldnt be so stupid as to stand out and be a target. Shi Junhe lowered his head and pondered for a moment. Then he asked, Do you think there is something wrong with your father recently? No Shi Baojing answered. Afterward, she paused for a while hesitantly and seemed to think of something. She furrowed her brows slightly and looked as if she wanted to say something but stopped herself. Shi Qingxue asked in a hurry, Baojing, if you think of something unusual, just speak it out. It may be the key point of the case. Although it was the Capital Bureaus duty to solve cases, Qingxue always thought that Shi Junfengs death was queer. If they investigated this case in the ordinary way of the government, they might gain nothing. Qingxue, you misunderstood. Its not something important, Shi Baojing hurriedly replied. Shi Qingxue didnt believe it. You thought of something obviously. Shi Baojing glanced at Shi Junhe cautiously and looked hesitant. Shi Junhes face softened a bit, and he stated gently, Baojing, if you have something, just say it. Dont need to worry about me. In fact, it is really not something significant. Shi Baojing struggled with hesitation. Seeing that all people looked at her, she sighed as if to give up and then continued helplessly, Since we broke up the family, Uncle Juncais family is closer to our family. Uncle Juncai often visits our family, and Father often goes to Uncle Juncais mansion. And the two mistresses have connections from time to time Shi Baojing said that with difficulty and meanwhile observed Shi Junhes face carefully several times as she was afraid that what she said would make him unhappy. Shi Junhes face was terrible-looking but not too much. After all, all people knew that Shi Junfeng and Shi Juncai were blood brothers, and they were Shi Junhes half-brothers, so it was not surprising that the two brothers were close. Shi Qingxue didnt want Shi Junhe to bother about this matter, so she asked in a hurry, Since you have said that it is not something important, why did you mention it suddenly? Shi Baojing smiled bitterly. Because Uncle Juncai was too nice to my father these days and seemed to please himI She stuttered and tried to find proper words. At last, she gave up and shrugged, saying directly, I dont know what you will think about it, but I think it is abnormal. All people present were clear about what it meant. Right. Shi Junfeng always flattered Shi Juncai, yet it changed all of a sudden, so it was weird. Nevertheless, it couldnt prove anything, right? Meeting Shi Qingxues questioning eyes, Shi Baojing had a more bitter smile. So I said that I just made blind and disorderly conjectures. Everybody in the main hall fell into silence again. They had complicated thoughts and didnt know what to say. Mo Junyang reminded in time, Under the complicated situation, if we want to find the truth, wed better pay attention to the case. He said situation and case, and the others didnt understand his riddle. Shi Qingxue instantly realized what he meant and was enlightened suddenly. Do you mean that wed better find how the murderer killed Uncle than guess the complex motives? We should think about anything else after we find the murderer? Mo Junyang nodded with approval. Meeting the others doubtful eyes, he rarely explained patiently, No matter who wanted to kill the second master, judging from the current situation, the murderer must live in the mansion. We will just investigate everybody and find the murderer. All people showed that they understood and thought that it was a good idea indeed. However, Shi Baojing frowned again at once and murmured hesitantly, Did somebody in the mansion do that? Really Mo Junyang showed a distant smile. We will know it after investigation. Shi Junhe clapped and echoed, His Excellencys consideration is reasonable. You go to tell Lord Zheng. He is experienced. With this train of thought, he will surely find the murderer soon. Shi Baojing nodded and had to leave. Father, is it proper to tell Baojing to inform Lord Zheng? Wont it make things difficult for her? Shi Baoning couldnt help but ask worriedly. Although Shi Baojings calm performance was beyond Shi Baonings expectation, she still thought that Shi Baojing was an unmarried lady and it was improper for her to talk with an official who investigated the case. Since Shi Junhe cared about Shi Junfeng so much, why didnt he do that and find the murderer to avenge his younger brother? Shi Junhe glanced at Shi Baoning meaningfully and shook his head. Then he sat silently with his eyes closed and didnt plan to say more. Shi Qingxue explained out of kindness, Baoning, dont you understand? In this case, except Baojing, all of us are people involved, so she is the most suitable person. What people involved? Shi Baoning asked subconsciously as she was still confused. Till she saw the others serious faces, she suddenly awakened. If they investigated it, all people in this room were suspected of killing Shi Junfeng. Chapter 300 - Possess Himself of Her Shi Baonings face stiffened and she stuttered, Noway? At last, she said in an uncertain tone. Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Baoning and didnt waste energy to explain. She gave Shi Baoning room to figure it out herself. Shi Baoning still looked doubtful and then turned to Shi Junhe. She wanted to ask more seemingly, but his weary face made her unable to speak a word. When the atmosphere in the main hall became tense again, Zheng Liangcai rushed in excitedly and reported to Shi Junhe, Lord Shi, I have found the murderer. His words aroused an uproar. Shi Junhe sprang from the chair and asked in a hurry, Who is the murderer? How did you find it? Lord Shi, you are wise. I listened to you and questioned all the servants respectively who served the second master. Then I found that his personal manservant Shi Wang was suspicious. So I instantly told my subordinates to capture him and interrogate him carefully. Guess what? Shi Wang refused to admit it in the beginning. After the runners found the remaining poison and a handkerchief stained with the second masters blood in his room, he couldnt justify himself with excuses, so he finally admitted that he had poisoned the second master to death, Zheng Liangcai said logically with confidence. Although before he came, he had reminded himself to look sad, when he reported, he could hardly conceal the complacency in his tone. He solved the case. Shi Junhe noticed that and felt unhappy, yet he didnt speak it out. He just stared at Zheng Liangcai and asked, Where is Shi Wang now? What else did he say? Zheng Liangcai knew that Shi Junhe wanted to personally interrogate Shi Wang, so he hurriedly led the duke to the backyard, although it was against the rules. He continued to tell Shi Junhe what he knew so far. Shi Wang is stubborn. Although he has admitted that he killed the second master, he refused to say anything else. But dont worry, Lord Shi. My subordinates are excellent in interrogating. As long as we give them more time, they will make him tell everything clearly They rushed to the backyard. On the way, Shi Jie who was waiting at the gate ran in hastily and reported to Shi Junhe, My Lord, a servant from our mansion came to tell us that there was a theft case in the mansion. What? Before this case was closed, there was another case. Shi Junhe hadnt recovered from the sad news that Shi Junfeng had been murdered, and he heard such annoying news, so his face darkened. He asked in a deep voice, What is missing? Nothing in the East House is missing, but Shi Jie turned his head and glanced at Shi Qingxue cautiously. He explained hesitantly, Lady Qingxues maid Xia Mang sent somebody to tell me that somebody sneaked into the Luotong Boudoir when there was nobody in Lady Qingxues bedroom. Although the thief did everything carefully, when Xia Mang entered to clean up the room, she found clues. You are not at home, so she doesnt dare to move your belonging without authorization, My Lady. Shi Qingxue frowned and didnt say anything. Shi Jie turned to Shi Junhe and begged in a low voice again, Although we are not sure what is missing, I am afraid that you need to go back home. Shi Junhe wanted to personally supervise the people from the Capital Bureau interrogating Shi Wang, yet he knew well about his manservant. Unless he was forced to, Shi Jie wouldnt ask him to return home at this hour. In another word, Shi Junhe must go back home at the moment. When Shi Junhe looked hesitant, Zheng Liangcai expressed sensibly at once, Lord Shi, if you have something important, you can go to deal with it first. Rest assured after you leave this case to me. I will surely find the truth and fight the case out. Zheng Liangcai said that, while Shi Junhe was more worried. However, it was not the time to bother about this. He pondered for a moment and then encouraged Zheng Liangcai. Later, he said something to Shi Baojing and then led his family to return home in haste. Shi Qingxue stood behind the crowd and still looked at the backyard, as if lost in thought. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang was the first one who found her unusual expression. He stood next to her, asking in a soft voice. Shi Qingxue still frowned and looked at the backyard for a while. Then she whispered, I dont know. I just think that it is too coincidental as these two things happened. Is it Before she finished her words, she held back. Her guess was too random. There were many coincidences in the world. A murder case and a theft case would be found at the same time by chance repeatedly. If she forcefully related them, it would be absurd. Shi Qingxue knew this point, so she didnt have the courage to continue. She was afraid that Mo Junyang would laugh at her as she made blind and disorderly conjectures. However, Mo Junyang doubted the coincidence more than she did. After hearing that, he didnt laugh but asked with a frown, Do you know what the thief wanted to steal after sneaking into the Luotong Boudoir? Shi Qingxue smiled bitterly. How can I guess? I am a girl and the valuable things are just jewels, antiques, scripts and paintings. What else can I have? If the thief coveted these treasures, he would gain more once he went to the masters room. After all, no matter how favored Shi Qingxue was and how many collections she had, could she have more than Duke Shi? Unless the thief didnt want money Shi Qingxue met Mo Junyangs eyes and they said in unison, The token granted by Emperor. Yes. If there was a reason that the thief had to go to the Luotong Boudoir, it was only the token granted by Emperor which could prevent people in Duke Shis mansion from being sentenced to death. In this case, its not difficult to guess who the thief is, Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and stated impassively. Even though she had deduced the truth, she didnt feel happy. Mo Junyang pinched the back of her hand gently and comforted her. Anyway, lets go back to the Luotong Boudoir first and have a look. Shi Qingxue nodded. Her beautiful face was solemn, and her furrowed arch eyebrows were almost close. Seeing that, Mo Junyang just wanted to reach out his hand to relax the furrowed brows on her forehead and then hold her in his arms, telling her not to worry. Even if the token granted by Emperor was missing, it was no big deal and he wouldnt let Qingxue protect her life with that stuff. He also wanted to say that even if the token granted by Emperor was stolen, it didnt matter. As long as Qingxue wanted it, he could get it back. In a short while, Mo Junyang figured out hundreds of ways to make Shi Qingxue happy. However, he didnt say anything. It was because when they were alone after they returned to the enclosed carriage, Shi Qingxue didnt conceal her weariness and annoyance but buried her head in Mo Junyangs arms. She embraced his waist and pushed herself in, seeking comfort in silence. Mo Junyang was speechless. He enjoyed their closeness and even hoped that Shi Qingxue could be like this for longer. She was tired, fragile, sadbut needed him most. Mo Junyang loved Shi Qingxue who sought help from him. Only this thought could satisfy him. He was satisfied physically and mentally. Nevertheless, after he was satisfied, he had more desires, so he couldnt help but reach out his hand and hug her more tightly. He hugged her more tightly and they were closer. Youalmost gore me. Shi Qingxues low and muffled voice came from Mo Junyangs arms. In the beginning, Mo Junyang was stunned. He loosened his hand, and Shi Qingxue hurriedly freed herself from his arms. The blush on her charming face spread to her ears and went down her cheeks. Then her fair-skinned and slender neck and even the part in her collar were red. Mo Junyangs throat bobbed automatically, and he gazed at Qingxues partly visible ruddy skin in her collar. Mo Junyang! Shi Qingxue shouted peevishly, yet her voice was sweet. She didnt look angry but seemed to play the woman. Mo Junyang just felt that a flame rushing up to his brain from his lower belly almost burnt all his reason. Fortunately, Mo Junyang was always cautious in front of Shi Qingxue. Even if he lost his reason, he could restrain himself hard. However, his voice was hoarse. Whats wrong? In fact, even he didnt know what he was talking about. Shi Qingxue goggled, unable either to laugh or to cry. He has an erection suddenly and evenhas the face to ask me what is wrong? You are shameless! Qingxue cursed angrily in a low voice. Hmm? Mo Junyang looked innocent and it seemed that he had no idea why he was cursed all of a sudden. Shi Qingxue was at a loss whether to cry or to laugh, and she murmured, You should look into a mirror. Mo Junyang looked at her, like a bloodthirsty wolf staring at its prey, about to rush to her and swallow her after cutting her bones. Perhaps it was not proper. Only the prey was Shi Qingxue, and the wolf was Mo Junyang. So Mo Junyang restrained himself and remained unmoved, while Shi Qingxue didnt get mad. She wasnt mad and her annoyance seemed to disappear in a flash after Mo Junyang caused trouble. In fact, it was not worthy of special attention. Shi Qingxue was in a better mood and then looked at Mo Junyang. She wasnt upset anymore and even She blinked wittily and raised her hand to cover Mo Junyangs eyes. Qingxue? the man called doubtfully in a gentle voice. Shh! Shi Qingxue blew softly in Junyangs ear and the mans shoulders trembled slightly. If she didnt gaze at him, she couldnt find it. However, Qingxue saw that and couldnt help but show her canine teeth, smiling brightly. Be good. Shi Qingxue wanted to have fun and then quickly said something in his ear. She said that, as if coaxing a child. Mo Junyang executed orders and proclaimed prohibitions. He straightened his back and sat in the carriage. Then he swallowed subconsciously. When he wanted to tell Qingxue not to mess around, as his self-restraint was limited, he felt that his Adams apple was warm and wet. Mo Junyang seemed to be cursed and fixed, and he didnt move a bit. All his senses focused on his Adams apple and he felt that the warm and wet breath stopped on it for a moment and then moved downward. A pair of slender and soft hands clung to his thigh and moved in slowly Junyang, I have grown up. In Mo Junyangs brain, it seemed that fireworks exploded at the same time and it was dazzling, making his brain blank. When he came back to earth, he was like a wolf and pounced on its only prey to possess himself of her. Chapter 301 - Come to Condemn Him When Shi Qingxue returned to the Luotong Boudoir, her face was still unusually red, and her clothes were a little messy, but if people didnt check her carefully, they couldnt find anything wrong. The chief criminal Mo Junyang dressed like a gentleman followed her, looking distant, yet his bright eyes reflected his satisfaction. However, the person who dared to look into Mo Junyangs eyes and even study the expression in his eyes seriously was grabbed by Xia Mang as the maid reported the situation in the Luotong Boudoir to her. Xia Mang gave Shi Qingxue a note with a signature, the strange thief Ling Yang. It seemed that the criminal was afraid that other people wouldnt know that this theft case was caused by Ling Yang again. Gee, they tried to draw a tiger yet ended up with the likeness of a dog. Only those people could do something so stupid, Shi Qingxue glanced at the note and said with disgust. Xia Mang goggled in doubt and didnt know what Shi Qingxue was talking about. She thought that Qingxue didnt realize the seriousness of the matter, so she stressed again, My Lady, this strange thief Ling Yang came to our mansion not long ago, and he came again. Its obvious that he keeps an eye on Duke Shis mansion. No matter what purpose he has, we cant let it pass easily. We must Fine! Shi Qingxue was able neither to cry nor to laugh and interrupted Xia Mangs endless talk. Last time, the theft case in Duke Shis mansion had been planned by Shi Junhe, and it had nothing to do with the Luotong Boudoir, so she didnt specially talk about it with Xia Mang. Unexpectedly, somebody tried to deceive everybody in the name of the strange thief Ling Yang, which even confused Xia Mang who was always smart. My Lady! Xia Mang got mad. She was unhappy as Shi Qingxue didnt care about her own safety. When Xia Mang was about to speak, Qingxue smiled. Do you think that he dares to come if I am at home? Xia Mang was stunned. Do you mean that the strange thief Ling Yang only steals things but doesnt hurt people, so its nothing serious? This girl firmly believed that it was the strange thief Ling Yang. Shi Qingxue was helpless. She had to pull the maid aside and tell her, Dont worry. The person who sneaked into the Luotong Boudoir was not the strange thief Ling Yang, so you dont need to panic so much. No? Xia Mang was open-mouthed in surprise and came back to earth after a long time. Then she asked nervously, Who is it? Is it somebody in the mansion? After she asked, she covered her mouth, for fear that somebody heard it and the criminal was alarmed. Shi Qingxue nodded with approval. Xia Mang didnt let her down as expected and she was enlightened as soon as the lady reminded her. She instantly guessed that it was somebody in the mansion. Dont be so nervous. Didnt you say that this thief didnt get anything? So dont worry He wouldnt succeed. Shi Qingxue spoke with confidence and even winked at Xia Mang complacently. Obviously, others were not so carefree as her. Shi Junhe looked serious and walked to her, asking in a deep voice, Qingxue, are you sure that it wasnt stolen? He intentionally stressed the word it, and he looked cold. Qingxue knew that her father had guessed what the thief wanted to steal this time. So even though Shi Junhe was worried, he didnt dare to ask directly as he was afraid that the person who sneaked into the Luotong Boudoir hadnt gone away but still watched everything here. If Shi Junhe told Shi Qingxue to check it at this hour, it would give that thief an opportunity. Shi Qingxue wanted to comfort Shi Junhe, while Shi Jie came over in a rush again, reporting to them, My Lord, Princess Royal came with the second madam. Although they had broken up the family, Shi Jie still cautiously addressed Mo Shujun and Zhang Qiuyan as before. Shi Junhe wasnt in the mood to bother about these trifles. He just furrowed his brows after hearing that. Where are they? Princess Royal went to the ancestral hall in the mansion as soon as she arrived and told you to go there at once. The eyebrows on Shi Junhes forehead knitted together, and he thought that since Mo Shujun moved out, she had never returned to Duke Shis mansion, and it seemed that she would draw a demarcation line with his family. She came this time and went to the ancestral hall directly. Did she want to get Shi Leis skeleton back? Shi Junhe restrained his fidget and told Shi Qingxue, You and His Excellency stay in the East House and investigate the theft case. Its so important and cant be stolen. Afterward, he didnt give Shi Qingxue a chance to disagree but rushed to the ancestral hall with Shi Jie. In the ancestral hall, Mo Shujun had been standing in front of Shi Leis memorial tablet for a long time, like she did for many days in the past. She looked at her husbands memorial tablet alone quietly. Seeing the similar scene, Shi Junhe got soft-hearted all of a sudden and his voice became soft involuntarily. Mother, nice to see you. Shi Junhe and Mo Shujun almost cut off their relationship as mother and son and even wanted to be completely isolated from each other all their lives after falling out. However, they did have a close relationship for so many years. It was said that even if the mother was not amiable, the son should respect her. Shi Junhe loved and respected Mo Shujun since childhood and had grown up under the traditional culture. She had done something excessive to him, and he was really angry then, but he would get tenderhearted to her later. Hearing Shi Junhes greeting, Mo Shujun turned her head and looked cold. Kneel down. Shi Junhe was astonished and didnt understand why Mo Shujun said that all of a sudden. Zhang Qiuyan seemed unable to stand it anymore and rushed up again. This time, she really beat Shi Junhe and cursed, Bastard, you poisoned Junfeng to death. I am going to kill you to avenge him. Considering their status, Shi Junhe couldnt touch Zhang Qiuyan, so he was hit by her in the beginning. Zhang Qiuyan was a weak woman, yet she slapped Shi Junhe hard on his neck which was uncovered, and soon there was a blood stain. Shi Junhe felt the pain and finally came back to reality from Zhang Qiuyans denouncement. He looked sad and surprised. Seeing that Zhang Qiuyan acted recklessly, Dong Hui was swift-handed and walked forward to push her away. She stood with her hands on her hips and rebuked coldly, Zhang, this is the ancestral hall in Duke Shis mansion. If you dare to act willfully, I will tell some people to flog and kick you out. Since they broke up the family, Dong Hui became the real mistress in Duke Shis mansion. She was confident and straightened her back. She didnt even fear Mo Shujun, so she wouldnt take her husbands powerless sister-in-law seriously. Under Dong Huis glare, Zhang Qiuyan shrank her neck and wasnt aggressive anymore. However, at the thought of her husbands death, Zhang Qiuyan felt furious again. She had only one backup. After Shi Junfeng died, she would be miserable in the future. How could she endure it? Coldness in Zhang Qiuyans eyes disappeared soon. When she raised her head again, she looked pitiful and begged Mo Shujun, Mother, Junfeng is your biological son. Now the murderer is in front of us. Are you going to see your son die with a grievance? What nonsense are you talking about? My husband didnt Dong Hui retorted Zhang Qiuyan anxiously. But before she finished her words, Mo Shujun interrupted her rudely. Dong, did I allow you to speak? Dong Hui was choked and could say nothing. Although she didnt fear Mo Shujun anymore, their status was obvious. Anyway, Mo Shujun was her mother-in-law in name and didnt need to find a reason to rebuke her. Dong Hui stopped speaking resentfully but did something in secret. She grabbed Shi Junhes sleeve several times and implied that it was not the time to be in a daze and feel sad. If things went on like this, those people would put all the blame on them. Shi Junhe, I am still your mother now. I told you to kneel down. Havent you heard that? Mo Shujun stared at Shi Junhe coldly and ordered, stressing each word. Shi Junhe came to his senses yet ignored Dong Huis implication. He just looked at Mo Shujun, with a complicated expression, asking in a hoarse voice, I dont know what wrong I have done so I need to kneel in front of Fathers memorial tablet. You have killed Junfeng. We have found the witness and evidence. Do you still want to justify yourself with excuses? Zhang Qiuyan couldnt control herself and shouted again. Before she made a scene, Mo Shujun glanced at her indifferently to make her shut up. Then she turned to a servant. Bring him here. After a while, Zheng Liangcai who should interrogate the suspect in Shi Junfengs mansion walked in slowly, with his head lowered. Zheng Liangcai saluted Mo Shujun as soon as he came in. Then he lowered his head and shrank his neck. He looked as if he was guilty, trying to curl up his body. Shi Junhe was not blind. He stared at Zheng Liangcai and asked, Lord Zheng, arent you interrogating Shi Wang in Junfengs mansion? What are you doing here? Zheng Liangcai quickly raised his head and glanced at Shi Junhe. Then he lowered his head instantly and stuttered, I have known who murdered the second master after questioning him. The real murderer is He tried several times to say it but couldnt speak out the murderers name. Mo Shujun was not so patient and then said for Zheng Liangcai, You are the real murderer! She pointed to Shi Junhe and finally couldnt help but reveal her hatred in her cold voice. Shi Junhe, although I am not your biological mother, I think I have never treated you unfairly. I cant believe that you are so vicious and killed my son Junfeng. You should be hacked to pieces! Shi Junhe was hurt by Mo Shujuns hatred and suddenly moved one step backward. He felt bitter. He was really hurt by Mo Shujun. After hearing about what she had done to You Sis cremains, he just felt disappointed and angry. He had never expected that the relationship between the mother and son for so many years ended up with the words be hacked to pieces. Aha! Shi Junhe curled up his lips with self-mockery, to find that he was unable to smile. He had to give up the expression on his face and raise his head, looking at Mo Shujun. I have never poisoned Junfeng. What evidence do you have? You just refuse to give up till the end. Okay. I will convince you today! Mo Shujun laughed coldly. She turned to Zheng Liangcai and ordered, Why are you still standing here? Go and bring the witness and evidence. Yes, yes! Zheng Liangcai answered obediently and staggered out. Mo Shujun snorted. Ill see what you can say later! Chapter 302 - A One-off Thing Zheng Liangcai led some people to escort Shi Junfengs personal manservant Shi Wang and walked in. Shi Wang entered the room and knelt in front of Shi Junhe as soon as he saw the duke. He begged sadly in tears, My Lord, My Lord, you must save me. I did everything as you ordered me. Before Shi Junhe spoke, he was accused by Shi Wang randomly, so he turned ghastly pale and questioned furiously, Bastard, what nonsense are you talking about? I dont know you. Why would I order you to do something? Shi Wang cried more loudly, My Lord, you cant say something so ungrateful. You said that the second master threatened your position, and only after he died could you keep the title of Duke Shi steadily, so you told me to find a chance to murder him. Then you would be worriless. You promised to ensure my safety. Now its exposed, but you will leave me alone? He tearfully pledged in all sincerity and seriousness and almost swore to God that he told the truth. His accusation was reasonable with evidence and revealed Shi Junhes motive and purpose of murdering. If Shi Junhe were not the litigant, he might involuntarily guess if what Shi Wang said was true. After Shi Wang finished his words, Mo Shujun snorted at Shi Junhe. Shi Junhe, now this servant has pleaded guilty. Do you still want to defend yourself with excuses? He, its just his one-sided statement. I, I didnt Shi Junhe wanted to explain in a hurry, but Mo Shujun didnt give him a chance to argue. She turned around and ordered Zheng Liangcai, You will know if it is true after interrogation. I wont let go of anybody who murdered Junfeng. Lord Zheng, you must know what you should do, right? Zheng Liangcai had cold sweat on his back. He didnt dare to offend Mo Shujun, while he was unwilling to confront Shi Junhe. He was in a dilemma for a moment. Under Mo Shujuns eyes with pressure, Zheng Liangcai gritted his teeth and walked slowly to Shi Junhe, saying cautiously, Lord Shi, you He didnt have the momentum as an official but was afraid that he would say something wrong and make Shi Junhe unhappy. As he saw that Shi Junhes face darkened, his heart beat fast. He explained hurriedly, I just want to ask you to go to the Capital Bureau and help me investigate the case. You only assist me It was no joking matter. Shi Junhe was a high official. Even if he was reallysuch a lowly governor of the Capital Bureau didnt qualify to ask. Even so, he couldnt take Shi Junhe away. Wait! Shi Qingxue ran in hastily and stopped Zheng Liangcai. Zheng Liangcai had a more serious headache as soon as he saw Shi Qingxue. He almost wanted to cry. Compared with Mo Shujun and Shi Juncai, this lady was even more difficult to handle. Governor Zheng still remembered what the Zhao family and Qin family ended up with after offending the sixth young lady from the Shi family. He just investigated a case and didnt want to risk the lives of his whole family. Zheng Liangcai was more careful and thought of everything he did just now. Then he asked cautiously, My Lady, what can I do for you? Zheng Liangcai was a sub-Rank-3 official, yet he was so respectful to a young lady who was not titled, which was too much. However, all people present werent surprised. After all, the man behind Shi Qingxue was so unfathomable that they were afraid of him. Shi Qingxue frowned slightly and asked anxiously, Lord Zheng, why did you ask my father to go to the Capital Bureau and assist you in investigation? Wasnt it obvious? Of course it was because of Shi Junfengs death. Although the answer was evident, Zheng Liangcai didnt dare to refuse to reply. There are doubtful points about the second masters death, and his manservant personally accused Lord Shi Under Shi Qingxues glare, he held back his last words. After a long time, he asked Shi Qingxue for permission. So can I ask Lord Shi to go with me No! Before Zheng Liangcai finished his words, he was interrupted by Shi Qingxue forcefully. Her tone was firm, and there was no room for negotiation. Even though Mo Junyang and Duke Shis family were behind her, her tone was excessive. Zheng Liangcai finally couldnt help but look unhappy. Before he spoke, Shi Qingxue added, I have the token granted by Emperor. Zheng Liangcai was speechless. Fine. It was really a sharp weapon to break the rules. Governor Zheng didnt feel unhappy anymore but just sighed with emotion. Elder Duke Shi got a token that could prevent somebody in Duke Shis family from being sentenced to death after he performed illustrious military exploits, and he just benefited his descendants. They had the privilege, yet it was the rule. Zheng Liangcai instantly turned around and stated flatteringly, I was brainless. I came to disturb you before finding the truth, Lord Shi. I am off now Wait! Another roar interrupted Zheng Liangcai. It seemed that a sub-Rank-3 official was so lowly that anybody could step on him after he came to Duke Shis mansion. Even Shi Juncai dared to stop him? Shi Juncai was just a Rank-4 official seemingly. Even if he followed the fourth prince, he was just so-so. He really put on airs in front of Zheng Liangcai? Zheng Liangcai thought with unspoken criticism, but it was Duke Shis mansion, and everybody knew that the princess royal doted on her youngest son. Even though Zheng Liangcai was resentful, he didnt dare to lose temper. However, he asked in a much colder voice, Third Master Shi, what can I do for you? Shi Juncai didnt have sharp eyes, or he was so conceited that he didnt take the lowly governor of the Capital Bureau seriously. He asked Shi Qingxue, Since you want to use the token granted by Emperor to exculpate Junhe from the charge, you naturally need to show it first, right? Otherwise, how would we know if you have this stuff? Even Zheng Liangcai couldnt help but roll his eyes, worrying about the third masters intelligence, not to mention the people in the Shi family. All people in the capital city knew that Elder Duke Shi loved his eldest sons second legitimate daughter very much and even gave Shi Qingxue the token granted by Emperor, which represented the supreme glory and status of Duke Shis family. How could Shi Qingxue not have the token granted by Emperor? Before Zheng Liangcai sneered at Shi Juncai, Shi Qingxue who had been calm earlier suddenly turned pale and raised her head, looking at Shi Juncai. She opened her mouth but couldnt make a sound. She behaved unusually, and it was not what a person who had the token granted by Emperor would do. It seemed that Lord Zhengs expression also changed, and he looked at Shi Qingxue in surprise and doubt. Mo Shujun coughed in time and glanced at Zheng Liangcai as if unintentionally, which made him shrink his neck. Zheng Liangcai instantly requested Shi Qingxue, What the third master said makes sense. My Lady, please show the token granted by Emperor. It was given by the emperor, and it should be given back to His Majesty In fact, if Shi Juncai didnt mention it, Zheng Liangcai wouldnt insist on checking the token granted by Emperor and even demand to take it back. However, as Shi Juncai said that, the token granted by Emperor really became a real one-off thing and needed to be taken back. Shi Qingxue looked embarrassed and opened her mouth several times but couldnt say anything. Seeing that, Shi Junhe knew that Shi Qingxue didnt have the token granted by Emperor at hand, so he stood in front of her and declared coldly, I dont need the token granted by Emperor. Lord Zheng, I will go to the Capital Bureau with you. The real murderer asked to be brought to justice, yet Zheng Liangcai didnt heave a sigh of relief. It was no joking matter. However, with his identity, Shi Junhe was difficult to deal with, and Shi Qingxue, and the person behind her While thinking, Zheng Liangcai couldnt help but tremble. Even if he took the criminal away, he didnt dare to interrogate him. Governor Zheng showed a sad face and turned to Mo Shujun. Mo Shujun sneered and snorted. Lord Zheng, you are the governor of the Capital Bureau and submit memorials to the throne. You dont even know how to hear a case? If so, I believe that Lord Luo in the Ministry of Penalty wont mind letting somebody else replace you. The Capital Bureau was subject to the Ministry of Penalty, and generally, the governor was selected by the Minister of Penalty, except the talented men the emperor liked. At the same time, they had to flatter the direct superior. Zheng Liangcai suddenly remembered that the Minister of Penalty Luo Sen was the fourth prince Mo Junhaos follower, while Mo Junhao had joined hands with Mo Shujun obviously. At this thought, Zheng Liangcai didnt hesitate anymore and reached out his hand. Lord Shi, please. Father! Shi Qingxue stood in front of Shi Junhe anxiously and stopped him from going out. At the moment, Zheng Liangcai was frightened by Mo Shujun evidently. If Shi Junhe went to the Capital Bureau, would he have a good ending? Shi Juncai stated, If you dont want your father to be condemned, just take out the token granted by Emperor. Otherwise, after he is accused of killing his younger brotherGee. Obviously he would look on. Shi Qingxue bit her lower lip and glared at Shi Juncai, murmuring, I have the token granted by Emperor! I have it If you have it, just take it out. You only said that but we havent seen it. Are you going to exempt Junhe from punishment in front of His Majesty in this way? Shi Juncai expressed playfully and waited for Qingxue to embarrass herself. Shi Junhe patted Qingxues shoulder and wanted her to stop talking. At the same time, Shi Juncai changed the subject and asked in doubt, You cant take out the token granted by Emperor. Have you lost our family heirloom? Juncai! Shi Junhe glanced at Shi Juncai warningly and silently told him to shut up. However, Shi Juncai finally found evidence against the first masters family, and all his blood rushed up to his brain. He was in high spirits. He was just cowardly for a moment. Then he threw his chest out and stated arrogantly, The token granted by Emperor was a reward from the emperor. If you lose it, you will commit the crime of deceiving the emperor. Shi Qingxue, if you dont take out the token granted by Emperor, you cant save Junhe and you will be accused. While speaking, Shi Juncai got more excited, as if he had seen that the most powerful two members of the first masters family were defeated by him easily, and he would fear nothing in the future. Shi, Jun, Cai! Shi Junhe raised his voice and looked at Shi Juncai, with a unprecedentedly stern expression in his eyes and hidden sadness which the idiot Shi Juncai couldnt see. However, Shi Juncai raised his chin and looked as if saying, I have said that. What can you do to me? Anyway, if Shi Qingxue couldnt take out the token granted by Emperor, they would be done. Who said that I dont have the token granted by Emperor? Shi Qingxue suddenly asked in a low voice. Her voice was peaceful and calm, and she seemed to be another person. All people were stunned and saw that she walked slowly to Shi Leis memorial tablet and then knelt down. She put her palms together and kowtowed to it. Chapter 303 - Who Is Lying? All the others in the room were confused by Shi Qingxues action. Shi Juncai asked with sarcasm, What? Do you think that if you kneel in front of your grandpas memorial tablet, he will jump up and help you find the token granted by Emperor? He mocked at Shi Qingxue and even showed disrespect to Shi Lei indistinctly. Shi Junhe frowned again and wanted to rebuke him, but he remembered that they were like water and fire now. It was pointless no matter what he said. Shi Qingxue ignored Shi Juncais bark and seriously kowtowed to Shi Leis memorial tablet for three times, murmuring to apologize, Grandpa, I am sorry. It was silent in the ancestral hall, and all people heard Qingxue say sorry yet didnt understand what she was sorry for. She knelt for about fifteen minutes and then got up. Afterward, she took a few steps forward. She almost got close to the shrine for worshiping. Then she reached out to get Shi Leis memorial tablet down. All people were silent. Shi Qingxue, what are you going to do? Mo Shujun shouted angrily. Shi Qingxue turned a deaf ear and continued. She put the memorial tablet on the table in front of her and took out her handkerchief to wipe it carefully. Then she tiptoed and reached out her hands to the shrine. This time, she fumbled at the bottom of the shrine for a while and then pulled out a long and small secret drawer unexpectedly. When all people were surprised at why there was a secret drawer under the shrine, something more magical happened. Shi Qingxue took out a silver and bright square-shaped article from the drawer. It was the token granted by Emperor. How is it possible? Shi Juncai shouted in surprise and couldnt believe what he had seen. He rushed up and wanted to grab the thing in Shi Qingxues hand. Shi Qingxue swerved slightly and avoided him. Then she stated coldly, Uncle, please dont. How is it possible? Why is the token granted by Emperor still in your hands and put Shi Juncai still looked doubtful. Not to mention him, Mo Shujun and even Shi Junhe had never expected that the token granted by Emperor was put in such an obvious place while all people tried every means to find it and almost dug a deep hole under the Luotong Boudoir but failed. It was like joking. However, Shi Qingxue took it for granted and answered, The token granted by Emperor was given to me by Grandpa. Shouldnt I worship it under his memorial tablet? Shi Junhe looked into Shi Qingxues pure eyes and suddenly understood everything. Perhaps she had never considered keeping the token granted by Emperor for herself. So when Zheng Liangcai suggested submitting the token granted by Emperor to Mo Xiangbin, she looked so hesitant. It was not that she didnt have it, but she was afraid that she would let her grandpa down. Shi Junhe thought, Silly child, you are so selfless. How can I bear to make you give up your persistence because of me? Qingxue, no need. Shi Junhe sighed in a low voice and wanted to tell Shi Qingxue to take back the token granted by Emperor. However, Shi Juncai cried again, You really have the token granted by Emperor? So what? Junhe killed nothing but his younger brother, our fathers biological son. He did something so evil. If he is released because of the token granted by Emperor, will it be fair? If Father knows it, he may be angry and jump out of the coffin, right? So, what do you want? Shi Qingxue knew that Shi Juncai was rascally, so she just frowned slightly after hearing that and didnt feel surprised. Shi Juncai thought that he knew their soft spot and expressed complacently, He can escape from death yet cant go unpunished. Even though the token granted by Emperor can save his life, he has killed his brother, so he cant have the title of nobility passed down by Father anyway. Shi Juncai beat around the bush and finally revealed his evil intention. In the final analysis, didnt he just want to grab Shi Junhes title of nobility? Shi Qingxue sneered and suddenly asked Zheng Liangcai, Speaking of which, I am confused. Lord Zheng, what crime will you accuse my father of? Zheng Liangcai firmed his determination to follow Mo Shujun. Hearing Shi Qingxues question, he still couldnt help but swallow before answering, Of coursehe bought over a servant to kill his younger brother. Oh? Shi Qingxue nodded knowingly and then her eyes became stern. Wheres the evidence? Er Zheng Liangcai thought that the evidence was so obvious, and Shi Qingxue just tried to delay and make things difficult for him. Right. Lord Zheng was suffering in his heart and hesitated for a long while. Then he replied, The second masters personal servant Shi Wang has confessed that he was ordered by Lord Shi to murder the second master. Only this? Shi Qingxue snorted with sarcasm in her eyes, as if saying, Is this evidence? Before Zheng Liangcai spoke, she added unhurriedly, My father has denied knowing Shi Wang. Of course a murderer wont admit that he has killed somebody! Shi Juncai retorted in a hurry. Obviously, he didnt believe Shi Junhes words. Shi Qingxue laughed. The real murderer will say that somebody else has done it. How can you confirm that Shi Wang told the truth while my father didnt? Zheng Liangcai and Shi Juncai were rendered speechless. Right, both of them were witnesses. It was unreasonable that Shi Wang told the truth but Shi Junhe told a lie. Moreover, Shi Junhes identity was honorable. If they confronted at court, more people would believe him in the end. Zheng Liangcai hesitated for a moment and finally stated, The runners found some things after searching Shi Wangs room, and they are the rewards given to him by Lord Shi and the poison. These are evidence. And, the servant Shi Yu who lives in the same room as him said that he had seen that Shi Wang went to Duke Shis mansion to ask for rewards. He racked his brains and mentioned all the evidence, pretending to be serious about it. Shi Qingxue listened to him quietly till he finished his words and then asked, Since you confirm that Shi Wang poisoned Uncle Junfeng and said that my father ordered him to do it, can I ask him some questions to solve our puzzles? Zheng Liangcai wiped the sweat on his forehead and ignored Shi Juncais glare, answering obediently, Pleasego ahead Although he surrendered to Mo Shujun, he didnt want to offend Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue politely nodded at Zheng Liangcai and then turned to Shi Wang who knelt on the floor as a captive. She stared at him till he felt nervous and lowered his head with guilt. Afterward, she asked, Did you murder Uncle Junfeng? In the beginning, Shi Wang had been taking precautions against Shi Qingxues odd questions. Hearing such a simple question, he was relieved. He instantly looked as if he regretted it and answered in a sad voice, Yes, I poisoned him, yet I just followed the orders of Fine. Just answer my questions. Dont talk nonsense. Shi Qingxue coldly interrupted Shi Wang and made him hold back his chicanery. His sad face with regret twisted. Shi Qingxue ignored it and continued to ask, Where did you get the poison? Shi Wang became well-behaved this time and answered directly, The first master gave it to me. Shi Qingxue asked, When? Ah? Shi Wang was dumbfounded and didnt understand Shi Qingxues question seemingly. Shi Qingxue asked patiently, Didnt you say that my father gave the poison to you? When did he give it to you? Shi Wang was still in a daze. He had never expected that Shi Qingxue would ask about the details, and he didnt prepare the answers. Shi Qingxue noticed it and asked immediately, Since you said that the poison was given to you by my father. How can you not know when he gave it to you? II have forgotten it! Shi Wang tried hard to argue. Shi Qingxue didnt bother about this point and then asked, If it had happened long ago, you might have forgotten the time, but you cant forget the place, right? It was not the daily routine but a one-time task of the highest level, to kill somebody. It wouldnt make sense if Shi Wang justified himself with the excuse that he had forgotten it. Obviously Shi Wang realized this matter and stuttered, No. I..I remember it. Ithappened in the small alley outside Duke Shis mansion. He racked his wits and finally figured out an answer. He was afraid that Shi Qingxue would question closely, so he added hurriedly, The first master gave me alone and nobody saw that. Really? Shi Qingxue had known that this servant lied like a gas-meter, and she didnt expect that he would say something true. Thats it! Before Shi Wang replied, Shi Juncai confirmed it anxiously for the servant. At the same time, he looked at Shi Qingxue impatiently. Qingxue, although you dont believe that Junhe did something so evil, the truth is obvious. Dont play for time. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips emotionlessly. I just want to find the truth by investigation, but you convict my father so anxiously, Uncle. Do you have some secret intentions? You What nonsense are you talking about? Shi Juncai denied it hastily and realized that he was too rash, which would arouse suspicion, so he shut up resentfully. Shi Qingxue turned to the manservant Shi Wang again and asked, You said that my father gave the poison to you, and what else did he do? The first master told me to find an opportunity to put the poison in the second masters food. After I did it, he would make sure that I would have endless wealth and glory. And Shi Wang repeated what he had said before clearly and logically. So you poisoned Uncle Junfeng for money? Shi Qingxue suddenly asked. Shi Wang didnt know why she asked such a question. After a moment of hesitation, he still nodded. Yes, yes. What did my father give you in advance? Shi Wang responded, Just some gold, silver and jewelry. Shi Yu has seen that I received the awards from the first master, and he can bear witness. Bear witness? Shi Qingxue repeated the words while pondering. So he personally went with you to see my father? How is it possible? Shi Wang denied it in haste. The first master ordered me not to tell anybody else about this matter, so I went to Duke Shis mansion to see him alone every time. Since he didnt see it, how can he testify that the person you went out to see was my father? Shi Qingxue asked in reply all of a sudden and made Shi Wang speechless again. She asked, How many times have you seen my father? When did you see him respectively? Shi Wang couldnt answer the last question and he was afraid that he would be rebuked, so this time he answered at once, I have seen him twice. The first time, I went to receive the awards, and the second time I went to get the poison. It happened at midnight every time. I Shi Wang wanted to say some unimportant details to make people believe his words more, yet he saw that Shi Qingxue looked cold. She stared at Shi Wang and declared seriously, You are lying. Chapter 304 - How to Deal with This Witness? Hearing Shi Qingxues firm words, Shi Juncai thought that it was bad news and then couldnt help saying, Shi Wang just told the truth. You dont ask your father but criticize Shi Wang for lying. How can you do that? Perhaps if Shi Qingxue asked Shi Junhe to confirm, Shi Juncai would say that Shi Junhe told a lie. No matter what she said, he would aim at Shi Junhe in the end. However, this time Shi Qingxue stated unhurriedly, Judging from his answers to my questions, I can affirm that he was lying. Howhow come? Shi Wang asked in panic and still didnt know when he exposed himself. He glanced at Shi Juncai subconsciously and looked flurried. Shi Juncai glared at Shi Wang ferociously, indicating, Why are you in panic? She must trick you. They exchanged glances secretly and thought that nobody knew it, while Shi Qingxue noticed everything. However, she didnt say anything. Till Zheng Liangcai looked at them in doubt, she smiled faintly. Its better to let Father answer this question. Shi Junhe was relieved. Seeing that all people looked at him, he said unhurriedly, In order to train soldiers, I live in the military camp at night these days and have never been out. Lord Zheng, if you dont believe it, you can check the register in the military camp and then you will know if I told a lie. Moreover, it takes an hour to ride to my mansion from the military camp. Even if I have something and need to see somebody, I wont choose to see them in the alley behind the mansion at midnight. The explanation exposed all Shi Wangs lies. His oral testimony was so fragile. I have said something wrong just now. In fact, the gold, silver and jewelry were secretly sent to the second masters mansion for me as the first master ordered, and the poison was bought by me. Seeing that the previous testimony was useless, Shi Wang withdrew his confession in a hurry, regardless of whether his words could prove anything. Shi Qingxue asked, Why did you tell lies just now? Shi Wang replied, I was afraid that I would be punished more severely if I told the truth and others knew that the poison was bought by me, so I lied that the poison was given by the first master, but the one who told me to poison the second master was really the first master. Otherwise, why did I poison my master? I have no grudge against him. What he said made sense. If nobody ordered him, Shi Wang wouldnt poison Shi Junfeng for no reason. Qingxues eyes lit up and she continued to ask, What kind of poison did you use to murder Uncle Junfeng? This Shi Wang stuttered again and couldnt answer. He was depressed. He was just a knife and did it as ordered. How would he know what kind of poison it was? However, he had just admitted that he bought the poison himself. If he said that he didnt know what kind of poison he had bought, wouldnt it be too absurd? When he was baffled, at a loss for wards, Shi Qingxue asked more questions, When and where did you buy the poison? Who did you buy it from? How much did it cost? The questions were like bombs and exploded, making Shi Wangs brain blank. He wasnt prepared for these questions, so he told lies at the last minute. How could he fool Shi Qingxue? He gave himself away. Shi Wangs eyes turned white and he sat on the floor, unable to reply. Shi Qingxue asked harshly without showing mercy, Why dont you tell me frankly till now? Who told you to kill Uncle Junfeng and frame my father? I Shi Wang was in panic and wanted to answer seemingly, yet he was restrained by something. He opened his mouth several times but couldnt answer the questions. Seeing that the trend was uncontrollable, Shi Juncai hurriedly turned to Mo Shujun for help, begging, Mother, Junfeng is your biological son. He has died miserably. You cant stay out of it and let the murderer go unpunished. He begged in a sorrowful voice and seemed to be really sad for Shi Junfengs death. However, what kind of person was Mo Shujun? She had been in the mansion for so many years and had seen many kinds of tricks, so she found what Shi Juncai planned to do at a glance. If in the past, she would be willing to satisfy Shi Juncai and harm Shi Junhe. Nevertheless, Shi Qingxues questions and Shi Junhes clear answer were enough to prove that he didnt order Shi Wang to kill Shi Junfeng. Then she recalled that Shi Juncai tried to convict Shi Junhe so anxiously, so the answer to something was obvious. Mo Shujun stared at Shi Juncai and asked in a deep voice, Did he really kill Junfeng? Shi Juncai felt guilty under Mo Shujuns stare and evaded meeting her eyes, but soon he replied with certainty, Ofcourse. Then he gazed at Mo Shujun with his deep eyes and reminded meaningfully, I am your biological son. Dont you believe me? He was not only Mo Shujuns biological son. After Shi Junfeng died, he was her only child. Shi Juncai didnt speak it out, while Mo Shujun understood his hidden meaning. Mo Shujun opened her eyes wide in disbelief and then closed them in pain. After quite a while, she opened her eyes again which were cold. Lord Zheng, no matter if Junhe is the murderer, he is the prime suspect, so he should go to the Capital Bureau with you for the investigation. Mo Shujun protected Shi Juncai and wanted to convict Shi Junhe, regardless of the truth which was found. She was so ruthless. Nevertheless, after hearing that, Shi Junhe just raised his head and glanced at Mo Shujun, with no emotion on his cold face. He wouldnt be hurt by Mo Shujuns words anymore. Although Shi Junhe didnt care about Mo Shujuns attitude, it didnt mean that Shi Qingxue would allow the old woman to treat him like this. She stood in front of Shi Junhe again and sneered. Grandma, why are you anxious? Since this servant is willing to speak, how about letting him reveal everything? What do you mean? Mo Shujuns eyes turned cold and she suddenly had an ominous presentiment. Shi Qingxue didnt answer but turned to the gate. Nobody knew since when Mo Junyang stood there and coldly watched everything in the room. When all people followed Qingxues eyes and saw Mo Junyang, they, especially Zheng Liangcai and his people couldnt help but shrink their necks. Of course, he was scared only for a little while. Zheng Liangcai soon threw out his chest and thought that he had momentum. He looked at Mo Junyang and slightly raised his voice. Your Excellency, what brought you here? Mo Junyang lifted his eyelids lazily. Till Zheng Liangcai lost the momentum that he finally mustered up under his glare, Mo Junyang replied casually, Of course I came to send a few people to you. People? Who? Zheng Liangcai was stunned and confused by Mo Junyangs action as he didnt do something according to the convention. Mo Junyang waved his hand, and the guard Wei Zichao led some people to walk into the room. They were an old woman who was about seventy years old and a middle-aged woman in her thirties. The middle-aged woman held a boys hand who was around seven or eight years old. They wore coarse clothes made of hemp and looked like common people. Not to mention Zheng Liangcai, even Mo Shujun didnt understand what Mo Junyang was going to do. However, as soon as Shi Juncai and Shi Wang saw the three, they turned pale. Shi Wang forgot himself and rushed over to hug the boy, crying, Liangliang, you are all right? Its great! Great In the beginning, the middle-aged woman was timid and scared, yet after seeing Shi Wang, she seemed to find the mainstay and tears fell from her eyes at once. She cried, Hubby! I finally see you. You know what? Today, the person who locked us up suddenly said that you would surely die and we were useless now. Fortunately, when they were about to kill us, this master led some people and broke in to save us. Otherwise The middle-aged woman told everything and then knelt to Wei Zichao to express her thanks again in the end. Wei Zichao worked for somebody and had never been thanked in this way. He waved his hand in a hurry and expressed directly, I just did it under my masters order. Lady, if you want to express your thanks, just thank my master. Afterward, he stepped aside and Mo Junyang was in the front. The middle-aged woman and old woman started to kowtow to Mo Junyang to thank him for saving their lives sincerely in a moving tone. Shi Wang understood that Mo Junyang had saved his whole family. Nevertheless, before he did this thing, that man promised to save his life and prevent his family from being hurt as long as he made it. Shi Wang turned to Shi Juncai, to see his evasive eyes. He finally realized that this man wouldnt protect his family but would kill him and even refuse to let go of his family. He gritted his teeth. If there hadnt been so many people in front of him, he would have rushed to Shi Juncai and bitten the ungrateful and perfidious guy to death. However, Mo Junyang didnt give him time to build discontents. He stood in front of Shi Wang and looked down at him, asking coldly, Now, what else do you want to say? Hearing that, Shi Wang subconsciously turned to his family. Probably because they were just saved from death, the old and young were still scared out of wits and curled up while trembling. Then he raised his head to meet Mo Junyangs eyes. He knew what Mo Junyang wanted and could give him the answer he wanted. Under the circumstances, he certainly wouldnt protect Shi Juncai stupidly, yet he still wanted to fight for something for himself. Your Excellency, you have seen that. I was forced to poison the second master because all my family members were captured. Now I know I was wrong. If I tell you everything, can you spare my life? Before Shi Wang finished his words, Mo Junyang gave him a smile which was cold and piercing. Shi Wang heard the mans disdainful voice before he reacted. What? You even want to stay alive after killing somebody? Shi Wang was choked. He knew that he was guilty, so the courage that he finally mustered up disappeared. However, the one he hugged was his eight-year-old son. If he died and his wife and son were left, wouldnt they be bullied for a lifetime? How would he be willing to see that? Shi Wang knew that he had the key evidence which decided the trend of this case. As long as he kept his mouth shut and took it as a bargaining chip, perhaps Mo Junyang and the others would spare him, a nobody. He made up his mind and raised his head again, negotiating with Mo Junyang. Your Excellency, I am just a nobody and dont want to be your enemy. I just have no choice. You are magnanimous. Please dont lower yourself to my level, and I wont lower myself to your level, Mo Junyang interrupted Shi Wang. Shi Wang thought that he succeeded and heaved a sigh of relief, but he heard Mo Junyang continue, You killed somebody, and you will be punished according to the law. Chapter 305 - The Complete Reversal It was stipulated in the law of the Mo Country that the ordinary murderer should be imprisoned or more and a servant who murdered the master should be hanged. Shi Wang was Shi Junfengs personal servant. He wasnt grateful to his masters kindness but killed him, and he would surely be sentenced to death. Shi Wang turned pale with fear after he knew that. Facing the fear of death, Shi Wang suddenly had courage. He raised his head and looked at Mo Junyang, asking in a loud voice, Your Excellency, dont you want to know the truth? He glanced at Shi Junhe with threat and his meaning was obvious. Anyway he would die. If he insisted that Shi Junhe had ordered him to do that, the first master would never disassociate himself. However, Mo Junyang laughed, with coldness in his eyes. I dont like to be threatened, especially by a servant who killed his master. He also swept his eyes over Shi Wangs family members coldly. Before Shi Wang understood what Mo Junyang meant, the middle-aged woman realized something from their conversation gradually. The middle-aged woman wiped her tears and looked at Shi Wang in disbelief, asking with uncertainty, Shi Wang, have you killed somebody? After she asked, both the old woman and boy next to her were shocked. Shi Wang finally understood Mo Junyang meant that even a ruthless and crafty person didnt want his closest family members to see his ugly face. Mo Junyang had saved the lives of Shi Wangs family members and brought them to him, yet later they saw that he was questioned and even condemned. He was kind but so merciless. However, Shi Wang didnt have so much time to think about these. Facing his mothers and his wifes surprised and scared eyes, he blushed and had a headache, anxious to find a hole to hide himself. The old woman emotionally grabbed Shi Wangs sleeve and asked while trembling, I have taught you many times. Our family is poor, yet even poor people should have self-respect, and we cant do anything evil. Have you forgotten what I told you? No! Shi Wang replied subconsciously, but looking at the old womans face filled with tears, he lowered his head with guilt. The old woman was Shi Wangs biological mother and certainly knew what her sons action meant. She instantly felt dizzy and staggered backward. Fortunately she was supported by the middle-aged woman, so she didnt fall on the floor. However, tears fell along her cheeks, and she wept in silence. Mother, are you okay? It was Shi Wangs first time to see that his mother shed tears so sadly, so he was in panic. He wanted to come up and support the old woman, while she pushed him away. The old woman stated firmly, I dont have a son like you. You did something wrong but didnt admit it. Whats more, you even tried to put the blame on somebody else. I wasted time on raising you for so many years. How can I have the face to see your father after I die The old woman cried again, which made Shi Wang shed tears, too. Shi Wang knelt on the floor and kowtowed repeatedly, replying in a hurry, I admit it. I admit my fault. Mother, dont be sad. Afterward, he raised his hand to wipe his tears with his sleeve and then turned around, kowtowing to Mo Junyang. This time, he didnt extravagantly hope to use himself as a bargaining chip anymore but turned to Shi Juncai, saying, I did everything under the third masters orders. You are lying. Dont talk nonsense! Hearing Shi Wang mention him, Shi Juncai shrieked in an instant. Shi Wang ignored Shi Juncai and continued, The third master gave me money in advance that you have found in my room, and he told me to work for him. In the beginning, I didnt agree, yet later he captured my family and forced me to poison the second master and frame the first master after it was found. The third master said that he would ensure my familys safety after I did it. I had no choice but to do as he said in order to keep my family safe. The poison was given to me by the third master. On the wedding day of Infanta Baoning, the second master took me to attend the wedding, and the third master secretly found an opportunity to give it to me, so I dont know what kind of poison it was. He just told me to put some drug in the second masters drinking water last night. I thought that the third master merely wanted to get back at the second master and make him uncomfortable as they fell out. I didnt know that the third master wanted to take the second masters life. Till the second masters dead body was found this morning, I knew that Youre slinging mud at me! Shi Juncai shouted in a sharp voice. It seemed that if he spoke more loudly than Shi Wang, what he had done would be inexistent. Shi Wang didnt jump up in a hurry to retort like he did to Shi Junhe. After he told everything, he knelt on the floor quietly again and waited for punishment. Mo Junyang was satisfied with Shi Wangs attitude as he resigned himself to destiny. After the servant told everything, Mo Junyang didnt make things difficult for him but told Wei Zichao to take Shi Wangs family members away. Shi Wang glanced at Mo Junyang with gratitude and didnt say more but answered every question when Shi Junhe asked about the details. This time, what he said wasnt full of holes like that when he framed Shi Junhe. His answer was logical with sufficient reasons and hard to fault. He told everything that Shi Juncai had ordered him to do. Shi Juncai heard that and turned ghastly pale, shouting feebly, No, I didnt. Its not me Shi Wang killed Junfeng. How can you believe his words? Right, he must be lying. He wronged Junhe, and he knew that he couldnt make it plausible, so he wronged me. It must be like this At the moment, Shi Juncai had totally forgotten how he affirmed devoutly that what Shi Wang said was the truth, and he made unfounded countercharges against this servant. Mo Junyang let Shi Juncai justify himself. After Shi Juncai finished his words, Mo Junyang turned to Wei Ziye at the gate. Bring the rest of people. All people focused their eyes on the gate again and were curious about who he would bring this time. Shi Qingxue blinked her big eyes and didnt look at the gate but stared at Mo Junyang. She blinked and seemed to ask, Is there really no problem? Mo Junyang gave her a smile to comfort her. Yes. Trust me. Shi Qingxue instantly showed a sweet smile. Okay. They exchanged glances and the tense atmosphere was not existent anymore. Ahem! Shi Junhe coughed twice in a low voice to give a hint that they should restrain themselves. Qingxue immediately stuck out her tongue and made a face. Then she hid herself behind and tried not to be so conspicuous. Of course, the others paid attention to the case and didnt notice her actions. Wei Ziye brought some people soon. They were several burly men with their hands tied behind their backs. All of their faces were black and blue, and they were in low spirits. Obviously, somebody had taught them a lesson earlier. After these men were pushed into the ancestral hall and saw Shi Juncai, they knelt down at once and kowtowed to him to ask for help. My Lord, please save me. Save me. They spoke in unison and admitted that they worked for Shi Juncai. Shi Junhe asked why they had been captured. They answered that they were captured by Wei Zichao when they were about to take actions against Shi Wangs family. So the truth had been brought into daylight. Shi Juncai captured Shi Wangs family and threatened him, forcing him to poison Shi Junfeng and frame Shi Junhe after that. As the witnesses and evidence were on the spot, Shi Juncai couldnt justify himself no matter what he said, so he sat on the floor in frustration. After knowing the fact, Mo Shujun trembled all over her body in anger and couldnt control herself but walked forward and slapped Shi Juncai hard. Bastard! Mo Shujun had never said anything so harsh to her youngest son, not to mention beating him. However, she was really furious this time. After cursing and beating him, she still couldnt vent her anger, so she picked up the teacup on the table and threw it to Shi Juncai. Seeing that it was exposed, Shi Juncai didnt dare to dodge but let Mo Shujun lose temper. He kowtowed to her repeatedly and admitted his fault, begging, Mother! Mother, I was just brainless for a moment. I was jealous as you treated Junfeng so well, so I lost my mind and made a big mistake. Mother, please forgive me as I am your biological son. I promise that I will never do something so evil again. I beg you! Shi Juncai made a pitiful plea in tears and cried miserably. Even though Mo Shujun was hard-hearted, she couldnt bear to stand by and do nothing to help her biological son. There was agony in her eyes. At last, she closed her eyes and concealed it. She shook off Shi Juncais hand and asked coldly, You didnt harm me. Why do you ask me for mercy? Shi Juncai was stunned for a moment yet soon understood what Mo Shujun meant. With a sad face, he knelt to Shi Junhe again and begged, Big Brother, I was wrong. Its my fault. I am narrow-minded and jealous of you and Junfeng, so I figured out such a bad idea. However, please save me for the sake of our brotherhood anyway. I dont want to die, really! Shi Junhe looked cold and listened to Shi Juncais crying bitterly and trying to start with a clean slate as he thought, while he sneered in secret. Shi Juncai said that he didnt want to die, but Shi Junfeng who had died wanted to die? After the truth was found, Shi Juncai said tearfully that he knew that he was wrong and begged for another chance, yet Shi Junfeng would never come back. Shi Junhe realized this point and just felt heartbroken. He looked colder and concealed his emotions. After Shi Juncai cried, Shi Junhe turned to Zheng Liangcai who curled up like a tortoise after the complete reversal, saying indifferently, Lord Zheng, hope that you can punish this murderer according to the law as he killed my younger brother Junfeng. Of course. Of course! Zheng Liangcai answered repeatedly yet couldnt help peeping at Shi Juncai. As for Juncai, I have some domestic affairs to deal with. Lord Zheng, please go back first. I will take him to the Capital Bureau and make everything clear later. Shi Junhe made arrangements unhurriedly, and the others thought that he got soft-hearted to Shi Juncai and wanted to minimize the problem. Zheng Liangcai didnt want to have a conflict with Mo Shujun, so it was all that he could wish for, and he agreed, telling the runners to escort Shi Wang and leave Duke Shis mansion. Since the truth was exposed, Zhang Qiuyan was petrified. Till she heard that Shi Junhe would bail Shi Juncai, she protested. Big Brother, Juncai is your younger brother, but my husband is not? Are you going to see my husband die with a grievance and do nothing? Shi Juncai was happy secretly for Shi Junhes protection. Hearing Zhang Qiuyans shout, he rushed to cover her mouth in a rage and cursed, You are a woman. Do you qualify to make comments when men are talking? Get out of here now. Otherwise, I will kill you. He was aggressive and conceited as always. Chapter 306 - Why Should I Save You? Shi Juncai thought that he could rest easy after Shi Junhe put up bail for him, so he didnt show mercy to Zhang Qiuyan. He covered Zhang Qiuyans mouth and told the servants to drag her away. During the period, Shi Junhe looked on coldly and didnt stop him. Shi Juncai was more sure that Shi Junhe was soft-hearted to him, so he was bailed. He moved closer to Shi Junhe shamelessly at once and expressed flatteringly, Junhe, you really love your brother deeply. I knew that you would care about my life and death. Shi Junhe leered at Shi Juncai coldly and stated casually, Of course I care about my brothers life and death, and I wont let him die with a grievance. Shi Juncai was nervous and stared at Shi Junhe. What do you mean? Junfeng was killed, so all people who killed him should be punished according to the law, and nobody is an exception. While speaking, Shi Junhe didnt look away from Shi Juncai. He stared at Shi Juncai and stressed each word. Not evenyou! Shi Juncai trembled. After understanding what his brother meant, he looked frustrated instantly. He grabbed Shi Junhes sleeve in panic and shouted with fear, Junhe, you cant do that! You cant! I am your brother. You cant fold your hands and see me die. Shi Junhe looked at Shi Juncai quietly and then sneered after he cried. Really? Shi Juncai was speechless. His blood froze after Shi Junhe said really? He stuttered, I Of course I am your brother. We have been brothers for so many years. Even though we have conflicts, you cant disown me. Shi Junhe didnt retort Shi Juncai. He just smiled coldly with sarcasm, saying impassively, But its you who killed your brother and broke the law. What can I do? Obviously, Shi Junhe didnt plan to use his privilege for Shi Juncai. However, killing a brother was a big crime. As long as Shi Junhe really refused to save his life, even if Mo Shujun was willing to help him, after the news spread, Shi Juncai could hardly escape from the disaster. At this thought, Shi Juncai turned pale with fear. He grabbed Shi Junhes sleeve anxiously and thought of something all of a sudden. Then he shouted at once, Dont we have the token granted by Emperor? As long as I take it, I will be fine. If he had the token that could prevent him from being sentenced to death, the crime of murder was nothing. Shi Juncai got happy again and almost danced with joy. However, Shi Junhe soon disillusioned him and responded coldly, You dont have the token granted by Emperor. Shi Juncais smile froze on his face and he stiffened. When he wanted to say more, Shi Junhe realized his intention and then added, Of course, I dont have the token granted by Emperor, either. Have you forgotten that Father gave the token granted by Emperor to Qingxue, and it belongs to her alone? Anybody cant covet it. Although Shi Junhe said that, the taunt on his face was obvious. In fact, Shi Junhe had known earlier that Mo Shujun and the third masters family coveted the token granted by Emperor, yet he had never said anything in the past because of their kinship. He even controlled himself and didnt mention the theft case in the Luotong Boudoir. Unexpectedly, Shi Juncai was shameless to this level. He framed Shi Junhe but failed, and then he harmed himself. Then he wanted to use the token granted by Emperor to save himself. Not to mention that the token granted by Emperor didnt belong to him, even if he had the right to use it, Shi Junhe wouldnt use the reward their father got after risking his own life to fight on the battlefield to save such a bastard. Shi Juncai couldnt even think about it. Shi Junhe said that in order to make Shi Juncai give up his plan and tell him not to covet the token granted by Emperor, while after hearing that, Shi Juncai instantly turned around and knelt in front of Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was caught off guard as Shi Juncai knelt. When she was shocked, he smiled at her shamelessly. Qingxue, I am a minor official of a low position, and I may not take care of you enough at ordinary times, yet we are family anyway. Now I am in trouble, and as long as you take out the token granted by Emperor, you can save my life. You dont need to do anything else, and it is so simple. You cant watch me die and do nothing. Hearing Shi Juncais brazen declaration, Shi Qingxue almost laughed out of anger. Shi Juncai was thick-skinned. He vowed solemnly earlier that even if she had the token granted by Emperor, she couldnt save her father, but now he was convicted, and he begged her to take it out to save him. Shi Qingxue wanted to retort, Perish the thought! She almost said that, but when it was on the tip of her tongue, an idea flashed in her brain and then she held back. Qingxues eye balls rolled and she asked in a clear voice, Uncle, you want me to take out the token granted by Emperor? Yes, yes! Shi Juncai nodded repeatedly and was not conceited anymore, saying humbly, Good Qingxue, as long as you take it out, you can save my life. You are the only person that I can rely on. You need to save me. Shi Qingxue almost had goosebumps when she heard the words good Qingxue. Before she spoke, Mo Junyang who stayed silent all the time abruptly stood between them. The man looked steadily at Shi Juncai with his distant eyes and asked in a cold voice, What did you say? Shi Juncai had spoken volubly, but under Mo Junyangs glare, he shrank at once, like a quail. He became obsequious and couldnt say anything. He wondered with fear what wrong he had said and irritated this demon. Shi Juncai and Shi Qingxue didnt understand why Mo Junyang suddenly got angry. They looked at each other and noticed the doubts in the other partys eyes. Hmm? Mo Junyang raised his tone and showed displeasure on his face. Shi Juncai almost had a heart attack as he was scared by the young mans expression. At the crucial moment, their eyes met again, and they thought of good Qingxue at the same time. Then they understood that Mo Junyang couldnt endure anybody else that called Qingxues name in a more intimate way. Shi Qingxue was at a loss whether to cry or to laugh, while Shi Juncai curled up with fear and slapped himself in the face repeatedly, begging for mercy. I said something wrong. Your Excellency, you are magnanimous. Please forgive me. Mo Junyang looked cold and kept silent. Obviously, he didnt get happy after Shi Juncai begged. He didnt say anything even though Shi Juncais face was swollen after he slapped himself. Shi Juncai knew how powerful this royal family member was and moaned in secret, but on the surface, he had to please Mo Junyang respectfully. Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see that and stopped Shi Juncai from injuring himself, saying casually, Enough. She stopped Shi Juncai but looked at Mo Junyang, hinting, Let me deal with this matter by myself. Mo Junyangs eyes were cold and he was unmoved. Shi Qingxue pouted and knew what he meant. However, under the watchful eyes of all people, even if she wanted to butter him up, she couldnt go too far. Qingxue looked around secretly and then chose an angle that all people couldnt see. She reached out her hand and scratched Mo Junyangs palm. As a result, Mo Junyang glanced at her casually, and then she instantly gave him a flattering smile. Her smile was sweet and beautiful. Mo Junyang withdrew his hand which was touched by Qingxue and felt that his palm was burning. He clenched it involuntarily. Then he found that his action was abrupt, so he raised his hand and put it beside his mouth in a feigned manner, coughing in a low voice. He just allowed Shi Qingxue to do what she wanted. Shi Qingxue turned to Shi Juncai and asked seriously, Do you want me to save you? Certainly. Shi Juncai gave her a positive answer without hesitation. Then he talked big to promise, As long as you can save me, even if I slave for you, I will be grateful to you for a lifetime No need! Shi Qingxue interrupted Shi Juncais unrealistic great speech and added indifferently, I dont need you to slave for me. I only want you to tell the truth. Shi Juncai paused for a moment and didnt understand why Shi Qingxue suddenly made such a request like to cover up for him and deceive others. However, he was happy as he didnt need to pay a price, so he patted his chest at once and replied, Just ask. I can tell you everything that I know. Shi Qingxue stared at Shi Juncai and asked out of the blue, Did you ruin Grandpas grave? Shi Juncais face stiffened and he trembled uncontrollably. After quite a while, he came back to earth and stuttered to defend himself. You What nonsense are you talking about? How is it possible? Thats my fathers grave. No matter how badly-behaved I am, I will never do something so immoral. Qingxue, dont take me as a scapegoat because you cant find the chief criminal! Yes? Shi Qingxue didnt make comments but asked in reply softly. She looked at Shi Juncai, with a complicated expression. I have said that I just want you to tell the truth. If you are unwilling to, dont blame me for my ruthlessness. No! Shi Juncai shouted with terror. He was in panic and wanted to grab Shi Qingxues sleeve, yet he shrank back when he saw Mo Junyang. Looking at Shi Qingxues distant face, Shi Juncai started to ponder. On one hand, he thought that she must have no evidence to prove that he did it, so she threatened him and forced him to tell the truth. Therefore, as long as he didnt admit it, she could do nothing to him. On the other hand, he was afraid that if he didnt tell the truth, Shi Qingxue would really get hard-hearted and refuse to save him. Shi Juncai pondered for a long time and gritted his teeth in the end, shaking his head. I really didnt ruin my fathers grave. After saying that, he looked sad as if he was hurt. With tears in his eyes, he stared at Shi Qingxue and shouted in depression, Qingxue, I dont know why you think that. Thats my father. How can I do something so conscienceless? Shi Qingxue wasnt in the mood to talk with him. She turned to Mo Junyang and blinked. The young man nodded and then said something to Wei Zichao. Wei Zichao ran out. The two didnt say anything, but everything went smoothly. Even Shi Junhe didnt know what their puzzle was. When all people were in doubt, Wei Zichao brought somebody into the room, which made Shi Juncai turn pale again. The third master sat on the floor on his knees and looked at the comer with fear, unable to speak a word. The comer was the grave keeper whose family name was Wang sent to guard the ancestral mausoleum of the Shi family then, Wang Guangping. Wang Guangping had been taught by Qu Yuexuan and the others these days. As soon as he entered the room, he knelt to Shi Junhe while trembling and told him that Shi Juncai ordered him and another grave keeper Zeng Caiwang to ruin Shi Leis grave and steal his skeleton from it. Before others asked, Wang Guangping told the cause and effect. Shi Juncai had dug and ruined Shi Leis grave, and his crime was exposed and undisputed. The accusation against Shi Juncai made him dispirited and speechless, while the others, and even including Mo Shujun, didnt overreact. In another word, such a result was not surprising. Shi Qingxue waved her hand, gesturing for Wei Zichao to take Wang Guangping away. Then she gazed at Shi Juncai and asked, Do you have anything else to say? Chapter 307 - Admit the Past Evil Deeds Shi Juncai lowered his head with a pale face and sat on the floor on his knees, trembling. When he raised his head again, he had tears covering his face, crying, I admit that I stole Fathers skeleton, butI did that for Mother! After shouting, he suddenly looked at Mo Shujun and begged, Mother, I did that because you love Father deeply and want to be buried with him. In order to satisfy you, I considered stealing his skeleton and giving it to you. Shi Juncai did give the skeleton to Mo Shujun, and she couldnt remain unmoved, although it was missing later. Shi Qingxue wasnt convinced but asked coldly, If you just wanted to steal Grandpas skeleton, why did you ruin his grave and even do something so evil to it? It might be excusable to steal the skeleton, yet he couldnt go unpunished after ruining the grave. Shi Juncais face stiffened, and after a long while, he tried to explain, I was afraid that others would suspect it then, so I had to ruin the grave and pretend that it was done by outsiders, but I really didnt disrespect Father in my heart. If you are still unsatisfied, I can pay and have his grave restored. Father? Shi Qingxue repeated meaningfully. Then under Shi Juncais surprised eyes, she added coldly, You called him father for so many years. Dont you feel guilty? After she asked such a question, even Mo Shujuns face looked terrible, not to mention that Shi Juncai turned pale. Mo Shujun stared at Shi Qingxue and asked coldly, What do you mean by saying that? Shi Qingxue shrugged and replied unhurriedly, Literally. She gazed at Mo Shujun. Grandma, I still call you grandma now, but please examine your own conscience. Do you really qualify to be my grandma? You! Mo Shujun turned red in anger and pointed to Shi Qingxue, cursing, You cast wild aspersions at me. If you dare to talk nonsense again and slander me recklessly, dont blame me when I turn against you. Shi Qingxue knew that these people wouldnt give up till the end, so she didnt want to argue with them. She just told them the truth coldly. Do you think that the skeleton Shi Juncai gave you is really Grandpas? Mo Shujun was stunned and remained silent. She glanced at Shi Juncai, and he shouted emotionally at once, Mother, dont believe her words. She just casts a bone between us. Shi Qingxue snorted and retorted with disdain, Cast a bone between you? I disdain to do something so dirty. Grandma, just think about it. Since he was so heartless to do something evil to Grandpas grave, he must hate Grandpa to the bone. Do you think that he would really give the skeleton to you in one piece instead of seizing the chance to get back at him? You are just bullshitting! I didnt! Shi Juncai resorted to sophistry in a loud voice and continued anxiously, What you said is just your conjecture. Without evidence, I wont let you slander me! Slander? Shi Qingxue seemed to have heard something laughable and curled her lips coldly. Okay. If you need evidence, I will give you. She wiped the inexistent dust on her sleeve calmly and then looked at Mo Shujun who was in a daze. Shi Qingxue asked, The skeleton Shi Juncai gave you has been put in your dark room for a period, so you must be familiar with it, right? Mo Shujun was still confused and nodded in a trance. Do you still remember that Grandpa was once injured seriously on the battlefield when he was young and the bone in his right leg was fractured? He recovered after recuperating for a long time, yet his right knee would hurt in winter when it was cold. Mo Shujun still nodded, with doubts in her blank eyes. Grandma, please think about it with common sense. Grandpa was wounded so severely. Even though his body turned to white bone, can it be intact? And what does the right knee of the skeleton on the bed in your dark room look like? Shi Qingxue was good at giving methodical and patient guidance and spoke out the fact step by step. In fact, only after Shi Junhe stole the skeleton did she find that it must not be Shi Leis skeleton. Later, she knew the truth gradually after Mo Junyang told her something. In the beginning, Mo Shujun was absent-minded, but when she remembered something, her eyes suddenly got ferocious and she stared at Shi Juncai, questioning in a cold voice, Juncai, what on earth happened? Mother, it is not true. Shi Qingxue just talks nonsense. Dont listen to her. Shi Juncai still argued with excuses, yet his voice became lower and lower and disappeared in the end under Mo Shujuns cold eyes. Shi Qingxue finally said indifferently, If not to get back Grandpas skeleton, I wont reveal the dirty things you did in front of his memorial tablet. She stared at Shi Juncai and stressed each word. Shi Juncai, I dont care that you still have the family name Shi, and I dont want to bother about the fact that you ruined our familys fame, but please give my grandpas skeleton back. Otherwise, dont blame me when I turn against you! Under Shi Qingxues stare, Shi Juncai was nervous and cowered yet soon suddenly understood that she wanted to ask him for something. At this thought, Shi Juncai got excited and his face twisted because of the joy that he couldnt conceal. He trembled excitedly again. Do you want to get back Fathers skeleton? Shi Qingxue didnt answer but just gazed at him coldly. Shi Juncai didnt fear her anymore but raised his chin slightly, trying to discuss with her. I can give Fathers skeleton to you, yet you must take out the token granted by Emperor to save my life. What do you think? Isnt this deal fair? Shi Juncai thought that he had evidence against Shi Qingxue, so he negotiated with her in high spirits, while she glanced at him with disdain. Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Juncai, as if looking at some garbage. Even now you still have the face to call him father? Shi Juncai was stunned by her question. Before he spoke, Mo Shujun protested, Shi Qingxue, what do you mean? Shi Qingxue kept her composure and looked at Mo Shujun coldly. A straightforward person does not resort to insinuations. Do I need to speak out who Shi Juncais father is? Mo Shujun instantly retorted in a sharp voice, Juncai is Shi Leis son. Dont bullshit to mislead the public. Shi Qingxue wasnt in the mood to quarrel with her. Instead, she stated directly, When you were pregnant with Shi Juncai, Grandpa was on the battlefield. In order to make your unborn baby Grandpas, you bought over the midwife and royal doctor to say that you got pregnant three months later, and when you gave birth to him, you said that it was premature birth. Do I need to tell you all these? No! Mo Shujun rarely forgot herself and shouted as she still wanted to refute it. However, Shi Qingxue raised her hand and interrupted Mo Shujun, declaring indifferently, It just happened thirty to forty years ago, and the midwife and royal doctor are still alive. Even the others who colluded with you are alive, too. Do I need to bring all of them to confront you or find that man? She paused for a moment and suddenly glanced at Shi Juncai who was in a daze, continuing emotionlessly, I believe that Shi Juncai surely wants to know who that man is, right? When she asked this question, Shi Juncai suddenly realized everything and couldnt help but goggle at Mo Shujun. He wanted to speak yet held back. Mo Shujun avoided Shi Juncais eyes and still glared at Shi Qingxue coldly. She kept silent and refused to admit defeat. Qingxue, Shi Junhe couldnt control himself but called. He pulled Shi Qingxues arm gently and looked terrible. He wanted to say something seemingly, yet he hesitated, at a loss for words. Father, just let me ask. Shi Qingxue got rid of Shi Junhes hand and stated seriously. Shi Qingxue had known Mo Shujuns true face and didnt pin any hopes on this so-called grandma, while Shi Junhe still wanted to keep the mother-son relationship and didnt hope that the girl would expose everything. However, Qingxue didnt think so. Shi Juncai and Mo Shujun were so shameless and coveted the token granted by Emperor repeatedly, so she couldnt endure it. The Shi family was like a big tree whose root was rotten. No matter how beautiful it looked on the surface, its bone had decayed and it should be thrown away. Shi Qingxue fixed her eyes on Mo Shujun again and continued, Grandma, I know well about you, and you know well about me, too. If there is no solid evidence, will I talk about these with you in front of Grandpas memorial tablet? Mo Shujun bared her teeth and looked ferocious, as if she would rush to bite Shi Qingxue to death. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Shujun fearlessly. Grandma, if you insist, I wont mind talking with you here once and for all. Enough! Mo Shujun roared once more and glared at Shi Qingxue, saying resentfully, Dont you want me to admit everything? I admit it, okay? She said that yet still raised her chin arrogantly. Even if she was really wrong, others should beg her to admit her fault. Nobody could make her lower her head to acknowledge her mistakes. Hearing Mo Shujuns arrogant words, Shi Qingxue sneered. You dont need to admit your fault. You are Grandpas official wife. No matter what you have done, I dont have the right to denounce you. Mo Shujun raised her chin higher conceitedly after hearing that. Shi Qingxue pointed to Shi Juncai who knelt on the floor and said in an indifferent voice, But he is not a member of our family, so he doesnt have the right to use the token granted by Emperor. Grandma, hope that you can understand it. Mo Shujun pretended to be fearless on the surface, yet she was scared in her heart. She had slept with another man and Shi Lei could divorce her according to the law. With the evidence Shi Juncai, if Shi Junhe pursued this matter further, as Shi Leis first son, he could legally end her marriage to his late father and tell her to leave the Shi family even though she was the princess royal. Then she would be disgraced. Mo Shujun was so aggressive just because she bet on one thing. Shi Qingxue cared about Shi Leis fame and wouldnt reveal this truth to the public. The fact proved that she won the bet. However, Shi Qingxue told her to make a choice between her fame and Shi Juncais future, Mo Shujun really Chapter 308 - Convict Him Mo Shujun glanced at Shi Juncai and then looked away subconsciously as soon as she met his begging eyes. Mother, you cant watch me die and do nothing. I am your only child now. If I die, you will be really alone. Shi Juncai was afraid that Mo Shujun wouldnt save him, so he moved on his knees to her and grabbed her sleeve, making a pitiful plea. However, Mo Shujun shook off Shi Juncais hand in the end and declared distantly, Just deal with this case as you like. I wont get involved. After saying, she led her people to leave the ancestral hall of the Shi family, no matter how pitifully Shi Juncai cried. Shi Juncai got up in a hurry and wanted to chase Mo Shujun, while Wei Zichao stopped him at the gate. He pushed Wei Zichao in rage, yet as the latter attacked him with internal force, he fell to sit on the floor heavily, screaming, Ouch! Unfortunately, all people present didnt have extra sympathy to him. They all looked at his feigned manner indifferently. Shi Juncai cried for a while but then stopped resentfully after seeing that all people ignored him. He glared at Shi Qingxue and asked shamelessly, Dont you want to get your grandpas skeleton back? Shi Qingxue goggled and could hardly believe that Shi Juncai still had the face to negotiate with her. She sneered and asked emotionlessly, What? Do you still want to make a deal? Shi Juncai took it for granted and nodded. Now Fa Under Shi Qingxues glare, he was ashamed to call father, yet he expressed his resentment of so many years. Shi Juncai spat on the floor and continued, Now Shi Leis skeleton is in my hands. Its fine if you want to get it back, but you need to give me profit. Otherwise, it is improper, right? Under the situation, Shi Juncai didnt try hard to conceal his feelings. In fact, he hated Shi Lei to the bone since long ago and had even doubted if Shi Lei had known earlier that this was not his biological son so he didnt like the youngest son no matter what he did. When Shi Lei made efforts to educate Shi Junhe to work hard, Shi Juncai still idled about at home, and even when he was unwilling to go to private school, Shi Lei gave in after saying only a few words since Mo Shujun protected the son. He was happy in secret for Mo Shujuns protection then, but now every time he thought of it, he believed that Shi Lei just gave him up. If Shi Lei was as strict with him as Shi Junhe, how would he make fewer achievements than Shi Junhe? While thinking, Shi Juncai believed that he had been treated unfairly, and everything was caused by Shi Lei who was partial, so he got more courageous when threatening Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue peacefully listened to him till he finished his words. Then she pursed her lips and asked impassively, What profit do you want? Save me! Shi Juncai shouted emotionally. His greedy eyes fell on the token granted by Emperor in Shi Qingxues hand, and he added anxiously, As long as you use the token granted by Emperor and make me get away with it, I will give Shi Leis skeleton back to you, okay? Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Juncai coldly and disillusioned the latter, stressing each word. I have said that the token granted by Emperor is left by Grandpa to the descendants of the Shi family. Do you think that you have the qualification to escape from the punishment? Shi Juncai looked embarrassed but soon toughened while snorting. I dont care. Anyway, only if I stay alive can you have a chance to get back Shi Leis skeleton. If you insist on ruining me, lets perish together, and you will never get his skeleton back. Shi Qingxue remained silent. She knew that Shi Juncais request was shameless, yet she couldnt bear to see that her grandpas skeleton was in the hands of such a contemptible man. She had to spare the rat to save the dishes and accept Shi Juncais threat. When she was in a dilemma, Mo Junyang silently took her out of the ancestral hall. It turned out that Wei Ziye was waiting at the gate. Seeing Shi Qingxue, he didnt dare to delay but told the two masters about the message that he had just got. Shi Qingxue was confused in the beginning. While listening, she furrowed her brows more tightly and then got furious in the end. Bastard! Shi Qingxue almost went crazy and returned to the ancestral hall with her red eyes. Under all peoples astonished eyes in the room, she dragged Shi Juncai up and cursed in a rage, Asshole, I will kill you! After speaking, she punched Shi Juncais face and beat him till he fell on the floor. It was Shi Qingxues first time to be so angry. Everybody around was dumbfounded, and even Mo Junyang who followed her in was stunned, too. After a while, seeing that Shi Qingxue still planned to rush to beat Shi Juncai again seemingly, Mo Junyang walked forward and hugged her from behind. He grabbed her clenched fist, comforting her softly. StopEven if you want to beat him, dont use your fist. What if you are injured? When Mo Junyang started to speak, Shi Junhe was about to nod in approval, but after he heard the young mans last words, he put on a long face at once. Shi Junhe rebuked with a frown, Qingxue, dont mess around. He is your uncle anyway. Dont go too far. Even though he said that, he didnt plan to apologize for Shi Qingxues punch. He looked indifferent, and he stopped Shi Qingxue just because he didnt hope that they would make this matter too embarrassing. However, hearing Shi Junhes words, Shi Qingxue was more irritated and her eyes were red out of anger. She retorted emotionally, He is not my uncle. Father, do you know what on earth he did? What? Shi Junhe frowned and his face became tense. Shi Qingxue glared at Shi Juncai ferociously with her resentful eyes and then took a deep breath before she finally calmed down with difficulty. He doesnt have Grandpas skeleton because he crushed the skeleton to ashes and poured them into a river. Shi Junhes eyes widened in shock. What? Is it true? He was scared by this shocking news and got dizzy, moving backward before he managed with effort to steady himself, but he still looked astonished after a long time. It seemed that he couldnt believe what he had heard. Shi Juncai was also surprised and denied it subconsciously. No, I didnt. Fathers skeleton is still in my hands. Dont listen to her bullshit He stuttered. At the sight of Shi Qingxues piercing eyes, he had a shiver down his spine and cried feebly, I told the truth. Shi Qingxue, dont you want to get back your grandpas skeleton? If you dont, I will really tell somebody to turn it into ashes and throw them into a river. Shi Juncai intentionally looked ferocious and said it with certainty. However, Shi Qingxue had known the truth, so she certainly wouldnt be cheated by Shi Juncais words. She waited indifferently till Shi Juncai finished his words and then expressed coldly, Since you like to crush a skeleton to ashes so much, please rest assured. After you die in the future, I will treat you in the same way in return. Nobody knew whether Shi Juncai was frightened by Shi Qingxues threatening eyes or her words, and he opened his mouth but couldnt speak a word after a long time. Qingxue didnt plan to say more to him. Then she turned to Shi Junhe. Father, the criminal who killed Uncle Junfeng has been captured. Just send him to the government. The words send to the government stimulated Shi Juncai in an instant. He struggled violently again and wanted to grab Shi Junhes sleeve. Brother, save me. You cant be so heartless. However, after Shi Junhe heard about what Shi Juncai had done to Shi Leis skeleton, he was completely disappointed at this so-called brother. He ignored Shi Juncais plea and just waved at Wei Zichao, gesturing for him to take Shi Juncai away. Shi Juncais shrill cries became lower and lower till it disappeared in the end. The rest of people in the ancestral hall of the Shi family remained silent for a long while. After a long time, Shi Junhe moved his stiff body and then shook. Father! Shi Qingxue called in a hurry and reached out her hand to support him. Shi Junhe waved away her hand and stated casually, No need. I am fine. All of you, go out now. I want to stay and talk with your grandpa. Shi Qingxue wanted to say more, while Shi Junhe had turned around. She could do nothing but walk out of the ancestral hall with Mo Junyang. When Qingxue reached the gate, she looked back worriedly, to see that Shi Junhe slowly walked to Shi Leis memorial tablet and then knelt down. He remained unmoved. Qingxue looked at him for quite a while and left with a sigh at last. For the case that Shi Juncai had ordered Shi Wang to poison his elder brother Shi Junfeng to death, the evidence was solid. Even though Mo Shujun and Mo Junhao made efforts to help him, Shi Juncai was relieved of his official position and would be banished to one thousand five hundred kilometers away. After Shi Juncai was imprisoned, Mo Shujun didnt show up until he was sentenced to banishment. At night before Shi Juncai was sent into banishment, Mo Shujun finally came to see him in the prison of the Ministry of Penalty. After less than half a month, Shi Juncai lost a lot of weight with his face unshaven, looking like a beggar on the street. Even though Mo Shujun was mad at Shi Juncai, seeing that her son was so haggard, she had tears in her eyes involuntarily. Juncai. Shi Juncai raised his head and glanced at Mo Shujun coldly. Then he looked away and asked impassively, What are you doing here? He said that in a distant tone. It seemed that Mo Shujun was less important to him than a stranger. Mo Shujun couldnt help but frown after hearing that, saying with displeasure, Why do you speak to me like this? Dont forget that I am your mother. Mother? Shi Juncai repeated with a forced smile and leered at Mo Shujun. You are really a good mother. I have become like this because of you. Mo Shujun was rendered speechless and moved backward as she couldnt stand steadily. Fortunately, the maid Rouer supported her from behind, so she didnt fall. She trembled out of anger and cursed involuntarily, Dont you feel guilty till now? If you didnt kill Junfeng, would you be in such a difficult position? At the mention of this matter, Shi Juncai cursed more emotionally, If I didnt take actions in advance, would the title of Duke Shi be given to me? I am your most loved child. Why did you consider leaving the title of nobility to Shi Junfeng who was good for nothing? Mo Shujun was astonished as she hadnt expected that Shi Juncai still coveted the title of Duke Shi, so she said angrily, I have planned a bright future for you, and you can enjoy wealth for a lifetime. Dont you feel contented? Chapter 309 - The Conspiracy of the Mother and Son Feel contented? Shi Juncai snorted with disdain. How can I feel contented? No matter how good the bright future you planned is, can it compare with the title of Duke Shi? In the final analysis, no matter how good I am in your heart, I am less important to you than Shi Leis bloodline, right? No, I Mo Shujun subconsciously wanted to retort, but she felt guilty and couldnt speak a word when she met Shi Juncais eyes with sarcasm. In fact, Shi Juncai was right. Although she looked down upon Shi Junfeng who was obedient, because that was the son of her and Shi Lei, she decided to leave the family fortune Shi Lei had gained to his son. And she even neglected Shi Juncais wish. Hearing Shi Juncais complaint, Mo Shujun felt heartbroken and regretful. She gave hope to Shi Juncai in the past years and made him think that he could inherit the title of Duke Shi, so he always coveted it. However, later she disillusioned Shi Juncai forcefully all of a sudden and wanted him to give up his glory and wealth to others. Perhaps anybody couldnt accept it. Mo Shujun sighed deeply. In the prison where there was nobody else, the lofty princess royal lowered her honorable head and admitted her fault in a low voice. Fine. I didnt consider it carefully but made you suffer from injustice. The words suffer from injustice reminded Shi Juncai of all injustice that he had suffered from these days. The man who was nearly forty years old had tears in his eyes and called in a daze, Mother! His voice was dejected and grieved, and Mo Shujun almost shed tears after hearing it. She turned around in a hurry and wiped her eyes before turning back to Shi Juncai. This time she looked serious and determined, saying, Juncai, dont be afraid. It was my fault. Give me a chance to rectify the situation, okay? Shi Juncai paused for a moment and asked in disbelief, I have been sentenced to banishment, and everything is set in stone. How can you rectify it? Dont worry about it. You just need to stay outside for a period with relief. When His Majesty announces amnesty in the future, I will send some people to bring you back. Then the title of Duke Shi will be yours, and nobody can snatch it. After Shi Juncai heard that, his eyes lit up, yet soon he asked in doubt, Really? Can you really help me gain the title of Duke Shi? Yes! Rest assured. Even though Shi Qingxue looked aggressive in the ancestral hall, I promise that she wont tell anybody about your identity, so as long as you stay alive, there will be a chance, Mo Shujun stated firmly with confidence and envisaged a beautiful blueprint for Shi Juncai again. After saying that, Mo Shujun was still worried and told him again, I have bought over the prison guards who will escort you, and they will provide you with good food and drink on the way, so you wont suffer too much. After you go to Beizhou in the north, just stay there at ease and wait for good news from me. Remember to take care of yourself and dont cause trouble. Understand? Shi Juncai impatiently interrupted Mo Shujun who chattered, replying casually, I see. I am not a child. How would I not take good care of myself? He mentioned the title of nobility again at once and expressed excitedly, Mother, as long as you can help me get back the title of nobility, I will believe that you really love me, and I wont hate you anymore for what happened in the past. He took it for granted and said that. Till now, Shi Juncai didnt think that he was wrong to kill Shi Junfeng who was good for nothing. Instead, he thought that he did everything because others forced him to. Mo Shujun didnt think it was improper but nodded in agreement. Dont worry. You are the most important son to me all the time. How can I bear to see you suffer from injustice? Mother, thanks a lot. The mother and son chatted softly for quite a while and made peace again. Mo Shujun returned to Shi Juncais mansion with her maid. The maid Rouer felt bad as she saw that Mo Shujuns everyday food and clothing were much worse than before, so she couldnt help but advise in a soft voice, Your Highness, even the third master left home now. How about we move back to Duke Shis mansion? I live here in comfort. Why would I move? Mo Shujun resolutely refused Rouers proposal. Mo Shujun had fallen out with Shi Junhe. Even though her second son had been killed, and her third son had been banished, she would rather live in Shi Juncais small house alone than move back to Duke Shis mansion. Rouer sighed helplessly and said tactfully, You are the princess royal of Mo Country, His Majestys aunt, and your honorable status is only second to the Empress Dowager. If others know that you live in such a small house and the news spreads, wont they laugh at you? Moreover, you are the first masters mother in name anyway and have raised him. He should be respectful to you logically. Why do you make yourself suffer? Mo Shujun snorted crossly. What do you know? I have moved out. If I move back to Duke Shis mansion, even though Shi Junhe doesnt dare to do anything to me, do you think that Dong will show respect to me? I would rather die than find shelter under their roof. Whats more She suddenly laughed evilly. Now Duke Shis mansion merely enjoys glory on the surface. I will kick out all people who occupy it someday. Just wait and see! Rouer was shocked. She had thought that Mo Shujun said that in the prison only to make Shi Juncai happy, but she really wanted to snatch the title of Duke Shi. Rouer had seen how capable Shi Qingxue was, and Mo Shujun had suffered losses several times in front of the young lady. Now Mo Shujun was at a disadvantage, and she wouldnt have a chance of winning if she confronted Shi Qingxue. Moreover, all people in the Shi family were powerful. Mo Shujun still wanted to snatch the title of nobility from Shi Junhe, and she was almost daydreaming. She might even get herself into trouble by accident. Rouer considered for Mo Shujun wholeheartedly and tried hard to advise her. However, Mo Shujun was depressed and didnt want to listen to the discouraging talk. She slapped Rouer in her face and interrupted her, cursing furiously, I am your mistress. Just do what I tell you to do. You are a lowly maid. Do you qualify to speak out of turn? Get out and kneel on the ground. Dont get up without my permission. She slapped hard, and Rouers face became red at once. However, Rouer didnt dare to say more. She covered her face and walked out obediently, kneeling on the frozen ground in the courtyard while trembling. On the twenty-eighth day of the lunar twelfth month in the forty-second year after Mo Country was established, King Rui who had travelled faraway came back to the capital city. When Mo Junyang got the message, he was listening to Shi Qingxue playing zither in the Luotong Boudoir. The relationship of this couple was stable, and Shi Junhe almost had agreed to their marriage openly, so Mo Junyang naturally became a frequent guest of Duke Shis mansion. He almost took Duke Shis mansion as his second home these days. He came here every day, and if he stayed here for long sometimes, he would spend the night in the Langyue Pavilion. Shi Junhe had seen it and didnt say anything. Dong Hui had complaints, but she focused on nourishing the fetus and couldnt afford to care about many things. Of course, Mo Junyang didnt care about Dong Huis opinion. Under the condition that the master and mistress of the Shi family didnt notice, he became the second boss of the Luotong Boudoir. After Shi Qingxue finished one tune, she finally found that Mo Junyang was looking at her in a daze again, so she felt amused and annoyed. She secretly walked to Mo Junyang and waved her hand before his eyes. Then she pouted and said with a snort, Was the tune I played so unpleasant to hear? You are distracted. Mo Junyang conveniently grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and pulled her to sit in front of him, yet he still gripped her hand and refused to let her go. He still looked at her with affection in his eyes, whispering, You know what? I have heard you play many tunes, at the banquet in the imperial palace and all kinds of parties, and you are always the most eye-catching. But in the past, I didnt dare to wish that I could hear you play zither for me. Shi Qingxue was stunned and felt that her heart was soaked in sour water in an instant seemingly, which made her feel sad and uncomfortable. The sadness rose to her nose, and she almost sobbed uncontrollably. She had to turn away in embarrassment to prevent her expression from being revealed to Mo Junyang. However, Shi Qingxue didnt know that every expression of hers was precious to Mo Junyang, and he couldnt watch her enough. Especially Shi Qingxue showed the expression because of him. He couldnt help but stare at her greedily, and he could hardly look away from her. Shi Qingxue noticed Mo Junyangs eyes out of the corner of her eye, so she started to blush with shyness. She wanted to tell Mo Junyang not to look at her in this way, yet when she saw his eyes which made her heart beat fast, she couldnt speak out what she was going to say. Qingxue pursed her lips and looked at Mo Junyang shyly, while she still promised in a low voice, In the future, hmm, as long as you want to listen, I can play zither for you. Really? Mo Junyangs eyes lit up. Shi Qingxue was shier. However, such a tranquil environment was rare for them who had lived twice, and Shi Qingxue didnt want to ruin the atmosphere, so she controlled herself and remained unmoved. Even when Mo Junyang moved closer to her, she closed her eyes in silence and allowed him to do what he wanted. They were closer to each other little by little and could feel the other partys breaths. Shi Qingxue even felt that Mo Junyang breathed out hot air on her face. It was hot and made her face more burning. She didnt dodge but even raised her chin. When their lips met Master! Wei Zichaos voice came before his body. Shi Qingxue was shocked and shrank back at once. She hurriedly sat with her head tilted and turned away, preventing Wei Zichao who entered the courtyard from seeing her face. Shi Qingxue acted quickly, so she didnt see that Wei Zichao was scared by Mo Junyangs cold and horrible eyes and didnt dare to speak a word as soon as he came in. After she calmed down, she turned her head, to see that Wei Zichao stood still, so she asked in surprise, Why dont you speak? Wei Zichao felt grieved. He had been told to send a message. Why did his master glare at him with killing intent in the eyes again? How would he dare to say anything? Nevertheless, Wei Zichao couldnt refuse to answer since Shi Qingxue asked. He looked at Mo Junyang, with his miserable eyes. Mo Junyang asked coldly, Say it! Whats wrong? He was prepared to kill Wei Zichao at any time after this guard said something insignificant. Chapter 310 - An Illegitimate Son Wei Zichao still didnt understand how he had offended his master. He answered nervously, WellA servant in our mansion came to report that King Rui has returned to the capital city and wants to see you and Wei Zichao hesitated rarely and glanced at Shi Qingxue cautiously before continuing, And Lady Qingxue. Me? Shi Qingxue pointed at her nose and tilted her head in confusion. She was wondering why King Rui Mo Xiangrui who always traveled around and stayed out of the state affairs returned to the capital unexpectedly, but it was understandable. After all, the Spring Festival was around the corner. Nevertheless, why did Mo Xiangrui want to see her? Mo Junyang furrowed his dashing eyebrows and seemed to be puzzled, too. However, he didnt ask but waved at Wei Zichao, gesturing for the others to go away. When they were left alone in the courtyard, Mo Junyang turned to Qingxue and smiled. Although Father stayed away from the capital city, he didnt leave everything in the capital behind. Shi Qingxue was confused for a moment and then realized that Mo Junyang explained why Mo Xiangrui knew her, so she nodded to show that she understood. So you hope that I She asked with uncertainty and looked hesitant. Mo Junyang stated before she finished her words, Forget it. It doesnt matter if you are unwilling to go. I will explain to Father after going back. He will understand. According to feudal ethics and rites, it was improper that King Rui asked to see Shi Qingxue. After all, Shi Qingxue hadnt married into King Ruis mansion, and they hadnt discussed their marriage openly. If she went to the mansion to visit him, it was not proper. People would comment on her inevitably. Shi Qingxue hesitated, yet it was not because of what Mo Junyang thought about. After he said that in frustration, she didnt hesitate anymore but responded in a hurry, Its not that I am unwilling to! Its just What? Even though Mo Junyang knew well about Shi Qingxue, it was impossible that he knew everything. He couldnt guess what she was worried about except that she didnt want to go to King Ruis mansion. Qingxue stuttered for a long time and couldnt explain it clearly. In the end, she believed that her thought was improper, so she covered her mouth and stopped herself. Then she turned to Mo Junyang and said seriously, I am going with you to see King Rui now. In the beginning, Mo Junyang didnt answer but stared at Shi Qingxue. After he confirmed that she didnt force herself, he looked satisfied gradually. Okay. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and then expressed, I am going to tell Father first. Seeing her boyfriends parent was something significant, and she had to tell Shi Junhe in advance. Mo Junyang agreed and even stated, I am going with you. On the way to the East House, Shi Qingxue peeped at Mo Junyang several times. Then she couldnt help but ask, Are you happy because I will go to your mansion with you? Mo Junyang looked at Shi Qingxue deeply and explained softly at last, In the previous life, my father knew my identity yet didnt mind. He took me as his biological son, and he could be said to be the only person who was nice to me. Later, I had a chance to come to the capital city from Rui City, and he helped me a lot, although his purpose was to avenge my mother His voice was low and vague, and he mentioned many key words ambiguously. Shi Qingxue heard clearly with difficulty and finally understood his words later. In fact, Shi Qingxue knew his identity. In the previous life, when Mo Junyang was twenty-one years old, somebody said that he was a child of King Ruis wife Qi Yue and Emperor Wen Mo Xiangbin with an illicit sexual relation when Qi Yue stayed in the imperial palace as a hostage. The news didnt bring glory and convenience to Mo Junyang who was a hostage, but he was still the target of the princes and they even bullied him more and got more alert to him. At that time, Mo Xiangbin finally paid attention to this hostage who was bullied a lot, yet the first thing Emperor Wen did was title Mo Junyang as King Ruis heir and send him to Rui City, King Ruis fiefdom. The emperor sent a child of King Ruis wife to him, and this action was like provocation. He just sent Mo Junyang to a tigers mouth. According to a normal persons thought, he was kind enough as he didnt secretly kill the son of his wife and his half-brother who had illicit intercourse, and he would never treat this insult well, not to mention that his half-brother even tried to let this son inherit his title of nobility. It was so In the previous life, when Shi Qingxue heard about what Mo Xiangbin had done, she thought that it was excessive, yet it was the critical period for her to help Mo Junhao fight for the title of heir to the throne then, so she didnt have extra energy to care about these insignificant things. When she recalled it, she just felt sad and couldnt help but grab Mo Junyangs hand. I am sorry. I Mo Junyang reached out his hand and stopped her from saying more, responding with a smile, Dont need to apologize. You didnt hurt me. As for everything in the previous life, even though he fell in one-sided love with Shi Qingxue and it ended up with a tragedy, it was just his one-sided wish. Perhaps he had been treated unfairly in the previous life, but Shi Qingxue didnt do anything unfair to him, while he would take revenge on all those who had treated him badly. If there was something that made him regret in the previous life, it was only Mo Xiangrui. Even though Mo Xiangrui knew that he was a result of Mo Xiangbin and Qi Yues illicit intercourse, he still took Mo Junyang as his biological son and protected him, while Mo Junyang had experienced the fickleness of human nature at an early age and remained unmoved when he faced Mo Xiangrui who got close to him, which made King Rui depressed. So even though many things changed in this life and Mo Xiangbin treated him much better after knowing the truth, in Mo Junyangs heart, only Mo Xiangrui was his father. Shi Qingxue pulled Mo Junyangs hand which grabbed hers and raised her head to look at him, saying seriously, I will be with you. She didnt say why, yet her words were precious to Mo Junyang. After they told Shi Junhe, they got into the carriage, heading to King Ruis mansion. When the carriage was about to reach King Ruis mansion, the horse suddenly roared and the carriage rocked. Then it was stopped abruptly. Shi Qingxue didnt sit steadily, so she rushed into Mo Junyangs arms, with her chin knocking on his shoulder heavily. It hurt her so much that she shed tears. Whatwhats wrong? Mo Junyang hugged her and rubbed her chin gently while shouting at the people outside. Wei Zichao reported outside the thick curtain, Master, a teenage boy who is about seventeen or eighteen years old stopped the carriage and said that he wanted to see you. See me? There was surprise in Mo Junyangs cold voice. He didnt remember when he knew such a boy. However, he frowned and lifted the curtain, seeing the teenager. The boy was about seventeen or eighteen years old, dressed in shabby clothes. He was dirty and thin. In cold winter, he looked thinner and more pitiful, like a beggar on the street. Seeing the boy kneel in front of the carriage in silence, Mo Junyang asked coldly, Who are you? The boy raised his head to glance at Mo Junyang cautiously and then lowered it again in a hurry after meeting Mo Junyangs eyes. He answered obediently, IMy name is Qi Zhengdao. Mo Junyang still looked at the boy with a frown and didnt say anything. He didnt remember if he had heard of this name. The boy was kneeling on the ground obediently for a while but didnt hear Mo Junyang say anything. Then he mustered up his courage to raise his head and look at Mo Junyang. He stated tentatively, II have something to show you. Bring it for me. I will check. Mo Junyang nodded at Wei Zichao, who then walked to Qi Zhengdao immediately and received what he handed over before giving it to Mo Junyang. In the beginning, Mo Junyang didnt care at all, but his expression changed when he saw the jade pendant handed by Qi Zhengdao. His eyes became sharp at once and he looked this thin teenager up and down carefully for the first time. Then he asked, Who are you again? IMy name is Qi Zhengdao, the boy repeated his name. I didnt ask about your name. Mo Junyang stared at the boy once more. The boy fell into silence. Nobody knew whether he didnt understand what Mo Junyang meant or he didnt want to answer. Mo Junyang didnt have the patience to waste time with him, so he continued directly, If you dont want to say anything, just go with this jade pendant. Perhaps it was the first time for Qi Zhengdao to see a person who was so impatient. He got nervous and replied in a hurry, My fathers name is Mo Xiangrui. He was probably anxious and raised his voice, shouting. As soon as he finished his words, people around gasped. Qi Zhengdao seemed to finally realize that he had done something wrong, so he lowered his head instantly and stopped talking. Mo Junyang looked peaceful and stared at Qi Zhengdao, asking calmly, Since you gave the jade pendant to me. Do you want something from me? Of course, he didnt believe that Qi Zhengdao just wanted to give something like a keepsake back to King Ruis mansion on a whim. If so, Qi Zhengdao should tell somebody to send it in secret instead of stopping the carriage on the street and saying that he was King Ruis illegitimate son under the watchful eyes of many people. Even though Qi Zhengdao didnt force Mo Junyang, it was not simple. As expected, as soon as Mo Junyang finished his words, Qi Zhengdao looked awkward and blushed on his ghastly pale cheeks. He bit his lower lip hard and seemed to be embarrassed. Nobody knew whether he couldnt withstand the cold wind or he was stimulated by Mo Junyangs words. His eyes rolled and he fell into a coma next to the horse in the end unexpectedly. Wei Zichao hurriedly reached out his hand to feel the boys nose. Seeing that the boy was still breathing, he asked Mo Junyang, Master, he is in a coma. How should we deal with him? His voice was indifferent. However, it was not surprising. Wei Zichao worked for Mo Junyang, and somebody suddenly showed up and claimed to be King Ruis illegitimate son. Even though Mo Junyang didnt say anything, Wei Zichao would never like anybody who might threaten his master. Just take him to the mansion first. Mo Junyang was still expressionless and made an arrangement impassively. Then he put down the curtain and motioned for them to drive the horse. After he returned to the carriage, there were only two people inside, Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue. Mo Junyangs face which was always expressionless looked serious. He raised his head and happened to meet Shi Qingxues eyes. They noticed the doubts in the other partys eyes. Chapter 311 - See Her Future Father-in-law It was silent in the carriage. Shi Qingxue started a conversation and asked first, Qi Zhengdao? I have never heard of this name in the past. You Of course, the past meant the previous life of them. In the previous life, King Rui had only one son till death, Mu Junyang, his wifes illegitimate son, but he never had an illegitimate son. So they were confused by the illegitimate son who showed up all of a sudden. Shi Qingxue wanted to ask if Qi Zhengdao was lying. However, Mo Junyang said, The jade pendant is real. Is this jade pendant very important? Shi Qingxue tilted her head in doubt. Otherwise, how could Mo Junyang have recognized at a glance that it belonged to King Rui and he attached importance to it? Mo Junyang glanced at Shi Qingxue and then replied, It belonged to Qi Yue. Do you think that it is important? Shi Qingxue was speechless. It was said that King Rui loved his wife to the bone, but he had to let her stay in the capital as a hostage while he went to the fiefdom. Later, he finally came back and lived in the capital, yet his wife had died of an illness. King Ruis heart died with her and he refused many matchmakers, which made a lot of noble ladies in the capital sad. After all, when King Ruis wife Qi Yue died, he was in his early thirties as a young man, and he loved his wife so deeply, so he was a perfect lover in the dreams of countless noble ladies. An illegitimate son of King Rui showed up all of a sudden, so both Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue were astonished, let alone outsiders. However, they kept calm and decided to wait and see after they discussed it. They returned to King Ruis mansion, and King Rui Mo Xiangrui was sitting in the main hall, waiting for them. As soon as he saw the two kids, his eyes lit up and he got up from the seat, walking to them. You are Qingxue, right? Junyang talked about you in front of me frequently, and I wondered what the girl who stole his heart was like. After I see you today, I know that you are true to your name. Mo Xiangruis voice was loud and hearty, and he wasnt stingy to give Shi Qingxue the highest praise. Shi Qingxue blushed with shyness after hearing his compliments. She wanted to reply that Mo Xiangrui flattered her, and meanwhile, she wanted to say something to make him happy. It couldnt be simpler to Shi Qingxue who was smart with a silver tongue. However, Mo Xiangrui didnt give her a chance to speak but started to summon a servant, saying that he had brought a gift for her. Even though Shi Qingxue was capable of dealing with all men, she was frightened by Mo Xiangruis behavior. She looked at Mo Junyang blankly and asked in silence, What is going on? Since Mo Junyang entered the room, he seemed to have become invisible, and he was ignored by Mo Xiangrui thoroughly. Nevertheless, he wasnt angry. Facing Shi Qingxues doubtful eyes asking for help, he couldnt help but laugh. He raised his hand and caressed her cheek, comforting her gently. It doesnt matter. Father Mo Junyang thought of something seemingly and laughed again involuntarily. He just wanted to see you too much. Why did King Rui want to see a young girl? Shi Qingxue glanced at Mo Junyang, seeming to be angry with him and play the woman. Mo Junyang accepted it calmly and smiled. Father will reward you with some gifts later. Just accept them. Qingxue nodded to show that she would do that. However, when King Rui gave the gift to her, she was astonished. It was because the gift was too valuable. Shi Qingxue had a subtle insight. At the sight of the bright red cloak, she knew that it was rare and exquisite, worth a lot of money. When I traveled in Beizhou, I hunted a marten there. It happens that I have a servant who is skilled in making clothes, so I gave it to him and told him to make a cloak with its pelt. Its just that I dont know if you like such a small thing, King Rui stated with a smile, in a gentle and intimate tone. When Shi Qingxue saw the cloak, she couldnt look away from it. Hearing Mo Xiangruis words, she hurriedly received it and put it on. The bright red color was mainly used for a wedding, while the color of the cloak was different from the red color at a common wedding, and it was more fresh and brighter. When it was on Shi Qingxue, it set off her tender and fair-skinned face, making her more beautiful and dazzling. Mo Junyang was never tempted by a beauty, but when he looked at Shi Qingxue, he was in a daze and couldnt look away from her. Shi Qingxue didnt notice Mo Junyangs feverish eyes. She hurriedly expressed her gratitude to Mo Xiangrui. Your Highness, thanks for your gift. I really like this cloak. The young girl didnt express her thanks respectfully, yet her words showed that she thanked him sincerely and liked it, which made Mo Xiangrui feel relieved and satisfied. Seeing that his son looked at the girl in a silly way, he felt that it was laughable and sighed with emotion. It was his first time to see that his son was so crazy about a girl. He even couldnt help but think with jealousy, My son has grown up and begins to understand love. If King Rui had known how long his son who looked cold-hearted had been in love with Shi Qingxue, he wouldnt have worried in secret if the boy had no feelings for girls but would worry if he was too precocious. However, no matter how Mo Xiangrui commented on his son secretly, when he looked at Shi Qingxue, he was easy-going and amiable. On one hand, since he saw Shi Qingxue for the first time, he liked this lovely girl, and on the other hand, his loved son rarely fell in love with a girl and wouldnt be lonely till death, so he inevitably wanted to help the young man. So when Mo Xiangrui intentionally got close to Shi Qingxue, and the girl buttered him up, they talked happily. They talked about the landscape of the north, which was the beautiful scenery that Shi Qingxue had never seen, and Mo Xiangrui had a sense of humor, making the girls eyes light up as she yearned to watch it. In the beginning, Mo Junyang was well-behaved and sat aside, listening to them talking. Later, when he saw that the two talked and ignored him, he felt bad and couldnt help but cough several times in the end. Mo Xiangrui finally stopped talking after hearing the boys coughs. Shi Qingxue was still immersed in the beautiful view described by Mo Xiangrui. After a while, she finally realized in surprise that he suddenly stopped. Whats wrong? Ahem Mo Junyang coughed twice again. He attracted the attention of the two. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang with concern and frowned, asking, Whats wrong with you? Did you catch a cold? After going back home, I will tell the cook to boil a bowl of ginger tea for you, okay? Mo Junyang ignored Mo Xiangruis eyes with a faint smile and accepted Qingxues concern calmly, replying, Okay. I am going back with you later. Hmm, then As soon as Shi Qingxue started to speak, she realized something and her expression changed. Then she shut up. These days, Mo Junyang almost took Duke Shis mansion as his home, so Shi Qingxue said the words go back home without thinking. After saying that, she realized that King Ruis mansion was Mo Junyangs real home. However, she openly tried to take his son back home in front of King Rui. Wouldnt he change his attitude even though she did her best to win his heart? Shi Qingxues cold sweat fell, and she hurriedly apologized to King Rui. I am sorry. I was quick and thoughtless in speech just now. There is everything in your mansion, and if Junyang needs to drink ginger tea, you can just tell the cook to make it. I am only Looking at Mo Xiangruis indifferent face because he could do nothing to his son who indulged in pleasure and forgot his home and duty, she added frankly even though her face was burning hot, I am only worried about Junyang, so I said that. Its not that The two men pretended to be ignorant just now but got stunned after hearing Shi Qingxues sincere words suddenly. Mo Xiangrui looked at Mo Junyang and raised his brows. Your future wife really cares about you. Mo Junyang had a smile which deserved a spanking in his eyes and brows, and the corners of his mouth uplifted complacently. Needless to say. Mo Xiangrui wanted to beat his son, yet he was quite satisfied with this future daughter-in-law. He cleared his throat and wanted to tell Shi Qingxue not to be so nervous, but before he finished his words, Wei Zichao walked in and reported, Master, he has woken up and asked to see you. I see. Mo Junyang nodded slightly to show that he understood. Before Mo Junyang made arrangements, Mo Xiangrui observantly felt his sons emotion changes and asked in a hurry, Whats the matter? Is there anything difficult to handle? Mo Junyang shook his head and still looked calm. After a while, he told Mo Xiangrui, Its a teenage boy. He stopped my carriage this morning and then sank into a coma next to the carriage, so I took him back. Mo Xiangrui frowned and asked with displeasure, Why did you take anybody you met on the street home? You are too soft-hearted, right? Shi Qingxue listened to the conversation between the father and son, at a loss whether to cry or to laugh. She thought, Mo Xiangrui didnt see what Mo Junyang had done. Otherwise, he wouldnt describe his son as soft-hearted. Nevertheless, on second thought, she believed that like father, like son. Mo Junyang had been raised by Mo Xiangrui, both in the previous life and this life, so perhaps this father was not merciful, either. Shi Qingxue didnt feel scared but was curious. What would Mo Xiangrui do after knowing the teenage boy Qi Zhengdaos identity? As expected, Mo Junyang seemed to have seen through Qingxues curiosity and stated next second, That boy had a jade pendant of yours and claimed to be your son. He said that directly and flatly and revealed the truth without keeping his father in suspense. Only Mo Junyang would do something like this. Qingxue saw clearly that Mo Xiangruis face stiffened, and he finally spoke out one word after a long while. Really? Mo Junyang nodded and continued, I have taken him back. Please go to see him. Afterward, he gave Mo Xiangrui the jade pendant handed by Qi Zhengdao. When Mo Xiangrui saw that jade pendant, he turned pale all of a sudden and hurriedly grabbed it from Mo Junyangs hand, checking it carefully for quite a while. He didnt look calm as he did when he talked with Shi Qingxue just now. Then he raised his head abruptly and looked at Mo Junyang anxiously, Where is he? His voice seemed to be stern. The air in the room stagnated seemingly and made people almost unable to breathe. Chapter 312 - Beyond Expectation Shi Qingxue worriedly looked at Mo Xiangrui. When they were in the carriage, she had guessed that Qi Zhengdao might be Mo Xiangruis illegitimate son. However, she didnt think too much then. Now Mo Xiangrui was so nervous, and it was difficult to understand. Mo Junyang still didnt care but smiled at Shi Qingxue to comfort her. Seeing that, Shi Qingxue was relieved and followed them to see Qi Zhengdao. Qi Zhengdao was feeble as he had just woken up, and a servant was feeding ginseng soup to him. A doctor in the mansion stood aside. Such a stranger didnt qualify to be treated by Shen Luo in person. After seeing Mo Xiangrui, he knelt down respectfully at once and greeted, Your Highness. Qi Zhengdao suddenly raised his head and looked at Mo Xiangrui, without hiding the strangeness and excitement in his eyes. His pale face looked more pitiful and weaker. He trembled and got up slowly, standing beside the bed. He wanted to get close to King Rui seemingly, yet he felt scared. Are you King Rui? Qi Zhengdao licked his lips and asked in a husky voice. He tried to avoid seeing King Rui as he was in awe of him, but in the end, the awe was replaced with admiration, and he raised his big bright eyes, looking at Mo Xiangrui. Mo Xiangrui was strong with momentum, yet his forehead was charming, dazzling with clear eyes, which was the unique style of the royal family members. The teenage boy Qi Zhengdao hadnt grown up, and he was so weak, while his eyes and brows were similar to Mo Xiangruis to a great extent. Before Mo Xiangrui said anything, the servants guessed secretly after seeing their faces. Then they looked Mo Junyang up and down while making conjectures. As expected, Mo Xiangrui looked at Qi Zhengdao who was as weak as a chicken and hurriedly strode to him. He supported the boy and rebuked with power, You havent recovered. Why did you get up? Although he rebuked, anybody who was sensible could notice Mo Xiangruis concern about the boy. He helped Qi Zhengdao lie on the bed and then replied in a warm voice, Yes, I am King Rui. Then he took out the jade pendant and showed it to Qi Zhengdao, asking, Where did you get this jade pendant? Qi Zhengdaos eyes fell on the jade pendant, and he answered gloomily, My mother gave it to me. Where is she now? How is she? What did she say when she gave the jade pendant to you? Mo Xiangrui couldnt help but ask three questions in succession anxiously. However, Qi Zhengdao kept silent and looked sad. When Mo Xiangrui got impatient after waiting and wanted to ask again, the boy struggled to get up once more. He knelt on the bed and kowtowed to Mo Xiangrui with effort, begging in tears, Your Highness, my mother told me not to disturb your peaceful life, while I really had no choice but to come to your mansion. I beg you to show mercy and save my mother, Your Highness! What? Mo Xiangrui got up all of a sudden, too. He looked at Qi Zhengdao in astonishment and asked anxiously, What on earth happened? Tell me now. Qi Zhengdao didnt hide anything since he started the subject. He told Mo Xiangrui that his mother was critically ill and there was no effective medicine, and he was exhausted and had nowhere to go. All his words were sorrowful. Any listener would feel sad and shed tears. Moreover, the one who heard these words was Mo Xiangrui. He was in panic at once and asked hurriedly, Where is Ruyue? Take me to see her now. Qi Zhengdaos eyes lit up at once. Although he was still weak, he struggled to get up. It seemed that he was afraid that Mo Xiangrui would run away, and he grabbed King Ruis hand anxiously, refusing to let him go. Mo Xiangrui lowered his head and looked at their hands together, then he looked stunned on his dignified face, but in the end, he didnt say anything unexpectedly, letting Qi Zhengdao grab his hand and walking out of the mansion. All the servants were good at observing. In the beginning, they noticed that Mo Xiangrui showed unusual concern about this teenage boy from nowhere, and even before asking about this strangers identity, he allowed the boy to offend him. This boy had a high position in King Ruis heart. However, because of this, the servants furrowed their brows more tightly. The reason was simple. There was an official heir in King Ruis mansion. A teenage boy suddenly showed up and might be King Ruis illegitimate son left in folk. Only at this thought, they could imagine a drama of fighting for the title of nobility. However, the heir kept his composure from beginning to end and even unhurriedly followed King Rui out of the mansion. With this attitude, did he like this boy? Would they side with one of them? Mo Junyang naturally wouldnt care about what the servants were worried about. He left carefreely, which made Shi Qingxue happy for a while. Till they got into the carriage again, Qingxue was still laughing. Mo Junyang glanced at her repeatedly and finally couldnt help asking, Is it so laughable? Of course. Unfortunately, the position of Duke Shis heir is vacant all the time, and the second family and third family covet it yet dont have the nerve. They didnt dare to show their ambition too obviously. I have never seen that the servants in my family worry about something like this. Its so Shi Qingxue grinned from ear to ear. She finally saw that the emperor didnt worry but the eunuchs were anxious. At this thought, Qingxue couldnt help but gently pull Mo Junyangs sleeve, which made him glance at her. Then she showed a flattering smile. Be serious. What on earth are you thinking about? Shi Qingxue didnt have a brother, while the only adopted brother Wenren Chi had never coveted the title of Duke Shi and even might feel disgusted with it, so she really didnt know what he was thinking about when he had to fight for the title of nobility with his brother. Would it be like a fight for the title of heir to the throne among the princes? Mo Junyang didnt want to ask. He shot a glance at her and then closed his eyes to rest his mind. Shi Qingxue felt more anxious and curious. She grabbed his sleeve again and showed a sweeter smile. Good brother, just tell me. Her words good brother made herself have goose bumps. Qingxue restrained the urge to withdraw her hand and rub her arm, looking at Mo Junyang with expectancy. Mo Junyang relaxed before his face was tense for long. Then he opened his eyes again and looked at Qingxue. Although his expression was still indifferent, there was an evident smile in his eyes and brows. Do you really want to know? It was a sign that he was going to tell her. Shi Qingxue nodded repeatedly and her eyes were brighter, like a kitten asking for a hug. So Mo Junyang didnt hesitate to grab Qingxues hand and hold her in his arms. Before Shi Qingxue reacted, she was sitting on Mo Junyangs knees. It felt soft and comfortable. The mans warm breath could be felt on the tip of her ear. Before she tried to struggle, he said gently, If you dont move, I will tell you. Qingxue instantly became dumb like a wooden chicken and just pricked up her ears, trying hard to listen to Mo Junyangs next words. Mo Junyang laughed in a deep voice. You are so lovely. Shi Qingxue was speechless. So she was molested? However, before she got angry, the man said, Its so great that I can hug you like this. Shi Qingxue kept silent. Fine. Even though she didnt want to admit it, she got soft-hearted indeed. In fact, she was never the kind of people who would get soft-hearted easily, but since she was reborn, anything Mo Junyang did could make her soft-hearted easily. Qingxue was relieved at once and leaned against Mo Junyangs chest. Her face clung to his, and it seemed that as long as she turned her head, she could kiss his cheek. She didnt move or ask anxiously. It was because she knew that the man wouldnt hide anything from her as long as she wanted to know it, even if it was a shocking secret. He did so just because he wanted the intimacy for a moment. She felt happy in secret. Why not? As Shi Qingxue guessed, Mo Junyang enjoyed her warmth and fragrance. After a long time, he said slowly, Qingxue, in fact, I dont mind. You dont mind Qi Zhengdaos identity? Shi Qingxue had predicted so, so she was not surprised. Mo Junyang nodded and continued before Qingxue asked, Right. I dont care whether he is Fathers illegitimate son or how Father will treat him. I It seemed to remind Mo Junyang of some secrets, and his voice became soft. He whispered, My identity can be kept as a secret for a period, yet it may not be hidden for a lifetime, so I just hope that Father can be healthy and happy. Shi Qingxue noticed Mo Junyangs hidden meaning and still didnt turn her head to look at him, as she didnt need to. She just gently grabbed his hand on her waist. She didnt speak but comforted him in silence. The carriage soon came to the southern suburbs of the capital city. It was a place for refugees to stay. Everything was shabby and desolate, with few people. There were thatched cottages with frames and sheds on both sides of the road, and several refugees could be seen indistinctly inside. These structures with air leaks on all sides were built by some people sent by the government to settle the victims of a natural calamity temporarily when there was flood in summer. It was just a place to take shelter. It was fine in summer. They could stay alive even with the sky as a quilt and the floor as a bed, but in winter, such a cottage couldnt make the residents take shelter from wind or rain. After they stayed here for only a few days, they might freeze to death. The carriage stopped. Mo Xiangrui was shocked and remained still after seeing the shabby cottages. Qi Zhengdao seemed not to have noticed Mo Xiangruis unusual expression but grabbed him and walked in while introducing, Here we are. Mother is inside. Mo Xiangrui suddenly stopped and didnt dare to enter. Since he saw Qi Zhengdao, he knew that the boy and his mother must not live a good life. However, he had never expected that the boys life was so difficult. The stronger wind could blow such a cottage away and the heavy snow could make it collapse. He really didnt dare to imagine what the woman living in this place was like. Your Highness, why dont you go? Qi Zhengdao looked back at Mo Xiangrui in confusion. It seemed that he didnt understand why King Rui stopped at the door. Did he regret it? At the thought of this possibility, Qi Zhengdao turned pale and trembled. He was going to kneel down while begging, Your Highness, please save Mother! Mo Xiangrui hurriedly supported Qi Zhengdao, with a more complicated expression. He was unable to explain his weird and complex feelings to the boy. When he was at a loss for words, several coughs from the room could be heard suddenly. In the place with white snow, the voice was clear. Mo Xiangrui seemed to be struck by lightning. He thought that he had forgotten this voice, yet he felt that it was so familiar and he had just heard it yesterday seemingly. Next second, King Rui shook off Qi Zhengdaos hand and rushed into the room. Chapter 313 - Enter King Rui’s Mansion The bad state of disrepair in the room was beyond Mo Xiangruis imagination. A crude table was in the middle of the room with one broken leg. The table with three legs was in imminent danger of falling down. There was a big bed with a width of less than one meter and a half in a corner, and a woman at her last gasp was lying in it. The woman was covered with a dirty and heavy cotton quilt, showing only her small face. She didnt wear make-up on her face, yet she looked weak and more charming because of her illness. However, the woman covered her lips and coughed seriously. Her face twisted in pain. It didnt look ugly but showed weird beauty. Mo Xiangrui recognized her at first glance and rushed to the bed at once, shouting emotionally, Ruyue. The woman called Ruyue seemed to have finally found that there was an uninvited guest in the room. She suddenly raised her head to have a look. When she saw Mo Xiangrui clearly, her pupils widened in disbelief all of a sudden. Next second, beyond expectation, she suddenly lifted the quilt and covered herself in it, hiding herself. It seemed that in this way, nobody could find her. However, her illness didnt understand the owners hard effort, and she still coughed in a muffled voice in the quilt uncontrollably. In this shabby room with air leaks, it was weird. Mo Xiangrui was confused by the womans subconscious action, but soon he understood why she behaved like an ostrich. As expected, Qi Zhengdao hurriedly rushed to the bed and started to pull the womans quilt, saying endlessly, Mother, your illness can be cured. Look, who did I bring? Come out now. The woman still covered herself with the quilt and remained unmoved. She said in a deep and muffled voice, I dont want to see him. Tell him to go. I wont see him. It was Qi Zhengdaos first time to see that his mother shouted regardless of her manners, so he was stunned. Looking at the arched quilt and then at Mo Xiangrui, he couldnt understand why his mother refused to see his father when he came even though she missed him every day and night. Qi Zhengdao couldnt figure it out, while he was more worried about his mothers health, so he advised anxiously, Mother, just come out. If you are not treated, it will be too late. I beg you, okay? The woman in the quilt stopped moving and refused in silence. Qi Zhengdao didnt know what to do, while Xiang Xiangrui strode over and pulled the boy aside, standing next to the bed. He stared at the arched quilt and pursed his lips, feeling that his voice was hoarse. Ruyue. The woman in the quilt seemed to be frightened and trembled violently, but she just hid in it and refused to go out or make sounds. Mo Xiangrui was anxious and personally pulled the dirty quilt that he would never touch at ordinary times, shouting continuously, Ruyue, I know that its you. Come out now. Let me see you. I want to see you. Nobody knew if the last words I want to see you worked, and the quilt which covered her tightly could be lifted. Mo Xiangrui got joyful and pulled the dirty quilt, looking at her. The woman was ghastly pale and sank into a coma unexpectedly. Mother, Mother, whats wrong with you? Dont leave me. Qi Zhengdao turned pale with fear and rushed to hug the woman. Qi Zhengdao looked terrified and shook the womans body repeatedly, trying to wake her up, with his tears falling without a stop. In the beginning, Mo Xiangrui was scared out of wits and stared at the woman in the bed, remaining still. Mo Junyang next to him reminded in time, She must be just in a coma. Mo Xiangrui finally reacted and pulled the quilt away. He didnt feel disgusted with the dirty quilt but carried the woman, ordering the people outside in a loud voice, Somebody, go to the imperial palace and ask a royal doctor to come. Tell Doctor Shen to wait in the mansion. After he ordered, the guards waiting in the room didnt reply after a long while but looked at Mo Junyang hesitantly. In fact, the first order was fine, and it was not difficult to find a royal doctor in the imperial palace, as the kings mansion had this right, while the second order The miracle-working doctor Shen Luo stayed in King Ruis mansion in name, yet anybody knew that he worked for Mo Junyang. It was no problem if King Rui needed to be treated, but he directly ordered Shen Luo to treat a woman who might become Mo Junyangs step-mother in the future without asking him. Didnt he embarrass Mo Junyang in public? The relationship between the father and son was in imminent danger. After Mo Xiangrui said that, he realized this point and turned pale immediately. He looked at Mo Junyang in embarrassment, yet when he met the young mans eyes, he looked away with guilt. Junyang, I King Rui had a guilty conscience and wanted to explain, but he didnt know what to say. He stuttered and couldnt find a presentable reason. Mo Junyang kept his composure and ordered, Why dont you do as His Highness ordered? He pondered for a moment and then stated, That woman looks weak and probably needs to stay in the mansion for a period before she recovers. Go back and tell the servants to clean up the Qingshui House to settle them. He made arrangements properly and received them with etiquette, just in Mo Xiangruis shoes, and he even arranged what his father didnt have time to consider. Mo Xiangrui felt more guilty and praised Mo Junyang for his magnanimity, just shouting emotionally, Good son. The guards couldnt help but praise in secret that the young master was broad-minded. Then they quickly left to do their jobs. After Mo Xiangrui put the woman in the carriage, he stiffened and pulled Mo Junyangs arm. He wanted to say something seemingly yet couldnt speak a word. Mo Junyang patiently stood with Mo Xiangrui outside the carriage. After a while, he looked up at the sky and reminded gently, Father, its getting dark now. If we waste time, perhaps the woman will get more seriously ill. Lets go back to the mansion as soon as possible. His voice was calm and gentle without displeasure. Noticing that Mo Xiangrui cared about his mother so much, Qi Zhengdao felt happy secretly and restless. He knew that he was an illegitimate son and couldnt win the legitimate sons respect, and he might be inferior to a favored servant in the mansion. If Mo Junyang didnt like him for something, he could make Qi Zhengdao unable to stay in the capital city or even in the whole country. However, he really had nowhere to go, so he could do nothing but ask for help, hoping that King Ruis heir could be magnanimous and give him a chance of survival. Mo Junyang didnt feel resentful, which was what Qi Zhengdao wanted. Qi Zhengdao didnt care about anything more but anxiously begged, Father, please save Mother as soon as possible. Hearing Qi Zhengdaos request, Mo Xiangrui had to restrain himself even though he wanted to say a lot. He just carried the woman to the carriage and rushed to the mansion. Shi Qingxue watched everything and saw that Mo Xiangrui cared about the woman, so she was surprised and asked in a low voice, Who is that woman? Why does His Highness take her so seriously? He even pushed Mo Junyang aside? Fine. Even though Mo Junyang agreed that it was more important to save a persons life, so what? Mo Junyang expressed his attitude, yet what Mo Xiangrui should do was another matter. Even though people should be flexible when it was emergent, Mo Xiangrui embarrassed Mo Junyang after doing that. Mo Junyang still didnt care. He shrugged and replied slowly, This woman is like King Ruis wife who died of a disease. Huh? Shi Qingxue was stunned for a while and then reacted, while the expression on her face became more confused. King Ruis wife Qi Yue was a princess of the previous dynasty, the Qi Dynasty. When the Qi Dynasty was destroyed and replaced with the Mo Dynasty, Qi Yue was just an infant. However, because she was so young, the late emperor didnt make things difficult for her but titled her as infanta and raised her in the imperial palace with the princes and princesses. The late emperor saw that Qi Yue and Mo Xiangrui loved each other after they grew up, so he granted their marriage. It was said that Infanta Qi Yue was a famous beauty in the capital city since she was unmarried, yet this beautiful woman suffered a harsh life and died of an illness soon after she gave birth to Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue had never seen Qi Yue, but she always wondered involuntarily whether Mo Junyang would live a better life if King Ruis wife lived for longer. She thought about what Mo Junyang had said and finally figured out what was wrong. Then she couldnt help asking in surprise, She was your mother. Why did you call her King Ruis wife? It was such a distant form of address, and it seemed that they were not mother and son. Nothing. I am used to it. Mo Junyang avoided Qingxues eyes and tried to say it casually. However, Shi Qingxue immediately noticed his sad feeling. She couldnt help but move closer to Mo Junyang and grab his hand, saying apologetically, I am sorry. I shouldnt have asked that. Mo Junyang shook his head and didnt care. He continued to explain, Father is carefree all the time, while he cant forget his wife but misses her all the time. Although he has several concubines in the mansion, they are only his playthings and unpresentable, and he never cares about them, yet this onehmm He thought that Mo Xiangrui called the woman Ruyue, and the teenage boys family name was Qi, so he understood at once. He sneered. Qi Ruyue, a nice name. It seems to be a compensation for Father prepared by God. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue understood the hidden meaning. She couldnt help frowning. Qi Zhengdao He came in person, and anybody would suspect those peoples motives. For example, Qi Ruyue might be true, while this son who showed up all of a sudden Mo Junyang shook his head and said indifferently, I am not sure yet. They know that Shen Luo is in my mansion but dare to come and claim to be related to my father openly, so it must be true. Moreover, Qi Zhengdao looked like Mo Xiangrui a lot. When he grew up, he would probably be more like Mo Xiangrui than Mo Junyang. But the two people have an impure purpose. If you let them stay in your mansion, I am afraid that its easy to invite them yet it will be difficult to ask them to leave in the future. Shi Qingxue couldnt help getting worried. Although there were endless fights in wealthy and powerful families, there was only one young master, the heir in King Ruis mansion in the past. Even if there were fights, it wouldnt have anything to do with Mo Junyang or shake his position. These two would surely want something once they entered the mansion. Nevertheless, nobody knew how much they wanted. Would they return to the ancestors and just want to have a position in the mansion? Or would they try to fight for the title of King Ruis heir? Chapter 314 - King Rui’s Anxiety Mo Junyang smiled at Shi Qingxue faintly and casually with calmness. It doesnt matter. He didnt explain more, but his attitude told Shi Qingxue clearly that it was no big deal to him. Shi Qingxue still didnt know Mo Junyangs plan, yet she didnt continue to ask. She trusted Mo Junyang so much. Since he said that it was no big deal, it was unimportant. She just stated, In this case, I will go back home now. The Lunar New Years Eve will come in a few days, and there will be a banquet in the imperial palace on regular basis. Lets enter the imperial palace together then. Mo Junyang had wished to lure her into his mansion, and in fact, he almost succeeded. If nobody stopped his carriage on the road, Shi Qingxue would stay there till night even though she would go back home, but now Mo Junyang finally felt sad. He couldnt express his feelings obviously, yet he had to say, I am going to send you back home. Shi Qingxue shook her head. No need. Some people came to the mansion, and you should go and have a look. She was afraid that Mo Junyang would be worried about her, so she patted her chest, pledging in all sincerity and seriousness, Dont worry. I am not a child now. I can take good care of myself. In fact, Shi Qingxue wanted to say that before she woke up in this life, that Shi Qingxue was a real young girl, but she didnt see that Mo Junyang was nervous about her then. They were much closer in the past than in the previous life, yet they were not so inseparable as now. It seemed that Shi Qingxue was something fragile and would be broken as soon as she was out of Mo Junyangs sight. Although Shi Qingxue knew Mo Junyangs thought and she was clear that he was worried about her, she couldnt stand it once it happened frequently. These days, even Shi Junhe laughed at her and said that she was like a child and seemed to be kept in captivity by Mo Junyang. Just believe me. I will be fine. Shi Qingxue played the woman and grabbed Mo Junyangs sleeve, making a pledge that she could take good care of herself. Of course, Mo Junyang couldnt rest assured, but he couldnt bear to make Qingxue unhappy. Even though he had a lot of thoughts, he still agreed to Shi Qingxues decision. Okay. I will ask somebody later to prepare a carriage for you and then tell Zichao to escort you back home. Hmm, okay! Hearing Mo Junyang agree, Shi Qingxue nodded hurriedly. However, after she nodded, she immediately realized the problem. Wei Zichao was almost the most powerful military officer in the capital city. What was the difference between being escorted by Wei Zichao and by Mo Junyang? However, this time before she didnt say anything to disagree, Mo Junyang continued, I will only go back to my mansion, so I dont need Zichao to protect me, but you, since I took you out of your mansion, I have to send you back in safety. Otherwise, I will have to say sorry to Duke Shi. Shi Qingxue tilted her head and pondered. Although she thought that Mo Junyang underestimated her, with sanity, she understood his hard effort, so she didnt refuse anymore. Okay, just do as you said. Shi Qingxue went to the gate of King Ruis mansion in the carriage and didnt enter the mansion. Then she went back to Duke Shis mansion escorted by Wei Zichao in this carriage. The carriage clattered and went away from King Ruis mansion. Mo Junyang stood at the gate of the mansion and looked at the carriage going away. Till it disappeared, he remained still. Qu Yuebai couldnt help but shout, Fine, she has gone. Come back to reality. Something serious is waiting for you. Before King Rui brought the seriously ill woman into the mansion, Qu Yuebai had been waiting at the gate, and he gave the young couple some time to say goodbye after Mo Junyang came back. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang could stand at the gate for so long. He couldnt wait, so he came forward to drag the young master back to reality. Mo Junyang glanced at Qu Yuebai indifferently. Whats up? Qu Yuebai was speechless. Aha, the master was unhurried, yet the servants were anxious to find a way to help him. Mo Junyang was calm, while the subordinates were worried about him. Qu Yuebai rolled his eyes to express his displeasure. Mo Junyang stated, If there is something wrong with your eyes, just ask Shen Luo to treat you. Qu Yuebai was rendered speechless and waved his hand in the end to show that he gave up. He admitted defeat. Come on. I cant outargue you. Lets get down to business. I have sent some people to investigate Qi Zhengdao. He and his mother fled from famine in a snow disaster and came to the capital last year. Because he is in poor health, he couldnt find a job in the city. It happened that the government opened the granary to provide disaster relief and help the refugees settle down, so they were settled in a cottage in the southern suburbs. The people in the neighborhood have said that he is nice to his mother. Even though he was weak, he often went out to find a job and make money. He had no ability to make much money to provide for himself and his mother, and he had to pay much money for her medical expenses. In the beginning, he could barely make ends meet, till the woman, oh yes, whose name is Qi Ruyue was seriously ill. She couldnt get up and needed him to look after her. Qi Zhengdao could do nothing but resign and concentrate on taking care of his mother. They sustained life for a period with the help of other people. When winter came, they could hardly stay alive In the beginning, Mo Junyang listened carefully, yet in the end, he became uninterested and couldnt help looking at the end of the road, as if he could still see Shi Qingxues figure. He finally waved his hand involuntarily and stopped Qu Yuebai from continuing, saying, Its easy to guess these things. Tell me something that I dont know. Qu Yuebai knew well about Mo Junyang, so he stopped talking about useless things and expressed firmly, Qi Zhengdao is really your half-brother. Mo Junyang kept silent for a long time. Qu Yuebai got impatient and stared at Mo Junyang, asking, Even so, the comers have ulterior motives. We should make plans earlier. Whats your plan? Qu Yuebai didnt like to keep others in suspense. Moreover, with their relationship, he didnt need to beat around the bush. He answered directly, Although a concubines son is unpresentable, Qi Ruyue is different from His Highness any other concubine, while Qi Zhengdao looks almost the same as him. If you let him return to your ancestors, perhaps there will be a constant source of further troubles, so I think Mo Junyang raised his head and interrupted Qu Yuebai, saying gently under his doubtful eyes, Yuebai, you cant do that. Qu Yuebai was stunned and made no response. Mo Junyang paused for a while and then continued to explain slowly, If he is Fathers son, I wont harm him. As for anything else, lets talk about it in the future. He was decisive and spoke firmly, without giving Qu Yuebai a chance to object. Then he continued, By the way, how are they now? Is her seriously ill? Nothing. You know Luos capability. He can bring the patient back to life as long as anybody is still breathing, let alone a minor illness. He said that she would be fine after taking two doses of medicine. You dont need to worry. He stressed the word worry on purpose, with hidden meanings. All the servants could see that Mo Xiangrui cared about Qi Ruyue a lot. Perhaps the news of the mistress in King Ruis mansion would spread since tomorrow, yet their young master seemed to have changed and became merciful. Mo Junyang didnt get alert to the two uninvited guests but made arrangements for their everyday food and clothing. He seemed to take Qi Ruyue as Mo Xiangruis welcomed guest. Qu Yuebai had never seen such a young master who was so polite and paid attention to etiquette. He couldnt help wondering if Mo Junyang had a plot. Mo Junyang glanced at Qu Yuebai and knew what he was thinking about. Indeed, when others didnt know his identity, they would think that his behavior was not logical and didnt like what he would do at ordinary times. He didnt plan to explain more but glanced at Qu Yuebai to comfort him, saying casually, Dont worry. He is unable to threaten me. Qu Yuebai smacked his lips and estimated his masters capability. Then he accepted Mo Junyangs words easily. He thought that he had guessed what his master was planning, so he asked excitedly, Are we going to the Qingshui House now? That woman has woken up, and His Highness is waiting inside. Its the right time for you to go there now. He thought that Mo Junyang prepared to buy over the two illegitimate members. As an assistant, he dutifully provided several plans to buy them over and did a feasibility analysis for each plan. Till he became thirsty after talking too much, Mo Junyang stated unhurriedly, No need. Lets go back to the Love Xue House. Afterward, he ignored Qu Yuebai who was open-mouthed, walking ahead to the Love Xue House. Wei Ziye followed them. Seeing that the assistant stiffened like a stone, he patted Qu Yuebais shoulder. Lord Qu, come back to reality. Our master has gone away. Qu Yuebai blinked and then could only see Mo Junyangs clothes disappear at the corner. He was more speechless. Ziye, what do you think he means? Qu Yuebai asked in depression. He always knew that he could hardly see through his master, yet in the beginning, he could guess something, while now he couldnt figure it out. Wei Ziye shrugged and responded indifferently, How can I figure it out? Just do as the master said. This might be the greatest difference between a guard and an assistant. Wei Zichao and Wei Ziye would never try to guess what the master wanted to do after ordering. They would just try their best to do it well. Qu Yuebai knew what Wei Ziye thought about and regretted it as soon as he asked. He rolled his eyes at Wei Ziye. Forget it. I dont want to waste time talking with you. I am going to see Junyang. Afterward, he rushed to the Love Xue House. Junyang, what on earth are you thinking about? Qu Yuebai stopped Mo Junyang in his bedroom and asked seriously. Mo Junyang didnt joke with his assistant but replied directly, I dont think about anything. Its fine as long as Father is happy. Seeing that Qu Yuebai was going to get mad again, he added, If you are free, investigate the twos background for me, and it will be fine. Qu Yuebai sighed with relief and answered, Leave it to me, yet you cant be careless. Especially they are from nowhere, and it is annoying even if he is just an illegitimate son. If he is a spy of those parties, then Mo Junyang raised his brows and interrupted Qu Yuebai. Fine. As for something, dont make a conclusion before you get evidence. However, if Mo Junyang didnt mention it, nor did Qu Yuebai talk about it, would there be nobody coveting the title of King Ruis heir? Chapter 315 - The Difference On the eve of the Spring Festival in the forty-second year after the Mo Dynasty was established, Mo Xiangbin held a banquet and invited all the royal family members and noblemen to gather in the imperial palace. As Shi Qingxue guessed, both King Ruis family and Duke Shis family received the invitation. Before the evening that day, Mo Junyang got things ready and prepared to go out. As soon as he walked out of the Love Xue House, he happened to meet Mo Xiangrui and Qi Zhengdao. Mo Xiangrui asked in surprise, Its still early. Where are you going, Junyang? Qi Zhengdao walked over and saluted him, greeting clumsily, Your ExcellencyNice to see you. Although Mo Xiangrui had approved of his identity, it was difficult to be a kings son, and he had to be approved by the royal family openly. So Qi Zhengdao enjoyed the treatment as a respected guest in the mansion, and he could only call Mo Xiangrui Your Highness and Mo Junyang Your Excellency. Mo Junyang nodded slightly and then ignored the boy. He answered Mo Xiangrui, I am going to pick up Qingxue in Duke Shis mansion first, which is farther away from the imperial palace, so I need to make preparations earlier. Mo Xiangrui stared at his son and stayed speechless for a long time. He had known that Mo Junyang paid attention to Shi Qingxue wholeheartedly, yet when he saw the young mans action, he couldnt help but joke, Others say that I have a son, but I know that a son is the same as a daughter. He laughed at Mo Junyang as the latter stayed in Duke Shis mansion all day long and was like a daughter who was going to get married and become a member of another family. Mo Junyang was calm. He ignored Qi Zhengdao who looked him up and down, accepting Mo Xiangruis ridicule. Then he asked, Father, do you have anything to tell me? If not, I am going to Duke Shis mansion now. After his son asked, Mo Xiangruis smile faded, and he looked embarrassed. He paused for a moment and then thought that it was improper that he was timid in front of his son, so he hesitated for a while and then stated, In fact, its no big deal. I want to ask if you are free to take Zhengdao into the imperial palace to enrich his experience at the banquet tonight. After hearing that, even Mo Junyang couldnt help but feel surprised. He hadnt expected that Mo Xiangrui would support Qi Zhengdao to this level in only two days. Mo Xiangrui asked Mo Junyang to take Qi Zhengdao to attend the banquet in the imperial palace, and he just wanted to announce Qi Zhengdaos identity in another way. This was a sign of letting Qi Zhengdao return to his ancestors, and he tried to lay a foundation for the boy to stay in the capital and at the imperial court in the future. Mo Junyang saw that Qi Zhengdao looked happy at once and showed his emotions but soon controlled himself and lowered his head, pretending to be respectful. He saw everything yet only kept his composure and replied, I am afraid that I cant fulfill your wish, Father. Whwhy? Mo Xiangrui knew that his request would make things difficult for Mo Junyang and even had prepared to talk about this matter with his son regardless of his identity, but he hadnt expected that Mo Junyang would refuse so directly. As a result, he didnt know what to say. Qi Zhengdao was stunned to hear Mo Junyangs rejection. Wasnt Mo Junyang King Ruis son? How could a son refuse to follow his fathers order? Seeing that Mo Xiangrui stayed silent for a long time, he got anxious and couldnt control himself but interrupted, I know that I am lowly and the royal family members will look down upon me. His Excellency may have a breach of etiquette if he takes me into the imperial palace. Since he is unwilling to, please dont force him, Your Highness. His words thoroughly showed that a concubines son felt grieved and couldnt win his legitimate brothers love. If Qi Zhengdao were from an ordinary family, his performance would naturally be praiseworthy. However, it was unpresentable in the royal family. Didnt he want to make Mo Xiangrui feel pity for him after he showed that he was weak and then make concessions in order to gain advantages, forcing Mo Junyang to take him into the imperial palace? All people present were sophisticated and immediately understood Qi Zhengdaos hidden meaning. Mo Junyang certainly wouldnt be irritated by Qi Zhengdaos words. He just smiled faintly and stared at Mo Xiangrui till his old face turned red. Then he responded unhurriedly, I will accompany Qingxue at the banquet in the imperial palace tonight, so I cant finish this job, Father. This reasonreally made people have a complex feeling. Mo Xiangrui looked at Mo Junyang hesitantly and wanted to speak when the young man continued, I know that you want to approve of my younger brothers identity. In this case, its better that you take him into the imperial palace, and then it will be more official. He clearly approved of Mo Xiangrui recognizing Qi Zhengdao. It was good news for King Rui who was at a loss for how to tell his beloved son and Qi Zhengdao who wanted to return to his ancestors. Qi Zhengdao was so happy that he got dizzy after hearing Mo Junyangs words younger brother, so he called, Big brother. It seemed that he was already the second young master in King Ruis mansion. How dare you! Mo Xiangrui shouted in a braying voice and glared at Qi Zhengdao, rebuking, Junyang is the first legitimate son and the heir titled by His Majesty in person. How can you cross the line? A concubines son in a kings mansion was like a servant and should call the successor Your Excellency to show respect, so he didnt have the good fortune to call Mo Junyang brother. Qi Zhengdao shrank his neck after being reproached by Mo Xiangrui and admitted his fault obediently. Mo Xiangrui didnt look at Qi Zhengdao anymore but said to Mo Junyang, I was thoughtless. Zhengdao hasnt been registered in the pedigree or changed his name. If he is taken into the imperial palace recklessly, it is against the rules even if others wont say anything. He pondered for a moment and ignored Qi Zhengdao who was open-mouthed. Then he stated, Zhengdao, just stay in the mansion and take care of your mother today. After the Spring Festival, I will report to the Imperial Kinship Bureau and change your family name. Then we will talk about anything else. He said decisively and didnt give Qi Zhengdao a chance to retort. It looked logical, while others knew Mo Xiangruis attitude after hearing that. He would recognize this son, yet he was merely a concubines son and would never be superior to the heir. The successor of the mansion was still Mo Junyang. Mo Xiangrui considered for Mo Junyang openly and then asked him intimately, Junyang, I havent talked with you for a long time. How about we enter the imperial palace together? Mo Xiangrui felt guilty to his first son since Qi Ruyue and her son entered the mansion, so he wanted to take this chance and improve their relationship. However, Mo Junyang didnt satisfy him but replied unhurriedly, Its still early now. You are honorable and dont need to enter the imperial palace hurriedly. Please have a rest in the mansion first. His hidden meaning was that he didnt plan to enter the imperial palace with Mo Xiangrui, while he said that just to consider for his father. Even though Mo Xiangrui knew that Mo Junyang wanted to go to Duke Shis mansion and pick up Shi Qingxue, he couldnt blame the young man but had to watch him swagger off. When Mo Junyang reached Duke Shis mansion, Shi Qingxue happened to walk out of the gate. They looked at each other and smiled at the same time. They didnt need to say more words, and Shi Qingxue let the maids help her get into the carriage. After the servants got ready, the carriage headed to the imperial palace. I saw Shi Baoyan just now. Are you going to take her into the imperial palace? Mo Junyang asked. As soon as Shi Qingxue got into the carriage, she forgot her manners and leaned against Mo Junyang lazily while yawning. Hmm, Father told me to take her with me. Anyway, she is a member of our family and of marriage age. She should come out of the mansion and have social intercourse. Although the young ladies in Duke Shis mansion didnt need to worry about their marriage and many men wanted to marry even a concubines daughter in order to flatter Duke Shi, Shi Junhe always hoped that his daughters could find good husbands. Mo Junyang held Qingxue in his arms at his convenience and furrowed his cold brows. Thats what your father should worry about, and at least your mother will deal with it. Why was this job given to you? Shi Junhe was a man and couldnt lower himself to ask a matchmaker to take care of his daughter, but wouldnt Dong Hui do that? Dong Hui was Shi Baoyans mother in name and should arrange for the marriage of a daughter of her husbands concubine, and a legitimate daughter would never make a match for her half-sister. Mother is unwilling to, Shi Qingxue answered casually. She didnt mind but continued, I can see that she is well-behaved recently, and even if I take her into the imperial palace, there must be nothing wrong, so I didnt refuse. Mo Junyang didnt want his sweetheart to tire herself, but seeing that Qingxue didnt care, he didnt bother about it anymore. He just expressed, I will tell somebody to follow her after we enter the imperial palace, and you dont need to worry too much about her. His words showed his strong desire to be in possession. He didnt want Shi Qingxue to give a lot of care about anybody else or anything or fix her eyes on anywhere else except him. Shi Qingxue thought that Mo Junyang had solved a big problem for her. She didnt like to talk with those people, so she had been worried earlier about how she would introduce Shi Baoyan to others. Then she smiled at Mo Junyang and said sweetly, Junyang, I know that you are the best. You even consider that for me. Mo Junyang pursed his lips and calmly accepted Shi Qingxue who threw herself on him. Many things have happened recently, and the banquet today must be not easy. Just follow me after you enter the imperial palace. I wont let anybody make things difficult for you, Mo Junyang reminded unhurriedly. He was so garrulous and careful, as if Shi Qingxue were good for nothing. It was not what he would do at ordinary times. However, Shi Qingxue knew the mans kindly feelings and didnt think it improper that the man gave her extra consideration. She accepted it happily and said obediently, Dont worry. I will stay with you all the time like your tail after entering the imperial palace, and you cant drive me away, okay? Qingxue made a pledge without hesitation and then asked hurriedly, Lets stop talking about this matter. You havent told me what happened in your mansion these days. What does your father plan to do to Qi Zhengdao and Qi Ruyue? Mo Junyang shrugged. Anyway he is Fathers son left in society and a royal family member, so he will naturally be recognized. What about Qi Ruyue? Whats your fathers plan? Dont say that Qi Ruyue was just a woman and wouldnt affect anything. On the contrary, Qi Ruyue was the key. The identity King Rui would give Qi Ruyue would affect Qi Zhengdaos status. If Qi Ruyue was just an ordinary concubine, Qi Zhengdao would be only a concubines son in the mansion, yet if Mo Xiangrui planned to marry Qi Ruyue as his second wife, Qi Zhengdao might become the second legitimate son in the mansion. Then he would even have the right to inherit the title. Chapter 316 - Admit Her Fault Mo Junyang knew what Shi Qingxue was thinking about. He rubbed her nose and said with a smile, Dont worry. No matter how much Qi Ruyue is like King Ruis late wife, she is just an imitation, and he wont make her his wife. Shi Qingxue pouted. But your father changes his attitude too quickly, and others cant see through him. It doesnt matter Mo Junyang told Shi Qingxue what had happened in his mansion just now. Shi Qingxue was stunned after hearing that and then couldnt help but get happy. Is your younger brother stupid? He just came to your mansion only a few days ago. Even though King Rui treats him specially, he is just an illegitimate son. However, he intends to shake your position and fight for your fathers love unexpectedly If Qi Zhengdao was smarter, he should know his position, love his father and respect his elder brother, trying to make a favorable impression on them. Even if he was stupid, he should behave himself and obediently follow his fathers and brothers orders. After all, Mo Junyang had revealed his attitude, and Mo Xiangruis intention was obvious. Then Qi Zhengdaos good life could be expected soon. However, this teenager was not smart enough but pretended to be smart and gilded the lily, attempting to be a whistle blower, while he made a fool of himself. He just became a laughingstock for no reason. Mo Junyang sneered and commented, Its good to be scheming, while perhaps Qi Zhengdao needs to toughen himself. However, its Fathers business anyway, and we dont need to bother about it too much. Shi Qingxue tilted her head and pondered for a while. Seeing that Mo Junyang didnt take Qi Zhengdao to heart, she nodded. Okay. Lets forget him. They clung to each other and chatted in low voices. The carriage entered the imperial palace slowly. After they got out of the carriage and walked for only a few steps, the eunuch Quan who worked for the emperor walked toward them in haste. Your Excellency, My Lady. Lord Quan, nice to see you. Why are you waiting here? Is there something important? Shi Qingxue asked. Quan looked at Mo Junyang in embarrassment and opened his mouth, trying to say something, yet he stuttered and couldnt speak a word. Say it. Mo Junyang was in a good mood today, so he ordered Quan without delay. Quan replied hurriedly, His Majesty has told me to wait here earlier and bring you to the study to see him after you enter the imperial palace, Your Excellency. Mo Xiangbin stopped them off guard, and they looked at each other speechlessly. Did His Majesty say what was the matter? Mo Junyang asked casually and didnt plan to go. Quan moaned secretly after seeing that and thought, His Excellency is too arrogant. Others will rush to see His Majesty once they are summoned, as they are afraid that they will make His Majesty unhappy if they go there slowly. Only Mo Junyang looked calm and didnt even want to go seemingly. What was going on? Your Excellency, His Majesty summoned you, so there must be something urgent. Please come with me quickly and dont keep His Majesty waiting for long. Quan begged yet didnt have the nerve to pull Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang couldnt feel Quans thought for him. He just stood there indifferently and stared at Quan. Shi Qingxue knew that it was not that Mo Junyang didnt show respect to Mo Xiangbin, but they had just agreed that they would stay together at the banquet. Mo Xiangbin tried to separate them, and it would be surprising if Mo Junyang was willing to surrender easily. Qingxue pondered for a moment and glanced at Quan apologetically. Then she pulled Mo Junyang aside and advised him in a low voice, You have said that its an eventful period now. If you disobey His Majestys order openly, wont you give others a chance to comment on you? While speaking, she squinted at Mo Junyangs face. Seeing that he seemed to be unhappy, she added at once, Its okay with me when I am alone. Dont worry about me too much. Moreover, if you tell Zichao to follow me, what will you worry about? Shi Qingxue said a lot and considered many aspects, but she didnt guess Mo Junyangs thought deep in his heart. He didnt want to part with her. Every year and month, every day and night, at any time However, Mo Junyang was always good at concealing his emotions. Even though he had feelings, he wouldnt show them when he didnt want to. After Qingxue said that, he nodded gently and answered, I will tell Zichao to stay with you. If there is something, just tell somebody to see me. Okay. Go now. Before they came to the banquet, they had to get parted. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang going away, while the relief she showed intentionally disappeared gradually, and it was replaced with a reserved emotion. She stood there quietly and furrowed her arched eyebrows, looking serious. My Lady, whats wrong with you? Dong Shuang didnt know why, so she asked in secret. Shi Qingxue shook her head and didnt explain but replied, Nothing. Lets go. Even she hadnt figured out something, so she wouldnt speak it out rashly. As soon as Shi Qingxue entered the imperial garden where the banquet was held, followed by a group of people, a maid-in-waiting walked to her and bowed, greeting, My Lady, nice to see you. Her Highness told me to say hello to you. Qingxue returned a bow. Thank Her Highness for her concern. I am very well. Please say hello to her for me. There was such a rule in the Mo Dynasty. If an imperial concubine in the palace liked a noble lady but it was inconvenient to see her alone, she would tell her maid to say hello. In this case, if a noble lady received more imperial concubines greetings, it meant that she had a high position and good reputation among the ladies from the noble families. Now Duke Shis family enjoyed great popularity, and Shi Qingxue was cared and favored, so among the noble ladies, she received most imperial concubines greetings. However, Shi Qingxue was confused this time. She had never seen this maid and didnt know who she worked for. Not all the imperial concubines qualified to send a maid to greet the noble ladies. Was there an imperial concubine being favored now? The maid stated, Her Highness asked you to see her after the banquet. This one sent a maid to greet her in public and asked Shi Qingxue to see her in private. Shi Qingxue didnt feel happy to have this honor but frowned. Only the empress would and could do so in the past. Shi Qingxue was sure that this maid was not from the empresss palace. It meant that somebody prepared to challenge Empress Liangs position Shi Qingxue looked around and happened to see that the maid Qiaoer, who could be seen frequently around the empress fell behind and stopped, looking at her. That maid looked nervous and emotional but didnt walk over, as if she had scruple. Gee! Qingxue pouted secretly and certainly understood that she had become a target and good luck that the forces in the imperial palace fought for. Those people wanted to take her as a tool, yet she wouldnt give in easily. She stared at the maid in front of her for quite a while and then asked unhurriedly, I havent asked you. Who are you working for? The maid swelled out her chest. My name is Bailu. I work in Lady Lius palace. Shi Qingxue was stunned but soon understood. In the imperial palace, only Concubine Liu had power to compete with Empress Liang. However, in the past, Concubine Liu was favored by the emperor, and although she was arrogant, she had never crossed the line, while this time, she summoned Shi Qingxue before the empress, and it appeared that she was going to surpass the empress. Shi Qingxue pondered yet didnt show any emotions. She just nodded at the maid Bailu. I will follow Her Highnesss order. Bailu heard Shi Qingxues response and then left with satisfaction. Shi Qingxue still stood there, and then several maids were sent by favored imperial concubines to greet her, so she replied all of them. Only Empress Liangs maid Qiaoer didnt come forward. On second thought, even when they greeted, there was an unwritten rule. A person of a higher position naturally had the power to greet a noble lady before a person of a lower position, but Bailu greeted Shi Qingxue before Qiaoer. If Qiaoer came forward at this hour, wouldnt the onlookers think that the empress was inferior to Concubine Liu? If she didnt come forward and only the empress did nothing while many imperial concubines said hello to a noble lady, wouldnt she give the strong force to others? Qiaoer was hesitant, and Shi Qingxue naturally understood her. However, Shi Qingxue was not a kind person, and Empress Liang had once harmed her, so she wouldnt show sympathy or help them out of the predicament. After talking with the people from the imperial palace, she brought her people to the banquet. It was Shi Baoyans first time to attend such a grand banquet. As soon as she entered the imperial palace, she was dazzled after seeing the elegant and noble decoration everywhere. Then she felt ashamed of her ungainly appearance as she saw the clothes and jewelry of the passers-by. Fortunately, as Shi Qingxue had predicted it, she made a nice customized coat for her half-sister before entering the imperial palace and gave her many pieces of exquisite jewelry, so Shi Baoyan wouldnt be outshone by a random maid-in-waiting. Shi Baoyan was clear that she was like a frog living at the bottom of a well in the royal family members eyes and couldnt attract their attention. Thinking that she had done something wantonly to Shi Qingxue in the past, she felt too ashamed to show her face and understood that Shi Qingxue didnt bother about her. Otherwise, she would never have such a chance. For example, if Shi Qingxue didnt sincerely bring her into the imperial palace to enrich her experience today but was forced to bring her for the sake of Shi Junhes dignity, she could embarrass her half-sister even if she didnt do anything. Moreover, others wouldnt notice her, a lowly concubines daughter. Even though she was from Duke Shis mansion, it was nothing. Shi Baoyan grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and stated sincerely for the first time, Sister, thanks, and She lowered her head with a blush, and her voice was as low as a mosquitos. She was so ashamed that she wanted to find a place to hide herself. I was too conceited in the past. I am sorry. In the past, she tried to fight for everything against Shi Qingxue, while now she had to lower her head first, and it would kill her. Even so, she said that and admitted her fault. After saying that, she restrained her shyness and raised her head slowly, looking at Shi Qingxue, with fragility and hope in her eyes. This time, she wanted to make peace with Shi Qingxue from the bottom of her heart. But would Shi Qingxue accept her apology as she had been harmed by her in the past? Chapter 317 - What She Cared About Shi Qingxue looked Shi Baoyan up and down, who stood there and let her look. They looked at each other for quite a while, and then Shi Qingxue showed a smile and grabbed Shi Baoyans hand. Since you still call me sister, we are sisters. Lets forget everything in the past. Shi Baoyans eyes lit up at once, with tears in them. Qingxue Shi Baoyan called in a sobbing voice and couldnt say anything else. She turned away, as she didnt want Shi Qingxue to see her embarrassment. Shi Qingxue considerately leaned aside and pretended that she didnt see Shi Baoyans tears. After a while, she spoke as if nothing had happened. The banquet is going to start. I will take you to greet the members of the aristocratic families on good terms with Father. Qingxue didnt plan to take this job, but she had nothing to do as Mo Junyang was not here, and since she accepted Shi Baoyans request to make up with her, she should show her sincerity. She led Shi Baoyan and walked to some noble ladies from the families who had contact with them. When the Shi family hadnt broken up in the past, even if Shi Baoyan was favored in the family, she wouldnt have a chance to attend such a grand banquet. This was Shi Baoyans first time, so she was trembling with fear, paying attention to her every word and action cautiously. She was afraid that she would offend a royal family member if she did something wrong. However, it showed that she was of low class. Shi Qingxue felt something wrong after walking for only a few steps and looked back at Shi Baoyan, sighing in secret. She understood Shi Baoyans feelings, but the more cautious and humble she looked, the more easily others would look down upon her. After pausing for a moment, Shi Qingxue stepped backward and grabbed Shi Baoyans arm under the latters surprised eyes, saying with a smile, Baoyan, lets go together. She brought Shi Baoyan to Leng Jing first, a legitimate daughter of the Assistant Minister of War, Leng Yuan. Meeting the girls doubtful eyes, she introduced gracefully in a natural way, Jing, this is my sister, Baoyan. Hearing that, Leng Jing knew that this tall and thin girl was a concubines daughter from Duke Shis mansion. She glanced at Shi Baoyan seriously and smiled intimately while grabbing her arm. It turns out that you are Baoyan. My name is Leng Jing, a daughter of the Assistant Minister of War. If you dont dislike it, you can call me Jing, like Qingxue does. Shi Baoyan was flattered and glanced at Leng Jing, calling in a hurry, Jing. Leng Jing answered with a smile and then looked up at Shi Qingxue, joking, Qingxue, you are so stingy. When I sent invitations to your mansion, you always hid at home and didnt come out. I can see you only at this time, yet you just came to introduce your sister. Its obvious that you dont care about your friend, me. Shi Qingxue knew that Leng Jing was joking with her. She didnt argue in a hurry but replied with a smile, Jing, you are kidding. If I dont care about you, why did I come to chat with you first today? Leng Jing rolled her eyes at Shi Qingxue. Huh, how would you miss me? You just wanted me to act as a go-between for you and the other girls, right? Qingxue was seen through, so she didnt beat around the bush. She intimately grabbed Leng Jings hand and stated flatteringly, Good girl, anybody knows that you are popular among the noble ladies. My sister has never associated with them, so I need you to protect her. Then I will be relieved. Since the two girls started to talk, Shi Baoyan sensibly stepped backward and didnt dare to interrupt rashly. When she heard Leng Jings reproach, she felt nervous for Shi Qingxue and wondered if this lady would really blame her. However, after listening for a while, she understood that they just joked. Although they said something serious, there was no anger in their eyes. They were not like her and Shi Qingxue in the past who pretended to be sisters loving each other yet secretly hoped that the other party would be out of luck. At this thought, Shi Baoyan felt more guilty and yearned for such an open and sincere friendship. Especially after she heard Leng Jing expose the reason why Shi Qingxue brought her to greet this lady first, Shi Baoyan felt warm but couldnt express her thanks enough. She could only glance at Shi Qingxue with gratitude in silence. Shi Qingxue smiled at her as a return and didnt take it seriously. She just pushed Shi Baoyan to Leng Jing and made a face, begging, Jing, my dear sister, thanks for your help. Leng Jing snorted at her and happened to meet Shi Baoyans frightened face. Then she instantly stopped joking and explained to Shi Baoyan seriously, Baoyan, forgive me. I always joke with Qingxue. Dont take my words to heart. Shi Baoyan nodded with admiration in her eyes. I know. Thanks for your kindness, Jing. You are Qingxues sister, so you are my sister. Dont stand on ceremony. I will take you to see the other girls. They are easy to get along with. Dont be nervous. Leng Jing kept Shi Qingxues request in mind and didnt need her to say more. Then she grabbed Shi Baoyans arm and walked to the group of noble ladies who were their friends. Seeing that Shi Qingxue stood still alone behind, Dong Shuang walked forward and whispered, My Lady, do you really believe that Lady Baoyan will make peace with you? She did many evil deeds in the past, while you forgive her so easily. You are The maid bore a grudge and pouted with displeasure. Seeing Dong Shuangs expression, Shi Qingxue felt that it was laughable. She rubbed her nose and joked, I am what? I am too kind or too stupid? She smiled slyly and continued before Dong Shuang tried to argue, I accept your praise, but dont say the latter if you want to. I am smart and wont be fooled easily. Dong Shuang got anxious. Why are you so nice to Lady Baoyan? Have you forgotten I know what you are worried about. Shi Qingxue interrupted Dong Shuang and sighed before continuing, I have considered what you fear, yet Baoyan is different from my cousins. She is Fathers biological daughter. I should do it out of consideration for Father. I hope that she will be fine even for Fathers sake. Since she has sued for peace, no matter if she is sincere, I should give her a chance. Dong Shuang was still unhappy. What if she does the same as before and attempts to await an opportunity to harm you? Shi Qingxue finally showed a distant smile and responded indifferently, The chance I give doesnt fall from the sky, and I wont give her chances infinitely. If I am nice to her but she still has dirty plans, dont blame me when I am cruel. Dong Shuang knew that her lady was still alert to Shi Baoyan, so she finally stopped worrying and then said, In my opinion, sometimes a sister is not as reliable as an outsider. Look. Lady Leng is a good example. She is sincere to you and has never been hypocritical to you. Such a person is worth making friends. Ahem! Wei Zichao suddenly coughed repeatedly in a loud voice and interrupted Dong Shuang. Dong Shuang was distracted and forgot what she wanted to say. She turned to Wei Zichao and asked in confusion, Whats wrong with you? Do you have a cold? Wei Zichao cleared his throat and answered Dong Shuang seriously, Nothing. I just feel itch in my throat. Oh. Dong Shuang didnt suspect anything but thought that they were like friends as they had contacted each other for several times. Then she said with concern, You must be thirsty. Go and drink some water. Wei Zichao was speechless. Perhaps it was his first time to meet a person who was more simple-minded than him and even believed such a lame excuse, which made him at a loss for words. Dong Shuang thought that she guessed right, but because of her job, she didnt dare to leave Shi Qingxue, so she suggested considerately, My Lady, you have stayed outside for so long and must be thirsty. I am going to bring some water for you. Shi Qingxue noticed their interaction. She was not as brainless as Dong Shuang but had noticed the indistinct feelings between them at a glance. It was so fun. She glanced at Wei Zichao with ridicule and expressed intentionally, Go and come back soon. Dont keep Zichao waiting. Yes. Dong Shuang replied and then said to Wei Zichao, Wait a moment. Then she ran away before he answered. Gee, its my first time to see my maid so attentive. It made me have a completely new appraisal of her. Zichao, what do you think? Shi Qingxue talked to Wei Zichao with a big smile. Wei Zichao blushed and even his ear tips were burning hot under Shi Qingxues stare. He had to lower his head and avoid her eyes, saying in a low voice, Dong Shuang is always diligent. Shi Qingxue couldnt stop laughing after hearing that. She thought, Every lover sees a thousand graces in the beloved object. Even if Dong Shuang has many shortcomings, they are merits in Wei Zichaos eyes. Shi Qingxue had seen through this guard and was happy to see the good ending, but the maids feelings were unclear, so she didnt bring them together rashly, yet she would let them work together if there were jobs in the futures. She was uncertain what good result there would be after a long time. However, Shi Qingxues good mood didnt last long, as somebody came to make her unhappy. The fourth prince Mo Junhao led a group of people into the imperial garden and didnt give her a chance to hide but shouted, Qingxue. His loud voice attracted the attention of many people around. Shi Qingxue couldnt run away even though she wanted to, so she could do nothing but watch Mo Junhao walk to her. She had to greet obediently, Your Highness, nice to see you. Mo Junhao waved his hand and said, Dont stand on ceremony. Then he started to chat with Shi Qingxue in high spirits. I have seldom seen you enter the imperial palace these days. Are you okay? Shi Qingxue replied, Thanks for your concern, Your Highness. I am all right. It will be better if you can stay away from me. Qingxue thought with unspoken criticism. She didnt know why Mo Junhao got crazy again. They had dispersed in discord not long ago, and he attached so much importance to his dignity, so he should hate her and never talk with her. Why did he get close to her? What was more annoying was that she couldnt ignore Mo Junhao under the watchful eyes of all people. Mo Junhao knew this point and then invited her. Qingxue, you have just arrived, so you must have not seen the wintersweet in full bloom lately in the imperial garden. I sincerely invite you to enjoy the wintersweet with me. Please dont refuse me. Gee, he spoke out his invitation in a loud voice because he was sure that Shi Qingxue didnt dare to embarrass him in public no matter how willful she was, right? After all, in this occasion, Shi Qingxue stood for not only herself but also Duke Shis family. If Shi Qingxue refused him, it meant that her family turned against the fourth princes followers openly. Even though she didnt care, she had to make allowance for Duke Shis difficult position. Shi Qingxue considered all these. She bit her lower lip hard and thought about many ways to refuse him, yet she couldnt speak a word. When she was helpless, a sweet voice cut in. Junhao, you have come finally. Chapter 318 - Provoke Shi Qingxue All people turned around after hearing the voice. A charming young lady dressed up beautifully rushed to stand between Shi Qingxue and Mo Junhao. She elbowed out Shi Qingxue and grabbed Mo Junhaos arm without shyness, saying in a sweet voice, Junhao, I miss you. Do you miss me? Hearing the bold voice to play the woman, Shi Qingxue had goosebumps. Then she shook her arms and checked carefully before recognizing this girl. This was Feng Mei, the first legitimate daughter of the Minister of War, Feng Jifeng. Shi Qingxue always thought that this woman was too affected, so she seldom had contact with her. Unexpectedly, when they saw each other again, the woman surprised her. Gee, she firmed her determination to stay away from Feng Mei. However, on second thought, Shi Qingxue was happy to see Feng Mei show up here. Feng Mei pestered Mo Junhao and didnt let him go, so he wouldnt have a chance to harass Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue generously made room for Feng Mei and then led her people to quietly go away from this place where she was apt to get into trouble. When Mo Junhao turned back to look for her after he finally coped with Feng Mei, Qingxue had left. Mo Junhao wanted to look for Shi Qingxue, but the people attending the banquet came one after another and surrounded him to greet him, so before he could find a chance to talk with Shi Qingxue, the banquet started. This time, the servants who arranged for the seats were sensible and made the tables for Duke Shis family and King Ruis family next to each other. Shi Junhe and Mo Xiangrui walked to their tables almost at the same time and met the other partys surprised eyes. After feeling stunned for a while, the two men smiled in unison. They understood before saying anything, and then each of them left a seat on the side consciously, so there were two seats close to each other between the tables for the two families. As soon as Mo Xiangbin and Ling Ruiyin came, all people returned to their seats obediently. Soon after Shi Qingxue sat down, Mo Junyang sat at the table. The couple sat next to each other and attracted many peoples curious eyes. Shi Qingxue didnt notice it but talked with Mo Junyang in high spirits. Mo Junyang naturally wouldnt care about these but refilled Shi Qingxues teacup conveniently. Then he put the food she liked in front of her. His careful and considerate actions shocked Shi Junhe and Mo Xiangrui. Seeing that, all people were more curious and some people even looked at them boldly. However, they shrank their necks at once under Mo Junyangs glances which seemed unintentional. Fortunately, the banquets theme was to celebrate the eve of the Spring Festival, and many kinds of performances attracted everybodys attention. After confirming that Shi Qingxue was almost the future wife of King Ruis heir and was loved by him, all people returned to what they should do. After eating a piece of biscuit, Shi Qingxue was unwilling to grab any food. She crossed her ten fingers under her chin and glanced at the singers and dancers in the middle in low spirits, complaining lazily, Junyang, I am so bored. She was never interested in such a banquet, and she would try her best to avoid it. When she couldnt, she would feel pained as she thought that it was torture. Mo Junyang leered at the royal family members, to see that they didnt pay attention to him, so he suggested in a low voice, How about I go out to have a walk with you? Duke Shis family and King Ruis family were the focus of the banquet. If somebody found that the couple sneaked out without asking for permission, it would cause an uproar. Unfortunately, Mo Junyang always lost his head in front of Shi Qingxue and wouldnt consider the consequences. As long as he could make her happy, he was glad to do anything. In some way, Mo Junyang had the potential to be a fatuous and self-indulgent ruler. As Shi Qingxue heard Mo Junyangs words, her eyes lit up and she looked overjoyed, but soon, her eyes darkened, as she felt depressed, saying, I cant go. Father wont allow me to. Lets go sneakily, Mo Junyang continued to suggest. As long as Qingxue wanted to, he could deal with everything. Shi Qingxue hesitated for a while and then said sensibly, No. Its just a moment. I will endure it. She was clear that most of the time, Mo Junyang could do whatever he wanted and even be reckless. Mo Junyang had the power. However, after all, they lived in groups. If they were too unconventional, it would be easy to make people jealous of them. Qingxue believed that Mo Junyang knew this reason and even kept out of the business most of the time, so she didnt want him to put himself in danger because of her. She restrained herself and even smiled at Mo Junyang to comfort him. Seeing that nobody paid attention to them, she moved closer to Mo Junyang and asked in a soft voice, Why did His Majesty tell you to go to the study today? Mo Junyang happily accepted Qingxue getting close to him and then answered softly, Nothing. Later Before he finished his words, Mo Xiangbin gestured for all people to quiet down as they would announce an imperial edict. The sounds of singing and dancing stopped, and Quan took out the imperial edict, reading in front of all people, The emperor issued the edict. The daughter of the Minister of War Feng is pure-hearted, graceful and broad-minded, so she is going to be the fourth princes wife, and they will get married on a lucky day. As soon as Quan finished his words, many people congratulated Mo Junhao and the Minister of War, Feng Jifeng endlessly. The fourth princes followers became more powerful these days and were almost well-matched in strength with the crown princes followers. Now the emperor granted the marriage of Feng Mei and Mo Junhao, so it would give the fourth princes followers a great help inevitably. Even some people guessed whether Mo Xiangbin would choose Mo Junhao to ascend the throne. Otherwise, why did he consider marrying Mo Junhao to Feng Mei? Feng Jifeng controlled the Bureau of War, and he had power and soldiers. Even when the Ministry of Official Personnel Affairs and the Ministry of Revenue became weaker, the Bureau of War and Ministry of Penalty showed their functions. Then all people suddenly found that the Minister of Penalty Luo Sen followed the fourth prince. Then more people rushed to say congratulations. As a result, the banquet got more lively, and people talked with each other endlessly. Mo Xiangbin didnt stop them but sent somebody to the table for King Ruis family to invite Mo Junyang. This time, he was more low-key than many times, and even others didnt notice it. Shi Qingxue had got the information from Mo Junyang that Mo Xiangbin had known his identity, and she understood that the emperor was close to Mo Junyang, but with such special treatment repeatedly, if Mo Junyangs birth was exposed someday, it would be difficult to predict what would happen then. As soon as she started to think, a figure walked over and stood in front of her, blocking her sight. It was Feng Mei. Shi Qingxue frowned slightly and looked at Feng Mei in confusion. She thought that she had no contact with Feng Mei. Why did this girl suddenly come to her? Feng Mei raised her chin slightly and looked down at her, asking arrogantly, Are you Shi Qingxue? Shi Qingxue was speechless. Although they had never talked with each other before, they had heard about each others name. Nobody knew if Feng Mei was jealous of her, and she even had the face to come to Shi Qingxue and speak to her in this way. Shi Qingxue nodded casually, and she was neither humble nor pushy, looking at Feng Mei. She didnt flatter Feng Mei as soon as this lady was titled as the fourth princes wife or shrink back because she didnt dare to talk with Feng Mei, although the latter had expected that. Shi Qingxue still looked lofty like before and seemed to be taller than Feng Mei even though she was seated, which made Feng Mei furious and anxious who was jealous of her to the bone in the past. Feng Mei cursed in secret, Why are you so arrogant? Isnt your father Duke Shi? But my father is a favored official of His Majesty now. Your father has to bow to my father sooner or later, and I am going to marry the fourth prince. The man you think about every day will be my husband soon. Just keep daydreaming. At this thought, Feng Mei was more complacent. However, if she knew that Shi Qingxue had been married to Mo Junhao in the previous life and he said several times that he wanted to marry her yet she refused with disgust in this life, Feng Mei might go mad. Shi Qingxue didnt know that Feng Mei thought about so much, but anybody would be unhappy when he was stared. After a while, she finally couldnt help saying, Miss Feng, we are at the banquet. If you have nothing to say, please go back to your seat. Feng Mei goggled and seemed to have heard something unbelievable. Are you driving me away? Shi Qingxue stayed silent and thought, How arrogant Feng Mei is so she doesnt think that I will feel disgusted with her presence? Seeing that Shi Qingxue admitted it in silence, Feng Mei was angrier and asked crossly, Why do you drive me away? Qingxue glanced at the sign aside and what she meant was obvious. This was the table for Duke Shis family. Of course, she qualified to drive Feng Mei away. Feng Mei was unable to speak. She was irritated by Shi Qingxues straightforward eyes but couldnt find a word to retort her. At last, she raised her chin again and said haughtily, Who said that I had nothing to tell you? I came to ask you to compete with me. Shi Qingxues eyes twinkled and she asked calmly, What? All people say that you are good at shooting and nobody in the country can compare with you. I want to compete on shooting with you. Do you dare to? Feng Mei intentionally irritated Shi Qingxue with scornful words. Shi Qingxue naturally understood Feng Meis intention, so she wasnt enraged by her easily. However, when somebody came to provoke her, if she didnt accept the challenge, wouldnt it show that she was too weak and cowardly? Shi Qingxue didnt have an interest in competing with Feng Mei, but she was not afraid when this woman provoked her in public unexpectedly. Then she asked in reply at once, How do you want to compete? Feng Mei had thought that Shi Qingxue wouldnt agree to compete with her, and then she would try her best to scoff at Shi Qingxue and embarrass her in public. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue agreed so soon and was neither haughty nor humble. It made Feng Mei unable to speak out what she was going to say. Her face stiffened, and she looked at Qingxue awkwardly for quite a while before she could finally regain her momentum. She continued, We will shoot ten arrows and see who will shoot more accurately. Shi Qingxue nodded calmly and replied, Okay. Feng Mei thought that her shooting skill was peerless, and this time she would embarrass Shi Qingxue in public. Then she excitedly told the servants to arrange for a competition area. Chapter 319 - Who Wins? It was still the banquet, but Feng Mei shouted that she would compete with Shi Qingxue on shooting. Logically, it was against the rules. However, it was surprising that nobody stood out to stop her. Most people wanted to look on, and even Mo Xiangbin didnt say anything after seeing that. Shi Qingxue secretly pondered for a moment and then understood the superiors thoughts, so she set her mind at rest and followed Feng Mei, walking to the competition area. It was also in the imperial garden and took up a large open area, but it didnt affect the singers and dancers at the banquet. However, under the situation, perhaps not many people still paid attention to the performances. Feng Mei took the bow first yet still turned to Shi Qingxue hypocritically. How about you shoot first? I dont mind. Although she said that she didnt mind, she grasped the bow all the time. Shi Qingxue chuckled and knew that Feng Mei wanted to seek the limelight, so she waved her hand and stated with a smile, After you. Feng Mei was determined to give her a head-on blow, and of course, she wouldnt give up the chance. Then she took a sharp arrow and aimed at the target before shooting. She shot at the red heart in the middle. She shot it quickly and accurately. The onlookers cheered at once. Feng Mei got complacent and turned to Shi Qingxue, showing a smile with provocation. Shi Qingxue looked at her peacefully. She didnt get anxious or angry, while Dong Shuang next to her was in a rage and couldnt help but whisper, Why are you haughty? My ladys shooting skill is much better than yours. Fine. Dont murmur like a kid. Lets quietly watch a good play. In fact, Feng Meis shooting skill deserved the conceit she showed. She shot ten sharp arrows and all of them were shot at the red heart, making the target like a flower. All people around responded with thunderous applause, and Feng Mei even complacently walked to the front of the target. Then she looked back at Shi Qingxue and showed a big smile, seeming to ask, Look at my result. How will you win me? It was reasonable that Feng Mei was complacent. It was the best result to shoot each of the ten arrows at the red heart. Even if Shi Qingxue did it, she would gain the same result. Now Feng Mei was in the limelight and shot arrows first, while many onlookers wanted to flatter her, so they would say that she was awesome. Feng Mei smiled complacently, as if she had seen Shi Qingxue admit defeat in front of her. All people seemed to have seen Shi Qingxue give up in frustration. However, beyond expectation, Shi Qingxue didnt give up but received a new arrow from a servant. Without saying anything, Shi Qingxue moved to the left under all peoples astonished eyes and then shot the first arrow. The sharp arrow flew away and almost passed Feng Meis hair. Her life and death were decided in an instant, and after the sharp arrow flew past Feng Mei, it was shot at one arrow which had been shot by her. With a crack, the two sharp arrows fell on the ground at the same time. It changed too quickly, and all people hadnt reacted. Feng Mei was so frightened that her eyes widened and her face got pale. She was shaky with her legs trembling. What happened next became a long-lasting nightmare in Feng Meis short life. Shi Qingxue then took the second arrow out of the quiver and shot again after aiming. This time, it flew past the side of Feng Meis ear and then hit another arrow shot by her earlier. At last, they fell on the ground at the same time. When she was almost dead for the first time, she was frightened almost to death, and then it happened to her for the second time in an instant, which was enough to scare her out of wits. Not to mention running away, she couldnt even move a bit. If she experienced the same for ten times successively, perhaps she would be numb while feeling frightened. Shi Qingxue followed the example and shot ten sharp arrows from the quiver in the same breathtaking way. Each arrow seemed able to take Feng Meis life, and each hit one arrow on the target shot by her. After Shi Qingxue shot ten arrows, Feng Mei couldnt sustain herself anymore but fell on the ground in dejection, while the target was empty, only with ten indistinct dots left. Feng Meis maid was so terrified that tears fell from her eyes when Shi Qingxue started to shoot, yet the sharp arrows were serious, and she stood there in shock and didnt dare to move. Till Shi Qingxue had only one bow in her hand, the maid hurriedly rushed to help Feng Mei up, asking with concern, My Lady, are you all right? I will ask an imperial doctor to examine you. Shi Qingxue enjoyed Feng Meis clownism at leisure and then expressed unhurriedly, I am sorry. Mei, your shooting skill is superb, and I wanted to compete with you, so I was anxious just now. Are you frightened? She was more than frightened, as she was frightened almost to death. Okay? The maid of the Feng family was exasperated and wanted to curse Shi Qingxue, while Feng Mei with a straight face grabbed her hand and stopped this conversation. In the beginning, Feng Mei suggested competing. It was her who courted death and walked to the target to make a show of power. Moreover, Shi Qingxues actions were dangerous, yet she didnt hurt Feng Mei. If Feng Mei censured Shi Qingxue, she couldnt gain profit but it would make people think that the first young lady of the Feng family was too unreasonable. Feng Mei wished to tear Shi Qingxue to pieces who scared her, while she couldnt show it. She just glared at Shi Qingxue ferociously, with indignation on her face. Shi Qingxue didnt feel itchy or pained under her glare. In the beginning, if Feng Mei didnt come to provoke her, Shi Qingxue wouldnt shoot arrows like a clown in front of so many people, but since the woman came to her, Shi Qingxue would show no mercy. In fact, she was too obedient and easy-going recently, so all people thought that she could be bullied easily. Now she wanted all people to know that even though Mo Junyang was not around her, the others couldnt bully or humiliate her. At this time, somebody was loquacious and asked in secret, So who won? After that voice, people didnt have time to investigate who wanted to make mischief, while voices of debate rose one after another. Somebody stated, Lady Mei shot all the ten arrows at the red heart, while Lady Qingxue shot none of them at it, so Lady Mei won. Another one retorted, Havent you seen that Lady Qingxues arrows hit Lady Meis all arrows and made them fall? With such a capability and accurateness, of course, Lady Qingxue is more awesome. One person argued, You cant say so. This is a competition, and there must be rules. Lady Qingxue didnt shoot the arrows at the red heart according to the rules, so she lost. Then somebody argued, Before they competed, they said that they would see who could shoot more accurately, and they didnt say that they must shoot them at the red heart. Now Lady Qingxues ten arrows happened to hit Lady Meis arrows, so she can shoot accurately. Of course, she is the winner. The arguing voices were endless. Most people flattered Feng Mei and said that Shi Qingxue didnt shoot the arrows at the target, and less people revealed the truth, but there were louder retorting voices in an instant. Shi Qingxue had no reaction. In the beginning, she agreed to compete with Feng Mei on shooting because she wanted to teach this woman a lesson and make the opponent know that she couldnt be bullied so easily. She had achieved her goal, and it didnt matter whether she won or lost. Those people wanted to flatter the Feng family, while she didnt care. However, Dong Shuang couldnt bear to see those people tell lies recklessly. She rolled up her sleeves and planned to walk forward to quarrel with the people who dared to slander her lady. At this time, a eunuch came to report, His Majesty told Lady Qingxue and Lady Mei to see him. Shi Qingxue and Feng Mei looked at each other and noticed the surprise in the other partys eyes. Feng Mei still looked confused, but Shi Qingxue found something from her expression. The emperor summoned them, which was not Feng Meis plot, so Mo Xiangbin wanted to judge who the winner was. She chuckled and didnt fear it. Although Feng Mei was the fourth princes future wife, and Mo Xiangbin seemed to like her, it didnt mean that the fourth princes followers could hoodwink the public. As Qingxue expected, Mo Xiangbin summoned them not to stand up for Feng Mei, yet he smiled at Shi Qingxue and asked, Little girl, the target is not small. Why did you shoot at the arrows of the fourth princes future wife and make them fall? Shi Qingxue was found to have done it intentionally, while she didnt panic but stated frankly, But the red heart is small. If Lady Mei occupied it, wouldnt I have no place to shoot? As she said that, it meant that Feng Meis arrows were in the way. Mo Xiangbins eyes were deeper as he looked Shi Qingxue up and down. Then he asked, Why didnt you shoot after the servants took her arrows away or tell somebody to bring a new target? Shi Qingxues big eyes showed that she was grieved, and she expressed in embarrassment, Your Majesty, you dont know what happened then. I like to excel others and I was provoked by Mei. How would I think about so much? She stammered with a blush, as if she felt embarrassed for her strong emotions. It made Feng Mei who wanted to irritate Shi Qingxue have blood stuck in her heart, and she couldnt spit it out or swallow it. Her face was colorful and nice-looking. In fact, Feng Mei did want to provoke Shi Qingxue and hope to see what the girl would look like after being irritated, while as a result, she was almost killed under Shi Qingxues arrows. However, she couldnt complain about it because she asked for it. Feng Mei was so depressed, while Shi Qingxue continued generously, Whats more, I have shot all the ten arrows at the red heart, yet some people say that I am inferior to Mei in shooting. I dont know what they would say if I shot at another target. At the moment, even Mo Xiangbin was silent. When Mo Xiangbin announced the marriage of Mo Junhao and Feng Mei in public, he had predicted that the Feng family would be the focus of attention and the fence-sitters in the imperial palace would be on their side. Then even if Shi Qingxue shot more accurately, they would still say that Feng Mei was more awesome. At this time, Shi Qingxue smiled at Mo Xiangbin sweetly again and asked, Your Majesty, you are impartial and selfless with unique insight, and you can surely see at a glance who wins between me and Mei. Do I have the honor to ask you to be a judge today? After hearing that, Mo Xiangbin looked astonished inevitably, while all people held their breaths and looked at him, waiting for his response. The emperors judgment was more fair and selfless than anybody else and enough to make all people shut up. Nevertheless, nobody knew what judgment would Mo Xiangbin give this time. Chapter 320 - A Loud and Clear Slap Mo Xiangbins deep eyes fell on Shi Qingxue again, and he looked her up and down. This time, he finally attached more importance to this young lady who was less than eighteen years old in front of him. Earlier, even though he knew that Shi Qingxue was the woman Mo Junyang wanted to marry and he had agreed, he controlled himself all the time and didnt speak it out because he didnt think highly of her. He just thought that this girl was willful, naughty and lovely, but she was not enough to be the wife of King Ruis heir. In the past two years, Shi Qingxue was more reserved even though she had been showy before. However, in this case, he thought that Shi Qingxue had become a canary kept in a cage because Mo Junyang protected her and that she looked beautiful but was good for nothing. Till now, Mo Xiangbin surprisingly found that Shi Qingxue was never a canary. She was dazzling in the past because she was really capable, while she became reserved because she had grown up. She knew that an outstanding person was liable to be attacked and that if she showed to be too calm sometimes, she would make people think that she was weak and could be bullied, so she made this show today. She was so beautiful and eye-catching. Even though he had seen many kinds of means, he had to say that Shi Qingxues action was attractive. She showed her shooting skills and embarrassed Feng Mei. Meanwhile, she made all people know that she couldnt be bullied easily. Mo Xiangbin was more satisfied while looking at Shi Qingxue and finally thought that she qualified to be his daughter-in-law. The emperor thought joyfully and the expression on his face changed several times, which scared the others and made their hearts beat fast. They were restless. They didnt know what Mo Xiangbin was thinking about. Even though Shi Qingxue was superb in shooting indeed, she had embarrassed the emperors future daughter-in-law. Even for Mo Junhaos sake, Mo Xiangbin should help Feng Mei wipe out the humiliation, right? Feng Mei thought of this point and got more complacent. Then she secretly glanced at Shi Qingxue with provocation. Huh. Dont think that you can win if you report to His Majesty. Wait and see. The final winner must be me. Shi Qingxue didnt care. She shrugged and ignored Feng Mei. Then she lowered her head and looked obedient and lovely. She was diminutive. Compared with Feng Mei who was ferocious, Qingxue was like a pitiful young lady who had been bullied by an evil person. Mo Junhao stayed next to Mo Xiangbin all the time as his good son, and he didnt want to get involved in the girls fight, but seeing Feng Meis aggressive attitude, he frowned involuntarily. He gently grabbed Feng Meis sleeve and gave her a glance with warning. Seeing that her fiance defended Shi Qingxue, Feng Mei was irritated and her eyes became red. She didnt calm down but even bared her teeth in front of Shi Qingxue and wanted to skin her seemingly. At the moment, Mo Xiangbin stood up and smiled at Shi Qingxue, saying in a loud voice, You can shoot at all the sharp arrows on the target, so the winner is naturally Mo Xiangbin had a bright smile and was going to say what he wanted to. Nevertheless, next second, he suddenly felt that everything before his eyes was dark. Before he lost his consciousness, he just heard the voices of the people around in panic. Your Majesty! Father! Nobody knew how it happened, yet it did happen. Mo Xiangbin fell into a coma with no sign in front of all people, which scared them out of wits. Mo Junyang reacted first and carried Mo Xiangbin, rushing to the bedroom. At the same time, he arranged in an orderly way and told people to call the imperial doctors and Shen Luo. Ling Ruiyin and Mo Junyu came back to earth and then followed them closely. All people didnt pay attention to the shooting competition with a clear result anymore but hurriedly followed them to the emperors residence. The cheerful imperial garden quieted down in an instant. Feng Mei was pushed by the crowd and had to follow them to check on the emperor, yet she walked slowly and chose paths where there were few people. Soon, she walked to a place where nobody was around, and she didnt hide the grudge on her face anymore, which almost twisted. Her maid Zhichun next to her saw that and reminded her cautiously, My Lady, now all people show concern about His Majesty. How about we Before she finished her words, Zhichun kept silent and didnt dare to speak under Feng Meis glare. Feng Mei responded crossly, Why should I go to visit him? Havent you seen that he planned to make me lose face? Huh. I think that he deserves it. Although Mo Xiangbin didnt finish his words, what he had said almost showed his attitude. This old man was partial to Shi Qingxue obviously. If there were no such an incident, Feng Mei would be disgraced in public. Feng Mei even felt lucky as Mo Xiangbin suddenly fell sick. God helped her. Hearing Feng Meis words, Zhichun was scared out of wits and hurriedly reached out her hand to cover Feng Meis mouth, screaming in a low voice in panic, My Lady, are you crazy? You cant say such words. Feng Mei pushed Zhichun away with displeasure and rolled her eyes. There is no outsider here. Cant I say something randomly? Moreover, even if somebody hears me, who dares to gossip? You are really capable and even dare to comment on my father? Mo Junhaos cold voice appeared behind them, which frightened them a lot. Feng Mei turned to Mo Junhao with fear and stuttered, greeting, Junhao, whatwhat are you doing here? Mo Junhao snorted. If I were not here, I wouldnt know that my future wife who has been appointed by my father complains about the royal family so much. No, I dont! Feng Mei argued in a great flurry. She had a grudge against Mo Xiangbin but didnt want Mo Junhao to be critical of her, so she hurriedly pretended to be pitiful and grabbed Mo Junhaos sleeve. She shook it gently and still looked sad. Junhao, I was too angry just now. I am His Majestys future daughter-in-law, yet how can he be partial to Shi Qingxue? He would even make me lose face in public. I was mad so I just made a few complaints. I didnt mean it. Junhao, please believe me. Mo Junhao pulled back his sleeve indifferently. I have reminded you for several times not to offend Shi Qingxue, but you provoked her repeatedly. You are inferior to her in shooting skills, and you have lost, yet why did you blame Father? Should he say something against his conscience for your dignity? Then where would his dignity as an emperor be put? He said a lot and made it clear that Feng Mei brought trouble to herself. However, it was not what made Feng Mei sad most. What irritated her most was Mo Junhaos tone. His tone was disdainful, as if Feng Mei were good for nothing. Feng Mei thought that she was smart, so she was conceited, and she had never been taunted in this way since childhood. Moreover, the man she loved most helped another woman scoff at her. Feng Mei exploded at once and forgot that she was always gentle and lovely in front of Mo Junhao, shouting in a rage, I think that you still miss Shi Qingxue, that bi*ch. It is fine that His Majesty is partial to her, but you are going to marry me. Why do you still miss that bi*ch? She doesnt love you. You Shut up! Clap! A slap and Mo Junhaos angry reproach appeared at the same time, and then it fell into silence. Feng Mei covered her right face and looked at Mo Junhao in disbelief. He looked ghastly pale and also stared at his left hand, seeming to be furious, yet he didnt understand why he beat Feng Mei. After a long while, Feng Mei asked in a trembling voice, You beat me? Her voice was fragmented and sorrowful. Mo Junhao softened at once and grabbed Feng Meis hand, explaining in panic, No, Mei, I didnt mean it. Dont take it to heart As he comforted her, she got more emotional. It didnt smooth down Feng Meis anger, but she had tears in her eyes and cried to denounce him. You beat me! Nobody dares to beat me since my childhood, yet you dare to beat me because of that bi*ch Hearing the word bi*ch, Mo Junhao felt that the blue veins on his forehead were trembling. However, even though he didnt feel happy after hearing Feng Meis words, he knew her current status and had to comfort her. I didnt. I just got angry as you said whatever you wanted Mei, think about it. You are going to be my wife. In the future, most of the time, your every word and action can even represent me. If you say anything recklessly, what will others think about you and me? Even though you dont care about what others think about you, dont you care about your fiance? Mo Junhao said in a gentle voice and combined hard tactics with soft. He even threatened and lured Feng Mei with the title of the fourth princes wife which she thought about every day and night. Feng Mei was inexperienced, so she was comforted immediately. She didnt blame Mo Junhao who had beaten her but apologized in a hurry for her speaking recklessly. She promised that she would pay attention to her statements and actions all the time in the further and wouldnt make her fiance lose face. Mo Junhao kissed Feng Meis head gently at once and expressed with affection, I know that you are the only person who cares about me most. What he said made Feng Mei highly delighted and dizzy. Afterward, Mo Junhao said a few words and then easily lured Feng Mei who was happy and brainless back to her mansion. Shi Qingxue had watched these peoples affected manners and felt bored. If they didnt block her only way, she wouldnt waste time overhearing them. Shi Qingxue had to wait till all people left, so then she could walk out under the big tree and run away. After Mo Junhao persuaded Feng Mei to leave, he still stood in the middle of the road, with his head lowered, lost in thought. Nobody knew what he was thinking about. Anyway, it appeared that he wasnt going to leave. Shi Qingxue got impatient while waiting, but she heard Mo Junhaos deep voice suddenly. Why not come out? Shi Qingxue was speechless. She looked around by instinct and wondered which warrior would hide under a big tree and overhear like her. She didnt see anybody. Then she peeped that Mo Junhao suddenly turned to the big tree where she was hidden. I know you are hiding there. Come out now. Qingxue was frightened and shrank by instinct to hide behind the tree, yet then she was surprised at why she did that. She didnt overhear intentionally. Why didnt they find a good place to hide and talk about secrets but chose such a path for people to walk and forced her to stay here, unable to leave? Shi Qingxue had confidence instantly and walked out under the tree, going to Mo Junhao. Then she asked casually, Your Highness, what can I do for you? Mo Junhao was shocked to see Shi Qingxue. He knew that somebody was overhearing behind the tree, and he was prepared to kill that person who might produce evidence against him, yet he had never expected that this person would be Shi Qingxue. He blurted out in surprise, Why is it you? Shi Qingxue was confused after hearing this question and thought, Why cant it be me? However, she always didnt want to say more to Mo Junhao, so she expressed directly, Your Highness, if you have nothing to say, I will go to visit His Majesty in his residence first. When she took only one step, her wrist was grabbed by Mo Junhao, and she was pulled back. Qingxue was alert and resisted with her hand, so she wouldnt rush into Mo Junhaos arms. Do you want to go after hearing my secrets? How can it be so easy? Hmm? Chapter 321 - Show Her Fist to Him Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded by Mo Junhao and almost worshiped him. This man could be so shameless at any time, and it was his ability, right? She sneered and uplifted her brows with a snort. This path leads to the harem, so how is it improper that I walk past here? But Your Highness, since you want to gossip, you should find a quiet place where there is nobody else. Otherwise, if the people that you talk about hear you and meet you by chance, it will be embarrassing. Do you think so? Mo Junhao was stunned and soon understood what Shi Qingxue meant. Feng Mei had cursed Shi Qingxue just now with some dirty words, and even he felt unhappy to hear that. Since the victim heard that, even if Shi Qingxue didnt care, she was certainly unhappy. Moreover, judging from Shi Qingxues expression, it didnt look like she didnt care. Mo Junhao coaxed her humbly at once like he did to Feng Mei and expressed apologetically, Its my fault as I cant discipline Feng Mei well, so she said something improper. If you are really mad, I will apologize to you, okay? He intentionally stressed the word apologize with vague meanings. Perhaps he wished to get close to Shi Qingxue under the cover of apologizing. However, Shi Qingxue wasnt Feng Mei. She wouldnt be bought over by only a few words. Moreover, the speaker was Mo Junhao, the person that she hated most in the previous life and this life. Shi Qingxue shook off Mo Junhaos hands with disgust which shackled her and moved backward. Then she straightened her sleeves and responded indifferently, No need. I dont want to talk with you about what happened today. Just think that nothing happened. In another word, she didnt blame Mo Junhao and the others for speaking ill of her, and he couldnt try to pester her with this matter. Of course, Shi Qingxue didnt want to let them go out of kindness. It was not a minor crime to comment on the emperor behind his back, while she was clear that even if she wanted to cut Mo Junhao into slices, it was not the right time yet. Mo Junhao was furious as Shi Qingxue tried repeatedly to stay away from him. He didnt understand why she was still unmoved even though he talked gently and humbly. She was distant and seemed to drive him away from her world. Mo Junhao couldnt accept this attitude of her. He frowned with displeasure and stared at Shi Qingxue. Qingxue, you were shy, lovely and tender, with affection in the past. Even when you were arrogant and willful earlier, you were frank and obedient. Why are you so distant to me when we are together alone? Shi Qingxue was confused for quite a while and then understood what the past and earlier Mo Junhao mentioned meant. In the past, she was a girl who hadnt experienced the future. With a young girls feelings, she loved the fourth prince. Even though she was arrogant and willful, she subconsciously wanted to show obedience to her beloved man. As for earlier, after she was reborn, in the beginning, she felt guilty to Mo Junyang and tried to avoid seeing him, but she accepted him now. In this process, she was sincere to Mo Junyang and loved him wholeheartedly. She thought that she was the same as before, yet she changed when she didnt realize it. At least, in the eyes of others, she had become a pet cat of Mo Junyang. She concealed her claws obediently and even played the woman in front of her owner, Mo Junyang to please him, letting him caress her hair. She looked beautiful. When her owner was not present, she would be a weak woman with no power to fight and let others bully her. So these people thought that she could be bullied easily? Shi Qingxue sneered and wanted to slap Mo Junhao with her tenderness, loveliness, frankness and obedience. Your Highness, you think too much. Even if I were really an obedient pet cat, that was because somebody else spoilt me, and it has nothing to do with you, Shi Qingxue replied with a faint smile and uplifted the corner of her eye. Both of them knew who somebody else was. Mo Junhao was irritated by Shi Qingxues slight at once. Nobody could accept that the woman he loved threw herself on his enemy obediently with affection but refused to spare a glance for him and even showed her fist to him. However, what could he do even though he didnt accept it? Shi Qingxue didnt want to talk with him. After leaving the sarcastic words, Shi Qingxue left when Mo Junhao was absent-minded. People surrounded Mo Xiangbins residence outside. All of them talked endlessly, as if they were awesome and should be the doctors treating the emperor inside. Shi Qingxue walked to her father silently and stood there. Mo Junyang seemed to have telepathy and turned to her, with his dark eyes. What he meant was obvious. He told her to come to him. Shi Qingxue was chocked and couldnt speak a word. She realized who should be responsible for the good impression she left on others for no reason. Mo Junyang almost took her as a three-year-old child, right? He wished to do everything for her and keep her around him with a rope all the time. After she left for a short while, he started to look for her. Shi Qingxue would fall out with anybody who treated her like a pet, but when the person was Mo Junyang, she could understand his feelings seemingly. She might be displeased, yet after weighting, she still obediently walked to Mo Junyang and stood next to him. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes at Mo Junyang and felt helpless, indicating, Are you satisfied now? Mo Junyang was naturally satisfied, but he was good at assuming a feigned manner. He still looked expressionless and stood in the front coldly, pursing his lips in silence. In fact, they just stood next to each other for a while and almost nobody paid attention to them. Then Quan ran out to tell some people to enter the emperors bedroom. Apart from the royal family members, some officials Mo Xiangbin always relied heavily on, including Duke Shi qualified to enter the bedroom. Logically, Shi Qingxue didnt have the qualification to enter, but Mo Junyang demanded her to, and she was petite and followed them at the back obediently, so nobody noticed her. In the bedroom, Mo Xiangbin hadnt woken up. Ling Ruiyin sat on the bedside and wiped her tears. Shen Luo looked serious and checked the emperors pulse. The imperial doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine still whispered together and looked anxious. You have examined the patient and talked for so long. Do you have a solution to cure His Majesty? Ling Ruiyin coldly asked the doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine. Obviously, she was dissatisfied as these people were dilatory and talking endlessly without doing anything. The doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine fell into silence at once. They looked at one another but nobody stood out to explain the diagnostic result. All of them turned to Shen Luo for help. Shen Luo was confused when they looked at him, yet seeing that Mo Junyang also looked at him, he explained considerately, His Majesty has been poisoned probably. Ling Ruiyin was shocked and asked, What happened? His Majestys food and clothes have been served by specially-assigned people and tested for many times. Why was he poisoned? If they are tested according to the usual procedures and sent to His Majesty after prelibation, there will be nothing wrong, yet I dont know what was eaten by His Majesty without being tested. Shen Luo didnt mention something exactly but beat around the bush. However, it was enough to make Ling Ruiyin know what Shen Luo wanted to say. It was said that the emperor indulged in refining elixir recently, and an elixir-refiner from society Han Ling who was recommended by the sixth prince Mo Junjing was highly regarded. Hearing that, Ling Ruiyin was shocked and angry. She instantly told somebody to bring the elixir-refiner Han Ling. She worriedly stared at Mo Xiangbin who looked ghastly pale with his eyes closed, asking Shen Luo, Doctor Shen, His Majesty has been in a coma for so long. Why hasnt he woken up? You said that he was poisoned. Do you have a solution to cure him? At the moment, even Shen Luo looked baffled and hesitated for a long time. Then he sighed helplessly. His Majestys health has worsened a lot since he had a stroke last time. He should recuperate quietly, but he is poisoned now. I cant confirm what poison is in his body yet, so I cant give you a positive answer for now. I can only give him some medicine to relieve uneasiness of mind and replenish energy. When I find out what he ate, I will prescribe a medicine special for the disease. Is it so serious? The shock on Ling Ruiyins face was more obvious. It was not that she didnt believe Shen Luos words, but in the past few days, Mo Xiangbin looked energetic and it was said that his health was improved after he ate the elixir, which was more effective than the prescriptions of the Imperial Academy of Medicine and Shen Luo. Therefore, Mo Xiangbin stopped using the prescriptions and concentrated on eating elixir. In the beginning, Ling Ruiyin doubted it, yet seeing that he was more energetic after eating elixir, she had no objection, while she had never expected that the elixir was really harmful. Shen Luo sneered in secret and lowered his head in silence. Since ancient times, many people in power wished to live forever, as long as heaven and earth, so they refined elixir and tried to become immortals, while all of them failed in the end, and a lot of them died at an early age because of the elixir. Logically, at the mention of refining elixir, all clear-headed people knew that it was a lie. However, it was too alluring to live forever and build a strong body. Although Mo Xiangbin was a wise emperor, he was fooled. Ling Ruiyins face was stiff, and she remained quiet, so others didnt dare to say anything. It was deadly silent in the bedroom. Mo Junyang pushed Mo Junyu from behind, so the latter came to his senses all of a sudden and stated at once, Grandma, I think that as Father is poisoned, it is not as simple as it appears. I am afraid that somebody played tricks in secret and wanted to harm Father. Ling Ruiyin frowned and asked, Crown Prince, what do you think we should do? Firstly, we need to ask Doctor Shen and all the doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine to try their best to cure Father. Secondly, we cant spread this news or let others know why Father was poisoned, Mo Junyu answered methodically. Why cant we spread the news? Mo Junyu lowered his head and whispered, We have to do so to ensure Fathers safety. If some people with evil intentions know Fathers condition, they may do something beyond expectation, which is impossible for us to defend effectively, but as long as we keep it a secret, those people dont know the truth, so they dont dare to act rashly. Moreover, Fathers safety is related to the stability of the country. If the officials and common people know the truth, it will probably cause turbulence at the imperial court. This Your Majesty, you finally wake up! Ling Ruiyin abruptly called and interrupted Mo Junyu, which scared him. He suddenly raised his head and saw that Mo Xiangbin was staring at him. Nobody knew when the emperor had opened his eyes. His eyes were deep with hidden meanings seemingly, which made Mo Junyu feel guilty and have cold sweat on his back. Would his intention be seen through? Chapter 322 - Drag Him out and Behead Him at Once Mo Xiangbins eyes fell on Mo Junyu for only a short while and made his heart beat fast, with cold sweat on his head. Then he looked away as if nothing had happened. He turned to Ling Ruiyin and asked in a hoarse voice, What happened? Ling Ruiyin wiped her tears and replied in a sobbing voice, Your Majesty, Doctor Shen said that you were poisoned because you ate the damned elixir. I have told you before that the stuff came from nowhere and you couldnt eat it. If you had listened to me, something like this wouldnt have happened today. Ling Ruiyin complained and felt sad for her son. What she said was sincere and made him feel sorrowful. Even though Mo Xiangbin wasnt used to being rebuked to his face since long ago, in front of Ling Ruiyin, he wasnt displeased but moved. Although he was blinded by the elixir-refiner because of oversight, he was not stupid. Now he was feeble, and it seemed that all his strength was extracted in advance. He felt worse even than before he took elixir, and with Doctor Shens diagnosis, he knew what on earth had happened as he trusted this miracle-working doctor recommended by Mo Junyang. Mo Xiangbin got furious in an instant and shouted, Where is Han Ling? Ling Ruiyin was Mo Xiangbins biological mother and knew well about her son. She patted Mo Xiangbins back to make him stop being angry and explained, Dont worry. I have ordered some people to bring Han Ling. Its up to you how to deal with him. Mo Xiangbin coldly glanced at Han Ling who knelt on the floor and kept trembling, ordering directly, Drag him out and behead him at once. He said mercilessly, as if he wouldnt kill somebody but just told somebody to go out and cut a wax gourd. All people were stunned, and then Han Ling screamed like a pig which was being killed. Your Majesty, please spare my life. Please, Your Majesty. I was careless. I am sure to refine the elixir which can make you become stronger and live forever next time. Please give me another chance. Hearing that, the guards who came to drag Han Ling away didnt do anything but looked at Mo Xiangbin hesitantly. Mo Xiangbin snorted. What? Havent you heard my order? He would really kill this man without mercy. The two guards didnt dare to delay after hearing that. They dragged Han Ling on both sides of him and prepared to pull him out. Father, please wait a moment. A clear voice cut in, and the guards stopped again. All people looked at the source of the voice. It was the sixth prince Mo Junjing. Mo Xiangbin stared at Mo Junjing and asked indifferently, Junjing, what do you want to say? The others noticed Mo Xiangbins anger and didnt say anything, as they feared that they would be implicated. However, Mo Junjing wasnt afraid of death. He didnt notice the coldness in Mo Xiangbins words but stated boldly, Father, although Doctor Shen said that you were in a coma because you were poisoned, he cant explain what poison it is. If you kill Han Ling rashly before finding the truth, perhaps it will arouse the public opinion and influence your fame. I beg you What? Dont I have the power to kill a person now? Mo Xiangbin interrupted Mo Junjing coldly. Mo Junjing was speechless and looked at Mo Xiangbin. He had nothing to say. Mo Xiangbin pursed his lips again. Speaking of which, if I am not brainless at an old age, you recommended Han Ling to me, right? Mo Junjing was unable to speak. He had just wanted to show his face in front of his father and express that he was different, while what he said reminded the emperor. He couldnt please Mo Xiangbin but got himself into trouble. Mo Junjing was so anxious that he almost had cold sweat. He waved his hand repeatedly and stated, Father, you get me wrong. I never want to harm you. Really? Mo Xiangbin leered at Mo Junjing with a faint smile. Nobody knew if he believed this sons words. Mo Junjing raised his hand and wiped the sweat on his forehead. Then he gritted his teeth and bit the bullet, continuing, In the past, I just heard that you wanted to find a person to refine elixir, and I happened to know that Han Ling made great achievements in this field, so I recommended him to you. I didnt know that he wanted to harm you. I really You recommended him to me before testing his capability. Is this your way to show respect to your father? Mo Xiangbin expressed coldly and made Mo Junjings arguments stuck in his throat. Mo Xiangbin didnt want to say more to Mo Junjing. He just told the guards to pull Han Ling out and then expressed coldly, Even if you dont want to harm me, you are rash, and you should toughen yourself. I wont blame you this time. You go back to your residence and reflect upon your mistakes. Dont go out without my permission. What he said was shocking. Nobody had expected that Mo Xiangbin would put Mo Junjing under house arrest. Mo Junjing looked at Mo Xiangbin in a daze, as if he hadnt understood why he did it out of kindness but ended up with being locked up in the imperial palace, unable to get out. However, Mo Xiangbin didnt plan to give him a chance to explain. He waved his hand and told somebody to take Mo Junjing away. It was weirdly quiet in the bedroom again. All people lowered their heads and didnt dare to speak. They only observed Mo Xiangbins reactions out of the corners of their eyes from time to time. After a while, Ling Ruiyin stated, Your Majesty, you are unwell now. No matter what the reason is, you should pay attention to your health. The crown prince gave some suggestions just now, and I think that they are nice. What do you think? Ling Ruiyin repeated what Mo Junyu had said and intentionally stressed that this prince cared about his father. Mo Xiangbin stayed silent for a while. In fact, he had heard Mo Junyus voice just now, and Ling Ruiyins repetition was not exaggerated. When he raised his head and looked at Mo Junyu again, there was rare warmness in his cold eyes. Junyu, you did a good job this time. Just do as you suggested. Mo Junyu was flattered and looked up at Mo Xiangbin, with surprise and confusion in his eyes which couldnt be concealed. From his childhood, Mo Junyu had seldom heard Mo Xiangbins soft voice, not to mention the praise like today. It was how only Mo Junhao was treated, so he could hardly believe it. Mo Xiangbin noticed Mo Junyus expression and pondered for a moment. Then he understood what his first son was thinking about. He couldnt help but wonder if he was too harsh on his first son in the past few years. Otherwise, why did the young man show such an expression only because of his casual praise, as if he heard something shocking? Mo Xiangbin sighed slightly. Although he felt guilty, he was used to being a boss. Even if he was really wrong, he wouldnt apologize easily. He just raised his voice and told everybody, The crown prince is thoughtful. When I am ill, I will let him handle everything at the imperial court. It almost meant that the crown prince would act as regent. All the officials had different thoughts, yet they answered Mo Xiangbin respectfully on the surface. Mo Xiangbin said a lot and started to feel tired. Then Ling Ruiyin suggested immediately, Your Majesty, you havent fully recovered, so you should have a good rest and leave all the jobs to your subordinates. If you think that there is something wrong, just send somebody to tell me. I wont disturb you now. After speaking, she got up and left the bedroom. Mo Xiangbin waved his hand to dismiss all people. Well. All of you can go away. All people left the bedroom one after another, but before the gate of the emperors residence was closed, Quan came over in haste and talked to Mo Junyang in front of everybody, Your Excellency, dont go away in a hurry. His Majesty told you to see him. Mo Xiangbin had just kicked all of them out, yet in just less than fifteen minutes, he summoned Mo Junyang alone. No matter for what, only the fact that Mo Xiangbin regarded Mo Junyang highly aroused a lot of peoples comments. Mo Junyang pretended that he hadnt seen it. He glanced at Shi Qingxue and then nodded at Quan. Later, he walked back to the bedroom directly. Quan didnt follow him in but stood still at the gate like a door-god. An official gave Quan a money bag secretly when there was nobody around. Then he showed a flattering smile and asked in a low voice, Lord Quan, why did His Majesty summon His Excellency alone? Quan measured the weight of the money bag in his hand and then glanced at this official. He nodded with satisfaction in secret. However, he still pretended to be cold and spoke in a loud voice, as if he would do official business according to official principles. His Majesty summoned him, so he must have his reason. How can the servants like us make conjectures? He purposely said loudly to make the people inside hear it. At the same time, he winked at the man who had given him money, indicating that he didnt know why Mo Xiangbin summoned Mo Junyang. The two men in the bedroom remained silent for a while. When it returned quiet outside, they still looked at each other speechlessly. It seemed that they competed on who would speak first. In the end, Mo Xiangbin couldnt control himself but stated first in embarrassment, I was thoughtlessthis time, so they took the opportunity. Mo Xiangbin admitted his fault first unprecedentedly, although he did it only in front of Mo Junyang, and in his words, he put the blame on others obviously and expressed that he was blinded. Even so, Mo Xiangbin was an emperor, and it was not easy for him to say so. However, Mo Junyang just uplifted his beautiful brows and didnt make comments. It seemed that he didnt buy it. You Mo Xiangbin felt ashamed and annoyed and shouted, yet when he met Mo Junyangs cold eyes, he shut up resentfully. After all, he lacked confidence. After a while, he finally sighed and continued with self-mockery and ridicule, Among all people, perhaps only you dare to speak to me with this attitude. In fact, Mo Xiangbin was clear that Mo Junyang had such performances because he didnt want anything from him or fear him. Others feared him or wanted to flatter him in order to gain profit because of his status as the emperor, but what about Mo Junyang? This child had known his identity since long ago, so he didnt need to worry that the emperor would do something to him. Compared with the other princes, Mo Junyang knew himself well enough and had never planned to fight for the throne. However, because of this, Mo Junyang was the last person Mo Xiangbin was alert to. Even though the emperor didnt fully trust this young man, when something happened and he couldnt handle it, or when he wanted somebody to be a listener, as the emperor needed to vent his feelings, he thought of Mo Junyang first. He sighed helplessly. Kid, you are too calm. You are the crown princes assistant and have done so much for him, yet you always seem to keep out of the business. Even I cant see through you. What will the crown prince think about? Mo Junyang frowned slightly and looked at Mo Xiangbin, without saying anything. After Mo Xiangbin started the conversation, he didnt care if Mo Junyang answered. Then he continued, I am really aged. Recently, I think that my strength does not match my ambitions. I will give the throne to one of my sons sooner or later, but who should inherit my position after I die? Chapter 323 - The Crown Prince Acted as Regent Mo Junyangs eyes stiffened, and everything around became solemn seemingly, like his face. It was Mo Xiangbins first time to talk about the successor with him in all sincerity and frankness instead of beating around the bush. Junyang, why dont you speak? Perhaps because Mo Junyang stayed silent for too long, Mo Xiangbin couldnt help but ask. Mo Junyang replied flatly, Your Majesty, what do you want me to say? Mo Xiangbin was speechless. Probably nobody was more skilled in rendering others speechless than Mo Junyang. Mo Xiangbin glared at Mo Junyang in frustration and asked crossly, Havent you heard what I said? Mo Junyang answered, Yes, I have. Mo Xiangbin was about to say more, while Mo Junyang continued in an indifferent tone, as if it was none of his business, But you are on the throne, and you can give it to anybody as you like. Why do you need to consider others opinions? Mo Junyang said tactfully, and it was not like what he would say. Although Mo Junyang always liked to keep out of the business, as a crown princes follower, shouldnt he say something at the moment? Mo Xiangbin looked Mo Junyang up and down in doubt. I thought that you would recommend the crown prince. After all, he is the heir to the throne for now. Your Majesty, you have considered these matters, so I dont need to say more. Mo Xiangbin was unable to reply. He was convinced by Mo Junyang. The young man tricked him to speak out his intention, yet he didnt say anything. He was so cunning. Kid. Mo Xiangbin sighed deeply again and didnt know what else he could say. At last, he had to look at Mo Junyang seriously, saying frankly, I really want to hear your opinion today. Dont need to say anything insincere to me. I just want you to tell the truth. What on earth do you think about this matter? Mo Junyang still responded, What I said just now is not insincere but from the bottom of my heart. Mo Xiangbin narrowed his eyes and finally showed displeasure in his eyes. However, before the emperor rebuked, Mo Junyang continued, I dont have any thoughts about who will take the throne in the future. His hidden meaning was that no matter who would take the throne in the future, it wouldnt affect him. And he didnt care. Mo Xiangbin finally understood what Mo Junyang meant and was stunned. He almost stuttered, But dont you help the crown prince? Mo Junyang was still the crown princes reading partner and his follower, yet he said that he never thought about whether the crown prince could take the throne? Was he joking? Mo Junyang shrugged and replied casually, The crown prince is the heir to the throne, and He paused for a moment and finally added, Change. That was the same reason why he had saved Mo Junyus life with enthusiasm. He needed to change and be different from the previous life, while it was merely the start to save Mo Junyu, and supporting him in taking the throne became another choice. It was to change, while it was just a choice. Mo Junyang had many choices, so if Mo Xiangbin didnt want to choose Mo Junyu, he would just make another choice. However, Mo Xiangbin misunderstood Mo Junyang obviously and thought that the young man thought highly of Mo Junyus capabilities apart from his identity as the crown prince and wanted to change, so he chose Mo Junyu. He frowned deeply and murmured, Is the crown prince really as good as you said? Mo Junyang knew that Mo Xiangbin misunderstood him, but he didnt plan to explain, so he just stated implicitly, Its up to your opinion whether he is good or not. For example, dont you think that the fourth prince is better, Your Majesty? Mo Xiangbin was suddenly seen through, and his face stiffened, looking embarrassed. He denied subconsciously, No, I just He couldnt continue under Mo Junyangs peaceful yet forceful eyes. Right! He wanted to have a frank and straight talk, but he tried to conceal his feelings after he was exposed, so it would be embarrassing. The emperor took a deep breath and then adjusted his mentality before adding, Right. Junhao is mature and steady. He can take responsibility and does well in dealing with people and behavior. I can say that he is excellent in all aspects. So when Mo Junyu was implicated and denounced because of the colorful phenix, Mo Xiangbin took the opportunity to depose the crown prince although he guessed that Mo Junyu might be a scapegoat. Later he gave up the plan after Mo Junyang advised him, but now he was in poor health, so he was eager to carry out this plan again. Mo Xiangbin knew that Mo Junyang helped the crown prince, so before he made the decision, he needed to consider Mo Junyangs opinion. When Mo Junyang was here, it was not easy for Mo Junhao to keep the position of heir to the throne. Unfortunately, even at this hour, Mo Junyang didnt clearly express who he supported, so it was difficult for Mo Xiangbin to handle it. The expression on Mo Xiangbins face changed repeatedly, and he stuttered, unable to make it clear. In the end, he waved his hand as if to give up and sighed helplessly. Forget it. Its not urgent. Go out now. Let me think it over. Mo Junyang nodded and bowed, turning to walk out. When the young man walked to the door, Mo Xiangbin suddenly asked, If I make Junhao the new crown prince, will you assist the crown prince like you did before? Mo Junyang looked back and met Mo Xiangbins sharp eyes. It seemed that the emperor wanted to see through him. However, if he could be seen through so easily, he wouldnt be Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang pursed his thin lips and remained silent for a long time. When Mo Xiangbin was about to give up sounding out Mo Junyang, the latter shook his head and answered peacefully, No. Mo Xiangbin was rendered speechless. Aha, this answer was simple and direct, without leaving him a chance to prepare and negotiate. Mo Xiangbin smiled bitterly. In fact, he had predicted it earlier, yet he still had wild wishes and wondered if there was a surprise. However, Mo Junyang didnt give him a chance to dream but told him the answer directly. He couldnt help but ask why. Mo Junyang just shook his head, without saying anything. Nobody knew whether he didnt want to say or it was unnecessary to say as the answer was too obvious. Mo Xiangbin guessed that it was the latter, so he didnt continue to ask. However, if Mo Xiangbin knew the answer on Mo Junyangs mind, he might be irritated to death. It was because Mo Junyang wouldnt support Mo Junhao from the beginning. The reason was simple and direct. Shi Qingxue hadnt taken revenge on Mo Junhao. No matter who would take the throne in the future, it would never be him. Mo Junyang certainly supported Shi Qingxue wholeheartedly. If he revealed his intention to get furious because of his beloved woman and give up the throne for a beauty, like a fatuous and self-indulgent ruler, he would be beaten up. Mo Junyang restrained himself and didnt say anything to irritate Mo Xiangbin, and the latter thought that he got the right answer, so he didnt continue to ask but told the young man to leave. Mo Junyang walked out of the bedroom and hadnt left the imperial palace. Then he saw that the crown princes carriage stopped at the gate of the palace. It appeared that the crown prince was waiting for him. Mo Junyu also saw Mo Junyang and smiled at him. Mo Junyang nodded. Needless to say more, he went into the crown princes carriage. The carriage moved on the road. As soon as they got out of the imperial palace, Mo Junyu got impatient and asked, What did Father tell you? Mo Junyang looked at Mo Junyu with a faint smile. Till the latter felt embarrassed under his stare, Mo Junyang revealed the shocking news slowly. His Majesty plans to select the new crown prince. Mo Junyu goggled. He looked at Mo Junyang in astonishment and his eyeballs almost popped out of their sockets. He couldnt believe that Mo Junyang spoke out something so important in such a flat tone. Wasnt it scary? Father, he Mo Junyu was so anxious that he started to stutter. He wanted to ask about Mo Xiangbins final decision, but he couldnt find a tactful way, so he gave up the affected manners that all people knew. He asked directly, What did Father decide to do in the end? Will hedepose me? Mo Junyus voice was deep and bitter, and his joy and elation when he was in the emperors bedroom today disappeared. He had a smile with mockery on his lips, as if mocking at himself for feeling happy too soon. In fact, before Mo Junyang spoke, Mo Junyu had imagined if Mo Xiangbin finally found his efforts for so many years so he changed his attitude toward the first son. However, the fact slapped Mo Junyu and made him feel a heartache. He was resentful yet couldnt vent it, so it spread everywhere. For a moment, he hated his father who was partial to Mo Junhao. Why didnt he distract his attention and care about his first son? For a moment, he was jealous of Mo Junhao. Why did this younger brother snatch the love which belonged to him? And even for a moment, Mo Junyu bore a grudge against Mo Junyang and couldnt help but think that if the latter didnt tell him about his fathers intention, he wouldnt feel so bad. Mo Junyus resentment was unreasonable, yet he just couldnt stop himself from complaining and hating. He was absorbed in his thoughts for a long time and could hardly come back to earth. Mo Junyang responded impassively, His Majesty hasnt made a decision yet. Mo Junyu finally woke up from a daze and was stunned. How come? Mo Junyang stopped talking about this matter and reminded, His Majesty has given orders. Just do as he said. But Mo Junyu was still hesitant and restless. Mo Junyang just shook his head and didnt plan to speak. In the beginning, Mo Junyu didnt understood Mo Junyangs puzzle, but after two days, the Ministry of Rite announced an imperial edict, so he understood what Mo Junyang meant. I am suffering from a slight illness these days, so I order the crown prince to act as regent, and all the state affairs will be handled by him. If he cant make a decision, he can report to me. Mo Xiangbin planned earlier to let the crown prince act as regent, yet he just said it. Even if Mo Junyu could handle all the state affairs, the final decisions should be made by Mo Xiangbin, while after he made the imperial edict, Mo Junyu had the power to make decisions for all the state affairs. Mo Xiangbin gave all his power to Mo Junyu? Mo Junyu just knew that Mo Xiangbin planned to depose the crown prince lately, but his next step was to let the crown prince act as regent unexpectedly. He didnt know what to say. However, he knew who influenced Mo Xiangbin before he changed his mind. After all, before the imperial edict was made, the emperor didnt summon anybody else. As a result, when Mo Junyu thought of his evil conjectures about Mo Junyang, he felt ashamed and could hardly face this helper. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt know what the crown prince was thinking about. Mo Junyu felt lucky in secret and decided to return a favor to Mo Junyang in something else. Chapter 324 - In the Eyes of Some People with Ulterior Intentions On the tenth day of the first lunar month in the forty-third year after the Mo Dynasty was established, it was the wedding day of the second prince Mo Junwen and the daughter of the Shi family Shi Baojing. Because Emperor Wen was critically ill and Shi Junfeng had passed away, the wedding conformed to the principle of simplicity. Moreover, in order to make Shi Baojing get married with dignity, Shi Junhe chose some valuable gifts from the treasury of his mansion as her doweries and told the groom to pick her up in Duke Shis mansion. Shi Junhes actions showed that even though Shi Baojing married into the royal family, Duke Shis mansion was her parents home and could support her. After Shi Baojing knew it, she was moved. In the morning on the wedding day, she specially came to Shi Junhes room in the East House to kowtow to him before everything started. Shi Junhe hurriedly stretched out his hand to support Shi Baojing and rebuked her gently, You are the bride today, and there is time for you to kneel and kowtow later, so you dont need to do it now, in case that you are tired. Shi Baojing still insisted on kowtowing before getting up, and she stated in a deep and sincere voice, My father passed away, so I will take you as my father. Its an unquestionable moral truth that a daughter kowtows to her father. Uncle, I will always keep your favor to me in mind and dont dare to forget it. I just hope that I can have a chance to repay you in the future. Shi Junhe was able neither to cry nor to laugh after hearing Shi Baojings serious words and sighed helplessly. Kid, you think too much. Since you call me uncle, I should take care of you. Dont need to mention the word favor. Live a good life in the future, and its more important than anything else. Every time Shi Junhe saw this petite girl, he thought of Shi Junfeng. Now the truth had been revealed, and that person who was silent with no sense of presence since childhood was his only brother. It was still difficult for him to forget that Shi Juncai had murdered his brother. However, it was improper to talk about this matter on such a happy day. Shi Junhe shook his head slightly and sighed. Fine. You will be busy today. Just go back. I have talked with Shi Qingxue. She will go to your room and accompany you later. Dont worry. Shi Baojings only worry was seen through. She felt shy and warm at the same time. She kowtowed to Shi Junhe once more. Thanks a lot, Uncle. When Shi Baojing came back to her room, she saw that Shi Qingxue came under the first rays of the morning sun as expected. Shi Qingxue congratulated her with a big smile. Its your wedding day today, so I specially came to join the fun. Hope that you wont dislike me, Baojing. Shi Baojing hurriedly invited her into the room with a smile and then expressed, You know that I have no other close sisters. I wish that you can come to accompany me. How would I dislike you? Shi Qingxue had a bigger smile and told Xia Mang to give the gift list to Shi Baojing. These are my gifts to you as dowries. How can I Shi Baojing was about to refuse her politely. She had accepted too much kindness from the first masters family, and she felt guilty, so she didnt dare to accept more. Shi Qingxue pressed Shi Baojings hand and stated in a gentle voice, Those are given to you by Father, but I am your cousin, so I need to give you wedding gifts as dowries. Otherwise, it will be against the rules. Or dont you like my worthless gifts? After saying that, she pouted and showed that she was getting unhappy. Of course not. I just As soon as Shi Baojing started to speak, she stopped. Her eyes fell on the gift list, a pair of jade S-shaped ornamental objects, a jade tea set with misty rain and a green hill carved, a brocade coat of peacock pattern with pearls of sunglow, a skirt of cloud pattern with jadeite, a jacket of azure satin with flower pattern and buttons down the front, a cyan long dress, and a box of high-quality gold and silver jewelry Shi Baojing had seldom seen such things, let alone have them, and probably Shi Qingxue was the same. However, Shi Qingxue gave them to her without hesitation. Even though money didnt mean anything, it could be seen that she attached importance to their kinship. Shi Baojing didnt have the face to accept such valuable gifts, while Shi Qingxue didnt give her a chance to refuse but told her maid Yaner to go with Dong Shuang to receive gifts. Shi Baojing said bitterly, Thanks for your kindness, Qingxue. I will give you some gifts when you get married in the future. Shi Qingxue waved her hand, to show that Shi Baojing didnt need to take it seriously. Then Shi Qingxue told Shi Baojing some interesting news and strange things, which distracted the bride gradually, so she wouldnt be absorbed in feeling guilty all the time. Till the wedding planner arrived and somebody made up for Shi Baojing, she didnt have extra energy to think about anything else. All people did everything that should be prepared for the wedding day quickly in good order. Shi Qingxue accompanied Shi Baojing all the time. Even though she didnt need to do anything in person, her presence made Shi Baojing feel at ease. Till Shi Baojing was sent into the bridal chamber and the wedding banquet started, Qingxue came to her seat. Although the second prince Mo Junwen was not favored, he was a prince anyway, so he couldnt live in the imperial palace after getting married. Mo Xiangbin had prepared the second princes mansion for him earlier, whose location was not populous, yet it was near Shi Junfengs residence. They were in the western part of the city, and it wouldnt take long to go back to Shi Baojings parents family or Duke Shis mansion in the future. All people knew that Mo Junwen almost had no chance to take the throne, but because of this, he was the least threatening to all the factions, and with the fame of Duke Shis family, many people attended the wedding banquet. Shi Qingxues seat happened to be near Wenren Chis. She hadnt seen him for a long time. Meeting his warm eyes, she showed a sweet smile and called joyfully in surprise, Brother! Come and sit down. Wenren Chi also smiled at Shi Qingxue gently and pulled the chair out for her considerately. Then he put some food that she liked in front of her. Shi Qingxue accepted Wenren Chis care like before, showing a big smile at the same time. Wenren Chi was nice to Shi Qingxue, and even now, he still took her as a child and looked after her meticulously. Neither of them thought that there was something wrong, and in fact, it was how they stayed together at ordinary times. However, in the eyes of some people with ulterior intentions, it meant something else. In the beginning, Dong Hui was talking with Shi Junhe and didnt notice that Shi Qingxue had come. As Mammy Zheng grabbed her clothes in secret, she looked at them conveniently. She paid attention to Shi Baonings gloomy eyes first and then followed her eyes, to see the two young people who were so close that it would make people imagine. Dong Huis face fell, and she involuntarily thought of Shi Baoning complaining to her tearfully after the wedding day, so she was alarmed and hurriedly shouted, Qingxue. The conversation between Shi Qingxue and Wenren Chi was forced to stop, and they looked at Dong Hui, with their questioning eyes. Even Shi Junhe also looked at her and asked in a low voice, Whats wrong? Dong Hui was speechless and didnt know what to say. She couldnt say directly that she was afraid that Shi Qingxue had an affair with her brother-in-law and would steal her sisters husband, so she stopped the girl in word. Not to mention that she just suspected, even if she had evidence, she couldnt talk about something like this openly. Otherwise, the family would be disgraced. Dong Hui looked embarrassed and said with difficultly, No, nothing. I havent seen Qingxue for a whole day, so I want her to come and accompany me. Such a reason was almost the same as a lie, and it could be found easily. However, none of them questioned because she was a pregnant woman. Shi Qingxue was stunned for a moment and then got up obediently. Afterward, she came to Dong Hui and sat next to her. She refilled her mothers teacup and grabbed food for her, taking care of her attentively. Mother, you are carrying a baby. Please eat more food. Okay, okay. Just stay with me today and dont go anywhere. Dong Hui knew that such a request was unreasonable, yet she couldnt find another way to separate Shi Qingxue and Wenren Chi, so she had no choice. Although Shi Qingxue was in doubt, she still nodded obediently and didnt go anywhere later but accompanied her mother as Dong Hui hoped. However, Dong Hui still felt dissatisfied. It was because Shi Qingxue didnt talk with Wenren Chi anymore, while he seemed to pay attention to her all the time and remembered to tell the servants to put some delicious food in front of her. Dong Hui checked carefully and found that all of them were what Qingxue liked to eat. As for some food, as her mother, even she didnt know that Qingxue liked to eat, which made her seem to have a thorn stuck in her heart, and she couldnt spit or swallow it. Such a feeling didnt disappear even after she came back to their mansion. Zheng, I thought that there was nothing wrong with them sometimes, but there seemed to be something wrong sometimes today. It is so confusing, and I am almost in a daze Dong Hui felt perturbed and told Mammy Zheng about her worry. In the end, even she couldnt be sure about her thought. Do I think too much? Mammy Zheng advised gently, Madam, your worry is reasonable. A girl and her brother-in-law should pay attention to their closeness, in case that others comment on them. In my opinion, Lady Qingxue At the mention of Shi Qingxue, Mammy Zheng intentionally paused for a moment and looked at Dong Hui with hesitation, seeming to be uncertain whether she should continue. Dong Hui waved her hand. Only you and I are here. Just tell me what you want to say. Mammy Zheng finally got relieved and said, Lady Qingxue is animated and lovely, which is good, but she will forget her manners easily sometimes when she gets along with men, and it will make people gossip. Especially she is unmarried and hasnt been engaged officially, so it will arouse gossip more easily. Dong Hui frowned while listening, yet she had to admit that Mammy Zhengs words made sense. To be frank, compared with her first daughter who was dignified and inflexible, Dong Hui preferred her second daughter who is sweet and nimble, but at the thought of Shi Qingxue and Wenren Chi, she felt uncomfortable. Since Kou Lian took an opportunity to sleep with Shi Junhe and gave birth to Shi Baoyan that year, Dong Hui took it to heart all the time, so she had complex feelings for Shi Qingxue. Zheng, what do you think we should do? She couldnt bear to see that Shi Baoning spent her days in tears, while if she had to frankly tell Shi Qingxue to stay away from Wenren Chi, she couldnt speak out such words. It was nothing if it would ruin the relationship between the mother and daughter because of this, while if Shi Qingxue never had such a thought but she had feelings after her mother said that, Dong Hui would shed tears. Mammy Zheng guessed what Dong Hui thought about and suddenly brought up something else. Madam, its more inconvenient for you to move recently. Dont you want Lady Baoning to come and accompany you in the mansion? Dong Hui nodded. Yes, but what does it have to do with our talk? Lady Baoning and her husband just got married lately, and Master Chi lived in our mansion in the past. If she comes back, wont he come back with her? Mammy Zheng reminded Dong Hui cautiously. Even though Wenren Chi had to work, he should come back to sleep at night. They lived in the same mansion and would meet each other frequently. Then Wenren Chi and Shi Qingxue would have more chances to meet. Hearing that, Dong Hui turned pale. Why didnt I think of this? She grabbed Mammy Zhengs hand and said anxiously, No matter if there is something wrong with them, we have to separate them first just in case. Zheng, you are clever. Figure out a way for me. In fact, Mammy Zheng had a solution, yet she stuttered for a long time and then replied hesitantly, I do have an idea, but its Chapter 325 - Dong Hui Forestalls Problems Mammy Zheng wanted to say yet hesitated, which aroused Dong Huis desire to know it. Whats your solution? Tell me now! In fact, Madam, if you dont want Lady Qingxue to see Master Chi, its easy, as long as you dont give them a chance to meet, Mammy Zheng responded unhurriedly. Dong Hui was confused. But you have said just now that they will be in this mansion and meet each other frequently. How can I stop them? Just tell one of them to stay outside the mansion, Mammy Zheng responded vaguely. Dong Hui frowned and stated with displeasure, I want Baoning to come and take care of me, yet I will tell the new couple to live apart? How can I do it? If the news spreads, perhaps many people will comment on me. No, no. Its absolutely not practical. She shook her head desperately. Mammy Zheng retorted, I didnt say that you should tell Master Chi not to live in the mansion. So you mean Dong Hui finally understood what Mammy Zheng meant, while she furrowed her brows more tightly. In the end, she still shook her head and objected to this proposal. Qingxue is also my daughter. If she doesnt live in the mansion, where can she live? Even though I dont like this matter, I cant kick her out because of it. I cant bear to do something like this. Not to mention that Dong Hui disagreed, even if she could get hard-hearted, Shi Junhe wouldnt agree. Mammy Zheng knew Shi Qingxues position in this family, so she expressed in another way, Madam, you misunderstand me. Of course, I didnt say that you should kick Lady Qingxue out of the mansion. You certainly cant do it, but we have so many villas. Tell Lady Qingxue to recuperate for a period in a villa and bring her back after you give birth to a son successfully and Lady Baoning and her husband leave the mansion. Seeing that Dong Huis face softened seemingly, Mammy Zheng added unhurriedly, It happened in the past. When Shi Qingxue was a child, after she had a fierce quarrel with the other young ladies, she would stay in the villa alone to avoid the noises. Of course, the difference was that Shi Qingxue volunteered to stay in the villa, while this time, Dong Hui asked her to. However, after Mammy Zheng said that, it seemed that there were previous cases. Dong Hui had complex feelings. She was pregnant and really needed somebody to accompany her, while Shi Baoning was the best choice undoubtedly. In this matter, even Shi Qingxue once loved by her deeply couldnt compare with her sister. So no matter whether Dong Hui considered for the baby in her womb or the future of the Shi family, Shi Baoning must come back to the mansion, and Wenren Chi should come back with her. At this thought, she really had no choice but to tell Shi Qingxue to stay outside for a period. Even if we really tell Qingxue to stay outside to avoid meeting Chi, we should find an excuse. We cant speak out the real reason. Without a presentable reason, my husband wont agree, Dong Hui murmured worriedly. Mammy Zheng showed a relieved smile and spoke out the answer that she had prepared earlier. Isnt there an obvious reason? You are carrying His Lordships baby, and if we want the mother and baby to be safe, we naturally need somebody to pray to Buddha sincerely. You are pregnant and its inconvenient for you to leave the mansion, and Lady Baoning has to take care of you, so only Mammy Zheng didnt continue, while Dong Hui understood what she meant. As long as Dong Hui told Shi Qingxue to fast and pray in the family temple, the girl would certainly be willing to, and this was a customary rule of the noble families. Such an excuse wouldnt arouse suspicion but could make Shi Qingxue have a good fame. It would achieve many goals at one stroke. Dong Hui finally showed the most relieved smile since a long time ago. Good idea. If we separate Qingxue and Chi with this excuse, outsiders wont think too much. It will end their immoral thoughts and protect their reputation However, at the thought of the poor condition in the family temple, Dong Hui couldnt help but sigh. My girl Qingxue has seldom suffered hardships since childhood. I really cant bear to let her stay in the family temple for two months. Zheng, dont you have a better solution? Mammy Zheng shrugged to show that she could do nothing. Seeing that Dong Hui was really worried, she advised, Madam, if you worry that Lady Qingxue will suffer, just tell the servants to send more good things from the mansion to her and arrange everything well. Although it is not as good as the mansion, we wont make her suffer. Now Dong Hui made decisions for domestic affairs in the Shi familys mansion, so she could decide what would be sent to the family temple. If there was plenty of time, it was possible to make the family temple more suitable to live than Duke Shis mansion. So if Shi Qingxue really went to the family temple, she wouldnt suffer a lot. After Mammy Zheng gave her methodical and patient guidance, Dong Hui was finally tempted. She frowned and pondered for a long while. Then she nodded in the end and ordered, Tell Qingxue to come here now. I will finish this job before Baoning comes back home, in case that others associate the two things. Mammy Zheng nodded as a response and hurriedly went out. As soon as she left the East House, she told a maid to send a message to the Luotong Boudoir, while she walked to a corner. Somebody was waiting under a shadow in the corner in the East House and asked after seeing Mammy Zheng, Did you finish the job? Mammy Zheng answered with a smile, When I take actions, its impossible that I cant make it. Madam has told somebody to bring Lady Qingxue, and the girl must move to the family temple tomorrow. Go back and tell Lady Baoning to rest assured. When she comes back, she wont see Lady Qingxue in the mansion. That person stated flatteringly while smiling, As expected, Lady Baoning entrusted it to the right person. I express thanks to you for your help on behalf of her. While speaking, that person took out a heavy money bag from the pocket and put it in Mammy Zhengs hand secretly. Mammy Zheng was about to refuse, while that person continued, Mammy Zheng, please accept it. Lady Baoning has said that you deserve it. After its done, she will give you more rewards. Whats more, she asked you to do something else for her. Mammy Zheng expressed in a hurry, What does she want me to do? Just tell me. Lady Baoning said that although she asked you to do something like this for her, she didnt aim at anybody purposely, yet she had to do it. It cant ruin the relationship between her and Lady Qingxue, so please keep it a secret, Mammy Zheng. If Lady Qingxue needs something after she goes to the family temple in the future, please take care of her. That person said tactfully and considerately, while Mammy Zheng certainly understood the hidden meaning, so she nodded in a hurry. Of course. I will do it. Please tell Lady Baoning to relax. I wont let her down. That person heard the promise and finally left with satisfaction. Mammy Zheng stood there for quite a while. After that person went away, the mammy spat at the ground and sighed in a low voice. You really did something evil but want to gain a good fame. There are so many dirty things in the powerful families, and we all know each other, yet are you so noble and different from others? Dont you harm your sister in secret? If you really consider for your sister, dont stab her in the back. You said something pleasant to hear, but didnt you do it? Think about what Shi Qingxue had done for that lady, Mammy Zheng thought that the young girl didnt deserve it, yet since she had received the money bag, she needed to do what she should do no matter what she thought about. Shi Qingxue certainly didnt know that others had decided her life in the next two or three months. When she knew it, Dong Hui had arranged everything and announced it to her. Right, she announced it directly. Dong Hui believed that her younger daughter loved her, while she still worried that there would be accidents as undue delay might bring trouble, so she didnt ask for Shi Qingxues opinion in advance but told the servants to prepare luggage. When she told Shi Qingxue about it, she asked if the girl was willing to as a mere formality, and she even said that she wouldnt force her if Qingxue didnt want to. Even though Shi Qingxue was surprised to hear that, she thought that it was a customary rule of the noble families in the capital, and even in some aspect, it became a standard of comparison. So she agreed without thinking too much. Because Dong Hui made arrangements urgently, Qingxue just had time to tell Xia Mang to pack up simply, and she told Dong Shuang to send a letter to King Ruis mansion. Then her people got into the carriage to the family temple. When Shi Qingxue went to the family temple, she was treated differently from Shi Baoyan when she was escorted there. Even so, as the news spread, it was still peaceful on the surface, while it was turbulent under the cover. Dong Hui imagined perfectly, but others were not stupid, and especially the people who knew Wenren Chis feelings could guess more easily. The first person who disagreed was Shi Junhe. Dong Hui was afraid that Shi Junhe would have objections, so she made preparations quickly before telling him. When Shi Junhe returned home from work, Shi Qingxue and the others had gone to the family temple on Tan Mountain. Shi Junhe got furious on the spot. Hui, what did you do? You know the environment of the family temple. How can you tell Qingxue to suffer in such a place? Dong Hui spoke out the answer she had prepared. Qingxue went to the family temple to pray for the baby in my womb, and its worthwhile to suffer. Moreover, I have told Mammy Zheng to go with them to clean up and prepare the articles for daily use. If something is needed, we will send it there at once. We wont treat her unfairly. She agreed to it. She wants to show her love for me. Should I stop her? What she said was reasonable and noble. Hearing that, Shi Junhe just sneered. Hui, we are a couple. Dont I know your intention? You dont want Qingxue to stay at home as you are afraid that she will see Chi in the following days, so you intentionally drove her away, right? Dong Hui was seen through and looked embarrassed. After pausing for a long time, she finally stated, II have done it for her good. After pausing for a while, she seemed to have courage and continued with sufficient reasons, It seems that you have also noticed Qingxue and Chi I have no choice but to do it in case that something irreparable happens in the future. But you blame me! If I dont really consider for her, how would I be an evil person to prevent this thing? While speaking, Dong Hui wiped her tears sadly. Only you love your daughter yet I dont love her? I can do nothing In the end, she denounced Shi Junhe. Shi Junhe was afraid that he would irritate Dong Hui, so even though he wanted to say something, he had to hold it back. He hurriedly admitted his fault and made a lot of effort to persuade her to stop crying. Then he sighed in a low voice, as if he was exhausted. Alas, although you did it out of kindness, dont you find that Qingxue didnt notice it? Dong Hui stopped rubbing her eyes and looked up at Shi Junhe. Do you mean Shi Junhe nodded. Its easy to guess Qingxues feelings. She takes Chi as her brother from beginning to end, and they are close since childhood. Now they are still close yet their relationship is not improper. Perhaps she has never thought about this matter, not to mention having feelings for him. Have you forgotten that when you wanted to grant the marriage of her and Chi, she was scared and refused? Chapter 326 - The People Who Courts Death Comes After hearing Shi Junhes words, Dong Hui realized it but still thought that there was something wrong. It was in the past, and nobody is sure about it now. Moreover, judging from the way they stay together, even if the people concerned dont notice it, others can find something amiss, as it is improper. Shi Junhe stayed silent for a moment, admitting that it was the truth. Sometimes, even if the people involved didnt have the feelings, it was helpless that gossip was fearful. Shi Junhe knew this point, yet when it happened to Shi Qingxue and his beloved daughter should take the consequence, he could hardly accept it. Alas. Even so, you cant drive Qingxue to the family temple. Even if she goes to a villa in the capital city, the environment will be much better than that in the family temple. At the thought of the poor environment of the family temple and Qingxue who had been spoilt since childhood, Shi Junhe couldnt bear to see it even though he knew that the girl could bear hardships. But in that case, we will have no reason, and if the news spreads, others will gossip. Dong Hui subconsciously spoke out the real reason. However, she saw that Shi Junhes expression changed in an instant, so she hurriedly shut up as she realized that she might have said something wrong. Shi Junhes face was terrible-looking, and he asked in an angry tone, Is peoples gossip more important than your daughter to you? Dong Hui was speechless after hearing the question. Although she knew that it was not right, she was fed up with the others groundless talk. Shi Junhe had never attended the noble ladies parties, so he didnt know how unpleasant to hear the gossip was, but she didnt want to hear for the second time. Moreover, she still thought that Shi Qingxue was wrong in this matter, so when she made the decision, her choice was understandable. However, after Shi Junhe said that, Dong Hui still felt embarrassed and couldnt find a word to retort. So she turned away in silence, without looking at Shi Junhe. Anyway, it was set in stone, and Qingxue had gone to the family temple, so no matter what Shi Junhe said, it was useless. Shi Junhe was amused by Dong Huis rascally action. He was mad yet could do nothing to her. He didnt dare to say anything harsh to her. If Dong Hui was irritated and there was something wrong with her, he would regret it. Duke Shi could do nothing in this matter, so he had to send Shi Jie to take more things to the family temple, and then Shi Qingxue wouldnt suffer from too much injustice there. Shi Junhe was easy to convince, while Mo Junyang was difficult to handle. Perhaps Mo Junyang hadnt reacted when he heard that Shi Qingxue went to the family temple in a hurry, yet when the news that Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi came to Duke Shis mansion was revealed to him, he understood everything. When Mo Junyang got the news, he was practicing swordsmanship in the backyard of his mansion. In the beginning, he looked calm when Wei Zichao whispered in his ear to tell him about this matter. Nobody could see any emotions on his face. Then he just forced Wei Zichao aside and continued to practice swordsmanship. Qu Yuebai looked at him attentively and thought that the masters swordsmanship was more and more accurate and sharper. However, Wei Zichao found something unusual. Mo Junyangs swordsmanship was not only accurate and sharp, but every move could take peoples lives, with killing intent. Even Wei Zichao, a warrior was shocked by Mo Junyangs momentum. He couldnt help but move a few steps backward, in case that he was affected. What? Qu Yuebai looked at Wei Zichao who had moved backward in confusion and still didnt understand. Wei Zichao smiled bitterly and pulled Qu Yuebai back. He thought that their boss was in a rage and couldnt be offended. In the beginning, Qu Yuebai wondered if Wei Zichao was overcautious, and then he looked back at Mo Junyang after he was absent-minded for a moment. Mo Junyang had stopped and stood in the middle of the backyard quietly. There were fallen branches and leaves swept by his sword spirit all over the ground around him. When Qu Yuebai looked up, the tree was bare. No, it was more miserable. Only a straight trunk was left. Imagining what would happen if the sword spirit swept him, Qu Yuebai soon had cold sweat all over his body in shock. Gee, it was so horrible. Qu Yuebai looked at Wei Zichao in panic, indicating, What should we do now? Wei Zichao shrugged and looked at him, with a faint smile. How do I know? How about you go up to ask him? Qu Yuebai trembled at once and shook his head repeatedly. It was no joking matter. He wouldnt court death. However, some people who courted death came soon. Brother, you are excellent in swordsmanship. I really admire you, Qi Zhengdao stated. He had been registered in the pedigree and reported to the imperial clan, so his name had been changed to Mo Zhengdao. He stood on the other side of the backyard and applauded. Mo Junyang sheathed the long sword and glanced at Mo Zhengdao, asking indifferently, Whats the matter? Mo Zhengdao was speechless. His brother was too arrogant and distant. It was difficult for him to get close to Mo Junyang, not to mention flattering him. The second young master paused for quite a while but didnt want to miss such a good chance to talk with Mo Junyang, so he explained, I came to the yard and saw that you were practicing swordsmanship, which was superb, and I was almost dazzled, so I praised you involuntarily. If I disturb you, please forgive me. He had apologized first. If Mo Junyang still bothered about him, the elder brother must be too narrow-minded. Mo Zhengdao had a perfect plan. Mo Junyang asked, What can I do for you? Mo Zhengdao was unable to reply. Qu Yuebai heard their conversation behind them and could hardly hold back his laughter. Mo Junyang was a conversation terminator, and every word he said could render the other party speechless. At this thought, Qu Yuebai felt pity for Mo Zhengdao. It was a joke. Qu Yuebai walked to Mo Junyang and pretended to be polite to Mo Zhengdao. Master Zhengdao, the sword is blind. If you are hurt and His Highness comes to denounce His Excellency, we cant make it clear. Mo Zhengdao was ridiculed by the two and looked like a duck whose neck was pinched. He had a blush and couldnt speak a word. At this time, Qi Ruyue walked over. She had recovered and been titled as King Ruis side concubine. She greeted Mo Junyang politely, Your Excellency. Mo Junyang glanced at Qi Ruyue. After a while, he nodded as a salute. Madam. The word Madam was almost the best treatment that Mo Junyang could give Qi Ruyue. After all, he accepted her position as the side concubine. As for others, for example, calling her mother, Qi Ruyue didnt need to think about too much. Qi Ruyue answered with profound respect and humility and then reminded, Your Excellency, you exercised just now and must have sweat. Please go back and get changed, in case that you get a cold. Both of them said something to butter up Mo Junyang, but the mother was more skilled than the son obviously. Mo Junyang just nodded and didnt say more. Then he led his people back to the Love Xue House. Mother, havent you become King Ruis side concubine? Why do you need to play up to him? After they left, Mo Zhengdao immediately complained with displeasure. Qi Ruyue looked around alertly first. After confirming that there was nobody else, her gentle face looked ferocious at once. She pinched Mo Zhengdaos ear and cursed, You are so brainless. I have reminded you many times that if you want to survive in this mansion, dont offend His Excellency. Have you thrown my words to the wind? Mo Zhengdao felt the pain and grinned. He wanted to get back his ear yet didnt dare to, so he had to beg for mercy obsequiously. Mother, I always listen to you, so I want to keep a good relationship with him. Who knows that its so difficult to please him? It seems that whatever I say is wrong In fact, Mo Zhengdao was frustrated. Qi Ruyue sneered at Mo Zhengdao and snorted. You almost write your intentions on your face. He knows that you want to ask him for help, so if he can get close to you, there will be something weird. Mo Zhengdao was seen through, so he smiled in embarrassment and stated flatteringly, Havent I been titled as the second young master in the mansion? I have inquired. The children in the noblemens families, even including the concubines sons have official positions, and even if they dont do anything, they can get salaries, but I have nothing, so I want to Qi Ruyue pounded Mo Zhengdaos head. What are you thinking about? Dont covet anything. Stop daydreaming. Mother! Mo Zhengdao shouted with displeasure. He thought that he just asked for what he should get. Why didnt his mother help him but held him back? Qi Ruyue was also in a bad mood and spat at him. You are too immature. Your intention is obvious, and even I can notice it. Do you think that you can hide it from your brother? Do you mean Mo Zhengdao suddenly thought that Mo Junyang was ruthless when he practiced swordsmanship. If Mo Junyang knew that Mo Zhengdao schemed against him, then Mo Zhengdao trembled with fear and asked, What should I do? Will my brother do something to me? Qi Ruyue goggled at him and sighed. Dont worry. Since he didnt explode on the spot, he must want to let it pass. Be alert in the future and dont offend him. Understand? Mo Zhengdao said yes unwillingly yet still showed a sad face. Mother, what about my future? I cant just stay in this mansion and idle around in the future, waiting for death. Although he lived a luxurious life in comfort, he couldnt bear to live such a life in the future. Moreover, Mo Junyang was above him. Mo Junyang was better at anything and more capable than him. With a mans desire to win, he couldnt accept something like this. Qi Ruyue patted his hand and comforted him softly. You have just returned home, and you are not familiar with anything. Dont be anxious. After a long time, when you are closer to your father, will he treat you unfairly? Mo Zhengdao thought about it and realized that he was anxious indeed, so he nodded in agreement. However, he still had a plan. Although King Rui was of a high position, it appeared that he didnt ask about state affairs, and he must be feared by the emperor, while his brother was favored by the emperor and had real power. If there was a chance, he still had to find a way to gain profit from Mo Junyang, but he should be more careful and couldnt be seen through when he did it next time. Chapter 327 - The Imperial Edict to Grant Their Marriage Qi Ruyue and her son thought that nobody knew their secret conversation. However, soon after they left, the messenger went to the Love Xue House. When Mo Junyang got the information, he had just got changed. He listened expressionlessly and didnt say anything before waving the messenger away. Qu Yuebai laughed with interest after hearing that. I have said that they are ambitious. Its exposed after only a few days, right? Mo Junyang conveniently picked up the teacup and took a sip of hot tea. The hair on his forehead was still wet, and it was soft, clinging to his forehead. The water vapor made him look soft. However, Qu Yuebai knew that this man was more ruthless than he could imagine. He didnt know why Mo Junyang remained unmoved after hearing Qi Ruyue and her sons scheme against him. Junyang? Qu Yuebai called in a low voice. He stopped joking and reminded seriously, No matter what they will do, they cant cause trouble, but her status as the side concubine is special After a long time, perhaps she will affect His Highness. How about we solve this hidden trouble now? Qi Ruyue had stayed in this mansion for merely half a month. Although Mo Xiangrui looked restrained on the surface and didnt give her treatment better than the set of etiquette, all people could see that he loved her. Qu Yuebai was worried that Qi Ruyue would win Mo Xiangruis all love and affect him sooner or later after she stayed here for long. It was uncertain whether Qi Ruyue would become King Ruis new wife and influence the relationship between Mo Junyang and his father then. Mo Junyang heard Qu Yuebais worries and pursed his lips, saying casually, Qi Ruyue is a woman my father loves, and Mo Zhengdao is his son. As long as they wont harm my father, how can I not satisfy him for such trifles? Qu Yuebai was speechless. The assistant opened his eyes wide and looked at Mo Junyang, as if he had never known this man. Was this gentleman who loved his father so much his cruel master? Qu Yuebai still didnt know that Mo Xiangrui was almost the only person who could arouse Mo Junyangs feelings except Shi Qingxue. Okay. Since you think so, lets wait and see. Qu Yuebai gritted his teeth and finally decided to turn a blind eye to the hidden trouble and lay it aside. Anyway, no matter how ambitious and capable Qi Ruyue and her son were, they couldnt threaten Mo Junyang. As for King Rui, he must not be so aged and unable to distinguish between right and wrong as to make his concubines son replace his legitimate son as his heir. Qu Yuebai heaved a sigh of relief and wanted to have a cup of tea to loosen up. However, he saw that Mo Junyang drank all his tea quickly. Mo Junyang put down the teacup and walked back to the inner room. When he came out again, he had changed into an outfit for a journey. Qu Yuebai asked in surprise, Where are you going? Tan Mountain, Mo Junyang answered simply and told Wei Zichao to prepare a horse. Qu Yuebai was shocked and hurriedly stopped Mo Junyang, shouting involuntarily, Do you want to see Shi Qingxue? Are you kidding? Mo Junyang looked at him peacefully and indicated that he was not kidding. Qu Yubai was more nervous and said in a rage, You are really crazy. Even if all people in the capital know that you love Shi Qingxue, do you want to get her into trouble and make all people gossip about her behind her back after you go there rashly? She is staying secluded to pray for her mother in the family temple now. Qu Yuebai could almost imagine what the gossipers would say. She is not well-behaved even when she stays secluded and prays to Buddha. She must be a slut. She sees a man secretly under the cover of staying secluded The saliva could drown Shi Qingxue. I Mo Junyangs cold face looked confused rarely. Obviously, he had never thought about this matter earlier. Mo Junyang had never been like this. Qu Yuebai really witnessed what the saying meant, When you are worried, you will mess around. He sighed helplessly and softened his tone, advising, The reason brought up by Duke Shis wife was too flawless. Shi Qingxue would pray for her mother. Who can stop her? Who dares to stop her? Dong Hui obviously wanted Shi Qingxue to be cut off from the outside world with this perfect reason. No matter what the real reason was, Shi Qingxue had gone there and wouldnt return until Dong Hui gave birth to her baby. Anybody except the members of the Shi family naturally couldnt go to their family temple. Mo Junyang stayed silent for a long while. When Qu Yuebai thought that he wouldnt speak, Mo Junyang said in a low voice, I see. Qu Yuebais face was terrible-looking, and he looked at Mo Junyang hesitantly. He thought that it was his first time to see Mo Junyang lose his wits and wondered if he should comfort the master. However, before Qu Yuebai figured out what to say, Mo Junyang walked out again. Where are you going? Qu Yuebai stopped Mo Junyang once more and looked at him worriedly. Did he still want to go to Tan Mountain? Mo Junyang didnt look back but left four words, Enter the imperial palace. Then he disappeared in the wind and snow. Qu Yuebai stood at the room door. Till he shrank his neck under the cold wind, he realized that it was snowing outside. He pondered for a while and still couldnt figure out why Mo Junyang needed to enter the imperial palace at this time. However, since Mo Junyang was willing to pay attention to something else except Shi Qingxue, it was great. But the truth proved that Qu Yuebai was simple-minded. Nobody knew what Mo Junyang told Mo Junyu after he entered the imperial palace, yet it could be seen from the result. After three days, on the twenty-third day of the first lunar month in the forty-third year after the Mo Dynasty was established, the emperor made another imperial edict and granted the marriage of Duke Shis second legitimate daughter Shi Qingxue. The emperor issued the edict. Duke Shis second legitimate daughter Shi Qingxue is beautiful, virtuous, lovely and talented, and I like her very much. I will grant her marriage to King Ruis heir and title her as the wife of King Ruis heir. I hope that the couple will share happiness and worries with each other, staying together forever and never abandon the other party no matter what the weather is and whether the family is prosperous or declining. After the imperial edict was announced, all people were shocked. It was different from any imperial edict made by Mo Xiangbin in the past. The beautiful words and sincere blessing were dazzling. It was not like what Mo Xiangbin would write in an imperial edict. However, when such words were written in the imperial edict, it meant that Mo Xiangbin had approved of it. How favored King Ruis heir was could be seen. Besides this imperial edict, Mo Xiangbin rewarded Shi Qingxue with ten utensils and several costly manors and shops, which belonged to Shi Qingxues personal possessions and even had nothing to do with Duke Shis mansion. The imperial edict to grant the marriage and rewards were not sent to Duke Shis mansion, while the people who announced the imperial edict went to the family temple on Tan Mountain. When the Shi family got the news, the eunuch Quan had announced the imperial edict and returned to the capital city with his people. At that time, Shi Junhe was chatting with Dong Hui in the bedroom. After he learnt the news, his face fell at once. Even though he had approved of the marriage earlier and the two families were expecting it, the imperial edict was announced by surprise, and he wasnt informed in advance. Any father would be unhappy to know this matter after many people. However, in fact, Shi Junhe had no reason to make comments. He was clear that Mo Junyang asked the emperor to make the imperial edict at this time in order to protest that they had sent Shi Qingxue to Tan Mountain in secret. He was guilty and couldnt ask Mo Junyang, so he had to sulk alone. Dong Hui wasnt satisfied with this imperial edict, either. She couldnt help but complain to Shi Junhe, Junhe, what is His Majesty doing? Qingxue is our daughter. Even if he wants to grant her marriage, he should tell us in advance, right? He made a decision arbitrarily with no sign. Doesnt he take you seriously? There was an unwritten rule in the noblemens circle. Of course, only after the emperor made an imperial edict when he granted a marriage would they feel honorable, yet in fact, the emperor wouldnt make an imperial edict randomly, and he would surely discuss with the two families in advance. Otherwise, if their marriage was not happy but there was a couple complaining about each other, it would benefit nobody. Shi Junhe showed a cold face and asked crossly, Cant you guess who causes this sudden imperial edict? Dong Hui was rendered speechless. Then she said in embarrassment, It must be His Excellency who did it behind the scenes. He has coveted Qingxue for so long, and he pretended to be polite and discuss the marriage with you, but you didnt satisfy him, so he secretly incited His Majesty to do it without prior approval. He has gone too far. Seeing that Dong Hui blamed others yet didnt realize that she had gone too far as she did that to Shi Qingxue, Shi Junhe looked colder. If you didnt send Qingxue away sneakily and make them separated, almost unable to see each other for several months, would he do something like this just in order to see her? He pointed out the fact coldly, feeling angry and helpless. As a father, he couldnt witness her daughters important occasion in her life with her, and it was a regret that was irreparable, even though it was not her wedding. Dong Hui regretted it, too, but she had made the decision, so she had to swallow it. She still didnt admit her fault. Anyway, His Majesty attaches so much importance to the marriage of Qingxue and His Excellency. He gave her so many rewards besides an imperial edict, and it is more ceremonious than the occasion that he granted the fourth princes marriage on the eve of the Spring Festival. It can be seen that His Majesty values our family and King Ruis family. Qingxue will have a good husband. Junhe, dont think too much. Shi Junhe also knew this. Although he still felt unhappy, he didnt say more. The people in the Jingshu Boudoir got the news at the same time. Shi Baoning was doing embroidery. She was careless and stabbed her finger with the needle, leaving a blood hole. It hurt her so much that she bared her teeth and hurriedly put her finger in her mouth, yet she still showed a complex expression on her face. She seemed to have a feeling of loss and unspeakable jealousy. Shi Qingxues marriage was granted by the emperor like hers, and judging from the words in the imperial edict and the rewards, Qingxue got much more than her. And Mo Junyangs status was much more honorable than Wenren Chis. Even though Shi Baoning didnt want to compare, she had to admit that her younger sister was more favored and treated much better than her. My Lady, you cant just consider these. You have many advantages, and Lady Qingxue cant compare with you. The maid Jing Yi comforted her in a low voice. Shi Baoning replied nervously, Hmm. Jing Yi continued, You are Infanta Baoning. Think about it. How many ladies who are not from the royal family have been titled as Infanta since Mo Dynasty was established? You are the only one among the younger generation. Moreover, your husband is not high-ranking now, but he is capable and will surely get promoted and be titled. And he has gained everything depending on his abilities, which is more valuable than what is inherited. After being comforted in this way, Shi Baoning finally showed a joyful smile on her face and nodded repeatedly. You are right. Chi doesnt rely on his family but has got his status depending on his abilities. He is much capable than anybody who has a powerful father. Then they continued talking in low voices for a while. Shi Baoning suddenly stated, Qingxue is in the family temple now. She must be happy to get the good news. Chapter 328 - The Pleasant Surprise from Afar As soon as Mo Xiangbins imperial edict to grant the marriage was announced, all people had different reactions. When the person concerned Shi Qingxue received the imperial edict, she stared at it all the time. She wasin a daze unexpectedly? Quan waited for quite a while and didnt hear Shi Qingxues voice, so he couldnt help but remind her softly, My Lady, its time to express your thanks to His Majesty! Shi Qingxue kept silent. Ahem! Quan coughed hard and tried to attract Shi Qingxues attention. Shi Qingxue suddenly awakened and looked at Quan, saying in a hurry, Thanks to His Majesty. I am greatly appreciated. She told Xia Mang to give Quan a bag of gold. Quan beamed with happy smiles in an instant and wasnt stingy to say lucky words. Then Xia Mang and Dong Shuang led him to give the rewards from Mo Xiangbin. Shi Qingxue sat in the room alone and still had the imperial edict with sincere words in her hands. She unfolded the imperial edict and stared at the beautiful praising words, gently stroking it with her fingers. Her dull face turned blank slowly, but there was still a strong feeling of loss. All people guessed that she must be surprised and overjoyed with tears as her wish came true, yet it wasnt shown on her face. It wasnt in her heart, either. It was not that Shi Qingxue was unwilling to marry Mo Junyang, but what she had hoped for long suddenly came true. The joy became unreal because it happened all of a sudden. Qingxue subconsciously raised her head and looked around. When she didnt find the familiar figure, she suddenly woke up. Mo Junyang was not here. It turned out that all her negative emotions emerged because of this. Shi Qingxue always thought that she had stayed with Mo Junyang as a soul for so long in the previous life, so she must have been used to living alone. However, when she came to live a life in the family temple, she finally realized that some things had changed. For so long, she was used to Mo Junyangs companion, so when he was not around her all of a sudden, she couldnt adapt herself. I dont know when I can see you. Shi Qingxue murmured and stared out of the window. There was heavy snow outside, and everything around seemed to have become quiet with loneliness. She sat for a long time till Xia Mang and the others returned after seeing the guests off. Xia Mang reminded in a soft voice, My Lady, its time to take a bath and burn incense. After lunch every day, Shi Qingxue would have a bath and burn incense. Then she would play the zither in the room where Kwan-yin was worshiped to pray for Dong Hui. She did it every day. Therefore, Shi Qingxue had to hold back the complex thoughts and get up, going to take a bath in the back room. After Dong Shuang knew that her ladys marriage was granted by the emperor, she was excited all the time, as if revealing Shi Qingxues joy that she didnt show. However, when she returned to the bedroom after seeing Quan off, she finally realized something wrong even though she was not smart. When Shi Qingxue was bathing, Dong Shuang pulled Xia Mang aside and asked in a low voice, Whats wrong with Lady Qingxue? Didnt His Majesty grant her marriage to His Excellency? Why cant I see that she is happy? She was unhappy and even disappointed and disconsolate seemingly. It was surprising. Was the man their lady loved not Mo Junyang? Did they guess wrong all the time? As soon as she had this idea, she shook her head and got rid of it. It was not a play. How could it be so dramatic? Moreover, although Shi Qingxue didnt express her feelings directly like Mo Junyang did, it was obvious, and at least as her personal maids, they could see it clearly. Xia Mang had found something. She made a gesture of shushing and pulled Dong Shuang far away from the bathroom before whispering, Perhaps its because of His Excellency. Dong Shuang blinked in confusion and obviously didnt understand what Xia Mang meant. Xia Mang knocked at Dong Shuangs brainless head and sighed helplessly. You idiot. Lady Qingxue misses His Excellency. He didnt come but only an emotionless imperial edict and some rewords of no significance came. Do you think that she will be happy? This first-rank maid of Shi Qingxue had seen a lot following her, so she wouldnt be blinded by the few rewards like the short-sighted maids. So she could naturally guess most of her ladys feelings. Dong Shuang was open-mouthed while listening and looked at Xia Mang in a daze. Xia Mang asked with a frown, Dont you understand? YesI understand. Dong Shuang nodded hesitantly. Xia Mang asked, What else confuses you? It was harder for Dong Shuang to speak. She looked at Xia Mang for a long time with hesitation and then asked in a low voice, Although I know that our lady has a lot of rewards from the royal family, is it all right when you mention the rewards from His Majesty with disdain? It was not that Dong Shuang thought too much, but any maid would have an urge to beat Xia Mang to death after hearing these words. Even though Shi Qingxue didnt care indeed, judging from Xia Mangs tone, she seemed to be flaunting wealth. Xia Mang rolled her eyes and goggled at Dong Shuang. I am not in the mood to joke with you. Anyway, since you understand, show more concern to Lady Qingxue in the future and tell her not to think so much, in case that it ruins her mood. Dong Shuang sighed sadly. I dont know where His Excellency is now. He has become Lady Qingxues fiance, and even if he comes to Tan Mountain, nobody will gossip. Why didnt he come? Xia Mang didnt even want to roll her eyes this time. She spat without mercy. Didnt you hear Lord Quans words? He was anxious to return. Otherwise, when the snow blocks the mountain path, he cant go back. So even if His Excellency wants to come to Tan Mountain, perhaps he is powerless. The two maids looked at each other and then lowered their heads, sighing at the same time. At this time, a manservant from the outer room knocked at the door in a hurry. My Lady, I have something important to report to you. All the trees on both sides of the path on Tan Mountain were covered with white snow and connected to the boundless ground. There was heavy snow with a depth of about fifteen centimeters on the ground, and the carriages couldnt move on the path. The snow blocked the mountain path, and it was silent, with nobody around. Only the north wind was still blowing. The flying white snow made people unable to see anything. Only less than three meters away could be seen. In such a poor environment, there was a row of horses footprints on the path of Tan Mountain from the foot to the top. In no time, the heavy snow which was falling without a stop covered them. The new footprints still emerged persistently. Looking down from the upper air, people could see that two small figures on horseback urged the horses and rushed to the mountaintop. They were Mo Junyang and Wei Zichao. Master, the snow is too heavy. If we move on, we will probably be in danger. Lets pause for a while and continue after the snow is lighter, okay? Wei Zichaos sight was blocked under the heavy snow, and he almost couldnt see anything clearly, so he had to beg in a low voice. The north wind still blew continuously and swept them in their faces, making it more difficult for them to move on. Mo Junyangs horse walked more and more slowly, and he had to stop in the end and look around. There was no sign that the heavy snow would stop, and the visibility became worse. If they continued to hurry on with their journey, perhaps they would be buried in the wind and snow before they reached the destination. Lets wait for a while. Mo Junyang helplessly drove the horse to an open space. Wei Zichao followed him instantly and then got off the horses back before Mo Junyang ordered. He used his long sword to draw a big circle in the open space covered with white snow and then wipe the snow in the circle away. Later he brought some branches and piled them up. Under such cold weather, the snow didnt melt, while the branches were dry and could be burnt easily. The two stayed around the fire and warmed themselves, while the snow was still falling constantly like a ferocious devil which wouldnt stop until the knights were swallowed. Mo Junyang sat next to the fire but looked up at the mountaintop. He looked serious yet absent-minded. Wei Zichao murmured several times, but there was no answer. It was different from the situation that Mo Junyang didnt answer him in the past. This time, Mo Junyang seemed to havent heard his words. Of course, Mo Junyang didnt care about Wei Zichaos mutter. The only things that he considered were when the snow would get lighter and whether he could reach the destination in time today. It was a complicated process to take a bath and then burn incense. After Shi Qingxue finished everything, two hours had passed. She sat in front of the table with water vapor, letting Xia Mang comb hair for her. She just had time to receive a simple wooden hairpin from Xia Mang to fix her hair. Before the maid said anything, the room door was pushed open. The north wind poured into the room at once, and Shi Qingxue and Xia Mang turned to have a look at the same time. Mo Junyang wrapped a big coat around him and stood at the door with cold air. His eyes were sharp and fierce, like a pool of cold water. They were cold and piercing yet fixed on somebody. Shi Qingxue stared at Mo Junyang as soon as she saw him. She hadnt realized what happened, but she ran to the door and hugged the man from afar. Junyang, you are here. Her voice was timid and low, lasting a long period of time. All her emotions of missing, grievance, hope and disappointment were expressed in this sobbing voice. Mo Junyang subconsciously hugged this petite girl tightly who rushed into his arms. Then he answered gently, Yes, I am here. They hugged each other closely. The cold air from Mo Junyang attacked Shi Qingxue and made her tremble. Mo Junyang instantly felt it and planned to push Qingxue away, shouting helplessly and anxiously, I am cold now. Stay away from me. However, Shi Qingxue stood on tiptoe and stubbornly hugged Mo Junyangs neck. She buried her head in his arms and murmured, No. Her face clung to Mo Junyangs cold face which had been exposed to the wind and snow, and she felt cold and quivered, but she still subconsciously rubbed his face and tried to get close to him silently. Although Mo Junyang told Shi Qingxue to stay away from him, he didnt push her away as she refused him. He conveniently carried her up and supported her butts, like picking up a baby. Then he carried her into the room. The others were sensible and left after considerately closing the door for the young couple who hadnt seen each other for many days. Chapter 329 - Love Her Mo Junyang who held Shi Qingxue walked to the inner room and then sat on the bedside. He didnt let her get down but put her on his knees. They still hugged each other closely. After quite a while, Shi Qingxue couldnt come back to reality as she was still happy for Mo Junyangs sudden arrival. She was overjoyed. She still hugged Mo Junyangs neck and her red face still rubbed against his face, as if his cold body could give her warmth and peace. Shi Qingxue had a desire for the first time, and she couldnt help but get close to Mo Junyang. She wanted to be closer to him. Qingxues action like a little animal seeking for warmth was torture to Mo Junyang. He could hardly control himself, and his Adams apple bobbed in his throat. He wanted to swallow the desire and tried to keep his composure. He could always restrain himself. However, Shi Qingxue subconsciously called his name in his ear. Junyang Mo Junyangs self-restraint collapsed in an instant, and he couldnt stand it anymore. He caressed Shi Qingxues cheek and kissed her red lips which lured him. In the beginning, he restrained himself and just gently touched Shi Qingxues lips and rubbed against them, yet he saw that she merely trembled and didnt refuse him but opened her mouth, leaving a crack between her lips. Mo Junyang slyly reached out his tongue into her mouth at once and kissed her. It was not their first kiss but the most satisfying. They intimately hugged and kissed for quite a while. In the end, Shi Qingxue couldnt stand it, so she put her hand before his chest to push him away. Her voice was sweet and tempting. I cant bear it. Mo Junyang instantly felt a flame spreading from his chest and burning him quickly. He almost caught Shi Qingxue back, yet he controlled himself next second. He let Qingxue sit up but didnt allow her to stay away from his arms. Shi Qingxue didnt plan to leave but put her forehead on his shoulder. She gasped and asked in a low voice, What brought you here? Mo Junyang smiled and couldnt help announcing with sufficient reasons, You are my fiancee now. The men and women in Mo Country could see each other freely, and once they were engaged, they had no scruple. It was logical that Mo Junyang wanted to show his concern about Shi Qingxue and get close to her. Shi Qingxue felt shy to hear the word fiancee, and her face got burning hot immediately. She looked away and murmured with shyness, Stop. Mo Junyang didnt take her refusal seriously but hugged her more tightly. They embraced each other closely. His chin rubbed against her cheek, and he laughed in a low voice. Why cant I say it? You are my fiancee. Shi Qingxues face was redder, and she almost couldnt stand it. She blew out her cheeks and pretended to be angry. If you say more, I wont talk with you. Mo Junyang looked at Qingxue quietly. Her expression was so alive and attractive, making him indulge in pleasures. He couldnt help but caress her cheek gently again and express his true feelings in a soft voice. Qingxue, I miss you. His straightforward words struck at Shi Qingxues heart, and her face was so hot that it could fry an egg. However, this time she didnt evade anymore. She bit her lower lip and said in a weak yet firm voice, Imiss you, too. It was the first time for Shi Qingxue to express her feelings to Mo Junyang. How overjoyed he was after hearing that could be imagined. However, when he prepared to hold her in his arms forcefully once more, there was a knock on the door. Xia Mang said at the door, My Lady, its time to Since Shi Qingxue came to Tan Mountain, she would go to the room of meditation to play zither at this hour every day, and she had never been absent. So even though Xia Mang knew that the couple in the room might seize every minute and second to express their love, she had to knock on the door. She had predicted that Mo Junyang would stare at her with his eyes which could kill her. After a long time, there was rustling from the room, and then Shi Qingxue said loudly, I see. I am coming. She got out of Mo Junyangs arms and got up. Then she tidied up her face and clothes simply in front of the mirror. Looking at her red lips in the mirror showing that she was loved, she felt so shy that she wanted to cover her face. Gee. Fortunately, Xia Mang showed up in time. Otherwise, if Shi Qingxue continued to stay with Mo Junyang alone, her bath and burning incense would be a waste of energy. Shi Qingxue patted her cheeks to make her more energetic. Then she turned to Mo Junyang. The man was still sitting on the bed, looking cold, and his eyes were fierce, but Shi Qingxue noticed annoyance in his expression. She laughed for no reason with only one thought on her mind. Mo Junyang in this condition was so lovely. He heard the laughter and looked up with a frown. Why are you laughing? Shi Qingxue didnt dare to say it. She just raised her hand to cover the smile, while her eyes were still twinkling. She changed the subject. I am going to play zither in the room of meditation. Will you go with me? Mo Junyang just felt annoyed as Xia Mang disturbed them when they were intimate for the first time. He wished to stay with Shi Qingxue for twenty-four hours every day. So he naturally agreed with pleasure. They came to the room of meditation together. There was sanders inside, and the tools Qingxue needed were put in order. Shi Qingxue sat in front of the table, and the zither she liked most was on it. When the elder duke Shi Lei was alive, he met a phoenix tree which was burnt by lightning on the way, so he chose a section of wood which was not burnt and made this zither. As Qingxue started to learn playing zither, he gave it to her. Not to mention that it made many people jealous of Shi Qingxue, after she was imprisoned in the Cold Palace, Mo Junhao smashed it into two parts in person, and she couldnt play it anymore, which was a matter for regret to her in the previous life. So this time, she specially brought this zither to the family temple, and she wanted to bring Dong Hui good fortune with this zither and pray for Shi Lei with its unique tone. She started to play zither, and the music was prolonged and melodious. Different from the depressing music in the past, it was cheerful obviously today. Even Dong Shuang who was dull could find that the player was happy, and she couldnt help but cover her mouth and smile secretly. As soon as the poor Dong Shuang began to grin, Mo Junyang glared at her ferociously, and she kept silent instantly. Although Shi Qingxue was absorbed in playing zither and wasnt affected, Mo Junyang still felt inconvenient for these servants presence in the room. He glanced at Wei Zichao, and the latter understood immediately, leading the two maids to leave and wait outside. Both Xia Mang and Dong Shuang feared Mo Junyang. They didnt dare to protest but followed Wei Zichao out obediently. After walking out, Dong Shuang sighed with relief, yet the scared expression was still on her face. She patted her chest with fear and complained in a low voice, His Excellency is so horrible. Xia Mang rolled her eyes at Dong Shuang. You are so badly-behaved. I think that you have forgotten the rules that the mammy in charge taught you since childhood. Somebody should discipline you. Dong Shuang shrank her neck when she was rebuked. She was obedient and didnt dare to retort. Wei Zichao heard that and spoke for Dong Shuang. Dong Shuang is still young, and its normal that she doesnt pay attention to some things. Xia Mang, dont be too harsh on her. As somebody defended her, Dong Shuang had courage to confront Xia Mang in an instant. She murmured, Lady Qingxue has said that she likes me most when I am lively. Perhaps she knew that she would be beaten after saying that, so before Xia Mang raised a hand to beat her, Dong Shuang hurriedly hid behind Wei Zichao and even pushed the tall and big guard forward. The shield Wei Zichao looked at Xia Mangs ferocious face and had a headache, but he still dutifully blocked her anger for Dong Shuang. Xia Mang, please dont be mad. Xia Mang failed in beating Dong Shuang and didnt chase her, yet she was amused by the twos secret actions. Gee, why didnt she find something secret in the past? It was no wonder that Shi Qingxue told Dong Shuang to do her job to send letters to King Ruis mansion in the past few days. It turned out that something happened between these two. Xia Mang rolled her eyes and restrained her anger. Then she cleared her throat. Fine, I dont want to bother about you so much. Go and prepare tea and snacks with Wei. The masters will drink and eat later. Dong Shuang was confused about why she needed Wei Zichao to help her do her job, but she was used to listening to Xia Mangs orders, so she didnt think much. She said to Wei Zichao, I will take you to the kitchen. Wei Zichao understood Xia Mangs hidden meaning, and his dark face which was exposed to the sun and wind became red with luster. His eyes were evasive, and he stuttered. Dong Shuang thought that Wei Zichao was baffled as he didnt know how to make food, so she comforted him out of kindness. Dont worry. Our food is made by monks and nuns in the temple and their assistants. We just need to bring the food and drink here. Its not difficult. Wei Zichao was speechless. Perhaps it was his first time to see a girl who was more pure-minded than him, and he thought that Dong Shuang was lovely. He didnt think much but ignored Xia Mangs eyes with a sly smile. He smiled at Dong Shuang and nodded. Okay. Lets go. Dong Shuang also smiled and reached out her hand to pull Wei Zichaos sleeve, walking to the kitchen. She had no scruple. Even Wei Zichaos ears became red, yet he didnt plan to avoid Dong Shuang. He sped up and walked next to her. Xia Mang looked at the two backs walking forward, while the smile on her face faded and was replaced with a smile with comfort. She, Chun Yu, Qiu Lu and Dong Shuang were maids serving Shi Qingxue since childhood and grew up with the lady, so their friendship was special. However, Chun Yu had betrayed the lady, and Qiu Lu had become distant to them, so only she and Dong Shuang were trustworthy maids around Shi Qingxue. Xia Mang swore since childhood that she would serve Shi Qingxue forever and wouldnt get married. She didnt want to see that the lady had no trustworthy maid around her then, and she hoped that there were more such people. She had such a plan, but she couldnt stop Dong Shuang from looking for her happiness. If Dong Shuang really loved Wei Zichao and they got married, there wouldnt be great changes after Shi Qingxue married into King Ruis mansion in the future. Xia Mang was more satisfied while thinking and hoped that she could become a matchmaker and make a match for Dong Shuang and Wei Zichao at once. However, Dong Shuang was dull and hadnt noticed Wei Zichaos love for her. If Wei Zichao waited for this girl to be enlightened, it would be delayed for long. Gee, I have to take actions. Xia Mang clapped and made a decision secretly. Chapter 330 - An Amour” Since Mo Junyang had come to Tan Mountain, he didnt plan to leave. He and Shi Qingxue expressed their love to each other, and they were willing to stay together, wishing to be like conjoined twins. How would he leave? Not to mention leaving Tan Mountain, Mo Junyang didnt want to leave Shi Qingxues bedroom even at night. Although they were an engaged couple, they were unmarried, so they couldnt live together. Therefore, Mo Junyang restrained himself and chose a room next to Shi Qingxues bedroom. His bed was next to the wall, and the other side of the wall was next to Shi Qingxues bed. They were separated by only a wall. However, at bedtime, Mo Junyang had to return to his room. He sat at the table and looked at the big bed in a daze, as if he had X-ray eyes and could see what Shi Qingxue was doing through the wall. What was Qingxue doing? Had she blown out the lamp? Had she gone to bed? Was she asleep? Was shemissing him, too? The trifling thoughts circled around his brain, like poisonous snakes pestering him, making him incurable, unable to get rid of them. Gee! Mo Junyang sprang from his seat and then opened the door, walking out. He found that the light in the next-door room was out, so his desirous heart finally calmed down a bit, but he was still restless and couldnt fall asleep. Mo Junyang gave up the plan to knock at Qingxues room door and jumped up to the eave opposite to him, regardless of the light snow falling outside. He wiped away the snow and sat in the open space, facing Shi Qingxues dark room. It was silent around at midnight, as if only Mo Junyang were left in the huge world. There was nothing but the strong wind and snow in his ears. Even though Mo Junyang was iron-willed, he wouldnt be in high spirits in such an environment. He just sat quietly and stared at Shi Qingxues room. Although he could see nothing, when he merely looked at it in this way, he could relax seemingly. Mo Junyang didnt know how long he had been sitting on the roof. He couldnt notice time passing or feel cold but just sat there. His eyes were blank, and he let his mind drift away. In fact, he didnt think about anything, yet he needed a place to calm his restless mind. He was like this till a creak was heard. Shi Qingxues room door was opened. She stood at the door, and as soon as she raised her head, she met Mo Junyangs eyes. Both of them were stunned. Mo Junyang thought that there was something wrong with Shi Qingxue, so he hurriedly flew to her from the roof. Whats the matter? Whats wrong with you? Shi Qingxue stared at him and frowned. He didnt sleep at midnight but stayed on the roof in the cold wind. He was so romantic. Shi Qingxue got angrier while thinking. No matter what reasons Mo Junyang had, she was in a rage. Mo Junyang looked away with guilt rarely and lowered his head in silence. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Only in an instant, she stopped being angry because of Mo Junyangs action to show the white feather. Its cold outside. Come in first. Shi Qingxue sighed and gave up her plan to rebuke him. Then she pulled him into the room. Even though Mo Junyang was in good health and almost had never got sick, he couldnt mistreat himself in this way. He had been on a journey for several days successively in the blizzard, and now he even enjoyed the wind on the roof at midnight. Even an ironman couldnt stand it. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt forget to put on his thick and big coat. Otherwise, Shi Qingxue would be irritated by him to death. She lit the oil lamp and then put the warmer kettle in Mo Junyangs arms before pouring him a cup of hot tea. She watched Mo Junyang finish drinking the cup of hot tea and then started to interrogate, You didnt sleep at midnight. What were you doing on the roof? Nothing. I Mo Junyang tried to find excuses randomly, but before he spoke out the excuse, he held it back under Shi Qingxues murderous glare. He stayed silent for a long time and gave up the plan to hide it from her in the end. I cant fall asleep. Mo Junyangs wish of many years had come true. Even though Shi Qingxue hadnt married him, it was enough for him to be over the moon. Mo Junyang tried hard to restrain himself before he could maintain his composure on the surface, so he wouldnt be like a madman who had a windfall and went crazy. He didnt want to restrain himself at all. Mo Junyang had the same feeling as all the stingy misers in the world and just wanted to hide his treasure. He wanted to hold Shi Qingxue in his arms and hug her all the time. She was his, and her heart was his. He wouldnt give her to anybody who wanted her. Buthe couldnt do it! He couldnt frighten Shi Qingxue, so he had to control himself. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang. The man still looked calm as always, and the ordinary people couldnt find anything unusual, while she showed an expression, as if lost in thought. After a while, she suddenly chuckled. What a coincidence. I cant, either. Mo Junyang paused for a moment and suddenly raised his head, gazing at Shi Qingxue. He was like a fierce beast which found the only delicious prey in winter and wanted to swallow it at one gulp but hesitated and didnt do anything. If it swallowed the prey, it would have no more. His eyes lit up, and even the starlight was dimmer than them, yet there was hesitation which could hardly be noticed in his eyes. Shi Qingxue saw it and then smiled. She grabbed Mo Junyangs hand and said more straightforwardly, I also miss you so much that I cant fall asleep. Mo Junyang felt dizzy. There was no word which could soften Mo Junyangs hard heart more than these. It turned out that he didnt fall in an unrequited love with her. His beloved woman, his Qingxue loved him, too. Mo Junyang didnt need to worry about if she loved him anymore. He excitedly hugged Shi Qingxue and fixed her in his arms. It seemed that this moment was forever. Shi Qingxue also relaxed and rested her head in Mo Junyangs arms obediently. She showed the white feather and surrendered to him. Perhaps it was Shi Qingxues first time to put herself in such a weak position in two lives. Even though she loved Mo Junhao in the previous life, she had never forgotten her arrogance. Her arrogance was innate, but it was defeated under Mo Junyangs deep love. Mo Junyang certainly felt Shi Qingxues love, and his restless heart which didnt calm after he was in the cold wind for a night finally became steady. However, the fierce beast in his heart was just in a state of torpor, and Shi Qingxue was the best soothing agent for him. He just wanted her to be next to him. Only she was next to him. I Mo Junyang licked his dry lips and asked in a hoarse voice, Can I sleep here? Ah? Shi Qingxue frowned subconsciously. Before she spoke, Mo Junyang explained, I dont need to sleep on the bed, as long as there is a spot where I can look at you, and I will leave before dawn tomorrow. I promise not to disturb anybody. Logically, this plan was perfect. However, Shi Qingxue put on a long face and was speechless after hearing that. What was going on? Wasnt it like an amour? Qingxue had complex feelings and wanted to make a lot of comments, but facing Mo Junyang, she couldnt speak a word. Fine. Anyway, in fact, she didnt want to leave him. It would be fine as long as nobody found it, right? Shi Qingxue thought and didnt take it seriously. Then she nodded. Mo Junyangs whole face lit up at once. Before Shi Qingxue told him, he spontaneously moved the couch in the room and put it opposite to her bed. Then he could see her even when he lay on the couch. Shi Qingxue blew out the lamp. It was dark in the room. Both of them lay in their spots. It was silent, yet Shi Qingxue could feel that a pair of bright eyes kept staring at her even when she closed her eyes. Although it was not horrible, any normal person couldnt fall asleep at ease under the stare. After about fifteen minutes, Qingxue finally couldnt control herself but shouted in a low voice, Enough. Close your eyes and go to sleep now. Otherwise, just go back to your room. The room really fell into silence. Shi Qingxue was relieved and felt warm, so she was sleepy soon. In no time, she fell asleep. Therefore, she didnt know that after she fell asleep, the man on the couch sat up in an instant and then came over, sitting on her bedside gently. He sat for a night and looked at her for a night. Next morning, when Shi Qingxue woke up and looked at the couch which had been put back in the distance, she was in a daze. Did it happen last night? Or she missed Mo Junyang too much, so she made conjectures? My Lady, couldnt you fall asleep last night? Xia Mangs doubtful question dragged Shi Qingxue back to reality. She was guilty and avoided Xia Mangs eyes. WhatWhats wrong? Xia Mang pointed to the teacup on the table. When I left last night, there was no teacup on the table. Shi Qingxue followed Xia Mangs eyes and found that the teacup Mo Junyang had used was still left on the table. Mo Junyang was good at being a thief and had put the couch back, but he forgot the evidence which was not put away. So Xia Mang thought that Shi Qingxue had used it. Qingxue felt lucky as she only poured a cup of tea for Mo Junyang last night. Otherwise, if there were two teacups on the table, she couldnt explain it clearly. Xia Mang still said endlessly, Why did you drink tea at midnight? Wouldnt you be unable to fall asleep? Shi Qingxue listened patiently and didnt retort but distracted her in time. In this way, Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang started to live together in the family temple on Tan Mountain. Except that they could hardly control themselves on the first day, they didnt do anything excessive later apart from a restrained kiss occasionally. As for living together, Mo Junyang entered Shi Qingxues room secretly every night after all people fell asleep. Like the first time, he didnt do anything. He was satisfied as long as he looked at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue was not used to falling asleep when somebody stared at her, and she probably would never be used to it. However, generally, the life on Tan Mountain was pleasant. Till Wei Ziye brought a piece of news after the wind and snow finally stopped on Tan Mountain, the pleasant life was disturbed. Shi Juncai died. He died miserably in the place where he was banished. It was said that he had been murdered. When Shi Qingxue got the news, she didnt believe it as her first reaction. In the previous life, till she died miserably, Shi Juncai still lived a good life and had even snatched the position of Duke Shi, oh, although the first thing Mo Junyang did after he took the throne was use the fresh blood of the third masters family to worship her grave. Why did he die silently? And he was murdered? It didnt make sense. Shi Juncai had been banished to Beizhou, so he was almost useless, and under Mo Shujuns protection, logically, at least he must live a good life and didnt need to worry about his food and clothes. Why was he murdered by somebody? Who would do such a hard and thankless job? Did the murderer eat too much and have nothing to do? Hearing Shi Qingxue ask Mo Junyang in confusion, Wei Ziye wanted to say something yet stopped himself. Mo Junyang didnt say anything rashly but asked Wei Ziye first, What information did you get? No matter if it is true, just tell us everything. Wei Ziye finally replied hesitantly, In fact, when the people from Beizhou sent the news about Shi Juncais death, they brought some gossip. I dont know if its true, so I dont dare to judge. What? Shi Qingxue looked at Wei Ziye anxiously. They said, said Wei Ziye made up his mind and spoke out everything. They said that some people in Beizhou rumored that Duke Shi envied and hated Shi Juncai, so he sent somebody to murder Shi Juncai secretly. What? Shi Qingxue exclaimed again, yet this time she jumped up from the chair and her eyes widened in disbelief. Wei Ziye continued to explain the cause and effect. The information was brought by our people in Beizhou personally. Although there is no evidence, the gossip spreads everywhere as if it were the truth. I am afraid that many people believe this saying. But the news hasnt spread to the capital city for now, and there is no great influence. After Mr. Qu heard it, he said that it was significant, and he didnt dare to make a decision arbitrarily, so he told me to send it to you in a rush. Your Excellency, My Lady, whats your opinion? Chapter 331 - A Conspiracy Shi Qingxue was shocked by the news Wei Ziye had brought and couldnt make a judgement. She looked at Mo Junyang with her mind in chaos and wanted to hear what he would say. Mo Junyang instantly gave her a smile to suggest that she should calm down. Then he asked Wei Ziye about the key point. Do you know who has got this news? Wei Ziye replied, Mr. Qu said that this news cant be hidden. Even if those people didnt know it when I came, the people who should know it must have known now. Shi Qingxue frowned and a premonition spread in her brain. Earlier, she still wondered who had nothing to do and killed Shi Juncai. After hearing Wei Ziyes last words, she understood that this murder case probably targeted her father Duke Shi. Mo Junyang grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and ordered Wei Ziye, I see. You go back first to tell Yuebai to pay attention to the situation in the capital city all the time and try to control the trend of the public opinion. If there is an accident, he can make decisions without asking for my permission. The hidden meaning was that their master still didnt plan to return to the capital. Wei Ziye silently stopped himself from revealing another purpose of his arrival, to persuade Mo Junyang to return to the capital. Then he answered, Yes. After Wei Ziye left, Shi Qingxue was restless. She looked at Mo Junyang and asked in a fret, Junyang, do you know any more inside information? Mo Junyang shook his head. No, I dont, but I guess almost the same as you. Somebody purposely aims at your father. Then we Shi Qingxues first idea was going down the mountain and returning home, yet before she got up, she stopped this irrational plan in time. She gritted her teeth with the tip of her tongue against them and looked prepared but didnt know what to do. Mo Junyang looked at Shi Qingxue who restrained herself. She made him feel sadder for her than the girl who acted on impulse in the past. He sighed deeply and reached out his hand to pull her into his arms. Feeling that Qingxues whole body was stiff, he caressed her and sighed. Dont be anxious. It is still controllable now. The murderer killed Shi Juncai and tried to frame Duke Shi, and he just wanted to make mischief. Shi Qingxues back relaxed and her face softened. She leaned against Mo Junyangs shoulder and pursed her lips. Then she said, The relationship between Grandma and Father cant be worse, and they almost wont visit each other all their lives, but after all, both of them are from the Shi family. If Grandma thinks that Father killed Shi Juncai, then All people had seen how much Mo Shujun loved Shi Juncai. Even though he had murdered his brother, she still insisted on saving his life. It was not exaggerated to say that Shi Juncai was Mo Shujuns lifeblood. Now she had lost her lifeblood, and if she thought that it was done by Shi Junhe, the consequence couldnt be imagined. Shi Qingxue didnt fear Mo Shujun but even secretly hated her for being partial in the past, yet after the truth was revealed, she knew why the old woman was partial. She didnt suspect or complain anymore. Shi Qingxues kinship and admiration for her grandma disappeared when Mo Shujun was indifferent and treated her badly, so she didnt hate the old lady. She just thought that Mo Shujun was pitiful and pathetic. Qingxue showed a sad face and grasped Mo Junyangs hand, speaking out her feelings without concealment. Even though its laughable to mention the word kinship with Grandma, we have lived together for so long, and we still have feelings. I have feelings, so Father must be the same. Anyway, Grandma brought him up. He can hate Shi Juncai and be completely isolated from her, yet he is unable to be completely indifferent. I am afraid that Father will be hurt. After all, they didnt want to be Mo Shujuns enemies. No. Your father has his own opinion, and the Princess Royals influence is limited now, so she can do nothing to him. Mo Junyang comforted Shi Qingxue in a gentle voice. In fact, this was what confused Mo Junyang. Duke Shis family was the focus of attention and related to King Ruis family by marriage. Shi Junhe controlled the military power and won the emperors favor. Even though Mo Shujun was a royal family member, she just enjoyed undeserved fame. She had some power, but she could do nothing to Shi Junhe. So what was the point of sowing discord between Mo Shujun and Shi Junhe? It wouldnt make sense if they did that just to ruin Shi Junhes fame. Although the fact that Shi Juncai was Mo Shujuns illegitimate son wasnt revealed to the public in order to save the face of Shi Lei and Mo Shujun, anybody should and could know it had known it, so it wouldnt affect Shi Junhe greatly. What did the person behind the scenes want to do? Shi Qingxue felt a little relieved. She trusted her fathers moral quality, yet soon she pursed her lips and couldnt help saying with a frown, But if Father is unprepared, he will be harmed in secret easily. I need to send somebody to tell him this news and remind him to be careful, in case that somebody evil schemes against him. Mo Junyang nodded and knew that what Shi Qingxue considered was reasonable. After all, they got the news so soon because Mo Junyang had subordinates in Beizhou, and they didnt know when Shi Junhe could get the news and how much he would know. I will tell Zichao to send a letter for you. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and pondered for a moment. Then she shook her head and sighed helplessly. I will tell the little monk in the temple to do it. Father and Mother know the people working here and will believe his words. Mo Junyang kept silent. Looking at Mo Junyang who was expressionless and seemed to give tacit consent, Shi Qingxue knew that he didnt give tacit consent but felt unhappy. It was because of what she said just now. Qingxue was surprised that Mo Junyang would get mad at her. This man was too cunning in the past, and he wouldnt show his feelings clearly to let her notice it even if he was unhappy. Did this show that Mo Junyang was closer to her? Shi Qingxue wasnt sure about it, yet she certainly wouldnt let Mo Junyang continue to sulk in silence. She hurriedly grabbed Mo Junyangs hand and twined her fingers into his. Meeting the mans deep eyes, she explained flatteringly, Its not that I dont trust you, but if I tell your subordinate to send a letter to my family, it doesnt make sense even thoughwe are engaged. Mo Junyang paused for a moment and then accepted Shi Qingxues explanation. I will prepare a horse for you. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang walking out of the room quickly like the wind, in a daze. She seemed to have seen a suspicious red mark on Mo Junyangs neck. Was she dazzled? Shi Qingxue shook her head and stopped herself from making blind and disorderly conjectures. Then she went to write a letter. The little monk who would send the letter was less than twenty years old. He was bald at a young age, and the food was vegetarian in the family temple, so he looked thinner. When he stood at the door of the temple, the wind and frost were strong, as if he could be blown away in blizzard. Shi Qingxue had told him everything that she should tell him, but seeing the little monk, she still couldnt help asking worriedly, Its a long journey to the capital city. Are you okay with it? Only at this thought, she was worried. The little monk saluted her in a Buddhist way. Amitabha. Please dont worry, Benefactor. I wont let you down. Thanks, Master. The weather is so bad now. After you send the letter, just stay in Duke Shis mansion and come back when it is warmer, Shi Qingxue advised. The little monk agreed in a hurry, and he couldnt help but show a smile which couldnt be concealed on his young face. The noble families provided for the real monks and nuns in the family temples, yet they were not as strict as the Buddhist temples where the others cultivated in seclusion, and these monks and nuns couldnt be void of vanities. This little monk lived in the family temple since childhood and had never seen the prosperous capital city, and this job was assigned to him by his master specially because he was smart. Thinking that he could finally see the bustling capital mentioned by others, the little monk couldnt help but feel excited. He rode the fast horse and ran down the mountain. Wei Zichao looked at this little monks rash actions and pouted involuntarily. Dong Shuang saw that and asked with concern, Whats wrong with you? That little monk hasnt seen the world obviously, and he is rash and unskilled. I dont know if he can finish the job smoothly, Wei Zichao commented coldly. He still took it to heart as Shi Qingxue chose a little monk instead of him to send a letter. Dong Shuang didnt understand the masters scruple, either, while she had her own opinion. She patted Wei Zichaos shoulder and comforted him softly and quickly. Because this job is easy, just to send a letter. They dont need you to do it. You have more important jobs. As Wei Zichao heard that, his cold face softened a little, and he was finally comforted. However, he still showed off his ability in front of Dong Shuang. Its such a simple job. If I whip the fast horse, it will take less than three days to go and come back. Dong Shuang didnt doubt him. Hmm, you are awesome. Wei Zichaos tense face started to get red suspiciously, and he lowered his head in silence. Dong Shuang didnt notice it but continued, However, this job is not urgent. Didnt Lady Qingxue say that the little monk didnt need to come back in a rush? She just told him to send the letter in safety to Duke Shis mansion, right? Who knows if he can finish such an easy job? Wei Zichao snorted and tried to distract his attention to lower the temperature on his face. Its not dangerous all the way. Can he freeze to death on the way? Dong Shuang replied casually and didnt take it seriously. They didnt know that her casual words came true. There was still snow falling on Tan Mountain, yet it was much lighter than that when Mo Junyang and Wei Zichao came up the mountain. There was a series of indentations left by a horses hooves on the mountain path covered with white snow. They were going down from the mountaintop. Near a cliff, they became a lot of messy prints of the horses hooves with scratches spreading to the cliff. The horse seemed to have been lingering here for a long time. Then the prints of the horses hooves went down to the foot of the mountain. However, if people observed carefully, they could find that the steps of the horse were different from the previous ones and more orderly with a greater distance between them. It seemed that somebody else who was more skilled in horsemanship rode the horse. Nevertheless, nobody found this incident. Duke Shis mansion in the capital far away had got the news that Shi Juncai died of an illness. Then somebody came to report that the Princess Royal Mo Shujun fell sick. Shi Junhe knew what Shi Juncai meant to Mo Shujun, so he instantly sent for a doctor and rushed to her residence. He didnt know that a letter which was supposed to be from Tan Mountain to his mansion didnt arrive after a long time. Chapter 332 - I Want to Go Back to the Shou’an Hall When Shi Junhe arrived at Mo Shujuns residence, she was lying in the sickbed and the maid Zhu fed her medicine. Mo Shujuns face was pale and her hair was loose. She looked decadent and depressed, not as dignified and honorable as the Princess Royal in the past. Before coming, Shi Junhe was mentally prepared and had thought that Mo Shujun might be unable to bear such a body blow, yet when he saw that the woman whom he had called mother for many years became so spiritless, he couldnt help but have tears in his eyes. Mother. Shi Junhe called her in a shaky voice with the form of address again that he thought that he would never call. Mo Shujun trembled and finally found Shi Junhe. There was no blood on her pale face, yet her eyes became extremely sharp all of a sudden. She stared at Shi Junhe. What are you doing here? Did you come to laugh at me? Shi Junhe didnt mind Mo Shujuns vicious remarks. I have heard of the sad news about Juncai and that you are ill, so I brought a doctor here. How are you feeling now? Shi Junhe sincerely considered for Mo Shujuns health, but in her eyes, his action was to sneer at her. Right! Mo Shujuns psychology was screwy. She disliked Shi Junhe and wished that he would live a hard life forever and it was better that he would fall to death as soon as he came out, so she thought that Shi Junhe must also wish that it would happen to her. As soon as she fell sick, Shi Junhe came here in a rush and said that he brought a doctor. Did he satirize her that she was poor and declining and couldnt afford to see a good doctor? Moreover As Mo Shujun thought of the news from Beizhou, she felt a heartache. That was her son, her only child. He had died, and the person who had murdered him came hypocritically just to laugh at her. How could she bear it? Mo Shujun clenched her fists in the quilt, while the long fingernails almost hurt her palm and left a hole with blood. However, it seemed that she couldnt feel the pain, and her face full of wrinkles twisted, looking ferocious and horrible. Even Shi Junhe was scared by Mo Shujuns expression. MoMother, are you okay? Shi Junhe called hesitantly. His reason told him that Mo Shujun was abnormal, so he should stay away from her, and it was better to go away without looking back. However, Shi Junhe would never do something like that. He frowned deeply and walked forward, asking with concern, Mother, whats wrong with you? If you dont feel well, just tell me. After you speak it out, you will feel better. Mo Shujun laughed with sarcasm in secret. Why would I say it? Will I say it to let you laugh at me? Mo Shujun thought evilly. She believed that Shi Junhe purposely came here to disgust and mock at her, so she wouldnt let him see her misery. Even though she was weak, she still cheered up and asked coldly, What on earth are you doing here? Shi Junhe replied worriedly, I am worried about you and want the doctor to check on you. After saying that, he waved at the doctor behind him and gestured for him to walk forward and check Mo Shujuns pulse. However, Mo Shujun wouldnt allow such a folk doctor to touch her. She motioned for Zhu to push him away. She questioned coldly, Whats my identity? Does such an untrained doctor qualify to touch me? Shi Junhe, do you think that I have no qualification to see an imperial doctor as I have lost power? Mo Shujuns voice was sharp and unpleasant to hear, so Shi Junhe couldnt help but frown. However, Shi Junhe considered that she had just lost her son and it was normal for her to be irritable, so he waved at the doctor and gestured for him to go out first. Then he spoke to Mo Shujun. Mother, since you are unwilling to, I will send for a doctor in the imperial palace for you. No need. An imperial doctor had come. When you think of me, perhaps my dead body is cold. Mo Shujun intentionally said something offensive. Even a good-tempered person couldnt endure Mo Shujuns bad attitude. Nevertheless, Mo Shujun would feel happy after saying that. She purposely irritated Shi Junhe. Didnt this man come to her to play a good son? She was going to see if he could stand it after she said that. Shi Junhe took a deep breath and finally restrained his urge to leave. He expressed in a deep voice, Mother, since you are all right, I am relieved. Seeing that Shi Junhe wasnt angry, Mo Shujun didnt feel happy but soon got furious. She could hardly control herself and shouted at Shi Junhe, You can bring ill luck. You killed my son, yet you came to see me insincerely. I wish that I can kill you. Get out of here, now! Shi Junhe wanted to explain after Mo Shujun yelled at him, while she kept emotionally telling him to get out, without mercy. In the end, she was pissed off and almost fainted. Seeing that the situation was uncontrollable, Zhu could do nothing but ask Shi Junhe to go out and advise him sadly in a low voice, Duke Shi, Her Highness is emotional all the time after hearing the sad news about the third master. Please dont irritate her anymore. Shi Junhe was in a daze after Mo Shujun yelled, and now a maid advised him in this way, so his feelings were hurt, yet he just thought that Mo Shujun said something hurtful because she was too sad, and he didnt take it to heart. He just responded, Please take good care of Mother. If you need something, just tell somebody to come to my mansion. Zhu agreed and then walked Shi Junhe out of the mansion in person before coming back. She stood at the door of Mo Shujuns room and pushed it to enter after hesitating for quite a while. Mo Shujun raised her head and stared at Zhu coldly. Then she snorted till the maid had cold sweat on her back under the stare. What? You cant seduce Duke Shi successfully? Didnt he take you back to his mansion? After hearing that, Zhu instantly knelt on the floor with fear and defended herself. Your Highness, I am your maid. I will be with you no matter where you are. I am loyal to you. Mo Shujun got less angry. She closed her eyes and leaned against the bedhead to rest her mind, but she still stated without mercy, You just said something nice. You were so obsequious to the man who brought ill luck. Dont you think that I can see it as I am aged and dizzy? Zhu explained hurriedly, I was afraid that Duke Shi would disturb you when you had a rest, so I asked him to go out. She said that intentionally because she wanted Mo Shujun to stop being angry. However, Mo Shujun opened her eyes suddenly and gazed at her like a poisonous snake staring at the prey. What did you call him? Zhu immediately realized that she mentioned what hurt Mo Shujun, so she slapped herself and corrected her words. I was wrong. I was afraid that Shi Junhe would disturb you then, soso I Mo Shujun finally showed a weird smile on her twisted face. She leaned against the bedhead again and didnt forget to instruct the maid. My husband divorced the bi*ch You Si long ago. She gave birth to a b**tard, an illegitimate son. He doesnt qualify to have the family name Shi! He doesnt Seeing that the mistress started to murmur crazily again, Zhu didnt dare to speak but served her obediently like a quail. As for what Mo Shujun said Hmm, she didnt hear anything. Zhu just hoped that this fight could end. Although Mo Shujun hated Shi Junhe to the bone, she was not the Princess Royal who could act like a tyrant in the past. As long as Shi Junhe ignored Mo Shujun, she couldnt cause trouble. However, Zhu underestimated Shi Junhes respect for Mo Shujun. When Mo Shujun got a little better and could get up, Shi Junhe came to visit her again. This time, Shi Junhe specially brought the best imperial doctor in the palace and a lot of valuable tonics even Zhu had seldom seen. As an adopted son who was envied and mistreated by his adoptive mother, he was most perfectly fulfilled both in love and duty to do that. Zhu thought in silence yet didnt dare to speak for Shi Junhe in front of Mo Shujun. In the past few days, Mo Shujun was like a crazy woman. She cursed sometimes and spoke to the air sometimes, which almost scared Zhu to death. Zhu trembled and reported to Mo Shujun that Shi Junhe was waiting outside. Then she closed her eyes and waited for the old ladys curse like a furious storm. And she might be more miserable and be beaten. However, what Zhu expected didnt happen. Mo Shujun was peaceful and even carefree unexpectedly. Mo Shujun just glanced at her and ordered impassively, Let him in. Yes. Zhu obediently left to send the message, but she couldnt help suspecting. Mo Shujun who acted like this was too strange, yet since this morning, her attitude was unusual. Zhu hoped that there would be nothing wrong. Shi Junhe walked into the room and saw that Mo Shujun looked much better and more energetic than before, so he heaved a sigh of relief. He still expressed, Mother, you look much better, so perhaps you dont need to see the imperial doctor, but I still brought some tonics. Hope that you wont dislike them. Then he told the servant to show the valuable tonics to Mo Shujun. Mo Shujun merely glanced at them coldly. She didnt lose temper but just uplifted her brows, snorting with disdain. What? Am I a beggar? You want to give so few things to show your respect for me? Shi Junhe thought that Mo Shujun was strange, yet he couldnt find what the problem was. He still replied respectfully, Of course, I dont dare to. I am your son. If you want me to do something, just tell me. After all, Shi Junhe was still willing to take Mo Shujun as his mother. The word son made Mo Shujun in a daze after she heard that. Her eyes lit up, but soon she returned normal. She stared at Shi Junhe, seeming to look him up and down or consider something. As Shi Junhe had lived with Mo Shujun for so long, he instantly understood that she wanted him to do something yet felt embarrassed to speak it out considering her identity. So Shi Junhe asked thoughtfully, Mother, do you want me to investigate the cause of Juncais death? Hearing Shi Juncais name, Mo Shujun turned pale, but she could control herself. The anger was only in her eyes, and she didnt explode like she did last time. Shi Junhe confirmed his guess and continued, I have sent people to Beizhou. I believe that the truth will be found in a few days. Mo Shujun waved her hand and smiled. I dont plan to talk about this matter with you. Mother, what can I do for you? Dont you want to show your respect for me as you come here frequently? Mo Shujun intentionally said something unpleasant to hear and then added unhurriedly before Shi Junhe argued, I will give this chance to you. What? Shi Junhe asked simply in doubt. Mo Shujun pursed her lips. I want to go back to the Shouan Hall. Chapter 333 - Wei Zichao Feels Wronged As soon as Shi Junhe heard Mo Shujuns request, he felt unwilling as the first reaction. It was not his fault. It was because Mo Shujun was good at stirring up trouble. In the last days when Mo Shujun lived in the Shouan Hall, she caused such utter confusion as to make almost everybody in the mansion nervous, and even Shi Junhe was afraid of this mother. Moreover, Mo Shujun was on bad terms with Dong Hui all the time, and Dong Hui was going to give birth to a baby soon, so he was worried that there would be something wrong. Seeing Shi Junhes hesitation, Mo Shujun looked knowing and sneered. If you are unwilling to take care of me, I wont force you. After all, your father died, so I have nowhere to stay in Duke Shis mansion. After hearing that, Shi Junhe had to bite the bullet and explain away even though he had a lot to consider. Mother, you are joking. You are Fathers wife, so the Shouan Hall is your residence forever Shi Junhe knew that Mo Shujun was determined to go back to his mansion this time. No matter what Mo Shujun was thinking about and whether she let it pass or had ulterior motives, Shi Junhe couldnt refuse her. He sighed deeply and agreed. Mother, when do you plan to move back to the Shouan Hall? Then I will send people to pack up for you. No need. I have packed up, and we can go now. After saying that, Mo Shujun got up from the bed and walked out. Shi Junhe finally realized that Mo Shujun probably had planned everything and even guessed that he would come to visit her again today. However, what could he do even if he realized it? Mo Shujun had made a final decision to return to Duke Shis mansion. Shi Junhe had to restrain his restlessness and follow her. Time passed quickly. It was in the middle of the second lunar month, and Dong Huis expected date of childbirth was approaching. Shi Qingxue was on Tan Mountain and felt unspeakably fidgety. She always couldnt calm down these days. Even though it was getting warmer with the sun shining brightly, and Mo Junyang stayed with her all the time, she still felt quite restless. It seemed that something would happen. This feeling came surprisingly without any signs. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak out what was wrong. She just walked back and forth in the room repeatedly. Mo Junyang couldnt bear to see it. He forcefully held her in his arms and asked in a deep voice, Whats wrong with you? Shi Qingxue lowered her head, to see that Mo Junyang grabbed her hand and applied ointment to its back carefully. It turned out that she had scratched the back of her hand and left red marks on it because she was neurotic again. It was not serious, and there was no blood, but it was just horribly red, so Mo Junyang handled her wound solemnly. II am fine, Shi Qingxue replied in a low voice with no confidence. She suddenly realized what was wrong when she felt the similar anxiety. Last time she was in such a state when Shi Junhe and Wenren Chi died on the battlefield on Qingluo Mountain. She didnt know that her father and brother had passed away, yet she felt lonely and helpless, so she could only abuse herself to stay awake. This time, because Mo Junyang accompanied her, she didnt have a chance to hurt herself, but she still had a feeling of despair which was stronger and stronger. Junyang, whats going on? Why am I like this? I dont know. I just feel scared. I fear that Shi Qingxue murmured and told Mo Junyang about her despair in two lives. Mo Junyang also felt sad. He hated himself as he could do nothing to help Shi Qingxue. He could only hug her tightly and then kiss her cheeks repeatedly while comforting her. Its fine. There will be nothing wrong. Now your father stays in the capital in safety, and there is no war in the country for now. The Shi Army doesnt need to go to the battlefield, so your father and brother are safe. They are safe and sound He told Shi Qingxue patiently over and over again. After a long time, Shi Qingxue gradually freed herself from the disorderly thoughts, and the mans wet and warm breath came from her cheeks. She didnt want Mo Junyang to worry about her too much, so she smiled faintly. I am fine now. Shi Qingxue regained sanity and knew that she couldnt think too much. Otherwise, she would be in a dead end easily. She got up and brought her zither over, putting it on the table. Then she smiled at Mo Junyang. How about I play zither for you? Although it was not the time to play zither according to her daily routine, Mo Junyang naturally wouldnt disagree. Okay. He volunteered to sit next to Shi Qingxue because he knew that he could make her feel at ease in this way. The melodious zither music appeared. In the beginning, there was anxiety difficult to notice, but Shi Qingxue specially chose a tune which could soothe people. In no time, it became more and more delightful. One of them was playing zither, and the other was listening. They were in harmony. However, when Shi Qingxue played the climax, the room door was open as somebody bumped into it suddenly. Wei Zichao ran in in panic. Master, bad news. Crack! The music stopped and a string was broken. The rough string cut Shi Qingxues right index finger, and she felt so much pain that her hand shrank. Hiss! Shi Qingxue was so pained that her face wrinkled. Mo Junyang swiftly grabbed her hand and asked with concern, Whats the matter? It was cut, Shi Qingxue mumbled and wanted to withdraw her hand by instinct. However, Mo Junyang refused to let her go and put her hand in his mouth, licking the blood out of the finger. Shi Qingxue kept silent. Wei Zichao was speechless. Perhaps because Mo Junyang did it too carefully and attentively, the other two couldnt speak a word. Shi Qingxue felt more embarrassed and murmured, II am fine. Dont worry about me. Mo Junyang looked up at her, with complaints and guilt in his eyes. He complained about her as she didnt care about herself. And he felt guilty as he didnt protect her well. Shi Qingxues body got soft under his stare, and she didnt know what to do. Even though her whole body was hot and her face almost burnt, she just obediently let Mo Junyang do anything for her. Seeing that the couple displayed affection as if nobody else were here, Wei Zichao got impatient and couldnt help but call again, Master, I Before Wei Zichao finished his words, Mo Junyang glared at him. However, Wei Zichao was iron-willed this time and endured the pain as his body was dismembered by Mo Junyangs eyes. He gritted his teeth and continued in one breath, There was news from the capital just now. Duke Shis wife has a difficult labor and she is in deadly danger. What? Shi Qingxue sprang from the chair instantly and felt dizzy. She almost couldnt stand steadily. Mo Junyang supported Shi Qingxue and calmly asked on behalf of her, Whats going on? Tell me everything. Dont say that it is so critical. He glared at Wei Zichao again. The master asked while threatening him with his eyes, If you scare Qingxue, I will make you take the whole responsibility. The guard felt wronged. This news was sent to him by the servants. They said that it was so critical, so what could he do? Considering his life, Wei Zichao still tried his best to find some euphemisms. Mr. Qu told somebody to send this news. He said that Duke Shis wife was poisoned and had fetal movements in advance. The situation is emergent. Mr. Qu asked you to return to the capital at once. It was the same matter, but after he polished it, it was more acceptable than the shocking news obviously. Mo Junyang supported Shi Qingxue and then reminded her in a soft voice, Qingxue, dont worry. Shen Luo is in the capital, and your mother will be fine. Shen Luo was always praised as a miracle-working doctor and could bring a patient back to life. He was quite capable. At this thought, Shi Qingxue felt a lot relieved, yet she still grasped Mo Junyangs hand anxiously and said, Lets go back to the capital. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxue deeply and agreed. Okay, I will take you back to the capital. They were in a hurry this time, so Mo Junyang gave up the carriage and immediately told Wei Zichao to prepare horses. He would take Shi Qingxue back first, and the others in the family temple would return to the capital after the people came to send a message and pack up everything here. Wei Zichao did everything. He was a bodyguard of Mo Junyang, so he would naturally go back to the capital with the master, but then he would part with Dong Shuang. The leader of guards who was always decisive hesitated for the first time, but after only a short while, he returned reserved and didnt say anything. Then he followed the master silently down the mountain on horseback. Shi Qingxue wasnt skilled in horsemanship, and she was restless, so Mo Junyang wouldnt feel relieved to let her ride a horse alone. Fortunately, Mo Junyangs horse was a ferghana horse, one in a million in Mo Country, and it was not hard for this horse to carry two people. It ran as quickly as Wei Zichaos horse. They were on the journey for one day and night almost without a stop and finally returned to Duke Shis mansion. Shi Qingxue finally knew that there were signs that Dong Hui would have a premature birth a few days ago, but the doctors in the mansion just thought that it was because of her health, so they didnt take it seriously as no amniotic fluid came out. They just told her to rest quietly and didnt find that she was poisoned. One afternoon, the lower part of Dong Huis body bled profusely all of a sudden, which shocked everybody. When the doctors in the mansion and the imperial doctors didnt know what to do, Qu Yuebai sent Shen Luo here. Shen Luo found that Dong Hui was poisoned at a glance, and the poison was strong and put skillfully. Because she was pregnant, she couldnt be detoxified, and it might harm the baby. The best way was to save the mother and give up the baby. In fact, Shi Junhe told Shen Luo to do so. However, after Dong Hui heard that even if she was detoxified, she might not be able to get pregnant again in the future, she disagreed and didnt allow Shen Luo to kill her baby. Shen Luo was a miracle-working doctor, yet he could do nothing as the patient didnt listen to him. They argued several times, and it was delayed. Shen Luo had no choice but to prescribe some medicine, trying to relieve the poison in Dong Huis body, and then he quietly waited for the amniotic fluid to come out. Only after the amniotic fluid came out could Dong Hui and the baby in her womb have a chance of survival. As a result, after Shi Qingxue and the others returned to the mansion in a rush, Dong Hui hadnt given birth or been detoxified. Shi Qingxue was so anxious that she could do nothing. She asked Shen Luo all the questions that she could ask, and he answered all of them. In the end, he sighed helplessly. Your mother is stubborn. She would rather die with the baby than let me kill it. I really Shen Luo looked hesitant. He had seen some women who would give birth to a baby at the risk of their lives, but generally they were new mothers or had no right to speak as the mother-in-law or husband demanded. So he couldnt understand why Dong Hui still insisted on giving birth to the baby even though she had two daughters and her husband and all the others asked him to save her and give up the baby. Dong Hui even ignored the fact that the baby might be an idiot or monster after it was born because she was poisoned. She just wanted the baby in her womb. When Shi Qingxue heard Shen Luo sighing sadly, she couldnt stop the tears falling from her eyes and covering her face. Mo Junyang supported Shi Qingxue from behind and comforted her in silence. Seeing that Shen Luo looked at him, he said, Since she wants to keep the baby so much, just keep it for her. Arent you a miracle-working doctor? Cant you do such an easy job? Shen Luo was speechless. The miracle-working doctor wanted to slap Mo Junyang with the words such an easy job and then say ferociously, If you are capable, just do it. However, before he started, a midwife in the room suddenly shouted, The amniotic fluid comes out. Chapter 334 - The Childbirth, a Choice Between Fame and Life The midwifes shout shocked all people, but soon they felt joyful. As the amniotic fluid came out, it meant that they could deliver the baby for Dong Hui. Shen Luo didnt have time to say more. Then he subconsciously ran to the delivery room. When he came to the door, he was stopped by Shi Baoning. Shi Baoning glared at him in shock and fear. What are you doing? Shen Luo was stopped without reason, and he also glared at Shi Baoning, thinking that this woman was so stupid. Of course, I will deliver the baby for your mother. Why do you stop me here? Even though Shen Luo said that, Shi Baoning still stood at the door and refused to let him in. All the midwives are inside. You are a man and cant come in. Although the men and women were free to talk with each other in this country, only the midwives could deliver a baby, and they were women. The male doctors could only wait outside the room and were forbidden to enter the delivery room. The doctors couldnt see a womans body in the name of treating a patient and ruin her fame. Of course, this was a rule of the noble families, and the ordinary families didnt pay attention to so much. It was dangerous to give birth to a baby, and it was a matter of life and death. It was fine to keep alive, so who would care about so much? Therefore, Shen Luo didnt consider this matter. Now he was stopped by Shi Baoning, so he could do nothing but look back at Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang in despair. It was not that he was unwilling to save her mother. However, there was a brainless and stubborn woman in her family, who couldnt be persuaded. Shi Qingxue was speechless. In the beginning, she didnt think of this matter. Giving birth to a baby was different from suffering from a disease, and the doctor couldnt treat the patient by putting his fingers on her wrist to check the pulse. The woman had to be naked and let a stranger see the lower part of her body. This No matter how bold and reckless Shi Qingxue was, she didnt dare to make a decision on this matter. If she couldnt deal with it properly, Dong Huis fame might be ruined. Shi Qingxue didnt care about something like this, but she didnt dare to ensure that Dong Hui wouldnt care. She had to turn to Shi Junhe for help. Only he had the final say. Shi Junhe pursed his lips. Obviously, he was struggling and could hardly make a decision. No man could bear to let another man see his wifes body, even though it was a doctor. Nevertheless, the situation was special now. If Shen Luo didnt stay with Dong Hui, she might die with the baby. Shi Junhe gritted his teeth and his voice was from the crack between them. Let Doctor Shen in. Do as he orders. Father! Shi Baoning shouted anxiously. No! You cant let him in. Shi Baoning knew well about her mother. Dong Hui loved Shi Junhe so much and wouldnt be willing to let another man see her body. Shi Junhe looked serious and shook his head to Shi Baoning. I know it, but nothing is more important than your mothers life. He bowed to Shen Luo solemnly and begged, Sir, Huis life depends on you. Please save her no matter what happens. Shen Luo nodded and entered the delivery room. In no time, Dong Huis grieved screeches came from the delivery room, and there were the midwives voices to comfort her at the same time. All the voices were mixed and messy. The people waiting outside were anxious like the ants on a hot pan. Shi Junhe wished to rush in immediately, yet he didnt know medical skills. Even if he entered the room, he could do nothing, so he had to wait worriedly. Shi Qingxue craned her neck to look at the delivery room in a flutter and trembled unconsciously. Tears fell from her eyes again, but she couldnt feel it. Mo Junyang couldnt bear to see that. He walked forward and grabbed her hand. What should I do? What should I do Shi Qingxue murmured and felt scared to death. When she was so panicked last time, she lost her father. Would she lose her mother this time? No. She couldnt accept such an ending. She finally wiped out the evil people at home with a lot of effort and made Duke Shis mansion at peace. How could she face such a tragedy? Its fine. Qingxue, dont worry. Shen Luo is here and he will save your mother. Mo Junyang could do nothing except comforting her softly. However, he didnt want Shi Qingxue to be absorbed in sorrow. After pondering for a moment, he continued, Have you thought about why your mother was poisoned? This voice was neither loud nor low but came into everybodys ears. The people full of anxiety were stunned and looked at Mo Junyang. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was finally distracted, Mo Junyang heaved a sigh of relief and said to give methodical and patient guidance, Duke Shis wife is pregnant and her food, clothes and all necessities were prepared by specially-assigned people. Logically, she shouldnt have been poisoned, if she didnt eat some food or touch anything that she shouldnt. As soon as he finished his words, all people turned to Mammy Zheng, who took care of Dong Hui in daily life all the time. If there was something wrong, Mammy Zheng must have something to do with it. Obviously Mammy Zheng also realized this matter. Her legs trembled, and she knelt on the floor, shouting in panic, No, its not me. I didnt Zheng was brought by Hui from her parents family, and she is trustworthy. Shi Junhe wasnt blinded by his feelings but analyzed sanely. Although he also doubted Mammy Zheng, she had no reason to do that. The slavery indentures of all the members in Mammy Zhengs family were in Dong Huis hands. If Dong Hui was harmed, Mammy Zheng wouldnt be benefited. Who would do such a hard yet thankless job? Right. Shi Qingxue also thought of this point, while she realized something soon. But even if Mammy Zheng didnt put the poison, she stayed with Mother all day long and never left her. If Mother ate something suspicious, Mammy Zheng might have noticed, right? As long as they found the person who put the poison, perhaps they could find the antidote to save Dong Hui. Mammy Zheng was pressed on the floor by the guards and being interrogated. She looked flurried with tears on her face and shook her head while begging for mercy. She said repeatedly, Its not me. I dont know anything Suddenly, she stopped speaking abruptly like a duck whose neck was pinched. Mammy Zheng showed a strange expression and looked up at Shi Junhe. She wanted to say something but stopped herself. What did you think of? Mo Junyang asked in a cold voice. Shi Junhe also got impatient and rebuked, If you dont say it, I will flog you to death with sticks. Duke Shi was always gentle and cared about the servants, yet his wife was lying in the room. If he could save Dong Huis life, he wouldnt mind making blood flow like streams here. Mammy Zheng knew that Shi Junhe would do that, so she answered hurriedly, Itsthe Princess Royal. All people were stunned. Mammy Zheng continued, The Princess Royal told Madam to go to the Shouan Hall the other day and said that she wanted to ask about her future grandsons situation. Whats more, she told Madam to stay in the Shouan Hall and eat some tonics. Shi Junhe frowned seriously. Why didnt I know this thing? My Lord, you went to work that day. Madam thought that this was no big deal and she didnt want to disturb you, so she didnt say anything, Mammy Zheng trembled and explained. She wanted to say more, but seeing that all people looked solemn and seemed to make a significant choice, without paying attention to her, so she didnt speak. She curled up aside obediently, like an inconspicuous quail. Father! Shi Qingxue said first, with anger restrained in her voice. However, Shi Junhe raised his hand and stopped Qingxue in advance, saying in a deep voice, Now, your mothers life is the most important. Talk about anything else after she is safe. Dont worry. I wont let your mother suffer from injustice. Shi Qingxue heard his promise and had to swallow the discontent and indignation, but she couldnt calm down anyway. At this time, there was a loud shriek from the room suddenly, and next second, it returned quiet. There was no sound in the room for a moment. The people outside held their breaths and looked at the room nervously, afraid that there was something wrong. Then the door of the delivery room was opened. Somebody shouted joyfully in a sharp and loud voice, She has given birth to a baby. Both the mother and son are safe and sound. These words were like sounds of nature and made all people stop worrying. Shi Junhe ran into the delivery room first, while a midwife stopped him and advised in a low voice, Duke, the smell of blood is strong in the delivery room, and it is unlucky. Step aside. Shi Junhe didnt care about so much. He pushed the midwife away and rushed to Dong Hui. Dong Huis face was pale and bloodless after she gave birth to the baby, yet she was conscious. Especially as soon as she saw Shi Junhe, her eyes lit up. She put her hands on the bed and tried to sit up, but Shi Junhe quickly walked forward and supported her, rebuking in a low voice involuntarily, You are still weak now. Why do you get up? Dong Hui smiled feebly and rested her head on Shi Junhes shoulder in a good mood. After experiencing the life-and-death struggle, she thought that even Shi Junhes rebuke was pleasant to hear and desired. After a while, Dong Hui regained some strength. Then she got nervous suddenly. Baby. How is my baby? Where is my baby? She wanted to get up from the bed anxiously, but as soon as she stood, she fell on the bed weakly. Shi Junhe hugged her and reproached in a hurry, Dont move. You havent recovered. He was afraid that Dong Hui would be worried, so he added softly, The midwife holds the baby. He is fine. There is nothing wrong. Dont worry. Dong Hui finally heaved a sigh of relief, yet she was uneasy as she didnt see the baby. She couldnt help but demand, Bring my baby to me. Let me see him. I want to see him. Shi Junhe waved at the midwife as Dong Hui said and gestured for her to come over. However, nobody knew what was wrong with this midwife. She held the baby covered with red swaddling clothes and stood in a corner sneakily. She didnt move after seeing Shi Junhes gesture but looked hesitant. Shi Junhe frowned and rebuked with displeasure, Why are you standing there? Madam wants to see the little heir. Bring him to us quickly. When Shi Junhe was outside and heard that Dong Hui gave birth to a son this time, he had decided to give his title of nobility to this baby. In order to make Dong Hui happy, he intentionally called the baby little heir. Dong Huis eyes were brighter as expected. She seemed to regain strength at once and became soft and quiet when she looked at the baby in the midwifes arms. Bring him to me and let me see him. This was her and Shi Junhes son. It was great. She finally had a son. Since the masters said that, the midwife had to bite the bullet and walk to them with the baby in her hands. She still advised worriedly, Madam, you are still weak. Just let me hold the baby. Dong Hui held her babies as soon as she gave birth when she did that for twice, and it was a son this time, so she wanted to hold him in person. How would she agree? Before the baby was given to her, Dong Hui reached out her hands to hug him. When she touched the swaddling clothes, she couldnt wait to see her son. Ah! There was another panicky shriek in the delivery room. Chapter 335 - This Is Not My Baby In fact, Shi Qingxue wanted to enter the room, too, yet she was afraid that so many people would affect Dong Hui. After Dong Hui shrieked again, Shi Qingxue couldnt control herself anymore but rushed in with a big stride. Mother, whats wrong with you? As soon as Shi Qingxue asked, she was stunned. It was because the scene in the room was beyond her expectation, and even Shi Baoning who came in behind her was shocked. Their mother who wanted to give up her life in order to protect the baby pushed the midwife hard and shouted in a harsh voice, Monster. Monster! Take it away. Take it away now. This is not my baby. This is a monster. Shi Junhe sat on the bedside, and his face turned terrible and pale. He stared at the baby in the midwifes arms. He didnt rebuke Dong Hui when she pushed the midwife away. He just held her and winked at the midwife. The midwife sensibly took the baby away and went back to the corner, curling up. What happened? Shi Qingxue was confused, while Dong Hui was emotional, still shouting crazily. Shi Junhe had to comfort her and didnt have time to explain. Shi Qingxue could do nothing but walk to the corner and wanted to see her brother. The midwife raised her hand and covered the swaddling clothes in advance, advising hesitantly, My Lady, dont look at it. Shi Qingxue furrowed her arch eyebrows more deeply and didnt know why she couldnt see her brother. It doesnt matter. Remove your hand. I will have a look. The midwife had no choice but to withdraw her hand. Shi Qingxue leaned forward and finally saw the baby in the swaddling clothes clearly. Her pupils enlarged in an instant, and she glared at the swaddling clothes, unable to speak. The midwife thought that Shi Qingxue was scared by the monster in swaddling clothes, so she reached out her hand to cover the baby again, saying in a low voice, My Lady, youd better step back, in case you are frightened. Shi Qingxue blinked and didnt believe what she had seen. In fact, she just saw a little head, which was pointed with wrinkles all over the face. There was messy fetal hair on his head, and he looked like an ordinary newborn baby. He was ugly yet not unacceptable. However, it was weird that there was a birthmark on his face spreading from his left forehead, and it almost covered half of his left face. It was black and disgusting. He was really like a monster. Shi Qingxue had never seen such a big and horrible birthmark of a person, and she was really scared for a moment. However, the midwifes actions made her uncomfortable. Shi Qingxue reached out her hand to stop the midwife and block hers. Dont cover him. I will look at him again. This time she took a deep breath and then opened her eyes to look at the baby again. Nobody knew whether it was because of the poison or lack of nutrition. In Duke Shis mansion, the latter was almost impossible. This baby was quite thin, and there was no flesh on his face. The five sense organs were together, and the face was smaller than her palm. Moreover, with that black birthmark, he looked so scary. When he grew up, it must be better. Shi Qingxue thought with uncertainty and frowned. The midwife thought that Shi Qingxue felt disgusted with this newborn baby. After all, the mothers attitude was obvious. The midwife was afraid that she would be implicated, so she hurriedly said, I will take the baby away first, in case that he distains your eyes, My Lady As soon as she finished the words, she kept silent because Shi Qingxue glared at her. Shi Qingxue furrowed her brows deeply, but she didnt rebuke this midwife as the latter came from the imperial palace specially to deliver the baby for Dong Hui. She just stressed with displeasure, He is my brother. The midwife instantly realized that she had said something wrong, so she admitted her fault. I was brainless to say that. Please forgive me, My Lady. Shi Qingxue was not in the mood to bother about the midwife. She turned to the little baby again. The baby was still asleep, and he closed his eyes. His eyes, nose and mouth were wrinkled, and he looked ugly at a glance, yet thinking that he was her brother and related to her by blood, Shi Qingxue had feelings beyond expression. When she looked at the babys ugly birthmark, it seemed not so offensive to the eye. Especially he opened the little mouth from time to time, which made Qingxues heart soft. He was so lovely. Shi Qingxue looked at the midwife with expectancy and couldnt help but ask in a low voice, Can I hold him? The midwife looked hesitant. Although it appeared that this young lady didnt repel this baby but liked him, obviously she didnt have experience in holding a baby. If she made him fall, it would be troublesome. However, the midwife didnt hesitate for long because Dong Hui screamed sadly all of a sudden somehow, and her voice got louder and louder. She just said that her belly hurt. The servant who served her surprisingly found that the lower part of Dong Huis body started to bleed again. Shen Luo walked forward and checked her pulse. Then he looked serious again. There is one more baby in Madams womb. Prepare to deliver it. After he ordered, all the midwives were on the alert and rushed to Dong Huis bed, surrounding her. Somebody fed her ginseng soup and some of them called others, in a busy state. Shi Junhe was unwilling to leave the delivery room. He just stepped aside and comforted his wife nervously yet steadily. Hui, dont be afraid. I will stay here with you. The midwife who held the baby couldnt calm down. She glanced at Shi Qingxue and gritted her teeth, putting the baby in her arms as if throwing a hot potato. Then she said casually, My Lady, please take good care of the heiryoung master. After saying that, she quickly ran to the bed. This time, all people seemed more nervous and alert, concentrating on delivering Dong Huis baby. Nobody paid attention to Shi Qingxue who stood in the corner and the baby in her arms. All people knew that even though Shi Junhe had once called him little heir just now, this disabled monster with an ugly face would never be Duke Shis heir. Duke Shis family or any noble family couldnt bear such a humiliation. All people pinned their hopes on the other baby in Dong Huis womb and wished that it was a boy, too. Then Duke Shis heir could be decided. Dong Huis second baby was born smoothly. In less than fifteen minutes, a cry resounded in the delivery room, which made everybody heave a sigh of relief. Dong Hui was still conscious. Her first reaction was to see the baby covered with blood before it was washed. She shouted anxiously, Bring it to me. Let me see it. The midwife who held the baby knew what Dong Hui wanted to see and walked to her, regardless of her dirty hands. Dong Hui leaned backward because of the strong smell of blood, yet she controlled herself soon and sat up, trying her best to look at the baby. Fortunately, this babys face was fair-skinned and clean with no birthmark, and it looked chubby and adorable. Dong Hui finally sighed with relief and then looked down. She looked happy at once and hurriedly grabbed Shi Junhes hand, shouting in surprise, Its a son. This is my son! Shi Junhe naturally saw it, too, and his tense face finally softened a little. He grabbed Dong Huis hand and replied with a smile, Yes, its a son, and he is healthy. There is nothing wrong with him. Just set your mind at ease. Hearing that, Dong Hui relaxed and then her head tilted. She sank into a coma. Shi Junhe was so scared that he started to call Shen Luo. Shen Luo told him that Dong Hui fainted because she finally relaxed after she consumed a lot of energy when she gave birth to the babies. She could recover as long as she rested for a while. Great. Great. Shi Junhe heaved a sigh of relief and then told people to clean up the delivery room and take care of the babies, while he stayed with Dong Hui all the time. After seeing the breathtaking process of giving birth to two babies and being scared by the first sons scary face, Shi Junhe was really tired. He didnt notice that his two daughters had entered the delivery room. Shi Qingxue and Shi Baoning looked at each other and both decided not to disturb their parents. Shi Baoning had also seen the horrible birthmark on the first brothers face, and she felt scared, so she spontaneously took care of the second brother with the midwife. Qingxue held the first little brother cautiously and followed Shen Luo. Doctor Shen, can my brother be cured? Shen Luo walked out of the delivery room quickly without a stop but still couldnt stop Shi Qingxue who chased him. He had to stand still and looked back at Shi Qingxues nervous and expectant eyes, sighing helplessly. WhatWhats wrong? Shi Qingxues heart beat fast as she heard his sigh. Shen Luo had no choice but to tell her frankly, The thing on this babys face is not a real birthmark. Because your mother was poisoned, and the poison is strong. It cant be removed. It would be left in your mothers body or go to the baby. But she was weak then. If it was left in her body, both the mother and baby would die. In order to protect them, I had to make the poison go to the baby, so I said that this baby couldnt be kept. It was not that it couldnt be born, but even if it was born Thinking of Dong Huis frightened expression when she saw this baby for the first time, Shi Qingxue felt disappointed and her face turned pale. Shen Luo comforted her. Fortunately, your mother gave birth to twins, and your little brother isnt affected. You can rest assured. It was the luckiest thing in this tragedy. Shi Qingxue wasnt comforted. What about the first one? Cant you do anything? Meeting Shi Qingxues eyes with expectancy, Shen Luo wanted to give a nod. However, he just shook his head finally and told the truth. I am sorry. I can do nothing for now. Seeing that Qingxues big eyes were like a bright light which was put out, Shen Luo couldnt bear to say the next cruel words. Moreover, he had to promise, But I will try my best to develop the antidote and make this baby recover. Even though it was almost impossible. Thanks, Doctor Shen. Shi Qingxues eyes lit up again, and she had a smile on her face. Looking at the baby in her arms, she felt joyful, although he was not lively, nor could he cry. She involuntarily touched the babys tender cheeks to tease him. Little baby, you are a hero. You saved Mother and Brother. Dont worry. We will take good care of you. Chapter 336 - You Have No Chance When Shi Qingxue and the others were engaged in Dong Huis childbirth and scared out of wits by the dangerous process, Mo Junyang didnt disturb them. He did something else. So when all people finally came back to earth from fear, Mo Junyang had captured the murderer who had poisoned Dong Hui. In fact, nobody was surprised at the real murderer, Mo Shujun. Mo Shujun had heard the servants gossip that Dong Hui gave birth to a monster, an ugly baby this time. Now the evidence and witness were found, and she didnt deny it. Instead, she pointed to Shi Junhe and cursed evilly, You have killed my two sons, and now its your sons turn to get retribution. God is fair and evil actions will bring retribution. Great, great. God helps me. Juncai, I finally avenge you, finally In the beginning, Shi Junhe was furious, yet hearing Mo Shujuns curse to make unfounded countercharges, he got more confused. She poisoned his wife and son, but why was it his retribution? Shi Junhe finally couldnt help but stop her. When did I kill Juncai? Shi Juncai died in Beizhou miserably, which was his own business, and Shi Junhe didnt know anything, not to mention that Shi Junfeng had been killed by Shi Juncai, so it had nothing to do with Shi Junhe. Even if Mo Shujun wanted to find an excuse to harm Dong Hui, she should find a convincing reason. Hearing him deny it, Mo Shujun sneered as she was extremely furious. Huh, dont try to deny it. I knew that it was you. You envy my son Juncai, so you told somebody to poison him and made him die among the strangers. I put the same poison in your wifes food and let you feel my pain. Unfortunately, Dong Hui didnt die as Shen Luo saved her. However, the baby got retribution, so Mo Shujun was happy. Hearing Mo Shujuns more absurd words, Shi Junhe couldnt help but frown deeply. I have never told anybody to poison Juncai, and I dont know what kind of poison caused his death. Mo Shujun snorted and didnt believe his words. In any case, Shi Junhes son had been punished, so she was satisfied. Anyway, no matter what she had done, Shi Junhe didnt dare to do anything to her. Otherwise, he didnt respect his parent. What Father said is true. Somebody intentionally killed Shi Juncai in the name of Father in order to ruin the relationship between you two, Shi Qingxue cut in coldly. Both Shi Junhe and Mo Shujun turned to Shi Qingxue in astonishment. It seemed that they couldnt understand why a little girl who had stayed secluded on Tan Mountain for so long knew so much. Shi Qingxue also gazed at Shi Junhe with a frown and asked in confusion, I have told a little monk in the family temple to send you a letter to inform you of this matter. Why didnt you know anything? Till now, Shi Qingxue couldnt understand why Mo Shujun moved back to the mansion. Mo Shujun thought that Shi Juncai had been killed by Shi Junhe, but Shi Junhe still took her back to this mansion. Didnt he invite disaster by letting in an invader? No matter how much her father respected the elders, he shouldnt have done something so stupid. However, Shi Junhe was more surprised than her. What little monk? I have never seen one. You Before he finished his words, both of them kept silent at the same time. If they still didnt know that a third person got involved in this matter and intentionally intercepted the letter from Tan Mountain to Duke Shis mansion, they would be really stupid. When they thought of what Mo Shujun had done, it was not difficult to guess the enemys purpose. Shi Junhe looked serious and turned to Mo Shujun who was still in a daze, sighing deeply. Believe it or not, I didnt kill Juncai. If I really poisoned him and Hui was poisoned with the same material, why couldnt I see it and take out the antidote to save her? Mo Shujun was dumbfounded and speechless after hearing this question. But you should think it over. Who told you that I sent somebody to kill Juncai? Who gave you the poison? Mo Shujuns eyes widened. She seemed to be suddenly awake or more terrified. While thinking, she shook her head in disbelief. No way. Its not true. How is it possible? Mo Shujun couldnt accept the truth. If it was true, what was the point of everything she had done? What was the meaning of taking revenge she thought of all the time? Shi Qingxue pointed out without mercy, In a word, somebody else killed Shi Juncai and made use of you. What she said was like a knife stabbing Mo Shujuns heart, making this old woman in her sixties have tears covering her face, unable to support herself before falling on the floor. However, nobody present would feel pity for her. All people just looked on coldly. For a moment, Shi Junhe even hated himself as he was soft-hearted. It was his fault. He should have known that the adoptive kinship as he thought was inexistent and from beginning to end, Mo Shujun took him as a stumbling block of her son to gain the title of Duke Shi, never taking him as a son. However, Shi Junhe wanted to keep the affection on the surface, even though he knew the truth and once hated Mo Shujun. As time passed, he still couldnt help but forgive his mother in name. Even when he saw that she fell sick, he was anxious to let her make use of him. Thinking that he was so stupid then and didnt consider Mo Shujuns unusual performance, Shi Junhe wished to go back to the old days and strangle himself to death. While thinking, Shi Junhe got angrier to his hearts content. If Mo Shujun were not his mother in name, ironically, which was her reason to fear nothing, he really wanted to walk forward and strangle this woman to death. Mo Shujun suddenly raised her head and stared at Shi Qingxue, asking, Who? Who killed my son Juncai? Shi Qingxue looked at her and sneered. What? Do you still want to take revenge? I will make anybody who harmed my son die a graveless death! Mo Shujuns eyes were cold and sharp, and her voice was shrill, as if she were still the lofty Princess Royal and could control anybodys life and death. However, Shi Qingxue just smiled at her coldly and disillusioned her, stressing each word. Stop daydreaming. You have no chance. Mo Shujun looked cold and glared at Shi Qingxue ferociously. What do you mean? What do you want to do? Shi Qingxue didnt mind Mo Shujuns glare, and her eyes were even more ruthless than the old womans. What? Do you think that the blood debt can be forgotten after you poisoned my mother and brother? Mo Shujun shrank her neck when she was questioned. Suddenly she got scared. She knew that Shi Qingxue was different from Shi Junhe. This girl was reckless and hot-tempered and probably dared to No, you cant do anything. I am your grandmother, the Princess Royal! Mo Shujun craned her neck. Right, she got back the glory which belonged to her. She was the Princess Royal of Mo Country, and almost only one person was superior to her. Moreover, she was the old mistress in Duke Shis mansion, so these younger members didnt dare to do anything to her. Mo Shujun raised her chin haughtily again, while Shi Qingxue just glanced at her with disdain. Who said that I would do something to you? Mo Shujun was stunned. Shi Qingxue continued with a smile, I wont do anything to you. Instead, I will let you stay alive and keep you in the Shouan Hall till you are one hundred years old. What do you mean? Mo Shujun trembled uncontrollably. She looked at Shi Qingxue with fear. I am the Princess Royal of Mo Country. You dont dare to I certainly dont dare to show disrespect for the Princess Royal of the country, so I will provide for you. Even when you are dead, I will think that you are still alive. All the outsiders will only see that the Princess Royal of Mo Country is healthy and lives a long life for one hundred years before she is sent to the royal mausoleum. Shi Qingxue slowly announced Mo Shujuns ending. The endless fear defeated Mo Shujuns cognition. She couldnt cheat herself anymore. Shi Qingxue didnt dare to treat her ruthlessly, but the girls cold eyes told her clearly that Shi Qingxue would do that. No, you cant do that. You cant! Mo Shujun shouted in a sharp voice and then murmured crazily, I want to avenge Juncai. I will find the real murderer and avenge my son Juncai. You cant stop me. You cant Shi Qingxue wondered what Mo Shujun would say, yet in the end, this Princess Royal still wanted to avenge her son, a loser unexpectedly. Avenge him? It was so laughable. Every evil thing that Shi Juncai had done was enough to cause his death. His death was not regretful. But what wrong did her mother and brother do? The most innocent person had to suffer the most pain. Since these people were heartless, she didnt want to talk about humanity, justice, morality or ethics. As she couldnt do anything to Mo Shujun, she would let the old woman feel the mental destruction. She lowered her head and leered at Mo Shujun who was crazy, stressing each word to destroy her last hope. Sorry. You will never have a chance to avenge Shi Juncai or know who the real murderer is, but you have time to think about this matter in the rest of your life. After saying, she didnt give Mo Shujun time to recover from despair but told the servants to lock the Shouan Hall. Nobody would come out of here alive. When the door was closed, all people saw Mo Shujuns vicious eyes, while she tried to rush out desperately. However, nobody outside would sympathize with her. Shi Junhe just felt relieved. He hated Mo Shujun for what she had done, yet he would never take actions against her. Shi Qingxues way to cope with her helped him out of the dilemma, and she even bore the bad name for him. Even if this matter were revealed in the future, which was almost impossible, he had an excuse to dissociate himself. Qingxue, thank you. Shi Junhe patted Shi Qingxues shoulder, and his voice was deep with emotion. He had no courage to face this daughter. Shi Qingxue naturally didnt know what Shi Junhe was thinking about. She smiled at him at ease. Father, what are you talking about? I avenge Mother and my brothers. I am happy to do that. She even raised her pointed chin proudly, like a cocky peacock. Looking at Shi Qingxue, Shi Junhe felt more ashamed as he agreed with Dong Hui who sent her to the family temple. He wanted to confess. However, Shi Jie ran to him in haste and said anxiously, My Lord, bad news. Madam wants to kill the first young master. Chapter 337 - Mo Junyang Suffers Losses in an Insignificant Accident All people were shocked by the sudden news Shi Jie mentioned. Shi Junhe frowned and glared at him. What nonsense are you talking about? Who was the first young master? He was Dong Huis biological son. How would she kill her son that she gave birth to after being pregnant for nine months? Even if Shi Jie wanted to show how serious this matter was, he didnt need to attract peoples attention in this way. Shi Jie was certainly censured by all peoples eyes. I, I Shi Jie stuttered under the glare and almost mustered up his most courage before continuing, I didnt tell a lie. Madam said that the first young master isis a monster and was not born to her, so she wanted to smash him to death. The servants wanted to stop her, yet she beat and cursed them. Now Mammy Zheng is trying to persuade her in the East House, but Madam He tried to finish everything in one breath, but before he finished speaking, the masters who stood in front of him ran to the East House like the wind. Shi Jie thought, I have seen what happened in the East House. Madam tried several times and almost strangled the newborn baby to death. She was so ruthless and really wanted to take his life. Only at this thought, he was terrified. He hoped that the masters could settle it after they went there. Shi Junhe and the others ran to the East House one after another. Before they entered the bedroom, they saw that Dong Hui raised a swaddled baby and then smashed it to the floor heavily. No! No! Shi Junhe and Shi Qingxue screamed at the same time, yet both of them were far away from Dong Hui and couldnt save the baby in time. They could do nothing but see the swaddling clothes fall on the floor. Shi Qingxue closed her eyes in despair and didnt dare to see the painful and bloody scene. However, the sound as they expected didnt appear, while they heard a familiar grunt. Qingxues ear moved automatically. She thought that she had misheard and couldnt help but open her eyes to have a look. The baby who was supposed to fall had dropped on the floor, while Mo Junyang was underneath him. The baby happened to fall into his arms and bump into his soft belly, so he was unharmed and didnt even cry. It happened that Mo Junyang rushed into the room with flying skills at the crucial moment and fell on the floor to catch the baby, so the grunt was from him when he fell as he couldnt protect himself in an emergency. After Shi Qingxue reacted, she rushed into the room in an instant and wanted to help Mo Junyang up, but before she touched him, she withdrew her hand. Junyang, are you injured? Is it serious? She was so nervous that she had tears in her eyes, yet she didnt dare to move Mo Junyang as she was afraid that his wound would get more serious. Mo Junyang wanted to hold Shi Qingxues hand and tell her that he was fine, but as soon as he reached out his hand, he pulled the wound. His pain made his handsome face twist. Dont move. Dont! Shi Qingxue was scared by Mo Junyangs movement to flaunt his strength. She hurriedly reached out her hand to grab his and didnt allow him to move randomly. At the same time, she anxiously shouted at the people around in a rage who were still in a trance, Why are you standing here blankly? Go and send for Doctor Shen. Oh, yes. I am going! Finally somebody started to do that. Shi Qingxue couldnt afford to care about so much. She cautiously picked up the baby from Mo Junyangs arms, in case that it made Mo Junyangs wound more serious. She checked the baby roughly. His little body was protected well by Mo Junyang, and he wasnt injured or scared by this accident. He didnt cry but even shouted wow excitedly when he saw Shi Qingxue. It seemed that he thought that all people merely played with him and he didnt realize that he almost died. You little thing! Shi Qingxue was at a loss whether to cry or to laugh, yet seeing that this little baby was unharmed, she heaved a sigh of relief and then ignored him. Later she left the baby to Xia Mang. After all, Mo Junyang was the most important now. She turned her head, to see that there was sweat on Mo Junyangs tan skin. When she looked at him, he still smiled, pretending to be iron-willed. I am fine. It was fine when Mo Junyang didnt say that. After he said that, tears fell across Shi Qingxues cheeks uncontrollably. You liar. He was so seriously wounded, yet he still wanted to cheat her. Didnt he think that she could see that he had sweat on his forehead because he endured the pain? However, she was clearer about why Mo Junyang did that than anybody else. He did everything for her. Otherwise, with Mo Junyangs indifference, even if ten or one hundred people died in front of him, he wouldnt blink his eyes, not to mention hurting himself in order to save a person unrelated to him. This was something stupid that Mo Junyang would never do. He would harm somebody else without benefiting himself after doing that. Nevertheless, for the sake of Shi Qingxue, he did that and got injured so seriously for the first time. Shi Qingxue was moved and guilty, yet she could do nothing to help him even when she saw him in pain. She hated herself for being weak. Sorry. I am sorry In the end, what Shi Qingxue could say was only to apologize, which was the most useless. Even she disdained herself after saying that, but she didnt know how to express her apology except that. Dont cry. I am fine, really. Mo Junyang thought that it was nothing, yet seeing Shi Qingxues tears, he was in panic and struggled, trying to get up. Shi Qingxue was scared and hurriedly reached out her hand to stop him. Are you crazy? Dont move. Gee! Damn it! Mo Junyang cursed in a low voice with displeasure. Shi Qingxue was stunned to hear Mo Junyangs curse and looked at him blankly in silence. Did he curse her? Mo Junyang frowned and looked disgusted, which made Shi Qingxue more guilty. I am sorry. Its my fault. If It has nothing to do with you. Mo Junyang instantly denied it after seeing that Shi Qingxue misunderstood. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips hesitantly. But just now you Mo Junyang blushed because of shyness. He didnt blame Shi Qingxue but felt frustrated. In anybodys eyes, King Ruis heir was powerful and invincible. This time he suffered losses in an insignificant accident. He was injured seriously because of such a trifle, which was humiliating. Hearing Mo Junyangs reason, Shi Qingxue was able neither to cry nor to laugh. She had never known that Mo Junyang who was always steady and calm would behave like a kid. He was He was so lovely. However, in order to protect Mo Junyangs dignity, Shi Qingxue didnt laugh, while she couldnt restrain the smile on her face. The breath-taking fear and panic disappeared gradually. Nevertheless, at this time, Dong Hui rushed to Xia Mang and shouted emotionally, He is a monster. Give him to me. I will smash him to death Dong Huis shocking words frightened all people who came in later. Xia Mang didnt dare to give the baby to Dong Hui, and this time, Mo Junyang wouldnt risk his life to save him. However, as a young maid, Xia Mang didnt dare to fight against the mistress, and she had a little baby who should be taken care of in her arms, so she was at a disadvantage in an instant. Dong Hui who was crazy almost snatched the baby again. She just almost succeeded. Shi Junhe reacted first and held Dong Hui, stopping her from being crazy. Hui, do you know what you are doing? Thats our son! Hearing the word son, Dong Hui was more emotional and covered her ears while screaming, No, he is not my son. My baby is sleeping soundly in the bed. This is a monster, monster! The harsh voice made Shi Qingxue furious, and especially the word monster irritated her more. She couldnt help but shout at Dong Hui, Mother, are you crazy? He is my brother. Dong Hui refused to admit it and pointed to the baby in Xia Mangs arms, cursing, No. He is a monster. How would I give birth to such a monster? My baby should be clean and fair-skinned and cant be like this. There was an ancient saying that the mother wouldnt dislike her ugly son. No matter how disappointing the son looked, the mother would be unhappy at most or distant to him in daily life in the future. Nobody had heard that a mother disowned her son and even killed him because he was ugly. All people were frightened by Dong Huis vicious words and thought that she was insane. Enough. Stop! Shi Junhe hugged Dong Hui tightly and wanted to stop her from making a scene. Unexpectedly, Dong Hui was emotional and her eyelids rolled. She went into a coma again. It happened that Shen Luo arrived at this time. Doctor Shen, please Shi Junhe hugged Dong Hui and said to Shen Luo apologetically. However, Shen Luo didnt give him a chance to finish the words. He didnt look at Shi Junhe but squatted in front of Mo Junyang. How are you? Shi Junhe was speechless. All people kept silent. Mammy Zheng censured Shen Luo first, Whats wrong with you? Havent you seen that Madam is in a coma? Why dont you come over in a hurry to check her pulse? It seemed that Dong Huis coma was something significant while Mo Junyang was unimportant. Shen Luo rolled his eyes and asked without mercy, Who are you? Why? Arent you a miracle-working doctor? Madam is ill, yet you dont examine her. Why do you dillydally there? If Madam has an accident, our master Enough! Shi Qingxue couldnt help but rebuke her in a rage. Even though Mammy Zheng was Dong Huis maid and did that for Dong Hui, she was hateful as she was so bold and took somebody elses kindness for granted. After Shi Qingxue yelled at her, Mammy Zheng shrank her neck and didnt dare to confront the young lady, so she had to turn to Shi Junhe for help. Shi Qingxue ignored Mammy Zheng after making her shut up. She hurriedly told Shen Luo what happened when Mo Junyang was injured. In the end, she looked at Shen Luo without rolling her eyes. Doctor Shen, is Junyang fine? After she asked, her voice was trembling involuntarily. She was too terrified. Chapter 338 - Postpartum Depression Shen Luo was always worthy of his fame as a miracle-working doctor, and it was certainly no exception this time. Especially after seeing that Shi Qingxue was truly worried about Mo Junyang, Shen Luo finally stopped feeling irritated by Mammy Zheng. He touched Mo Junyangs bones for a while and then said to Shi Qingxue with a smile, Dont worry. The bones are not injured. Perhaps it is only a sprain. He will be fine after resting for a period. Shi Qingxue trusted Shen Luos medical skills and his loyalty to Mo Junyang, so she wouldnt suspect his diagnosis. She just asked cautiously, Can we move him? When can he recover? Will She was anxious to ask all the questions that she could think of, but she asked so quickly. Even though Shen Luo wanted to answer, he couldnt answer them in time. In the end, he had to look at Mo Junyang, unable either to laugh or to cry. He indicated with his eyes, Enough. You have achieved your goal to make the beauty express her concern about you. Why not get up quickly? I know that such a minor injury is nothing to you. Mo Junyang had never been injured so seriously in this life indeed, yet he was always endurable. Even if his arm was broken, he wouldnt frown. Others didnt know, but Shen Luo, a miracle-working doctor was quite clear about why Mo Junyang pretended to be so weak. Shen Luo couldnt bear to cheat Shi Qingxue who cared about Mo Junyang sincerely. If Mo Junyang didnt figure out a way to end it, the doctor would expose this patient. Receiving Shen Luos threat, Mo Junyang kept his composure and just wrapped Qingxues hand with his backhand, comforting her in a low voice. Dont worry. I dont feel the pain anymore. Shi Qingxue just thought that he was soothing her, so she shouted angrily, You fell so heavily. How can you not feel the pain? Dont lie to me. She blinked desperately and wanted to hold back the tears in her eyes. If she cried, she would be disgraced. This time, she didnt shed tears, but with tears on her eyelashes because she blinked too hard, she looked more fragile and pitiful. Mo Junyang felt sad for her. He hadnt expected that he could make Shi Qingxue reveal her true feelings because he showed his weakness after he was merely injured. Shi Qingxue who acted like this made him happy and feel sorry for her. He wondered if he had gone too far, while he couldnt help but request in a low voice, I am fine. No matter how serious my injury is, you will look after me, right? As Shi Qingxue felt guilty, after hearing that, she naturally nodded repeatedly and took the responsibility without hesitation. Of course. Even if you dont say that, I will look after you till you fully recover. Dont worry. Doctor Shen will surely cure you The two whispered to each other, and Shen Luo rolled his eyes while listening. Doctor Shen couldnt help but curse in secret as Mo Junyang was shameless. Mo Junyang just got a sprain and would be fine after one or two days as long as the ointment for traumatic injury was applied. However, Shen Luo had almost expected that their master would stay indoors to heal his wound in the next ten days or half a month. They heaved a sigh of relief, while Shi Junhe was as anxious as the ants on a hot pan, yet he didnt dare to complain. He just asked in a low voice when they were talking, Doctor Shen, are you available now Shen Luo uplifted his brows and glanced at Shi Junhe. He wanted to express arrogantly like a boss, I am not free. Huh! Werent they lofty just now? Shen Luo wanted to see who was anxious. Anyway, it was not him. Ahem! Mo Junyang coughed, pretending to be unintentional. Shi Qingxue was in a state of extreme nervousness because of the mans injury, and she asked in a hurry, Whats wrong? Are you feeling unwell? I am fine, Mo Junyang answered gently and then glanced at Shen Luo casually. Shen Luo was speechless. Fine. He had to do it out of consideration for somebody else. Even though he was unhappy about these peoples attitudes, they were Shi Qingxues family anyway. When Shi Junhe begged Shen Luo to save his wife again, the miracle-working doctor stated lazily at last, Dont worry. She was just too emotional, so she went unconscious. She will be fine after sleeping. Shi Junhe sighed with relief and tried to put Dong Hui to bed. However, Mammy Zheng still persistently pointed to Shen Luos nose and cursed, You are an unqualified doctor. Do you know how to treat a patient? If Madam were really fine, how would she act like a mad person earlier? You must have made a prescription randomly before you diagnosed, so Madam became like this. Shen Luo couldnt speak a word. All people stayed silent. Mammy Zheng was skilled in making unfounded countercharges, which made all people speechless. In some way, it was an awesome capability, right? Shen Luo was denounced by Mammy Zheng repeatedly, so he wouldnt let it pass. He wouldnt retort Shi Qingxue, yet could he spare Shi Junhe? His glance and faint smile made Duke Shi feel ashamed of himself and speak with guilt. I am incapable of disciplining the servants, so she offended you. Please forgive me, Doctor Shen. Gee, this old man deserved to be Shi Qingxues father, and Shen Luo couldnt find fault with him in manners, so he couldnt make complaints. Shen Luo sighed in a feigned manner and didnt make things difficult for Shi Junhe. He explained unhurriedly, Your wife was scared greatly after she was poisoned and had premature birth, so her body was damaged, and she hasnt freed from the awareness of self-protect. It is common for the mothers who have just given birth to babies. Duke Shi, dont be panicked. To put it bluntly, Dong Hui suffered from postpartum depression. It was not Dong Huis first time to give birth to babies, but she suffered from postpartum depression. It could be seen how frightened she was this time. Shi Junhe didnt dare to neglect it, so he hurriedly asked, What can we do? Spend more time with her and be obedient to her. Dont irritate her anymore. She will be fine in a few days. Shen Luo spoke out the solution, looking uninterested. To be frank, even though he knew that the patient was Shi Qingxues biological mother, he was clear about what Dong Hui had done, so he was unable to force himself to like her. Anyway, postpartum depression was caused by mental factors, and she didnt need to take medicine. As for how much Dong Hui could recover, it depended on how much her family could do for her. Shen Luo yawned and wanted to say goodbye as he saw that Wei Zichao had helped Mo Junyang up nimbly. Shi Qingxue wanted to follow Mo Junyang, but she was worried about Dong Hui, so she didnt know what to do for a moment. Shi Junhe stated first, I will take care of your mother. Take away your brother now. A newborn baby will be scared easily. Ask Doctor Shen to check on him, in case that there is some hidden trouble. It was said that the older, the wiser. Shi Junhe knew that although he was the honorable Duke Shi, in front of Shen Luo, his words were not as important as Shi Qingxues. Moreover, what he said to Shi Qingxue meant that he attached more importance to the mother Dong Hui and ignored the innocent baby, even though it was tactful. He was ashamed and had to pin his hopes on Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue didnt think about so much. Hearing her fathers entrustment, she naturally agreed. At the same time, she asked Mo Junyang to stay in the Langyue Pavilion to heal his wound, not to return to King Ruis mansion in a hurry. Because the Langyue Pavilion was close to the Luotong Boudoir, Mo Junyang had no objection and expressed, I am fine. Tell Luo to make some sedative tea for this baby, and then he will probably be well after drinking it. Mo Junyang had saved the baby in person, at the price of being injured, so he certainly ensured the babys safety. He just showed more concern because Shi Qingxue cared about the baby. Shen Luo was helpless under Mo Junyangs order. After hearing that, he held the baby from Xia Mang and talked to Shi Qingxue, Fine, the patient is left to you. I will take care of the baby, okay? Shi Qingxue said yes repeatedly and then asked what she should pay attention to when she looked after Mo Junyang. She didnt notice the two men exchange glances. Shi Qingxue applied ointment to Mo Junyangs wound and rubbed it carefully and meticulously as Shen Luo told her. The charcoal oven was still burning and made the whole room warm. The upper part of Mo Junyangs body was naked, and his right arm with bruises was revealed. Especially a large part of the shoulder blade was swollen, although he said that it was not serious. Qingxue felt sad while looking at it. She couldnt help but reach out her hand to caress it, and she didnt dare to put forth strength as she was afraid that she would hurt him. Does it hurt? In fact, Mo Junyang didnt feel much pain, yet when Qingxue touched the wound gently, he felt itchy on his shoulder blade. He felt itchy in his heart, too. Since Shi Qingxue cared about him so much, Mo Junyang who was skilled in seizing the chance to get more profit took a deep breath exaggeratedly and then breathed out slowly before forcing a smile. He replied feebly, I am fine. Wei Zichao who watched everything was speechless. Oh, God, his eyes were going to be blind. What should he do? Shi Qingxue thought that she had hurt Mo Junyang, so she withdrew her hand in a hurry, looking at Mo Junyang, as if he were a fragile and valuable porcelain. I did it with much strength. How about letting Zichao do it? Something like this happened to him frequently, and he must be more skilled in handling it than me. Mo Junyang and Wei Zichao kept silent. Seeing that Mo Junyangs face twisted and turned livid, the guard almost burst into laughter. Ahem! Wei Zichao instantly coughed twice and concealed his smile. Oh, gosh. Today he had finally seen that somebody lifted a rock only to drop it on his own feet. Mo Junyang was smart innately and could predict everything. He planned very carefully with every conceivable possibility taken into account. Unexpectedly, he was counterattacked in such a trifle and had nothing to say after being retorted. Oh, somebody still didnt notice it. Mo Junyang couldnt vent his anger, so he had to restrain it. Wei Zichao finally enjoyed the masters changeable expression which could hardly be seen in one hundred years. Seeing that Mo Junyang narrowed his eyes and looked at him, Wei Zichao hurriedly became well-behaved and dissociated himself before the master turned against him. My Lady, you are joking. I am a rough man and cant control my strength. Even if His Excellency is pained, he has to put up with it. After that, he added insincerely, If you insist on asking me to apply the ointment for His Excellency, I will naturally do it without hesitation. After all, this is my duty, not yours, My Lady. Chapter 339 - I Feel Hot When Wei Zichao mentioned the duty, Shi Qingxues face stiffened. In fact, Shi Qingxue understood Wei Zichaos hidden meaning and even the reason why he said that. However, seeing Mo Junyangs red and swollen arm, she couldnt stop feeling guilty, so she agreed at once. Let me do it. I will be more careful. Shi Qingxue picked up the ointment again and applied it to Mo Junyangs wound gently, rubbing it. Mo Junyang didnt say that it hurt anymore. He lay on his stomach obediently and enjoyed the moment. Wei Zichao saw that and couldnt help but wink at Mo Junyang, indicating, How is it? Am I a nice helper? Mo Junyang tilted his head and glanced at the guard. Zichao, dont you have something important to do? Shi Qingxue nodded. If you have something important, just do it. Junyang is safe here, and he will be fine. The guard who didnt have a sleep for one day and night after coming down Tan Mountain with the master was speechless. Fine! It was not his first time to know that Mo Junyang was best at kicking down the ladder when it came to something about Shi Qingxue. The ladder guard admitted his destiny and nodded before leaving. Shi Qingxue didnt know Wei Zichaos resentment but paid all attention to Mo Junyangs wound. Nevertheless, before she rubbed it for long, Mo Junyang stopped her first. Fine. Leave it at that. Noticing that Mo Junyang endured it from his voice, Shi Qingxue thought that she had hurt him, so she withdrew her hand. HowHow are you feeling? Mo Junyang answered in a hoarse voice, I am fine. It didnt sound that he was fine. Dont try to be brave. If I hurt you, you must tell me. I will ask Doctor Shen to come Shi Qingxue didnt believe Mo Junyangs lie. She got up and planned to bring Shen Luo. Mo Junyang had to stop her and tell the truth. I am really fine. I am just While speaking, Mo Junyang had a blush on his tan skin unexpectedly. Shi Qingxue blinked and almost thought that she was dazzled. You what? Mo Junyang had been thick-skinned for so many years, and it was his first time to feel embarrassed to speak, while Shi Qingxue opened her eyes wide and stared at him, which made him more awkward. Whats wrong with you? Shi Qingxue believed that Mo Junyang was fine, yet she still insisted on asking for an answer. Mo Junyang couldnt conceal his shyness. He gritted his teeth and confessed, I just feel hot. Ah? Shi Qingxue didnt understand, so she stared at Mo Junyang blankly. Why do you feel hot in winter? Mo Junyang ignored his dignity and gazed at Shi Qingxues fair-skinned and ruddy face, saying meaningfully, You have seduced me just now. What do you think makes me feel hot? Shi Qingxue finally understood what the word hot meant. Redness spread from her neck to her smiling face. She didnt dare to meet Mo Junyangs eyes where there seemed to be something that would absorb her. What nonsense are you talking about? I I wont talk about this with you. Shi Qingxue was restless. As soon as she got up, Mo Junyang grabbed her, still with his wounded arm. Shi Qingxue didnt even dare to struggle but remained still obediently. Mo Junyang finally stopped frowning and said in a gentle tone, I will be fine after I stay quiet for a while. Dont go away. Stay and talk about something else with me. Shi Qingxue wasnt an inexperienced girl. She knew that he just needed to be quiet and then distract attention. However, thinking that she needed to make him distract attention, she still felt shy. What do you want to talk about? Shi Qingxue felt awkward, and her voice was shaky, as if she were playing the woman. It made the man feel burning hot in his heart after hearing that. Mo Junyang coughed deeply and forced himself to look away and stop imagining. How do you plan to deal with your brother? Mo Junyang talked business seriously, and Shi Qingxue wasnt so shy anymore. She just looked at him in confusion. I wont do anything. I just take care of him for my parents now, yet how can I take care of a baby? Moreover, after Mother recovers, she will accept my brother. Shi Qingxue thought that Dong Hui couldnt accept her first son because of postpartum depression but would accept him as long as she recovered and returned normal. Hmm. Mo Junyang didnt think so. Obviously, he could see things more clearly than Shi Qingxue and consider things more deeply. Dong Hui didnt like her first son and even wanted to kill him because she took him as a monster, which couldnt be explained with merely postpartum depression. Even so, who could be sure about when Dong Hui would recover? What if she wouldnt recover so well as to accept her first son? All these might happen. Even though Mo Junyang thought so, he wouldnt speak it out. He just stated, Shen Luo has experience in taking care of a baby, and he is a doctor. Just leave the baby to him. Right? I almost have forgotten that he has a sister. Her name is Shi Qingxue remembered the lovely and nimble little girl she had met when she went to Mang Mountain to look for the doctor. She asked hesitantly, Shen Xiao, right? Mo Junyang nodded. Right. Thats his sister, and he brought her up. Xiao is only thirteen or fourteen years old. Why doesnt she live with Doctor Shen now? After Shen Luo left Mang Mountain, he stayed in Duke Shis mansion for a period. Later, after his relationship with Mo Junyang was revealed, he didnt hide it anymore, so he lived in King Ruis mansion openly. However, Shi Qingxue had never seen the little girl again after so long. Shen Luo sent her to Rui City. Its Mo Junyang paused for a moment and seemed to hesitate. In the end, he still disclosed the whole secret. Its safe there. When Shi Qingxue heard the words Rui City, her eyelids trembled involuntarily. She suddenly looked at Mo Junyang. That Rui City? In the previous life, Shi Qingxue only knew one place named Rui City, King Ruis fiefdom, the place where Mo Junyang rested, recovered and started to send troops to rebel. That was Mo Junyangs base. However, in this life, Mo Xiangrui seldom went to Rui City since he was titled and the fiefdom was given to him, while Mo Junyang had been raised in the capital city as King Ruis heir since childhood. Was Rui City that city in the past? If outsiders heard Shi Qingxues question, they must think that the words that city they talked about meant its location, but only Mo Junyang knew that she asked about the control power of Rui City. So Mo Junyang nodded and answered without concealment, Yes. Rui City was always Mo Junyangs domain. Shi Qingxue got nervous after hearing Mo Junyang admit it. She looked around subconsciously and then heaved a sigh of relief after confirming that there was nobody else in the room. Why did you say that without delay? What if walls have ears? Although Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang didnt fear this, the cards in his hand should certainly be kept secret if he could. It doesnt matter, Mo Junyang replied casually as expected. When Shi Qingxue frowned worriedly, he continued with a smile, Dont worry. Zichao is outside. In another word, nobody could be so capable as to escape from Wei Zichao without being noticed. Shi Qingxue instantly got relieved and laughed at herself in secret as it was a waste of time to feel worried. On second thought, with Mo Junyangs abilities and carefulness, how would he be not alert? Thats great. Great, Shi Qingxue responded repeatedly and suddenly realized that Mo Junyang must have said that to her not just to show her his actual strength. Mo Junyang expressed, Rui City is safe. If you have no place to arrange for your brother, you can send him to that city, and I will tell some people to take care of him. It turned out that he just considered everything for her. Hearing Mo Junyangs words, Shi Qingxue felt warm. She couldnt help but grab Mo Junyangs hand, while her eyes twinkled. I know. If I need to do that, I wont hesitate to ask you for help, yet Thinking of the current situation in Duke Shis mansion, Shi Qingxue thought that it was not the worst time, so she didnt need to consider sending her brother away. He looks tiny. Although Rui City is nice, I still want to keep him not far away in the capital city and watch him. I believe that my parents must also think so. Moreover, Doctor Shen is still in the capital city. How would I rest assured if he doesnt keep an eye on the baby? Mo Junyang just gave Shi Qingxue a backup plan and didnt care if she would use it. In fact, Mo Junyang didnt know that Shi Qingxue hid another reason from him. No matter how safe Rui City was, she wouldnt send this brother or anybody to take sanctuary. Mo Junyang had done too much for her, and she didnt want his secret base to be exposed because of her. The two stayed in Duke Shis mansion temporarily. Shen Luos ointment was magical. Mo Junyangs shoulder blade had been red and swollen, looking horrible, but after the ointment was applied, it was not red or swollen in less than two days. As long as Mo Junyang didnt practice martial arts forcefully, it was fine in daily life. However, Shi Qingxue insisted on telling Mo Junyang to lie in the bed and have a good rest. Mo Junyang who had been roughly raised was unable to be still for longer, but his protest was in vain, so he was laid up for several days, till Dong Huis personal maid Mammy Zheng came. This day, Shi Qingxue sat under the sun in early spring and enjoyed the sunshine while shaking the cradle to comfort her brother. At the same time, she chatted with Mo Junyang casually. Mammy Zheng coughed in a feigned manner to attract the couples attention. Then she said in a loud voice, My Lady, nice to see you. It didnt look like a servant came to greet the master, but a eunuch came to declare an imperial edict. She almost raised her tail to show her loftiness. This old maid was skilled in assuming someone elses authority as her own. Shi Qingxue frowned slightly. Mammy Zheng, whats up? Chapter 340 - Build up Prestige Mammy Zheng showed a smile on her old face, but there was no smile in her eyes. His Lordship is busy taking care of Madam these days, and he is not free to come, so he specially told me to send a message to you and the first young master, My Lady. Shi Qingxue got up and leered at Mammy Zheng, asking casually, What message? His Lordship has said that Madam is worried so much about the second young master, and they tire themselves to take care of him and name him these days, so they dont have time to take care of one more baby. They asked you to continue looking after the first young master before Madam recovers. Shi Qingxue had no objection to looking after her brother, yet she still couldnt help but frown after hearing Mammy Zhengs words. Name him? My parents have named my brothers? What are their names? Mammy Zheng smiled insincerely. How dare I call the young masters name? She intentionally pretended to be timid, while she brought contempt upon herself as Shi Qingxue glanced at her coldly. Then she added obediently, The second young masters name is Tianyou. What about the first young masters? Shi Qingxue thought that it was strange since Mammy Zheng started to speak. The old maid talked about her little brother all the time but mentioned the other brother in just a few words indifferently, as if this baby werent existent. Her neglect made Shi Qingxue furious. Mammy Zheng showed a smile to express that all people knew it. Then she looked at Shi Qingxue and stopped talking. Shi Qingxue stared at Mammy Zheng coldly. These days, she had noticed that Mammy Zheng seemed to aim at her intentionally or unintentionally and always try to irritate her while speaking. Considering that Mammy Zheng was an old maid Dong Hui had brought from the Dong family, Qingxue didnt want to bother about her, so she pretended that she didnt know, but unexpectedly, the maids attitude was more and more extravagant. However, Shi Qingxue wouldnt lose temper rashly. She returned to the chair and took a sip of tea before asking unhurriedly, Mammy Zheng, how many years have you been in my family? Mammy Zheng wanted to incite Shi Qingxue to make trouble in the East House impulsively by telling her purposely that the master and mistress named the second young master yet didnt give a name to the first young master. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxue didnt get angry but asked her about something else at leisure. Didnt the young lady understand what she meant? Even though Mammy Zheng was anxious in secret, she couldnt refuse to answer Shi Qingxues question. My Lady, I came with Madam when she got married. I have been here for more than twenty years. So you are an old servant in this mansion, right? Shi Qingxue asked with a lift of her eyebrow. Mammy Zheng just smiled at Shi Qingxue and felt proud evidently. So you must be clear about the family rules After saying, Shi Qingxue paused for a moment. Before Mammy Zheng reacted, the girl suddenly rebuked, Do you know what punishment a servant deserves when he bullies a master? Mammy Zheng was shocked by the cold reproach and felt that her knees were numb and feeble somehow. She instantly knelt on the floor as her legs were soft, as if she would kowtow to Shi Qingxue and admit her fault. II Mammy Zheng was anxious and scared and thought that it was surprising, but she had knelt down. The young lady didnt tell her to get up, so if she got up without permission, wouldnt it prove that she bullied the master as the young lady said? At this thought, Mammy Zheng didnt express her feelings even though her knees hurt and she had cold sweat. Moreover, she had to smile at Shi Qingxue flatteringly. My Lady, you get me wrong. I am your servant. How dare I bully you? My slavery indenture is in the hands of the masters, and I am loyal to the Shi family. I have never bullied a master. Please observe clearly, My Lady. When Mammy Zheng was speaking, tears fell across her old face, and she looked aggrieved and pitiful. It looked like she really had such feelings. They grew up in a powerful family and if Mammy Zheng didnt know how to act, she wouldnt earn a spot among the servants. Shi Qingxue was clear about that, so she wouldnt be so stupid as to confront her. Then she asked lazily, When did I say that you bullied me? From beginning to end, Shi Qingxue just asked Mammy Zheng what punishment a servant deserved after bullying a master, and then the old maid knelt down and said that she was wronged. The old maid just confessed without torture seemingly. Mammy Zheng stopped crying and the sad expression froze on her face. Er, well. I No matter how eloquent Mammy Zheng was, she was forced to stutter and couldnt speak a word after Shi Qingxues stroke of genius. Then Shi Qingxue asked with a faint smile, Mammy Zheng, since you think that you have never bullied a master, why did you kneel so soon? Anybody who doesnt know the truth will think that you admitted your fault. Mammy Zheng was angry, yet she didnt dare to vent it. She realized why others said that Shi Qingxue was smart and anybody would be unlucky after offending her. She thought that she was a good talker, but Shi Qingxue was silver-tongued and set traps everywhere. When the opponent was careless, she might be tripped up by Shi Qingxue, and the latter would outargue her, making her unable to speak. Mammy Zheng knew that she gave Shi Qingxue a chance to accuse her, so she didnt dare to play tricks. She admitted her fault and sincerely begged the young lady to forgive her. She even got cruel-hearted and slapped herself in the face severely when she saw Shi Qingxues cold eyes. I am powerless. Please forgive me because I have served Madam for so many years, My Lady. I dont dare to play tricks on you anymore! With her elbow on the table and her chin on her palm, Shi Qingxue tilted her head and looked Mammy Zheng up and down. She thought, This maid deserves to be the head of the servants in the East House. Apart from anything else, she is able to bow and rise at will and good at reading somebody elses mind. Mammy Zheng knew that the girl attached importance to Dong Hui and why she got mad. She admitted her fault with a good attitude and guessed the key point correctly, and she even mentioned Dong Hui. No matter how angry Shi Qingxue was, she didnt feel so irritated anymore. Moreover, she didnt plan to bother too much about Mammy Zheng. However, she wouldnt allow the maid to do anything willfully. Shi Qingxue got up and walked to Mammy Zheng step by step under her gaze. Then she lowered her head, looking down at the old maid. She stressed each word and warned coldly, Since you have admitted your fault, I wont bother about you too much, but remember that this brother of mine is the first young master in Duke Shis mansion. No matter what attitude the masters show, we dont allow you servants to bully the masters or flatter the powerful ones while stepping on the weaker ones. If I know that you are impolite to him again, dont blame me when I ignore your fellowship. Mammy Zheng was shocked by Shi Qingxues momentum which exploded all of a sudden. She looked up at the girl in a daze and opened her mouth yet couldnt say anything after a long time. She finally understood that Shi Qingxue suddenly got mad at her because she had shown disrespect for the first young master in her words. Shi Qingxue wanted to build up prestige for the first young master. Mammy Zheng didnt know why Shi Qingxue cared about an ugly baby so much, but she didnt dare to be disobedient. Yes, yes. I dare not. After speaking, Shi Qingxue wasnt in the mood to rebuke Mammy Zheng anymore but walked out. Wei Zichao asked in confusion, My Lady, where are you going? He was guarding at the door all the time, and Mammy Zheng knelt down surprisingly because he had kicked her. Seeing that Shi Qingxue prepared to go out by herself instead of waiting for Mo Junyang to come back, Wei Zichao had to stop her. When Shi Qingxue was stopped, she didnt get angry but leered at Mammy Zheng who was still kneeling on the floor and wanted to peep at her like a thief yet didnt dare to. Then she smiled. Somebody intentionally wants to incite me to see my father in the East House and has put up a good show. How would I dissatisfy her? Zichao, dont worry. I will be fine. Mammy Zheng shuddered with fear after hearing that and understood that Shi Qingxue had seen through her. However, she said that purposely earlier like a monkey which was teased. Mammy Zheng just felt that her aged face was burning hot, so she lowered her head obediently and didnt dare to make trouble. Wei Zichao didnt care about Mammy Zhengs intention. He just frowned after Shi Qingxue said that and then asked in a deep voice, Can I follow you, My Lady? This request was groundless because Wei Zichao wasnt Shi Qingxues guard, and it was not King Ruis mansion here. Nevertheless, Wei Zichao didnt dare to let Shi Qingxue go alone. After all, she got injured last time because of the Shi familys plot, which was why Mo Junyang had left him here. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and pondered for a moment. Then she knew why Wei Zichao was so persistent. Okay, follow me, Shi Qingxue answered quickly and then walked ahead to the East House. Shi Junhe was reading in the study. When he saw Shi Qingxue, there were embarrassment and surprise in his eyes. What are you doing here? Shi Qingxue asked directly, I have heard that you and Mother named my little brother Tianyou, right? When Shi Junhe saw that Shi Qingxue asked about this matter as soon as she came, his expression which was always clam stiffened, yet he still answered, Yes. Your mother gave this name to him, and it means that God bless him. Its really a good name. Have you and Mother selected a name for the other brother? Shi Qingxue asked at once. In fact, Shi Junhe was prepared to be questioned by Shi Qingxue, while at this time, his old face got burning hot automatically. Especially when he met his daughters pure and clear eyes, Duke Shi who was always open and aboveboard felt ashamed and had nothing to say. I gave birth to only one son, Tianyou. There is no other one, no! A sharp female voice suddenly cut in. Nobody knew since when Dong Hui stood at the door of the study, and she forcefully answered Shi Qingxues question. She just admitted her younger son Tianyous identity. Shi Qingxue felt disappointed and could hardly believe that such cruel words were from her mothers mouth. She remembered that Dong Hui was sick and couldnt be irritated. So Qingxue had to restrain her anger and didnt argue with Dong Hui. She turned to Shi Junhe and asked with a bitter smile, Father, wont you give a name to your first son? I Shi Junhe was hurt by Shi Qingxues bitter smile and finally couldnt help but speak. However, Dong Hui stopped Shi Junhe again and stated coldly, Thats not our son, so you cant ask your father to give him a name. Chapter 341 - A Live Show of Taming a Beast Shi Qingxue clenched her fists hidden in her sleeves and almost couldnt help but question Dong Hui, yet she saw that her mothers thin body trembled slightly when she spoke. So she got soft-hearted again at once. She knew that Dong Hui was sick. Why would she bother about a patient? Perhaps Shi Junhe chose to keep silent just because he considered Dong Huis feelings. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and gradually understood Shi Junhes hard effort, so she didnt continue to force him to give a name to her first brother. However, was it proper as her little brother had a name while the other didnt have one? Now Mammy Zheng dared to mention the first young master of the Shi family with disdain. If the news spread that the masters of the Shi family were unwilling to name the first young master, his status in the mansion in the future could be imagined. Shi Qingxue didnt allow something like this. She lowered her head and pondered for a moment. Then she looked at Shi Junhe and said seriously, Father, if you and Mother are unwilling to give a name to my first brother, I have to exceed my authority and take your job. This time, Shi Junhe grabbed Dong Huis hand and responded in advance, Okay. You are taking care of him now, so its proper if you give a name to him. Then his name is Tian As soon as Shi Qingxue started, Dong Huis sharp voice interrupted her before the girl figured out a name for her brother. No. The word Tian cant be in his name. Otherwise, he will surely make me and Tianyou die! Dong Hui grabbed Shi Junhes hand and shouted emotionally, Junhe, you cant let this monster harm our son! Enough! Shi Qingxue was irritated as Dong Hui said the word monster repeatedly. Even though the mother was sick, could she hurt her biological son wantonly? Shi Qingxue took a deep breath and restrained her anger. Then she sneered. Finefine. You are afraid, yet I dont believe it. Since you are unwilling, I will just name him Shi Qingmin. I have the same word Qing in my name. So none of you will be implicated, okay? Seeing that Shi Qingxue gave a name to her brother without thinking it over, Dong Hui got anxious. She couldnt watch her daughter being harmed. However, Shi Qingxue didnt give Dong Hui a chance but left after saying that. At the moment, nobody could predict that Shi Qingmin, this name which was decided to vent anger would be remembered in the history of the Mo Dynasty through the ages in the end. After returning to the Luotong Boudoir, Shi Qingxue still felt resentful. She couldnt figure out what was wrong with Dong Hui. Even though Shi Qingmin looked disappointing indeed, Dong Hui shouldnt deny his existence. This mother had gone too far. All people said that even a vicious tiger would not eat its cubs, but Shi Qingxue couldnt see any kinship in what Dong Hui did. She just felt disappointed. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang happened to come in. After he recuperated these days, the wound on his shoulder blade was fully healed. Nevertheless, they couldnt enjoy the leisurely life in the family temple on Tan Mountain anymore. Firstly, Mo Xiangbin was more seriously ill day by day, and even Shen Luo was at a loss what to do. Nobody knew what this emperor thought about, and he started to remember the kinship and told Mo Junyang to enter the imperial palace almost every day. He didnt talk business but mentioned something unimportant every time. He was like a gentle father caring about his sons daily life. Unfortunately, it was Mo Junyang, and he didnt care about Mo Xiangbins flattering words. When he was free, he would enter the imperial palace and sit with Mo Xiangbin for a while, not more than one hour, but he was not free most of the time. Moreover, Mo Junyu was the crown prince acting as regent now. He was in power, and he should take on a lot of responsibilities. Even though the crown prince was intelligent innately, capable and fond of learning, he would be inevitably at a loss facing the complicated state affairs when he started to take the job. After Mo Junyu asked Mo Junyang for advice on some state affairs and got wonderful solutions, he summoned Mo Junyang more frequently. He almost took Mo Junyang as his wise counsellor and murmured in secret, Gee, Junyang, where did you learn these capabilities? I havent seen that you are diligent in reading books at ordinary times, but how can you be so experienced in dealing with these things? Some of Mo Junyangs solutions were even more appropriate than Mo Xiangbins. After Mo Junyu saw that, he was suddenly enlightened and also astonished. If the crown prince knew that Mo Junyang was an emperor who was on the throne for longest in the Mo Dynastys history of only one hundred years, he wouldnt be so surprised. Mo Junyang naturally wouldnt reveal so much to Mo Junyu. After helping the crown prince deal with some matters difficult to handle every day, he was anxious to return to the Shi familys mansion regardless of the crown princes suggestion of staying to have dinner with him. When Mo Junyang saw Shi Qingxues gloomy expression, he thought that he was right to do that. Shi Qingxue came back to reality from her messy thoughts and then saw Mo Junyang standing in front of her with his back to the cold sunshine in winter, as tall and big as a god. You are back, Shi Qingxue mumbled. Mo Junyang noticed her trance and hurriedly walked to her, sitting next to her. He grabbed her cold hand and stressed while asking again, Whats wrong with you? Shi Qingxue leaned against Mo Junyangs arms conveniently, and the familiar and warm breath enveloped her, so her chilled heart started to return warm. I went to the East House just now She slowly and carefully told Mo Junyang what had happened just now. Although what happened made her feel sad and humiliated, these negative emotions weakened a lot in front of Mo Junyang. She told Mo Junyang everything and finally felt better. Then she asked, Junyang, what should I do? Mo Junyang smiled and reached out his hand to rub Shi Qingxues head gently. Dont you take care of Qingmin these days? You just have to do that for longer. Why are you so emotional? Shi Qingxue goggled and expressed with displeasure that she didnt mean it. Nevertheless, before she got mad, Mo Junyang quickly admitted his fault and then comforted her sincerely. Fine, I was joking with you. As you said, your mother is sick and cant logically think about a lot of things. At least, General Shi is wise and doesnt entrust the baby to an outsider. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and pondered for a moment. Then she found that it was true, so she stopped being angry. There was only one thing But Mother feels disgusted with Qingmin so much and doesnt even want to keep him alive, not to mention letting him stay in the mansion. In order not to irritate her, I and Qingmin have to move out of the mansion for now. Although Shi Qingxue was unwilling, after Mo Junyang advised and comforted her, she didnt want to make Dong Hui unhappy for something insignificant like this. So Mo Junyang said, It doesnt matter. I will accompany you Before he finished his words, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but giggle. She joked. Gee, you cant accompany me. As Duke Shis family and King Ruis family were friends, and Mo Junyang was injured in Duke Shis mansion, it was understandable that he lived here. However, if Shi Qingxue moved out of Duke Shis mansion and he still followed her, the outsiders would laugh at him. Even though they were engaged, they couldnt be so close. When Mo Junyang thought about this, his face which was always calm finally looked unhappy. He put on a long face and stared at something on the floor, with his eyes which suddenly got cold, looking horrible. Such a cold and cruel Mo Junyang was almost like Emperor Moshang who could make babies cry at night in rumors in the previous life, and he was so scary. He didnt conceal his emotions, and it was enough to scare others to death. After seeing that, Shi Qingxue wasnt afraid, yet she instantly realized that she had carried the joke too far. Junyang Qingxue murmured and bent over, resting her head on Mo Junyangs shoulder while saying gently, I will be unaccustomed when you are not around me. Come to see me every day in the future, okay? Her words showed that she was dependent on him, which calmed his fidget and fury, like a pair of tender hands. Mo Junyang calmed down quickly and then hugged Shi Qingxue. He lowered his head and kissed her cheek with his thin lips. The latter didnt dodge but rubbed against him by instinct. Mo Junyang felt soft-hearted unspeakably at once, and the horrible expression on his face disappeared, while only tenderness was left on it. Okay. Wei Zichao stood at the door and watched as Mo Junyang became tender and soft even though he had been angry and horrible earlier. He was dumbfounded and meanwhile admired Shi Qingxue. Was thisa live show of taming a beast? The guard conjectured about his master evilly and imagined Mo Junyang like a beast going crazy, so he couldnt help but laugh. Gee. If there was somebody in the world who could change Mo Junyang, it must be nobody but Shi Qingxue. However, nobody knew whether the change was good or bad. Nobody had time to think about so much. After a heart-to-heart talk with Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue finally vented her sulk brought from the East House. Then she discussed with him and decided to move out of Duke Shis mansion with Shi Qingmin as soon as possible. As for where she would live, it happened that Mo Xiangbin rewarded her with a lot of valuable manors when he granted their marriage. Some of them were in the north of the city with a good location and convenient transportation, and some of them were in the suburbs with beautiful scenery Shi Qingxue didnt worry that she would have no place to live. She pondered for a moment and then chose a villa in the northern suburbs. Firstly, it was not far from or near King Ruis mansion, and it was convenient for Mo Junyang to come and go back. Secondly, the environment and facilities were the best among all the manors, and it was suitable for Qingmin to recuperate. Seeing that Shi Qingxue considered for him when she chose a residence, Mo Junyang felt peaceful. As Wei Zichao said, the most direct expression was the big smile on his face. Mo Junyang volunteered to clean up the villa first, while Shi Qingxue was left in the Luotong Boudoir to pack up. She didnt know how long she would stay in the villa this time, and especially she would take a baby, so she needed to prepare more things. At this time, another unexpected guest came to the Luotong Boudoir. Chapter 342 - A Punishment Shi Qingxue who was packing up looked back and saw the comer. She called in surprise, Brother? After that, Shi Qingxue realized something and added with a smile, You are my brother-in-law now. These words were a joke with closeness obviously. Wenren Chi would joke with her or pretend to teach her a lesson seriously in the past, but he would never merely look at her with an unusual expression like today. Shi Qingxues face stiffened. Brother, whats wrong? Wenren Chi shook his head silently and waved at Shi Qingxue, gesturing for her to come over. With their relationship now, he couldnt enter her bedroom randomly like he did before. Even though Shi Qingxue used to be his sister, she was his sister-in-law now. Shi Qingxue didnt think about so much but followed Wenren Chi obediently and went out to the courtyard. They walked to a phoenix tree and stood under it. Seeing that Wenren Chi looked at her in silence, Shi Qingxue tilted her head in confusion. What happened? Wenren Chi asked, Are you going to move out with our first brother? Shi Qingxue guessed that Shi Junhe had told him, so she nodded. Right. I will take Qingmin to a villa and stay there for a period. After Mother gets better, we will move back. Qingmin? Oh, its my brothers name, Shi Qingxue explained and then craned her neck proudly. He was named by me. Wenren Chi was amused by Shi Qingxue who was like a cocky peacock and couldnt help but reach out his hand to rub her head. Shi Qingxue covered her head nimbly and dodged. She pouted with displeasure. My hair will be messy. Wenren Chis hand stopped in the air, yet Shi Qingxue looked natural. When they were together in the past, his hand would be avoided most of the time. He didnt notice the embarrassment but had a feeling of loss. However, soon he withdrew his hand and changed the subject. I heard Father say that you dealt with Mo Shujun, right? Shi Qingxue instantly thought of Wenren Chis deep hatred toward Mo Shujun, so her face stiffened, and she said apologetically, I am sorry. I didnt handle it properly. She knew that Wenren Chi bore a grudge and thought about letting him take revenge, while she chose to take matters into her own hands in the end. Mo Shujuns identity was too special. In Mo Country ruled by filial piety, to say something unpleasant to hear, even if Mo Shujun poisoned all the members of the Shi family, the survivor couldnt kill her. It was that the elders could be unkind, while the younger generation couldnt show disrespect for them. The only way to punish Mo Shujun that Shi Qingxue could think of was to imprison her in the Shouan Hall and make this Princess Royal who had enjoyed glory for most of her life lose freedom forever. It was the most severe mental punishment. And Shi Qingxue didnt dare to let anyone else do it, in case that this thing became evidence against them in the future. However, Mo Shujun had caused the death of Wenren Chis father, so he must be unhappy to see that the enemy was in front of him, yet he couldnt take revenge and they even had to provide for her. Unexpectedly, Wenren Chi didnt get mad but smiled at Shi Qingxue with relief. He wasnt stingy to give her the highest praise. No. You did a good job. Ah? It reversed too soon, and Shi Qingxue couldnt react in time. Wenren Chi looked at Shi Qingxue, and his eyes lit up. He stated in a hoarse voice, I and Mo ShujunI thought that I would let my late parents down till I took revenge in person, yet I have thought over many things these days. Mo Shujun doesnt deserve it if I lose everything because of her, so I am glad that you did it. Hearing the praise, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but show complacency in her eyes, seeming to say, Am I smart? Her lovely expression made Wenren Chi in a daze when he looked at her, and he stepped forward involuntarily. Qingxue What are you doing? A fierce voice came from the courtyard gate and shocked the two. They turned their heads at the same time, to see that Shi Baoning stood at the gate with a terrible-looking expression and gazed at them. Shi Qingxue walked to her quickly. Sister, what brought you here? He can come, but I cant? Shi Baonings voice was harsh, while she stared at Wenren Chi all the time. Shi Qingxue was stunned and then turned to Wenren Chi, to find that his expression was secretive. Her big eyes rolled and ran down them. At last, she observantly found that there seemed to be something unusual with the new couple. Ahem! Shi Qingxue pretended to cough and said when the two looked at her, It occurs to me that I have some things to pack up. I am off now. Feel free to talk. Afterward, she returned to her bedroom. She considerately waved away the servants, so they wouldnt disturb the couple settling the conflict. In the courtyard of the Luotong Boudoir, Shi Baoning and Wenren Chi stood opposite to each other. In the beginning, neither of them spoke. In the end, Shi Baoning couldnt control herself but asked in a cold voice, Say it. Why dont you speak? Say what? Wenren Chi asked in reply distantly. Shi Baoning had a blush on her pale face. Obviously, she was irritated by Wenren Chis indifference, as if it were none of his business. She suddenly raised her voice. You know my feelings for Grandma and that I was brought up by her. Even if she made a big mistake, we cant Why did you agree to Qingxues action? Shi Baoning felt hurt and sad, with tears in her eyes, looking pitiful and wronged. However, Wenren Chi wasnt moved this time, and he even kept his distant expression, just gazing at her. He thought involuntarily, Look. This is a person taught by the rule of Mo Country that standards of filial piety are the most important. Till now, Wenren Chi admired Shi Qingxues foresight. If he did the job to imprison Mo Shujun, Shi Baoning might fall out with him. Then how would they talk about the feelings between a couple? Now Shi Qingxue had taken all the responsibility yet had to endure Shi Baonings indignation and reproach. It was laughable and ironic. Wenren Chi laughed coldly and emotionlessly. Shi Baoning was terrified to see that. She had never seen Wenren Chi show such a cruel expression, so she moved backward with fear. However, she regained her confidence soon and threw out her chest, staring at Wenren Chi. Did I say something wrong? Grandma is so nice to us. How can you be ungrateful and make things difficult for her with Qingxue? Gee, they made things difficult for her? Its you, not us, Wenren Chi suddenly said. Shi Baoning frowned. What do you mean? Wenren Chi stared at Shi Baoning deeply and said, Only you think that Mo Shujun is nice to somebody. She is my mortal enemy from the beginning. Shi Baoning was scared and opened her eyes wide. Tears hung on her eyelashes, which trembled as she quivered. No, its not true! She knew nothing but subconsciously defended Mo Shujun. Although Grandma is strict, she is nice to us. How can you She paused for a moment and seemed to have found Mo Shujun a perfect excuse, while her eyes lit up in an instant. Did Qingxue tell you something? She doesnt like Enough! Wenren Chi couldnt help but shout in a low voice to interrupt Shi Baoning who was conceited. He always did as Shi Junhe requested and had never told Shi Baoning about the dirty things Mo Shujun had done to the Wenren family, in case that it affected the feelings between the couple. However, Shi Baoning had gone too far while speaking and turned a blind eye to Mo Shujuns faults yet put all the blame on Shi Qingxue. He finally couldnt help revealing everything. Shi Baoning was dumbfounded and looked at Wenren Chi in a daze, murmuring, How? How is it possible? She still refused to believe it and racked her brains to speak for Mo Shujun. How would Grandma do something like that? Is there a misunderstanding Shi Baoning wanted to ask if Shi Qingxue told Wenren Chi something, so he had a misunderstanding, but his eyes were too cold, which made her unable to say the rest words. They fell into dead silence again. Wenren Chi didnt say anything, while Shi Baoning was unable to speak. If Wenren Chis words were true, what Mo Shujun had done couldnt be merely described as too much. However, Shi Baoning didnt dare to forget that anyway Mo Shujun was her grandmother and had brought her up and educated her. Shi Baoning was hesitant and almost bit through her lip, yet she couldnt accept it. What should I do? What should I do Shi Baoning couldnt restrain herself anymore, and tears fell from her eyes continuously. She raised her tearful eyes and looked at Wenren Chi, trying to reach out her hand to pull him and say, Sorry. I didnt say that purposely However, as soon as she opened her mouth, she could only sob. Looking at Shi Baoning who sobbed too much to speak, Wenren Chi finally stopped being angry. The barrier in his heart was broken by her tears. He sighed and pulled Shi Baoning into his arms, kissing her gently on her forehead. He comforted her and forgave her in silence. It didnt matter. Everything had gone. Right, since Mo Shujun was locked up in the Shouan Hall, the enmity between the Wenren family and her came to an end. Wenren Chi had been raised by Shi Junhe, and he was Shi Baonings husband. That was all. He told Shi Baoning what he was thinking about in a low voice without concealment. His words finally moved Shi Baoning and made her free from what depressed her all the time. My Lady, stop watching. Its not good. Xia Mang couldnt help but grab Shi Qingxues arm, stopping the lady from peeping, something unpresentable that she shouldnt do. Shi Qingxue kept observing what was happening outside in the courtyard through the crack between the door and its frame, so she ignored Xia Mang. She waved at the girl behind her and found a perfect excuse. I am concerned about my sister and her husband. I am going to move to the villa soon. If I dont see them make it up, I wont rest assured even when I stay in the villa. Xia Mang wasnt reserved but rolled her eyes, thinking, You are just peeping. Why do you find an excuse? Fortunately, after Shi Qingxue saw that the couple outside hugged each other, she finally looked away with satisfaction and continued to pack up. Seeing that Shi Qingxue seemed to be in a good mood, Xia Mang looked outside, to see that Wenren Chi and Shi Baoning had left hand in hand. She turned her head and continued to look at Shi Qingxue, trying to say something yet stopped herself. Shi Qingxue didnt stop packing up. She asked without looking back, What do you want to ask? Chapter 343 - His Condition Is Not Hopeful Xia Mang looked at Shi Qingxue and asked hesitantly, My Lady, did you hear what they said? Shi Qingxue stopped packing up and then looked back in confusion. Whats wrong? Xia Mangs expression darkened at once, and she replied cautiously, as she was afraid that Shi Qingxue would be irritated. You In fact, there is nothing. You are nice, nice, so Xia Mang said vaguely, and Shi Qingxue listened with difficulty. After hearing that, Shi Qingxue was stunned. She looked at Xia Mang in a daze, while the latter was at a loss as she thought that she mentioned what was on the young ladys mind and made her sad. What are you thinking about? Shi Qingxue was able neither to cry nor to laugh. Then Xia Mang was dumbfounded. Shi Qingxue continued to sigh helplessly. Its so far away from the courtyard here. No matter how sharp my ears are, I couldnt hear clearly what they were talking about. So Shi Qingxue didnt hear the conversation between Wenren Chi and Shi Baoning, and she couldnt have been hurt. Xia Mang was puzzled. Why did you She asked in panic and didnt know what to do with her hands and feet. Shi Qingxue smiled slyly. If I didnt act like this, how would you tell the truth? Xia Mang was speechless. She rolled her eyes and was about to complain that Shi Qingxue fooled her maid so boldly. Shi Qingxue suddenly became serious. Speaking of which, I was at the door but didnt hear what they were talking about. Why did you know it seemingly even though you were in the room? Xia Mang was unable to speak a word. The maids reaction was odd, and Shi Qingxue could certainly notice it. Tell me what you have hidden from me. Shi Qingxue sat on the bed and stared at Xia Mang, with her sharp eyes. The maid felt much pressure. She did notice many things, for example, Wenren Chis vague feelings for Shi Qingxue, and the jealousy in Shi Baonings eyes However, she couldnt tell the young lady such things. My Lady, I, I Xia Mang was so nervous that she had sweat on her forehead and almost knelt down to beg for mercy. At this time, Dong Shuang rushed in hastily and looked worried. My Lady, Doctor Shen asked you to see him. Its about the first young master. Shi Qingxue turned pale and didnt have time to interrogate Xia Mang. She told this maid to continue packing up and then went to the side room with Dong Shuang. In the side room, Shen Luo was sitting on the bedside with his right hand on Shi Qingmins fair-skinned and thin wrist while moving his left hand on the babys body from time to time to examine him. He looked gloomy, and the wet nurse who took care of the baby also looked anxious and scared. Doctor Shen, whats wrong with my brother? After Shen Luo withdrew his hand, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but ask anxiously. Shen Luo shook his head. His condition is not hopeful. He pursed his lips and sighed helplessly. I have said that we might not be able to keep this baby, yet your mother forcefully told me to keep it. But isnt Qingmin well now? Shi Qingxue asked in a fret. What Shen Luo said stabbed Shi Qingxues heart, like a sharp knife, making her almost unable to breathe. She lowered her head and looked at Shi Qingmin on the bed. He was such a little baby enveloped in a cotton quilt, and only a tiny face with the size of a palm was revealed. He came to this world only ten days ago, and he really didnt look energetic, but wasnt he sleeping soundly? Why did Shen Luo say that his condition was not hopeful? Shen Luo sighed slightly. He is certainly alive, yet it is uncertain if he is well. He lifted one corner of the cotton quilt, showing the two legs of Shi Qingmin in thick swaddling clothes. Look. He pointed to Shi Qingmins right leg. Shi Qingmins both legs were covered with thick brocade swaddling clothes, and his skin wasnt shown, while Qingxue could see something unusual at a glance. The lengths of Shi Qingmins two legs were not the same, and his left leg was shorter than his right leg obviously. Is he crooking his left leg so it looks shorter? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but think about other possibilities. Otherwise, should she accept that her brother was disabled innately? It was different from the ugly birthmark on his face. How could a man in the Shi family be disabled? The men in the Shi family would lead troops to the battlefield in the future. Shen Luo shook his head and disillusioned Shi Qingxue mercilessly. I have taken off his clothes and checked him earlier, and his left leg is crooked indeed, yet he cant stretch it straight. It meant the same as a shorter leg. Dont you have other solutions? You are a miracle-working doctor. Cant you straighten his leg after making medicine or in other ways? Shi Qingxue still didnt give up but looked at Shen Luo with expectancy. However, Shen Luo was unable to give her a positive answer. Silence made the air in the room fall into despair. Shi Qingxue felt that she was trembling. She looked at Shi Qingmins quiet sleeping face and felt heartbroken. Her brother was so young. Why did he have to suffer so much pain? It was unfair to Shi Qingmin. In fact Shen Luo couldnt bear to see Shi Qingxues sad expression, so he blurted out, You dont need to be so pessimistic. Shi Qingxue paused for a moment and then suddenly looked up at Shen Luo. Her big beautiful eyes were as bright and dazzling as stars, which made Shen Luo feel suffocated while seeing that. Shen Luo looked away instantly and added in embarrassment, The first young master is too young now and hasnt developed well. Even though I want to cure him, I dont dare to do it rashly as I am afraid that it will affect his growth in the future. But if both legs develop well after he grows up, perhaps I can straighten his left leg in the future. Although it will be different from an ordinary persons, it will be no problem in daily life. Really? Shi Qingxue shouted in surprise. She stared at Shen Luo with her bright and attractive eyes, saying joyfully, Great. Doctor Shen, I knew that you must have solutions. You are so awesome, so amazing. Thinking that her brothers leg could be cured, Shi Qingxue was overjoyed and wished to praise Shen Luo with all nice words in the world. She just hoped that this mans medical skills would be better and that he could fully cure Shi Qingmin. Shen Luo often heard others praise him at ordinary times, and such compliments were nothing to him. Nevertheless, when she said that in a sweet and tempting voice, Shen Luo blushed involuntarily. Nothing, its nothing. Doctor Shen was in panic rarely. He tried to look serious and then pointed out, Dont feel happy too soon. I can treat him only if his two legs can develop normally. Now I am not sure if his left leg is necrotic and cant develop. In that case, then It wont happen. Qingmins leg will surely be fine. Shi Qingxue interrupted Shen Luo anxiously. Her tone was certain, even though she didnt know what would happen in the future. However, if she didnt believe her brother, how would she ask others to believe that Shi Qingmin would surely be fine? Shen Luo was shocked by Shi Qingxues firm expression and looked at her in a daze. He had seen this face for many times, and he admitted that her beauty could cause the downfall of cities and countries. However, it was just so-so. Shen Luo had seen some girls who were more beautiful. Only with her face, Shi Qingxue couldnt arouse his feelings. He had a completely new appraisal of her and even respected and endured her only because of Mo Junyang. Nevertheless, when he looked at Shi Qingxue this time, he suddenly had a feeling beyond expression. He felt shy and absent-minded but more disconsolate, with a feeling of loss. Shen Luo didnt dare to think about the meaning hidden in the feelings, so he lowered his head and looked away from Shi Qingxue. He just stated simply, It seems that the first young master doesnt like eating milk, but he cant eat anything except liquid, so I made some sugar water for him. Just tell the wet nurse to feed him then. Okay. Shi Qingxue agreed without hesitation. Then she looked at Shen Luo in confusion, Why did you tell me this? Arent we moving to the villa together later? Of course they had made such an arrangement earlier, yet now Shen Luo thought that he needed to be alone. So he just answered, Anyway, King Ruis mansion is not far away from the villa. I will go there every morning and evening to check the first young masters pulse, and if you and he need my help, you can send for me in King Ruis mansion at any time. Oh, Shi Qingxue responded in depression. She thought that it would be more convenient for Shen Luo to stay in the villa than King Ruis mansion, but he was not her private doctor. Shen Luo wanted to return to King Ruis mansion, so she couldnt stop him selfishly. Thanks for everything, Doctor Shen. Shi Qingxue bowed to Shen Luo again and said in a sincere voice. Shen Luo noticed it and just nodded indifferently. Then he pursed his lips and left the side room. Shi Qingxue still thought about Shi Qingmins condition and what nourishing food she should give him in the future, so he could grow up like an ordinary person. As a result, she didnt notice Shen Luos unusual behavior. In fact, Shi Qingmin suffered more hardships during his life than what they had found now. Shi Qingxue took Shi Qingmin with her and moved to the Lanxun Villa in the northern suburbs. On the same night, he had a high fever. They asked Shen Luo to come at night, and then they looked after the baby for a whole night. The fever was finally reduced, yet the baby started to vomit up everything that he had eaten and even some blood. It was scarier that Shi Qingmin didnt make a sound from beginning to end. He didnt cry or make a noise, as if he couldnt feel the pain. He was like a doll and let anybody fiddle with him, while he was not lively. Shi Qingxue was scared out of wits to see him like this. She was startled yet could do nothing. She could only comfort him in a soft voice when he had a violent convulsion, even though it might be useless. Shen Luo was busy. He came in and out and checked Shi Qingmins pulse, gave him acupuncture, decocted medicinal herbs and fed the baby medicine. After being busy for a morning, he finally finished everything when the winter sun rose. The only thing that made them feel lucky was that Shi Qingmin was obedient all the time. No matter how bad the medicine Shen Luo fed him tasted and how pained he was when he received acupuncture, he endured it silently, and it appeared that there was no untoward effect for now. Is he well now? Shi Qingxue asked with anxiety. Chapter 344 - Only One Brother? Shen Luo wiped away the sweat on his forehead and shook his head. I dont know. Lets wait and see. But he will be fine if he doesnt vomit the medicine. He was still worried and then told a young assistant to decoct the medicinal herbs as he did just now. Then he told the wet nurse, Stay with him. Feed him medicine if he vomits again. No matter what happens, we have to make him take in medicine. The wet nurses family name was Guo, and she was hired by Mo Junyang, so she naturally acted upon whatever Shen Luo said. I see. Shen Luo turned his head, to see that Shi Qingxue looked pale and her thin and weak body trembled slightly with fear or worry. My Lady, you didnt sleep last night. Go and have a rest for a while, Shen Luo advised in a soft voice. Shi Qingxue responded without raising her head, I am fine. Doctor Shen, if you are tired, just have a rest in a guest room, but please stay in this villa till Qingmin recovers. Shen Luo naturally had no objection. When he wanted to persuade Shi Qingxue to have a rest, Mo Junyang walked in. Shen Luo instantly understood that he had no say here, so he quickly put away the things in his medical kit and got up to leave. Not until Mo Junyang walked to her did Shi Qingxue notice the comer. She raised her head slightly and looked at the mans eyes with concern. Then tears fell from her eyes uncontrollably at once. Junyang Qingxue hugged the mans waist and buried her face in his belly. I am afraid. The sobbing voice showed Shi Qingxues frailty. She was really afraid that her brother would die. Mo Junyang hugged Shi Qingxue and almost locked her up in his arms. Dont be afraid. I am here. He held Qingxues face and wiped away the tears on it. Then he kissed her forehead gently without sexual desire. Mo Junyang didnt advise Shi Qingxue to have a rest in her room but sat on the bedside with her and then embraced her. Luo will surely cure your brother, so dont worry. Have a rest His voice was like the softest sedative in the world and entered Shi Qingxues ears, bringing her to a sound sleep. Mo Junyang quietly looked at the girl in his arms. There were still tears on her pale face, and she looked pitiful and fragile. However, he knew that Shi Qingxue was not vulnerable. She was dignified even when she faced death in the previous life. So she acted like this because she trusted and depended on him? Mo Junyang thought with uncertainty yet got happy inevitably. Qingxue The mans murmur was mixed in the silent air and then disappeared. Shen Luo deserved to be a miracle-working doctor, and his superb medical skills brought Shi Qingmin back to life again. Even so, since Shi Qingmin moved to the Lanxun Villa, he suffered from serious diseases or minor illnesses all the time. Although it was not as breathtaking as the first night, he had a fever or vomited from time to time, which was scary and made the people looking after him exhausted. There were many servants in the Lanxun Villa, and later Mo Junyang found some experienced servants to help them. Logically, Shi Qingxue wouldnt be tired except being frightened. However, something troublesome happened. Shi Qingxue had fed Shi Qingmin sugar water in person once when the wet nurse was not free. She wasnt good at taking care of a baby, and the process was in turmoil before she finally fed Shi Qingmin to appetite, so she heaved a sigh of relief. However, in the next days, Shi Qingmin seemed to recognize Shi Qingxue, and he would open his mouth only when she fed him. Otherwise, he wouldnt eat anything. This little babys method of protesting was different from the hateful babies. He didnt cry or make a scene. He only kept his mouth shut and looked at her with his big bright eyes till she had no choice but to get soft-hearted and make a concession. Shi Qingxue served the baby in person for half a month and finally made him fatter. Is there nothing wrong when he only drinks sugar water instead of milk? Only Shi Qingxue who was inexperienced allowed a baby less than one month old to drink sweet sugar water instead of milk all day long. Shen Luo shrugged. We have no choice. He will throw up after eating milk, so he has to sustain life depending on sugar water. When he can eat paste, it will be better. Even though the sugar water Shi Qingmin drank was specially made by Shen Luo, it was not easy for him to grow up if he only drank it. Great. Shi Qingxue finally got relieved and couldnt help but gently pinch Shi Qingmins cheek with some flesh, saying with a smile, After one month, you have finally gained some weight. Its a pity that you are still like a noble lady and dont talk. Perhaps habit made things natural. When Shi Qingxue saw the birthmark on little Qingmins face, she wasnt scared. Moreover, she would caress his face without a frown, even though he was still ugly. Nevertheless, the little baby who was one-month old had never made a sound. If Shen Luo didnt say that Qingmins vocal cords were fine, Shi Qingxue would worry that he was dumb. He has suffered a lot. I just hope that his life in the future will be easier. As soon as Shi Qingxue finished her words, a servant came in to report that the Shi family sent somebody to see her. Qingxue was joyful. Did Father tell somebody to take us back to the mansion as Mother recovers? She got up and walked out quickly. Shen Luo looked at Shi Qingxues happy face and couldnt bear to let her out because she would be disillusioned after she went out. But would nothing happen if she stayed in the Lanxun Villa and ignored everything? It was just to cheat herself and others like a coward. He sighed deeply and walked to the parlor with Shi Qingxue. It was still Mammy Zheng who had come. As soon as Shi Qingxue saw the comer, the smile on her face faded. What are you doing here? Mammy Zheng didnt dare to act recklessly because Shi Qingxue had taught her a lesson last time. She answered obediently, Madam told me to come. She said that you have stayed in the villa for so long, so you should come back home, My Lady. Mother told me to go back home? Shi Qingxue was surprised, yet the smile on her face couldnt be concealed. Mammy Zheng also smiled and nodded repeatedly. Madam misses you a lot and the feast celebrating the first month of the young master will be held in a few days. It will be improper if you dont join it. Shi Qingxue was stunned and then suddenly looked up at Mammy Zheng, with her eyes as sharp as blades, which shocked the old maid. Mammy Zheng stuttered and started to beg for mercy. Thats what Madam said. She almost cried. This time, she didnt say anything improper but did as Dong Hui ordered. Why did the young lady glare at her again? Shi Qingxue was young and looked lovely and harmless at ordinary times, while once she got mad, her glance was enough to make others shudder with fear. Mammy Zheng reached this conclusion after she confronted Shi Qingxue several times. If possible, she didnt want to talk with this young lady. Shi Qingxues eyes turned cold, and she stared at Mammy Zheng, seeming to wonder whether what the old maid said was true. After a long time, she looked away and asked unhurriedly, The feast celebrating the first month of my little brother? What about Qingmin? Mammy Zheng looked at Shi Qingxue hesitantly and didnt know what to say. My Lady, its not that I show disrespect for the first young master, but Madams attitude is obvious. I really Mammy Zheng didnt dare to disrespect Shi Qingmin this time. However, no matter how respectful Mammy Zheng was to Shi Qingmin, the masters were decision-makers. Dong Hui had never mentioned Shi Qingmin from beginning to end and obviously wanted to take him as an invisible person, so how dare they mention him to offend her? Enough. Stop talking! Shi Qingxue interrupted Mammy Zheng coldly and got up, walking out. Mammy Zheng was frightened and hurriedly followed her. My Lady, where are you going? Didnt my mother tell me to return home? It happens that I have something to talk about with her. Shi Qingxue looked distant. Then she leered at Mammy Zheng with a faint smile. Or Mother doesnt allow me to return home now? No. How is it possible? Madam misses you all the time, My Lady. Mammy Zheng smiled flatteringly with caution as she was afraid that she would irritate Shi Qingxue again. Shi Qingxue didnt want to talk with Mammy Zheng anymore, so she returned to Duke Shis mansion directly. It happened that some people from the Dong family had come. Dong Huis father Dong Biren and mother Ouyang Yuxin were in the East House and surrounded their grandson, laughing heartily. Dong Hui laughed most happily among them. This was her son. It was a son of her and Shi Junhe. Although Shi Junhe didnt care when she didnt give birth to a son in the past, and he loved her two daughters a lot, a woman who had no son was not intact in this era under the external environment. Dong Hui had been annoyed and laughed at by many people because of this matter. Now she could finally hold her head high, and she would hold the feast celebrating Tianyous first month in a big way and invite all the noble ladies who had mocked at her in the past to embarrass them. Huh, those mean people said that she couldnt give birth to a son. When Shi Qingxue walked in, she saw the harmonious scene. All people present congratulated Dong Hui on her sons birth and talked in high spirits. Shi Qingxue looked hesitant and stood at the door in silence. Although she was furious, she hesitated when she saw the happy smiles of Dong Hui and the others. Would she walk in and dampen all peoples spirits? Was it proper? Shi Qingxue pondered for nearly fifteen minutes and shook her head secretly in the end, planning to talk with Dong Hui another day. Qingxue, you are back! Dong Biren found Shi Qingxue first and stopped her. Qingxue couldnt turn to leave, so she smiled faintly and came in, greeting all people present. She knew well about herself. Since she couldnt force herself to smile and be happy with them, she would pretend to be invisible. However, Dong Hui didnt let her go but grabbed her hand excitedly, saying with a smile, You are finally back. I was afraid that you would enjoy yourself outside so much as to forget everything and be unwilling to come home. You have only one brother. If you dont join the feast celebrating his first month, I will be mad at you. Chapter 345 - Three Requirements Only one brother? Shi Qingxue exploded at once after hearing Dong Huis words. She couldnt control herself anymore but questioned loudly, Mother, as you say something like this, what do you think Qingmin is? How can you bear to treat your biological child in this way? Her two questions were straightforward and piercing, making Dong Huis smile frozen on her face. She looked at Shi Qingxue in embarrassment and couldnt speak. After recuperating for nearly one month, Dong Hui got much better than she had been when she gave birth to the babies. Although she was still unwilling to admit that the monster was her son, when somebody questioned her, she looked awkward inevitably. For a moment, all people in the room stopped talking and laughing, and they were quiet and confused. Dong Biren didnt understand Shi Qingxues words. Who is Qingmin? Isnt Huis son named Tianyou? After hearing Dong Birens words, Shi Qingxue suddenly realized in surprise that her mother could do something like this. She didnt admit Shi Qingmins existence but even planned to keep him a secret in front of outsiders Even the Dong family didnt know Shi Qingmin. How could Shi Qingxue expect that outsiders would know that there was a young master named Shi Qingmin in the Shi family? She glanced at Shi Junhe who kept silent, with a serious expression, seeming to question him or expect something. Dong Hui refused to admit Shi Qingmin. Would Shi Junhe hide this son as she wished? Shi Junhe had a blush on his old face under Shi Qingxues sharp eyes, so he couldnt control himself but told Dong Biren everything. Dong Biren was astonished. So, I have one more grandson, and he is raised in Qingxues villa now? Right. Shi Junhe felt ashamed and didnt dare to meet Dong Birens eyes. It seemed that he would be stabbed if he glanced at the old man. Dong Biren guessed everything roughly from the Shi familys weird attitude and Shi Junhes evasive explanation, yet he didnt express his opinion at once. He just turned to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue looked at all people, saying seriously and firmly, I dont care about what you are thinking about. Shi Qingmin is my brother and a legitimate descendant who will be registered in the pedigree of the Shi family in the future. Nobody can deny it. No! Dong Hui denied it resolutely. She spoke out her exaggerated words again just to scare people. Thats a monster. If we accept him, how about Tianyou? We cant allow him to harm Tianyou. I will never allow something like this. Harm? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but sneer. It was her first time to show her disdain for Dong Huis ignorance. She raised her brows and squinted at her mother, saying in a distant voice, If Qingmin didnt absorb the poison in your body when he was a fetus, do you think that you and Tianyou would be so safe and sound? Even though Qingmin is always sick and not good-looking, you and Tianyou are the last people who qualify to call him monster. He has become like this because he bore the pain for you. She stressed each incisive word and told the truth in a sad and shrill voice. She showed the most unendurable fact to Dong Hui and made her have nowhere to hide. Shi Qingmin was just a little baby less than one month old. He couldnt feel the pain or cry, nor did he even know what had happened. Because of his mothers persistence, he stayed alive as a disabled baby, yet he was disdained by his parents. Such pain was enough to make people grieve even when they thought about it. Shi Qingxue felt lucky as Shi Qingmin was only a little baby and didnt know anything, so he couldnt feel the pain. However, she couldnt bear to see that the most innocent baby was treated unfairly. Dong Hui wanted to present a false appearance of peace and prosperity, while Shi Qingxue would reveal all the truth. No. Its not true. Dong Hui opened her eyes wide. It was the first time for her to hear the truth, yet she denied it before thinking it over. She couldnt accept such an answer. Shi Qingxue didnt give her a chance to dodge but snorted. Doctor Shen and Qingmin are in the mansion. If you dont believe it, you can ask. Mother, because you were unwell earlier and I didnt want you to bother about these things, I hid the truth, but She sighed deeply and looked at Dong Hui, with her sad eyes. Mother, you have gone too far. No, I didnt. Dong Hui argued subconsciously and tried to find a reason to defend herself. I did that for Tianyou. I cant, I cant let Tianyou is your child, but Qingmin is not? Shi Qingxue mentioned the key point incisively. Her question made Dong Hui speechless again and lower her head blushingly. At the moment, Dong Biren stated, Since Qingmin is Tianyous twin brother, you should celebrate for both of them, and you cant be partial. Dong Biren was of the highest rank in seniority in the family, and he was strict, with prestige. Once he made a judgment, no matter what the others thought about, they had to do as he said. Dong Hui acted upon whatever her father said since childhood, and it was no exception this time. However, at the thought of Shi Qingmin, Dong Hui couldnt help but tremble, even though the baby was her savior in some sense. She didnt want to have more contact with him. It was too scary, and Dong Hui suddenly thought of something and then changed her mind. Okay. I can admit that the monsbaby is the first young master of the Shi family, yet I have three requirements. What requirements? Shi Junhe asked in a hurry. These days, he always thought about how to reconcile Dong Hui with their first son. Now Dong Hui finally agreed. Even if her requirements were difficult to meet, he would have a try. Firstly, all people have seen that babys physical condition, so even though he is the first young master of the family, the title of Duke Shis heir is Tianyous. After she said that, nobody had any objections. Although in Mo Country, generally, the first legitimate son would inherit the title of nobility, the family master had the right to select another heir, in case that the family would be declining in the future as the heir made no attempt to make progress or his aptitude was mediocre. Shi Qingmin and Shi Tianyou were still babies, and their aptitudes couldnt be seen, but Shi Qingmins physical condition was obvious, so he had no competitive power. Shi Junhe just glanced at Shi Qingxue and then agreed. Okay. When Tianyou is one year old, I will report to His Majesty and ask him to title Tianyou as Duke Shis heir. Dong Hui nodded with satisfaction and then continued, Secondly, I can raise Shi Qingmin till he comes of age as the first young master according to the family rules and give him enough money for the future life after he grows up, yet the family property belongs to Tianyou, and Qingmin cant covet it. According to the laws of Mo Country, the heir would inherit the ancestral mansion and the things passed down from the ancestors specially to the heir as well as three fourths of the family property, while the other sons shared one fourth equally. It protected the heirs right of inheritance to a large extent. However, Dong Hui meant that they would only give Shi Qingmin some money and then drive him away after he grew up, and then Shi Tianyou would own all the family property. She was so partial. Shi Qingxue felt angry again, yet soon she thought, Although Mother is partial to Tianyou in her requirement, we are all their children. Our parents gave birth to us and raised us, which is a big favor, so they can give their property to anybody as they like, and the children can only accept it with gratitude. How can we covet our parents property? She pursed her lips and restrained her reluctance while nodding. The family property belongs to you and Father. We should respect your wish no matter how you want to make arrangements for it. Dong Hui smiled more happily and spoke out the next words more freely. As for the third point, because Shi Qingmin lives outside since he was born, wed better not change it. I can tell the servants to clean up a good villa for him to live. After he grows up, the villa will be given to him as his home, so he doesnt need to rush about. She said that as if she gave Shi Qingmin alms. However, after hearing that, Shi Qingxue turned pale and glared at Dong Hui in disbelief. What did you say? Dong Hui looked away with guilt and avoided seeing Shi Qingxue. Anyway, I have mentioned my requirements. Its up to you whether you agree. Tianyou must be hungry, and I have to breastfeed him. After saying that, no matter what others said, Dong Hui hurriedly walked into the inner room with Tianyou in her arms. She walked quickly, as if an evil ghost were chasing her. The people in the outer room kept quiet. It seemed that they hadnt understood the three requirements Dong Hui mentioned. Especially the last one, she obviously wanted Shi Qingmin to be separate from the Shi family from the beginning. He was the first young master of the Shi family in name, but he had to live alone far away from the family. It was fine for a grownup, yet Shi Qingmin was just a baby less than one month old. She has gone too far. I dont agree. Shi Qingxue tried her best to fight for what Shi Qingmin should get. She hoped that Dong Hui could accept Shi Qingmin. Besides his identity, which was important, she hoped that he could live with the Shi family and be taken better care of. However, Dong Hui was so heartless as to expel Shi Qingmin. She had gone too far. Shi Junhe looked at Shi Qingxues angry face and sighed helplessly in secret. He stayed with Dong Hui all the time these days and knew what his wife bothered about. From the bottom of her heart, Dong Hui thought that Shi Qingmin brought ill luck to her and Shi Tianyou and that he would make them unpeaceful as long as he got close to them. Even though she knew that Shi Qingmin was only a scapegoat, this thought didnt fade. It was not surprising that Dong Hui would try every means to drive Shi Qingmin away even though she agreed to admit his identity. Shi Junhe pondered for a long time and then talked to Shi Qingxue in the end, Qingxue, this thing He didnt dare to meet his daughters eyes but only added with difficulty, Just agree with your mother. Shi Qingxue was shocked. She opened her eyes wider and could hardly believe that her father she loved and respected would act evilly in collusion with her mother in this thing. Why? Your mother has her considerations. Dont insist, okay? Shi Junhe finally raised his head and met Shi Qingxues eyes. Chapter 346 - He Won’t Be Disappointed If He Doesn’t Expect Anything Shi Junhe had tears in his eyes. Sadness and helplessness filled his pupils, and Shi Qingxue felt heartbroken to see that. Qingxue had never seen Shi Junhe show such complicated emotions. Even though she had nowhere to vent her depression, she couldnt bear to make things difficult for her father. But Qingmin If you worry that the environments in all the villas of our family are not good enough, I can buy another villa which is fit to live in and then send the most capable servants and those good at taking care of a baby in our mansion to the villa. And we will provide food, clothes and daily necessities in time. Anyway, I wont make Qingmin suffer. Shi Junhe correctly guessed what Shi Qingxue was worried about and made the best arrangements. Dont worry. Qingmin is my son. I wont treat him unfairly anyway. Just trust me, okay? Since Shi Junhe begged Shi Qingxue in a humble tone, she had to make a concession no matter how resentful she was. She turned away and didnt want to look at Shi Junhe. Then she just said in a hoarse voice, Qingmin is still waiting for me in the villa. I will bring him back at the feast. Shi Junhe knew that Shi Qingxue agreed to Dong Huis three requirements. So he sighed with relief. Although he knew that Dong Hui would be unhappy to see Shi Qingmin at the feast for the babies completion of their first month of life, he didnt want to think about so much. He nodded repeatedly. Okay, okay. You must come back then. After saying that, Shi Junhe looked at Shi Qingxue hesitantly. He wanted to say something yet stopped himself. Qingxue, you Shi Qingxue understood Shi Junhes hesitation, but she still complained in secret about her fathers arrangement, so she didnt speak on behalf of him considerately like she would do as usual. Shi Junhe smiled bitterly and then stated, Qingxue, I will tell the servants to take good care of Qingmin. Please move back home. When you are not home, it is not so lively. As Shi Junhe begged her softly, Shi Qingxue knew that her father missed her all the time, and then she wasnt mad at him anymore. Her anger disappeared soon. However, she didnt agree immediately. After a long while, she pursed her lips and replied in a low voice, I will consider it. Afterward, she left. Shi Qingxue left the Lanxun Villa in a hurry, and she came back in a rush, too. She did it not just to avoid the affairs in Duke Shis mansion. A baby would get hungry easily, and Shi Tianyou was like this, so Shi Qingmin was certainly the same. Moreover, Shi Qingmin didnt eat milk, and the sugar water was not nutritious enough, so he would be hungry more frequently than those at the same age. Shi Qingmin was finicky when Shi Qingxue raised him. He would rather be hungry than drink the sugar water fed by others, so Shi Qingxue returned to the Lanxun Villa in haste after deciding the related matters. She was afraid that the little baby would be hungry. In fact, this was what made her hesitate most when Shi Junhe asked her softly to return to the mansion. If she was not here, who would spoil Shi Qingmin? The first thing Shi Qingxue did after she came back was comfort Shi Qingmin. She was busy with everything and finally heaved a sigh of relief after she rocked the baby to sleep. It happened that Mo Junyang came, so Shi Qingxue told him in depression what had happened today. Qingxue was not satisfied with the result of the negotiation, but she couldnt figure out a way to make Dong Hui change her mind. She had seen how stubborn her mother was. Junyang, what do you think I should do? Shi Qingxue rested her head on Mo Junyangs shoulder and asked gloomily. Mo Junyang was happy as the beauty threw herself on him, so he conveniently held her in his arms. Then he waved away the servants and stated casually, It depends on what effect you want. Shi Qingxue was stunned and raised her head from Mo Junyangs arms. She knew that since Mo Junyang said that, he had a way to satisfy her, but when she looked at him, she couldnt speak a word. She couldnt speak out what she wanted. Did she want Shi Qingmin to have an identity? Dong Hui had admitted that Shi Qingmin was the first young master of the family. Did she want to give Shi Qingmin a better living environment? Shi Junhe had made a promise. Then what else did she want? I just Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and said with a lot of effort, I just want to take Qingmin back to Duke Shis mansion and let him enjoy the treatment as the first young master. Hmm, more than a good life materially, I want him to see his parents and not to be alone. Mo Junyang pondered for a moment and then expressed, If you want Qingmin to live at home, it is easy. Shi Qingxues eyes lit up at once, and she fixed her eyes on Mo Junyang, with expectancy and desire. However, you need to know something, Mo Junyang added unhurriedly. He didnt keep her in suspense but continued in a deep and indifferent voice, Your mother doesnt like Qingmin and repels him from the bottom of her heart. Even if I make Qingmin return to the family, she wont care about him sincerely but may even Mistreat him. Mo Junyang didnt make it clear. Instead, he reminded her, Dont say that a child doesnt know anything. On the contrary, the child is more sensitive. If Qingmin knows how his mother treats him and that she even almost killed him because she was disgusted with him, do you think that he will be happy? No, he wouldnt. Shi Qingxue was speechless after hearing Mo Junyangs evident yet incisive questions. She had never considered such a question, but she had to attach importance to it after Mo Junyang mentioned it. She did hope that Shi Qingmin could be loved by his parents, yet she couldnt force something like this. If she demanded forcefully, she might push Shi Qingmin into another fiery pit. But if Qingmin is raised in a villa, after he grows up, he will know that his parents dont love him and that he is not valued, right? Shi Qingxue asked in frustration. Mo Junyang shook his head and his eyes became deep. How would he be disappointed if he doesnt expect anything? If Shi Qingmin didnt expect his parents love from the beginning, Duke Shi and his wife would be only his parents in name, and there was no kinship between them, so he wouldnt be sad after he was treated coldly. Shi Qingxue held her breath as Mo Junyangs explanation made her feel cold. She suddenly thought of what had happened to Mo Junyang in the previous life. In the previous life, Mo Junyang was abandoned by all people from the beginning, and he suffered hardships and experienced the fickleness of human nature at an early age. Shi Qingxue didnt know if Mo Junyang had expected something, nor did she dare to imagine what this man thought about. However, she knew that the fact that he was distant to affairs of human life had something to do with what had happened to him when he was a child. It happened to prove that he wouldnt be disappointed if he didnt expect anything. Shi Qingxue finally accepted Mo Junyangs words and stopped thinking about letting Shi Qingmin return to the Shi family. However, she didnt feel better but got more depressed. Junyang, you Qingxue opened her mouth and wanted to ask about the mans childhood experiences that she didnt know, yet when she was going to ask, she couldnt speak it out. No matter what had happened in the past, the consequence was shown. If she did that, it would almost expose Mo Junyangs healed wounds again and show the fresh blood. Was it proper? Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see that, so she had to hold back her words. What do you want to ask? Mo Junyangs deep voice emerged beside Shi Qingxues ear. Qingxue was shocked and looked up at Mo Junyang, yet she avoided the mans deep eyes with guilt when she saw them. No, nothing. How would she have the nerve to tell Mo Junyang that she planned to dig into his wounds because she selfishly wanted to know his past? However, Mo Junyang turned her face back forcefully and looked at her seriously. I can tell you anything that you want to know. He paused for a moment and then added, I am not forced. Really? Shi Qingxue was uncertain. She always thought that Mo Junyang accommodated himself to her wish. She had this feeling since long ago. She would be glad and even complacent then. However, now she didnt feel happy but became more afraid. Shi Qingxue couldnt help wondering if she really deserved Mo Junyangs love for her. What would she repay him with? When Shi Qingxue was in a dead corner of hesitation, Mo Junyang gently hugged her shoulder. Their faces clung to each other, and they hugged in the most intimate way. I will give you anything that you want, with pleasure. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak. It seemed that something was stuffed in her heart, and it was full yet stuffy. Mo Junyang smiled at her and continued, I just want youto love me more, okay? It was Shi Qingxues first time to hear Mo Junyang express his feelings to her so frankly, while it was so simple. He just wanted her to love him? Shi Qingxue couldnt stand it anymore. She hugged Mo Junyangs neck and embraced him tightly, shouting in a sobbing voice, I love you. I love you alone. When Shi Qingxue couldnt see it, there was finally a smile in the mans distant eyes. Nevertheless, he still asked in a flat voice with no feeling, Do you want to know my past? Shi Qingxue nodded and then hurriedly shook her head as she seemed to think of something. In fact, I dont want to know it so much. If it will make you unhappy, dont tell me. In fact, I want to tell you, Mo Junyang said with regret. Shi Qingxues eyes lit up at once. Say it. I want to hear. After she said that, she regretted being so plain-spoken. How could she say that so soon? As expected, Mo Junyang smiled, but he just stated, Hmm, I can tell you everything. He held her in his arms gently, as if holding the only treasure in the world. He just cherished her. In fact, its nothing. Since I was young, I knew that I was born to King Ruis wife and the emperor, as I heard it when that woman talked with her trusted maid in secret. She wanted to live a better life in the imperial palace and even She even coveted something that didnt belong to her. Mo Junyang knew that his mother was ambitious. It was a pity that she was unlucky and died before her wish came true. Chapter 347 - The Conjectures at the Feast Shi Qingxue was surprised to hear Mo Junyangs words. I thought that you didnt know it until the truth was exposed. Mo Junyang sneered and shook his head. If I hadnt known it until then, I might have died for thousands of times without knowing why. So you Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and suddenly thought that she didnt know what to say. So she stopped talking and listened to Mo Junyang carefully. In the previous life, after King Ruis wife died, the emperor didnt know my relationship with him, so he just took me as a hostage to control my father and raised me in the imperial palace, telling the other princes to bully me willfully as long as they didnt take my life. Those days, I lived a hard life. Mo Junyang just casually described his most miserable period of life as a hard life, yet Shi Qingxue knew that he had suffered much more than what he said. And she didnt even dare to imagine. I am sorry. I didnt help you but even Shi Qingxue apologized with guilt. She really wished that she could return to the previous life and treat Mo Junyang well, so would he suffer less? Mo Junyang covered Shi Qingxues red lips with his hand and shook his head, chuckling. I have said that you dont need to say sorry to me, really. What I experienced in the previous life was bad, but it benefited me. If he didnt suffer the hardships those years, Mo Junyang might not be like this. So even though he didnt like the past, he had never felt resentful at it. After hearing Mo Junyangs words, Shi Qingxue was stunned and then understood gradually. Right, to them, probably there were many things unpleasant in the past. However, because of those things, they became like this. When she lost the memories about the previous life and became the sixth young lady who didnt know the hardships in the world, Mo Junyang couldnt accept it. Wasnt it because of this? Shi Qingxue finally got relieved. She hugged Mo Junyang, and a smile like the first sunshine after rain was shown on her cloudy face. It made people feel warm like the bright and dazzling sun. They embraced each other quietly. Although there were different kinds of unpredicted difficulties and hazards ahead, at the moment, they just needed a hug before they relaxed. The feast celebrating the first month of the twins was held in Duke Shis mansion. That day, all the influential noble families in the capital attended the feast, and even several princes drank some wine to do Duke Shi an honor before leaving. The emperor rewarded Duke Shi with a lot of gifts to congratulate him. These actions firmed Shi Junhes position as the first nobleman in the capital city undoubtedly. Those people who had laughed at Duke Shi behind his back as he would have no heir started to feel embarrassed after seeing the fair-skinned and fat young master Shi Tianyou. Then they began to praise the young master as he was nice, of dignified bearing and had a bright future at a glance and would surely be a talented person. Anyway, they praised him randomly and didnt care if it was practical to give the compliments to a baby who was only one month old. Shi Qingxue brought Shi Qingmin to the feast. In order not to let people see the birthmark on his face, she refused the wet nurse politely and held him in her arms all the time. The thick brocade clothes happened to cover little Qingmins cheek, and Mo Junyang stood beside her from beginning to end, so the people who wanted to flatter them didnt dare to act recklessly. They glanced at Qingmin in the distance and then praised him no matter if they saw his face clearly. It wouldnt be wrong to say something nice. Shi Qingxue held Qingmin and accepted the compliments calmly, expressing thanks to them on behalf of him. The feast was held successfully, and nobody noticed something unusual. The outsiders didnt find that the first young master of the Shi family was an ugly and disabled baby. Even the Shi family didnt know that there was something wrong with Shi Qingmins leg, except the servants who had taken care of him. Shi Qingxue just hoped that Shi Qingmin could keep his pride and live a good life. Unexpectedly, her action at the feast was a different sign in outsiders eyes. Is what you said true? A petty official who came to work in the capital not long ago asked a big shot who claimed to be well-informed in this city in a low voice. The big shot raised his chin and asked complacently, Why would I cheat you? Havent you seen that Lord Shi has two sons this time? Obviously the first son is favored. But I saw that the second young master showed his face in front of more people and got more compliments. It appears that he will inherit the title of nobility. The petty official said what he had seen with uncertainty. The big shot glanced at the petty official with disdain and almost said with his eyes that the latter was short-sighted. The petty official hurriedly looked as if he were in fear and trepidation and listened to the big shots unique opinion. The big shots vanity was satisfied, and he spoke in a more casual tone. The second young master had more chances to show his face in public, but I think that it might be a deceptive trick. Didnt you see that he was held by a wet nurse and shown to the guests no matter how precious he is? The first young master is different. He was held by Lady Qingxue in person and introduced to others. It can be seen that the Shi family values this baby a lot. The big shot made a long speech and analyzed clearly and logically, which made the petty official look confused, yet he couldnt fully understand. The big shot patted the petty officials head and stated furiously in a low voice, Idiot, you dont even understand this. You must know the man next to Lady Qingxue, right? The petty official nodded. He is King Ruis heir, the most influential official nowadays. I have heard that His Majesty and the crown prince rely heavily on his service. Lady Qingxue is this mans future wife, and their marriage was granted by His Majesty. She is deeply loved by the man. Didnt you see that he stayed with her almost all the time today? The petty official was still puzzled. So what? You are incurably stupid. The big shot was angry as the other party was disappointing and stressed, With His Excellencys support, Lady Qingxue stands for the attitude of Duke Shis family to a great extent. In this case, cant you guess which young master is more favored and more likely to inherit the title of Duke Shi? The petty official looked suddenly enlightened. So the first young master is more hopeful. Of course. After all, he is the first legitimate son, so he is more favored logically, but the Shi family tries to cover it up. Perhaps they are afraid that the first young master will bring trouble on himself easily if he is too famous, so they push the second young master out. I have to say that the noble families are insidious and will reach a goal by hook or by crook. The big shot sighed with emotion in a feigned manner. The petty official also sighed. The two thought that they knew the Shi familys secret, so they started to look scared, as if they were afraid that they would be killed to cover up the secret as the witnesses after being found. Even they made such conjectures, and what would the other noblemen who considered things more deeply think about? Shi Qingxue didnt know the misunderstanding. After the feast celebrating the first month of the twins, Shi Qingxue didnt live in Duke Shis mansion but brought Shi Qingmin back to the Lanxun Villa at night. Shi Junhe considerately made arrangements for Shi Qingmins food, clothes and daily necessities as he had promised. He wouldnt make little Qingmin suffer from injustice materially. Because he felt guilty, he even gave Shi Qingmin more things than what should be given to the first son. Shi Qingxue accepted these things on behalf of Shi Qingmin. She noticed Shi Junhes guilt and worry, so she wasnt mad at him anymore. Even so, Shi Qingxue didnt move to the house with Shi Qingmin that Shi Junhe prepared for them but still lived in the Lanxun Villa. Firstly, the Lanxun Villa was not worse than the house Shi Junhe prepared, and it was better because of the excellent location and convenient transportation. Secondly, Shi Qingmin had lived in the Lanxun Villa for nearly one month, and he was accustomed to it, while Shen Luo advised them not to change the babys living environment easily. The last reason was that Mo Junyang had changed the Lanxun Villa a lot these days, which was customized for Shi Qingmin, so Shi Qingxue would live up to his kindness. Therefore, she lived with Shi Qingmin in the Lanxun Villa at ease. It was the Clear and Bright Day on April 5th. It was a good time for a spring outing besides sweeping tombs to pay respects to the dead on this day every year. Generally, a princess would organize a spring outing on Moon Mountain at this time in former years. Shi Qingxue had been invited by Mo Yuzhen to Moon Mountain for several times. However, since the third prince Mo Junjiu passed way, Mo Yuzhen always stayed in her mansion and seldom went out. Shi Qingxue had sent letters to the princesss mansion for a few times and asked to visit her, yet she failed. She knew that because of Mo Junjius death, their friendship came to an end. The other princesses in the imperial palace were unwilling to take the job to organize a spring outing this year. Qingxue thought that it wouldnt be arranged, but the Empress Dowager Ling Ruiyin took up the matter in the end unexpectedly. Ling Ruiyin personally decided to have the spring outing on Moon Mountain. Shi Qingxue had to take care of Shi Qingmin, so she wanted to ask for leave and avoid attending it. However, before she had time to put her intention into practice, the Empress Dowagers personal maid Mammy Chang came to the Lanxun Villa in person to forward the oral instruction. My Lady, Her Majesty invited you to the spring outing on Moon Mountain on April 5th. Shi Qingxue smiled in embarrassment under Mammy Changs stare. Her Majestys invitation has been sent to me. Why did you bother to come personally, Mammy Chang? Mammy Chang showed a warm smile and told the truth frankly. Her Majesty cares about you a lot, so she told me to come, in case that you forget it because you are busy with something else. Gee, Shi Qingxue didnt plan to go. However, she couldnt tell Mammy Chang something like this. Shi Qingxue had to say with a serious expression, How dare I refuse Her Majestys invitation? Please tell her that I will be on Moon Mountain on time. While speaking, she gave a little money bag to Mammy Chang in private and didnt allow her to refuse. Mammy Chang could serve the Empress Dowager for so long, and she wouldnt be tempted by so little money. She even disdained some people who flattered her at ordinary times. Nevertheless, it was given by Shi Qingxue, so Mammy Chang accepted it happily, with a sincerer smile on her face. My Lady, its great that you remember it. I will tell Her Majesty. If there is nothing, I have to say goodbye. After seeing Mammy Chang off, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but murmur. Although Ling Ruiyin always liked her, it was the first time for her to tell Mammy Chang to specially send a message in private. There must be something wrong as it was unusual. What did the Empress Dowager want to do this time? Chapter 348 - I Will Introduce Somebody to You Shi Qingxue was confused and wanted to talk with somebody, yet she found that Mo Junyang was busy these days and hadnt been to the Lanxun Villa for a period. Even though she had a lot of questions, she couldnt talk with anybody. As soon as she had this thought, she couldnt help but disdain herself. She and Mo Junyang would do their own jobs when they were busy, and it was normal that they didnt see each other. In the past, she didnt think that there was nothing wrong, but as she hadnt seen him for many days suddenly, she was uncomfortable and had a feeling of loss. Gee, I am really spoilt. Shi Qingxue pouted with displeasure. Even she couldnt tell whether she was unhappy with Mo Junyang or herself. Mo Junyang was not here, nor did she want to talk with somebody else, so she put everything aside in the end. She would play to the score. When it happened, she would have a solution. But what should you do, little thing? Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Qingmin sleeping soundly in the small bed and showed a bitter smile helplessly. Till now, the little baby would refuse to eat anything unless she fed him. The spring outing picnic would cost her half a day at least. Shi Qingmin couldnt live without eating anything for half a day, right? However, it was unrealistic to bring the baby to the spring outing picnic. I dont know what I should do to you? Did I spoil you? Shi Qingxue pinched Shi Qingmins little nose gently and sighed with emotion helplessly. It was her first time to take care of a baby, and she couldnt control it well. She just wanted to give the best things to him. Moreover, Shi Qingmin had suffered a lot since he was born, so she couldnt bear to let him suffer more. Shi Qingxue pondered for a while yet couldnt figure out a way. In the end, she was defeated as she was soft-hearted. On the day of the spring outing picnic, she fed Shi Qingmin sugar water before she set out, and then she asked Shen Luo and the wet nurse to bring the baby to Moon Mountain. Of course, she wasnt muddle-headed. She told them to wait in the carriage, and she would check the time and find a way to go away sneakily from the picnic. As soon as Shi Qingxue got out of the carriage, a maid sent by Ling Ruiyin welcomed her. My Lady, the Empress Dowager asked you to see her. Even Shi Qingxue was flattered and surprised as the Empress Dowager was so anxious to see her. She was surprised and scared. What did the Empress Dowager want to do this time? Shi Qingxue smiled at the maid and asked her to lead the way. When the maid turned her head, Shi Qingxue looked depressed automatically. My Lady. Obviously Xia Mang noticed that this spring outing picnic was unusual, and she looked at Shi Qingxue worriedly. After a while, she suggested in a low voice, Shall I send for His Excellency? Shi Qingxue was speechless. What the hell? She had a bad habit that she would look for Mo Junyang unconsciously when something happened. Why did her maid think of sending for His Excellency as soon as there was something wrong? Shi Qingxue rubbed Xia Mangs nose helplessly. Why should you send for him? Xia Mang was speechless and looked at Shi Qingxue blankly. She said that subconsciously. On second thought, even though Mo Junyang was the young ladys future husband, it was improper to ask him for help no matter what happened. Fine. I lived the same life when he was not around me in the past. Dont worry. Shi Qingxue waved at Xia Mang. Stay here and take good care of Qingmin. I can go there by myself. Afterward, she followed that maid and went to see Ling Ruiyin. When Ling Ruiyin saw Shi Qingxue, she grabbed the girls hand warmly and said gently, Little Qingxue, you havent come to see me since long ago. Dont you want to see me? Of course yes. Shi Qingxue was uncomfortable as Ling Ruiyin was uncommonly hospitable, so she hurriedly explained, Many things happened in my family lately, so I was too busy to go out and didnt enter the imperial palace to greet you frequently. Please forgive me, Your Majesty. I certainly wont blame you. Ling Ruiyin smiled more amiably. She pulled Shi Qingxue to her and inquired after her well-being for quite a while. She even asked about her two newborn brothers. After getting the satisfying answers, she chuckled. Little Qingxue, I have watched you grow up, and you are the future wife of King Ruis heir. You will be closer to the royal family and call me grandma in the future, so you cant be distant to me. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and answered obediently, I wont. I knew that you are the loveliest child. Ling Ruiyin seemed to be satisfied with Shi Qingxue and praised her continuously. Even though Shi Qingxue often accepted Ling Ruiyins love and compliments, she thought that the Empress Dowagers actions were weird. More exaggeratedly, the empress Liang Jingxian who always disliked Shi Qingxue in the past echoed Ling Ruiyin today and praised her without precedent. Shi Qingxue could see that the empresss smile was not forced. She was scared by the empresss smile and felt that it was strange. What did Empress Liang want to do? Qingxue, why didnt you hang out with your friend Yuzhen recently? Liang Jingxian suddenly asked. Qingxue was stunned and looked at Liang Jingxian, with her questioning eyes. This woman mentioned what annoyed Shi Qingxue. She knew that Shi Qingxue almost fell out with Mo Yuzhen since Mo Junjiu died but still had the face to talk about Mo Yuzhen with her? However, in front of so many people, Shi Qingxue couldnt embarrass the empress. She replied politely, Yuzhen is not feeling well these days and doesnt want to go out. I am not concerned about my daughter enough. I dont know it unexpectedly. Liang Jingxian pretended to be sad and sighed in a low voice. It appeared that she really felt guilty. Nevertheless, such a false appearance lasted only for several seconds. Then she looked worried and talked to Ling Ruiyin, Qingxue is on good terms with Yuzhen all the time. She will be bored for a long time as Yuzhen is not here today. As she said, it seemed that Shi Qingxue had only one friend Mo Yuzhen and couldnt have fun when she was not present. There were too many words which made Shi Qingxue want to make complaints, and she didnt know where to start. However, Ling Ruiyin seemed to believe Liang Jingxians words and nodded. Indeed, Qingxue looks quieter than before. It was because Shi Qingxue was summoned by the Empress Dowager as soon as she came to the picnic. No matter how many friends Shi Qingxue had, nobody would stop her from seeing the Empress Dowager first. Shi Qingxue made complaints in secret but had to smile faintly. I am fine. Why? Ling Ruiyin rebuked softly and thought that Shi Qingxue forced herself to smile happily. Then she said without demur, Qingxue, I will introduce another good friend to you today. Spend more time with her in the future, and then you wont be lonely. Shi Qingxue was speechless, with surprise flashing in her eyes, but because she lowered her head, nobody saw it. She asked in a clear and doubtful voice, Your Majesty, who do you mean? Ling Ruiyin winked at Liang Jingxian, and the latter pushed a young girl dressed in pink clothes beside her to Shi Qingxue. Liang Jingxian introduced with a smile, Her name is Liang Zixin. She is my niece, seventeen years old. She is at the same age as you and several months younger than you. Come on, Zixin. Dont be shy. Come to see Qingxue. While speaking, Liang Jingxian pushed the young girl to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue looked at the young girls shy and attractive face in a daze. As a matter of fact, she had seen this gentle and beautiful face. Anyway, Liang Zixin was Prime Minister Liangs first legitimate granddaughter, with extraordinary status, and she often showed up on such official occasions. But they were not on the same side, so they almost didnt have friends in common. They didnt even have a chance to nod in greeting, so they didnt get to know each other. However, Liang Jingxian introduced Liang Zixin to Shi Qingxue in public and talked intimately, as if Liang Zixin would replace Mo Yuzhen and become her good friend after this official introduction. Shi Qingxue just wanted to say to Liang Jingxian, Stop daydreaming. However, when Ling Ruiyin meddled in this matter, Qingxue couldnt say anything to refuse Liang Jingxian politely with no emotion. Shi Qingxue should do everything out of consideration for somebody else. She could embarrass Liang Jingxian, yet she couldnt refuse Ling Ruiyins kind offer. Ling Ruiyin watched them happily, and Shi Qingxue had to bite the bullet and greet Liang Zixin. Zixin, nice to meet you. We are at the same age and should be friends as peers. Please call me Qingxue. Liang Zixins face was fair-skinned and fascinating, and she had a blush on her cheeks because of Shi Qingxues words. They were like two big red apples and looked delicate and beautiful. Liang Zixin looked gentle and virtuous, and her every move was attractive. Even though Shi Qingxue didnt like the people from the Liang family, seeing that Liang Zixin greeted her with a faint smile and was soft-spoken, quiet and obedient, Shi Qingxue had a favorable impression of her. I will do as you say, Qingxue. Hope that you wont dislike me as I am green and inexperienced. Under the watchful eyes of all people, Shi Qingxue wouldnt make Liang Zixin lose face. She was satisfied with Liang Zixin more as the latter was dignified and not arrogant. Shi Qingxue showed a sincerer smile and grabbed Liang Zixins arm with a smile. Zixin, what are you talking about? I dont know what extraordinary abilities you have, but only your style of conversation and temperature make me feel ashamed of my inferiority. Shi Qingxue spoke out what she really thought about. Although she was silver-tongued, people would think that she was spoilt, but not hateful. However, Liang Zixin made people like her at first sight, and her manners were flawless. Liang Zixins cheeks were redder as she felt shy after Shi Qingxue praised her, yet she wouldnt pretend to be shy like the other girls. She just said to Qingxue in a soft voice, Qingxue, you flatter me. If you dont dislike me, I hope that we can spend more time with each other in the future. Shi Qingxue smiled and planned to respond. A deep and hoarse male voice cut in forcefully. No. Chapter 349 - Shi Qingxue Is Forced” to Make a Friend Liang Jingxian saw that Shi Qingxue and Liang Zixin talked happily like friends who loved each other deeply. She was happy, but the sudden word no ruined her plan. It pissed off Empress Liang. Liang Jingxian glared at the voice source and wanted to rebuke this meddlesome b**tard. A teenage boy who was almost two meters tall strode over with his head high and chest out. He looked proud with manliness, like Mars falling from the sky. People felt oppressive yet couldnt look away from him. However, the oppressive feeling couldnt last too long because this teenager looked young, only fourteen or fifteen years old. Even though he was tall and big, it could be seen at a glance that he was just a kid. Ling Ruiyin saw the comer first and looked joyful. Then she asked with a smile, Junzhan, why are you back? This teenager was born to Concubine Tao, the ninth prince Mo Junzhan. He was only fifteen years old, but he went to the battlefield with the army. He was brave and battlewise and deserved his name given by Mo Xiangbin. Logically, Mo Junzhan was supposed to guard the southern border with the army. Why did he come back so soon? After all, Mo Junzhan was a kid. Although he looked dignified in his military uniform like a general, when Ling Ruiyin called him, the momentum on him disappeared, and he just looked naive and ignorant like a teenager. The teenager showed a shy smile and moved closer to Ling Ruiyin, greeting, Grandma, nice to see you. Get up, now! Ling Ruiyin helped the teenager up in person and looked him up and down carefully. She praised with satisfaction, You have been away from home for so long. As expected, you have become stronger. But why did your voice become So unpleasant to hear? It was as hoarse as a drakes voice. So when Mo Junzhan said no, nobody knew who was speaking. Mo Junzhan didnt care that his voice became unpleasant to hear but puffed out his chest with pride. Grandma, it means that I have grown up. You should be happy. When a teenager became a young man, there would be such a change. Mo Junzhan was a man, so he naturally didnt mind his voice change. Even in his opinion, a mans voice should be husky, and his previous sweet voice was feminine, which made him unlike a man in the past. There was a young mans heroic spirit in this teenagers brows indistinctly, yet he still behaved like a child while he didnt notice it. It amused Ling Ruiyin. Yes, yes. I am so happy that my grandson Junzhan has grown up. Come on. Tell me if something interesting happened when you were guarding the southern border. Perhaps Ling Ruiyin really liked this little grandson. As soon as she saw him, she forgot everything and asked Mo Junzhan many questions, leaving the others aside. As a result, Liang Jingxian was anxious. She winked at Ling Ruiyin repeatedly yet there was no response, so she had to bite the bullet and interrupt, Prince Junzhan, didnt His Majesty tell you to guard the southern border? Why did you come back all of a sudden and happen to be just in time for the spring outing picnic? Gee, it was a capital crime to disobey the emperor and flee from the battlefield. Liang Jingxian didnt make it clear, while none of the people present was an idiot, so they understood her hidden meaning. Ling Ruiyins smile faded at once. She had suspected it just now, but she thought that her grandsons return in safety was more important, so she didnt care. Unexpectedly, Liang Jingxian mentioned it. Mo Junzhan didnt look scared but smiled at Liang Jingxian with provocation. The common people at the southern border live and work in peace now, so the other nationalities dont dare to intrude, and General is guarding there. I have nothing to do. Grandma, I missed Father and you very much and thought of the saying that people shouldnt travel far away from their parents, so I asked Father to let me return to the imperial palace for now. I will go back to the battlefield and kill the enemies if there is a war someday. His words retorted Liang Jingxian who tried to make trouble. Ling Ruiyin was moved a lot and stated, You deserve to be my good grandson. You are so considerate. Huh, you are good at acting, Liang Jingxian cursed in secret. Because Ling Ruiyin was present, Liang Jingxian didnt dare to curse in a loud voice but had to smile at Mo Junzhan flatteringly. Prince Junzhan, you really respect your elders, but Liang Jingxian paused for a moment and then changed the subject. But you shouldnt arbitrarily stop others making friends, right? She went back to the previous subject as Mo Junzhan said no. Ling Ruiyin also looked at Mo Junzhan in doubt. Junzhan, why did you say no? Logically, Mo Junzhan had never seen Liang Zixin. Why did he cut in without permission? It was not his style. Normally, nobody would do something like this. When Mo Junzhan was questioned, he looked serious and turned his head to look Liang Zixin up and down. Noticing Mo Junzhans stare, Liang Zixin smiled gently and bowed. Your Highness Mo Junzhan instantly looked away from Liang Zixin and smiled at Shi Qingxue brightly, greeting in a loud voice, Qingxue, long time no see. Did you miss me? He was in the period of a mans voice change, and his voice was husky and unpleasant to hear, yet it was loud and drowned out Liang Zixins voice. Liang Zixin, Shi Qingxue and all the others were speechless. Even though Shi Qingxue didnt like to be forced to make a friend, because it was the Empress Dowagers decision and Liang Zixin was not hateful, she didnt object to it. Unexpectedly, as soon as Mo Junzhan showed up, he ruined this thing. It appeared that he wanted to embarrass Liang Zixin. Shi Qingxue didnt hate Liang Zixin, yet obviously she preferred Mo Junzhan who was her playmate. So she answered in a natural way, Of course I missed you, Your Highness. I havent seen you for many days. You have become stronger. Mo Junzhan immediately showed a big smile and strode to Shi Qingxue, praising himself complacently. Certainly. Qingxue, I tell you something. I am capable now. I met a master good at archery at the southern border, and he taught me a lot, so I made much progress in archery. If you dont believe it, we can have a competition now, and I am sure that I wont lose to you. Mo Junzhan was resolute and vigorous. Especially when he talked about archery with Shi Qingxue, he got excited and wished to fix a target and compete with her now. Speaking of which, the friendship between Shi Qingxue and the ninth prince started with an archery competition. At that time, Shi Qingxue was only eleven or twelve years old. She was excellent in archery and arrogant, and she didnt know how to admit defeat. It happened that Mo Junzhan who was nine years old started to learn archery then. After he shot several arrows accurately, he thought that he was invincible and would be the most powerful general in Mo Country. So after these two kids who didnt admit defeat met each other, a fight was on the verge of breaking out. Others would let Mo Junzhan win as he was a favored prince. Nevertheless, Shi Qingxue certainly wouldnt do that. Her natural gift in archery was not exaggerated. When they competed in the first round, she defeated Mo Junzhan who was a fat boy with her shooting skills. Mo Junzhan wouldnt admit defeat easily. After he lost, he wanted to compete again, yet he would lose in the end. His fighting spirit was admirable, while he had never defeated Shi Qingxue once. Nobody knew what this prince was thinking about, and as time passed, he gave Shi Qingxue special treatment. Even though he was lofty at ordinary times, he called Shi Qingxue respectfully and took her as his elder sister. Even his brothers might not be respected by him. The two were congenial to each other in archery, so they became good friends. However, Mo Junzhan still didnt change his habit that he would compete on archery with Shi Qingxue as soon as he saw her on any occasion. Shi Qingxue was amused by Mo Junzhans action as he was like a rash boy, while she couldnt compete with him as he wished, so she had to pull his sleeve and wink at him. Mo Junzhan was smart, yet he was much inferior in rivaling in trickery. He didnt understand Shi Qingxues reminder but looked at her blankly, asking in doubt, Are you injured? Why do you blink without a stop? he thought. Shi Qingxue was at a loss whether to cry or to laugh after hearing his question. She sighed helplessly and then expressed directly, Your Highness, its the spring outing picnic now. Its not proper to shoot arrows. She couldnt bear to see the obvious disappointment on Mo Junzhans face, so she added, Your Highness, if you really want to shoot arrows, lets find a chance to have a competition next time. Mo Junzhan got excited at once. Thats what you said. If you lose, dont shed tears. Shi Qingxue kept quiet. Who kept pulling her sleeve after being defeated and said in tears that he was a general and couldnt lose when he was a child? And he asked Shi Qingxue not to tell anybody that he lost. Shi Qingxue almost swore before she finally stopped this boy from crying. After Mo Junzhan said that, evidently he thought of his unknown shameful past when he was young, like Shi Qingxue did. In an instant, his face was burning hot and dark red. Shi Qingxue tried hard to stop herself from laughing and looked away from Mo Junzhan thoughtfully. Then she said to Ling Ruiyin to defend Mo Junzhan, His Highness has just been back from the battlefield. Perhaps he is not accustomed to the leisurely life in the capital, so he wants to keep himself busy. Please forgive him, Your Majesty. Ling Ruiyin certainly knew well about her grandson. She wouldnt blame him but felt happy as he was lively. She stated with a smile, Junzhan is still rash and hasnt changed. You must have just returned to the capital and then come here as you heard that Qingxue is here, right? Mo Junzhan was seen through, so his young face looked shy. He turned his head and didnt say anything. Shi Qingxue was overjoyed to see that. However, this prince was arrogant, and nobody could laugh at him randomly. She changed the subject and helped Mo Junzhan out of the predicament. Liang Jingxian was ignored repeatedly, so she was reluctant. However, her parents family was declining, and she couldnt lose temper at will like before. She had to restrain her anger and then pushed Liang Zixin to Shi Qingxue. Qingxue, its beautiful outside in spring. Take your friend to go out and have a walk around. Dont waste the good weather. Chapter 350 - She Is Not a Good Person Liang Jingxian talked to Shi Qingxue, but she looked at Ling Ruiyin. She did that to remind the Empress Dowager about todays task. Ling Ruiyin came to her senses and echoed Liang Jingxian, Qingxue, the empress is right. Go with Zixin to play with the other young ladies. Dont need to accompany the older women like us here. Shi Qingxue finally confirmed that Ling Ruiyin wanted her to make friends with Liang Zixin, and apparently wanted her to take Liang Zixin to get to know the other noble ladies. Did the Empress Dowager expect her to introduce Liang Zixin to the other noble ladies who were her friends? Shi Qingxue was so shocked that she couldnt speak a word. Ling Ruiyin helped the crown prince, while Empress Liang supported her son. The two were always on bad terms. Why did Ling Ruiyin help the Liang family this time? Or A thought flashed in Shi Qingxues brain. Although she was too astonished, she thought that it must be true after pondering. Shi Qingxue stopped thinking and said obediently, Your Majesty, since you said that, I will go to hang out with Zixin in the forest. No! Mo Junzhan forcefully stopped Shi Qingxue again from making friends with Liang Zixin. Before all people were confused, he pulled Shi Qingxue aside and told her in secret, Dont hang out with her. She is not a good person. Shi Qingxue and all the others were speechless. The ninth princes voice was loud innately, and he couldnt lower it. He whispered to her, while the people around heard it clearly. However, it would be better if they didnt hear it. Liang Jingxian turned pale immediately. She must have exploded earlier if Ling Ruiyin were absent. Liang Zixins face looked terrible, yet she only raised her eyes and glanced at Mo Junzhan sadly, protesting in silence. It seemed that she was asking herself when she had irritated the ninth prince. He embarrassed her repeatedly, which was fine, but he even said that she was not a good person in public. Such a comment was too harsh. Shi Qingxue was involved and felt more awkward. She cursed secretly, His Highness was stubborn and would say anything that he wanted, never considering others feelings in the past, but he is still like this after growing up. Isnt he afraid that he will offend others? Er Although Mo Junzhans biological mother Concubine Tao wasnt the most favored imperial concubine, she was titled anyway and her parents family was powerful. Moreover, she was an old hand in the imperial harem system with a stable position. The ninth prince was Mo Xiangbins youngest son. Although he wasnt the most loved, the youngest son would enjoy preferential treatment. In addition, it was almost impossible for him to fight for the title of heir to the throne, so he could act willfully without a hitch in the imperial palace. While thinking, Shi Qingxue was clearer that Mo Junzhan wasnt afraid of offending anybody. He would say whatever he wanted even in front of the empresss family. However, Shi Qingxue was miserable. She had to make Mo Junzhans words reasonable without hurting his feelings. Your Highness, Shi Qingxue called gently. Mo Junzhan turned to her at once. She continued with a smile, Zixin is lovely and so beautiful. Will you forbid me to make friends with a beauty? Ah? Mo Junzhan looked at Shi Qingxue in a daze. He didnt know why she said that all of a sudden. However, Liang Zixin was gorgeous indeed. Even though Mo Junzhan had a prejudice against her, he had to admit that her beauty was among the best. If Shi Qingxue wanted to have contact with Liang Zixin because of this, it seemed that she could do that. The ninth prince never knew that people shouldnt judge others solely by their appearance. He just looked at Liang Zixin and made a hard decision. Fine. She is really beautiful. You can hang out with her. Perhaps any woman was happy to hear a man praise her beauty, and Liang Zixin was no exception. She had been hurt by Mo Junzhans words she is not a good person and felt grieved, but she was healed at once. She just lowered her head with shyness and didnt dare to look at Mo Junzhan. Seeing that a storm was smothered temporarily, Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief and didnt want to talk with Mo Junzhan anymore. Who knew what shocking words this kid would say all of a sudden? She didnt have the ability to explain for him every time. Well, I will have a walk with Zixin. Your Highness, since you came to visit your grandma, just chat with her. Mo Junzhan came to Moon Mountain as soon as he returned to the capital city, and it was obvious that he came to see Shi Qingxue, but since she said that, he wouldnt retort her no matter how stupid he was. He had to answer obediently with a nod, Okay. Come back soon. I have a lot of words to tell you. The ninth prince was forced to agree, yet he looked at Shi Qingxue, with reluctance in his eyes as he was unwilling to part with her. Ling Ruiyin glanced at the two receding figures and then couldnt help looking Mo Junzhan up and down, teasing him, Junzhan, I know that you came to Moon Mountain from afar not to see me but your friend Qingxue, right? Mo Junzhan felt embarrassed as he was seen through. He scratched the back side of his head subconsciously yet then realized that his action was to expose himself unwittingly while trying to cover up his tricks, so he withdrew his hand quickly. He argued clumsily, No, no. I missed you, too, Grandma. Yes? Ling Ruiyin pretended to ask in reply in a doubtful tone. Mo Junzhans face stiffened, and he nodded seriously. I really missed you a lot, Grandma. Well. Its great that you missed me. Ling Ruiyin didnt want to force him to tell the truth. After teasing the boy, she changed the subject. On the other side, Shi Qingxue took Liang Zixin to have a walk around in a flat forest on Moon Mountain and talked about something unimportant randomly. Most of them were poems and womens skills such as needlework, and Liang Zixin could express her opinions. She looked graceful and talked peaceful in a casual voice. Obviously, she was familiar with the things they mentioned but didnt show off. Her tone was gentle and lovely. So Shi Qingxue introduced Liang Zixin to her friends. Leng Jing had only heard about Liang Zixins name but never seen her, and she stared at the girls face curiously. She praised involuntarily, You are so beautiful. Liang Zixin blushed and lowered her head with shyness yet still expressed in a muffled voice, Thank you. She was shy and would blush easily, like a frightened rabbit which would shrink back after being touched gently. Shi Qingxue didnt like such a person most in the past. However, she saw that Liang Zixin would stutter and continue to chat with others even though she was red-faced and could hardly speak a word after they teased her. Liang Zixin was not enthusiastic, nor did she have the talkative and elegant bearing, but she chatted with everybody seriously. She looked sincere and talked genuinely, and her eyes seemed able to talk, so she was welcome. In only one hour, Liang Zixin was surrounded by the other noble ladies, and all of them talked happily. They were not as distant as before. Seeing that Liang Zixin adapted herself well and became the center of the young ladies, Shi Qingxue sighed with relief and thought that she lived up to the Empress Dowagers entrustment. However, she didnt like to join in the fun with many people. After she chatted for a while, she went away sneakily when nobody noticed her. Shi Qingxue wandered in the unpeopled forest alone and breathed the strong breath of spring. Then she breathed out deeply. Its so comfortable. Spring was evident everywhere in April. Shi Qingxue was dazzled by the spring breath around and enjoyed herself, while she suddenly heard a rustle under a big tree in the front. Is there a snake? Shi Qingxue was scared by her guess and couldnt help but swallow. All girls were afraid of snakes, and Shi Qingxue was included, while she didnt forget herself or shout out of fear. Instead, she ventured to walk forward. She walked cautiously and tried not to make sounds. When she walked around the towering tree which could cover peoples sight, the rustle was right under her nose, and she couldnt move her legs. It was not a horrible big snake before her eyes but a couple who couldnt control themselves. They lay in the green grass and rolled, with their clothes scattering on the ground and the fair skin revealed. Shi Qingxue covered her eyes after taking a glance. She planned to go away in panic as people shouldnt look at things which did not conform to the rites. Unexpectedly, as she walked in a hurry, she stepped on a dry branch. With a crack, it shocked all people. Who is here? Shi Qingxue heard a low and deep roar behind her and then a louder rustle. They must be putting on clothes. She was more awkward and shouted hastily, I didnt see anything. I am leaving. In fact, she didnt see anything clearly. She just wanted to leave this place as soon as possible where she was apt to get into trouble. Unexpectedly, the voice behind didnt let her go, while the person called in a low voice, Qingxue? Gee? Why did this voice sound so familiar? Shi Qingxue thought that she had heard the male voice somewhere seemingly, and she couldnt help but look back secretly. She happened to see the face of the man who had called her. It was Mo Junhao unexpectedly. Shi Qingxue was petrified and saw that Mo Junhao had put on trousers and got up. Nobody knew whether time was limited or he did that intentionally, and the upper part of his body was still naked. He looked at her questioningly and didnt mind letting her see his body seemingly. The woman next to him was still picking up clothes in a great flurry. Her hair was messy, yet it could be seen that she had a bun earlier. Although the woman subconsciously turned away to dodge, Shi Qingxue still recognized this person at a glance. She was the second wife of the Minister of War Feng Jifeng, Madam Feng, whose family name was He. Madam Feng was only about twenty-seven years old. She was young and beautiful. Even when she was in panic, she looked alluring and deserved Dong Huis comment about her, a seductress. Right, Dong Huis word was unpleasant to hear. This woman had been a home-breaker and tortured the previous Madam Feng to death. In less than seven days after the first wife died, she persuaded Feng Jifeng to marry her as the second wife, which irritated his son and daughter a lot. The fourth princes wife Feng Mei must hate this woman most who snatched her mothers title. She was chatting with others outside now, while her husband, the fourth prince was hiding in the forest and had sex with her step-mother. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but turn pale when she saw the dirty scene. Chapter 351 - She Is Almost Spoilt Obviously it was beyond Shi Qingxues expectation to see something so obscene. However, she didnt want to pry into others private life, especially Mo Junhaos messy relationship. She just pursed her lips in silence and wanted to free herself from the embarrassing environment as soon as possible. Unexpectedly, after she had this idea, Mo Junhao stopped her again. Where are you going? Shi Qingxue was stunned by Mo Junhaos boldness with no sense of guilt. She almost thought that she did something wrong and was naked, watched by others. She lowered her head to have a glance at her tidy clothes and then looked up at the two people who had got dressed but still showed sexual desire all over their bodies. She wondered who should feel embarrassed. However, she still restrained herself and didnt ask this question directly. She just rolled her eyes silently and then asked in a cold voice, Your Highness, what can I do for you? Mo Junhao lowered his head and said something to Madam Feng. Then the latter looked at Shi Qingxue worriedly with fear. It doesnt matter. Mo Junhao didnt avoid arousing suspicion but caressed the back of Madam Fengs hand intimately to comfort her. Madam Feng bit her lower lip and nodded in the end. Then she left on the path on the other side. Only Mo Junhao and Shi Qingxue were left alone. Qingxue felt weirder and couldnt control herself, so she said first, Your Highness, if you have nothing to say, I wont disturb you. Wait. We havent finished our talk. Where do you want to go? As soon as Shi Qingxue started to walk, Mo Junhao came over quickly and then stood in front of her. Perhaps because he exercised too passionately earlier, he still breathed quickly, as if he was afraid that others wouldnt know that he had done something indescribable just now. They stood close to each other, and Shi Qingxue could almost feel the hot air he breathed out and the fragrance from the woman after sex. Shi Qingxues face darkened finally. She moved a big step backward and asked crossly, Mo Junhao, what else do you want? Mo Junhao smiled and said casually, You have seen my secret last time, and I havent asked you to pay for it. After this time, how will you compensate me? As he mentioned that, Shi Qingxue finally remembered that she happened to see him secretly dating somebody in the imperial palace. Not to mention the cause and effect, she was not the one who should blush for the two things, but this man had the face to threaten her with something like this. Shi Qingxues face looked terrible, and she stared at Mo Junhao coldly, saying directly, Mo Junhao, you are more and more obscene. Mo Junhao was stunned and couldnt keep his playful smile. Then he glared at Shi Qingxue ferociously. Qingxue met his eyes fearlessly. In the past, I knew that you were despicable yet must have a bottom line, but nowGee, you are disgusting. She wondered why she blindly fell in love with such a dirty man in the previous life. Fortunately, everything was different in this life. Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief and didnt want to see this man again. Apparently, Mo Junhao hadnt expected that Shi Qingxue would describe him with such harsh words and her comment about him would be so snide. He turned pale involuntarily and his body stiffened while he looked at Shi Qingxue. He didnt say anything or have any reactions after a long time. Shi Qingxue didnt want to talk with Mo Junhao. Seeing that he stood still, she left. She was disgusted after seeing the pornographic scene and couldnt vent her anger even though she had rebuked Mo Junhao bluntly. After she went out of the forest, she couldnt stay on Moon Mountain. When nobody noticed her, she told a young maid to ask the Empress Dowager for leave for her. Then she went away sneakily. Anyway, something like this didnt happen for the first time, and Ling Ruiyin would forgive her probably. Shi Qingxue got into her carriage, and it happened that Shi Qingmin cried for food. Seeing that the little baby was so dependent on her, she wasnt so angry. She received Shi Qingmin from the wet nurse and brought the sugar water, feeding him slowly. Shi Qingmin seldom made sounds, but he was not dumb anyway. When he was hungry or thirsty, he would cry in a low voice to attract peoples attention. Shi Qingmin was much inferior to Shi Tianyou in the foundation and physical condition. Nevertheless, Shi Qingxue still felt gratified beyond expression when she saw this little thing grow up gradually in her arms. When she returned to the Lanxun Villa, she happened to meet Mo Junyang who came after he finished his job. The man was exposed to the wind, and his face was still cold. After seeing her, he didnt change but asked gently, Did something unhappy happen on this spring outing? Before Shi Qingxue said anything, she was seen through by him at a glance. So she was surprised. How did you know it? Mo Junyang didnt answer but glanced at the wet nurse. The wet nurse was sensible and instantly walked forward, reaching out her hands to Shi Qingxue. My Lady, the first young master has fallen asleep. Please leave him to me. The wet nurse held Shi Qingmin and walked out before considerately closing the room door for the couple. Mo Junyang had taken off his coat. He sat on the couch and then waved at her after seeing that she still stood blankly. When she walked to him, he asked, What happened? Shi Qingxue didnt want to pretend anymore. She sat on the pedal and rested her head on Mo Junyangs thighs, stuttering, You dont know what disgusting thing I have seen today She told Mo Junyang that she had seen Mo Junhao dating a woman privately and then talked about the Empress Dowagers unusual actions. In fact, Shi Qingxue didnt want Mo Junyang to make a decision for her or comment, yet she subconsciously wanted to tell him what had happened to her today. This feeling was weird. It seemed that as long as she let him know, anything would be fine. Mo Junyang probably knew Shi Qingxues feeling, so he didnt say anything but only stared at the side face of the girl who lay on his thighs. He couldnt help caressing her black hair like a waterfall. After she finished her words, he didnt ask more. Instead, he kept the quiet atmosphere around them. Perhaps even Shi Qingxue didnt find that every time she was alone with Mo Junyang, she was like an arrogant cat which was familiar with the master Mo Junyang after he raised it. It wouldnt try every means to dodge all day long but would withdraw its sharp claws and lean against him in silence occasionally. In fact, there was nothing. Perhaps she wanted to warm herself or merely play the woman. Mo Junyang was satisfied with Shi Qingxues getting close to him unconsciously, and he certainly wouldnt say anything. Shi Qingxue rested her head on Mo Junyangs thighs for a long time and still didnt want to get up. She thought, Let it be. Anyway nobody else can see it. So Shi Qingxue enjoyed the knee pillow at ease which belonged to her alone and continued to talk about what had happened today. The Empress Dowager was so anxious today to tell me to take Liang Zixin to see the noble ladies, and she must want to promote the girls status. Does she want to win over the Liang family? Shi Qingxue had guessed it at the spring outing picnic, yet she wasnt sure about it. Mo Junyang gave her a positive answer directly. Hmm. If there is nothing else, this girl will be the future crown princess. What? Shi Qingxues eyes widened, and she almost sat up and left Mo Junyangs knees. Mo Junyang was naturally unwilling to let her get up. He caressed her head and gently pressed her back on his thighs. Dont move. Then he continued to stroke her hair, like comforting his angry pet. He did it so softly. Shi Qingxue felt comfortable and almost wanted to purr. Fortunately, she remembered to maintain her clean image and didnt moan. She just tried her best to focus on business. Didnt the Liang family support the sixth prince all the time in the past? Why did they change their mind When Mo Junjiu was alive, the third princes followers and the crown princes fought both with open and secret means and were almost at daggers drawn. Why did they become reconciled after such a short period? It was unreasonable. Even though the sixth prince Mo Junjing was put under house arrest because Mo Xiangbin refined elixir, it was possible for him to get out. Would Liang Jingxian be so anxious to give up her biological son and help her enemy? Shi Qingxue didnt think that the two parties on bad terms would really sincerely cooperate with each other. They just had common interests. Anyway, once it happened to her, even if Mo Junhao knelt in front of her and tearfully begged her to forgive him, she wouldnt make it up with him. Looking at Shi Qingxues distracted face, Mo Junyang knew that this girl must be imagining wildly. He didnt say anything to interrupt her. After she came back to earth, he said unhurriedly, Just keep it a secret and dont need to bother about it. If you dont want to talk with Miss Liang, you can ignore her. I will tell the Empress Dowager for you. Shi Qingxue blushed after hearing Mo Junyangs considerate and fearless words. She couldnt help but bury her face between the mans knees again and complain in a muffled voice, Mo Junyang, I am almost spoilt by you. In fact, how would she be so indulgent? Would she refuse to do anything that she didnt like? However, Mo Junyang spoilt her by this standard. Once she looked unhappy, the man wished to deal with anything for her. She just needed to be held in his arms at ease and enjoy the fruit of victory. At this thought, Shi Qingxue was helpless. Wasnt Mo Junyang afraid that she would be haughty because of his love and indulgence and become a useless person in the end? If Shi Qingxue asked this question, King Ruis heir would tell her frankly, I am not afraid at all. I plan to do so. Mo Junyang wished to indulge Shi Qingxue till she could do nothing but depend on him. However, Shi Qingxue wasnt the kind of people who would enjoy the fruit with relief. She just complained and played the woman in front of Mo Junyang in private, yet she would take responsibility for what she should do. However, she needed to confirm one thing with Mo Junyang. Chapter 352 - Mo Junyang’s Only Choice Shi Qingxue was pressed by Mo Junyang and couldnt get up, so she changed her posture and lay on her back. She blinked her big beautiful eyes and looked at Mo Junyang, asking seriously, Are you sure that you will help the crown prince get that position? In the previous life, that position belonged to Mo Junyang in the end. Shi Qingxue believed that as long as Mo Junyang wanted, that position would be his. However, till now, Mo Junyang didnt show that he longed for that position. Of course, they had never talked about this matter. Qingxue guessed Mo Junyangs intention indistinctly, but she was not sure. In the past, Shi Qingxue had thought that as long as the Shi family remained neutral, they would be prosperous no matter which prince took the throne in the end. However, it was different now. She was the future wife of King Ruis heir, so she would naturally follow her husband. It was said that Mo Junyang was the most loyal follower of the crown prince. Since he saved Mo Junyu, their fate intertwined. Even Mo Junyu thought so. However, Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang could have another choice. But did he want or not? Shi Qingxue spoke out what confused her and then cautiously observed Mo Junyangs expression, trying to find out his emotions from it. Mo Junyang met her eyes calmly without dodging. Then he laughed and held her face, saying, Ijust want you to be alive. Shi Qingxue stiffened. She noticed the seriousness and resolution under Mo Junyangs smiling face. Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang blankly and couldnt come back to earth. Mo Junyang caressed Qingxues cheeks and didnt hide the love and persistence in his eyes anymore. Whatever, as long as you are safe and sound. He was persistent in changing in this life and just wanted to save Shi Qingxues life. Anything else was unimportant. It was not their first time to talk about this subject. In the past, Shi Qingxue had told Mo Junyang that her death in the previous life had nothing to do with him. She thought that Mo Junyang had come round and got relieved, yet he still took her death to heart unexpectedly. He even cared about it so much. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips. After a long time, she raised her hands and caressed Mo Junyangs cheeks, keeping looking up at him face to face. She also stated in a serious tone, I wont die. We will live a good life. So dont worry or feel guilty anymore, she thought. They kept the same posture and held each others face for quite a while. Then Mo Junyang lowered his head and kissed her soft red lips gently. Shi Qingxue quietly accepted this kiss and raised her arms to hug Mo Junyangs neck. When he raised his head, she sat up in his arms, and they embraced each other. She rested her head on Mo Junyangs shoulder and under his chin, still hugging him with one arm. Their closeness made Shi Qingxues heart soft, and she wanted to lean against Mo Junyang forever. Nevertheless, it was only her thought. After a while, Shi Qingxue sat up straight on Mo Junyangs knees, continuing with that question. Well. Anyway, I will be fine. Shi Qingxue stressed this point again. She didnt hope that Mo Junyang took it to heart, but she knew that he couldnt forget it so easily. So she had to put this matter aside temporarily and return to the subject of that position. Mo Junyang obviously felt Shi Qingxues intention and didnt talk about this subject anymore. He answered the previous question. If there is nothing else, the throne must be the crown princes. Has it been decided? Shi Qingxue murmured yet finally heaved a sigh of relief in secret. She didnt care about the throne, but it couldnt be Mo Junhaos. Mo Junyang nodded and raised his hand to rub Shi Qingxues hair, saying softly, Dont worry. He didnt make it clear, while she knew what he told her not to worry about. Mo Junyang wouldnt let Mo Junhao have a chance to get that position. Okay. Shi Qingxue gave Mo Junyang a sweet smile involuntarily. She pondered for a moment and then continued, I know what to do in the future. Hmm? I will give a hand. Shi Qingxue grabbed Mo Junyangs hand and assured him seriously. Mo Junyang finally understood that Shi Qingxue meant she would help Mo Junyu fight for the title of heir to the throne, too. He couldnt help but frown. You dont need to Shi Qingxue raised her hand and covered Mo Junyangs lips, smiling brightly. Why not? I will be the wife of King Ruis heir in the future. Happiness could hardly be hidden in her complacent tone. Mo Junyang was stunned, and his cold and stern eyes and brows softened, as her happiness affected him. However, he was used to keeping silent. Even though he had a lot of feelings, he looked emotionless. He just responded in a low voice, Hmm. Shi Qingxue knew that this man was restrained, so she didnt mind but continued, Moreover, dont forget that Mo Junhao is my mortal enemy. He was her mortal enemy till death. Although Shi Qingxue didnt show her hostility emotionally, it didnt mean that she didnt hate Mo Junhao. She just kept the hatred in her heart and would get back at him once and for all when it was the right time. Mo Junyangs eyes became soft. What do you want? As long as Shi Qingxue told him, he could finish it for her no matter what result she wanted. Shi Qingxue sighed helplessly. She didnt know why Mo Junyang would do everything for her in the end when they talked. Did she look unreliable? I Shi Qingxue prolonged her sweet voice and wondered how to convince Mo Junyang. Both of them knew that Shi Qingxue could handle this matter by herself but Mo Junyang would be worried if she dealt with it. So Shi Qingxue sighed again and stopped trying to find proper words. She raised her hand and caressed Mo Junyangs face. Then she pouted and said, I Dont care. Anyway, I have to take revenge on my own. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxue with his deep eyes, and it seemed that he wanted to say more, yet he was defeated by her persistence in the end. Okay. Shi Qingxue narrowed her eyes and smiled happily. She rested her head on Mo Junyangs shoulder again and continued to talk about something else in a casual tone. Her clear voice was like a larks, which made Mo Junyangs tense face relax gradually. They talked intimately till a servant rushed in and ruined the romantic atmosphere. Your Excellency, My Lady As soon as the servant greeted, the two glared at him, while he was so scared that he shrank his neck and didnt dare to speak. Shi Qingxue hurriedly parted with Mo Junyang and turned around to check her makeup and straighten her clothes. However, she suddenly stiffened when she touched her long hair. Er Why was this scene so familiar? They seemed to have an amour. She couldnt help but think of what she had seen on Moon Mountain this morning Pah, it was not the same. She and Mo Junyangs most intimate action was only kissing, and nothing had happened between them. Although she thought so, she still felt too ashamed to look back at the servant and just moved aside silently. Mo Junyang put on a long face and asked coldly, Whats the matter? The servant swallowed and answered hesitantly, Somebody came from the imperial palace and said that she wanted to see Lady Qingxue. See me? Who came? Shi Qingxue turned around and looked at the servant in doubt. She thought, Did somebody find that I came back sneakily? I dont know her. The maid is dressed in the maid-in-waitings uniform and didnt say who sent her. She just said that Her Highness invited you to enter the imperial palace, My Lady. The servant stuttered and finally finished his words, with much cold sweat on his forehead. Shi Qingxue frowned and pondered for a moment. Then she looked up at Mo Junyang, who also looked doubtful. She had to say, Bring her in. After a while, a young girl dressed like a maid-in-waiting walked in and bowed to the two masters. My Lady, Your Excellency, nice to see you. I am Xia Liang. Xia Liang? Shi Qingxue looked at her carefully and found that it was the second young lady Shi Baojings maid, Xia Liang. She moved to the second princes mansion with Shi Baojing after the wedding. It was not surprising that Shi Baojing sent Xia Liang here when there was something. However, after Shi Baojing married the second prince, this prince had left the imperial palace and lived in his mansion, so she lived with him outside the imperial palace. Why was Xia Liang dressed in the maid-in-waitings uniform? Xia Liang seemed to have found the confusion in Shi Qingxues eyes and explained before being asked, My Lady, the second princes wife is pregnant, and Concubine Tao granted special favor to her and took her into the imperial palace to build up health. Shi Qingxue looked happy after hearing that. Baojing is pregnant? It was almost the best news after such a long period. Qingxue was quite glad and walked forward, asking Xia Liang, When did she get pregnant? Where is she now? Is she accustomed to the residence? She asked three questions successively, which showed her surprise, pleasure and anxiety. Xia Liang secretly observed Shi Qingxues expression all the time. Seeing that, she had to admit that the sixth young lady really cared about the second princes wife. So she spoke out the prepared words. The princess suddenly went into a coma the other day, and after examining her, the imperial doctor said that she got pregnant, but because she was weak, Concubine Tao took her to the Taole Palace out of kindness. Now the princess is fine. Great, greatShi Qingxue sighed with relief. Then she asked, You came to see me today. Is there anything wrong? Xia Liang replied, The princess is healthy, yet as she is trapped in the imperial palace all day long, she feels bored and hopes that you can find time to enter the imperial palace and accompany her. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and then asked, Did she send people to inform Duke Shis mansion that she is pregnant? Xia Liang hesitated for a while and then shook her head. No. Because the princesss fetus was not stable a few days ago, Concubine Tao didnt allow anybody to reveal this news. Then we kept it a secret all the time. Now the princess gets better, so she sent me to tell you first. What she said was strange. Shi Baojing was pregnant, while she didnt tell her parents family or Duke Shis mansion first but sent somebody to see Shi Qingxue in the Lanxun Villa. Shi Qingxue didnt know what Shi Baojing thought about? What was her intention? Chapter 353 - Mo Junyang’s Jealousy Shi Qingxue lowered her head and pondered for a moment till Xia Liang looked at her with anxiety in her eyes. Then she said unhurriedly, Go back first and tell Baojing that I will enter the imperial palace to visit her in two days. Perhaps Xia Liang hadnt expected that Shi Qingxue would refuse to enter the imperial palace at once, so she looked surprised involuntarily and stared at the young lady blankly. Shi Qingxue smiled bitterly in secret yet didnt show any emotions on her face. She just asked, Is there anything else? Xia Liang looked at Shi Qingxue hesitantly and it seemed that she wanted to say something but didnt speak it out. She just stared at the young lady with expectancy. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and looked at the maid, with her deep and emotionless eyes, as if she didnt see that Xia Liang wanted to speak but stopped herself. Xia Liang paused for about fifteen minutes and surrendered in the end. She had to say goodbye and leave with disappointment. When the maid walked to the door, Qingxues voice came from behind. Father also misses Baojing. Since you have got out of the imperial palace, remember to go to his mansion and tell him. Xia Liang stopped walking and turned around after a few seconds. Then she bowed to Shi Qingxue again, replying, Yes. Mo Junyang stood next to her all the time and said after Xia Liang left, I thought that you would enter the imperial palace with her at once. After all, Shi Qingxue cared about this cousin a lot. Shi Qingxue smiled slyly. I am not stupid. Baojing respects Father so much. Even if she really sends somebody to tell me that she is pregnant, she wont forget to tell Father. So So no matter who summoned me to enter the imperial palace in the name of Baojing, I wont satisfy her easily. Shi Qingxue raised her chin proudly. Mo Junyang couldnt help but laugh. In fact, he had found that there was something wrong with this maid. She spoke too fluently in the beginning like reciting actors lines but then she was evasive. He saw that she had a guilty conscience at a glance. However, he was afraid that Shi Qingxue would agree without thinking as she was worried about Shi Baojing. Fortunately Shi Qingxue raised her brows and snorted. Do I look like a thoughtless person? Moreover, Xia Liang has said that Baojing is fine. What would I worry about? If Xia Liang told a lie that Shi Baojing might have a miscarriage, Shi Qingxue might enter the imperial palace with her at once, but in that case, as soon as she reached there, the lie would be exposed. The person behind the scenes probably didnt want to make such big trouble, so she didnt say that it was so serious. As a result, Shi Qingxue was more unhurried than that person. Anyway, even if Shi Baojing wanted to see her, it wouldnt have an influence after she delayed it. Perhaps this maid would embellish the truth after returning to the imperial palace, and I dont know how people will gossip, Mo Junyang reminded. He was familiar with such a trick to make mischief. After the maid returned, she would tell Shi Baojing that Shi Qingxue refused to enter the imperial palace and that the sixth young lady was indifferent. Once there was an opportunity that could be made use of between the cousins, others would stir up trouble. Shi Qingxue pondered for a while and then said casually in the end, I dont care. Just imagine anything as they like. Although Shi Qingxue liked this cousin, she would have nothing to say if Shi Baojing misunderstood her because of the lowly trick to cast a bone between them. Mo Junyang was more satisfied with Shi Qingxues attitude. He had no objection but approved of it. You dont need to be so anxious indeed. Now we dont know the situation in the imperial palace. Mo Junzhan has just returned to the capital He suddenly stopped speaking and met Shi Qingxues eyes. They saw enlightenment in each others eyes. Right. Baojing is living in the Taole Palace now. No matter who came to see me in her name, it wont escape from Concubine Taos eyes Shi Qingxue murmured and seemed to find the clue. Then she continued to think. Concubine Tao is the ninth princes mother, yet it must not be him. He wont do something like this. Then Mo Junyang listened silently in the beginning. After hearing that, he couldnt help but ask gloomily, Why cant it be Mo Junzhan? Because he is not this kind of person, Shi Qingxue answered subconsciously. In some sense, she and Mo Junzhan were friends since childhood. Mo Junzhan was straightforward and would never do something like this. Shi Qingxue could be sure about this point even though she was reborn. Mo Junyang pursed his lips and looked at Shi Qingxue in silence. His face was still expressionless, but why could she notice that he was unhappy? He seemed to say, You displeased me. Why not come to comfort me? Shi Qingxue was speechless. Perhaps it was her first time to see that Mo Junyang acted like a child, although he didnt look childish obviously. Qingxue felt that it was laughable, and she was helpless. At last, she leaned forward automatically and kissed Mo Junyangs cheek gently. Then she turned away with shyness and asked in a soft voice, Is it okay? Mo Junyang was affected and felt shy without precedent. He coughed in a low voice and expressed seriously, I didnt suspect Mo Junzhan, either. He was unhappy as Shi Qingxue trusted Mo Junzhan for no reason. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes secretly and didnt bother about Mo Junyang who exposed himself unwittingly while trying to cover up his tricks, as she was magnanimous She continued, The ninth prince wont do that, yet it has something to do with Concubine Tao, while I cant figure out one thing Why did she do that? Shi Qingxue had no contact with Concubine Tao, and they didnt interfere with each others business, but why did Concubine Tao try to lure her into the imperial palace in Shi Baojings name? It must have something to do with Mo Junzhan, Mo Junyang pointed out simply. The person could make trouble when Mo Junzhan had just returned. Even if he didnt do it, he wasnt innocent. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. Gee! Mo Junyang really suspected Mo Junzhan. Shi Qingxue didnt know what was wrong with Mo Junyang. After all, even if he was jealous, he should bother about Mo Junhao she had married in the previous life. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang seemed not to take Mo Junhao seriously but was annoyed by Mo Junzhan. When Shi Qingxue spoked out this question, Mo Junyang took it for granted and answered, In the previous life, Mo Junhao did so much to harm you, and you have seen through him, so you certainly wont be cheated by him again. Shi Qingxue was speechless. His words made sense, and she couldnt find words to retort him. So Mo Junyang took Mo Junzhan to heart because she hadnt seen the boys true face clearly? Enough. Stop joking. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that Mo Junyang was really jealous. She just took it as their joke. After laughing, she talked business again. Your consideration is reasonable, so I decide to enter the imperial palace to surprise them in two days when they think that I wont go there. Shi Qingxue narrowed her big eyes and smiled slyly. Then she might find the evidence against those people who tried to scheme against her because they were caught off guard. You Mo Junyang wanted to say that it was easy if she wanted to know what the people in the Taole Palace planned to do, and she didnt need to take a risk. However, he couldnt speak it out after opening his mouth several times because he knew well about Shi Qingxue, and she wouldnt leave everything to him. It was not about whether she trusted him, but it was her pride. Mo Junyang was clear about it, so he just reminded her seriously in the end, Be careful. Shi Qingxue waved her hand indifferently. Dont worry. I will. On the third day, Shi Qingxue went to the Taole Palace with Dong Shuang. It happened that other noble ladies came to the Taole Palace. All of them seemed to have made an appointment and several ladies came one after another to visit the second princes wife who was pregnant. The Chen family, Feng family, Leng family, Liang family The wife and daughters of each influential official at the imperial court came unexpectedly, no matter which side they were on. The Taole Palace was lively, as if there were a banquet. Logically, among all the princes, the powerless second prince Mo Junwen was least likely to inherit the throne, and he shouldnt have attracted so much attention. However, the baby in the womb of the second princes wife would be Mo Xiangbins first grandchild. If it was a boy, he would be the first grandson, and his status would be extraordinary. Moreover, the second princes wife Shi Baojing was a member of Duke Shis family. At least, the crown princes followers would surely show concern for her. As soon as Shi Qingxue walked into the Taole Palace, she saw so many people and thought that she came at the wrong time. She was about to go away sneakily, while Feng Mei who had sharp eyes found her. Feng Mei shouted in a sharp voice, Yo, isnt it Lady Qingxue? Why do you want to go away as soon as you come? Dont you want to see your cousin? Shi Qingxue didnt have a chance to leave now. She cursed secretly and changed the subject with a faint smile. Your Highness, nice to see you. You look fantastic today. Feng Mei noticed that Shi Qingxue wanted to change the subject, while she didnt let her go. Huh! You dont need to play up to me. You didnt answer my questions? Are you feeling guilty? Shi Qingxue was helpless as Feng Mei pestered her endlessly. She didnt know what this woman thought about. Wouldnt she be satisfied until she proved that Shi Qingxue and Baojing had conflicts? The woman was so bored. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes in secret and retorted in a cold tone, I came to visit the second princes wife today. Why would I feel guilty? If you didnt, why did you go out? Feng Mei was aggressive. Qingxue said impassively, I just forgot something and wanted to go back and bring it to my cousin. Is anything wrong? Your Highness? Feng Mei was not as eloquent as Shi Qingxue. She couldnt speak after a few words as the girl retorted her, so she could only glare at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue didnt want to waste time on talking with Feng Mei. Seeing that the woman had nothing to say, she walked in. Stop. Unable to restrain her anger, Feng Mei stood with her arms akimbo and yelled at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue stopped and looked back in confusion. Your Highness, what else can I do for you? Feng Mei snorted with displeasure. Did I allow you to go? Shi Qingxue was speechless. Feng Mei really felt good about herself. Who did she think she was? Would Qingxue ask her for permission before leaving? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but roll her eyes and say with sarcasm, I dont know when the fourth princes mansion moved to the Taole Palace. What do you mean? Feng Mei frowned and asked in doubt. She thought that Shi Qingxue wouldnt have a good word to say for her, yet she didnt know what it meant. At the moment, Chen Xiujiao who looked on cut in, Your Highness, dont you understand that somebody laughs at you as you are meddlesome and try to boss around in the Taole Palace? Feng Mei finally understood and her face darkened at once. She shouted at Shi Qingxue, Shi Qingxue, how dare you satirize me? Arent you afraid that I will accuse you of being disrespectful? Shi Qingxue glanced at Chen Xiujiao who tried to make it worse and then at Feng Mei who was furious and would rush to her at any time seemingly. Then she pouted and said flatly, I dare not. Feng Mei thought that Shi Qingxue feared her honorable status and finally bowed down to her. She wasnt so angry anymore but still held her head high and said arrogantly, Huh! You have said that. What is the point of saying that you dare not? I will still punish you. Gee, she really issued orders left and right. What did Feng Mei think she was? Not to mention that in Mo Country, before Mo Junhao was titled as a king, the fourth princes wife didnt have a title, speaking of the status, Shi Qingxue was the wife of King Ruis heir in name and wouldnt be inferior to Feng Mei. Why did Feng Mei have the confidence to order her and make indiscreet remarks? Anyway, Shi Qingxue wouldnt listen to her. She glanced at Feng Mei coldly. What do you want to do to punish me? If you kneel down to kowtow to me for three times and admit your fault sincerely, I will spare you. Feng Mei ordered Shi Qingxue as if to show mercy. She was shorter than Shi Qingxue yet didnt forget to raise her chin all the time, and she looked up haughtily. Shi Qingxue wanted to laugh after seeing Feng Meis funny actions, but she tried to control herself and then asked indifferently, What if I say no? Huh, you have no right to say no here. If you dont listen to me, I will tell the guards to force you to kneel to me. Feng Mei threatened in a deep voice. Perhaps she didnt like Shi Qingxue since long ago, so she was determined to embarrass her in public. All of them had entered the courtyard of the Taole Palace, and many noble ladies stood around them, while none of them dared to get involved and ask for trouble at the critical moment. They just whispered to each other and glanced at Shi Qingxue with sympathy from time to time. Feng Mei was always bossy and unreasonable. Shi Qingxue was unlucky today and got caught by her. What a poor girl! Shi Qingxue glanced around the crowd in the courtyard and saw many compassionate eyes, so she felt that it was laughable for no reason. Why did all people believe that she would surely be bullied by Feng Mei? However, it wasnt the key point Shi Qingxue paid attention to. She was willing to confront Feng Mei in front of all people and even intentionally tried to irritate her with provocation because she wanted to do an experiment. Now it seemed that the experiment result came out. The mistress in the Taole Palace hadnt shown up. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that Concubine Tao knew nothing about the situation. The woman just turned a deaf ear. She didnt know whether Concubine Tao was afraid of getting herself into trouble or wanted to indulge somebody. Qingxue pondered for a moment and then suddenly laughed at leisure. This is the Taole Palace here. Your Highness, even if you really think that I have done something improper, its not your job to punish me, right? Feng Meis face stiffened after she heard Shi Qingxues straightforward words. She hesitated, unable to speak a word. Chen Xiujiao spoke for Feng Mei again all of a sudden. Mei is the fourth princes wife, and you are just a noble lady. No matter when she disciplines you, you should accept it with no complaint. She would exert pressure with her status. Shi Qingxue pouted and thought that these peoples method was so trite and they werent fed up with it after using it so frequently. However, Feng Mei thought that she had found a reason and looked at her arrogantly. Right, you are just a noble lady. I can discipline you at any time. Shi Qingxue was almost scared by Feng Meis bold words, but she wouldnt let her get carried away. Not to mention Feng Meis rank was equal to hers, the status Qingxue smiled and reminded casually, Your Highness, have you forgotten that His Majesty has made an imperial edict and granted my marriage? Even though Shi Qingxue hadnt married Mo Junyang officially, in Mo Country, after her marriage to King Ruis heir was granted, it meant that she enjoyed the treatment of his wife. She was equal to Feng Mei, the fourth princes wife, and the latter didnt have the right to discipline her. Feng Mei gritted her teeth so hard that she almost ruined them. The emperor granted the marriage for both of them, yet they were treated differently. When Shi Qingxue was titled as the wife of King Ruis heir, she was rewarded with fertile farmland, shops, manors and so on, while Feng Mei appeared to enjoy more glory than her. After all, the fourth prince had the right to inherit the throne, but all people with sharp eyes could see that the wife of King Ruis heir Shi Qingxue was much more favored than the fourth princes wife Feng Mei. How could Feng Mei not be jealous of her? However, what could she do even though she was jealous? As Shi Qingxue said, both of them were royal family members, so Feng Mei didnt have the right to punish her for now. Feng Mei was resentful and stared at Shi Qingxue. They were in a stalemate for a while, and Liang Zixin walked forward to mediate as she saw something wrong. All of us came to visit the second princes wife, and we dont need to bother about who is superior. Liang Zixin wanted to make all people calm down and go in to visit Shi Baojing harmoniously who was pregnant. However, Feng Mei was irritated by Shi Qingxue, so she didnt listen to Liang Zixin but vented her anger on this girl. Do you qualify to interrupt when I talk with Shi Qingxue? Who the hell are you? These words were so harsh, and even though Liang Zixin was good-tempered, she turned ghastly pale involuntarily and looked at Feng Mei, unable to speak. Feng Mei was still in a rage and raised her chin again, saying cockily, Why are you looking at me? Can you look at me at will? Liang Zixin couldnt say anything. Shi Qingxue didnt want to meddle, yet Feng Meis unreasonable action was really annoying. She pulled Liang Zixin back and put on a faint smile. Your Highness, have you heard such a story? Feng Mei had been fooled by Shi Qingxue for too many times. Seeing that the girl suddenly changed the subject, she was stunned and just looked at her alertly but didnt dare to speak rashly. Shi Qingxue continued casually, as if telling a story, Once upon a time, there was a mynah. It gossiped endlessly all day long and thought that it was the most beautiful and noble bird in the world, yet it didnt know that others just didnt want to talk with it as they thought that it was too noisy. One day, this mynah talked too excitedly and fell from the tree. It happened to fall into mud, and the stinky and dirty mud sealed its mouth. From then on, the world became quiet again Shi Qingxue was a good talker and showed her expression and tone perfectly while telling the story. It didnt appear to be exaggerated but could make the audience seem to be personally on the scene. After all people heard that, some of them couldnt help but burst into laughter. Feng Meis face darkened at once, and she stared at Shi Qingxue angrily. What do you mean? Shi Qingxue shrugged, pretending to be innocent. I was talking about a mynah. Why are you so emotional? It was scolding a locust while pointing at a mulberry, yet the locust didnt have a chance to retort. Feng Mei stomped in a rage. Perhaps she finally realized that she could never defeat Shi Qingxue in an argument. After weighing, she walked away resentfully at last. Liang Zixin heaved a sigh of relief and looked at Shi Qingxue gratefully. Thanks, Qingxue. If it werent for your help, I didnt know what to do. Shi Qingxue smiled and expressed that it was nothing. When she entered Shi Baojings room, most of the other visitors had left. Seeing her, Shi Baojing waved away the others, and they were left alone in the room. Baojing couldnt help but ask, Wont you be in trouble after you embarrass the fourth princes wife in the courtyard? What trouble can it be? Shi Qingxue didnt take it seriously. Shi Baojing frowned worriedly. Anyway, she is the fourth princes wife, and nobody knows the situation in the future. If he is in power someday, she wont let you go easily. Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Baojing quietly, to see that the concern and worry in her eyes were sincere. While thinking, she didnt feel unhappy anymore. Afterward, she asked Shi Baojing straightforwardly, Baojing, did you send Xia Liang to see me in the Lanxun Villa two days ago? Shi Baojings face stiffened, and she looked at Shi Qingxue in embarrassment. After a long time, she explained in a low voice, In fact, its Mother who wants to see you, yet she was afraid that you would be unwilling to enter the imperial palace, so she told Xia Liang to send a message. However, Shi Qingxue found something wrong, so Concubine Tao didnt achieve her goal. Concubine Tao had lost temper in private for many times, while Shi Baojing was her daughter-in-law in name. When her mother-in-law blamed her, no matter if she was right, Shi Baojing had to bear with it obediently. Nevertheless, Shi Baojing didnt want to talk about something like this. Shi Qingxue knew it and asked seriously, Did she make things difficult for you? Shi Baojing shook her head. No. Perhaps she thought that you and me are not close enough, and its normal that you didnt come. She just rebuked me and then did nothing. It was just that those words with ridicule were offensive. Why did she tell me to enter the imperial palace suddenly? Shi Qingxue still didnt understand what Concubine Tao wanted to get from her. Perhapsbecause of the ninth prince, Shi Baojing said with uncertainty. She just guessed because Mo Junzhan quarreled with Concubine Tao as soon as he came back. The mother and son closed the door and had a quarrel, and the people outside could only hear some screams occasionally from the room but couldnt hear what they were talking about. Then Mo Junzhan left the imperial palace and went to Moon Mountain, while Concubine Tao looked worried and came to see Shi Baojing, asking her maid Xia Liang to go to see Shi Qingxue. After hearing the cause and effect, Shi Qingxue still felt doubtful. She pursed her lips and wanted to ask more, while a maid knocked at the door. Your Highness, Concubine Tao asked you to see her. Chapter 354 - Exert Pressure with Her Status Shi Qingxue stopped and looked back in confusion. Your Highness, what else can I do for you? Feng Mei snorted with displeasure. Did I allow you to go? Shi Qingxue was speechless. Feng Mei really felt good about herself. Who did she think she was? Would Qingxue ask her for permission before leaving? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but roll her eyes and say with sarcasm, I dont know when the fourth princes mansion moved to the Taole Palace. What do you mean? Feng Mei frowned and asked in doubt. She thought that Shi Qingxue wouldnt have a good word to say for her, yet she didnt know what it meant. At the moment, Chen Xiujiao who looked on cut in, Your Highness, dont you understand that somebody laughs at you as you are meddlesome and try to boss around in the Taole Palace? Feng Mei finally understood and her face darkened at once. She shouted at Shi Qingxue, Shi Qingxue, how dare you satirize me? Arent you afraid that I will accuse you of being disrespectful? Shi Qingxue glanced at Chen Xiujiao who tried to make it worse and then at Feng Mei who was furious and would rush to her at any time seemingly. Then she pouted and said flatly, I dare not. Feng Mei thought that Shi Qingxue feared her honorable status and finally bowed down to her. She wasnt so angry anymore but still held her head high and said arrogantly, Huh! You have said that. What is the point of saying that you dare not? I will still punish you. Gee, she really issued orders left and right. What did Feng Mei think she was? Not to mention that in Mo Country, before Mo Junhao was titled as a king, the fourth princes wife didnt have a title, speaking of the status, Shi Qingxue was the wife of King Ruis heir in name and wouldnt be inferior to Feng Mei. Why did Feng Mei have the confidence to order her and make indiscreet remarks? Anyway, Shi Qingxue wouldnt listen to her. She glanced at Feng Mei coldly. What do you want to do to punish me? If you kneel down to kowtow to me for three times and admit your fault sincerely, I will spare you. Feng Mei ordered Shi Qingxue as if to show mercy. She was shorter than Shi Qingxue yet didnt forget to raise her chin all the time, and she looked up haughtily. Shi Qingxue wanted to laugh after seeing Feng Meis funny actions, but she tried to control herself and then asked indifferently, What if I say no? Huh, you have no right to say no here. If you dont listen to me, I will tell the guards to force you to kneel to me. Feng Mei threatened in a deep voice. Perhaps she didnt like Shi Qingxue since long ago, so she was determined to embarrass her in public. All of them had entered the courtyard of the Taole Palace, and many noble ladies stood around them, while none of them dared to get involved and ask for trouble at the critical moment. They just whispered to each other and glanced at Shi Qingxue with sympathy from time to time. Feng Mei was always bossy and unreasonable. Shi Qingxue was unlucky today and got caught by her. What a poor girl! Shi Qingxue glanced around the crowd in the courtyard and saw many compassionate eyes, so she felt that it was laughable for no reason. Why did all people believe that she would surely be bullied by Feng Mei? However, it wasnt the key point Shi Qingxue paid attention to. She was willing to confront Feng Mei in front of all people and even intentionally tried to irritate her with provocation because she wanted to do an experiment. Now it seemed that the experiment result came out. The mistress in the Taole Palace hadnt shown up. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that Concubine Tao knew nothing about the situation. The woman just turned a deaf ear. She didnt know whether Concubine Tao was afraid of getting herself into trouble or wanted to indulge somebody. Qingxue pondered for a moment and then suddenly laughed at leisure. This is the Taole Palace here. Your Highness, even if you really think that I have done something improper, its not your job to punish me, right? Feng Meis face stiffened after she heard Shi Qingxues straightforward words. She hesitated, unable to speak a word. Chen Xiujiao spoke for Feng Mei again all of a sudden. Mei is the fourth princes wife, and you are just a noble lady. No matter when she disciplines you, you should accept it with no complaint. She would exert pressure with her status. Shi Qingxue pouted and thought that these peoples method was so trite and they werent fed up with it after using it so frequently. However, Feng Mei thought that she had found a reason and looked at her arrogantly. Right, you are just a noble lady. I can discipline you at any time. Shi Qingxue was almost scared by Feng Meis bold words, but she wouldnt let her get carried away. Not to mention Feng Meis rank was equal to hers, the status Qingxue smiled and reminded casually, Your Highness, have you forgotten that His Majesty has made an imperial edict and granted my marriage? Even though Shi Qingxue hadnt married Mo Junyang officially, in Mo Country, after her marriage to King Ruis heir was granted, it meant that she enjoyed the treatment of his wife. She was equal to Feng Mei, the fourth princes wife, and the latter didnt have the right to discipline her. Feng Mei gritted her teeth so hard that she almost ruined them. The emperor granted the marriage for both of them, yet they were treated differently. When Shi Qingxue was titled as the wife of King Ruis heir, she was rewarded with fertile farmland, shops, manors and so on, while Feng Mei appeared to enjoy more glory than her. After all, the fourth prince had the right to inherit the throne, but all people with sharp eyes could see that the wife of King Ruis heir Shi Qingxue was much more favored than the fourth princes wife Feng Mei. How could Feng Mei not be jealous of her? However, what could she do even though she was jealous? As Shi Qingxue said, both of them were royal family members, so Feng Mei didnt have the right to punish her for now. Feng Mei was resentful and stared at Shi Qingxue. They were in a stalemate for a while, and Liang Zixin walked forward to mediate as she saw something wrong. All of us came to visit the second princes wife, and we dont need to bother about who is superior. Liang Zixin wanted to make all people calm down and go in to visit Shi Baojing harmoniously who was pregnant. However, Feng Mei was irritated by Shi Qingxue, so she didnt listen to Liang Zixin but vented her anger on this girl. Do you qualify to interrupt when I talk with Shi Qingxue? Who the hell are you? These words were so harsh, and even though Liang Zixin was good-tempered, she turned ghastly pale involuntarily and looked at Feng Mei, unable to speak. Feng Mei was still in a rage and raised her chin again, saying cockily, Why are you looking at me? Can you look at me at will? Liang Zixin couldnt say anything. Shi Qingxue didnt want to meddle, yet Feng Meis unreasonable action was really annoying. She pulled Liang Zixin back and put on a faint smile. Your Highness, have you heard such a story? Feng Mei had been fooled by Shi Qingxue for too many times. Seeing that the girl suddenly changed the subject, she was stunned and just looked at her alertly but didnt dare to speak rashly. Shi Qingxue continued casually, as if telling a story, Once upon a time, there was a mynah. It gossiped endlessly all day long and thought that it was the most beautiful and noble bird in the world, yet it didnt know that others just didnt want to talk with it as they thought that it was too noisy. One day, this mynah talked too excitedly and fell from the tree. It happened to fall into mud, and the stinky and dirty mud sealed its mouth. From then on, the world became quiet again Shi Qingxue was a good talker and showed her expression and tone perfectly while telling the story. It didnt appear to be exaggerated but could make the audience seem to be personally on the scene. After all people heard that, some of them couldnt help but burst into laughter. Feng Meis face darkened at once, and she stared at Shi Qingxue angrily. What do you mean? Shi Qingxue shrugged, pretending to be innocent. I was talking about a mynah. Why are you so emotional? It was scolding a locust while pointing at a mulberry, yet the locust didnt have a chance to retort. Feng Mei stomped in a rage. Perhaps she finally realized that she could never defeat Shi Qingxue in an argument. After weighing, she walked away resentfully at last. Liang Zixin heaved a sigh of relief and looked at Shi Qingxue gratefully. Thanks, Qingxue. If it werent for your help, I didnt know what to do. Shi Qingxue smiled and expressed that it was nothing. When she entered Shi Baojings room, most of the other visitors had left. Seeing her, Shi Baojing waved away the others, and they were left alone in the room. Baojing couldnt help but ask, Wont you be in trouble after you embarrass the fourth princes wife in the courtyard? What trouble can it be? Shi Qingxue didnt take it seriously. Shi Baojing frowned worriedly. Anyway, she is the fourth princes wife, and nobody knows the situation in the future. If he is in power someday, she wont let you go easily. Shi Qingxue looked at Shi Baojing quietly, to see that the concern and worry in her eyes were sincere. While thinking, she didnt feel unhappy anymore. Afterward, she asked Shi Baojing straightforwardly, Baojing, did you send Xia Liang to see me in the Lanxun Villa two days ago? Shi Baojings face stiffened, and she looked at Shi Qingxue in embarrassment. After a long time, she explained in a low voice, In fact, its Mother who wants to see you, yet she was afraid that you would be unwilling to enter the imperial palace, so she told Xia Liang to send a message. However, Shi Qingxue found something wrong, so Concubine Tao didnt achieve her goal. Concubine Tao had lost temper in private for many times, while Shi Baojing was her daughter-in-law in name. When her mother-in-law blamed her, no matter if she was right, Shi Baojing had to bear with it obediently. Nevertheless, Shi Baojing didnt want to talk about something like this. Shi Qingxue knew it and asked seriously, Did she make things difficult for you? Shi Baojing shook her head. No. Perhaps she thought that you and me are not close enough, and its normal that you didnt come. She just rebuked me and then did nothing. It was just that those words with ridicule were offensive. Why did she tell me to enter the imperial palace suddenly? Shi Qingxue still didnt understand what Concubine Tao wanted to get from her. Perhapsbecause of the ninth prince, Shi Baojing said with uncertainty. She just guessed because Mo Junzhan quarreled with Concubine Tao as soon as he came back. The mother and son closed the door and had a quarrel, and the people outside could only hear some screams occasionally from the room but couldnt hear what they were talking about. Then Mo Junzhan left the imperial palace and went to Moon Mountain, while Concubine Tao looked worried and came to see Shi Baojing, asking her maid Xia Liang to go to see Shi Qingxue. After hearing the cause and effect, Shi Qingxue still felt doubtful. She pursed her lips and wanted to ask more, while a maid knocked at the door. Your Highness, Concubine Tao asked you to see her. Chapter 355 - Being Forced by Concubine Tao Shi Qingxue and Shi Baojing looked at each other speechlessly for quite a while. Shi Baojing said, I see. I am coming soon. She paused for a moment and then told Shi Qingxue, I am fine. Dont worry about me. Go back first. Concubine Taos intention was obvious. She summoned Shi Baojing even though she knew that Shi Qingxue was here, so it was evident that she wanted Shi Baojing to go with Shi Qingxue to see her. However, Shi Baojing told Shi Qingxue to go back. Shi Qingxue couldnt help laughing. She thought that Shi Baojing was capable of coping with the superiors orders. Qingxue didnt want to get involved in the mess, so she nodded. I am off now. Nevertheless, as soon as she got up, the maid outside said, Your Highness, Concubine Tao is waiting in the side hall. Gee! Shi Qingxue couldnt help but sigh with emotion. In order to see her, Concubine Tao racked her brains. Well. Since she wants to see me so much, lets satisfy her. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and then decided to see Concubine Tao in person and check what she wanted to do. Concubine Tao was sitting in the masters seat in the parlor of the side hall. She had a cup of tea in her hand and seemed to drink tea at leisure, but there was restlessness in her eyes. The restlessness reached the peak when Shi Qingxue came to the parlor. When Concubine Tao saw Shi Qingxue, she almost sprang from her seat. Fortunately, the maid next to her pulled her clothes in secret. Concubine Tao sat down again and pretended to be noble and distant, accepting the two young ladies greetings. Then she asked unhurriedly, Baojing, how are you feeling? Shi Baojing bowed slightly. Mother, thanks for your concern. I am all right. So I am relieved. Concubine Tao nodded. Shi Qingxue stood behind Shi Baojing like a wall flower all the time and didnt plan to interrupt them. In the end, Concubine Tao got impatient first and stated, Qingxue, I have heard that you and Baojing are close since she was unmarried. You can come to visit her frequently. Its so nice of you. Shi Qingxue showed a shy smile. Your Highness, thanks for your compliment. Then she stopped talking. Concubine Tao was speechless. Perhaps it was her first time to be so humble after she was titled as a high-ranking imperial concubine. However, she had something on her mind, so she didnt dare to show a long face to Shi Qingxue. She knew how arrogant this young lady was. If she dared to be unfriendly to her, the girl dared to embarrass her. Concubine Tao gritted her teeth secretly yet still forced a smile, saying, The peach blossom is beautiful outside. Qingxue, since you came to the Taole Palace, how about going out for a walk with me? Shi Qingxue looked at Concubine Tao and couldnt help but think playfully, If I refuse her, she will probably stomp out of anger. She just thought so but still agreed obediently. However, seeing that Concubine Tao wanted to see Shi Qingxue alone, Shi Baojing was worried, even though they would be just in the courtyard of the Taole Palace. She pulled Shi Qingxues clothes in secret and looked anxious. Shi Qingxue patted the back of Shi Baojings hand to comfort her and glanced at her to set her mind at ease, indicating, Dont worry. I will be fine. Even though Shi Baojing was worried, she wouldnt object to Concubine Taos proposal in public, so she could do nothing but watch Shi Qingxue walking out of the parlor with Concubine Tao. In the courtyard of the Taole Palace, there were peach trees that Concubine Tao liked most everywhere. Under the breeze in spring, the petals of the peach flowers flew all over the sky. The courtyard was full of faint flower fragrance, which was refreshing. Unfortunately, Concubine Tao wasnt in the mood to enjoy the beautiful scenery. She just took Shi Qingxue to the depths of the peach forest. Then she came straight to the point. Shi Qingxue, I know that you are close to my son. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Although she was prepared, she was dumbfounded by these straightforward words. What did it mean? She was close to Mo Junzhan? Even though men and women could talk with each other freely in Mo Country, Concubine Taos words could easily make others misunderstand. Shi Qingxues face fell, and she responded indifferently, I am merely an officials daughter, and I dont dare to get close to His Highness in private. Please speak with caution, Your Highness. Concubine Tao probably realized that what she said was ambiguous, so she smiled in embarrassment. I didnt mean that. Its just She hesitated rarely and stuttered for a long time. Then she gritted her teeth and expressed, In fact, I want you to do something for me. Hope that you can help me, Qingxue. Gee, as expected, people would never see somebody else suddenly except on business, for help, etc. Shi Qingxue had wondered why Concubine Tao wanted to see her so anxiously even though they had no contact. It turned out that Concubine Tao wanted to ask her for help. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and decided to hear Concubine Taos request. Your Highness, please go ahead. Whether she would agree depended on what Concubine Taos request was. However, Concubine Tao thought that Shi Qingxue agreed with her, so she got overjoyed at once and stated anxiously, Junzhan wants to guard the northern border. I hope that you can convince him to give up this stupid plan. What? Shi Qingxue was petrified. She had thought about all kinds of requests Concubine Tao might make, while she had never expected that the woman wanted her to persuade Mo Junzhan to give up going to the northern border. Shi Qingxue looked at Concubine Tao seriously for a long while and then confirmed that the latter wasnt joking with her, so she was more confused. Your Highness, what do you mean? His Highness has just returned to the capital city. Why would he go and guard the northern border? Moreover, even if His Highness really wants to, he should go there with soldiers after His Majesty issues an imperial edict. I am just a girl. Why do you think that I can stop him? Shi Qingxue almost wanted to roll her eyes at Concubine Tao. She didnt know what Concubine Tao was thinking about. She even considered asking Shi Qingxue to do something beyond her ability. Even Mo Junyang might not be able to make it, let alone her. Why did Concubine Tao think that Shi Qingxue could do it? Concubine Tao seemed to take it for granted and looked at the girl, with certainty in her eyes, as if saying, Of course, you can do it. The environment at the northern border is poor, and Liang Country will intrude from time to time, so it is very dangerous. Junzhan is only fifteen years old. He is so young. How can he suffer hardships in such a place? Concubine Tao thought that Shi Qingxue was unwilling to, so she started to talk about how dangerous that place was, hoping that she could convince Qingxue. You are Junzhans friend. Can you bear to watch him lose his life there at a young age? Concubine Tao said with emotion and reasons. She thought that even a hard-hearted person would be moved. However, Shi Qingxue could do nothing but look at her with a frown and explain powerlessly, I naturally hope that His Highness will be safe and sound, yet I can do nothing to help you in this matter, Your Highness. Concubine Tao looked angry at once and stated, Shi Qingxue, I asked you humbly, but you refuse me. Dont you think that I can do it without you? Shi Qingxue thought, Just do it if you are capable. Why do you talk with me? I dare not. I am really unable to do as you request, she repeated stiffly. When she thought of Mo Junzhan, she still became emotional involuntarily. Then she added, Your Highness, if you dont want His Highness to guard the northern border, you can tell His Majesty. He is reasonable and wont disappoint you. To be frank, Shi Qingxues suggestion was the most practical way. Nevertheless, Concubine Tao seemed to have been provoked and sneered at Shi Qingxue. Huh! Its fine if you dont want to help me. Why do you make sarcastic remarks? Shi Qingxue was unable to reply, as she really didnt think that she made sarcastic remarks. Because it was not the right time to reason things out, she kept silent. Anyway, no matter what Concubine Tao said, Shi Qingxue couldnt make it. Concubine Tao lowered herself by requesting Shi Qingxue and even provoked her, but she couldnt persuade the girl. At last, she realized that the girl wouldnt agree with her, so she was frustrated. She expressed coldly, Since you are unwilling to, I will think that Junzhan has wasted time on making friends with you. Go away. You are not welcome in the Taole Palace. It was the first time for Shi Qingxue to be driven away so directly, so she was stunned. She thought, Concubine Tao is really straightforward as they say. She doesnt have any worldly wisdom. She is so proficient in getting rid of anybody that she cant make use of. However, Shi Qingxue was peaceful unexpectedly and didnt get angry even though Concubine Tao was so impolite to her. Perhaps she knew that Concubine Tao overreacted because she was worried about Mo Junzhan. No matter what way Concubine Tao used, the mothers love should be respected. Shi Qingxue bowed to Concubine Tao and turned to leave. When she almost reached the gate, she couldnt help but look back, to see that Concubine Tao who was always haughty lowered her head in frustration without precedent. She was like a homeless cur in its old age which had nothing to rely on and could only walk forward shakily with its long tail. Shi Qingxue knew that she imagined too much, yet when she saw Concubine Tao in this state, she involuntarily thought of the teenage boy looking at her with his bright eyes, where there were stars inside seemingly. If he died so soon, it would be a pity. In the previous life, Mo Junzhan went to the northern border and died in a battle with Liang Country before Mo Junyang conquered the capital city. He was buried in the desert full of yellow sands at a young age, and even his dead body couldnt be found. In the end, he was buried in the royal mausoleum with a fake body in clothes. At that time, Shi Qingxue had been locked up in the Cold Palace, so she didnt know this thing, yet when she was around Mo Junyang as a ghost after she died, she heard that the battle which caused Mo Junzhans early death was not simple. However, Mo Junyang didnt like the Mo family all the time, so he didnt investigate this matter. In the previous life, the northern border was Mo Junzhans fiefdom where he was titled as a king, but he couldnt even protect himself there. Now this boy who hadnt come of age would guard the northern border. Shi Qingxue didnt dare to imagine what would happen. She pursed her lips and warned herself many times in secret not to be meddlesome, yet she couldnt control her legs in the end. She returned to Concubine Tao. Concubine Tao hadnt concealed the sadness on her face. She was stunned to see Shi Qingxue who had walked back. You Shi Qingxue pursed her lips. Your Highness, please tell His Highness that I still have an appointment to make a bet with him. After my eighteenth birthday, I will compete with him. After speaking, Shi Qingxue didnt care what reaction Concubine Tao would have but left directly. She had said and done what she should say and could do. As for whether she could change anything in the end, they could only wait and see the result. Till Shi Qingxue went away for long, Concubine Tao finally came back to earth and then suddenly remembered that the girls birthday was in the sixth lunar month. Chapter 356 - Junzhan Loves Shi Qingxue? After Concubine Tao realized this matter, the next things could be understood more easily. Mo Junzhans obsessiveness was to compete with Shi Qingxue on archery and win her once openly. Mo Junzhan liked the battlefield indeed these years and had learnt much to arrange battle arrays. He was always strict with himself by the standards of a general, but he had never slacked off on practicing archery. However, after both of them grew up, they had few chances to see each other, and the chances for them to compete on archery were slimmer. Concubine Tao didnt need to guess with effort. After Mo Junzhan heard Shi Qingxues words, he would agree without hesitation. In this case, Mo Junzhans plan to go to the northern border far away in the near future would be Even if Mo Junzhan was determined to guard the northern border, he would discuss with Shi Qingxue first as he couldnt compete with her. Since they would talk face to face, Shi Qingxue would have more chances to change Mo Junzhans mind. As she talked with me about this matter, she must have agreed to help me persuade Junzhan. Concubine Tao thought and got relieved. She pondered for a while and then told somebody to bring the ninth prince without delay. After hearing Concubine Taos words, as she guessed, Mo Junzhan didnt emotionally shout that he would go and guard the northern border but looked hesitant. Mother, I want to go to the northern border, yet I cant break the appointment with Qingxue. What should I do? His handsome face looked hesitant, as if he was in a dilemma. Concubine Tao felt that it was annoying but funny after seeing that. She didnt know how to give a suggestion, so she left the hot potato to Shi Qingxue. I have no idea. If you cant make a decision, go to see Qingxue. She said that with jealousy. Concubine Tao thought that she wasnt narrow-minded, yet she tried her best to persuade Mo Junzhan not to risk his life at the northern border, while the boy didnt listen to her but even quarreled with her. After Shi Qingxue just lured him with the archery competition, he got hesitant at once. So Concubine Tao was angry at this thought. Mo Junzhan didnt notice Concubine Taos displeasure, while his eyes lit up, and he stated joyfully, Right. I can go to see Qingxue. Afterward, he ran out happily before Concubine Tao said more. She goggled. This bad boy. Your Highness, I am afraid that its improper as you told His Highness to see Lady Qingxue, Concubine Taos personal maid Mammy Guo reminded in a low voice. Concubine Tao expressed, Why is it improper? I cant persuade this stubborn boy, so I have to let Shi Qingxue do it. Fine, I will just owe her a favor. Anything is fine as long as Junzhan can stay alive. Mammy Guo shook her head. I didnt mean it, but Concubine Tao didnt like Mammy Guos hesitation. She ordered impatiently, There is nobody else here. Just say it directly, Mammy. Mammy Guo tried to remind tactfully, Your Highness, dont forget that Lady Qingxue has been titled as the wife of King Ruis heir. Even though she hasnt married His Excellency, she is his woman. What does it have to do with this matter? Concubine Tao certainly knew that Duke Shis family and King Ruis family were behind Shi Qingxue. Otherwise, she wouldnt be so polite to the girl. Your Highness, dont you think that His Highnesss attitude toward Lady Qingxue isa bit Mammy Guo couldnt find a euphemistic word. Fortunately, Concubine Tao understood what the old maid meant, so she turned pale in an instant and asked in surprise, Do you mean that Junzhan loves Shi Qingxue? Concubine Tao said that straightforwardly, yet as soon as she finished her words, she covered her mouth and finally looked shocked. No. No way? Concubine Tao was in panic for a while and then started to deny her own words. Mo Junzhan didnt like to hang out with girls since childhood. He always thought that girls were cowardly and fragile and liked crying, yet he was close to Shi Qingxue alone and even followed her all the time, taking her as an elder sister. But Shi Qingxue was nearly three years older than Mo Junzhan, and she was an elder sister in front of him. The two didnt look like a couple anyway. You are right, but His Highnesss attitude toward Lady Qingxue is really special. Even if he is aboveboard, it will easily make people imagine. Mammy Guo looked at Concubine Taos face cautiously, to see that the mistress didnt get angry because of her words, so she continued, This matter can be significant or unimportant in others eyes, yet it is not something good anyway. If it spreads, it will harm His Highnesss reputation. Whats more Mammy Guo gritted her teeth and spoke out what she was most worried about. Whats more, all people in the capital know that His Excellency spoils Lady Qingxue so much. Lets ignore how long he will spoil her. Now, if His Highnesss attitude is distorted by some people with evil intentions, it may bring endless trouble. With Mo Junzhans age and experience, he would surely die in front of Mo Junyang. After hearing Mammy Guos words, Concubine Tao realized the seriousness of this matter. Although she had never contacted King Ruis heir, there were widespread rumors about him in the capital city. The most famous story was that Mo Junyang eliminated Zhao Mings family and Qin Shirongs family in order to avenge Shi Qingxue. All people guessed secretly how long Mo Junyang would love Lady Qingxue, but nobody dared to irritate him because of something about Shi Qingxue. Concubine Tao didnt have the nerve. She was flurried and grabbed Mammy Zhengs arm, asking, What should I do? Shall I chase Junzhan to tell him to go back and forbid him to have contact with Shi Qingxue? Mammy Guo smiled bitterly. Your Highness, I am afraid that you cant stop him Mo Junzhan had a quarrel with Concubine Tao about whether he would go to the northern border, and he finally distracted attention. If Concubine Tao forbade him to contact Shi Qingxue, which meant that they couldnt have an archery competition, Mo Junzhan wouldnt surrender. Concubine Tao touched her forehead helplessly and sighed. Why do I have such a naughty boy? I am really pissed off by him. Mammy, you have a lot of good ideas. What do you think I should do? Er Mammy Guo pondered for a while and then suggested cautiously, In fact, His Highness has never expressed his love for Lady Qingxue, so dont worry too much, Your Highness. As long as you intentionally try to prevent them from seeing each other frequently, you dont need to worry after Lady Qingxue marries into King Ruis mansion. Concubine Tao didnt like such a passive way, but she couldnt figure out another way for a moment, so she had to nod in agreement. The silly boy Junzhan is dedicated to the battlefield and isnt in the mood to think about the romantic relationship. He hasnt arrived at puberty, which makes me worry less. If Concubine Tao knew that Mo Junzhan had arrived at puberty earlier and even asked Ling Ruiyin to grant his marriage to Shi Qingxue, she would probably want to spit blood out of anger. After Mo Junzhan got out of the imperial palace, he rushed to Duke Shis mansion, and then he finally knew that Shi Qingxue didnt live in this mansion since long ago. He urged his horse in a hurry and headed to the Lanxun Villa. When he reached the destination, it was almost at dusk and the sun was sinking in the west. Shi Qingxue had guessed that Mo Junzhan would come, while she didnt expect that he couldnt even wait one day but came at once. He said as soon as he saw her, Qingxue, lets have a competition now. Dont wait so long. Mo Junzhan had a perfect plan. As long as he competed with Shi Qingxue now and won, he could be satisfied and ask Mo Xiangbin to let him guard the northern border as a general of the garrison. However, Shi Qingxue disillusioned him without mercy. No way. Mo Junzhan goggled in confusion. Why? I dont feel well recently, so I cant shoot arrows. Even if I can pick up a bow with difficulty, I cant shoot accurately. Shi Qingxue told a lie unhurriedly without hesitation. In the end, she added intentionally, If you want to take the opportunity and win me, lets have a competition now. Mo Junzhan always wanted to compete with her openly. How would he accept such an invitation? Even if he won, he would just win by unfair means. Mo Junzhan got furious instantly. It will be pointless even if I win. We will compete after you recover. Shi Qingxue nodded. So I said that we would have a competition after my eighteenth birthday. Then I will probably recover. Butwe have to wait two months. Mo Junzhan frowned and murmured with displeasure. Shi Qingxue pretended as if she didnt know Mo Junzhans anxiety, and she took it for granted, saying, Only in two months, so soon. However, in this case, I cant tell Father that I will go to the northern border, Mo Junzhan complained in depression. He pondered for a moment with his dim-witted brain and then suddenly figured out a way which could satisfy both sides. He suggested happily, How about delaying the competition? Wait for me. Lets compete after I come back from the northern border. Is it okay? Then he wouldnt miss either of them. Shi Qingxue thought, This inflexible boy finally gets smart after coming back from the battlefield at the southern border, and he cant be fooled easily. She didnt object to Mo Junzhans suggestion immediately but asked, Your Highness, what do you think the difference between the northern border and southern border is? Mo Junzhan didnt understand why Qingxue suddenly changed the subject, yet he still answered frankly, The refugee rebellion at the southern border has been suppressed, and the local official of this term administers the area properly, so its peaceful and stable there, while the northern border is near Liang Country, where people like fighting and harass our officials and common people there now and then, so it is more dangerous and difficult to rule than the southern border. Your Highness, how many soldiers did the imperial court send to the southern border? How many years did it take before they make the southern border at peace? Mo Junzhan paused for a moment and then spoke out the numbers. About three hundred thousand elite soldiers have been sent from beginning to end, and it took nearly five years till I returned to the capital. Shi Qingxue asked, Your Highness, in your estimation, how many years will it take before everything calms down and you can return with the army if you go to the northern border now? Mo Junzhan couldnt speak a word. He knew that after he went to the southern border, the rebellion there had almost been settled, and they only needed to suppress few bandits. When the soldiers sent by the imperial court went there, he just practiced his military tactics, and it was not dangerous or difficult. It was a matter that he knew it, while it was another matter that Shi Qingxue pointed it out directly. Mo Junzhan wouldnt become angry from shame but just felt frustrated. His face fell, and he asked gloomily, Do you think that I am incapable yet still rush to the fore recklessly? Chapter 357 - The Power Is Imbalanced Shi Qingxue thought, Why is this little prince still like the one in childhood who cant suffer from frustration? She had said only a few words, but Mo Junzhan was downcast again Gee, he was really a kid. At the moment, Shi Qingxue would be really worried if Mo Junzhan went to the northern border. Who knew if the murderer behind the scenes in the previous life would take actions against Mo Junzhan again? Mo Junzhan might be good at fighting, yet he was inferior in playing dirty tricks. He would be fooled by others. Of course, I dont. Shi Qingxue gave a negative answer without delay. When Mo Junzhan raised his head and looked at her, she didnt avoid his eyes but stared at him calmly. Mo Junzhan finally looked relieved and had a smile on his face. Then you I just want to say that after you go to the northern border, I dont know when you will come back. What about our competition? Shi Qingxue beat around the bush and focused on their competition again. It looked circuitous and verbose, but it made Mo Junzhan believe that she really just cared about the archery competition. So he didnt bother about whether he was incapable anymore. He sniffed and asked helplessly, Qingxue, do you have a solution? In the past, when they were in trouble after doing something wrong, Shi Qingxue would make a decision, and then Mo Junzhan carried it out unconditionally. Now they had grown up, yet they still kept this tradition. Shi Qingxue smiled and replied logically, Just go there later. Ah? Mo Junzhan always thought that there was something wrong, while he was used to trusting her, so he didnt doubt for long before nodding in agreement. Well, okay. I wont tell Father that I will go to the northern border. Gee? Shi Qingxue was stunned and then reacted. His Majesty didnt send you to the northern border, but you want to? Mo Junzhan responded, Of course. Father wishes to trap me in the imperial palace. How would he issue an imperial edict? Then Shi Qingxue seemed to find one key point. She pondered for a moment and then asked, Why did you think of going to the northern border? My brother Junhao told me. Mo Junzhan didnt hide it from Shi Qingxue. On the day when I came back, Junhao happened to come out of the city to pick me up. He chatted with me and mentioned the tense situation at the northern border, and he even said that nobody at the imperial court was willing to resist the enemies at the northern border. As Fathers son, I should naturally share his worries. Mo Junzhan took it for granted, but seeing that Shi Qingxues face fell, he got uncertain. Qingxue? Mo Junzhan doubted if he said something wrong. Why did Qingxue who was always lively show such a gloomy expression? It was really scary. Shi Qingxue ignored his confusion and stared at him, asking in a stiff tone, Did Mo Junhao mention it? Without noticing that Shi Qingxue called Mo Junhao by his name directly, Mo Junzhan just nodded frankly. Yes. He paused for a moment and thought that he found the key point Shi Qingxue paid attention to, so he explained hurriedly, But I want to go to the northern border, and it has nothing to do with Junhao. Dont Dont what? Mo Junzhan couldnt explain clearly. He just didnt want to see Shi Qingxue get angry. Under the situation, even a shrewd person would think that it was normal. Two brothers talked, and Mo Junhao just brought up the situation at the northern border casually and didnt even ask Mo Junzhan to go to the northern border. What would happen later was only Mo Junzhans own plan. However, Shi Qingxue knew well about Mo Junzhan. His curiosity was aroused by Mo Junhao, and he would fall into the trap before being advised. She remembered that Mo Junzhan would die after going to the northern border and his dead body couldnt be found Mo Junhao! Shi Qingxue gritted her teeth and roared in a low voice, showing her anger uncontrollably. She couldnt figure it out. Among all the princes, the ninth prince Mo Junzhan and the second prince Mo Junwen almost had no competitive power. Why would Mo Junhao murder his brother who could even help him? Was he so narrow-minded? Did Mo Junwens early death after being ill in the previous life have something to do with him? While thinking, Shi Qingxue was angrier and hated herself more for her blindness in the previous life. Qingxue, whats wrong with you? Mo Junzhan was scared by Shi Qingxues tantrum and opened his eyes wide, looking at her. Shi Qingxue couldnt tell him the truth, so she felt depressed, and she wanted to awaken him by pinching his ear and cursing him, Mo Junhao is not a good person. You trust the wrong person. However, she didnt speak it out. After she kept silent for quite a while, she restrained her anger and then stated, Anyway, we have an appointment to compete on archery first, so you need to do anything else after we finish it. Mo Junzhan nodded in agreement. Okay. Moreover, if your martial skills are not good enough, you need to stay secluded and practice for one or two years before going to the battlefield. Shi Qingxue made a demand. Mo Junzhan was unwilling and frowned, but seeing Shi Qingxues determined face, he expressed reluctantly, Fine. You are right. If I am incapable, I will bring trouble on others even if I go to the battlefield. Shi Qingxue was satisfied as Mo Junzhan was sensible, and she decided not to tell him that she was just worried that he would have no power to protect himself after he went to the northern border. In fact, Mo Junzhan had great talent in arranging soldiers and fighting on the battlefield. Shi Lei had commented on Mo Junzhan when he was alive. He said that some men were born to go to war and would die for war. Mo Junzhan was bound to be a soldier for a lifetime and die on the battlefield in the future. Shi Qingxue approved of this saying, so she couldnt accept that Mo Junzhan would be killed on the battlefield with a grievance. They didnt think alike, but they agreed on this matter in the end. On the fifteen day of the fourth lunar month in the forty-third year after the Mo Dynasty was founded, Mo Xiangbin issued two imperial edicts, which shocked all people. The first one was to grant the marriage of the legitimate granddaughter of the Liang family Liang Zixin and the crown prince Mo Junyu and title her as the crown princess, of Rank-1. They would get married on an auspicious day. The second one was for Mo Junhao. Mo Xiangbin titled Mo Junhao as King Xian and gave the northern region to him as his fiefdom. He said that the border of the northern region contiguous to Liang Country was unpeaceful these days, so he told King Xian to go to the fiefdom and guard there as soon as possible in order to make the northern border stable and placate the common people. The first imperial edict just told all people at the imperial court that the crown princes followers officially allied with the force led by Prime Minister Liang, while the second one made it clear who would be the future successor of the Mo Dynasty. A prince was titled as a king when the emperor was still his father, which must be something honorable and even helped the prince fight for the throne to some extent. However, it must be under the condition that this prince could be still in the capital city, the center of power. Mo Junhao was driven away to the fiefdom as soon as he was titled as a king, which meant that the emperor wanted to make him give up the plan to fight for the throne. Now, the most favorable successors were only Mo Junhao and Mo Junyu, and they were almost well-matched in strength. Neither of them could win for now. However, after Mo Xiangbin issued the imperial edict, he just kicked Mo Junhao out of the center of power. He paved the way for Mo Junyu to take the throne in the future. All people at the imperial court and the haram system, the officials and noblemen were frightened by Mo Xiangbins imperial edict. Nobody knew why Mo Xiangbin chose Mo Junyu firmly all of a sudden, but once the imperial edict was issued, there was no chance to change it. The neutral forces at the imperial court started to itch for action, while the fourth princes followers were frustrated, and some of them started to take actions in secret. When Mo Junhao received the imperial edict, he was dumbfounded. He thought that it was impossible and that this imperial edict was false as his first reaction. He brought the imperial edict into the palace at the same night and asked to see Mo Xiangbin. Mo Xiangbin had told the guards earlier as he might have expected that Mo Junhao would come, so when the prince came in, nobody stopped him. After seeing Mo Xiangbin, Mo Junhao bowed to greet him. Father, are you feeling well these days? Mo Xiangbin coughed twice and then responded in a feeble tone, I am all right. Why did you enter the imperial palace at midnight? In fact, both of them were clear about the purpose of Mo Junhaos arrival, but Mo Xiangbin asked. Mo Junhao replied, Today I received your imperial edict to title me as King Xian I made the imperial edict. Before Mo Junhao finished his words, Mo Xiangbin told him the answer directly. He even came straight to the point. Since you have received it, you should make preparations quickly and go to the northern border as soon as possible. Dont disappoint me. Mo Xiangbin intentionally stressed the word disappoint in order to remind Mo Junhao not to do something unnecessary. Mo Junhao turned pale suddenly and glared at Mo Xiangbin in disbelief. After a long while, he asked in a trembling voice, Why? Didnt Mo Xiangbin think highly of him and even prepare to depose Mo Junyu, making him the crown prince? Wasnt he the most favored son of Mo Xiangbin all the time? Why did everything change after only a short period? Mo Xiangbin abandoned him and evenexpelled him. Mo Junhao couldnt accept such an answer. He looked at Mo Xiangbin sadly and asked for an explanation stubbornly. However, Mo Xiangbin just looked at him calmly and almost indifferently, saying unhurriedly, The crown prince is the eldest legitimate son, the heir to the throne. How can I depose him randomly if he doesnt make a big mistake? As his brother and an official, you should remember your identity all the time. Dont do anything excessive. Otherwise, even I cant protect you. There was threat in his words. Mo Junhao looked stunned, as if he hadnt come back to earth from those words. After a long time, when Mo Xiangbin almost thought that Mo Junhao was convinced by him, he saw that his son suddenly laughed. Mo Junhao laughed in a deep and weird voice, which was bloodcurdling. Mo Xiangbins eyes went cold, and he had an ominous premonition all of a sudden. He lowered his voice and rebuked, Why are you laughing? Why? Mo Junhao repeated Mo Xiangbins word in a flat tone and then showed a smile with self-mockery. I laugh at myself as I am so stupid as to pin my hopes on you. I should have known earlier that you are the most unreliable, Father. Chapter 358 - The Imperial Edict Deciding the Successor Although Mo Xiangbin knew that his decision couldnt satisfy everybody, after hearing Mo Junhaos rebellious words, he was stunned evidently. Then he burst into anger. Mo Junhao, do you know who you are speaking to? Mo Xiangbin tried his best to restrain himself, yet his voice was trembling obviously. He was really pissed off. However, Mo Junhao was irritated a lot, and he had already forgotten everything. He didnt admit his fault at once but sneered. I certainly know what I am saying. You are really an old and fatuous man, right, Father? Mo Xiangbin was speechless. It was his first time to be scolded as an old and fatuous man, and he choked and almost didnt know how to lose temper. In the end, he couldnt help laughing. He was too angry. Junhao, I know that you are in a bad mood, so I wont bother about your impertinent remarks today. Go back to your mansion now to pack up and go to the northern border as soon as possible. Then you are still my good son. Mo Xiangbin sighed deeply. After all, this was his biological son whom he had spoilt and even pinned hopes on in secret, so he wouldnt be heartless. However, Mo Junhao didnt notice Mo Xiangbins concession but stepped forward. He asked aggressively, What if I dont do it? Mo Xiangbins eyes darkened. Junhao, dont force me to put you under house arrest. Once Mo Junhao was under house arrest, it meant that he was detested and rejected by the emperor and had no chance to inherit the throne. Such a punishment was once Mo Junhaos nightmare. Nevertheless, after hearing that, Mo Junhao just smiled and asked impassively, Father, dont you think that issuing that imperial edict is the same as putting me under house arrest? Mo Xiangbin was dumbfounded. Then he heard Mo Junhao continue in that cold voice, You have told me that not only the crown prince can take the throne in the future, but all your sons have chances, and you encouraged me to work hard for this reason. I am strict with myself by the standards of the heir to the throne all the time as you said, yet now everything changes after you issue an imperial edict. Is this the emperors kindness as you mentioned? In the beginning, Mo Junhao said in a calm and even stiff tone, but later, he got emotional and almost questioned harshly in the end. Mo Xiangbin had considered letting Mo Junhao inherit the throne and taught him like this, so when Mo Junhao pointed out these things directly, the emperor looked embarrassed. He turned away with guilt involuntarily and didnt dare to meet Mo Junhaos eyes. He could only forcefully keep his dignity as the emperor. He stated firmly, Anyway, I have made an imperial edict. Just do as I said. You cant mention it again. Afterward, he stood with his hands behind his back and turned around, showing Mo Junhao his back indifferently. Go away! Mo Xiangbin said coldly, yet as a father, he felt guilty. Son, dont blame me. Compared with the crown prince, you cant assume responsibility, nor do you have the right title. For the whole country, I have to sacrifice you. The emperor apologized to this son in his heart, and these words that he didnt speak out expressed his guilt. He could do nothing but try his best to compensate Mo Junhao in the future. For example, he could reward Mo Junhao with more gold, silver and jewelry. After the hostilities at the northern border were settled, he could take the opportunity to reward Mo Junhao Mo Xiangbin had thought a lot and even decided to make Mo Junhaos title as a king hereditary endlessly in the future in order to remedy his fault. He pondered for a long time, but when he came back to reality, he found that Mo Junhao behind him was silent all the time. Did he go away? Mo Xiangbin looked back in confusion and wanted to check, yet he saw that Mo Junhao stood behind him and stared at him evilly. He was shocked and took a step backward all of a sudden, shouting, Junhao, what are you going to do? Mo Junhao didnt retreat but walked forward, asking with a cold and bloodthirsty smile, What do you think I am going to do? Mo Junhao who acted like this was so weird. Even though Mo Xiangbin had seen a lot, he was scared by Mo Junhao in this state. Mo Xiangbin moved backward again and swallowed unconsciously. Do you, do you want to give offense to your father? Aha, give offense to you! Mo Junhao laughed and showed bloodcurdling breath all over his body. When Mo Xiangbin almost cried for help involuntarily, Mo Junhao took actions. Mo Junhao did everything at lightning speed. Before Mo Xiangbin reacted, his neck was gripped, and his voice was stuck in his throat. Mo Xiangbin opened his eyes wide in fear and wanted to shout, yet he could only make feeble and pointless air sounds in his throat. He wanted to save himself, while he could do nothing but put his hands powerlessly on Mo Junhaos wrists which pinched his neck, and he couldnt move a bit. Whatdo you wantto do? II am your father Mo Xiangbin made sounds with difficulty and wanted to awaken Mo Junhaos reason. However, Mo Junhao just showed a coldblooded smile. He seemed to laugh at Mo Xiangbins naivety. Father? Mo Junhao murmured in a weird voice. Then he suddenly had a bright smile, while it couldnt make Mo Xiangbin feel warm, but he felt that it became cold around seemingly. Are you qualified to be my father? Mo Junhao cut off their relationship as the father and son with his cruelest voice. He said to Mo Xiangbin, stressing each word, You are the most selfish person in the world and consider for yourself all the time. Your random decision can deny all my efforts. Aha! But it doesnt matter. Its fine that you dont admit it. I dont need you to admit it Mo Xiangbin felt that he breathed more slowly and started to feel dizzy. He couldnt see or hear anything as his sense organs became weaker. Everything around seemed to become unclear. In the end, he just felt that it was dark before his eyes, and then he didnt know anything. Mo Junhao strangled Mo Xiangbin all the time till this old body stopped struggling in his hands and then didnt move in the end. Then he seemed to be stung by something suddenly, and he loosened his hands quickly. Mo Xiangbin fell on the floor feebly. Mo Junhao finally realized what he had done. He woke up all of a sudden and hurriedly reached out his index finger and put it under Mo Xiangbins nose to feel his breath. Mo Xiangbin stopped breathing now. Mo Junhao moved a few steps backward in panic till he bumped into a wooden table with a bang and the tea set on it fell on the floor, with a crack. Your Majesty, is there anything wrong? Quan outside heard the crack and knocked at the door in doubt. It seemed that he wanted to push the door and come in. Mo Junhaos heart beat fast, and he hastily shouted, Nothing. Dont come in. The bedroom was sound-proofing with heavy solid wood separating them, so Quan could only hear Mo Junhaos simple order but couldnt tell the speakers tone. Without thinking much, he didnt even notice that it was not Mo Xiangbins voice. Then he expressed respectfully, I am waiting outside. If you need something, please call me, Your Majesty. I see, Mo Junhao answered in haste. He quickly walked to the door and observed the situation outside through the crack. After conforming that Quan didnt find anything wrong, he bolted the door from inside soon. After he did everything, he slowly walked to Mo Xiangbin lying on the floor. He took every step nervously. When he walked to Mo Xiangbin, he had sweat all over his head and lost the courage to check Mo Xiangbins breath under his nose. What should I do? What should I do? Mo Junhao walked back and forth in the room in a flurry and murmured, at a loss for what to do. He didnt know why he lost his mind and killed Mo Xiangbin. Mo Junhao didnt know what to do. He had all kinds of thoughts in his brain, yet every way led to his death. He pulled his hair with both hands and almost collapsed. He had no idea what he could do. He had killed his father, the emperor. When Mo Junhao was almost desperate, his eyes lit up, as he suddenly saw a bright yellow satin under the pillow on the emperors bed. It was likean imperial edict? Suddenly Mo Junhao had a brainwave and subconsciously crossed Mo Xiangbins body. Then he walked to the bed and lifted the pillow. A scroll of imperial edict was lying under the pillow. Mo Junhao was shocked and grabbed the imperial edict, opening it. It was the imperial edict in which the next emperor was decided. Although Mo Junyu was the crown prince and should be most likely to inherit the throne, with this imperial edict, he would get that position openly without doubt. Mo Xiangbin would really give the throne to Mo Junyu. This information made Mo Junhao grit his teeth with hatred, and his guilt about Mo Xiangbin disappeared in an instant. He only felt more furious. Mo Junhao didnt regret it anymore but even felt lucky as he had killed Mo Xiangbin and intercepted this imperial edict by accident. He coldly looked down at Mo Xiangbin lying on the floor and spat. Old man, I have tried every means to flatter you for so long, yet you give the throne to somebody else secretly. Since you are so heartless, dont blame me for my cruelty. Now its fine that you have died. Leave everything to me next. Dont worry. Mo Country will be prosperous in my hands. Mo Junhao vented his anger and depression on Mo Xiangbins dead body and finally felt better. The idea in his brain became clearer. Mo Junhao grasped the imperial edict more tightly and put it in his pocket. Then he lightly walked to the bed and left a hole. Afterward, he walked back swiftly and moved Mo Xiangbin to the bed, putting the bed curtain down. After he made a false appearance that Mo Xiangbin had gone to bed, he hid in the bed. He lowered his voice in the bed curtain and shouted at the person outside, Quan, come in. Quan pushed the door and entered. Seeing that nobody was in the room, he was doubtful, thinking, Didnt Prince Junhao have a secret talk with His Majesty in the room? Why is he nowhere to be seen so soon? Go and send my oral instruction. Tell the crown prince to see me. One corner of the bed curtain was lifted from inside, and Quan couldnt see the person in it clearly. Only the deep and hoarse voice came out. Quan was shocked and looked at the bed in doubt. When he saw that the pale fingers and the sleeve revealed on the wrist outside the bed curtain were Mo Xiangbins, he felt relieved. However, he still doubted that he misheard. Your Majesty, shall I go right now? It was almost at midnight. It was too late. Go now! A low roar came from the bed. Quan didnt dare to say more, so he answered obediently, I am going. After saying, he bowed and prepared to go out, yet after he walked for only a few steps, he couldnt help but look at the bed again, wondering where the fourth prince was. Did he Chapter 359 - The Emperor’s Death Quan didnt see Mo Junhao, so he was worried all the time. He tried to find proper words and then asked, Your Majesty, Prince Junhao Junhao has returned home. Before Quan finished his words, the one in the bed curtain said in a husky voice. But I didnt Quan wanted to say that he guarded the door all the time yet didnt see Mo Junhao go away. However, he saw a crack on the window soon, while Mo Xiangbins roar appeared beside his ear. Why not get out now? Quan was scared after being rebuked, so he didnt dare to guess. He trembled and answered, Yes, yes. I am going. Quan lowered his head and went away hastily to send the message. When Mo Junyu heard that he was summoned, he had gone to bed, while he could do nothing but get up and go to the imperial palace quickly. He came to the door of Mo Xiangbins bedroom and heard Quan knock at the door. Your Majesty, the crown prince has arrived. It was quiet inside. Quan knocked at the door again, yet there was still no response. The young eunuch was at a loss and looked at Mo Junyu hesitantly. Mo Junyu was doubtful. After pondering for a moment, he said, Fine. Since Father summoned me, I will go in first. Quan thought that it was improper but couldnt find a reason, so he had to nod. I will wait outside. If there is something wrong, please call me. Mo Junyu pushed the door and entered. What he saw first were the broken and scattered teacups on the floor next to the table. He was nervous, looking at the emperors bed suddenly. Father? There was no answer. Mo Junyu walked to the bed quickly. After only a moment of hesitation, he lifted the bed curtain abruptly and saw that Mo Xiangbin lay in the bed with his eyes closed. Mo Xiangbin closed his eyes and seemed to be in a coma. Mo Junyu did that all of a sudden with a loud sound yet couldnt wake him up. FaFather? Mo Junyus heart sank, and he reached out his index finger shakily to Mo Xiangbins nose. The emperor had no breath. Mo Junyu was so shocked that his hand started to tremble, but he still forced himself to lift the quilt and then check Mo Xiangbins pulse. Brother, what are you doing? Mo Junhaos indifferent voice came from the door. Mo Junyu turned his head, to see that Mo Junhao and Quan had entered the bedroom, looking at him with their eyes widening. Or they looked at him grabbing Mo Xiangbins wrist. Mo Junyu suddenly came back to earth and realized that his action would cause misunderstanding, so he hurriedly withdrew his hand. Dont get me wrong. I saw that Father slept in the bed as soon as I came in. I feared that there was something wrong with him, so Yes? Mo Junhao didnt make comments. He turned to a servant at the door. Send for an imperial doctor. Mo Junyu was depressed because of Mo Junhaos attitude. When he walked into the room, Mo Xiangbin had stopped breathing, yet he didnt know why he was suspected of murdering the emperor. It was more annoying that Mo Junhao didnt say anything, which made Mo Junyu have no chance to defend himself. Somebody came from the Imperial Academy of Medicine soon. Doctor Cai had an ominous premonition when the servant reported the emperors situation to him. After he saw Mo Xiangbin lie in the bed feebly, his heart sank. However, under the watchful eyes of all people, no matter what he was thinking about, he had to bite the bullet and step forward to check Mo Xiangbins pulse. Doctor Cai put his fingers on Mo Xiangbins cold wrist and then stiffened. Mo Junhao looked flurried and walked forward, asking anxiously, Whats wrong with Father? Doctor Cai, tell us. In only a few seconds, Doctor Cai was so nervous that he had sweat all over his head. He didnt dare to look up at Mo Junhao. He knelt down and almost wanted to hide his head under the floor. After a long time, he said in a trembling voice, His Majestyhas passed away. All people in the room knelt down in an instant. Mo Junhao cried and rushed to Mo Xiangbin, shouting hurriedly, Father, why did you pass away? How can I stay alive without you? Quan and the others sobbed, which made the bedroom more frightful. Mo Junyu had checked Mo Xiangbins pulse in person and guessed it before Doctor Cai announced the answer, but when this fact was revealed, he couldnt react. He looked at his hands in a daze and still couldnt believe that what he had touched with these hands was his fathers dead body. WhyWhy? Mo Junyu murmured. Mo Junhao heard that and vented his anger and sadness on Mo Junyu. He punched Mo Junyu without demur and grabbed his sleeve before he reacted. Then he asked ferociously, Why? I should ask you this question, right? Even though Father was in poor health, he was fine at least. Why did he pass away for no reason as soon as you saw him? You have murdered Father, right? Its you! Mo Junyu was petrified after hearing Mo Junhaos sudden denouncement. When he realized the situation, he was accused of murdering his father, the emperor. He couldnt believe that Mo Junhao would accuse him, so he retorted in a loud voice involuntarily and even forgot his identity. I didnt. When I entered the room, Father had died. Its not me. Father Mo Junyu wanted to argue that Mo Xiangbin died of an illness, yet before he finished his words, Doctor Cai found something wrong with his sharp eyes. Doctor Cai could hardly recover from the recent shock and opened Mo Xiangbins collar, revealing two clear purple handprints on his neck. He couldnt help but gasp. PrincePrince Junhao, please have a look The two princes switched their attention to the bed at the same time, to see the bruises on Mo Xiangbins neck. The cause of Mo Xiangbins death was abundantly clear. After Mo Junhao got furious, he pointed to Mo Xiangbins neck and questioned Mo Junyu again, How dare you say that its not you? Only you entered this room. Who could cause the bruises on Fathers neck except you? Junyu, I have never expected that you would try to usurp the throne by hook or by crook and even do something so evil as to murder the emperor. Mo Junyu was frightened by the two bruises and still dumbfounded till Mo Junhao denounced him. He could only repeat the words powerlessly. I didnt. Its not meI didnt However, the situation on the spot proved everything. Mo Xiangbin had been killed in the bedroom, and there was nobody except Mo Junyu. Who could be the murderer except Mo Junyu? Mo Junhao didnt allow Mo Junyu to explain but glanced at the servants waiting at the door. Two tall and big guards instantly walked into the bedroom and prepared to capture Mo Junyu. Prince Junhao, this Quan was scared out of wits by the news of the emperors death and almost believed Mo Junhaos words. However, after all, Mo Junyu was the crown prince. Would it be proper if Mo Junhao captured him randomly? Mo Junhao glanced at Quan. What? Do you want to cover up for Junyu? Quan shook his head repeatedly to show his loyalty. I dare not. I dare not. But shall we report it to the Empress Dowager at once? Quan had served Mo Xiangbin for a long time, so he was bold and experienced. After being at a loss in the beginning, he calmed down gradually and started to ponder. After the emperor died, the most powerful person in the imperial palace was naturally the Empress Dowager. And this thing couldnt be delayed. Otherwise, if the superiors put the blame on them in the future, the princes would probably be fine, yet the servants would be miserable. Mo Junhao glanced at Quan and certainly knew what this eunuch was thinking about. However, he needed a person of authority to confirm Mo Junyus crime, so he showed Quan a friendly face. Lord Quan, you are considerate. Please send for Grandma, in case that somebody says that I wrong him. Mo Junyu was captured by two guards. It appeared that they grabbed him lightly without putting forth strength, but only he knew that he couldnt move a bit. He just felt that his body was under the control of others seemingly. Perhaps it was his first time to be so aggrieved. He looked angry involuntarily and asked Mo Junhao, Mo Junhao, do you want to give offense to your elder brother? Mo Junhao sneered at him. I dare not. I am inferior to you. He didnt say directly that Mo Junyu was the murderer anymore, but every word of his made people suspect it. Mo Junyu was so depressed, yet he had to restrain it. He couldnt mention it. Once he mentioned it, he would almost confess without torture. Fortunately, Quan went to ask Ling Ruiyin to come. Ling Ruiyin was on Mo Junyus side, and there must be no problem. Nevertheless, why was Mo Xiangbin killed in his bed silently? It was so incredible. If the emperor of Mo Country could be assassinated so easily, the country would have been destroyed earlier. Mo Junyu had a lot of complex thoughts, for example, who had murdered Mo Xiangbin, how to free himself and what would happen in the future. His mixed thoughts made him have no time to feel sad. Mo Xiangbin was cold to the crown prince all the time. Even though the old man relied heavily on his service these days, he just approved of Mo Junyus capabilities. The father and son had been apathetic to each other for so many years. How much kinship would be left? Even though all people in the room looked sad, how many people really felt sad for Mo Xiangbins death? They were just worried about their destiny and future. When the oppressive atmosphere in the bedroom almost choked people to death, a sad cry came from outside. Son, whats wrong with you? Ling Ruiyin almost ran into the room. Ignoring all people, she rushed to the bed and held Mo Xiangbins dead body, crying sorrowfully, My son! How can you bear to leave me and go there alone? You just make me see you off as a white-haired woman Her cry shocked the sky and showed endless sorrow. However, Mo Junhao wasnt in the mood to listen to Ling Ruiyin expressing her love for her son. He stepped forward impatiently and called in a gentle voice, Grandma, look at this murderer He pointed his finger to Mo Junyu. Chapter 360 - The Murderer Is Junyu Ling Ruiyin stopped crying yet returned calm soon. She wiped the tears on her face calmly and then turned to Mo Junhao, asking unhurriedly, What did you say? Mo Junhao knew that Ling Ruiyin was partial to Mo Junyu, but now there was evidence, so he didnt fear. He said calmly, I said that Junyu killed Father. Grandma, please punish the murderer severely and avenge Father. This time, no matter how Ling Ruiyin controlled herself, there was shock in her eyes. She finally noticed that Mo Junyu was pressed by some people and knelt on the floor. He looked at her and couldnt move. Grandma, I didnt Mo Junyu tried to defend himself, while Mo Junhao rebuked in advance, Who can it be except you? Father was fine earlier, but why did he pass away as soon as you entered the room? It was obvious that you killed Father in secret because you envy him. No! If I killed Father, why am I still here waiting for you to catch me? Mo Junyu tried his best to find the contradiction. Mo Junhao sneered. Because you didnt expect that I and Quan would find it so soon and enter the bedroom to catch you on the spot. His accusation was reasonable, and the time, place and motive could be proven. Everything showed that Mo Junyu was the criminal who had killed his father, the emperor. Ling Ruiyin could hardly retain her composure at last, and her fingers in her wide sleeves couldnt stop trembling. Anyway, she was Mo Xiangbins mother. Even though the mother and son in the royal family were not as close as those in the ordinary families, she still loved this son. No matter how partial to Mo Junyu she was, when the evidence was present, she couldnt stress that the murderer was not Mo Junyu in front of Mo Junhao. Even Ling Ruiyin had the suspicion flashing in her brain. Was it possible that the murderer was Mo Junyu? At this thought, Ling Ruiyin looked at Mo Junyu, and her eyes were different from before. Crown Prince, what do you want to say to me? Mo Junyu turned pale and cold sweat fell from his forehead. He still racked his brains to find some evidence which was favorable to him. However, the servants indication and what had been found at the scene of the crime proved that he was the murderer. No. Its not true. Grandma, please trust me. I didnt kill Father Mo Junyus shout was powerless and only to justify himself with lame excuses in others ears. Mo Junhao snorted. We will know it after we tell the Ministry of Penalty to investigate. Grandma, please give orders. Ling Ruiyin glanced at Mo Junyu hesitantly and then turned to Mo Junhao. After all, it is a domestic affair of the royal family. I think that its more proper to leave it to the Imperial Kinship Bureau. Father has passed away, and it cant be covered up. If we dont bring the murderer to justice, I am afraid that we cant explain to all people in the country. Grandma, please make a fair judgment. Mo Junhao was upright and outspoken and stated. Ling Ruiyin was at a loss for what to do, so she had to listen to Mo Junhao and tell the Ministry of Penalty to imprison Mo Junyu. At the same time, she told some people to make preparations for Mo Xiangbins funeral. It was at midnight, yet the sky was bright with lights. There were footsteps and whines around, which made the imperial palace full of sorrow. Ling Ruiyin didnt return to her palace but stayed with Mo Xiangbins dead body in a trance all the time. Mammy Chang found something wrong and reminded in a low voice, Your Majesty, we cant let it be. If the crown prince is convicted, he cant take the throne. I know, yet if he really murdered the emperor after investigation, I wont let him go, not to mention taking the throne. Ling Ruiyins voice was ruthless and angry as she was disappointed at Mo Junyu. Mammy Chang thought of something and reminded again, But in this case, that position will The late empress was Ling Ruiyins niece, so she protected the crown prince more and hoped that he could take the throne in the end. She had planned for it all the time these years. If she was told that her plan of so many years would be in vain, she couldnt accept such a result even though she wouldnt be implicated as she was the Empress Dowager. At this thought, Ling Ruiyin touched her forehead sadly and said helplessly, I know that you want to say that if the crown prince is in trouble, only the fourth prince could take the throne, and you are afraid that he will harm me, right? I dont dare to comment on the fourth prince, but all people are partial. The fourth prince is not as close to you as the crown prince. Er Mammy Chang expressed what she thought about roughly while stuttering. In fact, it could be understood easily. Ling Ruiyin loved Mo Junyu and had suppressed Mo Junhao. If Mo Junhao became the emperor, he wouldnt treat this grandmother well. I know this reason, too, but now, what do you think I can do? Ling Ruiyin sighed deeply. If she had another choice, she wouldnt put herself in a dilemma. She could blame nobody as Mo Xiangbin died all of a sudden, and all people were caught off guard. Mammy Chang cautiously observed Ling Ruiyins face and suddenly reminded, Perhaps somebody can share your worries. Ling Ruiyin paused for a moment and then looked at Mammy Chang suddenly. Do you mean Mammy Chang nodded seriously. Right, His Excellency. Ling Ruiyin was lost in thought and started to weigh. She always knew that Mo Junyang was capable, but in her old and experienced eyes, this man was too distant and difficult to get along with. Mo Junyang appeared to be the most loyal follower of the crown prince and had exhausted his energy to do everything for Mo Junyu, yet if he rebelled, he wouldnt frown. And almost nobody could see such a mans weakness. It was fine to have mutual benefit with him, but it was a risk to rely on him. Although Mo Xiangbin trusted Mo Junyang a lot seemingly, she always taught Mo Junyu to be independent and not to leave everything to Mo Junyang. He had to hold back a trick or two, in case that Mo Junyang rebelled in the future. Then Mo Junyu wouldnt have no power to resist. Since Mo Junyu acted as regent, the two cousins drifted apart obviously these days. Ling Ruiyin was complacent because of her sagaciousness, yet now she had to ask Mo Junyang for help. She couldnt lower herself. Your Majesty, this thing is significant. If we cant save the crown prince, all our previous effort will be in vain. Are you willing to see that? Mammy Chang had served Ling Ruiyin for so many years, and her words could point out what Ling Ruiyin feared and worried. As expected, she saw that Ling Ruiyin nodded reluctantly after frowning. Go out of the imperial palace with my edict. Tell Junyang to hear this case and be sure to bring the real murderer to justice. Mo Junhao refused to leave Mo Junyu to the Imperial Kinship Bureau just because Mo Junyang was in charge of the Imperial Kinship Bureau. If Mo Junyu was sent to that bureau, even if Mo Junyu had killed the emperor, he could be found innocent, not to mention that there were many doubtful points in this case. However, it was different after he was sent to the Ministry of Penalty. The minister Luo Sen was the fourth princes follower, so Mo Junhao could accuse Mo Junyu of any crime as he wished. On the other hand, Mo Junhao was worried that Mo Junyang would get involved. Although he thought that Mo Junyu could hardly escape even if he had wings as this plot was flawless, he wasnt so confident when it came to Mo Junyang. Having confronted him for so many times, Mo Junhao still hadnt found Mo Junyangs real strength after testing. It could be seen how horrible that man was. If he could, Mo Junhao didnt want to have a conflict with Mo Junyang. Unexpectedly, as soon as he sent Mo Junyu to the prison of the Ministry of Penalty, Mo Junyang came with the Empress Dowagers edict to interrogate Mo Junyu. More exactly, he came to investigate the assassination of the emperor. When Mo Junhao looked at Shi Qingxue next to Mo Junyang, he hated them so much that he almost broke his teeth. Your Excellency, where do you plan to start? Even though Mo Junhao wanted to eat Mo Junyangs flesh and drink his blood, he couldnt show any resentment but had to welcome Mo Junyang respectfully. After all, at this critical juncture, Mo Junyang represented the Empress Dowager. Mo Junyang glanced at him lazily. Find all people who showed up in His Majestys bedroom last night and then interrogate them one after another to see if I can find some traces. Even though the emperors bedroom was not big, the number of the maids, guards, eunuchs and all kinds of workers must be more than one hundred. If he interrogated all of them, when could he finish it? Who would neglect the prime suspect close at hand and seek far, starting to fish a needle out of the sea? Mo Junhao found at a glance that Mo Junyang would delay it, so he protested, Your Excellency, now the murderer is close at hand, yet you plan to interrogate the servants who know nothing. Do you want to delay it and cover up for Junyu? His eyes were cold and aggressive, insisting on forcing Mo Junyang to clarify his position. However, Mo Junyang remained unmoved and just glanced at him casually, asking in reply, Your Highness, you havent asked those servants. How do you know that they know nothing? Mo Junhao was stunned. Obviously, he hadnt expected that Mo Junyang would say that. His Majestys bedroom is so spacious and many people come and go. Perhaps some people saw the process of murdering but dont dare to say it because of the murderers identity. Your Highness, you dont want me to ask the servants so much. Are you afraid that it will be harmful to you after I find the truth? While speaking, Mo Junyang looked at Mo Junhao, with his eyes becoming meaningful. Mo Junhao was speechless. He knew that Mo Junyang said that in order to irritate him intentionally, yet he felt guilty inevitably. However, he still swelled out his chest and said forcefully, Why am I afraid? I just think that you will waste time on doing that. If you insist, just investigate. As he was speaking, he seemed to have more confidence and raised his head, snorting at Mo Junyang. Its fine to investigate it, but if you cant find anything in the end, dont blame me after I show no mercy and charge you with negligence of duty. Chapter 361 - Investigate the Case Mo Junhao almost saw the throne in the large hall waving at him, so he was over the moon and more impolite to Mo Junyang. What the hell is Mo Junyang? After I take the throne, I will be the sovereign of the country. Wont Mo Junyang have to bow to me? At this thought, Mo Junhao looked at Mo Junyang with disdain. Mo Junyang didnt mind but still kept expressionless, while Shi Qingxue behind him felt indignant for him. Huh! Does this man really think that he can get that position if Mo Junyu is in trouble? Stop daydreaming! Shi Qingxue spat at Mo Junhao in secret. Not to mention that Mo Xiangbin had more sons besides Mo Junhao, even if only he was left, she would try every means to stop him from taking the throne. In the previous life, Mo Junhao had been on the throne for three years in comfort with satisfaction. Meanwhile, she was locked up in the Cold Palace and lived in pain and despair for three years. She hadnt taken revenge on Mo Junhao for the old grudges, so he was still her mortal enemy. In fact, what made Shi Qingxue angriest was Mo Junhaos attitude toward Mo Junyang. Why did Mo Junhao look Mo Junyang up and down as if looking at a servant? He was not more honorable than Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue wanted to find an excuse to teach Mo Junhao a lesson, while Mo Junyang grabbed her hand secretly before she spoke. Shi Qingxue turned her head in confusion, to see that Mo Junyang turned to her, with gentleness that she couldnt understand in his black eyes. Then she saw that the man shook his head at her, which could hardly be noticed. Did he tell her not to speak? Shi Qingxue pursed her lips. Although she didnt know Mo Junyangs intention, she kept silent obediently, letting him hold her hand and walk past Mo Junhao before going out to continue with their work. Right. Their top priority was to make Mo Junyu clear of murder as soon as possible. Otherwise, when he was convicted, it would be troublesome. While thinking, Shi Qingxue felt less restless and even looked away from Mo Junhao, in case that her mood was affected. She didnt know that after she lowered her head, Mo Junhao fixed his eyes on her with complex emotions in them, like obsessiveness, resentment or love that probably he couldnt explain. Then Mo Junhao met Mo Junyangs eyes. Different from the indifference earlier, Mo Junyangs eyes seemed to be covered with black fog, with strong darkness like an abyss, looking terrifying. Even though Mo Junhao belittled Mo Junyang just now, he was frightened by Mo Junyangs eyes and stepped backward involuntarily. However, he reacted soon, so he unyieldingly held up his head and threw out his chest, looking into Mo Junyangs eyes, as if saying, What do you want? Mo Junyang naturally wouldnt speak to Mo Junhao. He just glanced at this prince indifferently and then left the prison with Shi Qingxue. At the moment, they didnt need to say anything. After the result of the investigation came out, they would know the truth. Mo Junhao noticed this meaning from Mo Junyangs last glance. He got furious and meanwhile felt scared for no reason. Ziyuan, what do you think he wants to do? Mo Junhao stood at the door of the prison and murmured. The second legitimate son of the Minister of Penalty, Luo Ziyuan was in the prison of the Ministry of Penalty, but he had a clear estimation of himself and hid perfectly, pretending to be invisible. When Mo Junhao asked, Luo Ziyuan stepped forward and replied in a low voice, His Excellency is the crown princes follower and wants to delay it for him. Then he will find a scapegoat randomly and save the crown prince. Your Highness, havent you guessed such a trick? Right! I guessed it before he came, yet just now I couldnt help but feel restless. Mo Junhao really took Luo Ziyuan as his trusted subordinate and didnt hide his fidget. Luo Ziyuan comforted him in a soft voice, Your Highness, dont be anxious. You just need to tell Lord Feng tomorrow to ask him to punish the murderer and avenge His Majesty as soon as possible. No matter how much His Excellency wants to delay it, he cant delay any longer. Mo Junhao furrowed his brows tightly. But havent you heard his words? Does he suspect Your Highness, please speak with caution! Luo Ziyuan interrupted Mo Junhao in a hurry and stared at him seriously. Mo Junhao held his breath and finally realized what he almost spoke out. He really almost doomed eternally. The fourth prince couldnt help but heave a sigh of relief. Then he looked at Luo Ziyuan with gratitude in his eyes. Thanks a lot. Luo Ziyuan waved his hand, indicating that it was nothing. He knew that Mo Junhao was not so impatient and that he couldnt bear it because he experienced great changes and was irritated by Mo Junyangs words. Its after midnight. Your Highness, its inconvenient for you to return home. How about having a short rest in the Ministry of Penalty? Luo Ziyuan suggested considerately. Mo Junhao really felt exhausted. He had consumed much energy in only a few hours, and he couldnt stand it even though he was strong. However, it was obvious that Mo Junyang would interrogate the servants at night, and Mo Junhao wouldnt set his mind at ease if he didnt watch on the spot. Mo Junhao stood there for a while and gritted his teeth, insisting, No need. I will check what information Mo Junyang can get from the servants. In the final analysis, Mo Junhao was scared. He thought that he had done it perfectly, yet it was always wise to play safe. What if a stupid servant had shown up outside the emperors bedroom While pondering, Mo Junhao felt more panicked and walked to the principal hall more quickly. When he reached the place where Mo Junyang was interrogating, the latter had asked some servants. He questioned the two guards at the door of the emperors bedroom some common questions first. He just asked who came in and out of the bedroom that day and the exact time. He told the guards to write the names down in order of arrival. Seeing that one of the guards bent over the table writing, Mo Junhao felt nervous and frightened uncontrollably. Your Excellency, what are you going to do? Mo Junyang responded with a lift of his eyebrow, Of course, I want to know who the suspects are. As you said, anybody who has been to the bedroom may be the murderer? Mo Junhao furiously pointed out Mo Junyangs absurd action. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang just shrugged. Anybody can be a suspect before the murderer shows up, right? Who said that the murderer didnt show up? We caught Junyu on the spot. Isnt it enough? Mo Junhao was aggressive. Do you want to cover up for him even though you know that he is the murderer? Oh, right. I almost forgot that you are his follower. Mo Junhao intentionally irritated Mo Junyang in a provocative tone. However, who was Mo Junyang? He wouldnt be enraged by such provocation but only glanced at him, asking in reply in a disdainful tone, too, I am investigating the case now. Why are you so emotional, Your Highness? Are you on the list of suspects? Mo Junhao who was seen through accurately was speechless. Mo Junyang was sophisticated and could certainly see Mo Junhaos emotion changes. However, he didnt point it out but stood in silence after making Mo Junhao shut his annoying mouth. The guard made a list of names and then gave it to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang carefully checked the names on it and then glanced at Mo Junhao again. He smiled faintly. Mo Junhao was neurotic like a frightened bird, and Mo Junyangs glance made him explode in an instant. He yelled at Mo Junyang in a shaky tone, Why are you looking at me? Even if my name is on the list, so what? When I left, Father was still alive, and the murderer cant be me. Quan can prove it. After I left, Father told Quan to summon Junyu to the imperial palace and then was murdered by Junyu mercilessly. Quan was mentioned by name, so he had to step forward and say, As His Highness said, after he left, I sent somebody to summon the crown prince as His Majesty ordered. Since Mo Junhao had a reliable witness, he got complacent again and smiled at Mo Junyang with provocation, indicating, Huh! Dont try to accuse me falsely. Mo Junyang ignored his defiance and then turned to Quan, asking, Did you say that His Majesty told you to summon the crown prince? Yes, yes. Quan swallowed and stuttered while answering. He was afraid of this man with great momentum and didnt dare to meet Mo Junyangs eyes or neglect him. He stammered and told Mo Junyang what had happened last night in details, including the sounds of teacups falling on the floor in the bedroom. Mo Junhao heard that and had a headache. He almost said something to stop the eunuch several times, yet in the end, he gritted his teeth and didnt do that to confess without torture. Although what Quan said wasnt enough to prove Mo Junyus innocence, nor could it prove that Mo Junhao was the murderer, Mo Junhao knew that only this point could make Mo Junyang suspect him. At this thought, he shuddered with fear. Why didnt he deal with Quan earlier? After hearing Quans statement, Mo Junyang stared at the name list in his hand indifferently. Nobody could tell whether he was angry from the expression on his face, but all peoples hearts sank. So Did Mo Junyang find something wrong? When all people couldnt help but doubt that Mo Junyang intentionally delayed it because he couldnt find the real murderer, he suddenly raised his head and smiled at Mo Junhao gently, which sent a shiver down this princes back with his hair standing on end. He asked, So you had a fierce quarrel with His Majesty before his death? As expected Mo Junhao knew that Mo Junyang wouldnt let him go. His heart was plunged into dire suffering, yet he wasnt so afraid anymore after his conjecture finally came true. He raised his head and met Mo Junyangs eyes, asking peacefully, Right. So what? Mo Junyang showed a smile. Nothing, butyou have the motive to kill your father, right? Mo Junhao felt that his heart skipped a beat, seeming to say, Damn it. Chapter 362 - A Guilty Conscience Mo Junhaos heart beat fast, with all kinds of thoughts flashing in his brain. He had thousands of excuses. He could argue that it was nothing as he and Mo Xiangbin made peace soon. He could say that it was only a spat between the father and son, and it couldnt be the motive. He could even explain that even if he had the motive, so what? He didnt have a chance to kill Mo Xiangbin. As long as Mo Junhao insisted that Mo Xiangbin was still alive when he left, Mo Junyang could do nothing to him. However, he didnt know why he trembled involuntarily when he faced Mo Junyangs horribly black eyes. He couldnt speak out any excuses seemingly. Mo Junhaos momentum was suppressed by Mo Junyang. He was the one who should be confident, but his confidence disappeared in front of Mo Junyang. In the end, he merely glared at Mo Junyang, being outwardly strong yet inwardly weak. What do you want? He thought, If Mo Junyang really doesnt let me go, I will fight against him till death. Mo Junhao also realized that he was too hot-headed to act like this. However, he was clear that since he feared Mo Junyangs capabilities, he wouldnt be calm as usual in front of this cousin. Mo Junyang just glanced at him indifferently, as if Mo Junhao were a flower or grass growing by the wayside. Mo Junhao was irritated again. Mo Junyang, what on earth do you want? Dont forget that I am the fourth prince of Mo Country. If you offend me, dont blame me when I show no mercy in the future. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but burst into laughter. She remembered that Mo Junhao was always proud and insolent because of his talent and thought that he was capable and awesome, able to look down upon everybody even if he werent the fourth prince. So he always hoped that he could conquer everybody with his really abilities, yet he was forced by Mo Junyang to mention his identity at the moment. It was so laughable. Although Shi Qingxue didnt speak, Mo Junhao instantly understood what she was laughing at, so he had a blush. He became angry from shame and asked, Why are you laughing? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junhao who had lost his composure, and her depression vanished. After all, everything had its vanquisher. She was afraid that Mo Junyang couldnt cope with Mo Junhao as this prince was a despicable hypocrite, so she came here with Mo Junyang. Nevertheless, it appeared that Mo Junhao feared Mo Junyang so much that he didnt dare to play dirty tricks on Mo Junyang. In this case, what should she be worried about? Shi Qingxue was relieved and ignored Mo Junhao who turned angry from embarrassment. Then she looked at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang seemed to feel it and turned to her, saying with a smile, Its late now. Go back home to have a rest. Qingmin probably cant sleep well without you. Shi Qingxue thought that perhaps Mo Junyang wanted to deal with this matter in person. After all, it was the domestic affair of the royal family, and she was an officials daughter, so she couldnt get involved. She nodded. Okay. I will wait for you in the villa. She grabbed Mo Junyangs hand in secret. Seeing that the mans eyes lit up, she couldnt help but smile slyly as she succeeded in her prank. Then she kept her countenance and withdrew her hand. Mo Junhao stood in the distance and saw their flirtation clearly. He felt that flames of fury surged in his heart for no reason and almost burnt his reason. He always knew the special relationship between Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang, yet he firmly believed that she loved him till she was titled as the wife of King Ruis heir. She had done everything earlier because she went against Mo Junhao intentionally and wanted to attract his attention. Till now, he couldnt deceive himself anymore. The couple really loved each other. However, it was a matter that Mo Junhao knew this fact, while it was another matter whether he could accept it. Mo Junyang, dont be complacent. Mo Junhao could hardly retain his composure and warned Mo Junyang in a deep voice. After Shi Qingxue left, Mo Junyang finally switched some of his attention to Mo Junhao, asking coldly, Complacent? I should say that to you, Your Highness, right? Mo Junhaos face stiffened, and he understood Mo Junyangs hidden meaning. The latter seemed to have guessed that he did something to cause Mo Xiangbins death, but Mo Junhao didnt fear at all. You have no evidence, so you can do nothing to me. Mo Junhao showed certainty on his face, and his tone was complacent. Yes? Mo Junyang didnt make comments. Then his eyes lit up and fell on Mo Junhaos right hand. What ifI have got evidence? Panic flashed in Mo Junhaos eyes, but soon he guessed that Mo Junyang tried to sound him out, so he calmed down at once. Im all ears. Anyway, he had the witness Quan to prove that he was not at the scene of the crime. Even though Mo Junyang was silver-tongued, he could do nothing to Mo Junhao. Quan, you said that you saw His Highness enter the bedroom to have a secret talk with His Majesty. Did you see him come out? Mo Junyang turned to Quan and asked at leisure. Quan instantly thought of what confused him in the bedroom, and his expression changed. He looked up at Mo Junyang in fear and then turned to Mo Junhao. He wanted to say something yet stopped himself. Mo Junhao thought that it was bad news for him, so he interrupted, He just has a pair of eyes, and its normal that he didnt pay attention to me when I left. What can it prove? It can prove that there is no evidence that you were not at the scene of the crime, Your Highness. Mo Junyang answered Mo Junhaos question directly. Mo Junhao was stunned. Of course, there is evidence that I was not at the scene because after I left, Quan entered the bedroom again, but he only saw Father inside. Didnt it prove that I left the bedroom before Fathers death? After speaking, he glanced at Quan as if unintentionally. Quan had a headache at once. He was merely a nobody, and he couldnt afford to offend either of these masters. However, both of them dragged him into this matter, so he had to bite the bullet and answer, Yes, yes. Your Excellency, its like what His Highness said. After hearing that, Mo Junyang looked as if lost in thought. After a long time, he asked, Did you say that when you entered the bedroom again, His Majesty was lying in the bed? Yes, but it was His Majestys voice. He reached out a hand from the bed, and I saw and heard it clearly. I wouldnt mistake it. Quan thought that Mo Junyang blamed him as he left before he saw Mo Xiangbin, so he hurriedly answered with certainty. As a servant who could be selected to serve the emperor for so long, he must have something that he excelled in to win the masters favor. The simple ability to recognize the voice and know the master was no big deal. To say something improper, even if Mo Xiangbin turned into ashes, Quan could recognize him. Gee! Mo Junyang didnt believe him but pointed out, getting right down to the heart of the matter, So you didnt see His Majesty? Right, but Quan still wanted to defend himself. Mo Junyang waved his hand and stopped Quan from continuing. He merely pointed to the door with his chin. Quan followed his eyes, to see that a pale big hand was on the door case as if somebody would come in. As soon as Quan saw it clearly, his pupils widened and he staggered backward shakily. He raised his hand while trembling and stretched his finger out. YourYour Majesty Before he finished his words, a deep and hoarse voice came from outside. Quan, why dont you do as I ordered? It was Mo Xiangbins voice. As soon as this thought flashed in Quans brain, he was so scared that he screamed and walked backward repeatedly. Then he was tripped up by something accidentally and fell on the floor. However, he couldnt feel the pain seemingly. He still opened his eyes wide and stared at the big hand on the door case. No. No way. Its not Quan shouted wildly and his brain finally couldnt bear the fear at last. He sobbed and then sank into a coma. The others in the room also heard that voice, so they got frightened and looked around in panic. Mo Junhao reacted first and shouted at the door, Who is pretending to be a ghost outside? If you dont come out, I will show no mercy. Afterward, he grabbed a long sword from a guard next to him and drew the sword, trying to stab the big hand on the door case suddenly. The big hand seemed to be conscious and shrank all of a sudden before the long sword fell on it. It disappeared. Mo Junhao stabbed the door case heavily with the sword and didnt hit the target, but he seemed to have exhausted all his strength. He kept the posture of waving the sword and gasped. His eyes were frenzied and flurried. Obviously, he hadnt come back to earth from the accident. After all, he was scared. Mo Junyang watched everything and finally showed a faint smile. Your Highness, why are you so afraid? Do you feel guilty? Mo Junhao breathed several times and got his breath back gradually. Looking at Mo Junyangs calm expression, he knew that Mo Junyang played a trick behind the scenes. When Mo Junhao was about to lose temper, he heard Mo Junyang say unhurriedly, Your Highness, dont be mad. I just want to see if somebody has a guilty conscience. On the other hand, I want to prove one thing. Mo Junhao could certainly understand that Mo Junyang secretly satirized him for forgetting himself, yet he couldnt retort. Once he retorted, he would confirm that he had a guilty conscience as Mo Junyang said. So he had to grit his teeth and ask, Prove what? Prove that the crown prince is not the only one who had the chance to kill His Majesty. Mo Junyang said fluently and explained unhurriedly, Quan didnt see His Majesty, which means that anybody might have hidden in the bed to pass himself off as His Majesty and tell Quan to summon the crown prince. Its ridiculous. If the murderer didnt leave after killing somebody but stayed in the bedroom to put on a show as you said, wouldnt he be afraid that somebody could find it? How would there be such a stupid murderer in the world? Mo Junhao retorted Mo Junyang with justice. Your Excellency, I know that you want to prove the crown princes innocence, yet do you take all of us as idiots after you call black white and put the blame on an inexistent murderer? Chapter 363 - You Are the Murderer Mo Junhaos aggressive question didnt make Mo Junyang show anger or other negative emotions. Mo Junyang just stood there quietly. After Mo Junhao lost temper, he stated unhurriedly The Empress Dowager told me to investigate the case, and I am checking the doubtful points of this case. I just deal with the matter on its merits. Why are you so anxious, Your Highness? I am not! Mo Junhao retorted shrilly. He soon realized that he overreacted, so he quickly calmed down. I just think that you are stalling for time. We have captured the prime suspect on the spot. You dont interrogate the suspect first but waste time here. So people will doubt your intention inevitably. After saying that, Mo Junhao smiled at Mo Junyang complacently. Huh, dont think that only you know how to shift the blame onto others. I can find fault with you, he thought. Mo Junyang looked peaceful. Your Highness, what are you talking about? Cant the experiment prove the possibility that somebody might have summoned the crown prince in the name of His Majesty? Huh? Even if it is possible, so what? Mo Junhao snorted. I have asked. Why did the murderer do that? Perhaps Mo Junyang paused for a moment intentionally and looked Mo Junhao up and down, saying meaningfully, Perhaps because if he didnt do that, he would be accused of murdering His Majesty. After all, if the servants find that His Majesty saw him before dying, he could hardly escape from being suspected, just like the crown prince. Mo Junhao finally could confirm that Mo Junyang had found his plot and might even have guessed how he committed the crime. He got panicked again, but under the situation, no matter how nervous he was, he had to restrain himself. Your Excellency, what you said is just a possibility and conjecture. Then it is possible that His Majesty ordered Quan to summon the crown prince and that he was killed by Junyu, right? Both of them could have happened, and Mo Junyu had been caught in the bedroom, so the second was more likely to happen anyway. Mo Junyang thought so and nodded. Your Highness, its like what you said, so I told Shen Luo to check His Majestys body and find the vital evidence that the murderer missed. What? Mo Junhao couldnt control himself, so he roared again. Till Mo Junyang turned to him with doubtful eyes, Mo Junhao finally adjusted his rapid heartbeat. Mo Junhao tried to look peaceful yet confused, asking, Your Excellency, what is the evidence you mentioned? Mo Junyang looked out of the door, and Shen Luo walked in immediately, saying, Your Excellency, I have carefully checked His Majestys body and found that he was strangled to death as somebody squeezed his throat. There is a circle of dark squeezing mark left on his neck. Mo Junhaos heart beat so fast that it almost jumped to his throat. Why did he forget that once somebody was strangled to death, perhaps nothing wrong could be found in the beginning, but after some time, the cadaveric ecchymoses would show? All the marks would be revealed. While speaking, Shen Luo turned to Mo Junhao and seemed to look at his hands. Mo Junhao subconsciously hid his hands behind his back and justified himself emotionally. All peoples handprints are almost the same, and even if they are drawn in the paper, you may not be able to find the difference. Moreover, they are just cadaveric ecchymoses and cant prove who the murderer is. Even if we have to identify a murderer, it must be Junyus handprint. However, Shen Luo expressed, Your Highness, you are wrong. The marks on His Majestys neck have told us who the murderer is. Who? Shen Luo walked two steps toward Mo Junhao and asked respectfully, Your Highness, can you reach out your right hand and let me see it? Mo Junhao was certainly unwilling to. He looked angry and cursed, Who the hell are you? Do you qualify to suspect me? Go away. Your Highness, why are you so emotional? Havent I said that anybody who came to the bedroom last night is a suspect? We just want to purge you of suspicion. Please cooperate with us, Your Highness, Mo Junyang looked indifferent and stated. Shen Luo moved closer to Mo Junhao, which scared the prince to move a few steps backward in succession subconsciously. Mo Junhao had a guilty conscience. How would he dare to show his hand to Shen Luo? However, under the watchful eyes of all people, if he dodged, wouldnt it show that he was guilty? He was in a dilemma. Suddenly he thought that it was just a handprint. Even if it was the same, could it prove that he was the murderer? Everybody had a palm with five fingers which were almost the same as others, and the cadaveric ecchymoses on the dead body must have spread after a few hours, so it couldnt be the same as his palm. As Mo Junyang mentioned the evidence, he must be deliberately mystifying and swashbuckling just to bait him. If Mo Junhao kept refusing, he would be trapped by Mo Junyang. Mo Junhao figured out Mo Junyangs intention gradually and then couldnt help but show a big smile. Huh, Mo Junyang thought that he was smart and wanted Mo Junhao to give himself away as he was in panic, yet Mo Junhao would meet trick with trick. He would see what tricks Mo Junyang could play. Mo Junhao suddenly smiled at Shen Luo calmly and said impassively, I have a clear conscience. Since you want to see it, just check. Nobody would think that he was the murderer after seeing that he showed such a clam attitude. Shen Luo was stunned as he was fooled by Mo Junhaos calmness. He turned to Mo Junyang in secret involuntarily, with doubt and worry shown on his face. Mo Junhao looks unhurried. Did they make a mistake? Is the murderer somebody else? Mo Junhao paid attention to Shen Luo all the time and showed a complacent smile after seeing that. He knew that Mo Junyang and the others were just swashbuckling. Doctor Shen, didnt you say that you want to check my hand? I will show it to you, okay? Mo Junhao asked intentionally. Shen Luo really planned to trick Mo Junhao, but the princes attitude was beyond his expectation, so he was at a loss, while Mo Junyang didnt say anything. He had to bite the bullet and look at Mo Junhao again. Your Highness, I am sorry to trouble you. Mo Junhao raised his right hand casually and reached it out, showing it before Shen Luos eyes while saying arrogantly, As you wish. In the beginning, Shen Luo felt embarrassed because of the hand enlarging before his eyes. When he saw Mo Junhaos right hand clearly, his expression changed suddenly, and he raised his head, staring at Mo Junhao. Mo Junhao was scared by Shen Luos serious eyes and wanted to move backward again, but on second thought, he believed that Shen Luo must be deliberately mystifying, so he threw out his chest, snorting. Have you seen it clearly? What else will you say? Shen Luo turned to Mo Junyang first, to see the latter nodding slightly, and then he gazed at Mo Junhao again. Afterward, he stated, stressing each word, You are the murderer. Mo Junhao was stunned and then shouted, appearing to be tough outwardly, even though he was timid inwardly, What evidence do you have to make you talk nonsense? Dont think that you can slander a prince recklessly as you work for His Excellency. Be careful. I can accuse you of slandering a royal family member and make you bear all the consequences. Even though he was sure that Mo Junyang and the others tried to bluff him, he couldnt help feeling guilty, so he had to shout to cheer himself up. However, Shen Luo fixed his eyes on Mo Junhaos palm and grabbed his wrist before the latter tried to withdraw the hand, pointing out seriously, Your Highness, dont indulge in sophistry. The evidence you want is here. Seeing that Shen Luos eyes fell on his hand again, Mo Junhao thought that this doctor still bothered about the cadaveric ecchymoses, so he snorted. What? Do you want to say that the size of my palm is similar to that of the bruise on Fathers neck so it can prove that I am the murderer? But the size of the bruise on a dead body will change. It just happens to be the same as my palm, and it cant prove anything. If you go out to look for palms now, you can surely find some palms of the same size. Did all those people kill my father? Can you convince the public after mentioning such hasty evidence? While shouting, Mo Junhao got more emotional, and every word he said was reasonable. He didnt give others a chance to refute him. Shen Luo was not skilled in arguing. Although he had known the truth, when the other party was so aggressive, he was unable to confront him, so he had to turn to Mo Junyang for help. Boss, please cope with this man. Mo Junyang smiled faintly after noticing Shen Luos eyes asking for help. Before Mo Junhao wanted to make another speech, Mo Junyang responded unhurriedly, The evidence is not the handprint but something on your hand. What? Mo Junhao looked confused and followed Mo Junyangs eyes to look at his right hand. When his eyes fell on his right middle finger, the expression in them changed all of a sudden. Mo Junyang smiled. Now you must know what we are talking about, right, Your Highness? No, no Mo Junhao was panicked and wanted to explain away. Mo Junyang ignored Mo Junhaos powerless words and pointed to his right hand, continuing, Perhaps everybodys right hand is almost the same, but not everybody wears a jade ring rewarded by His Majesty on his right middle finger. The grain on this jade ring is unique and happens to be the same as the mark on His Majestys neck. Your Highness, perhaps you can explain to us. Why is the mark of your jade ring on His Majestys neck? Mo Junyang asked Mo Junhao in a gentle voice. The truth was pointed out, and the evidence was solid, so Mo Junhao had no chance to refute. Mo Junhao was like a deflated ball and fell on the floor in dejection. Without looking at Mo Junyang, he just murmured, Why? Why? I have made a perfect plan. Why is there something wrong? No Gee! Shen Luo withdrew his hand and glanced at Mo Junhao in disgust, asking Mo Junyang, Junyang, what should we do now? He killed his father, the emperor, and committed a capital crime of rebellion. Lock him up in the Imperial Kinship Bureau first. We will make a final decision after the new emperor takes the throne. Mo Junyang said something casually and convicted Mo Junhao. Yes! The guards from King Ruis mansion accepted the order and wouldnt scruple Mo Junhaos identity. They walked forward and took him away rudely. Chapter 364 - Your Loyalty Is of No Use Seeing that the guards took Mo Junhao away like dragging a stray dog, Shen Luo sighed with emotion. Junyang, its said that there is no kinship in the royal family. It has really broadened my views today. If Shen Luo didnt see it with his own eyes, he couldnt believe that somebody could do something so evil as to kill his father, the emperor. After killing his father, the criminal even arranged everything calmly and summoned his elder brother, putting all the blame on him. Gee, if there were the words anti-social personality in this world, they must be used to describe Mo Junhao. Mo Junyang glanced at Shen Luo indifferently, saying, Cut the crap. Lets go. Afterward, he walked out. In the beginning, Shen Luo was confused about where Mo Junyang was going. When he saw that Mo Junyang headed to the prison of the Ministry of Penalty, he was more surprised. Are you going to pick up the crown prince? Shen Luo stopped Mo Junyang. At the moment, shouldnt they report the details of the case to Ling Ruiyin at once and wait for her to make a final decision? Even though Mo Junyang heard this case and found the real murderer, he didnt have the right to release a prisoner without permission. Mo Junyang said, If we dont go there, it will probably be too late. What? Shen Luo was stunned and watched Mo Junyang leave directly. He had no choice but to bite the bullet and follow the master. When they reached the prison of the Ministry of Penalty, Shen Luo finally understood what Mo Junyang meant by saying that it would be too late. Mo Junyu was the crown prince with an honorable title, so even though he was locked up in the prison of the Ministry of Penalty, he enjoyed the most honorable treatment. He stayed in a single room and it was clean and quiet, not disturbed. However, it meant that the people outside didnt know what was happening in this single room. As soon as Shen Luo pushed the innermost door open, he saw that Mo Junyu was tied up to a pillar and a masked man in black grabbed a sharp dagger, trying to stab Mo Junyus vital part. Your Highness! Shen Luo forgot himself and shouted. The masked man reacted and wanted to speed up, yet his wrist got numb suddenly, and the dagger fell from his hand. Seeing that he failed in the assassination, the masked man tried to flee from the window, but Wei Zichao had predicted it and jumped up, standing in front of the window in advance. After being kicked, the masked man fell on the floor. The mask on his face loosened, and a young face was revealed. Mo Junyang sneered. Luo Ziyuan, you are really the loyalest lackey of the fourth prince. What? As you know that your master has been captured, so you want to remove the source of the trouble? But do you think that your master will take the throne after you kill the crown prince? Luo Ziyuan was seen through, so he turned pale and didnt explain away. He just gritted his teeth. No more words. Just kill me as you wish. Gee, you are really a tough guy. Shen Luo tut-tutted. It was not his first time to see Luo Ziyuan. He stood in front of Luo Ziyuan with interest and looked him up and down for a long time. Then he said all of a sudden, Junyang, anyway, the problem has been solved. Leave this man to me. Afterward, he stared at Mo Junyang and prepared to speak out a lot of righteous reasons after the master asked why. Mo Junyang just glanced at him, saying coldly, Suit yourself. Shen Luo was speechless. He had never seen such an annoying guy. Would Mo Junyang die if he let Shen Luo occasionally guess what he was thinking about? Shen Luo was pissed off. Luo Ziyuan who was prepared to face death looked confused when he suddenly heard that this man dressed like a Confucian scholar wanted to keep him. Mo Junyang must have known that Luo Ziyuan was the most capable assistant to Mo Junhao, whose many deeds had something to do with Luo Ziyuan. So after Mo Junhao failed, Luo Ziyuan would come to only one end. Death! Why did this man want him? Did he want to subdue him? Dont need to make futile efforts. Although I am not stubbornly loyal, I know that a servant wont serve two masters. If you want me to surrender to you, dont try it. Luo Ziyuan raised his head proudly and presented his views vehemently. Nevertheless, as soon as he finished his words, his head was pounded by Shen Luo. Shen Luo glanced at him, as if looking at an idiot. Who wants you to be loyal to us? I just want you to test my medicine. Luo Ziyuans heroic words seemed to become a joke. Even though he was fearless, he was speechless after hearing Shen Luos words. Shen Luo said, Moreover, your master has failed, so it can be seen that your capability is just so-so. What can you do? Be loyal to our master? Dont flatter yourself. Luo Ziyuan couldnt find a word to reply. He was so angry that he turned pale and red and trembled, pointing to Shen Luo, unable to speak after a long time. Shen Luo was finally satisfied after he vented his anger on this man. Then he waved his hand and gestured for Wei Zichao to take Luo Ziyuan away. Shen Luo seemed to have got a plaything that he expected for long, so he couldnt wait to follow them. At the moment, Mo Junyu was released from the pillar, in an awkward position. He straightened his hair and clothes in a hurry and then asked in embarrassment, Anyway, Luo Ziyuan is the second legitimate son of the Minister of Penalty. If there is something wrong after you leave him to Doctor Shen, perhaps we cant explain to his father Lord Luo. Shen Luo knows what to do. Mo Junyang just explained simply. Seeing that Mo Junyu wanted to say more, he added, Luo Ziyuan attempted to murder the new emperor of the Mo Dynasty and committed a capital crime of rebellion. He deserves it even if the nine degrees of his kindred are eliminated. What do you think Lord Luo will say? Mo Junyu paused for a moment and then found that it was true, so he stopped talking about this matter. Afterward, he asked, What on earth happened? As soon as he saw Mo Junyang, Mo Junyu calmed down. He believed that he would be fine as long as Mo Junyang was here, but Mo Xiangbin had been killed miserably in his bedroom and Mo Junyu was the only person at the scene. It was too weird. Mo Junyu couldnt figure it out after pondering for a long time. He still looked surprised and stared at Mo Junyang in a daze after the latter simply told him what Mo Junhao had done. After a long time, he managed to close his mouth with an effort and frowned tightly. In the end, he sighed deeply. Didnt hecourt death? Mo Junyu shook his head. He always took Mo Junhao as his most powerful opponent these years and even thought earlier that he would be doomed soon, yet there were earth-shaking changes after only a short period. Everything in the world could hardly be predicted. What should we do now? Mo Junyu asked subconsciously. Mo Junyang couldnt help laughing. I should ask you this question. In any respect, the decision-maker should be Mo Junyu. Mo Junyu finally realized this point and touched his nose tip, smiling in embarrassment. II just want to hear your opinion. However, Mo Junyu knew that Mo Junyang would never influence his decision at the critical moment. Meeting his eyes with a faint smile, Mo Junyu looked awkward again. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt keep Mo Junyu embarrassed for too long. He reminded seriously, His Majesty passed away, and it will make the country unstable easily, so we need to be careful. Mo Junhao killed His Majesty, which is a capital crime, but its related to the dignity of the royal family and the stability of society, so wed better keep it a secret. Your Highness, you should be cautious. If some people with evil intentions make use of it and gain profit, it will be troublesome. Mo Junyu heard these words and looked serious gradually. He pondered for a moment. When he raised his head again, he put on airs as the crown prince. In this case, lets go back to the imperial palace at once. As Mo Junyang expected, as soon as the news of Mo Xiangbins death spread, all people at the imperial court were shocked, but because the Empress Dowager said that the late emperor died of an illness, and the Imperial Academy of Medicine and the miracle-working doctor Shen Luo proved it, even if some people with ulterior intentions wanted to make a fuss about this matter, they lost the opportunity. At last, Mo Junyang found the imperial edict to decide the next emperor which had been hidden by Mo Junhao under the eave outside the emperors bedroom. With this imperial edict, Mo Junyu would take the throne logically as he was the heir to the throne. As for the fourth princes followers, some of them wanted to stand up for Mo Junhao who was secretly put in the prison of the Imperial Kinship Bureau, but nobody knew what Mo Junyang had done, and these people ceased all activities for now. At least, they didnt dare to ask Mo Junyu for Mo Junhao at the imperial court openly. Mo Junyu heaved a sigh of relief yet was curious about what Mo Junyang had done. Junyang, what did you do to make the fourth princes followers shut up? The ceremony of the new emperors succession was around the corner, while Mo Junyu couldnt restrain his curiosity but insisted on asking Mo Junyang about this matter. Mo Junyang was straightforward and explained casually, Those officials chose to follow Mo Junhao just for profit. So what do you think they will do if they cant gain profit after standing up for Mo Junhao? Will they risk their lives for him? Mo Junyangs last snort made Mo Junyu dumbfounded for quite a while. Although he was satisfied with such a result, the fact that Mo Junyang pointed out made him feel sad for the loss of his kind. He said gloomily, But in this case, they dont surrender to me sincerely. If they can gain profit in the future, they may be hidden trouble. Sincerely? Mo Junyang snorted, as if he heard a joke. He glanced at Mo Junyu. You have learnt how to be an emperor since childhood. Shouldnt you be most skilled in controlling people? Mo Junyus eyes darkened. Its easy to say, yet how can it be so simple when it is put into practice? While speaking, Mo Junyu couldnt help but glance at Mo Junyang with expectancy. After all, he hoped that Mo Junyang could remove the hidden trouble for him. Mo Junyang just lowered his head and asked impassively, Your Highness, who do you think will take the throne in the future? Me? Mo Junyu was speechless. Perhaps there was nobody in the world but Mo Junyang who dared to be so impolite to this man who would be the most honorable person in Mo Country soon. However, Mo Junyu was speechless and couldnt get mad, nor could he retort. Indeed, it was his duty to take the throne and wipe out the forces against him, yet he pinned his hopes on Mo Junyang, which showed that this emperor was not dutiful. Forget it. You can go now. Chapter 365 - Give Me As soon as Mo Junyang walked out of the imperial palace, he saw Qu Yuebai waiting in the carriage. After he got into the carriage, Qu Yuebai couldnt help but ask, Whats up? He asked abruptly, yet Mo Junyang knew what he wanted to ask. Mo Junyang didnt hide it from Qu Yuebai. He simply told Qu Yuebai about his conversation with Mo Junyu. After hearing that, Qu Yuebai snorted with a frown. He is so carefree to be an emperor. Not to mention that you have helped him out of injustice, he makes preparations for the ceremony of succession in high spirits these days but leaves everything to you. He is not like an emperor who should take on heavy responsibilities. While speaking, Qu Yuebai got angrier. Mo Junyang always lived a life of ease and leisure, yet these days, in order to help Mo Junyu take the throne, he was so busy that he was run off his feet with jobs to do and played the hypocrite with all factions. He did that just to ensure that Mo Junyus ceremony of taking the throne wouldnt be ruined. Even Qu Yuebai felt sad for his master after seeing that, while Mo Junyu was so greedy that he even expected Mo Junyang to remove the hidden trouble for him. The crown prince was daydreaming. Did he think that he could order about Mo Junyang willfully as Mo Junyang was his subordinate? Why didnt he give up the throne to Mo Junyang? Qu Yuebai felt indignant for his master, but Mo Junyang didnt have too many negative emotions seemingly. This guy never showed any expressions. Junyang, arent you angry? Qu Yuebai looked at Mo Junyang in doubt. Mo Junyang looked indifferent. Why? You are so angry on behalf of me. What should I be angry about? Qu Yuebai was speechless and thought, Can I take back the anger and then tell him that he deserves it? Anyway, its not my business, Mo Junyang added. Nobody knew if he saw through Qu Yuebai. Qu Yuebai finally felt less angry. Fortunately, their master was distant but wouldnt be at the mercy of others. At least, if Mo Junyu wanted to control their masterhe had to wait till the next life. Qu Yuebai was relieved and then found that the carriage headed in a wrong direction. Er Qu Yuebai wanted to say something. Mo Junyang nodded at him at once. Will you go to the Lanxun Villa? Qu Yuebai glanced at the carriage moving fast and asked in a stiff tone, If I say no, will you kick me out of the carriage? Mo Junyang smiled at him and didnt say anything. He could really do something like this. Qu Yuebai admitted his destiny and followed Mo Junyang to the Lanxun Villa. When they arrived, Shi Qingxue just finished feeding Shi Qingmin. Seeing the two men, she looked joyful, mainly because of Mo Junyang. Then she asked, Have you finished everything? Mo Junyang nodded. Mo Junhao has been put in the prison of the Imperial Kinship Bureau. You He hesitated rarely and then asked after a while, Will you go to see him? Qu Yuebai watched the interaction of the couple. In the beginning, he was surprised as Shi Qingxue had guessed that Mo Junyang came to the Lanxun Villa after finishing everything. He didnt know that they had made an appointment earlier that Mo Junyang wouldnt come to see Shi Qingxue until he finished everything, so he believed that the two thought alike. Later, after he heard Mo Junyang ask Shi Qingxue such a question, he was more astonished and couldnt speak a word. It was rumored that the sixth young lady from the Shi family loved the fourth prince Mo Junhao, and it was not a secret in many peoples ears, so Qu Yuebai had heard about it. Therefore, Qu Yuebai was more surprised. When did his mater become so generous as to allow Shi Qingxue to see Mo Junhao for the last time? Qu Yuebai neglected the fact that logically Mo Junhao was imprisoned secretly and couldnt see anybody. Not to mention that the winner was the emperor and only the man in power had a say, only with the indulgence Mo Junyang showed to Shi Qingxue, this was not a problem. After hearing Mo Junyangs question, Shi Qingxue frowned and glanced at Qu Yuebai subconsciously. Qu Yuebai expressed at once, I came to visit the first young master. I am taking him out to have fun. Before Shi Qingxue responded, he held Shi Qingmin and walked out of the room, closing the door for the couple considerately. Shi Qingxue was amused by Qu Yuebais actions at a stretch, and her serious face softened. She said with a smile, Junyang, Mr. Qu is much more funny than he was in the previous life. In the previous life, Qu Yuebai held a top job as the grand secretary of the capital city, and he was worthy of the title of the most powerful subordinate of Emperor Ruishang. He was outstanding with his abilities and loyal to Mo Junyang. Emperor Ruishangs tyranny had lasted for fifty years stably, and the country was destroyed in the end just because there was no descendant in the Mo family after Mo Junyangs death. Then the aliens took the opportunity to invade and occupy it. When Mo Junyang was on the throne, nobody dared to challenge this emperors authority. During the period, he couldnt make it without Qu Yuebais association with him in doing evil. In fact, Qu Yuebai was admirable with his civil and military strategies, yet in the previous life, he had become the prime minister too early, and Mo Junyang was as cold as a pool of stagnant water, so this prime minister was rigid and even inflexible. How would he show such livid expressions like he did in this life? Mo Junyang nodded indifferently. It was obvious that he wasnt interested in talking about Qu Yuebai. If somebody else mentioned it, he might ignore it. Shi Qingxue smiled helplessly. She knew that Mo Junyang was waiting for her answer, so she had to say, I dont want to see him. Mo Junyang finally showed a kind of emotion like surprise on his poker face, asking with a lift of his dashing eyebrows, Why? He knew that Shi Qingxue always had obsessiveness about Mo Junhao. Now Mo Junhao was put in prison. Didnt she want to see how down and out her mortal enemy was? Shi Qingxue blinked and looked at Mo Junyang, with helplessness in her eyes. She paused for quite a while and seemed to try to find proper words. After a long time, she said as if to give up, Fine. To be frank with you, I was too stubbornin the past. She took a deep breath. Speaking of which, in fact, he doesnt know why I hate him to the bone, while I dont want to explain to him about what didnt happen in this life. In this case, why would I need to see him again? In all peoples eyes, Shi Qingxue and Mo Junhao were only on different sides. They might be enemies or have nothing to do with each other. If Shi Qingxue went to see Mo Junhao, it would show that they were related to each other. Mo Junyang kept silent for a while and then asked, Dont you hate him anymore? His voice was low, as if he were afraid that he would alarm something. In fact, Mo Junyang wanted to ask more than these. He wanted to ask, You can forgive him so easily after the deep-seated hatred in the previous life. Do you still love him? Even if it is not love, Mo Junhao is special to you, right? Shi Qingxue didnt notice Mo Junyangs deeper meaning, but the question he asked was enough to make her open her eyes wide in surprise. She retorted without thinking, How is it possible? Mo Junyang was speechless. Shi Qingxue said, I am not so simple-minded as to return good for evil. Even though it was the previous life, and what he did to me didnt happen again, everything has happened indeed. How would I forgive him? Moreover, he tried several times to harm me in this life. Even if I am stupid, I wont forgive him. What are you thinking about? Mo Junyang couldnt speak a word after hearing the question. In fact, he also wanted to ask what Shi Qingxue was thinking about. Since she hated Mo Junhao, why didnt she care about how he was punished? Shi Qingxue finally understood what Mo Junyang meant from his frown and couldnt help but laugh. Whats on your mind? I ignore him just because I am busy now and dont want to waste my energy on adding insult to injury. Its pointless, and it will waste my time. Moreover She suddenly winked at Mo Junyang slyly. You are here, right? I dont believe that you will let him go. In the previous life, when Mo Junyang attacked the imperial palace, he killed Mo Junhao with his sword at one blow and made him fall from the horses back, separating his head from his body. Mo Junhaos dead body was exposed in the wilds. It could be seen that Mo Junyang didnt have kinship with Mo Junhao. Since Mo Junyang would take action, why would she bother about this thing? Mo Junyang was satisfied with Shi Qingxues closeness as she meant that you represent me. The depression shown on his face disappeared at once. He walked forward and grabbed Shi Qingxues hand, saying gently under her surprised eyes, Give me. Shi Qingxue was stunned and didnt understand if Mo Junyang told her to give her job to him or give her to him. But No matter which one Mo Junyang meant, she was happy to, right? Shi Qingxue showed a bright smile again and nodded at Mo Junyang. Okay. Mo Junyang was tempted and couldnt help but lower his head to kiss Shi Qingxues forehead gently without sexual desire. Shi Qingxue raised her head and let him kiss her. When Mo Junyang was about to leave, she even reached out her hands to hug his neck and rubbed her cheek against his face for a while. Dong Shuang pushed the door and came in happily. My Lady. Shi Qingxue was scared by this voice and hurriedly withdrew her hands, moving two steps backward to get out of Mo Junyangs arms. She coughed and exposed herself unwittingly while trying to cover up her embarrassment, asking, Whats up? Dong Shuang raised her head and prepared to speak, but then she met Mo Junyangs horribly black eyes. Her heart beat fast, and her voice was stuck in her throat, so she couldnt speak a word. She thought, Gosh. His Excellencys eyes are so scary. Am I going to be killed? I am dying. Is it too late to kneel down and beg him for mercy? Dong Shuang was rigid and scared to be like a statue. She looked at Mo Junyang blankly and remained still. Shi Qingxue came back to earth from the embarrassment and saw this scene, so she was amused. She knocked Mo Junyang with her elbow secretly and gestured for him to restrain himself. Then she asked, Dong Shuang, whats the matter? Just say it. Seeing that Mo Junyang didnt look at her anymore, Dong Shuang still felt frightened and swallowed, replying cautiously, Duke Shis mansion sent a message. They told you to go back. Me? Shi Qingxue tilted her head in confusion. Why did her parents want to see her at this critical time? Chapter 366 - I Am Pregnant Shi Qingxue lowered her head and pondered for a moment. Then she glanced at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang instantly said, Ill go with you. Shi Qingxue was speechless. The son-in-law was so sensible, and Shi Qingxue thought that she was under pressure as a daughter. Stop joking. I dont know what happened in my family. Why do you go with me? Shi Qingxue was unable either to laugh or to cry and refused him. Although she was also unwilling to part with Mo Junyang as they finally saw each other after a few days, she should consider the timing. After all, they hadnt got married, while Mo Junyang followed her no matter what she did, which would cause gossip. Shi Qingxue didnt care about the gossip, but she didnt want her future husband to be commented as he couldnt leave his woman. As soon as she finished her words, Mo Junyang looked at her expressionlessly, with a grievance on his face seemingly. Shi Qingxue couldnt speak a word. She was at a loss whether to cry or to laugh and pushed Mo Junyang, saying with a smile, I wont stay there for long. I will come back soon. If you act like this, others will think that you cant live without me. Isnt it true? Mo Junyang asked in reply peacefully. Shi Qingxue really had nothing to say to the man this time. However, she noticed the seriousness in Mo Junyangs eyes, which made her have no idea how to answer his question. For a moment, she really wanted Mo Junyang to go with her. Anyway, it was what she hoped. Fortunately, she stopped herself in the end and didnt lose her mind in front of a handsome man. Ahem. Shi Qingxue pretended to clear her throat and then stated like joking, Okay, just be good and stay here to look after Little Qingmin. I will be back soon. She pondered for a moment and then added, Dont worry. I will be fine. As a result, even Mo Junyang was speechless after hearing her words. In fact, Mo Junyang insisted on going with her mostly because he was worried about her safety. The fourth prince Mo Junhao and his followers had failed, and the faction appeared to cease all activities, yet they just compromised. Nobody could ensure that these people wouldnt do something desperate to ruin both parties. Mo Junyang didnt care about anything else, but he should ensure Shi Qingxues safety. However, he didnt know how to say these words to Shi Qingxue. Fortunately, Qingxue knew well about him. She said dont worry, and obviously she had seen through him, which made him unable to say more. Even though Mo Junyang was clear about this, he would be still worried after Shi Qingxue went out alone, even to Duke Shis mansion. I will tell Zichao to go with you. Shi Qingxue goggled helplessly and thought, I will merely go back home, yet you are worried. Youd better stay with me all the time and make me a part of you. However, she didnt say that. Perhaps the man would agree to this decision. Fine. I will let Zichao go with me. He is waiting at the door. After I finish everything, I will come back with him. Cant you stop worrying? Shi Qingxue made a concession. Mo Junyang nodded and didnt forget to stress, Be careful. Shi Qingxue was angry and didnt want to talk with Mo Junyang but walked out directly. In the carriage, Dong Shuang peeped at Shi Qingxue several times hesitantly and awkwardly. Shi Qingxue closed her eyes and rested her mind, asking indifferently, Just say whatever you want. Why are you hesitant? Dong Shuang asked with difficultly, My Lady, dont you think that His Excellency is too, too Xia Mang was curious about what made the outspoken Dong Shuang so hesitant, yet she turned pale after hearing that Dong Shuang was going to comment on Mo Junyang. She pulled Dong Shuangs arm and stopped her from continuing. Then she looked out of the carriage subconsciously. Although they stayed in the carriage and the door was closed tightly, Wei Zichao was powerful in martial arts, and they didnt know if he could hear their words. After all, Shi Qingxue could do anything, while the servants couldnt comment on the masters in secret. Dong Shuang was pulled suddenly and almost fell. She managed with effort to steady herself, and then Xia Mang glared at her. Dong Shuang didnt understand what the serious glare meant, yet her acute gut feeling for many years told her that it was not the right time to continue. Shi Qingxue seemed not to see their actions but asked impassively, Too what? Dong Shuang lowered her head and didnt know if she should speak it out. My Lady, Dong Shuang is not a good talker. You Xia Mang said that as she wanted to save the situation for Dong Shuang, while Shi Qingxue raised her hand and stopped the maid. Qingxue straightened her back and looked at Dong Shuang. Since you started it, just go ahead. Dong Shuang gritted her teeth and shook off Xia Mangs hand which stopped her, saying, My Lady, dont you think that you act upon whatever His Excellency says? In the past, you Dong Shuang bit her lower lip and didnt know what to say. She looked hesitant, and after a long while, she seemed to be ready to risk everything. In the past, you had your own decisions. If you thought that you should do something, nobody could stop you easily, but now His Excellency always influences you. Its so Shi Qingxue was stunned to hear these words. She hadnt realized this matter seemingly before Dong Shuang said that. When she thought about it, it was like what Dong Shuang said. For example, as for what happened earlier, if she wanted to go back to Duke Shis mansion alone and travel light in the past, no matter who advised her, she wouldnt bring somebody unnecessary. Mo Junyang insisted on telling her to bring Wei Zichao, and he might let Wei Zichao watch her. In the past, she hated most to be followed everywhere and watched like a prisoner. If something like this happened, she wouldnt agree to Mo Junyangs request but might fall out with him. However, now, perhaps she felt unhappy, yet she restrained herself soon and didnt let Mo Junyang find it. She didnt retort but agreed to his arrangement. Gee, it was not her style. Shi Qingxue pouted and pondered for a long time. Then she finally found a reason and murmured, PerhapsI am unwilling to make him fail to get after pursuing. Speaking of which, she changed unconsciously, yet so did Mo Junyang. In the beginning, Mo Junyang was obedient to her all the time, as if she were something valuable and fragile. He wished to hold her in his hands or mouth. Compared with being treated cautiously, she was more used to the way they got along with each other now. Shouldnt a couple compromise with each other? If they were like before, even though Mo Junyang loved her deeply and she loved him, too, with the unequal relationship, they couldnt stay with each other for long. After murmuring, Shi Qingxue stopped talking and stared at the teacup in her hand blankly. Dong Shuang wanted to say more, yet she kept silent as Xia Mang pulled her and glared at her seriously. Till Shi Qingxue got out of the carriage and walked into the mansion, Dong Shuang couldnt control herself but asked, Xia, why did you stop me? I havent finished my words. Dong Shuang always thought that it was bad that Shi Qingxue indulged Mo Junyang too much, although he was the ladys future husband and she believed that he loved the lady. However, men were always insatiable. If Shi Qingxue indulged him, he would boss her around sooner or later. Come on. Do you need to say something like this? Xia Mang noticed Dong Shuangs intention at a glance from her resentful face. She rolled her eyes and snorted. Havent you heard that an outsider shouldnt meddle in the relationship between two people close to each other? His Excellency is Lady Qingxues future husband, and they are intimate. How can the servants like us comment on them randomly? But shall we say nothing and watch Lady Qingxues interest being harmed? Dong Shuang swelled out her chest and firmly believed that her advice was good even though it was harsh to the ear. Xia Mang knocked at Dong Shuangs head and cursed crossly, A couple is united, and His Excellency cares about Lady Qingxues safety, so he insisted on telling Wei to follow her. Was her interest harmed? You worry too much. Dong Shuang was stunned and seemed to finally realize this matter. She opened her mouth slightly yet didnt speak after a long time. Wei Zichao pretended to be invisible all the way. This man had sharp ears and heard their conversation, while he didnt say anything. Till now he finally couldnt help but laugh, exposing his maters secret. After all of you go to King Ruis mansion and live with my master for a period, you will know that what you are worried about will never happen. Really? Dong Shuang glared at Wei Zichao in doubt. He was Mo Junyangs subordinate, and his words were not trustworthy. Wei Zichao didnt explain in a hurry but responded, Wait and see. When Shi Qingxue walked into the East House, she found all the family members sitting in the main hall and seeming to wait for her. She carefully observed all peoples expression. They had a smile yet could hardly conceal the anxiety in their eyes. She couldnt figure out what they were thinking about. Whats the matter? Dong Hui walked forward first and held Shi Qingxues hand, pulling her to sit down next to Shi Baoning. Then she stated with a bigger smile, Let your sister tell you. Shi Qingxue turned to Shi Baoning. Shi Baoning still looked shy and behaved bashfully. Then she looked up at Qingxue and couldnt help smiling. Qingxue, I am pregnant. Really? Shi Qingxue was surprised and then looked joyful involuntarily. She grabbed Shi Baonings hands and asked excitedly, When did you get pregnant? How old is the fetus? Are you all right? Do you feel unwell? She asked successively and mentioned almost all the questions that anybody might ask after seeing a pregnant woman. She did almost the same as that when she got the news that Dong Hui was pregnant. Even though she had been through it once, she couldnt help feeling excited. She stared at Shi Baonings belly with her big eyes, as if she could see her future nephew in this way. Shi Baoning felt shy under Shi Qingxues stare and leaned to one side slightly, answering in a low voice, I am all right. Dont worry, Qingxue. Qingxue raised her head in confusion as Shi Baonings action blocked her view, asking silently, Why dont you let me see it? When Dong Hui was pregnant with their brothers, she let Shi Qingxue touch her belly. Dong Hui watched them and felt happy, covering her mouth while laughing. Fine, Qingxue, you know that your sister is shy. Dont tease her anymore. Turn to me. I have something to discuss with you. Chapter 367 - Stay Away From Me If You Have Nothing to Say Shi Qingxue pouted, as she didnt think that she was teasing Shi Baoning. She felt happy for Shi Baoning. However, since Dong Hui looked serious, Shi Qingxue had to conceal her smile and turn to her obediently, asking, Mother, what do you want to tell me? Dong Hui grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and replied in a low and deep voice, Baoning has been pregnant for more than two months as the doctor diagnosed, but Doctor Qin has said that she is weak and that the fetus is unstable. There will be something wrong probably if we dont look after her carefully. Shi Qingxue got nervous after hearing Dong Huis words. Let Baoning stay in the mansion and nourish the fetus. Dont tire her. Seeing that Shi Qingxue didnt understand, Dong Hui raised her voice. Doctor Qins medical skills are just so-so. We found it this morning because Baoning bled. He just said that she should rest quietly to nourish the fetus, and there is no other solution. How can we rest assured? Do you think so, Qingxue? Shi Qingxue hadnt understood it earlier, yet her mothers last meaningful question was enough to make her understand. There seemed to be some emotion flashing in Shi Qingxues eyes, but she lowered her head and concealed it. After a while, she raised her head again and showed a faint smile. I dont know what you want me to do as you said that, Mother. Dong Hui was awkward to hear Shi Qingxues straightforward question, and her smile went stiff. She felt too embarrassed to speak it out. She grabbed Shi Junhes sleeve in secret and gestured for him to say it. Shi Junhe also looked awkward, but after all, he had accomplished great things, so he soon calmed down and stated, Your sisters fetus may be in danger, so your mother wants you to ask somebody to specially look after Baoning. Gee? Shi Qingxue had thought that it was a big deal, while it was not. She tilted her head and took it for granted, responding, Of course. Mother, you can employ anybody. Why do you need to discuss with me? Dong Hui glanced at Shi Junhe with complaint and blamed him for not making it clear, so she expressed, The best choice is naturally Doctor Shen everybody praises, but Shi Qingxues smile faded a little. She finally realized why all the family members were hesitant. Because of what happened to Shi Qingmin, Shen Luos impression of Dong Hui went to the worst, and in the end, he even refused to come to the mansion to check Tianyous pulse. Dong Hui had a guilty conscience and didnt have the face to send for Shen Luo in King Ruis mansion. However, now only Shen Luo could ensure the safety of Shi Baonings baby. Dong Hui didnt want to embarrass herself in front of him. Moreover, she was afraid that he would refuse her even after she embarrassed herself, so she had to ask Shi Qingxue for help. Mother, do you want me to ask Doctor Shen to come? Shi Qingxue asked but with certainty. Dong Hui bit the bullet and nodded. Right. You and Doctor Shen know each other, and if you ask him, he may not turn a deaf ear for your sake. Madam Shi had a perfect plan. Even if Shen Luo refused Shi Qingxue, as long as she begged Mo Junyang and shed tears, after he gave an order, Shen Luo had to do it although he was unwilling to. Looking at Dong Huis secretive expression, Shi Qingxue didnt bother to ask why her mother didnt ask Shen Luo in person but told her to ask him, which was an evident question. However she didnt agree without hesitation. She just pursed her lips and said impassively, I will talk about this matter with Doctor Shen. She didnt say if she could make it. Dong Hui understood that the girls words were uncertain, but she didnt have the face to order Shi Qingxue. She merely grabbed her daughters hands and stressed anxiously, Qingxue, Baoning is your biological sister. You even show every concern for Shi Baojing, so you cant ignore your sister. As she said, it seemed that if Shi Qingxue couldnt persuade Shen Luo to come, she would be heartless and ignore her sister. Shi Qingxue had no reaction, while Shi Junhe frowned with displeasure and rebuked in a low voice, Hui, what are you talking about? Doctor Shen is always carefree and unrestrained. Even when His Majesty asked him to be an imperial doctor, he didnt want to. It is obvious that he cant be forced. How can you demand Qingxue like this? Dong Hui looked embarrassed after being rebuked and explained in a soft voice, I just hope that Qingxue can try her best. If she cant make it, I wont blame her. It appeared that she had the right to blame Qingxue. Xia Mang and Dong Shuang rolled their eyes behind them after hearing that and realized that Dong Hui was harsh on the young lady, but the girl was good-tempered and didnt mind. Shi Qingxue looked indifferent and seemed not to notice Dong Huis hidden meaning. Then she turned to Wenren Chi to congratulate him before saying, Its late now. I should go back. Dong Hui got up and looked as if she wanted to say something yet stopped herself. Shi Qingxue stopped her mother. Mother, dont worry. I will talk about it with Doctor Shen after going back. After going back? Shi Baoning noticed something wrong in Qingxues words. Wouldnt Shi Qingxue go back to the Lanxun Villa? How could she talk with Shen Luo? Qingmin is unwell and has a fever these days, so Doctor Shen has been staying in the Lanxun Villa for several days in order to take better care of him. Although Shi Qingxue objected to some behavior of her mother and sister, she would never hide anything from them. It was fine if her family didnt ask her. Once they asked, she would tell them. Dong Hui showed a smile instantly after hearing that, saying excitedly, Its great that Doctor Shen stays in the Lanxun Villa. Go back quickly and tell him that if its convenient for him, we ask him to live in the mansion for a period, and all people in our family will entertain him well. Shi Qingxue nodded slightly and got up, preparing to go out. At the moment, Shi Jie walked in and told her, My Lady, somebody at the gate wants to see you. Shi Qingxue was stunned as she didnt know who would come to see her at this hour. Who? Shi Junhe asked in a low voice. Shi Jie answered, Its Doctor Shen. Dong Hui was overjoyed and thought that somebody gave her a pillow when she was sleepy. When she thought about Shen Luo, he came soon. God helped her. Why are you standing blankly here? A respected guest has come. Why dont you hurry up and invite him in? Anyway, she would convince Shen Luo to stay this time. Dong Hui was afraid that they couldnt show enough respect for Shen Luo if they entertained him in the East House, so she told all the family members to go to the parlor. Dong Shuang followed them and couldnt help whispering to Xia Mang, Madam is more skilled in playing the hypocrite. She was lukewarm to Lady Qingxue and Doctor Shen and even blamed them for saving the first young master, but when Lady Baoning wants to ask Doctor Shen for help, she has a tremendous change in her attitude. I cant bear to see it. When Dong Shuang started to speak, Xia Mang gave some attention to look around. She heaved a sigh of relief since nobody was in the mood to pay attention to the two maids. Then she rolled her eyes at Dong Shuang and reproached crossly in a low voice, Can the servants like us comment on the masters? Girl, I have told you several times, yet you cant watch your tongue. You will cause trouble sooner or later. Dong Shuang stuck out her tongue and showed that she didnt care. Xia Mang could do nothing to her but grab Dong Shuangs sleeve again, pulling her to the parlor. Dong Hui had a smile all the way while walking and expected the upcoming meeting, thinking about the offer to make Shen Luo stay. However, when she saw Shen Luo, her smile faded. More exactly, when she saw the baby in Shen Luos arms, she didnt want to smile. Shi Qingxue looked at Shen Luo in surprise and doubt. Why did you bring Qingmin here? Shen Luo seemed not to see that Dong Huis face fell all of a sudden. He sighed helplessly and answered Shi Qingxue, What can I do? His Excellency told me to bring him. It was difficult for a man to hold a little baby who was only three months old. Shen Luo was afraid that he would make this baby fall on the floor by accident. As soon as he saw Shi Qingxue, he seemed to see a savior and put Shi Qingmin back in her arms without delay. He wiped the sweat on his forehead and sighed with relief. I have finally given him back to you. I tell you. You can ask me to treat a patient, but dont tell me to babysit in the future. I cant do it. Shen Luo just complained casually, while it made Dong Hui hold back her words Why did you bring him? Dong Hui finally realized that she had to beg Shen Luo to treat Shi Baoning, so she couldnt offend him at this hour. As for Shi Qingmin, Dong Hui pinched her nose and pretended that she didnt see him. She restrained herself as she felt uncomfortable at the sight of Shi Qingmin and forced a smile at Shen Luo, asking gently, Doctor Shen, we are greatly honored by your gracious presence. Please have a seat. Then she shouted at the servants, Why dont you serve tea to Doctor Shen? Shen Luo was speechless. Perhaps it was his first time to be entertained by Dong Hui with such hospitality after he had been to this mansion for so many times, which was so abnormal that he had goosebumps all over. Shen Luo trembled and looked astonished. He couldnt help but look at Shi Qingxue, asking silently, Is there something wrong with Madam Shi today? Shi Qingxue was scared by Dong Huis hospitality, too, yet soon she realized why her mother did so. She had to smile at Shen Luo bitterly, indicating, Just accept it. You are a respected guest of my family today. Shen Luo had to restrain his urge to turn around to run away and took a seat. Madam Shi, what can I do for you? Please tell me directly. Shen Luo wasnt used to beating around the bush, so he asked Dong Hui. His voice was blunt and serious but told Dong Hui silently, I dont have time to play the hypocrite with you. If you have something to tell me, just say it. Otherwise, stay away from me. Dong Huis smile stiffened, and she held back the flattering words she was going to say. She had to say that she wanted to ask him to improve Shi Baonings health. In the end, she didnt forget to promise, Doctor Shen, if you agree, my family wont forget your great favor. If you need our help in the future, please feel free to tell us. After speaking, Dong Hui looked up at Shen Luo, to see that he looked calm in silence, so she felt restless again. Did Doctor Shen agree or not? Chapter 368 - Maintain an Army and Defy Orders From the Central Government Shen Luo lowered his head and pondered, keeping silent for quite a while. It was not that he would refuse Dong Hui, but he was weighing quietly. In the end, he stated, Logically, I dont dare to refuse your request, Madam Shi, but He was going to make a request. Dong Hui was afraid that Shen Luo would ask for nothing, so she smiled happily after he said that. Doctor Shen, please go ahead. Lady Qingxue and the first young master should stay in the mansion these days. Shen Luo spoke out his requirement straightforwardly. What? At the moment, not to mention that Dong Hui shouted in surprise, even Shi Qingxue looked at him in shock. Shi Qingxue looked confused and thought, What does it have to do with me? Shen Luo turned to Shi Junhe. His Excellency has given orders. Duke Shi, can I have a word with you? Shi Junhe didnt understand what Shen Luo planned to do, but hearing Mo Junyangs name, he walked to the inner room with Shen Luo. Is there anything wrong at the imperial court? Shen Luo replied with admiration, Duke Shi, you are sharp-eyed. There is news from the Imperial Kinship Bureau that somebody entered the prison sneakily and took away the prisoner Mo Junhao the other day. The latest news is that Mo Junhao and the Minister of War Feng Jifeng led their soldiers and fled to the northern border. What? At this time, even Shi Junhe couldnt keep calm. He looked emotional. What does he want to do? Shen Luo looked cold and serious, continuing, His Excellency guessed that Mo Junhao might have colluded with the king of Liang Country and must prepare to meet the army of Liang Country, yet His Majesty couldnt intercept them in time. The rebel army has run away from the capital and its environs. Perhaps they cant catch up with the rebel army and force them back. He mentioned the main points and told Shi Junhe about the current situation. After Shi Junhe realized this matter, he didnt hide it from Shen Luo but asked, His Excellency told Qingxue to move backbecause Mo Junhao may harm her? Shen Luo nodded. If Mo Junhao wants to threaten His Excellency and you, Lady Qingxue is the best choice undoubtedly. Although its said that Mo Junhao has left the capital, nobody can be sure that he wont become so frenzied as to take actions against Lady Qingxue, so the Lanxun Villa is not safe. In fact, Shen Luo kept some words to himself. His master wanted more to take Shi Qingxue to King Ruis mansion, and he would rest assured only when he kept an eye on her. However, after all, they hadnt got married. Considering Shi Qingxues fame, Mo Junyang had to scruple. So Duke Shis mansion became an alternative. Of course, Shen Luo didnt need to tell Shi Junhe about what Mo Junyang thought about. Shi Junhe didnt consider something like this. He just asked, Qingxue cant leave here indeed. Its difficult to handle. Did His Excellency say what he plans to do to deal with this matter? Shen Luo shook his head. I dont know. But in order to calm the people, the new emperor will take the throne earlier. Then I am afraid that they will need your support, Duke Shi. Of course. I am going to the imperial palace now. Shi Junhe made a decision at once. He pondered for a moment and then added, Doctor Shen, please feel at ease and stay in my mansion. Baoning and Qingmin need you to take care of them. Shen Luo raised his brows and thought it appeared that this man really cared about his children. No matter whether he favored somebody, at least, he was concerned about each one. Shen Luos face softened a lot and he nodded with a smile. Duke Shi, dont worry. Not to mention the relationship between you family and King Ruis family, for the sake of Lady Qingxue, I wont slack. Since he said that, he had admitted that Duke Shis family and King Ruis family were related by marriage. Shi Junhe showed a faint smile. Speaking of which, their marriage has been decided since a period ago. After this issue, their wedding should be put on the agenda. At the mention of the marriage of Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue, their conversation relaxed. They talked for a while and decided to keep this matter a secret for now, in case that it caused peoples unnecessary worry. However, something so significant as Mo Junhaos defection couldnt be kept secret for long even though they wanted to. After less than half a month, the news spread everywhere in the capital. All people were jittery. Fortunately, Mo Junyu took the throne in time and announced an order to crusade against Mo Junhao, exposing his crime of murdering the late emperor. Then the Assistant Minister of War Leng Yuan took over as Minister of War in time and led the City Guardian Army to stabilize the public order in the capital city. When the capital city was stable, it was not easy to cause disturbance in other places. After Shi Qingxue got the news that Mo Junhao had fled, she wanted to go to the northern border to capture him as the first reaction. Perhaps she wouldnt drop stones on him who had fallen into a well, but she wouldnt be completely indifferent and watch him get away unpunished. Mo Junhao wanted to maintain an army and defy orders from the central government, making himself a king, yet logically, she wouldnt ignore it. However, as soon as she had this plan, Shi Junhe stated, Qingxue, dont think so much. Those things are not what you should do. Shi Junhe glanced at Shi Qingxue with his cold and serious eyes, and she felt that she was seen through. She felt embarrassed and reluctant. She pursed her lips and expressed in depression, In fact, I Fine. Dont mention it again. I wont allow you to. It was said that the father knew most about his daughter. Shi Qingxue just rolled her eyes, but Shi Junhe guessed what she wanted to do and objected to her plan in an assertive tone. All people were confused to hear that. Dong Hui asked in confusion, What charade are you playing? What does Qingxue want to do? Shi Junhe shook his head and then stated, Now the capital can maintain peaceful on the surface with difficulty, yet as long as the rebel army hasnt been defeated, the country will be unstable. The new emperor has just taken the throne, but there are not many military officers who can be relied on. Lord Leng in the Bureau of War needs to guard the capital and maintain the public order in the city. Then the important job to go to the battlefield and crusade against the rebel army may be given to our family. All people present were family, so Shi Junhe didnt hide the current situation from them. He explained to them clearly in order to tell them especially Wenren Chi to be mentally prepared. Unexpectedly, as soon as he finished his words, Dong Hui and Shi Baoning looked unhappy. Dong Hui finally saw Shi Junhe return to the capital and gather with them after waiting for a long time, yet he would leave again in only a short period. So she protested. There are many military officers at the imperial court. Arent there several generals? Junhe, you have just returned from the northern border. Why do you have to go there again? Isnt it unfair? Shi Qingxue explained, Because Father is familiar with the environment in the northern border, and he is the best choice to defeat the rebel army quickly. Shi Junhe nodded at Qingxue with admiration. Right. Speaking of which, nobody at the imperial court is more familiar with the situation at the northern border than me. Even if you are familiar with the northern border, so what? Should somebody capable die? I have heard that the fourth prince has hundreds of thousands of soldiers, and they have settled at the northern border, so they occupy the area. If you crusade against the rebel army, wont you get yourself into trouble? Dong Hui didnt care about the plan with the optimal interest. She just knew that the northern border was too dangerous and that it was uncertain if he could stay alive after he went there. Shi Baoning frowned tightly after hearing that and subconsciously scratched her sleeve. Mother is right. Father, you are Duke Shi now. Cant you refuse to go there? The mother and daughter were afraid that Shi Junhe would perform his heroics and take the hard job. However, after hearing their words, Shi Junhe furrowed his brows tightly and even got angry. What are you talking about? Even a child knows that every man alive has a duty to defend his country. Should I teach you again? Moreover, the country is in danger and disaster now, and I and Chi are generals. If we dont do anything, who can we expect to protect our country and family? Baoning, you are a daughter from the Shi family. You cant behave like an ignorant girl. Shi Junhe said the last words in a deep tone, with reproach obviously. Shi Baoning lowered her head in shame after hearing that. However, Shi Junhe didnt soften. According to the ancestral rules of the Shi family, all the members, including men and women were reserves even if they didnt go to the battlefield. They should know cardinal issues of right and wrong and be able to go to war without demur when the country was in danger. Although Shi Junhe didnt allow Shi Qingxue to mention going to the northern border, he was just worried about her safety. He didnt get angry but even felt proud. Look, this was his daughter. When they needed to go to the battlefield, she didnt blink. However, he and Wenren Chi sustained the Shi family, and it was not Shi Qingxues turn to shoulder the burdens. Shi Baoning blushed and lowered her head, apologizing in embarrassment. Her tears were about to fall again, while Wenren Chi hurriedly mediated. Father, please dont blame Baoning. She is merely worried about our safety and doesnt forget her identity. Right. I didnt say that I dont want you to lead the army to crusade against Mo Junhao. I am just worried that you will be in danger. Then Mother and I will Shi Baoning let Wenren Chi wipe the tears on her face and explained to Shi Junhe on and off. Seeing that the young couple got along with each other in a natural and familiar way, Shi Junhe knew that their relationship was not as distant as before but they were close as a couple no matter what they said or did, so he relaxed a little. He just stated seriously, A military officer should fight on the battlefield till death. I dont want to hear something like this again in the future. Shi Baoning leaned against Wenren Chis arms and bit her lower lip in the end, answering, I see. Shi Junhe nodded and then turned to Shi Qingxue. Stay in the mansion at ease these days and dont go anywhere. Do you understand? Shi Qingxue hurriedly showed a flattering smile. Father, the capital city is safe now. I want to Stop. Shi Junhe didnt let Shi Qingxue finish her words but denied her proposal. Shi Qingxue looked sad and lowered her head, saying unwillingly, I see. If there is nothing else, I am going back now. Afterward, she didnt care what Shi Junhe would say but went back to the Luotong Boudoir in haste. Chapter 369 - A Difficult Choice Shi Junhe put on a long face and planned to rebuke Shi Qingxue if she didnt listen to his advice. In the end, Shi Qingxue was obedient beyond expectation this time, but her attitude It was beyond expression. Anyway the father was unhappy and glared at Shi Qingxues receding figure. Dong Hui stopped Shi Junhe and advised, You know well about your daughter. Its great that she listened to you. Dont bother about her too much. Judging from her attitude, it seems that she didnt listen to me sincerely, Shi Junhe said doubtfully. Shi Qingxue had done many things to agree to his face but oppose secretly. Dong Hui chuckled. Fine. I have something to tell her. She will understand you. She patted Shi Junhes hand and then went to the Luotong Boudoir. When Dong Hui arrived, Shi Qingxue was writing something at the desk. As soon as she saw her mother come, she hid the brush pen and paper behind her back in panic. Before Dong Hui approached her, Qingxue walked out in a hurry and showed a bright smile. Mother, what brought you here? Dong Hui saw Shi Qingxues actions yet turned a blind eye. She just joked, Whats up? Dont you welcome your mother now? Shi Qingxue wouldnt fall into the trap. She stuck out her tongue naughtily, saying with a smile, Mother, you just like to tease me. You know that I dont mean it. Fine. I wont tease you. You are not busy now. Come and sit with me for a while. Dong Hui grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and pulled her to sit at the table. Shi Qingxue had a guilty conscience and thought that Dong Hui wouldnt do something good. She was restless and couldnt help but ask as soon as she sat down, Mother, what do you want to tell me? Do you live in comfort in the Luotong Boudoir these days? Dong Hui started, as if to have a small talk with her. Shi Qingxue had to answer obediently, I have lived in the Luotong Boudoir for nearly ten years, so its certainly nice to live here. Dong Hui nodded with satisfaction and then asked, How is it compared with the Lanxun Villa? Qingxue paused for a moment, with hesitation flashing in her eyes, while she still nodded and told the truth. East or west, home is best. Dong Hui smiled again but didnt speak. She just grabbed Qingxues hand and placated her gently, as if enjoying the rare closeness between the mother and daughter. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue was nervous and waited for Dong Huis next words, yet while waiting, she relaxed gradually and couldnt help but lean against her mothers arms like before, behaving in a spoiled manner. Mother, I miss you, Qingxue murmured and unconsciously showed what she was thinking about. After the lunar New Years Eve, she was busy all the time. She went to pray for her mother on Tan Mountain and then stayed in the Lanxun Villa, looking after her brother. She had few chances to meet her mother, not to mention staying with her alone and whispering to each other. Earlier, especially when she saw that Dong Hui expelled Shi Qingmin without mercy, Shi Qingxue didnt dare to imagine that she and Dong Hui could be intimate someday as before. Shi Qingxue was touched and couldnt help feeling that her eyes were hot. She hurriedly buried her head on Dong Huis shoulder and concealed her tears. Dong Hui felt that it was hot on her shoulder and just reached out her arms to hug her daughters shoulders, saying with a smile, Well. How old are you? You still act like a spoilt child. Shi Qingxue didnt raise her head but expressed gloomily, No matter how old I am, I am your daughter. Dong Hui couldnt help laughing. Why did she think that Shi Qingxue had grown up? It appeared that she was still a baby. Qingxue was ridiculed by her mother, and her face blushed. She murmured with displeasure, I am not a baby. Brothers are babies. I have grown up. Dong Hui was stunned and then caressed Shi Qingxues smooth long hair with a smile, sighing with emotion. Yes, you have grown up. You are getting married. Shi Qingxue retorted, Not so soon. The country is unstable now. If the rebellion cant be settled, the whole capital city wont be peaceful, let alone our family. Dong Hui looked at Shi Qingxue helplessly. Do you still want to go to the northern border in person? Shi Qingxue didnt answer. She was seen through and didnt want to cheat Dong Hui, so she had to lower her head in silence. Alas! Dong Hui shook her head with a bitter smile. She knew that her daughter was as obstinate as a mule, so she didnt get angry but sighed with emotion. You and Baoning are my daughters, yet you are completely different from each other in character. She marries a general but wishes that she will never be related to a war, while you are still unmarried but want to go to the battlefield to court death. I dont know what to do. Shi Qingxue didnt think so. She pouted. Mother, you know the family rules. We are not afraid of dying on the battlefield but of being a deserter, and even the girls should know the rules in the Shi Army. The members of the Shi family will never have a reason to shrink back. Looking at her daughters fearless expression, Dong Hui was in a daze. She could understand Shi Baoning who wanted to shrink back. Nobody hoped that her baby would lose its father before it was born, and the fear could almost envelop her. When she was pregnant with Shi Baoning, Shi Junhe went out to suppress the bandits once and she was left at home, so she was restless all day long and couldnt fall asleep at night, keeping thinking about when he could come back. From time to time, she thought about what she should do if Shi Junhe died. She had felt such fear once and didnt want to experience it for the second time. However, the men in the Shi family Shi Junhe and Weiren Chi were not afraid of death, while she couldnt stop them from courting death. It was because these were the ancestral rules of the Shi family and the Shi Army, and they couldnt be changed. So on the one hand, Dong Hui was proud of Qingxues braveness and resolution, and she raised a daughter who was tougher than a man, while on the other hand, as a mother, she was more worried about her children. She thought that Shi Qingxue wasnt afraid because she was so young that she hadnt experienced the pain and suffer of the separation between loved ones in life or death. She was ignorant, so she was fearless. However, if Shi Qingxue knew Dong Huis worry, she would surely retort her loudly. Speaking of which, she could understand death even more than Dong Hui. However, would they cease to advance because they would die? Shi Qingxue wouldnt do that. She raised her chin haughtily like every proud member of the Shi family, taking an oath with her determination. Of course, Shi Qingxue wasnt a brainless person. She understood her mothers worry. Seeing that Dong Hui looked pale, she hurriedly reached out her hand to hold Dong Huis wrist and said with a sweet smile, Mother, dont worry. Although I am still reluctant, I have agreed with Father, so I will do it. I wont do anything arbitrarily. Last time, she disobeyed Dong Hui regardless of anything and ran away from home sneakily because she had no choice but to save her father and brother. Nevertheless, it was different this time. She wanted to capture Mo Junhao in person, yet when she couldnt do it, she wouldnt force herself. Mo Junhao didnt deserve her great effort. Hearing Shi Qingxues promise, Dong Hui finally showed a smile on her face, while she was still worried, so she demanded involuntarily, Since you agree with your father, why not move back and live at home? Didnt I Shi Qingxue opened her mouth and then understood what her mother meant when she met Dong Huis eyes with excitement. She was stunned and kept quiet. Although Dong Hui had never driven her away, Shi Qingxue stayed outside much longer than staying at home these days. She even tacitly approved that she would live outside in the future. However, Dong Hui told her to move back to the mansion. Shi Qingxue was joyful, but then she felt more depressed. She lowered her head and stayed silent for quite a while. Then she asked in a low and gloomy voice, Mother, dont you want to separate me from my brother-in-law? Dong Hui looked flurried and blurted out, How did you know it? She covered her mouth at once and stopped herself from saying something that she shouldnt say. However, what she had said was enough to prove everything. Sure enough. Shi Qingxue looked as if she understood. She had just guessed it in the past, yet now she confirmed it. Now it was Dong Huis turn to feel restless. She cautiously observed Shi Qingxues expression and then felt surprised as she saw that the girl didnt get angry obviously. She couldnt help but ask, Arent you angry? Shi Qingxue kept silent for a while and then shook her head. I am not angry. You just consider for my sisters marriage, right? In some sense, Dong Hui indeed chose to protect Shi Baonings marriage and give up Shi Qingxue. Even though she could be courageous with sufficient reasons earlier, when she faced Shi Qingxue, she couldnt help feeling guilty. I am sorry. I Dong Hui hesitated for a long time yet couldnt find proper words. She had done it, and it seemed unnecessary to explain away, but she would expose herself unwittingly while trying to cover up. No need to say sorry, Shi Qingxue answered indifferently. Dong Hui was guilty and anxious. She pulled Shi Qingxues arm and wanted to say more, yet Qingxue stopped her in advance and smiled. Mother, I mean it. You really dont need to say sorry. I understand you, but While speaking, Shi Qingxue stopped smiling and looked serious, adding solemnly, But I must tell you that I and Chi are just siblings, and there is no secret relationship between us. Please dont misunderstand us, Mother. She said so calmly and seriously, and it made Dong Hui think that she had dirty thoughts in the past. She felt ashamed yet meanwhile smiled with relief. Fine. I trust you. I have raised you, so I certainly trust your moral quality. Let it pass, and we will never mention it, okay? Move back home, will you? Dong Hui felt guilty in front of Shi Qingxue, so she wanted to compensate this daughter. Shi Qingxue still furrowed her arch eyebrows slightly. She looked at Dong Hui in silence for a while and then spoke haltingly. Mother, I wont leave Qingmin alone. If I move back, how will you treat him? Shi Qingxue believed Dong Huis love for her, while she didnt know what her mother would choose between her love for Qingxue and her disgust with Qingmin. Chapter 370 - Convince Madam Shi Dong Huis expression with expectancy halted and then stiffened gradually. In the end, she avoided Shi Qingxues expectant eyes guiltily. I Dong Hui opened her mouth and wanted to say something, but she shut it at last. Shi Qingxue smiled knowingly, while her eyes got cold. She stayed silent for a while and then suddenly asked, Mother, do you know that Qingmin has something wrong with his left leg besides the birthmark on his face after he was born? What? Dong Hui sprang from her chair and asked in a trembling voice. Shi Qingxue had kept it a secret all the time, and besides the maids and servants taking care of Shi Qingmin, only Mo Junyang and Shen Luo knew this matter. She had planned to hide it forever, but now she thought that Dong Hui was Shi Qingmins biological mother anyway and had the right to know the truth, even though this truth was not likeable. Dong Huis expression almost froze. She stared at Shi Qingxue and stubbornly wanted to find that the girl was joking from her face. However, she only saw seriousness. Dong Hui lowered her head with guilt and asked gloomily, Is QingQingmin well now? The baby who had been abandoned and regarded as a monster by her was born to her no matter how she denied it. She was not clear-headed but got bigoted in the past. She didnt stop until she drove away Shi Qingmin. However, later, she thought of it and regretted it, yet she didnt do anything. Firstly, she felt too embarrassed to take back her words. Secondly, the birthmark on the babys face was stuck in her throat like a fishbone and made her unable to swallow it, so she didnt want to let that baby come back. As time passed, she delayed it till now. Till Shi Qingxue talked about this matter with her again, Dong Hui still felt awkward. However, her emotions became sad and guilty after she knew that there was something wrong with Shi Qingmins leg. As his mother, she was not as dutiful as his sister, Shi Qingxue. Seeing that Dong Hui was hesitant and ashamed, Shi Qingxue turned away considerately and pretended that she didnt see it, but her voice became soft subconsciously. And he refuses to eat milk, so after three months, he is still weak and has a fever sometimes. Fortunately, the fever is not too serious, and it doesnt influence him too much. Doctor Shen said that Qingmin was affected by the poison most, so he is weak and constantly ill as soon as he was born, and we should be patient. We have to nourish and look after him slowly, and he may be better after he grows up. Dong Hui finally heaved a sigh of relief and then asked, How is his left leg She said evasively and didnt want to face the fact that Shi Qingmin would be a cripple in the future. Shi Qingxue had accepted it and looked relieved with hope when she talked about it. We can do nothing for now. Doctor Shen has said that he may cure Qingmin if his legs develop well after he grows up. Dong Hui frowned. How long will it take? Anyway, we have a hope. Shi Qingxue was optimistic. She thought that even if Shi Qingmin couldnt walk freely for a lifetime, she wouldnt ask for more as long as he could grow up healthy and learn to be a man. Dong Hui pondered for a moment and had to accept it. She just stated, Qingxue, even if you and His Excellency cant have a wedding now, after everything is settled, you will get married sooner or later Shi Qingxue was stunned and had a blush on her face. She hurriedly interrupted Dong Hui. Mother, we are talking business. Why do you mention it? Arent I talking business? Dong Hui asked in reply with a faint smile. She pretended as if she didnt see Shi Qingxues shyness and even stressed intentionally, Its business and something significant. Shi Qingxues face was so hot that pancakes could be fried on it. Even though she was outgoing and calm, every girl would be shy when she faced her marriage. If she wasnt shy, it would only prove that she wasnt optimistic about her marriage. Shi Qingxue wouldnt think of and expect her wedding all day long but showed that she didnt care about it when nobody talked about her marriage. However, when she talked about it, she felt that her heart was hot. She couldnt adapt to it, while it was not that she was uncomfortable. She had to turn away in embarrassment and change the subject. Mother, I am talking with you about my brother. Will you listen? Perhaps Shi Qingxue noticed that Dong Huis attitude toward Shi Qingmin softened, so she couldnt help but want to talk more about him with her. Now as her marriage to Mo Junyang was mentioned, Shi Qingxue had to face a problem. No matter how she looked after and spoilt Shi Qingmin, he was just her brother. Now she was unmarried, so it was fine if she lived in the Lanxun Villa with Shi Qingmin. After she married into King Ruis mansion, could she take him there? Or would she incite Mo Junyang to move out and live in the Lanxun Villa with her for long? No matter what she did, she would be criticized behind her back. And in this case, not only she but the Shi family and King Ruis family would lose face. So after Shi Qingxue found that Dong Hui got soft-hearted, she had to consider more for Shi Qingmin. Dong Hui kept silent for a while and then her smile faded. Go ahead. Shi Qingxue tried to find proper words and then expressed, Qingmin is just a baby who is three months old. He cant live if nobody looks after him. And he is weak, so he needs to be taken care of painstakingly before he gets better gradually She tried her best to express how miserable Shi Qingmin was, yet before she finished her words, Dong Hui waved her hand and stopped her. Then Dong Hui stated seriously, Qingxue, both of you move back in the future. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue stiffened. Although she had hoped that Dong Hui would agree, hearing that Dong Hui told them to stay here, she still felt touched and couldnt help but have tears in her eyes. She looked at Dong Hui and didnt know what to say. In the end, she just nodded with tears in her eyes. Dong Hui said that on impulse, yet after speaking, she felt more relieved. She had a smile on her serious face and reached out her arms again to hold Shi Qingxue. Silly girl, anyway, its your home here. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and answered in a muffled voice, I know. The mother and daughter hugged each other silently for a while. Qingxue suddenly thought of something and struggled to raise her head from Dong Huis arms. She stated seriously, Mother, I almost forget to tell you something. What? Dong Hui asked casually. I have given all the houses and shops rewarded by the late emperor to Qingmin the other day As soon as Shi Qingxue started, Dong Hui was surprised and suddenly raised her voice, asking, What did you say? Qingxue was so scared that she shrank and looked at Dong Hui at a loss. Dong Hui anxiously grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and almost asked in an exasperated tone, How can you do that? Although the late emperor rewarded you with those things, speaking of which, it was because he favored you and His Excellency. You gave all of them to Qingmin. How can you explain to His Excellency? Shi Qingxue was wondering what Dong Hui was worried about, so she heaved a sigh of relief then and smiled. Mother, I am afraid that you dont need to worry about this matter. I have talked about it with Junyang earlier, and he had no objection and even gave Qingmin the houses next to my manors, making the land around the Lanxun Villa belong to Qingmin alone, in order to give him solitude. I see, Dong Hui murmured and finally stopped worrying, yet soon she felt disappointed and sad. She couldnt help but think, Qingxue is so nice to Shi Qingmin and even gave so much property to him without hesitation. It could be seen that Shi Qingxue really loved this brother. If Dong Hui had only one son, Shi Qingmin, she would be overjoyed, but she had the other son Shi Tianyou, and she favored this son obviously. Now she saw that Shi Qingmin suddenly got a windfall while Shi Tianyou got nothing, so she thought that it was unfair. Dong Hui certainly knew that her thought was improper, yet she couldnt control herself, and even her expression changed. Shi Qingxue didnt notice it but continued in high spirits, Mother, in this case, you dont need to worry about Qingmins future life. What? Dong Hui didnt understand why the girl mentioned Shi Qingmins future. Qingxue took it for granted. I know that you want Tianyou to be Duke Shis heir. With Qingmins physical condition, its hard for him to undertake the responsibility, so the title of nobility is decided. What I gave Qingmin is less than the family property, yet we can prevent him from worrying about food and clothes. In this way, the two brothers will get their own property, and you and Father dont need to worry about their future. Shi Qingxue said generously and considerately, while Dong Hui felt more embarrassed by the girls tolerance. In fact, I am not Dong Hui subconsciously wanted to defend herself, yet when she was about to speak, she thought that it was wrong no matter what she said. She felt that her thought was dirty and embarrassing. She held back her words and forced a smile at Shi Qingxue. Just do as you said. Shi Qingxue heard that and knew that Dong Hui approved of what she had done. Something significant was settled, and she had a happier smile on her face. On the other side, Mo Junyu had taken the throne, and sending soldiers to crusade against Mo Junhao was put on the agenda. Mo Junyang didnt stay out of it like before but asked to be sent to lead an army and crusade against Mo Junhao at the northern border. The new emperor was shocked and almost thought that Mo Junyang was ill. He asked worriedly, Junyang, do you feel unwell? Although Mo Junyu was clear that he couldnt see through Mo Junyang, he knew much about him. Mo Junyang asked to be sent to the battlefield, which was abnormal and almost made Mo Junyu restless. Chapter 371 - The Bargain Chip to Threaten Mo Junyang Seeing that Mo Junyu made a fuss, Mo Junyang just shrugged and said casually, He ran away from my sphere of influence, so I should bring him back. The Imperial Kinship Bureau was always under Mo Junyangs control, and even if Mo Junyu wanted to meddle, he had to do it in Mo Junyangs name. In Mo Country, the Imperial Kinship Bureau managed the domestic affairs of the royal family, and if there was no power independent of the royal family, they couldnt discipline the royal family members, so Mo Junyu thought in secret that the Imperial Kinship Bureau was a dangerous force, while he had to keep it according to the ancestors tradition. Or he had to accept the Imperial Kinship Bureau. Fortunately, Mo Junyu trusted Mo Junyang and didnt worry that the Imperial Kinship Bureau would cause trouble. Hearing Mo Junyangs almost perfect reason, Mo Junyu frowned slightly and didnt believe him. However, he didnt retort Mo Junyang but stated, Junyang, I know that you do everything well from start to finish, yet I have selected somebody to go to the battlefield in the north, so I wont trouble you. Selected somebody? Mo Junyang frowned. He pondered for a while and then asked, The Shi family? Mo Junyu nodded. I have ordered somebody to send an imperial edict to Duke Shi, telling him to lead the Shi Army these days to crusade against the traitor Mo Junhao at the northern border. Junyang, you know the capabilities of the Shi Army. Duke Shi and the army wont disappoint us. If Mo Junyang admired some people on the battlefield, Shi Junhe deserved to be the first one. Mo Junyang believed that only depending on their capabilities, it was no problem if Shi Junhe led the Shi Army to take actions. However Mo Junyangs expression didnt change, and he still insisted, I am willing to go to the battlefield in the north. He said that he was willing to, yet Mo Junyu knew that he was determined to go to the northern border. Mo Junyu looked unhappy, and the gentle smile on his face faded. He tried to find proper words and then explained, Junyang, as we talk about this matter, I wont hide it from you. I dont want you to go to the northern border now because I plan to give you another important job, and nobody but you can do it. Mo Junyang paused for a moment and then asked, Whats the matter? Junyang, you must have heard that there is an epidemic in Jiangzhou in the south suddenly. In the beginning, the government controlled it well, yet recently the epidemic situation is out of control and has spread to the neighboring counties. Whats worse, some people spread rumors in the name of the epidemic situation that a disaster falls from the sky and God punishes the people. An evil doctrine misleads the public, but some brainless civilians believe those peoples evil intentions, so all people are jittery. At the mention of this case, Mo Junyu looked fidgety and depressed. He had just taken the throne, so a lot of people awaited opportunities to get him into trouble. It was fine if there were riots, and he could curb violence with violence at the worst. There were few people willing to follow the bandits to offend the officials when the country was peaceful, and they couldnt cause much trouble. However, the actions to overturn the country in the name of God were much more horrible. These actions would shake the public feeling. The feelings of the people were related to the stability of the country. And he couldnt change them by simply sending soldiers. Mo Junyu didnt dare to take a casual attitude. He even wanted to go to Jiangzhou in person to deal with it, so he would relax. Nevertheless, he was the emperor now and had just taken the throne, so he couldnt go anywhere as he wished as he did before. Moreover, the people who could control the public feeling in the name of God were not simple, and he didnt have the confidence to handle it perfectly. Speaking of which, he trusted Mo Junyang more than himself in this aspect and had to admit that this cousin was more capable than him. Mo Junyang listened to Mo Junyu silently and understood what he meant. However, he looked indifferent. From this guys face, Mo Junyu couldnt figure out what he was thinking about. Mo Junyu had to ask, Junyang, what do you think? Mo Junyang responded, Mo Country has experience in curing an epidemic. You can send two doctors from the Imperial Academy of Medicine randomly to Jiangzhou. Even if they cant wipe out the epidemic, they can control the spreading epidemic. After the epidemic is under control, the government will meddle. No matter what intention the evil people have, they cant put it into practice. Mo Junyangs analysis was well-rounded and casually solved all the problems Mo Junyu had pointed out. Mo Junyu seemed to feel the other mans merciless sarcasm. Did such a simple job deserve to tire so many people? You are right Mo Junyu was reluctant to be retorted and racked his brains, saying, This issue has caused such a negative effect. If we dont send some people from the capital, what will the common people there think about? I have just taken the throne, and the public feeling is not stable. I cant disappoint the common people in something insignificant like this. Do you think so? Since you want to placate the common people, you can send a high-ranking official at the imperial court, and the people will be convinced. Mo Junyang didnt listen to Mo Junyu but refused impassively again. Mo Junyu was speechless. He had found it. Mo Junyang didnt want to go to Jiangzhou but was determined to go to the northern border. However, Mo Junyu wouldnt let Mo Junyang go to the north. Mo Junyang was the person that he trusted most, and Mo Junyu believed that people should use the best material at the key point. Moreover, the northern border was so far away from the capital city. If Mo Junyang went to the battlefield, who knew when he could return with the army? Mo Junyu didnt want his most capable assistant to go so far away. Then if he had something difficult to handle, he would have nobody to help him. He wouldnt put himself in such an awkward position, yet Mo Junyangs attitude was obvious. This man couldnt be convinced easily. What should he do? The emperor felt that he was distressed. Both of them fell into silence, and the atmosphere seemed to become oppressive. After a while, Mo Junyu found a lame excuse with difficulty. I have sent an imperial edict and made Duke Shi a general to protect the country, telling him to lead the Shi Army to the battlefield in the north. In another word, the imperial edict had been sent. How could the emperor take back his words? So Mo Junyang should put up with it and obediently listen to the emperor. Mo Junyangs expression didnt change. I am willing to go to the north with Duke Shi. Mo Junyu was unable to speak. He felt that he would be irritated by Mo Junyang to death sooner or later. Cant you be obedient to me once? Mo Junyu asked in reply feebly. When the emperor acted like this, he was so good for nothing. Mo Junyu was not good-tempered. On the contrary, he was always superior, so he wasnt easy to get along with. Only it was Mo Junyang. If it were somebody else, Mo Junyu would torture him to death. However, because it was Mo Junyang, Mo Junyu couldnt do that logically. Of course, he might not be able to make it, so the awkward situation was caused. Unfortunately, Mo Junyang didnt understand the emperors hard effort. He was expressionless and didnt say anything unnecessary. The silent protest irritated Mo Junyu more. He couldnt help but ask with threat, Dont you want to go to Jiangzhou? Mo Junyang probably noticed the emperors displeasure, so he softened yet said, Your Majesty, if you are worried, I can tell Qu Yuebai to go to the south with the imperial envoy you appoint. It was impossible to make Mo Junyang go to Jiangzhou in person. Mo Junyang didnt say the last words, while Mo Junyu could certainly understand what he meant. Mo Junyus expression changed several times in an instant, and in the end, he looked indifferent, as if he were going to explode. He said in a cold voice, since you insist on refusing to go, I have to assign it to another excellent general. Mo Junyang said, Your Majesty, you are wise. Mo Junyus lips curved. I will send Wenren Chi. You have no objection, right? Mo Junyang kept silent. Obviously, he wasnt interested in whom Mo Junyu would send in the end. Mo Junyu waited a moment and saw that Mo Junyang really didnt say anything. Then he reminded reluctantly, I have heard that Infanta Baoning is pregnant now, and her fetus is unstable, so she is nourishing the fetus at home. Do you think that General Wenren will be in the mood to go to Jiangzhou? Your Majesty, you are the emperor and every order of yours is executed without fail. Who dares to disobey you? Mo Junyang flattered. However, it was better if he didnt say it. The emperor thought sadly, Why dont you listen to me? Mo Junyu thought that Mo Junyang didnt understand what he meant, so he continued, I have heard that General Wenren asked the Bureau of War for long leave lately as he wanted to stay at home to look after his wife. I saw that he was always diligent, so I allowed him, but now the country is in need, and he has to take on arduous tasks, unless somebody volunteers to replace him. Mo Junyang raised his head and glanced at Mo Junyu, with indifference and doubt in his eyes. He really didnt understand what Mo Junyu was thinking about. Did he think that Mo Junyang would volunteer to replace Wenren Chi? Mo Junyu smiled calmly. I know that you have no contact with General Wenren, but The emperor intentionally paused at the moment and then indicated in a meaningful tone, But others are different, for example, the young lady from the Shi family Later, Mo Junyu finally saw some emotions on that poker face. It was cold and serious, as if there would be a storm. Mo Junyang looked at Mo Junyu and narrowed his eyes, asking in a dangerous tone, Are you threatening me? He even didnt use the respectful form of address. Mo Junyang had fierce killing intent, and it could cut anybodys skin no matter where it swept. It sent a shiver down anybody elses spine even in hot summer. Mo Junyu would have apologized in the past. However, he was angry now and thought that he was the emperor. Even if he was wrong, others should comfort him and listen to him. How could the emperor apologize to an official? Mo Junyu gritted his teeth and controlled himself. He even raised his chin, as if declaring war on Mo Junyang. For a moment, neither of them spoke. They looked at each other and seemed to show rivalry. The air around was going to freeze seemingly. They didnt know how long they had been in a stalemate till the eunuch Xi ran over in haste. Before Xi spoke, he was scared by the weird atmosphere and his legs weakened. He trembled and knelt on the floor. YourMajesty Xi stuttered and couldnt speak out a word. Mo Junyu looked away but vented his anger on Xi. He rebuked coldly, If you cant speak a word clearly, you dont need to keep your tongue. Chapter 372 - A Conspiratorial Trip to Jiangzhou Xi was appointed to serve the emperor after Mo Junyu took the throne, and his job was mainly to send messages. The other eunuchs admired Xi as he got such a good job, but only he knew the sorrow. He was so scared that he almost wet himself. At the same time, he was frightened and didnt dare to stutter. He answered fluently, Your Majesty, Lady Qingxue asked to see you. Speak of the devil. Mo Junyu glanced at Mo Junyang meaningfully, in a better mood. Let her in. Shi Qingxue walked in with Xi. There was surprise flashing in her eyes obviously when she saw Mo Junyang, but soon she restrained it. She walked forward and greeted Mo Junyu with a bow, Your Majesty, I am honored to see you. Qingxue, dont stand on ceremony. Mo Junyu gently told her to get up. His smile was so bright that it made Shi Qingxue have a chill on her spine. She looked at Mo Junyang subconsciously, with doubt in her eyes. Mo Junyang just gently shook his head at her and didnt speak. However, at the moment, Shi Qingxue didnt have the ability to think alike. Shi Qingxue stared at Mo Junyang blankly and didnt know what to do. Mo Junyu seemed not to see their eye contact, asking in a kind tone, Qingxue, why did you come to see me today? Being asked, Shi Qingxue had to conceal her emotions and answer frankly, Your Majesty, you must have heard that my sister is pregnant. Yes, I have. Qingxue, did you enter the palace to send for an imperial doctor for Infanta Baoning? Mo Junyu expressed generously that as long as Shi Baoning needed, she could send for any imperial doctor in the palace if she wanted. Shi Qingxue shook her head. Your Majesty, thanks for your concern, but Doctor Shen takes care of my sister, so we dont need to trouble the imperial doctors for now. Oh? What else does Infanta Baoning want? Mo Junyu asked. Shi Qingxue answered, My brother-in-law Wenren Chi is favored by you and works in the City Guardian Army. Logically, he should work dutifully without resting every day, yet he is worried about my sister, so he told me to enter the imperial palace and ask for leave. Please permit him, Your Majesty. Although Wenren Chi was allowed to take a leave by his superior, something like this should be reported to the emperor. It happened that Shi Baoning had a cold this morning and was spiritless. She looked sick and feeble, so Wenren Chi was worried. Therefore, Shi Qingxue volunteered to enter the imperial palace. She thought that it was normal that an official asked for leave, and they just needed to say something, so she didnt take it seriously. Unexpectedly, after hearing her words, Mo Junyu looked surprised and hesitant, saying, Its troublesome. Shi Qingxue was confused and looked up at Mo Junyu, as she didnt know why it was troublesome. Mo Junyu stated gently, I have drafted an imperial edict and wanted General Wenren to go to Jiangzhou as an imperial envoy. There is an epidemic spreading there and many common people are sick or dead. The imperial court must send somebody at once to calm down the public. After Qingxue heard Mo Junyus words, the corners of her mouth twitched. The epidemic was more horrible than a war and could cause many peoples death. Now Mo Junyu said that the epidemic spread in Jiangzhou but soon planned to send Wenren Chi there. Did he want to scare people to death or what? What the hell was it? If Shi Qingxue had to make a choice between the two, she would rather go to the battlefield than be infected with the epidemic by accident and die with a grievance. Shi Qingxue certainly couldnt take the hard job on behalf of Weiren Chi, so she refused in a hurry. Mo Junyu looked hesitant and sighed. What should I do? The trip to Jiangzhou is imperative, and I have selected a person. If nobody can replace General Wenren, I cant select anybody else. Although he said that, he kept looking at Shi Qingxue. At the moment, Shi Qingxue could certainly understand Mo Junyus purpose. Logically, if she didnt see Mo Junyang here, she might agree to replace Wenren Chi and go to Jiangzhou as she was forced by the situation. However, Mo Junyang shook his head at her just now, and he must tell her not to agree with Mo Junyu. It made Shi Qingxue at a loss. On the one hand, she couldnt stand by and watch Wenren Chi being sent to Jiangzhou now. On the other hand, it was a trap in front of her obviously. If she jumped into it regardless of anything, she would be too stupid. When Shi Qingxue was indecisive, Mo Junyang who pretended to be a wall flower all the time expressed, Your Majesty, dont worry about it. I am willing to go to Jiangzhou. Mo Junyu finally showed a sincere smile. He thought, Mo Junyang, you finally admit defeat. Its so great. Junyang, you care about the common people in the infected area and volunteer to take the job, which makes me relieved. Mo Junyu said a lot of nice words in a bureaucratic tone. In the end, Mo Junyang just lowered his head and brows, as if saying, Just say it. I will listen and wont speak, which made Mo Junyu stop talking. Mo Junyu pouted and thought, This man is really difficult to get along with. I finally saw him show the white feather, but in only a short while, he shows his true color. Mo Junyu sighed helplessly and didnt ask for so much. He wasnt in the mood to chat anymore. Then he turned to Shi Qingxue. I want to send somebody else to assist Junyang and the two will go to Jiangzhou together. Qingxue, are you willing to take this important job? Hearing Mo Junyang offer to go to Jiangzhou, Shi Qingxue furrowed her arch eyebrows. Of course, she knew that the man helped her out of a predicament, while she was more restless. Now since Mo Junyu asked, she nodded in agreement before she had time to think. Yes, I am willing to. Okay. Its decided. Mo Junyu gave the final word. Afterward, he told the two to leave and didnt give Mo Junyang a chance to say more from beginning to end. Mo Junyang walked out of the study and pulled Shi Qingxue to stand under a tree, asking with a frown, Didnt I tell you not to agree? Why did you agree with him? Shi Qingxue also looked unhappy. Under the situation, can I disagree? She pondered for a moment and suddenly realized. Then she looked at Mo Junyang worriedly. His Majesty acted like that because he wanted to trap you? Mo Junyang nodded and hesitated for a while. Then he answered, Right. So even if you dont agree, he wont ask you to as he has achieved the goal. He was right, but Shi Qingxue thought that since she had agreed, she could go to Jiangzhou. Hearing Shi Qingxues indifferent words, Mo Junyang showed complicated emotions on his cold face. After a long time, he stated gently, I thought that you wanted to go to the northern border in person. Both of them knew what she would do there, so they didnt need to speak it out intentionally. Shi Qingxue was seen through and showed a shy smile. She lowered her head bashfully and stared at the ground, with her toe tip making circles on the ground gently. She asked in a low voice, You have guessed it? Mo Junyang nodded. Hmm. And as long as Mo Junhao isnt captured, this matter is not over, so I cant relax. Shi Qingxue raised her head and glanced at Mo Junyang, asking in reply softly, Do you think that I will be relieved if you go to Jiangzhou alone? Mo Junyang paused. He looked at Shi Qingxue, and his eyes suddenly lit up. Although he didnt have an expression on his face, the heat in his eyes seemed to burn Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue coughed in embarrassment and looked away. Then she asked, By the way, what are you worried about? Mo Junyangs eyes were horribly bright, and gentleness almost overflowed from them uncontrollably. He stared at Shi Qingxue for quite a while and then answered, Mo Junhao has colluded with Liang Country earlier. Last time, prince Yel Anchen caused much trouble, and it must have something to do with him. He has been accused of killing the late emperor, so he is doomed in the capital city. His only chance is to cooperate with Liang Country and come to the south with the army, using military force to gain imperial power. His soldiers may be easy to defeat, but the soldiers from Liang Country are difficult to cope with. We dont know how much Liang Country will help him, and everything is uncertain. Mo Junyangs voice was unhurried and he exposed the secret that Mo Junhao always tried to conceal and thought to be the cards in his hand. He didnt hide anything from Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue frowned after hearing that. She was certainly unwilling to see Mo Junhao turn the tables, but it was not the time to think about this. She had to say, Although Mo Junhao has colluded with Liang Country, the people from that country are not stupid. If they cant gain profit, they wont risk their lives for Mo Junhaos dream about being the emperor. My father has experience in battling with Liang Country, and the soldiers of that country have been defeated by the Shi Army repeatedly. His Majesty sent my father there, and the momentum can depress them, so I think that this battle wont be too difficult. Mo Junyang nodded. If nothing else, it would happen as Shi Qingxue said. Lets wait and see. Since Shi Qingxue wasnt persistent in going to the northern border, Mo Junyang wouldnt insist. He didnt agree earlier because he was worried that Shi Qingxue would go to the northern border sneakily, while he would be in somewhere else far away. He couldnt bear with it if Shi Qingxue was not protected by him but might even be harmed. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and then asked, His Majesty insisted on telling you to go to Jiangzhou. Is there anything wrong? She didnt believe that only the epidemic deserved Mo Junyus sending Mo Junyang so anxiously. I dont know now, but this epidemic may be strange, Mo Junyang answered cautiously. It was another reason that he didnt want to get involved easily. In the study, Mo Junyu obviously didnt finish his words, nor did he want to tell them. If they went to Jiangzhou when they knew nothing, wouldnt they fall into a trap? Shi Qingxue also thought of this problem and smiled bitterly. What should we do now? We dont need to set out in a hurry. When the news comes from the south, we will check if we can go, Mo Junyang said unhurriedly. This man kept calm and confident most of the time. Shi Qingxue was affected by the mans confidence to map out a strategy. She nodded with a smile. Okay. I will listen to you. Chapter 373 - The Last Conversation Before Leaving Shi Qingxue returned to Duke Shis mansion after getting out of the imperial palace. All people in the mansion were busy making preparations for Shi Junhes upcoming trip to the battlefield in the north. It was not Dong Huis first time to watch her husband go to the battlefield. She knew that she didnt have the right to say no, so she had to carefully prepare everything and make him have nothing to worry about. However, sadness could hardly be concealed on her face. As soon as she saw Shi Qingxue, tears were going to fall from her eyes, but she restrained herself toughly. She just smiled at Qingxue faintly. You have come back in time. Your father wanted you to go to his study after you came back. He has something to tell you. Shi Qingxue thought that she hadnt told Shi Junhe that she would go to Jiangzhou, so she nodded in a hurry and then went there. Shi Junhe was reading in the study. Qingxue had come to him, while he was still absorbed in the book and had no reaction. Qingxue had to reach out her fair-skinned hand and put it on the book. Father, I have come. Shi Junhe raised his head and smiled. Then he put down the book conveniently and rubbed his brows wearily. Where did you go today? I entered the imperial palace, Shi Qingxue answered and then her eyes fell on the cover of that book. It was a book about military tactics. Shi Junhe must be annoyed by the battle in the north. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and then asked, Father, is there anything that I can help you with? No, Shi Junhe replied gently. Qingxue didnt believe him but insisted, Dont take me as an outsider Shi Junhe patted Shi Qingxues head, able neither to cry nor to laugh. What are you thinking about? If there is something, would I refuse to tell you? Shi Qingxue thought that her father always trusted her and wouldnt hide anything from her if there was something wrong. So his words were trustworthy. Shi Junhe didnt give her time to make wild conjectures but asked, Why did you enter the imperial palace? Shi Qingxue didnt say that she had wanted to ask for leave for Wenren Chi and failed yet was trapped by the emperor. She just casually told her father that Mo Junyu planned to send her to relieve the people in the stricken area, Jiangzhou these days. She specially stressed that Mo Junyang would accompany her, so she would be safe. After hearing that, Shi Junhe still frowned deeply and asked in disbelief, You are a girl. How can such an important job as to relieve the people in the stricken area be given to you? She was naturally subsidiary, and Mo Junyang was the most important. Shi Qingxue complained in silence. However, she couldnt say something like that, so she hurriedly smiled at Shi Junhe flatteringly, saying with confidence, Of course, he thinks highly of me because I am silver-tongued, smart and capable. Shi Junhe was speechless. How did he have such a shameless daughter? Duke Shi had something on his mind. Although he guessed that Shi Qingxue didnt tell the truth, he thought that it must be no problem if they went to Jiangzhou to help the sufferers. She would just go to have a trip, and it was better than to risk her life at the northern border. It was fine that she didnt tell the truth. Shi Junhe let it pass easily and just looked as if lost in thought. After a long time, he suddenly asked, His Majesty told you to go there with His Excellency? Yes, so Father, you dont need to worry, Shi Qingxue answered and took it for granted. Nevertheless, when she reacted as usual, Shi Junhe frowned more deeply. He seemed to think of something and finally couldnt help but ask, Do you trust him so much? Shi Qingxue was stunned and had no reaction, as if she didnt understand what Shi Junhe meant. Since Shi Junhe had said that, he didnt hide it anymore but added frankly, Qingxue, I know Mo Junyangs feelings for you. He loves you. However, have you thought about one thing? What? Shi Qingxue asked in reply in a daze. She asked subconsciously, and even she didnt realize what she had said. Shi Junhe looked serious suddenly. After all, you and he are two people. He loves you now, willing to do everything for you, and he has the ability to fulfill your wishes. It is great. But when you are old and not beautiful anymore, the mans love will change. Qingxue, a womans beauty will fade someday. Then what will you do? Shi Junhes voice was prolonged and sad. He was really worried about his beloved daughter. Shi Junhe had seen how nice Mo Junyang was to Shi Qingxue and how much he indulged her these days. To be fair, the best love in the world was just like this. However, when it happened, the father was more worried. He was a man, so he understood the mens deep-rooted bad habits. When a man loved a woman, he could do everything for her and even give her stars or the moon, yet if he didnt love her anymore but forgot the past, he would be more heartless than anybody. Shi Junhe had raised this youngest daughter with all his love since her childhood. How could he bear to see that Shi Qingxue would be in such a pitiful position in the future? So the father was depressed. He would never object to the marriage of a couple who loved each other, while many loving couples became unhappy in the end. So he had to save against a rainy day for Shi Qingxue. However, after hearing Shi Junhes care and thought for her, Shi Qingxue laughed happily and covered her belly, almost with tears in her eyes. Father, you are worried all day long. Are you worried about something like this? She said playfully and casually. Shi Junhe stressed involuntarily, Qingxue, its not something insignificant. Its about your happiness for a lifetime. Be serious. As Shi Junhe glared at her, Shi Qingxue had to stop joking and restrain her smile, nodding at him. Yes. I am willing to listen to your instructions. Qingxue! Shi Junhe looked livid and spoke in an anxious tone. Shi Qingxue had to be serious, yet she still felt that it was laughable, with helplessness in her eyes. But Father, what do you want me to do? Now the marriage is decided. Do you want me tobreak off the engagement? As soon as she said the last words, Shi Qingxue seemed to think of something horrible and shook her head in a hurry. No, no, absolutely not. Shi Junhe said, Of course, I know that you cant break off the engagement. The late emperor granted the marriage, and even His Majesty has no right to break off the engagement. Qingxue pretended to pat her chest exaggeratedly and stuck out her tongue naughtily. Fortunately. Otherwise, Mo Junyang will surely go crazy. Shi Qingxue knew this point. Mo Junyangs gloomy and vicious breath faded a lot in this life. He became gentle and agreed with her no matter what she asked for, yet it was under the condition that she didnt cross his bottom line. It was better to say that the man was more skilled in pretending than to say that he became kind-hearted. He concealed all his emotions, and others couldnt see through him but felt panic-stricken in front of him. Shi Qingxue might dare to offend Mo Junyang depending on his love for her in something else, yet when it came to this matter She was timid and afraid of death. Moreover, she didnt plan to break up with Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue felt too shy to reveal her feelings to Shi Junhe for the last point, which made him more worried. Seeing that Shi Qingxue was so afraid of Mo Junyang, Shi Junhe was more anxious as he didnt know that she pretended. He rebuked angrily, Why do you fear him so much? Shi Qingxue looked confused. She didnt fear him. Since she didnt answer, Shi Junhe confirmed his guess. Then he continued worriedly, I know that this marriage is set in stone. I dont want you to break off the engagement. I just want you to consider more for your future. Consider what? Shi Qingxue looked more confused. Shi Junhe just thought that his daughter was inexperienced and didnt know that she would feel at ease only when she had actual power, so he taught her how to control power and other peoples feelings. In the end, he sighed helplessly. I know that you are not interested in scheming against each other, but you need to know one reason. With power, you may not gain everything, yet power is the backup if you want to do anything that you want to. I am not trying to ruin your relationship with His Excellency. Its great that a couple love each other, but you cant depend on him too much. You must know that a couple are two different individuals. You cant be dependent on him. If you want to be at the same level as him, you must have power in your hands. As for how to control power, I think that with your wisdom, you can learn it with no teacher and dont need me to say more. However, you should keep my advice in mind. Do you understand? Shi Junhes weighty advice made Shi Qingxue dumbfounded. She finally realized that her father taught her how to keep a foothold in King Ruis mansion in the future and keep independent to live a better life. She had understood these in the past, and in the previous life, she had even exhausted all her mental efforts and been immersed in it for many years. If anybody else, such as Dong Hui told her this reason, she could understand the speakers hard effort. Nevertheless, when it was Shi Junhe, Shi Qingxue felt that it was strange. She was hesitant and surprised, but at last, she felt touched. If Shi Junhe didnt consider for her sincerely, why would he repeatedly tell her something that he disdained most to study even though it was annoying? Shi Qingxue had tears in her eyes at once and grabbed Shi Junhes rough hand, answering in a sobbing voice, Father, stop. I know it. I promise to you that I will live a good life and wont be bullied. Dont worry about me. She didnt try her best to tell Shi Junhe that after the previous life, she knew that anybody might betray her, yet only Mo Junyang wouldnt. Even if she gave such an empty promise, Shi Junhe wouldnt believe it. Moreover, Shi Junhe never cared about what Mo Junyang would do. He was just worried about whether Shi Qingxue would live a good life. Shi Qingxue was more willing to tell him with the fact that she would live in comfort in the future. Hearing Shi Qingxues firm and solemn promise, Shi Junhe finally stopped worrying so much. He had a smile on his serious and dignified face. Great, great. I will rest assured when I leave. The father and daughter just took it as an ordinary conversation between them, yet when Shi Qingxue thought of this talk in the future, she could do nothing but shed tears and keep silent. Chapter 374 - The Brainless Beauty” Mo Junyang had managed his force for many years, and it couldnt be underestimated. He didnt want to fight for the throne. Otherwise, it was uncertain who would rule the country in the end. If he wanted to investigate what happened in Jiangzhou, which was kept secret by Mo Junyu all the time, it was merely a matter of time. He got some information after ten days. It turned out that the epidemic in Jiangzhou was more than the epidemic. After a storm in the lunar sixth month, there was a flood in Jiangzhou, and almost more than half of the city was drowned, yet the government embezzled all the disaster relief grain sent by the imperial court because the new emperor didnt have time to consider the remote areas when he took the throne. They didnt help the sufferers settle down but drove the victims away from their jurisdiction. Even the messenger who reported it didnt know where the spreading epidemic started and how it spread. He just said that the environment there was complicated and perhaps even the local people couldnt explain clearly what had happened. After hearing that, Shi Qingxue looked serious. His Majesty sent us to Jiangzhou probably not just to control the epidemic. Mo Junyang nodded and didnt speak. Obviously, they agreed on this point. They remained silent. The information from Jiangzhou didnt make them realize anything but confused them more. The officials in Jiangzhou embezzled the disaster relief materials, so they must have a guilty conscience and wouldnt have a good opinion of an imperial envoy sent from the central government. They would comply in appearance yet oppose in heart and be offhand with the imperial envoy at least. Moreover, they would try every means to stop him and might even kill him. Shi Qingxue almost didnt dare to think. Qu Yuebai didnt look well. He offered, How about I lead some people to Jiangzhou and check if it is true? You can come after we find the truth, so you wont be trapped as you know nothing. Mo Junyang pondered for a while and then shook his head. No. I have delayed it for ten days. His Majesty wont allow us to delay longer. No matter how capable Qu Yuebai was, it would take ten days to go to Jiangzhou and come back. After he found the truth, more than half a month would pass. Qu Yuebai understood this point and satirized in a rage involuntarily, Gee, His Majesty is really kind. He said that he trusted you, but when he sent you to court death, he didnt hesitate. He just slandered the emperor. If some people with evil intentions heard that, he would be beheaded. However, Mo Junyang knew that the Love Xue House was like a bastion of iron under his instructions, and he didnt worry that the secret would be exposed. He just glanced at Qu Yuebai casually and didnt criticize him. He stated, Anyway, you make arrangements. I will set out with Qingxue the day after tomorrow. I will go there, too. Qu Yuebai couldnt bear to put Mo Junyang in danger alone, so he insisted on following them. Mo Junyang refused without thinking. You stay in the mansion. Its fine as Zichao and Ziye go with me. Seeing that Mo Junyang had made a decision, Qu Yuebai knew that he wouldnt have a chance to change it, while he was still worried. He turned to Shi Qingxue and advised in a gentle voice, My Lady, you have heard about the situation in Jiangzhou now. If you go there, you will fumble like blind people. Its better to bring us. I am quite capable, and there is strength in numbers His words were like to save the country in an indirect way. He wanted to borrow Shi Qingxues influence on Mo Junyang, and more severely, he would make use of her to threaten Mo Junyang. It was almost the same as what Mo Junyu did in the imperial study. Qu Yuebais wisdom was only to say that frankly in front of Mo Junyang. Even if he had a conspiracy, he wouldnt make Mo Junyang hate him, yet the master would feel his helplessness and loyalty. However, Shi Qingxue was more helpless than him. She had a favorable impression of Qu Yuebai. He rarely asked her for help, so she was unwilling to refuse him. However Even though Mo Junyangs words were not precious words, they carried a lot of weight. He had just said that he told Qu Yuebai not to go there with them, but as soon as Qingxue begged him, he would change his mind. He would make frequent changes in policies. How would King Ruis heir save his face? Shi Qingxue glanced at Qu Yuebai pitifully and got hard-hearted, refusing his request. She cared more about Mo Junyangs dignity than that. Moreover, the trip to Jiangzhou might be very dangerous, while it was unreasonable if he stopped or was overcautious and indecisive in the face of danger. Seeing that Qu Yuebai looked unhappy, Shi Qingxue comforted him, Mr. Qu, dont you know how capable Junyang is? He is smarter than any of us. He knows that its dangerous in Jiangzhou, so he will be more careful. Dont you trust his abilities? Moreover, you are the one that Junyang trusts most. He told you to stay in the capital must because he will give you important jobs, and they cant be finished without you. Why do you care about where you will fulfill your duties? What she said flattered Qu Yuebai. She explained the fact that Mo Junyang wouldnt risk his life rashly and the reason why the master made this arrangement. She expressed with emotion and sufficient reasons. Even though Qu Yuebai was stubborn, he was convinced. Moreover, he was reasonable. Just now, he didnt react in time but just thought that if he followed Mo Junyang, the master wouldnt be in danger. However, on second thought, he believed that it was laughable. Qu Yuebai was a civil official with a ready tongue, yet he didnt have martial skills. He might be inferior to Mo Junyang in military strategies. If he followed them, would Mo Junyang have to protect him at a critical moment? He felt guilty and meanwhile couldnt help but glance at Shi Qingxue several times. Qu Yuebai was familiar with Shi Qingxue. In the past, when his master wanted to spy on her like addiction, Qu Yuebai chose the people to record her words and actions. Earlier, his impression of Shi Qingxue had changed. In his opinion, she was a brainless beauty and then a lovely beauty. Later, he thought that she was a beauty who liked to cause trouble yet was lovely. Afterward, in his eyes, she was the only beauty that his master wanted The reason for the change was not complicated. Seeing that his master exhausted all his mental efforts and got himself into trouble because of a girl, Qu Yuebai naturally had a problem with it, but he thought that Mo Junyang was above everything. Even though he wanted to make comments, he could do nothing because Mo Junyang liked her. In the final analysis, from beginning to end, he just took Shi Qingxue as Mo Junyangs possession, merely a woman. It couldnt be more proper to describe her as a brainless beauty. As for any other word, it was up to Mo Junyangs attitude. However, he finally started to take Shi Qingxue seriously now. This woman was thoughtful and silver-tongued. She must have noticed his intention to make use of her, while she didnt get angry but comforted him gently, avoiding the fact that could embarrass him. And she explained the reason, which enlightened him. Anyway, Qu Yuebai knew that he couldnt be so capable, not to mention Shi Qingxues consideration for them. While thinking, Qu Yuebai looked at Shi Qingxue with his eyes getting warm. However, before he spoke, Mo Junyang instantly stood between them and blocked Qu Yuebais eyes with his tall and big body. You can go now! The loyal Qu Yuebai was speechless. Gee! He just wanted to express his admiration and didnt covet Shi Qingxue. Did Mo Junyang need to be so alert? If he was really worried, why didnt he find a cage and put Shi Qingxue in? Then others couldnt see her. Qu Yuebai thought resentfully yet didnt dare to speak it out directly. He was afraid that if he said that, Mo Junyang who always thought out of the box would want to be in a relationship with a woman in the cage Qu Yuebai had goosebumps because of his imagination and didnt want to talk with Mo Junyang who was so jealous. Then he turned to leave. Shi Qingxue didnt notice the two mens interaction. She thought that Qu Yuebai was irritated by her words and left, so she felt awkward at a loss. She asked Mo Junyang restlessly, Did I say anything wrong? Mo Junyang looked back, with gentleness in his eyes and brows. Of course not. Shi Qingxue gazed at him in doubt. He is smarter than any of us Mo Junyang suddenly repeated Shi Qingxues words that she said to convince Qu Yuebai, which made her blush with shyness. Shi Qingxue just wanted to relax Qu Yuebai, so she said that automatically, but hearing Mo Junyangs words, she realized that what she saidwas like to express her love for him. However, Mo Junyang seemed not to see her shyness and sighed with emotion. I dont know that you think so highly of me She lowered her head like an ostrich and expressed haltingly, You are smarter than any of us indeed. She had said that from the bottom of her heart, yet she was ridiculed by the man. If she had known it earlier, she wouldnt have said that. Shi Qingxue was resentful and turned around, ignoring Mo Junyang. However, Mo Junyang was overjoyed after knowing that the woman he loved thought so highly of him. How would he allow her to run away? He hugged Shi Qingxue from behind without demur. Their breaths were so close that they didnt say anything. Mo Junyang tightly held his beloved and stated in a hoarse voice, Qingxue, Qingxue, I justfeel so happy. Shi Qingxues face was burning hot, and her ears were red with the heat. She wanted to rub them, yet she thought that she would expose herself unwittingly while trying to cover up. She pondered for a while and then thought, Anyway, our hearts are interlinked. If I try to conceal it, what will it be like? So she restrained her shyness and expressed softly, Its great that you are happy. With that, she felt awkward and retreated from Mo Junyangs hug shily after a short while. Qingxue tried to look serious and asked, We are going to Jiangzhou soon. Lets discuss this trip. Dont delay the work. Mo Junyang could certainly find that Shi Qingxue wanted to change the subject, yet he always spoilt his fiancee. He didnt expose her but answered in a natural way, Okay, lets discuss the trip. What do you want to do? Shi Qingxues eyes lit up, like bright stars. She stated in a clear and pleasant voice, After we go to Jiangzhou, we will either not do it or do a good job. Mo Junyang gazed at Shi Qingxues expressive face and responded in a good mood, Okay. Chapter 375 - Kick Down the Ladder? Shi Qingxue would go to Jiangzhou with Mo Junyang, yet she couldnt go away whenever she liked. There was a big problem in the mansion. Before she solved it, she really couldnt go out. The problem was nothing but Shi Qingmin. Her beloved brother. Although Shi Qingmin didnt need her to feed him, he was still dependent on her. Especially when he was sick or injured, he wouldnt be calm if she didnt take care of him. After Shi Qingxue left this time, probably she wouldnt come back until one or two months later. She didnt know if Shi Qingmin could accept it. My Lady, just go there. I and the servants will take care of the first young master, and he will be fine. Dong Shuang patted her chest with confidence. Shi Qingxue smiled bitterly and thought, As you said that, I wont relax. Forget it. Shi Qingxue sighed slightly, pretending that she didnt see Dong Shuang pout. Then she told Xia Mang, Xia Mang, Qingmin will be left to you. You should take good care of him and cant let him have anything wrong. Do you understand? Xia Mang always followed Shi Qingxues orders, yet now she couldnt help but frown, stuttering, I want more to go to Jiangzhou with you. Jiangzhou is a small remote city. If I cant be around you, I will be worried about you. Dong Shuang stated in a hurry, I will go to Jiangzhou with you, My Lady. Seeing that her maids were decisive, Shi Qingxue was amused. She knew that both of them were loyal to her, and if she tried to stop them, she would fail. So she put on a long face and rebuked, Are you the mistress? Dont you listen to me? I dare not. I dare not. Xia Mang and Dong Shuang answered in unison and obediently lowered their heads to admit their fault. Shi Qingxue softened and told Xia Mang the truth. You know that I will be worried about Qingmin most after I go to Jiangzhou. Even though Mother wont resent him anymore, I am still worried if I let the servants in the mansion take care of him. You are prudent, and I trust you only. So please take good care of Qingmin, okay? Since Shi Qingxue said that, Xia Mang had to agree obediently even though she had a problem with it. I will listen to you. Dong Shuang asked in a hurry, How about me? I will go with you, okay? When Qingxue looked at her, Dong Shuang added, I am not mature or prudent but make trouble naughtily all the time, so I am not the right choice to take care of a baby at home. Let me follow you and take care of you, okay? Shi Qingxue was amused by Dong Shuangs hard self-deprecation and couldnt help snorting. You know that you are naughty and make trouble? Dong Shuang stuck out her tongue awkwardly and laughed. I am a bit self-indulgent because you protect me, right? I think that you are more than a bit self-indulgent. You are just reckless, Xia Mang poked Dong Shuangs forehead with her slender finger and cursed crossly. You just do whatever you want because Lady Qingxue spoils you. You dont even take the masters seriously. Dong Shuang was resentful to hear that, yet she still wanted Shi Qingxue to take her, so she didnt argue but stared at the young lady pitifully. Shi Qingxue was helpless under Dong Shuangs stare and waved her hand, gesturing for Xia Mang to stop rebuking. She expressed with a smile, Well, we need a woman on the trip. You follow me, yet I have something to tell you in advance. Dong Shuang noticed that the young lady would warn her of the consequences, so she stopped joking in a hurry and stated respectfully, My Lady, please go ahead. Firstly, when we are outside, its different from our mansion. You should be well-behaved and cant act willfully. Shi Qingxue knew that Dong Shuang was just naughty but wouldnt play the bully, while she had to say something in advance. Dong Shuang agreed and vowed solemnly that she wouldnt get the young lady into trouble. Qingxue added, Secondly, His Excellency is the leader on this trip, and he is the decision-maker. If he gives orders, you should follow them and take him as the master. Do you understand? Dong Shuang looked hesitant and stared at Qingxue in perplexity. But I amyour maid. I will listen to you. Isnt it enough? The little maid looked careless, while she was clear about everything. From beginning to end, she thought that Shi Qingxue was different from Mo Junyang, and their engagement merely gave Mo Junyang the identity as the young ladys future husband, but she couldnt be as loyal to Mo Junyang as to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue knew this point, so she made a few rules earlier, while this maid was stubborn and even unwilling to cheat her or make her happy. Qingxue could do nothing to Dong Shuang, yet it was significant, and she wouldnt indulge the maid. She ordered forcefully, Anyway, its decided. If you cant follow His Excellencys orders or stop when he forbids you, youd better not go there. Dong Shuang looked at Shi Qingxue with expectancy and hoped that the young lady would take back her words, but Qingxue got hard-hearted and ignored her. The maid could do nothing. She thought, His Excellency loves the young lady so much now. Even if he will love somebody else, he wont do it in a short period. Then I will listen to His Excellency for now, and it wont harm the young lady, right? Dong Shuang weighed secretly and then nodded in agreement. I promise that I will listen to His Excellency all the way, following his orders and stopping when he forbids me. Seeing that Shi Qingxue finally showed a smile, Dong Shuang also got happy and opened her eyes wide, looking at her. Why dont you continue? What? Shi Qingxue was more confused than her. Dong Shuang asked in confusion, Didnt you say that you would make a few rules? You have just mentioned two points. What is the third one? Shi Qingxue was speechless. She could do nothing to the inflexible Dong Shuang. She reached out her hand and knocked at the maids head, snorting. By the way, Zichao will go with us. So whats the third one? You try to figure it out. Afterward, Qingxue ignored the maid and got up, going to see Shi Qingmin. Qu Yuebai didnt insist on following Mo Junyang to Jiangzhou anymore, while he was still worried about their trip. He couldnt help but remind, Junyang, you have performed meritorious service to help the new emperor take the throne anyway. Even if he wants to abandon somebody who has done everything for him, he shouldnt treat you like this. What does he mean as he sends you to Jiangzhou? Qu Yuebai was resentful as Mo Junyu threw away anything that he had used, so he started to criticize the emperor without concealment. Mo Junyang stood with his hands behind his back and watched the scenery out of the window. After Qu Yuebai finished complaining, Mo Junyang turned to glance at him and stated indifferently, Enough. You can be so reckless only in the Love Xue House. Do you think that he is good-tempered? If he knows that you speak ill of him behind his back, wont he be angry? Both of them knew who he was. Qu Yuebai didnt retort after hearing that. He just looked resentful in his eyes and couldnt forget this thing. Mo Junyang sighed and then added, This matter is not so simple, and His Majesty is not so snobbish as you said. Dont need to worry much. If he doesnt intend to harm you, why did he send you to Jiangzhou? Generally, even if he transfers you to other cities, he should send you to a rich place where you can gain profit to express that he rewards you, right? Qu Yuebai couldnt figure it out. Mo Junyang showed a cold smile and snorted. Because he has no choice. What do you mean? Qu Yuebai couldnt understand it for now. You have also said that the trip to Jiangzhou will be much more difficult than we can imagine. Dont you think that His Majesty knows it? If he is not driven into a corner, I think that he wont show the weak point to me. Mo Junyang spoke meaningfully, yet Qu Yuebai was more confused, so he looked at the master blankly. You dont know well about His Majesty. We have been friends for so many years, and he relies on and trusts me indeed, but he may be alert to me. Perhaps he can understand that everything of his was given by me, and even his life was saved by me. In this matter, he will owe me a favor and be inferior to me forever, yet he is arrogant and unwilling to admit this fact. Even though he cant change it, he will try his best to hide it. These days, he seldom discusses government affairs with me, which is the best proof. He doesnt want to show the white feather to me or make others think that he cant make it without me. Mo Junyang said every word slowly and analyzed Mo Junyus mild and indirect thoughts clearly. Mo Junyu thought that nobody knew his thoughts, while he didnt know that Mo Junyang had seen through him long ago. However, Mo Junyang never mentioned it but pretended that he didnt know. Qu Yuebai looked as if he was suddenly enlightened. I see. I was wondering why he doesnt like to discuss government affairs with you these days and thought that he kicked down the ladder, yet I didnt expect that he would have such indirect thoughts. He sighed with emotion but got confused again in the end. Why did he give the job in Jiangzhou to you this time? Didnt I say it? He has no choice. Mo Junyang showed a distant smile. There was sarcasm in his cold expression. He cant solve the problem in Jiangzhou with his abilities, so he has to ask me to do it. Qu Yuebai was unable to speak a word. Why did he think that Mo Junyu was more shameless to do this than to throw away anything that he had used? When he didnt need to use Mo Junyang, he abandoned him, but when Mo Junyang could be made use of, the emperor combined threats with inducements Qu Yuebai had a worse impression of Mo Junyu and asked Mo Junyang in depression, Why did you help him? In Qu Yuebais opinion, Mo Junyang should report sick and refuse to go. Mo Junyang shook his head and told the truth. Its not the right time to turn against him. Moreover Mo Junyangs eyes lit up. I want to go there. Qu Yuebai had nothing to say but ask, What can I do? Mo Junyang lowered his head and pondered for a moment. Then he said, Mo Junhao has fled to the northern border, and his followers in the capital have followed him to the north or surrendered. Logically, they must have scattered, yet the city is so big, and perhaps some people still stay in the capital. I want you to find out all the spies in the capital. Yes, I will. Chapter 376 - Special Feelings Two days later, Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue went out of the south gate of the city in the carriage with Wei Zichao and his brother as well as Dong Shuang and several guards, heading to Jiangzhou in the south. Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue were certainly sitting in the carriage. Because they went on a simple trip, the carriage was not luxurious but merely comfortable. However, the two people in the carriage had suffered a lot, so they wouldnt dislike it but were satisfied with such an arrangement. Shi Qingxue bent over the window of the carriage and looked at the bright sun in summer outside, saying with a smile, Junyang, we go out in this way. Is it like to travel? When she went on a long journey last time, she went to Qingluo Mountain alone to save her father and brother one year ago. Although the way ahead was unknown, compared with her anxiety when she went to Qingluo Mountain, she was relaxed and free this time. Mo Junyang seemed to be affected by her ease and rarely showed a smile on his cold face. The man intentionally moved closer to Shi Qingxue and sat next to her, as if he tried to grab the window, with his handsome face approaching her. They were so close and almost clung to each other. In summer, the air around was like rising steam. Even though the temperature in the carriage was not as high as that outside, it was hot. Shi Qingxue felt that a big fire ball got close to her seemingly, which could make her have sweat on her forehead. She got unhappy and reached out her hand to push Mo Junyangs chest away, complaining with a pout, Why do you sit next to me? Go away, now. Dont you feel hot? Mo Junyang seemed not to feel hot. He refused to back off yet held Shi Qingxues waist, getting closer to her. They were so intimate, and their foreheads clung to each other. The hot breath was on Shi Qingxues cheeks. No, I dont feel hot when I sit with you. Shi Qingxue paused for a moment and then stated, at a loss whether to cry or to laugh, I am not an ice cake. Although she said that, she didnt forcefully push Mo Junyang away anymore. They leaned against each other and didnt think that they were too close. Shi Qingxue seemed to think of something and reached out her hand to push Mo Junyangs face out, telling him to look out. Its your fault. You make me almost forget what I am going to say. Look! If not, you will miss it. Shi Qingxue pushed Mo Junyangs face out of the window and looked out happily. She pointed her finger to the bright and beautiful hibiscus flowers in rows outside, saying with a smile, When I came out last time, I passed here and happened to find the hibiscus plants here, but there was no flower then, and only the green leaves were left, so it was not so beautiful. Now its time to see the hibiscus flowers. We can watch them together. When they stayed together and watched scenery last time, they were on Tan Mountain in the second lunar month, yet the snow at that time couldnt compare with this scenery. Shi Qingxue was born in summer and had special feelings for the hibiscus flowers in summer. However, her Luotong Boudoir was not suitable to plant hibiscus, while there was a withered hibiscus in the courtyard of the Cold Palace. When Shi Qingxue entered the Cold Palace, she was reduced to being imprisoned from the empress, and it was a small matter to suffer physically. The mental pain almost tortured her crazy. She could hardly sustain herself for several times, but seeing that there were beautiful flowers in the withered hibiscus, she gritted her teeth and endured it in the end. Although the ending of the previous life was not good, the hibiscus flowers in summer were kept in her mind all the time. So when she knew that they would go out of the city today, Shi Qingxue always remembered that she would bring Mo Junyang to have a look, while she almost forgot as he pestered her. Mo Junyang heard Shi Qingxues whisper, and his heart got soft. He couldnt help but move closer to her, saying in a low voice, If you like, after we go back, I will move the hibiscus in the Cold Palace to the Love Xue House, and you can see it every day in the future. Shi Qingxue poked Mo Junyangs nose tip with a smile and sighed with emotion. It happened in the previous life. Even if I remember it, it was the hibiscus which shared my joys and sorrows in the previous life, not this one. Moreover, I have forgotten it and dont want to be tainted with anything in the Cold Palace. At the mention of this, Shi Qingxue asked the question that she wanted to ask Mo Junyang since long ago. Why do you make your residence the same as the Cold Palace? Fortunately, the people who could enter the Love Xue House had never seen what the Cold Palace was like. Otherwise, it might cause trouble. Mo Junyang lowered his eyes and replied casually after a long time, Nothing. What is nothing? In fact, Shi Qingxue had guessed Mo Junyangs thoughts, but she still hoped that he could speak it out. Otherwise, he would feel unwell if he kept it to himself. I Mo Junyang opened his mouth for a long time and made a confession in the end, as if to give in. Its nothing, really. I just want to know how you feel after you live in the Cold Palace for so long. Thats all, and there is nothing else. Dont worry too much. Shi Qingxue was speechless and looked at Mo Junyang in a daze. You Shi Qingxue licked her thin and red lips several times and tried to find proper words. She wanted to ask Mo Junyang what he wanted to know as she only suffered hardships then. She wanted to say that this life would be different and that it was pointless to know it. Such words were in her heart, and she planned several times to speak out. If she said that, every word would be reasonable and could make him speechless. However, when Shi Qingxue had to say it, she found that her mouth was dry, and she couldnt speak a word. Would Mo Junyang not know the reasons? He must be clear about these. He knew that it was pointless, yet he did that. Shi Qingxue thought that he must know what it meant. He just followed his heart to do that. For a moment, the atmosphere in the carriage was oppressive. Hey. Why do I talk about this? Shi Qingxue finally realized that she seemed to stray from the point, so she hurriedly pulled Mo Junyang to continue to enjoy the flowers outside. This time, she didnt dodge but quietly leaned against Mo Junyangs arms. Her red face clung to his burning hot cheeks. Then she suggested softly, Lets rearrange the Love Xue House after we go back and change it to what we like, okay? Changing it meant that everything would restart. Noticing Shi Qingxues hidden meaning, Mo Junyang felt happy and would surely be willing to. He nodded repeatedly and responded in a warm voice, Okay, you can change it to whatever you want. Shi Qingxue corrected him. It will be our residence in the future and should be what you like. I like whatever you like, Mo Junyang answered, taking it for granted. He didnt intentionally say honeyed words. Mo Junyang was always silent. Not to mention saying honeyed words to flatter others, Shi Qingxue needed to lure him little by little even if she wanted him to tell something frankly. So this was the truth that he told Shi Qingxue when he relaxed. However, the truth he told casually was rare and commendable. Shi Qingxues face started to blush involuntarily, and her heart was burning hot. She moved closer into Mo Junyangs arms and insisted, It must be what both of us like. After speaking, she couldnt help but think, Its difficult for me to lure Mo Junyang to tell the truth, and its not easy to sound out what he likes. I have to find it slowly. Anyway, no hurry. While thinking, Shi Qingxue didnt bother about this matter anymore but expressed at ease, Fine, leave it to me. Relax. Mo Junyang didnt understand what Qingxue meant by saying relax, yet he was always willing to indulge her in something unimportant like this, so he certainly agreed. They hugged each other and enjoyed the scenery outside the window. The hibiscus flowers couldnt be seen, and they entered a dark forest. Wei Zichao on horseback blocked outside the window of the carriage. Master, we may be followed. The two in the carriage sat up straight at once and looked at each other. Mo Junyang asked, Who? Wei Zichao shook his head. They are too far away from us. I cant see them clearly. How did you find that we are followed? Shi Qingxue had this question flashing in her brain, yet she didnt ask such a stupid question. She just looked at Mo Junyang. Shall we stop to see whether they are friends or enemies? Why should we ask if they are friends or enemies? Wei Zichao looked at Shi Qingxue in confusion. Shi Qingxue asked in reply, Since you dont know who they are, you must not know if they are friends or enemies, right? Wei Zichao paused and thought that it was true. However, shouldnt the normal people be nervous and then try to get rid of the pursuers if they found that they were traced? Was Shi Qingxue too carefree? However, as Shi Qingxue said that, Wei Zichao got relieved a lot even though he was nervous in the beginning. He just stated, Its not difficult to sound out if they are friends or enemies, yet I am afraid that we will be in danger. Hmm, then dont try to sound out. Mo Junyang nodded and agreed with Wei Zichao. Mo Junyang agreed without hesitation, but Wei Zichao was worried and wondered when his master became so amiable. Wei Zichao hesitated for a moment and then asked persistently, Master, how will you handle it? Mo Junyang shrugged and said casually, I wont handle it. Since they like to follow us, just let them follow. But in this case, wont your whereabouts be revealed? Wei Zichao was more confused. In the beginning, they chose to go out secretly on a simple trip in order not to reveal their whereabouts but to achieve success with original ideas. However, now it was obvious that some people wanted to nose for their whereabouts. If they didnt stop the pursuers in time, how would they achieve success? Wei Zichao was depressed, while Shi Qingxue seemed to understand something from Mo Junyangs words. Her eyes lit up, and she fluttered her long eyelashes, smiling slyly. I see. You want to send a message to them, right? Mo Junyang also smiled and rubbed Qingxues head in a great mood while nodding. Hmm, we will hide our whereabouts anyway, so its better to do it thoroughly. Wei Zichao looked at Mo Junyang and then at Shi Qingxue in confusion, asking anxiously, What are you talking about? Why do you let them trace us? It can hide our whereabouts? Was there such a good deal in the world? Wei Zichao didnt believe it. Chapter 377 - Being Traced and Trace Shi Qingxue blinked naughtily and smiled at leisure. He lets them follow you, not us. What you or us? Isnt it the same? Wei Zichao was more confused after hearing Shi Qingxues words, but she dug out two prepared packages in the carriage and then threw one of them to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang caught the package, and the two started to pick something in their own packages by tacit agreement. Later, the two looked up almost at the same time. Seeing that Wei Zichao stared blankly, Shi Qingxue asked in surprise, Why are you still here? Wei Zichao was puzzled. Why am I here? No, no, My Lady, Master, what do you plan to do? He didnt understand their actions. Shi Qingxue finally remembered that they hadnt told Wei Zichao about his task. Hmm, go and bring two horses. Wei Zichao didnt understand. He wanted to ask more, but Mo Junyang glared at him coldly. He had to do it obediently. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and then turned to Mo Junyang. Should I be dressed as a man for conveniences sake? Mo Junyang didnt care. Its fine. We will take another road then, and its the same no matter what you wear. Right. Qingxue nodded in agreement and stopped hesitating. When Wei Zichao brought two horses, Dong Shuang came with him and opened her big confused eyes wide. They didnt know what their masters planned to do. Dong Shuang thought that she was favored by Shi Qingxue. Under Wei Zichaos meaningful glance, she asked boldly at once, My Lady, why did you ask for horses? Shi Qingxue didnt keep her in suspense but told them in detail, Later, Dong Shuang, put on my clothes and wear a veil to disguise as me, and Zichao will find somebody to dress up as Junyang. You will sit in our carriage. The pursuers just know the carriage yet cant recognize the people. As long as you dont show your faces to them, it wont be exposed. But how about you and Master? Wei Zichao asked in an instant. Shi Qingxues plan seemed to be able to fool the pursuers, while she didnt mention herself and Mo Junyang, so Wei Zichao was restless. Shi Qingxue smiled and patted Wei Zichaos shoulder. Dont worry. After we reach the fork road ahead, I and Junyang will leave on the other road on horseback, while you will move on in the carriage. In this way, even if the pursuers rack their brains, they cant guess that I and Junyang are nowhere to be seen. We will take a shortcut and go to Jiangzhou first. Then we can check the actual situation better. After hearing that, Wei Zichao got anxious immediately. How can you do that? You take actions alone, and how can you ensure your safety? No, no. Absolutely not. Were they joking? He knew that there were enemies tracing them, but he let Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue go away alone. If there were accidents, he couldnt remedy it even after he committed suicide. Dont worry. As long as we fool the pursuers ears and eyes, nobody can find me and Junyang. How would we have an accident? Shi Qingxue comforted him patiently and told him about the advantages to do that. Mo Junyang had chosen to visit Jiangzhou in secret, and in this way, he could ensure that they would enter Jiangzhou without being found by the government. Wei Zichao was convinced yet still worried, so he suggested, If you insist, bring me. Although I am incapable, I will ensure your safety till death. Shi Qingxue said, All people know that you are Junyangs bodyguard. If you are missing, will they believe that he is in the carriage? Send several more guards to follow you, Wei Zichao advised again. He had sufficient reasons this time. Think about it. It will take a few days to go to Jiangzhou. If you have nobody around to take care of you and prepare everything, how can you make it? You should bring somebody to serve you. Shi Qingxue wanted to say that they didnt come out to have a travel. How would they need somebody to follow and serve them? However, seeing that Wei Zichao looked stubborn as though he wouldnt let them go if they didnt take somebody, Shi Qingxue shrugged and turned to Mo Junyang. Anyway, he figured out this idea, and he should naturally deal with problems caused by it. In the beginning, Mo Junyang kept silent all the time. Till all people looked at him, he made a decision in a cold voice. Ziye follows us. You move on. Wei Zichao was confident about Wei Ziyes loyalty and martial skills, so he nodded in agreement in the end. Yes. After they discussed everything, they continued to move ahead. In less than one hour, they came to a fork road. Mo Junyang and his two companions rode fast horses on the other road. Wei Zichao pitched a camp in a forest next to the crossing. Dong Shuang had changed into Shi Qingxues clothes. After she was covered with a veil, even Wei Zichao couldnt tell their difference when he saw her from behind. However, no matter how much they were alike, Dong Shuang was not Shi Qingxue, nor did she have the young ladys experience. Hearing Wei Zichaos arrangements, she asked in confusion, Wei, it is still early now. Why not continue with the trip? Perhaps there is a village or town ahead and we can get accommodation and have a rest. If somebody else asked such a stupid question, Wei Zichao would disdain to answer. Nevertheless, Dong Shuang asked, so Wei Zichao answered her and even explained to her patiently, We take two different ways in order to prevent the pursuers from finding that the masters have separated from us in advance. Even if the pursuers find it, as long as we stay here to mislead them, they wont dare to chase us rashly. Then we can ensure that the masters wont be followed in the following days. Dong Shuang pondered for a moment and then looked as if she was suddenly enlightened, exclaiming with admiration, Its true. Wei, you are awesome. You are so thoughtful. Why cant I figure it out? Wei Zichao was praised by the woman he loved, and his tan face had a suspicious blush. He was over the moon but still said modestly, Its nothing. If you go out frequently, you will know it. Dong Shuang said with disappointment, I begged Lady Qingxue this time, so she brought me. I dont know if I have such a chance in the future. Dont worry. I will take you out if we are free in the future, Wei Zichao couldnt help but promise. However, it was uncertain if such a promise could be fulfilled. Dong Shuang certainly wouldnt think so much. She got happy at once. Okay. Its a deal. You cant cheat me. Wei Zichaos eyes got soft. I wont. They ate and drank and then set out again till noon. About one hour later after they left the fork, one man riding a fast horse came here. This man jumped off the horses back and checked the two roads respectively. Then he chose the road with a rutted track and then chased on horseback. After about fifteen minutes, a group of seven or eight men in black came. They were covered tightly and their faces couldnt be seen clearly. Only their black eyes were revealed. They looked almost the same, and the leader in the front had a red rope tied to his wrist. They stopped at the fork on horseback. The second man in black led the people in the rear and got off the horses back to check the two roads. Then he ran to the leader and reported, Boss, they must have left on this road. Lets continue to chase them. The man in black called boss raised his hand and stopped that man, saying coldly, His Excellency is full of cunning tricks, and this thing is not so simple. All of you, check everything around carefully to see if there are traces left. Yes! The others scattered and checked everything around. Soon, somebody found the small bonfires left by the road, and they could conclude that some people had stopped here, and judging from the traces, they left on the way ahead. The man in black reported the information to the boss, but the latter just looked around, seeming to look for something. After a while, he seemed to have found something and jumped off the horses back at once, running to a big tree. There were bonfires not far away from this tree, and he thought that they had roasted some food here. The men in black surrounded him in an instant and asked in confusion, Boss, whats wrong? Look at this. The leader pointed to somewhere at the root of the tree. There was a picture carved by an edged tool. It was just a common butterfly, yet it was strange. The butterflys left wing was broken and not carved. Only the right wing was left, and it was flying, looking beautiful and weird. Er! The man in black opened his eyes wide in astonishment. He knew this picture, and it was their organizations totem. Its left wing was broken at the fork, which meant He pointed to the other path nobody showed any interest in and asked hesitantly, Doesnt it mean The leader nodded. Right. With His Excellencys cautiousness, its not surprising that he would change his track. But there is a rutted track here, and the carriage must go on this way. The subordinate still looked unsure. He even told his people to run for miles following the rutted track, which didnt break or change the direction. It was not like being forged. Moreover, this butterfly picture which showed up suddenly came from nowhere, and it was uncertain if it was reliable. The leader said, The picture was drawn by our people. The subordinate goggled. Didnt it mean that there were their spies in the travel group of King Ruis heir? He still wanted to ask, while the leader didnt give him a chance but assigned tasks to the others. Perhaps the leader considered that mans suggestion, so he didnt tell all people to go to the road on the right but dispatched three people to move ahead and told them to pay attention on the way and check if there were similar butterfly pictures. Then the leader led four subordinates to chase on the right path. Chapter 378 - A Favored Concubine” Shi Qingxue and the other two rode fast horses, and it would take less than half of the time to Jiangzhou. At night next day, they had reached a small town near Jiangzhou City. This small town was only about thirty-five kilometers far away from Jiangzhou City, and if they urged the fast horses, they could enter the city in three hours. However, they decided to stay in the small town for a night. Firstly, they had plenty of time, and it was unnecessary to push themselves so hard. Secondly, it was not early now, and if they moved on a little slowly, the city gate might be closed. If they didnt want to reveal their identity, they had to stay in the wildness for one night. The last point was the most important. They didnt know anything about the situation in Jiangzhou City, and theyd better inquire everything clearly and enter the city at dawn tomorrow. The three came to the only hotel in the small town. Because this town was on the only way which must be passed to Jiangzhou City from the north, and it was a traffic fort, there were many customers although it looked crude. Wei Ziye paid more money and ordered two high-quality rooms. Master, you and Lady Qingxue have a good rest tonight. I will guard the stable as usual. If there is anything, please order me. Wei Ziye was experienced in society and knew that the horses were important to their journey, so even though they stayed in a hotel, he tried his best not to leave their equipment as he was afraid that there would be something wrong in the emergency. Mo Junyang would agree with him in the past, yet tonight he stated, You are tired these days. Select a high-quality room and stay inside tonight. Dont need to guard the stable. But there are only two high-quality rooms left Wei Ziye looked hesitant. He knew that the two masters hadnt been married, and Mo Junyang didnt say that he would stay with Shi Qingxue in the same room at night these days. So Wei Ziye didnt know what Mo Junyang meant. Mo Junyang didnt plan to explain to him but ordered, Its decided. Go and make preparations. Afterward, he turned to Shi Qingxue. Its still early now. Lets go out for a walk. Shi Qingxue naturally had no objection and followed Mo Junyang out of the hotels gate. They walked ahead along the street at leisure. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue kept quiet and waited for Mo Junyang to speak. She peeped at Mo Junyang several times, while he still walked forward with his head lowered and didnt plan to speak. Shi Qingxue got impatient and stopped, calling, Mo Junyang. Hmm? Whats wrong? Mo Junyang stopped and asked. Shi Qingxue glared at him. Dont you have anything to say to me? She thought that Mo Junyang made such an arrangement for the accommodation tonight, and even though she would unconditionally support his arrangement, at least he needed to talk with her after that. However, Mo Junyang looked confused and asked, Say what? You It was not Shi Qingxues first time to stay in the same room with Mo Junyang alone, so she didnt fear him. Nevertheless, she was shy. Especially under such an environment, if they stayed together for one night, wouldnt they announce their identity to the outsiders? At the thought of it, Shi Qingxue had a blush on her face, while Mo Junyang, the jerk still played dumb, so she was pissed off. Qingxues face balled up, and she looked furious. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxues angry face. In the beginning, he was confused, but he suddenly understood after he noticed the hidden shyness in her big eyes. He explained in a hurry, Its not true. Dont worry. I will find another place tonight. You will stay in that room. Gee? Shi Qingxue was stunned and finally realized that she had misunderstood Mo Junyang. The shyness on her face was more evident, yet she was more confused. Where will you stay? Mo Junyang avoided Shi Qingxues eyes and replied casually, I will have a place to stay. Dont worry about me. Forget it. Did you find anything while walking? He changed the subject too abruptly, and Shi Qingxue didnt expose him but pondered over his words. Hmm, there are many beggars on the street. The workers in the hotel have said that this street is the busiest one in this town, yet there is almost no stall or pedlar on the street. The sun hasnt set now. Even though it is merely a small town, it shouldnt be so empty. While speaking, Shi Qingxue felt more strange. She finally found that there were only beggars groaning and tossing about in the corners besides one or two vendors selling sesame seed cakes and food on the street. Some of the beggars lay still by the road, and Shi Qingxue didnt dare to confirm if they were still alive. What shocked her more was that there was no pedestrian except the two on the street. Even though the epidemic spreads and there are a lot of disasters, it shouldnt be so cheerless, right? Shi Qingxue looked around and had goosebumps because of the cold and cheerless environment. It was almost a dead town. Speaking of which, the hotel which looked crude and shabby was the busiest place in this small town. Shi Qingxue expressed her surprise, while a voice around cut in. Beipo Town has become a dead town since long ago. Why are you surprised? You must be from another place. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang turned to the voice source at the same time and noticed that the speaker was the shopkeeper of a sesame seed cake shop. The shopkeeper was an old man, about fifty or sixty years old. He was short and thin with white hair all over his head. There were wrinkles on his forehead, and he was dressed in rough linen clothes, but he was agile. He made sesame seed cakes skillfully, which made him look much younger than his age. While making sesame seed cakes, he greeted them warmly as he saw that the two looked at him. Would you like some sesame seed cakes? Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue looked at each other, and the latter showed a bright smile, saying briskly, Sir, your sesame seed cakes smell good. How much is it? Its cheap. Four coins for each. As you are a girl, if you buy three cakes, I will charge ten coins. The shopkeeper seemed to like Shi Qingxue and gave her a discount before she bargained. While speaking, the shopkeeper took out a sesame seed cake which was just roasted in the oven and wrapped it with a piece of clean oil paper. Then he gave it to Shi Qingxue and expressed with confidence, Girl, have a try. If its not delicious, it will be free of charge. Shi Qingxue had been raised with rare and luxurious food since childhood. Even though she had been trained in the military camp, the elders always provided her with enough food, and she had never eaten such food in the roadside market. Looking at the sesame seed cake she had seen only in the story books, Qingxue couldnt help but look excited. She hurriedly received the sesame seed cake from the shopkeeper. Thanks, Sir. However, before Shi Qingxue bit the sesame seed cake, Mo Junyang put his hand between her and the cake. Shi Qingxue was petrified, and the shopkeeper goggled at him. For a moment, it was embarrassing. Shi Qingxue instantly understood that Mo Junyang stopped her because he didnt want her to eat the food of questionable origin, but the shopkeeper had given it to her. If she refused, could she sound him out? Seeing that the shopkeepers smile faded, Shi Qingxue got anxious. At the crucial moment, Shi Qingxue had a brain wave and immediately pouted, snorting at Mo Junyang with displeasure. She intentionally lowered her head and looked as if she dared to get angry yet didnt dare to express it. She said in a low voice, Honey, you are so partial. You support Concubine Gui in everything. You have gone too far. Mo Junyang and the shopkeeper were speechless. The two men were dumbfounded in different ways. However, Shi Qingxue was addicted to acting and said to the shopkeeper anxiously, Dont need to taste. Sir, your sesame seed cake is delicious at first sight. Please give us five more cakes, and I will give you twenty coins. Ah? Okay. The shopkeeper answered and still looked at Shi Qingxue in confusion. He hadnt come back to earth from her words, and his eyes fell on her and Mo Junyang occasionally. Shi Qingxue ignored Mo Junyang and walked to the shopkeeper. She seemed to have finally found a listener and pouted, pitifully complaining to him about her harrowing experiences. Sir, you know what? My husband is so partial. We are going to visit relatives and passed Beipo Town today. Concubine Gui refused to go out with him as it is tiring, so I think that I am his wife anyway, and I hope that I can share his worries, but unexpectedly, he has come out yet still misses Concubine Gui only, and he wants to give the delicious food to her first. He even embarrassed me in public. Its so She said in a soft voice and slowly talked about her family. Her voice was sad, and the listener seemed to feel her misery as she was a wife yet was depressed and frustrated because her husband favored his concubine and mistreated her. The shopkeeper thought that Shi Qingxue was lively and adorable, like his youngest daughter. After hearing her experiences, he instantly thought about whether his youngest daughter would be treated in this way in her husbands family in another place. His pity for Shi Qingxue turned into sorrow at once, and he glared at Mo Junyang with indignation, seeming to curse him quietly, Jerk! Even though Mo Junyang had seen a lot in two lives, he was speechless under the shopkeepers silent glare which was more than saying anything. When he saw Shi Qingxue, she wasnt pitiful anymore. The tears in her eyes were gone, and a smile was flashing in her big bright eyes. She even winked at him in secret. Mo Junyang was unable to speak a word. The shopkeeper didnt know Mo Junyangs breakdown hidden in his calm expression but thought that this young man didnt examine his own conscience, so his face fell, and he started to rebuke seriously, Young man, after marrying a wife, you should He had several children, and his eldest child was at the same age as the two young peoples fathers, so he had rebuked others like this many times. He said that logically and smoothly. Mo Junyang didnt find a chance to cut in but had to listen to him. Shi Qingxue was happy to see that. She had known Mo Junyang for two lives, and it was her first time to see the mans helpless expression. It was so laughable. However, Mo Junyang wouldnt swallow insult and humiliation silently. While he was listening, his brows trembled. Shi Qingxue knew that he was going to explode. Chapter 379 - The First Storyteller Ahem! Shi Qingxue knew that something bad would happen, so before Mo Junyang spoke, she coughed twice and interrupted the shopkeeper. The shopkeeper looked at Shi Qingxue in confusion. Girl, whats wrong? Shi Qingxue secretly glanced at the shopkeeper to ask for help and begged in a low voice, Sir, I know that you are kind-hearted, but he is my husband. If you make him unhappy, he will get mad at me later. Please stop, okay? After hearing that, the shopkeeper thought that it was true. Then he stopped talking and just glared at Mo Junyang with disdain before continuing to make the sesame seed cakes. He said to Shi Qingxue in a soft voice, Good girl, I will give you one more cake in secret later and wont let him see it. Just eat to your satisfaction. Shi Qingxue hurriedly showed a bright smile. Thanks, Sir. They talked like whispering, yet Mo Junyang had sharp ears and their conversation entered his ears. However, Mo Junyang thought for the first time that it would be better if he didnt hear it. From beginning to end, he didnt find a chance to cut in. He just saw Shi Qingxue and the shopkeeper talk happily. Fortunately, Shi Qingxue didnt forget her job even though she joked. She received the hot sesame seed cake from the shopkeeper and asked casually, By the way, Elder, why did you say that Beipo Town has become a dead town? The form of address elder invisibly made them closer, and the shopkeeper almost took Shi Qingxue as his daughter, so he certainly told her everything that he knew. Girl, you came from another place, so you dont know that there was an epidemic in Jiangzhou City in the south in the past two months, and almost the people in half of the city died. Even our town suffered then. Shi Qingxue opened her eyes wide in surprise and looked around subconsciously. Is it so horrible? But now it doesnt seem to She said hesitantly, as she was uncertain. It was because Beipo Town looked desolate now yet there was no feature of the spreading epidemic. There was no officer or soldier guarding the entrance to the town, and the chests and faces of the common people they saw in the town were revealed. They didnt cover their bodies, and it didnt seem that they were afraid of being infected with the epidemic. If there was an epidemic in this town, wouldnt all the people who didnt protect themselves die? The shopkeeper nodded at Shi Qingxue with a smile and praised, Girl, you are so smart. Right, there is no epidemic in Beipo Town now. Gee? Shi Qingxue was more surprised. The epidemic came all of a sudden, which was fine, but why did it disappear so soon? Was the epidemic like typhoon which would disappear after passing? The shopkeeper looked serious. He sighed. Its hard to say. Nearly three fourths of the people in the town were missing. Some of them fled, and some of them died or disappeared. Who knew what they had done? Anyway, the epidemic has disappeared now. What did it mean? Did the people in the town have other choices except fleeing or dying? Did they make the choice? There was much information in the murmuring words. Shi Qingxue still couldnt figure out how this epidemic was avoided. Elder, how did those people disappear? Doesnt the government Shi Qingxue was reluctant and continued to ask. However, the shopkeeper had finished the last sesame seed cake and put it in Shi Qingxues hand, interrupting her conveniently. The sesame seed cakes are finished, and its late now. Good girl, hurry up and go back to the hotel with the sesame seed cakes. There is curfew in Beipo Town. Dont walk randomly in the evening. You will be in danger if you cause trouble. Afterward, he pushed her out of the shop without demur and then packed up his tools, seeming to close the shop. Seeing that, Shi Qingxue knew that she couldnt get any information from this shopkeeper, so she had to go back with Mo Junyang. Looking at the big sesame seed cakes in her and Mo Junyangs hands, she suddenly laughed. Mo Junyang glanced at her. Why are you laughing? Shi Qingxue gesticulated with the extra sesame seed cake in her hand and stated playfully, We didnt suffer losses this time. At least, we got one more sesame seed cake. Mo Junyang continued looking at her, and his cold and black eyes were forceful at any time, as if he could see through her. Shi Qingxue felt that she couldnt be used to being stared at by these eyes for a long time. Every time he looked at her for long, she would become timid. She hurriedly showed a flattering smile. I didnt play about. I did that in order to ask the shopkeeper for information. You talked about the wife and concubine in order to inquire? Mo Junyang wouldnt be fooled by Qingxue easily. At the mention of this, Shi Qingxue was bolder with sufficient reasons. She snorted in a low voice. Its because you got involved midway and didnt allow me to taste the sesame seed cake. Under the situation, if I didnt make it reasonable but made the shopkeeper know that you dislike his sesame seed cake, believe it or not, he would beat you with a broom and kick you out? Mo Junyang asked, Even if you want to make it reasonable, what about Concubine Gui? Nobody knew what Shi Qingxue thought about, and she casually fabricated a favored Concubine Gui. When Mo Junyang heard that, he was almost choked. However, Shi Qingxue was more complacent and took it for granted. Our purpose was to win the shopkeepers favorable impression. A bullied pitiful wife can arouse his sense of justice, right? Am I awesome? I think that you wanted more to see me being embarrassed. Mo Junyangs tone was cold, and he hit the nail on the head. Shi Qingxue was seen through and didnt dare to joke anymore. She quickly stood straight and expressed seriously, I think that the shopkeepers words are strange. He didnt explain the epidemics origin and ending clearly. Obviously, he knows something but refused to talk about the forbidden subject. She didnt praise herself for the shopkeepers favorable impression of her. If it were merely something common, he wouldnt hide it from her or even kick her out. In another word, he did that must because there was a secret that he couldnt speak out. What was it? Mo Junyang knew that Shi Qingxue tried to change the subject, yet seeing that she seriously studied the shopkeepers each word, he got soft-hearted. So he echoed, As you said, even that shopkeeper refused to say it, and if we ask somebody else, we may not get more useful information than this, but we can be sure about one thing Shi Qingxue looked up at Mo Junyang and expected his words. This epidemic must be more than a natural disaster. What? Shi Qingxue asked in a daze. She seemed to find something, yet she was not sure, so she was more confused. However, Mo Junyang shook his head at the moment. Lets go back. But you said just now Shi Qingxue was anxious to ask. Mo Junyangs hand clung to her lips, and he shook his head again, repeating seriously in a low voice, Lets go back. Shi Qingxue instantly noticed something from his serious eyes and got nervous, so she quieted down at once. She suddenly realized that even though they were dressed like passersby, in this dead town, they were too showy. Shi Qingxue was smart and didnt look around but grabbed Mo Junyangs arm. She moved her head closer to his shoulder, as if snuggling up to his arms. She raised her head slightly with a sweet smile on her face, calling intimately, Honey, lets go back. As Shi Qingxue called him in this way, even though Mo Junyang was always calm, he couldnt say anything. His expressionless face twisted and he looked at Shi Qingxue, as if he wanted to say something yet it was difficult to embody in a single sentence. Qingxue was happy while playing about and didnt notice it seemingly. She held Mo Junyangs arm and moved on. After they returned to the hotel, they found that there were few people in the lobby which had been bustling. The workers in the hotel were wiping tables and putting chairs in order, as if they were going to close the door. Shi Qingxue looked up at the sky outside the window. The sun had just set, and there was a long time before dark. Why did they close the door so early? She asked one of the workers, while the latter looked hurried and said, Its a rule of our hotel that we should close the door before dark. After dark, no matter who knocks on the door, we wont open it. Lady, please stop asking and go back to the room to have a rest earlier. If you have a good rest, you can continue with your journey next morning. After speaking, he ran to do his jobs. Shi Qingxue still didnt give up after returning to the room. She took out a gold ingot and gave it to the waiter who served water. Tell me what happened in this town. When the waiter looked at the gold ingot, his eyes lit up. He reached out his hand to receive it unconsciously. Shi Qingxue moved her hand and intentionally waved the gold ingot before his eyes. If you say it, this gold ingot will be yours, and if you explain it clearly, that man will reward you more handsomely. The waiter swallowed in a high voice and couldnt look away from the golden ingot, as if he wanted it but didnt dare to get it. Qingxue knew that he was tempted, so she gave methodical and patient guidance. Dont worry. We are not long-tongued. We just stay here, so we need to know something. If we die as we know nothing, it will be not worthwhile. Do you think so? The waiter was eager for action under the temptation of the gold ingot, and he was more tempted after hearing Shi Qingxues words. Then he gritted his teeth and stated, I tell you. You cant reveal it to anybody else, especially to the outsiders. Otherwise, we will lose our lives then. Of course. We just want to know some taboos, so that we wont make mistakes. Shi Qingxue agreed without delay and put the gold ingot in the waiters hand. The waiter had never touched such a big gold ingot and clenched his five fingers, afraid that it would fly away. He restrained his urge to bite the gold ingot and check if it was true. Then he lowered his voice and started to tell a story. Chapter 380 - The Second Storyteller I have to start with the late emperors death two months ago The waiter in the hotel started the conversation and talked vividly. Before his death, it had been raining heavily for one month successively in Jiangzhou City. It was a calamity that we havent seen in the past one thousand years. In the beginning, all people lived a hard life till the news of the late emperors death came. It seemed that God felt sad for him, and the rain was more horrible. The Ganjiang River in Jiangzhou couldnt bear it but burst its banks. After all, Ganjiang River is a great river. As it burst its banks, less than half of the city was drowned, and the low-lying areas became oceans. The luckier ones fled and became refugees, while the unfortunate ones were swallowed by the flood and their dead bodies couldnt be found. When the waiter talked about the flood in Jiangzhou, he seemed to tell a romaunt and got more excited while speaking. He wasnt sad at all. He even mentioned complacently, Our Beipo Town is higher than Jiangzhou City. Although the heavy rain didnt stop, the collapse of the Ganjiang Rivers banks didnt influence here much, so we can survive. Shi Qingxue asked, Since Beipo Town wasnt drowned in the flood, why did it become a dead town? At the mention of this, the waiters flaunting expression disappeared at once and then he started to sigh helplessly. No matter how good our town is, its just Jiangzhou Citys subsidiary on the only way which must be passed to Jiangzhou City from the north. If the refugees want to flee to the north, they have to walk past here. The foul atmosphere and epidemic were brought here, and Beipo Town couldnt escape by sheer luck. As you said that, I am more confused. As soon as there was a flood in Jiangzhou, it was reported to the imperial court, and they instantly sent money and food to relieve the people in this area. Why didnt the sufferers wait for the governments relief but left home and became refugees with no fixed abode? Shi Qingxue had known something about this matter before coming. The flood in Jiangzhou appeared at a special time, which happened to be after Mo Xiangbin was murdered and before Mo Junyu took the throne. In order to placate the people and prevent rebellion, Mo Junyu sent money and food generously and quickly after getting the disaster relief request from Jiangzhou. She had thought that the problem in Jiangzhou was the epidemic after the flood, yet as soon as she heard that, she found that there was something wrong. The waiter snorted after hearing Shi Qingxues question. Girl, are you joking with me? How would the cowards who are fully fed and never use their brains in the government sincerely help the sufferers? There were so many victims, and they would help only a few to put on a show. The commonest way was to kick out the victims. After they were driven away from the area, the government didnt need to care about them. Didnt they have malpractice and deceive His Majesty? Shi Qingxue shouted subconsciously. The waiter laughed more loudly. How strange! Didnt the government do something like this once there was a disaster? Girl, you have never left home, so you make a fuss about it, right? Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and didnt bother about this problem. Then she changed the subject. Even so, the refugees going to the north just walked past Beipo Town, and the influence was limited. Why did this town reduce to such a situation? Alas, well The waiter stopped laughing and looked gloomy and sad. I have to talk about the epidemic which made people turn pale at the mention of it. At the beginning of last month, an epidemic suddenly spread in Jiangzhou City, and all the doctors in the city could do nothing but watch the patients have a high fever for a long time and die while foaming. Moreover, the epidemic spread fast and almost anybody who was close to a patient would be infected at once. I have heard that several famous doctors in the city died after being infected when they treated patients. As a result, nobody would treat the infected patients. In order to prevent the epidemic from spreading, the government joined hands with the landlords in and out of the city and kicked all the patients to one area, letting nature take its course. Even so, the epidemic still spread and came to our town. After only one month, our town became the harder-hit area. Even the people from the government ignored the common people here, and they fled to work in the safe area in the city. Some nimble people had run away earlier, and the remaining old, weak, sick and disabled as well as the people unwilling to leave home had to ask God for help. When the waiter mentioned the epidemic, his voice was sad, with tears in his eyes. After a while, he seemed to come to his senses and realized that he forgot himself. He hurriedly wiped his eyes and forced a smile. Fortunately, God didnt give up our Jiangzhou City. The common people in Jiangzhou died of the epidemic or ran away or disappeared, which almost made it a dead city, but the miracle happened, and the epidemic disappeared unexpectedly. Recently, the people from the government start to relieve the sufferers and give food to the victims who still stay here, so Jiangzhou City has regained some vitality. After he spoke out the cause and effect of the disaster, he sighed deeply, and the complicated expression on his face disappeared. He showed a flattering smile again. Well, Lady, Sir, I have told you what I know, so While speaking, he couldnt help but look Mo Junyang up and down. He always remembered that Shi Qingxue said that he would be rewarded with more money if he explained it clearly. Shi Qingxue glanced at the waiter playfully and winked at Mo Junyang, indicating him to give the waiter a gold ingot. Mo Junyang took a gold ingot out of his pocket. When the waiter reached out his hand to receive it, Mo Junyang threw it up and avoided the waiters hand, catching it with the other hand. The waiter didnt dare to grab it or ask Mo Junyang for it. He just turned to Shi Qingxue hesitantly. Lady, look Shi Qingxue smiled. Dont be anxious. He will give it to you as it should be given to you, yet you need to answer my question. Please ask. You said that some people died or ran away after the epidemic spread, which is understandable, but what do you mean by saying that some disappeared? Shi Qingxue still remembered that the shopkeeper selling sesame seed cakes had said something like this. The waiter answered without thinking, They just disappeared for no reason. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Did he think that people were like dew and would disappear after a long time? Under Shi Qingxues emotionless glance, the waiter instantly realized that what he said didnt satisfy her. He quickly explained, I didnt tell a lie. Those people really disappeared for no reason, and the government searched everywhere yet didnt find them, so they alleged that those people had run away as they didnt want to stay at home. Alleged? Shi Qingxue pondered over the waiters word and asked with interest, So you have different opinions? The waiter giggled. Nothing can escape from your eyes. We are common people. Although we are not smart, we are not blind. The people who disappeared had their parents, wives and children in Jiangzhou. Even if they wanted to flee, they would take their families. How would they go away alone and leave their families at home? Most of them were the old, weak, sick and disabled, and they couldnt run far away, so didnt the government fool the common people? Shi Qingxue asked, Why would they disappear? Its hard to say! Some people were said to be infected with the epidemic and have died in a corner. Then they were taken away by the government. Somebody said that they were cheated and left. And somebody said that River God had no enough sacrificial offerings, so those people were captured by River God as sacrificial offerings Anyway, there are all kinds of strange conjectures, but only God knows the truth. The waiter talked about the different conjectures casually, while Shi Qingxue acutely noticed some disdain from his tone. Shi Qingxue paused for a moment and then stated, You seem to know the truth about these peoples disappearance? Er The waiter didnt deny it but started to look around with his small eyes. He couldnt look away from the gold ingot in Mo Junyangs hand. Shi Qingxue understood. She took the big gold ingot and put it on the table. Tell us the reason, and this gold ingot will be yours. The waiter was beaming with happy smiles at once and tried to get the gold ingot while saying, Lady, you ask the right person. The conjectures in the folk are bullshit, and they know nothing. Only I know the truth. He put the gold ingot in his pocket and looked serious in an instant, lowering his voice. The people who disappeared were captured by the robbers on horseback. Oh? It was Shi Qingxues first time to hear such a saying, so she felt curious. The waiter hurriedly expressed, What I said is true. I dont dare to cheat you. How did you know it? I have seen it. The waiter recalled his experience in fear. One night more than half a month ago, we cant go out in the evening for the curfew, but that night I realized that I forgot to pick up goods at daytime, so I had to take a risk and go out sneakily. When I passed a corner, I saw a group of people on horseback who were dressed in black clothes and covered their faces gallop on the street, and some people lay on the horses backs. I dont know if they were alive or dead. Next day, there was news that some people disappeared. Didnt the robbers sneak into the town at night and secretly take them away? When the waiter remembered the horrible experience, there was sweat on his forehead. Afterward, he told the two seriously, I was lucky, so I wasnt found that time and didnt lose my life. Since then, I dont dare to go out at night even if I would be beaten to death. I advise you to consider your lives, not to go out at night. Otherwise, the consequences cant be imagined! Okay. We see. We wont joke about our lives. Shi Qingxue nodded in agreement and thanked the waiters kind reminder. The waiter told the story and got some money, so he left with satisfaction. The two people in the room were lost in thought for a long time. After quite a while, Shi Qingxue looked up at Mo Junyang, asking, What do you think about the story this waiter told? Chapter 381 - What Was Wrong with Him? When Shi Qingxue talked with the waiter, Mo Junyang kept silent from beginning to end. However, with Mo Junyangs character, if he really talked with ease and fluency to the waiter, it would be surprising. When Shi Qingxue asked him, he seemed to be still lost in thought. After a while, he realized her question but asked, How do you think those people disappear for no reason? Shi Qingxue knew well about Mo Junyang and wasnt surprised at his reaction, so she didnt get angry but spoke out her opinion. The saying about River God is unreliable. Since the waiter saw the robbers on horseback, it must be true, but She looked hesitant and expressed after a while, I always think that this thing is strange, yet I cant figure out what is wrong for now. You Qingxue looked up at Mo Junyang with expectancy, and there was trust that she didnt find in her eyes. She subconsciously thought that Mo Junyang must have found the key point of the problem. Mo Junyang smiled and stated in a gentle voice, The saying about robbers on horseback may be unreliable. Gee? Shi Qingxue blinked. Although she found something unusual that she couldnt speak out, judging from his words, he would deny the story told by the waiter? Shi Qingxue asked in surprise, Did that waiter cheat us? Mo Junyang still shook his head. Not necessarily, butseeing may not be believing. Shi Qingxue was still confused. Didnt he say that he went out during curfew and saw some people lying on the horses backs when the people in black passed the street on horseback? Right. Doesnt it mean that some people robbed them at night who disappeared? Shi Qingxue nodded subconsciously and answered. Mo Junyang smiled. Yes. As you said, some people He intentionally stressed the words some people. Shi Qingxue instantly understood. Do you mean that the people who robbed them might not be robbers but others? However, as soon as she spoke out this answer, Shi Qingxue was more confused. How is it possible? Who would ride horses to the town at night just to rob some people? Why do you think that the ones who can do something like this must be robbers? Mo Junyang asked in reply. Shi Qingxue was speechless and thought, Isnt it a matter of course? Who would do evil like burning, killing and pillaging except the robbers who made a living by robbing? But have you thought about what the robbers will do after robbing these people? Shi Qingxue was stunned and seemed to have finally realized this question, so her big eyes widened slowly. The robbers make a living by robbing. If they cant gain profit, will they capture some people for no reason? Didnt some robbers take some people to the mountain and then extort money from their families? Shi Qingxue asked in astonishment. Mo Junyang nodded. This is the key point of the question. There was no news about those people after they disappeared. Who would just kidnap people yet forget to ask for money, which is the most important? Is it possible that because the robbers are short-handed, they rob people and force them to join them? Although Shi Qingxue had never seen it, she had heard her grandpa and father tell many such stories since childhood. She knew that those robbers were merciless and inhuman beasts, and it was not surprising that they would do something like this. Mo Junyang expressed, Most of the people who disappeared are the old, young, women and children. The robbers wont provide for them after robbing them. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and finally understood that the saying about robbers on horseback didnt make sense. However, in this case, where did the people who disappeared go? They cant be eaten up, right? Shi Qingxue murmured crossly. It might be understandable if one or two disappeared, but as the waiter said, perhaps dozens of people disappeared in this way, besides some people who disappeared yet nobody found it as they didnt have relatives or friends. How could so many people disappear? Even if they were attacked by beasts or killed by others, their dead bodies must be left. She couldnt figure out the second way to make a person disappear from this world silently except tearing him up and swallowing him. Mo Junyang couldnt bear to see Shi Qingxue bothering about this question, so he poured a cup of warm water and gave it to her, saying casually, Its late now. Drink some warm water and go to bed early. Shi Qingxue received it and took a sip obediently. Then she turned to the window and found that the moon was in the sky. So she nodded. Okay. After saying, she blinked her big bright eyes and looked at Mo Junyang, seeming to wait for him to speak. Mo Junyang felt excited and itchy, while he controlled himself in an instant. He just turned away and got up, trying to keep his countenance. I am going out now. Have a good rest. Afterward, he didnt give Shi Qingxue a chance to say more but opened the door and went out. Shi Qingxue looked at the closed door and finally came back to reality after being in a daze for a long time. You really went away. She murmured and had a feeling of loss for no reason. It was not that she was expecting something, but there were only two rooms left in the hotel, and Mo Junyang told Wei Ziye to stay in one room. Why would he rather go out than ask her? He must know that she didnt avoid the taboos at the unusual time. Shi Qingxue looked at the soft couch in the room, and it was wide enough to hold a grown-up man, yet it was empty now. It seemed that nobody needed it. Shi Qingxue frowned involuntarily and regretted it. I should have made him stay. Although she would be shy, compared with her unspeakable shyness, letting Mo Junyang have a sound sleep was more important obviously. Why didnt she say it? If she said that she didnt mind, Mo Junyang wouldnt be so hesitant. At this thought, Shi Qingxue couldnt control herself. She decided to find Mo Junyang, as she couldnt make him find a corner randomly to spend one night. Shi Qingxue had never thought that Mo Junyang might go to Wei Ziyes room and stay with him because she knew that her man was a little obsessive about cleanliness. Why was it a little? Because this man had great self-control and wouldnt show it easily. He could endure it in the emergency and even nobody would find it. However, Shi Qingxue knew that after Mo Junyang took the throne in the previous life, he was extremely obsessive about cleanliness. Sometimes, he even didnt want to touch anything that somebody else had touched, and the eunuchs and maids who served him had to wear white gloves every day before they were allowed to touch the emperors belonging. He was extremely picky and difficult to get along with. If Mo Junyang could make a choice, he wouldnt make himself suffer. Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyangs obsessiveness had something to do with his experience in the previous life, so how could she bear to blame him? She was just surprised as the man wasnt obsessive about cleanliness in front of her. When Mo Junyang stayed with her, she had never seen him hesitant or displeased. Would his cleanliness attack him in front of some people? Gee, he is so troublesome. Shi Qingxue pretended to be angry and said that, while she still had a smile on her face. She made a decision and opened the room door in a good mood, preparing to tell the guy to come back. Shi Qingxue walked out to the corridor, to find that it was silent. Mo Junyang was nowhere to be found. She pondered for a moment and walked to the staircase, asking the waiter who was on night shift, while he said that he didnt see Mo Junyang go downstairs. Where did he go? Shi Qingxue murmured in doubt. The waiter was the one who had got two gold ingots from Shi Qingxue, so he replied solicitously at once, The man must have gone back to his room to have a rest. Lady, dont worry. I am guarding here, and I ensure that no bad guys can go up to disturb you and him. Shi Qingxue didnt say that the waiter misunderstood her but just walked to her room doubtfully. When she was at the door, she stopped and wondered if she should go to have a look in Wei Ziyes room. However, Wei Ziye might have fallen asleep. If she went there, she would disturb him When Shi Qingxue was hesitant, she suddenly thought of something and seemed to realize it. She looked up at the roof opposite to the corridor. Mo Junyang was sitting on the roof and looking at her room deeply. Perhaps he hadnt expected that she would find him. When their eyes met, Shi Qingxue saw the embarrassment which he didnt have time to conceal in his eyes. However, the man on the roof calmed down soon and flew to her. He asked in a low voice, What happened? Shi Qingxue gazed at him. Where will you sleep tonight? Mo Junyang guiltily avoided Qingxues eyes and fixed his eyes on the door for a while. Then he turned back and explained in a soft voice, Dont worry too much. I didnt want to stay in the room, so I went to the roof to enjoy the cool. Moreover, its summer now, and the weather is nice. I am used to it, and I wont He realized what he had said and hurriedly shut his mouth, yet Shi Qingxue looked as if she was suddenly enlightened. She goggled at Mo Junyang and questioned furiously, You went to the roof every night in the past few days? Mo Junyang wanted to explain, No, I Dont lie to me. Shi Qingxue stared at Mo Junyang stubbornly, her eyes glistening. Mo Junyang probably had countless excuses to fool her in this matter, but looking at her clear eyes, he couldnt speak a word. He didnt want to lie to her. He could do nothing but lower his head in silence. Shi Qingxue didnt need more explanations. What on earth are you doing? Shi Qingxue frowned deeply and almost cried in a low voice. She couldnt figure out why Mo Junyang stayed on the roof instead of being in the room at night What was wrong with him? Seeing that Shi Qingxue really got mad, Mo Junyang hurriedly reached out his hand to grab hers, explaining softly, I really felt too hot, so I came out to enjoy the cool. You know that I am in good health, and I will be fine. And its dangerous all the way. If I guard outside, you will Mo Junyang! Shi Qingxue couldnt help but raise her voice and interrupt him, with surprise, confusion and anger in her eyes. Mo Junyang finally realized that he had said something wrong once more. Chapter 382 - Open up The reason why Mo Junyang stayed on the roof at night was circuitous yet not complicated. In the final analysis, he considered for Shi Qingxues safety. It was his style to be so reserved. Shi Qingxue knew that and couldnt even reproach Mo Junyang as he didnt love himself. She had to glare at him. However, she was like an idiot and felt sad for him. Asshole! Shi Qingxue cursed angrily and turned around to push the door, entering her room. After she entered, she stood for a while with her back to the door. It was silent all the time behind her. She hesitated for a while and still looked back, to see that Mo Junyang still stood at the door blankly. There was no emotion on his face, but seen from his eyes, he was at a loss seemingly. Shi Qingxue shouted at the door crossly, Why are you standing there? Why not come in quickly? Mo Junyang was hesitant yet entered the room obediently after a while. They stood across from each other, and Shi Qingxue was mad at Mo Junyang, so she didnt say anything but just glared at him with her bright almond eyes. After Mo Junyang entered the room, he returned calm on his face, while he still didnt meet Qingxues eyes. He stated softly after a moment, Go to bed early. I will guard here, and you will be fine. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She felt that a basin of warm water was poured into her heart suddenly and extinguished her flames of fury but made her heart warm. In the face of such a man, how would she be angry? Moreover, in the final analysis, after Mo Junyang did so, she would be the beneficiary. If she lost temper in front of Mo Junyang for this, it would show that she was ungrateful. However, if she didnt say anything, she would feel uncomfortable all the time. In the end, she sighed and asked helplessly, Junyang, even if you are worried when I stay in the room alone, as long as you say something, I wont refuse to let you stay here, but why didnt you say that? Shi Qingxue couldnt figure it out from beginning to end. Was Mo Junyang still unable to fully trust her till now, so he would rather suffer than ask her? At this thought, Shi Qingxue felt disheartened. She trusted Mo Junyang so much. Her trust was the more solid understanding, support and even sharing joys and sorrows, more than the trust on the surface. Now she could do that. She told Mo Junyang anything good or bad. Nevertheless, in the end, Mo Junyang still kept everything from her. Its not true. Mo Junyang finally spoke in a hoarse voice. Before Shi Qingxue prepared to turn around, he grabbed her arm and stressed again, Its not for this reason. Shi Qingxue looked up at Mo Junyang and asked coldly, What is it? I Mo Junyang licked his dry lips and then replied slowly, Its not that I dont trust you, but as for something, if I ask for too much, it will be consumed sooner or later. I just hope thatit will be consumed more slowly. He said some words in a low voice, and Shi Qingxue tried her best to listen yet couldnt hear them clearly. Moreover, what was Mo Junyang talking about? Except the words its not that I dont trust you, she didnt understand a word. However, Shi Qingxue just needed those words. As for the others, she pondered for a moment and then said to Mo Junyang straightforwardly with certainty, What are you talking about? If you ask me for it, I will give it to you. Mo Junyang suddenly looked at Shi Qingxue, with emotions surging in his heart. His eyes were deep, and his voice was so hoarse that it could hardly be heard clearly. He asked with uncertainly, If I lose it, can you give it to me again? When Mo Junyang didnt win Shi Qingxues love, his plan was always to win her heart. When he got it after waiting patiently, he still couldnt relax. He felt restless in a part deep in his heart. He was like the stingiest rich man who held his only treasure and accurately calculated the consumption. He was afraid that if he consumed the love Shi Qingxue gave him, he would have nothing. Mo Junyang had never expressed his fear in the past. Till now, he had to say it as Qingxue questioned him closely. Perhaps it was Mo Junyangs first time to show his fragility, which didnt accord with his arrogant and heartless image. However, in front of Shi Qingxue, all his abnormality was normal. Shi Qingxue didnt know what Mo Junyang was thinking about, but she could give him a positive answer. Of course. As long as I have it, there is nothing that I cant give you. She answered so firmly and persistently, and her big bright eyes were clear, showing all her thoughts. Mo Junyang didnt tell Shi Qingxue about his circuitous thoughts till the end, yet seeing Qingxues expression, he got happy involuntarily. Then he smiled and nodded automatically. Okay. So Shi Qingxue stated tentatively. As soon as she spoke a word, Mo Junyang understood what she meant and hurriedly nodded, saying, I will tell you in advance if there is something in the future. I will sleep on the couch tonight. Have a good night. Two significant things had been finished, and Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief, with a brighter smile on her face. Good night. The light was off, and the room was in darkness. It was silent and peaceful. Next day, the three changed their plan to ride fast horses. They bought a carriage in Beipo Town and continued with the trip in the carriage. They wore more luxurious clothes and went to Jiangzhou, dressed as rich merchants. Moreover, this time, they specially chose a more rough mountain path and headed to Jiangzhou City, but everything went quite smoothly on the way, and even some places which seemed to be suitable to lurk were surprisingly quiet. Nobody could be seen all the way, and they just heard the little birds chirps in the forest. The mountain path was tortuous and went down, and the dense trees were by the road. They could see the bright light from outside indistinctly. They didnt meet one robber. It shouldnt be like this. Shi Qingxue murmured and then checked their clothes and horses carefully. It showed that they were rich men, but why did nobody take actions against them? Were all the robbers in Jiangzhou City so rich that they disdained to rob the nobodies like them? Or were the robbers on horseback on a rampage in Jiangzhou City as they said just in the hearsay? While thinking, Shi Qingxue suddenly heard a low voice to ask for help outside the carriage. Help! HelpPlease help me Wei Ziye yelled outside and stopped the carriage, asking outside the curtain, Master, there seems to be a person lying in the brushwood by the road and asking for help. Shi Qingxues eyes lit up instantly, and she suddenly looked at Mo Junyang. Wasnt it written in the novels? Some robbers liked to play injured and weak people and lurk on the way where the tourists had to pass, making use of their sympathy to follow them. And then they would take the opportunity to kill the tourists and rob their money. Mo Junyang noticed the itchy light in her eyes. He didnt want to be meddlesome, while he asked, Shall we go out to have a look? Shi Qingxue nodded repeatedly, with light flashing in her eyes seemingly. Mo Junyang couldnt help but smile and nod. He said indulgently, Okay. Lets go and have a look. The two lifted the curtain and got out of the carriage, following the voice to find the person in the brushwood. Shi Qingxue looked at the person carefully, to find that it was a young girl. She was about sixteen or seventeen years old, and her facial features were cute and exquisite, with an oval face, arched eyebrows, a prominent nose and a tiny mouth. If her face were not as pale as a piece of white paper, she was a great beauty. The young girl was so weak that she could hardly speak. When she saw Wei Ziye, her eyes lit up suddenly and she grabbed his clothes with all strength, asking for help in a feeble voice, Please save me. Dont let them take me away. I am going to Before she finished her words, all her energy was consumed, and she fainted next to Wei Ziyes foot, with her face close to his shoe. Wei Ziye was grabbed by the young girl and couldnt escape. He was too embarrassed to kick her away, so he had to look at the two masters hesitantly. Master, look Shi Qingxue was looking the young girl up and down. The girl was dressed in top-quality brocade clothes, yet there was dust in her beautiful clothes, and she had been cut several times, with blood stains in some parts. She looked dirty. However, a resplendent jade plate was tied on her waist, with nail polish on her ten fingers and a beautiful jade pendant on her thin neck. Judging from any aspect, this was a young lady from a wealthy or noble family. Would the robbers pay so much? Shi Qingxue was at a loss and then turned to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang pointed to something under the young girl. Take it out and show it to me. The other two followed his finger and had a look, to find that the young girl held a box in her arms, which was covered with her clothes, only one corner revealed. Wei Ziye bent over and reached out his hand to take it, but he couldnt take it out in the beginning. The girl in a coma seemed to be conscious, and she grasped that box with her five fingers, refusing to let it go. However, Wei Ziye wouldnt have compassion for womanhood. He knocked a part of the girls body without mercy, and her hand got weak instantly, letting him take it to Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue finally saw it clearly. This was a square iron box, with a length of about thirty-three centimeters and thirteen centimeters in width and height. There was a small lock fixing the iron box on one side. Mo Junyang received the iron box and weighed it. Later, he kept silent for a while and then turned to Shi Qingxue, asking, Shall we save her? Shi Qingxue naturally wanted to save her, yet judging from his tone, were there other choices besides saving her or not? She didnt dare to nod rashly but asked cautiously, If we save her, will there be something bad? Its uncertain. If we dont save her, just throw the iron box back to her, and we will go, while if we save her Mo Junyang pondered for a moment and his eyes fell on the iron box as he said slowly, There will be another way. Chapter 383 - Slash It Hearing Mo Junyangs words, Shi Qingxue knew that no matter what choice she made, he could control the situation. So she nodded without hesitation. Then she asked, Whats another way? Mo Junyang casually threw the iron box to the ground and raised his hand to draw the long sword on Wei Ziyes waist, slashing something with it. Shi Qingxue watched Mo Junyang slash it, with her eyes widening in an instant. Till there was a sound of metal collision, Shi Qingxue came back to earth. Mo Junyang slashed that iron box. Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh of relief, with countless questions in her head. What are you doing? Shi Qingxue was shocked and angry. She almost thought that Mo Junyang prepared to stab the girl with the sword. Mo Junyang didnt answer but pointed to the iron box on the ground. Have a look. What? Shi Qingxue asked in reply subconsciously and then paused, opening her bright eyes wide again. Mo Junyang slashed the iron box with the sword, yet the box was undamaged, still lying on the ground quietly. Shi Qingxue looked at the long sword in Mo Junyangs hand, blurting out, Is this a fake sword? Mo Junyang was speechless. Even King Ruis heir had to admire Shi Qingxue for her imagination. Wei Ziye explained in time, My Lady, this is a real sword made of rare iron. Why Shi Qingxue picked up the small iron box curiously. It was inconspicuous at a glance, and even after she looked at it several times carefully, it must be an iron box with some weight at most, but unexpectedly, it was sosolid? The iron sword couldnt destroy it? Are there some treasures inside? Shi Qingxue held the iron box with both hands and put it beside her ear, shaking it up and down. It was silent, as if it was empty inside. Shi Qingxue scratched her hair and didnt know what to do. Junyang, we She understood what Mo Junyang meant by doing that. He would save the girl after confirming her identity, so no matter what happened, it wouldnt put himself in a passive position. However, now it appeared that they couldnt see the treasure in the iron box until the girl woke up. Would they save her? Take her with us if you want to save her. Before Shi Qingxue finished her words, Mo Junyang understood her intention. Shi Qingxue smiled in embarrassment and hurriedly explained, I think that this girl doesnt look like a trap. She is so weak now. If we dont save her, perhaps she will pass away soon. If she is a good person but we fold our hands and see her die, it will be improper. What do you think? Qingxue thought that she couldnt be dictatorial, so she asked in a certain tone in the end. Mo Junyang couldnt help but laugh, with his lips raising. He didnt plan to refuse Shi Qingxue, yet as she said that, he felt happy. He smiled with love involuntarily. Its up to you. Shi Qingxue pretended that she didnt notice the ridicule in his words, and she just thought that he approved of this proposal. She started to push Wei Ziye to carry the girl into the carriage. Ziye, thanks. Wei Ziye carried her obediently and then frowned deeply. Whats wrong? Wei Ziye quickly carried her into the carriage and reached out a hand to the girls forehead. Then he answered, My Lady, this girl has a high fever, and she may be dying. Lets enter the city quickly. Find her a doctor in the city. Shen Luo was not here, and none of them knew medical skills, so they had to rush to Jiangzhou City. In the carriage, Shi Qingxue moved the girl to the innermost corner and laid her down. She didnt have much experience in looking after a person, nor did she know how to take care of a patient with a high fever, so she had to wet a towel and wipe the girls face and hands, cleaning her up simply. Then she dried the towel and put it on the girls forehead to lower her temperature. In the beginning, Mo Junyang controlled himself and didnt say anything, but seeing that Shi Qingxue was busy for a strange girl, he got unhappy. He reached out his hand and held Shi Qingxue in his arms. Before she protested, he said bossily, She wont die. Leave her alone. The man was much more awesome than Shi Qingxue in this aspect, and he saw the girls urge to survive under her weak appearance at a glance. Such a woman wouldnt die easily. It took them about one hour to reach the suburbs of Jiangzhou City. Different from the cheerless atmosphere earlier, it was surprisingly bustling on the way. The pedestrians carried something with a shoulder pole or on the back, coming and going in great number. Some of them walked at leisure, and some were in haste. It was like a big city finally. Shi Qingxue looked out of the window of the carriage and could see the city gate in the distance. The common people entering the city stood in a long line at the city gate and occupied half of the road. She could see the long line move forward with difficulty after quite a while. When they almost reached the end of the line, they finally saw clearly that some officers and soldiers guarded the city gate and questioned all the people who wanted to enter the city. They didnt check the luggage but seemed to ask questions only. Gee? Whats the matter? Shi Qingxue curiously lifted the carriage curtain, with her head sticking out. Logically, trade and business were prosperous in Mo Country these years, and the rule to interrogate and examine the people coming and going had been cancelled since long ago, so they didnt need to check so strictly at ordinary times. Lady, you came to Jiangzhou City for the first time, so you are surprised, right? The city has been like this since two or three months ago. A passer-by heard Shi Qingxues question and spoke to her casually. The speaker was a woman in her thirties, with a package in her hand. She was next to the carriage and prepared to enter the city. Shi Qingxue stopped looking around and instantly showed a sweet smile, greeting, Madam, how are you? What are you going to do in the city? The woman was talkative and didnt hide anything from an outsider. She said, as if chatting with a friend, Alas, my husband is feeling unwell these days and lying at home. The doctor in the village has gone out, so I have to enter the city to buy him some medicine. Now they check so strictly. We will be delayed for long, Shi Qingxue responded. The woman instantly stated in agreement, Right. In order to enter the city earlier, I came out before dawn and reached here after walking for nearly two hours. There are so many people now. I dont know when I can enter. An older woman in the line ahead of them cut in, Dont worry. We came alone, and the officers will let us in after asking a few questions casually, and it wont take long. Gee? So the officers will check different people in different ways? Shi Qingxue asked. The old woman nodded and pointed ahead. Right. Look at the big carriage in the front. It has stopped for fifteen minutes at the gate. The people inside are the important targets to be interrogated and examined. While speaking, she looked Shi Qingxues equipment up and down and tut-tutted. Young lady, I am afraid that you cant enter the city so easily. Shi Qingxue looked flustered and helpless in time, saying anxiously, What should I do? Somebody in the carriage has to see a doctor in the city. The old woman glanced at Qingxue several times more and comforted her with a smile. Dont be too anxious. Its not that you cant enter. Shi Qingxues bright eyes seemed to light up in an instant. Madam, you are so smart, and you must have a solution. The old woman was satisfied with the praise and looked complacent. I tell you. When the officers check you, you give them some money in secret and say something nice. Then you can enter the city. Hearing the old womans words, Shi Qingxue understood it. However, she still looked surprised in time. Can it work? At the moment, the two women smiled knowingly and said that Shi Qingxue was too young and didnt see a lot. All the officers are like this. Its said that money talks. If you give them money, it will work. Right. A cousin of my uncles nephew is a businessman, and he wanted to enter the city to pick up goods the other day. Two carriages bigger than yours came to the city. In the beginning, they were stopped and interrogated. After a long time, they were not allowed to enter, and the officers said that they imposed a curfew in the city, but that cousin secretly gave two silver ingots to each officer and bribed them, then he was let in. But you came at the right time. There was an epidemic in Jiangzhou City one month ago, and the city was heavily guarded. Nobody was allowed to enter. Now it is better as the city gates are opened and people can enter. So many people died of the epidemic. Even if people were allowed to enter then, perhaps nobody dared to. Right The two women started to chat and gossip. Shi Qingxue listened for a while and felt bored. Then she withdrew her head and looked at Mo Junyang. Have you heard that? Mo Junyang nodded. Hmm. Perhaps the people in the city have known that we are coming. They mainly checked the carriages. Didnt it mean that they targeted the imperial envoys? They dont let us inThey are too overbearing. Arent they afraid that you will accuse them after going back if they block you outside by accident? Shi Qingxue didnt know what the officials in Jiangzhou City thought about. Even if they were afraid that the imperial envoys would enter the city in secret, they should make inquiries in the dark. Now they did it in a big way. Didnt they tell the outsiders that they had a guilty conscience? Mo Junyang sneered. Perhaps they fear nothing as they have backups. Hmm? Shi Qingxue didnt understand the tricks. When there was an epidemic in Jiangzhou City, it was right to guard the city heavily, but they open the city gates and let people in now in order to give us an explanation. They dont allow the suspicious people to enter the city, which just shows that they are dutiful, and there is no other explanation. Moreover, if we are stopped, we can show our identity and enter. Then they wont offend the imperial envoys. Shi Qingxue heard a lot of tortuous tricks in officialdom and then finally got enlightened. It turned out that there were such reasons. She thought too simply in the beginning. So they did so much in order to force us to reveal our identity? Mo Junyang nodded and glanced at the city gate, saying in a low voice, No hurry. Wait and see. Shi Qingxue paused for a moment and then had an idea. It would take some time before they entered the city, so she turned back to search for something in her package. She chose a more beautiful coat from it and changed into it without avoiding Mo Junyang. Moreover, she took out two hairpins and made her long hair a bun. She winked at Mo Junyang and smiled. Leave it to me later. Chapter 384 - The Wife Is No Match for a Concubine As Mo Junyang saw that Shi Qingxue, a pure girl became a mature and coquettish young woman, the corners of his mouth twitched indistinctly. In the end, he had to ask helplessly with a smile, What do you want to do? Shi Qingxue smiled slyly. Dont worry. I can handle it. Just stay in the carriage and watch the young lady, in case that there is something wrong with her. She had a feeling that the young girl lying in the carriage might be a big shot. After being in the line for nearly one hour, it was their turn to enter the city. A guard dressed in soldiers clothes walked forward lazily. Looking at the carriage, he asked Wei Ziye, like a boss, Who is inside? Wei Ziye had been instructed by Shi Qingxue, so he restrained his momentum and answered politely, Sir, my masters are inside. Lift the curtain and let me see, the guard ordered. Afterward, he raised his hand to lift the curtain of the carriage. Wei Ziye grabbed the guards hand subconsciously, and the latter instantly screamed like a pig which would be killed. All the other guards behind saw that and got up alertly, looking at them. Let me go. Let me go! the guard cried and wanted to call his workmates. Shi Qingxue in the carriage heard that the voice was unusual, so she hurriedly lifted the curtain and stopped Wei Ziye. Ziye, dont be rude. Hurry up and let go of this officer. The curtain was opened, and a beautiful face with makeup was revealed under the curtain. With her bright eyes and white teeth, she was fascinating. With a half smile added, she was more enchanting. The guard got absent-minded instantly and looked at Shi Qingxue while smiling. What a beautiful lady! Wei Ziyes face darkened, with killing intent. However, the guard was blinded by the beauty and didnt notice it. He just narrowed his eyes and looked at Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue made signs at Wei Ziye in secret to tell him not to be impulsive. She continued to smile and stated, Sir, you flatter me. I and my husband, servant are going back to Jiangzhou to visit relatives. Please do me a favor and let us in. Hearing that she would enter the city, the guard finally stopped looking obscene and tried to show a serious expression. The magistrate has said that we should carefully check all the carriages entering the city. Is there anybody else in this carriage? While asking, the guard tried to touch Shi Qingxues tender hand. Shi Qingxue grabbed the curtain and raised it in advance while leaning to one side. She maintained her composure and avoided his hand in the name of lifting the curtain for him. The guard didnt hit the target. He didnt dare to pursue her brazenly, so he craned his neck to check the carriage. Mo Junyang sat on one side of the carriage, with a deep and indifferent face. He had a book in his hands. When the guard asked, Mo Junyang raised his head slowly. Whats the matter? Mo Junyangs expression didnt change, but when he looked at somebody, he frightened others with his momentum. The guard moved backward involuntarily and then thought that his action showed that he was cowardly. Then he shouted at Mo Junyang angrily, What are you looking at? The officers will inspect you. Hurry up and get out. Shi Qingxue was nervous and afraid that when Mo Junyang got angry, he would kill this guard who acted recklessly and blindly. HoHoney, she called before Mo Junyang spoke. Her voice was sweet, seeming to be scared or play the woman. Mo Junyang paused and looked up at her. After keeping silent for a moment, he didnt say anything but walked out of the carriage. The guard thought that Mo Junyang was outwardly strong yet inwardly weak. This guy looked mighty but got out obediently after he howled. The guard was satisfied and wanted to rebuke this man, but he found that Mo Junyang was much taller than him. After the man got out of the carriage, his tall and big figure gave others a feeling of oppression. Even if the guard stood on tip-toe and raised his chin, his momentum was weaker. The guard yelled at Mo Junyang reluctantly, Back off. Dont disturb us when we are working. Mo Junyang walked around the carriage and went to Shi Qingxue. They sat out of the carriage far away, and the guard finally found his momentum as an officer back. He snorted and checked everything in the carriage again. Why is there another person in the carriage? Hurry up and get out, the guard shouted with displeasure as he saw the young girl lying inside. Shi Qingxue explained in a hurry, Sir, please dont be angry. Thats my husbands fiancee. She is unwell and sleeping in the carriage. Please forgive her. Mo Junyang and Wei Ziye looked at Shi Qingxue at the same time, with shock in their eyes. Fiancee? The guard was also surprised and then looked Shi Qingxue up and down. The one inside is his fiancee, so who are you to him? Right, they wanted to know the answer, too. Shi Qingxue kept her composure and replied without hesitation, I am only a concubine bought by my husband to serve him. Please dont laugh at me. The dumbfounded Wei Ziye and silent Mo Junyang were speechless. The two mens faces were colorful, and they goggled at Shi Qingxue, with their pupils enlarging all of a sudden. Wei Ziye was open-mouthed, and his jaw almost dropped. She could say something like this calmly? How did Shi Qingxue make it? The guard didnt notice the two mens reactions but just glanced at Mo Junyang with jealousy, murmuring, Gee, you are so lucky. Your concubine is so beautiful, and how much more beautiful is your fiancee? He craned his neck to the carriage curiously and asked, Whats wrong with her? She has a cold and a fever. She has been asleep for only a short while. Please do us a favor, Sir. After hearing Shi Qingxues words, the guard turned pale instantly and forgot to look at the womans face in the carriage. He moved backward suddenly and waved his hand. You cant enter the city. Go away now. His attitude changed all of a sudden, and Shi Qingxue was confused. Whats wrong? Havent you seen it? Its said in the notice that the people with a fever are not allowed to enter the city. Shi Qingxue followed the guards hand and saw the notice next to the city gate clearly. It was said that any patient, especially with a fever was forbidden to enter the city in order to prevent the epidemic from spreading again. Because the primary feature of the patients infected with the epidemic was a high fever, those people tried to avoid anybody with a fever as they were afraid that they would be infected. The guard didnt dare to enter the carriage to check. He waved his hand repeatedly to drive them away. Shi Qingxues eyes rolled, and she immediately understood what they feared, so she stated at once, Sir, you misunderstand me. Madam merely has a cold with a high temperature. She is not infected with the epidemic. While speaking, she gave a big gold ingot to him in secret. After receiving the heavy gold ingot, the guard seemingly wanted to refuse but was unwilling to give up something so good, so he was indecisive. She only has a cold? Since the guard asked such a question, Shi Qingxue knew that he was tempted. She hurriedly nodded and answered, She really has a cold. Sir, think about it. Who isnt afraid of death? If Madam is infected with the epidemic, would we sit with her in the same carriage? We are afraid of being infected. Madam got a cold yesterday, and she didnt feel well this morning. She has a low fever, so we rushed to enter the city to see a doctor. Its nothing serious, and we came back to our hometown to visit relatives. Now were almost home, yet we cant go back. Its improper anyway. Please help us and let us in, Sir. After Shi Qingxue advised, the guard was more tempted. He looked at the carriage several times and asked hesitantly, Isnt it the epidemic? No. Please rest assured, Sir. Shi Qingxue vowed solemnly. After pausing for a moment, she gave the guard another gold ingot of the same quality and smiled gracefully. You have guarded the city gate for one day, and you must be tired. This is for you to buy some rice wine. Please accept it. She didnt do it in secret this time, so another guard standing in the distance saw it at once. That guard shouted, Zhang, havent you finished checking? Can they enter the city? Why are you dilly-dallying? The guard called Zhang was hesitant, but he was pushed by this voice, so he was unwilling to give the treasure back in the end. He gritted his teeth and ordered in a hurry, Fine. Get into the carriage and enter the city now. Dont stand in the way. Shi Qingxue was overjoyed and said thanks twice. Then she grabbed Mo Junyangs arm and returned to the carriage. The felloes turned around again, and the carriage moved into the city slowly. Shi Qingxue came back to the carriage. Before she sat down steadily, she was held by a big arm. She leaned and fell into the familiar and warm arms. The mans warm and intimate breath reddened her ears. You are a concubine bought by me, hum? Shi Qingxue talked at random just now and said whatever she thought of, regardless of anything. She had fun alone and didnt think so much. Unexpectedly, after it, she was held in somebodys arms and he got back at her. She subconsciously reached out her hand to scratch her ears and didnt dare to look at Mo Junyangs face. She just played dumb and said, Ah. Then she kept silent. Mo Junyang indulged her just now and didnt say anything, but when they were alone, he wouldnt let her go so easily. I dont bother about you for Concubine Gui you mentioned earlier. What do you mean by saying the fiancee and boughten concubine? The mans voice was deep and hoarse, and he showed momentum when he didnt smile. Shi Qingxue tried to evade, yet she couldnt, so she explained away, You have a fiancee indeed. Wasnt she the fiancee? She didnt tell a lie. But somebody has said that she is a concubine bought to serve me Thinking of Shi Qingxue saying that without hesitation, Mo Junyang still couldnt react. Perhaps there was nobody in this world but Shi Qingxue who would try her best to depreciate herself. Shi Qingxue was exposed and didnt hide it anymore. She looked at Mo Junyang and stated, taking it for granted, The wife is no match for a concubine. I think that it makes sense. Mo Junyang was speechless. The man took deep breaths yet couldnt control himself in the end. He snorted coldly. Why dont you say that the concubine is no match for a clandestine lover? Chapter 385 - The Mysterious Young Girl’s Identity Shi Qingxue was stunned for a while and opened her almond eyes slightly, as if she were shocked by Mo Junyangs heroic words. Her stiff expression seemed to complain why Mo Junyang could say something so shameful. If Mo Junyang didnt hear Shi Qingxues bold words, only judging from her big bright eyes, he would wonder whether he said something wrong. He wouldnt be fooled by Shi Qingxue easily this time. He looked at her coldly in silence. Shi Qingxue tilted her head slightly, as if lost in thought. She kept quiet for a while and then looked at Mo Junyang seriously, saying in a vague tone involuntarily, Sohow about we are like clandestine lovers? Mo Junyangs brows trembled. Ahem! A series of coughs were from outside suddenly and interrupted the weird atmosphere in the carriage. Shi Qingxue finally realized that this carriage was not as sound-proof as imagined, and Wei Ziye with sharp ears was outside. Her face got burning hot in an instant, and she tried to explain in haste, No. I talked nonsense just now. Dont take it seriously. She intentionally said loudly and obviously spoke to Wei Ziye outside. She was joking and just said that to tease Mo Junyang. Qingxue wanted to see more expressions on the cold face, so she restrained her shyness and said that to flirt with him, yet as she realized that Wei Ziye heard it, she wished to find a hole to hide herself. Wei Ziye seemed unable to consider the young ladys feelings but stressed outside the curtain, My Lady, dont worry. I didnt hear anything. It was better not to say that. Shi Qingxue was so shy that she didnt dare to show her face. As soon as the carriage stopped, she hurriedly jumped out and waved her hand to fan herself while looking around. She shouted, exposing herself unwittingly while trying to cover up, Its so hot. Why is the weather so hot? Mo Junyang noticed that Shi Qingxue wanted to avoid the subject which made her shy, but he stated, Perhaps somebodys words are hotter. The wordswere hot Shi Qingxue was speechless. This time, it was her turn to be unable to speak after hearing the flirtation. She had a blush on her face, which was like an apple, unable to be seen. Jerk. She pretended to be angry and glared at Mo Junyang, deciding to ignore this jerk. Shi Qingxue ran to Wei Ziye and asked in confusion, Where shall we stay next? The place where they stopped was not like a hotel. Wei Ziye answered, Although we visit this city in secret dressed like ordinary people, since we have entered Jiangzhou City, you and Master cant be put to inconvenience in a hotel. This small house has been prepared earlier, and its clean and safe. Please stay here at ease for now. If you need something else, lets move to another place. Shi Qingxue carefully looked the residence up and down that she would stay in the following days. It was located on a street, and there were not many or few passers-by. It must be not the main street, and if something happened in the future, it wouldnt cause much influence, and they would leave secretly. The courtyard was not big. Judging from its appearance, it was unspectacular, the same as the civilians house, and people standing on the street might not find it at a glance. However, Shi Qingxue carefully checked the courtyard. It was arranged meticulously and gracefully. The furniture and decorations were top-grade but low-key and steady. The grass and trees in the courtyard were planted perfectly. It was suitable to live in. Its great. Qingxue was satisfied. She grabbed Mo Junyangs arm excitedly and went to the room. On the way, she suddenly remembered that a patient was lying in the carriage. I almost forget it. We have to find a doctor for her. However, before she walked, she was pulled back by Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang didnt allow her to move. Leave it to Ziye. You are not familiar with Jiangzhou City. Dont tire yourself. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment and thought that he was right, so she stopped hesitating. She smiled at Wei Ziye. Ziye, thanks. You are capable, so you need to do more jobs. Wei Ziye bowed and answered, My Lady, dont worry. I will find a doctor to save that girl. He made a promise without delay and didnt take it seriously. Nevertheless, after half a day, Wei Ziye regretted it as he talked wildly. He personally took the young girl to see doctors in some clinics, but something weird happened. Those doctors saw the young girl in Wei Ziyes arms and put their fingers on her wrist. Before they asked, they turned pale and then waved their hands repeatedly. I am sorry that I am incapable. Please look for a more skilled doctor. In the beginning, Wei Ziye didnt mind. Till the doctors said the same after he went to three clinics, he got mad. What the hell? You open a clinic, but before examining a patient sent to you, you said that you cant treat her. Do you qualify to be a doctor? Unexpectedly, the old doctor spoke more loudly than him and cursed impatiently, I said that I cant treat her. Go away now. Dont disturb me when I am doing business. It was Wei Ziyes first time to see somebody who was ruder than him although unreasonable. He was so angry that he grabbed the old doctors collar and asked ferociously, What? You are bold with sufficient reasons even though you cant treat her? Will you continue to open this clinic? If not, I will destroy it for you. Before Wei Ziye worked for Mo Junyang, he was idling about in society. Although he restrained himself later, when he showed his ferocious look, the ordinary people would be scared to wet themselves. The old doctor was shorter than Wei Ziye, and he was lifted by Wei Ziye, with his feet in the air. His eyes started to roll, as if he would faint soon, and his arrogance disappeared at once. A young disciple of the doctor who looked on hurriedly walked forward to beg for mercy. Sir, please dont be angry. If you have something, lets talk about it. Wei Ziye sneered and snorted. What? You want to talk about it now? The other two were as obedient as quails and nodded repeatedly in agreement. Please, please. Wei Ziye put the old doctor down unhurriedly at last and placed him in the chair which was for treating patients specially. Then he laid the young girl on the couch, pointing at her indifferently. Examine her. The old doctor didnt dare to put on airs anymore but trembled while checking the girls pulse. Then he raised his hand to lift her eyelids. After dillydallying for quite a while, he didnt say anything. Wei Ziye got impatient while waiting and snorted. Tell me. Whats wrong with her? Er The old doctor looked around aimlessly and stuttered. He didnt say anything useful after a long time. Wei Ziye was sophisticated and could certainly find that this old doctor was trying to delay. He didnt speak but drew a part of the long sword on his waist and waved it in front of the old doctor. The old doctor became cowardly and quickly waved his hand. Sir, no hurry. I will tell you at once. He lowered his head and seemed to ponder for a moment. Then he told the young disciple, Close the door. We wont do business today. Yes. The young disciple ran to close the door of the clinic and cautiously bolted it, although the bolt was like a white elephant in Wei Ziyes eyes. Wei Ziye snorted with disdain. Can you say it now? The old doctor smiled flatteringly. Sir, to be frank with you, its not that I am unwilling to work for you, but this girl is really a disaster. I advise you to throw her away earlier, not to be meddlesome, in case that you get yourself into trouble. It seemed to be sincere advice. Wei Ziye uplifted his brows. So you know who this girl is? The old doctor shook his head repeatedly and waved his hand without a stop. No, I dont know. I dont know anything. Tell me frankly. Wei Ziye unsheathed the long sword once more. The old doctor felt cold on his neck at once, so he answered obediently, Thisgirl is the only daughter of the supervisor in Jiangzhou, Lord Ye. I have heard that her name is Ye Zhixin. The supervisors daughter? Wei Ziye pondered for a while and found that it was like what Shi Qingxue guessed. However, there was something wrong. Wei Ziye stared at the old doctor in disbelief. If she is really an officials daughter, why did she faint in the wild with injuries all over her body? The old doctor begged for mercy in a hurry. I dont dare to cheat you. This is really Lord Yes daughter, but But what? Say it in one breath. Dont hem and haw. Wei Ziye didnt have the patience to beat around the bush with him. The old doctor explained in a trembling voice, But Lord Ye isnt the supervisor in Jiangzhou anymore, so Miss Yes position reduced, and she is not a young lady from an officials family now. Even so, why did you refuse to treat her at the sight of her and say that I would get myself into trouble if I saved her? Wei Ziye calmly pointed out something wrong in the old doctors words. Lord Ye irritated all people in the city when he was the supervisor, and they wished to eat his flesh and drink his blood. His family members are like rats and all people want to beat them. Under the situation, how dare I treat his daughter arbitrarily? Do you think so? The old doctor talked with emotion and reasons, trying to persuade Wei Ziye to give up his plan to get involved. Especially after seeing that Wei Ziye looked as if lost in thought, he continued, Sir, I said every word from the bottom of my heart, and I didnt tell a lie. Im saying this for your own good. You need to listen to my advice. Lets find an alley randomly and throw her away. Then it will be none of our business. Do you think that its okay? Wei Ziye looked distant and responded resolutely, No. The old doctor was speechless. Wei Ziye didnt want to listen to this doctors bullshit. He pointed to Ye Zhixin and ordered, Dont dillydally. Treat her for me. I dont care what you will do. You have to cure her. Otherwise, believe it or not, I will crush your shop sign. The old doctor didnt dare to doubt him. He was scared by Wei Ziye almost to death and still wanted to stay alive, so he had to bite the bullet and write a prescription, finding medicinal materials for Ye Zhixin. Chapter 386 - Being Followed After Wei Ziye got the prescription and medicinal herbs, he held Ye Zhixin who was still unconscious and left. He wasnt afraid that the old doctor would give him wrong medicinal materials to cheat him. Anyway, the clinic was here, and the doctor couldnt run away. If there was something wrong, he would come back at the worst. Wei Ziye went back to the house and told somebody to decoct medicinal herbs for Ye Zhixin. Then he reported what he had seen and heard to the two masters. She is really a young lady from an officials family. Shi Qingxue was surprised as she had guessed right. Moreover, when they came to investigate in Jiangzhou, an officials daughter with injuries all over her body suddenly showed up at the critical moment, which would make people doubt that there was something fishy. Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang looked at each other. Mo Junyang asked Wei Ziye, Where is the supervisor Ye Zhirong? He has left, Wei Ziye answered subconsciously in a casual voice. He was once in the gangdom and behaved like most people with the same background. He didnt like the darkness of the officialdom or the officials. Shi Qingxue patiently explained Mo Junyangs question. Junyang means that Ye Zhirong is the supervisor in Jiangzhou, a Rank-6 official. Where can he go without the transfer order from the imperial court? Wei Ziye was stunned. He had never thought of this question, so he didnt ask. Shi Qingxue showed an expression that she knew it and then stated, But judging from Miss Yes miserable condition, perhaps Lord Ye wont be well. Ye Zhirong couldnt even protect his only daughter, so he might have died. Wei Ziye explained, I heard the old doctor say that Lord Ye did something to harm all people in the city, so all of them hate him, and he must not live a good life. Did something to harm all people in the city? Shi Qingxue pondered over these words and looked up at Mo Junyang, asking for his opinion in silence. Mo Junyang just shook his head and expressed casually, We will talk about it after Ye Zhixin wakes up. Right, its useless even though they guess so much. Its better to ask the person concerned. Shi Qingxue nodded in agreement. She suddenly thought of the solid iron box Ye Zhixin held tightly in her arms before she went into a coma, so she thought that it was not so simple. Mo Junyang thought alike and told Wei Ziye directly, Put away her iron box. If she asks, we will say that we have never seen it. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Wei Ziye answered, Yes. He carried out the order without hesitation. Will it be improper if we do that? Shi Qingxue asked with uncertainty. These two men were so composed that she couldnt help but wonder if she made a fuss about it. Mo Junyang looked calm and asked in reply impassively, What will be improper? Gee, she really made an unnecessary fuss. Shi Qingxue was clear about Mo Junyang who would defy trivial conventions in order to achieve his goal, so she pouted and didnt say anything. If she argued with Mo Junyang, she would ask for trouble. By the way, we have entered the city secretly now. What do you plan to do next? Shi Qingxue asked curiously. Mo Junyang was at leisure. Wait. There will be a turn for the better. Shi Qingxue doubtfully looked at Mo Junyang who kept her in suspense. Really? Wait and see. She didnt ask anymore. She would wait and see. However, they stayed in Jiangzhou City for two days, and nothing happened. Ye Zhixin had woken up twice during the period, yet before she said something, she tilted her head and went into a coma. Shi Qingxue insisted on asking Mo Junyang to go to the teahouses and got some information. She heard a lot of odd stories, which were almost the same as what the shopkeeper selling sesame seed cakes and the waiter said. It was uncertain if the legendary stories were real, but all of them were marvelous. In the end, somebody said that Mo Country offended God, so God punished the country. Of course, the people who said that didnt dare to give wide publicity but only chatted with their friends in private, while Shi Qingxue heard that occasionally. If there was nothing else, Shi Qingxue wouldnt care about it. However, they said that the country offended God because the holy bird, the colorful phenix died not long ago Shi Qingxues expression changed in an instant. Although before the colorful phenix came into the imperial palace, the news spread everywhere, its death was kept a secret. Except the royal family members of several countries, even the officials in the capital didnt know the circuitous process. The officials who knew it were clear about the seriousness of this matter, so they shut their mouths and didnt dare to reveal it to anybody. Shi Qingxue knew that the last version in folk must be that the colorful phenix was summoned by God and flew away, and most people were just interested in hot news. The colorful phenix flew away, and it became a topic of conversation when people were idle. Nevertheless, judging from what these people meant, had the news of the colorful phenixs death spread to the remote Jiangzhou City? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang nervously, and he just shook his head to comfort her. Then he took her away from the teahouse without saying anything. The couple walked on the street. In the beginning, they strolled at leisure and looked here and there. However, while walking, Shi Qingxue suddenly thought that there was something wrong. She felt that because of the tall and big man next to her. On the surface, Mo Junyang still stayed next to her like a tall and big door-god, looking expressionless, yet he never left her, the same as usual. However, Qingxue keenly felt something different. Mo Junyang was more silent today and his expression was stiffer. When she chose some hairpins, she gave one to Mo Junyang, seeming to ask him to wear it for her, but as they got close to each other, she asked in a low voice, Whats wrong? Mo Junyang smiled faintly and whispered in Shi Qingxues ear, Some people are following us. I will take you away later. The mans warm breath was in Qingxues ear, and she had a blush instantly, with her red and attractive cheeks like two halves of an apple. The others only saw that she lowered her head with shyness and moved her lips slightly. Anybody who saw their interactions would think that it was a young couple passionately in love who flirted with each other, and they wouldnt suspect. Moreover, Mo Junyang bought that cute and exquisite jade hairpin at last and wore it for Shi Qingxue in person. The vendor was a woman in her forties. She was all smiles at the sight of the silver and praised warm-heartedly, Lady, you are so lucky. Your husband is so tall and handsome and shopping with you. Many people envy you. Really? Shi Qingxues eyes lit up instantly, and slyness flashed in them. Perhaps others couldnt notice it, but Mo Junyang was the first one who found her intention. Before Shi Qingxue started to put on a show, he suggested, Lets go. Looking at Mo Junyangs serious face, Shi Qingxue had to unwillingly hold back her words, But I am merely his concubine. She smiled flatteringly and followed Mo Junyang into the crowd. She obediently walked in the streams of people busily coming and going, as her hand was held by Mo Junyang. In the beginning, they just wandered and looked around, but while walking, the two suddenly sped up and flashed when a sedan chair crossed the street. Then they disappeared. After a while, two middle-aged men dressed in clothes made of coarse linen stood in front of the stall where the couple had been. They stood on tip-toed and looked around, trying to find the familiar figures, but there were people everywhere around, and their sight was blocked, so they couldnt find anything. One of the men had a horizontal scar on his face from his right brows to his chin. When he was expressionless, he looked horrible. With a frown, his face was ferocious. He asked the vendor evilly, Where are they? The vendor was more confused than him. Who? Dont play dumb. Tell me! The scar-faced man thought that the vendor didnt tell the truth, so he grabbed the vendors clothes and lifted him. The vendor was scared by his ferocious look, and his neck shrank. He begged for mercy while trembling. Sir, I am just in business on a small scale, and the goods on the stall are not valuable. If you like something, just take it away. Please spare my life. The scar-faced man frowned more deeply and raised his voice. Who wants your rubbish? Tell me the truth. However, the vendor was so scared out of wits by the malicious-looking man that he didnt listen or think. He just begged for mercy. Sir, I really dont have money. If you dont believe me, you can search my pockets. I have said that I dont want your rubbish. You The scar-faced man raised his fists impatiently and wanted to beat him. The man next to him saw that some people around were gesticulating, so he hurriedly grabbed the scar-faced mans wrist, gesturing for him not to be impulsive. Then he talked to the vendor gently. Dont be frightened. We wont hurt you. We just want to ask you where the man and woman standing in front of your stall have gone. Ah? The vendor was put down, and he hurriedly shrank back. Seeing that the man didnt plan to beat him, he was relieved. He thought that it was better to save trouble, so he answered frankly, The couple just looked at the stuff on my stall, and they didnt say that they would buy it. Then they left. Where did they go? the scar-faced man asked in a hurry. The vendor shrank again and didnt say anything. The other man had to push the scar-faced man aside again and ask patiently, Where did they go? Please tell us. However, the vendor looked more hesitant. He cautiously looked at the two men several times and then replied in a low voice, Its not that I refuse to tell you, but there are so many people coming and going on the street. I just saw that they suddenly flashed into the crowd and then disappeared. You want me to tell you where they went, yet I really dont know. Trash! The scar-faced man cursed loudly in a hoarse voice and then looked at the man next to him, asking, We have missed the target. What should we do now? The man frowned and searched the crowd with his eyes for a long time. At last, he had to give up. He sighed in a low voice helplessly. Forget it. Go back first and report it to the boss before we make a plan. Hearing the word boss, the scar-faced man became cowardly and hurriedly waved his hand. If we cant find his residence but return without accomplishing anything, the boss wont spare us. If you want to go back, you can go. Anyway, I wont go back. The man also looked impatient. What do you think we should do? Chapter 387 - Come to Kill Them The scar-faced man hesitated for a moment and then a trick came into his mind. He looked excited surprisingly. He secretly pulled the tall man to an alley and whispered in his ear, How about we go back and tell the boss that they have left Jiangzhou City? Look. Anyway, the boss just doesnt want these people to be in the way. If they leave, wont he be satisfied? The tall man rolled his eyes and rebuked crossly, If you still want to keep your head, I advise you to give up this unrealistic plan earlier. Seeing that the scar-faced man looked at him blankly, the tall man continued to curse, Think about what kind of person our boss is. He has not only two runners, us. His spies are everywhere in the city. Can we fool him by saying only a few words randomly? The scar-faced man remembered their bosss methods, so he was scared and didnt dare to say anything. He just asked in depression, What should we do? Alas, lets go back and report to the boss. Check what plan he has. The tall man sighed helplessly. Nobody knew whether he comforted the scar-faced man or himself, and he said softly, The boss has many spies. We failed, but perhaps somebody makes it somewhere else. Lets go back and see. The two looked at each other in silence and slowly left the empty alley, coming back to the street. After a while, two people walked out from the other end of the alley. They were Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue whom the scar-faced man couldnt see after searching everywhere. Shi Qingxue stared at the two receding figures and asked with a frown, Who do you think their boss is? If Shi Qingxue didnt see the good play after they two hid, she couldnt believe that they were traced. However, it was not logical. They had been in Jiangzhou City for only a few days. Why was there something wrong? Where did they expose themselves? Mo Junyang answered casually, Anyway, its one of the few high-ranking officials in Jiangzhou City. As for who it was, he didnt care at all indeed. Shi Qingxue was affected by his unconcerned attitude and got relieved. She just joked, By the way, you tried every means to disguise, yet it doesnt work. We have been here for only several days, but we were almost caught. Gee. She intentionally showed disdain because she wanted to tease Mo Junyang. However, the man didnt fall into her trap but responded indifferently, Since we have chosen to get ourselves into trouble, such an accident is under control. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Mo Junyang said it vaguely, while she still noticed it. He obviously said that if they didnt look for trouble as they saved Ye Zhixin, the people in Jiangzhou City couldnt find their disguise. Shi Qingxue pondered for a moment, and in the end, she had to admit that Mo Junyang might be right. What do you think we should do? Go back and throw away Ye Zhixin? Shi Qingxue asked gloomily. Mo Junyang shook his head this time. It is fine if we have thrown her away earlier, but now since somebody provoked, it will be fine as we have a bargain chip. Shi Qingxue was rendered speechless again and felt uncomfortable for no reason. She thought that she was not merciful, and she just saved Ye Zhixin conveniently. She wouldnt put herself in danger because of a strange girl. She wasnt so kind-hearted. Even if Mo Junyang told her to go back and throw away Ye Zhixin, she wouldnt hesitate. In fact, Mo Junyang didnt care about this supervisors daughter. However, the man looked indifferent and didnt take an outsider as a person, which made her uncomfortable. On the one hand, Shi Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang didnt have mercy because of his living environment of two lives, and even in his eyes, all people were just bargain chips, while on the other hand, he made her feel at a loss. If there was a word antisocial in this era, Shi Qingxue would use it to describe Mo Junyang without hesitation. The cold-blooded, violent, cruel and indifferent personality the man showed was antisocial. Shi Qingxue thought that she was a normal person, so she couldnt accept something like this. She displayed a complicated expression and stared at Mo Junyang for a long time, while he couldnt understand what she was thinking about. However, Mo Junyang was always expressionless. Even though he was doubtful, he just frowned slightly and asked impassively, Whats wrong? Nothing. Qingxue shook her head subconsciously. After pondering for a moment, she sighed with emotion half-genuinely. Fortunately, you love me, and I love you, too. She said that in a low voice like murmuring, yet Mo Junyang heard it clearly. He still didnt say anything but kept a poker face as always, while there was softness in his eyes obviously. They stood opposite to each other for a while, and then Mo Junyang pursed his lips. Lets go back. Shi Qingxue nodded with flagging interest and returned to their house with Mo Junyang. As soon as they entered the courtyard, Wei Ziye reported happily, Ye Zhixin has woken up. Really? Its great. Shi Qingxue finally got joyful and wanted to ask Ye Zhixin, but after she took one step, she looked back at Mo Junyang. She asked hesitantly, Do you want to ask her about something? Mo Junyang still shook his head and replied softly, Its not the right time now. When would be the right time? When Shi Qingxue had this question in her brain, there was a knock on the courtyard door behind them. The three were stunned and looked at the door alertly. The door was still being knocked slightly on and off, which showed the comers indecisiveness. It must be fine. Go to open the door, Mo Junyang ordered simply. Wei Ziye walked to the door gently and suddenly pulled the door open after the next knock. The person who knocked at the door next to it couldnt keep his balance but rushed in. Wei Ziye swiftly lifted the comers back collar and then dragged him to them. The comer was short, as tall as Wei Ziyes chest. When he was lifted, he was like a beast which would be killed and looked pitiful, with no power to fight back. Why did you come? Wei Ziye saw the comer clearly and asked with a frown. Shi Qingxue was wondering why a little boy came here. Hearing Wei Ziyes question, she asked curiously, Ziye, who is this? Wei Ziye replied, I went to a clinic to find a doctor for Ye Zhixin, and this is the young disciple in that clinic. It was still a child, yet Wei Ziye was hard-hearted and didnt show mercy when he took actions. He glared at the young disciple coldly, and the latter shouted at once, begging for mercy, Sir, please spare my life. I came to send a message to you specially as my boss ordered. What message? He said that some people from the government have spied on you, and they will come to capture you soon. Please go out of the city to escape as soon as possible, the young disciple stuttered and finished his words with difficulty. He was lifted and felt unwell, while under Wei Ziyes ferocious eyes, he didnt dare to struggle but peeped at Shi Qingxue from time to time. He showed a pitiful expression in his eyes. Shi Qingxue could certainly understand that the boy knew that she might be soft-hearted so he asked her for help. However, thinking of the purpose of this boys arrival, she still reminded Wei Ziye out of kindness, Ziye, put him down first. Wei Ziye naturally wouldnt disobey Shi Qingxue. He loosened his hand and the young disciple fell on the ground, staggering before standing steadily with difficulty. Shi Qingxue asked, Why did your boss tell you to send us a message? She didnt believe that a free meal would fall on her. The old doctor was afraid of the people from the government evidently and helped them save Ye Zhixin in secret, which was a taboo. He didnt report to the government probably because he didnt want to get himself into trouble, but he sent a message to them, which was too much. The young disciple didnt dare to hide it from her, so he responded honestly, My boss is afraid that you will expose him after you are captured, so he wants you to leave Jiangzhou City as soon as possible and go away as far as possible. The answer was snobbish yet frank. Mo Junyang suddenly asked, How did you find this place? The other two finally realized that Wei Ziye carried Ye Zhixin to see a doctor in the clinic and then took the medicinal herbs back, decocting them at home. Logically, the people in the clinic must not know where they lived. At the mention of this matter, the young disciple couldnt help but show a complacent expression on his face. Aha, Sir, you know what? Jiangzhou City is big, yet all the neighbors are acquaintances, and as a young disciple in a clinic, I often send medicinal herbs to the customers and wander about the streets. I dare to brag that there is no family that I dont know in this city, but I have never seen you before, so you must have come lately. I asked the neighbors earlier and knew that this house was bought by a stranger more than ten days ago, so I can guess most. Shi Qingxue and Wei Ziye were dumbfounded, and even Mo Junyang couldnt help but look at this young disciple several times. After Wei Ziye was stunned for a moment, he turned pale and suddenly knelt in front of Mo Junyang. I didnt do a good job. Please punish me, Master. The young disciple praised himself for a while and felt complacent, and he was relieved, yet he saw that Wei Ziye who looked ferocious was so obedient to this tall and big man, so he looked at Mo Junyang a few times curiously. Unfortunately, the tall and big man stood in front of him and blocked his sight immediately. The invisible oppression made him have no courage to gasp, and he felt more scared than before. The tall and big man didnt say anything but even rewarded him with a silver ingot and told him to go, yet the young disciple didnt feel less frightened because of this. The young disciple didnt dare to stay but ran away faster than a hare. Seeing that Wei Ziye was still kneeling and refused to get up, Shi Qingxue stared at Mo Junyang. This man didnt blame Wei Ziye, but he didnt say anything. Did he think that all people could read his emotions like her? Qingxue sighed and decided to be a good person. She bent over and helped Wei Ziye up while explaining for Mo Junyang, Dont worry. Your master doesnt blame you. No matter how thoughtful you are, you may make mistakes by accident. Moreover, how can a normal person be so meticulous? To be honest, what the young disciple said was obvious, yet Qingxue thought that even she might not guess it. Wei Ziye refused to get up. Even though Qingxue said a lot patiently, he just lowered his head and pursed his lips. His only words were, Please punish me, Master. Shi Qingxue could do nothing to him. At the moment, the courtyard door was pounded heavily. Chapter 388 - Attack Fiercely The knocks on the door were like breeze and drizzle, while the pound on the door this time was like storm. It seemed that the door was being punched. Shi Qingxue was astonished and didnt want to comfort Wei Ziye anymore. She turned to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyangs face darkened, and he ordered Wei Ziye, Get up. Go and open the door. Wei Ziye was stunned for a while and then finally stopped being stubborn. He pursed his lips and got up from the ground silently. Then he strode to open the door. Shi Qingxue looked at him and complained like joking, I comforted him softly, but it didnt work, while after you ordered him coldly, he listened to you unexpectedly. Its too much. Mo Junyang was rarely in high spirits and wanted to chat with her. Even though the door was pounded heavily from outside, he still whispered, He is more flexible than Zichao apparently and does things at will, yet he is stubborn, and if he believes something, the others cant stop him easily. If it was not under this situation or Mo Junyang didnt order him, Wei Ziye might still be kneeling and refuse to move. Wei Ziye thought that they were exposed because he was thoughtless, so he punished himself in such an obstinate way. Shi Qingxue uplifted her brows in surprise and didnt know if she should be surprised at Wei Ziyes stubbornness or Mo Junyangs interest in telling her something like this. However, after she was surprised for a little while, the courtyard door was opened, and a group of people dressed in government workers clothes rushed in, surrounding them. The one in the front was a burly man. He was tall and big, looking ferocious. As soon as they came in, he ordered in a husky voice without greeting them, Capture them. Mo Junyang stood in front of Shi Qingxue, and Wei Ziye unsheathed the long sword, standing before the two, shouting in a cold voice, I am going to see who dares to move. The government worker in front must be the leader. He had a broadsword on his waist. Obviously his broadsword was much inferior to the famous sword in Wei Ziyes hand. He glanced at Wei Ziye with fear but was unwilling to admit defeat. Then he raised his chin and tried to show his momentum. Dont disturb us when we are working for the government. Shi Qingxue grabbed Mo Junyangs arm and poked him slightly to show that she was fine. Then she popped her upper part from behind him and looked at that leader. Sir, what makes you come to work in our house? The leader showed a stiff expression and spoke with justice. Somebody reported that a prisoner wanted by the imperial court is kept secretly here, so we came to capture her. If you are sensible, just give her to us. Otherwise, dont blame me when my sword is blind. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but snort, asking in reply at leisure, A prisoner wanted by the imperial court? The highest-ranking official in Jiangzhou City is the magistrate, merely Rank-5, yet he can give an order for arrest on behalf of the imperial court? You are talking big. The leader was embarrassed by her ridicule, and his expression stiffened. He couldnt speak a word. Although before he came, he had heard that the identity of the people in this house might be unusual, either wealthy or noble, he didnt take it seriously. He had thought that no matter how noble they were, they were merely common people and would be cowardly under the pressure of the government, while it was just a young lady but with such great insight. Under his threat, she could find fault with his words in good order, so he didnt dare to slight her. Nevertheless, as the leader of the workers of the prefecture chief, he would never show the white feather in front of a girl. You are a girl. What do you know about the affairs in the government? If you are sensible, give the prisoner to us, and I may let you go. Otherwise, I will put all of you in prison! the leader said arrogantly and waved the broadsword in front of Shi Qingxue to threaten her. It seemed that he dared to do something to Shi Qingxue. It was Shi Qingxues first time to be threatened in this way, and she wasnt afraid but thought that it was fresh. She looked at the leader curiously and asked, Its stipulated in the laws of Mo Country that when the workers from the government capture somebody, they must show the notice that the government wants him, with the prisoners name and related items recorded in it, and the county magistrate or higher-ranking officials should sign it personally. You came with bare hand now. Do you know that I can issue you in the government and make you lose your official position? This leader had been working for so many years, but perhaps it was his first time to hear that somebody accused him of not following the laws and wanted to issue him. Moreover, this damned girl was quite familiar with the laws in Mo Country and said clearly and logically in good order. The leader certainly knew that what Shi Qingxue had said was right, while in fact, who would do their jobs according to the inflexible laws? If they followed the standard procedure, they wouldnt finish it until one or two days later. What was more, the county magistrate and the other officials had so many jobs to do every day. It would be nice if they showed up in the government at ordinary times, so how would they stay in the government and wait for the subordinates to ask them to sign? If the county magistrate went out to travel for ten days or half a month but a prisoner ran away, would they solve the case? Who would take the responsibility? The leader had been working for so many years and had never followed the standard procedure, yet he gained the position as the leader. However, Shi Qingxue said to his face that his behavior was against the law of Mo Country. He was rendered speechless and couldnt help but become angry from shame, glaring at Shi Qingxue fiercely. We are working for the government. Why do you, a civilian qualify to comment on us? Somebody, come to capture these ruffians. The workers from the government rushed up in a crowd at once. Shi Qingxue stood still as Wei Ziye and Mo Junyang were here. As soon as the workers raised their broadswords, they were kicked away by Wei Ziye. Wei Ziye was unusually brave, as if to correct his fault. He didnt give Mo Junyang a chance to show his power but beat down the workers trying to attack Mo Junyang. Looking at the workers rolling all over the ground, Shi Qingxue felt that it was laughable. Seeing that the leader was scared by Wei Ziyes braveness and his legs and hands were trembling, Shi Qingxue smiled fascinatingly and pretended to be surprised, asking, Ah! All your people were beaten down. What should you do? The leader lost the valiant momentum and had to struggle with anger, shouting, You are so bold. You dare to go against the government, and you will come to no good end. Wait and see. After speaking, he seemed to be chased by a dog and ignored his people, running out in panic. The rest workers saw that their leader ran away, so they supported each other and fled. Shi Qingxue was amazed to see that and then laughed happily. Yo! These are soldiers in Jiangzhou City. I will laugh my head off. They ran away so quickly. If the Shi Army were here, they might be killed even if they had nine heads. Mo Junyang scratched her hairy head and stated unhurriedly after she stopped laughing, Its not safe here now. Lets pack up and go away right now. Wei Ziye paused for a moment and instantly realized that his master said that to him, so he answered in a deep voice hurriedly, Yes. Shi Qingxue also understood that this matter probably wouldnt be over, yet they came to Jiangzhou to investigate the case. Where could they go? Would they return without accomplishing anything? Mo Junyang noticed her doubt and comforted her in a soft voice. Dont worry. We wont leave Jiangzhou City. We will go somewhere else and hide for now. They would avoid the sensitive issue and then wait for an opportune moment to act. It was a good countermeasure. Shi Qingxue nodded knowingly. Perhaps because Mo Junyang was around her, she didnt worry or fear but joked with him in high spirits. Gee, I thought that with your character, you would confront it when something like this happened, and you wouldnt choose to hide with a grievance. Mo Junyang raised his dashing eyebrows slightly and then responded, Gee, I thought that with my wisdom, I wouldnt be so stupid as to confront it to make others plot against me when something like this happened. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She was retorted with the same words, and she immediately realized that her doubt made somebody unhappy. She hurriedly showed a flattering smile and expressed in a sweet voice, Yes, yes. Sir, you are smartest and most capable. You have the situation well in hand and can win others one thousand miles away. You have never been defeated Qingxue tired her best to rack her brains and said all the words of praise she could think of, but when she was speaking with interest, she saw that Mo Junyang turned pale suddenly. Then she felt that her waist was tight, and she was held to dodge to the left side. Then with a whoosh, a sharp arrow rushed to the place where they had stood and inserted into the ground. Shi Qingxues heart beat fast, and she couldnt feel whether she was more scared or excited. She had only one thought in her brain, They have finally come. However, before she had a chance to feel it clearly, dense sharp arrows were shot to them like rain. Mo Junyang quickly drew the soft sword which he seldom used from his waist and waved it nimbly. He beat all the arrows attempting to attack them to fall on the ground and protected Shi Qingxue as the second defense, looking for a hideout. They soon retreated to a big tree in the courtyard. Mo Junyang made Shi Qingxue lean against the trunk and then stood in front of her, continuing to wave the sword and block the sharp arrows flying to them. Although most of the arrows werent shot to them, under the dense attacks, no matter how capable Mo Junyang was, he couldnt sustain himself after a long time. Shi Qingxue was anxious but could only pinch her palm hard, stopping herself from speaking to distract Mo Junyang. When she was at a loss, Wei Ziye rushed out of the room and resisted most attacks for Mo Junyang. The three retreated to the room temporarily. The room door was closed, while the sharp arrows from outside were shot to the door and then fell on the floor, with cracks. Master, what should we do now? Wei Ziye asked anxiously. Although he thought that he was excellent in martial arts, when there were many enemies and the other party had potent firepower with long-distance attacks, he didnt dare to brag. The people outside were cruel and evil and would achieve their goals by hook or by crook. If they wanted to protect themselves, perhaps they could do nothing but give Ye Zhixin to the enemies. Anyway, Ye Zhixin was just a minor official supervisors daughter, good for nothing. They didnt need to put themselves in danger for such a girl. Chapter 389 - Give Her to Them First Hearing Wei Ziyes thought, Shi Qingxue shook her head without thinking. No way. Wei Ziye got anxious and said loudly, My Lady, its not the time to be kind-hearted. We cant even save ourselves. Why would you be a good person? You thought that Shi Qingxue was stunned for a moment and then realized that Wei Ziye misunderstood her. Although she had many reasons to convince Wei Ziye, it was not the right time to argue. She paused for a while and then said, Just have a try as you said. Wei Ziye was overjoyed and prepared to pack up Ye Zhixin and send her to the people outside. Unexpectedly, he showed his intention to make peace, while the arrows from outside didnt stop, but more and more came. It was obvious that the attackers wanted to take their lives. Wei Ziye finally realized the reality and thought about how Shi Qingxue behaved. Then he understood everything. Shi Qingxue denied his proposal not to save Ye Zhixin, but she knew that the people outside were cruel, and it would be useless even if they gave up Ye Zhixin. The enemies wanted to kill them to keep the secret. Wei Ziye cursed himself secretly as he was stupid and then apologized to Shi Qingxue guiltily, My Lady, I Shi Qingxue interrupted him in advance and said softly, No need to talk about this matter. Lets figure out how to escape. She understood what Wei Ziye thought about and even knew the evil intentions of the people outside. She didnt stop Wei Ziye from talking with them because she had some cockeyed delusions. It was no wonder that Wei Ziye had this thought. She pondered for a moment and then turned to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang kept silent all the time since just now. Even though this man didnt like talking, his behavior was abnormal. Mo Junyang felt her eyes and smiled at her, saying softly, Dont worry. We will be fine. He said that with certainty, and it seemed that he didnt realize that they were almost driven to a corner. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She didnt know what she could say to express her helplessness. Wei Ziye also looked at Mo Junyang anxiously and asked, Master, what should we do now? Please give instructions. Although their door had been reinforced by Wei Ziye specially and couldnt be destroyed easily, under the dense attacks of the sharp arrows, it wouldnt sustain itself for long no matter how solid it was. After the sharp arrows penetrated the door, it would be their turn to become hornets nests next. Mo Junyang just looked at the door and said unhurriedly, No hurry. Wait a moment. Shi Qingxue and Wei Ziye were speechless. Judging from Mo Junyangs casual expression, it seemed not sword rain outside but a shower, and he was the person listening to the rain behind the door. There were too many to be commented on, and Shi Qingxue didnt know how to complain. At the moment, the solid wooden door finally couldnt stand it. A sharp arrow suddenly penetrated the door and came in. However, this arrow lost most impact force because of the door plank. Before it flew to Shi Qingxue, it fell on the floor. What a close call! She was more scared than hurt. Shi Qingxues heart beat fast, and she didnt think that she was lucky. This arrow didnt fly to them, but perhaps the next one Qingxue gritted her teeth secretly and prepared to stress the seriousness of the matter to Mo Junyang again, but something magical happened. The cracks from outside disappeared at once, and it was so quiet that even the sound of a needle falling on the floor could be heard. However, Shi Qingxue didnt get relieved but became more nervous. The arrow rain stopped. Didnt it mean that a more horrible attack was waiting for them? Dont be afraid. Mo Junyang noticed Qingxues restlessness and held her in his arms gently, indicating that she could relax. Shi Qingxue finally found that Mo Junyang was more relieved than before, as if he werent trapped. Even though Mo Junyang was always calm, he was too conceited as he didnt care. Next second, the room door was pushed open all of a sudden. Shi Qingxue shrank by instinct and then heard a familiar voice. Qingxue, I came to help you. Qingxue turned her head, to see that Mo Junzhan rushed in joyfully and ran to her with a big smile. Your Highness? Shi Qingxue shouted in a daze, still with a surprised and bewildered expression. In fact, she was confused. Why was Mo Junzhan here? The people following Mo Junzhan were Wei Zichao and the others who parted with them and came here. Seeing Mo Junyang, all of them knelt down. Master, we came late. Please forgive us. Mo Junyang waved his hand and gestured for them to get up, asking, Where are the people outside? They have been captured and tied up outside by His Highness, me and the others. Please give instructions, Master. Wei Zichao pointed to the door. Mo Junyang walked out and saw that more than ten people dressed in government workers uniform were tied up and thrown in the middle of the courtyard. Next to them were the seized bows, arrows and some unused gunpowder. It appeared that these people had many back-up plans. Mo Junyang sneered and drew a long sword from a guards waist conveniently to lift one worker from the government. Who told you to come? The bright sword blade was close to that workers neck, and he was so scared that he swallowed repeatedly and didnt dare to hide anything from Mo Junyang. He stuttered, The magistrate told me to Shi Qingxue had known that the officials in Jiangzhou City wouldnt let them live in peace here these days, while she hadnt expected that they would be almost killed only a few days later after they entered the city even though they were so low-key. She wanted to praise the magistrate who was so bold. However, before they asked more, a loud voice came from outside the courtyard. The magistrate has come. Then a few soldiers with broadswords on their waists came in one after another and surrounded all of them along the wall of the courtyard. A minor official, Rank-5 magistrate showed up in a big way, like the emperor. Before they saw the person, they heard a lofty voice. Who is so bold as to disturb the workers from the government when they are working? Do you want to die? Afterward, a middle-aged man with an officials hat dressed in official uniform with wild bird pattern walked in surrounded by many people. This man was not tall but a little fat. The wide official uniform couldnt hide his slightly prominent belly, and it made his imagine supposed to be majestic look swollen. Perhaps he was used to assuming great airs of authority for a long time, and his expression and posture showed the sign that he was a beast in human clothing. It was Shi Qingxues first time to see an official who almost showed the word scoundrel on his face, and she couldnt help but laugh. This official was the famous magistrate in Jiangzhou, Yan Xu. He instantly felt that he was offended, so he glared at Shi Qingxue ferociously and rebuked in a loud voice, You have stayed alive for long enough. You dare to laugh at me. Somebody, capture her. As soon as he ordered, the guards brought by Wei Zichao and the others showed their sharp swords at the same time before the soldiers took actions. Mo Junzhan put the sword on the magistrates neck and snorted coldly. How dare you try to harm Qingxue? I think that you dont want to stay alive. Yan Xu had been the magistrate in Jiangzhou for so many years and become a tyrant in this area. Others were afraid of him to the bone, and he was threatened in this way for the first time, but his life was under Mo Junzhans control. His momentum was much weaker, and he just goggled, shouting at Mo Junzhan incoherently, How dare you! II am an official sent by the imperial court, but you dare to offend me. Arent you afraid that your head will be cut off? I am going to see whose head will be cut off sooner. Mo Junzhan snorted and turned to Wei Zichao. Take out the imperial edict. Mo Junyang came here certainly after Mo Junyu gave him the imperial edict, but in order to disguise himself more thoroughly, he gave it to Wei Zichao in the beginning. Wei Zichao had never taken out the imperial edict all the way and didnt know why the ninth prince knew that it was in his hands. He was stunned and peeped at Mo Junyang, while the latter didnt say anything. Mo Junzhan glared at him, so Wei Zichao had to take the imperial edict out of his pocket. As soon as Yan Xu saw the bright yellow imperial edict, he knew that he had offended somebody that he couldnt afford to. Before Wei Zichao read the imperial edict, Yan Xu knelt down and kowtowed to beg for mercy. I didnt know that you came from afar. I am sorry that I didnt welcome you earlier. Please forgive me, Your Excellency. Ah? Mo Junzhan was astonished and then realized that Yan Xu took him as Mo Junyang. When he was about to explain, a big hand was put on his shoulder, and a distant voice came from behind. Lord Yan, you have come, right? The welcome is really unusual and has widened the horizon of His Excellency and us. Mo Junyang cut in. Mo Junzhan was not stupid. He immediately realized that Mo Junyang planned to make the best of a mistake. Logically, Mo Junzhan was certainly unwilling to be ordered by his rival in love, but Shi Qingxue winked at him. The ninth prince pondered for a moment and decided to show respect for Mo Junyang. He snorted and didnt retort. Yan Xus blood froze because of the sarcasm and Mo Junzhans disdain. He apologized repeatedly, I am just anxious to capture the prisoner, but I disturb your residence unexpectedly. Please spare me because I did it for the public interest, Your Excellency. Although he apologized, it revealed that he performed his duties in his words, and he didnt do anything wrong. Mo Junyang uplifted his brows and sneered. So you mean that His Excellency disturbed you when you were working? The workers from the government broke into a civilians house without saying anything in advance, and they tried to kill the innocent people after they were driven away. Is this the attitude you should have when you are working? The imperial court spent so much money and provided for you, making you fat just to let you kill anybody randomly and ignore the common peoples lives and property? The reproaching voice was louder and made Yan Xu unable to speak a word. He had sweat all over his head and looked pale, trembling, as if he would fall on the floor next second. A young man following Yan Xu supported him in time from behind and said in a low voice, Lord Yan was merely afraid that the prisoner would run away and it would make the common peoples lives and property suffer great losses and arouse panic, so he was anxious for success. Please forgive him, Your Excellency. His words made an accusation of ignoring the common peoples lives become hard efforts to consider for the people. He was really talented. Chapter 390 - The Conjecture Close to the Truth The person who begged for mercy for Yan Xu was a tall and thin man. He was well-featured and looked calm, speaking straightforwardly, which made him appear to be stiff. With Yan Xu, a big guy in front of him, this man looked more inconspicuous. In the beginning, even Mo Junyang didnt notice him. However, as the man begged for mercy smartly and spoke unhurriedly, Mo Junyang knew that this was not an ordinary man. Mo Junyang thought for a while but didnt show anything on his face. He just asked indifferently, Who are you? The man cupped his hands respectfully and greeted, My Lord, my name is Xiao Qijun, a private adviser of the magistrate. A private adviser? Mo Junyang repeated Xiao Qijuns official position but didnt say more. Then he retreated to stand behind Mo Junzhan silently and continued to be invisible. Nevertheless, his momentum was too powerful. Under his reproach, Yan Xu shrank like a coward and almost cried to call his parents. Even though Mo Junyang stopped talking, Yan Xu didnt dare to gasp. He peeped at the masters from time to time and waited for instructions while trembling. Those soldiers working for him didnt dare to move a bit. For a moment, the courtyard fell into weird silence. Mo Junyang and his people didnt speak, so none of the people from the government of Jiangzhou dared to move. Mo Junzhan waited a moment but nobody spoke, so he scratched his head in surprise and looked at Shi Qingxue, asking silently, Qingxue, what should we do now? Why was it silent suddenly? What should he do? Shi Qingxue waited a while. Seeing that Mo Junyang didnt plan to say more, she had to take the job to interpret. Fine. His Excellency is tired after a long journey. Lord Yan, since you came to welcome him in person, you must have arranged for him, right? Yan Xu heard that Mo Junyang planned to let him go, so he was overjoyed and answered in a hurry, Of course, I have arranged for him earlier. Although my mansion is shabby, not as good as the mansions in the capital, you can stay there. Please dont dislike it, Your Excellency. Mo Junzhan didnt want to stay in the magistrates mansion. He would be surrounded by servants and have no freedom. However, Shi Qingxue had agreed for him, so he had to follow Yan Xu and go to his mansion. When they prepared to walk out, with a creak, the door of the guest room in the courtyard was pushed open. A young girl supported the door and walked out with a pink coat wrapped around her shoulders. She was pale and looked as if she was weak and confused after she recovered from a serious illness, but her brows looked stubborn, and it seemed that she wouldnt give up until she achieved her goal. Ye Zhixin struggled to get up after she woke up from a coma, and her courage was admirable. However, she woke up at the wrong time. All people looked at her, and she became a target for all at once. Shi Qingxue specially looked at Yan Xu several times. This magistrate in Jiangzhou was able to control himself. He just glanced at Ye Zhixin and then lowered his head. Meanwhile, the soldiers working for the government under the command of Yan Xu were not so restrained obviously. All of them looked at Ye Zhixin excitedly, like evil wolves staring at their prey, afraid that others didnt know that this girl was their target. Fortunately, they were sensible and didnt beat Ye Zhixin stupidly when the imperial envoy was present. They lived in peace for a moment. Shi Qingxue glanced at Wei Ziye, and the latter instantly walked to Ye Zhixin, pushing her into the guest room without demur. Since she was a good bait, they should hide her first. Then Yan Xu invited the imperial envoy and the others to the mansion. Mo Junzhan had his carriage, so he refused to get into Yan Xus carriage and insisted on asking Shi Qingxue to go with him. Mo Junyang didnt say anything but followed them and got into the first carriage. Qingxue, why should we stay in that magistrates mansion? As soon as Mo Junzhan got into the carriage, he asked with displeasure. He asked Shi Qingxue, as if Mo Junyang who made this decision were invisible. Shi Qingxue was speechless. The two men almost had no contact earlier, and compared with the other princes, Mo Junzhan had never offended Mo Junyang. Why did they ignore each other while sitting together, as if there were deep hatred between them? You Shi Qingxue asked tentatively, but obviously, the two men didnt plan to explain. She sighed helplessly and answered Mo Junzhans last question. We came to Jiangzhou City in order to investigate what happened here. If we dont go into the lions den, how can we find what the main officials plan to do? They tried to kill them regardless of anything. Shi Qingxue was more curious about the secret hidden behind Ye Zhixin. Mo Junzhan didnt have an interest in thinking about something unimportant but snorted unhappily. You are right, yet what does it have to do with you telling me to disguise as him? His identity was obvious. Even if he wasnt the imperial envoy, would Yan Xu dare to neglect him? Why would he disguise as Mo Junyang? It has nothing to do with that. If you think that you cant be a good imperial envoy, lets tell Yan Xu after we reach his mansion, Mo Junyang responded slowly and looked emotionless. It just aroused Mo Junzhans emulation. Mo Junzhan almost jumped up. He goggled at Mo Junyang and said furiously, Who said that? I will do a good job and let you see. Shi Qingxue was speechless. This provocation was too obvious, but Mo Junzhan fell into the trap. The simple-minded Mo Junzhan had never expected that Mo Junyang made this arrangement because he wanted somebody to distract the attention to him, and then he could map out a strategy in secret. Meanwhile, Shi Qingxue had complex feelings as she saw that Mo Junzhan was fooled. On the one hand, Mo Junzhan was her good friend, and it was not her style to stand by and watch her friend being bullied; on the other hand, Mo Junyang did that in order to find out the dirty tricks in Jiangzhou City, and she couldnt expose the other party considering the public and private interests. Shi Qingxue couldnt say anything but had to comfort Mo Junzhan for Mo Junyang and teach him what he should and shouldnt do in front of Yan Xu. After all, most of the time, Mo Junzhan liked to go against Mo Junyang no matter whether it was right or wrong. The carriage reached the magistrates mansion and the three decided their identity for now. Mo Junzhan would disguise as the imperial envoy, King Ruis heir from the capital far away, while Mo Junyang was an assistant inquiring about in advance for him. Yan Xu arranged rooms for all of them, which occupied a big single house in the backyard of the magistrates mansion. Magistrate Yan invited them in and wanted to flatter them to make up for his fault. Unexpectedly, Mo Junzhan didnt have the patience to deal with the way of the world. Moreover, he was used to being arrogant as if he were second to God, so he didnt accept Yan Xus flattery. As soon as he reached his temporary residence, he told the guests to go away without demur. I Ahem! Shi Qingxue coughed loudly and interrupted Mo Junzhan. Mo Junzhan realized that he was King Ruis heir. You dont need to hold a banquet to welcome me. I am tired now and want to have a rest. Lord Yan, please go back. Magistrate Yan prepared many words but had to hold back. He couldnt say anything, so his old face was livid. However, since King Ruis heir said that, even though Yan Xu cursed in secret that this imperial envoy was too conceited, he had to answer respectfully on the surface, Your Excellency, please have a rest. After you sleep, lets talk about the banquet to welcome you. Mo Junzhan waved his hand to drive them away and didnt want to say anything unnecessary to Yan Xu. Yan Xu bowed and left, returning to his house. As soon as he entered, the leader Tian Ping who led the workers to capture them in the small house was waiting for him in the room. After seeing Yan Xu, Tian Ping immediately knelt down and greeted, My Lord, nice to see you. Yan Xu snorted and cursed loudly, You are a bunch of bums. I spent so much money in providing for you and made you so fat. I just told you to do something for me, but look, what have you done? Facing Yan Xus flames of fury like storm, Tian Ping couldnt help but argue in a low voice, I really sent some people to investigate in the clinic and Beipo Town, and the tall and big man must be the imperial envoy. I thought that you fear this man so much, so if I killed him, wouldnt I remove the hidden trouble in your heart? Did you remove it? Yan Xu asked in reply coldly. Tian Ping was speechless for a moment. Then he said with a grievance, I almost made it, yet somebody came during the period and helped them out of a predicament. Fine. You have messed it up. Dont say anything useless. Tian Ping, you brought trouble on yourself this time. I didnt do a good job. Please punish me, My Lord. Tian Ping admitted his fault more quickly than anybody else. Yan Xu didnt plan to comfort him but sighed in depression. King Ruis heir is so scheming. All people thought that he would disguise as a civilian and enter the city secretly, while nobody expected that he would act in contravention and walk in openly. Moreover, he controlled the time so well and caught all of us. He is really Not to mention anything else, if the imperial envoy sued him for what happened today, Yan Xu would suffer a lot. Yan Xu had been an official for decades smoothly, but now he suddenly faced an unprecedented crisis, so he was in panic. Tian Ping was confused while listening to Yan Xus murmur and asked softly, My Lord, do you think its possible that we are fooled now? Yan Xu paused for a moment and looked at Tian Ping. What do you mean? The imperial envoy did enter the city sneakily, and he is the big and tall man we have spied on, but in order to fool us, he intentionally told a servant to disguise as him, so he can distract our intention? Tian Ping spoke out his conjecture hesitantly. He didnt know that he told the truth unconsciously. However, as soon as he finished his words, he was restless. Would the magistrate approve of his words? Chapter 391 - People Matter or the Stuff? Hearing what Tian Ping said, Yan Xu was solemn as expected and he stared at Tian Ping as if deep in thought. Tian Ping had never been stared like this, and he was embarrassed. He rubbed his hands and asked in a low voice, Sir, I You told me that the man who attacked us in the first place is the real King Ruis heir? Yan Xu straightened out Tian Pings information. Tian Ping nodded repeatedly and said, Yes. Didnt you find the imposing momentum of the so-called assistant? If he werent in a high position for a long time, how could he get such momentum? His heart was still fluttering with fear when he remembered the moment he was confronting the man. Yan Xu thought according to Tian Pings words and nodded approvingly. He was about to express his approval but stopped on second thought. He asked abruptly, If it were like what you said, then who was pretending to be the imperial envoy? Lord Yan kept in mind how he ground his teeth in anger for the insolence of the man. If he were not the imperial envoy A cold light flashed in Yan Xus eyes. Tian Ping didnt think that far. He replied without thinking, A servant maybe. Maybe he is an assistant of King Ruis heir. They exchanged their identity. No way! An idea suddenly struck Yan Xus mind. His expression changed, and he denied Tian Pings speculation. Youre wrong. The one in the guest room is by no means a simple assistant. The way he put on airs, the way he held himself aloft from beginning to end, and he has never changed anything even when he faced the man you regard as King Ruis heir. He must have been in a high position for quite some time, and be used to behaving with unbearable insolence. If not, it is impossible for him to act like that. Yan Xu could guarantee with his sharp eyes which had been trained for over ten years. He would never fail to see it if it were a servant pretending to be King Ruis heir. Tian Ping thought for a while and agreed what Yan Xu said was reasonable. The so-called King Ruis heir was so real. It was impossible for common people to put on the imposing elegance and the arrogance in his gestures and expressions. At this moment, the two had never thought of another possibility. There might be more than one imperial envoy, and there was another man who was more privileged than the imperial envoy in some aspect. Mo Junzhan just played himself and never pretended to be another person. Thus no matter how sharp Yan Xus eyes were, it was impossible for him to tell the difference. In this way, Tian Pings speculation, which hadnt come into shape, was put aside. The two of them perfectly excluded the right answer. Obviously, compared with the imperial envoy, Yan Xu worried more about Ye Zhixin beside the imperial envoy. He asked with knitted eyebrows, Have you found the thing I asked you to find? Tian Ping had to shake his head and explain with blue fear, I dont know how she made it. We were going to catch her, but she disappeared in the blink of an eye. The stuff Crap! cursed Yan Xu angrily. But he was aware that it was useless to blame Tian Ping now, and hed better rack his brains for a countermeasure. Seeing Yan Xus face turning deathly pale, Tian Ping asked in terror, Sir, do you think that woman has handed the stuff to the imperial envoy? Yan Xus face froze for a moment and then turned relaxed again. Shaking his head, he said, No! If King Ruis heir has received it, he wont be as calm as he is now. Then that woman must have hidden it somewhere, said Tian Ping confidently. Yan Xu agreed with him. Fortunately, shes already here. We cant kill her above board. You know what to do, right? Do you need me to show you? Tian Ping was a little puzzled and wondered what the magistrate wanted him to do. He hesitated and asked in a low voice, Shall I send someone to kill her secretly? His head was knocked heavily the moment he finished his words. Yan Xu cursed loudly again, How about killing you? Why do I keep so many idiots around? Tian Ping was so embarrassed that he stood aside meekly and dared not contradict. He waited until Yan Xu vented all his anger and asked again on the jig. Yan Xu couldnt do anything about Tian Pings stupidity. I just want you to find a chance to warn Ye Zhixin, letting her know what she can say and what she cant! But she has the stuff and will come after you! Wont I shake the bush to rouse the serpent if I go to talk with her? Yan Xu sneered, Now you know what is shaking the bush to rouse the serpent? Tian Ping touched the back of his head and chuckled innocently. He thought that Yan Xu was praising him. Yan Xu was rendered speechless by him! She is in the mansion now. The serpent has been roused and you dont have to rouse it again! Tian Ping said again, But Im afraid that she wont listen to me! If Ye Zhixin were easy to speak with, she wouldnt run counter to them in the first place. Since Ye Zhixin had run away with the stuff, she must prepare to report Yan Xus misdeed with it. The imperial envoy was just in front of her, and she wouldnt waste such a precious chance. But Yan Xu laughed weirdly and said slowly, I dont think so! Tian Ping looked at him in a puzzled look and didnt understand what he meant. Go and talk to her. Dont say too much. Let the rest alone! Yan Xu was not in the mood to explain to Tian Ping. After instructing Tian Ping what to do harshly, he drove him out. Wei Ziye took Ye Zhixin to the magistrates mansion. He took care of her in person and never let anyone else touch her everyday food and clothing. He didnt worry that someone would come to kill her at this moment. After all, the imperial envoy got the evidence that Yan Xu planned to silence Ye Zhixin. If she lost her life here, Yan Xu would have to quit his job for real. In this way, Yan Xu should be more anxious about Ye Zhixins safety now. However, when the obstacle was clear, there was a new problem here. After reviving from her coma, she couldnt talk anymore. She didnt become dumb pathologically. She could say Thank you, and she could ask for food when she was angry and for water when she was thirsty. Her body worked well and she behaved like a normal person. But once Shi Qingxue asked why she fell unconscious on the roadside, she would keep silent. If Shi Qingxue pushed harder, Ye Zhixin would look at her sorrowfully and the desperation in her eyes was so obvious. It looked as if Shi Qingxue had a stony heart if she went on asking. Shi Qingxue had to stop compelling her. She called Wei Ziye out alone and asked, What made her like that? When in the small yard, she dragged her sick body out and the determination in her eyes was so strong. It was just a short time, but why did she change into another person? Wei Ziye yelled that he was wronged. I have no idea too! The day before, she murmured that she was going to find her iron box. You know, the master told me to put it away, so I told her that I didnt see any iron box when I picked her up. And? Shi Qingxue asked hastily. And her face turned pale at once as if her father were dead. Wei Ziye talked too freely. He knew nothing about taboo and never pitied anyone. Shi Qingxue was struck dumb. She thought the people under Mo Junyang were amazing. They were all capable, but at the same time, they were all sort of indifferent. It was highly possible that they learned it from their master. Qingxue thought for a while and asked again, What else did you say? Wei Ziye thought about it and said, I told her that were in the magistrates mansion, but she made no response and stopped talking. Im afraid that the magistrates mansion was a deadly punch! What? Wei Ziye didnt catch her. He saw Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang look at each other and smile, but neither of them explained it to him. He then asked, What shall we do next? Shall we protect Ye Zhixin? Mo Junyang nodded and replied, Yes, you need to always keep an eye on her. Wei Ziye waited for a while, but heard no further order. He felt his capacity was disdained. He couldnt help but ask, Is there anything else? Shall I get something from her mouth? He thought it was too simple for him to protect a woman. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows with a spurious smile and said, You can try if you wish. After Wei Ziye accepted the order and left, Shi Qingxue asked, What do you prepare to do? Normally, Ye Zhixin is the best breakthrough, but why do I feel that youre going round the sun to meet the moon? She had no idea what Mo Junyang was thinking about. Mo Junyang smiled slowly and said, Do you? Can you tell me what I can do to a woman who doesnt talk? Shi Qingxue was chocked and got nothing to say. She thought it over and agreed to Mo Junyangs conclusion. Ye Zhixin might know lots of things and it was possible that she was the key figure. But if she didnt talk, it would not be different whether they had her or not. In another way, they were more passive, because they had to dispatch their strength to protect her. Do you have any other clue? Shi Qingxue thought of another possibility. She kept a close eye on Ye Zhixin, because Jiangzhou seemed to have restored to the scene before the disaster. Although it was still depressed, everything seemed to develop in the right direction. But it was not sufficient to declare Yan Xu guilty. But it was also impossible for Shi Qingxue to believe that Yan Xu was innocent. So the problem was where the evidence was. Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang anxiously, but the latter was calm. She suspected that he had got a solution. But Mo Junyang failed to meet her expectation this time. He shook his head and said, No. But you Shi Qingxue became more anxious. Mo Junyang interrupted her anxiety and explained slowly, I cant figure it out, but the solution will send itself to our door soon. What do you mean? Mo Junyang kept her guessing and said, Wait and see. It wont take long! Chapter 392 - People of the Same Taste It didnt take long for Shi Qingxue to know what was happening. She had planned to get to know the situation in Jiangzhou unnoticed before taking any action. However, as long as Mo Junzhan was here, it would be impossible for them to be unnoticed. On the second day Mo Junzhan stayed in the magistrates mansion, he made a splash to thoroughly investigate the accounts of Jiangzhou. It looked as if he were sure that the magistrate of Jiangzhou had filled his own pocket by taking bribes. He was so arrogant that he was afraid that people did not want to kill him. Instead, Mo Junzhan worked energetically and assumed the posture of making people think better of him. Shi Qingxue didnt know how to talk to him but had to send Wei Zichao to protect him closely. She was afraid that Mo Junzhan would get near to the truth, which was almost impossible, and then Yan Xu would do something desperate and go to silence them again. Mo Junzhan might be good at leading the army to fight, but as for intriguing against others, he was completely outgunned. Yan Xu was able to let him die in line of duty without a trace. Shi Qingxue would never let such things happen, so she secretly prohibited Mo Junzhan from leaving the mansion. Mo Junzhan was a restless person, but he listened to Qingxue, so he stayed in the mansion obediently and didnt go out. Bored, Mo Junzhan intensified to upset the people in the mansion. In shortly three or four days, the mansion was completely a turmoil because of Mo Junzhan. Although the things didnt go on well, he had become the person that Yan Xu hated most. However, from another viewpoint, since Yan Xu had focused all his attention on Mo Junzhan, things were much easier for Mo Junyang. Sometimes when Mo Junyang went out, Yan Xu didnt care at all and took it for granted that he was bored in the mansion. Everyone was bored! Because of Mo Junzhans hard work, Yan Xu had stayed in the mansion for several days and never walked out of it. It almost kept Magistrate Yan, who used to spend seven or eight days out of ten in the whorehouses, insane. He got a wife and several concubines in his mansion, but they were getting aged and couldnt match the pleasant speech of the women in the land of warmth and tenderness. But now he had to enjoy the sweetness in his dreams. Yan Xu saw Mo Junyang come into the room with frost all over him several times in the morning. He always came up to the young man, patted him on the shoulder and said as he looked at him sympathetically, Its not easy for all of us. When you go out next time, no matter which whorehouse you enter, just tell them that youre my guest. I can guarantee that they will find you a fabulous girl. It will be on me. Youre welcome. Yan Xu showed his generosity to him. Mo Junyangs face turned cold. Shi Qingxue was passing speechlessly. As Yan Xu was talking, the figures of the girls came into his head and he put on a lascivious smile on the corner of his mouth unconsciously. He exchanged his experiences with Mo Junyang cheeringly. Let me tell you. Xiang in Spring House gets the best voice and her songs are mild and touching. Cui in Swallow House gets the best curve. Mei in Plum Blossom House smells fragrant all over Lord Yans eyes sparkled as he talked about the women in the whorehouses, and he was very familiar with them all. But he failed to notice Mo Junyangs eyes becoming more and more impatient. On the other side, Shi Qingxue knew things would be out of hand as she saw the cold face of Mo Junyang. Regardless of whether it was proper for her to show up, she rushed up to them. Lord Yan, she shouted loudly, which interrupted Yan Xus long monologue. Yan Xu cast an unpleasant glance at Shi Qingxue at first and found that her eyes were on Mo Junyang from time to time. Lord Yan suddenly felt himself enlightened. He chuckled and said, Nice to meet you, Miss Shi. Id better leave you two alone. See you later. His eyes ran from Shi Qingxue to Mo Junyang like a thiefs and the weird smile before he left made Shi Qingxues flesh crawl. Shi Qingxue kept silent for a long moment. When the two went into the room, she smiled helplessly and asked, Where have you been these days? Mo Junyang didnt go out during the day but at night. It was natural that the outsiders misunderstood him. Qingxue didnt think that way, but she was curious about what Mo Junyang was doing recently. Nothing. Mo Junyang shook his head with an expression that he didnt want to talk. Shi Qingxue froze for a moment and stopped asking. Then she briefly told him what Mo Junzhan had done these days. She said, His Highness really made a noise and Im afraid that he has roused the serpent, but I dont know what they will do next. Mo Junyang knitted his eyebrows at first but then soothed slowly. It wont take long to know. Men were farsighted on many things, and it was no exception this time. The next day, Mo Junzhan came to the two of them excitedly with an account book, claiming that he got a great discovery. Take a look at this, Qingxue. The imperial court allocated over five thousand dan of grain for this flood and the grain was transported to Jiangzhou in batches. But look at the expenditure records of Jiangzhous granary. Add all the records up, and youll find there is less than twenty-five hundred dan, not to mention five thousand! Mo Junzhan was excited when he talked about his discovery, and he added in the end, Early in the morning, Wei Zichao and I went to the Jiangzhous granary, and found that it is almost empty. It may meet the daily expenditure of Jiangzhou, and is impossible to relieve the people in disaster! So somebody must have taken the grain away secretly. Shi Qingxue flipped the account book while listening to Mo Junzhans explanation. A moment later, she asked, Who do you think dare to keep the disaster relief grain issued by the imperial court? Mo Junzhan replied without any thinking, The supervisor is in charge of the accounting in the city. Its hard to tell who did it now, but the supervisor can hardly absolve himself from it. Shi Qingxue put on an understanding look and told Mo Junzhan a truth slowly. Jiangzhou supervisors present whereabouts are unknown now. He must flee for fear of being punished. As long as we can catch him, we will get to know the truth as plain as daylight. Mo Junzhans eyes flittered excitedly as if he had found the best solution. Shi Qingxue was rendered helpless by his excitement. She sighed, Let alone that the supervisor has disappeared over half a month, and if he really fled, weve lost all the traces to find him. Jiangzhou only is so large. Where do you think we can find him? How can we find him easily? Mo Junzhan was rendered silent by Shi Qingxues question after question. He hung his head and asked unpleasantly, What do you say? Shi Qingxue also put on an awkward look. Although she could accurately point out the shortcoming of Mo Junzhans solution, she couldnt provide a good solution, either. The situation in Jiangzhou was too complicated and the corruption was not formed in a day or by one person. It was possible that it involved over a half of the officials in Jiangzhou. A slight move might affect the situation as a whole. If they kept doing, it might lead to great upheavals in entire Jiangzhou. Shi Qingxue didnt fear any upheaval, but the key figure in the matter, Ye Zhirong, the supervisor of Jiangzhou, was nowhere to be found. The most important clue disappeared. It would be much harder to find another clue. You can discuss it with Yan Xu. Maybe there will be another clue, Mo Junyang suddenly said. What? Mo Junzhan and Shi Qingxue turned to him at the same time. Mo Junyang had to explain patiently, Jiangzhou supervisor is involved. Do you think Yan Xu, the highest official of Jiangzhou, will know nothing about it? Mo Junzhan was suddenly enlightened, but he felt a little uncomfortable when he saw the confidence on Mo Junyangs face. He retorted deliberately, Maybe the people under him kept him in complete dark! Mo Junyang didnt argue with him at all. He just looked at Mo Junzhan with a spurious smile and the latter felt his face burning. He himself had realized how stupid his words were. But he was not ready to shut up in dejection. He found another reason and said, As you said, Yan Xu is the highest official in Jiangzhou, so he must leave most of the business to the people under him. Even if there was anything bad, he wont do it himself. He wont have vulnerable points that others may capitalize on! I dont think so. Shi Qingxue cut in. She analyzed calmly, We dont have to find their vulnerable points. As long as they let the cat out of the bag, we can follow the vine to get the melon. Maybe the account book is enough! Mo Junzhan was startled. His face hung down immediately. He stared at Shi Qingxue unpleasantly and looked like a boy who didnt get any candy. Why do you help him? Shi Qingxue was completely puzzled by his charge. She just spoke out her thoughts and wasnt partial to anyone. But Mo Junzhan didnt think that way. In his eyes, Shi Qingxue was partial to Mo Junyang if she didnt take his side when he was arguing with Mo Junyang. Mo Junzhan felt his place was threatened. He stared at Shi Qingxue furiously and aggrievedly, as if saying that she had broken his heart and why she didnt come to comfort him at once. Shi Qingxue was completely speechless. She covered her lips with her hands. She tried hard not to laugh but couldnt hide the smile in her eyes. She never expected that she would see such a cute Mo Junzhan again after she was reborn. She missed that feeling and sighed with emotion. She smoothed Mo Junzhans bad mood and explained, Junyang means that your discovery today is important, and only you can let the cat out of the bag. Really? Mo Junzhan was dubious but Shi Qingxue nodded affirmatively. Mo Junzhan believed her explanation at once and felt that he was an adult. Then he shouldnt fuss over every ounce, so he forgave Mo Junyang for being unable to talk nicely. He then expressed in high spirits that he would go to talk with Yan Xu about the account book. Watching Mo Junzhan going away, Shi Qingxue took a look at Mo Junyang who was indifferent the whole time and sighed, Hey, you. Even if he doesnt know, he is your younger brother and is just a kid anyway. Why do you have to care about trifles? As a matter of fact, it was easy to guess Mo Junzhans mind and to calm him down. With Mo Junyangs ability, it was easy to make Mo Junzhan take his side, but why did he have to be cold to that boy? Mo Junyang didnt speak in the first place, and Shi Qingxue had given up the idea of finding an explanation. He suddenly looked at her and asked, Do you want to know the reason? Chapter 393 - The Self-invited Dead Body Shi Qingxue was always generous on such things. If Mo Junyang didnt feel like talking, she would never push him to speak. Because she knew if she insisted on asking, he would never keep her in the dark no matter how unwilling he was. However, she also didnt like him doing things he disliked because of her. It was rare for Mo Junyang to be in the mood to explain, so she nodded repeatedly and said, Yes, yes! Will you talk? At first, Mo Junyang just looked into her eyes seriously but he looked away a little embarrassedly. A long moment later, it seemed he finally plucked up the courage. He said in a hoarse voice, Because I hated him for coveting you. What? Shi Qingxue was completely startled by his so-called excuse. She couldnt help laughing and saying, Are you kidding? Mo Junyang knitted his eyebrows and said, You dont believe it, right? Shi Qingxue nodded. Of course, she didnt. The others might become headstrong because of affections, but not Mo Junyang. It would never happen! Shi Qingxue was sure that Mo Junyang was lying for a reason that he didnt want to tell her. Then she said considerately, If you dont want to tell me, just stop talking. I wont force you. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxue for a while and learned she really didnt believe what he had said. He just turned away and stopped talking. Shi Qingxue waited but didnt hear the man speaking. She was very suspicious. If it were not for Mo Junyang looking nothing different, she almost believed that he was at odds with her. The very idea startled her, and she couldnt help laughing again. She imagined how he looked like if he really were mad at her, and there was a smile in her eyes and over her eyebrows. She teased, Can you imagine the day when youre completely frank to me? When will it come? It had nothing to do with trust. If she thought it seriously, they trusted each other very much and wouldnt hurt the other party. However, she might be able to tell her mind, but Mo Junyang A trace of gloom flashed in the mans eyes. He opened his mouth but said nothing in the end. He wished he could tell Shi Qingxue that the reason he didnt like Mo Junzhan was simple and it was because he was simply jealous. He didnt like Mo Junzhan calling her name intimately or getting close to her as a matter of course. But these reasons might look too superficial in Shi Qingxues eyes. Shi Qingxue looked up at him and naturally wouldnt believe the darkness in his heart. So Mo Junyang stopped explaining when he saw that Shi Qingxue didnt believe what he had said. He thought it was not bad if Shi Qingxue looked up at him. It is easy to provoke Mo Junzhan, and he will draw a lot of attention if he takes the first action, Mo Junyang said slowly. He didnt cover the truth that he was using Mo Junzhan. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Actually, she was a little guilty. She remembered the words Mo Junzhan said to her a moment ago, Youre partial to him! Until then, she really felt that she had taken Mo Junyangs side. Or she wouldnt stand by and watch Mo Junyang scheming against Mo Junzhan. Fortunately, it wouldnt actually hurt Mo Junzhan. Shi Qingxue heaved a sigh in the end and accepted Mo Junyangs explanation. In the following days, everything was developed as Mo Junyang expected. When Mo Junzhan threw the account book in front of Yan Xu, he didnt lose his mind, but things started to change. Early the next morning, a runner got up and was getting ready for the day. The moment he opened the gate, he saw a pair of naked feet swaying in front of his eyes. The runners eyes were still misty because he just got up. He rubbed his eyes and yawned. He didnt realize what it was at a glance, so he looked up from the feet. There was a corpse hanging on the beam, swaying. The runner could see the weird smile on the face of the female corpse. Oh! The runner screeched and dropped into the ground. He immediately crawled inside on all fours. His screech disturbed all the servants in the mansion, and they got to the gate in knots. They looked at the corpse with pale faces and then at the people around them, not knowing what to do. There were passers-by on the street at this time of the day, and they also noticed the corpse hanging at the gate of the magistrates mansion. Soon, people began to gather there, pointing and talking. Oh, God! Who was that? Why did she hang herself at the gate of the magistrates mansion? She must have no other choice to right a wrong. How nice she looked! Nothing is permanent in life! Wait! Dont you find her familiar? Oh, was she People talked without a stop, and the servants who were frozen came to their senses. They were aware that the magistrate wouldnt let them go if it kept going like this. One of them came to report it to Yan Xu, trembling with fear. However, when Yan Xu got the news and got to the gate hurriedly, Mo Junyang and the others also learned it and did the same. So the two groups of people met again at the gate. Cold sweat broke out on Yan Xus forehead. He dared not say anything to the imperial envoy but had to vent all his anger on his servants. Do you have a brain? What are you waiting for? Go and take it off there! Yes, sir! The servants completely came to their senses. Someone fetched a ladder and they quickly took the corpse off the beam. Then it was put on the floor at the gate and its face was upside. Yan Xu cursed in his mind that they should take it inside and shouldnt embarrass him out there. However, before he blamed them, he saw the face of the corpse. In a moment, his voice seemed to be stuck in his throat and his face turned pale. He pointed at the corpse with his trembling hand. Xiao Qijun, who had been following Yan Xu, asked with concern, Are you okay, Lord Yan? Xiao Qijun didnt try to lower his voice, so all people nearby heard him. Shi Qingxue raised her head to see Yan Xus expression. She cracked a false smile and asked coldly, It seems that you know who she was, Lord Yan. No, I dont Yan Xu retorted unconsciously. But someone behind him said in a puzzled voice, Oh, wasnt it Lord Yes wife? Yan Xu took a deep breath. He turned his head around and cast a furious glance at the servant who talked out of place. No one would take him dumb if he didnt talk. Since the servant had spoken it out, it would be too hypocritical if he said he didnt know his colleagues wife. Yan Xu smiled embarrassedly and took another look at the corpse. Then he said, I didnt pay attention just now, and I just took a close look. Yes, it was Mrs. Ye. Speaking of which, after Lord Ye disappeared, his wife disappeared, too. I thought that he had taken his wife with him, but I Shi Qingxue didnt give him any chance to fudge. She seized the flaw in his words and asked, According to your words, youre sure that Lord Ye left his post without permission during his tenure, Lord Yan. Yan Xu lowered his eyes and denied in an indifferent voice, Im not sure. It is just a possibility. He didnt sound respectful. He had heard the rumor that King Ruis heir was infatuated with Duke Shis daughter, and he lost his head over her. So he treated Shi Qingxue with extra respect. But it was so before he found the affair of Shi Qingxue and the assistant of King Ruis heir. Right now, Yan Xu took it for granted that he had something on Shi Qingxue, He ran his eyes from Mo Junyang to Shi Qingxue meaningfully as if saying, I have known what is going on between you two. If you wish me to keep silent, then you have to shut up first. Shi Qingxue never knew how filthy Yan Xu was, or she hadnt realized that her relationship with Mo Junyang would be unpresentable. She took it for granted that the magistrate of Jiangzhou was rampant and feared nothing. However, Mo Junyang had learned Yan Xus mind the moment he saw his expression. He pulled Shi Qingxue behind him calmly, preventing her from confronting Yan Xu. Then he said in a cold voice, Its time to handle the official business. No matter who it was, it is not proper to lie here. Lord Yan, I advise you to move it away and let the post-mortem examiner check it before discussing how to deal with it. Yan Xu suddenly realized how well the cold assistant knew to watch a persons every mood. He couldnt agree with him more and said, You really know how to deal with business. Its exactly what I am thinking about. Mo Junzhan was dissatisfied as Mo Junyang stole his thunder, but he had no other idea. He turned around and walked away with a sneer. Yan Xu forced a smile to coax Mo Junzhan and hurriedly instructed his servants to take the corpse away. He went back to his room hastily. His smile disappeared the moment he entered the room. He kicked Tian Ping who followed him inside the room without any hesitation. You promised me to kill her! Then why did she hang herself at the gate of my mansion? Yan Xu asked furiously and stared at Tian Ping as if he would swallow him alive. Now that it was exposed, Tian Ping dared not hide anymore. He confessed how he coveted Mrs. Yes beauty and kept her secretly as his exclusive domain, trembling all over. I was haunted by her beauty, and I promise I locked her up safely. No one knows it, but I never expected that she would escape and hang herself at the gate! Tian Pings voice trailed away, because Yan Xus face turned gloomy to the extreme. Yan Xu was so angry that he slapped Tian Ping in his face. He hurled all kinds of abuse. You didnt know how she escaped! I want to ask you the same question! I told you many times to control your desire for women. If you want women, just go to the whorehouse and there are plenty of them. Why did you have to put your eyes on her? Tian Ping smiled embarrassingly and retorted in a low voice, You didnt know how good she was. If you But he kept quiet out of fear as he spotted the furious expression on Yan Xus face. He even dared not breathe heavily. Seeing Tian Pings frightened appearance, Yan Xu was so angry that he wanted to kill him. But he couldnt. So he kicked again and shouted, Get out! Tian Ping went out immediately. Yan Xu felt his head pinched over the mess of Mrs. Ye. Lord Yan, you dont have to be so annoyed, Xiao Qijun suddenly said from aside. He had kept quiet since they got back to the room. Yan Xu hesitated and turned to him. He knew that his private assistant always had a solution. He couldnt wait to ask, What is your suggestion? Chapter 394 - The Murderer Was Not a Human Xiao Qijun smiled at Yan Xu soothingly and said in a soft voice, Its not as tough as you think, Lord Yan. Maybe its a heaven-sent chance to you. Why do you say that? Yan Xu didnt understand what Xiao Qijun was talking about, but he looked at him with expectation. Xiao Qijun said, His Excellency has taken an account book to query you before, and it bothers you, right? Since Supervisor Yes wife happened to hang herself at the gate, why dont we use it as an excuse that it was him who feathered his nest and she killed herself for fear of punishment? Yan Xus eyes were lightened and turned gloomy again. Will they believe it? There were too many loopholes in this saying. Anyone who was not stupid wouldnt believe such a saying. But Xiao Qijun said, The point is not whether they believe it or not, but we need to give them a reason. All you need to do is explain it, not making them believe it. As long as they get no other evidence, they have to believe it even if they arent convinced. Yan Xu thought for a while and found it making sense. As long as there was no evidence, King Ruis heir and his people could do nothing to him except being angry and fierce. And he got another trump card. Yan Xu narrowed his eyes and presented a filthy smile on the corner of his mouth. He never forgot the so-called affair between the wife-to-be of King Ruis heir and the assistant. The two of them behaved quite properly in front of people and it was certain that they dared not let others know it, especially King Ruis heir. He could take advantage of it. If the woman and the assistant could be his informers and work for him, how would the man fight with him? As Yan Xu was immersed in his drifting imagination, he didnt notice the weird smile on the face of Xiao Qijun who lowered his head. Without wasting any time, Yan Xu jauntily called the post-mortem examiner over to find out the truth. However, a servant came to report that the corpse of Mrs. Ye had been carried away by King Ruis heir during the time when he was in his room, and they said that they got someone to check the corpse themselves. Frustrated, Yan Xu smashed the teacup on the table out of anger. But it was not the time for him to lose his temper. He had to go to Mo Junyangs yard hurriedly. He didnt see any post-mortem examiner or corpse there. All the people were sitting in the yard and drinking tea composedly. It seemed that what happened today didnt affect their moods at all. Yan Xu dared not take it lightly. He cast a glance at Mo Junzhan suspiciously and measured Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang with his eyes secretly, but he found nothing abnormal. He had to restrain his wonder and come over to greet. Wish you a good day, Your Excellency! I wonder whether you have found out who killed Mrs. Ye. His tone sounded a bit mocking. He actually did satirize Mo Junzhan. After all, no matter how capable he was, it was impossible for him to find the murderer only by carrying out an autopsy. Mo Junzhan was about to blame Yan Xu for Mrs. Yes death, but was shut up by his words. He stared at Yan Xu, unable to utter a word. However, Mo Junyang replied slowly, Dont worry, Lord Yan. His Excellency has found out the murderer. By then, it was Yan Xu whose back was covered with cold sweat. He raised his head abruptly and stared at Mo Junyang unbelievably. A trace of terror flashed in his eyes and he blurted, No way! Not only Yan Xu but also the other people in the yard all looked at him with an unbelievable expression. They didnt know what he referred to as he said that they had found out the murderer. Mo Junyang ignored their suspicious eyes. He asked in a calm and slow voice, From your reaction, you dont believe that His Excellency is capable, Lord Yan. Yan Xu said on his mind, , I dont! But he spoke out with reverence and awe. I dare not. But who is the murderer? His voice trembled as he said the last word. Mo Junyang seemed to feel that Yan Xu didnt suffer enough. He ran his eyes sharply over him again and again until Yan Xu was about to collapse. Then he showed mercy and began to speak. The murderer is not a human. Pardon? Yan Xu felt his heart was about to jump out of his chest, and he was completely frozen when he heard what Mo Junyang said. He stared at Mo Junyang, unable to come to his senses. The rest of them were almost the same as him. Even Xiao Qijun, who was always calm, raised his head immediately and looked at Mo Junyang meaningfully. What are you talking about? It was Mo Junzhan who asked, but it was the puzzle on everyones mind. Mo Junyang accepted Mo Junzhans anger. He turned to Yan Xu and said calmly, Since the murderer is not a human, it probably has nothing to do with you, Lord Yan. I need to discuss with His Excellency before telling you anything else. What do you think about it? Yan Xu got his meaning subtly that he was showing him the door. But Yan Xu was glad, because he had gotten rid of it without doing anything. Overjoyed, he was not in the mood to think about these reasonable or unreasonable things. He nodded repeatedly and said with relief, Please go ahead, and Im leaving. If youre in need of anything, please let me know! After the words, he called his people hastily and left the place where he was apt to get into trouble. Xiao Qijun followed him at the end and he couldnt help turning his head to look back when he reached the door. But he happened to meet Mo Junyangs eyes. As if stung by something sharp, he was scared and turned away, leaving the yard in a hurry. When they left, Mo Junzhan was unable to stay calm anymore. He pointed at Mo Junyangs nose and asked, Mo Junyang, what are you doing? It was you who asked me to dress up as you to help you investigate the case, but youre helping the Jiangzhou magistrate instead. What are you planning to do? Mo Junzhan clearly felt that he was played around. If it was not for Shi Qingxue who was around that he couldnt say he wanted to quit, he would leave the mess to Mo Junyang directly. He would be still the unrestrained king. After Mo Junyu ascended the throne, Mo Junzhan was not the emperors son anymore but a king now. Because he was not appointed officially, the rest people were used to regarding him as a prince like before. It was much more fun to take his men to tour the scenic spots than to suffer wrong here. Mo Junyang raised his eyebrows and said lightly, Who tell you that Im helping Yan Xu? Do you want to deny it? Mo Junzhan said, grinding his teeth. The old doctor has checked it and said that Mrs. Ye hung herself to death, but you told them that the murderer is not a human. Arent you shielding Yan Xu? Hung herself to death? Mo Junyang repeated what Mo Junzhan had said. Mo Junzhan stuck out his chest immediately like a proud rooster whose tail was touched, but he was still much shorter than Mo Junyang. Yes, yes. The old doctor said so. Mrs. Ye was choked to death. It meant that she was hung over the gate by someone else. Mo Junyang replied with a laugh, Does being choked to death mean being hung? The mark on her neck has told everything. No one can leave such a mark on a dead persons neck. What caused it if she didnt hang herself? Mo Junyang said with a cold face, Maybe it was she who hung herself. No way! No way! Mo Junzhan shouted once, but he heard the same words with his ears and he was startled. He wondered if it was the echo of his words. He turned around and found it was Ye Zhixin, who had been pretending to be weak or really was, who talked. Ye Zhixin leaned against the frame. Her cheeks were pale but her eyes were brimming with radiating vigor. She looked at Mo Junyang and said again with certainty, My mother will never commit suicide. Then, all people came to their senses. Compared with them who had nothing to do with her, Mrs. Ye was her closest family. It might be a long time before the mother and daughter met, but they had to part forever the time they met again. It was making people collapse. Ye Zhixin, the little girl with a poor body, was shaking all over and pretended to be calm, looking at Mo Junyang stubbornly. She spoke solemnly as if she were taking an oath. She looked like the lofty and unyielding plum blossoms in winter. The others might pity the daughter of Lord Ye more or less. But Mo Junyang lacked such feelings. He looked at Ye Zhixin coldly and asked, Why? My mother respected my father most, and loved me most. She would never kill herself before she found my father and me. Its impossible! It must be these scums who killed her! Ye Zhixin couldnt conceal the hatred on her face when she was talking. Mo Junyang was not touched at all. Instead he thought on his mind that what she said was not logic at all. But he wouldnt speak these resentful words out. He seized the point in her words and asked, Who are the scums youre talking about? Ye Zhixin stood dumbfounded. Tears were welling up in her eyes. She looked at Mo Junyang innocently. Her eyes seemed to be complaining that as she had lost her mother, she was miserable, and why Mo Junyang could be so ruthless to ask her questions. Mo Junyang stared at her coldly and his voice was more ruthless. Tell me. It sounded more like an order now. Ye Zhixin didnt know Mo Junyang, nor did she get the feeling that shed better not provoke him now. She lowered her eyes and bit her lips as if thinking about what she should do. In the end, she avoided Mo Junyangs eyes and complained tearfully in a voice that was hardly heard, Sorry, I cant. I really cant. Dont push me. Dont! She cried inconsolably, almost collapsed at last. She was really so inconsolable that even the hardhearted people were moved by her tears. The people around her were all men of masculinity, and they almost lost their head when they saw her crying with a huge grievance. They got a feeling that they were bullying her. Mo Junzhan had never seen a woman who cried like this. He was a little lost, especially when it was Mo Junyang who pushed her like that. Then he became furious and said, Shes just a little girl. Youre a man and why are you so fierce to her? Wei Zichao and Wei Ziye also couldnt bear it, but they kept their identity in mind and dared not say anything. They just focused their eyes on Mo Junyang occasionally and swallowed back the words on the tips of their tongues. Chapter 395 - Absolving Magistrate Yan? Mo Junyangs face didnt change color after Mo Junzhans blame. He squinted at Ye Zhixin coldly. He said coldly, Tears can do nothing. It cant bring your mother back to life or avenge her. Mo Junyangs voice was not loud, but each word stabbed the heart. Ye Zhixin was rendered speechless. She stared at Mo Junyang without a word. Mo Junyang said again, I have given you a chance to tell us the truth, but you didnt out of some unknown reason. The truth is that you didnt tell us anything. Now that youve given up the idea of telling the truth, why do you complain that no one takes revenge for you? Ye Zhixins tears rolled down again. She was helpless and pathetic. I know. I know. But I really cant. I cant say anything! She was bathed in tears and collapsed on the ground. Maybe she was moved by Mo Junyangs words. She didnt expect other people to save her but was immersed in deep despair, unable to get out. Mo Junzhan couldnt bear it, but the cold words of Mo Junyang also woke him up. Ye Zhixin was the one who held the crucial key, but she finally chose to keep the secret. Since she didnt trust them, it would be an imposition if she asked them to help her and to right the wrong for her. But Mo Junzhan was a little dissatisfied and asked with an unpleasant face, Even if she doesnt tell the truth, we can conclude that Magistrate Yan is not a good man based on the information we have got now, and it is possible that he led to Mrs. Yes death. We cant leave it alone! Mo Junzhan was confident that Yan Xu murdered Mrs. Ye. Mo Junyang asked calmly, Any evidence? He got Mo Junzhan here. Mo Junzhan stared at Mo Junyang angrily. If he had any evidence, he wouldnt stand here to talk nonsense with Mo Junyang but would go to arrest Yan Xu instead. Mo Junyang pointed out the fact directly and said, You have no evidence to prove that Yan Xu killed Mrs. Ye, but I have evidence to prove it was not a human who killed her. What? All the people asked in one voice and they looked at Mo Junyang with different degrees of suspicion. Mo Junzhan asked unconsciously, Are you absolving Yan Xu from it? Mo Junyang replied, Im telling the truth. Mo Junzhan sneered, Fine, I want to hear what the truth you mentioned is. Mo Junyang didnt keep them guessing this time. He said in a straightforward tone, Have you noticed the shoes Mrs. Ye wore? The old doctor who came to check the corpse was the one who handled Ye Zhixins illness before, and when he was doing his job, all of them watched from aside. Mo Junzhan knew nothing about postmortem, so he didnt watch attentively. Hearing Mo Junyangs question, Mo Junzhan didnt think much but replied casually, I saw them, just a pair of ordinary embroidered shoes, and you can buy them on any street of Jiangzhou. They are not something valuable. It was rare that Mo Junyang didnt reply. He just looked at Mo Junzhan silently. Of all people here, only Shi Qingxue learned the speechless despair of the man. She explained, Junyang didnt talk about what the shoes are made of. He just wanted you to pay attention to the soles. Mo Junzhan finally had the right attitude. He asked seriously, Whats wrong with the soles? Theyre clean and have nothing on them. There isnt any evidence needing attention, is there? It is suspicious because the soles are clean, Shi Qingxue said closely following Mo Junzhans question. All the rest people were startled and looked at her puzzlingly. Shi Qingxue sighed and explained in detail, It was raining from afternoon until late night yesterday. It was muddy all over the ground, and your shoes would be stained with mud if you put your feet on the ground. Then how could Mrs. Ye come to the gate and hang herself there without staining her shoes? It meant that Mrs. Ye was carried there by someone else and she never put her feet on the ground. Mo Junzhan was suddenly enlightened, but he still felt that Yan Xu was the most suspicious. Even so, it just proves that the gate was not the place where the murder took place. Maybe Yan Xu hung Mrs. Ye somewhere else and moved her there. Then he moved her body and hung it in front of his mansion to let people discover it, right? Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes and continued Mo Junzhans story. Mo Junzhan smiled embarrassingly and stopped talking. Hearing Shi Qingxues words, he learned that his conclusion was sort of absurd. According to your analysis, Mrs. Ye was not murdered by Yan Xu, and it has nothing to do with him? asked Mo Junzhan weakly. Shi Qingxue shook her head again and said, Not exactly. Why? Now we only know that Mrs. Ye was not hung to death at the gate of the magistrates mansion. As for whether she hung herself or someone else hung her, we can put it aside for the time being. For the fact that her body was hanging there at the gate, their purpose is to make us watch Yan Xu carefully and we can conclude that it has something to do with Yan Xu. Shi Qingxue explained the puzzle on their mind little by little. She didnt figure out what role Yan Xu played in the death of Mrs. Ye. At this moment, she cared more about the words Mo Junyang said, why he said that the murderer was not a human, and what he was up to. Mo Junzhan asked the question for Shi Qingxue. He asked, The people who moved the body have sent Yan Xus loophole to us, and theyre giving us a chance to push Yan Xu. Why did you let him go? Who told you that I let him go? Mo Junyang retorted calmly. If you didnt let him go, why did you say that Mrs. Yes death has nothing to do with him? Mo Junyang said with a smile, Even if I can deduce that her death has something to do with him, what can we do? It is just a corpse hanging at the gate of the magistrates mansion. We cant even get to know whether she killed herself or someone else killed her, and can we prove he is the murderer now? Mo Junzhan froze and had to admit that Mo Junyang was right. But he couldnt let it go like that. Someone had sent Yan Xus loophole to their hands, but they had to watch him roam at large. How could he bear it? Mo Junyang cast him a glance and said slowly, Although we cant put Mrs. Yes death on him, it indeed gives us a chance to find out the truth. No matter how she was killed, the murderer cannot be a human. He mentioned it several times as if he were absolving Yan Xu from it, which also puzzled the rest people on the spot. Suddenly Shi Qingxue was enlightened. She said, Not a human? Then her death must be caused by a natural disaster! Right! Mrs. Ye died in the plague in Jiangzhou, Mo Junyang replied with a certain expression. In Jiangzhou, people would turn pale when they heard the word. Even though most of the people there werent from Jiangzhou, they all moved a step back subconsciously to keep a distance from the corpse. Shi Qingxue looked at these people who apprehended danger in every sound and rolled her eyes. She said, What are you doing? The doctor has checked. Mrs. Ye was in good health and she died from suffocating. Mo Junzhan heaved a breath of relief and felt his face burning. He felt that Mo Junyang embarrassed him by mentioning the plague suddenly, so he stared at him angrily and blamed, Jiangzhou was just struck by the plague, and naturally people will be scared of it. It took many efforts to eliminate it, but why do you have to mention such things? Arent you afraid of arousing peoples panic? He would never admit that he was scared because of his cowardice. Shi Qingxue sniggered and immediately pretended to be serious. She said, We wont let the people know and it is enough for the magistrate of Jiangzhou to know it. He wont believe it. He wont believe it. Two people spoke at the same time, and the ones who talked surprised the rest people. One was Ye Zhixin who they ignored because she refused to tell them the truth, and the other was the old doctor who they invited over to check the corpse. The two of them looked at each other after speaking and hurriedly looked away as if they were startled. They all shut up, lowered their heads and pretended to be wooden men. Why doesnt Yan Xu believe it? Shi Qingxue asked as she ran her eyes over them suspiciously. The two just kept their silence and refused to talk. It was clear that they knew the inside information that the others didnt, but they just kept quiet. They were asking for trouble for the rest of them. Shi Qingxue was helpless and didnt bother to push the two. She said to Mo Junzhan who was still puzzled, Relax, we dont need Yan Xu to believe us, and all we need is an excuse. An excuse? Mo Junzhan was even more puzzled. A right and proper excuse to investigate the plague of Jiangzhou. Mo Junyang spoke it out slowly and calmly. Mo Junzhan then realized that Mo Junyang made so much trouble to investigate the plague of Jiangzhou. He didnt understand and asked, The plague was a natural disaster. No one knew where it came from. Why do you have to investigate it? Besides, it was the duty of doctors to cure the sickness. Why did they have to get involved? Shi Qingxue shook her head, Not exactly. It started from the flood caused by continual heavy rain. The plague burst out in the middle, which added the peoples misery and made things more complicated. Since we want to make clear the puzzle, we naturally have to investigate the most mysterious plague. How will you investigate it? Mo Junzhan believed Shi Qingxues conclusion. He didnt doubt anymore but came straight to the point. Shi Qingxue sneered, It was calm before, and if we want to investigate the plague, Yan Xu will say that were asking for trouble. But now since the plague is making a comeback, it wont do if they stop us from investigating. These days, something was troubling Shi Qingxue all the time. Generally speaking, since they had conquered the natural disaster, especially something terrible like the plague, the magistrate must be so proud and would take credit for himself from the imperial court. But Yan Xu didnt. More than that, he never mentioned the plague in Jiangzhou in front of them. It was too suspicious. Shi Qingxue got a strong feeling that the plague would be a good breakthrough to reveal the secrets of Jiangzhou. But none of them had expected that the breakthrough almost took the life of one of them. Chapter 396 - Internal Conflicts After knowing their purpose, Mo Junzhan cooperated with them perfectly. On the same day, he told Yan Xu that Madam Ye had died of the epidemic. Even though Yan Xu said that the epidemic in Jiangzhou City had been eliminated, Mo Junzhan insisted on this fact and arbitrarily demanded investigating the epidemic in the city. His reason was sufficient. You cant even give us a final prescription. How can you have the face to say that the epidemic has been eliminated? Yan Xu was rendered speechless by the question. When the epidemic here was the most serious, nearly one fourth of the people in Jiangzhou City died. However, it seemed to prove the saying that things always reversed themselves after reaching an extreme. In a short time, the epidemic became weaker and was eliminated unexpectedly in the end before there was medicine. Many people survived for no reason. It was like pennies from heaven, and all people were overjoyed and forgot everything. Who would investigate the height from which the pennies had been? However, Mo Junzhan had nothing to do but bother about this matter. Yan Xu was anxious and had sweat all over his head again, so he hurriedly summoned his assistants to discuss the countermeasure. Nevertheless, after talking for a long time, none of them could figure out a practical way. Yan Xu was so angry that he goggled. Yan Xus direct subordinate, the county chief in Jiangzhou, Yin Liangzhi didnt know why Yan Xu was anxious. He advised indifferently, Lord Yan, the epidemic has been cured without medicine. Nobody can explain what happened. His Excellency insists on wasting his energy on this matter, and you have to let him investigate it. If he concentrates on the epidemic, wont it satisfy us? Yan Xu frowned and goggled, rebuking crossly, What do you know? The epidemic is finally forgotten, so we can relax a little, yet he mentioned it again. If they find that secret after investigation, you and I will be beheaded. Lord Yan, the epidemic came weirdly and cant be cured. All the doctors in the city could do nothing but watch the people infected die. This is what you, I and Lord Wu know. What do you need to worry about? Yin Liangzhi said meaningfully. Till now, Yin Liangzhi didnt think that Mo Junzhan and the others could find something after investigation. They would just waste time and give them convenience. Since Yin Liangzhi mentioned the inspector in Jiangzhou, Wu Xiong, Yan Xu got nervous yet soon calmed down. He said casually, Lord Yin, you are right, but dont forget that since the imperial envoy came to our city, Lord Wu hasnt shown up. At the mention of this, Yan Xu was displeased. The highest-ranking official in Jiangzhou City was the magistrate Yan Xu, Rank-5 and the next was the inspector Wu Xiong, sub Rank-5. Then the Rank-6 supervisor Ye Zhirong and the Rank-7 county chief Yin Liangzhi were inferior. Logically, Yan Xu was the one in charge, but Wu Xiong was a military officer and controlled the military power in Jiangzhou, with much actual power. Therefore, Yan Xu had to care about Wu Xiongs thoughts most of the time and was cowardly as a magistrate. Hearing Yan Xu complain about Wu Xiong, Yin Liangzhi instantly pretended as if he didnt care about anything irrelevant. He smiled flatteringly after Yan Xu vented his feelings. Lord Yan, relax. King Ruis heir wont make big trouble. Moreover, they dont let you go, but dont you have the evidence against them? Yan Xu paused for a while and looked up at Yin Liangzhi. What do you mean? My Lord, you know what I mean. Yin Liangzhi showed a knowing smile yet didnt expose it. Yan Xu stared at Yin Liangzhi for quite a while, while the latter kept his composure, which made him unable to say more. Fine, I cant rely on you in this thing. Go back first and do your own jobs. He waved Yin Liangzhi away. Yin Liangzhi stopped advising Yan Xu and bowed before saying goodbye. He left the magistrates mansion and went into a carriage. The carriage crossed the lively streets and the peddlers cried their wares on the streets, with the voices drowning the moving sound of the carriage. Nobody would find that somebody else besides Yin Liangzhi was sitting in the carriage. As soon as the curtain of the carriage was put down, Yin Liangzhi stopped acting lazily like he had done in the magistrates mansion. He looked serious and bowed to the person inside. That man waved his hand and asked in a cold voice, Whats up? My Lord, just as you predicted, His Excellency and his people pay attention to the epidemic and Yan Xu cant keep calm now. I am afraid that he will confront Mo Junyang in no time. Yin Liangzhi said calmly and asked hesitantly in the end, I am puzzled about something. Please explain it to me, My Lord. Whats the matter? My Lord, you have known that the King Ruis heir staying in the magistrates mansion is somebody else who disguises as him, while the assistant is the right person. Why didnt you tell Yan Xu about it? Once Yan Xu knew Mo Junyangs real identity, he would surely be alert to that man instead of paying all his attention to Mo Junzhan like now, which gave Mo Junyang an opportunity that could be made use of. That official raised his indifferent eyes and cast a sidelong glance at Yin Liangzhi. After a long while, he said unhurriedly, A useless person doesnt deserve my concern. Didnt you covet his position all the time in the past? Why do you care about him today? Do you remember that he promoted you and want to advance and retreat with him? Hearing the sarcasm, Yin Liangzhi felt a shiver down his spine. He was clear about his bosss cruelty and knew that the advance and retreat he mentioned was only retreat. If he nodded at this time, he would end up with the same as Yan Xu, a useless person. Yin Liangzhi hurriedly knelt in front of him and expressed his loyalty. I have only one boss, you. I am loyal to you and have never betrayed you. Please observe clearly, My Lord. After he said that while trembling, he raised his eyes and peeped at the man who sat straight. Seeing that the bosss expression didnt change, he was relieved a bit and continued, I just think that Yan Xu is a suitable pawn. If you can make use of him thoroughly, it will be more helpful to your great cause. That mans piercingly cold eyes fell on Yin Liangzhi. After a long time, he smiled faintly. Of course, I believe that you are loyal to me. Dont worry. As long as you work for me, you will gain profit after we make it. Thanks for your kindness, My Lord. The conversation between the two submerged in the busy streets, and nobody knew it. Yan Xu didnt know that his fellows schemed against him behind his back but concentrated on figuring out how to cope with King Ruis heir. Before that, Yan Xu didnt take this King Ruis heir seriously. He had just taken him as a tourist in Jiangzhou and planned to deal with him randomly. Till Mo Junzhan wanted to investigate the epidemic, Yan Xu got alert. In the beginning, Yan Xu frowned and thought hard. Suddenly, an idea flashed in his brain, and he had a sly smile at once. Dont you have so much time to bother about me? When you have internal conflicts, I will see if you have time. In the afternoon, Shi Qingxue rarely didnt do anything. She quietly sat in the pavilion in the backyard alone and stared at the lotus blossom in the pond, in a daze. Whats on your mind? A familiar voice came from behind, and the warm breath surrounded her at the same time. Before looking back, Shi Qingxue knew that the comer was Mo Junyang. She let herself fall into Mo Junyangs arms and leaned against him with a comfortable posture. Then she said, Nothing. I have just found that the lotuses are beautiful and bright, different from those I saw in the past, so I stopped and watched them. Mo Junyang followed Shi Qingxues eyes, to see that the lotuses in this pond were not the common white lotuses but gorgeous pink lotuses. However, they were a bit different from the ordinary pink lotuses. The color of the petals of the pink lotus in the other places was even, while the petals of the lotus here were red like blood, and the color became lighter gradually to the tip. The color of the tip became light pink like the white lotus. The gradual change in the color was rare. So Shi Qingxue couldnt look away from them after a glance. Mo Junyang watched the lotuses in the pond with Shi Qingxue. Although King Ruis heir wasnt interested in such fragile little things, when the girls soft body was in his arms, he was satisfied. They sat there quietly for a while, and then Shi Qingxue stopped concentrating on the beautiful lotuses. She asked, What have you found when you investigate the epidemic? Mo Junyang answered, We just checked the records about the epidemic and the number of people who died of the epidemic. How many people are there so far? Nearly fifty thousand people are recorded, but Mo Junyang hesitated for a moment and then added, In fact, its uncertain. Shi Qingxue turned to him and asked in confusion, Why is it uncertain? Mo Junyang held Shi Qingxue more tightly and then explained in a soft voice, The small towns and villages seldom contact the government because of the poor transportation, and they didnt report the newborn babies to the government, so the number of people recorded by the government in some areas is the statistics more than ten years ago. They just did it in order to cope with the inspectors from the superior government, and it is not so accurate. Moreover, the epidemic spread rapidly. If one person is ill, it may spread to the whole village, and none of them will escape by sheer luck. Even though after the epidemic, the government gave the official notice that all the villages and towns should report how many people died or survived, if all people in a village died, they might be forgotten in the history and nobody would find it. Shi Qingxue felt sad even when she was listening. She couldnt help but ask, What do you plan to do? She knew nothing about the epidemic, and it was more proper to say that this epidemic disappeared than to say that it was eliminated. Since it could disappear for no reason, would it incite trouble and create confusion for no reason again? Chapter 397 - We Should Act Like Clandestine Lovers Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue fell into silence and just hugged each other. They had nothing to say. Look, look. What have I seen? A sarcastic voice suddenly came from behind them. They looked back, to see that Yan Xu stood behind them and smiled at them obscenely. Shi Qingxue wasnt used to showing affection in front of others, so she got out of Mo Junyangs arms in a hurry and looked at Yan Xu with a frown. However, in Yan Xus eyes, her normal behavior showed her guilty conscience. Yan Xu had a brighter smile. Isnt it improper that you show affection as if nobody were around? Although Shi Qingxue was bold, she blushed shyly as somebody pointed it out directly. She goggled at Yan Xu with displeasure, Its none of your business. Even though she behaved openly, the people in Mo Country were open-minded, and she was engaged to Mo Junyang, so it was understandable that they were close to each other occasionally. How would Yan Xu qualify to comment? However, Yan Xu uplifted his brows and asked with a forced smile, So arent you afraid that somebody else will know it? Shi Qingxue didnt know that Yan Xu thought that she dated the assistant of King Ruis heir in secret, so she was confused after hearing his words. So what? It was Yan Xus turn to be surprised at Shi Qingxues boldness. He turned to Mo Junyang and asked with a snort, So you dont care at all, My Lord? Perhaps Mo Junyang was the only person present who knew what they were talking about, but he didnt tell Shi Qingxue that Yan Xu thought that they had an affair, nor did he explain their relationship to Yan Xu. He just glanced at Yan Xu coldly and said impassively, Lord Yan, what do you want to say? Just say it directly. Yan Xu finally nodded with satisfaction and thought that this assistant was sensible. He coughed loudly and cleared his throat before saying, In fact, its no big deal. Both of you are trusted most by His Excellency, so you must be able to persuade him not to waste time on the epidemic. Just let bygones be bygones. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She opened her eyes wide in disbelief and thought that she misheard it. Otherwise, how would Yan Xu be so bold as to demand them not to investigate the epidemic to their faces? Didnt he confess without torture and tell them that there was something fishy about the epidemic in Jiangzhou? Was Yan Xu stupid? However, before she spoke out what confused her, Mo Junyang grabbed her arm from behind. Shi Qingxue understood it and didnt speak. Meanwhile, Mo Junyang asked in reply casually after listening to Yan Xu calmly, What if His Excellency insists on investigating the epidemic? Dont blame me if I cant keep it a secret. Yan Xu threatened him. He was sure that the assistant didnt dare to reveal his affair with Shi Qingxue, so he held the trump card in his tone. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang wasnt threatened by Yan Xu but shrugged and said indifferently, Lord Yan, you have the freedom to say anything that you want, while if His Excellency wants to do something, its his decision, and nobody can interfere. His hidden meaning was that he didnt accept Yan Xus request to make a deal. Yan Xu got livid at once. He didnt believe that this man dared to refuse him, so he gritted his teeth involuntarily and said cruelly, Dont regret it. Mo Junyang stopped talking, yet his indifferent expression told Yan Xu clearly that he wouldnt regret it. Yan Xu was so angry that he turned to leave. Junyang, whats wrong with Yan Xu? Shi Qingxue still didnt understand why Yan Xu had the courage to swagger before them. Mo Junyang conveniently rubbed Qingxues head and burst into laughter, asking in reply, How do you think he regards our relationship? Isnt it obvious? You are my fiance. Shi Qingxue answered and took it for granted, but after speaking, she suddenly realized that he was not Mo Junyang now, while she was still Shi Qingxue. In another word, in others eyes, she and Mo Junyang were Qingxues big eyes suddenly lit up, like bright stars. The normal people would be angry and even lose temper when others thought that they dated a man in secret. Unexpectedly, Shi Qingxues pretty cheeks became red, like two fresh red tasty apples. Mo Junyang had guessed that Shi Qingxue wouldnt get mad after knowing the truth, but her abnormal behavior made him curious. What did you think of? Shi Qingxue blinked at Mo Junyang slyly and intentionally lowered her voice, whispering, Is it like the saying that the wife is not as important as a concubine and a concubine is not as important as a clandestine lover? As expected, its more proper for us to act like clandestine lovers. Mo Junyang was speechless. He didnt know what his future wife was thinking about and how she got this great conclusion. She acted as a wife who was not favored and then was addicted to playing the role of a seductive and beautiful concubine who deluded her husband. Now she even wanted to have an affair. He had no idea what Shi Qingxue would do if he allowed her to continue to mess around. Even though Mo Junyang was always calm, he didnt dare to indulge Shi Qingxue in playing around. He cleared his throat and looked serious, rebuking in a low voice, Enough. Stop playing around. His soft tone with indulgence wasnt like a reproach at all. Even the ordinary people wouldnt listen to him, let alone Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue stuck out her tongue naughtily and said with a flattering expression, I didnt play around. I did it because the task needed it. Havent you seen that I achieved the goal that I wanted after I said that? How can you say that I was playing around? You have gone too far. In the end, Qingxue pouted and censured Mo Junyang for blaming her wrongly. Mo Junyang was unable to reply. The man sighed helplessly with love and yielded first, comforting her. Yes, yes. I said something wrong. You didnt play around. You did it in order to puzzle the enemies, not for fun. He said that like joking. Shi Qingxues ears moved and her face stiffened. She pretended as if she didnt notice the meaning in Mo Junyangs words. Then she took it for granted and nodded. Right, I didnt do it for fun. Her tone was certain and bold with sufficient reasons. However, Shi Qingxue probably thought that her behavior was shameless, so she changed the subject at once. Fine, stop talking about this matter. From Yan Xus anxious reaction, we can see that the epidemic in Jiangzhou City was not so simple, and it must have something to do with him. When the epidemic started to spread here, the people from Jiangzhou sent letters to the imperial court to ask for help several times, and the imperial court gave them money and medicinal materials without hesitation, but in the end, so many common people died of the epidemic. These corrupt officials must have made a lot of money because of the natural disaster. Shi Qingxue was more resentful. Since ancient times, there were many hardships when there was a natural disaster. It meant that facing the natural disaster, the common people had to suffer from it and the deeper exploitation from the government. The dual oppression could force people into a desperate situation. Yan Xu tried so hard to avoid the epidemic case, and he must have filled his private purse because of it and ignored the common peoples safety. Shi Qingxue wasnt stingy to conjecture Yan Xus evil intentions with the most malice, but she still didnt know that what he had done was far beyond her imagination. She wholeheartedly wanted to drag down Yan Xu, so You didnt say how you plan to investigate the epidemic. Mo Junyang pondered for a moment and then joked. Dont you have an affair with me? He has the evidence against us. Arent you afraid that he will tell His Excellency on us? Shi Qingxue was ridiculed and blushed, snorting with displeasure. I am talking business with you. Stop joking. Say it now. What do you plan to do next? We will investigate what Yan Xu fears. Mo Junyang gave an answer unhurriedly. Shi Qingxue wanted to ask more, while Mo Junyang held her hand and pulled her into the room, saying, Fine. Put it aside for now. I will keep an eye here, and it can be solved. If you have time, how about you copy some information for me? Whats it? Shi Qingxue was pulled to the chair and had a seat. There was a stack of letter paper on the desk. Mo Junyang moved some scrolls from the bookshelf, with some peoples names, addresses, birth dates, dates of death and so on densely recorded in them. Qingxue turned some pages conveniently and then understood that it was the information about the common peoples life and death in this area recorded by the government. She checked and found that most people died of the epidemic recently. The information was recorded clearly, so Shi Qingxue didnt know what Mo Junyang wanted her to copy. Mo Junyang explained carefully, The government recorded it in chronological order, but I need the information about the people in a small area. It means that you need to count and sum up the people who died of the epidemic in the scrolls. Then you have to sort out the dead people in each area in chronological order. This is a big job. You No problem, Shi Qingxue answered quickly before Mo Junyang finished his words. She smiled at Mo Junyang brightly and said with relief, Its a piece of cake to me. Ill show you. After speaking, she grabbed a brush pen made of weasels hair. She checked the scrolls and recorded at the same time. Mo Junyang wasnt idle. When Shi Qingxue was recording, he checked the information about the people in the same area for her. They cooperated with each other with high efficiency. When the sun moved to the west in the evening, the two had finished the information about the people in some bigger villages next to Jiangzhou City. Shi Qingxue finally put down the brush pen and waved her numb arm. When she was writing, she didnt feel it. After she finished writing, she found that her right fingers were not hers. They were sore and numb, and she felt bad. However, she didnt want Mo Junyang to worry about her, so she just waved her hand casually and relieved the sore arm. Then she endured it and didnt move a bit. But her action couldnt escape from Mo Junyangs eyes. Let me see your hand. The man grabbed her right palm without demur and rubbed her slender fingers gently with his warm fingers. Shi Qingxues fingers were fair-skinned, beautiful, smooth and tender, yet because she had written for a long time, the digital joints had become red. Mo Junyang couldnt help but frown. He suddenly regretted his decision and changed his mind. I remember that Dong Shuang can read, and its not a hard job. Let her do the remaining job. Shi Qingxue refused without thinking. I have finished half of it, so it will be the most efficient if I do it. Moreover, Dong Shuang is careless. Even if you trust her, I will be worried once you give this job to her. She had guessed that Mo Junyang left the job to her most because he didnt trust others. Now he changed his mind just because he didnt want her to be tired. Qingxue was moved, but she had to insist on taking this job. Seeing that Mo Junyang rubbed her hand gently, she showed a smile and played the woman. Rub it for me, and then it wont hurt. Chapter 398 - Reveal the Identity Mo Junyang raised his eyes and glanced at Shi Qingxue, with ridicule in his stiff expression. Shi Qingxue was so shy that she wanted to withdraw her hand. I havent rubbed it enough. Dont move randomly. Mo Junyang grasped her hand and didnt give her a chance to dodge. Shi Qingxue pouted and whispered resentfully, I didnt ask you to do this. Mo Junyang chuckled. Right. I volunteered to do this, okay? In the end, he even kissed the back of the fair-skinned hand gently. The warm feeling made Qingxues heart beat fast, and her face blushed in an instant. She questioned while stuttering, WhatWhat are you doing? Her voice was as low as a mosquitos, and it was sweet, without the momentum of questioning. Mo Junyang didnt retreat after being rebuked but gripped Qingxues hand steadily. He had a faint smile on his cold lips, leaning forward. What do you think I am doing? Shi Qingxue felt that the mans warm and wet breath approached her little by little. She closed her eyes subconsciously and raised her chin slightly. When they were about to kiss each other, with a crack, the room door was suddenly pushed open, and somebody asked loudly, What are you doing? The couple paused for a moment and then turned their heads, looking at the door at the same time. They saw that Yan Xu stood with his hands on his hips at the door and swelled out his chest, staring at them angrily. The question was from his mouth. Then Mo Junzhan followed him and walked in. In the beginning, Mo Junzhans eyes were confused. When he saw the crossed hands of Qingxue and Mo Junyang, he looked resentful immediately. However, before Mo Junzhan spoke, Yan Xu was more indignant than him unexpectedly. Shi Qingxue, how dare you! Shi Qingxue was puzzled. Mo Junzhan was shocked. Mo Junyang was speechless. The three showed different expressions and looked at Yan Xu with their faces beyond expression. Nevertheless, Yan Xu didnt realize that he had said something shocking. He stepped forward and stood in front of Mo Junzhan. He looked as if he would stand up for Mo Junzhan and rebuked Shi Qingxue complacently, You are His Excellencys fiancee, yet you are immoral and date another man in secret, ruining your future husbands fame. You should be killed. His reproach was fluent and he controlled his expression and posture well, like him when he rebuked his subordinates who did something wrong at ordinary times. However, Yan Xu was careful and didnt say anything too offensive but left a little leeway as he thought that King Ruis heir doted on Shi Qingxue. Moreover, he rebuked on behalf of King Ruis heir first. Even if King Ruis heir changed his mind and wanted to forgive Shi Qingxue in the future, he could pass the buck. He was really a considerate subordinate. Yan Xu started to play the peacock and thought that he made a right decision. However, as soon as Yan Xu finished his words, Mo Junzhan exploded. He vented his anger on Yan Xu. Who gave you the courage to slander Qingxue? Believe it or not, I am going to take your life now. Check who should be killed. Yan Xu was petrified after being blamed. He looked at Mo Junzhan in a daze and couldnt come to his senses after a long time. Although he had guessed that King Ruis heir might choose to be blind because he loved Shi Qingxue, he hadnt expected that this man would be so blind. He was cheated by his future wife. Nevertheless, he chose to turn a blind eye? And he even called Qingxues name so intimately It was not right. Yan Xus expression stiffened, and he finally found something wrong, so he blurted out, Your Excellency, arent you Shi Qingxues fiance? Why dont you get mad? Mo Junzhan turned pale at once. Meeting Yan Xus doubtful eyes, he didnt know how to make it reasonable. In front of Yan Xu, he wouldnt call Shi Qingxues name at ordinary times, but he was too angry today, so he didnt notice it. Wouldnt he expose himself now? But on second thought, Mo Junzhan felt that he was fed up with being King Ruis heir, so it was fine if he exposed himself. However, his eyes turning to Mo Junyang secretly became evasive for no reason. He felt guilty. Mo Junyang didnt speak in the beginning. Till now, he finally showed a faint smile and looked at Yan Xu. Lord Yan, what do you think? Yan Xus eyes fell on the crossed hands of Qingxue and Mo Junyang. They had an affair so openly, and this assistant was unique, or they didnt have an affair. Wouldnt it mean that this man was not an assistant of King Ruis heir but himself? Looking at Yan Xu who turned pale visibly, Mo Junyang chuckled. Lord Yan, have you guessed who I am? You, you Yan Xu trembled and raised his hand, pointing to Mo Junyang. He tried hard to swallow and then said with difficulty, You are King Ruis heir. Mo Junyang laughed coldly and questioned in a low voice, Since you know my identity, do you admit your fault, Lord Yan? Before Yan Xu realized what the man meant, his legs weakened, and he sat on the floor on his knees. He tried to keep calm and pretended that he didnt know anything, arguing, I dont know what you mean, Your Excellency. Mo Junzhan reminded him out of kindness. Lord Yan, you almost burnt His Excellency to death in the small house. Yan Xu was shocked. In the beginning, when Yan Xu doubted Mo Junyangs identity, he had the plan to kill him and did that. However, Mo Junyang was lucky and his reinforcements arrived, which put Yan Xu in a difficult position. But Mo Junyang and his people didnt bother about his crime of shooting arrows and set fire in order to murder the imperial envoy, so Yan Xu thought that it was forgotten, yet unexpectedly, the first thing Mo Junyang did after he exposed his identity was to punish Yan Xu for that matter. Now he realized that Mo Junyang endured it because he didnt want to reveal his identity. After all, no ordinary person could be an imperial envoy Yan Xus pupils shrank suddenly, and then great joy spread all over his body. He trembled uncontrollably and jumped up from the floor in an instant. Then he pointed to Mo Junzhan and said excitedly, You disguise as a royal family member and have committed a capital crime which can cause the death of all your family members. I am going to report to His Majesty and bring you to justice. He spoke with justice, and it seemed that he was the most righteous official in the world. But while speaking, he glanced at Mo Junyang repeatedly, with complacency on his face, as if he would surely win, seeming to say, Look. I have the evidence against you. If you dont want to be out of luck, lets surrender and not blame each other. Yan Xu had wishful thinking. Nevertheless, the three people were not in panic as he expected. Even their expressions didnt change. Mo Junzhan seemed unable to control himself at last and burst into laughter. Yan Xu, do you know who I am? Yan Xu looked askance at him and said impolitely, I dont care who you are. I only know that you disguise as a royal family member and commit a hideous crime deserving the harshest punishment. I advise you to be well-behaved. Otherwise, you will suffer a lot. Oh? Mo Junzhan intentionally raised his voice and answered casually, I have never seen anybody who can make me, a king, suffer a lot. I wonder if you can be the first one, Lord Yan. Yan Xu goggled and accurately found fault with Mo Junzhans words, saying angrily, How dare you? Only the princes and the people superior to them qualify to call themselves king. Who are you? Do you qualify to call yourself king? Mo Junzhan snorted and asked at leisure, like a cat capturing a mouse, You can report to my brother and ask him if I, Mo Junzhan qualify to call myself king. Huh? At first, Yan Xu didnt react but looked dull. However, after a while, his face got frightened gradually, and he trembled uncontrollably again. Yan Xu was scared this time, not excited like before. He raised his trembling hand and pointed to Mo Junzhan, stuttering again, You, you What? Mo Junzhan patted away Yan Xus hand without mercy and told him clearly, I am Mo Junzhan. What? Do you plan to report to my brother and accuse me of disguising as a royal family member? Under Mo Junzhans cold stare, Yan Xu felt that a pair of invisible hands grasped his throat, which made him almost unable to breathe. In the end, his eyes rolled and he fainted. Looking at Yan Xu falling on the floor with a bang, Shi Qingxue opened her mouth wide in astonishment. No way. He died so easily? Mo Junzhan reached out his hand to Yan Xus nose and said with disgust, He is still alive. It would be funny if he was scared to death. Shi Qingxue glanced at Mo Junyang and then at Mo Junzhan, asking, What should we do now? Mo Junyang shrugged. Tell some people to carry him away. When there were only three people left in the room, Mo Junzhan relaxed and lay on the soft couch regardless of his image, heaving a sigh of relief. I finally feel comfortable. These days, in order to play the role of King Ruis heir, he had to consider his image all the time, which tired him. Otherwise, with his identity as the ninth prince, he didnt need to assume a feigned manner in front of these petty officials. He thought of something and instantly expressed to Mo Junyang, You said that you would reveal your identity this time, and it has nothing to do with me. Mo Junyang nodded slightly and paused for a moment before saying, Thanks. They were not on good terms all the time, and when they were most friendly, they just ignored each other. Hearing Mo Junyang express his thanks seriously all of a sudden, Mo Junzhan sprang from the soft couch and felt itch on his back. He didnt feel good. Mo Junzhan moved his hip restlessly and asked haltingly, Who needs your thanks? While speaking, he had a slight blush on his tan skin. He couldnt see it but felt that his ear was burning hot, and he involuntarily reached out his hand to scratch it. The other two naturally noticed his shyness yet didnt expose him as they were thoughtful. Shi Qingxue kept her countenance and changed the subject. You almost scared Yan Xu to death, and he wont let it go at that. You should be careful. She had a foreboding since just now, and she had never expected that this foreboding would come true someday. Chapter 399 - Who Can Insist? Jiangzhou City was not big, but there were many mountains in the south, and the transportation was poor, so the villages and towns in this area were many and scattered, and it was not easy to sum up the people who died of the epidemic. Shi Qingxue didnt stop because she wanted to sum up all the data as soon as possible, yet Mo Junyang got impatient while waiting. The mans eyes were deep, and it seemed that he had a plan. He said, Yan Xu has known my identity, so he will be more alert. I must check the place where the epidemic started before he has time to arrange everything. Shi Qingxue had guessed that Mo Junyang would do that, so she had no objection yet stated, I will go with you. No need. I will just go to see the surviving common people and ask them what happened then. There is nothing serious, but your job is more important. I hope that you can sort out all the information of the whole Jiangzhou City as soon as possible. Okay! Shi Qingxue pondered for a long time and nodded unwillingly in the end. Although she still wanted to follow Mo Junyang, she was not a child anymore, and she had to attach importance to the overall situation. Qingxue bit her lower lip and asked, Where are you going? I will go to Shang Village to have a look first. Mo Junyang seemed to be easy-going now and explained before Shi Qingxue asked. Shang Village is in the south of Jiangzhou City, in the area under the alluviation of the river flowing out of the mountain. Its low-lying and hard to get to. When there is a flood in the river, Shang Village is always the first to suffer, but it is tough. I have heard that there are still villagers staying there after the flood and epidemic. The epidemic could destroy a town or village as soon as it started to spread, while Shang Village could survive as its origin, so it was quite strong. Mo Junyang doubted that there were other reasons, so he wanted to go there and have a look in person. Shang Village? Shi Qingxue murmured and furrowed her arch eyebrows slightly. Then she whispered, It sounds familiar. Mo Junyang reached out his hand to rub her nose tip and couldnt help laughing. Didnt you sort out the information of this village just now? Of course it sounds familiar. Shi Qingxue patted Mo Junyangs finger away with displeasure and snorted. I didnt mean it. I mean that I seem to have heard of this place before. Let me think about when I heard it. Mo Junyang looked at her hairy head which was lowered all the time. Even though he couldnt see her face, he could guess that she was racking her brains. He couldnt help but laugh. Then he put his palm on her head again. Fine. If you cant remember, dont bother to. You stay in the mansion and continue to sort out the information today. I will go to check Shang Village with Mo Junzhan. Lets talk about everything after we come back. Shi Qingxue still tried to search the memories in her brain and didnt take Mo Junyangs verbose reminder seriously. She just answered Hmm perfunctorily and didnt raise her head. Mo Junyang waited a moment. Seeing that Qingxue didnt plan to say goodbye to him, he shook his head while laughing and left. Ah! I remember it. Shi Qingxue suddenly raised her head, with surprise in her big beautiful eyes, yet there was no Mo Junyangs voice. Dong Shuang walked to her. My Lady, what did you think of? The light in Qingxues eyes dimmed, and she answered in low spirits, Nothing. I just remember that the supervisor in Jiangzhou, Ye Zhirong, is from Shang Village. But we dont know where Ye Zhirong has been, so it must be unimportant. Shi Qingxue didnt figure it out. Mo Junyang was not here, so she had nobody to discuss with. She stopped thinking about this matter and continued with her job. Dong Shuang didnt have Mo Junyangs ability to read rapidly, nor could she cooperate with Shi Qingxue with a tacit understanding. Shi Qingxue spent twice as much time as yesterday before finishing the information of a small town. After she finished the data of one place with difficulty, she involuntarily put down the brush pen and rested her chin on her hand, glancing at the thick books of records in front of her with flagging interest. She was so bored. She did the boring and energy-consuming job in depression. And she couldnt concentrate. After she wrote something, she would think about where Mo Junyang was, what he had found and when he would come back. Then she didnt want to continue. Dong Shuang, lets go out for a walk. Shi Qingxue closed the book of records with a crack and got up, walking out of the room. She happened to see that Ye Zhixin was sitting in the pavilion under a tree alone with her hand resting her chin, looking serious, as if lost in thought. However, with Shi Qingxues experience, she thought that the girl must be in a daze. She walked to Ye Zhixin, yet the latters expression didnt change. The girls pupils couldnt focus seemingly but just fell on something in the void by instinct. Shi Qingxue followed Ye Zhixins eyes yet couldnt see anything, so she walked to some place several steps away from the girl and coughed gently twice. She wanted to attract Ye Zhixins attention in this way, while the girl seemed to be silly and had no reaction. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but sigh and call, Miss Ye. Ah! Ye Zhixin looked confused and helpless as if she were suddenly awakened. It seemed that she was pitiful yet pretended that nothing had happened. However, she came to her senses soon. The beautiful girl with unique temperament of the region of rivers in the south showed a gentle smile and greeted Qingxue, My Lady, nice to see you. She was polite with a warm and pleasant voice. She looked the same as what she had been before. Shi Qingxue sighed in secret again. She wasnt familiar with Ye Zhixin. If there was a relationship between the two, this was just a person who she saved when she had sympathy. There was nothing that she needed to care about specially. Even though Shi Qingxue thought so, she still couldnt help but ask with concern, What were you thinking about just now? Ye Zhixins expression stiffened when she greeted, yet in no time, she showed the passive attitude that she wouldnt cooperate with them. It appeared that she didnt plan to say anything this time. Shi Qingxue sighed in a low voice and then said, I have something to ask you. Ye Zhixin nodded slightly. My Lady, please go ahead. I remember that your father is from Shang Village. Do you come from there, too? Ye Zhixin was surprised and suddenly raised her head, looking at Shi Qingxue. After a while, she nodded feebly. Yes. Then she added at once, But I havent been back for a long time. There were flood and epidemic there. I dont know if it is existent now. Her voice was perplexed, as if she knew nothing about the situation in Shang Village. However, Shi Qingxue couldnt be fooled so easily. She acutely felt that Ye Zhixin hid something, yet she couldnt find the girls thoughts kept by her for now. Speaking of which, you have stayed in the magistrates mansion for a few days. I have never asked you what you want, Shi Qingxue looked at Ye Zhixin and said. Ye Zhixin still shook her head and responded in a low voice, I dont ask for anything. Why do you still stay here? Ye Zhixin was speechless. She thought that Shi Qingxue would ask more and then promise to give her some profit. Only in this way could she show that the superior was gentle to the weak. However, Shi Qingxue didnt follow the pattern but only asked coldly, with disgust seemingly. It made Ye Zhixin wonder if she was so hateful. I Ye Zhixin said hesitantly and peeped at Shi Qingxue several times, while she didnt say anything useful even though she stuttered for a long time. At this time, she should say, If you dislike me, I will go away. However, Ye Zhixin was afraid that after she said that, Shi Qingxue who didnt follow the rules would nod. Then she would have no way out because of her perversity. Ye Zhixin didnt dare to say that, but she had put on airs for so long and was supposed to gain the upper hand, while she was at a disadvantage now, so she was reluctant. However, Shi Qingxue didnt give Ye Zhixin time to think it over. She waited a moment and Ye Zhixin didnt answer, so she looked away in low spirits. She said impassively, His Excellency led some people to Shang Village these days, and few of our people are left in this mansion, so youd better be well-behaved. If something happens to you, nobody will save you. Shi Qingxue said that unkindly, yet she told the truth. Although Mo Junyang told Wei Zichao to stay, this guards job was to protect her. So she was almost sure that if something happened and she needed to use Wei Zichao, because he couldnt leave her, he would choose to watch Ye Zhixin being killed. Shi Qingxue could do nothing to the inflexible Wei Zichao, so she had to remind Ye Zhixin to be careful. After all, Yan Xu didnt dare to let anything happen to Shi Qingxue in this mansion, but he could let Ye Zhixin die in a corner silently. However, Ye Zhixin wasnt frightened this time. She opened her eyes wide, and then she looked terrified and restless, repeating Qingxues words in a daze. His Excellency went to Shang Village? Hmm. Shi Qingxue nodded. She found that Ye Zhixins attitude was strange, so she couldnt help but ask, Whats wrong? Ye Zhixin seemed to have been stung by a bee and shook her head repeatedly. Then she hurriedly denied it. No, nothing. Shi Qingxue looked at Ye Zhixin several times more in disbelief and opened her mouth yet didnt ask more. She turned around and went back to her room. Dong Shuang followed her into the room and complained in a low voice at once, My Lady, Ye Zhixin is so ungrateful. We cured her and saved her out of kindness and gave her a sanctuary, but she still refuses to tell us the truth. Why should we keep her? When Dong Shuang heard Shi Qingxue ask Ye Zhixin why she didnt go away, she felt happy and wished that Ye Zhixin would be more arrogant, so she could kick her out openly. Then she wouldnt be an eyesore. Unfortunately, Shi Qingxue let that woman go at last. Alas. Dong Shuang sighed with a feigned manner. Shi Qingxue was amused and knocked at Dong Shuangs forehead, saying helplessly, Anyway, its a human life. We know that Yan Xu wants to take her life, so we cant stand by and watch her die. Moreover, I am really curious about the secret she keeps. Just wait patiently and see who can insist. Chapter 400 - Send a Secret Message Shi Qingxue returned to her room and wanted to continue with her job. However, after she wrote for only a little while, she started to be absent-minded as she saw that it was getting dark gradually. After she finished some words, she couldnt help but raise her head and look out of the window. There was nobody outside, and it was so quiet that they could hear the sound of a needle falling. She was in a daze for a few seconds and then forced herself to pay attention to the paper again, continuing to write. After nearly one hour, she finished nothing. However, Shi Qingxue didnt find it but forced herself to continue. Dong Shuang couldnt bear to see that. She said in a soft voice involuntarily, My Lady, its evening now. Shall we have dinner first? I am not hungry, Shi Qingxue answered without thinking. Dong Shuang advised, Have a rest. You have written for one day. Shi Qingxue was stunned and then checked what she had finished today, which was less than what she could finish within two hours when Mo Junyang was around. Hmm! She finally stopped forcing herself and put the brush pen on the holder with irritancy, covering her head with a sigh. It was not her first time to do jobs without Mo Junyang. They might not see each other for more than half a month, yet she was not so unpeaceful every time in the past. What worried Shi Qingxue more was that her right eyelid trembled all the time since this morning, which made her unable to feel relieved. It was said that there was a disaster when somebodys right eyelid trembled Dont imagine wildly. There must be nothing wrong. It must be fine, Shi Qingxue whispered and comforted herself repeatedly. Otherwise, it would be funny if she was scared by herself to death while Mo Junyang was fine. My Lady, how about going out for a walk to ease up, okay? Dong Shuang suggested in a low voice, as she was worried about Shi Qingxues condition. Shi Qingxue looked up at the sky outside the window and smiled bitterly. If we go out now, wont we feed the mosquitos? Dong Shuang was speechless. They lived in the north for a long time, and there were not as many mosquitos as here in the south, so she forgot it. They couldnt sleep well in summer without incense and mosquito curtain in Jiangzhou City. Moreover, Shi Qingxue attracted the mosquitos. If they went out now, she would be stung and become swollen in no time. Dong Shuang hurriedly shook her head and said, We wont go out. Just have dinner in the room, okay? I am going to bring food. After speaking, she didnt give Shi Qingxue a chance to refuse but ran away. Shi Qingxue wouldnt get mad as she knew that Dong Shuang made a decision without authorization on purpose because she was afraid that the lady didnt want to eat anything. She sighed and wasnt in the mood to continue writing. Then she walked to the door again. As soon as she opened the door, she saw an unexpected visitor. What are you doing here? Shi Qingxue frowned slightly and asked in a distant tone. However, it was not her fault. She was not in a good mood today, and the comer was Ye Zhixin who kept everything from them all the time, which made them make no more progress. Shi Qingxue was clear that everybody had his own choice, and she didnt blame Ye Zhixin, yet it was impossible for her to treat this girl as a respected guest. Ye Zhixin noticed Shi Qingxues distant tone, and her expression stiffened. She opened her mouth slightly but looked at Shi Qingxue, trying to say something yet stopped herself. She didnt speak a word after a long time. Shi Qingxue kept the posture of opening the door and waited a moment, while Ye Zhixin didnt answer. She was annoyed by Ye Zhixins affected attitude and withdrew her hand. Then she turned around and went back into the room, preparing to sit down and waste time with the girl. Unexpectedly, when Ye Zhixin saw that Qingxue turned around and walked away, she thought that the lady was mad at her and prepared to ignore her, so she stepped forward anxiously and grabbed her sleeve. My Lady, please wait a moment. I have something to tell you. Gee, she played this trick every time. It appeared that she was going to reveal a shocking secret, but after she aroused the listeners curiosity, she pretended to shrink back hesitantly If she did that once or twice, she would attract others attention, yet she did so frequently, so she made people feel disgusted. Shi Qingxue stopped and looked back at Ye Zhixin, wondering if her words were true. Did this girl get impatient and want to tell her the truth? She thought with uncertainty and decided to deal her a head-on blow. Miss Ye, you came to me this time. I hope that you can speak it out frankly. If you still play hard to get like before, please go back. Ye Zhixin hurriedly shook her head and pledged in a low voice, No. I really have something very important to tell you, and it is about His Excellencys safety. I dont dare to What? Shi Qingxue heard that it had something to do with Mo Junyang, so she couldnt keep calm. She grabbed Ye Zhixins arm and pulled her into the room, questioning in a cold voice, Say it now. What happened? Ye Zhixins arm was grabbed and hurt, but she didnt dare to say anything to stop Shi Qingxue. She just said in a low voice, Its not safe in Shang Village. His Excellency may be in danger on this trip. Shi Qingxues eyes got sharp at once, and she stared at Ye Zhixin. Why did you say that it is not safe? Whats dangerous? Ye Zhixin, what do you know? Tell me everything now. Her questions were like a series of bombs and fell on Ye Zhixins head. The incisive questions made her feel dizzy. Ye Zhixin pursed her lips and refused to speak. This sealed mouth. Shi Qingxue was flustered and exasperated. She grasped the girls arm more tightly and raised her voice, shouting, Say something! Ye Zhixin lowered her head and begged in a muffled voice, My Lady, please stop asking. Lord Yan wants to kill His Excellency. If you have time to ask me, its better to figure out a way at once to save him. Shi Qingxue was irritated by the girls words, but Ye Zhixin was right. If she had time to pester Ye Zhixin, it was better to hurry up and go to see Mo Junyang. At this thought, Shi Qingxue left Ye Zhixin alone and strode out of the room. Wei Zichao guarded at the door and heard their conversation. He stopped Shi Qingxue without hesitation and advised in a deep voice, My Lady, dont worry. Master just went to visit the villages in the neighborhood, and he will probably come back tomorrow. Dont need to worry so much. Be careful. Dont fall into a trap. When he said the last words, Wei Zichao glanced at Ye Zhixins face as if unintentionally. Ye Zhixin was anxious. I told the truth. My Lady, please believe me. Shi Qingxue stopped and forced herself to keep calm and think it over. As Wei Zichao said, Ye Zhixin hid many things from them all the time, but this time, she suddenly came and surrendered to them without an explanation, so she was really suspicious. Shi Qingxue was not sure whether this girl cheated her on her own or she was forced to, but Even if Ye Zhixin might cheat her, Shi Qingxue couldnt keep her composure as long as she thought that Mo Junyang might be in deep distress and his life was in danger. She pushed away Wei Zichaos hand and responded seriously, To be honest, we dont know if her message is correct, yet as long as there is a possibility, I will go to see Junyang. I cant stand by and watch when I know that he may be hurt. Even if it was a trap, she would fall into it. Moreover, Shi Qingxue would never be cowardly and at the mercy of others. Once somebody dared to scheme against her, she would drag him down even if she would die. Shi Qingxue made a decision and turned to glare at Ye Zhixin, ordering, You, go with us. Ye Zhixin pointed at herself and asked in a daze, Me? Shi Qingxue nodded. Right. Since you mentioned it, you should go there inevitably, and I will say something unpleasant to hear first. If I know that you collude with some people and want to harm us, no matter how many secrets you keep and how helpful they are to solve the case in Jiangzhou, I will kill you first. When Ye Zhixin was scared and opened her eyes wide, Shi Qingxue added firmly, I will act as I said. Ye Zhixin was shocked this time. Among the people from the capital, Shi Qingxue looked most kind-hearted and weakest, but when she was anxious, she could be so cruel unexpectedly. Moreover, Shi Qingxues cruelty was different from that of Wei Zichao and the others who were ruthless. He was indifferent to human life, yet he had to listen to his master before he did a job. With an improper metaphor, he was like a chained dog. Before it bit somebody, the master had to loosen the rope, and then it could run freely. Shi Qingxue didnt have the scruple. As long as she had a plan, the others would put it into practice for her. Ye Zhixin trembled and lowered her head, swearing in panic, I dont dare to hide anything from you. If I tell a lie, I will be struck by lightning and die miserably. She even swore in this way, and it seemed to be true. However, Shi Qingxue just nodded slightly and answered indifferently, Youd better be like this. She didnt say more to Ye Zhixin but continued to walk out. However, Wei Zichao knelt in front of Shi Qingxue to stop her again, saying deeply, My Lady, please go back to have a rest and wait for Master to come back. Shi Qingxue was unhappy because of Wei Zichaos stubbornness and asked angrily, Havent you heard what I said? No matter whether Ye Zhixin told the truth, I want to have a look. Nevertheless, Wei Zichao didnt listen to her. He expressed seriously, Before leaving, Master told me to keep you in the mansion and look after you, waiting for him to come back. Please dont make things difficult for me, My Lady. You! Shi Qingxue pointed at Wei Zichao. She was almost irritated to death by his routinism and couldnt help but howl in a rage, Dont think that I dont dare to beat you because you work for Mo Junyang. Zichao, step aside! Wei Zichao bowed and knelt with his head lowered, without saying anything or moving a bit. Shi Qingxue understood that he didnt plan to step aside. She laughed because she was too angry, snorting. You deserve to be his subordinate. You are bad-tempered, stubborn and persistent I am so mad at you. However, what could she do even though she was mad? Shi Qingxue would say something to threaten Wei Zichao at most, and she wouldnt start a fight here. She sighed in depression. With a brainwave, she suddenly thought of something that might happen. Chapter 401 - Make Himself a Bait Shi Qingxues eyes became cold at once. She stared at Wei Zichao and asked, stressing each word, Zichao, tell me frankly. What did Mo Junyang tell you before leaving? Since Shi Qingxue got close to Mo Junyang, she called him Junyang generally, but she could hardly restrain her anger now, so her tone became stiff. Wei Zichao felt the difference and stiffened, yet he relaxed soon and answered in a mechanical tone, Nothing. He was unwilling to reveal what his master told him, while his answer proved Shi Qingxues guess. Shi Qingxue laughed although she was angry. He didnt tell you anything but you stopped me repeatedly. Do you want to say that you made a decision without authorization? Wei Zichao was speechless. He was retorted and forced a bitter smile after a long time. My Lady, since you have guessed, please dont make things difficult for me. Shi Qingxue agreed without hesitation, Okay, as long as you tell me what Mo Junyang told you. Wei Zichao hesitated for a moment and then replied, Master said that if you asked about him, I should say that everything was fine and tell you not to worry as he would come back soon. Good liar. Shi Qingxue snorted. Wei Zichao rubbed his nose and pretended that he didnt hear. Shi Qingxue glared. I talked about you. Wei Zichao hurriedly expressed, Everything that I said is true. Thats what Master told me. How dare I send false instructions? You dont dare to send false instructions, but you dare to cheat me. Shi Qingxue didnt believe their words anymore. When Wei Zichao wanted to argue, she stated with disappointment, Tell me why Mo Junyang left the statistics job to me. Wei Zichao kept his composure and answered, Of course because he trusts you. Shi Qingxue showed a sarcastic smile and expressed in a low voice, Yes, I thought so in the beginning and stupidly ensured that I would do it in person and not tell anybody to do it Now it appears that he intentionally found a job for me in order to keep me in this mansion. I am so stupid! Hearing Shi Qingxue speak out his masters plan while stressing each word, Wei Zichao felt that his heart jumped to his throat and it seemed that he could spit it out when he gasped. He held his breath and racked his brains to advise, My Lady, Master did everything for your good. Please dont get mad at him. Shi Qingxue instantly felt that a basin of cold water was poured to her and made her cold from head to toe. Right, she knew it. No matter what Mo Junyang did, he did it for her. Shi Qingxue was droopy and all her anger turned into ashes. She wasnt mad at Mo Junyang. Now she just felt sad, not to mention being mad. She pursed her lips and asked in a hoarse voice after quite a while, What on earth does he want to do? Wei Zichao glanced at Ye Zhixin and lowered his head without saying anything. Shi Qingxue understood and talked to Ye Zhixin, Go back first. Wont we go to Shang Village? Ye Zhixin asked in surprise, with anxiety on her face. Qingxue looked at Ye Zhixin in confusion and asked coldly, Why does it seem that you are more anxious than me? Nobody knew what Ye Zhixin was thinking about, and her face blushed from her head to her neck. She shook her head crazily and explained anxiously, No, I just She took a deep breath and then added in a soft voice, I am just worried that His Excellency will be in danger. She called His Excellency in a sweet and shy voice, and anybody with ears could notice the deep affection. Shi Qingxue frowned. Anybody would be unhappy when somebody else coveted her future husband in front of her, yet she wasnt in the mood to bother about Ye Zhixin so much at the moment. She repeated coldly, Go back first. If I go, I will inform you. After speaking, she didnt give Ye Zhixin a chance to ask more but walked back to the room. Wei Zichao stood behind and glanced at Ye Zhixin, seeming to be hesitant, yet he strode in the end, following Shi Qingxue back to her room. Shi Qingxue sat on the couch and took a sip of tea. Then she ordered at leisure, Say it now. Wei Zichao lowered his eyes and responded expressionlessly, I dont know what you are talking about, My Lady. Dont play dumb in front of me. When Ye Zhixin was here just now, it was inconvenient for you to speak, but now only we are here. Will you still hide it from me? Shi Qingxue wasnt in the mood to beat around the bush with Wei Zichao. However, Wei Zichao was dumb and wouldnt speak a word easily. Shi Qingxue could do nothing to him. She pursed her lips and suddenly said, Zichao, you should know that even though your master likes to hide everything, when I find something wrong, he wont keep it from me. Her hidden meaning was that Wei Zichao was a subordinate and should be better-tempered than his master. Wei Zichaos tense expression softened as expected. When Shi Qingxue thought that he would tell her frankly, the guard stated with creativeness, My Lady, if you have something to ask me, just ask. I will tell you everything that I know. In another word, if Shi Qingxue had nothing to ask, he wouldnt confess. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Aha, as expected, he was the same as his master, a jerk. Fortunately, Shi Qingxue weighed, so she didnt find fault with this guards words but asked without demur, Mo Junyang, his identity was found by Yan Xu because he did it purposely, right? The first question hit the target. Wei Zichaos expression stiffened. After a long time, he nodded feebly. Sure enough Shi Qingxue wasnt surprised. Although Mo Junzhan did something wrong by accident and revealed the identity, with Mo Junyang around, she didnt believe that he couldnt make it reasonable. Mo Junyang didnt save the situation but revealed his identity calmly. At that time, Qingxue just guessed that he planned to make use of the favorable current situation and expose his identity, yet later, she thought that it was a trap set by Mo Junyang. Afterward, he forced her to stay in the mansion in the name of sorting out the information of the dead people and led Mo Junzhan to Shang Village because he wanted to lure Yan Xu to do something desperate. They were closely linked, and Mo Junyang had planned it perfectly. If Shi Qingxue didnt know well about him, she wouldnt find it as Ye Zhixin who would do something unexpected was here. She was furious while thinking. Seeing that Shi Qingxues face turned pale suddenly, Wei Zichao guessed that she probably knew Mo Junyangs plan, so he advised in a low voice, My Lady, dont worry. Master knows what he should do and will be safe and sound. He knows what he should do? Fuck. Shi Qingxue was well-educated, which made her unable to say something dirty, but she wanted to curse and even kill somebody. She opened her eyes wide and got exasperated. He has been of a high position for a long time and has the situation well in hand, seeming able to arrange everything properly, so he thinks that there is nothing that he cant do? Doesnt he know that a powerful official cant defeat a local tyrant? Yan Xu has been in Jiangzhou City for so many years. Even a broken boat is heavy. He made himself a bait rashly. What should he do if something bad happens to him? Wei Zichao was rebuked and couldnt reply. He stared at Shi Qingxue, with confusion in his eyes. Yes, confusion. Wei Zichao was different from Shi Qingxue. As a guard, he always listened to Mo Junyangs orders in the past many years. Although they had been in danger for a lot of times, they were lucky in every endeavor in the end. Therefore, before Shi Qingxue said that, he had never thought about whether something bad would happen to Mo Junyang. Wei Zichao believed in the strong, so he followed Mo Junyang all the time. In his opinion, his master was invincible. However, he had never considered the difficulties and danger. On second thought, how would somebody win easily? He kept silent for a long time and then asked, My Lady, what should we do to help Master now? Shi Qingxue was satisfied with Wei Zichaos change. If you didnt hide everything from me all the time, in the beginning, I wouldnt let him go to Shang Village alone. Although I can do nothing, you can ensure his safety at least if you are around him. Logically, even if Mo Junyang really risked his life, he should take Wei Zichao just in case, and he would have more chances of winning. However, Mo Junyang decided to tell this guard to stay with Shi Qingxue in the end. It was not difficult to understand the reason. Shi Qingxue just felt sad. She sniffled and wanted to go out at once to look for Mo Junyang, but she controlled herself with her sense at last. She said to Wei Zichao like consulting, Wait till next morning. If they still havent come back after the sun rises next morning, lets go to see them, okay? Wei Zichao received the order that he had to keep Shi Qingxue in the magistrates mansion in any way before Mo Junyang came back. Fifteen minutes ago, his answer was firm. However, what Shi Qingxue said just now touched Wei Zichao, and he had no choice, so he followed Mo Junyangs order rigidly. After hesitating for nearly fifteen minutes, Wei Zichao nodded at last and answered, Okay. They said that they would wait till next morning, but it was difficult for Shi Qingxue to eat anything and sleep at night. When the first light entered the window from outside, she uncovered the quilt and called Dong Shuang. Dong Shuang rubbed her eyes and got up from the couch. She walked to the bed and asked in a daze, Its still early. My Lady, why dont you sleep more? I wont sleep anymore. Perhaps Junyang will come back later. She got dressed, washed up for herself and meanwhile pushed Dong Shuang repeatedly. Dong Shuang didnt stop but still asked in confusion, Its not convenient to walk on the mountain path at night. Even if His Excellency and the others will come back, they will be back in the afternoon. Shi Qingxue stiffened because of Dong Shuangs straightforward words. She certainly knew it. Because of this, she didnt rush to Shang Village last night. It was not easy for her to wait till now, and she couldnt wait any longer. Dont talk nonsense. Go and wake up Ye Zhixin. We will take her this time. Shi Qingxue dressed and made up on her own. When all of them were ready and stood at the back gate of the magistrates mansion, waiting for Wei Zichao to bring horses, she suddenly heard some clops from a distance. They approached her little by little. Chapter 402 - Like a Dead Person Hearing the clip-clop of a horses hooves, Shi Qingxue raised her head in surprise at once and then saw a dark brown fast horse running to them step by step. It didnt run fast, as if intentionally restraining its instinct to run just to protect the master. Qingxue finally noticed that somebody was on the fast horses back. That man was dressed in a deep-colored long robe, lying on the horses back like a puppet without strings. His arms and legs hung feebly on the ground, and he was like a dead person. Shi Qingxue didnt see the mans face clearly, but the familiar robe was enough to make her feel cold on her back. Her heart beat fast and almost jumped to her throat. Shi Qingxue walked to him quickly and grabbed the mans hand anxiously. Whats wrong with you? The man lying on the horses back finally opened his eyelids from a coma and narrowed his eyes. It seemed that it took him some time before he saw the comer clearly. Then he opened his dry lips and spoke out two words with difficulty. Save him! Before Shi Qingxue asked who he was, the mans face tilted, and he fell into a coma. Your Highness! Shi Qingxue called in surprise and decisively helped him off the horses back with Dong Shuang. However, as a girl, she was unable to carry a strong man. They had to wait for Wei Zichao to take him back to the room and then send for a doctor. It was the old doctor who had treated Ye Zhixin. After the doctor arrived, he checked the patients pulse and made a prescription When everything was finished, it was almost at noon. Ye Zhixin finally couldnt help but ask in a low voice, My Lady, wont we go to Shang Village? Shi Qingxue had something on her mind and didnt want to conceal Ye Zhixins intention. She asked casually, What? Are you so anxious to save your dream lover, His Excellency? Then Ye Zhixins face turned red like a tomato in an instant. It was unnecessary to give the answer, and Ye Zhixin still exposed herself unwittingly while trying to cover up. She waved her hand to deny it. No. I am just worried that His Excellency is in danger. I dont mean anything else. Please dont misunderstand me, My Lady. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She was confused. She didnt say anything but her attitude was casual, while Ye Zhixin behaved as if Shi Qingxue was jealous and found that they had an affair, although she qualified to. Shi Qingxue shook her head and stopped herself from imaging wildly. She didnt say anything useless to Ye Zhixin but told Dong Shuang, Send Miss Ye back to her room and take good care of her. Her hidden meaning was telling Dong Shuang to prevent Ye Zhixin from pestering her. Dong Shuang blinked and understood it in an instant. She answered yes happily and then said with an attitude that couldnt be refused, Miss Ye, please go back. Ye Zhixin was unwilling to leave and said bashfully, But I want to ask His Highness about His Excellency after he wakes up. She was so worried, as if she were Mo Junyangs future wife. Dong Shuang rolled her eyes. She wouldnt have scruple but asked casually, What does it have to do with you? It was Ye Zhixins turn to be rendered speechless, and the worried expression on her face twisted. Soon she showed that she nursed a grievance and sobbed. No. I dont mean anything else. I am just worried Do you qualify to? Dong Shuang snorted and didnt give Ye Zhixin time to play a pure girl. Her cold and cruel attitude told Ye Zhixin clearly that she couldnt pretend to be pitiful in front of her. Afterward, she didnt give Ye Zhixin a chance to explain away but pulled her out forcefully. Shi Qingxue watched Dong Shuangs actions and couldnt help giving her maid a thumbs-up sign. Dong Shuang, you are awesome. Shi Qingxue was supposed to be reserved, and with her identity, she couldnt bother about Ye Zhixin for many things. She didnt care about her image, yet she couldnt rush over and kick anybody out when the latter showed love for Mo Junyang. Her future husband was so excellent. If nobody admired him, others would comment, right? If they were sensible, they would retreat after seeing Shi Qingxue and at least wouldnt come close to them and annoy her like what Ye Zhixin did. Fortunately, Dong Shuang was good at coping with the affected women who pretended to be pure and drove her away after saying only a few words. Wei Zichao aside pretended to be invisible. Hearing Shi Qingxues praise, he finally showed a smile on his cold face and echoed in a low voice, She is nice. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. She was depressed. What should she do when she suddenly saw others displaying affection? Shi Qingxue suddenly realized that perhaps this young maid wouldnt be hers soon. At the moment, the old doctor finally finished writing the prescription and gave it to Shi Qingxue, reminding, His Highness is in a coma after having a serious internal injury. You need to buy medicinal materials according to the prescription and feed him three times every day. Just let him take medicine for two days in succession to firm his foundation first. Shi Qingxue handed the prescription to Dong Shuang and then asked the old doctor, When will His Highness wake up? The old doctor frowned in perplexity. Its uncertain. His Highness is in a coma just to protect himself, which will make it easier to recover. If we awaken him forcefully, I am afraid that it will be more difficult to recover. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue had to restrain her anxiety and give up the plan to wake up Mo Junzhan. Doctor, please stay in the mansion and take care of His Highness. The old doctor certainly agreed and even followed Dong Shuang to decoct medicinal herbs. Shi Qingxue sat on the bedside and looked at Mo Junzhans pale and weak face although he was like a child, with mixed feelings. She had never seen Mo Junzhan being so fragile, and she didnt know how Mo Junyang was now. Would he be morethan Mo Junzhan? Shi Qingxue hurriedly shook her head and clenched her hands, saying in a low voice, No, he wont. She didnt say that to anybody but just comforted herself, while Wei Zichao heard it. The guard stepped forward and cupped his hands. My Lady, how about I go to Shang Village? Although we cant do anything to help Master, we can know some information. However, Shi Qingxue refused this time. She said in a calm and almost cruel voice, Whats the point of knowing some information? We need to solve the problem now. She paused for a moment and then asked, Zichao, can you find how Junzhan was injured? When I dressed His Highness just now, I saw a deep palm print on his back. His internal injury must be from it. Hearing that, Shi Qingxue looked stunned and murmured, A palm print? What kind of person can injure him? What about Junyang? Is he injured? She had told herself that she couldnt expect bad things to happen, while her thoughts were uncontrollable like a beast out of a cage. She wished that she had a pair of wings and could fly to Mo Junyang. In spite of the hidden risk and trouble, she just wanted to see him and confirm that he was safe. However, Shi Qingxue was Shi Qingxue. She wasnt an impetuous youth anymore. Especially when Mo Junyang was not around, she was tougher. She analyzed the current situation sanely and then allocated the tasks to the subordinates. Dong Shuang and the old doctor should take care of the patient, Mo Junzhan. Wei Zichao should ensure his safety, and all the rest servants were sent out to inquire about the information. The ninth prince was wounded seriously, and King Ruis heir disappeared. Some people must be restless. Shi Qingxue guessed right. After the old doctor made a diagnosis that Mo Junzhan was injured severely and could hardly wake up, the magistrate of Jiangzhou, Yan Xu finished his jobs and came late. As soon as Yan Xu entered, he apologized first, I was thoughtless. Shang Village is so dangerous, yet I didnt stop them in advance but let His Highness go there and get injured. I am unforgivable and should be sentenced to death. Shi Qingxue coldly stared at Yan Xu who looked as if acting in an opera, letting him do his one-man show. Yan Xu didnt feel awkward but showed his guilt, regret, sadness and helplessness perfectly. In the end, his expression stiffened, and he said suddenly, I dont know where His Excellency is now. Shi Qingxues eyebrows trembled, yet soon she returned calm, asking in reply impassively, Lord Yan, you ask me, but who should I ask? Yan Xu ran his treacherous eyes over Shi Qingxue several times and seemed to penetrate her, while he couldnt judge if her words were true in the end. Then he restrained his expression and patted his head, smiling slowly. Look at me. I almost forget that His Excellency went to Shang Village with His Highness. Now His Highness was seriously injured, in a coma, and the others whereabouts were unknown. We really dont know where His Excellency is now. But please dont worry, My Lady. I will send more people to Shang Village at once to look for His Excellency. I ensure that they can bring him back in safety. Shi Qingxue was clear that Mo Junyang still didnt come back, and it must have something to do with this magistrate. She wanted to ask him, If you cant ensure that Mo Junyang will come back in safety, will you commit suicide to apologize? However, Shi Qingxue wasnt in the mood to joke with him. She didnt want to say more to Yan Xu. Then she waved him away. Yan Xu wasnt sensible at all. He still stood there and looked worried. I can see that His Highness is wounded seriously and needs people to take care of him. It happens that a maid in my mansion is good at looking after patients. My Lady, please let me take care of His Highness. In this caseit will be helpful to your fame, right? His last words were meaningful, and his eyes were malicious. Shi Qingxue just felt disgusted. She certainly understood that Yan Xu was threatening her. She was engaged, and no matter what she did in private, it was fine, yet in front of others, she should restrain herself even when she stayed with Mo Junyang, not to mention that she was looking after the ninth prince who was unmarried. Moreover, Yan Xu who wanted to cause trouble was here. Without using her brain, Shi Qingxue could guess how Yan Xu would slander her and Mo Junzhan. However, since Yan Xu said that, Shi Qingxue wouldnt leave Mo Junzhan to him. No matter whether Yan Xu had ulterior motives or simply wanted to show his face in front of Mo Junzhan, she couldnt let him succeed. The question was how she protected herself and Mo Junzhan at the same time. Chapter 403 - Capture an Assassin Shi Qingxue was overcautious and indecisive. In the end, she had to show her master card. No need. His Highness said that he couldnt accept your taking care of him, so you dont need to bother. Her words taking care of were meaningful. Both of them knew what it meant. Even though Yan Xu was thick-skinned, he blushed after hearing that. However, she didnt give him a chance to argue. Then she added unhurriedly, Lord Yan, dont need to worry. Wei Zichao and Dong Shuang are taking care of His Highness, and he will be fine. I wont be tired. These words showed that the relationship between Shi Qingxue and Mo Junzhan was pure. Even if some people took the chance to cause trouble in the future, they could do nothing to her. At the same time, she warned Yan Xu. With Wei Zichao protecting Mo Junzhan, Yan Xu couldnt hurt him no matter how bold and capable he was. Yan Xu received Shi Qingxues warning clearly, but he still kept the normal smile on his old face, saying slowly, My Lady, you are right. With Wei taking care of him, its not my turn to teach fish to swim. Seeing that he couldnt take Mo Junzhan away this time, he said something politely to show his concern and then smiled. Since there is nothing that I can do here, I will say goodbye. Afterward, he turned to leave before asking Shi Qingxue for permission. He was so arrogant. Shi Qingxue naturally wouldnt stop him. She waved her sleeve and saw him off. At the same time, she didnt forget to tell Wei Zichao, Yan Xu has ill intentions and must want to ask His Highness for something. You should take good care of His Highness these days and cant let anybody get close to him. Wei Zichao agreed without demur, yet he asked hesitantly in the end, My Lady, wont we go to look for His Excellency? Shi Qingxue wasnt worried or annoyed anymore but even smiled at Wei Zichao, which scared him out of wits and made him doubt if his master would be abandoned. Idiot! Qingxue was angry and amused because of Wei Zichaos exaggerated action. She rolled her eyes and complained, Abandon him? I just figure out something. What? Wei Zichao asked in confusion. Shi Qingxue replied, No news is good news. She had found that Yan Xu came to visit the patient for another important purpose, to inquire about Mo Junyang. It meant that Yan Xu might not have found Mo Junyang. Since Mo Junyang was not in the hands of Yan Xu, it meant that he might be alive somewhere and waiting till he came back at the right time. Shi Qingxue hoped so and didnt dare to think about the other possibilities. Wei Zichao understood what Shi Qingxue meant and didnt mention going to look for Mo Junyang. Two days later, Mo Junzhan opened his eyes from the coma. He said nervously at the sight of Shi Qingxue, Qingxue, hurry up and go to save Brother Junyang. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue was confused by the unfamiliar form of address. After a long time, she realized that Mo Junzhan called Mo Junyang. Before she had time to sigh with emotion and wonder when they became so close, she was scared by Mo Junzhans words. Whats wrong with Junyang? she asked emotionally. Mo Junzhan pressed his elbows on the bed and struggled, trying to sit up while still shouting anxiously, Brother Junyang was beaten down a cliff by the masked men in order to save me, and his whereabouts is unknown. We should hurry up A bang interrupted Mo Junzhan. All people raised their heads, to see that Ye Zhixin was standing still at the door, keeping the posture of holding the medicine bowl with both hands, with a pale face. The news that Mo Junzhan woke up was a surprise, and they didnt remember to shut the door, which gave Ye Zhixin a chance. Shi Qingxue frowned with displeasure. What are you doing here? Didnt I tell you to stay in your room? Ye Zhixin apologized repeatedly, I didnt mean it. Please forgive me, My Lady. I just saw that the medicine was boiled in the kitchen, so I wanted to bring it for you. Its a good thing to send the medicine, but you made all the medicine which was boiled after a long time splash onto the floor because you didnt hold it steadily. Shi Qingxue complained in secret and wasnt in the mood to rebuke Ye Zhixin, in case that others thought that she bullied the girl. Unexpectedly, Ye Zhixin was more emotional than her and walked quickly to the bed, staring at Mo Junzhan while asking, How is His Excellency? Mo Junzhan looked askance at Ye Zhixin with his cold eyes. After a moment, he asked instead of answering, Whats your relationship with Xiao Qijun? Who? Hearing this name which was seldom mentioned, the others were as confused as Shi Qingxue. Only Ye Zhixin almost buried her head in her collar and denied repeatedly, No, we have nothing to do with each other She just exposed herself unwittingly while trying to cover up. Mo Junzhan was bad-tempered and didnt want to beat around the bush with this woman. He just ordered Wei Zichao, Go to Yan Xus place and capture Xiao Qijun. If Yan Xu asks, just tell him I found that Xiao Qijun tried to murder the imperial envoy, so I want to capture and interrogate him. Anybody who dares to stop you is his accomplice. Yes, I will send somebody to Wei Zichao cupped his hands and answered. Mo Junzhan stated, No, you go there in person. Xiao Qijun is powerful in martial arts, and if the others do it, he may run away. Yes. Seeing that Wei Zichao left the room quickly, Ye Zhixin looked at the crowd in fear with her tearful eyes and cried, Your Highness, you have misunderstood it. Xiao wont do something like this, and you must have misunderstood. I beg you. Please dont Mo Junzhan snorted and interrupted Ye Zhixins sob. Didnt you say that you have nothing to do with Xiao Qijun? Why do you beg for mercy for him so intimately now? Ye Zhixin looked embarrassed as she was rebuked by Mo Junzhan. She didnt dare to retort but begged in a low voice, Your Highness, please believe me. Xiao is on our side. He will never harm His Excellency. There must be an understanding. Shi Qingxue noticed something from Ye Zhixins intermittent words and finally remembered who Xiao Qijun was. He was Yan Xus assistant who looked weak like a scholar yet was resourceful. Such a talent was on Ye Zhixins side? Moreover, he was powerful in martial arts and only Wei Zichao could capture him? If so, why did Ye Zhixin avoid Yan Xu with difficulty and feel scared all day long? Was it fun? Shi Qingxue had many questions on her mind and felt worried, but Mo Junzhans calmness made her choose to keep quiet and listen to his plan first. After about two hours, Wei Zichao brought Xiao Qijun late. Judging from the dust on their bodies, the others could guess that they had a fierce battle. When Xiao Qijun entered the room, he looked indifferent and unyielding, as if he would rather lose his head than reveal the truth. In fact, when Mo Junzhan asked him, he turned away and expressed coldly, I know nothing. You can kill me as you wish. I wont frown. Mo Junzhan would be angry and stomp because of Xiao Qijuns words in the past, but this time he was surprisingly calm and didnt even frown. He sneered at Xiao Qijun. Okay. I will cut Ye Zhixins flesh little by little later. Then I am going to see if you will frown. Xiao Qijun was stunned and finally saw that Ye Zhixin was in the room, looking at him pitifully. The assistant turned pale at once and got emotional, wanting to fight against Mo Junzhan, yet he couldnt move a bit as Wei Zichao suppressed him. You are a man but harm a weak girl. Are you so shameless? Xiao Qijun shouted loudly in a rage and wasnt as calm as before. Mo Junzhan smiled happily and wasnt affected by Xiao Qijuns provocation but said unhurriedly, After she and you die, who will know what happens today? Who dares to say that I am shameless? Moreover, dont think that I couldnt recognize you as you were masked. The scar on the back of your right hand cant cheat me. You tried to assassinate a royal family member, and it is a capital crime that can cause the death of your whole family. Mo Junzhan raised Xiao Qijuns right hand and the long scar on its back was obvious. He couldnt hide it even if he wanted to. Xiao Qijuns face was ghastly pale, yet he still craned his neck and said stubbornly, I will take the blame after I do something. Zhixin has nothing to do with me. Just kill me if you want to. He was really not afraid of death. Ye Zhixin was so frightened that she shed tears and begged in a sobbing voice, Xiao, dont be stubborn. Tell them the truth, and they will understand you. As long as you tell them where His Excellency is, you have a chance to save the situation. Xiao Qijun was moved as she advised, but he ran his eyes over Ye Zhixins face and then gritted his teeth. He lowered his head and continued to play dumb. Mo Junzhan saw the reactions of the two and sneered. You are not afraid of death, so I will let it pass. As for Ye Zhixin, I have sufficient reasons to believe that she is your accomplice. So we will kill both of you. He said that casually and didnt seem to talk about two human lives but two big fish from a river. He was indifferent and didnt take human lives seriously. This was the common behavior of all people in power, and Mo Junzhan showed it thoroughly. Even though Xiao Qijun thought that Mo Junzhan didnt dare to do something so inhuman, he was terrified by the princes expression, and he couldnt speak a word after a long time. After waiting a moment, Mo Junzhan snorted impatiently at once. I will give you the last chance. Tell me where His Excellency is now. Xiao Qijun hesitated for a moment and finally restrained his sharp attitude, saying unhurriedly, His Excellency fell off a cliff by accident. How do I know where he is? He admitted that he was one of the people who chased Mo Junyang and Mo Junzhan in Shang Village, yet there was an accident later. In order to save Mo Junzhan, Mo Junyang fell off a cliff and his dead body couldnt be found. Hearing Xiao Qijuns words, Shi Qingxue couldnt control herself but turned pale. She couldnt breathe as if her breath were taken away. No way! No way! Two firm voices could be heard at the same time, and one of them was from Shi Qingxue. She didnt believe that Mo Junyang died, and it was impossible. The other voice was from Mo Junzhan. Chapter 404 - The Ninth Prince Became Silver-tongued Mo Junzhan didnt believe Xiao Qijuns words. He winked at Wei Zichao, and the latter drew his long sword, aiming at Ye Zhixin without demur. As the bright and sharp sword swept in front of Ye Zhixins eyes, she was so scared that her legs weakened and she turned pale. If Dong Shuang didnt grab her arm from behind, Ye Zhixin might sit on the floor. Xiao Qijun was anxious to save Ye Zhixin, while Wei Zichao twisted his hand and the sharp sword was on Xiao Qijuns neck. If Wei Zichao took a step forward, it would be enough to make blood flow from his neck like water. Mo Junzhan stated, I will give you another chance. Tell me where you hid His Excellency. Xiao Qijun was still unyielding. Why did you say that I hid His Excellency? I did everything under Lord Yans orders. If you want to know everything, why dont you ask him, Your Highness? He was skilled in passing the buck. By common sense, what he said was not wrong. He worked for Yan Xu and followed his orders. Even if he really did something to Mo Junyang, it was Yan Xus order. If they wanted to know more truth, they should naturally ask Yan Xu. Hearing Xiao Qijuns words, Shi Qingxue instantly had the plan to get back at Yan Xu. However, Mo Junzhan stopped her in advance and expressed calmly, Qingxue, no hurry. We have time to interrogate Yan Xu. We have to force this guy to tell us where Junyang is. Not to mention others, even Xiao Qijun looked confused. Why did Mo Junzhan believe that Xiao Qijun knew Mo Junyangs whereabouts? Because before Junyang disappeared, he said that if he had an accident, I should ask you, and then I would know everything. If you are stubborn and refuse to confess, I can hurt Ye Zhixin. Then you will say it. Mo Junzhan said complacently as he saw all peoples confusion, with proud and admiration for Mo Junyang in his words. His attitude changed so greatly. Hearing that Mo Junyang ordered to harm her, Ye Zhixin instantly showed a miserable and pitiful expression, as if she were struck heavily, and she could hardly stand steadily. However, except Xiao Qijun, nobody present would care about her life and death. Shi Qingxue acutely noticed the unspeakable relationship between Ye Zhixin and Xiao Qijun. She turned to Ye Zhixin and guided patiently, Miss Ye, dont you want to save His Excellency? You know everything but refuse to say anything. I can see that you want to harm him instead of saving him. I dont! Ye Zhixin seemed to have been insulted and shouted at Shi Qingxue in a rage. Qingxue was completely indifferent and stated coldly, Huh! If you really care about Junyang, how would you watch him in danger and do nothing? Dont say that you care about him in the future, in case that it disgusts others. She said that without mercy, and she was really mad at Ye Zhixin. If Ye Zhixin confessed earlier, Mo Junyang might have been saved. As Mo Junzhan said, Ye Zhixin and Xiao Qijun colluded with each other. If they spoke it out earlier, perhaps the trip to Shang Village wouldnt become like this. Ye Zhixin was rebuked by Shi Qingxue repeatedly and blushed with shame. She couldnt find proper words to retort. However, Xiao Qijun couldnt bear to see Ye Zhixin being treated unfairly. He howled at Shi Qingxue furiously, Zhixin knows nothing. If you have something to ask, just ask me. Shi Qingxue squinted at him and asked scornfully, What can you do? Xiao Qijun blurted out, I know where His Excellency is. As soon as he finished his words, he showed a remorseful expression. Why did he speak it out so soon? Shi Qingxue didnt give him time to regret it but asked anxiously, Where is Junyang? Tell us now. Xiao Qijun lowered his head and avoided Shi Qingxues eyes, looking hesitant. Xiao, its pointless to hide it now. Just tell them, Ye Zhixin seemed to have finally come round and talked to Xiao Qijun. Afterward, she paused for a moment and then asked with hesitation, Andwhats wrong with His Excellency? Is he okay now? Xiao Qijun finally sighed with relief. I am one of the people who attacked His Excellency and His Highness in Shang Village, yet it was Yan Xus order, and I had to follow it. Later, I sent subordinates to save His Excellency in secret. If there is no accident, he must be still in the stockaded village now. Stockaded village? Ye Zhixin explained to all people, Before Xiao works for Yan Xu as a private assistant, he was the chief of Black Water Stockaded Village, which is It seemed hard for her to speak it out. After a while, she continued in a low voice, The people from Black Water Stockaded Village guard the strategic passages, the mountain paths to the small towns in the neighborhood in Jiangzhou City and do something illegal occasionally to provide for themselves Her explanation was so tactful. Mo Junzhan made it clear mercilessly, So Xiao is a chief of brigands? Ye Zhixin was speechless and looked embarrassed, while she nodded in the end. Right, but Xiao and his subordinates never kill anybody. Even if they rob, they just rob the bad people who are wealthy yet cruel, so they are not evil. Moreover, if Xiao and the men in the stockaded village hadnt helped me, I must have died earlier. Mo Junzhan interrupted Ye Zhixins long speech and asked impatiently, What does it have to do with me? Ye Zhixin was speechless. Fuck! Why were the people from the imperial palace so strange? Hadnt they learnt to have compassion for womanhood and be friendly? Ye Zhixin looked at Mo Junzhan with a grievance and weakness in her eyes, while the latter didnt look at her but ordered Xiao Qijun, Take us to Black Water Stockaded Village. Xiao Qijun also looked resentful and glared at the sword on his neck, frowning with displeasure. Is this what you should do when you beg somebody? Mo Junzhan snorted with disdain. Beg you? Stop Joking. I can pinch you to death with only one hand. I just keep you alive for now because you are useful. If you delay saving Junyang, I will let you feel what a living death is. Dont pretend in front of me. Lead the way in the front now. Xiao Qijun finally realized that all these people were bosses, including the masters, guards and maids. When they were bossy, they were more arbitrary than Yan Xu, and there was no chance to change them. Xiao Qijun had to admit his destiny and answer, Black Water Stockaded Village is not far away from here. It will take only more than two hours. Just follow me. Without delay, Shi Qingxue told Wei Zichao to capture Xiao Qijun, and they rushed to Black Water Stockaded Village. Mo Junzhan was wounded seriously and just woke up, yet he didnt let himself be free. He followed Shi Qingxue into the carriage. Shi Qingxue could do nothing to Mo Junzhan who was obstinate but touch her forehead as she had a headache. Mo Junzhan intentionally asked in surprise, Qingxue, are you okay? Shi Qingxue glanced at him and responded in a gentle tone, If its fine that I want to knock you to death, I am okay. They were almost the most treacherous words that Shi Qingxue had said to Mo Junzhan, while the listener didnt get mad but showed a flattering smile, explaining with guilt, Junyang saved me, and of course I should repay him and save him. Shi Qingxue didnt object to Mo Junzhans intention, yet he hadnt recovered from a serious injury, so perhaps he was even less powerful than her. If there was something wrong with him on the way, how could she explain to the emperor after going back? Mo Junzhan seemed to see through Shi Qingxue and added in advance, Anyway, I am in the carriage now. We have to hurry up and save Junyang. You cant leave me on the way. It was more unrealistic to send Mo Junzhan back before they went to save Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue forced a smile. You have a perfect plan. Its said that people will have a completely new appraisal of somebody if they havent seen him for three days. I havent talked with you for several days, while you become so silver-tongued? Especially when Mo Junzhan retorted Xiao Qijun, Shi Qingxue didnt know him seemingly. Mo Junzhan smiled in embarrassment and rubbed his nose, saying in a low voice, To be frank with you, Junyang taught me to say that. What do you mean? Shi Qingxue frowned. Why was Mo Junyang so influential after he disappeared? We were forced to the cliff last night. At that time, I and Junyang occupied an important place respectively and guarded it with difficulty. He made the best use of time and analyzed the current situation with me, telling me what I should do next. Later, I was injured seriously by the enemies and fell to the cliff when I didnt notice it, and Junyang followed me in order to save me I dont know what happened later. When I woke up, I was at the bottom of the cliff, and our horse was next to me. I got on the horses back and came back, but since I can be alive in this condition, Junyang must be fine. Mo Junzhan told Shi Qingxue in detail what happened when they were in danger. In the end, he comforted her with certainty. Shi Qingxue was absent-minded and nodded, in a daze. She was certainly willing to believe that Mo Junyang was safe and sound, but the fact was that he didnt come back. Therefore, even if Mo Junyang was not injured, he must be confined and have no freedom. When Shi Qingxue thought that Mo Junyang was so arrogant yet he was attacked sneakily and kidnapped by a group of unpresentable brigands, she felt bad and had to push Wei Zichao to urge the horses more. In order to distract herself, she forced herself to think about the whole case. Xiao Qijun worked for Yan Xu on the surface but colluded with Ye Zhixin in secret. Ye Zhixin seemed to be wronged and fall for Mo Junyang. Xiao Qijun seemed to be against Mo Junyang and nobody knew the reason The puzzles intertwined. Till the carriage moved into the domain of Black Water Stockaded Village, she couldnt figure it out. Somebody shouted outside, Our chief has come back. Shi Qingxue lifted the curtain and saw that the carriage had entered the stockaded village. The people on both sides of the carriage held long knives and spears and looked burly. They didnt look like good people at a glance. She ran her eyes and saw the back of a man sitting on the stone stool in the middle of the yard. That man seemed to feel it and looked back. Junyang. Shi Qingxue opened her mouth but couldnt make a sound. She acted more quickly than her consciousness and jumped out of the carriage before she realized it, running to Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang got up slowly and smiled at Shi Qingxue gently. When Shi Qingxue almost ran close to Mo Junyang, the smile on the mans face disappeared at once, and he leaned backward feebly. Chapter 405 - It Can Kill People Junyang! Shi Qingxue screamed and rushed over. Before Mo Junyang fell on the ground, she held him in her arms. At the moment, she felt heartbroken and her legs weakened. She fell and sat on the ground with the posture of hugging Mo Junyang. She called Mo Junyangs name repeatedly. But when they saw him, Mo Junyang closed his eyes and fell into a coma. Wei Zichao drew the long sword and put it on Xiao Qijun again, asking harshly, What did you do to my master? The other members in the stockaded village present saw that their chief was under threat with a sword, so they aimed at Wei Zichao with their weapons in unison and surrounded them. Let go of our chief. For a moment, it was at daggers drawn, and a war would break out at any time. Xiao Qijun looked surprised and stared at Mo Junyang in a coma, unable to react. He murmured, Why did it happen? Why Wei Zichao goggled. I want to ask you. Xiao Qijun said in a hurry, I saw that he was safe and sound when he fell to the cliff, and you have seen that he sat here in good health. Why did itattack suddenly? He seemed to think of a possibility and turned pale at once. Then he shouted at the members in a hoarse voice, Go and ask Doctor Liang to come! All the members looked at one another. Then somebody put down the big knife in his hand and said in a weak voice, Yes. Then he left in a hurry to look for the doctor. Doctor Liang rushed over in haste with a medical kit on his back. He didnt need anybody to tell him who the patient was but found him. He opened the medical kit and squatted on the ground, checking Mo Junyangs pulse. He checked Mo Junyangs wrist for a moment and then opened the patients eyes and mouth, examining carefully. Doctor, how is he? Shi Qingxue couldnt help asking. When they were waiting for the doctor, she consciously checked Mo Junyangs body, and there was no ordinary traumatic injury, not to mention a serious injury which could cause his coma. It was not an injury on the surface, but Shi Qingxue didnt feel happy, as she feared that Mo Junyang had an internal injury after being beaten when she didnt know. However, Doctor Liangs reaction was worse than Shi Qingxues most pessimistic conjecture. He turned ghastly pale all of a sudden and looked scared. Doctor Liang even moved a big step backward and covered his mouth and nose. The unclear voice came between his fingers. Its the epidemic. What? Doctor Liangs words exploded in all peoples ears immediately. All of them moved a few steps backward like he did, afraid of being infected if they stood there for longer. All people in Jiangzhou City turned pale with fear at the mention of the epidemic. Even the expression of Xiao Qijun who was bold changed after he heard this word, with alertness in his eyes. Shi Qingxue hugged Mo Junyang and didnt loosen her hands but frowned, glaring at Doctor Liang. What did you say? Didnt Mo Junyang risk his life to go to Shang Village just to investigate the epidemic which disappeared for no reason? However, since the epidemic had disappeared, why did it come again? Shi Qingxue didnt believe it, but Doctor Liang said with certainty, I have treated many patients suffering from the epidemic. All of them were in a coma or had a fever in the beginning, and his other symptoms are the same as those patients. If you still dont believe it, I have nothing to say. Cut the crap. You are a doctor. Why dont you make a prescription and save him? Shi Qingxue had no time to listen to Doctor Liang telling them about the symptoms of the epidemic and how it developed. She just got exasperated and demanded him to cure Mo Junyang. However, Doctor Liang lowered his head at the moment and replied hesitantly, We havent found the solution to cure this epidemic. Although I can make a diagnosis, I am afraid that I cant cure it and save him Doctor Liang beat around the bush and wanted to show three points. Firstly, he couldnt save Mo Junyang. Secondly, nobody could save him. Thirdly, he would wait for death. Shi Qingxue laughed coldly as she was furious because of Doctor Liangs hidden meaning. She told Wei Zichao to carry Mo Junyang out and disdained to say more to these people. This doctor was not skilled, and she would find the other doctors. If all the doctors in Jiangzhou City were incapable, she would go back to the imperial palace to find the imperial doctors and Shen Luo Anyway, she would have Mo Junyang cured. Shi Qingxue was decisive and told Wei Zichao to carry Mo Junyang back to Jiangzhou City and ask the old doctor to treat the patient. After hearing that it was the epidemic, the old doctor refused to treat Mo Junyang in the beginning. Wei Ziye put a knife on the doctors neck, and the latter finally agreed. When the old doctor treated the patient, he covered himself all over and only a pair of murky eyes was revealed. He didnt forget to protect them with a gauze. When he walked to the sickbed, he stopped repeatedly, as if a beast were lying on the bed and he would court death. Shi Qingxue got impatient because of the old doctors actions and dragged him to the bed. Just treat the patient now. We are not sure if it is the epidemic. The old doctor had to grab Mo Junyangs wrist and check his pulse, but as he checked for longer, the expression in his eyes got worse. In the end, he almost jumped and left the bed, pointing to it while trembling. Its reallythe epidemic. After he shouted, he said anxiously as Shi Qingxue and the others didnt move a bit, That is the epidemic which can cause peoples death in secret. Why are you standing there blankly? Why dont you stay away from him? However, Shi Qingxue just frowned and glared at him. Cut the crap. Since you have made a diagnosis, hurry up and make a prescription to save him. It was not the time to talk about anything else. The old doctor hadnt expected that these people would be not afraid of death as none of them avoided it after hearing that it was the epidemic. However, he didnt want to die. The old doctor wanted to cry but shed no tear, explaining, Nobody in Jiangzhou City can develop the medicine to cure the epidemic till now. After the common people get infected, they have to stay at home and await death. Perhaps the people from wealthy families can keep alive for several days with the precious medicinal materials, yet in fact, it is in vain Seeing that Shi Qingxues face looked terrible, the old doctor didnt dare to continue. Shi Qingxue stared at the old doctor and stressed each word again. Anyway, I ask you one question. Can you make a prescription? I The old doctor tried to shake his head, but seeing the bright and sharp sword in Wei Ziyes hand, he turned his head back at once and said in a low voice, I do have a prescription, yet I have never tried it and dont know if it can work. In fact, the old doctor wanted to say that his prescription could only keep the patient alive for some more days at most, and he couldnt cure it. However, all these people looked ferocious, and he didnt dare to say that. He was afraid that he would lose his life after saying it. Since there is a prescription, Dong Shuang, hurry up and follow the old doctor to buy medicinal herbs and decoct them. Remember to do everything by yourself, and you cant tell others to do it. Have you heard it? Shi Qingxue ordered in a hurry. Dong Shuang said yes and didnt give the old doctor a chance to protest but pulled him away. Wei Zichao asked worriedly, My Lady, this doctor looks unskilled. I dont know if his medical skills are good enough. I am worried that Shi Qingxue raised her hand and interrupted him. I know, yet we can do nothing but trust him now. Zichao, you urge the fast horse and go back to the capital to ask Shen Luo to come. We will try to delay and wait till you bring Shen Luo, so you must be quick. Understand? Wei Zichao finally knew that Shi Qingxue had a second string to her bow. He nodded at once. I am going now. I wont let you down. Shi Qingxue looked at Wei Zichaos receding figure and didnt feel relieved. Among them, Wei Zichao was best at flying skills. It would take more than ten days to go back to the capital, and he could spend less time and might reach there in five or six days. It would probably cost him twelve or thirteen days at least to go and come back. According to the epidemics developing process, the patients couldnt sustain themselves for half a month at most from the symptoms appearance to their death, and most of them would die in less than ten days. Time was limited, and Shi Qingxue just hoped that Wei Zichao could come back more quickly and that the old doctors prescription would be more effective. She could do nothing except that. After one hour, Dong Shuang brought the medicine bowl into the room. Seeing that Shi Qingxue sat still on the bedside, she was anxious and walked forward. She held the medicine bowl with one hand and tried to pull Shi Qingxue out with the other. My Lady, I will serve His Excellency here. I will surely take care of him wholeheartedly. Please dont worry. You are weak and should stay away from him. If there is something wrong with you, how should I explain to your parents? Shi Qingxue avoided Dong Shuangs hand and conveniently received the medicine bowl from her. She sat on the bedside and refused to go, saying coldly, I wont leave. I will stay here to look after him. But if Dong Shuang still wanted to advise her, while Qingxue interrupted her. If I am unlucky and infected, its Gods will. I was lucky to turn into nothingness with him in the previous life, and it will be nice if I can do so in this life. In the previous life, after Shi Qingxue died, she turned into a ghost and followed Mo Junyang all the time. Till he died of an illness, she disappeared between heaven and earth. When she thought of it, it must be the most romantic thing between her and Mo Junyang. She was lucky to be reborn in this life, and it seemed that she was reborn for Mo Junyang in order to prevent that man from being lonely. She couldnt remember her deep hatred toward Mo Junhao now. She thought of nothing but Mo Junyang and just wanted him to be safe and sound. Qingxues voice was forceful, with resolution that anybody couldnt shake, confusing Dong Shuang. She forgot to ask the young lady what the previous life meant. Dong Shuang just looked at Shi Qingxue blankly, who helped Mo Junyang sit up and then fed him medicine. After Shi Qingxue fed him almost all the medicine in the bowl, Dong Shuang finally remembered that it was her job to feed him medicine. Dong Shuang was in a great flurry and wanted to grab the medicine bowl. My Lady, let me do it. However, Shi Qingxue refused and just said, I will feed him medicine in the future. You just need to decoct the medicinal herbs. Dont enter this room if there is nothing. My Lady! Dong Shuang opened her eyes wide in astonishment. Would Shi Qingxue abandon her? Dong Shuang felt a bolt from the blue and looked at Shi Qingxue, with nothing to desire for. She thought that her career as a maid came to an end. Chapter 406 - I Am Afraid That You Will Steal My Husband Shi Qingxue realized that her words were ambiguous, so she hurriedly added, I dont dislike you, but Junyang suffers from a disease that will infect others. Its fine if only one person takes care of him, and its unnecessary to increase the risk for others. Although Shi Qingxue behaved indifferently, she was afraid. She had to drive away Dong Shuang earlier and tried to prevent the others from getting close to this room. However, Dong Shuang was unwilling and craned her neck. I should take care of him. How can I make you tired, My Lady? Shi Qingxue glanced at Dong Shuang and knew that she couldnt persuade her with ordinary reasons as this maid was inflexible. So she opened her lips and rebuked emotionlessly, Do you qualify to take care of my fiance? Although her voice was calm, her words were jealous, stunning Dong Shuang. Before Dong Shuang realized the truth, she subconsciously waved her hand and denied, explaining anxiously, I dont. I justjust Shi Qingxue stopped Dong Shuang again and said forcefully, No matter what you are thinking about, I wont let another woman take care of my husband. Understand? Dong Shuang nodded blankly. So you should be well-behaved and go out now. Dont come in without my permission. Can you? Shi Qingxue guided patiently. Dong Shuang nodded meekly and then walked out as Shi Qingxue gestured. It happened that Wei Ziye came back after telling the subordinates to do their jobs outside. Seeing that Dong Shuang stood at the door as if daydreaming, he asked curiously, Why dont you serve His Excellency in the room but stand here? Dong Shuang answered subconsciously, Lady Qingxue is afraid that I will steal her husband. Wei Ziye opened his eyes wide and looked at Dong Shuang, as if seeing a ghost. Dong Shuang finally realized that she said something wrong and hurriedly explained, No, I dont mean that. Lady Qingxue said that His Excellency is her fiance and should be taken care of by her only, so she told me to help outside. While speaking, Dong Shuang furrowed her thick brows involuntarily. She always thought that there was something wrong with Shi Qingxues request, yet the request sounded reasonable, and she couldnt retort. Wei Ziye was as inflexible as Dong Shuang and didnt notice the problem. After hearing that, he merely responded, Oh. Then he added, Just serve them here. I will guard in the courtyard. Call me if there is something. The two happily accepted Shi Qingxues job placement. Especially Dong Shuang was filled with apprehension every time she entered the room after she accepted Shi Qingxues words. She tried her best to turn a deaf ear to everything irrelevant to her, as she was afraid that her behavior would make Shi Qingxue unhappy. Two days had passed under this baffling atmosphere. Early in the morning of the third day, Mo Junyang opened his eyes slowly. As soon as Shi Qingxue received the medicine bowl from Dong Shuang, she saw the mans pale yet peaceful face and his eyes as deep as abyss. She trembled and almost smashed the medicine bowl. She hurriedly supported her hand with the medicine bowl and put it on the stool next to the bed. Then she sat on the bedside and stared at Mo Junyang with her bright eyes, as though he would disappear if she looked away for a moment. You are awake! Shi Qingxues voice was anxious and loud, and her eyes were bright like stars. However, after saying that, she suddenly realized that she said something useless. Mo Junyang had opened his eyes. Didnt it mean that he was awake? Shi Qingxue blushed in embarrassment, while Mo Junyang didnt mock at her but smiled at her gently, asking in a soft voice, How long have I been in a coma? Shi Qingxue pouted unconsciously and replied in a low voice, You have been asleep for nearly three days. Do you know that you almost scared me to death? She behaved calmly in front of others, yet when there was nobody around at night, she had cried for many times. She was afraid for a lot of times that Mo Junyang wouldnt wake up, but she pinched her arm and forced herself to calm down, not to be in panic. However, all her fear, panic and loss disappeared when she saw that Mo Junyang had woken up, and she just felt joyful and surprised. Shi Qingxue realized more clearly how important Mo Junyang was to her than any time. Unfortunately, she couldnt say these words to Mo Junyang. She just pursed her lips and cautiously helped him sit up. Then she couldnt wait to tell him what happened these days. You know what? Yan Xu is so hateful. He made a plan to harm you but came here every day to ask about you and show concern for you. He is so disgusting. And Xiao Qijun, he worked for Yan Xu earlier. After Yan Xu knew that he hid you in secret, he fell out with Yan Xu this time. You havent told me why you guessed that there is something wrong with Xiao Qijun? And, I have told Wei Zichao to go back to the capital and ask Shen Luo to come. You Ahem! Shi Qingxues endless speech was interrupted by Mo Junyangs cough, and she stopped talking abruptly. Her smile faded gradually when she saw his pale face, and then it turned into deeper remorse and a feeling of loss. I am sorry. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and whispered. Mo Junyang withdrew his hand which covered his lips and smiled at her to comfort her. I am fine. Nevertheless, even a fool could see the reluctance and weakness on his face. Shi Qingxue was more guilty. How could she be so happy and forget that Mo Junyang was still sick, suffering from the deadly epidemic yet pester him with the trifles like an idiot after she saw that he woke up? She was so stupid. I will stop talking. Take medicine first and then have a good rest. Shi Qingxue brought the medicine bowl and lowered her head, feeding him medicine. Nobody knew whether Mo Junyang considered for Shi Qingxue or he was really tired. He didnt speak but took the medicine from Shi Qingxue silently. After the medicine was finished, he asked, Am I infected with the epidemic? His tone was so flat, as if he asked Have I had dinner today? Shi Qingxue nodded in silence. No wonder! Mo Junyang showed a knowing expression and then asked, What did the doctor say? The medicine was useless and just kept him alive for a short time. How could Shi Qingxue say something so desperate? Her eyes were red, filled with translucent tears, but she controlled herself and didnt let them fall. She stated with certainty and resolution that she never had, Mo Junyang, you will surely be fine. Mo Junyang stared at Shi Qingxues face in a daze, as if lost in thought, and he was absent-minded. However, he returned calm soon and nodded with a smile. I will. Shi Qingxue nodded with more strength, as if her words would be true after she nodded harder. They sat across from each other quietly for a while. Till Mo Junyang couldnt help but cough again, Shi Qingxue realized that he was not as strong as before, so she planned to help him lie down. Have a sleep first. Lets talk after you have a good rest. However, Mo Junyang waved his hand and refused. I have just woken up. How can I fall asleep? Talk with me. Shi Qingxue thought that what Mo Junyang needed most was a rest, but she was unwilling to disobey him. She reached out her hands and withdrew them hesitantly for a few times before asking in a low voice, About what? Anything. I want to listen to you speaking. Mo Junyangs voice was cold most of the time, and even in front of Shi Qingxue, it was difficult for him to say honeyed words. However, at the moment, because he was sick, he slackened, and both his expression and voice were soft. Such a gentle voice came into Shi Qingxues ears, which got red involuntarily. She subconsciously raised her hands to scratch her ears. However, as soon as she touched her ears, she shrank her hands back and disdained herself in secret as she was attracted to him even at this time. She was good for nothing, unable to control herself. It was Shi Qingxues turn to cough like Mo Junyang did, and she tried to be serious, saying, I will tell you what happened in the past few days She said a lot. Thats what happened. Do you understand? Shi Qingxue told Mo Junyang everything that happened these days in one breath, as if telling stories. Afterward, she looked up at Mo Junyang, to find that he leaned against the bedhead and had fallen asleep. Shi Qingxues vivid expression disappeared in an instant, and her eyes darkened. She pursed her lips and gently helped Mo Junyang lie down, covering him with the quilt. Mo Junyang might have found it if she did that in the past, but now he was sleeping soundly. He looked peaceful. However, Shi Qingxue was clear that Mo Junyang was really sick. Perhaps this was Mo Junyangs weakest condition she had seen except when he was dying in the previous life. However, different from her confusion and helplessness in the previous life, she felt sad this time. She wished that she could replace him and be the patient. But what was the point? Nobody could replace somebody else. When Mo Junyang woke up again, three days more had passed. Five days had passed since Mo Junyang fell into a coma for the first time. There was no news from the capital, and he was still alive because of the old doctors medicine, as if everything was the same as before. However, Shi Qingxue clearly felt that Mo Junyang became thin visibly, and he seemed to have a label of being weak. The words Handle with care as its fragile were written on it. Shi Qingxue became cautious even when she touched him because she was afraid that she would break him into crumbs by accident. Mo Junyang looked as if he didnt care. He even smiled at Shi Qingxue gently and said, I am hungry. The only thing Mo Junyang had eaten these days was the sweet water made by the old doctor to replenish his body. It would be surprising if he wasnt hungry. Nevertheless, the old doctor told them that Mo Junyang couldnt eat anything at this time, or he would die sooner. Shi Qingxue felt sad all of a sudden, and tears fell from her eyes uncontrollably. She grabbed Mo Junyangs hand and buried her face in his warm palm while sobbing repeatedly. Sorry. Mo Junyang, I am sorry. I dont know what I should do. What should I do? Tell me. I dont want you to die. Please dont die, okay Chapter 407 - I Don’t Want to Die Mo Junyang leaned over and slowly raised his other hand, rubbing Shi Qingxues cheek. He stated in a gentler voice, Dont worry. I wont die. Idont want to die. Shi Qingxue suddenly raised her face full of tears and met Mo Junyangs eyes with a warm smile. Then she felt that he slowly caressed her head with his warm hand again and rubbed it gently as usual. Dont be afraid. I am fine However, the words I am fine were not persuasive. After saying that, Mo Junyang seemed to have consumed all his energy. He closed his eyes gently and his arm hung on the quilt. At the moment, Shi Qingxue felt heartbroken. Her heart almost jumped out of her throat and stopped her uncontrollable voice. She opened her mouth wide yet didnt forget her manners to shout. She looked at Mo Junyang in a daze for quite a while and seemed to react at last. She instantly reached out her index finger to Mo Junyangs nose. Fortunately, he was still breathing. Shi Qingxue suddenly heaved a sigh of relief and relaxed. She stared at Mo Junyangs sleeping face blankly, with mixed feelings. She sat for nearly one morning. At noon, seeing that Mo Junyang woke up from the coma once more, she asked nervously, How are you feeling? Mo Junyang smiled amiably and replied, I feel much better. Shi Qingxue didnt believe it. Perhaps Shi Qingxues thoughts were too obvious, so Mo Junyang smiled again and looked relieved. He blinked his smiling eyes and said to Shi Qingxue, I really feel much better, but I havent been out for many days, so I feel suffocated. It will be nice if I can go out and enjoy the sunshine. The question was, could a person infected with the epidemic go out and be exposed to the sun and wind? Shi Qingxue was not sure, yet only after a moment, she nodded and answered, Okay. I will helpsit in the courtyard with you for a while. Mo Junyang had been tough for two lives and never been so fragile and powerless, so she spoke cautiously as she was afraid of hurting his pride. However, she didnt dare to show it too evidently, so when she supported Mo Junyang, she became cowardly. Mo Junyang could certainly see her hesitation. In fact, he didnt care when he showed his weakness to Shi Qingxue. Especially when she could take care of him wholeheartedly, he wished that he could show that he was weaker. Right. King Ruis heir ignored his high principles in front of Lady Qingxue. Then Mo Junyang intentionally coughed twice and reached out his hand to Shi Qingxue slowly, saying feebly, I am powerless. I think that I need you to support me. Shi Qingxue looked joyful. She was afraid that Mo Junyang would be unhappy. How would she refuse? She hurriedly held Mo Junyangs arm and helped him walk out, as if she feared that he would change his mind. In the pavilion outside, Dong Shuang had the foresight and put the soft couch and snacks there. Shi Qingxue helped Mo Junyang sit on the couch and wanted to pour tea for him, but he grabbed her hand. He grabbed it gently without putting forth strength. Shi Qingxue stopped moving at once and conveniently sat on the pedal. She looked up at Mo Junyang and asked nervously in a hurry, Whats wrong? Nothing. Dont do anything. Sit with me for a while. Okay! Shi Qingxue answered obediently and didnt move. She leaned against the edge of the couch and raised her head to talk with Mo Junyang. As before, Mo Junyang didnt talk much. Compared with speaking, he preferred to hear Shi Qingxues clear and pleasant voice. Nobody knew if Shi Qingxue realized this, yet she didnt stop talking. Till she got tired, she talked slowly gradually. She looked up, to see that Mo Junyang reclined on the couch and had closed his eyes. Shi Qingxue found a blanket and covered Mo Junyang. She had nothing to do, or rather, she couldnt keep calm no matter what she did, so she continued to sit on the pedal and still raised her head, looking at Mo Junyang. She rarely calmed down, as if she could look at Mo Junyang in this way till death. The man was so handsome, and she could eat anything while staring at him. It would be fine even if she didnt eat. Shi Qingxue thought and gazed at her fiance, like an anthomaniac till she felt sleepy. She couldnt resist the temptation but leaned against Mo Junyangs thigh, falling asleep. She didnt know that after she fell asleep, Mo Junyang who was supposed to be sleeping soundly opened his eyes slowly. The mans eyes were clear, and he didnt seem to wake up from a dream. Mo Junyang didnt move but looked down at Shi Qingxues tranquil sleeping face. His weak face with an illness didnt look weak at all but was cold and indifferent. If his cheeks were not pale, nobody could see that he was sick. Mo Junyang gazed at Shi Qingxue for quite a while and his black eyes were bottomless, seeming able to swallow everything, with complexity that nobody could understand in them. After a long time, he moved. He raised his hand softly and slowly to cover Shi Qingxues fair-skinned and slender neck which was revealed as she tilted her head. Shi Qingxue shrank restlessly yet relaxed soon because Mo Junyang caressed her gently. Her brows softened, and she smiled faintly even in the dream, as if she dreamed about something nice. She didnt know that she was given to philandering. Mo Junyang stroke Shi Qingxues neck back and forth, but his eyes fell on the void. He seemed to focus on something or simply stare blankly. Nobody knew what he was thinking about. Junyang, Shi Qingxue called in a gentle and unclear voice. She called abruptly, and Mo Junyang seemed to be scared. He suddenly withdrew his hand and looked frightened seemingly. However, soon he seemed to get remorseful. He clenched his fists unconsciously but didnt want to see his hand which had touched Shi Qingxue just now. He withdrew it and put it under the blanket. The mans face became colder and more distant because of the incident and even showed anger which could be noticed easily. Nobody knew whom he was angry with. It happened that Wei Ziye had something and came to see them. Seeing the two masters being intimate, he avoided it on his own initiative but watched Mo Junyangs abnormal actions unexpectedly, so he was open-mouthed. What was wrong with his master? However, before Wei Ziye figured out why Mo Junyang suddenly became afraid of touching Shi Qingxue, the master found him, and his distant eyes got colder. Wei Ziye feared that he would be killed soon. He swallowed and then cautiously walked into the pavilion, whispering, Master, I have checked what you told me to. Say it. When he didnt face Shi Qingxue, this master would never say anything useless. Wei Ziye didnt dare to have objections. He explained miserably, As the surviving common people in Shang Village said, Supervisor Ye was a nice official. His parents died when he was young, and many people provided for him. Later, a teacher in a private school thought highly of him, and he studied for several years and then became a successful candidate in the imperial examination, so he was appointed as the supervisor in Jiangzhou. So he worked hard with a poor background? Mo Junyang impassively concluded Wei Ziyes main point. Wei Ziye nodded and continued, It is hard to believe that such a person who knew the hardships of the common people would ignore their lives after studying hard and becoming an official. Moreover, when the people in Shang Village mentioned Supervisor Ye, all of them praised him, but they complained a lot about the magistrate in Jiangzhou. When Wei Ziye said that, he imagined a story. After Ye Zhirong became the supervisor in Jiangzhou, he worked conscientiously as an official in order to repay the common people who raised him. He contradicted his superior Yan Xu for the public interests, but a higher official would suppress him. Yan Xu took him down a peg in the officialdom and depressed him. When something bad happened, Yan Xu killed Ye Zhirong and said that he escaped as he was afraid of being punished. He put all the blame on Ye Zhirong and made him unpeaceful even after he died. Ye Zhirong was so miserable. While thinking, Wei Ziye was filled with righteous indignation and added the new hatred to the old. He wished that he could kill the evil official Yan Xu with his sword. Mo Junyang sneered and asked casually, Is there no other possibility? What else? Yan Xu is not a good man at a glance. In fact, he is not good. If he didnt cause trouble, how would you be infected with the epidemic? And the medicine is useless In the beginning, Wei Ziye talked emotionally. When he said the words the medicine is useless, he suddenly remembered that Shi Qingxue repeatedly told them not to let Mo Junyang know that there was no medicine to cure the epidemic, as she was afraid that it would make him unhappy and worsen the patients condition However, he talked quickly and said everything Wei Ziye showed a sad face and begged Mo Junyang. Master, can you pretend that you didnt hear the last words? Mo Junyang showed a knowing expression and squinted at Wei Ziye with a faint smile. What would happen if I heard it? Wei Ziye looked as if he had nothing to desire for. Lady Qingxue will kill me. Although Wei Ziye was sure that his master wouldnt be so vulnerable as to be frustrated because he knew that no medicine could cure him, since Mo Junyang got sick, Shi Qingxue became extremely nervous as she was afraid that there was something wrong with him. Wei Ziye could understand Shi Qingxue, so he didnt dare to disobey her. After Mo Junyang heard that, his stiff expression finally softened. He lowered his head and stared at Shi Qingxues eyes, brows and mouth. After a long time, he waved his hand without raising his head. Okay. Go out now. Then Wei Ziye was hesitant and refused to go. Mo Junyang expressed, I will pretend that you didnt come today. Dont need to tell her. I see. Wei Ziye finally heaved a sigh of relief and cupped his hands in front of Mo Junyang before leaving. Mo Junyang still lowered his head and sighed in a low voice after a long time. Qingxue, do you know that just now I wanted to The last words vanished in the wind, and perhaps even the wind didnt hear it clearly. Chapter 408 - I Am Impotent... In the next five days, Mo Junyang took medicine following the old doctors prescription. On the surface, his condition seemed to be steady and it didnt worsen. Even Shi Qingxue who stayed with him for almost twenty-four hours every day wasnt infected, which was a miracle. Shi Qingxue and the others didnt experience the disaster of the epidemic which was like massacring all residents of a city. They couldnt feel the horrible epidemic, so they didnt take it seriously. The old doctor who was forced to treat Mo Junyang every day said several times that it was a miracle and that it was impossible after he saw Shi Qingxue. However, Shi Qingxue wasnt infected, which relaxed many people feeling restless, and it was a great blessing in misfortune. Shi Qingxue stayed with Mo Junyang but asked in depression, How are you feeling now? She asked this question several times every day. Even though Mo Junyang gave her a positive answer every time, she was still restless and worried if she neglected something. Mo Junyang answered her repeatedly with patience, I am really fine. Dont worry. He paused for a moment and then asked with a frown, Whats wrong with you? He clearly felt that Shi Qingxue was in low spirits, as if she were frustrated. Nothing. Shi Qingxue subconsciously wanted to deny it, but as soon as she finished her words, she remembered that she had agreed to be frank with Mo Junyang. She bit her lower lip hard and left a deep red mark on it before speaking haltingly. I just wonder why I am not infected. In fact, all people had this question in their brains. They couldnt say that Shi Qingxue was a heroine, so she was quite lucky. However, with the oppression when Shi Qingxue thought about this question, there was something wrong with her attitude. What on earth are you thinking about? Mo Junyang furrowed his brows more deeply, and his tone was serious like to rebuke. However, Shi Qingxue got bold abnormally and raised her eyes, gazing at Mo Junyang. She asked in reply seriously, You have said that you are willing to experience all beautiful and painful things in the world with me. Did you cheat me? You are infected with this epidemic now. How can I relax and sit here, waiting for you to recover? What would you do if you were me? The three questions rendered Mo Junyang speechless. If their conditions were switched, Mo Junyang wouldnt watch Shi Qingxue in a desperate situation and remain unmoved. Even if he was infected with the epidemic and it would make the situation worse, he would do that. Even if he died, he would die with Shi Qingxue of the same disease. He was so bigoted. Nevertheless, he was the patient now, so he concealed all his thoughts. He even rebuked seriously, Dont mess around! The epidemic is not negligible. If you were infected with the epidemic, who would take care of me then? His reason was so dignified, bold and sufficient. And he considered for himself, so Shi Qingxue couldnt retort. She lowered her head and ignored Mo Junyang. After a long time, she snorted in a muffled voice. I know, so I just seethe. She didnt make herself infected with the epidemic on impulse. In fact, there was another question. By the way, you havent told me how you were infected with this damned epidemic. After Shi Qingxue asked, there was no answer in a long time. She raised her head in confusion, to see that Mo Junyang was in a coma on the bed silently. Junyang! Mo Junyang fell into a coma all of a sudden frequently these days, yet it made Shi Qingxue terror-stricken and heartbroken every time. She reached out her finger to Mo Junyangs nose tip nervously again and checked him cautiously. This time, her tense face didnt soften but looked terrible. DongDong Shuang! Shi Qingxue called in an incoherent voice, which scared Dong Shuang. Dong Shuang rushed in. My Lady, what happened? Hurry up and send for the doctor. Go now! Dong Shuang answered in a hurry and ran out. Ten minutes later, the old doctor was lifted here by Wei Ziye. As the old doctor saw Mo Junyang in a coma on the bed, his anxious expression almost collapsed. Before Shi Qingxue spoke, he begged for mercy. My Lady, I have really tried my best, but His Excellency has been ill for more than ten days. I am reallyreally impotent. Mo Junyang was in a coma and couldnt wake up because his life came to an end and he couldnt sustain himself anymore. The old doctor couldnt cure the epidemic with that medicine, and he just had a plan to delay, but the medicine would be ineffective someday, and he could do nothing. Wei Ziye wouldnt listen to him resorting to sophistry. He put the broadsword on the old doctors neck again and stated coldly, If you cant cure Master, I will kill you. The old doctor was really going to cry. Even if you kill me, I am still impotent. The old doctor also wanted to cure Mo Junyang. If he were so capable and the news that he could cure the epidemic spread, he might be praised as the second miracle-working doctor, not to mention the remarkable immediate interests. However, he didnt know what medicine could cure the epidemic. Ziye, let go of him. A feeble male voice came from the bed, and Mo Junyang opened his eyes again unexpectedly. Shi Qingxue almost rushed to Mo Junyang and grasped his hand, refusing to let go. She shouted in a sobbing voice, Junyang, how are you feeling? Dont cheat me! Dont As soon as she spoke, she cried. Tears fell from her eyes like a stream uncontrollably and messed up the makeup on her face. She knew that Mo Junyang had said that he was fine just to make her happy. He was not fine but something bad would happen. Mo Junyang was weaker day by day because of the disease, yet he didnt say anything. Instead, he always cheated her by saying that he was fine till now. He finally couldnt sustain himself anymore. The man still raised his hands with difficulty to caress Shi Qingxues cheeks, wiping the tears away from them with his index fingers slowly. He comforted her in a gentle voice, I am fine, really. More tears fell from Shi Qingxues eyes. Her brain was in a mess, and all her calmness and solutions disappeared. She couldnt figure out a way. The cognition that Mo Junyang was dying filled her brain and almost forced her to collapse. Junyang, I beg you. You cant die. Please Shi Qingxue stated in a disorderly way and didnt know what she had said. Mo Junyang looked at Shi Qingxue who was so fragile and helpless, and his pretended calmness disintegrated. The mans eyes darkened, and he didnt explain it away in front of Shi Qingxue. It was because he suddenly felt that his body was scorching like fire all over but soon it seemed that ice cakes filled his heart, and he was so cold that he trembled. He almost tried his best so the others didnt notice his condition, and he didnt have extra energy to explain. He had to wait till the pain with cold and hot feelings weakened, and then he continued to order Wei Ziye, Fine, all of you can go out now. Wei Ziye opened his eyes wide and thought that he misheard it. Now Mo Junyang was dying, but this patient drove them away. Would he court death? However, the mans eyes were clear, and he didnt seem to be muddle-headed with an illness. When Wei Ziye hesitated and remained still, the voice got cold. Be quick. Wei Ziye thought that Mo Junyang probably got brainless as he was sick, so he acted irrationally. However, it was his instinct in his heart to follow Mo Junyangs orders. He just hesitated for two seconds, and then he pulled Dong Shuang who was unwilling and the old doctor who was grateful out of the room. He even considerately closed the door for the couple inside. Shi Qingxue heard Mo Junyangs order, but fear filled her brain, and she couldnt analyze the pros and cons sanely. She just opened her big eyes wide and stared at Mo Junyang. She was afraid that Mo Junyang would disappear when she looked away from him. Junyang, Junyang Shi Qingxue murmured and repeated Mo Junyangs name over and over. Mo Junyangs eyes were dark. When only the two were left in the room, he smiled faintly at Shi Qingxue with effort and said in a feeble voice, Help me sit up. Lets have a talk. TalkOkay, okay! What Shi Qingxue feared most was that Mo Junyang would die in his dream. It was certainly nice that Mo Junyang was willing to talk. She was in a great flurry and helped Mo Junyang sit up to lean against the bedhead. Then she moved close to him. She was like a needy kitten that couldnt leave its owner. Such an action could make Mo Junyangs heart melt away. However, he didnt have extra energy to react like that. He had to hold Shi Qingxues hand with all his strength and wrap it in his hand gently. When Shi Qingxue looked up at him, he expressed, Dont worry. I will be fine. I promise to you. Such a promise was the sweetest confession to Shi Qingxue and moistened her heart like warm water, and then her heart was thrown into a pan with oil and fried. She felt sick at heart and sad and cried uncontrollably again. Qingxue wiped her tears and shouted at Mo Junyang, Okay, thats what you told me. You cant break your promise. You should make it till death as you have promised me. Have you heard it? While speaking, Shi Qingxue saw that Mo Junyangs eyelids seemed to start covering his eyes, so she couldnt help but raise her voice, shouting, Mo Junyang, you have promised me. Answer me. Answer me now! Mo Junyang didnt answer, while he closed his eyes once more. At the moment, Shi Qingxue was heartbroken and felt that the whole world fell into darkness. She was shaky. Junyang! Shi Qingxue screamed in fear and shook Mo Junyang desperately, wanting this man to open his eyes and respond to her. At the moment, there was a knock at the door. My Lady, somebody asked to see you. Shi Qingxue stiffened and trembled as she thought that the comer might be Shen Luo. She was excited this time. She couldnt wait to rush to the door and opened it. Is it Shen Luo? He has come, right? Wei Ziye looked at Shi Qingxues joyful face and thought that his next words would be too cruel, but he had to answer frankly, No, its a girl. Chapter 409 - Someone Who Can Save Him Hearing the word girl, Shi Qingxue was gloomy, as if her energy were absorbed, and she looked depressed. However, she still roused herself and asked to show respect, Who is it? Wei Ziye looked more hesitant, as if wondering if he should disturb Shi Qingxue with something so boring, but in the end, he continued, She is masked and her face cant be seen clearly. She just said that she must see you. Who must see Shi Qingxue at this critical moment? It was not Shen Luo but a girl. Shi Qingxue didnt have energy to cope with a girl, who knew how to play mysterious. Nevertheless, before she said something to refuse, an idea came into her mind. Was it possible that the girl could save Mo Junyang? As soon as she had this idea, Shi Qingxue felt that she was crazy as she wanted to save Mo Junyang, so she had such an unrealistic idea, yet she couldnt stop it anyway. So even though her eyes were red and her voice was hoarse, she still ordered, Bring her in. Wei Ziye had a look at the room subconsciously. He thought that Mo Junyang fell into a coma like he did every time in the past, so he didnt ask more but went to bring the girl dutifully. Shi Qingxue quickly ran back to the bedside and looked at Mo Junyang in a coma. This time, she was more flurried than ever before. She was afraid. Even her finger checking Mo Junyangs breath trembled uncontrollably. She had tried several times, yet she couldnt put it in the right position, so she had to give up. Qingxue sat on the bedside feebly, as if there would be nothing wrong as long as she didnt check. Even so, her brain was still blank, and she couldnt think about anything. There was a gentle knock at the door, and somebody shouted from outside, Qingxue. The sweet female voice was childish and sounded familiar. Shi Qingxue didnt know which little girl would call her like this, so she answered subconsciously, Please come in. Then the room door was gently pushed open, and a hairy head popped in. This little head was covered with a light blue headcloth, and her face couldnt be seen clearly, but the nimble actions and familiar figure made Shi Qingxue in a daze again. The girl almost walked to her and stood in front of her, with only her cute dimples and faint smile revealed under the headcloth. Shi Qingxue suddenly had a brainwave and blurted out, Xiao! The headcloth was taken off, and a pretty and cute face was shown. She smiled at Shi Qingxue sweetly and called again, Qingxue. The comer was Shen Luos sister Shen Xiao. Shi Qingxue came to her senses after being stunned for quite a while. Especially when she thought of Shen Xiaos identity, she got excited. She didnt forget how Shen Xiao tortured Shi Baoyan almost to death when she went to see Shen Luo on Mang Mountain. The girls medical skills and poisoning skills were excellent. Shi Qingxue suddenly had hope and pulled Shen Xiao to the bedside. She pointed to Mo Junyang in the bed and stuttered in an emotional voice, Savesave himPlease! Shen Xiao looked at Shi Qingxue who almost cried and knew that it was not the time to joke with her. She grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and concealed her smile, comforting her in a low voice. Qingxue, dont be afraid. I have a solution to save His Excellency. Afterward, she took a pill out of her pocket and put it in Mo Junyangs mouth, making him swallow it. Then she explained to Shi Qingxue, I received my brothers letter in Rui City the other day. He said that he was not available, so I should come to Jiangzhou City if I was free. He told me to make preparations in advance as there might be an epidemic in this city. I fed His Excellency a versatile detoxification pill. Although its not an antidote against the disease, it can relieve the patients pain more or less. After his condition is stable, I will give an adequate remedy for the disease, and it will eliminate the illness. Shen Xiao had two buns on her head, still like a little girl at the age of fifteen. She looked childish and adorable, yet she said something mature seriously. She said logically and gave others a sense of security for no reason. At least, Shi Qingxue believed that Shen Xiao could really save Mo Junyang. Qingxue nodded at Shen Xiao with gratitude and calmed down because of her words. Fortunately, you have come. Otherwise, I dont know what to do. While speaking, she had a bitter smile on her lips involuntarily. She thought that she had lived for two lives and had seen much more than many people, but when something bad happened, she was in panic. She was really good for nothing. Shen Xiao couldnt bear to see Shi Qingxue feel guilty. Moreover, how could they blame Shi Qingxue for something like this? Qingxue, what are you talking about? Even many experienced doctors will be in panic or flee facing the epidemic. They wont be so bold as to stay with the patient and look after him. You are much braver than them. Shen Xiao smiled sweetly and praised her sincerely. Shi Qingxue smiled with shyness and couldnt accept such praise, but she was relieved because of Shen Xiaos compliment. She calmed down and tried her best to tell Shen Xiao sanely something about the epidemic in Jiangzhou that she knew, hoping that it could help her treat Mo Junyang. The doctor who treated Junyang earlier said that the epidemic in Jiangzhou was dangerous and came quickly, and many people died of the disease. Almost nobody could survive after being infected till now. I While speaking, Qingxue gave the prescription made by the old doctor to Shen Xiao. Before Qingxue finished her words, Shen Xiao snorted with disdain. They are just a bunch of conceited quacks. They dont even dare to get close to the patient. How can they cure the disease? For example, if Wei Ziye didnt put the sword on the old doctors neck, how would he have the medical ethics to treat Mo Junyang, not to mention checking his illness carefully? Moreover, the prescription he made was merely a ready one and couldnt cure Mo Junyang. It would only waste time. How would a doctor with the spirit of saving the world take out a prescription rashly which was ineffective to cure a patient? It would just delay saving the patient and consume his life. Shi Qingxue thought that she should defend the old doctor at this time. From the beginning, the old doctor said that he couldnt cure Junyang but had to try his best to delay it. He did delay it till you came, so Her voice was uncertain, yet she was grateful to all the people who could help Mo Junyang. Shen Xiao looked disappointed and stated furiously, Qingxue, you have been cheated by him. Ah? Its just an ordinary prescription to build up health, and any pharmacy can show one hundred similar prescriptions randomly. Do you believe it? Shen Xiao said in a rage. Shi Qingxue was stunned and stuttered, But Junyangsurvived indeed Thats because His Excellency is in good health! Shen Xiao responded without thinking. In fact, speaking of which, this was understandable. Mo Junyang practiced martial arts throughout the year. As he was powerful in martial arts, his foundation was naturally much better than the ordinary persons. Only with this point, he was superior to the ordinary person, and Shi Qingxue looked after himself devotedly and gave him food with good nutrition, so he could sustain himself longer than the ordinary person. Therefore, even if the old doctor didnt come, Mo Junyang could survive. On the contrary, because they used the old doctors prescription attentively, they gave up trying others and wasted so much time. While speaking, Shen Xiao was filled with righteous indignation. She hadnt seen that old doctor, but she wanted to beat him up. However, Shi Qingxue didnt bear a grudge. She just wanted to have Mo Junyang cured, and she didnt care about anything else. Forget it. Come and examine Junyang. He hasnt woken up. I am afraid Qingxue was too shy to say that she was almost scared to have a heart attack these days because of Mo Junyangs coma. She was worried all day long if he wouldwhen she didnt notice it Shen Xiao grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and expressed confidently, Qingxue, dont worry. This pill will work perfectly in two hours. Then His Excellency will almost wake up. Compared with him, Shen Xiao was more worried about Shi Qingxue. She pulled Shi Qingxue to sit at the table and asked carefully, Did you stay with His Excellency and look after him all the time these days? Ah! Shi Qingxue answered equivocally and thought about something else. She didnt notice if there was a problem. Shen Xiao furrowed her brows tightly and stated harshly, Qingxue, although you and His Excellency love each other deeply, you know that he is infected with the epidemic, so you shouldnt be so close to him without any protection. She paused for a moment and then sighed. Alas, its too late to say anything now. Fortunately, you are fine, but you should eat this just in case. Shen Xiao seemed to conjure, and she had a pill between her thumb and index finger. She gave it to Shi Qingxue. Shi Qingxue received it and put it in her mouth without hesitation. After she swallowed it with effort, she asked, What can we do for Junyang now? Even though she knew that she could do nothing to help him as she didnt know medical skills, she couldnt allow herself to be idle and do nothing. She would feel guilty and meanwhile make blind conjectures. She urgently needed to do something to comfort herself as she was anxious. Shen Xiao probably noticed Shi Qingxues anxiety and pondered for a moment. Then she suggested, Qingxue, how about telling me how His Excellency was infected with the epidemic? Then I can predict. In fact, on the way here, Shen Xiao had heard most of the legends about the epidemic in Jiangzhou, but she still wanted Shi Qingxue to tell her. On the one hand, she would distract Shi Qingxues attention, and on the other hand, she had guessed something in secret, yet she couldnt say it for now. Shi Qingxue didnt suspect her. She restrained her complex thoughts and tried to say in detail, In fact, when Junyang was infected, I was not around, but Ziye told me what happened then No matter what he did, Mo Junyang had a purpose, and he went to Shang Village with a purpose, too. Therefore, at noon after he reached Shang Village, he visited Ye Zhirongs former residence and then talked with the surviving common people in the neighborhood for a long time. Later, he went to visit the hunters on the sparsely populated mountain. Everything went smoothly all the way, at least before they left the last family. However, after they finished the jobs of one day, it was dark. They were trapped on the mountain, and the tragedy happened at that time. A group of masked men in black rushed out suddenly and tried to kill them, vigorously pursuing them. Then they attacked them with poison and poisonous arrows, forcing them to the cliff. In the end, Mo Junyang fell off the cliff and got injured in order to save Mo Junzhan. Although Mo Junyang wasnt seriously injured, it still influenced him when he was fighting back. Moreover, he wanted to know what Black Water Stockaded Village was like, from which somebody invited him to visit. Then he was taken to that stockaded village with injuries when he was forced even though he was willing to. Afterward, he healed his wound and chatted with the members in the stockaded village. The people in Black Water Stockaded Village asked them to visit and really treated them politely as guests. Nobody disrespected Mo Junyang. However, when he asked about the key questions, all people were evasive and changed the subject, without revealing any useful information. At least, Wei Ziye who followed Mo Junyang all the time thought so. As for what Mo Junyang had found, they should ask him. After hearing Shi Qingxues narration, Shen Xiao furrowed her arch eyebrows more tightly, whispering, There is something fishy as expected. Chapter 410 - It Is Not the Epidemic Something fishy? Shi Qingxues eyes lit up in an instant, and she stared at Shen Xiao, expecting her to explain. In fact, after Qingxue heard Wei Ziyes words, she thought that it was strange, but she couldnt figure it out these days, while Shen Xiao, an outsider seemed to have found something wrong. Shen Xiao shook her head and pouted, saying in a low voice, Its strange, yet we must focus on different points, so lets talk about it after His Excellency wakes up. Shi Qingxue had to agree. At this time, it happened that Mo Junyang opened his eyes. Shi Qingxue subconsciously glanced at the sandy clock on the table. Two hours had passed exactly since Shen Xiao entered the room. It was too magical. Qingxue looked at Shen Xiao with wonderment. She was shocked and meanwhile had somebody to rely on. She got confident again. Mo Junyang would be fine. Sure. Without delay, Shen Xiao bowed to Mo Junyang and checked his pulse while asking, Your Excellency, how are you feeling now? Mo Junyang looked much better than he did before he fainted, and even his pale face became ruddy. He subconsciously glanced at Shi Qingxue and was about to answer, while Shen Xiao put forth more strength on her finger on his wrist. Shen Xiao stated seriously, Your Excellency, I came to treat you. Please tell me frankly. After Shi Qingxue relaxed, she was more quick-minded than before obviously. She noticed the weird interaction of the two at a glance. Then she sat on the bedside and said to Mo Junyang seriously, Dont lie to me. I know that you must be unwell. Xiao is superb in medical skills. As long as you tell her frankly, she can surely cure you. Qingxue knew that Mo Junyang hid everything from her because he didnt want her to feel sad and anxious, while he could hide it for now but couldnt hide it forever. Sometimes she couldnt understand Mo Junyangs persistence. Even though she would feel sad, yet was it more important than his life and death? If her sadness could make Mo Junyang healthy, she would rather feel sad to death. However, Mo Junyang who could always weigh the pros and cons chose the worst way in something like this, which made her feel sad and helpless. Fortunately, Mo Junyang didnt hide it anymore this time. He kept silent for a while and then answered, I dont feel well. I am weak and want to sleep. Want to sleep? Hearing Mo Junyangs words, the two girls looked at him in surprise. Being weak was almost the commonest symptom of all the patients, and it was not surprising, but his eyes were clear, and he talked logically. It didnt seem that he wanted to sleep. Mo Junyang smiled bitterly and finally showed his weariness in his tone when he spoke once more. If you know how hard I tried to maintain calm, you wont be surprised. In another word, Mo Junyang pretended to be energetic. At the moment, the two girls were so astonished that their jaws almost dropped. Why was there such a man in the world? He didnt forget to pretend even when he was sick, and he acted perfectly. Even Shen Xiao, a doctor didnt notice it. However, when it came to Mo Junyang, everything was logical seemingly. Shen Xiao rolled her eyes speechlessly and didnt know whether she should say that Mo Junyang was too abnormal or too capable. He could disguise even at this time. Although Shen Luo and Shen Xiao took Mo Junyang as their master, seeing that Mo Junyang challenged the limit and didnt take his health seriously, she still couldnt help but rebuke, Your Excellency, its not the time to play a cool man. You need to have a rest and keep the physical strength, and then you can continue to take medicine. If you mistreat yourself again, I am not sure that I can cure you. Any doctor didnt like a disobedient patient, so Shen Xiao decided to frighten Mo Junyang before she continued with her treatment. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang still looked calm without a frown, which made Shi Qingxue anxious and scared. She hurriedly spoke for him. Xiao, dont misunderstand it. Junyang is always like this. Dont take it to heart. You are a doctor, and he will surely listen to you. Shi Qingxue said a lot anxiously and wanted to win Shen Xiao back. Shen Xiao had never seen Shi Qingxue being so perplexed. She wasnt like this even when she faced death on Mang Mountain. So Shen Xiao was in a good mood and wanted to tease her. Then Mo Junyang glanced at her casually. It seemed to be powerless, but Shen Xiao was covered with goose bumps. She kept quiet and obediently continued to check his pulse. Nevertheless, nobody knew what she had found. She suddenly turned pale and looked up at Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang was confused under Shen Xiaos gaze. Whats wrong? Shen Xiao reached out her hand to Mo Junyang all of a sudden, but before she touched him, he grasped her wrist swiftly. Even when Mo Junyang was sick, his martial arts couldnt be underestimated. It appeared that he acted gently, while he pinched Shen Xiaos wrist with a crack, and she was so pained that she cried, Ouch. It hurts so much. Let go of me! Mo Junyang loosened his hand a little so he wouldnt crush the bone of Shen Xiaos wrist, yet he didnt let her go. He just stared at her unkindly. Shen Xiao became cowardly and explained in a hurry, I just want to check your back earlobe. I am not going to do anything else. Check what? Although Mo Junyang trusted Shen Xiao, it didnt mean that he could allow anybody else to get close to him easily. I want to confirm something, but I will know only after I check your back earlobe! Shen Xiao explained loudly. She suddenly seemed to have more courage and asked in a rage, Do you want me to treat you? Shen Xiao got angry and forgot the respectful form of address, while she didnt have the nerve to shout that she would quit. Mo Junyang stared at Shen Xiaos face with his sharp eyes for a while and then patted her hand back. Then he grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and put it on his earlobe. Check it. Shi Qingxue was puzzled. Shen Xiao was shocked. Fuck. She just came to treat the patient and save the world. Why was she so mentally tired? She Qingxue felt awkward because of Mo Junyangs sudden action. She wanted to withdraw her hand, while that man grasped it and put it on his earlobe. It was so hot in this summer. Shi Qingxue had such a thought flashing in her brain, and her cheeks got red, like two big apples. Checkcheck it! She didnt have the face to look at Shen Xiaos reactions. She gritted her teeth and poked Mo Junyangs plump earlobe, showing his back earlobe to Shen Xiao. In the beginning, Shen Xiao wanted to mock at them. When she saw his back earlobe, she opened her eyes wide again and raised her trembling hand, pointing at Mo Junyang. Youyou Mo Junyang got impatient because of Shen Xiaos stutter and said in a deep voice, Say it. Shen Xiao suddenly swallowed and her voice became serious at once. She told the two, stressing each word, You are not infected with the epidemic but the ptomaine. What? Shi Qingxue was confused by the unfamiliar word. Although Mo Junyang kept calm, he must not understand what Shen Xiao meant. The ptomaine is a kind of poison produced and existing in the cankered dead bodies after they die of an illness and wont infect the living people, yet once somebody is infected, he will die if he is not cured properly and timely. There was no smile on Shen Xiaos face, and she slowly spoke out what she had guessed these days. In fact, when I was in Beipo Town and heard about the horrible epidemic in Jiangzhou, I thought that this so-called epidemic came weirdly and was different from any of the epidemics that I had seen before, but it was like the ptomaine. However, as I said before, the ptomaine wont infect the living people, while so many people died in this disaster, and it was caused by the infection at a glance, so I thought that it was not the ptomaine. Unexpectedly Wait. Shi Qingxue interrupted Shen Xiao in a low voice. Shen Xiao raised her eyes and motioned for her to ask. Shi Qingxue asked, You said that generally it wont infect the living people, so it is possible. How will the ptomaine infect the living people? The expression on Shen Xiaos face became odd instantly, and she avoided Shi Qingxues eyes seeking knowledge, coughing twice. Seeing that she couldnt avoid it, she gritted her teeth and responded, If the living people eat the ptomaine, they will be infected with the ptomaine at once. But didnt you say that the ptomaine is hidden in the cankered dead bodies? How is it Shi Qingxue thought of something that might happen and felt a shiver down her spine. She was absolutely terrified. She stuttered, No, no way! How could a person eat another person? Shen Xiao didnt talk about if it was possible but continued, I was surprised earlier. Why havent you been infected with the epidemic after you eat and stay with His Excellency for nearly half a month? Its impossible that you are in good health and wont be infected. But if it is the ptomaine, it makes sense. Wait! Shi Qingxue was confused and didnt think that it made sense. How do you think Junyang was infected? The two girls looked at Mo Junyang at the same time, showing that they were hesitant as they wanted to say something yet were afraid that it would irritate the patient so they didnt dare to say anything. Mo Junyang was surprised only when Shen Xiao mentioned the ptomaine. Then he kept calm even when they gazed at him with two pairs of big eyes. He moved his thin lips calmly. I was injured. Ah? Ah? The two girls looked confused and stared at Mo Junyang blankly. It was too difficult to guess what Mo Junyang was thinking about. Neither of them knew whether he didnt understand their confusion or he intentionally played dumb or they were so stupid that they didnt understand what his injury had to do with being infected with the ptomaine. Mo Junyang continued unhurriedly, If I guess right, except eating the food with the ptomaine, people will be infected through blood, right? Shen Xiaos eyes almost popped out of their sockets, and she nodded in confusion. Didnt Mo Junyang know anything about the medical skills? He was so learned all of a sudden, which made her, a doctor have no sense of achievement. So I was infected. Mo Junyang gave a conclusion impassively. Shen Xiao still looked like a stupid and adorable girl and turned to Shi Qingxue in a daze. Qingxue, do you know what it means? Shi Qingxue showed a knowing smile, and obviously, she understood what Mo Junyang meant. She even reached out her hand to rub the little girls hairy head, asking with a smile, Fine. Since you have found that Junyang was infected with the ptomaine, you will be able to cure him, right? Of course! Shen Xiao answered without thinking and subconsciously raised her chin, like an arrogant peacock. However, after answering, Shen Xiao looked more confused. Hey, she was the most capable doctor, right? Why did the other two know it seemingly? But only she still couldnt figure out how Mo Junyang was poisoned. It was shameful to bully a doctor. Be careful. She would quit the job. Shi Qingxue was amused by Shen Xiaos expression in a sulk and couldnt help but rub the little girls head again, explaining, Junyang was injured, so he must have a wound. It was so convenient to spread through blood. Shen Xiao finally showed that she was suddenly enlightened. Chapter 411 - The Cannibals Shen Xiao lived up to her self-praise. After confirming that Mo Junyang was infected with ptomaine, she made a prescription for the disease soon and personally decocted the medicinal herbs for Mo Junyang. Of course, she didnt feed him medicine. Shen Xiao was worthy of the miracle-working doctors sister, and her medical skills were spiritualized. In the beginning, nobody thought highly of this little girl less than fifteen years old except Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang. When she treated the patient, Yan Xu once came to greet Mo Junyang in an affected manner and cared about his condition on the surface. He didnt care if he would be infected but greeted Mo Junyang to his face, looking like a loyal official. If Shi Qingxue didnt know what had happened to Mo Junyang, she might hesitate and wonder whether she had misunderstood Yan Xu earlier, yet now she just wanted to carve one big word on his forehead, Shameless. He was so shameless. He knew that the ptomaine wouldnt infect others like the epidemic but still came to Mo Junyang and acted like a loyal official. He was so disgusting. This idea flashed in Shi Qingxues brain, and she frowned again. After Yan Xu left, she couldnt wait to ask Mo Junyang, Did your infection have something to do with him? Mo Junyang took the medicine made by Shen Xiao these days. Although he still looked pale and weak on his face, the most direct representation of turning better was that he didnt feel sleepy like before. He lay in the bed just to fool public opinion, yet his expressionless face could frighten others at any time. When he didnt speak, even Shi Qingxue didnt know what he was thinking about. However, Mo Junyang didnt choose to hide it from Shi Qingxue this time. After a while, he nodded. It must be him. Right. When? Shi Qingxue asked anxiously. When we were assassinated in Shang Village, although I wasnt infected, I must have been affected with the poison. Later, when I fell off the cliff, I was injured This time, Mo Junyang was frank unexpectedly and told her in detail. So Shi Qingxue seemed to be personally on the scene and felt panic-stricken. Till Mo Junyang finished his words, she still felt scared. After a long time, she murmured, Fortunately Mo Junyang felt Shi Qingxues feelings seemingly and didnt speak as he was considerate. Quite a while later, Shi Qingxue involuntarily wiped her cheeks, which was what she did most frequently these days. After she did that, she realized that she was stupid to do so. Then she hurriedly withdrew her hands. She took a deep breath and smiled at Mo Junyang in embarrassment. Dont laugh at me. Mo Junyang looked at Shi Qingxue deeply. In fact, he didnt want to tell her such unhappy news. It was pointless yet would make her sad. That was what he couldnt bear to see. However, after he understood what Shi Qingxue meant when she wiped her cheeks, he felt warm for no reason. Whats wrong? Why are you looking at me all the time? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but cover her eyelids once more as she thought that she would shed tears in secret uncontrollably again. Mo Junyang shook his head and didnt say anything. It was hard to speak out this feeling, and he would never speak it out. However, he did feel excited because he affected Shi Qingxues all emotions. He felt satisfied abnormally as long as it was because of him, no matter whether it was joy, infatuation, annoyance, sadness or even hatred. And he would never be content with it. Shi Qingxue still looked at Mo Junyang, but this man was always expressionless. If he was unwilling, even she could hardly read his mind. However, she always indulged Mo Junyang in this aspect, so she considerately changed the subject. She grabbed Mo Junyangs hand gently and showed the most relieved and sincere smile these days. I am happy as you are fine. Mo Junyang paused for a moment and then smiled, saying softly, So am I. Shi Qingxue was confused. Could she say that she didnt understand it? The patient who was always sick was Mo Junyang. Why did he say so am I? Shi Qingxue just felt confused for merely a little while. When Mo Junyang continued to talk about what he had found in Shang Village, she put this question aside easily. When she recalled what happened these days many years later, she finally understood what she had missed. Why is there such a horrible disease in Jiangzhou? Shi Qingxue asked in a low voice. This was what she couldnt figure out till now. The epidemic was scary, and the ptomaine which couldnt be infected through normal channels was more terrifying. I have checked the records in the government. Although there must be something wrong with the account books of Yan Xu and the others, they did take out some disaster relief food and money from the imperial court to relieve the victims. No matter how miserable and hungry the common people were, they wouldnt be so poor as to eat Shi Qingxue couldnt speak out such a disgusting thing as eating dead peoples flesh. She had heard the sad stories about eating tree bark and soil, but eating peoples flesh was beyond the scope of what she could accept. The behavior that the creatures ate those of the same kind, even the dead ones broke the limit of human nature, and it was frightful to the ear. The key point was that even if some people ate dead peoples flesh in order to stay alive, there must be few. The ptomaine couldnt be infected simply when people stayed together, yet why did it spread in a large area in Jiangzhou? Mo Junyang paused for a moment and then asked, What did you find when you summed up the information of the people who died of the disease from all villages and towns? Shi Qingxue felt by instinct that this question was critical. She pondered carefully and then answered, Most of them are victims of the flood? She said that with uncertainty, while she suddenly awakened after speaking. Right, she thought of the notebooks she had checked earlier and found that most of them were in the disaster area. She didnt think much then. After all, the environment of the disaster area was so poor, and the victims were struck fatally. Their physical strength and psychic force were inferior to the average peoples. It was normal that they were infected first. However, when she thought about it now, she felt frightened. Shi Qingxue thought of a possibility, and her face wrinkled. Nobody knew whether she was scared or disgusted. No, no way? She couldnt believe her guess because she thought that it was too frightful to the ear. Mo Junyang shook his head and didnt say whether he thought that something like this couldnt happen or disapproved of Shi Qingxue who deceived herself and others. He just said indifferently, We have to wait for a key person before knowing all the truth. Who? Mo Junyang didnt answer but asked, By the way, where is Ye Zhixin? Shi Qingxue was stunned to hear Ye Zhixins name. She knew that Ye Zhixin had nothing to do with Mo Junyang even though she fell for him, yet her expression became subtle. Why do you ask about her? Shi Qingxue asked awkwardly. She thought that it was improper to ask such a question, but she couldnt stop herself. Especially when Mo Junyang uplifted his brows in surprise rarely after hearing her question, Shi Qingxue felt that her face was burning. She hurriedly corrected herself. Forget it. Just think that I didnt ask. She must stay in her room now. If you want to see her, I will tell Dong Shuang to bring her. I will go and see if your medicine is ready. She said all that in one breath almost without a stop. Afterward, she couldnt wait to get up and walk out. Mo Junyang couldnt stop Shi Qingxue. After looking at her back for quite a while, he suddenly thought of something, and the gloom on his face disappeared. He showed a smile with relief. Qingxue Mo Junyang wanted to bring Shi Qingxue back and hold her in his arms, telling her his feelings, but he couldnt help feeling satisfied as he could see that she was kind of jealous because of him. He wanted such an emotion to last longer. When Mo Junyang had conflicting feelings, Dong Shuang brought Ye Zhixin here. Hearing that Mo Junyang wanted to see her, Ye Zhixin got excited and dressed up for fifteen minutes under Dong Shuangs glare before coming late. After she bowed to Mo Junyang in greeting, she looked up at him Her eyes were bright with fascinating brilliance and would make others soft in the bone at a glance. F**k, she is afraid that others dont know that she covets another womans future husband. Dong Shuang cursed in secret and disdained Ye Zhixin from head to toe. Then she opened her big eyes wide and looked at Mo Junyang. Even though the young lady was not around, Dong Shuang would keep an eye on Mo Junyang for her. Fortunately, King Ruis heir remained unmoved facing Ye Zhixins shameless seduction. He looked indifferent as usual and asked straightforwardly, Where is your father now? The tender smile on Ye Zhixins face stiffened at once, but soon it became a weaker and pitiful expression. She looked at Mo Junyang with expectancy. My father disappeared for no reason, while I wandered from place to place, enduring many hardships in the past few days, and I am sad as I lost my mother. I am afraid that my father might have been killed by those evil people. While speaking, she covered her mouth and sobbed on and off, looking pitiful. Unfortunately, the two people in front of her werent moved. Dong Shuang snorted, and Mo Junyang looked cold. Ye Zhixin sobbed for a long time yet nobody comforted her, so she looked embarrassed. She held back her tears and explained in a soft voice, I really dont know where my father is. Mo Junyang didnt believe her but sneered. So, if I know that your father may be in danger, I dont need to tell you. After all, you dont know anything. Ye Zhixin turned pale in an instant, and as the first reaction, she thought that Mo Junyang cheated her, but soon she realized that he didnt need to cheat her in something like this. Your Excellency, I am his daughter. If you know some news about my father, please tell me frankly. I will appreciate it. Then Ye Zhixin looked at Mo Junyang with affection in her eyes again. Mo Junyang glanced at her lazily and said without mercy, Ye Zhixin, do you think that under the situation, you can protect your father if you hide everything from us? No. My father is always free from corruption as an official and did everything for the country and common people. Its a difficult time, and he Ye Zhixin was in panic because of Mo Junyangs indifference and defended Ye Zhirong in a hurry. However, Mo Junyang wasnt in the mood to listen to her crap. He interrupted her coldly. I will ask you once more. Where is Ye Zhirong? Ye Zhixin noticed Mo Junyangs last diplomatic note and suddenly had no nerve to talk nonsense like before. She was afraid that Mo Junyang would ignore this matter if she denied it again this time. Nevertheless, Yan Xu, the local tyrant was too powerful, and even Mo Junyang had been injured, so she didnt dare to tell them Ye Zhirongs whereabouts. Ye Zhixin pursed her lips and said in a weak and bitter voice, Your Excellency, I really dont know. If I know Dong Shuang, see her off. Chapter 412 - A Banquet With Treachery Yin Liangzhi ran into the room anxiously and said to the big and tall man who was sitting inside, Lord Wu, bad news. Wu Xiong put down the teacup slowly and glanced at Yin Liangzhi, asking coldly, Say it slowly. Why are you so anxious? Yin Liangzhi stood still and gasped several times before he managed to breathe regularly. He answered in a more stable voice, Yan Xu went to see His Excellency and said that he would ask them to have dinner to celebrate his recovery. These days, the news that Mo Junyang recovered gradually spread. Although anybody who heard this news didnt believe it, nobody dared to relax. Especially Yan Xu who was relieved a little suddenly got nervous and restless. When Wu Xiong heard Mo Junyangs name, his sharp eyes lit up, but soon he relaxed and asked in a scornful tone, Didnt he often go to see Mo Junyang these days? Is it surprising? Lord Wu, only you and I are here. Will you play dumb in front of me? Dont you know that Lord Yan will hold a banquet with treachery? Yin Liangzhis voice got eager again involuntarily. A disdainful smile was shown on Wu Xiongs distant face. So what? What does it have to do with us? Even if there will be something wrong, it is Yan Xus fault, and we dont need to worry. After Wu Xiong reminded him, Yin Liangzhi finally realized that Yan Xu was the highest official in Jiangzhou City logically. Even if the imperial envoy had an accident in Jiangzhou, the magistrate would be to blame, and it had nothing to do with them, nobodies. Yin Liangzhi suddenly stopped feeling restless, while he couldnt help asking worriedly, You are right, but we and Yan Xu are in the same boat. Its fine if he falls into water, yet I am afraid that he will overturn the boat. They had been colleagues for so many years, so Yin Liangzhi knew something about Yan Xu. Yan Xu was cruel and greedy with no bottom line. Although most of the officials were like this, Yan Xu was specially heartless in this aspect. If Yan Xu was deposed, he would do something in despair to make all people die with him. Wu Xiong put down the teacup and knocked on the table gently with his fingers. After a long time, he stated impassively, In that case, we will make him unable to say anything. Yin Liangzhi was clear that this lord fully deserved to be ruthless, and he knew the latters methods. Although he thought that it was immoral to do that, he didnt dare to have objections. He just asked in a low voice, But judging from the current situation, His Excellency and his people must have found something wrong, and the epidemic may not be kept from them. If Mo Junyang found the truth about the epidemic in Jiangzhou, the flood and what they had done would probably be revealed. Then none of them could get away with it. Wu Xiong didnt have the patience to listen to Yin Liangzhis endless speech. He glanced at Yin Liangzhi coldly, and the latter instantly kept silent. Then he expressed, What are you afraid of? I have said that as long as you work for the master and help him make a great cause, you will naturally gain profit. I am not afraid of telling you that even if something bad happens in Jiangzhou, we have somewhere else to go. Do you understand? At the mention of the so-called master, Yin Liangzhi was more restless, but he had to pin his hopes on Wu Xiong since this military officer said that. Even if the criminal conspiracy was unmasked someday, it was fine once they had a route of retreat. One more thing, Ye Zhirong hasnt been found now. Yin Liangzhi mentioned something else. Wu Xiongs face fell suddenly, and he rebuked in a low voice crossly, What are you doing all day long? Jiangzhou is a small area, but you cant even find a person. Did he have wings and fly away? Yin Liangzhi shouted that he was wronged and that he did spare no effort to look for Ye Zhirong yet couldnt find him. Did he leave Jiangzhou and flee to somewhere far away? No way, Wu Xiong responded with certainty. Ye Zhirong insisted on going against us. How would he be willing to flee and conceal his identity? Did he go to the capital to see His Majesty? Yin Liangzhi was worried. Wu Xiong still shook his head. He knows our force in the capital and will court death if he goes there at this time. Yin Liangzhi was depressed. Where did Ye Zhirong go? On the first day after Ye Zhirong disappeared, they sent soldiers to look for him in secret and almost searched everywhere, but they didnt find him. How could Ye Zhirong hide for more than two months unless he became an immortal without eating or drinking? Anyway, you should guard the magistrates mansion and prevent Ye Zhirong from finding a chance to see Mo Junyang. If they meet, our plan will be ruined. Yes, I know. Mo Junyang asked Ye Zhixin about Ye Zhirongs whereabouts yet failed, so he kicked her out without mercy. Not to mention Ye Zhixin who was open-mouthed, even Dong Shuang was surprised and repeated in a daze, See her off? Mo Junyang uplifted his brows slightly and looked at Dong Shuang, seeming to ask, Are you waiting for me to do it? Dong Shuang reacted soon and responded hurriedly, Yes! Then she didnt give Ye Zhixin a chance to struggle. She grabbed his arm and pulled her out. Your Excellency, please listen to me Ye Zhixin looked back repeatedly and shouted at Mo Junyang reluctantly, hoping that she could make him change his mind. However, as soon as she started speaking, Yan Xu came in. Ye Zhixin instantly shut her mouth like a mouse seeing a cat and almost curled up to hide herself. Mo Junyang secretly kept Ye Zhixins reaction in mind but maintained his composure, asking, Lord Yan, what brought you here today? Since Yan Xu entered the room, his eyes fell on Ye Zhixin for a long time. After hearing Mo Junyangs question, he finally came to his senses and showed a flattering smile. Your Excellency, nice to see you. I have heard that you recovered a lot today, so I am relieved and specially prepare a banquet in the mansion. I You will invite me to dinner? Mo Junyang concluded Yan Xus long speech in a word and rendered him speechless, so the latter rolled his eyes. Yan Xu tried hard to calm down and finally restrained his anger after quite a while. He forced a smile. Your Excellency, hope that you can accept the invitation. Mo Junyang reclined in the bed and ran his cold eyes over Yan Xu. Then he replied slowly, Okay. Your Excellency, you rarely came to Jiangzhou. If you dont taste the local delicacy, it will be Yan Xu racked his brains to make Mo Junyang agree. He said a lot of nice words and suddenly reacted, with his eyes widening. Pardon? Mo Junyang seemed to tease a dog and even smiled on his cold face, repeating, Okay! Okay Yan Xu was rendered speechless again and caught his breath. He had prepared seven or eight plans to make sure that Mo Junyang would attend the banquet, but Mo Junyang agreed unexpectedly before he used the first plan. So why did he think hard and figure out those ideas? Mo Junyang just tricked him. Yan Xu was so angry that he didnt want to talk with Mo Junyang. At this time, Shi Qingxue came in with a bowl of medicine. She didnt see Ye Zhixin but Yan Xu. She had been jealous yet got serious at once. She quickly walked to Mo Junyang and sat next to him, putting the medicine bowl in his hand. Then she turned to Yan Xu. She asked coldly, Lord Yan, what are you doing here? Logically, Shi Qingxue wasnt the official wife of King Ruis heir, so she didnt have a rank but had to bow to Yan Xu after seeing him. However, as she was Duke Shis second legitimate daughter and the future wife of King Ruis heir, Yan Xu didnt dare to neglect her, so he told her that he would invite Mo Junyang to dinner. Shi Qingxues good opinion of Yan Xu had become the worst when Mo Junyang was sick. As she saw this man now, she wished that she would skin him. Especially when she noticed that the man had evil intentions again, her face fell in an instant. She was about to refuse, while Yan Xu said that Mo Junyang had agreed. Shi Qingxue was speechless. She turned to Mo Junyang in shock, to see that he had the medicine bowl in his hand and lowered his head, fixing his attention on taking medicine slowly. It seemed to be true. In the past, Mo Junyang disliked taking medicine most. He would rather let it go cold than take it. He wouldnt take medicine on time obediently unless Shi Qingxue fed him. Shi Qingxue didnt know why a man was so afraid of taking medicine. He wasnt like this in the previous life, yet why did he change in this life? However, she wouldnt allow Mo Junyang to be self-willed but watched him take medicine every time till he finished it. She saw that he started to take medicine before she reminded, so she thought that there must be something fishy. Shi Qingxue snorted and wasnt fooled by Mo Junyang so easily. She pressed Mo Junyangs wrist with one hand and stopped him from taking medicine. Why do you take medicine willingly today? Mo Junyang raised his head and smiled. It tastes good. It will be not nice if it is cold. Shi Qingxue was unable to reply. Nobody was better at telling lies than Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue knew that the man didnt plan to explain to her why he had agreed to attend Yan Xus banquet with treachery even though he hadnt fully recovered. She pouted with displeasure, but when she turned to Yan Xu again, she returned normal, asking at leisure, What? Lord Yan, do you plan to invite His Excellency alone? Yan Xu was stunned and then understood that this young lady was unhappy as he didnt invite her. Yan Xus eyes rolled, with fraudulence seemingly, yet he soon showed a flattering smile as usual, nodding at Shi Qingxue with a bow. My Lady, what are you talking about? Its my honor that you are willing to attend the banquet. Please do come tonight. Okay! No! Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang shouted at the same time, and one voice was clear and sweet, while the other was cold and serious, as if fighting. Neither of them could convince the other. Shi Qingxue kept silent for a while and grabbed Mo Junyangs hand in secret, still looking calm. She turned to Yan Xu. Its time for His Excellency to have a rest now. Lord Yan, if you have nothing else to say, please go back. Yan Xu was sophisticated and certainly knew that the couple had a conflict. However, no matter what the result was, he had achieved his goal, so he left in a good mood. At the same time, he thought, Just have a quarrel. If you quarrel fiercely, you will lose your head. Then it will be convenient for me to take actions. Chapter 413 - Stay with Him No Matter What Happens After Yan Xu went away, the room fell into weird silence suddenly. Dong Shuang saw that the two masters remained still as they did when Yan Xu left, so she swallowed in fear and stated cautiously, I am off now. Afterward, she walked out of the room gingerly and considerately closed the door for them. They were in a stalemate for a while. In the end, Shi Qingxue sighed first and received the medicine bowl from Mo Junyang. Take medicine first. Xiao has said that the effect of the medicine will be not so good after it goes cold. So Shi Qingxue usually thought that taking medicine was like a state affair. Even though they had a conflict, she still kept thinking about it. After she fed him medicine as usual, they kept silent again. Shi Qingxue fiddled with the medicine bowl in her hand occasionally and asked in a distant tone, Dont you have anything to tell me? Mo Junyang paused for a moment and then advised, Yan Xu harbors evil intentions. Dont go there tonight. Even though Mo Junyang cared about her sincerely, he had the ability to irritate her as soon as he started to speak. Shi Qingxue had known Mo Junyangs disposition that she should run away first if something bad happened, so she thought that she could cope with it well, but after she heard it, she was still irritated almost to death. She opened her eyes wide, with many words to curse him flashing in her brain. If she started, she could speak without a stop for one hour and would stop only after he was left without an argument. However, Shi Qingxue was clear that it was pointless to argue with Mo Junyang at this time, so she took a deep breath and forced herself to calm down. After a long time, she still couldnt help but say with sarcasm, I cant go there as it is dangerous, yet how about you? Do you think that you are an immortal and will never have an accident? Even an immortal would be powerless someday. Moreover, Mo Junyang was an ordinary person. Once Shi Qingxue thought that Mo Junyang would attend the banquet with treachery alone tonight, she felt that her heart almost jumped out of her chest. However, Mo Junyang still looked as if he were superior to God, saying in a calm tone, I will be fine. As expected, she couldnt make Mo Junyang surrender in a common way. Shi Qingxue realized how horrible and impervious to reason this man was when he got obstinate. She took a look at Mo Junyang deeply and asked in a low voice, You will be fineWhat about me? Have you thought about me? So I told you not to go. It will be dangerous Mo Junyang explained. Shi Qingxue expressed, You know that you will be in danger yet tell me to keep out of it. Mo Junyang, do you think that I am so cruel or I have no feelings? Her voice was loud, and she almost shouted in the end, with sadness spreading from her words automatically. After she experienced the scene that Mo Junyang almost lost his life, even though he was fine now, could the sadness and fear left in her heart disappear like dust blown away? No! That image was inserted into Shi Qingxues heart like a nail. She couldnt pull it out. Even though she wasnt hurt more, she couldnt remove it but would feel the pain once she touched it. She was unable to imagine the scene and had only one thought. From now on, she would stay with Mo Junyang no matter what hardships they would face. They would be together even if they died. However, Mo Junyang obviously couldnt understand her feelings but wanted to push her away when it was dangerous, as if she were a fragile crystal doll and a layer of expensive crystal powder would fall once it was touched. Was she so incapable and untrustworthy? Mo Junyang got anxious after Shi Qingxue questioned him with grief repeatedly, and his emotion which was covered up with his indifference intentionally couldnt be concealed anymore. He grabbed Shi Qingxues hand and lost his composure. Then he explained anxiously, I didnt mean it. I am just worried that you will have an accident. I dont hope that. I trust you. I trust you more than myself. Really! Perhaps it was Shi Qingxues first time to hear Mo Junyang speak nervously in detail in two lives. Shi Qingxue listened carefully till he finished his words. She didnt think that he would cheat her in something like this, so she believed that he didnt want her to be in danger because he was worried about her, but it didnt mean that she could accept it. She gazed at Mo Junyang and stressed each word. Okay. Let me follow you tonight. Mo Junyang still wanted to refuse, yet when he met Shi Qingxues firm eyes, he couldnt say anything to refuse. He asked himself if he really wanted to refuse. He just couldnt accept it if there was something wrong with Shi Qingxue again, so he insisted on making this decision At last, Mo Junyang couldnt defeat Shi Qingxue who was stubborn. He sighed in a low voice and stated, Okay. But the banquet tonight will be unpeaceful, and you cant leave me. Shi Qingxue instantly showed a sweet smile and looked adorable. Dont worry. I just want to stay with you. How would I leave you? Her round eyes rolled, and she grabbed Mo Junyangs arm. She was not stingy to play the woman. I will be fine if I am with you. Dont you believe in your capabilities? Although Shi Qingxue always complained that Mo Junyang acted recklessly, she had to admit that he was quite knowledgeable about schemes, and anybody couldnt surpass him even if they worked hard. Mo Junyang was harmed by Yan Xu for the first time and infected with ptomaine because he wanted to save Mo Junzhan, but this time, when he knew that Yan Xu harbored evil intentions, he would still go there, so he must have a complete countermeasure. Even though Shi Qingxue knew nothing, she was sure for no reason. Unexpectedly, Mo Junyang showed a bitter smile which could hardly be noticed, different from his confident and calm expression in the past. Shi Qingxues first reaction was to rub her eyes as she thought that she misjudged. When she opened her eyes again to look at Mo Junyang, he had returned calm. She could notice nothing. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Was she dazzled? Shi Qingxue shook her head and got rid of the blind conjectures. Then she pestered Mo Junyang and asked about what would happen tonight. Junyang, look, I will go with you tonight. You need to tell me what you plan to do. Otherwise, wont I stand in your way as I know nothing? What she said was reasonable. Mo Junyang glanced at Shi Qingxue impassively and pretended that he didnt see the curiosity burning in her eyes. He asked unhurriedly, Although Yan Xu doesnt know why I could escape from death, he must have guessed the fact that we know the truth about the epidemic in Jiangzhou. Do you think that he can keep calm? He must be restless. When Shi Qingxue thought that Yan Xu might be scared out of wits, she felt happy and said, taking pleasure in his misfortune, No wonder he was so anxious to invite you to dinner. When Mo Junyang came to Jiangzhou City, in the beginning, Yan Xu wanted to kill him, and this misdeed could be ignored. Later he was neither hostile nor friendly to the imperial envoy all the time, as if he didnt take the imperial envoy seriously. He almost wrote the word neglect on his face. Of course, it was because Yan Xu was confident and sure that Mo Junyang and the others couldnt find the evidence against him. Now he was embarrassed, so he was scared. However, wasnt it too late to flatter Mo Junyang now? Anybody who was smart wouldnt show mercy to the people who had harmed him. Mo Junyang knew that Shi Qingxue guessed wrong, so he pointed out seriously, Since he dares to kill me, he wont consider making peace with me. This banquet wont be so simple. Mo Junyang could guess what Yan Xu planned to do. Shi Qingxue was inexperienced and didnt know the tricks of the officialdom. She was open-mouthed after hearing that. Do you mean that he will make use of this banquet and try to kill you again? No, no way? Does he want to die? Mo Junyang had an accident on the way to Shang Village last time. If he really died, Yan Xu probably could hardly absolve himself from the blame. If Mo Junyang died in the magistrates mansion, didnt Yan Xu want to stay alive? Shi Qingxue couldnt understand what Yan Xu was thinking about. Mo Junyang touched Shi Qingxues head and conveniently pulled her into his arms, explaining in a good mood, If he doesnt take actions against me, I can find his crimes sooner or later, and then nobody can protect him. On the contrary, if the imperial envoy and his people have an accident, His Majesty may get furious, but the situation is unstable now, and the northern border is the main problem. How would His Majesty bother about his officials for a dead person and disappoint others? Right, if Mo Junyang died in an accident, Yan Xu would be charged with negligence of duty. Nevertheless, the negligence of duty might be significant or negligible. If it was significant, he would be beheaded and all his family would be eliminated, which was not too much, while if it was a trifle and the problem was minimized, it would be nothing. After all, when a grownup died in an accident, who could be to blame? Shi Qingxue finally understood Yan Xus plan and pouted in a rage, saying in a bad mood, This man is so bold. We cant let him go. She clenched her fists in secret and showed that she was angry. She thought about nothing but what Yan Xu had done and didnt notice that she was held by a man with a possessive posture in his arms. It seemed that she was his possession. Shi Qingxue didnt notice it but moved subconsciously and found herself a comfortable position. Then she continued to ask, Speaking of which, I havent figured out how those common people were infected with ptomaine. Do you know? Although Shen Xiao said that the people were infected with ptomaine only after eating the dead peoples flesh or being infected with ptomaine through the wounds, if she pondered it over, she would find that it was not as simple as what Shen Xiao had said. The ptomaine was not like the epidemic. Although it would spread, it wouldnt be so exaggerated as to cause all peoples death in a village or town. Even if some victims were starving and ate dead peoples flesh, there must be few of them. Shi Qingxue contemplated for a moment and always thought that she would rather starve to death than eat dead peoples flesh. There was no dignified reason, but she would be disgusted and unable to eat it. She believed that most people had the basic conscience and would die rather than cannibalize. Under the situation, why did so many people die of ptomaine? Chapter 414 - Find Some Truth Shi Qingxue couldnt figure it out. Mo Junyang paused for a moment and then said something to awaken the girl in the dream. When they can make a choice, most people naturally wont be willing to cannibalize, but its uncertain when they dont know. Do you mean Shi Qingxues eyes lit up suddenly, like the stars in the sky at night. They were bright and fascinating. She looked at Mo Junyang excitedly. Somebody secretly made the common people in Jiangzhou eat the food with ptomaine? Before Mo Junyang answered, she had clearly felt that she guessed the truth. However, she soon had new doubts. For example, how did so many victims eat the food with ptomaine when they didnt know it? What was the purpose of the people behind the scenes who did that? Or why did they make the epidemic in Jiangzhou disappear? The questions perplexed Shi Qingxue, so she was filled with bewilderment. Judging from Mo Junyangs expression, he seemed to know something, but he pretended that he knew nothing, which made her anxious. Hey, dont you plan to explain to me? Shi Qingxue hugged Mo Junyangs neck with displeasure and forced him to face her, insisting on making him see how unhappy she was. However, she didnt realize how tempting she was when she pouted and looked at Mo Junyang with her big eyes widening. The Adams apple of Mo Junyang bobbed secretly, and he chose the former as he might be exposed by Shi Qingxue if he hid it and it might be troublesome if he told the truth. Then he asked seriously, Do you know why the magistrate could keep his position after so many people died in Jiangzhou? Although it still had aroused the suspicion of the imperial court and Mo Junyang was sent to investigate it. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes in confusion. Isnt it because he bribed the superiors and thinks that he can rest easy? She had heard about many similar stories even though she was not an official. Since ancient times, the atmosphere that officials protected other officials was not as exaggerated and horrible as it was said in the books, yet there was something like this. At least, her father had told her many such disgusting and dirty stories. Shi Qingxue was taught since childhood to believe all the beautiful stories in the world, but she wouldnt beautify this world too much. So when she said this, she was depressed yet didnt feel too sad. Mo Junyang seemed to feel her low spirits, so he rubbed her head and comforted her in silence. Then he stated, There must be factors you mentioned, but it must be because Yan Xu didnt make a big mistake and the superiors dare to protect him. But so many people died in Jiangzhou. Isnt it a big mistake? Shi Qingxue goggled in disbelief. Mo Junyang shook his head and thought that Shi Qingxue was inexperienced in something like this, while he explained to her carefully, There was a big disaster in Jiangzhou and many people died, yet most people died of that horrible epidemic, which is force majeure. In other words, anybody couldnt change the situation if he were the magistrate. Shi Qingxue lowered her head and murmured with displeasure, No. If you were the magistrate, it wouldnt end up like this. Mo Junyang was speechless. He didnt know that his sweetheart thought so highly of him, and he didnt know what to say even though he was always silver-tongued. Shi Qingxue probably realized that it was too much that she said the honeyed words, so she hurriedly coughed twice and changed the subject. Er, I didnt mean it. Do you mean that Yan Xu keeps his title of magistrate because he did what he should do but the result was dissatisfactory? Mo Junyang was considerate and didnt expose that Shi Qingxue was afraid of being found out. He nodded. At least, it appears to be like this on the surface. What? Shi Qingxue got unhappy again. But he didnt do anything. He was indifferent to the common peoples life and death. And it appears that he is an unqualified official that all people want to kill, right? Mo Junyang responded, What you said can be right or wrong. If you dont believe it, you can go out and ask. When there was a flood, the common people in Jiangzhou received the magistrates kindness. If the magistrate didnt report to the imperial court, ask them to send food and money and open the granary, giving the victims porridge, many common people suffering in the flood disaster couldnt sustain themselves. Is he so nice? Shi Qingxue asked doubtfully. However, after Mo Junyang said that, Shi Qingxue remembered that a story of kindheartedness was recorded in the county annals that the magistrate led all officials in Jiangzhou to provide the common people with porridge at the gate of his mansion after the flood came. Nevertheless, Shi Qingxue thought that it was just a story and Yan Xu manufactured it shamelessly in order to praise himself. Wasnt it true? Mo Junyang looked at Shi Qingxues eyelashes trembling like dancing butterflies and laughed involuntarily. Of course not. Even if Yan Xu is bold, he doesnt dare to record a story that has never happened in the county annals. If it is found, it is a capital crime. The county annals were like history books and should base on facts. It could be exaggerated or stress something occasionally, but if he dared to record something that never happened, he would distort history. Then he would be beheaded in any case. This rule was severe, yet it was set just to prevent the local officials from overstating their contributions randomly. So the smart officials wouldnt risk their lives just to leave a good name in history. It was not worth it. Yan Xu certainly wouldnt do something like this. It meant that Yan Xu really did a good deed of providing porridge? Shi Qingxue was dumbfounded. Mo Junyang seemed to think that she was not surprised enough and then continued, Moreover, Yan Xu offered porridge not only at the gate of his mansion. He sent people many times to provide porridge in every village and town. There were footsteps of the government workers who cared about the common people in many villages and towns in Jiangzhou. I see. Shi Qingxue looked confused and didnt come to her senses after a long time. So Yan Xu was a good person, but they were prejudiced by first impressions and thought that he was a bad guy before they came to Jiangzhou, making a false countercharge? She made blind and disorderly conjectures and felt more ashamed while thinking, wishing to find a hole to hide herself. Dont imagine wildly. I dont know if the other officials are wronged, yet we dont wrong Yan Xu at all. Mo Junyang stopped Shi Qingxues unnecessary guilt in time and told the truth resolutely. Shi Qingxue was really puzzled. Mo Junyang said that Yan Xu provided porridge to save the victims, but why did he say that Yan Xu wasnt a good person now? Mo Junyang seemed to have noticed Shi Qingxues doubt and uplifted his eyelids lazily, saying coldly, Who told you that he provided porridge just to save the victims? Do you mean Mo Junyang suddenly changed the subject. I have checked before. The disaster relief money and food sent from the imperial court were taken away on the way before they reached the granary of Jiangzhou. Why did Yan Xu have money and food to help the common people? Shi Qingxue was shocked. She felt that she seemed to get close to a thrilling truth, so she didnt dare to continue imagining. It seemed that Mo Junyang was afraid that she was not astounded enough, and then he asked unhurriedly, Didnt you ask me how the victims were infected with ptomaine in a large area when they didnt know? Shi Qingxue was so astonished that her eyes almost popped out of their sockets, and she thought of such an image on her mind uncontrollably. Yan Xu looked kind like a savior and stood at the gate of the mansion, providing porridge for the victims who were sallow and emaciated and had been starving for many days. The porridges aroma spread, with the good smell of meat seemingly, and it attracted the victims, so they came to get it in a mad rush to be the first. After they ate one bowl of thick porridge with the meats smell, they were grateful to Yan Xu and then left with satisfaction. However, they didnt know what they had eaten Yuck! When Shi Qingxue imagined such a scene, she turned away and retched involuntarily. It was so gross. Seeing that he seemed to speak too straightforwardly and scared Shi Qingxue, Mo Junyang patted her back gently in a hurry. Nevertheless, the fact was so disgusting. He didnt know how to make Shi Qingxue forget the nauseous scene, so he had to comfort her awkwardly. Dont think too much. Perhaps the mans rare soft voice worked, and Shi Qingxue stopped retching. However, she still didnt look well. After a long time, she complained to Mo Junyang unwillingly with a wrinkled face, Yan Xu even did something so inhuman frantically. He should be killed. Mo Junyang thought so and nodded, promising, Dont worry. He will surely die. Shi Qingxue heard the promise and then got relieved a bit. After she pondered for a moment, she worriedly grabbed Mo Junyangs sleeve and asked in a low voice, He is so crazy. Are we really going to attend his banquet tonight? When Shi Qingxue thought about Yan Xus face, it turned her stomach. She didnt dare to promise that she wouldnt throw up in front of Yan Xu when she saw him. It was so nauseous when she imagined the scene. Moreover, Yan Xu was so frantic. Who knew if he would serve that kind of food to them when he got crazy? Shi Qingxues skin crawled because of her imagination, and she buried herself in Mo Junyangs arms, refusing to get out. Meanwhile, she murmured with complaints. Although she knew that Mo Junyang wanted to draw a snake out of its hole, what Yan Xu had done was beyond the scope of what she could accept. She couldnt tell Mo Junyang not to attend the banquet, and even she had to go. Was she not allowed to hide in her future husbands arms and play the woman? Her future husband This thought made Shi Qingxue who was frustrated feel better, and she stopped complaining. She just clung to Mo Junyang and said honeyed words intimately. Junyang, lets hurry up to finish the job in Jiangzhou and then go back to the capital, okay? Father must have captured Mo Junhao then, so I have taken revenge. Lets stay with each other happily forever and not think about what happened in the past, okay Mo Junyang listened to Shi Qingxue quietly who imagined their good life in the future in a sweet voice, and he felt peaceful. Neither of them knew that a bigger disaster was waiting for them. Chapter 415 - The Magistrate Was Free from Affectation Yan Xu held a banquet to entertain the imperial envoy and his people in the mansion, yet in fact, only Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue attended it. Mo Junzhan was nowhere to be seen. Yan Xu was in doubt, and the answer he got was that the ninth prince was injured a few days ago and hadnt recovered, so he didnt want to go out but stayed in the room to heal his wounds. This answer was too normal, and it sounded untrue. However, Mo Junzhan was always bad-tempered and couldnt be offended. Moreover, he didnt like Yan Xu, so Yan Xu was happy as he didnt need to cope with such a nobleman who was difficult to handle, and he put this subject aside after saying only a few words. After the rice wine and dishes were served on the table, Yan Xu toasted to Mo Junyang first and said politely, Your Excellency, since you came to Jiangzhou, I have been always busy with work and didnt invite you to dinner. I propose a toast to you. Please accept it. Afterward, he drained the cup with one gulp seriously. Mo Junyang glanced at Yan Xu and then at the wine cup in front of him, remaining still. Yan Xu felt nervous under Mo Junyangs glance and couldnt help but provoke him. Your Excellency, do you look down upon me, a Rank-5 petty official, so you dont want to accept my toast? Although anybody with discerning eyes could see that Yan Xu provoked, what he said was true. The subordinate proposed a toast to him for the first time, and if he didnt drink, the former would be embarrassed. However, before Mo Junyang said something, Shi Qingxue moved away the wine cup in front of him and spoke with justice. You cant drink! Look, she was so bold with sufficient reasons. Before Yan Xu retorted, Shi Qingxue glared at Mo Junyang in a rage. You have just recovered. How can you drink alcohol? Wont you joke about your health? Will you leave me alone? At the moment, not to mention Yan Xu, even Mo Junyang was surprised. However, Mo Junyang reacted soon and coughed twice to cooperate with her. He looked as if he were weak and then smiled at Yan Xu apologetically. Lord Yan, well Yan Xu got furious but still had to pretend to be polite. Your Excellency, you havent fully recovered, so you cant drink alcohol. Its my negligence. Shi Qingxues eyes rolled and she stated, Lord Yan, since you know that you are wrong, shouldnt you drink three cups to punish yourself? Lord Yans face almost stiffened as he had smiled for a long time, but Shi Qingxue showed an innocent and harmless expression, while Mo Junyang looked at him indifferently. Even though Yan Xu wanted to lose temper, he didnt dare to. He lowered his head and told a servant to pour three cups of rice wine. Then he drank all of them. When Yan Xu couldnt see, Shi Qingxue restrained her innocent expression, with nothing but coldness in her eyes. Huh! The people who dared to bully her man should be prepared to accept her revenge. It was up to her whether it would be a small trick or a fight. Mo Junyangs feelings were opposite to what most people guessed. He was in a better mood and couldnt help but smile faintly even though he seldom showed his emotions. He grabbed Shi Qingxues hand under the table and smiled at her silently when she looked at him. He seemed to say, I am fine. Shi Qingxues fighting spirit finally slackened a bit, and she returned to be the obedient and adorable young lady. She quietly sat next to Mo Junyang, ate food and drank tea meekly. Anybody would think that it was a pleasant image after seeing that. However, after they saw Shi Qingxues fighting capacity and Mo Junyangs deterrent force, nobody dared to look at her. A normal banquet became embarrassing for no reason. Yan Xu lowered his head and drank several cups of rice wine before he could finally calm down with difficulty. He picked up the wine cup again and smiled at Mo Junyang with hypocrisy. Your Excellency, since you cant drink wine now, please eat more dishes. I specially told the chef in the mansion to cook the delicacy in Jiangzhou for you. Especially these double cooked pork slices are tasty and refreshing, with endless pleasant aftertaste. Come on, Your Excellency. Please have a taste. Afterward, Yan Xu pushed the dish of double cooked pork slices to Mo Junyang. When the dish was put in front of Mo Junyang, the meats aroma spread at once, and it could make his mouth water. Shi Qingxue stared at the double cooked pork slices which were dyed dark brown with soy sauce or other seasonings, with some images flashing in her brain, and she suddenly felt that her gut rebelled. Nevertheless, as there were so many people present, she had to restrain her urge to throw up. She remained still and let her pretty face be forced to turn pale. Mo Junyang found something wrong with Shi Qingxue first and knew what she was thinking about. He just felt sad and regretted it as he shouldnt be soft-hearted and agree to bring her here, which made her suffer. King Ruis heir gritted his teeth and prepared to find a chance to punish Yan Xu. Otherwise, how would he make up for his sweethearts suffering? However, Shi Qingxue had suffered, so he couldnt waste all the previous efforts. Mo Junyang could do nothing but grab Shi Qingxues trembling hand with more strength. He spoke to Yan Xu emotionlessly. I have just recovered and cant eat too oily food. I am afraid that I dont have the fortune to eat this delicious food. Lord Yan, please eat more. While speaking, he pushed the plate with double cooked pork slices back to Yan Xu. Yan Xu turned pale in an instant and showed his panic uncontrollably. Mo Junyang pretended that he didnt see it and then urged impassively, Lord Yan, why dont you eat? If the meat goes cold, it will have a fishy smell. What he said sounded normal, and he seemed to chat casually, yet Yan Xu had a guilty conscience and felt more scared and restless after hearing that. Yan Xu stared at Mo Junyang and wondered if he had found something. However, Mo Junyang always looked emotionless, and the others couldnt notice any emotions from his poker face. Yan Xu had to restrain his fear and expressed tentatively with caution, I dont like eating meat. I have made a wish in front of Buddha to quit meat, so I dont dare to eat this meat as I am afraid that I will offend Buddha. This reason was perfect, and it made the fact that Yan Xu didnt eat double cooked pork slices become reasonable. However, which high-ranking official could be so spotless? The common people might be like this, but he said the nice words at the table that people didnt say at the imperial court, which was too laughable. Shi Qingxue glanced at the wine cup in front of Yan Xu and picked up her teacup with a faint smile, taking a sip. She didnt say anything, yet it was enough to make Yan Xu feel so embarrassed that he wished to find a hole to hide himself. Fortunately, Yan Xu was thick-skinned. Even though the couple mocked at him, he showed a smile again soon and started to have a small talk. Speaking of which, Your Excellency, you have been in Jiangzhou for some days. Do you miss your family? His hidden meaning was, Can you go back to the capital as soon as possible? Mo Junyang looked calm. His Majesty told me to finish the job, and I have no command over myself. In another word, I wont leave until I find the evidence against you. Your Excellency, its a tough job to you. Jiangzhou is always peaceful, while the common people have just suffered in the flood and epidemic disaster, and a thousand things wait to be done, so there is nothing that you can report to the imperial court. Please dont blame me. Yan Xu intentionally showed that he was baffled, seeming to show off in front of Mo Junyang as he hid himself well and nobody had found it. In fact, he had the plan to sound out if Mo Junyang had found the evidence against him. However, if he could be seen through so easily, he wouldnt be Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang didnt even frown but said slowly after quietly listening to Yan Xu saying a lot of superfluous words, It doesnt matter. Anyway, its almost time to return to the capital. Shi Qingxue was confused. Yan Xu was speechless. Mo Junyang would either remain quiet or reveal big news as soon as he started speaking. The other two were shocked. Shi Qingxue stayed silent for a while and then suddenly laughed. Mo Junyangs behavior of giving a candy after punishing somebody was wonderful. Looking at Yan Xu turning pale with fear, she felt happy. Yan Xu wasnt in the mood to guess if what Mo Junyang said was true. He just thought, Damn it. Mo Junyang must have guessed what I have done and will rake things up against me soon. What should I do? Is it too late to kill him now? In the end, Yan Xu restrained his flurried expression, and cruelty flashed in his eyes. Soon he concealed it and thought that nobody noticed it. He didnt see that when he lowered his head, Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue exchanged tacit glances. After the three finished dinner with a lukewarm attitude, Yan Xu showed a polite expression and invited Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue to enjoy the moonlight in the backyard. In fact, the delicacies were left on the table, and none of them ate anything. Shi Qingxue looked up at the crescent moon. It was the first ten-day period of the seventh lunar month, so the moon could hardly be seen in the starry sky, and she didnt know why they enjoyed the moonlight. However, all of them knew that Yan Xu had ulterior motives while enjoying the moonlight, so they had no objection. There was a square table for eight people in the backyard, with delicate snacks on it. After the three sat down, the maids hospitably poured tea for them, and it looked harmonious. Yan Xu prepared for a long time and then stated unhurriedly, Today I heard that you would return to the capital. Although I dont want you to leave, I cant say anything. I prepared a few gifts. Please accept them, Your Excellency. As soon as he finished his words, seven or eight government workers carried heavy wooden boxes and came in one after another, putting the boxes in front of Mo Junyang. The wooden boxes were heavy, and when they were put on the ground, a layer of thick dust rose seemingly, so they must have a lot of weight. When Shi Qingxue was curious and wondered what Yan Xu wanted to do, she saw that the workers opened the boxes, and the bright stuff was dazzling under the light even at night. They were gold and silver. Even though Shi Qingxue had seen a lot of occasions and been rewarded many times, she was in a daze facing the gold and silver ingots in the big boxes. She had only one thought. This magistrate was so straightforward and free from affectation. Chapter 416 - Assassinate Shi Qingxue couldnt help but laugh, while Mo Junyangs expression softened, and he seemed to be satisfied. Seeing that, Yan Xu was complacent and thought that Mo Junyang looked lofty at ordinary times and disdained everything, while in fact, with the gold and silver in front of him, everything could be discussed. He showed that he wasnt tempted because others didnt give him enough. Lord Yan thought that he had seen through Mo Junyang and felt proud, so he said in a flippant tone involuntarily. They are only a few gifts. Hope that you dont dislike them, Your Excellency. If you think that its not enough, please tell me. You rarely came to Jiangzhou, and I will surely make you go back after enjoying yourself to the full. He said meaningfully and even winked at Mo Junyang vaguely when Shi Qingxue didnt see. Mo Junyang laughed again, yet it was cold in his eyes, which were terrifying. Before Yan Xu realized the hidden meaning in Mo Junyangs smile, he heard the young mans cold voice. Lord Yan, are you bribing me? Yan Xu was stunned and couldnt speak after hearing Mo Junyangs straightforward question. Then Mo Junyang continued, A Rank-5 magistrates yearly salary is only three hundred taels of silver, and you have been an official for just twenty years. Even if you dont eat or drink, you have merely six thousand taels of silver. Lord Yan, where are these gold and silver in boxes from? Where could they be from? They were the common peoples wealth he extorted and what the subordinates bribed him. This was what all the officials knew, but Mo Junyang mentioned it directly, so Yan Xu goggled at him and couldnt speak a word. At the same time, Shi Qingxue was amused by Yan Xus funny expression and burst into laughter. She had never seen such a stupid official. The other officials would be low-key and wished that the evidence of taking bribes and breaking the law would never come out when the superiors came to investigate. How would they carry them out like the brainless Yan Xu did, showing them to Mo Junyang and attempting to bribe him openly? She was amused. Shi Qingxue talked cheerfully, and Yan Xu finally understood that he was tricked, so he became angry from shame. Yan Xu had put a good face earlier but soon changed. He glared at Mo Junyang ferociously and snorted in a cold voice. Even if it is like what you said, so what? I give them to you out of kindness. If you accept them today, both of us and all people will be fine. Otherwise Yan Xus eyes looked threatening at once. Mo Junyang pretended that he didnt see it. He asked slowly, Otherwise, what do you want to do? Yan Xu responded, Otherwise, I will show no mercy. Dont blame me. As soon as he finished his words, the government soldiers who acted like wall flowers quietly took out the broadswords from their waists at the same time and aimed at Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue. It was almost the same as the scene when they just came to Jiangzhou City and they were surrounded in the small house. Mo Junyang sighed in secret. More than one month has passed, but this magistrate hasnt made any progress. He thinks that he can cope with me with the same method? Your Excellency, I advise you not to act rashly. These men are specially trained soldiers in the military camp in Jiangzhou, and they are not the trashes who would be scared to have soft legs. Yan Xu guessed what Mo Junyang was thinking about, and he warned in a low voice. He seemed to vow solemnly, as if these soldiers could frighten Mo Junyang. Shi Qingxue looked the soldiers making threatening gestures up and down again and really found something different. These people were dressed in ordinary government workers uniform, yet their imposing manner was greatly different from that of the runners who led a gay life and did nothing but bully the good people. Their eyes were clear and serious with a strong will, and they were real soldiers specially trained. The soldiers trained in the military camp of the Shi Army probably wouldnt be much better than these people. It was a pity that such people worked for Yan Xu. Shi Qingxue had this idea at first, but then she was surprised. Yan Xu was a civil official. How could he train these subordinates with such an imposing manner? These people were from the military camp at a glance. The military camp! Shi Qingxue felt that she seemed to have found the key word. She suddenly turned to Mo Junyang, who was looking at her, too. They got the positive answer from the other partys eyes. Mo Junyang kept silent for a while and then said unhurriedly, Yan Xu, since you know my capabilities, you should know that so few people cant trap me. Moreover, Mo Junyang had a group of guards who had excellent martial skills, too. Yan Xu laughed loudly and said conceitedly, Of course, I know that you are powerful in martial arts and can defeat one hundred opponents by yourself, but Lady Qingxue is uncertain. While speaking, he looked at Shi Qingxue with his greedy eyes, which were obscene and disgusting. Shi Qingxue frowned with displeasure. Mo Junyang blocked Yan Xus eyes in advance and his expression went cold. He stared at Yan Xu, as if looking at a dead person. Nobody knew whether Yan Xu didnt feel scared as his nerve was numb after he drank alcohol or he was fearless after speaking it out. He wasnt frightened but smiled at Mo Junyang with provocation. He seemed to say, Even if you look powerful, so what? You will be at the mercy of me as you have a weakness. Mo Junyang pulled Shi Qingxue and got up, hiding her behind him. Then he snorted. The people who dare to threaten me wont stay alive for long. Yan Xu, are you really going to have a try? Yan Xu smiled arrogantly. I want to say that the person who dares to go against me in Jiangzhou hasnt been born. Under the current situation, you must be unlucky. After speaking, he waved his hand, and those soldiers waved the broadswords, trying to attack Mo Junyang. Mo Junyang drew the soft sword from his waist and protected Shi Qingxue in his arm. He waved the soft sword with the other hand and quickly forced the people who attacked him first to retreat. However, these soldiers couldnt be handled easily. They attacked for the first time just to test. For the second time, they scattered and launched a converging attack from behind and in front, making Mo Junyang have enemies in front and rear. They used embattling skills to kill somebody, so they must be more than powerful. They attacked Mo Junyangs weak spots desperately and guarded when facing his attack. They cooperated with each other well, trying to minimize their losses. For a moment, the two parties fought fiercely, and it appeared that the victory could hardly be decided. Even some soldiers were injured by Mo Junyangs sword spirit, yet the people with sharp eyes could see that these men started a tag match to waste time and consume his energy. Even though Mo Junyang was superb in martial arts, when he protected Shi Qingxue and couldnt escape, he could do nothing but die slowly after consuming too much energy. Shi Qingxue was in Mo Junyangs arm under his protection and wasnt injured, yet she was in anxiety. She wanted to say something for several times, but she was afraid that she would distract him, so she didnt dare to speak. She was angry and blamed herself. Why did she follow him regardless of anything as she was just worried about him? If she were not here, Mo Junyang wouldnt be in such an awkward predicament. Even if he couldnt kill all people in seconds, he must have many chances to retreat. It was because of her. Her! Shi Qingxue couldnt help but hate herself, while the mans gentle and firm voice appeared above her head. Dont be afraid. I will take you out. She certainly trusted Mo Junyang, yet it couldnt make her forgive herself as she stood in his way. Instead, she hated herself more. When she was anxious out of wits and downhearted, woosh, the attack arranged in an orderly way was stopped. Those soldiers were interrupted by the sharp arrows flying from behind. They couldnt attack in the former embattling way but had to wave their broadswords in a difficult position to resist the flying arrows from nowhere. What happened? What happened? Yan Xus complacent smile turned into disbelief and confusion, and he shouted at those soldiers, Hurry up and capture him. You cant run away! However, when their lives were in danger, who would follow his order to kill somebody? Mo Junyang seized the opportunity to take Shi Qingxue out of the ring of encirclement and fell in front of Yan Xu. The bright soft sword was put horizontally in front of Yan Xu, and he could kill this evil official next second. Yan Xu who was fierce-looking and tried to kill Mo Junyang instantly looked like a wild duck whose neck was pinched, and he couldnt make noises to annoy others. Mo Junyang was satisfied as he saw Yan Xu who was scared with legs trembling. Then he glanced at the people who were still fighting, asking indifferently, What? Lord Yan, dont you plan to tell them to surrender? Mo Junyang had pity for human lives and didnt try to kill them. Otherwise, even if these soldiers were capable, they couldnt resist the attack from Mo Junyangs people. They would be defeated in less than fifteen minutes. Nobody present doubted such a result, and Yan Xu didnt dare to say no. He trembled and yelled at the soldiers who risked their lives to resist, Stop fighting. Surrender now! The soldiers almost became the meat of others. After they heard Yan Xus order, they paused for a moment without prior consultation. They glanced at one another and seemed to see the struggle and humiliation in others eyes but threw away the weapons in their hands in the end because of Yan Xus order. Shi Qingxue had stayed in the military camp since childhood and naturally understood that it was a humiliation for a soldier to surrender. The Shi Armys instruction was that they would rather die on the battlefield than surrender. Perhaps all soldiers with moral integrity were unwilling to accept the word surrender, even though they were not on the battlefield. To be fair, if a soldier didnt die on the battlefield but was killed in the internal conflict with conspiracies, wouldnt he be more humiliated? At this thought, Shi Qingxue didnt think that it was a big deal that these people surrendered. She just pulled Mo Junyangs arm, and the latter instantly understood what she meant. He patted her hand gently and said in a voice that only the two could hear, Dont worry. I know who the chief criminal is. I wont do anything to them. Shi Qingxue was stunned. She wanted to tell Mo Junyang not to insult the brave soldiers, yet she hoped that he could deal with them quickly. She didnt want him to let them go. Mo Junyang wasnt the kind of people who would return good for evil. If others hurt him but he didnt make them pay much more for it, they would be grateful to him. How would he let them go without doing anything? In the final analysis, he did that because of Shi Qingxues mercy? Shi Qingxue felt sadder, yet it was not the time for her to talk about this with him. She had to restrain her anxiety and deal with Yan Xu first. Yan Xu had done many evil things and even wanted to take their lives, so they couldnt spare him. Chapter 417 - Wait for Yan Xu’s Death Mo Junyang turned the tables almost without effort. Yan Xu was scared out of wits and didnt know why he became an underdog even though he had gained the upper hand earlier. He knelt in front of Mo Junyang and cried sadly, starting to repent. Your Excellency, please spare me. I was brainless only for a moment, and I didnt want to take your life. Please spare my life. I beg you. Yan Xu kowtowed with clear sounds, and only judging from the sounds, people knew that he admitted his fault sincerely, which could make others feel cold on the backs. Unfortunately, after he did everything, the repentance was useless, and nobody would feel sad for him. All people watched coldly and waited to see how Yan Xu would die. Yan Xu cried his heart out. If he werent afraid that he would be kicked away by Mo Junyang, he must have rushed to the imperial envoy and hugged his thigh. Fortunately, he didnt do that. Otherwise, Mo Junyang might kick him to death. However, after he cried for a long time, he didnt get the response as he had expected, but many people sneered at him. All people around looked at him, as if watching the performance of a clown on the stage. They didnt have pity for him but took him as a laughingstock. Even though Yan Xu was thick-skinned, he felt embarrassed at the moment. He got up from the ground suddenly and didnt look weak or beg for mercy anymore. He returned conceited and shouted at Mo Junyang, Mo Junyang, even though you are King Ruis heir, so what? There are rules in the country and every family. I am free from corruption as an official and care about the common people. There are public praise and evidence in Jiangzhou. Even if you are crazy about making outstanding achievements, dont try to start with me. He made a highfalutin speech with sufficient reasons, as if it were true. Shi Qingxue wanted to throw up when she heard that and thought, I have seen some shameless people, yet I have never seen anybody so shameless. Only the gold, silver and treasure in front of them meant that Yan Xu was not innocent, but he even had the face to say that he was free from corruption and served the common people wholeheartedly. Shi Qingxue was furious and conveniently picked up a gold ingot to smash Yan Xu when he was talking boastfully. She aimed at him before attacking and hit his mouth full of shit. Ouch! Yan Xu gasped after being smashed and hurriedly covered his mouth, while he felt some stinky and hot liquid erupting from his nose. He raised his head and wiped it. Then he saw that his hand was full of blood. Shi Qingxue hit him and made his nose bleed. Yan Xu got angry in an instant and glared at Shi Qingxue. Lady Qingxue, I respect you as you are the fiancee of King Ruis heir, so I am polite and tolerant to you all the time, but it doesnt mean that I fear you. Shi Qingxue wasnt afraid of Yan Xus empty show of strength. She raised her chin and snorted, seeming to say, If you are capable, come over. You! Yan Xu was provoked and irritated, yet before he vented it out, Mo Junyang picked up a gold ingot from the big box. He tossed it upward randomly and then caught it, seeming to play a childrens game, but his eyes falling on Yan Xu were like needlepoints which stabbed him to feel the pain in the bone. Yan Xu realized more clearly than ever that it was a silent threat. As long as he dared to say more to Shi Qingxue, the hidden weapon in Mo Junyangs hand would smash him and make him lose his teeth. They didnt talk about who was right. Under Mo Junyangs deterrent, Yan Xu shut up obediently and didnt dare to provoke Shi Qingxue. However, he still insisted that he was a good official. If he was asked, Where are the gold, silver and jewelry in front of them from, he would answer that the common people in Jiangzhou gave them to him willingly as they respected and supported this official. It was stipulated in the rules of Mo Dynasty that the official couldnt exploit the common people, but they were not forbidden to accept the gifts from the common people. Even though some of Yan Xus methods were not proper, it was understandable, and the imperial envoy Mo Junyang didnt need to discipline him. When Mo Junyang listened to Yan Xus casual nonsense, he didnt get mad but pulled Shi Qingxue to sit at the square table again, saying slowly, So it was not your idea to provide porridge for the common people in Jiangzhou and make them infected with the so-called epidemic? Seeing that Yan Xu turned red and then ghastly pale with fear, Shi Qingxue felt that she had vented her spleen. Yan Xu, such a guy who always resorted to sophistry should be nailed to a chopping block to death in the most direct way, so he wouldnt be able to struggle. Yan Xu was really terrified. He hadnt expected that the conspiracy he thought perfect would be found and exposed by Mo Junyang easily. And judging from the young mans calm expression, he had evidence apparently. So was he dying? Nevertheless, soon he suddenly realized that Mo Junyang had no evidence, so he couldnt act rashly. Yan Xu gritted his teeth and wiped his face, forcing himself to speak calmly. You have no evidence. Dont trick me. I wont admit anything without evidence Lord Yan, you want the evidence. Arent I a witness in the flesh? Before Yan Xu finished his words, another forceful male voice interrupted and scared Yan Xu to lose his courage again that he had finally plucked up. Yan Xu looked back in panic, to see that a middle-aged man strode to the light from the darkness, revealing a cold and familiar face. Ah! Yan Xu screamed and sat on the ground again, as if he saw a ghost. He trembled and pointed to the middle-aged man. YeYe Zhirong! The middle-aged man Ye Zhirong showed a forced smile to Yan Xu and said with sarcasm, Lord Yan, long time no see. Do you still remember me? Didntyoudie? Whywhy are youhere? Yan Xu quivered with fear like a sieve again and even stuttered. Ye Zhirong snorted and stared at Yan Xu, like a poisonous snake. How would I be willing to die before I drag you down to hell? Yan Xu noticed the killing intent in Ye Zhirongs words and felt more scared. He moved backward desperately to hide himself and howled crazily, A wrong has its instigator, and a debt has its lender. I didnt kill you. Go away. Dont get close to me. If you want to take revenge, go and find the one who tried to kill you. Its none of my business. Yan Xu spoke too emotionally. In the end, his eyes rolled unexpectedly, and he fell on the ground. He remained still, like a dead person. Not to mention that the onlookers present didnt react, even Ye Zhirong was dumbfounded. Yan Xu looked aggressive and could make a false countercharge boldly even when he failed in assassinating Mo Junyang. Why was he scared to a coma after saying only a few words as soon as he saw Ye Zhirong? It was so incredible. Wei Ziye walked to Yan Xu and squatted to check his breath. Yan Xu was still breathing and wasnt scared to death. All people sighed with relief. It was fine that Yan Xu wasnt scared to death. Otherwise, this asshole had died so easily without suffering. Shi Qingxue turned to Ye Zhirong. It appeared that this man was forty to fifty years old, with a square face. He looked dignified and decent, not like a corrupt official who would flatter the superiors and victimize the common people. She had thought that this Rank-6 supervisor might have been framed. When she saw the man in the flesh, she was more confident about her guess. However, she didnt know what had happened to this man in Jiangzhou and forced him to hide. Why did he come out to confront Yan Xu willingly all of a sudden? Shi Qingxue knew that it must have something to do with Mo Junyang and Yan Xus conflict, but she was clear that it was not the main reason. Otherwise, when Mo Junyang just came to Jiangzhou, Ye Zhirong should have come out to say that he was wronged and expose Yan Xus evil deeds. I told Ziye to send a message to the people in Black Water Stockaded Village that if Ye Zhirong didnt show up, I would let Yan Xu deal with Ye Zhixin, Mo Junyang whispered in Shi Qingxues ear. Obviously, he had guessed what confused her. Shi Qingxue understood it. Ye Zhirong could hide himself in safety under the force of Yan Xu, and perhaps only a stockaded village with brigands could make somebody disappear without a sound. Mrs. Ye had died, and Ye Zhirong had only one family member left, his daughter Ye Zhixin, so he wouldnt be willing to make this child fall into the hands of his enemy and suffer a living death. To say the least, even if Ye Zhirong was afraid of death and cruel to abandon his daughter, somebody else couldnt be so heartless. Qingxue was not blind, so she naturally noticed the fake assistant and real brigand Xiao Qijuns special feelings for Ye Zhixin. Since Xiao Qijun dared to protect Ye Zhirong at the risk of going against the government, it could be seen that he loved Ye Zhixin a lot. How would he watch her in danger and do nothing? Therefore, Ye Zhirong came in the end anyway. Shi Qingxue didnt think that there was something wrong with Mo Junyangs method. She just rubbed her nose tip in embarrassment and hesitated for a long time. Then she couldnt help but ask in a low voice, Are you willing to make Ye Zhixin a bait? She had tried to speak calmly, yet after she said that, she realized that what she said was jealous. Before Mo Junyang answered, Shi Qingxue buried her face in his arms shyly and pretended to be an ostrich. Aha Mo Junyangs Adams apple trembled slightly, and he chuckled with pleasure. He whispered in Shi Qingxues ear, Dont you know the only thing that I am unwilling to give up? Shi Qingxues ears were burning hot, and her heart trembled. She thought that it was improper that they flirted under the watchful eyes of all people, but on second thought, she didnt care about anything as Mo Junyang stayed with her. It was fine if they laughed at them. She didnt care. Shi Qingxue buried her hot face in Mo Junyangs shoulder, showing no interest in anything outside, like an ostrich. They couldnt talk about it at daytime or at night The person they talked about soon showed up in front of them. Ye Zhixin saw Ye Zhirong, and her face was full of tears instantly. She rushed to him and sobbed. Father, its really you? I thought that I would never see you. Father The scene that the father and daughter met was touching. Unfortunately, the others present were hard-hearted except the father and daughter, and they wouldnt show any emotions. Mo Junyang waited a moment and saw that the father and daughter didnt have a sense of time but talked endlessly, so he finally got impatient. Ye Zhirong, you said that you refused to say anything as you didnt see your daughter. Now she has been brought for you, so shouldnt you say what I want to know? Ye Zhirong concealed his sad expression and bowed to Mo Junyang, saying, Your Excellency, please keep calm. I will say it as I promised. He turned to Ye Zhixin and pulled her aside, asking in a low voice, Where is the stuff? Ye Zhixins joyful expression turned into fear at once, and she avoided Ye Zhirongs eyes, stuttering for a long time. After Ye Zhirong asked repeatedly, she gritted her teeth and confessed, I have lost it. Seeing that Ye Zhirong was going to look terrible, Ye Zhixin was scared and tears fell from her eyes. She shouted pitifully, Father, I didnt mean it. Please dont get mad at me, okay? I didnt do it intentionally. II just Ye Zhixin spoke incoherently, while Ye Zhirongs tense face showed that he was in a bad mood even though he didnt say anything unpleasant as he always loved his daughter. Chapter 418 - Confront Shi Qingxues head popped out of Mo Junyangs arms and she looked the father and daughter up and down curiously. Then she couldnt help but ask, What is so important? Was it so important that Ye Zhirong cared more about the stuff than his daughter after he saw her? Ye Zhirong turned ghastly pale and knelt in front of Mo Junyang, kowtowing hard. I am incapable. I thought that I had the evidence against Yan Xu who took bribes, bended the law and did harm to the common people, yet my disobedient daughter lost it in the end. I am guilty. Ye Zhirong had hidden himself everywhere in the past. Although he lived a poor life, he was confident and thought that he would defeat Yan Xu someday. However, when this day came, he found that what he could rely on was missing, so he was desperate. Mo Junyang calmly listened to Ye Zhirongs regret and sorrow. After a long time, he looked up and gave Wei Ziye a hint with the eyes. The latter took a rectangle iron box out of his pocket and put it in front of Ye Zhirong. Lord Ye, is this the stuff you mentioned? When Ye Zhirong was speaking and tears almost fell from his eyes, he saw the iron box in Wei Ziyes hand, so he looked as if he saw a ghost again, and he stared at Wei Ziye blankly, unable to say anything. At the moment, Ye Zhixin rushed over and wanted to get the iron box, but Wei Ziye avoided her. She goggled and censured in a rage involuntarily at last, Why is this iron box in your hands? Wei Ziye replied, I picked it up by accident. He said that with sufficient reasons. Ye Zhixin restrained herself and her face blushed. She was enraged. Because she had lost this iron box, she was worried and restless with fear all day long and thought that she let her father down, but unexpectedly, Wei Ziye took it away from the beginning, which made her sad for so long. He had gone too far. Ye Zhixin glared at Wei Ziye with complaints and wanted to cry. Wei Ziye wasnt affected but responded impassively, When you woke up that day, I asked you if you had lost something, yet you didnt say anything Ye Zhixin was stunned and remembered the incident then. When she woke up and found that the iron box was missing, Wei Ziye did ask her, but at that time, she didnt trust the people who saved her, so she didnt say anything. Later, she kept everything from them. However, it was human nature. How could she judge whether Wei Ziye and the others were good people then? Ye Zhixin raised her tearful eyes and looked at Mo Junyang pitifully, silently denouncing as she was bullied by Wei Ziye, as if she wanted Mo Junyang to uphold justice for her. Mo Junyang looked indifferent and said coldly, Miss Ye, since you dont trust my subordinate, it is a matter of course that he doesnt trust you. Moreover, he didnt know that this is yours, so he wouldnt tell you frankly, right? Ye Zhixin was rendered speechless and couldnt show a pitiful expression anymore. She stiffened and didnt know whether she should answer or not. After making Ye Zhixin shut up, Mo Junyang wasnt in the mood to talk with her. He turned to Ye Zhirong. Lord Ye, please continue. Ye Zhirong had been an official for so many years and acutely noticed that his daughter might have a vague relationship with King Ruis heir. However, it was not the time to talk about this matter. He coughed and responded to Mo Junyang, Your Excellency, the stuff in your subordinates hand is the evidence against Yan Xu, and I want to accuse him of taking bribes, breaking the law and victimizing the common people in Jiangzhou. Please observe clearly. What? Wei Ziyes hand with the iron box trembled involuntarily, and he stared at the small box in surprise. To be frank, if Mo Junyang hadnt told him to put it away, he would have forgotten it earlier. Although this small iron box couldnt be ruined with a sword, there was similar ironware, so it was nothing uncommon after he felt surprised. However, Ye Zhirong suddenly said that there was evidence against Yan Xu in this iron box, so Wei Ziye felt that his hands bore a lot of weight. His heart beat fast, and he couldnt help but give the iron box to Ye Zhirong. Lord Ye, why not take out the stuff in it quickly? Ye Zhirong got nervous because of the atmosphere on the verge of breaking out. His hand trembled when he received the iron box. He fumbled for a long time before he took a tiny key out of his pocket. Mo Junyang suddenly said, Since Lord Yan has woken up, how about we take a look at the iron box and see what it is hidden inside? Ye Zhirong paused when he opened the iron box and looked back with Wei Ziye, to see that Yan Xu who was scared to a coma had woken up. Yan Xu was guessing secretly what evidence could accuse him as Ye Zhirong said and prepared to make a plan after Ye Zhirong took it out, but Mo Junyang saw through him at a glance. Yan Xu had to get up from the ground, yet his face had returned calm. At least, he didnt look as if seeing a ghost like before. Lord Ye, I dont know what evidence against me you got. Take it out, so I can see it. While speaking, Yan Xu flipped the inexistent dust on his clothes at leisure. The breath that he put on airs overspread. Shi Qingxue rolled her eyes but also looked at Ye Zhirong with curiosity, expecting the stuff that he could take out soon. What Ye Zhirong had taken out was not something rare but just a small square notebook. This small notebook should be hidden in such a solid iron box. Was it the evidence against Yan Xu who was corrupt and took bribes? When Yan Xu saw the small notebook, he looked terrified. Obviously, he had the same guess as Shi Qingxue, yet soon he touched his chest and suddenly calmed down. He snorted at Ye Zhirong. Ye Zhirong, do you think that you can say that a random account book from nowhere has the records of my corrupt practices? Because Yan Xu and Ye Zhirong had different ideas, they were not close all the time, and they seldom contacted each other in private at ordinary times except for business. Not to mention such an important account book, Ye Zhirong might not see anything private of Yan Xu. After Ye Zhirong showed this account book, Yan Xu was sure that it was fake even before he had a look at it. You take bribes, which is cast in stone. How would we need an account book? Ye Zhirong casually glanced at the big boxes on the ground, and what he meant was self-evident. Yan Xus confident face stiffened. Right. Why did he forget that he was so stupid as to bribe Mo Junyang with gold, silver and treasures? He didnt make it but Mo Junyang caught him and took it as the evidence against him to threaten him. Yan Xu was so angry that he gritted his teeth and struggled. I said that they were gifts from the common people in Jiangzhou. Even if I shouldnt accept the common peoples money, the imperial court will depose me at most. What can they do to me? Moreover, there was a rule in Mo Country that people could pay money to atone for their crimes. As for the ordinary behavior of taking bribes, as long as he gave the bribes to the national treasury and was suspended for a period, after it was over, he could pay some money, and it was not a big problem to regain the position of magistrate in Jiangzhou. Ye Zhirong, Mo Junyang and all the people with the common sense of officialdom knew that. Yan Xu became complacent again, looking hateful. Ye Zhirong was irritated by Yan Xus complacency yet soon calmed down. He snorted. The stuff in my hands is not the evidence against you of taking bribes, but it is something that can take your life, too. What? No way. Stop talking big! Yan Xu was in panic for a moment yet soon returned composed. He thought by instinct that Ye Zhirong intentionally talked big to make him restless, so he held his head high in front of Ye Zhirong, hinting that he wouldnt be frightened easily. Ye Zhirong didnt keep Yan Xu in suspense anymore this time. His eyes became deep and he howled in a cold voice, Yan Xu, do you remember how many innocent peoples blood stained your hands? It doesnt matter if you dont remember. It was recorded clearly in this book for you, which waits to skin you and draw your blood to pay for their injustice. Ye Zhirongs voice was forceful, and each word struck Yan Xus heart, exposing all the dirty things he had done. It turned out that what Ye Zhirong had was not the evidence against Yan Xu of taking bribes but the raw materials that Yan Xu used to provide porridge. The source of every dead body, where they handled it and sent it to were recorded clearly in the book. There was no accurate name in each record but simple numbers of 1, 2, 3. Till now, perhaps nobody could say who the people were after Yan Xu killed and recycled them. Yan Xu had never expected that the fact that he made porridge with dead peoples flesh would be exposed in this way. He was scared and denied in a trembling voice, I didnt do it. It was not me. You are talking nonsense. Every dead body is recorded, and their sources and whereabouts are clear. Do you want to deny it? Ye Zhirong questioned coldly. He bared his teeth, as if he wanted to skin Yan Xu alive. After all, Yan Xu had a guilty conscience and didnt dare to meet Ye Zhirongs eyes. He shrank his neck with guilt yet still refused to miss a chance to indulge in sophistry. Even if there are records, so what? Who knows if you have made it up and intentionally frame me? Ye Zhirong snorted. You have done so many evil things. Do others need to frame you? You crave for greatness and success and recorded each place in detail where you provided porridge, wishing to write an autobiography. The information can accord with the records in my book. What can you say to explain away? Even if it can accord to your records, so what? It cant prove anything. Yan Xu still struggled desperately and didnt admit it. I am a magistrate. Even if I help the common people, I wont do it in person. I want to do good to the civilians. Even if I didnt do it perfectly, it must be that the subordinates complied in appearance but opposed in heart. What does it have to do with me? He even put the blame on the subordinates shamelessly. Ye Zhirong laughed even though he was angry because of Yan Xus shamelessness. Fine, Yan Xu, you really wont give up till death. Since you insist that everything was done by your subordinates, lets see what they will say, okay? He turned around and bowed to Mo Junyang, begging, Your Excellency, please send some people to capture Yan Xus lackeys now. We will know who is right after asking them. Ye Zhirong was afraid that Mo Junyang didnt believe him, so he added, To be honest, I could get the book about the dead people owe to his good subordinates help. Yan Xu looked cold and asked in a hurry, What do you mean? Ye Zhirongs smile was frightful. I mean that if not for your subordinate Tian Ping, this notebook couldnt fall into my hands. Yan Xu finally remembered that he told Tian Ping to arrange the disaster relief, including choosing the sources and whereabouts of the food. Tian Ping got involved in almost everything. If Tian Ping betrayed him, then Yan Xu quivered. However, he soon thought that he found the disclosure of his crimes a few days ago, so he gave Tian Ping some money in advance and told him to go away. Later, he told somebody to kill Tian Ping. So many days had passed. Even if his assistant couldnt take actions in time, Tian Ping must have fled. Yan Xu suddenly had courage again. Fine. You can confront Tian Ping. Tell him to come. Chapter 419 - Admit Defeat Yan Xu showed a sinister and complacent smile, as if he were not afraid of Ye Zhirong confronting Tian Ping. Ye Zhirong had known Yan Xu for so long, so he certainly understood the hidden meaning of Yan Xus expression. He looked terrible at once and shouted at Yan Xu, Where did you hide Tian Ping? Yan Xu responded, Anybody has two legs. How can I decide where he wants to go? But if you want to find him, it will probably be difficult, Lord Ye. Ye Zhirong thought that he had known Yan Xus weakness, yet at the critical moment, he was irritated by Yan Xu unexpectedly. He was so angry that he stomped and almost cursed Yan Xu regardless of his manners. Fortunately, at last, Ye Zhirong restrained his urge to beat Yan Xu and begged Mo Junyang again, Your Excellency, Tian Ping is the key witness to prove that Yan Xu victimized the common people. I hope that you can capture him as soon as possible. Otherwise Right. Tian Ping is quite important. Your Excellency, you are so capable. Why not find him? Yan Xu probably thought that Tian Ping had disappeared, and even Mo Junyang could do nothing to him, so he became highly conceited and started to provoke Mo Junyang unexpectedly. For a moment, Mo Junyangs people remained silent. Wei Ziye and the others stopped breathing for a short time and silently prayed for Yan Xu. Mo Junyang casually glanced at Yan Xu and smiled. Lord Yan, since you want to see your subordinate so much, how would I not satisfy you? Somebody, bring him. Yes! Wei Ziye looked at Yan Xus stupid expression as he was stunned because of Mo Junyangs words, sighing in secret. Why did you seek death in front of Mo Junyang? Here is your retribution, right? All people thought that Tian Ping had disappeared, but he was tied up and brought here. Perhaps because he had been educated earlier, he knelt on the ground without demur after seeing Mo Junyang and then sobbed, confessing everything that Yan Xu told him to do. He spoke out everything clearly and mentioned the details, witnesses and evidence. Even if Yan Xu wanted to indulge in sophistry, as long as they investigated as Tian Ping said, they would find the truth. Yan Xu got spiritless, or he knew that he had no way out since he saw Tian Ping. Tian Ping was clear about everything that Yan Xu had done and had helped him deal with the matters in the end, so Yan Xu was unable to refute. Lord Yan, what can you say now? Mo Junyang leaned against the wooden chair and squinted at Yan Xu lazily, with a casual posture, as if having a small talk. However, Yan Xu knew that this man could take his life after saying one word. Yan Xus legs weakened, and he fell on the ground. He kowtowed to Mo Junyang with sounds. After he kowtowed only a few times, people could see that his forehead was bleeding. He did sacrifice himself, yet unfortunately, nobody would pity him. Mo Junyang asked directly, How do you want to die? Yan Xu was rendered speechless, with nasal mucus and tears messing up his face, looking disgusting. However, he didnt have self-awareness but crawled to Mo Junyang, as if wanting to hold his thigh. Before he succeeded, he was kicked away by Wei Ziye without mercy. Can you hold Masters thigh as you wish? Under the pressure of Wei Ziye, Yan Xu didnt dare to touch Mo Junyang, but he was really afraid of death. He trembled and begged for mercy. I know that I am guilty. Please spare my life as we know each other, Your Excellency. Pah! After you did the conscienceless and evil deeds, you even have the face to beg somebody to spare your life. You are daydreaming! Ye Zhirong spat at Yan Xu ferociously. Then he bowed to Mo Junyang and said sincerely, Your Excellency, Yan Xu committed crimes, which are too numerous to record. Please punish this evil person severely, and then we can soothe the common people in Jiangzhou who died innocently because of his greed. Mo Junyang waved his hand at Ye Zhirong, as if he didnt take this mans words seriously. Then he asked Yan Xu, Since you want me to spare your life, shouldnt you do something? Ye Zhirong was shocked and furious. Yan Xu was surprised and overjoyed. Mo Junyang said that, meaning to spare Yan Xus life. Yan Xu didnt dare to put on airs but kowtowed to Mo Junyang desperately, begging, As long as you spare my life, you can tell me to do anything. Really? Mo Junyang squinted at Yan Xu with a faint smile, and the latter instantly understood his intention. Yan Xu thought that he was smart and added, Your Excellency, if you dont dislike it, I am willing to give all my property to you. Besides the gold, silver and treasures in the mansion, I have fertile farmland and shops. I wont disappoint you. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue expected Yan Xu to tell them surprising news to get a chance of survival, yet she just felt disappointed and bored after hearing his words. It was a pity that she expected it. She didnt know whether she should say that Yan Xu lusted for money or that he had nothing but money in his brain. Otherwise, why did he want to buy over Mo Junyang when he was dying? He was soincredible! Yan Xu didnt know that he was closer to death. At the mention of the family fortune he gained in the past years, he was excited and greedy, wishing to hold all the gold and silver in his arms before he got satisfied. However, when he talked endlessly, Mo Junyangs face didnt look better but got more terrible-looking. Yan Xu finally realized that he might have offended Mo Junyang again. His voice got lower and almost disappeared in the end. Mo Junyang showed a gentle smile to Yan Xu and asked, Do you think that I need your so little property? Yan Xu was stunned and suddenly understood. Right. Jiangzhou was a rich land and Yan Xu extorted money without mercy. However, no matter how much he grafted, it was a drop in the bucket and unpresentable compared with the property of a nobleman in the capital. Yan Xu enumerated his valuable things just to give them a laughingstock. He looked terrible at once and wanted to explain away to check if he could move the man in front of him, but meeting Mo Junyangs cold eyes, he couldnt say anything in the end. Yan Xu admitted defeat and lowered his head, almost accepting his destiny. Nevertheless, he just almost did that. Yan Xu suddenly remembered something and there was hope in his eyes once more. He raised his head and shouted at Mo Junyang, Your Excellency, I have something to report to you. Mo Junyang had teased Yan Xu enough and prepared to tell Wei Ziye to take him away, but this guy still didnt give up unexpectedly. He thought for a moment and felt happy, asking, Whats the matter? I know that I am guilty to the country, society and the common people in Jiangzhou after doing those things, yet I had no choice. Somebody forced me to do that, Yan Xu stated miserably. In the end, tears fell from his eyes again, and he looked pitiful. Mo Junyang uplifted his brows and sneered. Oh? I dont know that in Jiangzhou, somebody can force the magistrate. Yan Xu didnt notice the sarcasm in Mo Junyangs words but nodded repeatedly. Yes. I want to tell you on the inspector in Jiangzhou, Wu Xiong. He taught me to make porridge with dead peoples flesh and incited me to graft the disaster relief money and food. Absurd! Inspector Wu is just a military officer and doesnt have a say in the government affairs, and he is even lower-ranking than you. How can he threaten you? Mo Junyang coldly pointed out the flaws in Yan Xus words. Yan Xu shouted in tears, I didnt tell a lie. Although Wu Xiong is inferior to me in the rank, he controls the military power in Jiangzhou, and a superior protects him. Even I fear him. If Wu Xiong didnt force me to graft the disaster relief fund and food from the imperial court or teach me how to use the dead bodies to make porridge to help the victims, I wouldnt dare to do something so conscienceless even with reckless daring Pah! Ye Zhirong spat at Yan Xu and disdained him severely. If you dont lust for money, how can Wu Xiong force you? I think that you acted evilly in collusion. Seeing that Ye Zhirong cursed argumentatively, Mo Junyang looked as if lost in thought on his cold face, while he didnt say anything but continued to listen to Yan Xus argument. Your Excellency, I am really wronged. Wu Xiong controls the military power. If I dont listen to him, he can take my life at any time. I had no choice. Moreover, he told me the way to make porridge and sent people to choose dead bodies. In the end, he took away most of the disaster relief fund and food from the imperial court. I was forced by him to do everything. If you dont believe it, you can ask Tian Ping and check if what I said is true. Yan Xu said that with certainty and almost swore to God to prove his innocence. However, even if he swore to God, perhaps nobody would believe his pledge. However, another witness he mentioned, Tian Ping was more persuasive. Since Tian Ping accused Yan Xu, he curled up in a corner alone and wished that he would become tiny and disappear. Unexpectedly, Yan Xus words pulled him to the teeth of the storm again. He was so scared and cursed himself secretly as he offended God, which made him run into Mo Junyang, a horrible big shot, out of luck. He was a nobody and always followed the superiors orders before doing anything, just to make a living. He didnt care about anything else, but all people focused on him now. It seemed that after he said one word, he could decide a persons life and death. However, how would he dare to speak? I, I Tian Ping stuttered and said I several times, trying to figure out a perfect plan to make this matter pass. He would satisfy Mo Junyang without offending Wu Xiong. How about Yan Xu? A dying person was certainly not worth Tian Pings concern. However, Wu Xiong was a tyrant in an area and had a superior protecting him. Moreover, Mo Junyang didnt have the evidence against him, so Tian Ping could save him. Chapter 420 - A Part of the Hidden Truth Tian Ping looked at Mo Junyang who was indifferent and then at Yan Xu who had lost the momentum of an official. He swallowed desperately and wanted to shake his head to temporize, while he suddenly heard Mo Junyangs distant voice. I just want the truth. Tian Pings words were stuck in his throat and he didnt dare to say it but had to hold back. He admitted that he was cowardly, yet under Mo Junyangs cold glance, he had forgotten all he had measured and confessed everything while trembling. Your Excellency, the porridge with dead peoples flesh was made by Lord Wus people. Lord Yan just provided porridge with the identity of the magistrate in the places Lord Wu had chosen in advance Tian Ping incoherently spoke out the ulterior transactions of Yan Xu and Wu Xiong. In fact, Tian Ping deserved to be Yan Xus trusted subordinate, and he was clear about Yan Xu and Wu Xiongs dirty deals. Although Yan Xu always stressed that Wu Xiong forced him to graft the disaster relief money and food, only those with weaknesses were susceptible to evil influences. Both of them coveted the disaster relief money and food from the imperial court and colluded with each other. It turned out that the flood disaster in Jiangzhou was not so serious in the beginning. It rained heavily, but with the dyke-dam blocking, only the low-lying area downstream was drowned. However, in order to get more disaster relief money and food, Wu Xiong told his soldiers to ruin the dyke-dam with bombs secretly and led the flood to the innocent common people in Jiangzhou at night. There was a flood disaster, and the disaster relief money and food had been sent from the imperial court, so they had to relieve the sufferers. However, it needed money to relieve the sufferers. So Wu Xiong and Yan Xu became frenzied and targeted the nameless dead people drowned in the flood. Perhaps in the beginning, they really just wanted to take the dead peoples flesh as meat to save the cost, yet ptomaine started to spread rapidly at this time. More and more people died, and in the eyes of Wu Xiong and Yan Xu, they were not dead bodies but treasures. As there were more food sources, ptomaine spread more severely, and more people died. In the end, fewer people needed porridge. To them, they could achieve many things at one stroke. Later, more and more people died, and there were fewer people surviving. It cost them all the disaster relief money and food to provide porridge for the sufferers, so they naturally wouldnt trouble to help the victims. Therefore, the epidemic frightful to the ear was cured without medicine. The pitiful people were the innocent civilians who knew nothing but were forced to cannibalize. After hearing Tian Ping haltingly speak out what he should and shouldnt say, Yan Xu fell on the ground and looked as if he had nothing to desire for. After Tian Ping finished his words, the courtyard was silent for quite a while. Nobody spoke, or rather, nobody knew what to say. After a while, Mo Junyang suddenly asked, What did you do to the surviving people except making porridge with dead peoples flesh? Tian Pings face stiffened, and he started to play dumb. I dont know what you mean, Your Excellency. Do I need to remind you? The common people who disappeared suddenly Mo Junyang prolonged his voice and asked unhurriedly after seeing that Tian Ping and Yan Xu turned pale, What did you do to them? We, we Tian Pings voice was trembling, and he wanted to explain away seemingly, but after meeting Mo Junyangs stern eyes, he was like a deflated ball. He just kowtowed and admitted his guilt. We are guilty. Your Excellency, please He was unable to continue, and even his words to beg for mercy became powerless. It was conscienceless to make porridge with dead peoples flesh, and what they did to the surviving peoplewas inhuman. What could he say? Tian Ping and Yan Xu lowered their heads in dejection and admitted their guilt. Even though they were reluctant, they had nothing to say. Your Excellency, you Wei Ziye asked about the next jobs in a low voice. Mo Junyang ordered, Leave Yan Xu here, as I have something to ask him. Take the others away and punish them according to rules. Wei Ziye hesitated for a moment and then asked, How should we deal with Wu Xiong? I have other plans. Just arrange for these people first. Yes! The backyard was cleaned up, and only Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue and Yan Xu who trembled and knelt on the ground were left. Yan Xu. Yes, Yan Xu quivered and answered in a hurry. Mo Junyang asked, You stressed several times that Wu Xiong has a superior protecting him. Who is this superior? Yan Xu was scared to death. After hearing Mo Junyangs question, he instantly felt that he found a chance of survival. He intentionally showed that he was baffled and said obsequiously, Your Excellency, since you asked me, I should tell you frankly, but Lord Wus background is powerful. I cant even save my life, so I dont dare to say anything recklessly, unless He peeped at Mo Junyang several times, and what he meant was self-evident. Mo Junyang sneered. What? Do you want to bargain with me? I dont dare to. Yan Xu smiled flatteringly in embarrassment. However, I have nothing but a worthless life. If you want to take my life, I really fear nothing. He said that he didnt dare to, yet he dared to do anything. Yan Xus all crimes had been exposed, and any one could cause his death. If he just begged for mercy, he couldnt save his life. Didnt Mo Junyang want to investigate the case in Jiangzhou? He could do it, but he had to pay a price if he needed Yan Xu to help him. Yan Xu thought that he was just an unimpressive nobody, and his life and death was decided by Mo Junyang. Your Excellency, look. We have no grudge against each other. Why do you waste energy on me? Its proper business to catch a big fish. Yan Xu begged for mercy patiently and said all the nice words. When Yan Xu was thirsty after talking too much, Mo Junyang glanced at him coldly. Have you finished speaking? Mo Junyang was unmoved and looked as if watching a monkey being teased. Even though Yan Xu had to beg Mo Junyang, he was irritated by the young mans indifference and looked cold. Your Excellency, do you really want to take my life? At the moment, even Shi Qingxue couldnt bear to see that. She couldnt control herself but rebuked, Huh. How do you have the face to live in this world? You can refuse to say as you wish. Do you think that we can do nothing without you? Yan Xu looked more ferocious and threatened in a deep voice, I dare to say that nobody is clearer about what Wu Xiong did than me. If you kill me now, you will never try to do anything to him. Are you willing to let go of such a big fish who harms the country and common people? Mo Junyang rested his chin in his hand and asked lazily, Who told you that I would let go of Wu Xiong? Then you Do you think that I know nothing as you dont say anything? Yan Xu was astonished and asked subconsciously, You have known that Wu Xiong has the backup Before Yan Xu spoke out the name, he suddenly came to his senses and held back his words. Seeing Shi Qingxues disappointed expression after excitement, he laughed loudly. Its not easy for you to lure me to say something. If you dont keep me alive, I will take this secret into my coffin. Mo Junyang wasnt in the mood to say that Yan Xu didnt qualify to lie in a coffin as he did all kinds of evil. He just squinted at Yan Xu and casually ruined his last hope. Do you think that if you dont say anything, I wont know that Wu Xiong colluded with the rebel army and sent the disaster relief money and food to the northern border to support Mo Junhaos rebellion? How did you know it? Yan Xu was so shocked that his eyes almost popped out of their sockets. He stared at Mo Junyang blankly and had no reaction for a long time. Mo Junyang walked to Yan Xu and looked down at him, as if looking at a lowly bug, with indifference and disgust in his eyes. I asked you just because I wanted to give you a chance to confess, but you are so impervious unexpectedly. You just want me to reveal all the facts to you, so dont blame me if I show no mercy. Somebody, pull the sinful official Yan Xu away and put him in prison. Behead him after reporting to His Majesty. All his family members in the mansion will be banished. Yan Xu finally knew that he wasted the last chance to save himself. Even though Mo Junyang wouldnt keep him alive, Yan Xu could prevent his family members from being implicated. However, he irritated Mo Junyang and had no chance of survival in the end. Yan Xu was petrified, yet nobody would care about him at this time. Two guards walked forward and pulled him away like dragging a dead dog. In the beginning, Shi Qingxue was still held in Mo Junyangs arms and didnt move. For a moment, she was shocked as she realized something all of a sudden seemingly. Then she got rid of his arms. Mo Junyang subconsciously wanted to bring her back, but she dodged. He looked up and met her alert eyes. He stopped breathing yet still pretended to be calm, asking, Whats wrong? Shi Qingxue stared at him and asked in a deep voice, When did you know that Wu Xiong colluded with Mo Junhao? Why didnt you tell me? As soon as she heard Mo Junhaos name, Shi Qingxue was stunned and then felt furious. Although she didnt show it obviously, Mo Junyang must know that she bore a grudge against Mo Junhao for two lives and wouldnt give up until she took revenge. She wanted to know anything about Mo Junhao, but Mo Junyang kept something so important from her. Shi Qingxue certainly didnt believe that Mo Junyang wanted to help Mo Junhao, yet why didnt he tell her? Facing Shi Qingxues question, especially her angry eyes which seemed able to speak, Mo Junyang felt for the first time that he couldnt confront her. He avoided Shi Qingxues eyes yet lowered his head all the time. He didnt answer or explain. Shi Qingxue furrowed her brows more tightly and stared at Mo Junyang, asking in a colder voice, Why did you keep it from me? At the moment, she could almost be sure that Mo Junyang had known everything earlier but intentionally hid it from her. But why? Chapter 421 - Express Her Feelings Mo Junyang had thousands of kinds of explanations on his mind, and he could speak out thousands of reasons for each to convince Shi Qingxue. He had just known that Wu Xiong worked for Mo Junhao, or he didnt speak it out earlier because he had no solid evidence, or there were a lot of things involved and he didnt find the truth of many things. As long as he mentioned all kinds of reasons, he could mix the spurious with the genuine. However, he didnt say anything in the end, nor could he meet Shi Qingxues questioning eyes. Shi Qingxue didnt want to act like before. She would let it pass if Mo Junyang was unwilling to tell her in the past. She was determined to know the truth about this matter. She even wondered involuntarily if Mo Junyang knew something else about Mo Junhao but didnt tell her as he kept this information about Mo Junhao from her. Such a conjecture was too horrible and hurtful. As soon as Shi Qingxue had this idea, she desperately shook her head and stopped herself from thinking. Then she turned to Mo Junyang persistently and asked for the truth. Mo Junyang was defeated under Shi Qingxues bright eyes. He lowered his head and asked in a hoarse and deep voice, What do you want me to say? Give me an explanation. Shi Qingxue said calmly, You know that I will believe you no matter what you say, so dont lie to me. It was oppressive silence again. Mo Junyang opened his mouth with difficulty. I have nothing to explain. I hid it from you intentionally I dont want to tell you. Shi Qingxue couldnt keep the composure on her face anymore. She looked at Mo Junyang in disbelief and questioned in a confused voice, Why did you do that? Why? Mo Junyang repeated Shi Qingxues question in a low voice. He suddenly raised his head, and his deep eyes became cold and piercing. He stressed each word and told the truth. Because I dont want you to have anything to do with that man. I dont want you to keep thinking about him. You cant do it. I am so overbearing and unreasonable. Are you clear now? Mo Junyangs last question was almost to make a clean break, as if he planned to reveal all his dirty and abnormal thoughts to Shi Qingxue. He was such a man. If Shi Qingxue looked at or cared about somebody else, he would feel unhappy. He wished that she was owned by him completely, living in the world of him alone and nobody could take her away. Mo Junyang knew that such a thought was impossible to come true, and he tried his best to endure it, without showing his displeasure when Shi Qingxue got close to others. However, it didnt work when it came to Mo Junhao who had played an important role in Shi Qingxues previous life. Mo Junyang was unable to bear it when Shi Qingxue focused on Mo Junhao again. Even though his reason told him that it was impossible for her and Mo Junhao to get married, as long as he thought that she once loved Mo Junhao passionately, his reason disappeared. Mo Junyang almost went crazy as he was so jealous, and he wished that Shi Qingxue would never contact Mo Junhao again in this life. How would he reveal the information about Mo Junhao to her? Hearing Mo Junyangs words, Shi Qingxue was stunned. She looked at him blankly and couldnt come to her senses after a long time. She had never thought about everything that Mo Junyang said, not ever. She knew Mo Junyangs feelings for her and had never expected that he would hide something from her because of this, which was an absurd reason in her eyes. He did that just to prevent her from contacting Mo Junhao again? How would Mo Junyang be jealous of Mo Junhao? But why not? Shi Qingxue suddenly thought of Ye Zhixin, and the situation was similar. Her reason also told her that Mo Junyang would never fall for Ye Zhixin, yet love would never listen to reason. She was still so jealous that her heart ached. She even secretly complained why Mo Junyang was so attractive. She considered others in her own place, and it seemed understandable that Mo Junyang had the same feelings and hid something from her. At this thought, Shi Qingxues anger which finally gathered disappeared at once. How could she get angry? On the contrary, she felt sad and couldnt help but reach out to grab Mo Junyangs hand. Mo Junyang was prepared to accept Shi Qingxues reproach and blame. No matter what it was, he would accept it. Only one point, Shi Qingxue couldnt leave him. However, it appeared that Shi Qingxue didnt get mad but seemed to comfort him Junyang. Shi Qingxue sighed in a low voice. She had a lot to tell Mo Junyang. She wanted to tell him that she had no feeling but hatred for Mo Junhao and he didnt need to worry. The reason of the two was clear about this matter, and she didnt need to say more. She leaned forward and let Mo Junyang hug her waist. She rested her head on his shoulder. After a while, she expressed her feelings in a soft voice. Mo Junyang, after the previous life, I once gave up love and even wanted to stay with Buddha and remain single all my life after taking revenge. I didnt want to meet another man who made me sick like Mo Junhao did. I had this plan all the time. Love was almost pointless to me in this life, and I didnt want it, but I met you again eventually in this life. Because of you, I have faith in love again and want to stay with you for a lifetime, forgetting everything in the previous life. Its just because of you. I trust you so much. Why dont you trust me more? She said slowly and seriously. In the end, she raised her head slightly and stared at the handsome face before her eyes, face to face quietly. Looking at Shi Qingxues bright eyes with sadness which couldnt be noticed easily hidden in them, Mo Junyang felt that his heart ached, as if it were twisted by somebody else. He held Shi Qingxue in his arms tightly regardless of anything, whispering in her ear, I trust you. I just, just Mo Junyang was anxious to explain, yet in the end, he found that all the explanations were powerless. At last, he gave up the mendacious arguments and held back, accepting Shi Qingxues questions. He didnt justify himself but only felt guilty. I am sorry, Qingxue. Mo Junyang held Shi Qingxue and refused to let her go, as if he were afraid that she would run away. He hugged her more and more tightly. The last time, its the last time. Forgive me, okay? I promise that I wont hide anything from you in the future. Just forgive me once, okay? Dont get mad at me. Dont refuse to talk with me. Dont leave me Mo Junyang didnt hide what he feared most but told Shi Qingxue everything humbly. He just wanted her to stay with him. Shi Qingxue indistinctly felt that there was something wrong with the conversation between her and Mo Junyang, yet she couldnt bear to listen to him speaking in such a humble tone. Mo Junyang must be the most arrogant one, and he shouldnt be humble, nor did he need to bow his head to anybody, even including her. She held Mo Junyangs face with both hands and still looked at him in the front horizontally, saying seriously, Mo Junyang, listen to me. I will never leave you. Even if you want to abandon me, I wont leave you. Understand? She said that without showing any gentleness but it sounded oppressive, while they were the most beautiful honeyed words that Mo Junyang had heard in two lives. The cold air all over him disappeared soon, and he seemed to be enveloped in the warm sun, with warmth and joy on his handsome face. Mo Junyang also leaned forward involuntarily to kiss Shi Qingxue. He gently kissed her nose tip first. Shi Qingxue cowered by instinct because she felt itchy yet soon stopped. She didnt dodge anymore but closed her eyes, raising her chin slightly. Mo Junyang approached her again and kissed her eyelid, feeling her trembling eyes. It seemed that even his heart also trembled. He caressed Shi Qingxues cheeks and stroked her auricula. In the end, he scratched the back of her head. He put forth strength slightly, and they got close to each other once more. This time, their nose tips rubbed against each other, and their lips were together. Mo Junyang opened Shi Qingxues thin lips with his tongue tip gently, which went deeper and intertwined with her perplexed tongue. Shi Qingxue stiffened. She had to follow the man and open her lips, letting his tongue wreak havoc in her mouth and bring her closeness which could almost suffocate her. After a long time, when Shi Qingxue almost couldnt breathe, she felt that she was released a bit. The fresh air poured into her chest, and she hurriedly took a deep breath, yet she was chocked and coughed violently. Mo Junyang looked gentle unprecedentedly. He caressed Shi Qingxues burning hot cheeks and couldnt help but chuckle. We have kissed each other for so many times. Why dont you know how to do it? Shi Qingxue coughed and glared at Mo Junyang, thinking with unspoken criticism that he pretended to be innocent after gaining profit. Who made her suffer so much? Fine, fine. Its my fault. Mo Junyang admitted his fault quickly, but complacency and self-sufficiency could hardly be concealed on his attractive face, and he was like a cat which successfully stole fish. He hugged Qingxue more tightly involuntarily and chuckled. Great. Shi Qingxue paused and instantly understood what Mo Junyang meant. She had never doubted Mo Junyangs feelings for her, yet he could always let her unconsciously find that his feelings were deeper than she could imagine, which made her feel sad. You are foul! Shi Qingxue murmured. What? Mo Junyang didnt hear her words clearly. Shi Qingxue refused to bother about this subject. Otherwise, she would be unable to outargue him. She pondered for a moment and then asked, Since you have guessed earlier that Wu Xiong colludes with Mo Junhao. Why did you let him go? Mo Junyang looked unnatural and coughed twice. Not early. I just knew it these two days. These two days? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang in disbelief and thought that he kept something else from her. Chapter 422 - Save Him from Death? Meeting Shi Qingxues questioning face, Mo Junyang let the cat out of the bag at once. He confessed, In fact, Shen Luo and Zichao have come. Shi Qingxue showed that she was enlightened and understood why Yan Xu had sent so many people to assassinate Mo Junyang but failed soon. Wei Zichao must have brought many people from the capital and hid them, so Yan Xu couldnt act recklessly even if he wanted to. Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and then asked, Did they tell you that Wu Xiong works for Mo Junhao and provided him with food and money for his rebellion? Mo Junyang nodded. It explained the whereabouts of the disaster relief money and food sent from the imperial court, but we got the news late. When Zichao and the others went to intercept Wu Xiong today, he had fled, and the county chief Yin Liangzhi was left. What did he say? Shi Qingxue asked anxiously. A dead body and a letter with blood. What do you think he could say? Mo Junyang smiled with sarcasm. Yin Liangzhi took the blame for colluding with Yan Xu, grafting the disaster relief money and food and victimizing the common people in Jiangzhou. Shi Qingxue lowered her eyes in disappointment and murmured with displeasure, Gee, he has died, so they can fabricate. Mo Junyang stopped talking. However, under the situation, the clue of Wu Xiong disappeared, and a lot of problems hadnt been solved in Jiangzhou. Mo Junyang had a headache even when he thought about it. Yan Xu would surely die, and all the officials involved must be punished severely, but the biggest problem was that this capital crime couldnt be revealed to the public. People cannibalized, which made them die of ptomaine. Shi Qingxue didnt dare to think about the consequence once the common people knew something so inhuman. The regime would be unstable, and society would be shaky. It was possible that the country would be destroyed. While thinking, Shi Qingxue couldnt help trembling, but what could she do? Mo Junyang noticed her annoyance and explained in a low voice, We cant let the common people know that they made porridge with human peoples flesh, yet Yan Xu ganged up for selfish interests, took bribes, bent the law and grafted the disaster relief money and food, which are certain, and he cant get away with it. However, the innocent common people who died because of Yan Xus inhumanity might not be able to leave names but would disappear in history silently. They have already died. No matter how much we do, they wont come back to life. What we can do is only avenge them. Even if its not perfectly justifiable, we have taken revenge for them anyway. Mo Junyang could always accurately find what made Shi Qingxue hesitate and then make her come round with the simplest reason. Although Shi Qingxue still felt unhappy, she didnt get into a dead end. As Mo Junyang said, they couldnt let the Mo Dynasty die with Yan Xu who did those evil things. We cant spare Yan Xu, and it is not too much to cut him to pieces. Shi Qingxue gritted her teeth in a rage and thought that Yan Xu should suffer more than dying easily. Mo Junyang naturally agreed. Dont worry. I have told Zichao to ask somebody to send a letter to the capital. This evil official will stay alive for less than half a month. Shi Qingxue finally got happier and talked with Mo Junyang about how to punish the rest officials who acted evilly in collusion with Yan Xu and Yin Liangzhi and how to deal with the mess in Jiangzhou. Mo Junyang had experience in something like this. He quickly deposed and condemned all the officials involved, which frightened many people from all sides. Later, he severely scared the officials who knew something about Yan Xus crimes and then let go of them. After all, those officials were needed to govern the big city Jiangzhou. If all the officials in Jiangzhou were deposed because of this, this area would be in a mess. He frightened those officials. Even if they had evil intentions, they didnt have the nerve to do evil or rebel. As for the officials who were suppressed as they refused to collude with Yan Xus faction, Mo Junyang supported them, and the vacant positions in the government of Jiangzhou were filled in only less than half a month. Seventeen officials in Jiangzhou had been deposed because of Yan Xu, and nine of them would be beheaded, while the others had been imprisoned at least. Almost all these officials were of high positions in Jiangzhou, but after Mo Junyang adjusted, even though they were deposed, it didnt influence the administration in Jiangzhou. The only question was, who should be the magistrate in Jiangzhou? Logically, after all the high-ranking officials were condemned, the highest official left was the supervisor Ye Zhirong, and he should fill the vacant position. However, Ye Zhirong was unwilling to be promoted but thought that he was the supervisor yet didnt reveal Yan Xus crimes. Moreover, he chose to hide himself because he was afraid of death, so he was guilty to the innocent common people who died miserably and refused to take the position of magistrate. It was fine if an official was transferred from the capital, but a thousand things waited to be done in Jiangzhou, and the official from somewhere else didnt know the situation in Jiangzhou, so it was unpractical. Do you have a candidate? Shi Qingxue asked in a low voice. Mo Junyang looked hesitant rarely. Somebody may be suitable. Shi Qingxue tilted her head and pondered for a moment. Xiao Qijun? Mo Junyangs eyes lit up, and he looked surprised and joyful. Obviously, Shi Qingxue saw through him. Why do you consider him? Shi Qingxue was doubtful. Although she guessed that Mo Junyang thought highly of Xiao Qijun, if a magistrates private assistant was promoted to a magistrate, a position which was a few levels higher, it would be too much. Moreover, Xiao Qijun had a secret identity, a chief of brigands. Could such a man be qualified to be the magistrate in Jiangzhou? Mo Junyang explained, Firstly, he knows the situation in Jiangzhou and he is quite capable. If he is willing to, and Ye Zhirong assists him, he can surely do a good job. Secondly, in many peoples eyes, he worked for Yan Xu. Even though the minor officials I have let go of are not powerful, they must have been profited by Yan Xu. If a man who worked for Yan Xu is appointed, it can make them feel more relieved Dont forget the relationship between him and Black Water Stockaded Village. Essentially, he is a brigand. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but remind him. Wasnt it absurd to make a brigand become an official, a magistrate? It was fine that he was a private assistant of the magistrate. Wasnt Mo Junyang afraid that Xiao Qijun would steal what was entrusted to his care and make the area Jiangzhou his own granary? When he is in a different position, he will act differently. Xiao Qijun was a brigand in the past, and its normal that they go against the government, but if he becomes an official, he wont do the jobs of a brigand. Xiao Qijun is a talent, and I believe that he will do right things. It appeared that Mo Junyang had confidence in Xiao Qijun. However, Shi Qingxue was confused. Why must it be him? Thirdly, its because of his identity. Mo Junyang spoke out his reason at leisure. Shi Qingxue was puzzled. Why was a chief of brigands suited to be the magistrate of a city? Mo Junyang chuckled. Although the brigands in Black Water Stockaded Village are different from the brigands in other places who burn, kill and pillage, doing all kinds of evil things, after all, they go against the imperial court. Now their chief becomes the magistrate of a city. Do you think that the members in Black Water Stockaded Village will harm people? Gee? Shi Qingxue was stunned and then understood what Mo Junyang meant after a long time. He wanted to offer enlistment to rebels in this way? He really captured the ringleader first in order to capture all his followers. The chief worked for the government, and even if the members in Black Water Stockaded Village wanted to be brigands, they couldnt do it. It was a good plan to kill two birds with one stone. However, Shi Qingxue was worried that Xiao Qijun might not be willing to become the magistrate in Jiangzhou. Under the miserable condition in Jiangzhou, the magistrate in the city was a very responsible position and couldnt gain profit in three or five years, so it was a hard but thankless job. Perhaps it was not as easy as to be a chief of brigands. Nevertheless, Mo Junyang smiled casually. It depends on the person who tries to persuade Xiao Qijun. Shi Qingxues eyes lit up, and she looked into Mo Junyangs eyes for a moment. Then she shouted with certainty, Ye Zhixin! She almost forgot that Xiao Qijun always loved Ye Zhixin, but she was a daughter of an official anyway. If he was a brigand all the time, even though he didnt do anything evil, he would never marry Ye Zhixin. As long as they made efforts in this respect, they were not afraid that Xiao Qijun would disagree. But Miss Ye loves you. I am afraid that even if Xiao Qijun agrees, we cant bring them together. At the mention of Ye Zhixins secret feelings for Mo Junyang, Shi Qingxue felt unhappy and said in a strange tone. Mo Junyang uplifted his brows and looked indifferent. What does it have to do with me? Shi Qingxue seriously observed the mans expression, to find that he really didnt care about this at all. Right, in Mo Junyangs eyes, except Shi Qingxues, anybodys feelings had nothing to do with him. He never cared about anything that had nothing to do with him. Shi Qingxue was rendered speechless and then realized that she was stupid to feel jealous for something like this. Ahem! Shi Qingxue coughed twice and changed the subject with a blush. Well, the position of magistrate is decided, so Jiangzhou City will be stable. As soon as the reply from the capital arrives and Yan Xu is handled, everything is done. Shi Qingxue had a perfect plan. If not for the procedure, she didnt want to wait for the reply from the capital. She wanted to put Yan Xu to death by dismembering the body to vent the publics anger. It was a waste of food and air to keep such a scum alive for one more day. Anyway, Yan Xu would surely die! However, when the news from the capital came after the fifteenth day of the seventh lunar month, Shi Qingxue felt embarrassed. A eunuch from the imperial palace brought Emperor Benevolence Mo Junyus edict. Because of the new emperors wedding, he granted a general amnesty and saved Yan Xu from death. Yan Xu would be banished to the border area, which showed the kindness of the emperor and empress. After hearing the eunuch read the imperial edict, Yan Xu was stunned in the beginning. Then he suddenly reacted and showed an overjoyed expression. He jumped up from the ground in an instant. I wont die? I wont die. Great. Great! The eunuchs face darkened, and he rebuked in a cold voice, Why dont you accept the imperial edict and thank His Majesty? Yan Xu knelt down at once and kowtowed heavily, saying in a hurry, Thank you, Your Majesty. Thanks. I will surely correct my errors and make a fresh start in the future to express my thanks to you Chapter 423 - To Die or Not, It’s a Question Wait a moment! In the beginning, Shi Qingxue was stunned by this imperial edict. Seeing that Yan Xu grinned from ear to ear, she finally couldnt help but put on a dark face and stop it. She stared at the imperial edict in the eunuch Zhang Yous hand coldly, while the flames of fury in her eyes almost became real and burnt the imperial edict. All peoples reactions were obvious, and she couldnt deceive herself to think that she misheard it, yet with the words in the imperial edict, she would rather mishear it. Otherwise, Yan Xu did something evil that made everybodys hair stand on end, and it was not too much to sentence him to death for one thousand times. How could he be spared? No way. There must be something wrong. Shi Qingxue anxiously grabbed the imperial edict from Zhang You and read the words in it one by one for three times. They were the same as what he had read, but she still couldnt accept it. Seeing Shi Qingxues impoliteness, Zhang You got angry and reproached in a deep voice, Lady Qingxue, although you are the future wife of King Ruis heir, I read the imperial edict for His Majesty. How can you disrespect the imperial edict? Are you doubting His Majestys edict? Yes. So what? The room door was kicked open. Mo Junzhan answered in a rage, and the flames of fury in his eyes were the same as, even more than Shi Qingxues. He strode to Shi Qingxue and grabbed the imperial edict, glancing at it. Then he pointed it at Zhang You, questioning, This is the imperial edict you mentioned? Let go of an atrocious man? Zhang You was scared by Mo Junzhans powerful and threatening momentum and moved backward, but soon he steadied himself and kept his chin up, shouting in a sharp voice, Its clear in the imperial edict. His Majesty got married so he granted a general amnesty to show his kindness. Its a rule that exists in our country all the time. How can we break the rules left by the ancestors because of a magistrate in Jiangzhou and put His Majesty in an unkind and unrighteous position? Shi Qingxue laughed because she was angry at Zhang Yous long speech. Why didnt she know that it was unkind and unrighteous to execute a man with flagrance? Even though the wedding of the emperor and empress was a universal celebration, if they let go of a sinner, what would they celebrate? Shi Qingxue knew that she was disrespectful to say something like this, but when she was angry, she didnt care about so much. As expected, Zhang You turned pale after hearing that and glared at Shi Qingxue. Lady Qingxue, how dare you However, before Zhang You finished his words, Mo Junyang narrowed his eyes and stood in front of Shi Qingxue. What did you say? Mo Junyang just said that casually with no emotion, while Zhang You lost his arrogant momentum and cowered like a frog which was noticed by a poisonous snake. Zhang You bowed slightly and explained like a coward, Your Excellency, please dont get angry. I didnt mean to be impolite to Lady Qingxue, but His Majestys edict is there. Please act according to the imperial edict. Dont make things difficult for me. Facing Mo Junyang, Zhang You wasnt arrogant anymore but was as obedient as a kitten. He mentioned facts and reasoned things out with a good attitude, yet he didnt plan to give in. However, Zhang You was a eunuch but could be so persistent in front of several masters, so an imperial edict alone couldnt explain it clearly. All people present were clear about it, while Zhang You played dumb in front of them and just temporized with an imperial edict. Shi Qingxue was angry at Zhang Yous arrogance and wanted to say more, while Mo Junyang grabbed her hand in advance and shook his head slightly. Shi Qingxue understood it at once and knew that Mo Junyang had other plans, so she held back her words. She could endure it, but Mo Junzhan couldnt. Mo Junzhan was furious because of Zhang Yous attitude and tore up the imperial edict, throwing it to Zhang Yous face. Then he cursed ferociously, I will disobey the imperial edict and disrespect it. What can you do to me? The roller of the imperial edict scroll hit Zhang Yous canthus, which became red and swollen instantly. He felt the severe pain and grinned, so he lost temper. Your Highness, you show disrespect for His Majesty as you tore up the imperial edict. I will surely report it to him Hey! His sharp and affected voice suddenly raised and the tone changed when he saw that Mo Junzhan drew the sword. Your Highness, what are you going to do? Zhang You was terrified and moved a few steps backward. Mo Junzhan ignored him and strode forward. Before anybody had reactions, he stabbed Yan Xus chest and killed him with the sword. Everything happened in a flash. Yan Xu was tittering in secret and imagining how happy he would be after escaping from the disaster when he felt the pain in the chest. Yan Xus eyes widened all of a sudden, as if they would pop out of their sockets once he put forth more strength. He watched Mo Junzhan pull the sharp sword out of his chest gradually. Then Yan Xu fell on the ground like a puppet without strings. He fell silently, and only his eyes widened as he died with everlasting regret. The others finally came back to earth, but it was too late. Your Highness, are you crazy? Zhang You shouted involuntarily. He had never expected that Mo Junzhan was so undaunted and reckless. It was fine that he tore up the imperial edict, yet he even dared to kill somebody that the emperor ordered them to release. Mo Junzhan conveniently threw the sharp sword to the ground and snorted at Zhang You with disdain. I have killed him. I am going to see what you can do to me. Zhang You trembled in anger and raised his hand to point at Mo Junzhan, cursing, Your Highness, you are rebellious. I will capture you and take you back to the capital He had brought guards to declare the imperial edict. The emperor specially sent helpers for him, and they only followed his orders. However, as soon as he started, he felt that his right shoulder was numb before he finished his words. Then he couldnt say anything or move. It happened too quickly. Zhang You just noticed that a stone hit the acupoint on his shoulder, which made him unable to move. Then he looked in the direction where the stone was from, to find that the hidden weapon was shot by Mo Junyang. Zhang You wanted to complain but couldnt open his mouth. He had to watch Wei Zichao walk to him and pat away his raised arm, with a snort. Who are you pointing at? The masters are here. Do you qualify to give orders? The only parts of Zhang You which could move were eyes. No matter how hard he tried, he couldnt speak a word. Of course, nobody would care about what he wanted to express. After rebuking Zhang You, Wei Zichao went back to Mo Junyang and asked in a low voice, Your Excellency, what should we do now? He said something freely just now because as a guard, he couldnt let a servant behave like a tyrant in front of his master, but in fact, he lacked confidence. Mo Junzhan killed Yan Xu with his sword at one blow. He did it happily, yet it would bring them endless trouble. After Yan Xu died, Mo Junzhan couldnt escape from being accused of disobeying the imperial edict openly. If Zhang You added the trimmings after returning to the capital, who knew what Mo Junyu would do to Mo Junzhan in the end? Mo Junzhan still looked fearless and held his head high, saying arrogantly, A man must bear the consequences of his own acts. Yan Xu was killed by me, and I am the one who disobeyed the imperial edict. I will take the responsibility if there is something wrong, and you wont be implicated. Your Highness! Shi Qingxue shouted anxiously and interrupted Mo Junzhan. Mo Junzhan turned away and avoided seeing Shi Qingxue. He still paraded his superiority in words. Anyway, thats it. Inform me if there is a result. I am going back to my room. He finished his words in a hurry and turned to leave. Shi Qingxue was angry at Mo Junzhans attitude as he abandoned himself. She couldnt help but call his full name. Mo Junzhan, stop. Her voice effectively stopped Mo Junzhan from going away. Mo Junzhan looked back at Shi Qingxue and asked unwillingly, Anything else? I have said that I killed him, and I will be condemned Shut up! Shi Qingxue glared at him and got furious. Even though Mo Junzhan thought that he feared nothing, he was stopped by Shi Qingxues howl. He shut his mouth resentfully and lowered his head, keeping silent. Shi Qingxue took deep breaths before she finally restrained her anger. Then she turned to Mo Junyang. What should we do next? When she was about to lose temper just now, Mo Junyang stopped her in time, so he must have a solution to deal with Yan Xu, but she didnt know if it could work now. Since Zhang You read the imperial edict, Mo Junyang almost didnt say anything, yet his momentum was evident, and nobody could ignore him. Especially now, all people were waiting for Mo Junyang to make a decision. Mo Junyang glanced at Zhang You who glared at them all the time. Then he looked down at Yan Xu on the ground before saying slowly, What do we need to do? Isnt he still fine on the ground? Shi Qingxue, Mo Junzhan and the others were speechless. All people goggled at Mo Junyang and wanted to ask what he meant by saying fine. Yan Xu had gone cold. Could Mo Junyang tell such a lie? However, Mo Junyang affirmed in a tone to reveal a fact, Yan Xu is still alive now, but its a long journey to go back to the capital, and he has so many enemies. Its possible that he is kidnapped by accident and put to death by dismembering the body. Who can be to blame? All people finally understood what Mo Junyang meant and then kept quiet again. Perhaps only Mo Junyang could be so bold without guilt when he told a lie. Mo Junzhan realized that Mo Junyang was helping him, yet he had accepted Mo Junyangs favor to save his life lately. With this added, he felt that he couldnt feel at ease and let Mo Junyang help him tell a lie. He said awkwardly, It wont work. This servant will surely say something after going back. Mo Junyang raised his eyes and gestured for Wei Zichao to unlock Zhang Yous acupoint. Zhang You instantly shouted at them haughtily, I wont help you cheat His Majesty. Dont try to Mo Junyang didnt get mad but just continued casually, Yan Xus enemy will use weapons in order to kidnap him. Then some people will be injured or dead inevitably, and its not surprising. Chapter 424 - Overdo It Zhang You was rendered speechless after hearing Mo Junyangs words. His face turned red, livid and pale, and the colors were enough to open a dyeing workshop. Mo Junyang smiled and asked, Lord Zhang, what else do you want to say? Zhang You shook his head repeatedly and answered quickly, No. I listen to you, whatever you say, Your Excellency. Compared with his life, loyalty was nothing. Mo Junyang nodded with satisfaction. However, Shi Qingxue was worried. He agreed, but what if he changes his mind after going back? It was Zhang Yous mouth. What he would say in front of the emperor in the end was up to him. Shi Qingxue didnt believe that Zhang You would listen to them so easily. Zhang You hurriedly lowered his head to conceal the emotions in his eyes and defended himself with certainty rapidly. I will listen to you, Your Excellency. I dont dare to disobey you. Please believe me. I swear No need. Mo Junyang interrupted Zhang Yous pledge in a cold tone. When Zhang You was about to heave a sigh of relief, Mo Junyang added unhurriedly, His life is there. You can say whether he will be alive or dead in a word. Dont need to bother. Zhang You was speechless once more. The poor Lord Zhang couldnt speak a word. However, the fact was like what Mo Junyang said. He was a servant, no matter how much Mo Junyu valued him and protected him In Mo Junyangs eyes, Zhang Yous life was worthless like an ants, and Zhang You could almost be sure that Mo Junyu wouldnt have conflicts with Mo Junyang because of him. If Zhang You wanted to stay alive, he could do nothing but hide the cause of Yan Xus death. Otherwise, when Mo Junyu knew the truth, Zhang You could hardly escape from death. Zhang You acted flatteringly and expressed several times that he wouldnt say anything randomly after going back to the capital. Moreover, in order to win Mo Junyangs trust, he gave Mo Junyang the right to deal with Yan Xu and didnt allow his people to get close to Yan Xu, so they didnt know the fact that the magistrate had died. Seeing that everything was arranged, and it remained peaceful on the surface at least, no matter how turbulent it was in secret, Shi Qingxue finally sighed with relief. The next day, they started preparing to return to the capital, and Ye Zhixin came to visit them again. Since Ye Zhixin entered the room, she looked as if she wanted to say something but didnt say it all the time. She just peeped at Mo Junyang with shyness. Shi Qingxue looked at her and felt awkward for her. She asked patiently, Miss Ye, what made you visit us suddenly? Because Ye Zhixin had helped them in the end, Shi Qingxue was nice to her. However, Ye Zhixin was too weird. The question was so clear, while she opened her mouth several times but didnt say anything serious. Instead, she stated bashfully in a low voice, My Lady, please call me Zhixin. Shi Qingxue was almost amused by these words. This girl was so laughable. Did she come here just to tell them to change the form of address? Could she be more bored? Shi Qingxue took a deep breath. Okay. Zhixin, what do you want to say? Ye Zhixin was forced by Shi Qingxue and had no choice. She bit her lower lip and said haltingly, MyMy Lady, please dont get mad. I justwant to have a word with His Excellency. Her big bright eyes became red at once and she raised her head, looking at Mo Junyang with tears in her eyes, as if she were bullied by Shi Qingxue yet couldnt complain. Shi Qingxue was speechless. Enough! She restrained her impatience and expressed, Just say whatever you want. Ye Zhixin seemed to be scared by Shi Qingxues tone, and she cowered. I didnt mean it. II Shi Qingxue could do nothing because of Ye Zhixins cautious attitude. Fine, fine. I make room for you. Take your time to have a talk. After speaking, she went out. Qingxue. Mo Junyang remained silent all the time and even felt happy when he saw that Shi Qingxue seemed to be jealous. However, when Shi Qingxue waved her sleeve to leave, Mo Junyang realized for the first time that he overdid it, but when he regretted it, she ignored him. Your Excellency, Ye Zhixin called in a delicate tone. Mo Junyang was always expressionless, and he was more distant because Shi Qingxue left, so he wasnt friendly to Ye Zhixin. Whats up? Ye Zhixin was like a frightened rabbit and quivered, stuttering, Your Excellency, do youhate me? She looked pitiful again, as if she were bullied. Unfortunately, this trick didnt work in front of Mo Junyang. He uplifted his brows and asked in reply indifferently, Didnt you know that? Even though Ye Zhixin was prepared to cope with Mo Junyang in all kinds of ways, she had nothing to say because of his straightforward reply. After a long time, Ye Zhixin swallowed the humiliation and looked weak again. She said pitifully with a grievance, I apologize to you. Please forgive me once because of my sincerity. Mo Junyang ignored her and coldly looked at her doing her one-man show. Ye Zhixin didnt get his pity, so her face was paler. She was embarrassed but unwilling to give up such a chance in a million. Mo Junyang and the others would return to the capital soon, and she might have no chance to see him again. Ye Zhixin made up her mind and spoke out what she wanted. I really love you, Your Excellency. Please give me a chance. I dont want a title. I just hope that I can always stay with you in the future In the beginning, she said anxiously and quickly, yet she was still reserved as a woman. In the end, her voice was as low as a mosquitos. Ye Zhixin looked at Mo Junyang with expectancy, and her eyes were like water. Any normal man probably couldnt bear to refuse her humble request when she looked at him in this way. Mo Junyang frowned slightly and looked Ye Zhixin up and down carefully for the first time. Till her heart beat fast under his stare, he smiled. His smile was good-looking, like spring breeze blowing and bringing people warmth. Ye Zhixin blushed with shyness, but before she felt happy for long, the mans voice turned cold suddenly. Ye Zhixin, do you think that I am so easy to get along with? Ye Zhixins smile stiffened and she replied with difficulty, I dont understand what you mean. Its fine if you dont understand. Mo Junyang didnt plan to explain to her. He just gazed at her coldly and said, This is the last advice I give to you. Stay away from me. Otherwise, I can send you to a place where you should go. A brothel or military camp to serve the soldiers, which do you like? Ye Zhixin was unable to smile again. Her eyes widened in disbelief. She asked in tears, Am I wrong to love you? Why do you humiliate me like this? Humiliate? Mo Junyang repeated this word meaningfully and then asked in reply impassively, Do you qualify to make me use the word humiliate? Or do I need a reason no matter what I will do to you? Mo Junyangs words showed that he despised and didnt care about her. In his eyes, Ye Zhixin was the same as an ant, and whether he would kill her depended on his mood. Ye Zhixin finally understood what Mo Junyang thought about her and felt that her inward world was going to collapse. Tears messed up her face with exquisite makeup, while she opened her mouth slightly yet couldnt make a sound. After Mo Junyang left the last warning, he didnt care about Ye Zhixins reactions but walked sideways out of the room. Ye Zhixin was too annoying, and if he didnt deal with her, it would bring endless trouble. Otherwise, Mo Junyang wanted to look for Shi Qingxue earlier. He quickly went out of the courtyard. For the first time, he didnt think about where Shi Qingxue might go but walked to the gate subconsciously. Fortunately, Shi Qingxue did stand at the gate of the magistrates mansion, talking with Shen Luo. They talked in a low voice and looked serious, as if everything around couldnt attract their eyes. They talked as if nobody were nearby, which made the anxious Mo Junyang feel more agitated for no reason. He walked to the two in haste and asked in a gloomy tone, What are you talking about? Shi Qingxue finally noticed Mo Junyang, and she furrowed her arch eyebrows subconsciously. Soon she softened, but she didnt look well. Whats wrong? Mo Junyang asked again. Shi Qingxue said, Something bad happened at the northern border. Mo Junhao had fled to the northern border, and Shi Junhe led the Shi Army to crusade against him, so the northern border must be unstable now, but it must be something significant as it could make Shi Qingxue so nervous. Mo Junyang asked seriously, What trouble did Mo Junhao make? It was necessary to say that Mo Junyang judged Mo Junhao correctly, and his question accurately pointed out the key to the problem. Shen Luo repeated the information that he told Shi Qingxue just now. Mo Junhao colluded with Liang Country and occupied the fortress at the border of Liang Country with the help of their soldiers momentum, seeming to make himself a king. General Shi led the Shi Army to suppress the rebel army, but Mo Junhao and the soldiers of Liang Country collaborated from within with forces from outside. Now they are trapped in Huwenbei and there is no news from them. Moreover Shen Luo paused for a moment and glanced at Shi Qingxue cautiously. Then he gritted his teeth and continued, It is the information we got ten days ago. Its hard to predict the situation at the northern border now. It meant that the Shi Army led by Shi Junhe might be in trouble and even have an accident or be completely annihilated At the thought of the last possibility, Shi Qingxue couldnt calm down to think. She grabbed Mo Junyangs arm and begged anxiously, Lets go back. Lets go to the northern border to save Father, okay? Before Mo Junyang spoke, Shen Luo sanely interrupted Shi Qingxues impulse. Dont be anxious. Now the situation at the northern border is unclear. Perhaps General Shi has led the army to break out of the encirclement successfully. Your and Junyangs job is to solve the case in Jiangzhou. Even though almost everything is done, you still need to return to the capital first to report back. As for going to the northern border, she should just think about it, and it was impossible to realize. No way! If we return to the capital now and then ask His Majesty to permit us to go to the northern border, we cant make it until half a month later. I cant wait. Shi Qingxues reason had gone, and she wished that she had a pair of wings, so she could fly to the northern border at once. How would she consider returning to the capital to report back? Chapter 425 - Disobey the Imperial Edict Shi Qingxue turned to Mo Junyang and hesitated for a moment. Then she said, I wont go back to the capital. I will take a shortcut and go to the northern border. You I will go with you. Mo Junyang interrupted Shi Qingxue and mentioned his decision. Shen Luo goggled. Are you crazy? Shi Qingxue didnt have a title. She came to Jiangzhou just like to have a travel. When she acted willfully, others couldnt find a way to attack her effectively even if they wanted to say something. However, Mo Junyang was different. He was an imperial envoy appointed by Mo Junyu to solve the case in Jiangzhou. After he solved the case, he should return to the capital to report back. Moreover, they had cheated at Yan Xus case. It was possible that they couldnt hide it from Mo Junyu, but they wouldnt be exposed. It was a sensitive period, and the only thing that Mo Junyang could and should do was return to the capital to report back as they had planned. And he couldnt make more trouble. Shi Qingxue noticed the anxiety in Shen Luos words, and she forcefully restrained the joy which she felt just now. She smiled at Mo Junyang peacefully and stated in a soft voice, Shen Luo is right. You must go back to the capital first. Dont worry. I will just go to the northern border to have a look. I wont do anything. Even if there is something, I will wait for you before I do it. Relax. This plan seemed to be the most effective, and it made sense. However, Mo Junyang remained unmoved and thought that it would be surprising if she was well-behaved. The man made a decision calmly. His Highness knows well about the case in Jiangzhou, too, and its proper if he returns to the capital to report back. I will go to the northern border with you. Your Excellency, please dont mess around, okay? No matter how well His Highness knows about Jiangzhou, he is not you. Especially under the current situation, do you think that His Majesty will agree to let His Highness do it for you? Shen Luo advised anxiously. Mo Junyu was suspicious, and he might not even fully trust Mo Junyang, let alone Mo Junzhan who was not on his side before. Mo Junyu didnt suppress Mo Junzhan like he did to the other brothers just because this ninth prince was honest and brainless. He didnt need to try hard to wipe this boy out, but Mo Junzhan would make a lot of trouble. For example, if Mo Junyang didnt help Mo Junzhan behind the scenes this time, Mo Junzhan would be condemned as he killed a loyal official and disobeyed the imperial edict. Even though Mo Junzhan was the emperors brother, it was useless. Now Mo Junzhan would return to the capital to report back for Mo Junyang. Not to mention if Mo Junyu would buy it, it was uncertain whether Mo Junzhan could make it. Shen Luo analyzed the pros and cons for Mo Junyang in a deep voice. While speaking, he felt sad. He was a doctor, and his job was to treat patients and save peoples lives, but he was worried about Mo Junyang so much and had to mention what Qu Yuebai had told him to convince Mo Junyang. However, would Mo Junyang be convinced easily? Even if Qu Yuebai were here, it might be useless, not to mention Shen Luos clumsy explanation. Mo Junyang expressed directly, It doesnt matter. I will explain to His Majesty after I come back from the northern border. Just do as I said. Zichao, Qingxue and I will take a shortcut and go to the northern border. You and Ziye return to the capital with the others to report back. Junyang Shen Luo still wanted to advise him. Mo Junyang waved his hand in advance and ordered in a peaceful tone which was above suspicion, Do as I said. Shi Qingxue looked at Shen Luos receding figure and finally got relieved. She couldnt help but reach out to grab Mo Junyangs hand, whispering in his ear, Thanks. Mo Junyang grasped her hand and got closer to her. He asked softly beside her ear, Forgive me, okay? In the beginning, Shi Qingxue didnt know what Mo Junyang meant. Looking at his apologetic expression, she thought in a daze, Its rare that Mo Junyang shows such an expression. Then the man continued in a deep voice, I have driven Ye Zhixin away. In the future, something like this wont happen, so He paused for a moment and then said in a feeble voice with difficulty, So dont be mad at me. Shi Qingxue finally understood what Mo Junyang meant and couldnt help but laugh. What? Am I so narrow-minded in your opinion? It was Mo Junyangs turn to be in a daze. Shi Qingxue smiled at the man slyly and looked complacent. Her eyes were bright, while she said sweetly, Fine. I admit that I was mad at the first place. You are mine. Why did she, an outsider pester you? But after I rushed out, I wasnt mad anymore, because She intentionally stopped talking, with brilliance in her bright eyes. She stood on tiptoe and moved closer to Mo Junyang, kissing his nose tip gently. A feeble and happy voice came from her throat. Because it is you. Shi Qingxue trusted Mo Junyang more than herself. Even if he didnt give her a promise, she believed that he wouldnt make her sad for something like this. Because it was you. It was almost the sweetest confession between lovers. Because she believed him. They chatted intimately for a while. Although what happened at the northern border still baffled Shi Qingxue, it couldnt negate the happiness and relief brought by Mo Junyang. So she wasnt as perplexed as before even when she thought about the war at the northern border. After saying only a few words, Mo Junyang made the first plan, including the fastest path to the northern border, how to go to Huwenbei, what they should do if they met the enemies, what they should do to deal with their people. However, Shi Qingxue didnt approve of one point. Its time-consuming to go to the northern border in a carriage. It will probably take half a month even if we are on the journey day and night. Lets ride horses. Mo Junyang retorted, Its thousands of kilometers away from the northern border, and you will be unable to stand it. Shi Qingxue kept silent. She knew that Mo Junyang cared about her, yet she couldnt wait. She gritted her teeth and insisted. Anyway, lets ride horses first. If itshard, lets talk about it later. It should be practical. Shi Qingxue prayed in secret. Seeing that she insisted, Mo Junyang couldnt bear to say more. He just said, Okay. Lets set out later. Okay. Mo Junyang pondered for a moment and personally prepared some soft cotton, putting it on the saddle. It could lighten the friction force between the saddle and the inner sides of the thighs, making Shi Qingxue more comfortable. Before Shen Luo finished everything in Jiangzhou, the three instantly headed to the northern border in the afternoon. They rode horses which ran quickly on the way. In the beginning, it was the smooth official road, and it was easy to go. Even if they rode faster, it didnt influence them greatly, but later, in order to take a shortcut, they took the mountain paths most of the time. The distance was much shorter, yet it was more difficult to go. On the third day, Shi Qingxue felt that the inner sides of her thighs seemed to be burnt, and she almost shed tears when she felt the pain. However, she gritted her teeth and endured it, keeping silent. She even sped up and made herself look as if there were nothing wrong. Mo Junyang couldnt be fooled so easily. It happened that they reached a bigger town that night. He decided to stay in a hotel and didnt give Shi Qingxue a chance to object. I am fine. Shi Qingxues thighs were trembling involuntarily, but she still struggled and tried hard to persuade Mo Junyang to continue with the journey. Mo Junyang glanced at her and carried her without demur. Ah! Shi Qingxue was scared and hugged Mo Junyangs neck subconsciously as she was afraid that she would fall, while the workers in the hotel were attracted by her scream and turned to them from time to time. Such a big girl needed somebody to carry her, and it was so shameful. Shi Qingxue couldnt bother about the journey anymore but buried her burning face on Mo Junyangs shoulder. She deceived herself and pretended that she didnt see the others questioning eyes. Mo Junyang didnt care about these eyes. He carried Shi Qingxue upstairs and entered the room, as if nobody were around. Then he told a worker to prepare hot water for them. Shi Qingxue was put on the bed. When she touched the soft and comfortable mattress, she felt that the bones all over her body seemed to collapse, and she just wanted to lie on the bed without doing anything else. Its so comfortable. Shi Qingxue moaned unconsciously and buried her hairy head in the soft pillow. She even rubbed against it, like a kitten which finally went back to its nest when it was tired after playing around. Mo Junyang saw Shi Qingxues unconscious action to play cute, with a faint smile on his cold lips. He scratched Shi Qingxues head for a while. Till she groaned with displeasure, he rubbed it twice more and then withdrew his hand, saying in a soft voice, Have a rest first. After you take a bath, I will apply ointment to your thighs and massage for you. Hmm, Shi Qingxue had closed her eyes and answered in a low voice. She frowned slightly. Nobody knew whether she responded to Mo Junyang or she got impatient to hear his voice. Mo Junyang lowered his head and moved closer to her, looking at her beautiful face carefully. He didnt do anything. Only with this posture, he felt satisfied beyond expression. Fifteen minutes had passed, but Mo Junyang felt that it seemed to be in blinks of an eye. At the moment, there was a knock at the room door. Mo Junyang got up and opened the door. The worker attentively carried a big bucket of hot water into the room and put it in the bathroom, saying with a smile, Sir, please enjoy yourself. If you need anything, please summon me. Mo Junyang waved him away and walked back to the bedside, whispering in Shi Qingxues ear, Qingxue, get up and take a bath to ease your weariness. Shi Qingxue was unaffected. She closed her eyes and breathed regularly, as she didnt hear his words. Mo Junyang waited a while patiently and then asked again. Shi Qingxue heard him this time, yet she just waved her hand impatiently and buried her head deeper, murmuring, as if playing the woman, Dont disturb me. Fine, she really fell asleep and couldnt be awakened. Mo Junyang couldnt help laughing. He didnt try again to wake her up but carried her, walking to the bathroom. Chapter 426 The steam made the bathroom dreamy, wreathed in mist. Mo Junyang who was in dreams hugged Shi Qingxue horizontally and sat beside the bucket, while she was sleeping soundly and wouldnt wake up. She let him take off her coat slowly and gently and had no reaction. Mo Junyang did this with facility and didnt feel guilty, as if he had done it for many times. Till Shi Qingxues fair skin like satin was revealed and she was naked, sitting in his arms, the mans expression didnt change, and only his eyes looked gloomier. Without taking off his clothes, Mo Junyang carried Shi Qingxue into the bucket. It was no problem for the wide bucket to hold two grownups, and it seemed to have been specially designed for two people to use it. Hmm As soon as Shi Qingxue entered the hot water, she groaned with pleasure and then leaned against Mo Junyang more recklessly, sleeping more soundly. Mo Junyang couldnt help but chuckle. He was satisfied with Shi Qingxues posture as she totally trusted him. However, even when it was convenient for Mo Junyang to take advantage of her, he helped her take a bath only because she had fallen asleep. He held some hot water and then poured it to Shi Qingxues shoulders, washing her from top to toe. Thirty minutes later, Mo Junyang hugged Shi Qingxue and stood up in the hot water. He conveniently took off his wet clothes and then brought a big blanket to wrap Shi Qingxue. Afterward, he took a dry towel randomly to wipe away the water on his body and returned to the bed. Shi Qingxue lay on the brocade quilt. Her skin was fair like snow, and the color was distinct. Mo Junyangs eyes were deep, yet he did everything with restraint. He took a bottle of ointment out of the package and poured some to his palm. When the temperature of the ointment was the same as the heat on his palm, he slowly applied it to the inner sides of Shi Qingxues thighs and massaged for her to relax her. Till he confirmed that Shi Qingxue wouldnt be unable to walk next day because of the pain on her thighs after they were on the journey for a long time, he withdrew his hands slowly and dressed her with clean clothes. In the whole process, Shi Qingxue just lay on the quilt and slept soundly, with no consciousness. In the end, she even yawned gracefully and showed a satisfied smile on her face, like a lazy kitten. Mo Junyang was amused to see that and finally couldnt help but rub Shi Qingxues nose gently with a sigh. Fortunately, its me. You would suffer losses if somebody else did it for you. It was not that he didnt have the intention, but he had scruple and restrained the desire in his heart. It seemed that he couldnt stand it at last. He put on a vest randomly and lay beside Shi Qingxue, even hugging her with an autocratic posture. He kissed Shi Qingxues ear gently, and his eyes became soft again. Sleep. Shi Qingxue slept comfortably and didnt have a dream. However, when she woke up next morning, she got restless as she saw that they were close. She checked her body subconsciously and sighed with relief first. Fortunately, she wasnt naked. Nevertheless, she still didnt relax, and then her face stiffened once more at once. She suddenly remembered that she didnt take a bath last night, but the comfortable feeling all over her body obviously told her that she went to bed after having a bath, so the one who helped her bathe was You are awake? When Shi Qingxue was making blind and disorderly conjectures, Mo Junyangs lazy voice appeared next to her ear. The mans handsome and deep face enlarged in front of her. Shi Qingxues heart beat fast at once. I, I am getting up, Shi Qingxue answered in haste and suddenly got up, keeping away from Mo Junyang. After she did that, she realized that she overreacted, so she felt more awkward, but she couldnt go back and lie in his arms again. She had to get down the bed and dress herself in a flurry. At the same time, she shouted, trying to cover up, Its late now. We, you should get up quickly. We need to hurry on with our journey. While speaking, she dressed neatly. However, when she looked back, she found that Mo Junyang was reclining on the bed, staring at her with his narrowed eyes. He looked joyful. Shi Qingxues face got burning hot automatically, and especially when she saw the partly visible solid skin on Mo Junyangs loose clothes, she swallowed subconsciously. Her eyes were bright, and she looked distracted However, next second, she instantly realized her faux pas. She was too indecent. Shi Qingxue felt that she was embarrassed and could explode when she stood there. She was so ashamed that she covered her face and shouted angrily and anxiously, Why dont you put on clothes? What are you like? Mo Junyang had noticed Shi Qingxues abnormal behavior earlier and followed her eyes, lowering his head, with slyness and jest in his eyes. He didnt fix his clothes but leaned against the bedhead more boldly and lazily. Then he uplifted his brows and smiled. Its still early. Why are you anxious? Shi Qingxue felt so shy and turned around, with her back to Mo Junyang, saying in panic, Anyway, hurry up. I will leave you alone and tell the workers to prepare breakfast for us. Afterward, she went out without looking back. She was too shy to stay in this room. After Shi Qingxue walked out of the room, she sighed deeply with relief and put her cold hands on her burning hot cheeks. She was exposed to the wind in the corridor for quite a while before she calmed down. When she pondered calmly, she instantly understood that Mo Junyang teased her again. It did happen last night, even though she was unconscious, yet she couldnt go back to question him. She just hoped that something so embarrassing would pass quickly and neither of them would mention it again. Fortunately, Mo Junyang understood that going beyond the limit was as bad as falling short. He could joke with Shi Qingxue, but if he pushed her too hard and made her run away, he would be the one who cried. When they had breakfast, the two maintained calm weirdly and even became strangers, following the ancient rule that people shouldnt talk while eating. Wei Zichao didnt know what the two masters were thinking about. He thought that they had a quarrel, and he had breakfast in great trepidation. After eating, he asked cautiously, Master, next we He was a man, yet he had to look before and behind when he asked about the next schedule, so he felt aggrieved. However, Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue couldnt figure out what the guard was worried about. They looked up at him without previous arrangement. Even the emotion in their four eyes was the same, indicating, Just say whatever you want. Dont hem and haw. The guard gritted his teeth and asked, Are we going to the northern border? Of course yes. We will set out after breakfast, Shi Qingxue replied quickly. After replying, she paused for a moment and looked at Wei Zichao hesitantly. Or do you have something else that is important to do? So there was a problem with Wei Zichao? The guard felt sad and cursed himself secretly, Why do you worry too much? Why are you meddlesome? I am full. I am going to prepare the horses now. Wei Zichao finally understood that he was merely a guard and shouldnt guess his masters mind which was deeper than the sea. He guessed everything wrong, and his master disliked him. Hed better get ready and set out as early as possible. It naturally satisfied Shi Qingxue. She tried hard to forget what happened last night, which was not difficult. As long as she thought of the war at the northern border, she had no extra energy to think about anything else. They hurried on with their journey in the following days, which was a long time. It took them ten days before they reached Rui City, and the next stop was the northern border, less than one hundred kilometers away from Huwenbei. Shi Qingxue got more anxious, but Mo Junyang requested them to stay for one night at this time. Its only one hundred kilometers. If we hurry up, perhaps we can reach Huwenbei tomorrow. Why do you Shi Qingxue was unwilling to waste more time. However, Mo Junyang asked, We are only three people now. Even if we go to Huwenbei, what can we do? Shi Qingxue was stunned after hearing the question, but she had to admit that Mo Junyang was right. Her face wrinkled, and she looked hesitant. What should we do? They had come to Rui City, and they couldnt return without accomplishing anything. So we need to make arrangements in Rui City. Shi Qingxue suddenly remembered that Mo Junyangs fiefdom for two lives was Rui City, and he had told her that he had some influence in this city. In the previous life, King Ruis heir led soldiers to attack the capital city as if entering a place where there was nobody. Even though Mo Junyang stayed in the capital early and had never lived in Rui City in this life, his influence wouldnt be much worse than that in the previous life. Shi Qingxues eyes were like stars in the sky at night, and she looked at Mo Junyang with expectancy. Mo Junyang felt itchy and couldnt help but reach out his hand to rub her. He answered in a deep voice, You wont be disappointed. He didnt say it straightforwardly, while his promise was enough to make Shi Qingxue overjoyed. Great! Shi Qingxue shouted happily. If she didnt feel awkward, she might want to rush into his arms. However, the smile on her face couldnt be concealed. She said joyfully, I will wait for you in the hotel. After you make arrangements, lets set out. Shi Qingxue was considerate. Even if they needed to borrow Mo Junyangs hidden force in Rui City, they couldnt reveal it, so she should avoid arousing suspicion. Mo Junyang squinted at her and stated with no emotion, I said that you would go with me. But your people Shi Qingxue hesitated and wanted to explain that it might be improper. However, when she was about to say it, she saw the mans cold and sharp eyes, so she held it back and responded meekly, Okay, Ill go with you. So he really took her as his possession and would bring her with him all the time? Shi Qingxue complained in silence, but there was more happiness in her heart. Mo Junyang always attached more importance to anything about Shi Qingxue than himself. They just stayed in Rui City for one day and night and then set out again next night. The three had an unspoken agreement and didnt say more about what Mo Junyang did next. Chapter 427 In the first ten-day period of the eighth lunar month, the eunuch Zhang You who went to Jiangzhou to declare the imperial edict and the others brought Yan Xu who had been cut into pieces to the capital city. The temperature went up on the way, while the pieces stunk and made people want to throw up after smelling it. Zhang You suffered unspeakably but had to take the residue to the capital city. Otherwise, he couldnt report back to Mo Junyu. Even though Mo Junyang offered a good explanation, Mo Junyu was the emperor, the ruler of the country. If he wanted to make things difficult for them, he would need to say only one word. Mo Junyu just heard that Yan Xu had been killed as they didnt watch him closely, so he was angry and kicked Zhang You away. Zhang You bumped into a pillar and then fell on the floor heavily. He was in pain and bared his teeth, yet he didnt dare to make a sound. Mo Junzhan couldnt bear to see it. He asked with displeasure, Brother, what are you doing? He didnt kill Yan Xu. Why do you vent your anger on him? Mo Junyu sneered and squinted at Mo Junzhan, saying meaningfully, You tell me who killed him. I Mo Junzhan felt uncomfortable as he saw Mo Junyus sarcastic smile. He almost confessed on impulse. Qu Yuebai quickly grabbed Mo Junzhans sleeve and stopped the princes voice to commit suicide. Mo Junzhan held back unwillingly and avoided Mo Junyus eyes, saying in a muffled voice, How would I know? Didnt His Excellency explain it clearly in the letter? Yan Xu did all kinds of evil and many people dont like him. Its normal that they killed him on the way. Of course Mo Junyu knew that it was the truth Mo Junyang told him, but because he knew this, he was more certain that there was something fishy. All people present knew the truth. If Mo Junyang said that, Mo Junyu might be still angry but wouldnt bother about this matter. However, Mo Junyang was not here, yet Mo Junzhan had come. This prince was a potential threat of him. Mo Junyu narrowed his eyes dangerously, which fell on Qu Yuebai. He suddenly asked, Why didnt I know that you work for Junzhan, Mr. Qu? Qu Yuebai was dragged by Shen Luo to save the situation for the time being because Shen Luo was a doctor and wasnt good at coping with the schemes against each other. Moreover, Qu Yuebai was Mo Junyus acquaintance, so it was convenient for them to talk. However, as soon as Mo Junyu started to speak, it made Qu Yuebai have cold sweat. He should have thought of Mo Junyus suspicion. The emperor even suspected Mo Junyangs favor to save him. Now Qu Yuebai obviously helped Mo Junzhan control the situation, and the emperor might suspect that they ganged up for selfish interests and then put the blame on Mo Junyang. Qu Yuebai swallowed and explained humbly, His Excellency has something to do, so he cant report the result of the trip to Jiangzhou to you in person, and he told me to enter the imperial palace with His Highness to see you. Then I can apologize to you for His Excellency and explain the cause and effect to you clearly. Please forgive His Excellencys negligence of duty for the sake of him, Your Majesty. He apologized tactfully, but he lacked confidence. He was afraid that this new emperor would do something influential to show his talent and his determination to reform and forget the relationship between him and others after taking the throne. Then Mo Junyang would probably be a scapegoat. After Qu Yuebai gave an explanation, Mo Junyus eyes were still sharp, which made the former panic-stricken. When Qu Yuebai almost thought that he would be done this time, Mo Junyu fell into silence all of a sudden. Fine. All of you get out. He let them go so easily? All people were surprised, yet even Mo Junzhan knew that the wisest choice was to go out obediently. They would just let it pass. However, as soon as all of them retreated to the door, Mo Junyu ordered, Mr. Qu, stay. Qu Yuebai paused for a moment and found that Mo Junzhan was looking at him worriedly and wanted to say something seemingly. He shook his head at Mo Junzhan secretly, and the latter didnt speak but walked out tamely in the end. Only Mo Junyu and Qu Yuebai were left in the emperors study. Mo Junyu started to look Qu Yuebai up and down with his sharp eyes again and kept silent for a long time. Qu Yuebai was unable to be as calm as Mo Junyang. Feeling Mo Junyus stare, he almost couldnt stand it as his back seemed to be pricked. Fortunately, Mo Junyu said, I have heard that you didnt go to Jiangzhou this time, Mr. Qu? Qu Yuebai answered respectfully, Right. I stay in the capital city all the time. The capital is a nice city. Mo Junyu sighed with emotion and suddenly changed the subject, asking, Mr. Qu, why are you clear about what happened in Jiangzhou and what Junyang thought about? Did he come back? Qu Yuebais sweat fell from his back like rain, while he still tightened and tried hard to keep calm, responding, I am worried about His Excellency and have written some letters to ask him about what happened in Jiangzhou in case of need, and he told me everything frankly, so I know what happened there. He has something important to do, so he cant come back for now. Please forgive him, Your Majesty. Something important? Mo Junyu snorted. Something important he mentioned is to disobey the imperial edict? Qu Yuebai understood the hidden meaning of this question, and he turned pale at once. He defended Mo Junyang in a hurry. Your Majesty, you misunderstood it. His Excellencyis It was a fact that Mo Junyang disobeyed the imperial edict. Not to mention that Yan Xu had been killed, Mo Junyang hadnt returned now, which meant that he gave the evidence against him to others. Even though Qu Yuebai was silver-tongued, he couldnt explain it clearly. As Mo Junyu heard Qu Yuebai stutter, the smile on his face became colder. He snorted indifferently. I think that he is bewitched by Lady Qingxue and has forgotten his identity, right? Mo Junyu didnt deny that Mo Junyang did a lot to help him take the throne, and if Mo Junyang were not with him, he might have died, not to mention ascending the throne. However, Mo Junyang cared about Shi Qingxue much more than him, which was difficult for him to eat and sleep well, like a fishbone stuck in his throne forever. In the past, before he took the throne, even if he was dissatisfied, he had to endure it, but now he was the emperor. Why didnt Mo Junyang change his attitude toward him? Emperor Benevolence felt depressed. If Qu Yuebai knew what Mo Junyu was thinking about, he might say, Dont feel depressed. Mo Junyang is more than bewitched by Shi Qingxue, and he has even given his heart to her. Nobody can compare with her. Nevertheless, if he said that, he would only intensify their conflict. Qu Yuebai covered his mouth and said nothing. He just comforted the emperor respectfully. Your Majesty, the Shi family is always loyal to you, and they dont conflict with your interests. This time Because Mo Junyu didnt clearly mention that he had known that Mo Junyang went to the northern border, Qu Yuebai wouldnt tell him. He merely said something vague to let it pass. His Excellency just considers for the country and society. Please forgive him, Your Majesty. It was the fact. Not to mention what Mo Junyangs private motive was when he disobeyed the imperial edict, only the result would benefit everybody after they wiped out Mo Junhao and maintained the countrys stableness. Mo Junyu had no reason to be unhappy to see the result. The emperor certainly knew this, but because he was clear about it, he was more depressed. It seemed that he would be unreasonable to lose temper, yet if he ignored it, he would be aggrieved. He was so pissed off. Fine. Dont say the word forgive all the time. Mo Junyu finally gave up this subject and smiled at Qu Yuebai. Anyway, we have worked together for many years. Dont stand on ceremony, Mr. Qu. Lets treat each other like what we did in the past. He mentioned personal feelings. Qu Yuebai knew it, yet he didnt show his emotion on his face. He echoed, I will. Please dont worry, Your Majesty. They chatted for a while. Mo Junyu knew that he couldnt get any other information from Qu Yuebai, so he showed mercy and told him to go. Qu Yuebai bowed and said goodbye, walking out of the emperors study. Then he saw that his brother Qu Yuexuan was waiting there. Seeing his brother, Qu Yuexuan walked to him in a hurry, but Qu Yuebai shook his head in advance. They walked out of the imperial palace in silence and then got into the carriage. Qu Yuexuan couldnt wait to ask, Whats up? Did His Majesty make things difficult for you? Qu Yuebai smiled bitterly. As Junyang estimated, I am just a nobody. What can he do to make things difficult for me? But judging from your expression, why does it seem that you had a fight just now? Qu Yuebai looked at his brother in disbelief. Even though I am fine now, the process was torture. Qu Yuebai sighed sadly. They were bosses. Even though they didnt blame him, any action was enough to make him jumpy. Qu Yuebai expressed that there was a problem with his heart, and he hoped that he would have less similar psychological suffering in the future. Qu Yuexuan looked his brother up and down again. After confirming that he was fine, Qu Yuexuan changed his attitude at once and snorted with disdain. You are good for nothing. If Junyang came, he wouldnt be like you. Qu Yuebai glared at him crossly. If you are capable, tell him to come back or you go there to see His Majesty. Every time there was something wrong, Qu Yuebai had to sort out the mess, so he was depressed. Qu Yuexuan got spiritless in an instant. Among Mo Junyangs subordinates, Qu Yuebai was the smartest and good at dealing with all kinds of accidents. Qu Yuexuan just retorted his brother as a habit, but in fact, he thought highly of Qu Yuebais capabilities. Are you fine now? Qu Yuexuan asked awkwardly. Qu Yuebais face was still pale and feeble. Hearing this question, he looked frustrated again. I am uncertain. He has become the emperor now, and he is more restrained than before. It appears that he is easy to get along with, but who knows what he is thinking about and going to do? At the mention of Mo Junyu, Qu Yuebai looked more serious. He stared at his lazy brother and warned, stressing each word, I dont want to rebuke you for what happened in the past, yet now you have to remember that no matter what, the crown prince has become the emperor, so we cant do anything at will like before. Especially you, you cant be as lazy as before. Be alert. Dont let anybody find the evidence against you. Got it? It was rare that Qu Yuexuan didnt say anything to retort Qu Yuebai. He still looked unwilling, but he promised meekly, I see. He pondered for a moment and still felt reluctant. Then he added, Under the condition that he doesnt offend me. If he dares to kick down the ladder, I am not the kind of people who will swallow insult silently. You! Qu Yuebai was angry about Qu Yuexuans stubbornness, but after thinking, he didnt know how to reproach him, so he sighed slightly and stated helplessly, Thats it. Chapter 428 Qu Yuebai and the others were prepared as Mo Junyu might kick down the ladder after he took the throne, while Mo Junyu was looking at the long bow in the study. It was a bow that the first emperor of the Mo Dynasty had used on the battlefield when he overturned the last dynasty, and it was displayed in the emperors study all the time to warn the rulers that it was difficult to establish the Mo Dynasty, so they needed to do anything and speak with caution at any time However, Mo Junyu stroked the long bow, with a complicated expression flashing in his eyes. Mo You was led into the study by a eunuch, and he immediately saw Mo Junyus expression. He paused for a moment and then walked forward slowly, bowing to him in greeting. Your Majesty, nice to see you. Mo Junyu seemed to finally come back to earth from his trance. He turned around slowly and looked at Mo You. Concealing his expression, he said indifferently, Mo You, you have come. What brought you here? Mo You was a relative of Mo Junyus mother, and he was favored by the late empress, so he followed Mo Junyu all the time and was trusted by him. Mo Junyu gave preferential treatment to this distant cousin. Although Mo You was not experienced, Mo Junyu let him work in the Ministry of Personnel with great power. However, Mo You had a headache when he faced the mess left by Mo Xiangbin and the workers in the Ministry of Personnel didnt listen to him as he started to work, and he had to ask Mo Junyu for help frequently. Mo Junyu thought that there was something wrong in the Ministry of Personnel again. However, Mo You shook his head slightly and then hesitated for a moment before saying in a soft voice, I have heard that His Excellency didnt return to the capital. Mo Junyus eyes became sharp. He looked at Mo You suddenly and his momentum rose. Mo You explained at once, I just sent somebody to ask in King Ruis mansion, and their servant said that His Excellency didnt return home, so I asked you. I dont intend to nose for anything. Oh! Mo Junyu restrained his momentum a little but didnt fully believe Mo Yous words. Mo You might not have arranged anybody next to him, yet the others might. Because Mo Junyu trusted Mo You, he didnt bother about it. Instead, he answered, Right, he didnt return to the capital but went to the northern border with Lady Qingxue to save her father. Is it touching? The sarcasm in the last question was obvious. Mo You knew that Mo Junyu wasnt satisfied with Mo Junyangs love for Shi Qingxue since long ago, and that guy even disobeyed the emperors edict because of her, so he frowned involuntarily and asked, Your Majesty, what do you plan to do to punish him? Mo Junyu was stunned. Punish? Its obvious that His Excellency didnt take your order seriously, and he disobeyed the imperial edict openly. If you dont punish him severely, perhaps there will be endless trouble. Mo You said that it was serious. The emperor furrowed his brows more deeply and stated impatiently, Its not as serious as what you said. Moreover, Junyang works for me. What do you want me to do to deal with him for such a trifle? Mo You didnt give in. Its still a trifle now, but if you dont punish him, it may become something significant in the future. You must know that people should destroy evils before they become menacing, Your Majesty. Of course Mo Junyu knew it. However, it was a matter that he knew it, while it was another matter that he did it. Mo Junyu really took Mo Junyang as his brother. Although he was angry as Mo Junyang attached more importance to Shi Qingxue than to him, it was difficult for him to take actions against Mo Junyang. Fine, I know what you mean. Mo Junyu turned away and avoided seeing Mo Yous eyes. He explained to Mo You with what Qu Yuebai had said and expressed that Mo Junyang didnt report to him in advance this time, but it would benefit him indeed, so he didnt need to bother about so much. After listening to Mo Junyu calmly, Mo You asked only one question after a long time. Your Majesty, have you forgotten that Rui City is next to the northern border? Mo Junyu looked cold and suddenly turned to Mo You, narrowing his eyes while asking dangerously, What do you mean? Mo You shrugged. I just told you the truth, and I didnt mean anything else. Aha, it was surprising that he didnt mean anything else. Mo You paused for a moment and then changed the subject. Rui City is next to the northern border, and its King Ruis fiefdom. The late emperor made King Rui stay in the capital, and he had a reason. Logically, the brothers of the emperor should go to their fiefdoms as early as possible after they were titled as kings, and they couldnt enter the capital before being summoned. It appeared to maintain the stableness of the imperial power and the capital, while in fact, there was a lot of hidden trouble. If the emperors brothers raised an army and bought horses in their fiefdoms to defy orders from the central government, the consequences couldnt be imagined. There were many things like this from ancient times, so Mo Xiangbin kept King Ruis wife and his heir in the imperial palace as hostages and then would rather provide for King Rui in the capital than let him return to his fiefdom. He was worried that King Rui would go against the imperial power with his force. Now Mo Junyang went to help Shi Qingxue save her father in name, but Rui City was close. Who knew what he did in secret? Whats more, the situation at the northern border is so difficult. If His Excellency doesnt have a backup plan, wont they court death after they go to the northern border as they are inferior in number? Mo You drew blood with one prick and pointed out this serious problem. Mo Junyu was unable to retort. In fact, that was what he was worried about. Even so, he was still unwilling to believe that Mo Junyang would betray him. No. His interests are always the same as mine, and he wont do something like that, Mo Junyu expressed with certainty, as if giving himself power. In the end, no hesitation was shown on his face. Right, he has no reason to betray me. Dont need to talk about this matter again. Seeing that Mo Junyu made up his mind, Mo You had to give up the plan to persuade him. He just stated, Even if His Excellency went to the northern border to do something for you, we dont know the situation there. Its not wise to let the northern border out of your control. Mo Junyu asked, What do you think we should do? Send more people to the northern border. Mo Junyu understood that Mo You didnt trust Mo Junyang from beginning to end, but his suggestion was reasonable. There is strength in numbers. Even if he believed that Mo Junyang wouldnt betray him, it wouldnt prevent him from sending more people to the northern border to help them. Who do you think is more suitable to be sent? At the mention of this, Mo You was at a loss. The Shi Army was trapped at the northern border, so they couldnt do anything, while the Bureau of War was in a mess now. As the former Minister of War rebelled, the former Assistant Minister of War Leng Yuan took over the position. Leng Yuan was a talent. His leadership, fighting capability and loyalty were outstanding, but the only problem was that this man was promoted by Mo Junyang. Mo You didnt trust Mo Junyang, so he didnt want to send people to help him. How about letting me go there and send the imperial edict to the generals and soldiers at the northern border, telling them to help the Shi Army attack the enemies? Mo Junyu looked at Mo You several times involuntarily. He pondered for merely a short while and then easily understood the hidden meaning of Mo Yous subject. They fell into silence again, but Mo Junyu agreed to Mo Yous request in the end. Okay. I will let Zhou Ji assist you. You should be careful on the way. The safety is the most important. Somehow, Mo Junyu wasnt worried about anything about Mo Junhao and the rebel army. It seemed that his country would be stable as long as Mo Junyang was around him, and he didnt need to worry. After arranging the jobs at the imperial court, Mo You went to the northern border with Zhou Ji next day. However, as soon as the team of them went out of the capitals environs, Mo You told the coachman to slow down. They could reach somewhere one hundred and fifty kilometers away after one day, but according to his arrangement, perhaps they would only reach the nearest village or town at night. Zhou Ji didnt understand Mo Yous plan. He asked in confusion, Lord Mo, shouldnt we go to the northern border as soon as possible? At this speed, perhaps we cant reach there in one month. Look Mo You leaned against the window of the carriage, with a book in one hand and his head rested on the other hand, asking casually, Why are you anxious? Zhou Ji thought that the war at the northern border was critical, and the situation might change rapidly. If they didnt rush there earlier, it would be too late. However, he was always clumsy in speech and didnt know how to reason things out. He just looked hesitant and stuttered, unable to speak. After a while, Mo You finally put down the book. He was amused to see Zhou Jis hesitant expression. Fine, I have my own plans. Listen to me. Exactly. Zhou Ji stated, His Majesty told me to ensure your safety, so I should listen to you, but I am worried that Looking Zhou Ji up and down seriously who was dull, Mo You had a good opinion of this guard who worked for Mo Junyu since childhood. He cleared his throat and explained to him, I did try to delay, but dont worry. It will bring your master more benefit than harm. Zhou Ji goggled and frowned, while his expression seemed to ask, Why? Mo You answered, What do you think we will do if we reach there so early? Of course we will help His Excellency wipe out the rebel army and save the Shi Army, Zhou Ji took it for granted and answered. At the mention of Mo Junyang, respect was shown on his face involuntarily. The servants were like their master. Mo You didnt remind Zhou Ji about Mo Junyangs potential threat. He just said impassively, His Excellency is capable. Even if we dont go there, they can surely wipe out the rebel army. Why do we disturb him when he can cut a figure? Mo You wished that Mo Junyang fought against Mo Junhao till death, and it was the best if their force was used up. Then he would lead his people to the northern border and defeat Mo Junyangs force in Rui City, and everything would be perfect. Zhou Ji didnt know Mo Yous intention. After hearing that, he responded instantly, No, His Excellency wont mind. Mo You was speechless and asked coldly, It appears that you really trust His Excellency. Zhou Ji tilted his head and looked at Mo You, with doubt in his eyes, indicating, Otherwise? Fine. Anyway, His Majesty told you to listen to me. Just do as I said. Mo You wasnt in the mood to explain to this stubborn guy. He just temporized randomly and ended this topic of conversation. Although Zhou Ji was still in doubt, he was clear about his identity, so he didnt say more, only with a complicated expression in his lowered eyes. Chapter 429 Mo Junyang and Shi Qingxue came to the town Huwenbei. Beyond their expectations, this small town with the most prosperous frontier trade became an empty town. This town was located between two hills and blocked the cold wind and sand from the west and north, and it faced the wind, so the rainfall and temperature were much more livable than that in the same area. In addition, Huwenbei was at the border between Mo Country and Liang Country, and the trade between the two countries was finished in this town, so it almost became magnificent scenery in the northwest. However, now, after the three got off the horses and walked into Huwenbei Town with the horses, the street was cheerless, with no venders on both sides, and the shops around were closed, which made the street look empty and silent. Shi Qingxue couldnt help but tremble and feel scared. Where did the people go? Even if there was a war between the two countries, they would avoid the bustling towns and villages, in case that the injuries and deaths aroused the popular discontent, so when Mo Country and Liang Country started wars in the past years, they wouldnt choose to fight in Huwenbei Town. Are there ghosts? Wei Zichao guessed randomly. He said that casually, yet the listener took it to heart. Shi Qingxue instantly felt that her back was cold, and she ignored her horse, rushing to Mo Junyang while looking around alertly. She comforted herself without a stop. No, no way. How would ghosts show up at daytime? Her stutter couldnt soothe herself, so she was so scared that she almost cried. Girls were more afraid of ghosts. Moreover, the situation in Huwenbei was weird and made people imagine wildly. Mo Junyang glanced at Wei Zichao, and the latter shut up at once, almost raising his hands to swear that he didnt frighten Shi Qingxue intentionally. Dont be afraid. I am here. We will be fine. Mo Junyang enjoyed Shi Qingxues closeness, but he didnt want his sweetheart to be scared, so he comforted her in a gentle voice. His gentle and deep voice was really comforting, while he was a man who could give people a sense of safety. Shi Qingxue was still afraid of ghosts, yet she wasnt as frightened as before. She just grabbed Mo Junyang and refused to loosen her hand. Mo Junyang was so happy and held Shi Qingxues hand, moving on. The three came to the center of the town, and a three-storied hotel was in front of them, but the door of the hotel was closed, and it appeared that there was nobody inside. Wei Zichao walked up first and knocked at the door, yet nobody answered. After a while, he knocked at the door again. A long time later, a soft voice finally came out. Who is it? This voice was so low that they could hardly hear it, while it was enough to make Shi Qingxue overjoyed. She replied in a hurry, We are passers-by, and its getting dark, so we want to stay in the hotel for one night. After another moment of deadly silence, the person inside said in a low voice, This hotel is closed. Please go to another one. Shi Qingxue finally heard a living persons voice, so she was unwilling to let him go. She softened and begged, We have seen only one hotel in this area within hundreds of miles away. If we miss it, we will have to sleep on the street. Please do us a favor. We are merchants from afar, not bad people, and we wont do harm to you. Whats more, we can pay the triple price. Please wait a moment outside, and I will go back to ask the boss. Afterward, there were footsteps inside. That man must have gone to ask the boss. After nearly fifteen minutes, the door was opened with a creak, and a head popped out. It was a young man around twenty years old. He looked the three up and down first. After confirming that they were harmless, he opened the door. Hurry up and come in, please. As soon as the three came in, the young man closed the door in haste. He was in such a hurry, as if there were ghosts chasing them outside. Shi Qingxue was curious but knew that the man was alert and it was not the right time to ask, so she just paid the triple price and booked two first-class rooms. Seeing the silver, the young man finally showed a happy smile and led them upstairs hospitably. They entered the room and then the young man started to introduce himself, I am a worker in this hotel. If you need anything, you can tell me. You are tired on the journey. Shall I carry some hot water for you, so you can relieve your weariness? Thanks. Please carry some hot water for us later. Shi Qingxue rewarded him with a silver ingot. The worker instantly looked happy and answered cheerfully, Its my pleasure. I am going to do it right now. Shi Qingxue stopped him in advance. No hurry. I have something to ask you. The worker had accepted the reward, so he wasnt restrained. Madam, what do you want to ask? Madam He obviously thought that Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang were a married couple. Shi Qingxue blushed after hearing this form of address, but she still continued to ask, We are from the south and want to do business in the north. We are not familiar with this place. Is it Huwenbei here? Did we come to a wrong place? If there were no preparation, the worker would surely be alert, yet she said that fluently and easily made him believe that they were merchants from afar, so he answered joyfully, You didnt make a mistake. This town is Huwenbei. Why is it? I have heard that Shi Qingxue furrowed her arch eyebrows slightly and looked as if she wanted to say something, but she was worried that he would be offended, so she couldnt say anything. The worker instantly understood what Shi Qingxue meant and asked, Madam, you want to ask why it is different from what they say, right? Shi Qingxue pursed her lips and smiled shyly. We have heard that the commerce in Huwenbei is developed, so we came here from one thousand miles away, but we have been in the town for so long, while there is nobody on the street. Till now, we have seen only one person, you. What happened? The worker sighed and answered helplessly, Madam, you know what? Our town was prosperous as they say two or three months ago, yet after the wars influence for three months, the common people in the town fled and hid themselves. Nobody dares to do business outside, so it became so cheerless. The war? Shi Qingxue looked surprised and was unwilling to believe the workers words. Did you cheat me? The buildings and streets are well, and they are not damaged. Moreover, we didnt see soldiers on the way. Why is there a war? The worker was talking excitedly, but Shi Qingxue questioned him, so he felt that he was challenged. He shouted, Many things are not like what you see. You may not know as you are from the south. Not long ago, two armies had a battle here indeed. Many people died then, and the common people were frightened. Many young men fled out of the town and have never come back later. Till one party was defeated and surrendered, the war stopped gradually. Shi Qingxue looked nervous after hearing that, and she was almost unable to sit still, but Mo Junyang raised his hand and put it on the back of her hand, restraining her restlessness. The worker didnt notice their petty action. He started to talk about the war vividly, as if he had seen it and even joined it. Mo Junyang asked indifferently, Who are the two parties? One question made the worker spiritless. The worker opened his mouth for a long time yet was unable to answer it, so he said in depression, I didnt see their generals. How could I recognize anybody? The soldiers had a war, but the common people like us suffered. However, its fine now, and the war has ended, so everything returns to normal. After a storm comes a calm, our town can be prosperous as before. Since you want to do business in the town, youd better wait a few more days. When the time is right, you can naturally do a lot of business. Thanks for telling us these. Otherwise, we will know nothing. Shi Qingxue restrained her complicated emotions and expressed her thanks in a soft voice. The worker responded hurriedly, You are welcome. When he turned to leave, he suddenly thought of something and then looked back at them with a serious expression. There is one more thing that I need to tell you in advance. Please go ahead. Here is the thing. Our town is surely safe, but you cant go to the valley in the north. Shi Qingxue was nervous and asked, Why? The worker immediately kept his mouth shut and didnt reply after Shi Qingxue asked him several times. He just said, Anyway, you cant go there. Otherwise, you wont keep alive. I dont dare to talk about anything else randomly Please have a good rest. I am going to bring hot water for you. Afterward, he ran away, and nobody could stop him. This worker said so much, while he didnt answer Shi Qingxues questions but made her more confused, and her restlessness spread like a storm. Junyang, who do you think the two parties he talked about are? Are Father and his people in them? Shi Qingxue was almost sure about this conjecture. Shi Junhe led the Shi Army to chase the rebel army to Huwenbei Town, and the two parties had a battle in the town, but they came too late and didnt see the situation on the battlefield and what happened next. However, Shi Qingxue was certain about one point. Father will never surrender. The Shi Army would rather die on the battlefield with glory than surrender in disgrace. This worker must have lied to us. Right Shi Qingxue murmured, yet it couldnt make her feel relieved. On the contrary, because she wanted to know Shi Junhes current situation, she was more anxious. What should we do? Father must be in trouble. What should we do Mo Junyang covered her mouth with his hand gently, as if it could block her anxiety. The man smiled and stated in a low voice, Dont be afraid. I will take you out tomorrow to have a look. We can surely find General Shi. What he said was like a basin of warm water which was poured into her heart, making her calm gradually. Okay. Chapter 430 Next morning, Mo Junyang took Shi Qingxue out of the hotel as he said before. However, Wei Zichao was nowhere to be seen. In the eyes of the people in the hotel, two of them and three meant the same, and nobody cared about what a servant did. Only that worker specially reminded the two again as he saw them walk out. When you hang out, dont go to that valley. Shi Qingxue said okay. As soon as they went out, the workers face with a gallant smile fell, and he ignored the duster cloth in his hand, turning to the backyard. They went out, and it seems that they headed to the north. Then somebody asked in a low and hoarse voice, What about the third one? The young man answered, Since he came into the room, the door is always closed and has never been opened. Perhaps he still stays in it. Send this message to the entrance of the town now. Ignore anything else. Yes. Shi Qingxue followed Mo Junyang and walked to the north for a long time. Then she finally realized it and asked, Where are we going? Mo Junyang didnt know whether he should be amused or helpless. This silly girl finally asked him. She had been taken away by him. No matter what she asked, she couldnt escape. Shi Qingxue answered seriously after hearing that, I wont escape. I just want to know where we are going next. Mo Junyang couldnt restrain his smile. You really wont escape? What if I sell you? Shi Qingxue squinted at him with provocation seemingly, as if asking, Are you willing to? Mo Junyang was unwilling to. However, Shi Qingxue almost walked all over him, so he couldnt answer her frankly. The man coughed twice with affected airs and stated in a deep voice, I am going to sell you now. Why dont you follow me? Shi Qingxue had a smile on her lips and really put her hand in Mo Junyangs palm. She couldnt stop laughing. You have to sell me at a high price. They talked and laughed, and this trip was much more relaxing than the long journey they had earlier. Perhaps Mo Junyangs calmness gave Shi Qingxue confidence. She wasnt as distraught as before but believed more that they could surely find Shi Junhe. Mo Junyang led Shi Qingxue to the entrance of a valley. When they were about to enter, Shi Qingxue finally realized that this was the valley mentioned by the worker that they couldnt enter. Otherwise, they wouldnt keep alive. Shi Qingxues eyes widened in astonishment. Are we really going into it? They knew that there was a tiger on the mountain, yet they still went there, which was dangerous. But for her father Shi Qingxue took a deep breath and prepared to adventure, while the man said suddenly, No, we wont go in. Shi Qingxue was speechless and almost gasped. Could he fool her in this way? When Shi Qingxue couldnt help but goggle, Mo Junyang grabbed her hand and took her to a big stone at the entrance of the valley to have a seat, saying in a low voice, No hurry. Wait a moment. I am still guessing something, and I need to prove it first. What? Shi Qingxue looked at Mo Junyang curiously. Arent you curious about why that worker stressed that we couldnt enter the valley but he didnt mention the danger in it? It doesnt seem that he advised us not to enter the valley, yet he wishes that we will enter it. If he sincerely advised them not to, at least he would tell them what was dangerous in the valley, so he could frighten the curious guys. Shi Qingxue pondered about it and believed that it was true. So he said that in order to lure us here? Shi Qingxue couldnt help but tremble, with a hesitant expression. It was bad that there was nobody in Huwenbei Town, and even the only person who showed up and explained their puzzles had evil intentions, so she was scared when she thought about it. However, Mo Junyang smiled at the moment. Dont worry. I am here. I wont let you have an accident. I know. Shi Qingxue also smiled and continued to ask, Why did we come here alone? Will we court death? It was not their style to risk their lives. Now I still cant figure out why Huwenbei became an empty town overnight, so I need to prove it. If I can solve this problem, we can solve anything else. Mo Junyangs blueprint was too beautiful, and Shi Qingxue almost forgot that they were only two people and couldnt do anything if there was a problem. Shi Qingxue squinted at Mo Junyang, while the latter remained unmoved. He just grabbed her hand and sat straight, seeming to wait for something. After one hour, Shi Qingxue finally understood what he was waiting for. It was because Mo Junhao showed up. When Shi Qingxue saw Mo Junhao again, she was distracted involuntarily. She was clear that her reaction wasnt love, but she looked at Mo Junhao in a daze, which meant something else in the eyes of the two men. Mo Junyangs face fell again, and he stared at Shi Qingxue, as if she would run away with the other man when he didnt keep an eye on her. Meanwhile, Mo Junhao gazed at Shi Qingxue with interest and expressed gracefully, Dear Qingxue, you are finally here. Shi Qingxue frowned deeply and pursed her lips slightly, snorting coldly. Dont call me like this. Its disgusting. After she said that, the two mens expressions changed again. Mo Junhaos happy and contented expression stiffened, and he could hardly keep calm on his face, while Mo Junyang turned to Shi Qingxue in disbelief and looked as if she said something awesome. However, Shi Qingxue wasnt aware of this. She just stared at Mo Junhao and continued to question, Where is my father? Mo Junhao took deep breaths before he looked calm again, but when he spoke again, he gritted his teeth inevitably. General Shi is in the valley behind you. Since you came from afar, why not go in and see him? For sure! Shi Qingxue wasnt surprised at Mo Junhaos answer, yet she still subconsciously turned to Mo Junyang. She didnt know if this man was satisfied with such an answer. Mo Junyang was staring at her in confusion, with a complicated and gloomy expression. Shi Qingxue was astonished and asked in a low voice, Whats wrong? Mo Junyang gazed at Shi Qingxue all the time. Till she shifted her position awkwardly as she almost couldnt stand it, the man seemed to suddenly wake up. He answered in a deep voice, Its a trap inside. Shi Qingxue wasnt surprised, while Mo Junhao snorted impatiently. What if its a trap? Do you think that you have another choice? You have already come here. Mo Junhao raised his hands in front of him and gently clapped twice. Dozens of soldiers in armor rushed out of the grove behind him at once. All of them raised bows, prepared to attack. Mo Junyang didnt panic but pulled Shi Qingxue to hide her behind him. Then he asked, You have so few lowly soldiers. What do you think you can do to me? It was not that Mo Junyang was complacent. There were so few people, and if he pretended to be frightened, nobody would believe it. Mo Junhao looked terrible at once and seemed to be challenged. He snorted at Mo Junyang coldly. Mo Junyang, dont be complacent. Since I knew that you would come, I am certainly prepared to entertain you. He specially stressed the word entertain, and his envy and hate for Mo Junyang couldnt be concealed in his tone. It was the truth. Mo Junhao was conceited and favored by Mo Xiangbin. He thought that he could take the throne easily, but everything was ruined by this man. If Mo Junyang were not around, the weak crown prince Mo Junyu couldnt make it, and it might be difficult for him to keep alive, not to mention fighting for the throne with him. Mo Junyang even stole the woman he loved. How would Mo Junhao not hate Mo Junyang? Mo Junyang, you cant be complacent for long. Perhaps you still dont know that Huwenbei Town has become my territory, and my people lurk everywhere in the town. Since you enter the town, it means that you are dying. Mo Junyang remained unmoved and looked at Mo Junhao coldly. He just continued to ask, Huwenbei Town is always under the control of Mo Country and Liang Country. Why is it under your control? Do you cheat us? As somebody questioned Mo Junhaos capabilities to his face, he looked terrible, but soon he calmed down and smiled at Mo Junyang, asking with certainty, Do you want to sound me out? Soon he laughed loudly and continued ambitiously, It doesnt matter. Anyway, you will die today. Since you want to know, I will let you know it before dying. Five years ago, when I represented Mo Country and visited Liang Country, I allied with the king Yel Beichen. After I take the throne, I will give him the control power of the commercial towns at the border and pay tribute to him every year, while he will help me take the throne in secret. You are rebellious, Shi Qingxue couldnt help but rebuke him with righteous indignation. Five years ago, the two countries battled frequently, and the Shi Army almost had to guard at the northern border, in case that the soldiers from Liang Country harassed the common people. Unexpectedly, it was difficult to guard against the people at home no matter how alert they were. The people from Mo Country colluded with the enemies secretly and discussed how to share profit. What was the point of the Shi Armys fight till death? Mo Junhao glanced at Shi Qingxue with disdain and seemed to ask, Even so, what can you do to me? Shi Qingxue understood Mo Junhaos hidden meaning. She stared at him and responded in a serious tone, I will take your life. Mo Junhao was stunned first and then seemed to have heard a joke, laughing loudly. You, only you? Shi Qingxues eyes were not evasive. Before Mo Junhao reacted, she took a bow and shot arrows at him. She did it quickly and didnt say anything, while the sharp arrow rushed to Mo Junhao, like a fierce beast. Mo Junhao had never expected that Shi Qingxue would take actions without demur. He was in a daze for a while and then wanted to dodge in a hurry. However, the sharp arrow was close at hand then. Chapter 431 In an awkward position, Mo Junhao wanted to dodge and staggered backward for a few steps, but the sharp arrow followed him like his shadow, trying to stab his eyes seemingly. How could a person be quicker than an arrow? The sharp arrow was about to penetrate Mo Junhaos head. At the critical moment, another sharp arrow rushed out from behind him and happened to aim at the first arrow shot from Shi Qingxue. The two sharp arrows collided less than one and a half meters away from Mo Junhaos eyes. With a clear sound of metal collision, the two arrows were broken and fell on the ground at the same time. Everything happened all of a sudden. After quite a while, somebody came back to earth gradually. It appeared that Mo Junhao collected a little more of his scattered wits. He would die if it happened one second later, and the breathtaking moment almost scared him to death. YourYour Highness, are you okay? a soldier next to him screamed worriedly. Mo Junhao finally came to his senses. He found that his soldiers were looking at him with an inexplicable expression, which embarrassed this man who was always arrogant. It was brought by Shi Qingxue. Mo Junhao was so angry that he shook off the soldiers supporting hands and glared at Shi Qingxue gloomily, as if he would rush out and eat her. However, Shi Qingxue had no time to pay attention to Mo Junhaos slight emotional change. She just frowned and looked at something behind him, trying to see who had saved him. Unfortunately, the person who had saved Mo Junhao was determined to hide himself seemingly. Shi Qingxue waited a while yet didnt see the figure of that mysterious person. Instead, she heard Mo Junhaos exasperated curse. Shi Qingxue, do you want to die? Shi Qingxue glanced at Mo Junhao indifferently, but she looked as if she took it for granted. In fact, she was curious about why Mo Junhao was angry. Not to mention that they were enemies, only because of his words to provoke her, wasnt it a matter of course that she wanted to kill him? Did this guy still think that she would remember her love for him or that she couldnt forget him? Was he insane? Probably Shi Qingxues mental activity was shown on her face, so Mo Junhao was furious and stomped. He pointed to her but was unable to speak after a long time. At this time, Mo Junyang stood in front of Shi Qingxue again and looked at Mo Junhao calmly. Wont you continue with what you wanted to say just now? Mo Junhao finally remembered that he planned to show off his heroic deeds to Mo Junyang, yet Shi Qingxue interrupted him unexpectedly, and he was so angry that he forgot it. Mo Junhao was surprised by Mo Junyangs eyes with a faint smile, while he was eager to show his powerful strength in front of Mo Junyang. He was unable to think about so much, and he just laughed loudly. Mo Junyang, you can be so calm before death. To be frank, among so many brothers and cousins, I admire you most. I always treat you as a formidable enemy, and only you are qualified. Listening to Mo Junhaos wordy speech, Shi Qingxue felt annoyed and wished that she could shoot another arrow and make the guy have no chance to babble. However, Mo Junyang pressed the back of her hand, gesturing for her not to move. Shi Qingxue had to continue to listen patiently. After hearing that, she finally understood why Huwenbei became empty overnight. It turned out that Mo Junhao kept an eye on this good place since a few years ago and joined hands with Yel Beichen, making Huwenbei Town their hideout to develop their force two years ago. It was no wonder that Mo Junhao fled to the northern border as soon as he was in trouble. It turned out to be his base. Shi Qingxue involuntarily remembered that after Mo Junhao took the throne in the previous life, he had personally come to the northern border once. He must have come to inspect his force. However, the comfort on the throne could destroy a persons will. Later, Mo Junhao was content with pleasure and thought that the whole country was his, so he feared nothing and just guarded the imperial capital. In the end, he was defeated by Mo Junyang. The course of nature goes round, and there is retribution everywhere. Shi Qingxue had thought for several times that Mo Junyang had avenged her, so she didnt feel the deep hatred when she saw Mo Junhao. Nevertheless, every time she thought so, Mo Junhao would show up and do something to irritate her again. Thinking that Mo Junhao even pretended to surrender but lured Shi Junhe to Huwenbei and trapped the Shi Army in the valley, she wished that she would kill this despicable guy at once. Shi Qingxue gently grabbed Mo Junyangs arm and wanted to say something yet stopped herself. Mo Junyang returned a smile and signaled to her where nobody could see them. Shi Qingxue understood it and stood out from behind Mo Junyang again, with a bow in her hand. Perhaps the last arrow scared Mo Junhao, and he moved a big step backward subconsciously, trying to dodge. Soon he realized that he was cowardly to do that, so he became angry from shame and glared at Shi Qingxue, shouting loudly, Shi Qingxue, I know that you are superb in shooting, but do you think that you can gain the upper hand under the situation? Just be good and surrender. For the sake of our love, I can probably spare your life. Maybe I cant gain the upper hand, but so what? Shi Qingxue sneered and snorted crossly. I just want to take your life. Even though Mo Junhao was sure that he would be fine, facing Shi Qingxues piercing momentum, he was scared and moved backward. No. No way. You dont dare to. Mo Junhao could hardly recover from the shock and almost forgot that he had many soldiers to defeat only two people, Shi Qingxue and Mo Junyang. At this time, a long roar emerged from the depth of the valley, and then deafening clops came from all directions, surrounding the two parties. What happened? As soon as Mo Junhao stopped feeling ashamed and annoyed and came back to reality, he realized that there was something wrong, so he hurriedly grabbed the telescope from his subordinate. He didnt know since when a large group of people on horseback rushed over from around the valley and stopped behind them. Bad news. Your Highness, we are fooled. Somebody leads one hundred thousand soldiers to surround us. The advance soldier fell off the horses back and reported to Mo Junhao in a flurry. Mo Junhao kicked that man away and cursed in a rage, I knew it earlier, yet you came to report so late. We might have nothing left. After rebuking his subordinate, Mo Junhao was still furious and glared at Mo Junyang. Are these your people? Although he asked, his tone was certain. Mo Junhao could be sure that it was the reversal Mo Junyang played. Only Mo Junyang would do something like this. Mo Junyang said so much just now, and he just wanted to attract Mo Junhaos attention to stall for time, as he never talked much. However, Mo Junhao was fooled by such a simple strategy. Mo Junyang raised his brows slightly. It seemed that he was afraid that he couldnt irritate the opponent to death, and he added at leisure, Thanks for your cooperation, Your Highness. Mo Junhao was rendered speechless and looked more embarrassed. Nevertheless, he was unwilling to lose face in front of Mo Junyang, so he struggled. Hum, do you think that you can reverse the situation in my territory as you play a trick and have some soldiers? Stop trying. Huwenbei Town is my zone. Dont try to save Shi Junhe. I dont need anybody to save me. A majestic voice came from behind. Shi Qingxue turned around in surprise, to see that Shi Junhe rode his fast horse and led the Shi Army out of the valley unhurriedly. Father! She forgot that a battle was on the verge of breaking out here and rushed to Shi Junhe happily. Then she hugged him she hadnt seen for several months till she confirmed that this man was really her father, still alive. She was finally relieved after being worried for half a month. Shi Qingxue knew that it was inappropriate, but she still had tears in her eyes involuntarily and called in a low voice, Father, its great that you are all right. She choked with sobs and held Shi Junhes arm, refusing to let him go. Looking at Shi Qingxue who had lost much weight, Shi Junhe also felt sad. He knew that he made this girl worry about him. I am alright. Stop crying. Shi Junhe sighed deeply and restrained his worry, looking calm and majestic again. He walked to Mo Junyang and looked at this man, with a complicated expression. Mo Junyang stared at him calmly, and his beautiful eyes were like stars in the sky at night, which were bright but elusive. They looked ordinary, yet nobody could see through them. Shi Junhe had many questions to ask, but seeing Shi Qingxues smiling face, he knew that it was not the time to bother about this. He just nodded and said in a deep voice, Thanks a lot. Mo Junyang smiled faintly and also nodded. You are welcome. I misjudged this time, so the Shi Army was trapped. I feel guilty. Fortunately, you give me a chance to take revenge, Your Excellency. Please give me the job to capture the head of the rebel army. I will capture the rebel army and wont let you down. Mo Junyang uplifted his brows and finally started to look Shi Junhe up and down seriously. Although General Shi was more than forty years old, he looked like a tall and big man at the prime of his life, showing his staunch and unyielding temperament all over his body. To say something unpleasant to hear, he was inflexible. He knew that the people brought by Mo Junyang were enough to defeat Mo Junhao easily, yet he was in a fit of pique and determined to capture Mo Junhao in person, so he could wipe out the humiliation. If this were not Shi Qingxues father she respected, Mo Junyang would respond, Its a waste of time. However, because Shi Qingxue was here, Mo Junyang didnt get angry but made way for Shi Junhe politely. Shi Junhe had a long broadsword in his hand and rode his horse to the front of the two armies at a stalemate, staring at Mo Junhao coldly. Your Highness, you cheated His Majesty and rebelled the country. I will take you back to the capital. I am sorry if I offend you. The clarion emerged, and Shi Junhe took the lead. All people from the Shi Army thoroughly changed the backwardness and followed him, rushing to the rebel army. All people said that the leader of a defeated army couldnt be brave, while the Shi Army was different. Perhaps they had been defeated and had to retreat. They were even trapped in a small valley and hid themselves to subsist, but they didnt lose their unyielding temperament. Once the time was right, the Shi Armys great momentum was like an unsheathed sharp sword and fiercely stabbed the Achilles heel of the enemy. Mo Junhaos soldiers were scared and trembled, losing their fighting spirit.