[Fantasy] The Song of the Six Dynasties (Complete) - 20

Chapter Two.

Ruan Xianglin had been waiting in the inner courtyard of Cuiwei Garden for an hour. Since Jia Shixian's position had stabilized, her attitude had subtly changed. She no longer forced her daughter to return home, but she hadn't given up on her grand plan to marry her daughter into the Grand Commandant's household, coming to the garden every few days to persuade her. After all, how could a newly established merchant from out of town compare to the Grand Commandant's powerful influence?

Her daughter's marriage was related to whether the couple would enjoy wealth and honor for the rest of their lives or continue to live in fear in the martial world, so Ruan Xianglin couldn't afford to be indifferent. Although she knew her daughter was avoiding her, she patiently sipped tea in a nearby room filled with medicinal herbs.

A soft tinkling of jade pendants came from outside the curtain, and a woman in elaborate makeup lifted the curtain and entered. Both were startled to see Ruan Xianglin sitting there.

Then Ruan Xianglin stood up and respectfully curtsied to the newcomer, "This humble woman greets Madam Liang."

Madam Huang revealed a hint of disdain, saying with a half-smile, "So you're the lady from the Li Family Escort Agency."

The Weiyuan Escort Agency had served the powerful and influential in the city for many years, and the two had met before, but they hadn't expected to meet here. Before Liang Shicheng's downfall, the Liang family was a well-known and wealthy family in Lin'an. Although they were not as powerful as before, Liang Shicheng had secretly used Cheng Zongyang's connections to retain his official position. Madam Huang, as an official's wife and a titled lady, naturally looked down on a commoner like Ruan Xianglin.

Although Ruan Xianglin was a renowned heroine, the difference in their social status was vast. She quickly offered her a seat, saying with a forced smile, "Madam Liang, please sit."

Madam Huang sat down without hesitation, looked around, and then turned back to give Ruan Xianglin a cursory glance.

Ruan Xianglin smiled and said, "It's been a while, Madam Liang, you look even better than before."

Huang replied with a smile, "How can my looks compare to the lady from the Li family's escort agency? My son was praising you just the other day."

Ruan Xianglin staggered slightly, her face turning deathly pale.

Huang made no attempt to hide her contempt, mocking, "With such a beautiful woman like Lady Li, and skilled in martial arts, it's no wonder everyone loves her."

Ruan Xianglin forced a smile, "Madam Liang, you flatter me."

"My son has been full of praise for you, not making fun of you at all,"

Huang casually ordered, "You must be thirsty, pour me a cup of tea."

Ruan Xianglin, her secret exposed, felt utterly ashamed. Hearing her order, she could only lower her head, pour a cup of tea, and offer it with both hands.

Madam Huang took the teacup and smiled, "Having drunk your tea, we're family now. Madam Li, please visit us more often."

It was a custom in Song that a daughter-in-law should serve tea to her mother-in-law upon marriage. Madam Huang's words were full of sarcasm, but Ruan Xianglin dared not reply, only lowering her head and forcing a "I dare not."

The Liang family had lost power, and the officials' wives who had fawned over Madam Huang in the past few days had vanished without a trace. The coldness of human nature had also angered Madam Huang. Seeing Ruan Xianglin appear in the garden, she assumed she too had come to curry favor with her master. Madam Huang, half contemptuous and half jealous, deliberately tried to show off her power. She slammed down the teacup and scolded, "You're just a woman who travels the world. What a disgrace it is for me to invite you into my home! And why are you giving me such a hard time?"

Ruan Xianglin's face flushed and paled, her fingers trembling slightly as she gripped the hem of her dress.

Huang sneered, "Do you look down on the Liang family now that we've fallen from grace? Remember how many people fawned over me back then? You were nowhere near their level!"

Huang seized on her weakness and launched into a tirade of ridicule, leaving Ruan Xianglin humiliated and speechless, yet she dared not openly defy Huang. If Huang were to publicize their shameful affair, she would be utterly disgraced.

After a long tirade, Huang picked up her teacup, drank it, and slammed it on the table. Ruan Xianglin, suppressing her anger and embarrassment, picked up the porcelain pot and refilled it.

Huang raised her head, ignoring her, and coldly said, "Are you mute?"

Ruan Xianglin, swallowing her anger, said, "Please, Madam, have some tea."

Huang rolled her eyes at her, "Who do you think you are? You dare stand and serve tea?"

Ruan Xianglin, filled with shame and indignation, felt a surge of anger. She had once been a formidable woman in the martial world, never one to be outdone by men; she had never suffered such humiliation. She immediately wanted to smash the teacup, but then she thought of the Liang family's power and felt a pang of shortness of breath, even a hint of ingratiation rising within her. She thought to herself: even if I suffer this temporary humiliation, it would be good if I could curry favor with the Liang family and secure an official position for my husband.

Thinking this, Ruan Xianglin's legs involuntarily bent. She knelt before Madam Huang, offering the teacup with both hands, and said softly, "Madam, please have some tea."

Madam Huang accepted the teacup with

a smug look, when suddenly a cough sounded outside, and someone lifted the curtain and entered. Madam Huang looked up, and without regard for Ruan Xianglin's presence, she quickly rose, forcing a smile, "Master Cheng, please sit down."

Ruan Xianglin, though possessing considerable skill, was overcome with shame and fear, and hadn't heard a sound. Her act of kneeling and offering tea to Madam Huang had been clearly witnessed. Filled with shame and trepidation, she hurriedly rose and hid to the side.

Cheng Zongyang sat expressionlessly in the chair. Madam Huang quickly pulled up her sleeves, poured tea herself, and offered it with a forced smile, "Master Cheng, please have some tea."

Ruan Xianglin looked at Cheng Zongyang with suspicion, completely baffled as to why a businessman from out of town would be so obsequious to Madam Huang. Remembering the awkwardness of just moments before, Ruan Xianglin's face flushed, turning bright red to her ears. Not daring to linger any longer, she quickly turned and left.

Cheng Zongyang pretended not to notice and asked, "Is the case closed?"

Madam Huang smiled and said, "Thanks to Master Cheng, my husband's case has been closed at the Ministry of Justice."

"That's good news! Your official hat is safe now,"

Madam Huang said, giving him a flirtatious wink. "It was all thanks to Master Cheng's word that Vice Minister Shi of the Ministry of Justice was willing to show leniency."

"No wonder you're dressed so handsomely; it's good news!"

Madam Huang said with a seductive look. "I've come here specifically to thank Master Cheng."

Cheng Zongyang swirled his teacup and then raised it. Madam Huang, already well-trained, smiled sweetly before he could even give an order, tilting her head back and opening her red lips.

Cheng Zongyang tilted his hand slightly, and the tea flowed like silver threads into Madam Huang's mouth, flowing between her lips and tongue, splashing tiny specks on her nose and cheeks. Before long, Huang's small mouth was filled with tea, which overflowed from her lips, flowing down her chin and neck, then along the curve of her chest and into her clothes.

Cheng Zongyang grabbed her collar and pulled it down, ripping Huang's elegant dress to her waist, revealing her two high, snowy breasts and her fair skin. She wasn't even wearing an undergarment; stripped of her outer garment, she was completely naked underneath.

Huang smiled, raising her head to catch the tea poured by her master with her lips and tongue, while her hands caressed her breasts, washing them with the dripping tea, then pinching her nipples and seductively rubbing the tips with her jade-like fingers.

After finishing the tea, Cheng Zongyang threw the teacup on the table, gazing at the alluring woman before him. He felt a mixture of pity, lust, and contempt for Huang. Pity because the Liang family's misfortune had forced a woman to expose herself, searching for connections, and even offering herself to them. The contempt stemmed from disdain for this woman's snobbishness and licentiousness. She had humiliated Ruan Xianglin and the Wei family's wife, who were of lower status

, yet fawned over him in the blink of an eye. Other women, after committing such a disgraceful act, would hardly have the face to come to his door. But Huang only endured it for three days before returning to the garden. Since the shameful act had already been committed, she might as well indulge herself. She was already quite beautiful, and now, abandoning all decorum, she was even more wanton than a prostitute in bed, giving Cheng Zongyang a novel experience.

Huang swallowed the tea in her mouth, wiping the moisture from her lips with her fingertips as she looked at him seductively.

Without being told by her master, Huang poured another cup of tea, held it up with both hands, and offered it to him. Then, like a white horse, she lay down on the ground, pulled off her long skirt, and presented her large, white buttocks to her master. She said in a seductive voice, "This servant has washed her mouth, tongue, and breasts. Please, Master, offer me tea for my two fleshy orifices."

The tea was poured down, and the woman, holding her snowy buttocks with one hand, reached into her cleft with the other, using the warm tea to rub her jade-like fingers between her fleshy folds, making her already clean anus and vulva even more lustrous.

In the Six Dynasties period, there were no thermos flasks; wealthy families generally used double-layered porcelain pots, which, because the air wasn't completely removed, had limited heat retention. So, when poured on her, it was only slightly hot. As Huang washed, she giggled, "The parts I've washed are all for Master's use. I wonder if Master will use them from bottom to top or top to bottom this time?"

Huang spoke lewd words as she washed herself, waiting for her master to become aroused so she could writhe and please him. Just as the second cup of tea was poured, suddenly, with a "whoosh," the window beside her flew open.

Huang looked up and saw Ruan Xianglin standing outside, her face flushed, but her eyes shining like stars.

Huang was already completely naked, while Cheng Zongyang was still impeccably dressed. He pushed open the window with one hand and laughed, "So, Lady Ruan hasn't left yet."

Although Cheng Zongyang was harassing the woman inside the room, his mind was entirely on the woman outside. He was now at the fifth level of the Sitting Illumination Realm, a level higher than Ruan Xianglin. He could tell from his hearing alone that Ruan Xianglin hadn't gone far after leaving. He could even sense her surprise and relief from the rhythm of her breathing.

Ruan Xianglin had completely calmed down. She smiled at Madam Huang, "Madam Liang, rest assured, I will pretend I didn't see anything today." Madam

Huang's face paled at first, then she revealed a seductive look. She twisted her body, hugged Cheng Zongyang's leg, pressed half her body against him, and said coquettishly, "So what if I did see? If anyone dares to gossip, Master Cheng can wipe out your little escort agency with a flick of his finger."

Ruan Xianglin's expression changed slightly, and she turned and left without a word.

Huang spat, "You low-class whore!"

Cheng Zongyang had originally intended to help Ruan Xianglin out of a predicament by exposing Huang's weakness to prevent this harlot from being arrogant in front of him. However, Huang was only startled and not afraid at all. No wonder such a shrew could support the family business.

Huang breathed a sigh of relief and then laughed, "Don't worry, Master Cheng, this whore has something on me. I doubt she would dare to say anything."

Cheng Zongyang threw his clothes at her and said irritably, "Get up. Everyone's gone. What are you doing lying there like that?"

Huang refused to get up, rubbing her breasts against his legs and saying in a seductive voice, "Master Cheng..."

Cheng Zongyang had only discovered after trying it on her that the pills made by Shang Hou were eight parts similar to methamphetamine and ecstasy. After taking them, the body lost control, and people would involuntarily shake their heads and tremble. At the same time, they had strong and long-lasting hallucinogenic and aphrodisiac effects. As for psychological addiction, Huang's reaction showed that the effect was remarkable. The difference lies in the fact that Shanghou's drug does not cause the typical withdrawal symptoms of narcotics, and there are no physical discomforts after discontinuation.

As for whether long-term use will have negative effects on the body, only heaven knows.

Regarding Huang, who offered herself up, Cheng Zongyang only thought of it as something new and didn't take her seriously. Ultimately, Huang wanted his money and power, while he was using her ample breasts and buttocks; it was a mutually beneficial, fair transaction, with neither party bearing any responsibility. ... On a carefully folded piece of plain paper,

meticulous handwriting was written: Ximen Qing, age twenty-nine, from Qinghe County, currently residing south of Lotus Bridge in Lin'an Prefecture. Six feet one inch tall, fair-skinned and beardless. Literate, especially skilled in poetry and prose. After verification by the Ministry of Personnel, his family background is clean, and he has no history of criminal activity. According to the law, he is appointed as the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Investigation Department, a sixth-rank official. A smaller note at the end stated: "Obtained the official position through donation, not yet officially appointed."

"This is a file copied from the Ministry of Personnel,"

Lin Qingpu said. "The following is information gathered by the Imperial City Guard from various places; the truth of the matter is hard to discern."

Cheng Zongyang continued reading. The Imperial City Guard's intelligence sources were complex. Some said Ximen Qing was a philanthropist, a well-known good man in the village. Others said he was a womanizer who preyed on men and women in the countryside. Some said his family had run a herbal medicine shop for generations and was very wealthy. Still others said he owned pawnshops and carriage and boat businesses outside the county, making him extremely rich. One piece of information mentioned that two years ago, Ximen Qing had become a disciple of Cai Yuanchang of the Ministry of Revenue, recognizing Cai as his godfather. The reason he was able to buy the position of Chief Justice was precisely because of Cai's help.

Cheng Zongyang handed the intelligence report to Qin Hui, who had just returned. "Look at this," he said, "Ximen Qing's resume is far superior to mine. From his birthplace and education to his family background, it's all so complete. Even his official rank is half a grade higher than mine."

Qin Hui said as he looked at it, "Since it was two years ago, Ximen Qing must have already become a disciple of Minister Cai. He wasn't just making a last-minute change after discovering your schemes."

"That's what I'm afraid of,"

Cheng Zongyang said. "Heaven knows how many schemes Jian Yuji has secretly laid. If she makes a move now, with our current strength, we probably won't be able to defend against it." What

Cheng Zongyang was truly worried about was Gao Qiu. Lu Qian had been hiding in the Grand Commandant's mansion for many years, and it was clear that the Black Demon Sea had become suspicious of this Grand Commandant. Before Ruan Xiangning lost her memory, she had used a meditation technique on Gao Yanei to find out the relationship between Gao Qiu and his son and Yue Pengju. Jian Yuji's act of erasing Ruan Xiangning's memories and presenting her as a gift seemed more like a show of force, a warning that the Black Demon Sea had obtained this colossal secret.

Gao Qiu's identity was so sensitive that she dared not even tell Qin Hui; once his connection with Yue Fei was exposed, her greatest asset in the Song Dynasty would vanish instantly. Jian Yuji held this deadly weapon but hadn't used it, certainly not out of kindness to keep it a secret; the only possibility was that she was waiting for the opportune moment to maximize her gains.

And then there was Cai Yuanchang, even more dangerous than Gao Qiu. If the treacherous Cai was Jian Yuji's pawn, she would be handing over her economic lifeline to the Black Demon Sea.

Qin Hui pondered for a moment, “If Cai Yuanchang is part of the Witch Clan’s scheme, Jian Yuji would not have easily revealed him to you, young master. The truth is disguised as falsehood, and falsehood as truth. Ximen Qing’s public appearance today proves that Cai Yuanchang is unaware of his true identity.”

“Then why did Ximen Qing reveal his sworn father-son relationship with Cai Yuanchang?”

Lin Qingpu said, “Jian Yuji’s move is most likely a show of force, meant to make you suspicious and disoriented.”

Qin Hui clapped his hands, “Exactly!”

Cheng Zongyang thought for a long time, “You’re right, I was just worried. If Cai Yuanchang were a pawn arranged by Jian Yuji, there’s no way she would reveal her hand to me now. That bitch is just trying to scare me!” Having

determined that Cai Yuanchang was unrelated to the Black Demon Sea, Cheng Zongyang finally felt half the weight lifted from his heart.

"Jian Yuji and Ximen Qing are still up to no good and want to do business with me. I've set the date for April 12th. By then, Yi Biao and my thirty men from my direct battalion will be able to arrive in Lin'an. Brothers, let's discuss how to ensure they don't leave alive!"

Qin Hui rubbed his fingers and slowly said, "Jian Yuji and that scoundrel Ximen are high-ranking members of the Witch Clan. Even if the patriarch sends out all his heroes, it won't be easy to wipe them out in one fell swoop. In my opinion, it would be better to attack them separately. Lure Jian Yuji to attack Ximen, or lure Ximen to attack Jian Yuji."

Qin Hui's proposal was very realistic. Killing both Jian Yuji and Ximen Qing would be ideal, but for Cheng Zongyang's current strength, this task was too difficult.

Cheng Zongyang's eyes flashed with murderous intent as he said in a deep voice, "You said last time that Ximen the scoundrel wasn't a member of the Black Demon Sea—what exactly happened?"

"It's a long story. As you know, the Black Demon Sea is divided into two sects: Poison and Witch. The leader of the Poison Sect is Marquis Zhenyu Shang, and the leader of the Witch Sect is the Secret Imperial King."

Qin Hui said, "Back then, when King Wu Mu wiped out the Witch Sect, it was rumored that the Secret Guardian King died at Yue Pengju's hands. But afterwards, when you received a letter, you learned that almost all the sect's experts had been killed or wounded, except for the Secret Guardian King, who was still alive, albeit severely injured and needed to find a place to cultivate in seclusion."

Cheng Zongyang frowned and said, "I heard that fewer than five people escaped from Commander Yue's hands. Of those I know of, the Secret Guardian King, Elder You, and Jian Yuji. Who are the other two?"

"As far as I know, Jian Yuji is not a survivor of the Witch Sect."

"How is that possible?"

Cheng Zongyang said, "You mean Jian Yuji is someone the Witch Sect has newly cultivated in the last ten years or so?"

"The Witch Sect and my Poison Sect have always been at odds. The reasons for this are beyond my knowledge."

Jian Yuji had never made a move, making it difficult to judge her strength, but Cheng Zongyang speculated that her cultivation was no less than Xie Yi's. If the Black Demon Sea could cultivate such an expert in fifteen or sixteen years, that would be terrifying.

There were too many mysteries surrounding Jian Yuji; she couldn't be understood in a short time. Cheng Zongyang said, "Continue with that scoundrel Ximen. What is his relationship with the Black Demon Sea? Why is he involved with the Taiyi Sect?"

"The Black Demon Sea is divided into two factions: Poison and Witch, but few outsiders know this. Besides these two factions, there are four other families: the North and South Palaces, and the East and West Gates. These four families share weal and woe with the Black Demon Sea. The South and North Palaces are close to the Poison Sect, while the East and West Gates are close relatives of the Witch Sect. Each of these families has had members who have joined the Black Demon Sea for generations, and many of the Black Demon Sea's members also intermarry with these four families. Ximen Qing is not a member of the Black Demon Sea precisely because he is the current head of the Ximen family."

"Damn! This scoundrel is actually the head of the family!"

Cheng Zongyang exclaimed. "How many people are in the Ximen family?"

Qin Hui held up one finger. "Only one person. If he joins the Witch Clan, the Ximen family line will end. Therefore, the Witch Clan treats Ximen Qing as their own son, but treats him with the courtesy due to a guest."

Cheng Zongyang had originally thought that Ximen Qing had such a powerful background and considerable strength, but upon hearing that the entire Ximen family consisted of only one person, he couldn't help but laugh. "The Ximen family has too few members, doesn't it?"

Qin Hui shook his head. "The Ximen family was originally the largest of the four families in terms of members, but in the battle back then, they were all slaughtered by Yue Pengju. Ximen Qing's birth mother was a high-ranking member of the Witch Clan. She married into the Ximen family as a mistress and was extremely beautiful. Later, she died at the hands of Yue Pengju, and her body was never found."

As he spoke, he lowered his voice, "It is said that she was raped and then murdered."

Cheng Zongyang's expression fell. No wonder Ximen Qing had such a deep-seated hatred for the Xingyue Lake camp. Yue Pengju deserved to be struck by lightning for all the bastard things he did.

Lin Qingpu said, "In that case, although Ximen Qing is not a disciple of the Witch Cult, he holds a very high position within the cult. Once he gains sufficient power, he will surely become a great threat. Jian Yuji is the head steward of the outer hall; if we can eliminate her, the Witch Cult will be crippled. In your opinion, who should we choose?"

Cheng Zongyang stroked his chin and asked, "What are your chances of success in dealing with Jian Yuji?"

Lin Qingpu turned his gaze to Qin Hui.

Qin Hui replied, "Twenty percent."

"And Ximen Qing?"

Qin Hui cautiously asked, "Fifty percent."

"Alright!"

Cheng Zongyang declared decisively, "This time, let's first eliminate that treacherous Ximen!"

...

Gao Qiu stroked his nearly three-meter-long mammoth tooth, his restraint revealing a perfectly measured greed—his acting was masterful.

"It looks like a mammoth! Good, good!"

Gao Qiu said with satisfaction. "Someone, carefully put away the gift that Master Cheng sent."

The servants of the Grand Commandant's mansion were used to Grand Commandant Gao's bribery and extortion, and they didn't suspect anything. Three servants carefully lifted the mammoth tooth and took it into the storeroom.

Gao Qiu smiled and said, "Master Cheng, please come to my humble abode for a cup of tea." Cheng Zongyang

followed Gao Qiu into the inner courtyard with a beaming smile. After closing the door, Gao Qiu dropped his disguise and whispered, "What is it?"

"I want to borrow something from the Grand Commandant."

"Which one?"

"The Dragon-Slaying Saber."

Gao Qiu frowned slightly. "What happened?"

"I need to kill someone, but I don't have a suitable weapon."

Cheng Zongyang smiled. "Don't worry, I'll only borrow it for a day, and I'll return it to you."

The Dragon-Slaying Saber was a top secret. When Gao Yanei, at Lu Qian's instigation, framed Lin Chong, Gao Qiu didn't hesitate to use his Imperial Guards to silence everyone who had touched the saber, showing how much he valued it. But Cheng Zongyang needed to deal with Ximen Qing; he couldn't very well fight his Heavenly Demon Umbrella with a steel saber that cost a few hundred copper coins, could he?

"This saber is extremely important. But dealing with the Black Demon Sea..."

Gao Qiu pondered for a long time, unable to make a decision.

Cheng Zongyang said, "Lu Qian has been in the manor for many years, and the Dragon-Slaying Saber appeared before his eyes. I'm afraid the Black Demon Sea has already noticed the relationship between the Grand Commandant and General Yue."

Gao Qiu suddenly said, "Where's the weapon you used that day? Let me see it."

Cheng Zongyang took out the hilt of the sword from his backpack. "To be honest, I just happened to be there that day. I've had this thing for a while now, but I still don't know how to use it."

Gao Qiu took the hilt and examined it for a moment. "This weapon has been sealed."

The talisman on the hilt was already broken, but with Gao Qiu's discerning eye, he could tell at a glance that the remaining aura was still there.

"Judging from the style of the hilt, it should be from Japan."

Cheng Zongyang said in surprise, "I didn't expect that the Grand Commandant is so familiar with weapons besides playing football."

Gao Qiu snorted, "I have been in the army for decades. Do you think I could sit in this position just because of His Majesty's favor?"

On the day Gao Qiu suddenly made trouble in the White Tiger Hall, he showed that his cultivation level was at least level five. Although he could not be called extraordinary, he was not much inferior to the famous generals of the Imperial Guard. He could become a big shot in the military. He could not sit in this position just because he played football well.

Gao Qiu suddenly exclaimed, "Eh?" "Where did you get this sword hilt?"

"From a Japanese ninja."

"This sword definitely doesn't belong to a ninja."

Gao Qiu stroked the patterns on the hilt, then took a deep breath. "If I'm not mistaken, this is a weapon without an edge!"

"A weapon without an edge?"

Gao Qiu didn't answer. He gripped the hilt, and with a sudden jolt, a bolt of lightning shot out from the empty hilt. In Gao Qiu's hand, the lightning flickered more intensely and for a significantly longer duration. A moment later, the lightning dissipated, revealing a three-foot-long blade on the hilt, similar in shape to the one Cheng Zongyang had used, but a deep blue-green.

Gao Qiu took a short sword from the shelf, raised it, and slashed at it, snapping the short sword in two. He held the blade upright, examined it for a moment, then retrieved the Dragon-Slaying Saber from a hidden compartment by the bedside.

The two swords clashed, and this time, a notch appeared on the deep blue-green blade of the laser-slaying saber. Gao Qiu swung his blade several times, and the laser sword finally broke off. Before the broken blade even hit the ground, the entire blade vanished, leaving only the hilt.

Gao Qiu's aura was slightly disordered. He handed the hilt to Cheng Zongyang, saying, "Pour all your true energy into it."

Cheng Zongyang had practiced several times in recent days and was already quite skilled. He immediately held his breath, concentrated, and suddenly stretched out his arms, pouring his true energy into the hilt.

A beam of white light shot out, flickering and dancing on the hilt. Gao Qiu swung the Dragon-Slaying Saber, slashing down with a whirlwind of energy. Cheng Zongyang's arms trembled violently; the tangible lightning emitted a sharp, incomparably cold aura, seeping into his meridians like icy threads.

Gao Qiu sheathed his sword and stood still; a small notch on the Dragon-Slaying Saber was rapidly closing.

The lightning on the hilt in Cheng Zongyang's hand receded, solidifying into a black and white blade.

Gao Qiu flicked his toe, sending the short sword that had just been severed flying. Cheng Zongyang swung his sword, and the short sword was knocked away with a clang, but it didn't split in two as before.

Gao Qiu laughed loudly, "So that's how it is!"

As he spoke, the Dragon-Slaying Saber in his arms flashed out, severing the black and white blade in Cheng Zongyang's hand.

Gao Qiu sheathed the Dragon-Slaying Saber with a clang, "Have you figured it out?"

Cheng Zongyang, his blood churning from the final strike, exhaled and said, "I understand. Its blade is formed from condensed true qi. The higher the cultivation level, the sharper the blade. Moreover, when true qi is injected, the blade maintains a state of sparkling light, even the Dragon-Slaying Saber is no match for it."

"But you've gotten a bargain,"

Gao Qiu said. "Generally, as martial artists improve their cultivation, they often need to switch to a more suitable weapon. If the weapon is unsuitable, one can only unleash six or seven tenths of their full power. If the weapon is just right, one can unleash twelve or thirteen tenths. Therefore, some martial artists spend most of their lives searching for divine weapons. But your sword can change its form depending on your cultivation level, becoming stronger when facing stronger opponents. If you had the cultivation level of General Yue Fei, the power of this sword would be no less than that of the Dragon-Slaying Saber. With this sword in hand, you'll be protected for life." " It's truly a rare opportunity!"

Cheng Zongyang exclaimed. "That sounds nice! This sword is still a far cry from being a real

weapon. If I were to use it to fight the demons of the Black Demon Sea, it would be no different from fighting bare-handed in seventy or eighty blows. If I were to listen to your nonsense, wouldn't I be courting death?" Gao Qiu laughed heartily and tossed the Dragon-Slaying Saber over. "Take it. Return it to me after you've slain the demons of the Black Demon Sea!"

Qin Ban Dang, who was waiting outside the side gate, immediately urged the carriage forward to greet his master when he saw Cheng Zongyang emerge.

"How is it?"

Cheng Zongyang patted the bundle. "An ivory tusk, I'll borrow it to admire for a few days."

Qin Hui smiled and said, "I didn't expect Grand Commandant Gao to possess such a divine weapon. This time, our chances of winning the West Lake rendezvous have increased even more."

The treacherous minister Qin had probably already sensed something, but Gao Qiu's identity was far too sensitive, so Cheng Zongyang simply laughed it off and left it at that.

Qin Hui said, "Although the appointment at West Lake is still a few days away, in my opinion, we should prepare as soon as possible."

"You arrange this arrangement,"

Cheng Zongyang said. "I have an important matter to attend to the night after tomorrow, so don't disturb me."

Qin Hui replied sternly, "Yes."

Chapter 3

"Concealing the scent?"

Li Shishi's eyes flickered, and after thinking for a moment, she said, "There is a medicine that can conceal one's scent, but it won't last long."

"How long?"

"Five hours if you don't get wet."

Cheng Zongyang smiled, "That should be enough."

Li Shishi got up and picked out medicinal herbs from the shelf, placing them one by one on the deer hide used for sorting the medicines. The Ruan sisters and Li Shishi were all petite women, not tall, but with alluring curves.

She tiptoed, took the medicine from the shelf, weighed it on a small, finely crafted brass scale, and then poured it onto the tanned deer hide, her movements as smooth as flowing water. Although it was just simple actions of taking, weighing, and dispensing medicine, every movement was full of feminine charm.

Especially when she tiptoed, reaching out her small, white hands to take the medicine from the bamboo shelf, her movements were as light and graceful as a dance. Her slender body stretched out, from the girl's soft hands to her smooth, fragrant shoulders, her delicate waist, her round, pert buttocks, all the way to her straight, jade-like legs, every curve was beautiful and moving, like a flawless piece of jade.

"Let me help you."

Cheng Zongyang reached out to take the medicine for her. "Is this it?"

Li Shishi raised her head and said, "Wrong, it's the one next to it."

"This one?"

"The one on the right—" Li Shishi suddenly stopped, and then a blush rose on her jade-like face.

The head of the family was standing behind her. At this moment, as he reached for the medicine, his body leaned forward intentionally or unintentionally, inevitably touching her. Through the thin spring dress, she could clearly feel the strong muscles of his chest and abdomen and the fiery temperature of his body. A masculine body pressed against her back, half-teasingly and half-unintentionally, forcing Li Shishi's body against the medicine shelf. She held a small scale in one hand and gripped the bamboo shelf with the other. Her skin trembled involuntarily as if electrocuted by the master's touch.

Cheng Zongyang inhaled the delicate fragrance of her virgin hair, a wolf-like stalk throbbing with glee within him. *Little girl, since you're with me, even if I devour you, it'll be for nothing…*

Suddenly, Cheng Zongyang froze, then took the medicine from the shelf. "This is it!"

he shoved into Li Shishi's hand before turning and leaving the pharmacy. …

"What is it!"

Cheng Zongyang asked as he entered, summoned.

Lin Qingpu said, "Something has happened to the Wang family."

"Wang Yuyu? Didn't he already go to Junzhou?"

"It just happened."

Lin Qingpu said, "It was originally a case of adultery. Two officials in the court had affairs with the wives of another official. If it were just a case of romantic escapades, the two officials happened to be father and son, and people criticized them for behaving like beasts, which angered His Majesty. As a result, during the interrogation, Wang Yuyu's second son was also implicated. It is said that he also had an affair with the wife."

"Damn! The Song court is in real chaos..."

Cheng Zongyang said, "This is definitely embarrassing, but it's not a life-threatening matter. Was it necessary to call me in such a hurry?"

Lin Qingpu slowly said, "Someone has accused Wang Yuyu of plotting to install a new emperor without requesting the establishment of an heir when the late emperor was critically ill. Just now, the palace issued an edict to arrest Wang Yuyu and his four sons and imprison them." Cheng Zongyang

was stunned for a long time, then let out a long sigh, "Jia Shixian is really ruthless! He's trying to eliminate all traces. Does Huizhi understand?"

"I just found out, he's already gone to the Wang family."

Cheng Zongyang slammed his hand on the table and sighed, "We really underestimated Grand Tutor Jia. That old fellow may not be good at fighting, but he's a first-rate master at seizing power! He crushed Liang Shicheng and Wang Yuyu with a single move. Ruthless! Truly ruthless!"

Lin Qingpu smiled and said, "This isn't necessarily a bad thing for Brother Qin."

Cheng Zongyang was taken aback, then suddenly realized, "That's true."

Originally, Qin Hui, as his confidant, would never have been able to marry the prime minister's granddaughter. Now that the Wang family has completely fallen, how could they possibly be picky? If Qin Hui were to propose marriage, the Wang family, currently gripped by the panic of the treason case, would actually owe him a favor.

Cheng Zongyang laughed and said, "I didn't expect Old Jia to do such a good thing for Huizhi. It's also a way of repaying Old Qin for his hard work that day."

The fierce power struggle in the Song court caused by the Battle of Jiangzhou had finally come to an end. Liang Shicheng and Wang Yuyu had both lost power, and Jia Shixian, as the sole winner, continued to wield absolute power. Gao Qiu, as the head of the military, remained unmoved. Meanwhile, the vacated positions in the court provided opportunities for a group of young officials to distinguish themselves.

The newly established Baochao Bureau issued three batches of paper money in just a few months, proceeding smoothly without a single mishap, thus solving the Song Dynasty's urgent financial crisis. The Cheng Family Money House had become the most important and convenient money-making institution in the Song Dynasty. However, Cheng Zongyang, the head of the Baochao Bureau, remained relatively unknown to most people. Even court officials only knew that Grand Tutor Jia had created the paper money, which was issued and used by the Ministry of Revenue.

Cheng Zongyang had no ambition to make a name for himself in the Song Dynasty. Controlling the de facto central bank of the Song Dynasty was enough for him. A tall tree catches the wind; if the secret of the money exchange's massive profits were to leak out, others would inevitably covet the enormous profits. He had Xingyue Lake backing him up in a fight, so he wasn't afraid of anyone. But in the political intrigue, Cheng Zongyang weighed his own strength. He was far inferior to the hyenas and vultures in the court; if a powerful figure were to strike, he might not even know how he died.

Therefore, besides cultivating relationships with newly promoted officials like Cai Yuanchang, Han Jiefu, and Shi Tongshu, and nurturing his undercover agents like Tong Guan and Sun Tianyu, Cheng Zongyang adopted a detached attitude towards the power struggles in the court. For him, some things were more important than this official position, such as—Meng Niang's identity. ...

Late at night on the seventh day of the fourth lunar month, the Wu Mu Prince's Mansion, now reduced to ruins, was eerily silent. Following the posting of notices offering free bricks and stones, crowds swarmed to the mansion, digging it up from the ground . Everything of any value was taken, leaving only broken bricks and tiles unusable even for building walls.

As the moon began to set in the west, a slight movement suddenly stirred on the empty pile of rubble. A shadow, its shape indistinct, flashed by before silence returned.

Cheng Zongyang waited a moment in the drainage ditch beside the street, then leaped up, pressed his hand against the high wall of Mingqing Temple, and jumped inside. He then darted into the osmanthus grove within the temple grounds.

Two sword-wielding guards walked side-by-side from the Thousand Buddha Corridor, carrying lanterns and checking for possible hiding places.

The monks had already been relocated; now, the entire Mingqing Temple was filled with personnel from the Imperial City Guard and the Imperial Palace. Tomorrow morning, the Empress Dowager, the Empress Dowager, and the various imperial concubines will be visiting the temple to worship Buddha and pray for blessings. With so many dignitaries gathered, no one dares to be careless.

Cheng Zongyang, through his informant Sun Tianyu, had already thoroughly investigated the security arrangements at Mingqing Temple. After the two sword-wielding guards passed by, he immediately leaped away, silently gliding through the Thousand Buddha Corridor.

The palace dignitaries were scheduled to hold a grand Dragon Flower Ceremony in the Great Buddha Hall, where security would undoubtedly be extremely tight. If he dared to hide behind a Buddha statue, even a fart would be heard by dozens of skilled warriors. Trying to uncover Mengniang's connection to the palace was simply a pipe dream.

According to the intelligence provided by his nephew, the palace dignitaries would arrive at Mingqing Temple at 6:45 AM and rest briefly within the temple grounds, specifically in the Guanyin Hall and the Rebirth Hall. He had visited these halls one by one under the guise of worshipping Buddha a few days ago. The best hiding place was the Guanyin Hall where the Empress Dowager resided—once he arrived at the temple, all the concubines would pay their respects to the Empress Dowager, so he wouldn't need to search for them individually.

Cheng Zongyang turned the corner of the corridor like a gentle breeze. Suddenly, the lights came on, and several eunuchs carried tables and chairs out of the side rooms, coming face to face with him.

Cheng Zongyang almost broke out in a cold sweat. He dropped to the ground, darted across the corner of the corridor like a cat, and disappeared behind the hall.

Several eunuchs cried out, "A ghost!"

"Idiot! Where's the ghost in the temple? It's just a tabby cat!"

"No, it's not a cat. I saw it clearly, it was a big yellow dog."

"It's a rat spirit!"

"It's a bird! A gray crow!"

Amidst the commotion, a hoarse voice said, "What's all the noise about?"

The eunuchs immediately knelt down. "Reporting to Your Excellency, something just passed by here. We don't know if it was a cat or a dog."

Feng Deming glanced at them. "What did it look like?" The eunuchs

gestured, some saying it was the size of a cat, some saying it was the size of a dog, some saying it was the size of a rat. The colors were also varied: some said gray, some said white, some said yellow, some said black.

Feng Deming was initially suspicious. He had already searched the temple several times to find no cats or dogs, but the fact that none of the seven or eight eunuchs gave the same answer made him chuckle. If there were truly something amiss, at least two or three eyewitnesses would have similar accounts. Now, even the eunuchs, both senior and junior, were at odds, suggesting they were simply seeing things.

"You're all clouded by greed. Go and kowtow before the Buddha, be more devout."

The eunuchs obsequiously replied, "Yes, Your Excellency."

Feng Deming walked through the corridor with his hands behind his back, suddenly stopping, his eyes sweeping across the corridor ceiling like lightning. After a moment, he shook his head and slowly walked away.

Cheng Zongyang lay in the shadows of the Thousand Buddha Corridor, his heart pounding. If he had been wearing the night clothes commonly worn by the thieves of the Six Dynasties, he would have been dragged out by the old eunuchs and beaten to death by a group of imperial guards.

Fortunately, he had rushed to make this night camouflage uniform. The entire garment was pieced together with irregular color patterns, primarily gray, brown, and black, with touches of dark green, dark brown, and white. At first glance, it looked like a mottled wall or brickwork, almost blending into the night. The eunuchs could only make out a vague impression; even the most discerning eye couldn't immediately distinguish the outlines of human figures.

The creation of this nighttime camouflage uniform was largely thanks to Madam Lin. Over the years, Ruan Xiangning had served in the Lin family, playing the role of a virtuous wife and dutiful spouse. Although it was just an act, she had learned excellent needlework skills. Since she had nothing to do in her room anyway, Cheng Zongyang drew a rough design for the camouflage uniform and let her make it herself. This first attempt was indeed remarkably effective. ...

Time passed second by second, the night outside the window gradually faded, then a sliver of dawn appeared. Suddenly, two crisp cracks of whips broke the dawn, and footsteps became noisy.

Cheng Zongyang lay prone in the ceiling, holding his breath, his eyes slightly narrowed, waiting quietly.

Almost instantly, countless people poured into Mingqing Temple. Sixteen eunuchs entered the hall, first unfurling brocade curtains and placing seating, footstools, and prayer cushions for their use, before retreating with their hands at their sides. Next, sixteen palace maids entered carrying incense burners, gold basins, bronze mirrors, brocade boxes, and other items. People of all kinds flowed in and out, and soon the Buddhist hall was decorated like a palace.

At six quarters past dawn, a dragon palanquin stopped outside the hall. Feng Deming rushed forward, kneeling before the palanquin. Then, a richly dressed noblewoman, supported by several palace maids, slowly descended from the palanquin.

Cheng Zongyang squinted and saw that the noblewoman was nearly sixty years old, with a full moon-like face and graceful demeanor. She wore a dark blue gown with colorful pheasant patterns embroidered on the hem, and bright red cloud and dragon patterns on the collar and cuffs. She wore a pair of white jade pendants and a jade sash around her waist, and a magnificent phoenix crown on her head. Although it did not have too many jewels, it was indescribably magnificent.

The noblewoman stopped at the palace gate, glanced at it, and turned back with a smile, saying, "Little Dezi, you've done a good job."

Feng Deming bowed crisply and replied, "Serving my master is my duty."

The noblewoman said to one of the accompanying sable-haired servants, "Little Dezi is more than enough here. Little Guo, you've traveled a long way, go and rest."

The sable-haired servant, Guo Huai, bowed and said, "The outside of the palace is not like the inner palace. There are many people today, so this servant will serve the Empress Dowager with Eunuch Feng."

"Very well."

The Empress Dowager walked around the Buddhist hall and nodded, saying, "Using the temple's rooms, I was afraid I might have neglected the Bodhisattva. You knew to use brocade curtains to separate them, which is a very good arrangement."

Feng Deming said, "It's all thanks to your guidance, Master. This servant is just doing his job diligently."

The Empress Dowager sat down on the brocade couch, and Feng Deming knelt down and gently massaged her legs. A palace maid served fragrant tea, which the Empress Dowager took a small sip of before asking, "Where is the Emperor?"

Guo Huai replied, "His Majesty was originally going to come, but he was preoccupied with court affairs and could not attend."

The Empress Dowager sighed, "The Dragon Flower Gathering is none of his business. It would be inappropriate for His Majesty to come if the monks were to pay homage to

the Emperor." Several palace maids brought a golden basin and helped the Empress Dowager wash her face, then served her some tea and fruit. Guo Huai said, "The Empress Dowager and the imperial concubines from various palaces have all come to pay their respects to the Grand Empress Dowager." The Empress Dowager

nodded slightly, "Come in."

A short while later, a noblewoman in magnificent robes entered, surrounded by palace maids, and bowed to the Grand Empress Dowager, saying, "Your Majesty, have you had a pleasant journey?"

"It's alright. Rise."

The Empress Dowager instructed, "Prepare a seat for the Empress Dowager."

Cheng Zongyang crouched behind the lamp stand in the caisson ceiling, carefully observing the Empress Dowager. The Empress Dowager was in her forties, more than ten years older than Mengniang. She had a fair complexion, arched eyebrows, and a faint smile on her lips. She sat obediently beside the Empress Dowager, though both were dressed in formal attire, she appeared much more frail than the Empress Dowager beside her.

One after another, noblewomen from the palace entered, paying their respects to the Empress Dowager and the Empress Dowager. With so many elegantly dressed women entering at once, Cheng Zongyang was dazzled and could hardly distinguish them.

Finally, after the greetings were finished, the Empress Dowager also rose to take her leave, and the Guanyin Hall finally quieted down. Cheng Zongyang, however, became increasingly confused.

Xie Yi had once said that Yue Niaoren had an affair with the Empress Dowager of Song. Si Mingxin and Lu Jing even stormed the Song palace to interrogate her about the whereabouts of Yue Niaoren's orphaned daughter, but the Empress Dowager only wept and remained silent. Although the Empress Dowager was now older, she still retained her charm and must have been a stunning beauty in her youth. Her demeanor matched Xie Yi's description; she was clearly a weak and gentle woman, which explained why Yue Niaoren had kept her for so many years.

Looking at the attitudes of the Grand Empress Dowager and the other concubines, this Empress Dowager was definitely the real deal—but if she was real, what about Mengniang in his hands? Could she really be the Song Emperor's wet nurse? Why would Hei Mo Hai go to such lengths to snatch a nanny? Besides, with Mengniang's beauty and talent, this wet nurse was far superior to any concubine.

Just as he hesitated, two large sable-clad maids helped the Grand Empress Dowager up, smiling and speaking obsequiously. Suddenly, Guo Huai on the left raised his hand and attacked the caisson ceiling with a claw. Despite being two zhang above, Cheng Zongyang felt his body suddenly sink, as if he had fallen into a trap. The lamp stand beneath him silently shattered, sinking into the eunuch's claw.

Cheng Zongyang hadn't expected the eunuch to attack so suddenly. He quickly took a deep breath and swung his coral dagger from under his elbow, aiming for Guo Huai's claw.

Touching the chilling aura of the coral dagger, Guo Huai's expression changed slightly. Then, his claw suddenly extended several inches, narrowly avoiding the dagger's edge, and grabbed Cheng Zongyang's wrist.

Cheng Zongyang's face was also camouflaged. He remained silent, twisting his hand holding the dagger fiercely, unleashing a torrent of internal energy towards the large sable's thumb.

A subtle change occurred in Guo Huai's thumb, completely neutralizing Cheng Zongyang's attack, while his fingers remained firmly gripping his wrist.

Cheng Zongyang inwardly cursed his bad luck. He had long heard the legends that powerful figures often lurked in such haunted places as the imperial palace, and he never expected to actually encounter one. The strength of this dead eunuch before him was probably no less than Xie Yi's.

To conceal his identity or to save his life? There was no need for hesitation in this choice. Cheng Zongyang gathered his true energy, his dantian's energy wheel spun rapidly, and he activated the Nine Yang Divine Skill at full power.

Just then, a hand appeared like a ghost below his abdomen, shattering his dantian with a single blow. Before the Nine Yang Divine Skill could even be fully formed

, it was extinguished by Feng Deming's palm strike. With two powerful eunuchs attacking together, even Si Mingxin and Lu Jing would have to avoid their sharp edge. Cheng Zongyang, this newly promoted expert, was no match for them. Before he could even unleash his trump card, he was cleanly and swiftly subdued by the two working together.

From Guo Huai's attack to the suppression of his dantian, the exchange between the two was as fleeting as lightning. Feng Deming shattered Cheng Zongyang's Qi Sea, then knelt before the Empress Dowager and said, "This servant deserves to die!"

Suddenly, a strange-looking, large person appeared above their heads, causing the surrounding palace maids to pale. The Empress Dowager calmly smoothed her temples, "Where did this thief come from? Dressed in such colorful clothes."

Guo Huai acted swiftly, striking several of Cheng Zongyang's acupoints in succession, while shouting in a hoarse voice, "Hand him over to the Imperial City Guard; they'll interrogate him in less than two hours."

Feng Deming glanced at him gratefully. Although the two had often vied for power, Guo Huai's favor at this crucial moment was invaluable. The appearance of an assassin in the temple meant he, as the newly appointed Imperial City Guard Commissioner, was implicated. Now, Guo Huai's suggestion to hand the assassin over to the Imperial City Guard gave him a chance to redeem himself.

Guo Huai said expressionlessly, "This thief does have some skill; no wonder he dared to assassinate me. Xiao Dezi, be careful."

"Da Diao Dang is right,"

Feng Deming said, "Let's cripple his martial arts first before making any further plans."

Cheng Zongyang, however, didn't hear their conversation. Just as the Empress Dowager raised her hand to adjust her hair, his eyes were fixed on her wrist.

Although the Empress Dowager was over sixty, she was well-maintained, and her skin was still fair. In the instant she raised her hand to adjust her hair, an ornament was revealed on her wrist—not a jade bracelet or gold bracelet, but a silver-white metal chain. Embedded in the chain was a small disc, covered by a transparent solid. With Cheng Zongyang's current eyesight, even from a distance of several feet, he could clearly see a crown-shaped symbol inside the disc.

Just as Feng Deming was about to cripple his cultivation, Cheng Zongyang awoke with a start, letting out an incredulous shout, "Damn! Rolex!"

Guo Huai and Feng Deming seemed oblivious, one restraining his acupoints, the other grabbing the back of his neck, rapidly gathering their power to shatter his meridians and destroy his dantian.

The Empress Dowager's expression changed drastically, and she shouted sharply, "Stop! Release him!"

The two large sable-haired servants stopped and released Cheng Zongyang without hesitation, then stepped back.

The Empress Dowager's phoenix eyes were fixed on the astonished young man when suddenly someone outside the hall announced, "The hour of Chen has arrived! The monks and nuns respectfully request Your Majesty to pay homage to the pagoda!"

The Empress Dowager lowered her sleeves and said coldly, "Little Guo, Little De, you two take this scoundrel to the palace. I will interrogate him personally. If he sheds a single hair, you two may commit suicide."

With that, she turned and left.

Two high-ranking eunuchs kowtowed to her retreating figure, saying, "Your servants respectfully obey the Empress Dowager's decree."

Feng Deming, expressionless, undressed Cheng Zongyang, meticulously examining him from head to toe, removing his backpack, dagger, and even the belt hook, searching them thoroughly.

As his cold hands touched his body, Cheng Zongyang's hair stood on end, and he could almost hear the lewd laughter of the dead eunuchs, "Young man, quite robust."

But Feng Deming didn't utter a word, examining him from head to toe as if he were already dead.

Just as Cheng Zongyang was about to breathe a sigh of relief after the bastard finished, another high-ranking eunuch, Guo Huai, began the examination. This bastard was even more meticulous, not only untying his hair and carefully combing it with a silver comb, but also thoroughly checking his most vital parts. Having his manhood touched by two dead eunuchs in succession, Cheng Zongyang's expression twisted to the extreme; he almost contemplated castration.

The two women carefully arranged Cheng Zongyang's camouflage uniform, boots, socks, backpack, and dagger, then brought him a new set of clothes. To prevent him from hiding anything, they even changed his boots and socks. Next, they emptied a trunk, laid out a brocade cushion, and placed Cheng Zongyang inside.

Most of the palace maids had gone with the Empress Dowager to worship Buddha; the remaining maids remained indifferent, their eyes fixed straight ahead.

The two high-ranking maids checked again to ensure nothing was missing. Guo Huai flicked his finger under Cheng Zongyang's neck, and Cheng Zongyang's vision went black; he then fell asleep.

Cheng Zongyang seemed to have a long dream. When he finally opened his eyes, it was pitch black, as if he were in a cave. He paused, then realized he was still in the trunk. His experiences at the Buddha Bathing Festival at Mingqing Temple rose from the depths of his mind, one by one.

When Cheng Zongyang first heard that Si Mingxin and Lu Jing had broken into the palace as easily as if it were their home, he subconsciously underestimated the strength of the Song Dynasty's palace, which is why he dared to hide alone in the Guanyin Hall. But what Huanju and Yuncan could do so easily didn't mean he could do it too. The result of underestimating the Song Dynasty's experts was that he was groped by two dead eunuchs. If he managed to get out alive, he would absolutely keep this a secret and never tell anyone.

Cheng Zongyang recalled the dead eunuchs' attack. Their techniques weren't particularly extraordinary. He hadn't even been able to use any decent moves before being subdued, entirely due to being caught off guard and the difference in strength. Otherwise, if he and Qin Han could put up a fight, how could he not withstand a few moves from these two eunuchs? Speaking of which, the Song Dynasty was truly a strange place. Both were important officials in the court, deep within the palace. The powerful ministers of the Jin Kingdom's Xie family could be considered pillars of the court, but the palace eunuchs were far inferior, completely controlled by Gu Mingyin. In the Song Dynasty, it was the complete opposite: powerful ministers were all cunning, and eunuchs were all ruthless. If it had been Qin Han who made the move, he might already be in the same boat as the little fox, needing to eat a Red Sun Sacred Fruit to replenish his strength after finding it…

Was this some kind of conservation law of talent? Could he rely on the court's civil and military officials, or was he left only with the eunuch?

Lost in these thoughts, a soft "click" sounded, and the box lid opened. A pair of hands helped him out.

Feng Deming's face remained expressionless. He checked Cheng Zongyang thoroughly, making sure there was no further threat, before taking his arm and leading him into the inner palace.

Before him was a vast palace, two tall bronze censers emitting fragrant smoke, and the dark floor tiles gleaming as if soaked in oil, reflecting the dim sunlight outside.

Layers of light gauze hung inside, and several crowned palace maids moved silently through the hall. The layers of curtains gave the illusion that the palace was endless.

Finally, passing through a crystal curtain, a magnificent pavilion appeared before them. Feng Deming pressed his palm down, and Cheng Zongyang's knees buckled, causing him to kneel involuntarily.

A moment later, the old eunuch who had grabbed him carefully helped a noblewoman in. The

Empress Dowager, who had removed her phoenix crown, sat on the couch, looked Cheng Zongyang up and down, and then ordered, "You may leave."

The two eunuchs silently withdrew, leaving only the Empress Dowager and Cheng Zongyang in the pavilion.

The Empress Dowager absentmindedly picked up a teacup, and after a while asked, "Where are you from?"

The two eunuchs had used some kind of technique; he could speak and move, but he couldn't muster any internal energy. Although the two eunuchs had retreated, they remained outside the pavilion. If he tried to attack the Empress Dowager because he was a strong man, he was guaranteed to be beaten up by the two eunuchs the moment he made a move.

"Circumstances dictate actions," Cheng Zongyang said with a kind smile. "Your Majesty, I am from Panjiang."

"Panjiang? Is it far?"

Cheng Zongyang answered honestly, "It is very far."

"What is your surname? What is your name?" "

My surname is Cheng, Cheng Zongyang."

"What do you do?"

"I am a businessman."

The Empress Dowager was silent for a moment, then said, "Do you recognize this?"

She took the watch off her wrist and held it out to Cheng Zongyang.

It was a women's Rolex, and although it was quite old, the silver-white metal strap still gleamed. The dial was deep blue, surrounded by a ring of delicate rhinestones. The engravings on the dial were crystal-like Roman numerals, and at the top was a gleaming golden crown logo, paired with a crystal-clear glass case back—it looked exquisite. Cheng Zongyang recognized it at a glance: it was a fake sold at a street stall; you could buy several for a few hundred yuan!

Cheng Zongyang swallowed hard. "This is a watch."

"Have you seen it before?"

Cheng Zongyang asked cautiously. "I've seen it before..."

"Where did you see it?"

Cheng Zongyang forced a smile. "I used to have one too, but I can't find it now."

"You said it's called something like Rolex?"

"...Rolex."

The noblewoman smiled slightly, put the watch back on her wrist, took a sip of tea, and suddenly asked, "Are you his son?"

Cheng Zongyang stared at the Empress Dowager in astonishment.

The Empress Dowager covered her mouth and chuckled, then waved her hand. "I was just asking casually, you don't have to answer me. He said that men don't like women asking too many questions." Although

she was already past her prime, her smile made her seem more than ten years younger, her eyes still radiating former beauty.

The Empress Dowager put down her teacup and smiled, "Do you know who gave me this watch?"

Cheng Zongyang steeled his resolve. "Marshal Yue?"

The Empress Dowager sighed softly, "Yes."

She gently stroked the watch strap, a look of reminiscence in her eyes, and said softly, "He said there was only one of these watches, and only I in the world deserved it..."

Cheng Zongyang tried his best to suppress his distorted expression, feeling as if a thousand mythical beasts and alpacas were roaring through his mind: You shameless, stinking watch dealer, you've fooled him for over ten years with a counterfeit!

The Empress Dowager seemed lost in memories, chuckling softly, "His words were always so sweet, a few words were enough to make people happy, willing to give their lives for him... That day he gave me this watch, and for two whole days he stayed in this elegant chamber, not even leaving the door..."

She turned her phoenix eyes slightly, looking at Cheng Zongyang, and said, "You know?"

Cheng Zongyang chuckled dryly, "So... so General Yue and Your Majesty had an affair."

The Empress Dowager laughed, then her eyes flickered, revealing a hint of coquettishness, "It wasn't an affair at all. Back then he was the master of this harem, and we were all his concubines. As soon as he entered the palace, he would come to the hall to favor me. Sometimes, when he was in a good mood, he would even call Consort Jia and the others over to share a bed with me."

Cheng Zongyang was dumbfounded, but the Empress Dowager... Seemingly unconcerned, she smiled and said, "Back then, I was still the Empress Dowager, and Consort Jia and Consort Wei were the most favored concubines. We used this watch to time who would become Empress. I remember Consort Wei was two minutes faster than Consort Jia, and that's how she was chosen."

She sighed softly, "Those were the happiest days of my life. Who knew… the flowers hadn't even faded before he was gone… more than ten years have passed in the blink of an eye."

Cheng Zongyang tentatively asked, "Didn't he come back to see you?"

The Empress Dowager shook her head. "He didn't say anything when he left. Now that so many years have passed, I suppose… he's no longer in this world."

Cheng Zongyang's heart trembled slightly. Yue Niaoren's whereabouts remained a mystery. Neither Xingyue Lake, the Black Demon Sea, nor the Imperial City Guard had any concrete information about it. As Yue Niaoren's former bedmate, did this Empress Dowager have some kind of evidence?

Cheng Zongyang asked cautiously, "Really?"

"He said this watch was his heart, the second hand his heartbeat, beating on my wrist day and night, never stopping."

The Empress Dowager raised her wrist. "But a little over a month after he left, the watch stopped, never moving again."

Looking at the Empress Dowager's sorrowful eyes, Cheng Zongyang's face darkened. A stopped watch meant the person was dead?

It must have run out of power!

For a moment, neither of them spoke, and the pavilion fell into an eerie silence. The Empress Dowager looked utterly desolate, while Cheng Zongyang wore a forced smile, his mind racing, a thousand words condensing into one: Damn it! The Empress Dowager

took a sip of her now-cold tea, a hint of lingering affection and melancholy in her eyes. After a long while, she smiled slightly, "What kind of business do you run?"

"I...I run a paper money printing business..."

"Oh? You're the newly appointed head of the Imperial Paper Money Bureau?"

The Empress Dowager suddenly realized. "No wonder your name sounded familiar. A few days ago, the Emperor mentioned that the Jia family's son wanted to print paper money, and I was a little suspicious. A-Ju also mentioned the paper money. I was wondering who came up with the idea, and it really was you."

Hiding in the Empress Dowager's quarters with the intention of assassinating her—this crime alone would be enough to warrant two days of torture. His only chance of survival was his shameless father-in-law. It seemed the Empress Dowager and he not only had a secret affair, but she still remembered their past relationship. However, the moment he mentioned "Rolex," the Empress Dowager immediately changed her mind. Once in the palace, she even confided in him about matters of public dignity without hesitation. This openness filled Cheng Zongyang with unease: wouldn't she kill him to silence him after she finished speaking?

Cheng Zongyang, all smiles, said loudly, "The Empress Dowager is extremely discerning! Nothing can escape Your Majesty's keen eyes!"

The Empress Dowager smiled, but before she could speak, someone outside said, "What discerning eye? What is there to hide from Your Majesty?"

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