“……”

  He bowed his head and carefully measured her for a while, Lu Jinghang was so angry that he wanted to slap her on the forehead: "How is it you!"

  Hua Yu was very innocent: "Isnt it just right? You dont have to bother me, nor do you have to bother him..."

  "Why didnt you speak up earlier?" He gritted his teeth, "Waiting for me to make a fool of myself?"

  "Its not that its not." Huai Yu waved her hand, "Im just doing my duty as a maid, Your Highness is talking to you, I shouldnt interrupt!"

  Still so square? When will Li Huaiyu take rules seriously, he cant even write the three words "Lu Jing Xing" in reverse!

  Lu Jinghang fanned himself with a fan and asked irritably, "What are you looking for Bai Suo for? Hes busy lately."

  Jiang Xuanjin said: "The selection of officials has already passed, what is he still busy with?"

  "Even if the selection is over, its still busy... How did you know he went to participate in the selection?" Lu Jinghang was stunned, with a surprised expression looking at him, and then his eyes became a bit flustered, his pupils moving around, "Although Bai Xue was the former leader of Fei Yun Palace, he has no obvious crimes on his body, nor is he wanted by the imperial court. In theory, he should be eligible to participate."

  This set of facial expressions changed smoothly and naturally, the expression was so real that Hua Yu secretly gave him a big thumbs up on the side.

  Jiang Xuanjin said slowly and calmly: "I didnt come here to ask for punishment."

  If you really want to ask for punishment, you wouldnt bring a "maidservant" and come to the Lu mansion in person.

  Lu Jinghang hesitated for a moment, fanning himself with his fan, and after thinking for a long time, he finally said, "Please come in."

  Jiang Xuanjin nodded, and followed him inside. Unintentionally, he glanced sideways and saw that the person beside him had a familiar expression, as if he had been there thousands of times before.

  Noticing his gaze, Huai Yu turned her head: "Whats wrong?"

  "Not really." He withdrew his gaze and continued looking ahead, expressionlessly stepping into the flower hall.

  Bai Hei arrived in no time and stood in the flower hall, looking at Jiang Xuanjin with a wary gaze: "What does your excellency want to see me for?"

  "Are you still answering questions smoothly?"

  "How did you suddenly ask this?" Bai Xis face was bewildered, then furrowed his brow and said: "The question isnt difficult, the answer shouldnt be considered bad, but... I dont remember if Ive ever left a seal impression either."

  Hua Yu stood quietly beside him and saw Jiang Xuanjins expression move slightly, stretching out his hand to her: "Hand it over."

  She hastily handed over the scroll from her sleeve.

  "Is this written by you?"

  After taking it over and examining it carefully, Bai Ji said: "Yes, this is indeed what I wrote..."

  "Is this really written by you?" Huai Yus face was full of surprise. "But this seal is that of Second Master Jiang!"

  Bai Xi listened and hastily turned to the end of the scroll. Upon seeing the seal, he furrowed his brow: "Whats going on? How could it be like this?"

  Jiang Xuanjins expression turned solemn: "You answered correctly that day, why did you forget to leave your seal?"

  "At that time, I was in a rush and didnt have enough time to finish writing, I dont even remember if I signed my name or not." Bai Jians face was sincere, "But this paper is really written by me, how could it become Jiang Er Gongzis? We werent even in the same courtyard for the exam."

  The poor and the wealthy are different, poor students have no family background, after paying silver they will be in a large miscellaneous courtyard for reference. The disciples of the wealthy family, the imperial historian will send the list to the emperor for review before their reference, the location of the imperial examination is in the Zhongwen Academy. The two places are far apart.

  Jiang Xuanjin said: "The scrolls were all reviewed in the Palm Scripture Hall."

  Its also possible that the two piles of papers were mixed up during the review.

  "Could it be that the scroll was taken by someone else?!" Bai He said with some indignation, "If His Majesty hadnt brought it back, I would still be in the dark."

  Indeed, if Jiang Shen didnt say anything, no one would have known that the answer sheet was written by Bai Xue. Once the results were announced, what should have been Bai Xues top honors silently became Jiang Shens instead.

  "This is quite a coincidence." Li Huaiyu muttered in a low voice, "The scrolls got mixed up, and to make matters worse, an impression was left behind."

  "Can it still be said to be clever?" Lu Jinghang lightly hummed, "Obviously someone deliberately did this, bullying the children of a humble family who dont know the situation, taking good scrolls to give to the noble families to seek fame and fortune. This kind of thing isnt happening for the first time."

  "Has it happened before?"

  "Dont you know?" Lu Jingxing sneered, "What kind of character was the first place winner from the Zhang family two years ago? A spoiled brat with not a single drop of ink in his belly, how could he have written such an excellent article and received praise from the imperial court? Do you really think that thing was written by him?"

  "Thats just your conjecture." Jiang Xuanjin raised his eyes and looked at him, "Do you have any evidence?"

  "With evidence, how could Liang Suxian be so free for so many years?" Lu Jinghang shook his head. "Its something that everyone knows but cant bring up, after all, the scrolls are in the hands of those people from the Palm Scripture Institute, and no one can see them."

  This is true, even if Ziyang Jun went, he couldnt see the complete three-volume scroll.

  Bai Qi said angrily: "What can I do now? Go to the government office to beat the drum and cry injustice?"

  "No." Hua Yu shook her head. "Youre wronged, others thought the one who swapped your test paper was Jiang Er Gongzi, but it wasnt him, hes even angrier than you."

  He slept soundly, thinking he had finally escaped the deep Jiang Shens entry into officialdom, but inexplicably became the leader, and he must also want to beat the drum and cry injustice.

  Jiang Xuanjin stood up and slightly nodded his head towards Bai Xi: "This matter will be settled by me, please wait for two days."

  "Very well." Bai Qi cupped his hands together in respect, "I await your good news."

  Everything went smoothly, Li Huaiyu looked at Jiang Xuanjins profile and let out a soft breath.

  The two left Lus residence, and Jiang Xuanjin walked with his eyes half-lowered all the way, looking as if he had a lot on his mind.

  Hua Yu gently hooked his hand and asked in a soft voice: "What are you thinking about?"

  "Liáng Sī Xián is a man," said Jiāng Xuán Jǐn, "with great talent and learning, its hard to believe he would do something like abuse his power for personal gain."

  Haha, Hua Yu smiled and said: "Your second brother is also talented and knowledgeable, writing poems about longing that are as deep as the ocean, loyal and faithful. But do you think hes a romantic?"

  The analogy was so vivid that Jiang Xuanjin was convinced: "We must investigate thoroughly."

  "Good job." Huai Yu reached out and pinched his arm, lowering her eyes to cover up the hint of guilt in them.

  Jiang Xuanjin didnt look at her, only muttering in a low voice: "This Mr. Liang had quite a history with Danyang before."

  "How come everyone has a grudge against Danyang?" Li Huaiyu said casually, "Has she done many wrong things and offended everyone?"

  Mistakes? Indeed, Ive made many, but some things that were considered wrong in the past, now seem to have their own logic. Its just that her logic isnt tolerated by the law, and will ultimately be shackled.

  Recalling the brilliant shadow like a sunset at Fei Yun Palace, Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brow and suddenly felt a bit heavy in his heart.

  "Stop thinking about her!" Huai Yu laughed and pulled him forward, "Hurry back to find your second brother, if this matter is delayed any further, who knows what complications will arise."

  The list is about to be released, Jiang Xuanjin came back to his senses and didnt dare to delay any longer. He returned to the Jiang Mansion and had Jiang Shen find the seal, but it was nowhere to be found. Then he had Cheng Xu search the Palm Scripture Institute at night.

  The seal was actually found on Liang Sichengs desk in the Palm Scripture Hall.

  The next day, Jiang Xuanjin led Jiang Shen to the imperial court and reported the situation to the emperor, requesting a thorough investigation.

  Li Huaiyu, dressed in a maids attire, followed Jiang Xuanjin to the Zhāng Wén Yuàn (Palace of Literary Splendor) and saw that the sky was filled with xuan paper. Liang Sixian was being dragged by someone, looking very disheveled, and shouted towards them: "Your Majesty, this official is innocent!"

  Jiang Xuanjin saw that he was in a state of desperation, and his heart softened slightly. He even wondered if these people were being too brutal? Hadnt they verified the facts yet, how could they treat an imperial official like this?

  However, when Xu Wan opened the court to verify it among the Kyoto students, looking at those who knelt down and shouted grievances, acknowledging that they had cheated on their papers, Jiang Xuanjin withdrew his sympathetic heart with a dark face.

  Not only Jiang Shen and Bai Xi, but also three people from humble families had their papers replaced, and the ones who got stamped even had their stamps cut off and re-stamped with someone elses name.

  Li Huaiyu was amazed: "Its really a hand covering the sky!"

  Jiang Xuanjin didnt feel too good and turned his head to ask her: "Am I too easy to believe in others?"

  Hua Yu was taken aback and blinked her eyes, saying: "Why say this?"

  With a tired expression, he wrapped his arms around her waist and held her in a reverse hug, resting his chin on the top of her head. Jiang Xuanjin sighed: "Lei Fengxing is like this, and so is Liang Sixian. I thought they were good people, but it turns out theyve been hiding such filthy things behind my back."

  Huai Yu patted the hand that was clasped in front of his waist and said, "Peoples hearts are hidden behind their bellies, you cant judge a person entirely by appearances. Some people pretend to be gentlemen but are actually sinister and treacherous. And some... may look like theyre guilty of ten evils, but she might be someone who is wholeheartedly devoted to the country."

  She paused for a moment and then smiled: "Of course, someone like me who is true to myself, if I say I like you, it means I really like you, both on the surface and in my heart!"

  With a grunt, Jiang Xuanjin lifted her into the carriage, his eyes dull and still looking very displeased.

  So Li Huaiyu coaxed him in various ways: "Lets not hurry back to the mansion, let the coachman drive around?"

  He gently rubbed her waist with his hand, and softly murmured "hmm" as he pulled her onto his lap, half-closing his eyes to gaze at her. Her long eyelashes fluttered lightly, and her dark, rich eyes hid beneath, deep and captivating.

  Hua Yu couldnt help but kiss him on the eyes with a "smack".

  Jiang Xuanjin was slightly annoyed: "What are you doing?"

  With a sly smile, she touched his face and said, "Dont you understand what Im doing? Lets try again!"

  As she spoke, she pulled down his collar and kissed him on the face.

  The horse carriage moved slowly, swaying back and forth, with the sounds of passing pedestrians conversations outside. Jiang Xuanjin felt this was very presumptuous, but the person in his arms didnt care, even kissing him, not to mention putting their hand on his back, tracing his spine segment by segment.

  "Move again and Ill throw you down!" he threatened menacingly.

  Hua Yu raised an eyebrow, her eyes full of playful teasing: "You dare to throw it, Ill dare to loudly shout Zi Yang Jun is being unchivalrous!"

  Jiang Xuanjin was taken aback and reined in his horse, intending to put her aside.

  "You dare to push me away, Ill also shout indecent!" Huai Yu laughed with great satisfaction, saying this while reaching out to pull his waistband.

  "He...” realized what she wanted to do, and he was somewhat shocked. This was still on the street, and between the swaying carriage curtains, you could still vaguely see the shadows of people outside. But the person in his arms seemed fearless, opening his outer robe, stretching out his hand to tightly hug him, with the corners of his mouth raised high, bringing warm breath to his throat.

  "Bai Zhu Ji." He gritted his teeth and said seriously, "You cant mess around here!"

  Originally, I only wanted to tease him a bit, but upon hearing this, Huai Yu raised an eyebrow in displeasure: "Do you know that some people are naturally contrarian? The more you dont let her do something, the more shell want to do it."

  Saying so, she lightly bit his chin and said loudly: "Im that kind of person!"

  Jiang Xuanjin was furious and wanted to push her away, but this person really had no shame, turning her head and shouting towards the outside of the car: "Ziyang..."

  The people on the street immediately looked curiously in the direction of the horse carriage.

  Her face flushed, Jiang Xuanjin hastily covered her mouth and pulled her back into his arms, letting her continue to take advantage of him.

  "Dont make a sound." She smiled slyly, reached into his clothes, and touched his firm and flat abdomen, as if counting the texture of his muscles, back and forth, without stopping.

  "Dont be too excessive." He said in a hoarse voice, his words spat out against her ear.

  "Remember that night in Yuanfangs house? Huaiyu was indignant: Who was more excessive, after all? I begged you so much back then, but you didnt let me off the hook either!"

  This is shameless……can it be the same as in the room? Jiang Xuanjins body was tense, feeling the temperature of her fingertips, and his eyes glanced at the car curtain that occasionally lifted up, as if he was about to burn up.

  She was delighted, lowered her head and gently kissed him, her hands continuing to move down.

  The driver was driving when he suddenly heard a dull hum in the carriage.

  "Master?" he hastily asked, "Whats wrong with you?"

  "Ah, never mind, the master bumped his head." The master didnt respond, but instead, the wifes voice came from behind the carriage curtain, "Continue driving, go to the outskirts of town."

  Suburbs? Cheng Xu was very puzzled, but still followed orders.

  "Huai Yu turned her head, looking at the person in front of her who was biting his own shoulder, and whispered in his ear with a sly tone: You have to be careful, Chong Xues ears are sharp, you cant make any noise or hell notice."

  As he spoke, his hands continued to tease him without stopping, and even became more reckless and bold.

  Jiang Xuanjins eyes had already turned murderous, his hands tightly grasping her waist, he took a light breath and leaned his head against the car wall, his normally calm face was occupied by a fierce color, his eyes were angry and struggling.

  What a beautiful view...

  Li Huaiyu swallowed her saliva, thinking that if Jiang Xuanjin hadnt been favored by the previous emperor and granted the title of Purple Yang Duke earlier, she would have definitely taken him back to Feiyun Palace as a concubine when they first met.

  Unfortunately, Jiang Xuanjin didnt have a good impression of Danyang, only Bai Zhenyi could tease him.

  "Jiang Jing" whispered hot air in his ear, Hua Yu called him while teasing his body, the evil smile on his face was exactly like a bandit from the mountains.

  Jiang Xuanjin was teased by her until he was powerless to defend himself, his body really uncomfortable, and he couldnt help but open his mouth and continue biting her shoulder, humming softly.

  The cyan-colored brocade changshan was tangled with the light orange-colored maids clothes, looking quite good.

  It was already late, and by the time the carriage slowly arrived at the outskirts of town, the moon had already risen. As soon as the carriage stopped, Li Huaiyu lifted the curtain and stuck out his head, saying to Cheng Xu: "Go find some spring water, your master is thirsty."

  "Yes." Without suspecting anything else, Cheng very honestly left.

  Hua Yu smiled and turned back, gently stroking Jiang Xuanjins back, softly coaxing him: "No one is here, no one is here, dont be angry."

  Her face still flushed, Jiang Xuanjin glared at her fiercely: "You really are..."

  "Im reckless and lawless, I dont understand the rules, I do whatever I want!" Huai Yu was very honest in recognizing his own mistakes, then reached out to help him put on his outer robe, "But youre in a better mood now."

  Jiang Xuanjin was taken aback, frowning as he looked at her.

  So youre teasing him because he was in a bad mood just now? Jiang Xuanjins anger turned to laughter: "You think Ill believe you if you say that?"

  "Believe it or not!" She curled her lip, with a rogue-like expression.

  Jiang Xuánjǐn: “……”

  He came back with a humble attitude and handed over the water jug: "Master."

  He lifted the car curtain, Jiang Xuanjin pinched a water bottle with one hand and pinched Li Huaiyu with the other, lifting her to the side of the road. He said irritably, "Stretch out your hand."

  Hua Yu cleverly did as she was told, washing her hands with the water he had poured out, muttering to herself as she washed: "You have a cleanliness habit, and youre even controlling me?"

  "Huh?"

  "This laundry, indeed this laundry!" Huai Yu rubbed her hands seriously.

  Cheng Xiao was taken aback by what he saw behind him, wasnt it said that you were thirsty? How did you end up washing your hands again?

  The moonlight in the suburbs is intoxicating, and Huaiyu lazily leans against Jiang Xuanjins chest, yawning: "I dont want to go back, its better to rest here."

  He shot her a glance, Jiang Xuanjin shook his head: "Impossible."

  This place is all grass and trees, where can people live?

  "I also know its impossible, just saying it casually. The carriage is too stuffy." She muttered a couple of sentences and then got up to climb onto the carriage shaft.

  However, as soon as I stood up, someone pulled my hand.

  Jiang Xuanjin stood by the side of the carriage, pulled her hand and turned over, pulling her down and carrying her on his back.

  Li Huaiyu: "What?!!"

  "I also feel a bit stifled." He said coldly, reached out and hooked her leg back, turned around and walked back.

  Hua Yu was stunned, and Cheng Xu behind him was also stunned. What does this mean? Are they going to carry people back? But walking back to the main city from here would take at least half a time, let alone he was carrying someone on his back.

  Jiang Xuanjins broad back was warm and reassuring, making people feel at ease. Huai Yu was surprised for a moment before relaxing, casually placing her hand on his shoulder, swaying gently with his steps.

  "Youre so cute." She smiled.

  Jiang Xuanjin looked ahead with an expressionless face: "What words should be used to praise a man, go back and I will teach you well."

  "Dont teach me, even if you did, I think youre lovely." She laughed even harder, "Im good to you once, and you have to be good to me once, not even a bit less?"

  He didnt make a sound, his hand hooked around her knee, his back straight.

  Actually, the person on his back would feel very uncomfortable in this posture, but Li Huaiyu was delighted, shaking his head and looking at the moon in the sky, with the scent of sandalwood from the mans body lingering in his nostrils.

  "If youre tired of carrying me on your back, just put me down and follow from behind."

  "Uh-huh."

  She should have responded, but didnt, Jiang Xuanjin carried her on his back and walked slowly. It was indeed a round trip, and by the time they were almost at the Jiang residence, the person on his back had fallen asleep. He gazed from afar at the signboard of the Jiang residence, smiled slightly, and his ink-colored pupils were filled with the moonlight that had shone down on them along the way.

  He stood behind, watching in vain, and couldnt say a word.

  Liang Suxian was detained for trial, and the matter of selecting officials slowly came to light, causing an uproar among the people. The imperial court was in an even greater commotion, and the emperor ordered a thorough investigation into the Imperial Academy of Letters. It seemed that the capital city had become lively once again.

  Jiang Xuanjin had not attended court for two days, and was sitting in his study calmly copying Buddhist scriptures. Any high-ranking official who came to visit him was shut out.

  Hua Yu knocked on the melon seeds and curiously asked him: "You dont see anyone like this, arent you afraid of missing something important?"

  Jiang Xuanjin said without raising his head: "The person who comes to visit at this critical juncture must not be thinking of discussing right and wrong, but rather the balance of factions. If he doesnt see it, then so be it."

  Its actually quite transparent. Hua Yu smiled and thought to herself, that in the imperial court for eight years, not being involved in factional struggles and still standing upright, might be only him alone.

  Just then, Cheng rushed in with a terrified look on his face: "Master, theres an honored guest!"

  Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brow: "Didnt I say no one is allowed to see him?"

  "But this person... cant be unseen!" Chongxu shook his head repeatedly.

  Jiang Xuanjin paused, put down his pen and looked up to see a man dressed in dark yellow casual clothes standing outside, accompanied by only one guard.

  His complexion changed slightly, he stepped forward and welcomed the person in.

  "What nonsense are you talking about again?"

  Li Huailian looked at him with a worried and bitter face, saying: "I really cant make up my mind, the emperor doesnt enter the palace, they dont let me ask you for your opinion on everything, so I had to come out to find you."

  Li Huaiyu suddenly stood up from the soft couch.

  Noticing her, Li Huailian smiled slightly: "Is Madam Jun also here?"

  "Give His Majesty a peaceful journey." Huai Yus expression was serious, and he glanced at the people beside him, unable to help but say, "Its really dangerous for you to go on patrol like this."

  "Its not that I dont love my life," Li Huailian said with a bitter smile. "But if you want to bring out a team of guards, you have to report to Zong Zheng first and wait for them to discuss and decide on the route and procession...I think it would be easier this way."

  Its easy to be carefree, but ones life is hard to guarantee! Li Huaiyus face looked very unsightly. Her younger brother was being overly protected by her. Did he really think that being an emperor meant he could wander around the streets at will? There were many people who wanted to take his life, and if others saw him, wouldnt they pounce on him like hungry wolves on a sheep?

  Xin followed suit, looked around quietly and whispered to Cheng Xu and Yu Feng: "Take good care of the person, prepare to send His Majesty back to the palace later."

  Jiang Xuanjin hadnt even opened his mouth when she snatched the words from him, casting a sidelong glance at him and nodding to indicate that he should follow her lead.

  Li Huailian said in a low voice: "I didnt have any problems on the way here, Your Majesty and Madam dont need to be so tense."

  Huai Yu really wanted to scold him, but now her identity wasnt right, she couldnt speak up. Fortunately, Jiang Xuan followed her train of thought and spoke up for her: "As the master of the country, how can you be so careless?"

  "...You are above anger." Scolded, he forgot that he was the emperor, Li Huailian lowered his head in guilt, "I will certainly pay attention from now on."

  Jiang Xuanjin furrowed his brow and looked at him: "Your Majesty, what brings you here?"

  Recalling the proper matter, Li Huailian raised his head: "Regarding the case of Academician Liang, I think Xu Yan is right. Since it has been investigated that he abused his power for personal gain, he should be severely punished and exiled to a border region. However, Liu Tingwei said that there are still some suspicious aspects to this matter, making me hesitant. As Liu is usually fair-minded, after hearing him say so, I am now somewhat indecisive."

  Jiang Xuanjin said: "Since you think Xu Yan is right, why bother to reason with Liu Yunlies statement?"

  "But he..."

  "What kind of person is Liu Yunlie, and does it have anything to do with the case of Zhang Wenyuan?"

  "No."

  "Since he didnt, he also didnt produce evidence to refute the results of Xus investigation. Why are you hesitating?" Jiang Xuanjin was dissatisfied, "And even daring to venture out of the palace?"

  Li Huailian was so intimidated that he completely lost his domineering air in the imperial court, hanging his head in a pitiful manner. It made Hua Yu feel somewhat unbearable, so she picked up the tea and placed it beside Jiang Xuanjin, interrupting his anger.

  He glanced at her sideways and said coldly to Li Huairou, "Ill send you back to the palace now."

  He came out just to look for a scolding, Li Huaiyu was really crying and laughing, following behind him secretly looking at his own younger brother in front, finding that he seemed to have grown taller again.

  She used to be half a head shorter than him, but now she seems to only reach his shoulder.

  Theres really an indescribable feeling in my heart.

  "What are you looking at?" someone next to her asked in a low voice.

  Li Huaiyu replied softly and honestly: "It depends on Your Majesty."

  Its not his illusion that this person really has a good impression of the emperor. Jiang Xuanjins eyes dimmed slightly, and he said coldly, "Ill send him, so you dont have to go."

  "Me too, I have to go!" Huai Yu grasped his hand tightly and said anxiously, "The more people the better, the more help well get! I also know some Three-legged Cat moves, dont I?"

  The person in front of him didnt look too good: "Kyoto has been chaotic lately, and if something dangerous really happens, youll only be a hindrance."

  Hua Yus face fell, and she couldnt help but shoot a resentful glance at Li Huailin in front of her.

  Jiang Xuanjin led people out of the Moju gate, directly slamming her back inside with a "bang", accompanied by a hint of anger.

  "Whats up?" Li Huailin curiously turned his head to look at him with this action, "Whats wrong?"

  He nodded and signaled to ride ahead and scout out the road, then handed the emperor a cloak.

  Li Huailian put it on resignedly and turned back to see that Juns wife was gone, so he wondered: "Is Jun worried about his wifes safety and not letting her go?"

  "Im just afraid shell cause trouble."

  "Ive recently heard people mention your wife quite often." Li Huailian smiled and said, "The various officials in the imperial court all say that this wife of yours has a very good relationship with you."

  Is he okay? Jiang Xuanjin thought with a cold gaze, usually they were quite good, because this person would often say that he liked him, and the way he looked at him seemed to be true.

  But just now, he caught a glimpse of her looking at the emperor with the same bright and shining eyes, filled with some tenderness, and even more than when she looked at him, there was something indescribable.

  What is this? Its just like receiving a gift from her, he was overjoyed and thought the gift was one of a kind. Who knew that one day when he went out, he found out that the gifts she gave to others were also the same, and some were even better than his.

  So annoying!

  "What did I say wrong?" Feeling the anger emanating from Zi Yang Jun, Li Huailian felt somewhat uneasy.

  Coming back to his senses, Jiang Xuanjin lowered his eyes and said: "Nothing is wrong, Your Majesty, this way please."

  Out of Jiang Fu, outside is also an official road, but this place is quiet and desolate, for a long time, not even two pedestrians can be seen. Cheng Xu Yu Feng and others all looked very serious, Jiang Xuan Jin raised his eyes to take a look, in his heart there was a bad premonition.

  "Slow down," he said, "and have Windy bring out twenty more house slaves."

  "Yes."

  Li Huailian looked around and saw nothing, couldnt help but say: "Sir, arent you being a bit too cautious? How could it be possible here..."

  Before he could finish speaking, two strong gusts of wind "brushed" past his ears and nailed themselves to the ground not far behind him, making a "ding" sound as they entered the stone half an inch deep, causing the arrow shaft to quiver violently.

  Li Huailians pupils contracted and he took a sudden breath of cool air.

  Jiang Xuanjin immediately stepped aside and stood in front of him, raised his eyes to look towards the direction where the arrow was flying, his eyes were sharp: "Protect the Emperor!"

  The wind swept across the official road, and the atmosphere suddenly became tense. Ten dark guards surrounded the emperor, two of whom rushed towards the high wall where the arrow had come from earlier.

  But before they could rush over, several dark arrows shot from another direction, the sound of breaking air was sharp, making people tremble with fear.

  "Withdraw to Jiang Prefecture." Jiang Xuanjin gave a low order.

  The dark guards moved in unison, but would the newcomer let them leave so easily? On their retreat, masked figures approached silently, with knives and swords gleaming in hand.

  Jiang Xuanjins expression turned grave, this place is only half a mile away from the Jiang Mansion. If the Emperor were to be assassinated here, the entire Jiang Mansion would likely be implicated and held accountable. Looking at the demeanor of these people, its clear that they came prepared, and not making a move before the Emperor arrives at the Jiang Mansion means they want to drag him down together, killing two birds with one stone.

  The emperor must not be harmed!

  The blade flashed once, and the group of masked men rushed up. The Jiangfu dark guards met them head-on, while Jiang Xuanjin protected Li Huairou as they charged forward.

  "I was wrong." Watching this scene, Li Huailian gritted his teeth, "Its me who was too careless!"

  "Its useless to say these now." Jiang Xuanjin reached out and grabbed his arm, pulling him away just in time to avoid the blade beside him. "Hurry up!"

  The sound of clashing swords and sabers filled the air, with arrows flying past his ears from time to time. Jiang Xuanjin turned his head to look back, only to see that on top of the high wall opposite him, a dozen or so crossbows had suddenly been mounted.

  "Your Majesty!" He growled and pulled Li Huailian over, shoving him forward.

  "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh——" A flock of arrows arrived from behind.

  "Master!" Cheng Yu was greatly shocked, and he rushed up to block several feathered arrows with all his might. However, it was too late, and four feathered arrows whizzing past him shot out from behind his head.

  Not in time to dodge, Jiang Xuanjin barely managed to stretch out his hand and grab one of them, but at the same time, two other feathered arrows tore open the skin on his back and shoulders, causing him to grunt in pain.

  Whats worse, the last arrow escaped Lán Jié and pierced directly through Li Huai Lins left arm.

  "Long live the king!"

  "Your Majesty!"

  Cries of surprise filled the air, and with a swift kick, he sent the masked man flying. He turned to check on the injuries of the two people, but the gongnu on the wall had already notched another arrow, apparently ready to strike again.

  He didnt have time to think much, he quickly helped Li Huailin up from the ground and rushed towards the front gate of Jiangs mansion. All the hidden guards behind him gave up fighting with the masked man and rushed towards the high wall together.

  Li Huaiyu was squatting at the door sighing, when the Jiang Mansions gate was suddenly opened and Jiang Xuanjin rushed in covered in blood, shouting: "Whos there!"

  Jia Nu was startled by his appearance and hastily stepped forward to listen to orders. Huai Yu looked up, but saw nothing else except the arrow that pierced Li Huai Lins arm.

  "Huilin!" His face turned pale, Huaiyu rushed up and supported him, asking urgently: "Whats going on?"

  Jiang Xuanjin had just ordered the house slaves to go and catch someone, when he turned around and was met with this sentence, and immediately became somewhat stunned.

  The person in front of him rarely showed such a tense expression, his eyebrows were pinched together, and his apricot eyes were full of heartache. He held Li Huailins hand and directly placed it on her shoulder, supporting him entirely.

  “……”

  He opened his mouth, but before he could say anything, the man supported Li Huairou and walked in.

  "Wheres the doctor? Quick, have the doctor from the mansion come to Moju!"

  "Miss......" Ling Xiu looked at Zi Yang Jun at the door with a startled expression, his face somewhat flustered.

  Hua Yu didnt even glance at her, his eyes fixed on the feathered arrow in Li Huai Lins arm, seeing the wound slowly seeping blood, his tone more urgent: "What are you standing there for? Go quickly!"

  Lingxiu hastily lifted her skirt and ran, while Huaiyu supported Li Huailun to the ink house, quickly finding scissors to cut open the fabric around the wound.

  "Your wife..." Li Huailian was in so much pain that he was sweating all over, and with half-open eyes, he looked at her in great surprise, "You..."

  "Dont talk for now." Huai Yu hastily turned around in circles, pinched the feather arrow and first cut off some of the arrow tail, then pinched a handkerchief to wipe away the blood around his wound.

  Her movements were gentle, her eyes urgent, and Li Huailin was stunned for a while, almost subconsciously shouting: "Imperial sister..."

  Li Huaiyu was shocked, her hand clutching the handkerchief suddenly stiffened, and she stared at him in utter disbelief.

  Li Huailian didnt recognize her, but his wound was throbbing painfully, and he felt anxious and fearful. When someone spoke to him like that, he couldnt help but want to throw a tantrum. But when he saw the shocked look in front of him, he smiled again: "Madam Juns gentle appearance is very similar to my imperial sister."

  Rather disheveled, Hua Yuerongs eyes turned red: "Is that so?"

  "Yes, my imperial sister is fierce to everyone, but gentle to me." He smiled brightly, revealing a bit of childishness, his eyes gazing at her in a daze, as if looking through her at someone else.

  Her throat was tight, and Huai Yu couldnt help but reach out her hand to touch his face.

  "Little sister!" Before her hand even made contact, there was a flurry of footsteps from behind. Huai Yu startled awake, withdrew her hand and turned around to see Ling Xiu leading the doctor in, with Old Master Jiang following closely behind.

  The people of Jiangfu were all startled. The old master came up and made a bow to plead guilty. Huaiyu hastily got up and stood aside, first pulling the doctor over.

  "Dont bow yet." Jiang Chong said, helping the old man up with his hand, "Rescuing His Majesty is urgent!"

  The imperial physicians hands trembled slightly as soon as he learned of the patients identity. Huaiyu pressed down on his shoulder and said in a low voice, "It didnt hit any bones, just pierced through skin and flesh, it wont be life-threatening, you just focus on removing the arrow for His Majesty."

  It is.

  Jiang Yan also stood in the crowd, frowning as he looked at Li Huaiyu several times, seeing her staring intently at His Majesty, and couldnt help but move over, gently pulling her.

  "What?" Hua Yu didnt even lift her head.

  Jiang Yan was somewhat annoyed, and he pulled her to one side with force, frowning: "Your Majestys dragon body is indeed worth worrying about, but Xiao Shus injury is even more severe, how can you keep staying here?"

  Jiang Xuanjin was also injured? Huai Yu was shocked, she hadnt seen it at all just now, wasnt he still fine and had even helped Huai Lin back?

  "Where is your little uncle?"

  With a complex expression, Jiang Yan glanced at her and pointed to the guest house beside them.

  Jiang Shen and Xu Chunian were guarding in the guest house, the doctor was pulling out the arrow for Jiang Xuanjin, when Hua Yu entered, she saw bright red blood "plop" splashing onto the floor in front of the bed.

  She took a deep breath of cool air and hurried over to take a look.

  Jiang Xuanjins face was deathly pale, with a half-chewed wooden stick in his mouth, his upper body **, and dark red bloodstains all over his skin.

  "Jiang Jing." She leaned over the bedside and asked urgently, "Are you okay?"

  Hearing her voice, Jiang Xuanjin slowly opened his eyes.

  Hua Yu was just about to ask again, but the gaze she met was suffocating, making her heart feel cold - in those ink-colored pupils, it was as if they had just met for the first time, icy and distant, calmly looking at her as if she were a stranger.

  "Get out of the way, siblings." Jiang Shen was somewhat urgent, "He still has one arrow that hasnt been pulled out."

  It suddenly dawned on her that there was still half an arrow shaft behind his back, which hadnt hit any vital organs but the wound was extremely deep.

  "The Third Young Master endured it." The doctor stretched out his hand and pinched the arrowhead, and beads of sweat also seeped out on his forehead.

  Jiang Xuanjin withdrew his gaze from the person and indifferently closed his eyes again.

  The second arrow flew out, and blood flowed like a libation. He only slightly furrowed his brow, and his complexion returned to calmness once again.

  Jiang Shens face was tense with anxiety as he helped the doctor apply the hemostatic medicine, repeatedly asking him: "How is it? Can you still hold on?"

  Li Huaiyu also stepped forward, wanting to touch his hand.

  "Im fine." Half-opening his eyes, Jiang Xuanjin withdrew his hand and avoided hers, saying calmly to Jiang Shen, "Second brother doesnt need to worry too much, just rest for a few days and itll be alright."

  "The Third Master is being too optimistic!" The doctor wiped the sweat from his forehead and said, "If this arrow had been an inch off, it would have been fatal!"

  "Whats the difference?" he said in a low voice, "As long as youre not dead."

  The self-mockery in these words was too strong, and Li Huaiyus heart tightened as she hastily said: "How can it be nothing? Just looking at it hurts!"

  He didnt look at her again or respond to her. Jiang Xuanjin closed his eyes and waited for the doctor to finish bandaging his wound, then lay down diagonally.

  The atmosphere was a bit off, and Jiang Shen looked at the two of them in confusion: "Whats going on? Normally, Third Brother is the happiest when he sees his younger sister, so why this attitude today?"

  Hua Yu stretched out her hand and scratched her temples, feeling guilty and dryly laughing: "I made him angry."

  "Hes always getting angry, cant you just coax him?" Jiang Shen waved his hand in disapproval and turned to pull Xu Chuyan along, "Come on, go keep an eye on the medicine for Third Brother."

  Xu Chuyan followed him out of the room.

  They left, but the empty and windy ones were still standing beside them. Huai Yu looked at them and found that their eyes no longer had the usual warmth.

  "Have I... also made you all angry?" she asked softly.

  Cheng Xiaos face was expressionless as he cupped his hands: "I dont dare."

  Its not that I dont want to, its just that I dare not. Huai Yu let out a sigh, she really wanted to explain things, but didnt know where to start. She simply remained silent and helped clean up the bloodstains on the floor, then went to the main house to fetch him some clean clothes to change into.

  "These subordinates have arrived." Mou took over her clothes and bowed to her, "You go rest now."

  After finishing speaking, he closed the door and directly locked her outside.

  "Take advantage of the situation." Yu Feng furrowed his brow, glanced in the direction of the bed, and said softly, "Dont go too far either."

  Is this not excessive? Even if youre trying to infuriate him to death, hes served Your Majesty for so many years and has never seen Your Majesty so heartbroken before. The cyan-colored robes are all stained with blood, standing stupidly at the door, and no one around dares to go forward to support him. When asked about the madam, it turns out shes supporting the emperor and walking away!

  Is she blind and didnt see the wounds on his body? Or is it true that she prioritizes the greater good, thinking that the emperors life is more important than her own husbands?

  Its hard to understand, especially after seeing how much his own master cares about this lady.

  Yu Feng sighed and went to the bedside, asking in a low voice: "Master, would you like Madame to take care of you?"

  "No need." Jiang Xuanjin said coldly, "Dont let her enter this door again."

  Yu Feng was taken aback and remained silent for a long time before responding: "Yes."

  Hua Yu was squatting at the door in a daze. Ling Xiu came over and saw her, very unexpectedly: "Why are you outside?"

  "Its nothing, I just did something wrong." She said in a low voice, "Maybe itll be fine after a while."

  However, this "moment" passed for two hours, and the door behind her opened and closed, but Cheng Xiao didnt let her in.

  "Your Majesty has woken up." Ling Xiu asked softly, "Should I inform the Emperor?"

  She rubbed her numb legs and stood up, saying, "You go talk to him, he doesnt want to see me, Ill go take a look at the main building."

  The emperor was stabbed at the entrance of Jiangs mansion and got hurt so badly, the Jiang family must be held accountable. She has to think of a way to get Huai Lin to help.

  Taking a deep breath, Huaiyu rushed into the main building.

  Mr. Jiang and others knelt down in a piece to apologize, Li Huailian repeatedly asked them to get up, but no one listened.

  Li Huaiyu walked in and knelt at the front: "I have an unreasonable request."

  Li Huailian still remembered her and forced a smile: "Please speak, Madam Jun."

  Hua Yu hesitated slightly as she glanced at the curious onlookers below.

  Li Huailian nodded in agreement and said softly: "Everyone go out first."

  Old Man Jiang looked at Bai Zhuji with a puzzled expression, but she gave him a reassuring glance and continued to kneel properly.

  After a moment of contemplation, he still took the Jiang family members behind him out and went to see Jiang Xuanjin instead.

  Inside the house, except for the guards, there was no one else. Huai Yu whispered to Huai Lin: "You return to the palace and protect the Jiang family a bit. The Emperor is still uncertain about his life and death because of saving you. You cant let them be punished again."

  Li Huailian was taken aback, nodded and said: "I know this, but I dont know what to say..."

  He was accustomed to not telling lies, and Huaiyu was also used to it. He very considerately taught him the lie he had made up beforehand, and finally said confidently: "Flawless!"

  Li Huailian was taken aback, blinking at her, and after a long time, he solemnly nodded.

  Jiang Xuanjin leaned against the headboard, the small guest room already packed with people from the Jiang family. He swept a glance around, not seeing the one person who should be here, his thin lips pursed tightly, the anger in his eyes growing heavier.

  Jiang Yan stood beside him and also looked around, saying displeased: "Wheres Auntie gone again?"

  "She seems to have gone to beg for mercy from Your Majesty." Jiang Chong said.

  "Whats gotten into her?" Jiang Yan muttered, "Isnt keeping Little Shu company better than anything else?"

  "Good grief." Jiang Chong shook his head.

  Jiang Yan shut his mouth, but Jiang Lao Taigong beside him was also somewhat unhappy: "Yaner didnt say anything wrong, Zhuji did something improper this time. When she comes out, let her serve Xuanjin well."

  "It doesnt matter." Jiang Xuanjin lowered his eyes, "There are enough people by my side, one less of her wont make a difference."

  Li Huaiyu: "......"

  She had just taught the emperor to lie, and was lifting her skirt to step inside when this sentence came crashing down, freezing her raised foot in mid-air.

  Is she missing one? She blinked and looked blankly at the person on the bed.

  Jiang Xuanjin also saw her, hesitated for a moment, and indifferently turned his head away, while the others in the house turned their heads to look at her.

  With a stiff smile, Huaiyu withdrew her leg and awkwardly said: "I... will go get the medicine."

  Finished speaking and then ran away.

  Jiang Chong slightly furrowed his brow: "Third Brother."

  This person has been like this since childhood, whoever treats him well, he accepts and will be good to others. But as long as someone is a little slow with him, he will withdraw all his kindness and show his sharp side.

  Too childish.

  Jiang Xuanjin didnt make a sound, propping himself up and slowly lying down on his side, turning his back to them.

  Nothing more to say, Jiang Chong helplessly supported the old man up and led everyone away, letting him rest well. However, Jiang Yan refused to leave, sitting by the bed and whispering, "I dont like her anymore."

  Compared to Bai Sis sister, he still prefers his own little aunt. If she makes her little uncle unhappy, then he is also unhappy.

  "Little uncle, since you dont like her either, why didnt you tell her off just now?" He muttered, "Let the family members know that little aunt is only concerned about the emperor and not about you, she will definitely be scolded."

  "Stop messing around."

  "I wasnt being unreasonable, I just saw her standing there guarding Your Majesty and felt a bit angry." Jiang Yan furrowed his brow, "She herself doesnt even know what her identity is or what she should be doing?"

  "Little master." He said helplessly, "Let your master rest for a while first."

  "Alright." Jiang Yan stood up, clenched his fists and said, "Uncle, rest well, Ill take my leave now."

  Jiang Xuanjin turned his head, looking at the back with anger, and couldnt help but frown, saying softly: "Cheng Xu, you go and watch him, dont let him cause trouble."

  What can this young master possibly get up to? At most, hell just go bother his wife.

  In his heart he was cursing, but didnt dare to refute him. He pretended to agree with a gloomy face and turned around to leave, but actually let the young master go to the backyard as he pleased, not caring at all.

  Huaiyu was brewing medicine in the backyard, with two jars of medicine on the stove, one for Huailian and the other for Jiang Xuanjin. She held a fan and stared at them, slightly distracted.

  "Auntie." Jiang Yans voice sounded beside her.

  She lifted her head, smiled at him with a hint of jade in her eyes: "Somethings up?"

  "The doctor said that Young Masters injury is severe and requires some expensive medicine to nourish the blood and promote muscle growth. Would you please trouble yourself to go to the western pharmacy to fetch some?" Jiang Yan said with a straight face.

  Ling Xiu, who was beside her, immediately stood up: "Ill go get it, the medicine room is still quite far from here."

  "Such precious medicinal materials, the pharmacy staff wont easily give them to a young girl like you." Jiang Yan said, "Its better if Auntie goes herself."

  Without a doubt, he had someone else in mind. Holding the jade, Ling Xiu got up and said, "Ill go. Ling Xiu, keep an eye on the fire and pour out the medicine after half a time."

  "Yes."

  Hua Yu walked seven bends and eight turns in the Jiang Mansion, asking left and right before finally finding out where the medicine room was. But when she went in to ask, it turned out that they didnt have any of the medicinal herbs for nourishing blood and generating flesh.

  "How could it be?" She frowned.

  The house slave in the pharmacy smiled and said, "The mansion originally had a lot of precious medicine for treating injuries, but two months ago, Third Master took them all away. The mansion hasnt been able to find good replacements yet."