Yang Zhen also had a look of disbelief on his face, as if he couldn't believe it.
Su Li walked over and helped him up. The servants called him "young master". He thought he was his uncle's youngest son. She squatted in front of the little man, and while helping him dust off his clothes, she asked softly: "What's your name?"
The little man's big round eyes looked straight at her and said, "My name is Yang Yan. My father calls me Yan'er."
That soft and waxy voice immediately made people feel soft. Su Li smiled unconsciously and said: "Oh, it's Yan'er. Come, let me see, sister, where did you fall?"
Yang Yan held up a pair of chubby pink hands and handed them to her. As expected, there was a scar on the tender palms and blood was already oozing out.
Su Li was startled and quickly ordered the wet nurse: "Go and get the medicine quickly."
The wet nurse just woke up from a dream, came to her senses, and hurriedly went to get medicine and water.
In less than a moment, everything was brought. The wet nurse wanted to help Yang Yan treat the wound, but he actually pouted and was unhappy. He looked at Su Li longingly and called out: "Sister."
The look in his eyes suddenly made Su Li's heart feel indescribably soft and distressed. She gently took his hand and carefully wiped his wound. The wound was not shallow, and Yang Yan winced in pain.
.
Su Li coaxed, "Does it hurt? It won't hurt after I apply the medicine."
She was trying to comfort him smoothly, but the child actually nodded seriously, then applied medicine and bandaged him without saying a word.
Su Li was surprised that he could be so sensible at such a young age. Suddenly I remembered that Li Yao was accidentally injured when she was a child. She never wanted anyone to touch her, and she only wanted her sister to help her deal with the wound. But now... my heart suddenly hurts.
Yang Zhen stood aside and remained silent. He just looked at the two of them silently, with shock and surprise, his eyes changing.
At this time, Su Li had treated the wound properly, and Yang Zhen said in a deep voice: "Nanny, take Yan'er back to the room to rest. Take good care of her! If there is any mistake, I will definitely investigate!"
The wet nurse nodded Noonuo, and hurriedly came forward to take Yang Yan, but the child pouted his little mouth, as if he was extremely reluctant to part with it, and kept staring at Su Li.
Su Li smiled softly and said: "Yan'er, be good, go back to your room and rest quickly. Sister, you can visit me when you have time."
Yang Yan's eyes suddenly lit up, his eyebrows curled up with a smile, and he followed the wet nurse obediently.
After the group of people had gone far, Yang Zhen looked back and sighed: "I didn't expect this child to be destined to you."
His sigh seemed to be unspeakably sour.
Su Li couldn't help but glance at him and found that his eyes seemed a little wet.
She was slightly startled, then heard Yang Zhen say again: "If you are free, come and see him more often. When this child was born, his mother had a difficult delivery and her vitality was damaged. Since then, she has become weak and has been taking medicine all the year round. She passed away six months ago. . Since that day, Yan'er has not said a word, and today... is the first time she speaks. "
Su Li paused, and now she understood why the servant's expression was so shocked just now! Children are the most sensitive. Although he is still young, how could he not understand when his loved ones disappear? Her eyes were inexplicably sore, and she comforted: "Don't worry, uncle, I will definitely come to see Yan'er when I have time."
Yang Zhen nodded slightly, sighed, and stopped talking.
After leaving Prince Xiao's Mansion, Su Li was thinking hard all the way, how to find out the person behind the killer as soon as possible
. There are many clues behind this assassination, and it is by no means as simple as it seems on the surface.
It's just that Zhang Jian is dead and the clues are broken. How easy is it to find new clues? Su Li couldn't help but sigh slightly, and when she raised her eyes, she saw that the main gate of the Criminal Department was already in sight.
In the back hall of the Punishment Department, Yang Xiao and Wu Xiu, the Minister of Punishment, were sitting around a table discussing something. There were a bunch of items on the table. When he raised his eyes and saw Su Li, he looked happy and waved quickly: "Ah Li, come quickly."
Su Li walked over and saw Yang Xiao holding a seven-inch square box in his hand. It had no lid and was tightly fitted, as if it were cast. I couldn't help but ask: "What is this?"
Yang Xiao said: "I found it from Zhang Jian's residence. This thing is weird and weird, but after looking at it for a long time, I couldn't find anything." As he said that, he shook it gently, and there was a subtle sound coming from the box. Come on, obviously the middle is empty.
Su Li took it and looked at it carefully, and found that the wood grain on the edge of the box seemed a little strange. She carefully took off a silver hairpin from her head and lightly scratched it with the tip of the hairpin. She saw that the wood grain was slightly cracked and the hair was thin.
Su Li concentrated on pulling out a steel wire from the wood grain on the four sides and bottom. The tightly fitted box wall suddenly popped open with a "click" sound.
Yang Xiao said in surprise: "Ah Li is still awesome. I thought about it for a long time and didn't realize that the secret is here!"
The contents of the box were tightly wrapped in a piece of black cloth. He reached out and took it out, but was slightly surprised that it didn't weigh much in his hand. When the black cloth was opened, no one could have imagined that the thing locked in the box of this mysterious mechanism was actually a stack of white paper!
The three of them were stunned.
The paper is as white as snow, smooth and neat. There is no flaw at all, it is obviously the best paper.
However, there are no words on the paper.
Su Li's intuition was wrong. If it was really ordinary paper, how could he keep it so secretly? There must be a reason for this.
After Yang Xiao was stunned for a moment, he seemed to suddenly discover something. He looked through the stack of papers carefully, his brows furrowed more and more tightly, and he murmured: "This is a snow paper. Why does Zhang Jian have it in his hand?"
Su Li subconsciously asked: "Snow note?"
Yang Xiao said: "The snow note comes from Chen State. A few years ago, Chen State's envoy came to Bian and specially paid tribute to his father.
. I remember that besides this snow note, there should be one more thing. "He said, checking the box carefully again, but found nothing.
Wu Xiu quickly asked: "What is that thing that His Highness is talking about? I will send someone to Zhang Jian's residence to search carefully!"
Yang Xiao tried to recall, "It's a small bottle... about the size of a finger. The bottle is very clear and seems very special."
Su Li suddenly had a flash of inspiration, took out the vial he picked up in the formation, and said in a deep voice, "See if it's it."
Yang Xiao's eyes suddenly lit up, he took it and looked at it carefully, and asked in surprise: "Where did you get this?"
Su Li said: "Yesterday after you left, I picked it up in the formation, not far from where Zhang Jian committed suicide. Looking at it now, he probably dropped it. Does this thing have anything to do with the snow paper?"
Yang Xiao was slightly depressed and said: "This bottle and the snow paper came as tribute, and I don't know anything else."
Su Li stared at the bottle and the snow paper in deep thought, remembering that Shenmen used to have a special potion that was specially used to soak the white silk used by Shenmen to record secret transactions, and it could make the ink invisible.
The two things in front of me may also have the same purpose...
She took a writing brush from the side, carefully dipped the pen tip into the bottle, and carefully covered the snow paper with her hair.
Wu Xiu was greatly frightened by her actions, that was a tribute! Seeing that Yang Xiao didn't stop him, he had no choice but to hold back.
Yang Xiao watched her movements closely. It seemed like a long time passed, and it seemed like it was just a moment. There was no change on the clean paper.
Su Li's heart sank, how could this happen? Could it be that she thought wrong
Yang Xiao was unwilling to give in, and took out another sheet from the bottom of the pile of snow-paper notes, and did the same thing. After passing the cup of tea, several lines of pale handwriting slowly appeared on the paper!
Su Li's heartbeat accelerated and she held her breath unconsciously.
Yang Xiao's eyes widened, and the handwriting continued to deepen bit by bit, becoming clearer and clearer. Not long after, an unexpected secret letter appeared in front of me!
Su Li and Yang Xiao raised their heads at the same time, clearly seeing the shock in each other's eyes.
.
Bian Palace.
Su Li followed Yang Xiao all the way to the Qinzheng Hall. The huge hall was silent, with agarwood curling up. Emperor Bian was leaning on the dragon chair with his eyes closed to meditate. His face was dark, his eyebrows were furrowed, and he looked worried in his sleep. appearance.
Ever since Emperor Bian ordered Su Li to go to Huangpu Temple to meditate on his past, Su Li had not seen him again. When she saw him today, she couldn't help but feel a little surprised. However, in just one month, Emperor Bian's face turned gloomy and he looked even more haggard than before.
Yang Xiao stepped forward lightly, took the cloak and put it carefully on him. Emperor Bian suddenly woke up and saw Yang Xiao and Su Li. He was startled for a moment, as if he was a little surprised, and then he slowly sat up straight.
Yang Xiao saw that Emperor Bian's face was not good, and he couldn't help but feel a little worried in his eyes, and asked with concern: "Father, you feel uncomfortable somewhere, has the imperial doctor seen it?"
Emperor Bian rubbed his forehead, closed his eyes slightly, and sighed: "It's okay. I'm just a little tired. I'll be fine if I rest for a while."
Su Li knew clearly in his heart that the envoy of the Sheng Kingdom was assassinated, and Yang Zhen, who had a large number of soldiers, repeatedly clashed with him. These things were enough to make Emperor Bian upset. She stepped forward to greet him and said calmly: "Su Li has met the emperor."
"Hmm." Emperor Bian glanced at her lightly and said thoughtfully: "Aren't you going to investigate the case? Have you made any progress?"
Yang Xiao's expression immediately became serious.
"What happened?" Emperor Bian was very keen and caught the subtle changes in Yang Xiao's expression.
Yang Xiao slowly came to Emperor Bian's side and said hesitantly, "I did find some clues, but..."
"Speak directly, when did you become so hesitant?" Emperor Bian was a little dissatisfied, and then he lowered his eyes and said, "Who did it?"
Yang Xiao was silent for a moment, then took out the stack of paper from his arms and handed it to Emperor Bian.
Emperor Bian froze immediately, with doubts in his eyes. He immediately took the stack of paper in his hand and lowered his head to look through it. However, when he saw the contents on each piece of snow paper, his face became increasingly ugly.
Su Li's heart became heavier as the emperor's expression gradually changed.
She and Yang Xiao never expected that the text hidden on the snowy note turned out to be a secret letter written by Zhang Jian to Emperor Bian.
! My uncle's every move in Ruifeng Camp was recorded without missing a beat. Now that Zhang Jian was dead, the two of them did not dare to delay and hurried into the palace to ask Emperor Bian for the facts.
And his expression and behavior at this moment all confirmed the authenticity of the content. Emperor Bian obviously knew the identity of the assassin Zhang Jian. Could it be that... the assassination of the envoy was really ordered by Emperor Bian? If it is true, then his thoughts are so terrible that he took all these twists and turns to frame his uncle. Suddenly, she remembered that Yang Zhen had told her several times that Emperor Bian was trying every possible means to get rid of him. Now it seemed that what he said was true.
She then thought about it and had doubts. Even if Emperor Bian had taken action against Yang Zhen, why would he choose to do it at such a critical time? The contract has just been signed, and the terms of compensation from Sheng State are very generous. Before such a large sum of money has been obtained, how could Emperor Bian use such a stupid method to anger the envoy of Sheng State
The evidence first points to his uncle, and then leads back to Bian Huang. All the clues are very clear, but each has its own doubts. This matter... is clear but full of complications. After all... who is the mastermind behind this
Yang Xiao stood next to the emperor and saw the way Su Li looked at his father clearly. He suddenly felt a little regretful. He had tried his best to ask Su Li to help investigate the case, but he just wanted her to see the true nature hidden by Yang Zhen. Ambition, but unexpectedly a shocking reversal, the clue points to the father!
Yang Xiao whispered: "The Ministry of Punishment found this thing in the suspect's home. My son was also surprised. Why did the snow paper specially provided by the palace appear in the suspect's home? After all, it is a tribute thing, and my father is also very concerned about it. Use it sparingly, and the contents on this paper..." He paused, hesitated for a moment, and then said: "My son did not dare to delay, so I went back to the palace to ask my father for clarification."
Emperor Bian stared at the piece of paper with a gloomy face and was speechless for a long time. He seemed to be unable to believe it. He just sneered and said: "Okay, that's great! I didn't expect that I would raise a tiger to make trouble! I have always believed in him so much!"
As soon as these words came out, Emperor Bian undoubtedly admitted that the contents of the letter were indeed true, and that the dead Zhang Jie had an unknown and close connection with him in private. Yang Xiao's heart was shocked, and he looked at Su Li unconsciously. .
"Is this person really taking orders from the emperor?" Su Li looked directly at Emperor Bian.
Emperor Bian slowly raised his head, a sharp light suddenly appeared in his eyes, and said: "Are you doubting me?"
"Su Li doesn't dare. He just wants to ask for the reason and find out the truth." Emperor Bian asked sharply with something in his words. Su Li smiled lightly and said: "This matter is not trivial. It involves the diplomatic relations between the two countries, so we must investigate. The truth has come to light. Please tell me frankly, Your Majesty."
Yang Xiao was also full of questions and said quickly: "Yes, Father, what is going on?"
Emperor Bian was quiet for a moment, and then he said: "Five years ago, there was a man named Zhang Jian in our personal guard.
. This man has outstanding martial arts skills, is brave and careful, and has accomplished several meritorious deeds in protecting his troops. I admire him very much. "
"Until three years ago, I sent him to perform a special task and removed him from the personal guards. He was transferred to the military camp. Soon, King Xiao took a fancy to Zhang Jian's skills and personally ordered him to be transferred to Ruifeng Camp. Successfully Gained his trust."
Yang Xiao and Su Li looked at each other quickly, and she said in a deep voice: "Su Li boldly asks, is the emperor's mission for sending Zhang Jian to monitor Prince Xiao's whereabouts?"
"That's right." Emperor Bian nodded. After saying this, he looked deeply at Su Li and said deeply: "I have long noticed that Yang Zhen has ulterior motives, so I secretly sent Zhang Jian to him to help him. Let me find out the truth. In the past two years, Zhang Jian has collected Yang Zhen's every move for me, and regularly used this snow note to send news."
He slowly turned over the pile of snow-white paper in his hand and said coldly: "These contents are news from the past two years. I guess he has betrayed me long ago!"
Yang Xiao said disdainfully: "Zhang Jian, this despicable villain, was bribed by Yang Zhen within just one year after entering Ruifeng Camp! The snow paper must use the potion to make the font visible. In the eyes of others, it is just a few pieces of white paper, but he It was so secretive. The contents of each letter were copied down one by one, so it was clear that he had another agenda!"
"Hmph! So what?" Emperor Bian said gloomily: "This has nothing to do with the assassination incident. I never instructed Zhang Jian to assassinate the Sheng Kingdom envoy!"
Yang Xiao said angrily: "This matter was obviously ordered by Yang Zhen!" All the old and new hatreds came to his heart. He hated him so much that he called him by his name without any hesitation.
"What is this from my king? The fourth prince might as well tell me about it?" A deep shout came from outside the door of Qinzheng Palace, and then a man strode in. The cold look in his eyes was clearly visible on his handsome face.
It was actually Xiao Wang Yangzhen!
The expressions of the three people all changed.
Su Li frowned secretly, why did his uncle come suddenly
I saw Yang Zhen striding into the palace, and then he said loudly: "My brother has met the emperor!" Before Emperor Bian could say anything, he stood up, walked straight to Yang Xiao, and asked word by word: " You keep saying that the king ordered you to do something, where is the evidence?" He was aggressive, the anger in his eyes was so clear, he was really angry.
.
Emperor Bian and Yang Xiao's expressions suddenly changed. Although there was no actual evidence in this stack of paper to prove that the assassination was related to Emperor Bian, once the content on the letter was known to Yang Zhen, their current relationship would undoubtedly make them even more angry. Pour oil on it.
Su Li was puzzled. She and Yang Xiao entered the palace immediately after getting the news from the Ministry of Punishment without any delay. Why did Yang Zhen not come earlier or later, but chose this time to see Emperor Bian as if it was a good time? The last time he fought tooth and nail to protect each other, it was a coincidence.
Her heart moved slightly, and she looked at him silently. He looked very excited, his eyes were fixed on Yang Xiao, and a cold evil aura flashed deep in his pupils, and disappeared in an instant.
"Why don't you answer? Do you still have something to hide?" Yang Zhen refused to relax and continued to press. Suddenly, his eyes turned and fell on the pile of snow-paper on the desk. On the top piece of paper, the word "Yang Zhen" suddenly came into view.
Yang Zhen immediately changed his color, strode forward, and reached out to get it.
With quick eyes and quick hands, Yang Xiao got ahead of him and grabbed the pile of snow-paper notes in his hand. The red figure flashed and he was already in the Qinzheng Hall.
Yang Zhen didn't succeed, and immediately shouted in a stern voice: "What are you hiding? What can't be seen?" His words and deeds were so arrogant, and it seemed that Emperor Bian no longer existed in his eyes.
Su Li couldn't help but change her expression. Why did her uncle suddenly become so reckless
"Presumptuous!" The dignity of the emperor was undoubtedly provoked. Emperor Bian smacked the table angrily, stood up, pointed at him and shouted sternly: "Yang Zhen, I am here, how dare you take it without asking, do you still have me in your eyes?"
Yang Zhen turned around suddenly, his face was livid, and he was obviously very angry. He saw the evidence close at hand, but could not get to the bottom of it. Facing Emperor Bian's scolding, he straightened his back and retorted without showing any signs of weakness: "It's a matter of my brother's innocence, so I'm naturally nervous and concerned! Dare I ask the emperor, why is Yang Xiao so sneaky that he dare not hand over the evidence?"
Yang Xiao said angrily: "Where can I be so sneaky? The truth has not been found out yet, so of course the evidence cannot be leaked at will!"
Yang Zhen suddenly raised his head and laughed. He laughed very wildly and wantonly.
Emperor Bian's face was full of anger, and his face was extremely dark. Su Li was shocked and wanted to go forward to persuade him, but Yang Zhen suddenly stopped laughing.
His cold gaze slowly swept over Yang Xiao and Bian Huang, with a frosty expression on his face, he gritted his teeth and said, "Find out the truth? I'm afraid you want to hide the truth
! I can see it clearly. Who dares to swear that there is no word "Yang Zhen" on it! "
"uncle!"
Su Li was shocked. She didn't understand why Yang Zhen, who was always deep, spoke and acted so fiercely today, as if she had no scruples anymore! If the relationship between the two parties deteriorates again, I am afraid that the truth has not yet been found out, and Emperor Bian will definitely take action and will not be as merciful as last time.
Yang Zhen turned his eyes and suddenly turned to her. His eyes were burning with angry flames and he looked straight into hers. He shouted sternly: "Ah Li! You are responsible for cooperating in the investigation. You answer uncle! What on earth is that?" Isn’t this evidence to prove my uncle’s innocence?!”
Yang Zhen asked sternly, Yang Xiao's expression couldn't help but change, he couldn't help but squeeze the snow paper in his hand tightly, and looked at Su Li.
There was silence for a moment in Qinzheng Hall, with three pairs of eyes staring directly at Su Li. She took a deep breath and nodded silently.
Yang Zhen suddenly changes color and is about to attack. But she heard her say in a deep voice: "Although there are new clues in this case, the witness is dead and further verification is still needed. If uncle believes in Ah Li, he can rest assured to leave this matter to Ah Li. Ah Li promises you that he will definitely do it Let’s get to the bottom of this case!”
Yang Zhen suddenly chuckled. The anger and unwillingness in his eyes inexplicably hurt Su Li's heart. No one could feel it more than her. Once upon a time, she was framed by someone, and she had no excuses!
"Ah Li, it's not that my uncle doesn't believe you, it's just that people are unpredictable! You are sincere, but the rewards you get are not the same!" Yang Zhen's eyes slowly swept over Emperor Bian and Yang Xiao's father and son, and said with a sneer: "Since it is evidence, why hide it? Why not present it openly and discuss it together to find the real culprit as soon as possible?"
Yang Xiao said nothing with a cold face, holding the paper tightly in his hands.
"You don't dare to take it, there's no reason at all!" Yang Zhen took a step closer, pointed at him and shouted: "This is the snow note specially paid as tribute by Chen Guo! No one in the palace would dare to use such a precious thing except the emperor! "He turned to look at Emperor Bian, his eyes were cold, obviously he meant something.
Yang Zhen was so aggressive that Yang Xiao could no longer control the anger in his heart and growled, "So what if this is a snow note? It can't prove anything! It's just your guess!"
"Guessing out of thin air? How could you not be like this? That day, with just a small tiger-headed order from Ruifeng Camp, you ran into my Prince Xiao's residence, yelling and talking nonsense.
! Accusing me of being the mastermind behind the assassination of the Sheng Kingdom envoy! Yang Zhen approached step by step, his eyes were frighteningly bright, and he didn't give in at all, "Now the clue points to a different person, why do you have such a completely different attitude, Fourth Prince?" "
Yang Xiao was speechless, his handsome face turned red, and he was speechless.
Yang Zhen's face was filled with grief and anger, as if he was heartbroken. He stared at Emperor Bian and said with a trembling voice: "I miss you, Yang Zhen. I have fought on the battlefield for the Bian Kingdom for more than ten years. I have gone through life and death and never flinched. I always remember the words left by my ancestors and remind myself that I must not He is proud of himself and is devoted to assisting me. My brother only wants to ask the sage, for what purpose did he place Zhang Jian next to me to monitor my whereabouts?" At the end of his sentence, his voice suddenly became sharp.
"Yang Zhen, who is more outrageous! Have you forgotten all the shameful things you did to this prince?" Yang Xiao was furious.
Yang Zhen laughed loudly and spat out two words contemptuously: "Evidence?"
Emperor Bian's eyes were filled with wild birds of prey, and he remained silent from beginning to end. Zhang Jian had already turned his back and deliberately kept a copy of all the messages passed on, in order to provide him with the best evidence to frame him today? Everything was planned secretly by him, yet he still acted like he was hurting and aggrieved! The depth of this man's city is unimaginable!
Emperor Bian smiled coldly and said slowly: "Yang Zhen, who are you, and you dare to question me?" His face was full of gloom.
The situation was getting worse and worse. Su Li was secretly worried and said in a deep voice: "My uncle is also concerned about the case, but he lost his etiquette in a moment of impatience! Your Majesty, please don't blame me."
After the Dragon Case, Emperor Bian stood in a condescending position, Yang Zhen stood in the palace, head held high. The two glared at each other and refused to back down.
"Uncle, the matter hasn't been cleared up yet. Don't speak nonsense in front of the Emperor." She stood in front of Yang Zhen and held his arms tightly. She was full of concern and eagerness, and seemed to be hinting to Yang Zhen that he must not act rashly.
"Ah Li, you don't understand! How has my uncle's reputation been slandered like this in his lifetime! Today, I must seek justice from the emperor!" Yang Zhen seemed determined and shouted without any sign of weakness, "Yang Xiao, if you don't take it anymore, If you provide evidence, don’t blame me for being rude to you!"
Su Li knew that his uncle was confident that he had the gold medal to avoid death, so Emperor Bian did not dare to touch him. As everyone knows, the heart of an emperor is the most unpredictable. Even if the death penalty can be avoided, how can one escape the living penalty
Sure enough, there was a muffled "bang" sound, and the inkstone on the dragon table was picked up by the furious Emperor Bian with one hand and smashed to the ground, breaking into several pieces in an instant.
"Yang Zhen, don't rely on your ancestors' orders and think that I can't do anything to you.
! Emperor Bian's voice was fierce and he shouted loudly: "The following offenders shall be punished according to the crime!" Someone is coming! Capture King Xiao to me! "
Outside the door of the Qinzheng Palace, the guards swarmed in, each holding a sharp weapon, and surrounded the proud and independent King Xiao in the palace.
Yang Zhen snorted contemptuously, a ruthless look suddenly appeared in his eyes, and he couldn't help but gritted his teeth and sneered: "It turns out that I was prepared for it! Is the emperor going to put unfounded charges on Yang Zhen's head like this?"
The situation was on the verge of breaking out, as if a string was stretched to the extreme and suddenly broke off in the next second!
Su Li was extremely anxious and said in a deep voice: "Your Majesty, please calm down. It is indeed inappropriate for my uncle to behave inappropriately before driving, but such a battle will inevitably damage the harmony. There are still many doubts about this matter... "
Before she could finish her words, Emperor Bian stopped her and shouted mercilessly: "No need to say more! Please stand aside for me, otherwise don't blame me for not caring about family ties..." At this point, the warning was already very strong. Obviously, if Su Li insists on going his own way and interceding for Yang Zhen, he will never show mercy again!
Su Li's heart was shocked. The murderous intention in Emperor Bian's eyes was as cold as ice at this moment. She was frightened. He obviously had murderous intentions. Could it be that he really had other motives to get rid of his uncle
Seeing that she was still standing still, Yang Xiao suddenly became anxious and shouted: "Ah Li!"
"Ah Li!" Yang Zhen suddenly shouted loudly, "This matter has nothing to do with you, there is no need to wade through this muddy water! I have a clear conscience! With these people, they can't do anything to me, Yang Zhen!" He spoke passionately, and every word The words are sonorous, but full of bitterness and indignation!
Su Li couldn't help feeling suffocated. Even though the matter had nothing to do with her uncle, she couldn't just watch him being framed by Emperor Bian and ignore it when the facts were still unclear! Instantly firming up her mind, a sharp light suddenly appeared in her eyes, and she said in a deep voice: "If the emperor insists on having his own way and is unwilling to accept advice, don't blame Su Li for being rude!"
Yang Xiao paused, her heart sank. At the critical moment, she still chose Yang Zhen!
Yang Zhen was so excited that he looked at Su Li closely, nodded repeatedly and said, "Good Ah Li! My uncle's love for you is indeed not in vain!"
Emperor Bian's face turned livid, murderous intent flashed through him, and he shouted coldly: "Get these two people down quickly!"
"Father!" Yang Xiao lost his voice.
"Shut up
! Emperor Bian interrupted Yang Xiao sternly, "Can't you still tell who her heart is towards now?" ! What are you still doing? ! "
The guards did not dare to disobey and were about to step forward. An eunuch outside the palace came to report: "Your Majesty, the envoy from Sheng Kingdom is here to see you!"
Emperor Bian said angrily: "What's the matter?!"
The eunuch was so frightened that he trembled all over and said in a trembling voice: "The envoy only said that there is something important and he must go up to see the emperor immediately."
Su Li's heart moved. She looked up and saw Emperor Bian frowning even more tightly. After weighing the pros and cons, he said angrily: "Pass!"
After a moment, several men dressed in the Sheng Kingdom's service quickly walked into the Qinzheng Hall. The leader walked straight into the hall and said loudly: "Zhang Fu, the envoy of the Sheng Kingdom, has met Emperor Bian." The words were polite, but his tone was not It doesn't sound good.
Su Li turned around and saw Zhang Fu, who was slightly chubby and had an ordinary round face. His facial features were peaceful and there seemed to be displeasure in his eyes. The few people accompanying them outside the palace were blocked behind by a group of guards, and their appearance could not be seen clearly.
When she looked back, she accidentally caught a glimpse of an imperceptible smile in Yang Zhen's eyes.
The envoy from Sheng Kingdom came to see him for no reason, and Emperor Bian suddenly had a bad premonition in his heart. At that moment, he had no choice but to suppress the anger in his heart and said in a deep voice: "There is no need to be polite. I don't know why the envoy has anything to do with me when he comes to the palace today."
Zhang Fu raised a piece of paper in his hand and said in a deep voice: "This envoy just received an anonymous letter saying that the assassin was from King Xiao Ruifeng's camp. He also said that this person had secret correspondence with Emperor Bian. I dare to ask Bian Emperor, what is going on?"
Su Li's heart moved again. Although Zhang Fu was obsessed with Buddhism, he was not stupid and asked questions without any ambiguity. Whether it is Emperor Bian or Yang Zhen, they both represent the royal family of Bian State. As soon as the peace agreement between the two countries was signed, chaos broke out frequently on one side, and it was all shady matters. How could people not speculate on their true motives
This question was so pointed that Yang Xiao and Emperor Bian looked at each other with shock. anonymous letter? It turned out that someone had tipped off the news. No wonder the envoy from Sheng Kingdom came so quickly! Yang Zhen entered the palace with his front foot, and the messenger came with his back foot. It must be his fault! Yang Xiao couldn't help but glared at Yang Zhen hatefully, but he could only force a smile and said: "Master Zhang also said that it was an anonymous letter, how can we be sure?"
Zhang Fu sneered and said, "I don't care about anything else. I just want to ask if the things mentioned in the letter are true?"
Yang Xiao hesitated, glanced at Emperor Bian, and said nothing.
.
Zhang Fu saw this and already knew it in his heart, and then asked, "Did the Fourth Prince acquiesce?"
Emperor Bian took a deep breath. With Yang Zhen here, there was no way to evade this matter. He could only say gloomily: "This is indeed the case."
Zhang Fu's face suddenly changed, and he said angrily: "The envoy trusts your country so much that they handed over the matter to the fourth prince for investigation. Why do they deliberately conceal the clues they have? What is the reason?!"
After Long's case, Emperor Bian's eyes were filled with wildness. His hands in his sleeves were clenched tightly and he was shaking uncontrollably.
Yang Zhen cast his gaze at the right time, his eyebrows raised slightly, and there was a cold smile on his lips, which was clearly proud, arrogant, and provocative.
Yang Xiao tried his best to calm down his emotions and explained in a gentle tone: "This prince has just found out the news. The real culprit has not been caught yet. How can he hide the clues? The envoy is worrying too much."
"If you don't want to hide it, why don't you dare to show me the evidence?" Yang Zhen's voice cut in coldly.
Yang Xiao suddenly turned his head and glared at Yang Zhen. If looks could kill, Yang Zhen would probably have ten or eight more holes in his face! Unable to suppress the anger in his heart, he yelled at Yang Zhen through gritted teeth: "This is obviously your fault! You respect your own troops and are afraid that your father will take back the military power, so you secretly bribed Zhang Jian, planned this assassination, and finally used his tricks to Create a puzzle and lead the clues to the emperor! You are a despicable villain with evil thoughts, no one can compare to you!"
Yang Xiao's accusation was merciless, and Yang Zhen's face suddenly darkened, and he laughed angrily: "Who secretly sent Zhang Jian to lurk around me as a spy? Who is keeping an eye on my whereabouts at all times? In your heart You know everything clearly, but you are still confusing right and wrong here! The fact is that you and your son saw that the king's prestige in the army was too high, and deliberately arranged this assassination to frame the king, hoping to take back the military power from the king! Speaking of evil intentions, no one The only people who can reach it are your father and son!"
"Yang Zhen, you are so shameless! In terms of seniority, Yang Xiao should have called you uncle, but how do you look like an elder? You know what you have done secretly!" Yang Xiao's chest rose and fell, his fists rising and falling. There was a rattling sound, obviously very angry.
"Well said! I know everything I did behind my back!" Yang Zhen shouted back not to be outdone.
All of a sudden, Yang Xiao and Yang Zhen were going back and forth in the Qinzheng Palace, facing each other tit for tat, without giving in even a single step.
Su Li felt a dull pain in her head. Before her uncle's matter was resolved, an envoy from the Sheng Kingdom suddenly arrived. It was obvious who the author of the anonymous letter was.
! Presumably, he had someone in the Ministry of Punishment for a long time. After getting the news, he immediately entered the palace and sent someone to deliver an anonymous letter to the envoy of Sheng Kingdom.
Could it be that... the assassination was really done by my uncle? Aiming to provoke disputes between the two countries, so there is no need to hand over military power? But in Prince Xiao's Mansion, her uncle had sworn to God, and her intuition told herself that this matter was definitely not his fault.
So who will it be
She frowned so tightly that she couldn't discern the intricate clues for a while. Suddenly I heard a faint voice, "We are not interested in the internal disputes in the royal family of Bian Kingdom. We just want your country to give you an answer. Why is the killer related to Emperor Bian?"
The voice was clear and powerful. Su Li was stunned for a moment, it was him? Dongfang Ze! Yang Xiao has seen him, isn't he afraid of exposing his identity? She took a deep breath and unconsciously glanced at Yang Xiao quickly, only to see that his face was also full of shock.
The guards dispersed one after another, and a man slowly came forward. He was tall and dressed in light gray robes. His clothes were simple yet noble. His facial features were handsome, his eyes were like stars, and his imposing aura made everyone's eyes light up.
Yang Xiao's eyes widened in shock, as if he couldn't believe that he walked out so easily without any covering up. After a long while, he lost his voice and said: "You, you..."
"After a year, the fourth prince no longer remembers Baozhangzheng and Lin Tianzheng who once tested the calligraphy for His Highness?" Dongfang Ze said with a soft smile. He turned his eyes lightly and glanced at Su Li's face as if unintentionally.
That look seemed to be full of tenderness. Su Li stopped breathing and didn't dare to look back. She only felt her heartbeat speeding up and almost jumping out of her chest.
Yang Xiao was startled for a moment. The scene in front of him stung his heart inexplicably. His expression changed, and he gave a warm smile for a while, "Master Lin can observe the stars and read words, and all predictions are accurate. This prince is right." You have a deep memory, how could you forget? Maybe some time, this prince will have something else to do... and need Mr. Lin's help." As he spoke, he slowly raised his eyes and looked at Dongfangze with a complicated expression.
Su Li was surprised. Yang Xiao didn't expose him? She couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief, and suddenly thought that Dongfang Ze and Yang Xiao had a secret conversation in the carriage for a long time before deciding to let him out of the city. But at this time, Yang Xiao clearly understood that there was something behind his words, a hidden meaning.
Emperor Bian looked at the young man in the palace and examined it for a long time. The last time the two countries signed an agreement, it was Zhang Fu who was in charge. He did not notice that there was such an outstanding person among the envoys.
"His Majesty the Bian Emperor
. Dongfang Ze calmed down, his eyes were sharp, and he asked directly, "It seems that your country does not seem to have much sincerity in negotiating peace with our country, Sheng. The envoy will definitely report this matter to Emperor Sheng truthfully and reconsider the terms of the agreement!" "
"The agreement has been signed, how can we go back on our words?" Emperor Bian's face changed, obviously surprised.
Zhang Fu shouted dissatisfied: "It is your country that has gone back on its promise! Last time when the Yu peace talks were held, you broke your promise, set up an ambush, and ambushed you secretly. I, Emperor Sheng, understand the righteousness well and have a broad mind. I have put past the past and sincerely cooperate with your country." Reconciliation, I didn’t expect it to be like this again this time!”
Emperor Bian's chest felt tight. He took a deep breath and tried to explain: "This incident is indeed an accident. I will order people to step up the search and give your country a satisfactory answer as soon as possible. As for the contract..."
Dongfangze continued calmly: "The detailed contents of the contract will be reported back to Emperor Sheng, and we will discuss it in detail with His Majesty. I will take my leave now." After that, he and Zhang Fu and others walked away.
The figures of the Shengguo envoy and his entourage gradually disappeared, and Emperor Bian just looked back and stared at Yang Zhen. He was extremely angry, but there was nothing he could do about it! At that moment, his face was ashen and speechless.
Yang Zhen narrowed his eyes and smiled maliciously: "It's true that God's calculations are worse than those of God. The terms of this agreement are so generous that they can offset the tax of Bian State for three years. This time... it turned out to be a coincidence."
The sarcasm in his words was so obvious and undisguised. Emperor Bian was feeling dizzy, but he still stared at Yang Zhen, holding on to the last bit of his sober will, and said loudly: "Yang Zhen... The following offenders will be stripped of their position as princes, the power of the three armies, and demoted to county. King, please return the military talisman within three days. Go back to your home... shut yourself up and think about your mistakes!"
Yang Zhen looked at Emperor Bian from afar, his eyes were like an ice pool in winter, without a trace of warmth. His eyes only stayed on his face for a moment, smiled coldly, and left without looking back.
There was silence in Qinzheng Hall, no one dared to say a word.
Su Li secretly breathed a sigh of relief. The scene just now shocked her. With just that little difference, the situation will inevitably develop into an uncontrollable situation. Dongfangze appeared in time and took control of the situation in just a few words. If the terms are discussed again, it will undoubtedly be great bad news for Emperor Bian. He deeply understood that unresolved external troubles and the recurrence of internal troubles would inevitably cause turmoil in the government. If this is the case, it would be too much of a loss! So he had to swallow his anger and let his uncle go for the time being.
She sighed silently, and suddenly heard a "dong" sound from Lord Dan. She couldn't help being startled. She looked up suddenly and saw that Emperor Bian's face was pale and he had fallen behind the dragon case.
"Father
! "Yang Xiao was shocked and immediately rushed over.
After several negotiations between Bian and Sheng, the peace agreement was re-drafted. Sheng's compensation payment was significantly reduced, and Bian's losses were huge. Emperor Bian was depressed and lay ill in bed.
Yang Xiao was ordered to take over the government affairs and was busy handling government affairs all day long, visiting Emperor Bian regularly every morning and evening. As for the assassination of the Shengguo envoy, the Ministry of Justice found no new clues and had to put it on hold for the time being.
In Biandu City, it seems that a storm is coming.
During this time, Yang Zhen sent people from time to time to invite Su Li to come over to accompany Yang Yan. Su Li thought of the child's cute appearance and couldn't bear to refuse. When she had time, she would go to the palace to play with Yang Yan for a long time. Although Yang Yan is young, he is extremely smart and is very close to Su Li. However, in a short period of time, she fell in love with this child from the bottom of her heart and regarded him as her own brother.
That afternoon, Su Li had nothing to do and took a carriage to Prince Xiao's Mansion. As soon as I entered the city, I was stopped.
Just as Wan Xin was about to ask, a guard in green walked quickly to Su Li's car, lowered his head and said respectfully, "My master, please ask the girl to move over, so we can ride together."
Su Li frowned and Wan Xin asked, "Who is your master?"
The guard did not answer, but respectfully handed over an exquisite brocade bag. Wan Xin opened her eyes and only took one look. Her expression changed slightly, and she quickly got into the car and handed the kit to Su Li.
It was a crystal-clear jade seal, lying in Su Li's palm with a faint luster, and the exquisite seal characters on the seal had long been deeply remembered in her memory.
She opened the curtain, and a blurry figure was reflected in the translucent window of the carriage ahead. A year ago, when he was in jail, he had entrusted this seal, his family and his life to her, and today he ordered someone to use this seal to invite her on a trip together. What was his purpose
After thinking for a moment, Su Li got into the car. As soon as the car curtain opened, a hand stretched out and held her hand tightly. She couldn't help but tremble in her heart. It was autumn and the weather was not cold during the day, but the temperature of his hands was slightly cool.
She raised her head and met his pair of deep and bright eyes. The faint sunlight outside the car window shone on his handsome face, making him look even more handsome and handsome.
Su Li unnaturally broke away from his hand, and he paused slightly, seemingly a little sad, but said nothing.
The car curtains fell, and the bright light was blocked. It was a little dark inside the car, but they could still see each other clearly.
.
Su Li handed the jade seal back to him and inevitably touched his finger. Her heart ached inexplicably. She quickly retracted her hand and said calmly: "I heard that the post house has been repaired."
Dongfangze lowered his eyes, looking at the jade seal, and responded absently: "Yes." Before he finished speaking, he suddenly coughed a few times uncontrollably.
There was a cup of hot tea on the small table in the car, and Su Li subconsciously handed it over. He frowned slightly and said, "You should go back to the inn to stay."
"I have something to ask you." He spoke softly, with a smile hidden in his pupils, and that touch of tenderness seemed indelible.
Su Li didn't turn her head, pretending to look at the street scene outside the car window, and said calmly: "What's the matter?"
"The last incident in the palace, Emperor Bian and Prince Xiao had a head-on conflict. The current peace may not last long. Both sides will definitely take action. You should be more careful."
He went to all this trouble just to remind her of this? Su Li lowered her eyes slightly and remained silent.
Even though he knew that she knew what she wanted and had her own opinions, he couldn't help but add: "You are in charge of the Saintess Cult, but you are close to Prince Xiao. It is inevitable that some people will be worried."
"Do you think Emperor Bian will do anything to me?" She looked at him calmly.
Dongfang Ze's soft eyes suddenly darkened, and he said lightly: "Then he doesn't dare."
Listening to his tone, why did she feel that there seemed to be a lot of things she didn't know about? The assassination of the envoy has not yet been resolved. Perhaps this will be more beneficial to him. In the final analysis, he was the only person who ultimately benefited from the assassination.
The carriage moved forward steadily, passing through the noisy streets. Vendors on both sides of the road were shouting and selling, and the atmosphere inside the carriage became increasingly calm.
Su Li thought for a moment and suddenly asked: "Have you met Emperor Bian?"
He understood what she meant, smiled lightly and said, "I don't have to see a dying person."
"What do you mean by that?" Su Li was slightly surprised.
Dongfangze said meaningfully: "When two tigers fight, one of them will be injured."
Su Li naturally understood in her heart, but she really didn't want to see such cruel things happen again.
. But she also knows better than anyone that this struggle is extremely difficult to resolve.
"Who... do you think will win?"
Dongfangze looked at her, his eyes full of confidence, and smiled slightly: "Who do you want to win?"
This is really a strange question to ask. Could it be that whoever she wants to win can win? Su Li's heart darkened. He was probably not just trying so hard to stay in Bian just to see her more.
"Are you very concerned about this fight?" Although she was asking, her tone was affirmative.
In the past, Emperor Bian sat and watched the internal strife in the royal family of Sheng Kingdom, but now the situation has been reversed. So... in this power struggle belonging to the royal family of Bian Kingdom, what role will he, the leader of Sheng Kingdom, play
"In my eyes, they are all irrelevant people." A cold look flashed across Dongfang Ze's face.
Emperor Bian and Yang Zhen were fighting each other to the death, which was just a good show to him. He could have been like Yang Xuan, sitting on the mountain and watching the tiger fight, waiting until the time was right, and then giving the opponent a fatal blow. But now that she is in this game, everything is different.
In his heart, no one or anything was as important as her!
"Master, Prince Xiao's Mansion has arrived." The carriage suddenly stopped, and the guard's respectful report came into the carriage. Dongfangze sighed slightly, and before he knew it, the carriage had passed through half of Biandu City. And the time he spent with her always seemed to fly by very quickly.
"I'm leaving first." Su Li said lightly, jumped out of the car, and entered Prince Xiao's Mansion without any pause.
"Your Majesty, it's time to take your medicine." The guard reminded him in a low voice.
Dongfangze hummed lightly, and the bitter taste spread when the pill entered his mouth. However, he swallowed the pill vigorously without even frowning.
The guard thoughtfully handed over a glass of water, "Mr. Lin said this medicine is extremely bitter. Your Majesty, you'd better drink some water."
"No need." Dongfangze shook his head, leaning in the car and closing his eyes to rest. There was an unspeakable astringency in my heart. No matter how bitter the medicine was, how could it compare to the pain in his heart
..