Lanting prelude
Chapter 28 Zoroastrianism
Chapter 28 Zoroastrianism
Chang'an Anyi Square, Zui Taiping Restaurant.
In the private room on the second floor, Li Ke was talking with Sun Boyuan in a low voice.
"Mr. Sun, I heard that your salt business has been doing well these years?" Li Ke asked, with something hidden between his brows.
"It's okay, it's enough to support some brothers." Sun Boyuan smiled, "But it's also thanks to brother Jingde who helped me clear the way, otherwise Sanlang would also know that the gang of officials below, all of them opened their mouths and made a lot of money. No amount of food can feed them enough."
Li Ke thought about it, but stopped talking.
Sun Boyuan noticed his expression: "Does Sanlang have anything to say?"
Li Ke looked at him: "Mr. Sun, please forgive me for asking a question that spoils the scenery. If one day, your salt business cannot continue, how many brothers will have no way out?"
Sun Boyuan was stunned: "This... At least there are three or four thousand."
"So many?" Li Ke was a little surprised, "It's not easy to feed so many people!"
"Isn't it?" Sun Boyuan smiled wryly, "Outsiders always think that I have a great reputation when they see my family's great fortune. They don't know how laborious and laborious it is to manage such a huge family business! Just so many brothers and their families open their mouths to eat. It’s enough for me to worry about gray hair. Usually the weather is good, but if there is an unfavorable year, a few boats capsize a year, and thousands of rock salt will be wiped out, and dozens of brothers will disappear if they say nothing. My side It's still a trivial matter to make arrangements to transfer goods and plug holes. The problem is that there are so many brothers in the family. There are old people and young children. , I don’t know how much thought it will take..." As he spoke, Sun Boyuan's eyes were already red.
Li Ke felt a little sad, and sighed lightly.
It is said that every family has scriptures that are difficult to recite, which is indeed the truth.Not to mention a businessman like Sun Boyuan who has no status and status, even if he is a prince and his father is the son of heaven, don't he have to worry and worry every day?Sometimes when I think about it, it's really not as easy as being a commoner.Thinking of this, Li Ke suddenly thought of Xiao Junmo again.He remembered chatting with this kid once, and while chatting, he talked about his future plans.Li Ke said that as a man, he has to build up some achievements to be worthy of this seven-foot body.However, Xiao Junmo said that people should live with peace of mind, look up to the sky, bow down to others, and just be worthy of conscience in everything. As for merit, just follow the fate, there is no need to be too persistent.
Li Ke laughed that he had no ambitions, why don't he be a Xuanjia guard, just be a farmer, face the loess and back to the sky every day, his wife and children are hot on the kang, how comfortable!
Xiao Jun smiled silently, saying that this is hard to say, maybe one day when the opportunity is ripe, I will become a farmer.
Thinking that this kid is now on the run, life and death are uncertain, and he can't even be a farmer, Li Ke can't help but feel sad.
"Sanlang, Sanlang..." Seeing him in a daze, Sun Boyuan couldn't help calling out repeatedly.
Li Ke came back to his senses and smiled apologetically: "Mr. Sun, as you said just now, although the salt business is profitable, the risk is not small. I don't know if you have considered taking the salt business slowly. , Let the brothers transfer to other businesses?"
"It's such a big business, how easy is it to change careers?" Sun Boyuan sighed, "Besides, any business in this world has no risks? As long as the final benefits outweigh the risks, it's still worth doing."
Li Ke was a little anxious, and almost confided the truth to him - he just heard the news from Li Daozong yesterday, and learned that the imperial court would soon take action to suppress the Jiangzuo gentry, and these gentry's huge industries would undoubtedly bear the brunt hit target.
"Sir, you'd better listen to my advice. It's best to quickly find a new home and sell all the salt business in hand as soon as possible."
Only then did Sun Boyuan realize something was wrong, and frowned: "Sanlang, what happened, can you tell me frankly?"
"Don't ask, just do as I say, and start quickly, the sooner the better!"
Seeing that he refused to speak clearly, Sun Boyuan had no choice but to give up.
"How's the matter with Yao Xing?" Li Ke changed the subject.
"Sanlang don't worry, everyone has spread out, I believe there will be news in a few days." Sun Boyuan said.
"In the past few days, I have been thinking that if Yao Xing dared to act in Chang'an, he must have changed his face, otherwise it would not have been so long, and the government would never find him."
"I have the same thoughts as Saburo, so I didn't ask my subordinates to track down Yao Xing directly, but started with his relationship."
"Relationship?" Li Ke was a little puzzled, "As far as I know, Yao Xing committed the crime of treason and should have been punished by the three clans. Although the court granted amnesty, his wife and children escaped death by chance, but all of them were exiled to Lingnan. , what relationship can he have in Chang'an? Even if he still has some old friends, he will definitely not dare to contact them, right?"
"Naturally, he wouldn't come and go in a normal relationship. What I'm referring to below is a special relationship."
"Special relationship?" Li Ke became interested, "Like what?"
Sun Boyuan smiled meaningfully: "For example, mistress."
Li Ke couldn't help laughing.
This is a character in the rivers and lakes, and the way to investigate the case is completely different from that of the government!Li Ke was thinking about something, and was about to ask again, when there was a rhythmic knock on the door outside.The expressions of the two men froze at the same time.
"The wind is blowing in vain." The knocker outside whispered.
Sun Boyuan's expression eased, and he replied lightly: "Stop the clouds and shade Jiugao."
This is the contact code of Jiugao Tuo, which comes from a five-character poem written by Sun Chuo, a famous scholar in the Eastern Jin Dynasty, at the Lanting Meeting.Li Ke's expression also relaxed when he heard the secret signal matched.The outsider opened the door and came in. It was Sun Boyuan's younger brother and Jiugao's deputy Sun Pu, who was in his 40s and looked shrewd and capable.
"This subordinate has seen Mr. and Saburo." Sun Pu bowed and saluted.
"Tell me, have you found something?" Sun Boyuan knew that there must be some clues when he saw his expression.
"Mr. Hui, it has been found out that Yao Xing's concubine is Guo Yan, a widow who lives in Taohua Lane in the northwest corner of Tonggui Square in the south of the city. According to what the brothers have learned, Yao Xing visited once five days ago. I’m sure we’ll go again in a few days.”
Sun Boyuan and Li Ke couldn't help looking at each other and smiling when they heard the words.
"Mr. Xie, I just got the news that the imperial court is going to attack you veteran gentry!"
In the study of the Lizheng Hall in the East Palace, Li Chengqian said to Xie Shaozong in a low voice.
"Do it?" Xie Shaozong was slightly startled, obviously caught off guard by the sudden news, "Dare to ask Your Highness, what is the specific reason?"
"A few days ago, Royal Father suddenly convened a secret meeting with several prime ministers. The main topic was the Jiangzuo gentry with your king and Xie as the main topic. As far as I know, Royal Father is eager to dig out your Tianxing League now, but because Biancai escaped and broke the clues, so he wanted to take your Jiangzuo nobles and force you to show up."
Xie Shaozong understood, but his expression was much calmer than before: "Does Your Highness know what measures the Holy Majesty and the court plan to take?"
"According to Hou Junji, the imperial court intends to use the excuse of maintaining fairness and impartiality to strictly investigate the sons and daughters of the gentry who have become officials in recent years. If they are suspected of asking for a job, they will be relegated; Strict scrutiny and selection. Sir must have seen that the imperial court wants to use this as a cover to remove all the children of your Jiangzuo gentry from the officialdom. Firstly, it is to weaken the power of the gentry, and secondly, it is hoped that there will be people from the Tianxing League among them. Unable to hold back, jump out by yourself."
Xie Shaozong twitched his beard and smiled: "In order to track down the Tianxing League, the Holy Majesty and the imperial court have spent a lot of painstaking efforts."
Seeing his relaxed expression, Li Chengqian was a little surprised: "Aren't you worried at all, sir?"
"To tell you the truth, Your Majesty, although many of my Xie clan's children have entered official positions, in this branch, no one has set foot in the officialdom for many years. They are all ordinary people and ordinary people, so Your Highness does not need to worry too much."
"It's so good." Li Chengqian heaved a sigh of relief.Originally, he was worried that if Xie Shaozong's son was involved, he would have to stand up for him, which would easily arouse his father's suspicion.
"Your Highness," Xie Shaozong thought, "besides blocking the rise of the Jiangzuo gentry from the aspect of official career, is there any other way for the imperial court to suppress them?"
"It's not very clear yet. I'm asking King Han and Hou Junji to inquire. As soon as I have any news, I will let you know at any time."
"Thank you, Your Highness!" Xie Shaozong cupped his hands gratefully.
"There's no need to meet with me anymore." Li Chengqian said, and suddenly thought of something, "By the way, I heard that there is a bronze statue of Xie An standing in your house?"
Xie Shaozong had a mansion in Yongjiafang, Chang'an, and there was a bronze statue of Xie An in the center of the courtyard in front of the main hall.The bronze statue is about one foot high, and the clothes are floating, lifelike, and the cost is quite high.Not to mention that such bronze statues cannot be afforded by ordinary people, even wealthy families may not be willing to spend this money.But Xie Shaozong is different, because he himself is a big copper mine owner, operating more than a dozen copper mountains in various provinces in the world, and he worships his ancestor Xie An very much, so naturally he spared no expense.Now when he suddenly heard the crown prince mentioning this, Xie Shaozong suddenly had a bad feeling: "Returning to Your Highness, there is indeed such a thing, what do you mean..."
"Now that the father and the imperial court are all focused on suppressing the descendants of the gentry, your family, the king and the Xie family, are the first to bear the brunt." Li Chengqian frowned slightly, "You have such a big bronze statue of Xie An at home, I'm afraid..."
Xie Shaozong was stunned, and his face tightened immediately.
Although being a descendant of Xie An is not a crime in itself, his true identity is after all the head of the Tianxingmengxitang rudder. At this juncture when the court is preparing to suppress the Jiangzuo gentry with all its strength, he is posing so in his own courtyard. A majestic bronze statue of Xie An will definitely attract the attention of the court, and if it is not done well, it will cause trouble for the upper body and bring the blame on itself.
Xie Shaozong pondered for a while, and said: "I understand what Your Highness means, and tomorrow I will order people to remove the bronze statue."
"Move? Where to move?"
"Of course I moved back to my hometown, Yuezhou." As soon as the words came out, Xie Shaozong felt something was wrong.If such a large object was to be transported out of the city, the city gate officials would definitely inspect it. When the time came, they would see that it was a bronze statue of Xie An. Wouldn't it be self-inflicted and voluntarily admitting that he was a descendant of Xie An?
Li Chengqian saw his hesitation, so he didn't urge him, and waited for him to think of a way.
After a while, Xie Shaozong sighed: "It's probably not right to move it back. How about I make a few big rooms and hide the bronze statue first?"
Li Chengqian still frowned: "This is a solution, but... it is not a long-term solution. There are also many people in your house. If someone misses something, let the court know. Think about it, the court Do you think you're trying to cover up?"
Xie Shaozong was very helpless, pondered for a while, and suddenly a thought flashed in his mind, but this thought could not be accepted by himself, so his lips moved, but he didn't say anything.
"Mr. Xie, I know this matter is quite embarrassing for you." Li Chengqian chose his words, "But the current situation is so tense, in my opinion, we must be cautious in everything, and we cannot tolerate any mistakes, let alone lose the big because of small things."
"What your highness said is true." Xie Shaozong smiled wryly, "please rest assured, your highness, I must think of a surefire solution to properly resolve this matter so that it does not affect the overall situation."
"That's good." Li Chengqian smiled, "And, as soon as possible."
"Understand."
"One more thing, the Su Jinse you mentioned last time, what's going on recently?"
"My people have been watching around Wei Wang's mansion. It's strange that Su Jinse has not shown up for so many days. I suspect that she may not have lived in Wei Wang's mansion recently."
"Not in Prince Wei's Mansion? Then where can she be?"
"As far as I know, although this Su Jinse is not Wang Hongyi's biological child, she is quite filial to him. Therefore, it cannot be ruled out that she lives with Wang Hongyi in order to take care of her adoptive father's daily life."
"Then can you find out where Wang Hongyi lives?"
Xie Shaozong shook his head: "It's unlikely. Wang Hongyi has been in the world for many years, and he is cunning and scheming. Except for the closest people around him, I am afraid that no one knows where he is hiding."
"So, don't we have nothing to do?"
"Not at all. Even if Su Jinse doesn't live in the Wei Palace temporarily, she will always go there. As long as my people stay there, they will find her sooner or later."
Li Chengqian frowned and thought: "I was wondering if the king of Wei would have given her a waist card or a night travel letter so that she could come and go freely during the night ban. If so, your people would not be able to find her no matter what. "
Xie Shaozong thought for a while: "Yes, there is also this possibility. However, I believe she will not always be active at night."
"We didn't talk carefully last time, I want to know now..." Li Chengqian suddenly looked at Xie Shaozong, "Once you find her, what are you going to do?"
"The best way is to keep an eye on her and see where she goes, who she contacts, and what she does. In this case, it will help to find out the details of Wang Hongyi, and it may even be possible to grasp his secrets..."
"Why is it so troublesome?" Li Chengqian interrupted him, disapprovingly said, "In my opinion, instead of following her, it's better to tie her up. As long as she confesses Mingzang and King Wei, we can catch them all. ?"
Xie Shaozong smiled: "Your Highness, I don't know. This Su Jinse was trained by Wang Hongyi himself. She is definitely not an ordinary weak woman. If she is arrested, but she refuses to recruit her, what should I do? Then let's make a good job of it." Did the chess game die?"
Li Chengqian made sense after thinking about it, and said: "Forget it, you can handle the specific things, and I won't get involved, but I still want to remind Mr. that our number one target is the King of Wei, so don't misunderstand the target."
Xie Shaozong heard the implication, and couldn't help secretly admiring the prince's sensitivity.
In fact, apart from the reasons mentioned above, the reason why he didn't directly kidnap Su Jinse was that he had his own agenda.Xitang Duo is the largest sub-rudder in the Tianxing League besides the main rudder of Mingzang. As Xitang Duozhu and Xie An's descendants, Xie Shaozong actually has the same ambition as Wang Hongyi to control the Tianxing League, so the two met very early. The secret gladiatorial battle began.This time Wang Hongyi sneaked into Chang'an, Xie Shaozong knew very well that besides assisting King Wei to usurp the throne, he must have his own schemes, so Xie Shaozong planned to find out more cards of Wang Hongyi through Su Jinse, so that when the final confrontation came, he must have his own plot. It is possible to eradicate Wang Hongyi and his entire Mingzang Tuo.In other words, Xie Shaozong didn't move Su Jinse for the time being, just because he wanted to put a long line to catch big fish.In this sense, he and the prince's goals are not completely consistent.
Since there is indeed such a small calculation, the prince's words are very sharp.
Of course, as a person who has been in the world for many years, Xie Shaozong will never mess up his position so easily.He chuckled, and said calmly: "What your highness said is very true. King Wei is naturally our number one target. Xie has no objection to this! It's just that your highness has never thought about it. Now Wang Hongyi is tied to King Wei, and his The subordinates are all over the government and the public, so we don’t want to move the king of Wei. If we want to move, we must have full confidence in eradicating Wang Hongyi and his Mingzang Ruo in one fell swoop! Otherwise, we may not be killed by the snake, but will be bitten by the snake instead. In other words In other words, we are now playing a big game of chess with King Wei and Mingzang. On this chessboard, it is not difficult to capture Su Jinse. Any chance of a comeback. Your Highness said, is this the truth?"
"Of course that's the reason." Li Chengqian rubbed his eyebrows and smiled softly, "I'm just worried that Mr. will think too much and let the cooked duck fly away."
"If the duck is really cooked, it won't be able to fly." Xie Shaozong also said with a smile, "The one that can fly is precisely because it is not cooked."
"I hope you are right." Li Chengqian said lightly.
Just as Li Chengqian expected, Su Jinse did travel between Wei Wangfu and Qinglongfang during the night ban, and she had the official letter from Wei Wang to her at night.
Last night, Su Jinse quietly returned to Wei Wangfu.Early in the morning, she came out from the small gate on the west side in a carriage, and headed eastward with her entourage.
The goal of her trip is Yelanxuan in Pingkangfang, and her mission is to find Xu Wanniang.
Yelanxuan has two entrances, front and back. The building is three stories high. The scale of the building is not small, and the interior decoration is quite elegant. It is enough to imagine the grandeur and luxury of the past, but now it has revealed a look of depression and dilapidation.From the moment she stepped off the carriage, Su Jinse noticed that the gold paint on the plaque of Yelanxuan was peeling off and the strokes were missing, turning it into "Yelangan"; when she walked into the gate, an old musty smell came over her face, which made people almost Nausea; the stairs creaked as soon as they stepped up, and some steps were even sunken and cracked, which made people tremble; at the door of the private rooms on both sides of the corridor, there were some women with heavy makeup standing as usual, but their faces were full of makeup. cheap.
Naturally, such a brothel can't attract prestigious customers, only some rogues and idlers and drunkards from the market hang out here.Su Jinse walked all the way, even though she was wearing a veiled hat and a light veil, these apprentices still stared at her dazedly.If it weren't for the sight of a group of tall and burly followers behind her, they would definitely have been entangled with their faces salivating.
Yelanxuan's bustard is in her 40s, named Xiugu, with a flat face, slender eyes, yawning continuously, and looks like she's still awake.Su Jinse used a sling of copper coins to make her open her eyes a little.
After hearing Su Jinse explain why she came here, Xiugu picked the shit out of her eyes and let out a long yawn before she squinted and said, "What happened more than 20 years ago? Are you kidding me? Who remembers the old imperial calendar!"
Su Jinse also ordered her attendants to take out a penny and throw it on the case to help her recover her memory.
Xiugu's eyes finally brightened a bit: "Xu Wanniang? The name is a bit impressive, let me think about it... Oh, I remembered, there is such a person, who is about my age, very pretty, can sing and dance , just a little smug and arrogant, and then left."
"Then do you know where she is now?"
"How do I know this? It's been so many years, maybe he died long ago!"
Su Jinse's heart sank, and she changed the question: "You and Xu Wanniang were sisters, right?" She saw that this Xiugu was only in her 40s, and she was only in her early twenties at the time, so she couldn't be a madam.
"Probably." Xiu Gu nodded, "However, I'm not familiar with her."
"When did she leave Yelanxuan? Did someone redeem her?"
"I said girl, who are you?" Xiu Gu looked her up and down, "What are you asking about Xu Wanniang? From your questioning tone, why do you sound like the government is investigating a case?"
"Who am I?" Su Jinse smiled, "It's very simple, I'm a person who spends money to buy news." As he spoke, he gave the attendant a wink, and immediately threw another sling of copper coins on the case. "If you know something, sell it to me; if you don't, I'll buy it elsewhere. Fair trade, I'll do what you want, won't you?"
Su Jinse looked at Xiugu with a smile.
"It's fair to say that." Xiugu curled her lips, "If I remember correctly, she should have left in Wude four years ago."
"Four years of Wude? That was 21 years ago?"
"Correct."
"Who helped her redeem her body?"
"Of course it's a good match." Xiugu laughed.
"I know it's a good friend." Su Jinse stared at her, "What I'm asking is, what kind of person is this good friend?"
"Of course they are rich!" Xiu Gu smiled again covering her mouth.
Su Jinse sneered, and gave the attendant another wink.The entourage came over immediately, picked up a sling of copper coins from the case, and pretended to put them back into a cowhide bag that he carried with him.The pocket was heavy and evidently contained a good deal of money.
"Hey, what are you doing?" Xiugu became anxious when she saw it, "Didn't you want to buy news? Why did you take it back?"
"Yes, what I bought was news, not your bullshit joke!" Su Jinse's face was gloomy, and her tone was aggravated, "From now on, you have to say one thing, and another thing, don't play sloppy with me! Do you hear me? "
Xiu Gu hurriedly apologized and smiled: "Yes, yes, what the girl said is true, I made this joke at the wrong time. But to be honest, I really don't know who Xu Wanniang is dating. I only know that he is a rich man. He is very mysterious. Every time It is to send a carriage, pick up the man and leave, and send him back the next day. No one has seen his face, nor does he know what he does, let alone his name."
Su Jinse looked at her for a while, and knew that she was not lying: "Since you don't know this person, please bring your boss here, and I will talk to him."
"It's useless to find our boss, you have to go to the old boss."
Su Jinse was taken aback: "Isn't the old boss and the current boss the same person?"
Xiu Gu shook her head: "Our owner only bought this place ten years ago."
"Then who was the owner back then? Where is it now?"
Xiu Gu chuckled, her eyes fixed on the purse in the hand of her entourage.The attendant looked at Su Jinse, and after receiving the signal, he took out another hanging from the bag, and threw it on the table with the hanging just now.
"He's a Persian, his name is... his name is Mohadi." Xiu Gu tried hard to recall, "At that time, my family had a big business. Not only did I open several brothels in Pingkangfang, but I also had a big business in West Market. He was defeated, so he sold all his property. Back then, this guy spent money like dirt..."
"Don't talk too far, just talk about now."
"Now, I don't know too well. I should still be in the West Market. I don't know what to do for a living."
"As far as I know, among the barbarians in the West Market, there are eight hundred people named Mohadi, if not one thousand. Where do you want me to find them?" Su Jinse said coldly.
Xiugu was startled, and subconsciously covered the four hanging coins on the case: "Let me think about it, let me think about it carefully."
"Don't worry, think slowly." Su Jinse changed her posture and sat, "My girl has plenty of time."
Xiugu frowned and thought for a moment, then suddenly patted her forehead: "Yes, I remembered, this Mohadi is a Zoroastrian, and he has a daughter who has been gifted since she was a child. So I became a sacrifice in their temple at a young age... what is the sacrifice?"
"Priest." Su Jinse answered.
"Yes, Priest. You go to the temple and look for his daughter, and you will find Mohaldi."
Zoroastrianism, also known as Zoroastrianism, is the state religion of Persia. It was introduced to the Central Plains from the Western Regions during the Northern Wei Dynasty. Now there are four Zoroastrian temples in Chang'an, called Zoroastrian temples.Su Jinse had dealt with the Persians in Qihuang Pavilion, so she knew something about it.Although this clue is a bit detoured, it is at least a clear direction of investigation.
"What's the name of Mohamad's daughter?"
"It's... Doris."
Knowing that Xiugu's knowledge was limited, Su Jinse couldn't find anything to ask, so she got up and left, and gave her another penny before leaving.Hsiu Gu was so happy that she couldn't hold her tongue from ear to ear, and she was very attentive and personally sent her to the door.
Watching Su Jinse and his party go away, Xiugu's smile disappeared in an instant, and her narrow eyes glowed thoughtfully.After a while, Xiugu turned around and was about to raise her leg to enter the door when her mouth was suddenly covered by a pair of big hands from behind, and she was dragged into a side alley.
"Don't shout, or I'll kill you!" A big man pushed her against the wall, and another stood at the entrance of the alley.
With her mouth covered, Xiugu could only nod her head desperately.
The big man slowly let go of his hand.Xiugu panted heavily, and rolled her eyes: "Dare to ask two... two heroes, are they robbing wealth or robbing sex?"
The big man was stunned, couldn't help but looked at his companion, and grinned: "Are you lecherous and let us rob you? To rob your lecherousness, isn't this my business at a loss?"
Xiu Gu laughed and said, "A good man really has eyesight! But you should also be able to see that the old man is not only colorless, but also has no wealth!"
"Stop chatting with me! I just want to ask you a question, what did that woman want from you just now?"
Aunt Xiu was a little surprised, and rolled her eyes: "A woman? That woman is also out for sale, and she wants to come to Laosang's place to make a living..."
"Fart!" The big man strangled her neck vigorously, "Don't think I don't know, that girl's root hair is thicker than your arm, who are you fooling? Tell the truth, or I will strip you naked and throw you on the street!"
"Let go of the man, let me tell you!" Xiu Gu coughed heavily, "That woman is here to inquire about a Persian named Mohadi."
"Mohadi? Who is Mohadi?"
"The former owner of Yelanxuan left ten years ago."
"What did that woman want him to do?"
"How do I know this? Let me tell you, it's either to collect debts or to seek revenge."
The big man was suspicious, and the watchman at the alley turned around and said, "Hurry up, someone is coming." The big man thought for a while, and let go of Xiu Gu: "If you dare to lie, be careful that I will come back to settle accounts with you!" Then he ran out of the alley quickly with the other man.
"Bah, who are you scaring?" Xiu Gu straightened her collar and spit on the ground, "When my old lady came out to mess around, you were still wearing crotch pants!"
Xie Shaozong didn't sleep well last night, so he called several craftsmen from Benduo early this morning to discuss how to deal with the bronze statue.But everyone discussed for a long time, and it was almost noon, but they still couldn't come up with the most appropriate solution.
Xie Shaozong couldn't help letting out a long sigh in his heart.
Since he was a child, his ancestor Xie An has always been the person he admires the most.Thinking back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty with internal and external troubles and partial safety to the left of the river, Xie An, who was originally lying high on the east mountain and aspiring to be in Linquan, was ordered to assist the young master, devote himself to the royal family, select talents and appoint talents, and stabilize the internal and external. Conspiracy, and then in the Battle of Feishui, which determined the fate of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, he lifted the weight as if it were light, strategized, and only [-] soldiers defeated the million-strong army that Qin Fujian claimed before, and then launched the Northern Expedition, successfully regaining a large area south of the Yellow River. After decades of peace in the Eastern Jin Dynasty.What is especially rare is that when Xie An was jealous of the emperor because of his achievements in the world, he retreated bravely and took the initiative to give up power, avoiding the ending of a dead dog.
It is natural for future generations to be proud to have such an ancestor with outstanding character and outstanding achievements.Therefore, since his youth, Xie Shaozong took Xie An as a role model in life, not only asking himself to cultivate the character of a generation of celebrities, but also determined to accomplish something vigorous...
At this moment, several craftsmen were still arguing about how to deal with the bronze statue, Xie Shaozong suddenly said calmly: "Stop arguing, let's melt it."
The craftsmen looked at each other, thinking they had heard wrong.
Xie Shaozong raised his head, took one last look at the bronze statue, then flicked his sleeves, and walked slowly towards the inner house.He looked calm, but in fact there were strong waves surging in his heart—it was not an easy decision for him to make the decision to melt down the bronze statue.
Xie Shaozong restrained the turmoil in his heart, and suddenly walked and chanted: "Mr. Yixi, I have a spring outing. Chez's words are persistent, and I send them to the proud forest hills. There are dense forests and mountains, and the vast original domain. The clouds hang down, the springs disperse... ..."
This is one of the two poems written by Xie An at the Lanting Meeting, and it is also Xie Shaozong's favorite four-character poem in ancient style.Whenever he was restless, Xie Shaozong would recite this poem involuntarily, and then a sense of desolate and open-minded emotion would instantly fill his chest.
Perhaps, from this moment on, the image of the ancestor Xie An can only be cast in his own heart.Xie Shaozong thought so, gently wiped a tear from the corner of his eye, and walked into the study.
In the past few days, he has been rereading some pre-Qin classics, especially "Six Secret Teachings".Although the tactics and the concept of governing the country in the book are already clear in his chest, but re-reading it this time still makes him hit again and again.Xie Shaozong sat down in front of the book case, opened the scroll, and began to chant again without realizing it: "When a fish eats its bait, it is led to the stringer. When a man eats his reward, he submits to the king. Therefore, if you use the bait to catch fish, the fish can eat it." Kill; take people with money, and the people can be exhausted; take the country with the family, and the country can be destroyed; take the world with the country, and the world can be destroyed!"
While Zihan was chanting, enjoying himself, there was a clear and rhythmic knock on the door outside.This was a signal to return something important, but Xie Shaozong didn't seem to hear it, he didn't even lift his eyelids, his eyes were still focused on the scroll.
There was a little silence outside the door, and then someone read softly:
"Alcoholic Spirits Taodan Mansion."
Xie Shaozong then covered the scroll and replied:
"It's like traveling to Xitang."
These two poems are from another five-character poem written by Xie An at the Lanting Conference.The person who came was Xie Qian, the son of Xie Shaozong.Although it was between father and son, and it was in his own home, Xie Shaozong's rules were always strict—no matter who came to see him for any reason, he had to rely on the signal of knocking on the door and a secret signal, and never allowed any exceptions.
Hearing his father's reply, Xie Qian opened the door and came in, softly said: "Father, Xie Chong is back."
Xie Shaozong's eyes brightened slightly: "Let him in."
"Come in." Xie Qian turned around and said.
Xie Shaozong's nephew Xie Chong strode in, it was the strong man who kidnapped Xiugu at the gate of Yelanxuan.
Xie Chong said in a rough voice: "Uncle, there is news, that girl surnamed Su..." As soon as the words came out, Xie Shaozong gave him a stern look. Xie Chong realized that the words were indecent, so he quickly changed his words: " Su Jinse first went to Yelanxuan in Pingkangfang. According to the old bustard, he was inquiring about a Persian named Mohadi, who was the owner of Yelanxuan ten years ago; then he left Pingkangfang and went to Jing in the east. Gongfang, went to a Zoroastrian temple, then crossed the capital, arrived at Buzhengfang on the west side of the imperial city, entered another Zoroastrian temple, then went to Liquanfang next door, went to the Zoroastrian temple, and finally came out from the south gate of Liquanfang , and entered the West Market. Uncle, you know that the West Market is the most crowded place in the world, with cars, horses, and crowds of people, and they circled around in it. Let them give..."
"You let them slip away?" Xie Qian looked at him in surprise.
Xie Chong scratched his head: "I asked my brothers to look for it, and I still found it now! I was thinking about going back and reporting to my uncle..."
"I have lost everyone, why do you still report?" Xie Qian stared.
"I didn't lose track at the beginning, didn't I follow all morning?"
"Are you still stubborn?!"
"Okay, let's not say a few words." Xie Shaozong said, "Ah Chong's trip is not completely fruitless, at least, the clues he just said are still useful."
Xie Chong grinned, and even winked at Xie Qian triumphantly.
"Father, what do you mean..." Xie Qian didn't understand what those clues could explain.
"Zoroastrianism has four temples in the capital. Apart from the three temples mentioned by A Chong just now, the fourth Zoroastrian temple is in the Puning Square near the Kaiyuan Gate in the northwest corner of the capital. Since Su Jinse left three temples in the morning Zoroastrian Temple, in my opinion, she will definitely go to Puningfang in the end." Xie Shaozong stared at Xie Chong suddenly, "As for what you said just now, they deliberately went around in the West Market, it is obvious that they found the tail, so they came here. Want to get rid of you."
"No way?" Xie Chong was startled, "My nephew and brothers are very careful, so they probably won't find out."
Xie Qian glared at him again, turned his face and said: "Father, Su Jinse has been looking for so many Zoroastrian temples, is it to find that Mohadi?"
"If Mohadi used to be the owner of Ye Lanxuan, then he couldn't be a member of the Zoroastrian Temple." Xie Shaozong said confidently, "Because the Zoroastrianism has strict rules and prohibits adultery, how can Mohadi accept a brothel owner like Mohadi? People? In my opinion, the old bustard of Yelanxuan either lied or half-spoken on purpose. The person Su Jinse is really looking for may be related to Mohadi, but it is definitely not Mohadi."
Xie Chong was furious: "This stinky bitch, dare to play tricks on me!"
Xie Shaozong glanced at him coldly: "Go, inform our brothers in Puningfang, and rush to the Zoroastrian Temple immediately. Su Jinse should still be there now, we must monitor her closely and pay attention to her next move."
Xitang Duo has strongholds all over Chang'an, and the more prosperous the northern Lifang has more strongholds, there are three in Puningfang alone. On the surface, they are all disguised as shops, but in fact they are halls.
Xie Chong accepted the order and turned to leave. Xie Shaozong stopped him again: "You have been exposed now, and the follow-up will be handed over to the people below. Come back immediately after you give the order, and don't act without authorization." Xie Chong was a little dissatisfied, But he could only agree and ran out quickly.
"Qian'er, immediately activate our eyeliner among the Persians, check this Mohadi, and at the same time check who Su Jinse is looking for when he goes to the Zoroastrian Temple. In addition, as soon as Ah Chong comes back, ask him to keep an eye on Ye Lanxuan No matter why Su Jinse is looking for her, there may be important secrets hidden in this person. If necessary, bring this old bust back."
"Yes." Xie Qian agreed, and suddenly found a light shining in his father's eyes, which is the expression only when facing a big event, "Father, do you think Su Jinse's behavior today is very unusual?"
"That's right. Su Jinse is Wang Hongyi's most beloved adopted daughter, and she treats her as her own. How can the task he entrusted to Su Jinse be an ordinary matter?" Xie Shaozong said with a penetrating expression, "The main purpose of Wang Hongyi's coming to Beijing this time is to help Wei Second, Wang Duodi usurped the throne, and secondly, he must have an ulterior plan. If my prediction is correct, the task Su Jinse is performing this time may be related to this plan."
Su Jinse and his party finally arrived at the fourth Zoroastrian temple in Puningfang after losing their tails in the West Market.
This Zoroastrian temple in Puningfang is the largest among the four, and it can be seen that it is the headquarters of Zoroastrianism in Chang'an.
The architectural style of the Zoroastrian Temple is quite different from the surrounding dwellings. The whole building is based on white and decorated with gold, which makes people feel solemn and holy at first glance.The temple is divided into front and rear parts: the front part is a flat-topped building supported by four round stone pillars, about three feet high and eight feet wide, and a conspicuous golden totem is inlaid on the grand lintel—like The eagle with open wings has no head, and its abdomen is a raised circle; the back of the temple is much higher than the front, and the highest point is a huge golden dome, and there is a sculpture of rising flames on the dome. High above, pointing directly at the sky.
The previous three Zoroastrian temples were not as magnificent as this one. Su Jinse looked up and was a little shocked.When they entered the gate, two religious-looking Persians stopped them very politely, and told them in plain Chang'an dialect: no one is allowed to carry weapons when entering the temple.
The three attendants were a little displeased, but Su Jinse ordered them to do so without thinking, and even took the initiative to hand over a dagger hidden in her sleeve.Afterwards, Su Jinse asked the gatekeeper if there was a priest named Doris here.Fortunately, the gatekeeper immediately nodded and said yes, and enthusiastically led the way for them.
Passing through a long corridor, everyone came to the second half of the temple, and they suddenly felt a bright light.This is a wide circular hall, the walls are all made of white marble, on which are carved many half-human, half-bird, deep-eyed and high-nosed deities; the hall is seven or eight feet high, and the dome is painted with colorful mythological patterns; In the center of the hall is a round marble altar, and there are no idols on the altar, only a huge golden fire altar, on which a flame is burning blazingly.
Su Jinse knows a little bit about this: Zoroastrianism believes that fire is the incarnation of the god of light "Ahura", so they worship fire; they believe that the purity, brilliance, vitality, and whiteness of fire symbolize the absolute and supreme goodness of God. Therefore, no statues are built, only the holy fire is worshiped, and the holy fires in all Zoroastrian temples are kept burning all night and all year round.
At this moment, a woman in a white religious uniform is kneeling in front of the white altar and chanting sutras.The gatekeeper told Su Jinse that she was the priest Doris, and asked them to wait for a while before leaving.Su Jinse thanked her and stood there waiting patiently.After about a stick of incense, Doris finished reciting the scriptures and performed another kneeling ceremony before slowly turning around.
Su Jinse met her eyes, and suddenly exclaimed in her heart.
This is a beautiful face that is almost flawless, with snow-skinned red lips, blond hair and blue eyes, especially those glass-like eyes, which are simply captivating; her figure is slim and tall, standing there like a perfect sculpture, In other words, it is a god who does not eat the fireworks of the world, and the whole person exudes a calm, glamorous, and noble atmosphere.Su Jinse has always been very confident in her appearance and temperament, but when compared with Dai Lisi in front of her, she would at least be inferior, if not ashamed.
At this moment, Su Jinse didn't need to look back, she also knew that the eyes of the three attendants behind her must have straightened.In fact, don't talk about these vigorous men, Su Jinse thought, if he was a man, he might fall in love with her immediately when he saw such a beautiful woman.
Doris walked over to meet them, smiled slightly, and said in fluent Chang'an dialect: "How many Tanyues are here to look for me?"
Tanyue means "almsgiver" in Buddhism. Su Jinse doesn't know if this is the original name of Zoroastrianism, or they borrowed a Buddhist term. "Yes priest, I found you here after searching most of Chang'an City. I am looking for you to find out the whereabouts of your father Mohadi."
"Father?" Doris was taken aback for a moment, then smiled, "I don't know why Gui Tanyue is looking for him?"
Su Jinse just wanted to tell the truth, but he changed his words when he said something: "I am from Luozhou. My father is a devout believer of your religion. In the early years, he and your father had a close relationship with each other. This time when I came to Chang'an, my father specially Tell me to come and visit your father. Besides..." Su Jinse turned her head and motioned, and the entourage immediately took a step forward and opened the bulging cowhide bag, "My father wants to make some offerings to show his piety."
As Su Jinse said, he took out three golden ingots from the bag and respectfully placed them on the altar.
No matter where you go, money is the best stepping stone.Su Jinse thought, even though Dai Lisi is a monk, she has no money but does not support the Tao, I believe she will not refuse the yellow and white things.
But Dai Lisi never looked at Jin Jin, she just smiled and said: "Tan Yue said just now that your father is a believer of this religion, and he and my father are members of the church, right?"
"Exactly."
"Then please Tanyue take the money back." Dai Lisi's expression darkened suddenly, "In Ahura's temple, people who speak false words are not welcome, and they will not accept offerings with other motives."
Su Jinse was stunned at once, not knowing where he said something wrong, and hurriedly said: "I worship Ahura with all my heart, I don't know why the priest made such a statement?"
"Does Tan Yue really not know?"
"Priest, please speak clearly."
Dai Lisi looked Su Jinse up and down: "To tell the truth, my father Mohadi never believed in God, he only believed in money. But Tanyue just said that your father is not only a believer in our religion, but also a member of my father's church. How about Tanyue, isn't your lie too lame?"
Su Jinse was immediately ashamed and scolded herself for being too careless.Zoroastrianism has always prohibited adultery, but Mohadi is a brothel owner, how could he be a Zoroastrian?How could it be possible to be a church member with whom?I clearly knew the teachings of Zoroastrianism, but I had no choice but to forget everything in a hurry.Doris is right, her lie is really lame!
"Tan Yue, please go back, I have something to do, so I won't accompany you." After finishing speaking, Doris turned around and left.
"Priest, please stay!" Su Jinse took a few steps and stood behind her. "The reason why I said that is to get closer to you. I really don't have any malicious intentions. I hope the priest will understand. To be honest, I came to find your father this time. , I was entrusted by my father to ask him about an old friend."
Doris was silent for a moment, then turned around: "What kind of old friend?"
"More than 20 years ago, a singer from Yelanxuan, Xu Wanniang."
When Doris heard this, a strange light flashed in her eyes, but it was fleeting. "May I ask, why did your father inquire about this person?"
"I'm sorry, but I don't know the reason. My father didn't say it clearly." Su Jinse was afraid that she would walk away, so she didn't dare to hide it anymore, so she could only tell the truth.
Doris looked her straight in the eyes, as if judging whether she was being honest this time.For some reason, Su Jinse obviously didn't lie, but when she was stared at by her pair of crystal clear eyes, she felt uncomfortable.
"The matter of finding someone can be discussed later. Everyone in Tanyue must have not eaten yet, right?" Doris suddenly grinned and changed the subject, "If you don't mind, please come with me and taste our Zoroastrian Temple How was your communion?"
In fact, Su Jinse was already very hungry, but she was just thinking about business and had no intention of eating. Hearing what she said now, she hesitated.The three attendants on the side couldn't care about Su Jinse at this time, and said in one voice that they don't dislike him or dislike him, and I can't wait to ask for it.Su Jinse was displeased, and was about to give them a wink, but Dai Lisi giggled: "That's great! Please follow me."
When the three attendants saw Dalisi's smiling face and her beautiful eyes looking forward, they immediately became numb all over, and followed her away as if possessed by a demon.Su Jinse was very annoyed, but it was inconvenient to attack, so she had to stamp her feet and followed quickly.
Anyway, it's not too late for this meal, and it's not too late to get down to business after the meal.As Su Jinse walked, she could only comfort herself in this way.
The dining hall of the Zoroastrian Temple was unknown. Su Jinse and three attendants followed Dai Lisi through a corridor and a courtyard, and then pushed open an arched iron gate. order.This Zoroastrian temple is also strange, how could the dining hall be set up underground?Su Jinse was suspicious, and felt impolite to ask.The three attendants also looked left and right, also a little puzzled.
"Don't be surprised, Tanyue." Doris led the way, but seemed to see through their thoughts, "In our Zoroastrian temple, ordinary believers eat on it, but we priests, each of us has a separate room in the basement. Dining area, most of the time eating below."
"Why does the priest have to eat below?" Su Jinse finally couldn't help asking.
Doris turned her head and smiled at her: "There are three reasons. First, it's quiet down below. Dining alone here can avoid unnecessary chatter and help you meditate; second, there are many holy wines that have been cellared for many years. Ordinary believers are not qualified to taste it; the third thing is that whenever distinguished guests come, they will be specially treated here."
The three attendants couldn't help laughing when they heard that there was wine, and they were drinking with such a peerless beauty.
Su Jinse frowned slightly.Listening to these three reasons, the first one is still awe-inspiring, but the latter two are not flattering. They are basically the same as the secular world, and they are all using class differences to obtain privileges.
"Hearing the priest say so, we are considered VIPs?"
"Of course." Dai Lisi smiled, "Gui Tanyue offered three ingots of gold to the temple when he first arrived. If I don't treat you as distinguished guests, wouldn't it be too unreasonable?"
Sure enough, it is not exempt!Su Jinse sighed in her heart.The image of the holy goddess that Doris had just established in her heart just now collapsed at this moment.It seems that no matter whether a person believes in God or not, or whether he is a monk or not, he still likes money.But this is also good, Su Jinse thought, since she likes money, the next thing will be much easier.
A group of people talked and walked, and quickly stepped down the long stairs. Below it was a square wine cellar. Rows of oval wooden barrels were stacked on the wooden shelves on the walls. It seemed that this was the The holy wine of the Zoroastrian cellar.Immediately afterwards, Doris led them to turn right and walked into a closed arched corridor.The stone chambers on both sides are locked, and some locks seem to have rusted.Su Jinse suddenly became suspicious: How long have these doors been open?
At this time, Dai Lisi and the three attendants in front stopped suddenly, and Su Jinse almost bumped into the back of one of the attendants.Before she could figure out what was going on, she suddenly felt a strange fragrance coming to her nostrils, and saw the three attendants greedily sucking their nostrils, with the same intoxicated smiles on their faces.
not good!
Su Jinse yelled, but no sound actually came out.She tried to run, but her legs were as if they were lead-filled.Immediately afterwards, the three attendants turned their faces to her, but what Su Jinse saw was not the face, but three lumps of carrion crawling with maggots.The attendants tore off the carrion from their faces and rushed to hand it over, laughing and saying, "Holy Communion, Holy Communion, please have Holy Communion..."
"Guitanyue, do yourself a favor and taste the sacrament of our Zoroastrian temple!"
Doris was suspended in mid-air like a big white bird, her body was burning with raging flames, and her pair of pupils instantly turned crimson.
Su Jinse felt a strong heat wave coming, subconsciously raised her hand to cover it, but saw that what she raised was not her hand, but the white bones with all the skin and flesh gone...
(End of this chapter)
Chang'an Anyi Square, Zui Taiping Restaurant.
In the private room on the second floor, Li Ke was talking with Sun Boyuan in a low voice.
"Mr. Sun, I heard that your salt business has been doing well these years?" Li Ke asked, with something hidden between his brows.
"It's okay, it's enough to support some brothers." Sun Boyuan smiled, "But it's also thanks to brother Jingde who helped me clear the way, otherwise Sanlang would also know that the gang of officials below, all of them opened their mouths and made a lot of money. No amount of food can feed them enough."
Li Ke thought about it, but stopped talking.
Sun Boyuan noticed his expression: "Does Sanlang have anything to say?"
Li Ke looked at him: "Mr. Sun, please forgive me for asking a question that spoils the scenery. If one day, your salt business cannot continue, how many brothers will have no way out?"
Sun Boyuan was stunned: "This... At least there are three or four thousand."
"So many?" Li Ke was a little surprised, "It's not easy to feed so many people!"
"Isn't it?" Sun Boyuan smiled wryly, "Outsiders always think that I have a great reputation when they see my family's great fortune. They don't know how laborious and laborious it is to manage such a huge family business! Just so many brothers and their families open their mouths to eat. It’s enough for me to worry about gray hair. Usually the weather is good, but if there is an unfavorable year, a few boats capsize a year, and thousands of rock salt will be wiped out, and dozens of brothers will disappear if they say nothing. My side It's still a trivial matter to make arrangements to transfer goods and plug holes. The problem is that there are so many brothers in the family. There are old people and young children. , I don’t know how much thought it will take..." As he spoke, Sun Boyuan's eyes were already red.
Li Ke felt a little sad, and sighed lightly.
It is said that every family has scriptures that are difficult to recite, which is indeed the truth.Not to mention a businessman like Sun Boyuan who has no status and status, even if he is a prince and his father is the son of heaven, don't he have to worry and worry every day?Sometimes when I think about it, it's really not as easy as being a commoner.Thinking of this, Li Ke suddenly thought of Xiao Junmo again.He remembered chatting with this kid once, and while chatting, he talked about his future plans.Li Ke said that as a man, he has to build up some achievements to be worthy of this seven-foot body.However, Xiao Junmo said that people should live with peace of mind, look up to the sky, bow down to others, and just be worthy of conscience in everything. As for merit, just follow the fate, there is no need to be too persistent.
Li Ke laughed that he had no ambitions, why don't he be a Xuanjia guard, just be a farmer, face the loess and back to the sky every day, his wife and children are hot on the kang, how comfortable!
Xiao Jun smiled silently, saying that this is hard to say, maybe one day when the opportunity is ripe, I will become a farmer.
Thinking that this kid is now on the run, life and death are uncertain, and he can't even be a farmer, Li Ke can't help but feel sad.
"Sanlang, Sanlang..." Seeing him in a daze, Sun Boyuan couldn't help calling out repeatedly.
Li Ke came back to his senses and smiled apologetically: "Mr. Sun, as you said just now, although the salt business is profitable, the risk is not small. I don't know if you have considered taking the salt business slowly. , Let the brothers transfer to other businesses?"
"It's such a big business, how easy is it to change careers?" Sun Boyuan sighed, "Besides, any business in this world has no risks? As long as the final benefits outweigh the risks, it's still worth doing."
Li Ke was a little anxious, and almost confided the truth to him - he just heard the news from Li Daozong yesterday, and learned that the imperial court would soon take action to suppress the Jiangzuo gentry, and these gentry's huge industries would undoubtedly bear the brunt hit target.
"Sir, you'd better listen to my advice. It's best to quickly find a new home and sell all the salt business in hand as soon as possible."
Only then did Sun Boyuan realize something was wrong, and frowned: "Sanlang, what happened, can you tell me frankly?"
"Don't ask, just do as I say, and start quickly, the sooner the better!"
Seeing that he refused to speak clearly, Sun Boyuan had no choice but to give up.
"How's the matter with Yao Xing?" Li Ke changed the subject.
"Sanlang don't worry, everyone has spread out, I believe there will be news in a few days." Sun Boyuan said.
"In the past few days, I have been thinking that if Yao Xing dared to act in Chang'an, he must have changed his face, otherwise it would not have been so long, and the government would never find him."
"I have the same thoughts as Saburo, so I didn't ask my subordinates to track down Yao Xing directly, but started with his relationship."
"Relationship?" Li Ke was a little puzzled, "As far as I know, Yao Xing committed the crime of treason and should have been punished by the three clans. Although the court granted amnesty, his wife and children escaped death by chance, but all of them were exiled to Lingnan. , what relationship can he have in Chang'an? Even if he still has some old friends, he will definitely not dare to contact them, right?"
"Naturally, he wouldn't come and go in a normal relationship. What I'm referring to below is a special relationship."
"Special relationship?" Li Ke became interested, "Like what?"
Sun Boyuan smiled meaningfully: "For example, mistress."
Li Ke couldn't help laughing.
This is a character in the rivers and lakes, and the way to investigate the case is completely different from that of the government!Li Ke was thinking about something, and was about to ask again, when there was a rhythmic knock on the door outside.The expressions of the two men froze at the same time.
"The wind is blowing in vain." The knocker outside whispered.
Sun Boyuan's expression eased, and he replied lightly: "Stop the clouds and shade Jiugao."
This is the contact code of Jiugao Tuo, which comes from a five-character poem written by Sun Chuo, a famous scholar in the Eastern Jin Dynasty, at the Lanting Meeting.Li Ke's expression also relaxed when he heard the secret signal matched.The outsider opened the door and came in. It was Sun Boyuan's younger brother and Jiugao's deputy Sun Pu, who was in his 40s and looked shrewd and capable.
"This subordinate has seen Mr. and Saburo." Sun Pu bowed and saluted.
"Tell me, have you found something?" Sun Boyuan knew that there must be some clues when he saw his expression.
"Mr. Hui, it has been found out that Yao Xing's concubine is Guo Yan, a widow who lives in Taohua Lane in the northwest corner of Tonggui Square in the south of the city. According to what the brothers have learned, Yao Xing visited once five days ago. I’m sure we’ll go again in a few days.”
Sun Boyuan and Li Ke couldn't help looking at each other and smiling when they heard the words.
"Mr. Xie, I just got the news that the imperial court is going to attack you veteran gentry!"
In the study of the Lizheng Hall in the East Palace, Li Chengqian said to Xie Shaozong in a low voice.
"Do it?" Xie Shaozong was slightly startled, obviously caught off guard by the sudden news, "Dare to ask Your Highness, what is the specific reason?"
"A few days ago, Royal Father suddenly convened a secret meeting with several prime ministers. The main topic was the Jiangzuo gentry with your king and Xie as the main topic. As far as I know, Royal Father is eager to dig out your Tianxing League now, but because Biancai escaped and broke the clues, so he wanted to take your Jiangzuo nobles and force you to show up."
Xie Shaozong understood, but his expression was much calmer than before: "Does Your Highness know what measures the Holy Majesty and the court plan to take?"
"According to Hou Junji, the imperial court intends to use the excuse of maintaining fairness and impartiality to strictly investigate the sons and daughters of the gentry who have become officials in recent years. If they are suspected of asking for a job, they will be relegated; Strict scrutiny and selection. Sir must have seen that the imperial court wants to use this as a cover to remove all the children of your Jiangzuo gentry from the officialdom. Firstly, it is to weaken the power of the gentry, and secondly, it is hoped that there will be people from the Tianxing League among them. Unable to hold back, jump out by yourself."
Xie Shaozong twitched his beard and smiled: "In order to track down the Tianxing League, the Holy Majesty and the imperial court have spent a lot of painstaking efforts."
Seeing his relaxed expression, Li Chengqian was a little surprised: "Aren't you worried at all, sir?"
"To tell you the truth, Your Majesty, although many of my Xie clan's children have entered official positions, in this branch, no one has set foot in the officialdom for many years. They are all ordinary people and ordinary people, so Your Highness does not need to worry too much."
"It's so good." Li Chengqian heaved a sigh of relief.Originally, he was worried that if Xie Shaozong's son was involved, he would have to stand up for him, which would easily arouse his father's suspicion.
"Your Highness," Xie Shaozong thought, "besides blocking the rise of the Jiangzuo gentry from the aspect of official career, is there any other way for the imperial court to suppress them?"
"It's not very clear yet. I'm asking King Han and Hou Junji to inquire. As soon as I have any news, I will let you know at any time."
"Thank you, Your Highness!" Xie Shaozong cupped his hands gratefully.
"There's no need to meet with me anymore." Li Chengqian said, and suddenly thought of something, "By the way, I heard that there is a bronze statue of Xie An standing in your house?"
Xie Shaozong had a mansion in Yongjiafang, Chang'an, and there was a bronze statue of Xie An in the center of the courtyard in front of the main hall.The bronze statue is about one foot high, and the clothes are floating, lifelike, and the cost is quite high.Not to mention that such bronze statues cannot be afforded by ordinary people, even wealthy families may not be willing to spend this money.But Xie Shaozong is different, because he himself is a big copper mine owner, operating more than a dozen copper mountains in various provinces in the world, and he worships his ancestor Xie An very much, so naturally he spared no expense.Now when he suddenly heard the crown prince mentioning this, Xie Shaozong suddenly had a bad feeling: "Returning to Your Highness, there is indeed such a thing, what do you mean..."
"Now that the father and the imperial court are all focused on suppressing the descendants of the gentry, your family, the king and the Xie family, are the first to bear the brunt." Li Chengqian frowned slightly, "You have such a big bronze statue of Xie An at home, I'm afraid..."
Xie Shaozong was stunned, and his face tightened immediately.
Although being a descendant of Xie An is not a crime in itself, his true identity is after all the head of the Tianxingmengxitang rudder. At this juncture when the court is preparing to suppress the Jiangzuo gentry with all its strength, he is posing so in his own courtyard. A majestic bronze statue of Xie An will definitely attract the attention of the court, and if it is not done well, it will cause trouble for the upper body and bring the blame on itself.
Xie Shaozong pondered for a while, and said: "I understand what Your Highness means, and tomorrow I will order people to remove the bronze statue."
"Move? Where to move?"
"Of course I moved back to my hometown, Yuezhou." As soon as the words came out, Xie Shaozong felt something was wrong.If such a large object was to be transported out of the city, the city gate officials would definitely inspect it. When the time came, they would see that it was a bronze statue of Xie An. Wouldn't it be self-inflicted and voluntarily admitting that he was a descendant of Xie An?
Li Chengqian saw his hesitation, so he didn't urge him, and waited for him to think of a way.
After a while, Xie Shaozong sighed: "It's probably not right to move it back. How about I make a few big rooms and hide the bronze statue first?"
Li Chengqian still frowned: "This is a solution, but... it is not a long-term solution. There are also many people in your house. If someone misses something, let the court know. Think about it, the court Do you think you're trying to cover up?"
Xie Shaozong was very helpless, pondered for a while, and suddenly a thought flashed in his mind, but this thought could not be accepted by himself, so his lips moved, but he didn't say anything.
"Mr. Xie, I know this matter is quite embarrassing for you." Li Chengqian chose his words, "But the current situation is so tense, in my opinion, we must be cautious in everything, and we cannot tolerate any mistakes, let alone lose the big because of small things."
"What your highness said is true." Xie Shaozong smiled wryly, "please rest assured, your highness, I must think of a surefire solution to properly resolve this matter so that it does not affect the overall situation."
"That's good." Li Chengqian smiled, "And, as soon as possible."
"Understand."
"One more thing, the Su Jinse you mentioned last time, what's going on recently?"
"My people have been watching around Wei Wang's mansion. It's strange that Su Jinse has not shown up for so many days. I suspect that she may not have lived in Wei Wang's mansion recently."
"Not in Prince Wei's Mansion? Then where can she be?"
"As far as I know, although this Su Jinse is not Wang Hongyi's biological child, she is quite filial to him. Therefore, it cannot be ruled out that she lives with Wang Hongyi in order to take care of her adoptive father's daily life."
"Then can you find out where Wang Hongyi lives?"
Xie Shaozong shook his head: "It's unlikely. Wang Hongyi has been in the world for many years, and he is cunning and scheming. Except for the closest people around him, I am afraid that no one knows where he is hiding."
"So, don't we have nothing to do?"
"Not at all. Even if Su Jinse doesn't live in the Wei Palace temporarily, she will always go there. As long as my people stay there, they will find her sooner or later."
Li Chengqian frowned and thought: "I was wondering if the king of Wei would have given her a waist card or a night travel letter so that she could come and go freely during the night ban. If so, your people would not be able to find her no matter what. "
Xie Shaozong thought for a while: "Yes, there is also this possibility. However, I believe she will not always be active at night."
"We didn't talk carefully last time, I want to know now..." Li Chengqian suddenly looked at Xie Shaozong, "Once you find her, what are you going to do?"
"The best way is to keep an eye on her and see where she goes, who she contacts, and what she does. In this case, it will help to find out the details of Wang Hongyi, and it may even be possible to grasp his secrets..."
"Why is it so troublesome?" Li Chengqian interrupted him, disapprovingly said, "In my opinion, instead of following her, it's better to tie her up. As long as she confesses Mingzang and King Wei, we can catch them all. ?"
Xie Shaozong smiled: "Your Highness, I don't know. This Su Jinse was trained by Wang Hongyi himself. She is definitely not an ordinary weak woman. If she is arrested, but she refuses to recruit her, what should I do? Then let's make a good job of it." Did the chess game die?"
Li Chengqian made sense after thinking about it, and said: "Forget it, you can handle the specific things, and I won't get involved, but I still want to remind Mr. that our number one target is the King of Wei, so don't misunderstand the target."
Xie Shaozong heard the implication, and couldn't help secretly admiring the prince's sensitivity.
In fact, apart from the reasons mentioned above, the reason why he didn't directly kidnap Su Jinse was that he had his own agenda.Xitang Duo is the largest sub-rudder in the Tianxing League besides the main rudder of Mingzang. As Xitang Duozhu and Xie An's descendants, Xie Shaozong actually has the same ambition as Wang Hongyi to control the Tianxing League, so the two met very early. The secret gladiatorial battle began.This time Wang Hongyi sneaked into Chang'an, Xie Shaozong knew very well that besides assisting King Wei to usurp the throne, he must have his own schemes, so Xie Shaozong planned to find out more cards of Wang Hongyi through Su Jinse, so that when the final confrontation came, he must have his own plot. It is possible to eradicate Wang Hongyi and his entire Mingzang Tuo.In other words, Xie Shaozong didn't move Su Jinse for the time being, just because he wanted to put a long line to catch big fish.In this sense, he and the prince's goals are not completely consistent.
Since there is indeed such a small calculation, the prince's words are very sharp.
Of course, as a person who has been in the world for many years, Xie Shaozong will never mess up his position so easily.He chuckled, and said calmly: "What your highness said is very true. King Wei is naturally our number one target. Xie has no objection to this! It's just that your highness has never thought about it. Now Wang Hongyi is tied to King Wei, and his The subordinates are all over the government and the public, so we don’t want to move the king of Wei. If we want to move, we must have full confidence in eradicating Wang Hongyi and his Mingzang Ruo in one fell swoop! Otherwise, we may not be killed by the snake, but will be bitten by the snake instead. In other words In other words, we are now playing a big game of chess with King Wei and Mingzang. On this chessboard, it is not difficult to capture Su Jinse. Any chance of a comeback. Your Highness said, is this the truth?"
"Of course that's the reason." Li Chengqian rubbed his eyebrows and smiled softly, "I'm just worried that Mr. will think too much and let the cooked duck fly away."
"If the duck is really cooked, it won't be able to fly." Xie Shaozong also said with a smile, "The one that can fly is precisely because it is not cooked."
"I hope you are right." Li Chengqian said lightly.
Just as Li Chengqian expected, Su Jinse did travel between Wei Wangfu and Qinglongfang during the night ban, and she had the official letter from Wei Wang to her at night.
Last night, Su Jinse quietly returned to Wei Wangfu.Early in the morning, she came out from the small gate on the west side in a carriage, and headed eastward with her entourage.
The goal of her trip is Yelanxuan in Pingkangfang, and her mission is to find Xu Wanniang.
Yelanxuan has two entrances, front and back. The building is three stories high. The scale of the building is not small, and the interior decoration is quite elegant. It is enough to imagine the grandeur and luxury of the past, but now it has revealed a look of depression and dilapidation.From the moment she stepped off the carriage, Su Jinse noticed that the gold paint on the plaque of Yelanxuan was peeling off and the strokes were missing, turning it into "Yelangan"; when she walked into the gate, an old musty smell came over her face, which made people almost Nausea; the stairs creaked as soon as they stepped up, and some steps were even sunken and cracked, which made people tremble; at the door of the private rooms on both sides of the corridor, there were some women with heavy makeup standing as usual, but their faces were full of makeup. cheap.
Naturally, such a brothel can't attract prestigious customers, only some rogues and idlers and drunkards from the market hang out here.Su Jinse walked all the way, even though she was wearing a veiled hat and a light veil, these apprentices still stared at her dazedly.If it weren't for the sight of a group of tall and burly followers behind her, they would definitely have been entangled with their faces salivating.
Yelanxuan's bustard is in her 40s, named Xiugu, with a flat face, slender eyes, yawning continuously, and looks like she's still awake.Su Jinse used a sling of copper coins to make her open her eyes a little.
After hearing Su Jinse explain why she came here, Xiugu picked the shit out of her eyes and let out a long yawn before she squinted and said, "What happened more than 20 years ago? Are you kidding me? Who remembers the old imperial calendar!"
Su Jinse also ordered her attendants to take out a penny and throw it on the case to help her recover her memory.
Xiugu's eyes finally brightened a bit: "Xu Wanniang? The name is a bit impressive, let me think about it... Oh, I remembered, there is such a person, who is about my age, very pretty, can sing and dance , just a little smug and arrogant, and then left."
"Then do you know where she is now?"
"How do I know this? It's been so many years, maybe he died long ago!"
Su Jinse's heart sank, and she changed the question: "You and Xu Wanniang were sisters, right?" She saw that this Xiugu was only in her 40s, and she was only in her early twenties at the time, so she couldn't be a madam.
"Probably." Xiu Gu nodded, "However, I'm not familiar with her."
"When did she leave Yelanxuan? Did someone redeem her?"
"I said girl, who are you?" Xiu Gu looked her up and down, "What are you asking about Xu Wanniang? From your questioning tone, why do you sound like the government is investigating a case?"
"Who am I?" Su Jinse smiled, "It's very simple, I'm a person who spends money to buy news." As he spoke, he gave the attendant a wink, and immediately threw another sling of copper coins on the case. "If you know something, sell it to me; if you don't, I'll buy it elsewhere. Fair trade, I'll do what you want, won't you?"
Su Jinse looked at Xiugu with a smile.
"It's fair to say that." Xiugu curled her lips, "If I remember correctly, she should have left in Wude four years ago."
"Four years of Wude? That was 21 years ago?"
"Correct."
"Who helped her redeem her body?"
"Of course it's a good match." Xiugu laughed.
"I know it's a good friend." Su Jinse stared at her, "What I'm asking is, what kind of person is this good friend?"
"Of course they are rich!" Xiu Gu smiled again covering her mouth.
Su Jinse sneered, and gave the attendant another wink.The entourage came over immediately, picked up a sling of copper coins from the case, and pretended to put them back into a cowhide bag that he carried with him.The pocket was heavy and evidently contained a good deal of money.
"Hey, what are you doing?" Xiugu became anxious when she saw it, "Didn't you want to buy news? Why did you take it back?"
"Yes, what I bought was news, not your bullshit joke!" Su Jinse's face was gloomy, and her tone was aggravated, "From now on, you have to say one thing, and another thing, don't play sloppy with me! Do you hear me? "
Xiu Gu hurriedly apologized and smiled: "Yes, yes, what the girl said is true, I made this joke at the wrong time. But to be honest, I really don't know who Xu Wanniang is dating. I only know that he is a rich man. He is very mysterious. Every time It is to send a carriage, pick up the man and leave, and send him back the next day. No one has seen his face, nor does he know what he does, let alone his name."
Su Jinse looked at her for a while, and knew that she was not lying: "Since you don't know this person, please bring your boss here, and I will talk to him."
"It's useless to find our boss, you have to go to the old boss."
Su Jinse was taken aback: "Isn't the old boss and the current boss the same person?"
Xiu Gu shook her head: "Our owner only bought this place ten years ago."
"Then who was the owner back then? Where is it now?"
Xiu Gu chuckled, her eyes fixed on the purse in the hand of her entourage.The attendant looked at Su Jinse, and after receiving the signal, he took out another hanging from the bag, and threw it on the table with the hanging just now.
"He's a Persian, his name is... his name is Mohadi." Xiu Gu tried hard to recall, "At that time, my family had a big business. Not only did I open several brothels in Pingkangfang, but I also had a big business in West Market. He was defeated, so he sold all his property. Back then, this guy spent money like dirt..."
"Don't talk too far, just talk about now."
"Now, I don't know too well. I should still be in the West Market. I don't know what to do for a living."
"As far as I know, among the barbarians in the West Market, there are eight hundred people named Mohadi, if not one thousand. Where do you want me to find them?" Su Jinse said coldly.
Xiugu was startled, and subconsciously covered the four hanging coins on the case: "Let me think about it, let me think about it carefully."
"Don't worry, think slowly." Su Jinse changed her posture and sat, "My girl has plenty of time."
Xiugu frowned and thought for a moment, then suddenly patted her forehead: "Yes, I remembered, this Mohadi is a Zoroastrian, and he has a daughter who has been gifted since she was a child. So I became a sacrifice in their temple at a young age... what is the sacrifice?"
"Priest." Su Jinse answered.
"Yes, Priest. You go to the temple and look for his daughter, and you will find Mohaldi."
Zoroastrianism, also known as Zoroastrianism, is the state religion of Persia. It was introduced to the Central Plains from the Western Regions during the Northern Wei Dynasty. Now there are four Zoroastrian temples in Chang'an, called Zoroastrian temples.Su Jinse had dealt with the Persians in Qihuang Pavilion, so she knew something about it.Although this clue is a bit detoured, it is at least a clear direction of investigation.
"What's the name of Mohamad's daughter?"
"It's... Doris."
Knowing that Xiugu's knowledge was limited, Su Jinse couldn't find anything to ask, so she got up and left, and gave her another penny before leaving.Hsiu Gu was so happy that she couldn't hold her tongue from ear to ear, and she was very attentive and personally sent her to the door.
Watching Su Jinse and his party go away, Xiugu's smile disappeared in an instant, and her narrow eyes glowed thoughtfully.After a while, Xiugu turned around and was about to raise her leg to enter the door when her mouth was suddenly covered by a pair of big hands from behind, and she was dragged into a side alley.
"Don't shout, or I'll kill you!" A big man pushed her against the wall, and another stood at the entrance of the alley.
With her mouth covered, Xiugu could only nod her head desperately.
The big man slowly let go of his hand.Xiugu panted heavily, and rolled her eyes: "Dare to ask two... two heroes, are they robbing wealth or robbing sex?"
The big man was stunned, couldn't help but looked at his companion, and grinned: "Are you lecherous and let us rob you? To rob your lecherousness, isn't this my business at a loss?"
Xiu Gu laughed and said, "A good man really has eyesight! But you should also be able to see that the old man is not only colorless, but also has no wealth!"
"Stop chatting with me! I just want to ask you a question, what did that woman want from you just now?"
Aunt Xiu was a little surprised, and rolled her eyes: "A woman? That woman is also out for sale, and she wants to come to Laosang's place to make a living..."
"Fart!" The big man strangled her neck vigorously, "Don't think I don't know, that girl's root hair is thicker than your arm, who are you fooling? Tell the truth, or I will strip you naked and throw you on the street!"
"Let go of the man, let me tell you!" Xiu Gu coughed heavily, "That woman is here to inquire about a Persian named Mohadi."
"Mohadi? Who is Mohadi?"
"The former owner of Yelanxuan left ten years ago."
"What did that woman want him to do?"
"How do I know this? Let me tell you, it's either to collect debts or to seek revenge."
The big man was suspicious, and the watchman at the alley turned around and said, "Hurry up, someone is coming." The big man thought for a while, and let go of Xiu Gu: "If you dare to lie, be careful that I will come back to settle accounts with you!" Then he ran out of the alley quickly with the other man.
"Bah, who are you scaring?" Xiu Gu straightened her collar and spit on the ground, "When my old lady came out to mess around, you were still wearing crotch pants!"
Xie Shaozong didn't sleep well last night, so he called several craftsmen from Benduo early this morning to discuss how to deal with the bronze statue.But everyone discussed for a long time, and it was almost noon, but they still couldn't come up with the most appropriate solution.
Xie Shaozong couldn't help letting out a long sigh in his heart.
Since he was a child, his ancestor Xie An has always been the person he admires the most.Thinking back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty with internal and external troubles and partial safety to the left of the river, Xie An, who was originally lying high on the east mountain and aspiring to be in Linquan, was ordered to assist the young master, devote himself to the royal family, select talents and appoint talents, and stabilize the internal and external. Conspiracy, and then in the Battle of Feishui, which determined the fate of the Eastern Jin Dynasty, he lifted the weight as if it were light, strategized, and only [-] soldiers defeated the million-strong army that Qin Fujian claimed before, and then launched the Northern Expedition, successfully regaining a large area south of the Yellow River. After decades of peace in the Eastern Jin Dynasty.What is especially rare is that when Xie An was jealous of the emperor because of his achievements in the world, he retreated bravely and took the initiative to give up power, avoiding the ending of a dead dog.
It is natural for future generations to be proud to have such an ancestor with outstanding character and outstanding achievements.Therefore, since his youth, Xie Shaozong took Xie An as a role model in life, not only asking himself to cultivate the character of a generation of celebrities, but also determined to accomplish something vigorous...
At this moment, several craftsmen were still arguing about how to deal with the bronze statue, Xie Shaozong suddenly said calmly: "Stop arguing, let's melt it."
The craftsmen looked at each other, thinking they had heard wrong.
Xie Shaozong raised his head, took one last look at the bronze statue, then flicked his sleeves, and walked slowly towards the inner house.He looked calm, but in fact there were strong waves surging in his heart—it was not an easy decision for him to make the decision to melt down the bronze statue.
Xie Shaozong restrained the turmoil in his heart, and suddenly walked and chanted: "Mr. Yixi, I have a spring outing. Chez's words are persistent, and I send them to the proud forest hills. There are dense forests and mountains, and the vast original domain. The clouds hang down, the springs disperse... ..."
This is one of the two poems written by Xie An at the Lanting Meeting, and it is also Xie Shaozong's favorite four-character poem in ancient style.Whenever he was restless, Xie Shaozong would recite this poem involuntarily, and then a sense of desolate and open-minded emotion would instantly fill his chest.
Perhaps, from this moment on, the image of the ancestor Xie An can only be cast in his own heart.Xie Shaozong thought so, gently wiped a tear from the corner of his eye, and walked into the study.
In the past few days, he has been rereading some pre-Qin classics, especially "Six Secret Teachings".Although the tactics and the concept of governing the country in the book are already clear in his chest, but re-reading it this time still makes him hit again and again.Xie Shaozong sat down in front of the book case, opened the scroll, and began to chant again without realizing it: "When a fish eats its bait, it is led to the stringer. When a man eats his reward, he submits to the king. Therefore, if you use the bait to catch fish, the fish can eat it." Kill; take people with money, and the people can be exhausted; take the country with the family, and the country can be destroyed; take the world with the country, and the world can be destroyed!"
While Zihan was chanting, enjoying himself, there was a clear and rhythmic knock on the door outside.This was a signal to return something important, but Xie Shaozong didn't seem to hear it, he didn't even lift his eyelids, his eyes were still focused on the scroll.
There was a little silence outside the door, and then someone read softly:
"Alcoholic Spirits Taodan Mansion."
Xie Shaozong then covered the scroll and replied:
"It's like traveling to Xitang."
These two poems are from another five-character poem written by Xie An at the Lanting Conference.The person who came was Xie Qian, the son of Xie Shaozong.Although it was between father and son, and it was in his own home, Xie Shaozong's rules were always strict—no matter who came to see him for any reason, he had to rely on the signal of knocking on the door and a secret signal, and never allowed any exceptions.
Hearing his father's reply, Xie Qian opened the door and came in, softly said: "Father, Xie Chong is back."
Xie Shaozong's eyes brightened slightly: "Let him in."
"Come in." Xie Qian turned around and said.
Xie Shaozong's nephew Xie Chong strode in, it was the strong man who kidnapped Xiugu at the gate of Yelanxuan.
Xie Chong said in a rough voice: "Uncle, there is news, that girl surnamed Su..." As soon as the words came out, Xie Shaozong gave him a stern look. Xie Chong realized that the words were indecent, so he quickly changed his words: " Su Jinse first went to Yelanxuan in Pingkangfang. According to the old bustard, he was inquiring about a Persian named Mohadi, who was the owner of Yelanxuan ten years ago; then he left Pingkangfang and went to Jing in the east. Gongfang, went to a Zoroastrian temple, then crossed the capital, arrived at Buzhengfang on the west side of the imperial city, entered another Zoroastrian temple, then went to Liquanfang next door, went to the Zoroastrian temple, and finally came out from the south gate of Liquanfang , and entered the West Market. Uncle, you know that the West Market is the most crowded place in the world, with cars, horses, and crowds of people, and they circled around in it. Let them give..."
"You let them slip away?" Xie Qian looked at him in surprise.
Xie Chong scratched his head: "I asked my brothers to look for it, and I still found it now! I was thinking about going back and reporting to my uncle..."
"I have lost everyone, why do you still report?" Xie Qian stared.
"I didn't lose track at the beginning, didn't I follow all morning?"
"Are you still stubborn?!"
"Okay, let's not say a few words." Xie Shaozong said, "Ah Chong's trip is not completely fruitless, at least, the clues he just said are still useful."
Xie Chong grinned, and even winked at Xie Qian triumphantly.
"Father, what do you mean..." Xie Qian didn't understand what those clues could explain.
"Zoroastrianism has four temples in the capital. Apart from the three temples mentioned by A Chong just now, the fourth Zoroastrian temple is in the Puning Square near the Kaiyuan Gate in the northwest corner of the capital. Since Su Jinse left three temples in the morning Zoroastrian Temple, in my opinion, she will definitely go to Puningfang in the end." Xie Shaozong stared at Xie Chong suddenly, "As for what you said just now, they deliberately went around in the West Market, it is obvious that they found the tail, so they came here. Want to get rid of you."
"No way?" Xie Chong was startled, "My nephew and brothers are very careful, so they probably won't find out."
Xie Qian glared at him again, turned his face and said: "Father, Su Jinse has been looking for so many Zoroastrian temples, is it to find that Mohadi?"
"If Mohadi used to be the owner of Ye Lanxuan, then he couldn't be a member of the Zoroastrian Temple." Xie Shaozong said confidently, "Because the Zoroastrianism has strict rules and prohibits adultery, how can Mohadi accept a brothel owner like Mohadi? People? In my opinion, the old bustard of Yelanxuan either lied or half-spoken on purpose. The person Su Jinse is really looking for may be related to Mohadi, but it is definitely not Mohadi."
Xie Chong was furious: "This stinky bitch, dare to play tricks on me!"
Xie Shaozong glanced at him coldly: "Go, inform our brothers in Puningfang, and rush to the Zoroastrian Temple immediately. Su Jinse should still be there now, we must monitor her closely and pay attention to her next move."
Xitang Duo has strongholds all over Chang'an, and the more prosperous the northern Lifang has more strongholds, there are three in Puningfang alone. On the surface, they are all disguised as shops, but in fact they are halls.
Xie Chong accepted the order and turned to leave. Xie Shaozong stopped him again: "You have been exposed now, and the follow-up will be handed over to the people below. Come back immediately after you give the order, and don't act without authorization." Xie Chong was a little dissatisfied, But he could only agree and ran out quickly.
"Qian'er, immediately activate our eyeliner among the Persians, check this Mohadi, and at the same time check who Su Jinse is looking for when he goes to the Zoroastrian Temple. In addition, as soon as Ah Chong comes back, ask him to keep an eye on Ye Lanxuan No matter why Su Jinse is looking for her, there may be important secrets hidden in this person. If necessary, bring this old bust back."
"Yes." Xie Qian agreed, and suddenly found a light shining in his father's eyes, which is the expression only when facing a big event, "Father, do you think Su Jinse's behavior today is very unusual?"
"That's right. Su Jinse is Wang Hongyi's most beloved adopted daughter, and she treats her as her own. How can the task he entrusted to Su Jinse be an ordinary matter?" Xie Shaozong said with a penetrating expression, "The main purpose of Wang Hongyi's coming to Beijing this time is to help Wei Second, Wang Duodi usurped the throne, and secondly, he must have an ulterior plan. If my prediction is correct, the task Su Jinse is performing this time may be related to this plan."
Su Jinse and his party finally arrived at the fourth Zoroastrian temple in Puningfang after losing their tails in the West Market.
This Zoroastrian temple in Puningfang is the largest among the four, and it can be seen that it is the headquarters of Zoroastrianism in Chang'an.
The architectural style of the Zoroastrian Temple is quite different from the surrounding dwellings. The whole building is based on white and decorated with gold, which makes people feel solemn and holy at first glance.The temple is divided into front and rear parts: the front part is a flat-topped building supported by four round stone pillars, about three feet high and eight feet wide, and a conspicuous golden totem is inlaid on the grand lintel—like The eagle with open wings has no head, and its abdomen is a raised circle; the back of the temple is much higher than the front, and the highest point is a huge golden dome, and there is a sculpture of rising flames on the dome. High above, pointing directly at the sky.
The previous three Zoroastrian temples were not as magnificent as this one. Su Jinse looked up and was a little shocked.When they entered the gate, two religious-looking Persians stopped them very politely, and told them in plain Chang'an dialect: no one is allowed to carry weapons when entering the temple.
The three attendants were a little displeased, but Su Jinse ordered them to do so without thinking, and even took the initiative to hand over a dagger hidden in her sleeve.Afterwards, Su Jinse asked the gatekeeper if there was a priest named Doris here.Fortunately, the gatekeeper immediately nodded and said yes, and enthusiastically led the way for them.
Passing through a long corridor, everyone came to the second half of the temple, and they suddenly felt a bright light.This is a wide circular hall, the walls are all made of white marble, on which are carved many half-human, half-bird, deep-eyed and high-nosed deities; the hall is seven or eight feet high, and the dome is painted with colorful mythological patterns; In the center of the hall is a round marble altar, and there are no idols on the altar, only a huge golden fire altar, on which a flame is burning blazingly.
Su Jinse knows a little bit about this: Zoroastrianism believes that fire is the incarnation of the god of light "Ahura", so they worship fire; they believe that the purity, brilliance, vitality, and whiteness of fire symbolize the absolute and supreme goodness of God. Therefore, no statues are built, only the holy fire is worshiped, and the holy fires in all Zoroastrian temples are kept burning all night and all year round.
At this moment, a woman in a white religious uniform is kneeling in front of the white altar and chanting sutras.The gatekeeper told Su Jinse that she was the priest Doris, and asked them to wait for a while before leaving.Su Jinse thanked her and stood there waiting patiently.After about a stick of incense, Doris finished reciting the scriptures and performed another kneeling ceremony before slowly turning around.
Su Jinse met her eyes, and suddenly exclaimed in her heart.
This is a beautiful face that is almost flawless, with snow-skinned red lips, blond hair and blue eyes, especially those glass-like eyes, which are simply captivating; her figure is slim and tall, standing there like a perfect sculpture, In other words, it is a god who does not eat the fireworks of the world, and the whole person exudes a calm, glamorous, and noble atmosphere.Su Jinse has always been very confident in her appearance and temperament, but when compared with Dai Lisi in front of her, she would at least be inferior, if not ashamed.
At this moment, Su Jinse didn't need to look back, she also knew that the eyes of the three attendants behind her must have straightened.In fact, don't talk about these vigorous men, Su Jinse thought, if he was a man, he might fall in love with her immediately when he saw such a beautiful woman.
Doris walked over to meet them, smiled slightly, and said in fluent Chang'an dialect: "How many Tanyues are here to look for me?"
Tanyue means "almsgiver" in Buddhism. Su Jinse doesn't know if this is the original name of Zoroastrianism, or they borrowed a Buddhist term. "Yes priest, I found you here after searching most of Chang'an City. I am looking for you to find out the whereabouts of your father Mohadi."
"Father?" Doris was taken aback for a moment, then smiled, "I don't know why Gui Tanyue is looking for him?"
Su Jinse just wanted to tell the truth, but he changed his words when he said something: "I am from Luozhou. My father is a devout believer of your religion. In the early years, he and your father had a close relationship with each other. This time when I came to Chang'an, my father specially Tell me to come and visit your father. Besides..." Su Jinse turned her head and motioned, and the entourage immediately took a step forward and opened the bulging cowhide bag, "My father wants to make some offerings to show his piety."
As Su Jinse said, he took out three golden ingots from the bag and respectfully placed them on the altar.
No matter where you go, money is the best stepping stone.Su Jinse thought, even though Dai Lisi is a monk, she has no money but does not support the Tao, I believe she will not refuse the yellow and white things.
But Dai Lisi never looked at Jin Jin, she just smiled and said: "Tan Yue said just now that your father is a believer of this religion, and he and my father are members of the church, right?"
"Exactly."
"Then please Tanyue take the money back." Dai Lisi's expression darkened suddenly, "In Ahura's temple, people who speak false words are not welcome, and they will not accept offerings with other motives."
Su Jinse was stunned at once, not knowing where he said something wrong, and hurriedly said: "I worship Ahura with all my heart, I don't know why the priest made such a statement?"
"Does Tan Yue really not know?"
"Priest, please speak clearly."
Dai Lisi looked Su Jinse up and down: "To tell the truth, my father Mohadi never believed in God, he only believed in money. But Tanyue just said that your father is not only a believer in our religion, but also a member of my father's church. How about Tanyue, isn't your lie too lame?"
Su Jinse was immediately ashamed and scolded herself for being too careless.Zoroastrianism has always prohibited adultery, but Mohadi is a brothel owner, how could he be a Zoroastrian?How could it be possible to be a church member with whom?I clearly knew the teachings of Zoroastrianism, but I had no choice but to forget everything in a hurry.Doris is right, her lie is really lame!
"Tan Yue, please go back, I have something to do, so I won't accompany you." After finishing speaking, Doris turned around and left.
"Priest, please stay!" Su Jinse took a few steps and stood behind her. "The reason why I said that is to get closer to you. I really don't have any malicious intentions. I hope the priest will understand. To be honest, I came to find your father this time. , I was entrusted by my father to ask him about an old friend."
Doris was silent for a moment, then turned around: "What kind of old friend?"
"More than 20 years ago, a singer from Yelanxuan, Xu Wanniang."
When Doris heard this, a strange light flashed in her eyes, but it was fleeting. "May I ask, why did your father inquire about this person?"
"I'm sorry, but I don't know the reason. My father didn't say it clearly." Su Jinse was afraid that she would walk away, so she didn't dare to hide it anymore, so she could only tell the truth.
Doris looked her straight in the eyes, as if judging whether she was being honest this time.For some reason, Su Jinse obviously didn't lie, but when she was stared at by her pair of crystal clear eyes, she felt uncomfortable.
"The matter of finding someone can be discussed later. Everyone in Tanyue must have not eaten yet, right?" Doris suddenly grinned and changed the subject, "If you don't mind, please come with me and taste our Zoroastrian Temple How was your communion?"
In fact, Su Jinse was already very hungry, but she was just thinking about business and had no intention of eating. Hearing what she said now, she hesitated.The three attendants on the side couldn't care about Su Jinse at this time, and said in one voice that they don't dislike him or dislike him, and I can't wait to ask for it.Su Jinse was displeased, and was about to give them a wink, but Dai Lisi giggled: "That's great! Please follow me."
When the three attendants saw Dalisi's smiling face and her beautiful eyes looking forward, they immediately became numb all over, and followed her away as if possessed by a demon.Su Jinse was very annoyed, but it was inconvenient to attack, so she had to stamp her feet and followed quickly.
Anyway, it's not too late for this meal, and it's not too late to get down to business after the meal.As Su Jinse walked, she could only comfort herself in this way.
The dining hall of the Zoroastrian Temple was unknown. Su Jinse and three attendants followed Dai Lisi through a corridor and a courtyard, and then pushed open an arched iron gate. order.This Zoroastrian temple is also strange, how could the dining hall be set up underground?Su Jinse was suspicious, and felt impolite to ask.The three attendants also looked left and right, also a little puzzled.
"Don't be surprised, Tanyue." Doris led the way, but seemed to see through their thoughts, "In our Zoroastrian temple, ordinary believers eat on it, but we priests, each of us has a separate room in the basement. Dining area, most of the time eating below."
"Why does the priest have to eat below?" Su Jinse finally couldn't help asking.
Doris turned her head and smiled at her: "There are three reasons. First, it's quiet down below. Dining alone here can avoid unnecessary chatter and help you meditate; second, there are many holy wines that have been cellared for many years. Ordinary believers are not qualified to taste it; the third thing is that whenever distinguished guests come, they will be specially treated here."
The three attendants couldn't help laughing when they heard that there was wine, and they were drinking with such a peerless beauty.
Su Jinse frowned slightly.Listening to these three reasons, the first one is still awe-inspiring, but the latter two are not flattering. They are basically the same as the secular world, and they are all using class differences to obtain privileges.
"Hearing the priest say so, we are considered VIPs?"
"Of course." Dai Lisi smiled, "Gui Tanyue offered three ingots of gold to the temple when he first arrived. If I don't treat you as distinguished guests, wouldn't it be too unreasonable?"
Sure enough, it is not exempt!Su Jinse sighed in her heart.The image of the holy goddess that Doris had just established in her heart just now collapsed at this moment.It seems that no matter whether a person believes in God or not, or whether he is a monk or not, he still likes money.But this is also good, Su Jinse thought, since she likes money, the next thing will be much easier.
A group of people talked and walked, and quickly stepped down the long stairs. Below it was a square wine cellar. Rows of oval wooden barrels were stacked on the wooden shelves on the walls. It seemed that this was the The holy wine of the Zoroastrian cellar.Immediately afterwards, Doris led them to turn right and walked into a closed arched corridor.The stone chambers on both sides are locked, and some locks seem to have rusted.Su Jinse suddenly became suspicious: How long have these doors been open?
At this time, Dai Lisi and the three attendants in front stopped suddenly, and Su Jinse almost bumped into the back of one of the attendants.Before she could figure out what was going on, she suddenly felt a strange fragrance coming to her nostrils, and saw the three attendants greedily sucking their nostrils, with the same intoxicated smiles on their faces.
not good!
Su Jinse yelled, but no sound actually came out.She tried to run, but her legs were as if they were lead-filled.Immediately afterwards, the three attendants turned their faces to her, but what Su Jinse saw was not the face, but three lumps of carrion crawling with maggots.The attendants tore off the carrion from their faces and rushed to hand it over, laughing and saying, "Holy Communion, Holy Communion, please have Holy Communion..."
"Guitanyue, do yourself a favor and taste the sacrament of our Zoroastrian temple!"
Doris was suspended in mid-air like a big white bird, her body was burning with raging flames, and her pair of pupils instantly turned crimson.
Su Jinse felt a strong heat wave coming, subconsciously raised her hand to cover it, but saw that what she raised was not her hand, but the white bones with all the skin and flesh gone...
(End of this chapter)
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