Wife Doting Addiction：My Abducted Tsundere Husband

Chapter 111: Overcoming difficulties

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio  Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Su Jiu conveyed a few more words to Hu Daopao before she turned around and left. Ji Yuxian was leaning against the metal bars, his eyes deep in thought. The moment he heard footsteps, he lifted his head and held Su Jiu’s cool hand. He asked, “How is it?”

Su Jiu shook her head, “Da Pao indeed killed Bai Laosan.”

The knife was in Da Pao’s hand, whether it was Bai Laosan who lunged forward and impaled himself or not, it was indeed Da Pao who had killed him. The members of the Bai family had all seen it. Since there were witnesses present, it would be difficult to escape from the charge of murder.

According to the laws of the land, murdering another person without a valid reason would lead to the death sentence.

Ji Yuxian’s eyes flashed. He pulled Su Jiu away by her hand, “Let’s talk outside!.

Outside the underground prison, Ji Yuxian asked, “Previously, when the Bodyguard Agency was in trouble, was the person who rescued you Nangong Shu?”

Su Jiu nodded her head, “Yes, it was.”

“How did you get to know each other? What is your relationship with him like?” Ji Yuxian asked lightly.

Su Jiu stared at him in doubt. Did he want her to beg Nangong Shu to rescue Da Pao?

Nangong Shu was an upright man who stood grounded on his military disciplines. Even when one of the commanders under him committed a crime, he did not tolerate it. Would he help her rescue Da Pao?

After all, Da Pao did kill someone.

Su Jiu knew that Nangong Shu couldn’t help her but still told him about how she met Nangong Shu from start to finish.

Ji Yuxian nodded his head faintly. He stroked her brows gently and smiled, “I’ve thought it through. This matter might not lead to a death sentence. At the very least, we should be able to lighten his sentence.

“What method do you have?” Su Jiu asked urgently.

“Right now, there just so happens to be an opportunity. The Qiang Clan, who reside in the Northern Desert right at the borders of Yan and Yun province, have mobilized an army of 50,000 troops to invade Youzhou. The battle report just reached the capital yesterday. The Nangong Family is stationed to guard the border of the Northern Desert, and Nangong Shu has fought with the Qiang Clan many times. He is very familiar with the terrain of the area and the enemy troops. This time, he’ll be deployed to lead the army into battle. You should find him now and ask him to take Hu Dapao with him before he sets off. I’ll seek an audience with Magistrate Lin and get him to hold the trial today. Hu Dapao killed a man, but it was the Bai family who started the fight first. I will try my best to get Magistrate Lin to sentence Hu Dapao to be deployed with the troops and let him follow Nangong Shu to the Northern City to fight the enemy and protect the city.

As Su Jiu considered Ji Yuxian’s words, her eyes started to shine and she was moved as she said, “You want Da Pao to enlist in the army?”

Ji Yuxian nodded his head, “This way, Da Pao can avoid the death sentence. Also, if he is left under the mercy of Nangong Shu, in consideration to you, he’ll probably look out for Da Pao. Whether Hu Dapao lives or dies on the battlefield, and whether he is lucky or unlucky, will all depend on himself.”

“Good, good!” Su Jiu nodded her head continuously. She became more cheery and bright. “Then I’ll go over to the Nangong Manor and seek an audience with Nangong Shu.”

It seemed as though this was the best way to resolve this problem that would otherwise result in a death sentence!

“Go then. I will also go look for Magistrate Lin. Ji Yuxian bent over and kissed Su Jiu’s forehead. He said softly, “Don’t worry, once you get to the Nangong Manor, explain the matter slowly in detail. This request is not over the top. I’m sure Nangong Shu will agree to it.”

Su Jiu was already less tense. She raised her head and looked at the man with shining eyes. Her eyes were bright as she said, “Ji Yuxian thank you!”

Ji Yuxian smiled faintly, “It is a husband’s responsibility to share the burdens of his wife.”

Su Jiu pulsed her lips with a smile, “Then I shall take my leave first.”

After saying that, she turned around and walked over to her horse carriage. Emm. Mao immediately raised the riding crop and left with Su Jiu.

It was only when Ji Yuxian saw that the carriage had disappeared that he headed to the magistrate’s office.

Su Jiu reached Nangong Manor and asked to meet Nangong Shu. The guard at the door, however, said that Nangong Shu had entered the palace and was not in the manor.

Su Jiu started to panic and decided to wait outside the gate of the manor for Nangong Shu to get back.

At this moment, Nangong Bi just happened to return. When she saw Su Jiu, she cried out in surprise, “Su Jiu, why are you here?”

Su Jiu heard the voice and turned her head. She immediately smiled, “Miss Nangong.”

Nangong Bi said cheerfully, “I went to the restaurant to look for you twice, but you weren’t there. I never thought you would be outside the gate of my estate. Are we able to communicate telepathically, and did you know that I was looking for you?”

Su Jiu raised her brows, “You have something to find me for?”

Nangong Bi shook her head and said coquettishly, “I don’t. I was looking for you to hang out. Oh right, I’m sure you didn’t come to look for me?

“I’m looking for your brother, General Nangong,” Su Jiu said truthfully.

Nangong Bi said in disappointment, “I thought you came here to find me. So, you were here for my brother? Because you’re looking for him, why are you standing here? Go inside.”

“The guard said your brother had entered the palace, so I was waiting here.”

Nangong Bi’s elegant eyebrows frowned as she said coldly, “Is it because they didn’t let you in? Come follow me!”

As she said this, she tugged on Su Jiu’s clothes and walked toward the front gate. At the entrance, she stopped and said coldly to the guards starting on both sides, “Look carefully, this is Master Su. A good friend of my brother and me. Next time, no one is allowed to block him. Make sure you feed and serve him well. If there is a lack of even one strand of hospitality, I will personally break your legs!”

Both guards lowered their heads, “Yes, your servant heeds!”

Only then did Nangong Bi raise her brows and smile, as she brought Su Jiu into the manner. The Nangong Family had been government officials for many generations, and the estate had a solemn atmosphere to it. There was also a training ground on the premises. Nangong Bu brought Su Jiu around to tour the area and continued to chatter on the entire time. Su Jiu had things on her mind and was in no mood to sightsee. She only hoped that Nangong Shu would quickly return.

It was only after an hour that a guard finally reported that Nangong Shu had returned to the Manor.

Su Jiu ran went over to greet him.

When Nangong Shu saw Su Jiu, a hint of surprise flashed by his stern face, “Master Su is looking for me?”

Su Jiu nodded her head, “I do indeed have a matter I wish to seek help from General Nangong.”

“Let’s speak in the reception pavilion.” Nangong Shu brought Su Jiu to the frontcourt.

Inside, he dismissed the servants. Su Jiu told him how Hu Dapao had killed someone and about her hope that Nangong Shu would be able to bring Da Pao along with him to fight the battle at the Northern Desert.

Nangong Shu smiled faintly, “How did Master Su know I would be personally leading the troops?”

Su Jiu froze. After all, she couldn’t tell him that it was Ji Yuxian who had said that to her. Her eyes turned, and she said, “General Nangong is a loyal soldier who loves the country. He’s brave and a courageous warrior who will go out to fight the war in person. Naturally, you would lead the troops out, unless my guess was wrong?”

The depth of Nangong Shu’s eyes were hidden as he smiled faintly; “Master Su had become more skilled in her words compared to when she first entered Shengjing City.

A hint of embarrassment was seen on Su Jiu’s face. She said earnestly, “I won’t hide anything from General Nangong. Hu Dapao is my brother, who is even closer to me than my blood relatives. This time, he only killed someone because he was forced into a situation by people who provoked him. His hand slipped in his impulsiveness. I don’t want him to die, which is why I came to beg you.”

Nangong Shu nodded his head lightly. “I’ve met Hu Dapao. Although he is rough and tenacious, he’s mot a ruthless and barbaric man.

Nangong Bi had been listening from the side and interrupted at that moment, “Brother, since you mentioned that he is not a man who harbors evil intentions, why not help Su Jiu out. You’ve seen how the Bai family members are tyrants who bully others. Da Pao did the people a favor by eliminating a problem.”

Nangong Shu’s brows were like blades as he pulsed his lips and smiled, “I never said I wouldn’t help!”

Su Jiu’s eyes glistened at once, “Then, you agree?”

“Mm!” Nangong Shu nodded his head slowly, “Today I entered the palace to receive the decree to lead the troops to the Northern Desert. In the afternoon, I’ll gather my men and horses, and we’ll leave early tomorrow morning. Hu Dapao is a convict who has been exiled into the army. He can only start as a low-ranked soldier. I will not give him special treatment. The sword on a battlefield is like a glance: Whether you live or die can be determined in a blink. Are you certain you want him to enlist in my army?”

“Yes!” Su Jiu said firmly. “Although there was a reason why Da Pao committed murder, he still killed someone. Even if I protect him with all I’ve got, he will always end up being exiled or imprisoned for life. Compared to being locked in a dark prison cell for the rest of his days, I’m sure Da Pao would be more willing to enter the battlefield and kill his enemies.

“Good. In this case, I agree to bring Dapao to the Northern Desert, and at the same time try my best to ensure his life remains intact.” Nangong Shu promised.

Su Jiu got up and bowed deeply at Nangong Shu. She said gratefully, “If General Nangong enlists Da Pao into his army, I will already be extremely grateful. The general does not need to take extra care of him. Since Da Pao is going onto the battlefield, he is the same as any other soldier. Whether he lives or dies is up to fate. No matter what happens, Da Pao and I will have no complaints, nor will we have any regrets.”

Nangong Shu got up. His eyes were bright as he nodded his head with a smile.

Su Jiu thanked him once again before she left the general’s manor and rushed directly to the Bodyguard Agency.

Once Chang Huan heard the news, he also waited at the Bodyguard Agency.

Qiao An had not returned from his hometown, and Su Jiu was not around. The two of them didn’t know about the situation outside and were in an anxious mess. They were restless. Yet, they had to remain in the Bodyguard Agency to make sure the other bodyguards did not make a commotion.

Once they saw Su Jiu, both of them instantly rushed to meet her.

“Chief!”

“Boss!”

Su Jiu quickly said, “The magistrate’s office will start the trial soon. Gather all the bodyguards who were hurt by the Bai family yesterday and today, and get them all to head to the magistrate’s office to serve as witnesses for Da Pao.”

This was to prove that the Bai family was the one who provoked them and hurt their men with knives. Hu Dapao had only retaliated in self-defense.

Worry was written all over Ah Shu’s face, “Yes, I will immediately get them to prepare to leave with us. If we do this, will we be able to clear Da Pao’s murder charge?”

Su Jiu slowly shook her head. Killing someone was murder, and everything she was doing was only enough to convince Magistrate Lin to sentence him to forced military enlistment.

“So, Da Pao will still be executed?” Ah Shu asked in shock.

“No, we’re trying our best to get Magistrate Lin to sentence Da Pao to forced military enlistment. It just so happened that Nangong Shu will be leading troops out to the Northern Desert tomorrow. Da Pao will join his army and accompany them to the Northern Desert.”

After hearing Su Jiu’s words, Ah Shu and Chang Huan were both in shock.

Have you forced military enlistment?

Typically, this was already considered a very severe punishment. Most people would not be able to endure the long journey or the bitter cold of the land they were exiled to serve at and die along the way.

But this time, to Da Pao, it was a chance to live.

After a pause, Ah Shu nodded her head, “Da Pao has always admired and respected General Nangong. He will be happy. Only, from today onward, our brothers will be separated. Will Da Pao be able to return once he enters the battlefield….”

“Don’t say such inauspicious words!” Chang Huan clenched his teeth and said, “Da Pao will return.” For now, it’s great as long as Da Pao can live.” Su Jiu sighed and said, “Let’s not talk about all these for now. Bring the men over and follow me to the magistrate’s office.”

“Of course.”

Ah Shu and Chang Huan went to prepare the horse carriages.

When they brought all the injured bodyguards to the magistrate’s office, the Bai gamily was there as well. Both parties glared at each other with hatred and were itching to rush forward and bite each other to death.

At that moment, they heard the guards in the main hall of the magistrate’s office yell, “Convene.” Magistrate Lin was about to start the court trial.

“Summon the defendant.”

“Summon the murder suspect, Hu Dapao!”

As order after order was passed out, Bai Laoda quickly brought his men into the main hall. Hu Dapao was locked in chains as he was brought over. Su Jiu and the rest entered too.

The guard blocked Su Jiu and her men and refused them entry, “You may not enter without being summoned.”

Su Jiu stood at the entrance and shouted that she had been dealt with injustice.

Once Magistrate Lin heard her, he questioned a messenger, “Who is outside crying that they have been wronged?”

The messenger came forward and replied, “It is a family member of the suspect Hu Dapao; his name is Su Jiu.”

“Su Jiu?” Magistrate Lin’s eyes changed, “Quickly let her in!”

“Yes!” The messenger went off to pass on the order.

Su Jiu brought her men and entered the court. Magistrate Lin almost went over to welcome her, and with the excitement of meeting an old friend, he said happily, “So it Master Su, it’s been a while since we’ve met. Have you been well?”

The entire court of guards, as well as the head paralegal, all stared blankly at their lord.

Su Jiu said casually, “Lord, today we are the accused. The lord may start questioning.”

This was their second time being summoned in a public court. And both times, they were the defendants.

“Oh, oh!” Magistrate Lin nodded his head vigorously. After looking over the case, he sat down solemnly and slammed the gavel on the sound block, “Bai laoda, you said Hu Dapao killed someone. How was he killed, and why was he killed. Tell me everything!”

Bai Laoda immediately went forward and told him about how Su Jiu had beaten Bai Sanjin yesterday, and how Hu Dapao had killed Bai Laoer today. As he elaborated, he appeared to be in distress, and once he finished, he shed a few tears mournfully, as though he was a pitiful man who had been harassed.

Qinglong Bodyguard Agency, as the defendant, naturally had the chance to explain themselves. Hu Dapao did not deny the murder charge from the very start. He continued to explain with a heavy heart, of how Bai Sanjin had brought men to their doorstep and slashed at people yesterday. Today, Bai Laosan had also brought men over to provoke them and forced him to retaliate as a last resort. As a result, his hand slipped, and he killed Bai Laosan.

Ah Shu and a few other bodyguards each bore testament to Hu Dapao. Su Jiu had even brought a few bodyguards who had been injured by the Bai Family, to prove that Hu Dapao had been telling the truth.

Even though life was lost in this case, it was very straightforward. There were both witnesses and physical evidence. Hu Dapao had explained the circumstances leading up to the murder very clearly. As such, there was no need to investigate further. After listening to the perspectives of both parties, Magistrate Lin directly closed the case.

Even though Hu Dapao had murdered a man, but it was the Bai family who provoked them by hurting their men first. As such, they were also partially responsible. In the end, Hu Dapao was sentenced to military exile, and the Qinglong Bodyguard Agency was to pay the burial fees of Bai Laosan, while the Bai family was to compensate the medical bills of those they had injured.

After this, both parties had to sign the documents.

Naturally, Bai Laoda was not satisfied. He kneeled on the ground on both knees and cried bitterly, “Lord, my third brother was murdered by others, and my third sister was heavily injured to the point where she has yet to wake up till today. My Bai family has almost been wiped out. Hu Dapao murdered someone but was only exiled to the military. The Qinglong Bodyguard Agency is left unscathed. Where is justice?”

The moment he said his last word, he heard a plop. One of the injured bodyguards from Qinglong Bodyguard Agency, who had borne witness, collapsed onto the ground. He clutched his wound and tumbled around for a while. His legs froze, and he soon stopped moving.

Everyone who saw it happen was stunned, and the whole hall was filled with a deathly silence.

Su Jiu immediately said, “Lord, this bodyguard was hurt by Bai Sanjin. Today, he succumbed to his heavy injuries. Naturally, Bai Sanjin should also be considered a murderer. If you take a life, you pay with a life. Shouldn’t the Lord sentence Bai Sanjin to death?”

Bai Laoda widened his eyes in shock and almost spat out a mouthful of blood.

Magistrate Lin slammed the gavel on the sound block, “What Master Su says is right. But considering that Bai Sanjin is still unconscious in a coma, she will not be imprisoned temporarily. On the other hand, since someone from Qinglong Bodyguard Agency has died, there is no need to compensate for the burial fees of the Bai family. Qinglong Agency can later bring men over to bury him. This case will be closed here, and there will be no need to discuss any further. Court is adjourned.”

As Magistrate Lin said this, he got up and smiled warmly at Su Jiu. He left the court through the side door, together with the paralegal and his men.

Bai Laoda had wanted to declare that he had been dealt with injustice, but there was no longer anyone around to hear him. He collapsed onto the ground dejectedly.

Su Jiu, Ah Shu, and their men did not even glance at him as they carried the “corpse” of the bodyguard who had suddenly passed away out of the main hall.

The bodyguard who had been “gravely injured” immediately sat up once he got on the horse carriage. He smiled, “Ninth master, did this lowly one fake it well?”

Su Jiu laughed, “The response was not bad, what is your name? Are you a bodyguard?”

“This lowly one is Feng Quan! I am a third-ranked bodyguard of the Bodyguard Agency!” that person replied.

“From today on you are promoted to the second rank. Do well!” Su Jiu said

“Yes, Thank you, Ninth Master!”

Su Jiu sent people to send those injured bodyguards back to the bodyguard agency and brought Ah Shu and Chang Huan to the prison to visit Da Pao.

When they finally announced that he had been exiled to the military, Hu Dapao breathed a sigh of relief. At least he didn’t need to die!

Once Su Jiu and the rest came, they told Hu Dapao about Nangong Shu setting off to the Northern Desert the next day with his troop, and how he was to follow the army. When he heard it, he leaped up in happiness and said emotionally,

“I can follow the Great General Nangong!”

Ah Shu said to Chang Huan, “Look at this, he murdered a man, and yet he is so happy, where is the logic?”

Hu Dapao ignored Ah Shu’s mockery and grabbed Su Jiu’s hand, “Chief, is what you are saying true?”

Su Jiu nodded her head, “It’s true. If not, why would you be sentenced to be exiled to the military? But the journey to the Northern Desert is long, and you will be chained as you follow the Great General. You will suffer a lot. Also, once you reach the battlefield at the Northern Desert, the sword is impartial. You must be extra careful and take care.”

“I got it. I’m not scared of suffering!” Hu Dapao was unbothered as he said. He frowned as he continued, “It’s just that I’ll have to leave the Chief, and leave the Bodyguard Agency. This time when I leave, I’m not sure when I will get back. You guys have to take care too!”

“Rest assured,” Ah Shu patted Hu Dapao on his chest, “We will all be in Shengjing City, preparing wine as we await your return.”

Hu Dapao’s eyes reddened, and he nodded his head thoughtfully, “Good, I will return.”

When the three of them walked out of prison, it was already dark. Outside the magistrate’s office, the horse carriage from Ji Manor was parked silently opposite on the street.

“Ah Shu, go back to the Bodyguard Agency. Chang Huan, return to the restaurant. Early tomorrow morning, we will leave the city to send Da Pao off,” Su Jiu said.

Both of them acknowledged. Although Hu Dapao was not going to die, when they realized that they were going to be separated tomorrow, an unspeakable sense of heaviness filled their hearts.

Ever since they entered Shengjing City, the distance between them seemed to increase more and more.

But at this point, there was no other way.

After the two of them left, Su Jiu walked toward Ji Manor’s horse carriage.

Once she boarded the horse carriage, a warm fragrance enveloped her. The exhaustion that overwhelmed her body was dissolved significantly.

Ji Yuxian pulled her into his embrace. He poured out some tea and placed it before Su Jiu’s parched lips as he said softly, “The matter has concluded, there is no need to worry anymore.”

Su Jiu closed her eyes and leaned onto Ji Yuxian. The only thing she felt was an incomparable sense of peace and relief. There were so many impossible things happening outside. She had to fight and solve problems. The only place between heaven and earth that she could find rest in without worrying was in his embrace.

She felt as though she was becoming more and more unwilling to leave this man!

She resisted such a change, and yet, thoroughly enjoyed this feeling.

Ji Yuxian himself did not know what the girl was thinking in her heart. He assumed that she was tired and used his fingertips to massage her temples gently. He lowered his head and kissed her on the forehead before hugging her tightly.

The carriage slowly drove along the street, the horse’s hooves clattering as it trotted along the stone path, breaking the silence of the spring night.

It was nighttime. Inside the Lotus Pavilion, it was almost midnight. The man walked into Xie Ying’s bedroom at the appointed time.

Just like last night, the two people were like fish in water, as they sweated it out the whole night. They only stopped when the sun was about to rise.

The girl’s lips were revitalized as she fell asleep. Only then did the man get up to put on his clothes and leave.

One night, one perfect spring dream.

The sun was not yet up when Su Jiu got out of bed. She left the Ji manor and went to the city gates to send Da Pao off to the Northern Desert.

At dawn, Nangong Shu was at the city gate, counting his soldiers. Under the city gate, one hundred thousand soldiers were standing at attention, each of them in high spirits as ey stood there valiantly. It was as though a black tide had overwhelmed the city gate as flags fluttered in the wind; it was a grand and majestic sight.

Nangong Shu wore a black robe and a set of silver armor. Under the faint light of the morning sun, his facial features were masked as he stood there, firm and unyielding.

“Eliminate the barbarians, protect the land of Daliang. Do not let the enemy step even one inch into our borders. Anyone who does, we shall cut down!”

The hundreds of thousands of soldiers under the city gates shouted in unison with energy that could topple mountains and swallow lakes.

“Kill!”

“Kill!”

In the darkness right before dawn, the great army stood before the city gate like a mighty wild beast, protecting the citizens and cities of Daliang country. Each brave soldier that was positioned within the hundred thousand strong armies seemed so insignificant, just like a drop in the ocean. But when they all stood together, combined, they were formidable and a force to be reckoned with.

In a country, a strong army is a vital part of a prosperous nation. With a strong military, enemies would not dare to attack, and only then will the citizens be able to live in peace, and only then will the country be long-lived!

When Su Jiu and the others heard that earth-shattering battle cry, they felt their blood roll and heat up. They were itching to follow them and slaughter the enemies as well.

Eunuchs and ministers were sent from the palace to read the high degree. Nangong Shu was named the commanding general, and he was given the military token and rewarded with wine!

Nangong Shu thanked his majesty for his grace.

He received a high degree and military token. With a bowl of wine in one hand, he raised his head and looked up. He then proceeded to smash the bowl of wine onto the floor with force, before leaping onto his horse. The horse reared and neighed before galloping off like a lightning bolt.

The one hundred thousand soldiers on both his sides waited for him to gallop off first before following behind him. It was as though a tsunami had hit and stirred up the sand, as the soldiers followed closely behind him, shouting as they went.

It took the one hundred thousand strong armies about one hour to completely depart from the city gates. Hu Dapao followed right at the end, Su Jiu and the rest went over to send him off.

Chang Huan had specially brought wine and meat so that Da Pao could start his journey with a full stomach!

The few of them sat on the ground in a circle, just like the old times when they ate together on Yuhu mountain.

Hu Dapao took a big bite of meat and smiled, “There is wine, and there is meat, why does it feel like I’m an inmate on the death roll receiving his final send-off?”

“You mother**cker, stop talking nonsense. Once you’ve eaten your fill, go onto the battlefield and kill a few more enemies!” Ah Shu laughed jokingly.

“Mm, this old one will wipe out this group of barbarians until not a one is left.”

Hu Dapao took a big gulp of wine and said solemnly, “I’m not afraid of going on the battlefield at all. I just don’t want to be separated from you all. Master An is not here either. I’m not sure if I will ever see him again in this lifetime.”

“You mother**cker, stop exaggerating things if you dare not to return…” Ah Shu’s voice suddenly choked up, he forcefully rapped on the chains around Da Pao’s neck, “I will run over to the battlefield to beat you up!”

Hu Dapao laughed silently, “Inform Master An on my behalf, we’ll drink wine again once I get back. I hope he passes his exam! Also, once I leave, you all must take care of our chief, and take care of the Bodyguard Agency and restaurant. Don’t be as reckless as me and cause trouble for our chief.”

Chang Huan hooked his arms around his head directly, “Rest assured!”

Su Jiu smiled coolly, “I’m not afraid of trouble. At the most, we will all be exiled into the military and go onto the battlefield together to slay the enemies.”

Everyone burst into laughter, dispersing the bitter feeling of separation.

After they had eaten their fill and drunk to their heart’s content, Hu Dapao turned his head and saw that the very last batch of soldiers had already been dispatched. He got up and said, “Everyone take care. You don’t have to worry, Da Pao will come back alive.”

Once he said that he did not wait for Su Jiu and the rest to say their farewells as he turned around to leave. He took significant strides and followed behind the battalion. That tall and upright silhouette trembled slightly in the morning mist.

Su Jiu, Ah Shu, and Chang Huan got up. None of them said a word and watched silently as Hu Dapao followed right behind the battalion with chains locked on his body. The group slowly walked into the distance, and in the end, his blurry figure blended into the vast army, indistinguishable.

The sun slowly rose, and the morning rays stretched into the distance. The battalion that walked along the public road soon became a long and winding black line. The pedestrians that came into the city increased in number, each carrying baskets or pushing wooden carts. Soon, the public street was bustling with activity.

Su Jiu and the others turned around to return to the city.

On the second day after Hu Dapao left, Qiao An returned to Shengjing City.

At night, the four of them sat together to eat dinner. When they talked about this matter, Qiao An sighed in lament, his brows knitted together in worry as he thought about Da Pao.

At the same time, he said, as though comforting himself, “Da Pao always admired and looked up to General Nangong. This time he was able to enlist into his army to eliminate the enemies. This can be considered fulfilling one of his wishes. We should be happy for him!”

“Right! Happy.” Ah Shu picked up the wine cup and took a big gulp.

When the Bai family was mentioned, they could not help but feel hatred. Chang Huan said, “I sent people to check, Bai Sanjin has been unconscious up to now. Bai Laoda was so agitated that he fell ill. The Bai Family Martial Organization is now a mess.”

“One day, when I’m feeling upset, I’ll just go knocking on their doors and pick on them, so that they will no longer have space to stand on the grounds of Shengjing City.”

Who would have guessed, from the day that they entered the small restaurant along Xieyang street to eat, they would form irreconcilable ties with the Bai family.

A lot of matters have unnoticeable starts, and would only end after experiencing a series of turmoil and hassle.

After talking about the Bai family, Qiao An said, “Has anything happened in the restaurant during this time?”

Su Jiu smiled, “Nothing, Chang Huan has always been here looking after it. Now, Chang Huan can already read accounts!”

“Is it?” Qiao An smiled gratefully as he continually nodded his head.

“There are still five days before the examination. Master An does not need to bother about matters regarding the restaurant. I have purchased another estate, especially for you to study. Its surroundings are quiet and peaceful!” Su Jiu said.

Qiao An’s heartfelt warm and fuzzy, he knew that there was no need to use words to express his gratitude to Su Jiu and only nodded his head firmly, “Alright!”

Early the next morning, Su Jiu brought Qiao An to see the estate. When they entered the premise, there was a fish pond in the rear courtyard, as well as rockery and a gazebo. There were even a few pear trees. The space was open, and a cool breeze blew by, causing petals to drift in the air and their light fragrance to permeate. Although it could not compare to the magnificent and grand estates around, its simplicity had its unique form of beauty and was suitable for a scholar like Qiao An.

“I’ve checked, the estates around here are all owned by rich families. Most of the time, they are unoccupied, and hence, it is very peaceful and quiet.” Su Jiu stood in front of the pavilion as she looked back with a smile.

Qiao An walked forward and stood right next to Su Jiu. As he saw the clusters of white pear, he said faintly, “Ninth Master, if it wasn’t for you, I probably died a long time ago at a random place and became food for the wild wolves. Your kindness to me, I will only say such words of gratitude once and remember this till the day I die.”

Su Jiu turned her head and smiled brightly, “I hope that Master An will pass the exams.”

Qiao An nodded his head earnestly, “I will not disappoint Ninth Master.”

Five days passed in the blink of an eye. On the ninth day of the second month, students from all over trickled into the provincial examination center to sit for a total of three exams, spanning ninth days.

Su Jiu, Ah Shu, and Chang Huan gathered to send Qiao An off to the examination center.

Qiao An had stuffed his pockets with snacks and waved goodbye to the three of them. He entered the examination center once the guards at the door confirmed his identity.

In these nine days, all the candidates sitting for the examination would eat, drink, poop, and pee alone in a single room night and day. There were all kinds of people who came out, some were dead, while others came out mad.

When Qiao An finally came out, his face was as pale as a sheet, his hair was disheveled, and his body was sore all over. However, he was in good spirits and smiled faintly at Su Jiu and the rest.

The three of them did not ask him how he fared on the test papers and brought him home. They gave him time to have a bath and change into a fresh set of clothes as they prepared wine and side dishes for him to relieve his stress.

There was indeed a need to relieve his stress. When he was closed up in these nine days, the things he saw and went through was comparable to the accumulation of his life’s experiences thus far.

On the day the results were to be released, Shengjing City was crowded with people. People squeezed past each other, and the streets were noisy. It wasn’t strange to see people wailing or laughing on the streets.

Chang Huan and Su Jiu squeezed their way through the crowd as they tried to find Qiao An’s name.

There wasn’t a need to search to carefully, as written on the third place of the leader board was ‘Xuzhou Leling County’s Qiao An.’

Top-ranked, third place. Su Jiu and Chang Huan went crazy with happiness and flew back to the estate that Qiao An was staying in to convey the good news.

No matter how stoic and impassive Qiao An usually was, he wasn’t able to suppress his emotions at that moment. As the three of them were celebrating, Ah Shu flew in and shouted, “Master An has passed! He passed!”

Everyone burst out laughing at the same time.

At that moment, everyone in Ji Manor was also celebrating. The people who had come to congratulate Ji Ze streamed in continuously.

The Second Young Master of the Ji Family, Ji Ze, had placed first in the examination. He had passed with flying colors and taken the top rank!

The Second Mistress was so elated as she thanked Buddha and the ancestors. One moment, she was crying; another moment, she was laughing. It was as though she had gone mad due to her happiness!

Ji Ze, however, was remarkably calm. He entertained a few of the elders in the family before heading back to his room to study.

Ji Yuxian stayed around for a while, after which he asked Old Yu to remain behind before heading back to his estate alone.

He knew that Qiao An was also on the leader boards, and had ranked among the top three. Su Jiu was going to be celebrating with Qiao An that night and would not be returning for dinner. She might even come back drunk. Ji Yuxian knitted his brows and ordered Nanny to boil some hangover soup just in case.

Su Jiu returned to the manor late at night. The strong smell of alcohol had indeed permeated her entire body. Nanny served the hangover soup to Su Jiu and said softly, “Miss, last night, Dongxue, a servant from the Perched Phoenix Pavilion, fell into the lake and drowned to death. She was only discovered this morning. Old Yu brought some men over to investigate. He said that Dongxue had gone out in the middle of the night to use the toilet when she slipped into the Lotus Lake. She must have choked in one breath because she didn’t even scream! Dongxue doesn’t have any family. They were executed many years back. So, Old Yu got some people to prepare a small coffin and carried it out of the city to be buried in an unmarked grave!”

Su Jiu held the bowl of hangover soup. She blinked slowly, Dongxue? Did she drown in the middle of the night while going to the toilet?

Nanny continued, “There is another matter. Two days ago, the son of Mrs. Qin, who works under the laundry wing, suddenly gained a large sum of money. She no longer needed to work anymore. However, who could guess that she still harbored greed in her heart? Before she left, she stole a few sets of expensive clothes and hid them in her cloth bundle. As she journeyed out, it was very windy, and her steps became unsteady. She tripped over and fell on the ground unconscious, and it just so happened that the clothes in the bag fell out and covered her face. She was suffocated to death right there, isn’t it suspicious?”

As Su Jiu heard this, doubts formed in her heart. Dongxue, Mrs. Qin…… One was from the Perched Phoenix Pavilion. The other was from the laundry wing. Both of them had conflicts with her before, and both had suddenly passed away one after the other.

She suddenly recalled the day when the Perched Phoenix Pavilion was set on fire. The maidservant from the laundry wing had brought a coat for her and told her in passing that it was Mrs. Qin who had asked her to bring it over.

Could it be that the fire at the Perched Phoenix Pavilion had something to do with Dongxue and Mrs. Qin?

Ji Yuxian had mentioned that he would seek justice for her; he seemed to have already made his move?

Dongxue and Mrs. Fan were from different parts of the manor. They didn’t usually interact with each other; how did they collaborate to scheme against her? There must have been someone behind the scenes orchestrating the whole thing, who was that person?

Was it because Ji Yuxian already knew who that person was and hence did not want her to make a move?

As Su Jiu made wild guesses, she had initially thought to go and ask Ji Yuxian. After pondering for a while, she decided to suppress her curiosity. Since Ji Yuxian did not want her to be involved, then she would continue to pretend that she knew nothing.

After the written examination, it was the court dialogue. Qiao An had got up early to enter the capital and only left the palace at sunset. As he left, he took a long breath. To be able to enter the court and have the emperor personally ask him questions, and to have been one of the selected few who had the honor of doing this, he had not studied in vain for the past ten years.

Once he came out, Chang Huan was more excited than Qiao An. He kept asking him how the imperial palace was like, how the emperor looked like, and whether he was fierce or not.

Qiao An smiled as he answered every single question.

The results came out three days later, Qiao An had retained the third place in the highest imperial examination and obtained the title ‘Tan Hua.’

The number one scholar, titled ‘Zhuang Yuan,’ was the Second Young Master of the Ji Manor!

Among the top three scholars ‘Zhuang Yuan’, ‘Bang Yan,’ and ‘Tan Hua,’ only the second-placed ‘Bang Yan’ was already past 40 years of age. Both Ji Ze and Qiao An were still young. The Emperor was delighted and celebrated that the fact that the youths of Daliang Country were talented. He specially bestowed to them the honor of parading the streets with him, to encourage the citizens and also to relieve the stress he accumulated due to the matters regarding war.

As they paraded the streets, all three of them wore veiled hats embellished with golden flowers. They had put on a large red robe as they sat on horses with scarlet saddles. A soldier led the way with a drum and a gong as he opened up a path for them. People shouted and squeezed past each other as they watched on; it was a majestic sight!

That day, hundreds of thousands of people filled the squares of Shengjing City. The streets were packed as men, women, the young, and the old all came out to join in the excitement. Many of them were drumming and clashing gongs as they celebrated for the three of them.

Su Jiu, Chang Huan, and Ah Shu were packed within the crowd as they raised their head and looked forward to searching for him.

As the sound of the drums and the gong became louder, they could already see the officials in red who were clearing the path in front. They held up a huge sign that said, “Silence.” Behind them, Ji Ze was the first one, he rode on his tall horse, handsomely and elegantly.

Within 10 meters, the ‘Bang Yan’ followed behind him. He was a man who was about 40 years of age. He had kept a mustache, and his face was refreshed and content.

Behind the ‘Bang Yan’ was Qiao An. Qiao An was originally already refined and handsome. That day, he was in good spirits, and his faint smile made him appear modest and friendly.

“Quick, come and see, Master An! Master An!” Ah Shu emotionally shouted in a loud voice, and she jumped up.

Her eyes reflected the sunlight and displayed her excitement and glee, as though a wish of hers had come through.

“It would be great if only Da Pao were here! “Chang Huan was smiling when he furrowed his brows.

At this point, Da Pao had already left for a month, and they had no idea how it was going.

Su Jiu had gone to the Nangong Manor once to get some news. They had only mentioned that Nangong Shu had led the army and returned to the city and that there was no other news apart of that.

The smile on Ah Shu’s face froze. He lifted his hand and patted Chang Huan on the back, “You should be happy on such a joyous occasion. Don’t add to the Chief’s burdens!”

Chang Huan hastily glanced at Su Jiu and immediately broke into a smile, “Right, today is Master An’s big day. It is also a happy occasion for our Dragon Conqueror Gang. We should be in good spirits!”

Once he said that he immediately jumped up and waved at Qiao An.

Qiao An had naturally caught sight of the three of them. He looked back with a faint smile, his delight apparent.

Three days later, it was the welcome banquet for the scholars. The Emperor had held a welcome dinner in the palace, especially for the newly elected scholars.

It just so happened that it was the Empress Dowager’s birthday on the same day. As such, the central court and the rear court both held a joint banquet to celebrate.

The day before the welcome banquet, the imperial concubines had all visited the Empress Dowager to pay their respects. They sat down together to chat.

The Queen was the mother of Eldest Prince Yu. The mother of Second Prince Zhao, Imperial Concubine Xian, the mother of Third Prince Rui, Imperial Concubine Rong, as well as other ladies who had received the emperor’s favor were all seated there.

Empress Dowager Xiao wore a deep purple robe embroidered with intricate patterns, her collar and cuffs were embellished with auspicious cloud patterns. Half her head was covered with white hair and was fastened with a gold-plated phoenix hairpiece set with jade. Her eyes were kind, and her spirit was strong and healthy.

Imperial Concubine Xian had a pair of bright phoenix eyes. She had nourished herself well, and one could hardly tell that she was already forty years of age. She opened her mouth and smiled, ‘I’ll be the first to congratulate the Empress Dowager. This concubine has stepped forward first today, just in case the Empress Dowager forgets about me tomorrow amongst everybody else!”

The Queen, who was seated next to her secretly, glared at Imperial Concubine Xian. She held disdain for such an exquisite person like Imperial Concubine Xian. She lowered her eyes and continued sipping her tea.

Empress Dowager Xiao smiled gently, “Since you’ve put it this way, even if I forget someone, it won’t be you!”

A few concubines who were seated below played along and smiled lightly.

“Yesterday, the Emperor told me that when I came over today, I should speak less just in case I disturb the Empress Dowager’s rest. This concubine even mentioned that the Empress Dowager enjoys such liveliness. Alas, it turns out I was forgotten, this concubine is hurt!” Imperial Concubine Xian sighed in lament. Her lips pouted as she put on a hurt expression.

The other concubines played along and laughed. Only the hand of the Queen, which was holding a teacup, paled. Yesterday, the Emperor had come over to her palace to have dinner. He mentioned that he was going to return to his study to look over petitions. As it turned out, he had gone to Imperial Concubine Xian’s Hualin Palace!

“Everyone, take a look! I have not even said anything. How has this become me forgetting her?” Empress Dowager Xiao shook her head dejectedly.

“The Imperial Concubine was just joking with the Empress Dowager,” Yu Zhaoyi laughed gently.

At this moment, Imperial Concubine Rong poured a cup of tea and served it to the Empress Dowager with both hands. She said gently, “Empress Dowager, it has been raining heavily recently. Yesterday you didn’t sleep well. This concubine has specially added some red sage into your tea. Have a taste.”

Imperial Concubine Rong had a beautiful face. Her temperament was gentle and tranquil. As she spoke, it seemed as though the entire Funing Palace had quietened down.

“Good! Yesterday I did not have a good sleep. You also accompanied me the whole night. Didn’t I ask you to rest well today?”

“Even if I return now, I won’t be able to sleep. As such, I should be here serving the Empress Dowager.” Imperial Concubine Rong smiled with dignity.

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“Good child!” Empress Dowager Xiao looked at Imperial Concubine Rong even more affectionately. She took a sip of tea and nodded her head lightly before asking, “Where is Lie’er? Why haven’t I seen him in the past two days?”

“Yesterday Lie’er went to the palace to pay respects. He had originally intended to visit the Funing Palace, but the Emperor summoned him to his study as he was on the way here. His majesty probably had matters to sort with him,” Imperial Concubine Rong said lightly.

Empress Dowager smiled with satisfaction, “Lie’er has an intelligent personality, and his father favors him. It’s good for him to gain some experience in managing matters.”

Imperial Concubine Rong nodded her head, “Yes, this concubine thinks the same way.”