Chapter 21 (10,000 words) Yizhen tied me up...

Well, Yin Xing felt that Xuan Yizhen, who was of noble status, might not be aware of this little thing that was known to everyone.

After all, Xuan Yizheng was born without having to work, so it is understandable that there is some generation gap in her cognition.

So Yin Xing said tactfully, "Yizhen, my injury isn't a big deal at all. Besides, it's boring to stay in the hospital all the time."

"If you feel bored, you can come to the other courtyard. There are many small gardens there for you to enjoy."

“…”

Looking at Xuan Yizhen, who didn't seem to understand what he meant, Yin Xing could only confess, "But if I don't go to the Dali Temple for too long, my salary will be deducted."

Xuan Yizhen chuckled softly, her beautiful eyes lowered. Her slender fingertips fiddled with the red silk ribbon around Yin Xing's slender wrist, and she spoke slowly, "If you want a salary, the ladies-in-waiting and guards in my palace all have official positions. Although they are not as high as the Junior Minister of the Dali Temple, I will give you an additional reward. How about it?"

Seeing that the topic once again turned to the villa, Yin Xing was convinced that Xuan Yizhen was not ignorant, but seemed to be doing it on purpose!

"Why, are you still reluctant to give up your position as Shaoqing of the Dali Temple?"

"No, I just don't think what Yizhen said is work."

Xuan Yizhen raised his eyes slightly, looked at Yin Xing with a puzzled look, and asked, "Why?"

Yin Xing gazed at Xuan Yizhen's serene, beautiful eyes, adorned with lacquer. The candlelight shone a soft glow, a pure, graceful beauty. He slightly avoided her infatuated gaze and gently grasped her cool hand, resting on his wrist. He hesitated and said, "I don't know how to put it. Getting paid for work is natural, but when it comes to friendship, it seems strange. Do you understand, Yizhen?"

After he finished speaking, Xuan Yizhen replied with a bewildered look in his eyes: "Are you saying that you don't want my reward, or that you don't want to take care of my affairs in the other courtyard?"

"If there's a real need, I'll certainly do whatever I can unconditionally, but when it comes to work compensation, it's a different matter."

"So you just don't want to go to the other courtyard? If you encounter danger of casualties again, you won't regret it?"

Yin Xing looked at Xuan Yizhen who suddenly changed the subject. Her expression was normal, and the corners of her eyes and eyebrows were exactly the same, but her deep brows were suddenly covered with a misty and flowing cold fog, as if shrouded in the cold halo of the moon, making her seem extremely distant and indifferent.

"Don't worry, Yizhen, I will be careful. This is just an accident." Yin Xing guessed that Xuan Yizhen might be worried about him, so he looked a little serious. He calmed himself down and responded.

Xuan Yizhen pursed his lips, pulled away his hand, and looked at the blindly optimistic Yin Xing. He asked bluntly, "Have you ever thought about the numerous streets crisscrossing the capital's market, with so many timber stores, how could something unexpected happen right where you were staying?"

Seeing this, Yin Xing was a little confused for a moment, and it was even more difficult to pull Xuan Yizhen's hand. He could only think and respond: "I can't explain this clearly. The situation was a bit chaotic at the time, and many people were panicking. Maybe it was just my bad luck."

"But my palace's secret guards caught the assassin who attacked you last night, so you would have been deliberately murdered in the street."

"W-what?"

Yin Xing stared at Xuan Yizhen with a serious expression in astonishment, thinking that his itinerary was completely random, unless someone was following him.

"Could it be the bad guys who were chasing me in the beginning?" Yin Xing didn't remember provoking anyone else except the group of people who were the first to attack him.

"Of course not. This time we have different people involved, so you should understand your situation now. If you still reject my proposal, I will no longer care about your life or death in the future." Xuan Yizheng turned his head away and stopped looking at Yin Xing, who was unaware of the situation. He was very unhappy with her repeated refusals.

As he finished speaking, silence fell on the waterside pavilion, and the sounds of cicadas and frogs outside filled the air, making it feel noisy and empty.

Yin Xing couldn't figure out how he had provoked so many enemies, and he didn't expect that the gentle and peaceful Xuan Yizheng would be so cold and unhappy.

In the silence, the waning moonlight outside the water pavilion fell on the surface of the pond, scattering tiny silver lights that silently reflected on Xuan Yizheng's cheeks, clearly depicting her beautiful and cold features, like an immortal in the bright wind and clear moon, yet rarely revealing any emotions.

Yin Xing leaned closer, gently tugged at her sleeve with his fingertips, and called out in a soft voice, "Yizhen."

Xuan Yizhen remained unmoved, his gaze fixed on the two figures reflected on the ground. Seeing Yin Xing approaching like a kitten, he was startled. He tilted his head slightly and saw Yin Xing's eyes sparkling. Her eyes were filled with a smile, as bright as stars, and he asked unnaturally, "What are you laughing at?"

"Because Yizhen is the most gentle and kind person in the world, and he treats me as a friend and cares about my safety, so I am very happy."

"But I am not happy with your repeated disobedience and refusal."

It was rare for Yin Xing to see Xuan Yizhen express his emotions through words. He blinked his bright eyes at her beautiful face and leaned closer to her and said, "Then Yizhen, just pinch my face to vent your anger, right?"

Xuan Yizhen silently looked at Yin Xing, who was so close to him, acting cute. She knew how soft her cheeks were, and her fingertips couldn't help but caress them. She looked into her radiant eyes and whispered, "Do you think I'm so easy to fool? Aren't you afraid that I'll tie you up and take you to the other courtyard?"

Obviously her words were unreasonable, but Xuan Yizhen's tone was soft and gentle. Yin Xing was not scared at all, but instead thought she was a little weird and cute.

Yin Xing raised her hand and untied the red silk ribbon from her wrist, and said cooperatively, "Okay, let's tie it together. Will Yizhen be happier this way?"

Since Xuan Yizhen rarely reveals her likes and dislikes most of the time and is always calm and indifferent, Yin Xing doesn't understand many things about her, but he has a hunch that she seems to like tying knots.

Xuan Yizhen looked at the red silk ribbon that Yin Xing handed to his palm, hooked a section of it with his fingertips, and held Yin Xing's hand in his palm. He responded without hesitation: "Of course, but if you are sure you don't regret it, it may be a knot that can never be untied."

"No, I like being with Yizhen, but I still want to finish the paperwork for the Three Princesses boat accident."

"It seems that it's better to tie it into a knot directly, otherwise you will always have wild ideas and never give up."

Seeing Xuan Yizhen tying her red silk ribbon, Yin Xing could clearly sense her concentration. She raised her hand and thoughtfully helped her hold one end of the red silk ribbon. Smiling, she curiously called out, "Yizhen, why do you like tying ribbons?"

Although everyone has their own preferences, Yin Xing wants to get to know the gentle and peaceful Xuan Yizhen better.

She is like a misty mountain covered with clouds, quiet and deep, but not very proactive in getting close to people, which makes her quite mysterious.

Some time ago, Yin Xing was not in office, and he would go to the villa to find Xuan Yizheng almost every time he had free time, but she never let Yin Xing stay overnight.

Now, when Yin Xing writes to Xuan Yizhen, she basically doesn't reply.

However, Yin Xing knew that Xuan Yizheng would read the letter she wrote. Perhaps she just had no experience in interacting with people, and she was not cold and heartless.

After all, Xuan Yizheng knew that she was injured, and she would come to visit her quietly even late at night. She was so gentle and kind, so Yin Xing was very willing to do anything to make her happy to the best of his ability.

Xuan Yizhen deftly threaded the red silk ribbon through the knot, tightening the distance between their wrists. His breathing subconsciously slowed down, a glint in his eyes, but his expression remained calm. He replied in a normal tone, "These beautiful knots make me feel at ease."

Soon, the intricately wound ribbons between their wrists were tied into a knot. Yin Xing took Xuan Yizhen's hand and observed the new knot, secretly sighing at its intricacy. Without giving it much thought, he said aloud, "Well, the style is quite nice, but why does Yizhen feel uneasy?"

"There's no reason, it just happens sometimes." Xuan Yizhen hesitated, a dark, all-consuming look in his eyes that vanished in an instant. He murmured vaguely, "Once a person's consciousness is unclear, they tend to be at a loss. They always need a presence that provides them with security."

The voice grew fainter as it spoke, almost like a whisper. Yin Xing didn't quite hear it. He tilted his head to look at the quiet and reserved Xuan Yizhen, and called out in confusion, "He's unconscious. Is Yizhen really that ill?"

From the first time they met, Yin Xing always knew that Xuan Yizhen was using medicinal fumigation. There were medicinal incense in her residence and medicinal pill pendants tied to her side. She usually stayed indoors, probably because she was not in good health.

Xuan Yizhen calmly looked at Yin Xing, whose eyes were filled with doubt and concern. Suddenly, he smiled at her and replied softly, "No, I just feel uncomfortable sometimes, so it's inevitable that I have some random thoughts."

Yin Xing looked at Xuan Yizhen's beautiful face as she smiled. The corners of her eyes and eyebrows were just the right amount of pleasing to the eye, making her heart flutter. Without thinking too much about it, she fiddled with the knot of the red silk ribbon with her fingertips and called out self-reproachfully, "Yizhen, it must be very tiring for you to come see me. I'll go get some tea."

After saying that, Yin Xing wanted to get up, but found that the red silk ribbon made it a little inconvenient to move.

"Let's go together." Xuan Yizheng chuckled and stood up.

"Oh, okay." Yin Xing found that Xuan Yizhen's mood was much calmer than before.

The two of them sat down at the table. Yin Xing awkwardly poured two cups of tea with his left hand and drank one cup himself. He turned his head to see Xuan Yizheng with a delicate face and beautiful eyebrows, drinking sips with curved eyebrows, his manners were dignified, quiet and natural.

In comparison, Yin Xing realized that he had been a bit rude just now. He quickly raised his hand to pour himself another glass and drank it in small sips, imitating the example.

"Are you thirsty?"

"Well, yes."

Yin Xing felt guilty that his little trick had been discovered, so he smiled awkwardly and didn't dare to peek at Xuan Yizheng.

The smile in Xuan Yizhen's eyes faded away quietly when Yin Xing looked away. He lowered his eyes and looked at his face reflected in the tea, as if nothing had happened.

Yin Xing's gaze casually fell on a piece of paper with the trademark painted on it. He lowered his eyes to look at it, distracting himself. Suddenly, his eyes lit up and he called out, "Yizhen, look, this is the only symbol with characters I've seen among the numerous scrolls of cruise ship wrecks. That's why I rode my horse to the crowded market. Maybe the murderer has been following us."

Originally, Yin Xing wanted to check the trademarks of the cruise ship wreckage, but gave up halfway. Now thinking about it, the accident was indeed very strange.

Now that he heard Xuan Yizhen mention that someone had done it on purpose, Yin Xing felt that he might have been lucky.

Xuan Yizhen collected his thoughts, tilted his head to glance at the pattern on the paper, then shifted his gaze to Yin Xing's delighted expression, and asked doubtfully, "You don't seem afraid of being hunted by the murderer?"

"Of course I'm scared, but the killer is attacking and blocking me, which shows that hard work pays off. I'm exploring in the right direction!"

"But have you ever considered that maybe it was because of me that you were murdered?"

Yin Xing was stunned, looking at Xuan Yizhen in confusion. His mind was completely bewildered, and he said frankly, "No, I don't understand what this has to do with Yizhen."

Seeing this, Xuan Yizhen sighed softly, her beautiful eyes revealing helplessness. She could only explain as bluntly as possible, "Two of my future consorts have died in mysterious circumstances, and now you are the only one to have received the golden ticket. There's no guarantee that you won't be targeted and your life will be in danger."

After he finished speaking, Yin Xing subconsciously panicked. He blinked his eyes and looked at the calm Xuan Yizhen. Then he whispered, "Yizhen, did you offend some bad guy?"

Two prospective princes-in-law died one after another. It was obvious that they didn't want Xuan Yizhen to get married. Perhaps there was a perverted and dark person who coveted the beautiful and gentle Xuan Yizhen!

Princesses of ordinary dynasties have already changed several princes-in-law, so Xuan Yizhen should have been engaged and married.

If someone hadn't interfered, Yin Xing believed that those young masters from aristocratic families, as long as they had eyes, would admire Xuan Yizheng instead of believing in rumors.

Of course, Yin Xing had no evidence to support this statement, so it was not easy for him to make inferences or guesses about Xuan Yizheng.

"Who knows? Anyway, they're coming at you with such force. If you're afraid of associating with me, you can just cut off all ties."

"No, I'm not afraid."

Yin Xing held Xuan Yizhen's hand tightly, fearing that she would be sad, and explained: "Yizhen, I will definitely find the murderer, please believe me!"

After she finished speaking, Xuan Yizhen smiled slightly, her beautiful eyes lowered to the two people's hands wrapped with red silk ribbons, and she responded in a gentle tone: "Well, but you can't protect yourself now, so you should protect yourself first."

"Don't worry, I'll go out in a carriage from now on. It'll be much safer that way. But Yizhen is so powerful, can't he find out anything about the murderer?"

"The capital is a hodgepodge of factions, with many forces entrenched there for hundreds of years. It's not easy to gather information."

Upon hearing this, Yin Xing's face lit up with worry. In a clear, pleasant voice, he muttered in a rather condescending manner, "Alas, if even the Wanqi family, who hold immense wealth and power, can't do anything about it, then wouldn't Yizhen be in great danger as well?"

That pervert might be secretly spying on Xuan Yizheng's every move in a dark corner!

Xuan Yizhen's beautiful eyes, reflecting Yin Xing's worried features, shone like gemstones. She said calmly, "Perhaps. This overwhelming wealth and power not only attracts countless people to covet and kill, but sometimes even those who wield it suffer backlash."

The words were so soft and faint that they seemed unconcerned, but Yin Xing found them horrifying.

Perhaps Xuan Yizheng has been in danger all these years, so she always stays at home.

What role does that scary and serious female official in charge play?

Yin Xing's thoughts were in a tangle. He looked up, only to see Xuan Yizhen's beautiful eyes devoid of any emotion. Instead, they were empty and ethereal, like a wisp of smoke carried away by the wind. His fingertips clenched tightly around her warm, soft hand, fearing she would disappear from his sight. He hesitated and said, "Yizhen, let's leave the capital together in the future."

"Where are you going after leaving the capital?"

"No matter where you are, there are always bad people and dangerous places."

Xuan Yizhen's thin lips curled up into a faint smile, as clear and cold as the sound of dripping water. He walked back to the couch with Yin Xing and said slowly, "Silly, there's probably no such place as you described in the world. Besides, even if I leave the capital, I will return to the Wanqi family to become the head of the family in the future. You must have heard some rumors."

Yin Xing's attendant sat down, frowning and muttering, "But didn't Yizhen just say that even immense wealth and power can be dangerous? Would it be safer to return to the Wanqi family?"

For some reason, Yin Xing always felt that the mysterious Wanqi family had a bad relationship with Xuan Yizheng.

Perhaps it was because the oppressive feeling of the female official in charge was too strong, so Yin Xing felt that the Wanqi family represented by her seemed to be restricting Xuan Yizheng's words and actions at all times.

The rumors that Yin Xing heard at first were that Xuan Yizheng possessed enormous wealth and power from the Wanqi family.

But now Yin Xing discovered that Xuan Yizhen did not seem to possess wealth and power, but rather was held hostage by wealth and power. It was as if he was alone on the top of a mountain piled with gold and gems, but was trapped there and unable to escape.

Just when Yin Xing was feeling mixed emotions, Xuan Yizheng's calm and unhurried voice rang in his ears.

"If we can safely return to the Wanqi family's territory, our lives will naturally not be in danger, but things are often not as easy as you think."

"I've also discovered that Yizhen's affairs seem very complicated."

After saying that, Yin Xing lost all his strength and fell onto the couch. He felt as if he could not help and felt a little lost.

But the hand tied with the red silk ribbon was still pressed against Xuan Yizheng's hand, warm, cool and soft.

Xuan Yizhen lowered his eyes to look at Yin Xing, who was casually lying on the low couch, and said softly, "No matter how complicated things are in this world, they all have their reasons, just like a seemingly complicated knot. As long as you are patient and meticulous, you will find a solution sooner or later."

"That's true. Do you really want to lie down and rest together?" Yin Xing felt that there was no point in being anxious, so he asked calmly.

Xuan Yizheng shook his head, sat upright beside him, raised his hand and gently touched the red silk ribbon wrapped around his wrist, his expression calm and peaceful.

Seeing this, Yin Xing leaned forward and looked up at Xuan Yizhen's face and expression. Seeing nothing, he muffled his voice and called out, "Yizhen, if being the Shaoqing of the Dali Temple brings you trouble, then I will resign tomorrow, okay?"

Although it was a pity that there was no salary, Yin Xing didn't want his ignorance to bring unexpected trouble to Xuan Yizheng.

The deaths of the two prospective princes-in-law have already brought very bad rumors to Xuan Yizheng, and he has to consider her reputation.

Xuan Yizhen raised his hand and gently touched Yin Xing's soft cheek, his fingertips gently touching the place where she had been hit by the paper plane. His gaze fell into her slightly dim eyes and he said in a calm voice, "But don't you really want to complete the closing documents for the Third Princess' boat accident?"

"I completed the closing document to gain Yizhen's approval and to avoid being looked down upon by the Dali Temple officials. I didn't intend to cause trouble or worry for Yizhen."

"Is that so? Then go ahead."

Yin Xing was really surprised by Xuan Yizheng's answer and was a little confused for a moment.

Xuan Yizhen's attitude was clearly firm just now, how could it suddenly change 360 ​​degrees?!

Xuan Yizhen watched Yin Xing's expression change with interest. His gaze fell on her innocent eyes, and he said softly, "The Dali Temple's investigation deadline is due at the end of the month. Whether you can complete it before then depends on your ability."

Hearing the sound, Yin Xing raised his head, moved closer to Xuan Yizhen's knees, and smiled in disbelief, "Yizhen, you are so kind!"

"Don't be too happy too soon. If there's no progress by the end of the month, you'll resign and move into the other courtyard. Don't break your promise." Xuan Yizhen met Yin Xing's beautiful eyes, which had regained their radiance. A faint smile reflected in her beautiful eyes. He gently placed his palm against her fair cheek, just as she had taken the initiative to put her palm close to his last night. "It's getting late, go to bed."

For some reason, Xuan Yizheng felt that Yin Xing was sometimes like a baby, making people want to touch her very carefully.

Yin Xing's face flushed with warmth at Xuan Yizhen's gentle comforting gesture. He blinked at the beautiful face before him, but finally closed his eyes and warned, "Yizhen, the red silk ribbons on our wrists must be unbuttoned before going to bed, otherwise it will be uncomfortable."

"I know. You told me that last time."

"Then why don't you stay and sleep with me?"

Because her eyes were closed, Yin Xing couldn't see Xuan Yizhen's expression. She could only hear her clear voice whispering, "I still have to go back to take a medicinal bath. You should go to sleep first."

After he finished speaking, Yin Xing felt a little regretful. He thought he could be closer to Xuan Yizheng, but he didn't want her to stay awake for too long, so he pretended to sleep.

But when Yin Xing smelled the incense emanating from Xuan Yizhen's clothes, his consciousness became slightly heavier, and soon he fell into a deep sleep.

Deep inside the waterside pavilion was quiet and secluded. The night wind blew the gauze curtains, and the drawings on the desk swayed slightly and fell to the ground.

Dark clouds in the sky obscured the moonlight, and the shadow of a tall figure beside the couch was reflected on the ground. Xuan Yizheng raised his hand to untie the red silk ribbons around their wrists, folded them and placed them next to the pillow. His eyes moved to Yin Xing's peaceful sleeping face, gentle and peaceful.

I had a dreamless night. When the sky was just getting light, the fish in the pond splashed in the water, creating ripples and the green pond was filled with rosy clouds.

When Yin Xing woke up, the tall figure beside the bed was no longer there, and the red silk ribbon around his wrist had been untied, with no red mark left.

In the morning, Yin Xing washed and dressed, intending to take the trademark drawing he drew last night to the Dali Temple, but he didn't expect it to be nowhere to be found.

However, Yin Xing couldn't find the drawings after searching for a long time, so he had to give up.

As the sun rose, Yin Xing walked out of the hospital and looked at the parked luxurious carriage. He was really shocked.

Ordinary carriages are usually pulled by one horse. Even the four Shaoqing officials of the Dali Temple only have two horses at most.

But when Yin Xing remembered the luxurious carriage that Xuan Yizheng took when he went ashore on the lake last time, he felt a little accustomed to it.

Perhaps Xuan Yizheng's only consideration was to reduce the hanging of gold and jade ornaments, otherwise the carriage would jingle as it moved, and the scene would probably be even more eye-catching.

When they arrived at the Dali Temple, Yin Xing reached out and used his badge to register, feeling that this was a form of signing in.

Yin Xing entered the four offices as usual, but found that the situation had changed drastically.

Officials from all around were packing up Chang Shaoqing's utensils and equipment. Wu Shijie sat in the first seat drinking tea, looking obviously more arrogant than before.

"Master Xiao Yin has finally recovered from his illness. There was a fire in our archives, and Chang Shaoqing resigned as a result."

"So, Wu Sicheng, you've been promoted?"

Although Yin Xing had no evidence, he still suspected Wu Sicheng more.

Wu Shijie politely waved his hand and replied with a kind smile, "Of course not. Lord Jiang has instructed everyone to complete the closing documents for the Third Princess' boat accident before he can choose an official to succeed Chang Shaoqing. Today, a prominent figure is coming to assist with the task, and it's a good opportunity for Lord Yin to meet him."

"But I have other plans for investigation today. Why don't we let Wu Sicheng go to receive that important person?" The more Yin Xing looked at him, the more he felt that Wu Shijie was a smiling tiger who would eat people without leaving any bones. On the contrary, Chang Tonghai seemed to be taking the blame.

Upon hearing this, Wu Shijie's smile vanished, and he spoke earnestly, "Master Xiao Yin, that man is the Minister of Imperial Clan Affairs, and the husband of the current eldest princess. If you marry Princess Zhanghua in the future, he will be your future uncle. This is a very close relationship."

Seeing that things had come to this, it was clear that Wu Shijie was determined to do this, and the officials everywhere followed his lead. Yin Xingcai had no choice but to cooperate and said, "Okay, then what do you want to discuss with this uncle today? No, what is the matter with the Minister of Imperial Clan Affairs?"

How embarrassing! I was almost fooled by that cunning Wu Shijie just now. Xuan Yizhen didn't even tell me about the marriage. What kind of uncle is he?!

"Master Xiao Yin, please wait in the front hall. The Minister of Imperial Clan Affairs will soon explain the matter." Wu Shijie's eyes flickered, his face full of respect. He raised his hand and motioned for an official to hand over a small box. "Here is writing brush, ink, and a blank document with four seals. These are for taking notes."

Seeing Wu Shijie acting mysterious, Yin Xing felt something was wrong, so he raised his hand to take the small box and walked out of the office.

In the front hall of the Dali Temple, not long after Yin Xing arrived, he saw an old man wearing an elegant bamboo leaf robe, holding a jade fan in his hand, and followed by many guards. He looked to be of considerable importance.

"Are you the Dali Temple official assigned to assist me in handling the matter regarding the Third Princess' boat accident?"

"yes."

Without even looking at Yin Xing, the man turned and walked out of the front hall, got on the carriage in front of the door, and said casually, "You better hurry up, kid, otherwise you may be delayed until what time it is today before you can report back."

Then, Yin Xing watched the carriage leave in a cloud of dust in dumbfoundedness. He raised his hand to wave away the flying dust, thinking that this Lord Zong Zhengqing was a little unreliable.

The sun was blazing in the sky, and near noon, the carriage stopped in front of a lavish mansion in the inner city of the capital. Qi Yizi opened his eyes and said leisurely, "Did that kid catch up?"

"Sir, I am ready." The voice was a little childish and curious, with a pure and clear voice that was difficult to tell whether it was male or female, and it responded frankly.

Hearing the voice, Qi Yizi was in disbelief. He thought to himself that his carriage was pulled by four good horses, and that boy looked fair and thin, how could he catch up so quickly!

Who would have thought that when Qi Yizi lifted the curtain, he saw that the other party actually had a carriage, and it was powered by five BMWs, which looked very expensive.

The emperor rides six horses, the princes ride five, and the senior ministers only ride four horses. Where does this kid come from?

"What's your name?" Qi Yizi bent down and got out of the carriage before looking him in the eye.

"My surname is Yin, and my given name is Xing." Yin Xing responded, feeling somewhat puzzled and not quite used to his scrutinizing gaze.

Qi Yizhi paused, his eyes filled with surprise as he asked, "Are you the young master Yin Xing, the Marquis of Xizhou, to whom Princess Zhanghua bestowed the golden signature?"

Yin Xing didn't quite understand the change in this person, so he nodded stiffly and said, "Yes."

"Then you should go back quickly. I don't want to provoke the Third Princess's anger."

"Why?"

Qi Yizi looked at Yin Xing with contempt, took a deep breath and replied, "Didn't you hear about the Third Princess' boat accident? The biggest suspect is Princess Zhang Hua. It is said that the two of them had a dispute over a certain young master."

Yin Xing said solemnly, "Sir, this rumor is not right. Shouldn't the eldest princess and the third princess be arguing over inviting me?"

Qi Yizhi fell silent as if something was stuck in his throat. He looked at the delicate Yin Xing and threatened her, "Princess Zhanghua has a better reputation than the eldest princess, and you're the first one to be awarded a golden ticket by Princess Zhanghua. So if you go in and interrogate the Third Princess today, you might not come out alive."

These princesses of the dynasty relied on the emperor's favor and were more cunning and arrogant than the other. Ministers might be turned away, and ordinary officials would probably be severely beaten.

When Yin Xing heard this, he reacted slowly and was indeed a little scared.

After all, Yin Xing was still frightened by the incident when he broke his promise and was hunted by the soldiers all over the city by the Third Princess.

Seeing this, Qi Yizhi waved his jade fan and stepped forward, about to enter the main gate. Unexpectedly, he heard the sound of objects in the small box colliding behind him, and then there were brisk footsteps approaching. The clear voice said solemnly: "My lord, since I hold the position of an official in the Dali Temple, I cannot shirk my responsibilities. So if there is anything, please help me."

"Why should I help you?"

"Because you might be my future uncle."

After he finished speaking, Qi Yizi turned his head to look at the fair-faced and immature boy. He felt it was funny, but he couldn't laugh. He thought that this was not a request, it was clearly a threat!

If I had known it would be so troublesome, I would not have accepted this task assigned by the emperor.

Yin Xing looked up at Zong Zhengqing's stiff expression. His face looked a little strange, and he felt uneasy.

Oops, is it useless to learn and use the smiling tiger relationship-building words now?!

Just when Yin Xing felt a little worried, Zong Zhengqing did not object, but stepped towards the main gate and warned: "You look simple and well-behaved, but you turned out to be quite sophisticated. Be smart later."

After he finished speaking, Yin Xing held the small box in his palm, his eyebrows curved and he smiled innocently, nodding his head in response: "Yes, thank you for the compliment, sir. I understand."

Hearing this, Qi Yizi secretly gritted his teeth. This kid seemed to be trying to distance himself from the matter once he had achieved his goal.

Yin Xing and his entourage walked through the main gate and passed through three doors in succession before entering the front hall. The bricks and stones on the floor were engraved with intricate patterns, and the beams, pillars and screens were all covered with a dazzling array of gems, which were dazzling to the eyes.

However, all the doors and windows in the front hall were closed, and it was quite dark during the day. The screen obscured the figure of the person sitting in the main seat, and the broken pieces of teacups on the ground were being cleaned up by the maids. The atmosphere seemed off.

"Third Princess, I haven't seen you for a long time. I want to say hello to you on behalf of the eldest princess." Qi Yizi spoke in a gentle voice.

"My uncle is kind-hearted, but since we are following the order of our father today, let's not waste time." The third princess spoke with arrogance and impatience behind the screen.

Qi Yizhi remained unfazed, signaling Yin with his eyes before speaking, "Okay, today I just want to ask about the strange incident regarding the Third Princess' boat trip that night, and also to tell you frankly why you suspect there's another murderer."

Yin Xing understood, raised his hand to open the small box, and placed the writing brush, ink and inkstone. He didn't dare to look at the third princess at all for fear of being recognized.

However, Yin Xing changed his mind and remembered that he had never seen the third princess at all, so he felt relieved.

"The boat party that night started out pretty normal, with wine, singing, dancing, poetry, swordplay, and finally the fireworks. The first batch of fireworks were all fine," the Third Princess' voice turned from relaxed to deep. "But the second batch, the Hundred Birds Singing fireworks I developed, sparked the moment the fuse was lit, and the fire spread. Soon, there was a deafening roar everywhere, and the entire boat collapsed in an instant. This was definitely a premeditated murder!"

Yin Xing was busy writing down the details. Qi Yizi frowned and thought, "Have you checked the second batch of the Three Princesses of Fireworks?"

"Of course, upon investigation, it was confirmed that the fireworks formula had been altered and impurities had been added, which is why the explosion accident occurred and even ruined my reputation!"

"Can the people involved in making the fireworks admit why they cheated?"

The Third Princess snorted coldly, "No, but I firmly believe that there must be someone behind this."

Yin Xing paused his writing. Seeing that Zong Zhengqing remained silent, he hesitated and said, "Since that's the case, why not let the Dali Temple conduct the interrogation?"

"I would have executed them all long ago to vent my vengeance."

“…”

Yin Xing, who originally felt that the third princess was pitiful, quietly withdrew his feeling of pity. Those craftsmen who made the princesses were obviously more innocent.

Seeing that there was no more evidence, Qi Yizhi stood up and said, "In that case, I won't bother you anymore."

Yin Xing was puzzled and hesitantly called out, "Wait a minute, I have something else to ask the Third Princess. Has the cruise ship been renovated?"

The third princess pondered and said, "Yes, the cruise ship has been undergoing renovations for about half a year. What's the problem?"

"We don't know yet, but the fireworks and the fire might be related, but the explosion and the shipwreck seem to have other suspicious points."

"You're so bold! Are you saying that the princess ordered the cruise ship to be renovated and that's why it sank?"

Qi Yizhi quickly said, "Princess Third, please forgive me. I will punish this brat severely. Goodbye!"

Yin Xing was silent. He had never expected that the third princess had such a strange temper. He immediately tried to leave with the small box in his hand.

The Third Princess's personal attendant noticed that the handsome, fair-skinned official from the Dali Temple looked familiar, so he leaned over and called out, "Master, this man looks like Yin Xing, the son of the Marquis of Xizhou who didn't come that night."

Hearing this, the Third Princess frowned and said, "Stop! You are Yin Xing who dared to break the appointment that night!"

After he finished speaking, Qi Yizi looked at Yin Xing in confusion and questioned, this kid actually broke his promise to the third princess, he is really capable!

Yin Xing took a deep breath, feeling something was wrong. He looked towards the shadowy figure behind the screen, feeling a chill running down his spine. He stammered, "Princess, I had something to do that night, so I couldn't go on the boat."

What should I do? I must not reveal Xuan Yizheng’s affairs, otherwise who knows how the rumors will spread!

"You dared to break your promise and tease this princess. What excuse do you have now? Are you going to keep your appointment with the eldest princess?"

"No, I, I just went to pick some fresh peach blossoms."

The Third Princess looked suspiciously at the timid Yin Xing in the hall and sneered, "That night, the whole city was searching for you, and you dared to say you were going to pick peach blossoms? Where are the peach blossoms?"

Hearing this, Yin Xing thought of the fate of those beautiful peach blossoms. He felt a little sorry for them and sighed, "I finally managed to pick those beautiful blossoms, but then the Third Princess's boat exploded, shaking even the buildings by the lake. The blossoms were completely crushed. I'm afraid I'll only have the chance to pick them next year."

The words stopped, and the hall fell silent. The Third Princess's gaze, like a scimitar, scrutinized Yin Xing's fair and delicate face. She hesitantly called out, "Are you really going to pick peach blossoms, and rush to the lakeside?"

Yin Xing nodded honestly, "Yes, I spent a lot of time picking those beautiful peach blossoms. Every branch is full and beautiful."

It’s a pity that Xuan Yizheng doesn’t seem to like it very much. Yin Xing actually quite likes the pink and tender branches.

The Third Princess raised her hand and asked tentatively, "If you really have this intention, do you dare to come forward and see my face?"

Yin Xing responded with a bewildered look in his eyes: "Why?"

"If you dare not look at this princess's injured face, then what I just said was just a false coaxing. Then I will turn your flesh and blood into fertilizer for the flowers!"

“…”

These words left Yin Xing with no choice but to step forward.

Qi Yizi, who was standing by, had already seen through the Third Princess's wavering mind and thought to himself that this boy really should not be judged by appearance!

When Yin Xing stepped onto the stairs and jumped over the screen, his eyes fell on the third princess who was dressed in bright and gorgeous clothes. His eyes were full of envy, and he secretly sighed that her clothes were so beautiful.

"How dare you look directly into the face of the Third Princess?" the waiter scolded harshly.

"But didn't the Third Princess ask me to watch it just now?" Although Yin Xing said this, he had already covered his eyes with his hands.

After all, having experienced the terrible punishment from Princess Tai'an last time, Yin Xing really cherishes his eyes!

The Third Princess looked at Yin Xing's timid behavior and sneered, "Forget it, come and see."

Yin Xing hesitantly lowered his hand and stepped closer. His gaze fell on the Third Princess, who was wearing a half-gold mask on her left cheek. He nervously asked, "Third Princess, do you really want to see?"

"Of course, but if you show even the slightest bit of resistance or disrespect, I will still kill you!"

"Uh, can I not watch it?"

Before she finished speaking, the third princess had already raised her hand to take off the mask. Yin Xing opened her round eyes wide, almost holding her breath, and her gaze fell on the red burn marks. The skin seemed to be burned, revealing flesh and blood, and had lost its luster. Only bright red blood and a few ink-like impurities remained, embedded in the skin.

Yin Xing hesitated and asked, "Third Princess, are these ink-like things impurities from the fireworks?"

The Third Princess looked at Yin Xing, who hadn't even blinked away from her gaze. Her gaze met hers, clear and honest. After a long pause, she turned her head and said, "Yes, that's why I suspect the mastermind behind this is trying to embarrass me."

"But the boat trip that night was quite noisy. If they just wanted to embarrass you, the Third Princess, the price they would pay would be too high."

"Anyway, I've already told you everything I know. As for the mastermind behind this, I'll have you, the Dali Temple, investigate."

Yin Xing was helpless. He said, "How can we investigate if you have executed all the masters who made fireworks?"

Seeing this, Yin Xing was about to step away from behind the screen, but the Third Princess suddenly asked, "Who selected you to serve in the court at the Princesses' Appointment Feast?"

Hearing the voice, Yin Xing stopped in his tracks, startled and a little worried. How was he going to hide the truth about himself and Xuan Yizheng?

But unexpectedly, the Third Princess waved her hand and said rather arrogantly, "Go away. Since it has been taken away by others, I don't bother to take it anymore. It's very dirty."

Yin Xing was speechless at this. How could he be considered a dirty thing?!

Forget it, maybe the personalities of all the princesses in the dynasty are so weird and outrageous.

But Xuan Yizheng is so gentle and kind that he would not kill people casually, let alone use them as fertilizer for flowers.

Yin Xing came out from behind the screen, packed up the small box, looked up and met the admiring gaze of Lord Zong Zhengqing, a little confused.

When he came out of the dim front hall, Yin Xing realized that the light outside was very bright and dazzling, and his clothes were slightly cold. He sighed inwardly, it was a close call!

In the afternoon, Yin Xing went back to the waterside pavilion in the courtyard to change clothes, but unexpectedly saw Xuan Yizheng sitting there, making tea with her hands, looking like a hostess.

However, Yin Xing found that Xuan Yizheng's calm gaze was quite strange. It moved slowly from top to bottom, as if he wanted to see through him before giving up.

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