“You were not in the North back then for some reason, but I was. I was a… deserter.”

Li E didn't speak, but clenched his fists even tighter.

Although Qu Heng spoke lightly, one can imagine the dangers and hardships, and the cunning and skill required to save the young master's life during the purges of that year.

Among the old brothers, perhaps only the meticulous Qu Heng could do this.

The turmoil in Qu Heng's eyes gradually subsided, and he regained his previous calm.

"We're brothers, how about you give me this chance to die?"

Another long silence followed.

Qu Heng suddenly smiled and pointed to a wine jar placed in the corner of the bed, its clay seal still intact.

"Remember that strong liquor? It was your favorite back then, really potent. Now it's not so easy to find in Fengjing City."

He paused, his tone becoming nonchalant, yet every word carried immense weight:

"Take care as we part today, and take good care of the young master."

After saying that, she walked straight past him and headed for the door without looking back.

"Wait!" Li E suddenly shouted, blocking Qu Heng's path. "Tell me, what exactly is the plan?"

"It's none of your business anymore."

"How can it be unrelated!" Li E roared, his chest heaving violently.

"I've been investigating for so many years, and so many brothers have been implicated. Now you think you can just wash my hands of it with a simple 'it's none of my business'?"

I'm telling you, Qu Heng, it's impossible!

He brought with him only loyal followers who were willing to die for him. From the moment they left Fengjing, not one of them thought of leaving alive!

The Zhao family army was not completely wiped out back then; it was simply scattered and incorporated into the Xuanwu Army.

And then there's that fool Zhao Polu, who was kind and generous during his lifetime, and whose kindness extended far and wide. Even after all these years, he still feels grateful for the kindness of the Zhao family.

Qu Heng said calmly, "What other plan could there be? It's nothing more than finding an opportunity to ask the Emperor for clarification."

Li E stared intently at him, as if trying to discern truth from falsehood in his eyes.

A moment later, he suddenly straightened his chest and said in a resounding voice:

"Count me in!"