Chapter 298 "Dragon and Tiger" Liu Wu! (Seeking monthly votes)

Should Xiao Jinghong be in charge?

Should Xiao Jinghong be sent to see Chen Yi, or rather, Chen Yu, or perhaps Liu Wu?

Once she becomes aware of it, the result will likely be...

Xiao Wan'er thought about that "terrible" situation and was immediately at a loss for what to do.

He couldn't help but feel a little guilty and uneasy, and he also found it difficult to face his second sister, Xiao Jinghong.

It's like a thief who has just entered a house and stolen gold and silver jewelry, suddenly hearing the footsteps of the house's owner outside the door.

All I wanted to do was find a crack to crawl into.

But Xiao Wan'er didn't know how to refuse the old master's arrangement.

She couldn't just say directly that Chen Yu is Chen Yi, could she?

No, no.

She had just promised Chen Yi that she would never reveal the secret.

And if she really said that.

Things might get even worse, and it's unknown how the old man will react.

Perhaps, perhaps...

Perhaps it was something else, Xiao Wan'er couldn't say for sure, but she was definitely panicking inside.

Even when Xie Tingyun and Shen Huatang came looking for her with excited expressions, she only managed a weak smile and offered a few words of comfort.

Then, under the protection of the two guards, they returned to Jiaxing Garden.

Old Master Xiao, however, did not think too much about it.

It is only natural for men to marry when they are of age and for women to marry when they are of age.

Moreover, Chen Yu is a peerless figure with superb martial arts, outstanding strategy, and great talent, and is also a master of medicine.

Even though his family background couldn't compare to the Xiao family, in the face of such a brilliant and talented young man, Old Master Xiao felt it necessary to set aside his family's social standing.

After seeing Xiao Wan'er return to Jiaxing Garden safely, he finally breathed a sigh of relief and summoned Xiao Jing.

"What's the situation outside? Has any news come through?"

Xiao Jing's face lit up with joy, and he bowed, saying, "My lord, Du Cang is dead!"

As soon as he finished speaking, he raised his voice a few decibels:

"Liu Wu, Lord 'Dragon Spear' has decisively killed 'Jackal' Du Cang inside Puyin Temple outside the city!"

"Although the martial arts practitioners of the past did not witness the battle between the two, after investigating Puyin Temple, they discovered that Du Cang died from the 'Dragon Spear' fist."

"That 'Dragon Spear' technique... the 'Dragon Spear' fist style has actually reached a high level!"

Grandpa Xiao's clear, bright eyes widened slightly. "You mean, besides the art of spear fighting and medicine, he has also mastered the art of boxing?"

Xiao Jing smiled and nodded, "That's why he was able to kill Du Cang, who was at the upper level of the fifth rank, with his cultivation level of the upper level of the third rank."

"My lord, some busybodies are already saying that Liu Wu is comparable to the Second Miss."

Grandpa Xiao smiled and said, "'Xiao Jinghong, the master of both spear and sword,' and 'Liu Wu, the master of both spear and fist'?"

"No, at first it was passed down by word of mouth as 'Dragon Spear Tiger Fist' Liu Wu, but later only the words 'Dragon Tiger' remained!"

"'Dragon Tiger' Liu Wu!"

"Dragon Tiger, Dragon Tiger hahaha... Good, good, good!"

Grandpa Xiao was very pleased and repeatedly praised, "The wind follows the dragon, the clouds follow the tiger; a fifth-rank official kills a third-rank official—how domineering!"

"As expected of the husband I personally chose for Wan'er, only with such achievements can he be worthy of Wan'er."

Husband?

Xiao Jing was stunned for a moment, then realized what was happening and bowed, saying, "Congratulations, Lord Marquis, the young lady has finally found a good match."

Previously, he had only sensed that the old master had this idea, but now that he had actually heard it, he couldn't help but be happy for Xiao Wan'er.

He and the old man had the same idea—with "Dragon and Tiger" around, perhaps they could save Xiao Wan'er's life.

Even if it cannot be cured completely, the "Dragon and Tiger" technique, with its advanced medical skills, is enough to prolong Xiao Wan'er's life.

Old Master Xiao stroked his beard and nodded, saying, "Wan'er's misfortune can be considered a blessing in disguise."

"When Jinghong returns, I will have her visit Baicaotang."

"Second Miss?"

Xiao Jing suddenly realized, "Indeed, the Second Miss should go and see Liu Wu."

Firstly, Liu Wu had been a great help to the Xiao family regarding the summer grain harvest in the three towns, and Xiao Jinghong should thank him both out of courtesy and reason.

Secondly, if Liu Wu really becomes the eldest daughter's husband, it would be a great help to the Xiao family.

It's likely that the Marquis intends to have Liu Wu take up a post in the Dingyuan Army.

Thirdly, and most importantly, sending the second young lady could also serve as an opportunity to probe or give Liu Wu a warning.

After all, the Xiao family can't withstand too much trouble now, so they have to be very careful with every step they take.

Old Master Xiao knew that some things couldn't be hidden from Xiao Jing, so he simply spoke frankly:

"If Jinghong finds it acceptable after reading it, it will be a relief for me."

As he spoke, Old Master Xiao couldn't help but sigh, "Wan'er has had a tough time."

Xiao Jing lowered his head slightly, his smile fading as he did not respond.

A short while later.

Old Master Xiao smiled again and waved his hand, saying, "Let's put family matters aside for now."

"Judging by the time, Liu Gongmo should have received the letter by now."

"Next, you will personally go and keep an eye on them. This time, you must ensure they have nowhere to escape!"

"yes!"

Without hesitation, Xiao Jing accepted the order and left.

Old Master Xiao watched him walk away, his gaze fixed on a dark, heavy cloud in the distance.

"'Dragon Tiger,' haha, even a junior can't stand up to my past behavior..."

"I am indeed a bit indecisive..."

...

This time and place is just like that time and place.

Liu Hong stood quietly in the pavilion in the courtyard, also watching the night rain.

The torrential rain bent the banana trees beside the pavilion, and the tips of the leaves, accompanied by the cold wind, occasionally touched the mud.

Thunder roared and lightning flashed across the sky.

The light faintly illuminated his slightly aged face and his eyes, which were as black as ink.

"The victors become kings and nobles, the losers become bandits and outlaws."

"I have been living in fear and trembling for decades, yet I still cannot escape the shackles of fame and fortune."

Liu Hong's hands, clasped behind his back, trembled slightly, but a cold smile appeared on his face.

"According to that lord's plan, chaos has begun to emerge in Shu Prefecture."

"Grain prices continue to rise and will soon reach a critical point."

"The three counties downstream of the Chishui River are suffering from famine and will also be affected, in addition to the plague..."

"Hehe, it's just one last fuse to ignite it, just that one fuse to ignite it."

"At that time, there will surely be a rebellion in Shu Prefecture. The imperial court will issue an order, and the Dingyuan Army will have no choice but to suppress it..."

"That lord could also take this opportunity to intervene in Shu Prefecture and lead the northern troops south."

"Once the rebellion is quelled, even if His Majesty wants to launch a northern expedition, this situation will force him to shift his focus southward."

"If the southern expedition goes smoothly... I can turn the tide in one fell swoop!"

"At that time, who would still ask me what I did in the past? Who would dare?!"

Liu Hong's eyes flashed with a fierce light, his face contorted with malice, "But all of this planning is about to be ruined by a few bastards!"

Liu Wu, nicknamed "Dragon Spear".

Du Cang, nicknamed "Jackal".

Landu Wang, Yuan Jingxuan, Asutai, and even Dingyuan Hou Xiao Yuan, they all deserve to die!

Liu Hong wished he could take a knife and stab them all to death.

They all deserve to die!

The chilling aura and imposing presence were like a dagger sweeping across, snapping countless banana leaves.

a long time.

Liu Hong calmed down and asked in a deep voice, "Has any news come back from outside?"

Upon hearing the sound, Zhao Liuan, who was waiting at the courtyard gate, quickly walked over. His face and body were covered in water, whether from sweat or rain, it was hard to tell.

"Reporting to your Excellency, the 'jackal' has been confirmed to have been killed by Liu Wu."

Liu Hong seemed to have expected this, "Where is Asutai?"

"I have confirmed with the shipping guild that the ships have left the city limits and are heading south."

"The government office? The Xiao family?"

"The eldest daughter of the Xiao family has returned safely. The troops stationed outside the city sounded the retreat, as did the city guards."

"Only the prefectural government and the judicial commissioner are interrogating the captured Vaishsa people overnight. If there is any news, I will report it immediately."

After Zhao Liuan finished speaking, he glanced at Liu Hong's expression, gritted his teeth, and continued, "The Xiao family has not made any moves yet."

"However, I have learned that a bald eagle was auctioned off at the Xiao family residence in the evening, and judging from its direction, it should be heading towards the Wushan border market."

Liu Hong's lips curled into a cold smile. "That's only right."

“Xiao Yuan is old. Faced with such a change, the first person he can think of is Xiao Jinghong, and it will only be Xiao Jinghong.”

"That's good, hehe."

Since Xiao Yuan hasn't made any moves, his position as Left Provincial Governor is safe for the time being.

"What about the Tea Horse Road? Is it really King Lando's scouts clearing out bystanders for the great battle?"

Zhao Liuan hesitated for a moment, then shook his head and said, "I can't be sure for now."

"The spies I sent there earlier have not sent back any news for some reason."

Upon hearing this, Liu Hong frowned slightly, turned his head to look at him, and ordered in an unquestionable tone, "Make sure to find out the situation on that border."

“If necessary, you can use my seal to send secret guards across the Tea Horse Road to try to make direct contact with the Peacock King’s Banner.”

"yes!"

Just as Zhao Liuan was about to step back and leave, he heard Liu Hong continue, "Has any letter been sent back from the north?"

Zhao Liuan was taken aback, and quickly lowered his head even further. "Your subordinate has not yet seen the messenger hawk."

Liu Hong was silent for a moment, then waved his hand and said, "Go down."

Zhao Liuan bowed deeply, stepped back a few paces, and hurriedly left.

Once inside the courtyard, all sound was extinguished.

Liu Hong's face became even more ferocious, and he let out a strange laugh, like that of a crow.

No reply, haha, no reply haha...

"It seems he sensed something was amiss and wanted to sever ties with me. Very well, excellent!"

For so many years, Liu Hong has served him faithfully, doing everything according to his wishes.

Even if it meant risking his life to create chaos in Shu Prefecture, he didn't hesitate.

Now, after only a few minor setbacks, that person has already ignored his letter seeking help.

It truly chilled his heart!

It really made him want to laugh!

If that's the case, then don't blame this old man for being "ungrateful"!

Just then, a cheerful voice came from the side: "Please forgive me, Lord Liu, I am a step late."

Liu Hong immediately composed himself, turned around, and looked at the newcomer with a smile.

—He was dressed in black, his face hidden, and he wore a bamboo hat, revealing only a pair of vertical pupils that looked like those of a venomous snake.

"Elder Yan, it is an honor to have you here. I am sorry for not being able to greet you properly. I should be the one to apologize."

"Lord Liu, you are too kind. I am just a humble countryman and do not deserve your kind words."

"I have heard of the name Yan Jingchen of the Five Poisons Sect since I was a child. Now that I have met her, the elder's demeanor is still as elegant as ever."

The two exchanged a few pleasantries.

Liu Hong then led him into the quiet room, served him a cup of tea, and asked with a smile:

"Elder Yan's personal visit is truly unexpected. Did the trip go smoothly?"

Yan Jingchen pulled down the black cloth covering her face, revealing a fair complexion that didn't resemble that of an old man. She sipped her tea and said:

"It went fairly smoothly, but the mountain tribes received the news in advance, which made it a little more difficult for me."

"Mountain Clan... Heh, I forgot that your Five Poisons Sect has a deep-seated hatred with the Mountain Clan."

No sooner had Liu Hong finished speaking than Yan Jingchen put down her teacup, shook her head, and said:

"It's not a major feud, just something from the past."

"Oh? The elder doesn't want to seek revenge against the mountain tribe anymore?"

"That was merely a means for me to revive the Five Poisons Sect. Grudges are nothing compared to strength."

Liu Hong understood, and said with a half-smile, "After this, Elder Yan might change his mind."

Years ago, the Five Poisons Sect was wiped out by the Mountain Clan, and he didn't believe that the man surnamed Yan didn't want to avenge this blood feud.

Yan Jingchen smiled and said, "I hope so."

Let's chat for a bit.

Liu Hong's smile faded, and he asked seriously, "What's the situation at the border?"

Yan Jingzhen smiled broadly and nodded, "I must say, Lord Liu's elder brother is a very good father."

"Liu Zhaoxue has been in Shuzhou for only a few days, and she has already made Xinglinzhai a thriving business. I can start making arrangements tomorrow."

"I'm glad Elder Yan is satisfied. As for Zhaoxue... that girl Zhaoxue is still a bit immature."

After saying this meaningfully, Liu Hong said, "In that case, I will wait patiently for Elder Yan's good news."

"Of course, of course..."

...

Inside Chunhe Garden.

Although it was late at night, the room was still filled with laughter and cheerful conversation.

Xiao Wan'er returned safely, Du Cang was killed, the Xiao family's security was lifted, and Xiao Wuge also escaped from the secret room.

He went straight to Jiaxing Garden as soon as he got back, and when he saw Xiao Wan'er, he burst into tears.

Xiao Wan'er offered him a few words of comfort and briefly explained what had happened, which finally calmed him down.

Then Xiao Wuge wanted to return to Chunhe Garden to tell Chen Yi and Xiao Die the good news.

Xiao Wan'er, who was troubled by arranging things for the old master, took the opportunity to say that she would send him back, which led to the lively scene in Chunhe Garden.

Although Chen Yi was somewhat surprised, after dispelling the illusion of the self-portrait in the study, he acted as if nothing had happened and chatted and laughed with Xiao Wan'er.

Xiaodie was overjoyed.

However, upon seeing Chen Yi and Xiao Wan'er's appearance, she recalled the poem she had heard earlier in the study.

After hesitating for a moment, she pretended not to hear it and silently wrote a sentence in the booklet, carefully without noting the date or reason.

After all, such words and phrases are like the poem that the son-in-law wrote for the young lady before; it would not be good if they were spread around.

After chatting and laughing for a while, Xiao Wan'er got up and left with Xie Tingyun and Shen Huatang, secretly slipping a note to Chen Yi before leaving.

"Brother-in-law, please wait. I... I'm fine."

Chen Yi calmly put away the note. Noticing the slight unease on her face, he guessed it was related to his secret identity and offered ambiguous words of comfort:

"After surviving this ordeal, eldest sister should rest well in Jiaxing Garden."

"Even if the sky falls, there are tall people to hold it up, so there's no need to worry."

As he spoke, he looked at Xie Tingyun and Shen Huatang and said with a smile, "You agree, right?"

Slightly guilty, Xie Tingyun turned her head away: "Yes, right?"

Shen Huatang, however, was more serious, saying, "You flatter me, sir."

"This time it was Hua Tang's fault, but fortunately the young lady is kind-hearted and did not blame Hua Tang."

"But everything can only be done once, and Hua Tang will do everything in her power to protect Miss's safety from now on."

Upon hearing this, Xie Tingyun quickly nodded and patted his chest to assure her, "Tingyun too."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Wan'er gave Chen Yi a reproachful look, then turned to comfort her fellow disciples from the Tianshan Sect.

However, she also understood the meaning behind Chen Yi's words, which put her at ease.

She just hoped things were as Chen Yi said, otherwise... she really didn't know how to face Xiao Jinghong...

After the group left.

Chen Yi instructed Xiao Die to help Xiao Wuge rest, and then went to the study alone.

He opened the note and couldn't help but chuckle. "The old man's habit of randomly matchmaking has struck again."

The note read: "[Grandpa wants to marry me off to Chen Yu!!]"

In the dried ink, one can vaguely see the character "你" (you) on the left side of the character "陈" (Chen), which has been smeared into a blob.

Chen Yi read it again, then raised his hand and turned the note into ashes. "If I had known this would happen, she would have just listened to me before coming back."

Originally, he intended to tell Xiao Wan'er everything, including the things he and Chen Yu did under the alias Liu Wu.

Now that Xiao Wan'er has learned of his identity as "Chen Yu" from the old master, she can't help but have some wild thoughts.

On the contrary, it's not beautiful.

Sit quietly for a moment.

Looking out the window at the dimly lit courtyard where the thunder and lightning had ceased, Chen Yi reviewed the chess game in his mind once more.

Once he was sure there were no more mistakes, he finally breathed a sigh of relief and was able to relax a little.

"The lady's return must be about Liu Hong's matter."

"Even if the old master arranges for her to do some personal matters, he must first deal with Liu Hong, which will take some time."

Chen Yi stretched and felt tired all over, so he got up and went back to his room.

"No rush, no rush, I can just disappear for a few days..."

He dared not meet Xiao Jinghong at this time under the aliases of "Chen Yu" or "Liu Wu".

Like Xiao Wan'er, they were somewhat guilty.

"However, Madam must be very anxious after hearing the news, right?"

(End of this chapter)