The investigation is slow
At noon, Cong Lan returned with news that Cheng Langjun had impeached Liu Gong for abusing his power and accepting bribes.
Liu insisted on his innocence and argued his case based on reason, prompting the emperor to order a thorough investigation.
It seems like one problem after another is brewing.
In the afternoon, Sui Zhixu arrived at the Ning residence on time. Ning Yan was already waiting in the flower hall. Upon seeing her enter, she quickly rose to greet her. After exchanging pleasantries, the two took their seats as host and guest. A maidservant served fragrant tea.
Su Zhixu took a sip of tea, pondering the right moment to speak, and met her gaze, saying, "I came for Mingyi."
Upon hearing this, Ning Yan's smile faltered slightly. "Ah Xu, you must have heard that Young Master Cheng impeached Lord Liu for embezzlement and bribery. Although the Censorate is in charge of this matter, Lady Liu's case is ultimately handled by the Court of Judicial Review. This case involves a wide range of people, and the Court of Judicial Review is under heavy guard now. Father hasn't given me a definite answer yet."
Both of them understood that Cheng Zhijie had deliberately escalated the situation, completely disregarding etiquette and sentiment. The bigger the mess he made, the more rigorously the Dali Temple would investigate and give everyone an explanation.
The Liu family wanted to suppress it, but Cheng Zhijie refused. That was precisely Cheng Zhijie's plan; if he wanted to use his power to oppress others, he would make sure the Liu family had no power to use.
It seems that Cheng Langjun is truly deeply in love with Mingyi.
Seeing Ning Yan's troubled expression, Xu continued, "Isn't it precisely because the situation is serious that it was handed over to the Dali Temple? Lady Liu is quite famous as a talented woman in Chang'an, how could she leave herself with such an obvious loophole?"
It's obvious to everyone that he's the murderer.
"If someone else had done this, things would have been much simpler."
Cheng Zhijie's impeachment of Liu Gong was a matter for the Censorate, and ultimately a matter between court officials. Whether Liu Gong was ultimately guilty of "embezzlement and bribery" remains to be seen.
If yes, it's a great achievement; if not, it's solely Cheng Langjun's fault and has nothing to do with the Dali Temple.
That's something the Cheng family should worry about.
Liu Gong has been in the business for many years, and even if Cheng Langjun is exceptionally talented, he may not be able to bring Liu Gong down.
Ning Yan pondered for a moment and slowly said, "Ah Xu sees things clearly. I thought that perhaps Father would agree to let me intervene this time. I tried to find a way to get you involved."
"I'm willing to dress up as your maid."
Under this pretext, a thorough investigation was launched, following Cheng Langjun's idea. In the end, it was indeed Liu Niangzi who did it, and Liu Gong was not found guilty of embezzlement or bribery.
The Dali Temple, having handled so many bizarre cases, never expected Lady Liu to be so direct.
As long as the Emperor and the people of Chang'an can maintain appearances, the Liu family cannot make things difficult for the Dali Temple.
After all, the Dali Temple had already fulfilled both sides' unspoken requests at the beginning.
On the fourth day of the third lunar month, the day after the incident, the Liu family faced difficulties.
Madam Liu was difficult to deal with, and she always dodged questions. Master Liu hid behind the screen behind Madam Liu and never showed his face. He left everything to Madam Liu to handle, as it was none of his business.
When Xu glanced at Liu Gong, he found it amusing. The most common method used by powerful families was to either not show up or exert pressure, and in just one day, they had managed to do both for Cheng and Liu, the former fiancés.
Although Xu Suan knew where Ning Yan's smooth talk came from, she had learned quite a bit from them as well.
Ning Yan remained calm and composed, displaying remarkable skill in handling such matters. "Madam Liu is a paragon of virtue, known to all in Chang'an. Even the Empress Dowager praised her a few years ago, saying, 'This woman possesses outstanding character, is virtuous and gentle, truly a model for the imperial family.' With a mother like Madam Liu, Lady Liu has become one of the most talented women in Chang'an over the years. I remember she won first place in last year's poetry and prose competition, didn't she?"
"That's true. Only you guys remember these things. Xi'er has participated in too many poetry and literature competitions and flower appreciation banquets over the years, and has won a few first prizes. There's no way to describe Xi'er's talent."
It's really difficult. Madam Liu doesn't respond to any of their questions and instead avoids the main point, talking to them about Liu Xi's literary achievements over the years.
Every time Ning Yan tried to bring up the case and ask to see Madam Liu, Madam Liu would gently but firmly pull her back.
After a while, Ning Yan also became somewhat angry.
Knowing that Xu was disguised as Ning Yan's maid and couldn't speak directly, she reached out and tugged at her sleeve, gesturing for her to look at Liu Gong behind the screen. Her fake smile became even more amiable.
What a shrewd fellow, Mr. Liu! He knew his wife's "abilities" and that's why he hid in the back all along.
Ning Yan took a sip of tea and cleared her throat. "Why is Master Liu at the back? I've heard my father talk about Master Liu before. He said that when Master Liu was young, he participated in the imperial examination as a member of a prominent family and ranked second. My father has always admired Master Liu for being born into a prominent family but being able to endure the loneliness of studying hard. It's truly admirable."
“My father often says that it is a blessing for the Great Qi to have a capable person like Lord Liu enter the court. As the saying goes, if you can’t sweep a room, how can you sweep the world? Lord Liu is so well-read and has raised a talented woman like Lady Liu. I’m sure you know that he will not hinder the Dali Temple from investigating the case.”
"Outrageous! How dare you, Third Madam Ning, interfere in the Dali Temple's investigation when she is not at home awaiting marriage? Is this the Ning family's upbringing?" Madam Liu slammed her hand on the table and stood up, glaring angrily at Ning Yan.
Sui Zhixu silently blocked her view, but couldn't help speaking first, "The Ning family's upbringing is nothing for Madam Liu to worry about. If Madam doesn't understand, Mr. Liu will."
"The Dali Temple, mindful of your hard work and great contributions, does not want you to bear the infamy. Lady Liu is a member of a prominent family in Chang'an, and the Dali Temple understands this as well. That is why the Lord sent Third Sister here. Ending this matter as soon as possible will clear the name of the Liu family and Lady Liu. Otherwise, according to the usual practice of the Dali Temple, we should invite you all to the Imperial Prison. Lord Liu is familiar with the 'Great Qi Code', and you know this best."
While Su Zhixu was talking, Liu Gong had already come out from behind the screen without saying a word. Seeing this, Madam Liu silently shut her mouth.
Taking the opportunity, she added, "This matter has already been reported to the Emperor, and Lord Liu must give the Emperor an explanation."
"Hahaha, my dear niece, please. Look at you, you should have just stated your purpose earlier. Why did you have to go through all this trouble with this old man? Do you think I am an unreasonable person?"
Liu Gong stood up to make way for Ning Yan, and upon seeing this, Sui Zhixu silently returned to Ning Yan's side, bowed his head and followed Ning Yan into Liu Xi's residence in the backyard of the Liu family.
Elegant and refined, Sui Zhixu glanced at her quickly, her appearance perfectly matching the aesthetics of the aristocratic families of Chang'an. No wonder Liu Xi was known in both folk tales and among women as the most desirable daughter-in-law for aristocratic families.
Every single thing resonated deeply with the wives of various noble families and officials.
Xu thought to herself that if the Empress Dowager had ordered that princes of different surnames and princes of the blood were not allowed to enter the capital or leave their fiefdoms without an imperial edict, Liu Xi might have become the most desired daughter-in-law among the royal princesses.
The woman before me exuded a dignified and elegant beauty in her face and demeanor. Even at home, she wore appropriate clothes, which perfectly reflected her temperament.
His posture was upright, his chin slightly raised, and his expression was just the right amount of haughtiness, which would not annoy people but rather inspire admiration.
As a maid, Sui Zhixu served Ning Yan, her gaze secretly lingering on Liu Xi. Once the maid leading the way left, she immediately and openly met Liu Xi's eyes.
"You've all come."
Ning Yan said expressionlessly, "Tell me, it's really a good deal for you not to be sent to the Dali Temple."
She watched Liu Xi's expression as he answered Ning Yan's questions.
Liu Xi naturally tried his best to clear himself of suspicion, saying, "Yesterday really scared me. I know you don't believe me."
Liu Xi lowered his head slightly, his whole being etched with sorrow.
Ning Yan smiled warmly, "How could that be? Everyone knows who you, Madam Liu, are. We came here specifically to clear Madam Liu of any suspicion."
"Yeah?"
Ning Yan: "Please speak freely, Madam Liu."
"That day, my dress got wet by accident, so I went to the backyard with my maid to change. On the way, I unexpectedly met Madam Xu strolling around in the backyard. We chatted for a bit, and just as I was about to leave, a man in black suddenly rushed in and said that he was ordered to take the life of Madam Cheng. The situation was critical. In the blink of an eye, Madam Xu fell to the ground with a dagger in her chest, bleeding profusely. Before I could call for help, I fainted. When I woke up, as you all know, the Princess had sealed off the backyard, and then people from the Cheng, Xu, and Liu families arrived."
Liu Xi lowered her head and slowly began to speak, while Sui Zhixu kept looking into her eyes.
"Then what happened to Young Master Cheng last night...?"
"I don't know why Brother Zhijie is so convinced that I am the murderer of Madam Xu. How could I go back and harm his wife?" As she spoke, Liu Xi burst into tears. "He actually drew his sword to demand my life for Madam Xu's sake, sob sob."
Liu Xi was crying uncontrollably, and Ning Yan didn't dare to ask any more questions, so she could only gently comfort Liu Xi.
Seeing that they couldn't get any information out of him, Xu and his companion had no choice but to leave and make further plans.
After Su Zhixu left, Madam Liu came to Liu Xi's room, glanced at the tea on the table, and waved her hand to tell the maid to clean it up quickly.
"You did a good job just now, which saved Ning San from asking all sorts of questions. Just stay home and behave yourself for now, and things will be resolved in a few days."
Liu Xi wiped away her tears, "What about Brother Zhijie?"
"What can we do? What else can we do? I never thought Cheng Zhijie was such a lovelorn man. What is Xu Mingyi? She's some lowly hussy from the manor who somehow managed to snatch the Crown Prince's wife from your hands."
"Someone like her is only fit to be a concubine. Cheng Zhijie is blind; he mistook a fish eye for a pearl and praised her to the heavens."
"He's gone mad trying to break into the Liu family's gate because of such a vulgar and uncouth person. I'll see how he handles it. Don't worry, I'll have a good talk with your Aunt Jian. He'll calm down in a while, and your Aunt Jian and I will renegotiate your marriage agreement." Madam Liu said to herself, while Liu Xi lowered his head and remained silent.
“I’ve said it before, the friendship between the Cheng and Liu families over the years is inseparable. Even your father has a few restless concubines, but your mother still manages to keep them under control. You are your mother’s daughter, you must be magnanimous and composed, and you must never be as clueless as Madam Xu and her mother, understand?”
Liu Xi remained silent. Madam Liu continued, "Fortunately, she hasn't given birth yet. Once you enter the family, you can win her heart early on, give birth to the eldest son of the Marquis's family at this time, and secure your position as the matriarch. Then everything will be fine."
Liu Xi smiled and said, "Mother has a very far-sighted mind."
"Isn't your mother doing this for you two siblings? If you marry well, your brother and your mother will be happy, and vice versa, do you hear me?"
Liu Xi gazed into the distance, where the boundless white clouds on the horizon were confined to four corners of the sky, perfectly framed azure and white. In the courtyard stood only a maple tree, its leaves just beginning to sprout, displaying a tender green hue.
In the Dali Temple's file room, the candlelight flickered, illuminating Ning Yan's tightly furrowed brows. Her slender fingers traced Xu Mingyi's name on the file, leaving faint ink marks on her fingertips.
"It's tough. The most difficult things to handle at the Dali Temple aren't the strange cases, but rather the affairs of the court and the inner quarters." Ning Yan rested her hands on the table, her brows furrowed with frustration.
"Liu Xi said that men in black appeared. According to the maid who first found them on the day of the incident, there were only three people at the scene: Madam Xu, who was lying on the ground with a chest injury, Madam Liu, who was unconscious and covered in blood, and the maid who led the way."
Sui Zhixu asked, "Where is Madam Xu's maid?"
"It's gone."
She leaned back in her chair, then sat up straight after hearing this. "Can you find out if Mingyi disappeared before or after the incident?"
"On the third day of the third lunar month, the day of the incident, someone heard the lady and Lady Xu arguing. At that time, Lady Xu's maid was still by her side. However, the lady was timid and left after hearing that it was Lady Xu and Lady Liu."
Su Zhixu nodded. It's only natural. To avoid trouble for themselves and their families, most people would choose to stay away, because getting involved in their affairs would inevitably cause a lot of trouble.
Ning Yan: "The time of the argument and the time of the injury on Madam Xu's chest were both discovered at 9:00 AM, which means that Madam Xu had an accident not long after the lady who was passing by left. It is speculated that the maid left after the accident."
Sui Zhixu: "According to Madam Liu, there's something very wrong with this. Why was Mingyi's maidservant let go? The assassin was ordered to kill Cheng Zhijie's wife. Letting Madam Liu go is one thing, but why would they let go of the people around Madam Xu? Have any bodies been found nearby?"
Ning Yan shook her head. "No, I also suspected that the maid woke up earlier than Liu Niangzi and the others, but since she woke up, why didn't she go to report the news? No bodies were found around, which means she wasn't killed while reporting the news. The assassin killed Xu Niangzi so openly, there's no reason for him to hide it from a maid."
"This maid has a serious problem. I might have to go to the Cheng family tomorrow."
Ning Yan nodded, paused for a moment, and then voiced her doubts, "I think Liu Xi has a big problem."
"Isn't that strange?" Coincidentally, Sui Zhixu thought so too.
Ning Yan stood up and stroked the files on the bookshelf. "I consider myself to have solved many strange cases and have considerable experience in crime-solving techniques. Liu Xi seemed to cooperate fully today, but she was actually covering up something. Later, I deliberately mentioned that Cheng Langjun's condition was even more abnormal, subtly telling us to leave quickly, which is very much in line with Madam Liu's behavior. Is that your first impression?"
Knowing that Xu Mo remained silent, Ning Yan smiled and said, "That's exactly why something's not right. I'm sorry to tell you, but it's all just my intuition. She has a habit of hiding three things in one sentence. When I first praised Madam Liu in the Liu family hall, it was all fake. She doesn't deserve such high praise, but her daughter Liu Xi does seem to deserve it."
"As you know, she is known for her sharp tongue, a trait she has mastered in Chang'an. Today, her tone was gentler and her words were less bit harsh, which I find a little unusual. In the past, when she saw me investigating a case, she would have given me a few sarcastic remarks, but she didn't today. Perhaps it's because the murder case has fallen on her own, and things are different from usual."
Sui Zhixu felt that her expression was off. At first, she was arrogant, with her head slightly raised and her body straight, which was very much in line with the image of a noble lady from a prestigious family.
But then...
Ning Yan was still waiting for her reply. She didn't know what to say, so she could only shake her head and say, "I'm not sure."
The following day, as Ning Yan had predicted, Madam Cheng was in a very bad mood.
She was a lowly woman, and she had said long ago that something big was bound to happen to her sooner or later.
Madam Cheng's eyes were deep and her expression was unfriendly. "What is Third Madam Ning doing here? The body is at Dali Temple. As for asking Xu Mingyi, she has only been married for half a year. How could anyone in the Cheng family know her? If Third Madam Ning wants to investigate the case, she should go to the Xu family as soon as possible. There is no need to waste time in the Cheng family."
Ning Yan's heart skipped a beat. Madam Cheng's words were too impolite. She was, after all, her daughter-in-law. Her words were too cold-hearted.
Knowing that Xu was in a stable mood, Ning Yan met her gaze and suppressed her dissatisfaction. "Madam Cheng is joking. Madam Xu is the wife of the heir of the Marquis of Wu'an's mansion. How could she not be familiar with her? I came today to ask about Madam Xu's maid, Xia Rong. I wonder if she has appeared since the third day of the third month? Madam Cheng's thoughts are probably the same as those of the Dali Temple. They both hope that the case can be resolved as soon as possible."
"Xia Rong? I don't know. How could I possibly have paid attention to Xu Mingyi's maids? Xu Mingyi's maids are probably just as unruly as her. Who knows where they've gone?" Madam Cheng said nonchalantly, sipping her tea leisurely.
"Please do us a favor, Lady Wu'an. We need to investigate Xia Rong; she's the key to the case. The Dali Temple is investigating a case, and unauthorized individuals shouldn't interfere," Ning Yan said coldly, setting down her teacup.
"What, is Third Madam Ning trying to intimidate me with the name of the Dali Temple?"
Ning Yan looked directly at Madam Cheng, her tone neither cold nor indifferent, "Third Sister wouldn't dare. Third Sister is merely fulfilling her duties at the Dali Temple."
"Huh? To tell you the truth, if it weren't for the eldest son's insistence on investigating the case, the Wu'an Marquis's mansion wouldn't have cared whether Xu Mingyi lived or died. It would be better if she were dead, as she was occupying the position of the heir's wife for nothing. She didn't even consider whether she was worthy of it. In terms of appearance, family background, behavior, and etiquette, she couldn't compare to Xi'er at all."
“I remember that Third Madam is also of marriageable age. Why bother sticking up for that penniless Xu Mingyi and spending all day at the Dali Temple without fear of tarnishing your reputation?” Madam Cheng was not intimidated by Ning Yan’s official position and leaned back in her chair with a natural demeanor.
Xu frowned, realizing that Madam Cheng was clearly threatening Ning Yan in a roundabout way.
The Great Qi Dynasty stipulated that the Court of Judicial Review could be staffed with two Vice Ministers of the Court of Judicial Review, who were of the fourth rank. Ning Yan's father was one of them.
Compared to another Vice Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, Ning Yan's father was indeed outstanding enough to be the next Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, but Madam Cheng believed that anything was possible.
She wanted to use her power to suppress others and gain an advantage over Ning Yan in terms of official position and reputation.
Unfortunately, the Emperor has been reluctant to finalize the selection of the Minister of the Court of Judicial Review.
At this point, Ning Yan wasn't angry at all. The woman beside her was the daughter of the Sui family head and the Prime Minister Cong. Apart from Cheng Zhijie making a big fuss and reporting it to the Emperor, the Marquis of Wu'an's wife had everything covered by Sui Zhixu, so what was she afraid of?
What a joke! I'm worried about your son, not you.
Seeing Ning Yan's smiling face, Madam Cheng felt something was off. "It's alright, as long as Young Master Cheng wants to investigate. Young Master Cheng doesn't know we've come to the Marquis's residence, does he? Ah Xu, go and tell Young Master Cheng that the Dali Temple is here to investigate Madam Xu's case."
"Yes." Ignoring Madam Cheng behind Ning Yan, Sui Zhixu stepped into the courtyard. Ning Yan was not just with Sui Zhixu when she went out to investigate the case; she had the manpower of the Dali Temple under her control.
Ning Yan waved her hand, and the people from the Dali Temple instantly surrounded the Cheng family.
“We just won’t use force, not that we can’t.” Ning Yan stood up. She was annoyed by Madam Cheng, who was always so rude. She and Madam Liu were a perfect match.
"You! You're incredibly audacious!"
Sui Zhixu's words were like daggers to the heart: "Oh, can you tell me where your son lives?"
Madam Cheng's eyes widened in fury, her chest heaving as she pointed at Sui Zhixu, "You, you—you lowly maidservant, how dare you speak to me like that!"
"Is this how Mother entertains the Dali Temple?" The voice arrived before the person.
His voice was deep and gentle, yet carried an undeniable warning, like a winter pine tree, sharp and biting.
The white jade pendant at his waist made a crisp sound with every movement, echoing the blue lotus crown on his head, making him appear even more refined and handsome.
Cheng Zhijie glanced at Sui Zhixu, who was disguised as a maid, but did not expose her. He then invited them to Xu Mingyi's room.
“This is Mingyi’s residence. After the incident, I sent people to investigate Xia Rong and found that Mingyi had already given her her indenture.” Cheng Zhijie’s tone was somewhat downcast. “I currently have no idea where she is.”
According to custom, a wife of a fifth-rank official might have three to five maids, and the wife of the most noble would have even more. These maids were responsible for her daily life, clothing, and makeup.
As the wife of the heir apparent, Madam Xu shouldn't only have Xia Rong by her side.
"What about Mingyi's other maids?" Sui Zhixu asked casually.
“Not long after Mingyi and I got married last autumn, Mingyi sent a maid home to marry her fiancé. Qiuguo got into trouble and I punished her by making her change clothes. I haven’t seen Dongmei these days. A few days ago, Mingyi said that Dongmei upset her and she was going to ignore her for two days.” Cheng Zhijie told the truth, her long, deep eyes slightly narrowed.
"Is Mingyi's body still in the morgue?" Upon learning of Xu Mingyi's death, Cheng Zhijie could not believe it no matter what. Reason was overwhelmed by emotions, especially when he saw the dagger in his wife's chest. He was like a madman, unable to control himself.
Upon hearing that it was Liu Xi, he drew his sword and went to the Liu family residence. Cheng Zhijie rubbed his temples, calmed down, and thought carefully. Given Liu Xi's cunning, she couldn't possibly have done it so obviously; she preferred to use insidious methods within the inner quarters.
Ning Yan: "Yes, does Young Master Cheng intend to bring Mingyi back to the Cheng family?"
Cheng Zhijie smiled wryly, "I will take her home after the matter is investigated."
In the current situation, he feared that his mother might do something unimaginable to Mingyi's corpse.
"The coroner's first examination was simple; I'd like to examine it again."
Ning Yan naturally had no objections; a second examination would also help them with the investigation. "Of course," she said.
Cheng Zhijie pondered, "Let's bring another imperial physician, just in case."
Those who become officials are different; they become more suspicious and thoughtful. Her father is the same, Ning Yan thought to herself, a smile on her face.
The people from the Dali Temple took Cheng Zhijie's fish-shaped tally to invite the imperial physician, who quickly brought the person to the morgue.
Entering the dimly lit room, Sui Zhixu blinked, trying to get used to the changes in light and shadow.
Ning Yan looked at the young woman on the stage. Her pale face could not hide her good looks. The pure and innocent person was gone just like that. Even though Ning Yan had seen many deaths, she still felt bad.
Sui Zhixu leaned close to Ning Yan and whispered, "Have you ever heard of the autopsy techniques in the martial arts world, where people are cut open with a knife to examine their internal organs?"
Ning Yan said in a deep voice, "I've heard of it. I was very surprised when I first heard about it. It was unheard of. Whether in the previous dynasty or now, coroners mainly rely on visual observation of corpses to examine external injuries and bloodstains in order to determine the cause and manner of death."
"Coroners mostly rely on their long-accumulated experience to analyze the cause of death by examining the color, smell, and stiffness of the corpse. At most, they use a ruler to measure the length and depth of the wounds. They never thought of dissecting the corpse, as this would certainly not be acceptable to aristocratic families. They value dignity, both in life and in death. Cheng Langjun is deeply in love with Mingyi and would absolutely not allow the coroner to touch her."
Coroners had a low social status, and their descendants were even prohibited from taking the imperial examinations. If a coroner were to encounter Madam Xu, Madam Cheng would have a legitimate reason to prevent Madam Xu from entering the Cheng family ancestral graves. The law stipulated that married women could not enter their mother's family ancestral graves, and she would then become one of the wandering ghosts in the mass graves.
That's why Cheng Zhijie brought Physician Yang to assist the coroner, and the coroner was a young lady whom Ning Yan had personally promoted.
“I heard it from Zi Rong.” Sui Zhixu sighed. If Mingyi hadn’t been so pale and lifeless, she would have thought that Mingyi was still alive.
“Young Master Cheng, Madam Xu may have been poisoned by a slow-acting poison.”
The three people inside shouted in unison, "What?!"
Cheng Zhijie quickly stepped forward and walked to the body.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please look. Lady Xu has spots behind her ears and on her neck. The effects of poison cease after death, indicating that she was poisoned before her death, and quite some time ago. I suspect the spots may have spread to her chest and heart. It's very likely that the poison's effects were triggered by the wound on her chest, leading to her death. The wound on her chest wasn't deep enough to kill her instantly; she could have been saved with timely treatment. This symptom is rare among poisons from the Central Plains, and it's very likely from the Thirteen Territories."
"You mean the real cause of your wife's death was an unknown, slow-acting poison?"
"Yes. I vouch for it with the reputation of the Yang family." Cheng Zhijie's eyes were fixed on the young lady in front of him. She was the only wife of the Imperial Hospital and a descendant of Yang Su, the legendary physician. He had invited her to the Imperial Hospital because the Emperor had visited her three times to help the Empress Dowager with her old illness.
She also treated Sui Zhixu when he fell off a cliff.
As the weight lifted from Cheng Zhijie's shoulders, a profound emptiness enveloped his heart.
Ning Yan: It really is on Lady Liu.
Cheng Zhijie left dejectedly, leaving behind the words that he would investigate the poison matter and hand over the evidence to the Dali Temple.
He acted swiftly. Upon learning of Xu Mingyi's poisoning, he dispatched men to search the entire Cheng family home. Within an afternoon, the matter was cleared up.
Along with everything else, the items left behind by Xu Mingyi point to another fact that Cheng Zhijie is unwilling to admit.
Last winter, less than three months after Xu Mingyi married into the Cheng family, Madam Cheng, disliking that Xu Mingyi showed no signs of pregnancy, gave two maids, each with their own unique appearance, to Cheng Zhijie as his concubines. One of them looked and had a temperament very similar to Xu Mingyi.
They were just waiting for Cheng Zhijie to sleep with them so they could be made concubines.
That night, Cheng Zhijie threw the maid who had come under the pretext of delivering tonics out of the study and publicly sent her back to Madam Cheng's room.
In the middle of the night, Cheng Zhijie and Xu Mingyi had an argument and parted on bad terms. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Qiu Guo wanted to use her status as Xu Mingyi's maid to serve Cheng Zhijie.
That night, Cheng Zhijie was repeatedly assaulted by unfamiliar fragrances, which enraged him. He immediately had Qiu Guo beaten ten times and then sent her to wash clothes.
Unexpectedly, Qiu Guo harbored resentment, believing that Xu Mingyi's failure was due to her not explaining things to Cheng Zhijie.
Xu Mingyi did not allow Qiu Guo to go to Cheng Zhijie's room at all. Qiu Guo was only interested in climbing the social ladder and instead resented Xu Mingyi for not giving her a way to climb the ladder.
As the year draws to a close, Madam Liu and Liu Xi from the Liu family come to visit. Qiu Guo seizes the opportunity to secretly conspire with Liu Xi, and then secretly passes on a message to Qiu Guo, handing over the poison.
Qiu Guo initially wanted to plead with Xu Mingyi, relying on Xu Mingyi's soft-hearted nature, just like how Xu Mingyi's mother, Madam Ming, had forgiven him countless times in the Xu family. Madam Ming had protected Xu Mingyi's father time and time again, even when Xu Mingyi was verbally abused and beaten by his father, and was eventually sent to the estate for ten years. Xu Mingyi still forgave Madam Ming.
Qiu Guo wondered if Xu Mingyi would forgive her, no matter how successful she was in seducing him. She secretly weighed the pros and cons, thinking that as long as Xu Mingyi got her out of the laundry room, she would not collude with Liu Niangzi to poison Xu Mingyi.
Unexpectedly, Xu Mingyi refused to see her. Qiu Guo shouted her innocence outside Xu Mingyi's dormitory, recounting her past relationship with Xu Mingyi, and finally confessed in tears, but still couldn't see Xu Mingyi.
The closed gate and the servants' mocking gazes all fell into Qiu Guo's heart. Evil thoughts arose in her mind. This was all her mistress's own doing. She could have just let her go back. Her mistress had driven herself to this dead end. Qiu Guo thought to herself.
Using her old connections, Qiu Guo secretly added all of Liu Niangzi's poison to the porridge for breakfast. She knew Xu Mingyi's habit of eating little for breakfast but always drinking the porridge.
Xu Mingyi used to live in the village, but the people there often didn't give him food. In the morning, he would only get a bowl of clear soup with hardly any rice. Later, even if he ate too much in the morning, he would feel unwell. Gradually, he settled down to only eating a couple of bites and finishing the porridge.
After listening to Qiu Guo's confession, Cheng Zhijie's lips curled into a cold smile. "Want to reminisce about the inner courtyard? I'll grant your wish. Have him beaten to death in front of the gate."
"No, no, my lord, spare me! I didn't mean to harm you! Ah—no!" Countless curses were silenced by the servants carrying out the execution. Qiu Guo watched helplessly as the plaque of Yi Shen Courtyard gradually disappeared, and finally fainted during the execution.
Cheng Zhijie clenched his confession, his fingertips turning white. Dongmei was someone he had placed by Mingyi's side. How could she have upset him during that period? And why hadn't he arranged for someone else to be by her side?
When Cheng Zhijie stepped into Yi Shen Courtyard, the boxes on the jewelry table were all empty. The hairpins and bracelets he had given her were gone; the place was deserted...
All that remained was a farewell letter.
She wanted to run away and had shunned his men months in advance, but she was poisoned at that time.
Cheng Zhijie unfolded the letter. The handwriting was neat and elegant, but Cheng Zhijie's vision was blurred, and he could not see a single word. Large drops of water fell onto the paper, blurring the writing. He could not tell whether they were sweat or tears.
In the deep courtyard of memories, "If I could exchange my heart for yours, I would know how deep our longing is."
This has a bad meaning; why did he choose such a name in the first place?
He was a heartless man in Mingyi's eyes.
Cheng Zhijie slumped to the ground, leaning against the table and chair. Outside the window, clouds rolled and drifted, and the azure sky gradually turned red with rosy clouds, just like the day they first met.
In the autumn of the second year after Cheng Zhijie passed the imperial examination, he was promoted from a sixth-rank assistant instructor at the Imperial Academy to a fifth-rank censor. This was not the first time he had done so. The Marquis of Wu'an's mansion still held a banquet for him, which was even grander than when he was promoted to assistant instructor at the Imperial Academy a few months after being appointed as a seventh-rank doctor of the Imperial Academy after the first year's palace examination.
Cheng Zhijie didn't understand the meaning behind their praise of his youthful achievements. Everyone in the court could see that he was just a pawn being pushed around.
The mother smiled broadly, holding the hand of her chosen daughter-in-law with pride, while the usually cautious father beamed with joy, patting him on the back and uttering words of praise he had never heard before.
He was merely a pawn manipulated at will in the imperial court, rising rapidly with every step teetering on the edge of a precipice. Today he might be promoted, but tomorrow he could be reduced to a mere foot soldier.
Cheng Zhijie wanted to shout at his father, "Can't you see?"
In less than three breaths, Cheng Zhijie understood what Marquis Wu'an meant. He understood, but he needed unparalleled glory. He was gambling, gambling that his son would have a smooth career in the court.
Including Madam Cheng, whose mother was discussing the future with Lady Liu, as if they were a real mother and daughter.
Unable to suppress his irritation, Cheng Zhijie spurred his horse and left the Marquis's residence.
Liu Xi was somewhat surprised and was about to step forward to find out what was going on when Madam Cheng took her hand and apologized profusely.
Liu Xi put on a generous smile and said she didn't mind, and Madam Cheng praised her highly.
Everyone present, including the officials' wives and concubines, echoed the sentiment, praising Liu Xi and Cheng Zhijie as childhood sweethearts, a perfect match made in heaven.
Liu Xi turned slightly to the side, his cheeks flushed, and quietly accepted the scrutiny of the ladies from each household.
Madam Cheng and Madam Liu were both very pleased with themselves, yet they remained humble and polite in their words, creating a harmonious atmosphere.
Seeing this, Marquis Wu'an kept joking with the officials who came and went, saying that Cheng Zhijie was young and impetuous. Their banter masked the turbulent undercurrents beneath the surface.
Cheng Zhijie ran wildly to the village outside the city and saw from afar an unknown person trying to pick the apples that were growing wildly outside his village.
The sound of horses' hooves grew louder as the girl's outstretched hand stopped.
The bright red apples hung high on the branches, almost falling into her arms.
"Who are you?" Mingyi asked with a hint of resentment, turning around to watch him cautiously as he walked forward step by step, feigning composure.
Cheng Zhijie rode his horse leisurely to the young lady's side.
"It must belong to the owner of the apple in your hand."
The voice came from behind, which terrified Mingyi. The person who was standing on tiptoe on the stone fell to the ground as soon as the voice said "Master".
"Yes, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. I was just too hungry. They wouldn't give me any food, so I had to sneak out to find some fruit to eat."
Mingyi waved her hands frantically. She had long forgotten what the etiquette she had learned in her childhood was like. She only hoped that the man in front of her could forgive her for stealing.
She mustn't let him know who she is, otherwise her father will definitely kill her when he finds out.
"Why didn't they give you food?" Cheng Zhijie paused for a moment. It was the first time he had seen the young woman who was almost starving to death. At that time, he was still riding a tall horse, looking down from above.
The young woman in front of him was so thin and frail that it seemed as if a gentle breeze could blow her over; she was nothing but skin and bones.
Her hair was dry, brittle, and lacked luster, hanging haphazardly over her shoulders as if it hadn't been combed in a long time. Her clothes were even more tattered, riddled with patches and tears.
Mingyi was stunned for a moment, but finally told the truth, "I don't know. They said I did something wrong. Because I argued with my father, he sent me to the village and wouldn't let anyone give me food."
"You are the eldest daughter-in-law of the Marquis of Anyuan's mansion."
"Me? I'm not you, you've mistaken me for someone else." She suddenly lowered her head, covering her face with her dirty sleeve, as if that would erase her existence.
Mingyi never expected that the expensively dressed young man in front of her would recognize her even though she had never mentioned it. The two, who were worlds apart, were talking under the wall.
Mingyi involuntarily clutched her tattered and worn-out clothes, trying to dispel the tension and the shame beneath her skin.
Cheng Zhijie smiled with a hint of sarcasm, burying his head in the sand. He didn't actually know her; he had only guessed.
The estates in this area all belonged to a few noble families, and only the Anyuan Earl's family had ended up in such a miserable state.
It's truly laughable that he drove his daughter out of the Earl's mansion and welcomed his concubine into the family, hoping to erase the fact that he had married into the family.
Pitiful and helpless, Cheng Zhijie watched coldly. He handed the horse to a servant on the estate. Cheng Zhijie turned his head and saw Xu Mingyi, who had just stood up against the wall, hesitating in that spot.
He didn't soften his heart; he did send someone to bring her in and gave her a meal.
She stayed at the estate, and Cheng Zhijie didn't say anything. As long as she didn't disturb him, that was fine. He wasn't short of money for a young woman's three meals a day.
Memories overwhelmed Cheng Zhijie like a tidal wave; people are too prone to regretting the past, to the point that they are physically and mentally wounded and unable to extricate themselves.
"Ah Ling, take a look." Fan Lingzhang handed the letter in his hand to Sui Zhixu.
Flipping through the papers, one finds detailed accounts of Mingyi's pawned jewelry and shops, as well as contracts with Tianque Tower for hiring him.
She meticulously planned Xu Mingyi's actions: selling her maid into servitude, pawning her gold and silver treasures, and hiring martial arts practitioners to protect her. She had a well-thought-out plan to run away with the money.
The maid Dongmei, whom Cheng Zhijie said had displeased her, now seems to have been deliberately caused by her.
She wasn't one of Mingyi's people. Of Mingyi's four maids, apart from Chunzhao, who married early, only Xia Rong required her attention.
She chose the third day of the third lunar month?
Xu Li suspected that the argument with Liu Xi was intentional. Liu Xi was arrogant and best at maintaining his dignity, and would not break off relations.
Only Mingyi could make her disregard etiquette.
Then the black-clad figures from the martial arts world that Liu Xi had mentioned appeared. They were hired by Mingyi, so there was no reason for them to kill her instead.
No, Liu Xi said that the man in black was shouting that he was ordered to take the life of Cheng Langjun's wife.
The sunset was magnificent, and the golden light shone on Sui Zhixu as she held a few sheets of paper in her hand.
"Mingyi actually managed to contact the people at Tianque Tower."
"Relax, this matter should have nothing to do with Sima Xian." Fan Lingzhang put his hand on her shoulder and comforted her gently.
"That's true."
But Mingyi's death always weighed on her mind. The Liu family was powerful, and they had been important officials since the time of the late emperor. They were the first dukes in the current dynasty to be granted real fiefs, and their reputation was even more illustrious than that of the Pei family, the mother family of the Empress Dowager.
There are many doubts now, but Liu Xi is highly suspicious. How can she clear Mingyi's name?
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