Chapter Four, the Changxin pear blossoms secretly desire to roost

Hua Shenghe silently watched from the side, appearing calm on the surface, yet feeling satisfied with his own arrangements in his heart. Just as people were about to unfold the silk, for some unknown reason, Hua Yu, who was dancing on the waterside pavilion, twisted her ankle, losing her balance and falling into the pond.

Language and text are also highly lethal weapons. This group of people indeed has the ability to garner public support for his recent "usurpation." However, this is also a death wish for Chu Ji; his current actions must surely displease many ministers in the court

What a scheming character he is, indeed wanting to usurp the throne while the Crown Prince is missing. It seems that my father's precautions against him were not unfounded. However, this also means that his identity as the Crown Prince cannot be revealed to him for the time being, lest it provoke further complications

It is said that the Crown Prince has been pursued for defying the Emperor and is now missing

However, what she finds most intolerable is Hua Shenghe's daughter—Hua Yu

The woman paused in the pavilion standing over the lotus pond, her graceful dance captivating all who watched. Just as everyone was entranced, a scene in the pond drew everyone's attention.

I am praising you!" Chu Shaoqin was at a loss whether to laugh or cry

During her time at the Hua family, Chu Shaoqin and Hua Shenghe were always "discussing important matters," but she did not understand any of it, so she consciously refrained from joining in, lest she disturb them. However, she found that her encounters with Chu Shaoqin were becoming increasingly rare; although they lived under the same roof, it felt as if they were separated by thousands of mountains and rivers.

When Hua Shenghe stepped forward, he couldn't help but frown. This was different from what he had originally planned; what on earth was going on

The Hua residence was adorned with lanterns and festive decorations, creating a lively atmosphere. Distinguished individuals and merchants who had received invitations arrived one after another. Without an invitation, Chu Shaoqin and Li Qiuxue crouched nearby, observing the scene. After assessing the situation, the two pretended to pass by the Hua residence and stealthily took a couple's invitation. Just as they disembarked from their carriage, Li Qiuxue accidentally bumped into them, scolding a few words before stepping into the Hua residence.

Xue Shaoheng?" Li Qiuxue blurted out

Inside the hall, amidst the clinking of glasses, people are toasting and celebrating, discussing their grand ambitions.

Gradually, a trace of fear arose in Chu Shaoqin's heart. He was afraid that she would disappear from his life in this manner, afraid that he would never be able to find her again

Everyone present is not a fool. The purpose of Hua Shenghe's numerous actions today is quite evident. But what does it matter? The rule of "the victor takes all" has been established since ancient times. Moreover, the current sovereign is indeed not a wise ruler, and Hua Shenghe merely lacks a "title" and an "opportunity" to appear just and in accordance with the will of heaven. But how could this "opportunity" fall into the hands of an unknown nobody?

Chu Shaoqin stared at her blankly, unsure whether she was truly naive or simply too innocent. After a long while, Chu Shaoqin let out a scoff and pulled Li Qiuxue into his embrace

Upon hearing this, the guests at the banquet fell silent for a moment, and then someone loudly proposed that Hua Shenghe should rise in rebellion under the name of the Crown Prince, first eliminating the tyrant before making further plans

In the midst of the action, the peach blossom petals scattered down from the branches, resembling a painting, leaving the guests almost mesmerized. However, Hua Yu gritted her teeth in anger, yet still had to graciously extend her congratulations.

The guards of the Hua residence constantly monitor the movements of everyone within the estate, except for Hua Shenghe and Hua Yuh. Each time Li Qiuxue returns from an outing with Chu Shaoqin, she is subjected to a routine search to check for any prohibited items before being allowed to enter. The items they bring back from the market are always confiscated by the gatekeepers, and over time, Li Qiuxue has grown disinclined to go out.

The guests at the banquet believed that celestial beings had descended to earth, and they could not help but follow the dancing woman in the air as they moved towards the lotus pond

"Dancing? You..." Deep down, she knew that Li Qiuxue must have been provoked by Hua Yu, but seeing her in this state, Chu Shaoqin felt reluctant to blame her and was at a loss for words.

Leaving the water, the koi carp was bouncing on the ground, its mouth agape, as if something were lodged in its throat.

Hua Yu was dressed in a long crimson gown, the hem trailing several meters behind her, resembling a blooming blood-red mandala. Li Qiuxue could not bear her disdainful gaze and, in a moment of impulse, agreed.

Chu Shaoqin and Li Qiuxue have been staying at the inn for quite some time, observing all the happenings in Yandu City. One day, people on the street began to head in the same direction, towards the location of the Yandu bulletin board, where the daily news of Yandu is prominently posted.

Of course, Hua Shenghe still harbored doubts about his words after listening. On one hand, he felt that if Chu Shaoqin were truly the crown prince, he would certainly not use such a similar name to approach him, nor would he openly reveal his birthmark, lest it arouse suspicion; on the other hand, he remained highly guarded against this young man

Once these words were spoken, a flurry of discussions ensued among the crowd

They squeezed in from the dense crowd and saw a notice posted on the bulletin board. The general content of the notice was that Hua Shenghe's daughter, Hua Yu, would celebrate her birthday in three days, and a banquet would be held at the residence, inviting many prominent figures from Yandu to attend

"Fool." After a long while, Chu Shaoqin said with a light laugh

"You may not remember what I said." Xue Shaoheng's strange smile gradually became blurred in Li Qiuxue's eyes. She felt weak all over and could only sense in her consciousness that she was being helped onto the bed. She wanted to reach for the dagger at her waist, but her hand was firmly held down by Xue Shaoheng.

Young Master Chu Shaoqin gazed into the distance, seemingly lost in thought

The front hall was filled with guests, and the moment they appeared, everyone's gaze turned towards them. In the face of this scene, Hua Yu was at ease, while she felt timid and followed behind Hua Yu, unsure of what to do.

Xue Shaoheng's nightmarish voice echoed in her ear: "I told you, you would definitely regret it"

"It's all in the past, so let's not bring it up again." Li Qiuxue did not wish to mention the massacre of the Li family, thus she avoided the topic. Just as she was about to turn and leave, Xue Shaoheng suddenly grabbed her arm

Fortunately, he had been physically weak before and rarely seen by others. During his time at the escort agency, not only did he become much stronger, but he also tanned significantly. As long as it is not the young eunuchs and palace maids who serve and accompany him, ordinary people would not recognize him. The accuracy of the portrait is too poor, and he has no obvious marks on his face, so there is no need to worry about being recognized from the portrait.

Chu Shaoqin gently placed Li Qiuxue on the bench of the waterside pavilion, softly calling out "Xue'er" while shaking her. As the effects of the drug gradually wore off, Li Qiuxue drowsily opened her eyes, and the worried expression of Chu Shaoqin transitioned from blurry to clear in her sight

The people at the banquet began to stir, collectively accusing the Emperor of incompetence, asserting that he was unworthy of the throne, and advocating for the Crown Prince to be embraced as the new sovereign

"No, Huayu asked me to wait a moment..." Li Qiuxue instinctively denied, unwilling to appear inferior to Huayu in front of Chu Shaoqin

Li Qiuxue nodded gently, nestled in the embrace of Chu Shaoqin

It seemed that Hua Yu could discern what Li Qiuxue was thinking in her heart. After she came out, Hua Yu leisurely set down her teacup and said: "Rest assured, dealing with you only requires strength."

Xue Shaoheng looked at her as she finished the cup of tea, a faint smile playing on his lips as he said, "Li Qiuxue, do you still remember that I once pursued you, and you said that a scholar is of no use whatsoever?"

The pear tree in autumn was slightly warm to the touch, and upon witnessing the grand scene before her, she realized that dancing out of spite was indeed too hasty. Like a child who had done something wrong, she murmured to herself: "Dancing..."

Hua Yu raised her lips, lightly covering the corners of her mouth with her hand, and scrutinized Li Qiuxue from top to bottom with her eyes. She then said to the maid beside her: "Take her to change into suitable clothing and give her a proper makeover."

When Li Qiuxue was brought to the room where Chu Shaoqin was, Hua Shenghe had already agreed to help them take revenge. Li Qiuxue did not think much of it, believing that Hua Shenghe was helping them because of their intelligence.

At that moment, the person holding the cloth had already spread it out, and while looking at the right arm of Chu Shaoqin, he muttered in disbelief: "The red cloud is the king"

"What is that fragrance in this room?" Li Qiuxue entered the chamber and was greeted by a delightful aroma. She was curious about the source of the scent, yet she found no incense burner within the room.

He spoke with respect, but also revealed his suspicion regarding Chu Shaoqin's identity. According to the plan, Chu Shaoqin denied being the crown prince and recounted the incident in which the Zhengda Escort Agency was annihilated for offending the emperor

After the Grain Rain, the willow catkins fall, the cuckoo cries at night, and the cold wave weather can be considered over. The wild geese have moved away from the mountains and forests, settling in the city center, which is the first place to warm up. Just a few days ago, people wrapped in fur coats have already changed into thin shirts, and the atmosphere on the streets has also undergone a transformation. Women and children, who originally stayed indoors, are now going out with flower baskets, and the street vendors have unknowingly increased in number.

"Let me go, what do you want to do..." Li Qiuxue felt inexplicably weak all over, and the scene before her became increasingly blurred. She felt her mind was in chaos, her eyelids growing heavier, as a pair of hands began to untie her clothing.

Upon noticing that Li Qiuxue had not returned to the Huafu, Chu Shaoqin set out to look for her. However, he searched all the places where she might have gone, yet he did not see any trace of Li Qiuxue. A sense of unease washed over him; with no relatives or friends in Yandu, where could Li Qiuxue possibly be

"Alright." Chu Shaoqin hurriedly caught up with Li Qiuxue, taking the opportunity to hold her hand. The hands of the two swayed back and forth childishly.

On this day, she went out of the residence to relax and noticed that many stalls selling calligraphy and paintings had appeared on the street, so she approached to join the crowd and watch.

Not long ago, they had met. At this moment, Xue Shaoheng appeared just as he did during their first encounter, still dressed in a complete set of white clothing, resembling a refined scholar. However, this time he held a folding fan, looking even more dashing and charming.

"It is the mural on the wall that emits this fragrance. The paper used for the painting has been soaked in spices by my order, which is why there is a delightful aroma," Xue Shaoheng explained as he walked to the table to brew a pot of tea

Bai Shaoqin, you... haven't figured out the situation yet. Li Qiuxue, grasping her collar, swung her hand and slapped Chu Shaoqin, saying, "You actually have such delusions about me. Let's see if I don't deal with you!"

I pay my respects to His Royal Highness the Crown Prince!" After saying this, Hua Shenghe adjusted his hem and performed a kneeling salute towards Chu Shaoqin, with the others following suit.

Did you forget it at home

Indeed. The scholar-like individual beside him, unwilling to be left behind, stated, "As long as you nod your head, we will certainly provide our utmost assistance."

He does not understand why he is so angry, is it because she is foolish, too naive? Or is it because she makes him feel scared and worried

"Shao Qin, what are you standing there for? Let's go eat Yangchun noodles in a bit."

The two individuals who could not find the invitation were ultimately driven away by the guards of the Hua residence, leaving in a huff in their carriage. Li Qiuxue and Chu Shaoqin triumphantly displayed the invitation they had conveniently stolen, and after the two had walked far away, they mixed into the Hua residence with the invitation in hand

Hua Yu revealed a satisfied smile and, upon seeing Chu Shaoqin approaching from another corridor, turned and left

The scenery depicted in the painting is all from within Qingyang City. Upon seeing it, she was instantly captivated, reminiscing about her time in Qingyang City

Suddenly, a loud explosion erupted, and a blurred figure pulled Xue Shaoheng, who was kneeling beside her, away. She heard the sounds of beating but did not know what was happening, and she fell into a deep sleep.

You're fooling me. Who praises people like that?

Oh, me! Not long ago, there were soldiers everywhere in Qingyang City. I was living alone in my residence and felt it was unsafe, so I moved to Yandu, selling some calligraphy and paintings and doing a small business. After all, Yandu is the capital, so it should be safer and more comfortable. " Xue Shaoheng opened his folding fan, a few strands of hair at his temples fluttering in the wind. He smiled elegantly, but suddenly his expression turned contemplative, "Qiu Xue, I have heard a bit about your family's situation. Alas, how could such misfortune befall you when everything seemed fine?"

Li Qiuxue did not know anyone in Yan, so when Xue Shaoheng spoke these words, she believed him without hesitation

Quickly pull it up to take a look! People are making a fuss and are very concerned about this inexplicable phenomenon

"Xue'er, what were you just talking about? Is it that Hua Yu is making things difficult for you again?" After Chu Shaoqin approached, Hua Yu had already left. He looked at Li Qiuxue and asked.

After finishing dressing up, Li Qiuxue seemed like a different person. Even if she didn't move, she still looked like a beauty. It seems that Huayu did not intentionally make her look ugly.

Chu Shaoqin watched her back, feeling somewhat complicated. He didn't know what would happen in the future, nor whether what Chen San said was true - perhaps he couldn't protect her.

At that time, she was loved by her father and accompanied by the people of the escort bureau. However, in the blink of an eye, she came to this unfamiliar place and lived under the same roof with a group of people who disliked each other.

It seemed that something had happened inside the fish's mouth. A crowd gathered around, curiously prying open the fish's mouth, and indeed, something was hidden inside the fish's mouth.

Father, I miss you so much. Li Qiuxue reached out to touch the scene depicted in the painting, which portrayed the bustling streets of Qingyang City, with snowflakes drifting in the sky and people walking along the streets covered in fine snow

Chu Shaoqin pretended to ponder, and upon seeing this, Li Qiuxue widened her eyes and was about to take action. Chu Shaoqin quickly nodded in appreciation: "Among the world's beauties, none surpasses Qiuxue"

I am just a person who always lags behind, I don't know anything, I can't compare with Huayu, I can't compare with anything... I used to be willful because my dad spoiled me, now my dad is gone, my only relative in this world is gone, I don't know where to go, I don't know who I can trust anymore... I know I am annoying, everyone hates me, now even you hate me, right? Sob...

There is no way around it; she is the daughter of Hua Shenghe. Even though Li Qiuxue understands that Chu Shaoqin is helping her for the greater good, she still harbors resentment in her heart and privately vents her anger on Chu Shaoqin.

After much deliberation, Hua Chenghe decided to take advantage of the situation and launch a rebellion in the name of "Crown Prince", which was much better than using the "Fish Mouth Hidden Message" tactic.

Suddenly, someone pointed to the spot in the pond where ripples were spreading, where a golden koi was swimming back and forth, seemingly the only living koi in the pond

He remembered that this person was Xue Shaoheng's family servant, so he asked specifically, but did not expect to hear the news that Xue Shaoheng had brought Li Qiuxue here. Fortunately, he arrived in time, otherwise he really dared not imagine the consequences.

Li Qiuxue's straightforward words caused a jolt in Chu Shaoqin's heart, followed by a wave of warmth

"Pinky swear." Chu Shaoqin extended his little finger, and Li Qiuxue smiled with her lips pressed together, revealing two dimples. She extended her delicate little finger and hooked it with Chu Shaoqin's little finger. The two little fingers intertwined, swaying in the air for a few circles. The two couldn't help but laugh as they walked down the street, linking their fingers.

Chu Shao Qin followed closely behind her, afraid of losing sight of her.

It's a coincidence, but Chu Shaoyin was at his wit's end and went around searching tentatively from house to house and shop to shop, only to find an acquaintance in the second place he visited.

Li Qiuxue was momentarily stunned, making an effort to recall the events that transpired after leaving the flower mansion. ... She encountered Xue Shaoheng and went to his home, and then ... ... Xue Shaoheng had drugged her tea, and also ... ...

Well, I will not leave

If only the Crown Prince were here. " As everyone was in agreement to overthrow the Emperor and support a new king, Hua Shenghe suddenly sighed.

You don't have to say it anymore, I know I was wrong. Li Qiuxue took the lead and admitted, "I... I just don't want Huayu to show off in front of you alone..." As she spoke, Li Qiuxue's voice became smaller and smaller. "Although I can't dance, I know martial arts. I can always perform a set of boxing if necessary..."

"Shaoqin, what are you thinking?" Li Qiuxue noticed that Chu Shaoqin was silent, and gently pushed his shoulder.

One day, while Li Qiuxue was passing by the backyard, she inadvertently witnessed Huayu stepping on a fallen chick and killing it. At that moment, the coldness revealed in Huayu's eyes was truly terrifying, causing Li Qiuxue to break out in a cold sweat for both herself and Chu Shaoqin

However, when she and Hua Yu entered the front hall one after the other, Li Qiuxue immediately wilted

Before the banquet began, Chu Shao Qin and Li Qiuxue bypassed everyone and visited the various halls and attic rooms in the Flower Mansion. To the west of the Flower Mansion was a natural mountain spring, which was surrounded by a lotus pond where many koi fish were kept. Li Qiuxue followed the edge of the pond downwards, wanting to see where the lotus pond led to.

"Is it really you?" The man, seeing Li Qiuxue's face, expressed his joy openly and took a few steps forward.

After kicking the door open, Chu Shaoqin immediately grabbed Xue Shaoheng by the collar and gave him a beating. Xue Shaoheng, a weak scholar, had no choice but to endure the beating. When he was beaten black and blue, unrecognizable, and hiding under the table with his head in his arms, Chu Shaoqin carefully carried away the unconscious Li Qiuxue. When he cautiously crawled out from under the table, there was no one else in the room.

Upon hearing this, Li Qiuxue felt her previous gloom dissipate entirely. Aware that the current situation did not permit loud outbursts, she lowered her voice and said fiercely: "Who are you calling a fool! I am doing all this for you!"

It is a piece of cloth, some say

"Qiu Xue, my family also knows some people in the court, perhaps they can help you seek justice. How about you come with me for a visit, and I can introduce you?" Xue Shaoheng released his hand, waiting for Li Qiu Xue's response

What is going on? Why is everything different from what he arranged? The red cloud? It seems that the Crown Prince Chu Shao Qin also has a red cloud birthmark. Could it be that the young man before me is the long-missing Crown Prince? If so, he could justifiably raise an army to rebel, as the Crown Prince has no foundation in the court and would ultimately have to rely on him. On the other hand, if this person is not the Crown Prince, he could take advantage of the situation, using the Crown Prince's name to elevate him to king, making him a nominal puppet emperor, which would conveniently save him a lot of trouble

Then it was the scholars' turn to step forward. They believed that since Lord Chu Shaoqin had not spoken during the earlier discussion, he must have agreed with everyone's opinions. Therefore, no one wanted to miss this good opportunity to show their loyalty

"Shao Qin." The voice of Hua Shenghe came from afar, seemingly urgent, "I have something to discuss with you."

"You all look quickly, the koi in the pond have surfaced." Suddenly, someone pointed and shouted loudly, as the koi in the pond turned belly-up and floated on the water

The emperor should be a wise and capable ruler, loving his people as his own children, yet our sovereign not only neglects state affairs but also indulges in debauchery and lawlessness. Another man also stood up to create a topic of discussion; they seemed to have conspired, raising their wine cups as they left their seats, expressing their various grievances against the emperor

On the other side, Li Qiuxue followed Xue Shaoheng into a three-story loft. The first floor of the loft was dedicated to selling paintings and calligraphy, the second floor served as a study, and the third floor contained guest rooms. Xue Shaoheng led Li Qiuxue to the guest room on the third floor and informed her that after leaving Qingyang City, he had spent a considerable amount of his fortune to purchase this loft as a place of residence in Yandu. This place not only allowed for business but also provided an opportunity for cultivating one's character, making it a desirable abode for someone like him.

After some time, Hua Shenghe held another gathering under the name of "Crown Prince," explicitly stating the intention to overthrow the incompetent ruler. Many officials from the court aligned with Hua Shenghe attended the event

When the music ceased, someone suddenly stood up among the seats, emboldened by intoxication to mention the grievances of the people who dared to be angry but could not speak out.

As everyone spoke in a flurry, Hua Shenghe listened, remaining silent for a long time, merely stroking his beard, frowning in thought. However, Chu Shaoqin noticed a barely perceptible smile appearing at the corner of his lips

When it was Li Qiuxue's turn, she used a peach blossom branch instead of a sword, holding one branch in each hand, and performed a set of sword techniques that flowed like clouds and water.

The Hua residence is the largest mansion in Yandu, covering an area of several hundred acres, with a square structure. It is equipped with halls, chambers, and corridors, and even the guards and maids within the residence are countless

The world outside is fraught with malice; how can you casually trust the words of others? How can you so easily follow someone else? Do you not realize how dangerous this is? If it weren't for me today, do you know what you would have to face?" Chu Shao Qin angrily released her hand and turned his back to her

The woman, stepping lightly on the white silk, is adorned in a peony-embroidered gown. The inner cross-collared skirt flutters in the wind, resembling a white lotus bud ready to bloom. She carries herself with grace, her long hair flowing like willow strands, and her bright eyes reflect the autumn waters, while her crimson lips wear a smile that is both inviting and elusive

After responding to Hua Shenghe, Chu Shaoqin said to Li Qiuxue with a hint of apology: "You can wander around by yourself for now. Once we finish this busy period, we will have time to be together properly." He gently stroked her hair, his eyes filled with affection.

She probably appeared at the right moment

Thus, the two individuals without a residence in Yandu temporarily took up lodging at the Hua residence. The Hua family is the largest aristocratic family in Yandu, wielding significant influence in the region, to the extent that even officials from the government hold them in some regard. Although the Hua family does not officially possess military power, they have secretly trained a group of guards and elite soldiers, and they also have some connections with generals in the court.

Chu Shaoqin claimed that he was an abandoned baby adopted by the Zhengda Escort Agency. He was named Bai Shaoqin because he had a birthmark just like the Crown Prince. He told Hua Chenghe that his purpose was to seek revenge for the people of the Zhengda Escort Agency, and he only hoped that Hua Chenghe could lend him a helping hand, without daring to covet the throne.

Will you stay with me no matter what happens

"What about the pear autumn snow?" Suddenly, a familiar voice entered the ears of Li Qiuxue.

Therefore, in the war between two women, the innocent one who suffers in the end is the man caught in the middle.

Liqiu Xue picked up the teacup, blew on it a few times, and sipped it slowly.

Compared to everyone else, Hua Shenghe was even more astonished. He could no longer care about his demeanor and snatched the cloth to take a look.

Chu Shaoqin, whose thoughts were interrupted, nodded repeatedly. Li Qiuxue revealed two small dimples and swaggered out of the crowd.

Madam Hua Shenghe passed away early, and during his earlier years, he fought on the battlefield. In order to protect his daughter, he seldom allowed outsiders to come into contact with Hua Yu. However, he suddenly invited all the prominent figures in the city to celebrate his daughter's birthday, coinciding with the emperor's tyranny and the disappearance of the crown prince. It is likely that the true intention behind this celebration is not merely to enjoy the festivities.

Shao Qin, I seem to still not know where you are from," said Li Qiuxue suddenly.

Look quickly, there is a golden koi swimming over there

Chu Shaoqin rested his chin on the top of her head, as if embracing the most precious treasure. His expression was complex, interwoven with various emotions, yet he smiled with relief because of the person in his arms. That smile was like a thorn in Hua Yuxin's heart, eager to be pulled out swiftly

"If you cannot dance, I will not force you, but our Hua family does not support idlers," Hua Yu mocked. In a fit of stubbornness, Li Qiuxue accepted Hua Yu's challenge.

Although Hua Shenghe holds no actual power in the court, he must have secretly raised troops. He is one of the most influential figures in Yandu and is also a very cunning person. Since the disappearance of the Crown Prince, the Emperor's tyranny has become increasingly apparent, and Hua Shenghe seeks to take advantage of the chaos to gain some power. If he can establish a relationship with the Hua family, it could indeed assist him significantly

Since the appearance of Hua Yu, Li Qiuxue has been constantly reflecting on whether she has not treated Chu Shaoqin well enough. It seems that she always bullies Chu Shaoqin, unlike Hua Yu, who always speaks softly in front of him. The once fearless Li Qiuxue has surprisingly become anxious and uncertain due to her feelings for someone.

Standing not far away, Hua Yu watched them, her red lips slightly curling upwards, observing Li Qiuxue being looked down upon by Chu Shaoqin, and seeing her helplessly squatting on the ground, covering her face and crying.

She does not remember what happened before Chu Shaoqin appeared, only vaguely recalling that someone had unfastened her clothing

Lord Hua was previously a great general in the court. Although the military forces have been surrendered to the court, he undoubtedly still possesses the capability to lead an army. One person remarked. What he did not explicitly state was likely the implication that "you might still have private troops"

Chu Shaoqin secretly gazed at Li Qiuxue's profile as she looked at the street vendors. Her beautifully contoured side face was very attractive, making one increasingly fond of her. Previously, Chu Shaoqin thought that someone with such a bad temper and so willful and spoiled as Li Qiuxue would not be liked by anyone. However, upon spending time together, he discovered how special she truly was. She neither deliberately sought to please others nor was she pretentious. It was this authenticity that captivated Chu Shaoqin, making it impossible for him to look away.

She turned her head and saw a scholar-like man

Chu Shaoqin found the name Hua Shenghe somewhat familiar, as if he had heard it somewhere before. After searching his mind for a moment, he finally recalled this individual. Hua Shenghe was once a great general within the court, possessing a certain number of troops, and he also owned a shop in Yandu, making him a person who could navigate various circles. Later, when the country was peaceful and the people were secure, Chu Fu worried that Hua Shenghe, who held too much military power, might pose a threat to him, and thus hinted at something. Hua Shenghe was a clever man; he voluntarily relinquished his military authority and returned to farming, becoming the largest merchant in Yandu. Later, when the country was peaceful and the people were secure, Chu Fu worried that Hua Shenghe, who held too much military power, might pose a threat to him, and thus hinted at something. Hua Shenghe was a clever man; he voluntarily relinquished his military authority and returned to farming, becoming the largest merchant in Yandu.

"Xue'er..." Chu Shaoqin took a deep breath, helped Li Qiuxue up, and embraced her. He could not bear to see her cry, could not bear to see her sad. "Xue'er, you do not need to compare yourself with Huayu, because in my heart, you will always be better than her. Xue'er, in the future, do not trust anyone except me."

Watching the departing figure of Chu Shaoqin, Li Qiuxue recalled the provocation from Huayu and couldn't help but wonder if men preferred women like Huayu. The pastries made by Huayu were tastier than hers, the embroidered sachets were more beautiful, and her demeanor was also more gracious and appropriate than Li Qiuxue's.

So you are just like me, it's alright, you have me, I have you, we can rely on each other. Li Qiuxue smiled innocently, reaching out to smooth his tightly furrowed brows.

My parents are no longer in this world. In this life, I have no relatives to speak of. " Chu Shaoqin clenched his fists tightly; the thought of his uncles and aunts who caused his father's death ignited a fierce hatred within him. This blaze of anger flickered in his eyes, but the gentle caress of Li Qiuxue calmed him down.

However, regardless of his true identity, they now share a common enemy, akin to grasshoppers on the same string, and they have plenty of time to ascertain his identity.

Chu Shaoqin came back to his senses. Although he was uncertain about what Hua Shenghe intended to do, he still wanted to take a gamble, just once.

After Chu Shaoqin dragged Huayu to the shore, the waiting servants helped pull the young lady onto the land and covered her wet clothes with the garments that had been prepared in advance, preventing others from seeing. Similarly, Chu Shaoqin, who was also drenched, was exposed to the eyes of the crowd

She heard the sound of the dagger being thrown to the ground and felt the scorching breath upon her neck

"Hurry up, quickly stuff these into the fish's belly," a group of servants was busy squatting by the lotus pond. Chu Shaoqin hurriedly grabbed Li Qiuxue's hand, pulling her down to squat together, hiding them behind the fence. They cautiously looked in that direction and saw two large buckets by the lotus pond, each containing a bucket of koi. The group was busy stuffing some cloth into the mouths of the koi, urging them to swallow it down. They cautiously looked in that direction and saw two large buckets by the lotus pond, each containing a bucket of koi. The group was busy stuffing some cloth into the mouths of the koi, urging them to swallow it down.

The moment she thought of this, Li Qiuxue's arrogance was immediately extinguished, and her eyes filled with tears. She sobbed, like a child at a loss. She had never imagined that such a thing would happen, nor had she ever thought that the seemingly upright Xue Shaoheng would be such a despicable person

Hua Yu is known as the most beautiful woman in Yan City. Besides her beauty, she is also a talented lady proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. However, the main reason Li Qiuxue dislikes Hua Yu is that Hua Yu constantly uses various little tricks to cling to Chu Shaoqin. As the saying goes, when rivals meet, they are particularly hostile towards each other, and the two often have disputes over trivial matters.

"Xue'er, where have you gone?" Chu Shaoqin said to himself with a slight frown. He then inquired with passersby and street vendors, hoping to find Li Qiuxue quickly, but all he received in response was shaking heads.

"Xue'er, will you always be by my side from now on?"

The red cloud birthmark resembles auspicious clouds, symbolizing good fortune. Therefore, the royal family has extensively publicized this matter, and it is not only known by Hua Shenghe, but can be said that people all over the world are aware of it

"What’s the matter? Are you afraid and don’t want to go?" Shortly after Chu Shaoqin left, Hua Yu, dressed in a long skirt, walked out from the corridor.

This feeling is truly distressing

Calming his mind, Hua Shenghe said with a look of surprise: "It is His Royal Highness the Crown Prince! I remember that His Royal Highness has a red cloud birthmark on his left arm!"

After concluding a pleasant conversation, Hua Shenghe personally saw off all the guests, and only then did he seek a private discussion with Chu Shaoqin

You! Li Qiuxue clenched her fist, instinctively wanting to resolve the matter with force, but then she recalled the numerous guards in the Hua residence. Taking action privately would only lead to her own disadvantage, so she held back, merely sulking in her heart, thinking that the truth would be revealed on stage later.

Li Qiuxue looked around the room and then sat down in the seat opposite Xue Shaoheng. Xue Shaoheng handed her a cup of hot tea and made a gesture inviting her to proceed.

The sound of someone falling into the water drew everyone's attention. Upon seeing his daughter in the water, Hua Shenghe urgently shouted for help, but faster than him was Chu Shaoqin.

Li Qiuxue recalled how they had distracted the servants at that time, poisoning all the koi in the pond, leaving only a single golden koi. Afterwards, Li Qiuxue struck Huayu's calf with a stone from the shadows, causing her to fall into the water, and everything that followed unfolded as they had planned.

Hearing the plans of the crowd, Chu Shaoqin recalled his father's helplessness in the face of the civil officials, and finally gained a deep understanding of it

In another corner, Hua Yu, who was beside Hua Shenghe, noticed the interaction between the two and secretly clenched her hand under her wide sleeves, thinking that she must perform well later to make Li Qiuxue lose face, but the outcome was not as she had hoped

Usurping a position is indeed disgraceful, but if the incumbent is incompetent and tyrannical, it is a different matter. Furthermore, public opinion is guided by individuals; ordinary people only care about living a good life and do not understand grand principles. What they know is merely passed down through word of mouth. Therefore, those closest to the common people take on the heavy responsibility of disseminating information that is advantageous to themselves

"Shaoyin, what do you see them doing?" Li Qiuxue asked softly

Li Qiuxue has a volatile temperament and is easily angered, often getting into arguments with Hua Yu in front of Chu Shaoqin, even to the point of drawing a knife. In contrast, Hua Yu appears gentle and refined, yet is actually ruthless and sharp-tongued. She never resorts to violence herself, instead waiting for Chu Shaoqin to defend her, after which she mocks Li Qiuxue before leaving.

The wind arose from an unknown source, causing the wind chimes hanging from the eaves to ring. Behind them, the sound of qin, se, and pipa resonated from the attic. As they turned around, they saw a piece of white silk embroidered with flowing clouds flying out from the attic, and a graceful figure descended, stepping onto the white silk.

Chu Shaoqin looked at the man who feigned drunkenness and brought up the issue of the emperor's tyranny. He was clearly not a prominent figure, but rather someone who seemed to have been placed at the banquet by Hua Shenghe to probe for information.

Xue'er?" Chu Shaoqin was the first to see Li Qiuxue, "What is this..."

"How did you end up here?" Li Qiuxue continued to ask

"Who is afraid!" Li Qiuxue said

Li Qiuxue observed the guests who had been invited. Among them were delicate scholars, wealthy merchants, and burly generals. They were scattered in groups of three or two throughout the vast courtyard, discussing their respective topics. Li Qiuxue had never seen such a grand occasion and felt as if she were a frog at the bottom of a well, vastly different from these individuals.

She misses home dearly, longing for the people, the belongings, the night sky, and the pear tree of her home. Yet, she cannot return, for there are no loved ones waiting for her there anymore

On the day of hosting guests in the residence, Hua Yu invited Li Qiu Xue to perform a dance together to entertain the guests. However, Li Qiu Xue had been trained in martial arts since childhood and did not know how to dance at all

In the past, I was in the wrong; I should not have said such hurtful words. Li Qiuxue recalled her former self, and a wave of shame inevitably washed over her. Just as she was about to sincerely apologize, Xue Shaoheng before her became blurred.

"Let's go take a look as well," said Li Qiuxue, who was originally fond of joining in the fun, as she turned to look at Chu Shaoqin

How is it? I hope I haven't embarrassed you!" After finishing, Li Qiuxue ran to Chu Shaoqin's side and said.

Xue'er!" Chu Shaoqin frowned, his voice loud enough to overshadow everything. He grasped Li Qiuxue's hand as she swung it towards him again, fire igniting in his eyes. "Do you have any idea how dangerous it was just now? If I had arrived one moment later, do you know what would have happened?"

Indeed, as long as Lord Hua speaks, we will certainly provide our utmost assistance

However, due to a chance encounter, Li Qiuxue realized that Huayu was not as harmless as she appeared on the surface

Three days later

Where has the invitation gone

Following the instructions of Hua Shenghe, the servants in the residence hurriedly fetched a fishing net and brought up the only living koi from the lake

Li Qiuxue and Chu Shaoqin pass by there every day to learn about the latest developments in the city. However, today is somewhat different; there is joy on people's faces, as if they have encountered some good news. Li Qiuxue walks ahead and also joins in the excitement.

After they completed the tasks outlined in the plan, they returned to the hall of celebration.

Hua Yu was searching for Chu Shaoqin throughout the Hua residence. She hoped that Chu Shaoqin would understand that only the Hua family could lend him a helping hand, and that only she was the one suitable to stand by his side. However, before she could take pride in her thoughts in front of Chu Shaoqin, she saw him hurriedly passing by, holding Li Qiuxue, along a nearby path. Hua Yu frowned slightly and walked in that direction, dragging her floor-length gown.

In recent years, the Emperor has increasingly resorted to tyranny, imposing heavier taxes and forcibly seizing women from the populace, resulting in the people of Yandu living in dire straits

Yes

"Xue'er, find a way to distract those people. I have a plan to make Hua Shenghe help us enter the palace for revenge," Chu Shaoqin whispered into Li Qiuxue's ear, revealing his strategy.

The autumn wind brushes past, and everything quickly becomes desolate. Since that dance won against Huayu, Li Qiuxue has been like a victorious general, her face radiating an undeniable joy.

Li Qiuxue, despite her reliance on him, understood the gravity of the situation. She merely nodded, not revealing a hint of grievance

Chu Shao and Qin Weiwei slightly parted her lips, halting her steps. Unaware of the unusual behavior, Li Qiuxue counted on her fingers and said: "What kind of people are your parents? Do you have any relatives? Before we get married, shouldn't we meet your parents first?"

It is said that koi are the incarnations of dragons, and it just so happens that the koi in this pond died in droves when we arrived, which indicates that the Emperor's fate has come to an end! People gathered around the lotus pond began to discuss, bringing forth various legends about koi.