Chapter Nine, The Yellow Sparrow Lurks Behind

Ding Qianhe certainly could not tolerate such provocation, and said loudly: "I have nothing to say to him. Third Prince, would you like to invite me to appreciate the chrysanthemums and eat crabs? If not, I will return to the residence."

Wei Zihao struggled internally. He certainly did not wish for Ding Qianhe to marry Gao Rui. However, taking her away, she did not have him in her heart at all

High Rui's laughter echoed in the air, as he chuckled, seemingly having seen something amusing. The laughter suddenly stopped, and High Rui coldly said: "Of course, do you think you are the only one who thought of this trick? The scheme you devised, I merely made it more perfect. Fei'er, if the Khitan request a marriage alliance to cease hostilities, I believe both Father Emperor and the ministers in court would be pleased! I can sacrifice Wan'er, what will you offer in exchange?" Fei'er, if the Khitan request a marriage alliance to cease hostilities, I believe both Father Emperor and the ministers in court would be pleased! I can sacrifice Wan'er, what will you offer in exchange?"

Gao Rui aspires to rise in status, and marrying a princess entangled with others is not a wise choice. Even if he wishes to marry, if Emperor Ming were to find out, he would have to consider Du Chengfeng's reputation to some extent. Du Xinyan's intention is that, at the very least, Gao Rui must not be allowed to marry Ding Qianhe

Du Xinyan was also unreserved, pouring the wine and drinking several cups in succession

The carved wooden door was pushed open, and Du Xinyan removed her oilcloth head covering, standing tall and graceful.

Why

The boss glanced at him, noticing the wine stains on his blue shirt and the marks of crab roe, his gaze hazy, as if he were intoxicated

After he left, Du Xinyan walked out of the room and stood by the chrysanthemums for a long time. Such a result was probably unexpected for Shen Xiaofei. If Wei Zihao could successfully take Qianhe away, this game of chess would have left a weakness, thus creating a chance for survival

Gao Rui stepped forward, unfastened his cloak to wrap around her, and gently tied the straps for her. His thin lips curled into a faint smile. If it weren't for the understanding between the two, it would appear to outsiders as a scene filled with tender affection. He focused intently on Xiao Fei, his eyes glinting with malicious calculation. "Fei'er, we are too alike. I will not give you the chance to help him, and you have no opportunity left."

In the blink of an eye, ten days have passed. Du Xinyan hopes that Wei Zihao can take Ding Qianhe as far away as possible. He understands that Wei Zihao has now become a common target for both the authorities and the people of the underworld. It is manageable for him alone, but with Ding Qianhe, her temperament might be too much for Wei Zihao to handle. It is already quite good to have been able to hide for ten days.

His father was sentenced to death seven days later. Even if he traveled day and night from Luoyang to the capital, it would still take five days. By the time he hastily arrived in Jiangnan, his strength was severely depleted. Even if he desperately tried to return, two days would be insufficient to change the outcome. This left him helplessly watching, unable to turn the tide.

In previous years at this time, Du Xinyan would invite Ding Qianhe to the Drunken Immortal Tower in the city to indulge in fat crabs. This year, the person accompanying Ding Qianhe has become Gao Rui

If Gao Rui were to marry Qian He, with this relationship established, Ding Feng would undoubtedly lend his full support, and this conflict would only escalate further. It is impossible to know who will ultimately prevail.

Xiao Fei leaned back and lazily said, "The autumn scenery is boundless, and the view of the lake in the rain presents a unique charm. I just wanted you to accompany me to enjoy the scenery. It reminds me of the spring day we met here by chance, when a fine jar of intoxicating spring breeze was wrongly labeled as poison, ruining a good wine."

Ding Qianhe felt embarrassed in her heart, yet she raised her face and scolded Du Xinyan: "Xiao Du, have you lost your mind? We have been childhood friends with a good relationship since we were young, and I like you too. But now I realize it's different; it's not the same kind of liking, do you understand? I only like you as an older brother!"

Gao Rui accompanied Ding Qianhe when they arrived, but they were blocked outside the building by Du Xinyan

He fished out a fat crab, and with a flick of his fingers, the succulent crab meat was effortlessly extracted from the shell. As he cracked open the crab shell, the rich crab roe was nearly overflowing. Dipping it in ginger vinegar and savoring the fresh flavor, he took a sip of warmed wine. He felt very happy

Du Xinyan heard the voice and withdrew his hand, staring at Shen Xiaofei as he shouted, "Farewell!" A sense of unease lingered in his heart; after all the hustle and bustle over the past few days, could it really be just to tease him? He did not believe it. Shen Xiaofei's gaze told him that there must be something going on. Wang Yihe was monitoring the situation here; otherwise, he would not have appeared so suddenly.

Gao Rui provocatively smiled at Du Xinyan and personally lifted the curtain of the sedan chair

Wei Zihao stroked his chin, revealing a hint of satisfaction: "Only now do you realize? There are many girls in the martial world who admire me."

Du Xinyan was not angry; the next day, he reserved the Zui Xian Lou. He knew that Ding Qianhe would come again

The daughter of the minister's residence is a refined young lady, and Xiao Fei must carefully conceal her appearance when going out, which is truly tedious. Since that Lantern Festival, it has been with His Highness's assistance that Xiao Fei can often go out freely. Your Highness, everyone desires different things; what may seem trivial to you is of great importance to me. Xiao Fei stood up and smiled at an eagle circling in the valley, saying, "I do not wish to marry someone I do not like at my father's command. I also do not want to be a well-bred young lady confined to the home, adhering to the three obediences and four virtues. Your Highness, everyone desires different things; what may seem trivial to you is of great importance to me." Xiao Fei stood up and smiled at an eagle circling in the valley, saying, "I do not wish to marry someone I do not like at my father's command. I also do not want to be a well-bred young lady confined to the home, adhering to the three obediences and four virtues. I am merely a weak woman who cannot wield martial arts and is not diligent in physical pursuits. I hope to assist Your Highness and wish that you can fulfill Xiao Fei's wishes. I ask for nothing more."

Once again, in October, the maple leaves are as red as fire under the blue sky, covering the mountains in layers of exquisite beauty. Gao Rui and Xiao Fei are enjoying the autumn foliage at the Fengfeng Pavilion on Falling Maple Mountain. Xiao Fei cannot help but recall the mischief she played on Du Xinyan at this time last year. The sound of the flute slowly resonates in her heart, light and melodious. She lowers her gaze to see the guqin on the stone platform, her fingers gently plucking the strings, and a piece titled "Ancient Temple's Serene Realm" flows out like water once more

She conspired with Shen Xiang to kill his father, luring him away from the capital, wanting to see him anxious and at a loss. Could she have imagined that at this moment, he would want to kill her? Du Xinyan stepped forward with a cold expression on her face

It is late, Fei'er

The beginning of the Jiangnan tribute rice case was marked by changes in military provisions. The issue originated in Jiangnan, and it cannot be resolved merely by executing the seven corrupt officials.

Little Du!" Ding Qianhe frowned

Looking again at that white wall, it was bare and empty. Only countless knife marks, fingernail impressions, and various stains remained. It was then that Yanran understood that her young lady could not bear to see him leave a letter expressing his feelings, and likely wished to tear down the entire wall. Yet, fearing ridicule, she had someone else clean off the words from the wall.

A gentle expression appeared in Du Xinyan's eyes. Wei Zihao truly liked Qianhe, and he realized this while playing with her; such an arrangement should be the best. He winked at Wei Zihao and said, "Are you asking a sixth-rank official to abduct the young lady of the Wuwei Marquis's family? I fear that Ding Fengnian will report to the court, leading to the loss of my position and punishment."

He gazed blankly at Shen Xiaofei, her slender silhouette. This figure had once stirred his heart. It had made him lose himself over a white jade peony. It had unknowingly awakened a sense of pity within him. He still remembers the moment he pulled down her veil amidst the blooming flowers, where he saw the pink lotus, dew rolling off like pearls on the river. He recalls sitting in the tree of the backyard garden of the minister's residence, watching her swing, unable to resist entering the garden to confront her. He remembers the anger he felt when he saw her nestled in the arms of Yelü Congfei, disguised as Wushuang in the small building, and how he felt happy when he couldn't find Yelü Congfei. He recalls sitting in the tree of the backyard garden of the minister's residence, watching her swing, unable to resist entering the garden to confront her. He remembers the anger he felt when he saw her nestled in the arms of Yelü Congfei, disguised as Wushuang in the small building, and how he felt happy when he couldn't find Yelü Congfei.

Wei Zihao choked on a mouthful of wine, coughing until his face turned red, and suddenly began to stutter: "I, I go? Did you not say that the person you like is Ding Qianhe? One must not toy with a friend's wife; this matter is absolutely out of the question"

With this drink, he found himself at the zenith of the moon. The boss sighed, realizing that he was truly intoxicated, and signaled for the waiter to come forward and urge him.

Gao Rui's curiosity was piqued, and he tentatively asked, "Is the status of the daughter of the Xiang family not enough to satisfy you?"

She clapped her hands as she spoke, and a guard entered. With a slight nod from Xiaofei, the guard rolled up the bamboo curtain. Outside the water pavilion, a boat was anchored, with a three-zhang long nanmu pole set up on it, tied with a thick rope, and a humanoid object was faintly floating on the water's surface

Xiao Fei winked at him, leaned in close with a mischievous smile, and said: "Everyone says you treat Ding Qianhe like a sister, but I can see that you have really fallen for her! It doesn't matter if you don't admit it; I know that it was you who let Wei Zihao take her away, because deep down, you truly care about her. You don't want her to jump into the fire pit that is Gao Rui, right?"

Xiao Fei fixed her gaze on the wall, where the writing was vigorous and fluid, truly a fine piece of calligraphy. After admiring it for a moment, she said to Yanran: "Do as I say!"

One is a chess piece of Gao Rui, and the move has already been made. Xiao Fei squinted her eyes and looked out at the curtain of rain, a hint of melancholy gradually rising.

Yanran did not understand why this had to be done, and Xiaofei sneered: "There is no way to ruin Miss Ding and the Third Prince. I want him to know that even amidst the storm, under the temptation of power and wealth, in the end, not even a trace will be left behind."

Gao Rui walked slowly to the stone platform, and the strings of the zither emitted a buzzing sound with a flick of his fingers, sharp as a sword being drawn from its sheath. The mountains were ablaze with red maple leaves in his eyes, and his voice grew fainter, almost carried away by the mountain wind: "Do you not believe it? You might as well go to Xiaochun Lake in Jiangnan and wait. Although Wei Zihao has fled, the items he carried are in our possession. By using this as bait, Du Xinyan, without any contact with him, will receive your letter and rush to Jiangnan. You not only need to kill Du Chengfeng, but also ensure that he almost misses seeing him for the last time. You might as well go to Xiaochun Lake in Jiangnan and wait. Although Wei Zihao has fled, the items he carried are in our possession. By using this as bait, Du Xinyan, without any contact with him, will receive your letter and rush to Jiangnan. You not only need to kill Du Chengfeng, but also ensure that he almost misses seeing him for the last time. I think, even if you want to make amends, Du Xinyan will no longer trust you. Fei'er, I want you to have no way out but to rely on me!

He thought of Shen Xiaofei, and the first image that came to his mind was of her pale face as she hugged her bare arms. Once, a single poem could make Shen Xiaofei go to great lengths to tease him. Now, having torn her sleeve to humiliate her, Shen Xiaofei must have harbored thoughts of killing him.

Wei Zihao looked at him for a long time, warmth welling up in his eyes. He said softly, "Xiao Du, after many years of friendship, I truly cannot see through you. You seem heartless, yet you are full of feelings. I always thought you would use Qian He as well, but you genuinely care for her. Let me clarify, I am only taking her away for a while. It would be best if we could avoid this matter altogether. If we cannot avoid it, be prepared to deal with it."

She straightened her back and said coldly: "The post station has prepared fast horses for eight hundred miles outside. Lord Du may borrow a mount for the journey. However, if I lend you a horse today, you must repay me this favor in the future! Otherwise, I guarantee you will not find a single fine steed in Jiangnan!"

Her arm felt as if it were about to break from the pain, yet Xiaofei looked at him defiantly

However, Du Chengfeng has already been imprisoned in the dungeon, and will be executed seven days later. It is of no use for her to say anything further

Wang Yihe also took a step forward and said ominously: "Du Xinyan, if you want to kill the young lady, you will inevitably have to fight me fiercely, and you really won't have the strength to return to the capital."

Her eyes, tinged with a hint of intoxication, remained bright and spirited. Du Xinyan secretly ground his teeth, unable to suppress a smile. This girl was exceptionally clever, treating herself as if she were invisible. He noncommittally said: "Since Gao Rui has saved her again, and Wei Zihao has also left, I do not understand why Miss Shen has traveled such a long distance to deceive me here"

A jar of wine was quickly finished by her. With her slightly tipsy eyes half-open, Xiao Fei found it quite strange; she did not know martial arts, yet her capacity for alcohol was remarkable. Shen Xiang rarely drank, and Xiao Fei felt a sense of melancholy, wondering if this was inherited from her mother. Her mother had died in childbirth, and to this day, she still did not know what kind of person she was.

Du Xinyan's eyes suddenly lit up as he looked up and down at Wei Zihao, and suddenly said: "Zihao, I just realized that you actually look quite good"

His voice was as gentle as the wind. Xiao Fei shivered involuntarily, murmuring High Rui's words: "The scheme I devised? To kill Du Chengfeng?"

Xiao Fei felt angry inside, yet she finally compromised. Indeed, nothing is more important than one's own life. After listening for a year, she lowered her gaze to hide the fleeting calculation in her eyes. Weary, she sat beside the table and quietly asked, "What do you want me to do?"

Du Xinyan also smiled: "Indeed, after eating a dish for over ten years, no matter how much you like it, you will eventually grow tired of it. Isn't Zihua also blessed with a handsome appearance? I want you to employ this beauty strategy."

Xiaofei sighed lightly: "Your Highness, I have lost interest in Du Xinyan. It is better not to mention our previous wager. He could never develop feelings for an enemy. As long as he hates me, that is sufficient. Do you think I truly still wish to win his heart? Ever since I assisted you, I have known that this possibility is gone. I only hope that after you achieve your goals, you can fulfill your promise. As long as I can live without worry and have control over my own affairs, that is enough."

Using people as bait for fishing, especially those skilled in martial arts, one must ensure to crush their tendons inch by inch, allowing their muscles to become weak and relaxed. Then, using a fish scale knife, apply a mixture of well-fried fragrant bait, which carries a hint of aroma and a touch of fishiness. Grass carp have coarse meat and do not favor fishy smells, while another type of fish in Xiaochun Lake particularly enjoys this kind of bait

She took the letter from her sleeve, and her courage suddenly surged. Losing one piece does not mean losing the entire game; life is still long. At the very least, she has one more year to plan.

Looking out from the window, the several pots of yellow chrysanthemums in the courtyard are blooming perfectly. The whole city is adorned with golden armor! Du Xinyan then recalled the bleakness that comes with the arrival of winter. He smiled and said: "I know that family grievances remain unavenged, and that Wushuang has no place to return. It is indeed difficult for you to consider the feelings of children and daughters. You are also aware of the current situation. Gao Rui's prestige in the army is rising, and he has saved Ding Fengnian. Qian He has returned from the battlefield and is quite infatuated with Gao Rui."

(3)

"Hehe, Miss Shen, we meet again." Du Xinyan strode forward, lifted his robe, and sat down opposite her

The sudden and drastic change in the situation stirred waves in Xiao Fei's heart. Gao Rui now dared to tell her, which meant he would definitely guard against her leaking information! She coldly laughed to herself, thinking that Gao Rui believed she was truly fragile and could only rely on him to achieve anything? Silently, she picked up a red leaf from the stone platform and anxiously rubbed it. After pondering for a long time, she finally said: "Gao Rui, no one can threaten me. You are no exception. At worst, I can go and marry someone. Yelü Chongfei is the bravest warrior of the Khitan, and he is not bad looking either. Being a princess is not a bad option. The wealth and comfort I desire, he can provide for me. The Khitan people are rough and do not have as many rules as the Central Plains. I should be able to live quite well. Thank you for telling me that there is this option, ha, I can still become a princess! In the future, when you ascend to the throne, I will take my revenge through Yelü Chongfei."

His words left Wei Zihao somewhat stunned. He sighed and set down the wine bowl, saying: "I have already sent Wushuang to the residence of the Third Prince; what else is there that I cannot sacrifice?"

She is a gentle breeze stirred up by the movement of the green willows, yet Gao Rui has transformed it into a tornado

The Beauty Trap? Wei Zihao burst into laughter: "You and Ding Qianhe have been childhood friends; she has long grown tired of you. Even if Du Dashao is handsome and dashing, Ding Qianhe probably wouldn't think much of him either."

Gao Rui appeared to be deep in thought. A swift glint of caution flashed in his eyes, and he laughed heartily: "Du Xinyan has won your heart, yet cannot gain your assistance; it is his misfortune!"

With eyes as pure as water gazing towards the valley opposite, a long sigh was heard after a while: "Your Highness, you have won. I hold my life in high regard. Remember to give me the antidote in a year. Longing is futile; it is better not to have it. Let us go."

He chuckled leisurely and said, "Attend to the young lady's medication!"

When she left, the dark red writing on the wall had been covered with a layer of pure gold platinum. The sunlight reflected off the wall, dazzling with golden brilliance, blinding to the eyes.

Suddenly, two sharp sounds broke through, as if a silver bottle had shattered, the clear sound piercing the air, reminiscent of a bird's final, blood-curdling cry, or the moment of excitement in the midst of a battle with clashing swords and galloping horses. A single finger of her jade armor was unexpectedly snapped by her forceful flick. Xiaofei's chest rose and fell unevenly, her emotions already stirred. She gasped for breath, waves of pain radiating from her fingertips. To refuse meant death, to agree meant a life worse than death. Ever since she was drawn into this turmoil, no matter how she struggled, she still could not attain what she desired in her heart, nor the love she yearned for. She gasped for breath, waves of pain radiating from her fingertips. To refuse meant death, to agree meant a life worse than death. Ever since she was drawn into this turmoil, no matter how she struggled, she still could not attain what she desired in her heart, nor the love she yearned for.

Did he really see through it? Xiaofei was taken aback, showing a look of confusion as she gazed at Gao Rui. She heard Gao Rui softly say: "The scenery in Jiangnan in March is beautiful, and the deep autumn is even more so, with the waters washing the long sky. It is a pity that when Du Xinyan heads to Jiangnan, it will be the day his father is about to lose his head. Fei'er, you designed to kill his father; tell me, how do you think he will treat you?"

Xiao Fei couldn't help but laugh out loud, and poured a glass of wine for Du Xinyan, saying: "What is floating in the lake is merely bait made from sesame oil dough. If I use that as fish bait, I fear I won't be able to eat this fish dish."

His Highness instructed me to accompany the young lady back to the capital. We shall set off tomorrow. Wang Yihe remained unfazed, smiled faintly, and turned to leave

The military rations were not transported from Jiangnan's tribute rice, but rather a high-ranking individual within the army illicitly exchanged new rice for old rice, sending the old rice disguised as new rice to the military, thereby seeking personal gain

She looked provocatively at Gao Rui

"Good." Wei Zihao drained the wine in his bowl, knowing he had to do so. He stared at Du Xinyan and said, "Xiao Du, with your feelings for Miss Ding, you have captured her, causing her reputation to suffer, and then you ask Empress De to negotiate with your father. Ding Fengnian can only choose to marry his daughter to you. It is best for you to handle this matter, so why give it up?"

Gao Rui gently clapped his hands and said appreciatively: "Shen Xiaofei, I indeed did not misjudge you. You are worth an entire army. I need your intellect to gain the support of the civil officials like Shen Xiang. I intend to reach an agreement with Yelv Chongfei using your influence, leveraging the threat from the Khitan to secure my father's support. I will never allow you even the slightest chance to stand by Du Xinyan. Every person has their weaknesses; only those who are selfish to the extreme cannot be threatened. I once thought that I could use your father to threaten you, but you do not care about him. I also considered that Yanran grew up with you, but unfortunately, you do not regard her at all. I even thought about using Du Xinyan, but you would rather he hate you than be without you. I believe there is only one thing you will care about: Wang Yihe!"

Du Xinyan stared silently at the small boat outside the water pavilion. A guard on the boat was using a net to scoop up a fish about one foot long from the water next to a person.

This was not her idea. From the initial theft of rice to its evolution into this, it has long deviated from her plan. Gao Rui sees further than she does, and he is more ruthless. He cleverly borrowed from the Jiangnan tribute rice case, controlled Ding Fengnian, and took the opportunity to align himself with Yelü Congfei.

She must resemble her mother quite a bit. Her father loved her mother dearly, and after her mother's passing, he did not take another wife. He raised her single-handedly, nurturing her from a young junior official to the current Chancellor. As she grew older, he became increasingly reluctant to let her go. If it were not for the fear of losing power and his life, perhaps even the Third Prince's verbal probing would not have been able to sway her father. A person who is greedy, fearful of death, and covets power and wealth is paradoxically entangled in emotions, such a contradictory character.

I have told you long ago that we are enemies. Your father is the commander of the military forces under the heavens, and if the Shen family is to assist the Third Prince, they must eliminate him. The strategy was devised by my father and me, and it has been progressing very smoothly. This plan was initiated as early as a year ago.

She tilted her head and said slowly, "Just now, I noticed that Lord Du seemed to really enjoy this plate of sautéed fish slices. The fish from Xiaochun Lake is rich and tender, and using freshly caught fish to make sautéed fish slices is simply the best."

Wei Zihao was taken aback. Did he just let slip that one sentence, and Du Xinyan saw right through him? Was his heart so perceptive? The image of Ding Qianhe in her red dress, charming and innocent, floated before his eyes, and of course, he liked her. However, he had always felt unworthy of her. She was the daughter of the Duke of Wuwei, while he was a wandering rogue with a broken family. He had not avenged his family's grievances and could not afford to think of romantic entanglements. She was the daughter of the Duke of Wuwei, while he was a wandering rogue with a broken family. He had not avenged his family's grievances and could not afford to think of romantic entanglements

Go to Jiangnan and wait for Du Xinyan. Tell him that his father is to be beheaded. This is your father's design. I want to help Shen Xiang; he is unable to keep watch from both sides of the wall.

He traveled non-stop for six days, and it would be a lie to say he was not anxious. He was worried that Shen Xiaofei would ruthlessly incapacitate Wei Zihao's martial arts. When he entered, he had already noticed that there were at least twenty top-tier guards here. Wang Yihe was originally a eunuch in the palace, serving the imperial concubine. When the Third Prince established his office and built his yamen, he followed him to the Third Prince's residence. Yin Mian's martial arts were extremely profound; even if a real fight broke out, he could at most match him. Was this the person who captured Wei Zihao? Did Gao Rui send him here as well, fearing that he would abduct Wei Zihao?

(1)

Du Xinyan's parting words pierced her deeply, causing her to grip the railing tightly to suppress her cries. Xiao Fei closed her eyes and murmured: "Du Xinyan, Gao Rui will not save me from the poison; when I am of no use to him, that will be the moment of my death. In the future, you need not spare my life; it would be better to kill me cleanly and decisively, as that would be less painful than the onset of the poison."

Xiao Fei was astonished: "You resort to such unorthodox methods? Are you not afraid that I might bear a grudge and turn against you?"

Drunk? I am not drunk yet! Bring more wine!

Xiaofei sat in deep thought, her fingers unconsciously plucking the strings of the zither. The sound was monotonous and sorrowful; though it did not form a melody, it expressed a heart full of grievances.

Where is Wei Zihao

Du Xinyan blinked her red eyes and shot out a pair of chopsticks. They pierced through the corner of the waiter’s sleeve, pinning him to the wall, and she huffed, "Too talkative!"

(2)

The boss was startled, tore the little waiter's clothes, and finally rescued him from the wall. He personally went to the kitchen to stir-fry the dishes and brought them back to the table. Holding a jar of treasured Huadiao wine, he broke the clay seal and loudly said to Du Xinyan: "Young Master Du, you must drink well and get drunk! Once you wake up, forget about Miss Ding!"

Du Xinyan's eternal nonchalance was shattered. It was only then that he realized, unknowingly, Shen Xiaofei had quietly occupied a corner of his heart. He raced a thousand miles, partly for Wei Zihao, but also, how could it not be to engage with her once more? The bitterness and hatred surged so violently; he truly hated her

Du Xinyan accepted the task, secretly amused. At this moment, he was quite eager to see Shen Xiaofei's expression

Gao Rui looked at her, his dark eyes resembling a deep ancient well, and smiled lightly. Amidst his gentle and refined demeanor, there was a hint of an eerie light: "I forgot to tell you, when I encountered Yelü Chongfei on the battlefield, he mentioned that he has not forgotten Wan'er. If he were to become my brother-in-law, I would naturally be pleased to have him as such. You still hold this significance, how could I bear to let you go!"

The person who reported the issue of military rations to the court is none other than the father of Miss Qianhe, who is favored by Lord Du, Ding Fengnian, the Marquis of Wuwei

Her face was pale as she fixed her gaze on Gao Rui and said, "You cannot do this!"

Xiao Fei Mu Ran tilted her head lazily to look towards the door. She instructed, "Bring a few hot dishes and some warmed wine. Lord Du has been weary from his travels; let us help him relax."

The next day, everyone in the capital knew that Xiao Du had gotten drunk over Miss Ding Qianhe. They flocked to the Zui Xian Lou to admire the words of intoxication that seemed to burst forth from the pink walls. All sighed for Xiao Du, looking down upon Ding Qianhe for abandoning her childhood friend and leaning on the powerful, being heartless and ungrateful.

Du Xinyan was taken aback, hurriedly taking the letter, her pupils already constricting

Du Xinyan seemed to have a fishbone stuck in his throat. He looked at the boat, then slowly turned his head to look at Shen Xiaofei: "I didn't spit it out, are you very dissatisfied with that?"

If it were another girl, these words would never be spoken. Yet, Ding Qianhe dares to say them, and she speaks with such righteous confidence. When she uttered these words, her eyes sparkled like they were tempered by fire, igniting with courage and anger. Dressed in flowing red, for a moment, Du Xinyan felt a sense of speechless shame.

Xiao Fei was taken aback. On that day, when she let Ye Lue Cong Fei go while pretending to be the Fourth Princess, she never expected that Ye Lue Cong Fei would take an interest in her. She growled, "You cannot give me to Ye Lue Cong Fei! You, you have secretly made a deal with Ye Lue Cong Fei, haven't you?!"

In the pavilion, only Shen Xiaofei was present. She wore a white embroidered jacket with plum blossoms and a pink six-panel Xiang skirt. The hem of her skirt was adorned with clusters of red plum blossoms. Her hair was styled in a double bun, secured with two small hairpins made of red gemstones. With a sidelong glance from her single phoenix eyes, her cheeks were tinged with a faint blush, exuding an enchanting grace.

The flying rain that rushed in from outside the curtain dampened her cheeks, the cold raindrops intertwining with her scalding tears. Xiao Fei quietly thought that there is no such thing as a pill for regret in this world. If there were, she would certainly not have teased Du Xinyan, and she would definitely not have fallen in love with him during their several encounters.

What do you want to say? Wei Zihao understands to some extent, yet there are aspects he finds difficult to grasp

Ding Qianhe couldn't help but smile upon hearing this. She cast a gentle glance at Gao Rui and said, "I knew you would definitely have a solution!"

Today I received a message from Feige Chuanxin, stating that your esteemed father has taken on all the charges. He has been imprisoned in the heavenly dungeon, and after seven days, he will be granted a grand wine to preserve his body. The Empress Dowager has been placed under house arrest for pleading on his behalf. The Crown Prince has been penalized with a year's salary deduction and is to reflect on his actions in the residence for three months, with no one allowed to visit him. The Emperor, showing compassion, has decreed that your father's crimes will not implicate the entire family

Both the boss and the serving boy felt great sympathy for him. As soon as the wine was finished, it was immediately refilled. It seemed that it would be quite inappropriate for Xiao Du from the capital to not be intoxicated by emotions today

The sound of the wind swept by, and in that gray moment, Wang Yihe rushed in, the gust of wind directly striking Du Xinyan, forcing him to release Xiao Fei. "Lord Du, I am here on the orders of His Highness the Third Prince to protect Miss Shen. I do not wish to be adversarial with you, Lord Du."

Gao Rui furrowed his brows slightly. He was well aware that both the Crown Prince Xi and Du Xinyan did not want him to marry Ding Qianhe. Du Xinyan stood in front of him in a defiant manner, clearly intending to cause a scene. Was this how they planned to stop him? Gao Rui released Ding Qianhe's hand and said gently, "Xiao Du, if you have something to say to Qianhe, please take her to a private room and discuss it there. Don't embarrass the young lady in public."

Gao Rui fell silent for a moment before suddenly laughing: "Fei'er, you almost deceived me again."

What is there to blame her for? She had good intentions. She spent a considerable amount of money to embellish those words. It is merely human greed; you uncover a piece of gold, and I take a piece as well. In the end, everyone rushes in and takes everything, and then it is all gone. Du Xinyan thought of Shen Xiaofei's actions and suddenly felt an irresistible urge to laugh.

Xiao Fei sat in the water pavilion, the bamboo curtain rustling as it was pelted by the heavy rain. She wrapped her arms tightly around her jacket and warmed a pot of Drunken Spring Breeze to drink. The sweet and sour flavor of the plum was enhanced by the hot wine, making it even more fragrant upon entry

Xiao Fei shuddered all over, as if unable to withstand the chill of the mountain wind. She turned back and reproached, "Your Highness, your suspicion is too heavy. Such doubts truly chill the heart!"

Xiao Fei bit her lip, the letter in her sleeve felt as heavy as a thousand pounds. She did not want to see him sad

Wei Zihao asked curiously, "Aren't you going to blame Shen Xiaofei?"

Cold plum blossoms gather dew, autumn rain falls like mist. I prepare to be intoxicated by the spring breeze, waiting for you to indulge in a drink. Shen Xiaofei

Du Xinyan seemed to hear thunder on a clear day. Each word and every sentence struck him with a change of color, sending shivers down his spine, and causing his temples to throb.

The boss cannot afford to offend Du Xinyan, let alone the current Third Prince. After hearing this, he wiped his sweat and flattered, "Your Highness, please return to the residence, I will immediately invite the master chef to prepare drunken crab at the manor"

You are absolutely right. Zihao, you have allied with me for revenge. Are you truly willing to sacrifice everything?

The rain fell in a drenching manner. The courtyard was silent and still. Suddenly, Xiao Fei pulled aside the bamboo curtain, and the dense cold rain was whipped by the wind, splashing against her cheeks. Her willow-leaf-shaped single phoenix eyes became even more enchanting and captivating. Twirling the wine glass in her hand, she took a sip, only to choke, her cheeks flushing red and a sharp discomfort piercing through her chest.

It does not matter if it is gone; the affection between him and Ding Qianhe, who grew up together, has long been the talk of the town.

Du Xinyan replied with a serious expression: "Wei Zihao, having abducted Qianhe, is already a wanted criminal. As the Minister of the Supervisory Court, I am ordered by Lord Cheng to investigate this matter. Miss Shen possesses a jade pendant belonging to Wei Zihao, so I naturally must inquire thoroughly."

Shen Xiaofei straightened her back and coldly said to Wang Yihe, "I have already completed Your Highness's task. You need not linger here to disrupt my enjoyment!"

Of course. Wasn't the Jiangnan tribute rice case solved by you personally? That bit of rice was not originally intended for profit; it was to fabricate evidence against Du Chengfeng for using his power for personal gain by selling military rations.

Du Xinyan leaned against the railing on the second floor, disregarding Gao Rui's status, and laughed arrogantly: "Qianhe is welcome to come and eat, feel free. As for others, I must apologize for not being able to accommodate you."

Xiaofei chuckled lightly, twirling the wine glass in her hand. She fixed her gaze on Du Xinyan, and upon seeing a glimmer of sharpness in his eyes, she couldn't help but smile. "Xiaofei and Lord Du have become friends through their encounters, even if they did not start on good terms. Now that Wei Zihao is in Xiaofei's hands, I naturally wish to personally hand him over to Lord Du and give him a good tormenting."

What he wanted was simply a scenario of abduction. He hoped that the situation would escalate as much as possible, rendering Ding Qianhe unqualified to be a royal daughter-in-law. Du Xinyan's eyes were filled with complex emotions, perhaps it was not fair to Ding Qianhe. He then thought, if she were to disregard everything and marry Gao Rui, who does not love her, her future situation would be even more frustrating. Du Xinyan sighed silently

Du Xinyan, with his eyes glazed from intoxication, laughed heartily and smashed the jar of wine with a single slap, declaring, "No more drinking!"

At this moment, Xiaofei understood her father very well; she hated him, yet she also pitied him

Although there is rain and mist, my eyes can still clearly see whether it is a person or dough that is attracting the fish on the water's surface said Du Xinyan with a stern expression

This is the poison of Miaojiang. If you do not take the antidote after one year, you will die. Fei'er, even if you become a consort in Khitan, you can only obey me, haha!

Du Xinyan frowned and murmured, "Is it not allowed? Why do some people get angry when they hear that I want to marry Qianhe?"

Like a spell, Du Xinyan abruptly halted his steps. His hand suddenly tightened into a fist, as if his palm were gripping her neck.

Two men are vying for a woman in the street, one being the charming young Du from the capital, and the other the illustrious Third Prince known for his military achievements. A crowd quickly gathered around, silent yet attentive, with ears perked and eyes wide open.

Yanran still does not understand

Wang Yihe reminded her in a low voice: "Miss, you invited Lord Du here, is it because something happened that needs to be handed over to him?"

In September, the crabs are rich in roe and the chrysanthemums are plump

What venomous words could such beautifully fresh-colored lips utter! How cruelly she has schemed against him and his son! He has been deceived by her time and again, letting her go. Du Xinyan stared motionlessly at the back of Xiao Fei, thinking that if he killed her, he would never be fooled by her again

With his shout, a man in gray quietly appeared in the maple forest, his face pale with a hint of green, his expression gloomy, standing with his hands hanging down.

Du Xinyan traveled day and night for six days, only to find that she had deceived him into coming to enjoy the scenery. Angered, he reached out and dragged her up from the low couch, narrowing his eyes and saying: "Shen Xiaofei, I have always tolerated you. Do you really think I won't hit a woman?"

Du Xinyan greatly admires Shen Xiaofei. Her plan is evidently very successful

She gazed in confusion at the broken-stringed zither, wondering why, as a dignified daughter of a prominent family, her life had become so difficult. Originally a delicate young lady with no strength to even bind a chicken, she had unknowingly become such an important piece in the game. She truly did not know whether to take pride in her significance or to bitterly laugh at the arrangements of fate

Gao Rui fixed his gaze on Ding Qianhe and suddenly took her hand. He gave her a smile that brought her great comfort: "Since Xiao Du has booked the Zui Xian Lou, Rui certainly would not force his way in. However..." He changed his tone and smiled at the anxious owner, "Would the owner mind inviting the chef to my Prince San's residence to prepare a dish of drunken crab?"

Gao Rui chuckled and said, "I have thought for a long time and asked myself for a long time. Only your life can threaten you. Because, like you, once dead, nothing remains; life is the most important. My father’s health is deteriorating, and the competition with my elder brother has reached a critical juncture; I cannot take any risks."

He grew up with Ding Qianhe as childhood friends, and Ding Qianhe had never looked at him with such gentle eyes. To be precise, Ding Qianhe had never shown this delicate demeanor of a little woman from childhood to adulthood. He stared at her in a daze for a while, as if he was meeting her for the first time. Du Xinyan smiled bitterly in his heart, leaping down from the upper floor and crossing his arms to block the two of them.

In less than two hours, the Drunken Immortal Residence was thrown into chaos

Xiao Fei felt as if she were immersed in icy water, her blood completely frozen. The world was ever-changing, and she never expected that when she decided to secretly assist Du Xinyan, Gao Rui would devise such a malicious scheme. From now on, she would be an enemy to Du Xinyan, a murderer of her father, leaving her in a state of despair! She fixed her gaze on Ding Qianhe, determined to drive her away from Du Xinyan's side. She succeeded; Gao Rui would marry Ding Qianhe, and she would strive to win Du Xinyan's heart. From now on, she would be an enemy to Du Xinyan, a murderer of her father, leaving her in a state of despair! She fixed her gaze on Ding Qianhe, determined to drive her away from Du Xinyan's side. She succeeded; Gao Rui would marry Ding Qianhe, and she would strive to win Du Xinyan's heart. She was unafraid to sacrifice Ding Qianhe, unafraid to sacrifice anyone. To achieve her goals, she would stop at nothing! Was this her retribution?

On that night, Miss Ding Qianhe of the Wuwei Marquis's residence was abducted. In a state of panic, Ding Fengnian sought the help of the capital's governor and also approached Cheng Lian of the Supervisory Court. The relationship between Du Xinyan and Ding Qianhe was well known, so Cheng Lian entrusted the case to him, instructing him to ensure the safe return of the young lady from the Ding family

I knew it, you are a clever person. Gao Rui smiled as he walked away with his hands behind his back.

Xiao Fei raised her chin and said: "Pouring the wine myself, the wine is intoxicating like the spring breeze. The autumn rain is bitter and cold, and the humidity in Jiangnan is heavy, but drinking it feels comfortable"

Du Xinyan only smiled upon knowing.

With a wave of his hand, Wang Yihe's figure moved gracefully. Xiao Fei only felt a chill at the back of her neck as her head was lifted, and her mouth involuntarily opened, allowing a pill to be thrown into it, which she swallowed down her throat. She looked at Gao Rui in terror, her eyes filled with intense hatred. It was too late to say anything now that it had been swallowed.

Du Xinyan snorted and swept out the door. He turned back on his horse and gazed at Shen Xiaofei in the waterside pavilion, wondering how he could be so tolerant of her! Once was not enough, he had let her off time and again! He said with hatred: "Shen Xiaofei, you can go pray to the gods and Buddha now, just don't fall into my hands! For the sake of the eight hundred miles of swift horses, I might spare you once in the future and let you live!"

She has been spending her days at Xiaochun Lake as if they were years. Since entering this villa, she has cut off all communication with the outside world. Ding Qianhe has already been escorted back to the capital. She has been waiting for Du Xinyan. This morning, she received a message from Wang Yihe via carrier pigeon, and as she read the letter, her heart turned cold.

Regardless, he must return to the capital before the execution. Du Xinyan collected his energy and said word by word: "In the past, I always thought you were childish, willful, and would seek to make up for any slight. Now I realize that you merely used seemingly playful and teasing methods to lead me into a trap. The sting of a wasp is sharp, and the heart of a woman is the most venomous; the old saying is indeed true."

Sir Du, I have brought you out of the capital to this place just to observe your current demeanor. I am quite satisfied. Just the thought of you having traveled for six days to reach Xiaochun Lake, and then hastily returning to the capital day and night, fills me with pride

Gao Rui stood downstairs, his silver-white python robe exuding an air of majesty. There was not a trace of anger on his face, as if it were not a disgrace for the esteemed Third Prince to be blocked outside the tavern.

The spring lake in Jiangnan remains vast and misty. The distant and nearby gentle hills appear faint like smoke, resembling an ink wash landscape painting. A small manor has been rebuilt at the site where the thatched cottage was previously burned down. The ancient plum tree still stands under the rain, yet, with the autumn wind and bitter rain, the branches bear no flowers, and the gnarled trunk seems desolate.

The red leaves fall in the forest, the mountain breeze grows cooler, lifting the white robe of Xiao Fei like smoke and mist, almost making her want to fly away with the wind. She gazes into the distance at the Du family's villa at the foot of the mountain, recalling Du Xinyan's drunken words: "In my life, I only love the fragrance of lotus flowers," and remembering how he said she was not even worth a single finger of Ding Qianhe, her heart sinking. She opens the zither and smiles: "Wei Zihao has captured Ding Qianhe, and the Third Prince's people rescued her. The Third Prince's consort must be Ding Qianhe."

The sound of the horse's neigh echoed as Du Xinyan led the horse away, its hooves gradually fading into silence.

He has already run away. He merely dropped the jade pendant he carried during the fight. Why is Lord Du so concerned about him? Could it be that the abduction of Ding Qianhe was Lord Du's idea?

Gao Rui did not stop her, confidently allowing her to consider it.

Du Xinyan ate about ten crabs, drank three jin of Huadiao wine, and, burping contentedly, asked the owner: "Am I drunk?"

Wei Zihao is the person who abducted Ding Qianhe. Legally and morally, he cannot act openly. In order to help Wei Zihao escape, he must operate in secret

As soon as these words left his mouth, Du Xinyan felt that he had transformed from a charming young man into a scoundrel.

"Miss, Lord Du has arrived," a guard reported outside the waterside pavilion

Gao Rui does not love Qian He, but he will definitely marry her. In order to gain Ding Fengnian's unwavering support, he will certainly marry Qian He. I grew up with Qian He, and I understand her. When she went north to the battlefield, she was captivated by Gao Rui's heroic spirit, unaware that he was merely using her. If you like her, take her away; I do not want to see Qian He caught up in this situation. Du Xinyan said this in one breath, calmly looking at Wei Zihao. If you like her, take her away; I do not want to see Qian He caught up in this situation. Du Xinyan said this in one breath, calmly looking at Wei Zihao.

Wei Zihao is not as refined as Du Xinyan, but he has thick eyebrows and big eyes, exuding a commanding presence. He took a sip of wine and joked, "I was born of the same mother as Wushuang; my Wushuang is so handsome, how can her elder brother be any worse?"

Who would believe it if I said it? He is the imperial uncle, the commander of the military forces of the realm! Xiaofei looked at Gao Rui in astonishment.

Du Xinyan looked as if he wanted to devour her, and Xiao Fei felt a bitter smile in her heart. She handed the letter she received that morning to Du Xinyan and said: "It takes five days to return to the capital on horseback, traveling day and night. If you hurry, you might still be able to see your father, Du Chengfeng, for the last time. If you are unable to endure the journey, then there is nothing that can be done."

The mountains gradually fell into silence, devoid of any presence. A shadow swept down from the valley and landed steadily in the Windward Pavilion. A black scarf covered the face, revealing only a pair of bright, piercing eyes. He circled around the pavilion a few times and finally found a red leaf, covered in fingerprints, beneath the stone platform. Upon examining it in the light, a look of astonishment flashed in his eyes. He cautiously glanced around and tucked the red leaf into his bosom.

Du Xinyan turned around and looked him up and down with ill intentions, saying: "What do you think about using a handsome man strategy on Qianhe?"

Where does Shen Xiaofei derive such strength? Naturally, it is the work of Gao Rui. Du Xinyan, burdened with worries, learned that Ding Qianhe was already on her way back to the capital, while there was no news of Wei Zihao. He did not delay for a moment and rode swiftly towards Jiangnan.

Xiao Fei nodded regretfully: "It seems that Lord Du is not satisfied with tormenting Wei Zihao in this way"

Du Xinnian then realized that Ding Qianhe had not ridden the rouge horse and was actually obediently sitting in the sedan chair. He turned back to the Zui Xian Lou amidst the sympathetic gazes of the crowd

The elegant small regular script characters were inscribed on Du Xinyan's heart. Accompanying the letter was a silver hairpin and a piece of jade pendant. The silver hairpin was won by him during this year's Lantern Festival when he solved a riddle. He personally inserted it into Ding Qianhe's hair bun. The jade pendant was a personal item that Wei Zihao carried at his waist, which he naturally recognized. Du Xinyan looked at the note and the items in his hand, taking a sharp breath.

The enmity of killing one's father cannot coexist under the same sky! No, I will not act as you say!

Xiao Fei thought, like father, like daughter. She is also a greedy and fearful person, coveting power and wealth, and she is also entangled in emotions. Her father does not want to let her go. She cannot let go of Du Xinyan

The boss was taken aback. He saw Du Xinyan rise to his feet, tear off a corner of his blue shirt, and, dipping it in red wine, write and recite on the snow-white plaster wall: "In my life, I only love the fragrance of lotus flowers, indifferent to the yellow chrysanthemums. Let us laugh at the innocence of the green plums, allowing them to be taken away. I wish to fly to the heavens, seeking immortals, my heart aching with longing. The beautiful one is nowhere to be found, alone in my solitary shadow, it is but a foolish fantasy. Little Du in the capital writes while drunk."

Du Xinyan is such a fool that he cannot perceive the changes in Ding Qianhe's gaze

He and she are in a mutually beneficial alliance, using each other. If Xiao Du can offer her freedom and the genuine affection she desires, would she turn against him in a moment?

To seek the skin of a tiger is to invite disaster; you should have known the consequences long ago

What do you want to do? Xiao Fei looked at Gao Rui with vigilance

Calculating the time, Du Xinyan should be arriving from the capital today. She has already prepared to bear his anger. Xiao Fei smiled helplessly, so from now on, they will be sworn enemies, won't they

Du Xinyan ate heartily with a plate of hot dishes, and after feeling somewhat full and regaining some energy, he said: "Miss Shen invited me here, not just for drinking, right? Wei Zihao has achieved a merit in your hands, Miss Shen."

Since Ding Qianhe and Gao Rui returned from the northern battlefield, Xiao Fei has had someone keep a close watch on her at all times. Gao Rui initially thought she was being overly cautious, until Wei Zihao's late-night abduction made him admire Xiao Fei's foresight. What would happen if such a meticulous woman were to assist Xiao Du?