"Does Qi Xiaomian really enjoy fame and the compliments of others?" Qi Shuo pondered. If he were to rise to a high position, it would be due to external circumstances, gratitude towards the Xuande Emperor, and especially for those like you who followed their duties. Perhaps, if he could shed all his burdens, he would be able to relax and be himself.
Qi Shuo had seen the pressure and exhaustion that Qi Xiaomian had endured over the years. After hearing Sang Qingxiao's words, he no longer felt the need to humble himself for his Marquis. Instead, he asked, "Miss Sang, if the Marquis truly reaches that point, will you leave with him?"
Sang Qingxiao answered without hesitation, "Let's make that decision when the time comes. The Xuande Emperor still needs your Marquis; this worst-case scenario won't happen just yet."
"You've been busy with the crow case these days, right? How is the investigation going?"
Qi Shuo sighed. "Well, this case was initially assigned to the Dragon Guard. They led the investigation while we merely assisted and couldn't access any crucial information. The Marquis instructed us not to take credit or pry too much into things to avoid complications later on. However, after the incident at the Grand Temple, the Dragon Guard faced punishment and their numbers dwindled quickly. His Majesty then handed the case back to us, which has been quite troublesome; I'm afraid one misstep could bring trouble to the Marquis."
"What about the Dragon Guard's findings?"
"They believe that such a large group of crows couldn't have gathered spontaneously; they must have been raised near Jingjing City and lured here through some means. They followed this lead and discovered a significant amount of bird droppings near the Royal Tomb. Cai Gonggong learned of this but feared alarming His Majesty and kept it quiet, only instructing the Dragon Guard to intensify their investigation. But who would have thought that after the Grand Temple incident, it was reported to His Majesty first? After discussions between the Two Lords, they decided to suppress it. Now, this hot potato has fallen into our hands."
"I was planning to take some people to check it out. How about asking the young lady at Small Tavern if she wants to join us?"
Sang Qingxiao also wanted to get involved and nodded in agreement. "Let's go together."
Qi Shuo smiled and said, "With your assistance, I feel more at ease. To avoid involving you too much, I kindly ask you to disguise yourself a bit. I'll come by tomorrow morning to pick you up."
Sang Qingxiao agreed to his arrangements and then asked him if he was free that evening.
"If you have a request, I will certainly make time."
"Can I see Yuanhui alone again?"
Without questioning her reasons, Qi Shuo assured her, "I will arrange everything properly."
At midnight, an inconspicuous carriage stopped in front of Qi Xiaomian's residence. Huo Qi insisted on following along, and with Old Vine as well, the three of them climbed into the carriage.
Sang Qingxiao inscribed a rune on one of the wheels; as the carriage rolled over the cobblestone road, it moved silently without making a sound.
Yuanhui was held in the Ministry of Justice under guard by several Demon Catchers. Yong Huai had already used an excuse to divert them away. They entered smoothly without any obstacles.
The Ministry of Justice Prison was far dirtier than the Office of Censors Prison, perhaps due to the complex and numerous personnel. Sang Qingxiao, dressed in a Yard Officer uniform, moved through the area unnoticed, thanks to the enchantments on her attire.
Yuanhui was a prisoner with the strength of Buddha Cultivation, specifically placed in a solitary cell made from special materials. Through the door's window, one could see him covered in blood and grime, lying motionless on a messy straw mat. Even when he heard Sang Qingxiao's footsteps, he remained indifferent.
Holding the key that Qi Shuo had prepared earlier, Sang Qingxiao unlocked the cell door and stepped inside. Yuanhui seemed unwilling to see her and attempted to turn away, but he failed. With a weak sigh, he said, "Miss Sang, I suppose you find joy in my ending?"
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