Going to Dayu Capital was a sudden decision made by Qi Xiaomian. Once he decided to seize the city, he would inevitably get involved in the power struggle for the throne of Dayu. Qi Xiaomian's purpose for this trip was to personally assess the situation within the Dayu Dynasty, and if the opportunity arose, he would not hesitate to take action.
Moreover, he had not forgotten how the Great Yu Emperor had wronged him before, and he was determined to settle that score.
Sang Qingxiao also found this plan feasible. After sending him off, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to constructing the protective formation.
Five days later, news arrived from Qi Xiaomian that he had indeed secured military pay for the defending troops, amounting to an impressive seventy percent of what was owed. The confiscated wealth was quite generous. Although it wasn't the full amount, everyone was already satisfied.
From the moment the military pay was distributed by the Court, it had never been complete. However, the Great Yu Emperor still managed to release sixty to seventy percent of it. When it reached the hands of the defending troops, there was a significant discrepancy that enraged the Great Yu Emperor. Upon investigation, it was discovered that other armies had misappropriated the funds.
If that were all, it could be overlooked; after all, using resources on warriors protecting their homeland could be considered a reasonable allocation. However, further investigation revealed that the frontline warriors had not benefited much at all. The supplies were diverted from their accounts and redistributed among their leaders. Following this line of inquiry led to discoveries of private soldiers and even involvement from their own sons.
Having private soldiers could be tantamount to treason, which infuriated the emperor and caused considerable tension in Dayu Capital for some time.
In such circumstances, opposition against Huayang Princess grew stronger. Qi Xiaomian took advantage of this situation to remain behind and bide his time.
The person summoned by the Great Yu Emperor was Wen Xinggui, known for his divination skills. He was frail and emaciated, with very little sclera visible in his eyes, making his gaze unsettling.
It remained unclear why the Great Yu Emperor wanted to see him.
As soon as Pigeon Post arrived, Wen Xinggui was released immediately. Along with him were individuals promised by Qi Xiaomian—one person from each family. Once they emerged, they were swiftly sent to Dayu Capital.
The ensuing turmoil would require their involvement as both sides tested each other and collaborated in a bid for dominance.
Months passed since Qi Xiaomian left, and news trickled back slowly.
As the weather grew warmer, Sang Qingxiao finally completed the protective formation. After a small-scale trial run that garnered praise from Black Flame City’s residents, it became evident that Sang Qingxiao preferred associating with unusual beings. Having interacted more with the rogues of Black Flame City, she found them increasingly agreeable. They even built her a courtyard for her convenience during nighttime stays.
Gradually, their goodwill towards Sang Qingxiao and her companions no longer stemmed solely from Qi Xiaomian's influence.
When Sang Qingxiao decided to return to Jingjing City, they expressed their reluctance to part ways and willingly gifted her many valuable items.
Planning to return after some time, both Chancellor and Cai Zhuo sent messages: His Majesty had fallen ill again and requested her assistance in examining him.
A day later, Gentle surprisingly sent a rare message containing just two words: "Return quickly." The familiar drawing of a mulberry leaf adorned the bottom corner of the note.
Was he one of Sang Bai Jue's people?
Sang Qingxiao found it quite expected. While packing her belongings, she asked the people in the Small Tavern if anyone was unwilling to return and could stay there for a while. Everyone expressed their desire to follow her.
Sang Qingxiao turned to Huo Qi and asked, "Aren't you worried about your son?"
He should be more concerned about me protecting you. Besides, if he can't handle such a small matter, then he doesn't deserve to be called a man!
Small? That was a power grab, and pushing a woman into a position of authority was nothing short of a hellish beginning. However, with his abilities, there really wasn't much to worry about. Even if the power grab failed, as long as he could escape, that was enough.
Sang Qingxiao had grown accustomed to the martial law in Jingjing City; it had just become stricter. She felt calm inside and casually lamented, "What a pity, this business can't be done anymore."
She wondered where Gentle had learned of her return. He was waiting near the city gate in his regular clothes. At first glance, one wouldn't suspect he served in the palace.
"Miss Sang, you have finally returned," Gentle said urgently, his expression genuine. It was unusual for someone from Sang Bai Jue's faction to show concern for Xuande Emperor's well-being.
"Sang Bai Jue did this?" she asked.
"You should ask your uncle," he replied.
Hmph! Sang Qingxiao pouted and rolled her eyes before continuing to question him about Sang Bai Jue's involvement.
"Not now; it's not the right time for action. That's why you were urgently summoned back. The Sang Family's case cannot be postponed until the next emperor; that would complicate matters for our master later on."
After all, without a solid foundation, one would lack confidence in everything they did and could easily become a target for criticism.
"Who acted then? You have control over the Supervisory Office and have also connected with the Dragon Guard through Cai Zhuo. You’ve gained His Majesty's trust; surely you could uncover this much?"
As Gentle led the way, he chuckled, "Young Master, are you blaming it on Yongxin Marquis?"
"First of all, I can't accept being called Young Master by you; just hearing it takes ten years off my life."
If she agreed to that title now, who knew how many troubles from the Sang Family would be waiting for her in the future?
Moreover, Qi Xiaomian was merely a passerby in The Office of Censors; he never regarded it as anything significant, so why should I advocate for him?
In just a few months, so many powers have come into your hands. The Xuande Emperor is still under your surveillance. Once the Xuande Emperor recovers, it’s likely that the accounts will be settled. You should focus on your own life first.
Gentle remarked, "Why bother saving him? It only prolongs his lifespan. After the Sang Family is vindicated, let him close his eyes."
I refuse to be your executioner. There’s no need for the lady to take action; I've learned quite a few methods to quietly eliminate people in the palace.
What audacity! Killing a monarch is as easy as having a home-cooked meal. Sang Qingxiao suddenly felt a spark of curiosity towards him.
"Why do you recognize Sang Bai Jue as your master?"
"My master often entered the palace when he was young. He has helped me several times, and over time we became acquainted. However, this debt of gratitude is not enough for me to acknowledge him as my master."
Unknowingly, I found myself ensnared in his revenge plan. By the time I realized it, it was too late. With an accepting attitude, I saw my own path ahead.
It was as if I had completely succumbed to my master's wisdom and charm, and I took pride in it.
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