Sang Qingxiao rolled around on the unhappy bedding, feeling restless. After Zheng Moru had tired himself out, he quietly asked, "Do you know that they are planning something against you in the palace?"
Didn’t you say not to tell him everything at once? The idea was to tease him little by little, making him increasingly anxious, until he lost his rationality and became easier to control.
So, what step are we on now?
His mental fortitude isn’t strong enough; perhaps he hasn’t been a spy for too long. Just a couple of hints and he’s already suspicious, startling himself multiple times.
Moreover, with the sudden martial law in the city, the number of people watching him has increased. Zheng Moru no longer cares about the so-called Loyalty and Righteousness Marquis or the glory of the grand banquet; he is hesitating whether to flee.
Are all the escape routes blocked?
He had several escape tunnels in the city, but I’ve sabotaged them all. He definitely can’t get out from underground.
What about above ground? The court is keeping a close watch. I’ve also revealed the presence of palace guards in secret, letting him see it clearly. He was so frightened that he broke into a cold sweat. As soon as he closed the door upon returning home, he collapsed and couldn’t stand for a long time.
So, does that mean it’s almost time? Old Vine, just say it directly; why go around in circles?
If I don’t make it clear, how would you know my hardships?
Sang Qingxiao quickly flattered him, "Yes, Old Vine has worked hard."
Hmph, it’s rare to hear that title; you only used to call me that when you were younger to trick me a few times, and each time it was to take advantage of me.
Who are we to each other? When I have time, I’ll tease you more until you’re comfortable with it. Sang Qingxiao coaxed him a few times before adding, "As for Zheng Moru, someone needs to remind him; Cui Cheng can be utilized."
I’ve already reminded him. After being scared stiff, he started thinking of countermeasures on his own. He picked up his pen and wrote aimlessly for quite some time—writing one thing only to negate it with another. The more he wrote, the more confused he became; his temper flared up. It’s no wonder that late at night, he ended up breaking down.
I watched as he made a fool of himself. Using a vine stick dipped in ink, I stealthily added the words "Cui Family" to the paper he was writing on. Such an obvious hint startled him awake when he noticed it.
Then I saw him suddenly stand up and rummage through the bottom of his clothing chest. He tore open several old garments inside that were filled with letters—among them were three letters from Cui Cheng.
Zheng Moru hesitated for a long time before selecting one letter and adding another note to it; two sheets of paper became one.
Then he chose an inconspicuous yet surprisingly skilled servant who could move quietly at night to place the letter beside Cui Cheng's pillow.
Tsk tsk! If I hadn’t set this up, I wouldn’t have discovered that there was such a capable person beside Zheng Moru.
It’s quite normal; life is precious. A spy by nature finds it hard to trust others, let alone rely on someone else for their safety. Has Cui Cheng reacted yet?
He’s sleeping like a dead pig. No rush; let him wake up naturally. Xiaoxiao, Old Vine recalled what he had seen and complained, "Why didn’t you tell me earlier that Cui Cheng had such habits? He’s over eighty years old and doesn’t know how to restrain himself." Old Vine sighed as he looked at those eyes—once clean, now forever tainted.
(Data may be poor every day and make me want to give up, but after seeing your sweet words of encouragement, I ended up writing two more chapters.)
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