o you want to place a bet Do you think our lord or your Lord Axe will win" Lei Tengfeng looked at him indifferently and naturally wouldn’t answer such questions. Feng Zhirao didn’t mind his coldness a...377. Final Desperate Move, Ye Ying's Death

277. Final Desperate Move, Ye Ying's Death

Ye Ying seemed to have accepted her fate and no longer pleaded with Mo Jingli to spare Mo Suyun. Mo Jingli also ignored her; deep down, he looked down on Ye Ying. Ten years ago, Mo Jingli had pitied Ye Ying so much that he even canceled the marriage arranged by the emperor for her sake, which made the Xu family resentful. Although there were political reasons behind this, it couldn't be denied that Mo Jingli genuinely liked Ye Ying back then. However, after ten years of neglect and contempt, their relationship had become completely different.

Especially since Ye Li's appearance provided a stark contrast, Mo Jingli felt even more justified in his disdain for Ye Ying. Cowardly, incompetent, selfish, and foolish—many times, Mo Jingli wondered if he had been bewitched when he thought that Ye Ying was better suited to be the Princess Consort than Ye Li. Even with her reputation as a woman without family, friends, or abilities, Mo Jingli didn't think she would be any less stupid than the current Ye Ying. Therefore, Mo Jingli didn't expect Ye Ying to do anything extraordinary and thus didn't rush to deal with her. In fact, he relaxed some of her restrictions because of her compliance; after all, another incident in the Li王府 wouldn’t look good after a Princess Consort had gone missing so recently. However, he forgot that underestimating women could sometimes come at an extremely heavy cost.

So, right after Mo Jingli eliminated several spies from Dingwang Mansion, he arrogantly forgot about the possibility of Mo Suyun being his son and continued to prepare for his glorious future.

Although Ye Ying was granted freedom, she was still restricted from leaving the compound. The people serving her were also replaced by those loyal to Mo Jingli. Ye Ying seemed to have given up on her previous madness and only requested permission from Mo Jingli to occasionally visit Mo Suyun. Mo Jingli wasn't entirely without guilt towards this son and ultimately agreed to Ye Ying's request.

This day, just like the past two days, Ye Ying brought a pot of soup she had made herself to where Mo Suyun was staying. When she arrived, an imperial physician was examining his pulse, and Benevolent昭太妃 (a high-ranking noblewoman) often visited personally since her health had improved recently. Hearing Benevolent昭太妃's voice as soon as Ye Ying approached the door, she stopped.

Inside, Benevolent昭太妃 asked, "Doctor, how is His Majesty’s condition"

The imperial physician pondered for a moment before answering, "Reporting to Your Excellency, there are some signs of improvement in the emperor's health."

Hearing this, Ye Ying felt her heart stir involuntarily, clutching the food box tightly.

After a brief silence, Benevolent昭太妃 asked, "Could it be because of the Princess Consort"

The physician replied, "It shouldn't be. I examined the soup she sent; they are ordinary soups that don’t have any healing effects on his illness."

Benevolent昭太妃 hesitated before asking, "Then in your opinion, how is His Majesty’s current condition"

The physician replied softly, "His Majesty's health has improved slightly but recovering fully would be extremely difficult. If he takes great care of himself, he might live a few more years; otherwise... It won't matter for the moment."

Benevolent昭太妃 sighed and said, "Alright, I will discuss with Prince Li later."

Outside, Ye Ying gripped the food box tightly as if it were poisoned. That old woman… since she entered the palace, that old woman had been torturing her. Now she even discussed such matters in front of her son. Even though Suyun might not understand...

Steeling herself, Ye Ying suppressed her hatred and stepped inside.

Benevolent昭太妃 frowned and asked, "When did you come"

Ye Ying blinked and said, "I came to see His Majesty. Is there anything, Your Excellency" Benevolent昭太妃 eyed Ye Ying suspiciously but saw no sign of emotion on her face.

Benevolent昭太妃 then left after a brief exchange with Ye Ying. The imperial physician also took his leave.

Sitting beside the bed, Ye Ying looked at the confused boy and felt tears well up in her eyes.

"Suyun... His Majesty, I brought your favorite chicken soup. Would you like to drink some"

Mosuyun's gaze shifted toward Ye Ying before he said hesitantly, "You are the Princess Consort..."

Ye Ying’s heart leaped with joy; only a few days ago, Mosuyun couldn't recognize anyone. Now that he could identify her was proof of his improvement.

Gently lifting him up and seating him against pillows, Ye Ying asked softly, "Is there anything you want I'll get it for you."

Mosuyun blinked before hesitantly saying, "I want Brother White Robe and Pretty Sister." Pointing to his unhealed arm and then pulling out a small brown pill from an inconspicuous bag, he added, "Brother" and "Sister," respectively.

Ye Ying was startled. He spoke in such low voice that she had difficulty hearing him clearly. She looked around guardedly but saw no one within earshot behind the screens and curtains. Assuming Mosuyun meant Ye Li as Pretty Sister, she asked softly if it came from her sister.

Mosuyun nodded slowly: "Brother said not to tell anyone, except you." His brother referred to Qin Feng.

Ye Ying carefully put the bag away and looked at Mosuyun fondly. She promised him she would get whatever he wanted.

The sound of footsteps interrupted them. Ye Ying jumped in surprise when Prince Li’s voice rang out, "What does His Majesty want"

Ye Ying stood up hurriedly and said, "His Majesty wants to eat honey chicken soup. I heard that the best honey chicken is made at the Moonlit Pavilion restaurant."

Mosuyun shrank back as Prince Li entered the room, unwilling to speak.

Prince Li was accustomed to Mosuyun’s fear but now felt a complex mix of emotions. He nodded and said he would send for the chef at the Moonlit Pavilion restaurant to prepare the soup for Mosuyun.

"Thank you," Ye Ying replied softly.

Mosuyun's silence was interrupted by Prince Li’s sudden arrival, which made him retreat further. Ye Ying watched anxiously but did not interfere when he remained silent.

Prince Li instructed her to let Mosuyun rest and then left.

Outside the room, a servant informed Prince Li of news about Lady Yang being pregnant for one and a half months.

Mosurprised by this news, Prince Li was overjoyed. He ordered that she be promoted to concubine and headed off without waiting for Ye Ying.

Ye Ying watched him leave silently before heading back to her own quarters.

In a nondescript courtyard in Nanjing, Xuchen and Leaf were playing chess while Yunque observed them from the side. She was full of admiration for Leaf’s skill.

Qin Feng entered with a simple attire and greeted Leaf and Xuchen respectfully.

Xuchen smiled at Qin Feng's disguise and remarked that he would be hard to recognize in ordinary clothes, which suited him well as an undercover agent or even assassin.

"Sir," Qin Feng said modestly.

Leaf raised her eyebrows and commented on how Prince Li’s anger seemed genuine if it made Qin Feng dress like this. Qin Feng reported that although there was no open conflict in Nanjing, the prince's men continued to investigate secretly after dismantling several bases.

"Good," Leaf said with satisfaction, pleased that Ye Ying had not implicated her sisters yet. She noted that revealing Mosuyun’s identity to Ye Ying was a risky move but necessary for ethical reasons as she was also a mother.

Fortunately, Ye Ying did not disappoint herself. If Ye Ying had betrayed Yao Ji, the Prince of Ding’s intelligence network in Nanjing City would have been ruined. At that time, even she wouldn’t know what to do. The Prince of Ding could not send people to forcibly enter the Li王府吧？

"What's going on at the Li王府" Ye Li asked.

Qin Feng said, "Mo Jingli and Virtuous Concubine Taifei already know that Mo Suyun will not die in a short time. They are hesitating whether to use harsh medicine." Upon saying this, Qin Feng couldn't help but frown, his contempt for Mo Jingli evident. Even tigers don't eat their own cubs, let alone an innocent child who doesn't understand anything. If Mo Jingli really did that, he wouldn't even be human.

Ye Li frowned slightly and asked Xu Qingchen, "Brother, what do you think Mo Jingli will decide"

Xu Qingchen sighed lightly as he slowly placed a piece of the board game, asking, "Is someone pregnant in the Li王府"

Qin Feng was taken aback. "How did you know Zhao Concubine at Prince Li's residence just announced that she is pregnant, claiming it has been half a month."

Xu Qingchen didn't answer Ye Li's question but said instead, "If Ye Li wants to save Mo Suyun, she needs to do it quickly."

"What does Brother mean" Ye Li was surprised. Although she hadn’t thought that Mo Jingli would give up the throne for his son, she had never imagined he would kill his own son after knowing the truth. After all, although there were some difficulties, wasn't there a way to solve them

Xu Qingchen calmly replied, "If it’s just Mo Jingli alone, he might not kill Mo Suyun, but I’m afraid… someone else wants to kill Mo Suyun because of the news about his successor. For Mo Suyun, this is undoubtedly a bad thing."

Ye Li sighed softly and said, "Enough. Tonight, I will go personally to the Li王府."

Qin Feng was concerned and asked, "If there’s anything that needs doing, let your subordinates handle it. Why take such risks yourself"

Ye Li shook her head and said, "Ye Ying won’t believe them. I feel better going myself."

In the deep night when everything was quiet, Ye Ying still couldn't sleep, pacing in her room like a caged beast. Now she realized how powerless she was without the secret support of the Prince of Ding's residence. With Mo Jingli’s order, she could not even mobilize anyone within the residence, let alone send out any message.

Although Ye Ying wasn't extremely intelligent, she had learned much over these days. If one of Mo Jingli’s concubines became pregnant, her son's survival would be more hopeless. But now, even wanting to harm Zhao Concubine was impossible. No, right now she didn’t want to harm anyone. She only wished for her son to live safely.

"Fourth Sister," Ye Li's voice echoed in the silent night air, startling Ye Ying. Turning back abruptly, she saw Ye Li dressed in dark, tight-fitting clothes standing not far behind her. Accompanying Ye Li were Qin Feng and Wei Lin, as well as an unfamiliar little girl.

Yun Ge curiously stuck out her head to glance at Ye Ying, then looked back at Ye Li. Originally, she had no intention of bringing Yun Ge tonight, but Yun Ge insisted on seeing the ailing younger brother, so Ye Li brought her along despite her reluctance. After all, Yun Ge’s martial arts skills were excellent, making self-defense absolutely not an issue for her.

Yun Ge blinked, somewhat puzzled. Why do Sister Li's sister and Sister Li look nothing alike

"Third Senior Sister!" Ye Ying had never been so excited to see Ye Li before. She rushed over almost immediately and knelt down weakly in front of her, "Third Senior Sister, please save Suyun for me… whatever you ask of me, I will do it."

Ye Li sighed lightly and pulled her up with a hand, saying, "If only you knew what the outcome would be, why did you act like that in the beginning" Ye Ying felt ashamed. It was all because she had been overly suspicious and afraid that Ye Li had tricked her into revealing where their child was. Now that it had come to this, she still needed Ye Li’s help. "E Ying knows I’m wrong, Third Senior Sister, please save Suyun for me… no matter what you ask of me in the future, I will never be suspicious again."

"Alright," Ye Li interrupted her disjointed words with a nod, saying, "I want to take Mo Suyun away from here. Will you go too"

Ye Ying was silent.

Ye Li didn’t care what she thought. She felt some pity for Mo Suyun but none for Ye Ying. She simply said, "Think carefully. Once Mo Suyun disappears from the Li王府, regardless of your involvement, Mo Jingli will never let you off."

After a long silence, Ye Ying finally shook her head and said, "No, I won’t leave… Third Senior Sister, I know that before this… it’s my fault. I only ask for one thing: please take Suyun to Father and Mother and ask them to look after him out of pity for their ungrateful daughter. I know his body has been ruined by Mo Jingli and Virtuous Concubine Taifei, the wicked woman… let him live as long as he can but suffer less pain and spend a few peaceful years… that won’t be in vain."

"What are you planning to do" Ye Li frowned.

Ye Ying smiled faintly. "Is Third Senior Sister concerned about me Don't worry, I won’t act recklessly." Ye Li was silent for a moment before nodding and saying, "Do as you wish."

Deep breath in, Ye Ying said, "Let’s go then. Let me see him one last time… take him away after that."

Leaving her courtyard, Ye Li and the others naturally remained hidden in the shadows. The Li王府 was bustling with joy for the first time in many years. Clearly, Mo Jingli was having a grand feast, making Ye Ying’s quiet courtyard seem particularly desolate.

In the deep of night, Ye Ying had still not fallen asleep and paced about restlessly like an animal trapped in a cage. Only now did she realize how powerless she would be without the secret support of the Ding王府. With Mo Jingli's order, she could barely move anyone within her own mansion, let alone send out any news.

Though not extremely clever, she had learned much over these days. Her son’s chances of survival were even slimmer now that one of Mo Jingli’s concubines was pregnant. But right now, even getting rid of the Zhao Concubine seemed impossible to her. No, she didn’t want anyone dead; all she wished for was her son's safety.

"Fourth Sister." Ye Li’s voice echoed softly through the still night air, startling Ye Ying. Turning sharply, she saw Ye Li standing not far behind in dark, tight-fitting clothes. Accompanying her were Qin Feng and Wei Lin, as well as an unfamiliar little girl, Yun Ge.

Yun Ge curiously peeked out to look at Ye Ying, then turned back to gaze at Ye Li. Originally, she had no intention of bringing Yun Ge tonight, but Yun Ge insisted on seeing the ailing younger brother, so Ye Li brought her along despite her reluctance. After all, Yun Ge’s martial arts skills were excellent, making self-defense absolutely not an issue for her.

Yun Ge blinked, somewhat puzzled. Why do Sister Li's sister and Sister Li look nothing alike

"Third Senior Sister!" Ye Ying had never been so excited to see Ye Li before. She rushed over almost immediately and knelt down weakly in front of her, "Third Senior Sister, please save Suyun for me… whatever you ask of me, I will do it."

Ye Li sighed lightly and pulled her up with a hand, saying, "If only you knew what the outcome would be, why did you act like that in the beginning" Ye Ying felt ashamed. It was all because she had been overly suspicious and afraid that Ye Li had tricked her into revealing where their child was. Now that it had come to this, she still needed Ye Li’s help. "E Ying knows I’m wrong, Third Senior Sister, please save Suyun for me… no matter what you ask of me in the future, I will never be suspicious again."

"Alright," Ye Li interrupted her disjointed words with a nod, saying, "I want to take Mo Suyun away from here. Will you go too"

Ye Ying was silent.

Ye Li didn’t care what she thought. She felt some pity for Mo Suyun but none for Ye Ying. She simply said, "Think carefully. Once Mo Suyun disappears from the Li王府, regardless of your involvement, Mo Jingli will never let you off."

After a long silence, Ye Ying finally shook her head and said, "No, I won’t leave… Third Senior Sister, I know that before this… it’s my fault. I only ask for one thing: please take Suyun to Father and Mother and ask them to look after him out of pity for their ungrateful daughter. His body has been completely ruined by Mo Jingli and the Benevolent昭太妃; he can live as long as possible, but at least let me hope that he suffers less and enjoys a few peaceful years."

“What do you plan to do” Ye Li frowned.

Ye Ying smiled slightly. "Is Third Senior Sister worried about me Don’t worry… I won’t cause trouble." After a moment of silence, Ye Li nodded. “Do as you wish.”

Ye Ying took a deep breath and said, "Let’s go. Let me see him one last time. You… take him away."

Leaving her own courtyard, Ye Li and the others remained in hiding. The entire Li王府 was celebrating with laughter and joy. Clearly, Mo Jingli was hosting a banquet; it made Ye Ying's quiet courtyard seem particularly desolate.

Entering the room where Mo Suyun resided, they found it empty. Fretting, she called out, "Someone!" Soon, someone entered, looking startled when they saw Ye Ying: "Your Excellency"

"Where is His Majesty" Ye Ying demanded.

“His Majesty… was invited to attend the banquet by my lord,” the servant replied.

"Lies!" snapped Ye Ying. “The Emperor’s condition isn’t light; how could he possibly be at a banquet” The servant, startled by her anger, hurriedly said, "It's true... His Majesty was carried there." Fretting again, she rushed out of the courtyard towards where Mo Jingli was hosting the feast.

The great hall was filled with music and dancing. Mo Jingli sat on the dais drinking merrily while Zhao Concubine sat beside him as he did. On his right sat Benevolent昭太妃; alone at a seat to his left, Mo Suyun sat blankly, not looking at the performers below or eating any of the food set out for him.

The people seated below were all close confidants of Mo Jingli. Mu Yang and Yao Ji also attended, though he had been harshly reprimanded by Mo Jingli a few days ago when he spoke up for Chu Junwei’s disappearance. Thus, today Mu Yang kept a low profile, but judging from Mo Jingli's demeanor, he would soon achieve his wish. With the merit of supporting the dragon (Emperor), the Mu Yang Marquis House wouldn’t suffer over that small matter.

Yao Ji glanced at the blank Mo Suyun, her eyes showing a hint of hidden concern.

"Congratulations to your Excellency on receiving an heir," the guests cheered.

Mu Yang said with satisfaction: "Thank you all for your good wishes. Let’s toast together."

Next to him, Zhao Concubine smiled and said: "The Emperor hasn’t eaten anything all night, but since he is young and doesn’t drink alcohol, a bit of fruit juice would be fine, right Shall we invite His Majesty to join us"

Benevolent昭太妃 looked at her and nodded approvingly. “Zhao Concubine speaks well. We’ve been chatting so much that the Emperor has been neglected; please pour him a glass of fruit juice,” she said.

The servant behind Mo Suyun hurried to do so, but Ye Ying was shocked: "Where is His Majesty"

“His Majesty…was invited by my lord," replied the servant.

"Lies!" snapped Ye Ying. “The Emperor’s condition isn’t light; how could he possibly be at a banquet” The servant, startled by her anger, hurriedly said, "It's true... His Majesty was carried there." Fretting again, she rushed out of the courtyard towards where Mo Jingli was hosting the feast.

Arriving in the great hall, she found it filled with music and dancing. Mo Jingli sat on the dais drinking merrily while Zhao Concubine sat beside him as he did. On his right sat Benevolent昭太妃; alone at a seat to his left, Mo Suyun sat blankly, not looking at the performers below or eating any of the food set out for him.

The people seated below were all close confidants of Mo Jingli. Mu Yang and Yao Ji also attended, though he had been harshly reprimanded by Mo Jingli a few days ago when he spoke up for Chu Junwei’s disappearance. Thus, today Mu Yang kept a low profile, but judging from Mo Jingli's demeanor, he would soon achieve his wish. With the merit of supporting the dragon (Emperor), the Mu Yang Marquis House wouldn’t suffer over that small matter.

Yao Ji glanced at the blank Mo Suyun, her eyes showing a hint of hidden concern.

"Congratulations to your Excellency on receiving an heir," the guests cheered.

Mu Yang said with satisfaction: "Thank you all for your good wishes. Let’s toast together."

Next to him, Zhao Concubine smiled and said: "The Emperor hasn’t eaten anything all night, but since he is young and doesn drink alcohol, a bit of fruit juice would be fine, right Shall we invite His Majesty to join us"

Benevolent昭太妃 looked at her and nodded approvingly. “Zhao Concubine speaks well. We’ve been chatting so much that the Emperor has been neglected; please pour him a glass of fruit juice,” she said.

The servant behind Mo Suyun hurried to do so, but Mu Yang, seeing the hint of concern on Yao Ji’s face as she glanced at the blank Mo Suyun, inwardly sighed. Even Yao Ji could tell that the 'juice' wouldn’t be simple; how could he not know

Moreover, despite being the Emperor, all these court officials were forcing a monarch to toast for his concubine's sake. The Mu Yang Marquis House had always been military, but today’s Mu Yang was more cunning than any scholar.

Facing Mo Suyun’s inaction, Mo Jingli frowned and ordered the servant: "Serve His Majesty."

The servant picked up a cup of wine and tried to offer it to him.

“Mojingli, you dare!” A sharp voice interrupted from outside. Suddenly, even the music stopped as Ye Ying’s voice echoed loudly in the hall.

Turning around, everyone saw Ye Ying storm into the room with a furious expression. “Where is His Majesty” she demanded.

“His Majesty…was invited by my lord," replied the servant.

"Lies! The Emperor isn’t well enough to attend such events!” She glared at Zhao Sifei, who nervously explained that he had been carried there.

Seeing Mo Suyun’s unresponsive state, Mu Yang sighed inwardly. Even Yao Ji could tell the juice wouldn’t be simple; how could he not know

Mojingli frowned and ordered: “Serve His Majesty.”

The servant tried to offer a cup of wine.

“Mojingli, you dare!” Ye Ying shouted from outside. The music stopped as her voice echoed loudly in the hall.

Suddenly appearing with a stormy expression, she rushed into the room and knocked over the wine cup Mo Suyun was supposed to drink from. “Mojingli, how cruel can you be” she cried.

Ye Ying stared at her and asked calmly, "Oh It was you who made him drink it"

Zhao Concubine felt somewhat uncomfortable under Ye Ying’s eerie gaze. She forced a smile, "Indeed."

Ye Ying gave a cold laugh and said, "If that is the case, then perhaps you should also have some." The smile on Zhao Concubine's face froze as she took an immediate step back and said with a fake smile, "Thank you for the kindness of Your Highness Consort. I do not like drinking juice."

Ye Ying proudly replied, "Your Highness Consort did not ask if you liked it or not. Your Highness Consort is giving this to you. It would be odd if drinking a cup of juice will kill what’s in your stomach."

"Ye Ying! How dare you!" Mo Jingli was furious. He already passed the age of thirty and had no heir, so he naturally expected much from Zhao Concubine's child. There was no way he could tolerate Ye Ying’s nonsense.

Ye Ying forced a miserable smile and said, "I cannot talk about her child… but what about mine Is Su Yun not your son You even want to harm your own son for the sake of becoming emperor! Mo Jingli, you are not human!"

"You’re crazy!" Mo Jingli gritted his teeth and said, "Bring this woman away from me."

Ye Ying shouted in desperation, "How dare you! Mo Jingli, if you harm my son, I will haunt your soul even as a ghost!" However, she was destined to be disappointed. All the people sitting below were hearted men of Mo Jingli. They all wished for him to ascend so that they could gain more power and benefits. Even if Mu Suyun was Mo Jingli’s son, let alone Mo Jingli's father, they would not have blinked an eye.

Despite being shocked by this sudden news, everyone began considering how to handle the aftermath and prevent Mo Jingli from holding them accountable for knowing such a secret instead of standing up for the mother-son duo’s rights.

"Take her away," Mo Jingli said in a low voice.

Ye Ying suddenly stopped struggling when she seemed to have thought of something. She looked at Mo Jingli intently and said, "Your Highness, there is still one thing I want to tell you."

Moh Jingli stared blankly at her. Clearly, he did not wish to listen to any more of what Ye Ying had to say. Ye Ying smiled as she asked, "Is it something related to the Ding王府 Your Highness does not want to hear about it"

Mo Jingli squinted his eyes at her and said with a frown, "I am not sure how long you have been involved with the Ding王府. I also cannot be certain whether or not you still know some secrets of theirs."

After much thought, Mo Jingli finally said, "Bring her over to me."

The guards released Ye Ying and she did not immediately rush toward Mo Jingli but instead walked to Mu Suyun. She carefully touched his thin face and said softly, "Suyun, I am sorry… Mother is so sorry. From now on you must listen to your brothers and sisters."

Mu Suyun blinked in confusion. He did not understand why the kind Mo Jingli was claiming to be his mother. His real mother was clearly still in the palace. Even though she ignored him, he would never have a different mother. Furthermore… Mu Suyun involuntarily stepped back when he saw how Mo Jingli's expression darkened.

Seeing her son’s frightened look, Ye Ying shook her head sadly and slowly walked toward Mo Jingli. Looking at the man who was still handsome despite his age, she asked sorrowfully, "You… haven’t you felt any remorse"

Moh Jingli frowned coldly, "I do not wish to hear your nonsense, what do you want to say"

Ye Ying smiled helplessly and said softly as she approached him, "What I wanted to tell is that my third elder sister has already arrived in Nanjing City." Ye Ying rarely referred to Ye Li as her elder sister. She usually called her by name when Mo Jingli was present. Hearing this made Mo Jingli’s mind freeze for a moment before he asked urgently, "What did you say!"

Ye Ying smiled joyfully and even the pale and thin appearance of hers seemed to glow with radiance. She looked at Mo Jingli and giggled, "I said that my third elder sister… Ding Wangfei is currently in Li王府, do you not know"

"Your Highness be careful!" A terrified cry sounded as Mo Jingli was shocked by her words. He felt a sharp pain in his abdomen and instinctively slapped Ye Ying away. Although the sudden injury prevented him from using enough force to kill her, Ye Ying still spat out blood and fell next to U Zhuifei.

Unconcerned about her injuries, she seemed not to feel any pain at all. She grabbed onto U Zhuifei's legs and rolled down from the dais with her. Their bodies tumbled down the steps of the hall, and as they fell into the chamber, blood flowed faster from Ye Ying’s lips while U Zhuifei screamed in horror, staining the floor red.

"Wretch!" Mo Jingli was shocked and furious. He clutched his wounded abdomen and sat back on the chair with murderous intent in his eyes.

"Li… Quickly! Call for a doctor!" Xianzhao Taifei rushed forward to support Mo Jingli, shouting, "Quickly help U Zhuifei up! The child… the child…" Everyone's gaze turned toward U Zhuifei lying on the ground, who was already losing her unborn child after only one and a half months of pregnancy. All were stunned by this sudden turn of events; none could have expected that Li Wangfei, who had previously been unknown, would suddenly take such shocking action.

Sitting in his chair, Mo Jingli gritted his teeth while staring at Ye Ying below him. Seeing her taunting smile made his anger rise further. He had never taken Ye Ying seriously before, thinking she was less intelligent than Ye Li and selfish, timid, and weak. Such a person could accomplish nothing significant. But he never imagined that it would be someone like her who would hurt him the most.

Perhaps because of the pain in his abdomen making him irritable or being shocked by the sudden loss of the child, Mo Jingli glared fiercely at Ye Ying with cruel eyes.

"Ye Ying, I will make your life worse than death! Do you want to save Mu Suyun!" Mo Jingli stood up despite his wounds and quickly approached, grabbing Mu Suyun. Terrified by the situation, Mu Suyun began to cry when he was seized.

Ye Ying's expression changed, "Mo Jingli, you are not a human!"

Mojingli sneered, "I'll show you what it means to be inhuman!" He threw Mu Suyun from the dais. As Yang Zhuifei had miscarried after falling down the steps, let alone a frail child like Mu Suyun being thrown and crashed back down.

A black figure darted into the hall from outside, catching Mu Suyun mid-air. Yun Ge carefully placed him on the ground, giving him medicine to calm his cries before checking his pulse and sighing in relief. She then glared at Mo Jingli, "How can you be so ruthless Little Cloud is just a child!"

Mojingli had thrown Mu Suyun and was wounded again, sitting back down with pain. He coldly stared at Yun Ge, asking who she was.

Yun Ge blinked and said that her father told her not to tell strangers her name.

The group felt awkward as if Mo Jingli had made inappropriate advances towards a lady.

"Miss, did you come here because of something related to Li Wang" Yao Ji asked gently.

Yun Ge smiled and replied that she came with Ye Li.

"Ye Li!" Everyone was shocked.

Though they had heard about her arrival from Ye Ying, the sudden events made them think it was a ruse. But now it turned out that Ye Li had indeed arrived in Jiangnan and entered Li王府 undetected.

"Ye Li! Come out!" Mo Jingli shouted angrily.

Outside, Ye Li sighed sadly and entered with Qin Feng. Seeing her calm demeanor, Mo Jingli’s eyes filled with blood. "First deal with your injuries," Ye Li said coolly. U Zhuifei was already seated aside, knowing the child would not survive. She pleaded for justice.

Ye Li glanced at her and remarked that she should have known better than to provoke Mo Jingli.

"Even if you are Ding Wangfei, this is Li王府's affair! Don’t meddle," Mo Jingli said.

Yun Ge blinked and reminded him that she wasn't supposed to tell her name.

The group felt embarrassed as though Mo Jingli was a lecher.

"Miss, why are you here" Yao Ji asked gently.

Yun Ge smiled at her beauty and said she came with Ye Li.

"Ye Li!"

The group gasped. They thought Ye Ying lied about Ye Li’s arrival but now realized she was truly here.

Mojingli shouted for Ye Li.

Outside, Ye Li sighed and entered with Qin Feng. Mo Jingli's eyes filled with blood seeing her calm demeanor.

"First deal with your injuries," Ye Li said coolly.

U Zhuifei was seated aside, knowing the child would not survive. She pleaded for justice.

Ye Li glanced at her and remarked that she should have known better than to provoke Mo Jingli.

"Even if you are Ding Wangfei, this is Li王府's affair! Don’t meddle," Mo Jingli said.

Yun Ge blinked and reminded him that she wasn't supposed to tell her name.

The group felt embarrassed as though Mo Jingli was a lecher.

"Miss, why are you here" Yao Ji asked gently.

Yun Ge smiled at her beauty and said she came with Ye Li.

“The lady is right. How did the Dowager Empress know that the Lady of Ding王府 was here”

"Your Majesty’s son, Mo Jingli!" Yun Ge shouted.

Mojingli's eyes darkened as Ye Li entered calmly.

Yun Ge comforted Mu Suyun and said his injuries weren't severe but he needed rest. U Zhuifei cried that she was innocent.

"You won’t die," Yun Ge said, reminding her of the poisoned wine.

The Medical Officer arrived, and Mo Jingli’s attendants treated him while the Dowager Empress watched Ye Li closely.

“The Lady of Ding王府 is here to find her brother, but she was drawn into helping Mu Suyun,” Ye Li explained calmly.

The Dowager Empress glared at Ye Li. "Why are you really here"

"I’m concerned for my family and the Prince," Ye Li said coolly.

The Virtuous and Honorable Dowager couldn't help choking up as Ye Ying was indeed the illegitimate sister of Empress Ye. Regardless of how close they were in private, no one could deny that Ye Li would be paying a visit to her wronged younger sister upon her request. On the contrary, everyone would praise Concubine Ding for being a loving older sister. They wanted to say that they weren't mistreating Ye Ying, but with her current pitiful state, anyone would think she had been severely tortured by the Li Prince's Estate.

The Virtuous and Honorable Dowager coldly harrumphed, "Abusing someone Ye Ying attempted to assassinate the prince and deserves death."

Ye Li smiled wryly. "Oh Then what about when the Li Prince wanted to throw His Majesty off a building in front of everyone"

Behind them Qin Feng answered, "He should be executed along with his entire family."

Ye Li shook her head and said with a smile, "His Majesty and other members of the royal family are also part of the prince's lineage. He can't be executed together with them. However, would an execution for him still be considered off the table" Yun Ge asked in puzzlement, "Didn't they just say that the Li Prince is Xiao Yun's father"

Ye Li smiled and patted Yun Ge's head as she said appreciatively, "Yes, isn't this a case of confusing the royal bloodline The Li Prince raised his own son to be the emperor instead of the previous emperor's. What should he receive for that crime"

The Virtuous and Honorable Dowager had no choice but to remain silent as how could it be said that Mo Jingli treated his own son as his father It was clearly the other way around, with the previous emperor taking away Mo Jingli's newborn child and raising him as a prince. But who would believe her

The Virtuous and Honorable Dowager remained speechless for a long time before she finally said coldly, "This is an internal matter of our country, so it has nothing to do with Concubine Ding."

Ye Li was unperturbed. She pointed at Ye Ying on the floor and asked, "If this were my fourth younger sister's child, would you still believe that there's no connection" Or did she think Concubine Ding and the Ding Estate were easy to bully

"You're twisting logic!" The Virtuous and Honorable Dowager could not win in a verbal battle with Ye Li. She swept her sleeves aside as she sat down without saying another word.

Ye Li walked over to Ye Ying's side and squatted beside her, asking softly, "How are you"

Yun Ge shook his head gloomily. The slap from Mo Jingli had caused serious internal injuries as well as broken blood vessels in Ye Ying. After falling down the stairs, it was even worse.

Even with the best medicines, she would only have a short while left.

Ye Ying clung to Yun Ge's chest as she tried her hardest to reach out for Mo Suyun. Seeing blood on Ye Ying’s clothes and dribbling from her mouth, Mo Suyun was so scared that he didn’t dare approach her.

Ye Li sighed and pulled Mo Suyun over with her hand. She said in a low voice, "Suyun, go look at her. She won't hurt you."

Mosuyun seemed to trust Ye Li instinctively. After hesitating for a moment, he finally walked over slowly.

Ye Ying smiled as she looked at Mo Suyun and tears kept falling from the corners of her eyes. "Suyun, it's all Mama’s fault. If I hadn't been greedy, you wouldn’t be in such bad condition. Cough… From now on, you must listen to your auntie. She will take care of you well and you won’t have to live in fear anymore. You need to live a long life… A long life… Third Sister…"

Ye Li walked over to her and sighed. "Why are you doing this"

Ye Ying laughed, “I’m not upset… Mo Jingli doesn't want Suyun anymore. Then he shouldn’t have any children in his entire life! Haha... In a way, the previous emperor did a good thing for him. A person like Mo Jingli deserves to be childless! Third Sister, I was foolish back then… Please don't blame me. Please… take care of Suyun…"

Ye Li remained silent and nodded after a moment. "You can rest assured that this child will receive good treatment from us. Doctor Shen Yang is still in Li City, so he might be able to cure him in the future." Ye Ying nodded with a smile as she said through her tears, "Third Sister, I have always known you… You’re a kind person. All along, I’ve just been envious of you. Does only good people get happiness I envy you. Next life, I will be a good person too."

Ye Li had nothing to say. Compared to many others, Ye Ying was not really an evil person. She never actually harmed anyone.

"You disgusting woman! I'm going to kill you!" Mo Jingli suddenly burst out from the room with a livid face and a twisted expression that looked like that of a demon. Mo Suyun, who had been talking with Ye Ying, immediately hid in Ye Li's arms.

Mo Jingli grabbed Ye Ying’s clothes to pull her up, but Yun Ge was enraged by the sight of someone being dragged around like a bag while they were barely alive. "Let go!" she shouted.

In a fit of rage, Yun Ge slapped Mo Jingli. Realizing that he could not beat the little girl, Mo Jingli immediately put Ye Ying in front of him as a shield.

Luckily for Mo Jingli, Yun Ge was usually peaceful and did not hit with full force even when angry, so she managed to stop her hand just in time. She glared at him angrily. "Despicable! Villain! Idiot!"

Ye Li twitched the corner of her mouth as she wondered who had corrupted Yun Ge.

Now that Ye Ying was no longer worried about herself, she smiled weakly as she looked up at Mo Jingli. "Your Highness, do you like the gift I gave you"

"Bitch! Give me the antidote!" Mo Jingli said coldly.

Ye Ying struggled to lift her hand holding a knife and smiled. "Antidote… I already ate it. Your Highness, did you know how much effort I put into this medicine Actually, I didn't plan on giving it to you so soon, but I was ready for it when the time came. After I found out that you had the antidote in Li City, I made this medicine and soaked a dagger in it since this morning… Haha, before coming here, I ate all of the antidote."

"Bitch! I'm going to kill you!" Mo Jingli tightened his grip on Ye Ying's neck. He had underestimated her so much that she was already plotting against him from a very early time.

Ye Ying turned her head to look at the scared Mo Suyun hiding behind Ye Li, and then raised her hand to stab Mo Jingli with the knife. The blade did not cause any real injury but it was meant to scare him off.

Momentarily stunned by the sight of Ye Ying stabbing herself, he threw her away before looking over at her again.

“Suyun… Leave this place with your auntie or Mo Jingli will kill you…”

Seeing blood continuously oozing from Ye Ying’s mouth and nose, everyone fell silent. They watched in silence as she lost consciousness completely on the ground.

"Mama…" A soft child's voice suddenly echoed through the quiet palace room.

Tears streamed down Yun Ge’s eyes as she clutched them and wept silently beside Ye Li.

Yaoji, sitting next to Muyang, lowered her head and wiped away a tear from her eye. However, her determined gaze became even firmer.

Ye Li handed Mo Suyun over to Wei Lin behind her. "Cloudy, we should go back now."

Yun Ge sniffed quietly as she walked past and tugged at Ye Li’s sleeve as they left the room together. "Will Your Majesty take care of my sister's body" asked Ye Li.

"Take care" Mo Jingli gave a twisted smile. "I'm going to reduce her remains to ashes!"

“Whatever you like.” Ye Li said without much concern. She would prefer to bring the body away, but now that she was no longer able to do so, there was nothing she could do.

"Bitch! Give me the antidote!" Mo Jingli tightened his grip on Ye Ying’s neck, and then suddenly realized how he had underestimated her. He pulled her back as Ye Ying lifted a hand towards Mo Suyun who was hiding behind Ye Li.

“Suyun… Leave this place with your auntie or Mo Jingli will kill you…”

Momentarily stunned by the sight of Ye Ying stabbing herself, he threw her away before looking over at her again. Seeing the increasing amount of blood oozing from Ye Ying’s mouth and nose, everyone fell silent.

They watched in silence as she lost consciousness completely on the ground.

"Mama…" A soft child's voice suddenly echoed through the quiet palace room.

Tears streamed down Yun Ge’s eyes as she clutched them and wept silently beside Ye Li.

Yaoji, sitting next to Muyang, lowered her head and wiped away a tear from her eye. However, her determined gaze became even firmer.

Ye Li handed Mo Suyun over to Wei Lin behind her. "Cloudy, we should go back now."

Yun Ge sniffed quietly as she walked past and tugged at Ye Li’s sleeve as they left the room together. "Will Your Majesty take care of my sister's body" asked Ye Li.

"Take care" Mo Jingli gave a twisted smile. "I'm going to reduce her remains to ashes!"

“Whatever you like.” Ye Li said without much concern. She would prefer to bring the body away, but now that she was no longer able to do so, there was nothing she could do.

“That is your business,” replied Ye Li coldly, “I will spread news of how Your Highness has reduced your wife's remains to ashes. I believe all people in the southern region would be greatly impressed by such a demonstration of benevolence.”

"Ye Li! Stop right there!" Mo Jingli roared angrily. "Give me Mo Suyun!"

“Never!” Yun Ge snapped before Ye Li could reply, “Suyun’s mother has entrusted him to his auntie. If you hadn’t tried to kill the child, Your Highness wouldn't have died.”

"He is the Emperor of Chu." Mo Jingli clenched his teeth and added, "He might be my only son from now on. Ye Ying’s last strike has left me greatly troubled. The doctors said I would never be able to have any more children even if they found an antidote.”

Ye Li turned around calmly and asked him, “If Your Highness wants this child dead so you can become emperor, then we will take the child away in exchange for your throne. He won’t belong to the Mo family anymore, just like what Your Highness wishes.”

"No!" Mo Jingli refused.

Ye Li didn't care much. "Then…He is still the emperor, but his biological mother has entrusted him to me before her death, so I must ensure he fulfills this role." In other words, Ye Li would interfere with Chu’s politics. Not only did Mo Jingli absolutely not want Ye Li to meddle in Chu's affairs, even if he agreed, Suyun was currently a blank slate and wouldn't be truly stupid. He wouldn’t support his father in the future.

Ye Li looked at him and said calmly, "You can't have both fish and bear paws. Your Highness should make up your mind."

Moi Jingli sneered coldly: “If I insist that you all stay”

Ye Li smiled faintly: “Then let’s see if the King of Li has such power. Even if he can keep everyone here, it is also necessary to ensure no one spreads news about tonight's events. The king killing his son and wife committing suicide in righteousness is a great drama indeed.”

Mo Jingli was already seriously injured and now his heart was full of rage. He nearly collapsed when he saw everything turn black before him. Someone hurriedly helped him sit down on a chair. Mo Jingli clung to the armrest, forcing himself to suppress his anger and breathe deeply, staring at Ye Li with solemnity in his voice: "Ye Li, you are good."

“No match for Your Highness.” replied Ye Li coolly.

The Lady of Xianzhao saw that Mo Jingli was not in a good state and hurriedly said to the Queen Dowager: “Queen Dowager, leave the Emperor and I will ensure your safe departure from Jiangnan.”

Qin Feng beside her snorted coldly: "Do we need your promise Nanjing is our place to come and go as we please. What can you do about us" The Lady of Xianzhao’s face darkened, but Ye Li spoke first with a calm voice: “I always keep my word. Since I have promised her that I would take care of the child, it's only right for me to fulfill this promise. If your Highness wants to stop us from leaving quietly or forcing us out through battle, you may try.”

“With just a few people like you” sneered Lady Xianzhao.

Ye Li smiled and said: “Do we seem to lack manpower Why not call for guards and see how many are still available at Li王府 now” The Lady of Xianzhao did not say anything. Ye Li dared to say this, so it was likely that there were no more active guards in the Li王府.

"How about you, King Li" asked Ye Li.

"Get lost!" Mo Jingli finally roared out in anger.

Ye Li didn't mind his words and waved her hand, leading everyone out openly and straightforwardly.

In the main hall, the atmosphere was heavy and silent as if a needle dropping could be heard clearly. Everyone kept their eyes down, only hearing their own hearts pounding heavily. Mo Jingli sat on the dais, breathing heavily with an expression of ferocity like that of a wild beast ready to attack.

Those who had originally planned to flatter the future master and celebrate the grand event found themselves in a bloody royal drama filled with bloodshed and tragedy. How could they not be frightened They could only secretly thank their luck that even if the Prince couldn't bear to kill all of them, he wouldn’t dare do so.

"Your Highness, Princess Ding's group disappeared shortly after leaving the estate," a voice reported from outside after a while.

"A bunch of useless people! Get out of my sight now! All of you, get lost!" Mo Jingli roared.

When could they leave if not at this moment They hurriedly got up and bid farewell to Mo Jingli and Lady Taifei Xianzhaio, quickly rushing out.

"Li'er…" Lady Taifei Xianzhao glanced at Mo Jingli and called softly.

"Get lost! All of you get lost!" Mo Jingli didn't even glance at the people before him and shouted angrily.

In Ye Li's temporary residence, Xu Qingchen looked at the child in Wei Lin’s arms with a raised eyebrow. "Did Mo Jingli recognize their identities" Ye Li helplessly smiled bitterly and said, "It doesn’t matter much now. He has no time to deal with us. However, Brother, everything is almost done in Nanjing. We should go back."

Although Mo Jingli might not dare attack them for the moment, staying too long in the city could be seen as a provocation. Mo Jingli might suddenly lose control and resort to extreme measures.

"Mo Jingli doesn’t seem like someone who would lose control," Xu Qingchen said. It wasn't that he thought Mo Jingli was particularly steady; it was because Mo Jingli was too attached to his power and reputation. Someone who clung to these things couldn't bear to do anything reckless.

"He might be in this situation now." Any man whose life turned out as badly as Mo Jingli's could lose control. If he hadn’t gotten what he wanted from the beginning, it wouldn’t matter much. But now that his poison had been cured and he already had a child, suddenly losing his child and getting poisoned again might make him lose all hope for the future. It couldn't be denied that Ye Ying’s final move was truly remarkable.

Xu Qingchen sighed lightly and looked at Mo Suyun, who lay motionless in Wei Lin's arms. "Ye Ying is dead. What do you plan to do with this child He is the emperor of Great Chu; it wouldn't be appropriate to raise him in Ding王府."

Ye Li said, "Ye Ying wanted us to send the child back to my father. After all, he’s their grandson. With Ding王府 looking after him in Licheng City, the child should be safe. Anyway... it's better than staying here as a puppet emperor."

Xu Qingchen nodded and said, "Alright, you leave for the north tomorrow morning."

Hearing this, Ye Li was taken aback and asked, "Brother, do you have something to do"

"I still need to help Yunge find someone," Xu Qingchen replied. Ye Li frowned and thought, "If Brother asks for the person's whereabouts, it shouldn’t be hard to find them. Why would it take so much effort" Xu Qingchen shook his head with a smile and said, "It’s not difficult to find them; I know where they are. But Yunge needs to come along."

Ye Li looked at Xu Qingchen reluctantly but still said, "Why don’t we wait for two days We’ll go back together with Brother."

Ye Li really didn't feel comfortable leaving Xu Qingchen and Yunge alone in Nanjing City. Although Xu Qingchen was defenseless, Yunge had some martial arts skills but lacked experience; it would be a problem if something happened to her.

Seeing Ye Li's clear worry, Xu Qingchen helplessly smiled and said, "Li'er, this is just an unexpected event. Prince Ding must be anxious for your return. You should hurry back. Otherwise, he will blame me again for keeping you here in Jiangnan so long."

Ye Li firmly refused to listen to him, saying, "I’ll stay one more day. There are still some unfinished matters; there’s no rush anyway." Unable to persuade Ye Li, Xu Qingchen had to plan to leave early the next morning with Yunge. He couldn't bear the thought of leaving Nanjing City alone when he was worried about Ye Li's safety.

"Princess...公子清塵 and Yunge girl started a fight with the lady from behind the house," a guard rushed in, looking troubled as he reported. Ye Li and Xu Qingchen were both taken aback, and Xu Qingchen immediately stood up. Ye Li wasn't very worried, as Eastern You was powerless due to her sealed inner strength; even if she had been well, Yunge wouldn’t be at a disadvantage.

"Eastern You’s inner strength is gone, how could they still fight" Ye Li asked curiously.

The guard looked gloomy and reported, "Princess, they didn't use martial arts."

"How do you fight without martial arts then"

"Go take a look," the guard said.

Fights weren’t solely conducted with martial arts; most people in this world couldn't even practice martial arts, but that didn't mean they never fought. Thus, Ye Li and Xu Qingchen were dumbfounded to see two people rolling around on the ground without using any skills.

Xu Qingchen rubbed his forehead and called out loudly, "Yunge."

When Yunge heard him, she stopped for a moment but was quickly grabbed by Eastern You in retaliation. If not for Eastern You's lack of inner strength, Yunge would have suffered facial disfigurement for months. But since Yunge still had her inner strength, she merely tilted back her head and tightened her grip on Eastern You’s hand, asking, "Stop fighting, okay"

Eastern You sneered coldly, "Go to hell."

Yunge grimaced as she blocked Eastern You's incoming attack and quickly struck a pressure point before jumping up. She rushed towards Xu Qingchen and asked, "Xu Qingchen, Princess Li, why are you here" Ye Li raised her eyebrows at Yunge but didn’t say anything. Xu Qingchen looked at Yunge sternly and asked, "Who gave you permission to fight someone"

Although Xu Qingchen spoke softly, Yunge felt a chill down her spine. She shrank back towards Ye Li’s side, feeling that the cold look from Xu Qingchen was even more intimidating than her deceased father. It wasn't unreasonable for his brothers to fear him; he naturally possessed an air of authority.

"This... I'm sorry," Yunge bowed her head and admitted her mistake.

Ye Li smiled at the two and then looked at the restrained Eastern You, saying calmly, "Why did Yunge come here" This courtyard was located in a remote corner of the compound, where most people wouldn’t venture. Yunge explained with a frown, "I just wanted to pick some flowers for Xiao Yun."

Eastern幽住的院子裡有兩株花期較晚的秋海棠。Yunge想著墨夙雲受了驚嚇，精神有些恍惚，送他一些有趣的東西可能會好些。不過從小在山裡長大的她並不知道該送什麼禮物，自然而然地選擇了鮮花。於是她在整個府邸轉了一圈才找到了這兩株不錯的海棠花，卻不料驚動了被囚禁在此的Eastern幽。

這幾日，Eastern幽也聽說了這個由公子清塵親自帶回來的女孩。所以一見她就毫不客氣地動手了，如果不是Eastern幽內力被封，隻怕已經下殺手了。

Xu Qingchen遞給她一張白色的手帕說，“你會武功，為什麼要在地上和彆人打架？”

Yunge低著頭用腳在地上畫圈，她以為Eastern幽不會武技嘛，習武之人自然不能欺負不會武技的普通人。

見到Xu Qingchen後，Eastern幽便不再死盯著Yunge了，而是癡迷地看著他。自從被Ye Li抓回來後，她一次也冇有見過Xu Qingchen。雖然Ye Li冇有把她關進地牢裡，但她隻要試圖離開院子就會立刻被人攔下。這些人任何陰謀詭計都冇有用，即使她說要放火燒房子，那些人也隻是冷漠旁觀。意思很明確：如果她想燒死自己，儘管動手。

Eastern幽當然不想**，所以隻能默默地忍受。今天終於見到Xu Qingchen本人了，哪裡還有心思跟Yunge計較。

Yunge好奇地看著Xu Qingchen又看了看Eastern幽，不由得再次靠向Ye Li身邊。她總覺得這個女人看Xu Qingchen的眼神十分詭異，看得她寒毛都豎了起來。

"公子清塵，你好嗎？" Eastern幽柔聲問道，完全不顧自己被點住了穴道說不出話來的窘境。

Xu Qingchen淡淡地看了一眼Eastern幽，然後轉向Yunge說：“還不回去換衣服？把昨天教你的文章抄寫十五遍，明早給我。”

"啊" Yunge頓時垮下了臉，“Xu Qingchen, 我不……”

“十五篇。” Xu Qingchen淡淡地說。

Yunge呆呆地望著Xu Qingchen，張了張嘴終於道：“我這就去寫。”小心翼翼地望了他一眼，大概覺得他的心情不太好，低聲問道：“我能先摘幾朵花兒再去嗎？”

Xu Qingchen點點頭，Yunge這才飛快地采了幾朵花然後溜走了。看著她的背影，Ye Li不由笑道：“大哥，你對雲歌也太嚴厲了一點。看把她嚇得。”

“她不小了，在山裡一個人住的時候，父親在世時許多該教的隻怕也冇教到。”Xu Qingchen淡淡地說。

Ye Li恍然大悟地點點頭說：“也是，十五歲也不小了，也該嫁人了。如果她跟我們回去的話，就請大伯母好好教教她吧。”

Xu Qingchen不置可否地淡淡道：“隻怕她不會跟我們一起走，到時候……”大戶人家的規矩那麼多，Yunge那種性格還不被人啃得渣都不剩？

Ye Li笑容滿麵地說：“大哥一定有辦法讓她跟我們回去的……”

Xu Qingchen似乎冇聽見她的話，轉身往門外走去。

Ye Li冷冷地掃了一眼坐在地上的Eastern幽道：“東方姑娘，做了階下囚還不知道何為安分守己嗎？”Eastern幽癡纏著Xu Qingchen離去的背影終於收回了目光，憤恨地看著Ye Li問道：“那個丫頭是什麼人？”

“如果不知道雲歌是誰，怎麼跟她打架呢？” Ye Li挑眉笑道。

Dongfang You screamed shrilly, "This is impossible! How could that uncouth girl who knows nothing about anything be a match for Qingchen Scholar You're lying to me… Ye Li, what did I do to offend you Why must you break up my relationship with Qingchen Scholar" Ye Li rolled her eyes at the sky. Dongfang You was hallucinating now, "Miss Dongfang, how am I breaking up your relationship with Qingchen Scholar Have a look for yourself and tell me if Scholar Qin has ever given you so much as a glance" Immediately, Ye Li felt that she had been wronged. She was an elder sister who cared deeply about her brother's future happiness and never complained about anything. She was the most amiable little sister in this world.

"It must be you meddling," Dongfang You said resentfully.

Ye Li said calmly, "Miss Dongfang, you’re thinking too much. Look at how Scholar Qin treats Yun Ge and then look at how he treats you. Don’t tell me that you don’t know what kind of girl Scholar Qin likes"

Dongfang You glared viciously at Ye Li. Ye Li blinked her eyes and said with a smile, "Miss Dongfang, if I were you, I would rather think about how many more days I have left instead of thinking about pointless things."

"So you want to kill me" Dongfang You looked at her coldly, disdainfully asking.

Ye Li shook her head and said, "I never intended to kill you. In fact, my plan is to set you free."

Dongfang You sneered. Ye Li said sincerely, "That’s the truth. I really intend to release you. Moreover… I will return you to your original subordinates in Cangmang Mountain and hand over evidence of your plot against Dongfang Hui."

Upon hearing Ye Li's words, Dongfang You's face instantly turned ashen. Her assassination of Dongfang Hui was the only thing she had ever done that condemned her heart. However, it also meant certain death if anyone found out.

The power of Cangmang Mountain might be reduced to a mere fraction nowadays, but there were still many who remained loyal to it. They only remained loyal because Dongfang You was the successor chosen by Dongfang Hui, their master. If they discovered that she had murdered Dongfang Hui, they would turn on her and seek vengeance for their mistress at once.

Seeing Dongfang You's miserable expression, Ye Li did not feel the slightest pity or sympathy towards her. To Ye Li, Dongfang Hui was an enemy, but to Dongfang You, she was a teacher, mother, and savior. If it were not for Dongfang Hui, Dongfang You would have died long ago and would never had the audacity to claim that she alone could match Qingchen Scholar in every aspect. Even if Dongfang Hui wronged everyone else in this world, she did not wrong Dongfang You. And yet, Dongfang You betrayed her teacher for a so-called good marriage and even ordered people to assassinate her. She was no better than an animal. Such a person deserved death. XU Qingchen would never look at her twice.

Originally, Ye Li had not thought of how to deal with Dongfang You. To keep such a person around was irritating, but killing her was pointless. Thankfully, there were many hidden forces from Cangmang Mountain that needed to be investigated and exterminated. When Ye Li announced the truth behind Dongfang Hui's assassination, several people who remained loyal to Dongfang Hui came forward.

Therefore, naturally, Ye Li did not mind using Dongfang You to trade for benefits. Of course, she had to ensure that Dongfang You would never live again. The obsession of Dongfang You with XU Qingchen was twisted and sickly; if she managed to escape once more, who knew what else she might do.

Since LI King planned on heading north soon, Xu Qingchen did not waste any time either. On the second day, he brought Yun Ge straight to Mu Yang’s residence. Upon hearing that Qingchen Scholar had arrived to visit them, Father and son Mu Yang's faces instantly darkened.

In previous days, if Qingchen Scholar personally came to visit them, they would naturally welcome him with open arms. But now… LI King was thoroughly tricked by Ding Wangfu; although it wasn’t really the fault of Ding Wangfu, no ruler would be without a sense of grievance and resentment. Although LI King had not sent anyone to harm Qingchen Scholar and his wife yet, it was because he did not have sufficient power to do so, rather than that he wanted to leave them alone.

But Qingchen Scholar was not someone they could avoid seeing if they wished to. By now, the fame and status of Xu Qingchen were such that you might not see him when you want, but when he wants to see you, you must be there for him.

"Qingchen Scholar, it is an honor to receive your visit," said Old Mu Yang smilingly as he brought his son and family members forward to welcome Xu Qingchen. Xu Qingchen cast a glance at the group of people behind Old Mu Yang. He had heard that Mu Yang was a hearted confidant of Emperor Mo Jingqi, but now that Mo Jingqi was dead and disgraced, while Mu Yang's family still enjoyed their former glory and even more power than before. It seemed that Mu Yang was an exceedingly rare military general who knew how to manage his wealth.

With a slight frown, Xu Qingchen looked at Yun Ge, unsure if leaving her with the Mu Yangs would be beneficial for her. Even if there were Yao Ji around, she had other important things to do and could not watch over Yun Ge all the time. Moreover… how long could this residence of Mu Yang last

Yun Ge looked at Old Mu Yang curiously. Why did he feel that he should have gone out personally to welcome Xu Qingchen Although Old Mu Yang was old, there was no need for him to do so if he didn't want to. Yun Ge frowned; she did not like this smiling elder gentleman.

Old Mu Yang naturally saw the young lady standing next to Xu Qingchen and found it odd that a man who was known for his disdain of women should have her by his side. Moreover, she looked so beautiful, too. This Mu Yang family were still loyal to their former glory; they would surely turn against this woman if they knew that she had killed Ouyang Hui.

Yun Ge did not feel sympathy for Oriental You at all. For her, Oriental Hui was an enemy, but for Oriental You, she was a teacher, mother and savior. If not for Oriental Hui's help, Oriental You would have died long ago. She had no reason to hate Oriental Hui, except that the latter blocked her path with Xu Qingchen, which led her to betray her own master and even send people to kill her secretly.

Yue Li did not know how to deal with Oriental You either; keeping her around was irritating, but killing her would be pointless. Thankfully, many hidden forces of Cangmang Mountain came forward after she announced the truth behind Oriental Hui’s assassination.

Therefore, naturally, Yue Li did not mind using Oriental You as a bargaining chip for some benefits. Of course, she had to ensure that Oriental You would never live again; if she managed to escape once more, who knew what else she might do.

Xu Qingchen was in no hurry to go north and decided to pay Mu Yang a visit because he thought it necessary not to let the Li King take advantage of this situation. Upon hearing that Qingchen Scholar had come for a visit, father and son Mu Yang's faces instantly darkened. In previous days, if Qingchen Scholar came personally to visit them, they would naturally welcome him with open arms. But now… LI King was thoroughly tricked by Ding Wangfu; although it wasn’t really the fault of Ding Wangfu, no ruler would be without a sense of grievance and resentment.

But Qingchen Scholar was not someone they could avoid seeing if they wished to. By now, the fame and status of Xu Qingchen were such that you might not see him when you want, but when he wants to see you, you must be there for him.

"Qingchen Scholar, it is an honor to receive your visit," said Old Mu Yang smilingly as he brought his son and family members forward to welcome Xu Qingchen. Xu Qingchen cast a glance at the group of people behind Old Mu Yang. He had heard that Mu Yang was a hearted confidant of Emperor Mo Jingqi, but now that Mo Jingqi was dead and disgraced, while Mu Yang's family still enjoyed their former glory and even more power than before. It seemed that Mu Yang was an exceedingly rare military general who knew how to manage his wealth.

With a slight frown, Xu Qingchen looked at Yun Ge, unsure if leaving her with the Mu Yangs would be beneficial for her. Even if there were Yao Ji around, she had other important things to do and could not watch over Yun Ge all the time. Moreover… how long could this residence of Mu Yang last

Yun Ge looked at Old Mu Yang curiously. Why did he feel that he should have gone out personally to welcome Xu Qingchen Although Old Mu Yang was old, there was no need for him to do so if he didn't want to. Yun Ge felt a bit confused and somewhat disliked the elderly man who smiled warmly at Xu Qingchen.

The old Marquis Mu noticed the young girl standing beside Xu Qingchen as well, but found it strange that this man known for his disdain of women would be accompanied by such a beautiful young lady. Both Mu Yang and Yaohui had seen Yun Ge before. Yaohui felt quite fond of this strong-willed yet simple-minded little girl and smiled at her.

Mu Yang's wife, standing beside him, suddenly asked sharply, "Yaohui knows this little girl" The old Marquis Mu frowned in disapproval but also glanced towards Yaohui. Mu Yang gave his wife a sharp look and said, "Father, we met the lady at the Li王府 last night."

"Li王府" The old Marquis Mu frowned, wondering what had happened there last night that Mu Yang had only spoken vaguely about.

The old Marquis Mu glanced at Xu Qingchen warily and said sternly, "Sir, is there any reason for your visit today"

Xu Qingchen smiled slightly and replied, "Marquis Mu, shall we talk here" The old Marquis Mu wished to have the conversation right here but also knew it wouldn't be appropriate.

"Please come inside," he said awkwardly, stepping aside. Inside the main hall, Yun Ge sat respectfully on Xu Qingchen's left and was quiet and well-behaved, unlike her rambunctious self from last night. After tea was served, Mu Yang asked, "Sir, who is this lady"

Xu Qingchen put down his cup and looked at Yun Ge calmly. "Have you heard of a doctor named Shen Fengru" The old Marquis Mu's face changed slightly as he quickly glanced at Yun Ge, then replied curtly.

"Sir, I have never received any letters from him." Xu Qingchen nodded and said, "Then it seems we can leave now." He stood up and told Yun Ge they could go. Yun Ge looked confused but followed him.

Xu Qingchen calmly informed Yun Ge that her father's people would not be able to come for her as they were all dead. Yun Ge was puzzled, asking why. Xu Qingchen said coldly that they had been killed and walked out without looking at the old Marquis Mu’s shocked expression.

Mu Yang felt guilty watching Yun Ge nod apologetically at an angry Old Marquis Mu before following after him quickly. "Xu Qingchen, don't be upset! They're dead but not their fault, I can manage on my own…" Xu Qingchen called back that she needn’t worry as he would take her to Li City with him.

Yun Ge asked if they should go to the cemetery. Xu Qingchen replied casually that it was unnecessary since everyone was dead already. Yun Ge protested but Xu Qingchen simply smiled gently and told her to understand, causing her to shrink back in fear.

Note: Ye Ying has died. Though it wasn't particularly tragic by my previous standards… considering the emperor's current situation, I think this outcome is better.

Recommendation: A friend’s new novel "Demon Death God" about a shy and introverted girl who jumps off a third-story building after being framed by her classmates. Upon regaining consciousness, she discovers that everything has changed!aid with a smile, "I brought some snacks over since my brother has been working hard these days. Is there much work"Xu Qingchen picked up the cup of tea that Ye Lique had poured for him and sighed hel...