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Kapitel 44

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Chapter 121: A False Phoenix and a Fake Dragon, Suspicion Arises Again

The morning breeze of late autumn brushed against my face, carrying a chill.

This place is only about two hundred miles away from Phoenix City.

Junyu stopped his horse: "Lu Ling, you are responsible for safely escorting everyone back to Phoenix Village."

Lu Ling accepted the order.

Zhao Manqing asked anxiously, "Young Master, what about you?"

"I still have some things to take care of. Once I'm done, I'll come back to Phoenix Village to see you all."

Mo Feiyan looked at Junyu. Ever since leaving the capital, she had had a bad feeling. At this moment, the ominous feeling in her heart grew stronger and stronger. She couldn't help but say, "Young master, let Lu Ling and Geng Ke accompany you. Manqing and I can go back by ourselves."

Lu Ling and Geng Ke immediately said, "Chief, let's go with you."

Junyu smiled and said, "No need, you go back first, I'll be back soon."

Everyone looked at her and said in unison, "Take good care of yourself on your journey."

Junyu nodded: "I know. You all take care too."

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The emperor was reviewing memorials in his study.

Among the tall pile of memorials, there was one that was particularly thick. He immediately pulled it out, unfolded it, and the more he read, the more his expression changed drastically.

Upon seeing this, the eunuch standing to the side said, "Your Majesty, this was sent by an envoy from the Lahan religion, who is waiting for your summons."

"Immediately summon the messengers of the Rahan religion."

Meng Yuanjing hurriedly arrived at the palace gate, only to be surprised to see Zhu Yu also rushing over from another direction.

"Zhu Yu, what do you want?"

Zhu Yu said coldly, "The emperor summoned me, but I don't know why. And what business do you have with me?"

Meng Yuanjing was even more surprised: "I was also summoned, but I don't know why."

As soon as the two arrived at the entrance of the Imperial Study, they heard a loud shout: "Immediately issue a golden edict ordering Grand Marshal Junyu to cancel his vacation and return to the capital to receive orders."

One of the guards said, "Marshal Jun and his men have been on their way for a month. They should have already returned to Phoenix City. How can we possibly catch up with them?"

"Immediately pursue them to Phoenix Village. If one gold medal isn't enough, use two; if two aren't enough, use three or four, until they are caught."

"As you command."

The two exchanged a glance, both inwardly shocked, immediately realizing that the Emperor greatly suspected Junyu's identity. Although they didn't know what concrete evidence the Emperor possessed, they shared the same thought: at this moment, they absolutely could not expose Junyu's identity.

As soon as the two entered the imperial study, they saw that Wang Jun, the imperial bodyguard with a sword, looked uneasy, while the emperor had a sinister smile on his face: "My two ministers, do you know why I summoned you?"

"We were unaware!"

With a cold snort, a memorial flew down. Meng Yuanjing took it, read it carefully, and handed it to Zhu Yu without changing his expression, saying, "Your subject is ignorant and does not understand the meaning of this memorial."

Zhu Yu also glanced at it quickly, his face showing surprise: "Your subject is also ignorant."

The Emperor sneered: "The Lahan Cult's memorial contains three points: First, their prized possession, the 'Buddha's Tooth,' was found to have been destroyed in the Cold View Garden by the current 'Bokdo' in order to save a young man known as the 'Phoenix City Flying General.' Second, according to one of Bokdo's personal attendants, Bokdo has repeatedly broken his vows by going out this year, especially before the 'Snowy Region Festival,' where he secretly slipped away for five whole days. Third, the Northwest Army Commander-in-Chief, Junyu, has appeared multiple times at major events and festivals of the 'Hall of Wisdom.'"

Zhu Yu feigned surprise and asked, "What does this mean? Does it mean that Junyu and those ascetics are forming a clique for personal gain?"

The emperor glared at him: "The envoys of the Nara Khan sect are stupid, and are you two really so foolish? This memorial, on the surface, accuses 'Bokdo' of violating the rules, but almost every detail is related to Junyu. Junyu defied the imperial decree and returned late precisely to participate in the 'Snowy Region Festival.' What was 'Bokdo' doing sneaking out? Surely not to see Qin Xiaolou? Last time, because of 'Bokdo's' love poem incident, the experts of the 'Thousand Machines Sect' mobilized, almost digging three feet into the ground but still couldn't find that mysterious woman. If Junyu is that woman, how could they have found her?"

The more he thought about it, the angrier he became. He shouted, "You, Junyu, not only denied it in every way, but you also put on a great show of having three wives and four concubines, a fake phoenix and a fake dragon, which fooled me so much that I actually believed it..."

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Chapter 122: To Definitely Kill Tosang

He turned to look at Meng Yuanjing and said sternly, "Lord Meng, what do you have to say?"

Meng Yuanjing's expression remained unchanged: "I know about 'Bokdo' saving Junyu; I witnessed it myself. I also participated in the Snow Festival, and I was with Junyu the whole time, accompanied by Qin Xiaolou. Where 'Bokdo' went and whether his behavior was proper or not have anything to do with Junyu?"

"The secret memorial impeached Junyu as a woman who disguised herself as a man. Why did others only impeach her and not others?" the emperor sneered. "Given Junyu's appearance, did neither of you ever suspect her identity?"

Meng Yuanjing said, "We studied and lived with Junyu at the academy since childhood, and we know her identity better than anyone else. How could we doubt her?"

Meng Yuanjing continued, "I've known Junyu since childhood, how could I not even know if she's a man or a woman?" He glanced at Zhu Yu, seemingly casually, "I really don't understand why some people are so suspicious of her identity? Could it be because Marshal Jun's outstanding military achievements threaten the positions of certain people, and since Marshal Jun himself is impeccable, they have no choice but to fabricate rumors and use such underhanded methods? You know, fabricated charges are the most deadly. Is Marshal Jun's handsome appearance a serious crime? Zhu Yu, you can be considered an old friend of hers, put aside personal grudges and say something fair..."

Zhu Yu sneered, "Junyu is undoubtedly a man. As for the rest, I cannot say more. Everyone knows that Lord Meng and Junyu are close friends, so naturally he will defend her."

Meng Yuanjing glared at him and said, "The Lahan Sect and the Red Gold Clan have a long-standing secret relationship. When they besieged the Iron Horse Temple, they were repelled by Junyu. Zhenmutier has always been adept at sowing discord. Although his iron cavalry is brave, they crumble at the mere sight of the 'Phoenix City Flying Commander.' Who knows if they've devised this vicious plan to ruin Junyu's reputation and clear the way for their future comeback..."

Wang Jun quickly echoed, "That's exactly what I think too."

Zhu Yu interrupted, "But Junyu, as the commander-in-chief of the Northwest Army, is not only a womanizer, but also has close ties with the Holy Palace. Isn't it fair to accuse him of 'forming cliques for personal gain'?"

Meng Yuanjing angrily said, "That Zhu what-name 'Bokdo' saved Junyu's life, and Junyu has also done his part for the Holy Palace several times. It's only natural to return the favor. Besides, Qin Xiaolou invited him to some important events. What kind of 'forming cliques for personal gain' is this?"

"Hehe, whether Junyu has formed cliques or not, I dare not say more, His Majesty will make his own judgment."

The emperor was initially only concerned with determining whether Junyu was male or female, but the two men argued endlessly about whether Junyu had "formed cliques for personal gain," completely ignoring the question of whether she was a woman. Their conversation clearly showed they disdained to debate the issue. This caused his initial conviction to waver once again.

The emperor was greatly annoyed by what he heard and said, "So it seems that Junyu is indeed a man?"

Zhu Yu laughed: "I have known Junyu since I was a child. If Junyu were really a woman, wouldn't I have wasted my life's reputation for romance and be blind? If there really is such a woman in the world, I would rather die under the peony flowers than not be able to win her smile. How could I dare to go against her? Haha, it's just a pity that she is a rascal. I can't stand her no matter what."

The emperor had always been suspicious of Meng Yuanjing, but seeing Zhu Yu's behavior, he became even more uncertain. Although he disliked Zhu Yu's playful tone, he also knew that Zhu Yu was a womanizer. If Junyu were a woman, why would she oppose him at every turn?

The emperor continued, "Now, the Rahan religion demands the deposition and installation of the current 'Bokdor'..."

Zhu Yu said, “That Bokdo does not abide by the rules, giving people something to criticize. It would be better to depose him as soon as possible to avoid giving the Lahan sect more excuses and disputes.”

Meng Yuanjing also said, "The conflict between the two factions has a long history. Why not take this opportunity to abolish 'Bokdo' in one fell swoop, appoint a new person, and completely eliminate future troubles."

Wang Jun only wanted to protect Jun Yu. He didn't know who this "Bokdo" was. He just felt that it was really hateful that such a disobedient leader had tarnished Jun Yu's reputation. He immediately said, "If this memorial is really a scheme by Zhen Muter to sow discord, then he will definitely spread rumors to ruin Marshal Jun's reputation. Another "Bokdo" can be established, but there can only be one "Flying Marshal of Fengcheng".

After the two secret reports from the envoy of the Lhahan sect, the emperor had already developed a deep dislike for the "Bokdo" he had never met. Clearly, Wang Jun's words resonated with him, and he immediately nodded: "Yes, another 'Bokdo' can be established, but there can only be one 'Flying General of Phoenix City,' a figure who commands respect both Han and non-Han peoples. The best course of action now is to eliminate that 'Bokdo' to prevent future troubles."

The emperor continued, “Although the memorial from the Lhakhan sect lists three misconducts of the ‘Bogdo,’ upon closer examination, none of them can withstand scrutiny and constitute grounds for deposing the ‘Bogdo.’ After all, those unfounded accusations are insufficient to serve as evidence.”

Zhu Yu laughed: "Isn't it easy to get evidence? That 'Bokdo' who writes love poems must have some Achilles' heel!"

"Bokdo holds unparalleled prestige in that mysterious land, with followers everywhere. The current Bokdo, since taking the helm, has enjoyed the deep support of the Holy Palace. The previous 'Love Poem Incident' had already greatly displeased the Holy Palace; if this time is not handled carefully, it could lead to chaos. Zhu Yu, you immediately select the best members of the 'Thousand Machines Sect' to handle this matter. Resolve this matter as quickly as possible. If any problems arise, have Qin Xiaolou assist. Once the evidence is conclusive, immediately depose the current Bokdo and escort him to the capital."

"As you command."

Meng Yuanjing disliked Tuosang from their very first meeting, especially after their two encounters at the "Snowy Region Festival," which fueled his hatred for Tuosang. Now that Tuosang was doomed, a cruel sense of satisfaction welled up within him. However, he then wondered how Junyu would react, and a deep worry mingled with his satisfaction. Although his expression remained calm, his palms were almost sweating.

Wang Jun asked, "Then, what about Marshal Jun? Should we continue to pursue him back to the capital?"

The emperor pondered for a moment, and Meng Yuanjing immediately said, "Your Majesty, you must not do this. One should trust those one employs and not employ those one doubts. To repeatedly doubt Marshal Jun's identity will surely discourage meritorious officials. Furthermore, some with ulterior motives will seize the opportunity to attack her. If she rejoins the army, what prestige will she have left?"

"That's true." The emperor frowned and said, "Immediately issue an edict to stop summoning Marshal Jun. Let him return to the capital on his own after his leave is over. In addition, reward him with a thousand acres of fertile land and several beautiful concubines. Remember to choose those who are a bit older, as Marshal Jun prefers 'older sister' type beauties."

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Stepping outside the palace gates, the sky was extremely gloomy.

Meng Yuanjing looked at Zhu Yu, only to see that Zhu Yu was also looking at him: "Lord Meng, from childhood to adulthood, we have finally joined forces to do the same thing."

Meng Yuanjing stared at the ground without making a sound.

Zhu Yu laughed: "I am a villain. I hate Tuosang very much, so I must kill him. What about you, Lord Meng?"

“Tosang, as a ‘Bokdo’, did not abide by the rules, and he deserved to die.”

"Is this an excuse to comfort your conscience?" Zhu Yu laughed loudly: "Whether he abides by the rules or not is none of my business, but if it is related to Junyu, he must die."

Meng Yuanjing remained silent for a long time before finally raising his head: "I am also a villain, and I also hate Tuosang very much, but no matter what, you must not hurt Junyu."

Zhu Yu didn't answer, but laughed loudly and walked away.

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Chapter 123: The Princess Committed Suicide

Zhu Yu walked home through the gloomy weather. As soon as he entered, Zhu Sihuai hurriedly came to greet him, pulling him towards the study: "Young Master, Master has been waiting for you for a long time..."

Seeing his extremely panicked appearance, Zhu Yu shouted, "What's the matter that you're in such a panic?"

"The master has something important to discuss with you..."

"What exactly happened?"

Before Zhu Sihuai could answer, Prime Minister Zhu's voice rang out at the door: "What's all the noise about? Come in quickly."

Zhu Yu entered the study, and Zhu Sihuai immediately closed the door.

Prime Minister Zhu practically slumped into his chair, his face grim: "The princess committed suicide today..."

"Oh, is he dead?"

Prime Minister Zhu sat up and stared at his son: "Unfortunately, things didn't go as you wished. She had just attempted suicide by hanging when the maid discovered her and rescued her. She's resting in her room now. You must go see her today and comfort her."

Zhu Yu laughed nonchalantly, "It's the same old story of crying, making a scene, and threatening suicide. I already gave her a letter of divorce. You all forced her to stay in the mansion. What does this have to do with me?"

“The Prince of Heyang is unaware of this matter yet, and fortunately, the Princess is gentle by nature and was persuaded by your mother. These days, your mother and your second mother have been taking care of her almost like an empress dowager, but she still can't let it go. Today, you must step forward. Starting tomorrow, you are not allowed to leave the Prime Minister's residence even once.”

"I'm afraid I cannot comply, Your Excellency," Zhu Yu said, looking at his father with a mocking expression. "I'm setting off for the Holy Palace tomorrow." "What are you going to the Holy Palace for?"

"By order of the tyrannical emperor, we escorted the unruly Bokdo to the capital."

"The tyrannical ruler wants to abolish that 'Bokdo'?"

"That's exactly right."

"What business is it of yours what Bogdano's deposition and enthronement is? Why would you travel thousands of miles to get involved?"

Zhu Yu laughed: "Do you remember when the Lahan Sect first secretly presented the 'love poem' incident, the opinion in the court was to kill that mysterious woman to cut off 'Bokdo's' thoughts? But this time, everyone is in agreement to eliminate 'Bokdo' to cut off that woman's thoughts."

"Does the tyrant mean to get rid of Bokdo?"

"Exactly." There's only one "Flying General of Fengcheng," but "Bokdo" can be infinitely multiplied. Whoever harms her reputation must die. "Heh heh, I'm afraid that's more your own selfish motive, isn't it?"