Небо над реками и озерами очень чистое

Глава 79

The new rumors were clearer and more convincing, perfectly matching Xie Yunshu's image. The story of this valiant young master from a prestigious family, who endured hardship and sought revenge against his enemies, moved countless young women to tears. Those who had previously vehemently condemned him quickly became his supporters, filled with shame for their past insults. The Xie family's image was once again elevated, dignified, and radiant. People's eyes were filled with admiration, proud that the people of the Central Plains had managed to slay the most terrifying demon in the heart of the Tianshan Mountains.

The rumors were so absurd that they were automatically interpreted in multiple versions by the public, down to the details of how he killed the Pope, and even the story of how he had to abandon his lover for revenge. This also explained why he was reluctant to get married. The four wings were dumbfounded and amazed by the various absurd and bizarre imaginations.

With each new piece of information revealed every day, private conversations turned into a gossip session, making the Blue Owl and Black Harrier laugh until their stomachs hurt.

"It's so cheesy, but it really works!" Bi Jun pounded the table, laughing so hard she almost choked. "I'm still wondering what method she'll use..."

Rumors against rumors worked remarkably well. The Xie family remained silent, the criticism vanished, and they no longer needed to cover up the unexplained disappearance of Checi seven years ago. After this, no one could use the Xie family's past with the Demonic Sect as a pretext for attack.

"You also think it's her?" Mo Yao wiped away the tears from the corners of her eyes and rubbed her sore cheeks.

"Who else could it be but her?" Blue Owl chuckled and sighed. "But this time, the oriole is unaware of the mantis behind."

"I wonder if Silver Swan will be able to find out the truth successfully." Jade Falcon was full of anticipation. "Several trips to the north have yielded nothing, but this time the clues are so clear, we should be able to make a breakthrough."

Every three days, a carrier pigeon would deliver the latest updates, and Xie Yunshu patiently waited, suppressing his anxiety.

The rumors that were being debunked originated in the south, but were actually carried out by instructions from the north.

As he meticulously investigated, his efforts to unravel the mystery encountered immense resistance, cutting off all leads. Silver Swan was at a loss, caught in a dilemma, and once again found himself in a predicament.

There are very few sects in the North that can exert influence over a wide area and whose power is deeply hidden there.

Acting swiftly and decisively, leaving no trace, Jia Ye... must have someone by her side.

Who could it be?

He flipped through the secret reports one by one, gazing at the detailed account of the extermination of the Fang family in Shu, and a growing sense of doubt gradually appeared between his brows.

White doves flapped their wings and flew out of the window, soaring into the distant sky, carrying instructions whose ink was still wet.

There is only one target to be explored.

Xijing, the Royal Palace.

"I really don't know how I can make amends even slightly." Shen Huaiyang's handsome face was filled with guilt and heaviness. "It was my fault for not keeping an eye on Shalin, which led to Brother Xie being slandered."

"This matter has nothing to do with you, why blame yourself?" Xie Yunshu helped the other person sit down in a chair, exchanging pleasantries warmly without any resentment. "How is Uncle Shen?"

“My father is well and specifically instructed me to apologize to Uncle Xie.” Seeing his courteous treatment, Shen Huaiyang felt even more distressed. “Shalin heard at the restaurant that Shanshan had been attacked by the Jingjue and narrowly escaped the destruction of the kingdom. And just then, someone at the next table spoke highly of Brother Xie. In a fit of anger…”

"She's a pitiful person too." Finally understanding the cause of the rumors, Xie Yunshu brushed it off lightly. "It's not entirely her fault; let bygones be bygones."

"It's all my fault for neglecting to damage the Xie family's reputation and tarnish Brother Xie's honor. I deserve to die a thousand deaths to atone for it. Back then, Miss Ye kindly forgave her, but..." Shen Huaiyang was overwhelmed with guilt. He stood up and bowed deeply, speechless and ashamed.

Xie Yunshu calmed down and comforted the other party with magnanimity and composure, thus defusing the other party's apologies.

Si Yi once suggested eliminating the threat completely, but after much deliberation, he decided against it. After all, Shalin's life had been ruined because of him and Jia Ye. Although she had escaped the Southern Prince, due to her past as a favored concubine, Shen Huaiyang could not and would not take her as his principal wife. Princess Shanshan would eventually become a minor character, and it is understandable that she would feel wronged and resentful.

Now that things have calmed down, given the Shen family's strictness, they would certainly not allow Shalin to utter a single word that could cause a stir. Therefore, he had no intention of delving into the matter further. He summoned Qinglan to accompany him in entertaining him, and the storm that had been brewing was thus averted.

Back in the study, a snow-white carrier pigeon leisurely paced on the desk, pecking at the wolf-hair pen. When it saw someone coming, it tilted its black bean-like eyes and obediently let him take out the secret letter.

The note was written by Yin Hu, containing only four characters.

Come to Xijing immediately.

Chang'an, the capital of the Western Capital.

Located right under the emperor's nose, in a place of extreme prosperity, the bustling atmosphere is unimaginable.

Pedestrians thronged the streets, their sweat pouring down like clouds, the city bustling with visitors from all directions, travelers from afar, people from all corners of the land, and envoys from all nations paying tribute.

Everywhere you look, there are all sorts of strange and exotic costumes, the air is filled with the fragrance of perfume, and a diverse array of people are on display. Deep-set eyes and high noses of the Central Asians skillfully peddle glittering jewels, tall Kunlun slaves drive magnificent carriages, fire-breathing performers display their skills to the awe-inspiring applause, and sugar figurines are surrounded by a crowd of children, keeping them busy. Merchants flock to both the East and West Markets, and the 108 wards offer a dazzling array of goods, a feast for the eyes.

Qinglan and Bijun were dazzled and excited. He paid no attention, and when they met Yinhu at the designated tavern, he immediately asked him a question.

"What were they found out?"

Yin Hu was always prudent in his actions, which is why he was able to reach Xijing with just four words.

Upon hearing this, Silver Swan scratched its head from side to side, stammering in response.

"The investigation... has uncovered some information, but it's not yet confirmed."

His hesitant tone was hard to decipher, so Bi Jun went up and punched him.

"I can't be sure you called us all the way here. Stop being so mysterious, just tell me."

Yin Hu gave an awkward laugh, "I think I saw the Snow Envoy, but..." He hesitated for a long time, clearly lacking confidence. "Unable to confirm."

“What do you mean?” He stared intently at the other person. “Your eyes never fail you, do they?”

The oppressive pressure made Yin Hu hesitate. "I only took one look, and I really can't be sure. The guards at the King's Palace are too tight. I've tried several times but failed."

"She's in the King's Palace?"

"Um."

Silver Swan reported on its recent gains. "After receiving the message by carrier pigeon, I began to investigate, but the other party is too powerful. Although there are many rumors circulating, they are all superficial gossip, and we know very little about the details."

The Prince's Mansion was not a newly rich family like the Prince of Nanjun; its origins were far more ancient and far-reaching.

At the end of the Sui Dynasty, various warlords fought for power.

The Jun family was a prominent clan in Jiangnan, possessing assets exceeding ten thousand taels of silver. They generously supported Emperor Taizong's military campaigns. The eldest son, clad in armor, served as Taizong's ally, facing death several times. After the empire was pacified, Emperor Gaozu personally bestowed upon a prince of a different surname, but the Jun family firmly declined, retiring to commerce. Later, they were granted ten thousand taels of gold, ordered to build a royal palace, and even married a princess to the family, greatly enhancing their reputation. From then on, the Jun family devoted themselves to commerce, owning numerous shops and navigating the complexities of business, accumulating vast sums of gold and silver daily, gradually gaining a reputation as the wealthiest family in the land. Over the years, they recruited heroes from across the land, firmly establishing themselves as the leading force in the northern martial arts world, forming a powerful pillar in the Central Plains.

His ancestor, Jun Cheng'an, upon a brief encounter with Emperor Taizong at the end of the Sui Dynasty, resolved to dedicate his entire family to supporting him, and his funeral was the most solemn and honorable. His eldest son was a highly skilled martial artist with numerous military achievements, but died young due to a recurrence of an old injury. His second son, Jun Ruoxia, married Princess Qingyue, a woman of handsome appearance and dashing charm, with exceptional shrewdness; the grandeur of the Jun family was largely due to her strategic planning. Sadly, fate was cruel, and he passed away many years ago, leaving the entire clan to his newly adult only son.

Jun Suiyu, son of Jun Ruoxia and Princess Qingle, is the current head of the Junwang Mansion. His actions are shrouded in mystery, rarely appearing in public; his name is known throughout the martial arts world, but his true form remains unknown. He learned martial arts from his father from a young age, his skills remaining a mystery to the world. At the age of seventeen, Jun Ruoxia and his wife both died of illness. Jun Suiyu, at a young age, inherited his position and took control of the central government. His decisive and ruthless actions, coupled with his strategic acumen, have earned him the respect of all who see him as a promising young man.

With the Jun family's influence in the north, if Jia Ye were to hide among them, she could remain completely hidden.

“She almost never goes out. The security and checks at the King’s Mansion are tighter than those at Tianshan. I managed to sneak in once, but the courtyards are numerous and the gates are heavily guarded. I couldn’t find my way around at all, so I had to come back.” Yin Hu looked troubled. This was the first time he had encountered such a difficult person.

Even the Silver Swan was helpless in this place… He paused for a moment and then asked.

When did you see her?

“The carriage from the King’s Palace,” Yin Hu admitted sheepishly. “It was just a fleeting glimpse, but I vaguely thought she looked somewhat like her…” He trailed off, stopping mid-sentence.

“Could it be a coincidence?” Bi Jun questioned. “Perhaps she’s not even in the manor.”

“This…” Yin Hu hesitated for a moment, then quickly glanced at Xie Yunshu. “I think he should be here.”

"How did you know?" Xie Qinglan, after listening for a while, finally couldn't help but join the discussion.

"Because the most sensational topic in Chang'an in recent years is... Jun Suiyu has taken in a sworn sister."

"My sworn sister!"

The group of people blurted out at the same time, then looked at each other, completely dumbfounded.

Xie Yunshu pursed his lips tightly, his handsome face expressionless.

Lantern Festival

The Jun family has always been low-key and meticulous, with an excellent reputation. However, due to their special status, they have always been a major topic of gossip among the neighbors. Compared to emperors and generals, discussing a family like the Jun family, which is neither an official nor a commoner, will not bring disaster and is much more casual and unrestrained.

The legends of the Jun family, their wealth, their power, and the many mysterious rumors surrounding them are all topics of endless discussion, and one can easily glean some insight from the hushed conversations among the crowded people in the restaurant.

The timing of our arrival was perfect, coinciding with the Chang'an Lantern Festival.

The fire trees and silver flowers blend together, the star bridge and iron locks open. A thousand lights illuminate the trees, the bright moon follows the people.

The courtesans are all like blooming plum blossoms, their songs like falling plum blossoms. The imperial guards do not enforce the curfew, nor does the water clock hasten the passing of time.

For three days, no curfew was imposed in Chang'an. The city was ablaze with lights, a dazzling spectacle, a rare day for revelry.

Colorful lanterns were erected along the streets, some shaped like pagodas and pavilions, others like jade trees and coral branches, and still others like celestial mountains and altars—each unique and dazzling, some reaching twenty feet in height. Covered with brocade and adorned with gold and silver tassels, they were breathtakingly bright. More than ten thousand other lanterns of various sizes hung high, like silver flowers and fiery trees.

More than a thousand palace maids, dressed in fine silks and brocades, their pearls and jade swaying, were alluring and charming. They sang and danced under the lanterns for three days and three nights without ceasing. The world had been at peace for a long time, and with this auspicious festival, it was as if flowers were adorned with brocade and oil was poured over a blazing fire, displaying the utmost joy of a prosperous age.

Looking down at the dazzling scene from his private seat in the restaurant, Xie Yunshu showed no joy, listening coldly to Yin Hu's report.

"About three years ago, rumors began to circulate that Jun Suiyu had brought back a woman from who-knows-where, showering her with affection. Any treasure that caught her eye would be placed before her without hesitation. The Jun family replaced nine chefs skilled in Yangzhou cuisine for her, and even invited a chef from the imperial kitchen to provide guidance. This was witnessed by the most famous craftsmen in Chang'an's brocade workshop. It is said that the food and supplies in her residence were extremely extravagant, and a single beaded curtain was made of thousands of top-quality gemstones. They even dug a hidden channel for her, painstakingly introducing hot spring water for bathing..." In fact, there was much more gossip about the relationship between the two, but seeing Xie Yunshu's expression, Yin Hu wisely swallowed it.

"The rumors circulating in the alleys are extremely varied. Until two years ago, when Jun Suiyu publicly announced that she was his sworn sister, there were even more speculations. She lives a secluded life and very few people have met her, but according to the descriptions of one or two people who have seen her, she should be the master."

"What do you mean 'should'? You've seen it yourself." Qinglan said irritably, feeling sorry for her third brother.

Yin Hu rolled his eyes. "You'll see when you see it."

"What do you mean by that?" Xie Yunshu asked coldly.

“It seems…” Silver Swan paused. “Today is the Lantern Festival. I heard that Jun Suiyu will also be here to watch the festival, and it is very likely that he will bring the Lord with him. We will know when we meet him.”

Bi Jun glanced at the densely packed crowd below. "This is it?"

Silver Swan grinned, refraining from making sarcastic remarks, and pointed a finger from afar.

"Get there."

Diagonally opposite is a delicate and elegant little building. Through the cracks in the window, one can vaguely see the magnificent and luxurious interior, with exquisite furnishings. It is quiet and deserted, forming a strong contrast with the bustling street.

“That’s the property of the Jun family, and it’s also the best place to enjoy the lantern festival every year. Overlooking the whole street, the lanterns and lanterns must pass by here. Whenever she comes, she will definitely watch it from upstairs.”

"No wonder you booked this place; it must have cost you a lot of money," Bi Jun suddenly realized.

"It's outrageously expensive; I offered an astronomical price." Silver Swan didn't even blink. "We'll see how my luck is today."

Night gradually enveloped everything.

The streetlights grew brighter and brighter, illuminating the entire street as if it were daytime.

The group chatted idly, and Yin Hu and Bi Jun, having not seen each other for a long time, started bickering again. Xie Yunshu remained silent, gazing at the dazzling lights below.

That year, on the third day of the third lunar month, she and he strolled side by side... inseparable in the crowded streets... a single misstep led to the current situation.

He... didn't want to lose her.

The sound of phoenix flutes filled the air, and the jade pot shone brightly. Famous scholars and beautiful women emerged, eager to witness the most magnificent night in Chang'an. The crowd was bustling with noise, laughter, and singing and dancing, stirring up a sense of excitement. However, because of Xie Yunshu's indifferent expression, no one dared to make a move. The crowd fell silent because of his silence. The noise outside the window was like a surging tide, while the room was quiet and still, as if isolated from the celebration.

After waiting for a long time, the silver swan suddenly jumped up.

"Here it comes, it's that carriage."

Without his pointing, a conspicuous line of cars slowly drove past the crowd.

"Are you sure?" Qinglan asked casually, but couldn't help but lean forward to take a closer look.