SFS Chapter 341 (76 words added)
Chapter 341 (76 words added)
As Xue Ruanruan reached the entrance of the main hall, she heard Yan Xiao's voice from inside. Overjoyed, she quickened her pace. "Ruanruan, you're back!" Yan Xiao saw Xue Ruanruan and immediately stood up to greet her, a warm smile on his face. Xue Ruanruan walked quickly to his side, her eyes crinkling with laughter. "Why are you here?" Yan Xiao took her hand and said gently, "I missed you, so I came to see you."
Just then, a gaze from the corner shot towards Xue Ruanruan like a thorn in her back. She turned her head casually and was surprised to find it was Concubine Liu. Concubine Liu's eyes were filled with jealousy and resentment. Xue Ruanruan felt a chill run down her spine, but remained silent.
Yan Xiao led Xue Ruanruan to sit in the main seat. As they were talking, Liu Shi suddenly spoke sarcastically, "Sister, you look much better after going out. I wonder where you found such pleasure." Xue Ruanruan smiled calmly, "I just went to the temple to pray for blessings. But sister, you should watch your words and actions, lest you lose your composure." Liu Shi was speechless, her face flushing red. Yan Xiao saw all this, gently tightening his grip on Xue Ruanruan's hand, his eyes full of protectiveness. He greeted her with a smile. Murong Xun looked up at Xue Ruanruan, a hint of amazement flashing in his eyes. He had never seen such a beautiful and charming woman, as if a fairy had descended to earth. "These are fruits I just picked from my space," Xue Ruanruan said, taking out fruit from her space and inviting everyone to taste them, "These fruits are sweet and delicious, everyone should try some." Yan Xiao looked at her with doting eyes, taking the first bite, "Delicious." Murong Xun also took a bite and praised, "Truly delicious! I wonder where this fruit comes from; it's so unique." Xue Ruanruan smiled and said, "This is a variety I came across by chance; it's rarely seen in the world."
Seeing everyone enjoying themselves, Liu felt increasingly jealous and sneered, "Hmph, it might be some kind of unknown origin. What if they get sick from eating it?" Yan Xiao's face darkened, and he was about to lash out when Xue Ruanruan gently patted his hand, signaling him not to get angry. She looked at Liu, still smiling, "If you're worried about getting a stomachache, then don't eat it. Why spoil everyone's fun?"
At this moment, a maidservant rushed over and whispered a few words in Liu's ear. Liu's face instantly turned deathly pale, and her eyes filled with panic. Xue Ruanruan was puzzled but didn't ask any further questions. Yan Xiao noticed Xue Ruanruan's confusion and gently comforted her, "Don't worry about her, let's enjoy this fruit." Xue Ruanruan nodded, leaned on Yan Xiao's shoulder, and ignored Liu. "You two try some." Xue Ruanruan placed the bamboo basket on the table, took out some fruit, and handed it to Murong Xun and Yan Xiao. Just then, the door was suddenly pushed open, and a matron with several servants rushed in, pointing at Xue Ruanruan and saying, "Madam, you've been hiding forbidden items! This is a serious crime!" Everyone was shocked. Yan Xiao stood up, protected Xue Ruanruan, and said coldly, "Don't talk nonsense! What evidence do you have?" The old woman smiled smugly and gestured for the servants to begin the search. A moment later, they found a doll inscribed with cursed runes in Xue Ruanruan's bundle. Upon seeing this, Liu Shi immediately jumped out, shrilly, "Sister, how cruel you are! You've used such an evil object to curse the Prince!" Xue Ruanruan was startled, realizing this was Liu Shi's scheme, but she quickly calmed herself, looked around, and her gaze fell on the old woman. "Old woman, your haste must be due to someone's orders. Tell me, who gave you a bribe to frame me like this?" The old woman's face changed, her eyes flickering. Liu Shi's eyes darted around in panic, and she was about to speak in protest when Yan Xiao glared at her angrily, "Liu Shi, if this matter involves you, don't blame me for being ruthless!" Liu Shi's legs went weak, and she almost collapsed to the ground. Murong Xun took the fruit, took a bite, and immediately found it sweet and delicious. "Very good, thank you, Miss Ruanruan," Murong Xun said. "You're welcome." Xue Ruanruan smiled. "By the way, you mentioned you were going to Jiangnan. Is there something important?" Murong Xun nodded. "There's a batch of precious medicinal herbs in Jiangnan that I need to purchase." Murong Xun said. Xue Ruanruan's eyes lit up. "I know the growing habits of some rare medicinal herbs; perhaps I can help." Yan Xiao frowned slightly. "Jiangnan is a long and inconvenient journey." Xue Ruanruan tugged at Yan Xiao's arm and pleaded, "I want to go and see for myself. Besides, with you and Young Master Murong here, I'll be fine." Yan Xiao couldn't resist her persistent pleading and had no choice but to agree.
When Liu saw that they were going to Jiangnan, her eyes lit up and she hatched another wicked plan. That night, she secretly found the old woman and plotted to sabotage them on their way to Jiangnan.
On the day of departure, the sun shone brightly. Xue Ruanruan, dressed in a light blue dress, cheerfully followed Yan Xiao and Murong Xun into the carriage. Liu Shi stood at a distance, watching their departing figures, a sinister smile playing on her lips. However, she was unaware that Xue Ruanruan had already secretly planted spies, observing her every move. The trip to Jiangnan, seemingly calm on the surface, was actually fraught with undercurrents. "The evidence in the Jiangnan flood embezzlement case is almost complete," Xue Ruanruan thought, a sudden realization dawning on her. She hadn't expected Murong Xun's trip to Jiangnan to involve such a significant matter. She leaned closer to Murong Xun and whispered, "In that case, we must be even more careful, lest we alert the enemy." Murong Xun nodded, "I've made all the arrangements, but there may be some complications along the way."
The carriage sped along the official road when suddenly, dust billowed ahead, and a group of men in black blocked their path. Yan Xiao immediately shielded Xue Ruanruan, while Murong Xun drew his sword, ready for battle. Without a word, the men in black charged forward, brandishing their swords. Yan Xiao and Murong Xun, both highly skilled in martial arts, clashed with the men. Although Xue Ruanruan was not skilled in martial arts, she remained calm and collected, searching for an opportunity to attack.
During the fight, Xue Ruanruan noticed a resemblance between the leader of the men in black and the old woman who served Lady Liu. A plan formed in her mind, and she shouted, "You're acting under Lady Liu's orders! Don't you know how powerful the Prince is? Don't do such a foolish thing!" The men in black hesitated upon hearing this. At that moment, Yan Xiao and Murong Xun seized the opportunity, forcing the men in black into a retreating rout. Finally, the men in black fled in disarray.
Yan Xiao looked at Xue Ruanruan with heartache in her eyes, "There are still many dangers along the way, don't be impulsive." Xue Ruanruan nodded, "I know, with you all here, I'm not afraid." The three of them packed their belongings and continued their journey towards Jiangnan. "I'm going to Jiangnan to bring those corrupt officials to justice." Xue Ruanruan was filled with admiration. The carriage continued its journey, and when they arrived at a small town, the three decided to rest there. Xue Ruanruan went to buy some daily necessities, while Yan Xiao and Murong Xun waited at the inn. Xue Ruanruan hadn't gone far when she sensed someone following her. She remained calm and deliberately turned into a secluded alley. As soon as she turned the corner, several masked men surrounded her. Xue Ruanruan remained calm and shouted, "It's that bitch Liu who ordered you again, isn't it!" The masked man didn't answer, but swung his knife. Just then, Yan Xiao and Murong Xun arrived. They had been secretly watching Xue Ruanruan and followed her when she hadn't returned. The two quickly subdued the masked man. After these two attacks, they realized that Lady Liu wouldn't give up easily. To ensure their safety, they became even more cautious on their journey. Yan Xiao and Murong Xun took turns keeping watch, and Xue Ruanruan also became more vigilant. Meanwhile, Lady Liu, back at home, learned that both attempts to frame them had failed and was furious. She began plotting a new scheme, and a new crisis was quietly approaching their trip to Jiangnan. "You are truly a good prince who rids the people of evil," Murong Xun smiled slightly. "It is my duty as a prince." "Have the kitchen make some chestnut cakes tonight. I saw Xiao Li really enjoyed them yesterday," Xue Ruanruan said with a smile. "My sister really dotes on Xiao Li; that boy talks about you all the time." "Fang Lingruo teased. Xue Li, who was standing to the side, blushed instantly upon hearing her sister's words and hurriedly ran over to tug at Xue Ruanruan's sleeve. "Sister, I missed you too." Xue Ruanruan patted Xue Li's head and smiled gently. "Go play, I'll call you when it's time to eat." "Also, inform Xue Yan to prepare in advance. During my absence, the capital will be in his hands." Murong Xun knew that this trip would be fraught with danger and that he had to be fully prepared. "Yes, Your Highness, I will take care of it immediately." Yan Xiao bowed and accepted the order before turning to leave. Murong Xun looked out the window, secretly vowing to thoroughly investigate the corruption case in Jiangnan and bring justice to the people of Jiangnan. At this moment, Xue Ruanruan walked to his side and whispered, "Your Highness, you must be careful on this trip. Those corrupt officials in Jiangnan will not give in easily." Murong Xun turned to look at her, his gaze firm: "I will be careful. With that evidence, they won't be able to stir up any trouble." Xue Ruanruan nodded slightly, took out a purse from her bosom, and handed it to him. "This is something I embroidered myself. There's a peace charm inside; I hope it will keep you safe." Murong Xun took the purse, his heart warmed. "Thank you, Miss Ruanruan. With this, I'm sure I'll return safely." Just then, a guard rushed in to report, "Your Highness, news has come from the capital that the Empress Dowager has suddenly fallen seriously ill." Murong Xun's expression changed; he hadn't expected such a thing to happen. Xue Ruanruan also asked worriedly, "Your Highness, given the current situation, can you still go to Jiangnan?" Murong Xun pondered for a moment. "I will arrange for someone to handle the Empress Dowager's matter. The corruption case in Jiangnan is urgent; I still have to go." Having said that, he began arranging the follow-up matters, preparing to depart immediately. He wanted to bring justice to the people. Murong Xun decided to start his investigation with the Left Prime Minister's residence, secretly sending people to gather evidence of the Left Prime Minister's crimes. Soon, various charges were presented to him: embezzlement, disregard for human life, forming cliques, etc., each a capital offense. Xue Ruanruan's heart skipped a beat. She realized the Left Prime Minister was the Empress Dowager's younger brother; this investigation would inevitably cross the Empress Dowager's bottom line. The Empress Dowager was currently seriously ill; if she knew Murong Xun was going to thoroughly investigate the Left Prime Minister, it might worsen her condition. Moreover, the Empress Dowager wielded immense power in the palace; Murong Xun's actions would likely provoke a strong backlash from her faction.
She stole a glance at his eyes and found him staring intently at her, as if he could see right through her. A wave of panic and unease washed over her. She had thought she had gotten away with it perfectly, but now it seemed that wasn't the case. She realized she might have underestimated his intelligence and insight; perhaps he had already seen through her intentions. At that moment, Xue Ruanruan's heart pounded even faster. She didn't know how to face this situation. What would happen if he really discovered her actions? She began to regret her risky move, now finding herself in such an awkward predicament. However, despite the fear and anxiety filling her heart, Xue Ruanruan tried to remain calm. She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself and think about how to deal with the situation. After all, running away wouldn't solve anything; she needed to bravely face reality. But since she hadn't exposed him in public, there was still room for maneuver. Xue Ruanruan forced herself to remain calm, meeting Murong Xun's gaze, and said softly, "Your Highness, this matter requires careful consideration. As for the Empress Dowager..." Murong Xun interrupted her, "My mind is made up. If we let the Left Prime Minister go because of the Empress Dowager, what will happen to the people he has persecuted?" Xue Ruanruan bit her lip, "I understand Your Highness's righteousness, but the Empress Dowager is seriously ill. If we provoke a rebellion from her faction, it will be detrimental to Your Highness." Murong Xun looked at her, "I am naturally aware of the risks involved, but I am determined to investigate this embezzlement case. Miss Ruanruan, you don't need to worry, I will handle things with the Empress Dowager." Seeing his determination, Xue Ruanruan felt a mixture of admiration and worry. At this moment, Yan Xiao rushed over, "Your Highness, the Empress Dowager has sent someone to summon you to the palace immediately." Murong Xun's expression hardened. "It seems the Empress Dowager already knows about this." He straightened his clothes. "Ruan Ruan, you stay here and wait for my news." With that, he followed the messenger into the palace. A contest with the Empress Dowager's faction was about to begin. Did the fact that he cooperated in pressuring the Left Prime Minister mean he had agreed to her actions? Xue Ruan Ruan was in turmoil, unable to think of anything else. Only after the Left Prime Minister and the other students' parents had all left did she apologize to the headmaster and teachers. The Left Prime Minister decided to secretly observe the Regent's movements and find a suitable opportunity to make further plans. At the same time, he also began to win over some ministers who supported him in the court to strengthen his own power. The Left Prime Minister knew that in this power struggle, only with sufficient strength could he protect himself and his family. He began to carefully recall his conversation with Lady Wang, trying to find some clues. The more he pondered, the more ordinary and unremarkable those words seemed. The Left Prime Minister frowned, then suddenly a thought flashed through his mind—he realized that Lady Wang's seemingly ordinary words might conceal a hidden meaning. Perhaps Lady Wang was sent by the Regent to test him. The more the Left Prime Minister thought about it, the more likely it seemed, and cold sweat broke out on his forehead. Meanwhile, Xue Ruanruan was also racking her brains for a solution. She knew the Left Prime Minister wouldn't give up easily, and the days to come would certainly be even more difficult. Just as she was feeling anxious, Yan Xiao brought news that after some maneuvering with the Empress Dowager in the palace, Murong Xun had temporarily stabilized the situation, but the Empress Dowager demanded that he stop investigating the Left Prime Minister. Murong Xun didn't agree, only saying he would consider it carefully. Xue Ruanruan understood that this was only temporary calm; a storm was brewing. She decided to work with Murong Xun and Yan Xiao to further gather evidence against the Left Prime Minister, ensuring he couldn't recover. Meanwhile, the Left Prime Minister was also intensifying his plans, preparing to deliver a fatal blow to Murong Xun and Xue Ruanruan; an even more intense palace intrigue was about to erupt. He was lost in deep thought. Was he just imagining things? Or was there a deeper secret hidden within? Time ticked by, and the Left Prime Minister remained perplexed. He decided to set aside his doubts for the time being and continue observing Lady Wang's every move, hoping to uncover more clues. After all, in this treacherous officialdom, any detail could be the key to changing the situation. The Left Prime Minister was furious; he hadn't expected his beloved daughter to be so disobedient. He angrily pointed at her, declaring that if she continued to entangle herself with the Regent, he would disown her! Hearing this, the Left Prime Minister's daughter felt a sharp pain in her heart. She knew her father had always placed high hopes on her, wishing her to grow into a noble and elegant young lady, marry into a wealthy family, and bring honor to the clan. But her feelings for the Regent were something she couldn't sever.