Chapter 136: Hoping She Can Live to See Jiang Qinian's Arrival in Jizhou
Huaxi Village.
After returning to the village, An Er was filled with excitement!
Master, I've returned to offer my humble service.
He wiped the sweat from his forehead, stood in the quiet courtyard, and looked around.
Huh, where is everyone?
An Er thought that everyone must be busy and didn't pay it much mind. He directly pushed open the door to the main hall...
When he saw the ice cubes and chilled fruits in the main hall, he shed tears of envy.
So, what was the point of him offering his humble service?
Is there something wrong with enjoying chilled fruits at home?
Xiao Chengjin, who was feeding fruit to Jiang Ru, glanced at An Er, who was standing dumbfounded at the door, and asked with a hint of meaning, "Why have you come back?"
An Er: "..."
Why did he come back?
Of course, he had returned to report the news.
An Er sized up the group of people with ears pricked up and deliberately teased them.
When everyone could barely contain their curiosity, he spoke with an air of mystery, "Today, I witnessed quite a spectacle at the Zhou residence."
Xiao Chengjin, seeing the excitement in Jiang Ru's eyes, spoke in a deep voice, "Tell us!"
You dog servant, here's your chance to offer your humble service.
At An Er's words, he raised his eyebrows arrogantly.
"I sneaked into the Zhou residence before dawn, and until now, I haven't had a grain of rice or a drop of water..." He said with such a pitiful tone!
Jiang Ru, watching An Er's pitiful appearance, couldn't help but cover her mouth and chuckle. "Dong Xue, take those two plates of chilled fruits over to him."
Alright! This guy is becoming more and more cunning.
However, it's not easy, especially on such a hot day.
"Yes, Mistress." Dong Xue responded and quickly turned to bring two plates of fruit.
Dong Xue placed the two plates of fruit in front of An Er, her ears turning slightly red as she glanced at him. "Master is rewarding you!"
When An Er received the fruit plates, he discreetly assessed Dong Xue in front of him.
Suddenly, he felt that in just a few days, Dong Xue had become even more beautiful.
What should he do?
Did he also want to find a wife?
An Er sneakily looked at Dong Xue's retreating figure, holding the fruit plates, and moved aside.
After taking a bite of the chilled fruit, his eyes lit up.
Yes, he would stay at home from now on, and incidentally, try to win over a wife.
Jiang Ru, on the sly, watched the two bashful individuals and discreetly tugged on Xiao Chengjin's sleeve. "Those two seem to be hitting it off."
Xiao Chengjin, hearing this, immediately became alert.
He gave An Er a sidelong glance and whispered, "Ru'er, who are those two hitting it off?"
Whether it's their hearts or stars that are stirring, they won't be able to marry before me.
Yes, from now on, let's make sure An Er stays far away from home.
Jiang Ru moved closer to Xiao Chengjin and whispered, "Don't you think they make a cute couple?"
Xiao Chengjin snorted, "They're alright."
Ru'er, you and I are the perfect match.
After An Er finished his fruit, he enthusiastically recounted everything he had seen at the Zhou residence.
Jiang Ru, after hearing the story, was deeply impressed by Jiang Yunyao's cunning move.
All the accompanying guards had left, and at this crucial moment, that old hag had fallen out of favor...
Tsk tsk! Let's hope she lives long enough to see Jiang Qinian arrive in Jizhou!
Xiao Chengjin raised an eyebrow as he looked at An Er, who was clearly enjoying himself.
On such a hot day, it wouldn't hurt to let this dog servant rest for a couple of days!
Nangong Yi, upon hearing the name "Jiang Yunyao," thought he might be hearing things.
Curious, he asked, "Ru'er, you mean Jiang Yunyao from the capital?"
Jiang Ru smiled, "Yes, it's the one from the Prime Minister's residence."
Nangong Yi was even more puzzled.
Jiang Ru looked at Nangong Yi's bewildered expression and playfully said, "She came to Jizhou... to chase after someone else's man."
Nangong Yi, upon hearing this, was taken aback. "Jiang Yunyao and that prince seem to have a..."
Before he could finish his sentence, Nangong Yi instinctively looked at Xiao Chengjin.
Chasing after someone else's man?
It couldn't be that she came to chase after Xiao Chengjin, that dog of a man!
It must have been Jiang Qinian, that wretched man, who arranged for Jiang Yunyao to come.
This old man wants to make Ru'er unhappy and cause her trouble.
Just you wait!
The next time he sees Jiang Qinian, he'll secretly give him a good beating.
Oh, by the way, according to this kid, Jiang Yunyao's current situation doesn't seem too good.
Haha, why not let her stay in the Zhou residence as a concubine for that Zhou something?
Xiao Chengjin looked guiltily at Nangong Yi and silently complained in his heart: That annoying woman came to find someone from the Zhou family.
This has nothing to do with me!
I'm innocent.
Sigh, it's my misfortune to be dreamt about by that annoying woman.
Suddenly, Jiang Ru remembered the message she had received earlier in the morning.
"Uncle, there's a drought in Jizhou. The Emperor has sent Jiang Qinian to provide relief. The father and daughter will be reunited soon."
"What? Jiang Qinian is coming to provide relief in Jizhou?" Nangong Yi said, his emotions suddenly surging.
He secretly thought, This is great, it's like a gift from the heavens!
Steward Lin, watching Nangong Yi's excitement, knew they were planning to go together.
Hehe! When Jiang Qinian arrives, we'll bring him to the village and let the village women pester him.
For a moment, everyone in the room was thinking about how to deal with the upcoming arrival of Jiang Qinian.
Jiang Ru seemed to see the scene of the father and daughter crying in each other's arms, and a slight smile curled up at the corner of her lips.
Jiang Qinian should be arriving in a few days, and there was no room for error with the relief funds and supplies in Jizhou.
So, she needed to head to Jizhou in advance to welcome him.
Tonight, she would test Phoenix's speed and stamina, to see how fast it could go and how much it could carry.
Hehe! In the future, she might even use it for express delivery.
On a certain official road.
The relief convoy, under the scorching sun, moved slowly.
Jiang Qinian lay on a couch inside a carriage, looking listless, as if life had lost its luster.
If he had known it would be like this, he would never have agreed to this task.
Eating poorly, drinking poorly, suffering and toiling...
Sigh, who knows if he'll even make it to Jizhou alive?
Fortunately, they hadn't encountered any refugees or bandits along the way...
Thinking of this, Jiang Qinian suddenly had a bad feeling.
No, the closer they got to Jizhou, the more cautious they should be.
Jiang Qinian forced himself to sit up.
He stuck his head out of the carriage window and shouted hoarsely, "Let's pick up the pace, everyone! We need to reach Jizhou as soon as possible."
In case something goes wrong, no one could bear the responsibility.
Upon hearing this, the others all showed bitter expressions.
Well, for the sake of saving lives, they would endure a bit of hardship!
As long as they reached Jizhou safely, everything would be worth it.
Chapter 137: Even Though There Are No Airplanes Here, She Has a Phoenix!
Night fell.
Jiang Ru lay on her bed, and the mere thought of what she would do tonight couldn't help but make her chuckle softly. She couldn't wait to see Jiang Qinian's bewildered expression.
She didn't intend to infuriate him all at once; rather, she planned to drive him to madness gradually.
And as for Jiang Yunyao, who had journeyed so far to reach Jizhou, she might as well make this place her permanent residence.
Jiang Ru turned her head to glance at the "sleeping" Xiao Chengjin and couldn't resist pinching his cheek.
"Tonight, I'm taking you out for a walk," she thought, with a mischievous glint in her eye.
But first, let's go into the space and have a little fun with that small Phoenix.
With a swift movement, Jiang Ru entered the space.
Xiao Chengjin, seemingly asleep, felt the emptiness beside him. He slowly opened his eyes.
He looked at the vacant space next to him with a somewhat forlorn expression and let out a faint sigh.
"Ah, I could enter the space when I was unconscious. Ever since I woke up, I haven't had that privilege," he lamented. "I kind of 'miss' that little Phoenix."
After entering the space, Jiang Ru took a stroll. But where were the people? Where was the Phoenix?
Observing the freshly ripened strawberries, she knew that Sheng Yunshao had planted them especially for her.
She crouched down, her eyes glistening with tears, as she picked a few strawberries.
Being cared for by someone was a true source of happiness.
After enjoying the strawberries, Jiang Ru called out within the space, "Old man, little Phoenix..."
At that moment, Sheng Yunshao was at the medicinal herb garden on the mountainside, diligently studying rare herbs.
Even though these rare herbs were unfamiliar to him, he meticulously researched each one.
Little Phoenix stood beside him, chirping incessantly. Whenever it saw Sheng Yunshao hesitating to pluck certain herbs, it used its beak to pick them and offered them to him, as if sharing the harvest.
Their interaction was harmonious.
When Little Phoenix noticed the bright red fruits that resembled "Transformation Fruits" to it, it impulsively picked a few and handed them to Sheng Yunshao.
One for you, one for me.
Sheng Yunshao glanced at Little Phoenix and keenly detected the keyword "transformation."
So, it wasn't always a Phoenix.
Sheng Yunshao accepted the red fruit and tasted it casually before asking, "What were you before?"
Little Phoenix was feeling rather pleased with itself at the moment. Without much thought, it blurted out, "A rooster!"
The words slipped out before it realized what it had said.
As soon as those words left Little Phoenix's beak, it realized it had boasted a bit too much. It blinked its golden eyes, feigning innocence, as if saying, "Did I just say something silly?"
Sheng Yunshao watched the slightly flustered Little Phoenix and chuckled. "You're just playing around with the old man, aren't you?"
"A rooster turning into a Phoenix? I find that hard to believe!"
This world from the book certainly had a touch of fantasy to it.
Haha! With such a potent cheat, Ru'er must be the protagonist of this world.
Sheng Yunshao maintained a calm facade, but inside, he couldn't help but burst into laughter.
Little Phoenix, seeing Sheng Yunshao's disbelief, grew anxious. It used its wings to peck at Sheng Yunshao and adopted a stern expression, saying, "Old man, I'm telling you, I really used to be a rooster."
"And I even stood in for my sister's wedding!"
Sheng Yunshao looked at the eager-to-explain Little Phoenix, a hint of cunning in his eyes.
Little Phoenix, you're just too naive.
"Really?" Sheng Yunshao pretended to be astonished, patiently awaiting more details.
Little Phoenix, with a touch of arrogance, huffed, "A few days before my sister's wedding, the Prince's steward scoured the entire capital for the most spirited rooster."
"And I, the most handsome and spirited rooster in the entire capital, was chosen!"
"So, I had the honor of standing in for that useless man during my sister's wedding."
"But after something happened to the Prince, my sister didn't forget about me. She threw me into this mysterious place."
"After eating one of these red fruits, I fell into a deep slumber. When I woke up, I had transformed into a Phoenix."
Sheng Yunshao raised an eyebrow after hearing Little Phoenix's explanation. He looked at the red fruit in his hand and then back at Little Phoenix.
Could it be that this rooster had a Phoenix destiny? It must be so.
"Little Phoenix, let's go back! I think I heard Ru'er's voice just now."
Little Phoenix nodded and crouched slightly, signaling for Sheng Yunshao to hold on.
...
Jiang Ru stood on the rooftop, watching the small Phoenix carrying the old man and flying toward her. She smiled with delight.
Even though there were no airplanes here, she had a Phoenix!
With this flight speed, it was more than enough!
The small Phoenix landed in the courtyard, and Jiang Ru leaped down from the rooftop.
Jiang Ru looked at the spirited Sheng Yunshao and teased, "Old man, you're in great spirits. The wrinkles on your face have disappeared, hehe!"
Sheng Yunshao subconsciously touched his cheek. "Dear, the spiritual energy in this space is abundant, and the herbs on the mountainside are effective. I should be able to live a few more years."
Jiang Ru playfully huffed, "You must live many more years."
The neglected Little Phoenix extended its wings and patted Jiang Ru, trying to get her attention. "Sister..."
Jiang Ru glanced at Little Phoenix with a hint of amusement. It seemed like Little Phoenix was getting anxious.
"Little Phoenix, my sister needs your help with something. Can you promise to help her?" Jiang Ru said while gently stroking Little Phoenix's feathers.
Little Phoenix looked at Jiang Ru with a suspicious look, suspecting that her sister was about to make it do some hard work.
Jiang Ru looked at Little Phoenix's vigilant eyes and put on an "innocent" expression. "Oh, in the past, my sister was often bullied by a certain bad person, and now that person has finally arrived..."
Before she could finish her sentence, Little Phoenix flared up. "Sister, who bullied you? Tell me, I'll breathe fire and burn him to ashes!"
Daring to bully its sister, did they think it was a joke?
Jiang Ru winked at Sheng Yunshao, hugging Little Phoenix's neck with a "touched" expression. "Little Phoenix, you're so kind."
"Eating my food and staying in my place... what's wrong with it flying me around?"
Hehe! I've got it wrapped around my finger.
Sheng Yunshao looked at the clueless Little Phoenix, seriously asking, "Who has arrived?"
Jiang Ru pointed at herself with a meaningful look. "Her scummy father is here in Jizhou. I want to teach him a lesson."
Sheng Yunshao's eyes lit up upon hearing this. "Jiang Qinian is in Jizhou..." He revealed a mischievous grin.
Alright! We'll confiscate his disaster relief grain. Let's see how he explains this to the Emperor back in the capital.
"When Jiang Qinian arrives in Jizhou, I'll give him a 'grand' introduction," Jiang Ru said, her lips curving slyly.
After all, they had severed their father-daughter relationship, hadn't they?
Just wait until he sees my real father.
Sheng Yunshao immediately understood Jiang Ru's intent and laughed heartily. "Alright, let's drive him crazy!"
Little Phoenix, who had been ignored, watched the joyful "father-daughter duo" and had a feeling that it had fallen for someone's "trap."
As Jiang Ru contemplated tonight's grand plan, she didn't linger in the space for long. Before leaving the space, she said seriously, "Little Phoenix, we have an agreement. When I need you, you have to rush forward with all your might!"
Without giving Little Phoenix a chance to respond, Jiang Ru swiftly exited the space.
On the bed, Xiao Chengjin, as if sensing Jiang Ru's return, quickly closed his eyes.
Feeling refreshed after leaving the space, Jiang Ru looked at Xiao Chengjin. She knew that this dog of a man was aware of everything but was pretending to be clueless.
Thinking this, Jiang Ru, in a contented mood, leaned over and gently kissed Xiao Chengjin's rosy lips.
Hehe! Consider this a reward.
Take a little nap first, and we'll act in the middle of the night.
Since Jiang Ru had mentioned Jiang Qinian, she seemed inexplicably excited. What was she looking forward to?
Could it be that she was planning some "misdeeds" in the middle of the night?
No, he couldn't let her go alone at a time like this. Thinking so, Xiao Chengjin hurriedly moved closer to Jiang Ru.
Yes, he should become a clingy plaster and stick closely to Jiang Ru.
Chapter 138: In Dreams, Family Disperses...
All was quiet.
Jiang Ru was roused from her slumber by the arm around her waist.
She reached down to touch the arm and muttered softly, "So clingy."
Listening to the murmurs in her ear, Xiao Chengjin couldn't contain his joy.
Ru'er, of course, I want to cling to you.
Jiang Ru raised her hand and pinched Xiao Chengjin's cheek. "Xiao Chengjin, wake up."
Xiao Chengjin rubbed his eyes, appearing drowsy. "Ru'er, what's going on?"
Was Ru'er planning to take him along?
After sitting up, Jiang Ru patted her hair down and said, "Jiang Qining is arriving in Jizhou very soon. Let's go meet him."
Xiao Chengjin feigned surprise, instantly getting up. "Great, I'll change into my night attire."
After both of them changed into their night clothes, they quietly leaped out of the courtyard.
Jiang Ru listened carefully to the surroundings and whispered to Xiao Chengjin, "Wait for me here. I'll bring them out."
At this hour, all the villagers were asleep, so Little Phoenix shouldn't be seen when it came out.
Moreover, they couldn't keep Little Phoenix hidden in the space forever.
One day, the world would know of its existence, and even if someone glimpsed Little Phoenix, what was there to fear?
Phoenixes were auspicious birds, symbols of peace and harmony.
Little Phoenix's presence would only reassure the people.
Of course, except for those ambitious individuals in the palace.
"Ru'er, go ahead!" Xiao Chengjin said, then looked around cautiously.
Jiang Ru entered the space without further ado. She covered Little Phoenix's beak and exited the space.
Little Phoenix, now outside the space, gazed at the pitch-black night and momentarily forgot to react.
Jiang Ru leaned in close to Little Phoenix's ear and threatened in a hushed tone, "Little Phoenix, no loud noises, no screaming. If someone finds you and tries to pluck your feathers..."
The bewildered Little Phoenix listened to Jiang Ru and nodded instinctively.
Jiang Ru released her grip on Little Phoenix's beak. "I'm going for revenge now. Fly in that direction, got it?"
Surveying the dark night, Little Phoenix replied in a hushed tone, "Got it, sister."
Though it was nighttime, there were no issues for Little Phoenix.
It could see its surroundings clearly.
Satisfied with the obedient Little Phoenix, Jiang Ru nodded approvingly.
Jiang Ru looked at the obedient Little Phoenix and nodded in satisfaction.
She straddled Little Phoenix's back and whispered to Xiao Chengjin, "Xiao Chengjin, come up!"
As soon as she spoke, Little Phoenix bristled.
The moment it remembered Jiang Ru's instructions, it turned to Xiao Chengjin and huffed, "Useless, what good are you?"
Xiao Chengjin, who had just sat down, was almost knocked off by the word "useless."
Did Little Phoenix just call him useless?
Hearing this, Jiang Ru couldn't help but stifle a laugh.
She rubbed Little Phoenix's head and whispered, "Don't speak ill of my man."
Xiao Chengjin, on hearing this, wrapped his arm around Jiang Ru's waist.
Humph! Ru'er likes me, this "useless" man, what's the problem?
Little Phoenix secretly thought, "I need to find a way to become human in secret and then... snatch Ru'er away from him."
"Let's take off!" Jiang Ru's tone carried a hint of urgency.
As soon as Little Phoenix thought about going to deal with those who had bullied Jiang Ru, it eagerly flapped its wings in the direction indicated by Jiang Ru.
The hidden guards on the rooftop vaguely saw the departing "big bird" and appeared confused.
There were two voices earlier, one belonging to their master, but who was the other one?
...
The convoy escorting disaster relief funds had no choice but to camp in the wilderness since they hadn't reached the post station in time.
To address the issue of water supply, Jiang Qinian deliberately chose a location closer to a village.
Fearing any mishaps, Jiang Qinian personally patrolled until midnight. He didn't return to the carriage until midnight, unable to hold out any longer.
Before going to sleep, Jiang Qinian still felt somewhat uneasy. He leaned against the carriage window and watched for a while.
The villagers in the village wouldn't dare to do anything to him.
There were no refugees nearby either...
In his mind, Jiang Qinian mumbled, "I've arranged for them to take turns on night watch. There shouldn't be any problems."
After days of traveling, people were exhausted, and apart from the patrolling officers, everyone quickly fell into a deep slumber.
The moonlight was hazy.
Guided by Jiang Ru, Little Phoenix flew along the official road.
Jiang Ru looked at the energetic Little Phoenix and couldn't help but whisper to Xiao Chengjin behind her, "Xiao Chengjin, how's this ride?"
Xiao Chengjin was, of course, very satisfied with this mode of transportation. He praised it generously, "Excellent."
The phoenix spread its wings and soared through the night sky.
Listening to Xiao Chengjin's response with its pointed ears, Little Phoenix couldn't help but feel smug.
The scoundrel, he knows his place.
Hehe, taking a stroll outside feels great. This must be what Ru'er referred to as the "bustling atmosphere of the mortal world"!
Seeing faint flashes of firelight in the distance, Little Phoenix excitedly reported, "Sister, there are a lot of people up ahead."
"A lot of people?" Jiang Ru listened, then bent down for a closer look.
Judging by their formation, they should be Jiang Qinian's group.
Jiang Ru patted Little Phoenix's head. "Little Phoenix, find a place to land, don't let them spot us."
Saying this, Jiang Ru rubbed her hands excitedly.
She turned to Xiao Chengjin and said, "Hold me tightly in a moment. I'll put Little Phoenix away."
"Alright," Xiao Chengjin responded, hooking his arms tightly around Jiang Ru's slender waist.
As they touched the ground, Jiang Ru swiftly stowed Little Phoenix in the space. Both of them silently landed in the nearby forest, not far from the escort team.
Jiang Ru and Xiao Chengjin quietly approached the escort team...
Listening to the sound of deep sleep all around, Jiang Ru raised an eyebrow.
Well, since they're all so tired from traveling, let's help them out a bit.
She observed the group of guards, divided into teams of eight each.
Hehe, it's not easy to travel all this way; they all deserve a good rest!
Jiang Ru took out two packets of sleeping pills from the space and whispered a few words into Xiao Chengjin's ear.
Then, both of them held a packet of sleeping pills and quietly approached the guards on night duty...
At this late hour, the guards on night duty were exhausted, and their vigilance had slackened.
They gathered together, occasionally chatting.
Xiao Chengjin and Jiang Ru had been observing each other's actions. When one side made a move, the other quickly tossed the sleeping pills at the guards on night duty.
Seeing the guards fall into a deep sleep, Jiang Ru raised an eyebrow.
She gestured to Xiao Chengjin and silently approached the carriage carrying food supplies.
Adhering to the principle of swift action, Jiang Ru swiftly placed bags of food and boxes of disaster relief silver into the space.
She left three carriages filled with food for them, fearing that they would go hungry on the way to Jizhou.
Mission accomplished, Jiang Ru and Xiao Chengjin quietly left.
At this moment, Jiang Qinian, who was sleeping in the carriage, had a series of nightmares.
In his dream, his family was falling apart...
His most cherished daughter didn't ascend to the position of empress but instead, the daughter of Nangong Li, Jiang Ru, took the world by storm...
Chapter 139: Disaster Relief Funds Disappear
In the woods, Jiang Ru led Xiao Chengjin while occasionally covering her lips to suppress laughter.
Since the "Dog Emperor" had sent disaster relief silver, they couldn't just let it go to waste. Instead, they'd exchange it directly for food. Even though it seemed like they were going through the motions for nothing, Jiang Ru was overjoyed!
Hehe! Before Jiang Qinian arrived in Jizhou, let's give him a big surprise.
Ever since she exposed the grain shop in town, more and more grain shops had opened up throughout Jizhou. Look at that, after a little shake-up, the grain shop owners finally realized their mistakes!
Given the current situation, as long as the common people had a bit of silver, they wouldn't go hungry for a while.
Jiang Ru stopped in her tracks and whispered to Xiao Chengjin at her side, "They should discover the missing grain soon. Let's enjoy the show before we leave."
Since they'd come all this way, it would be a shame not to watch the commotion.
"Alright," Xiao Chengjin understood Jiang Ru's intentions.
He pondered how to wake Jiang Qinian up sooner.
Jiang Ru looked up at the night sky, her lips curling into a smile. She found an excellent vantage point and placed a soft couch from her space, along with a few mosquito-repelling sachets.
"On such a beautiful night, let's stargaze together," Jiang Ru said, pulling Xiao Chengjin down onto the soft couch.
The night sky and a good show were both worth appreciating.
With flushed ears, Xiao Chengjin lay beside Jiang Ru, his mind filled with romantic thoughts.
Stargazing? Was Jiang Ru hinting at something?
Thinking this, Xiao Chengjin couldn't resist drawing closer to Jiang Ru...
At this moment, Jiang Ru, absorbed in the night sky, was elated to see the Milky Way. She was so excited that she didn't notice Xiao Chengjin's hidden intentions.
"Xiao Chengjin, that's the Milky Way," Jiang Ru said, extending her finger towards the night sky.
Xiao Chengjin didn't want to spoil Jiang Ru's good mood, so he obediently looked at the Milky Way she pointed out.
In his mind, he thought, What's so fascinating about the Milky Way? Shouldn't she be looking at me?
Nevertheless, this didn't stop him from indulging in their intimate moment.
While Jiang Ru was captivated by the stars, Xiao Chengjin took a risk and leaned closer, planting a kiss on her cherished red lips.
"Mmm..."
...
Amid his nightmare, Jiang Qinian suddenly dreamt of Nangong Li.
In his dream, Nangong Li appeared with a fierce expression, accusing him tearfully, "Jiang Qinian, why did you drive my Ru'er to her death?"
"Why couldn't you have treated her properly...?"
Jiang Qinian was drenched in sweat, repeatedly murmuring, "Ah Li, I didn't force Ru'er."
"I didn't..."
The scene shifted, and Nangong Li fiercely grabbed his throat, roaring with boundless hatred, "Jiang Qinian, I curse you to die a miserable death!"
"Ah!" Jiang Qinian abruptly woke from his nightmare, panting heavily.
He sat up, his eyes filled with terror, subconsciously touching his neck...
Thinking of Nangong Li in his dream, he muttered, "Ah Li, I didn't force Ru'er."
For the first time since Nangong Li's passing, Jiang Qinian had dreamt of her. In truth, over the past ten years, he had almost forgotten her face and voice.
This dream brought her blurry image back into sharp focus.
Jiang Qinian sat dumbfounded in the carriage, his mind filled with those disturbing dreams.
These dreams left him feeling distraught.
Feng Yi, the vice commander of the Imperial Guards responsible for martial duties, also found himself suddenly awakened from an unknown dream.
He rubbed his bleary eyes, looking bewildered.
In hindsight, he realized that something was amiss.
Where were his comrades who were supposed to be on night duty?
This was bad; something had happened.
He got up in a hurry, rushing to inspect the disaster relief funds.
Hearing the commotion from outside, Jiang Ru, who had been in a passionate embrace with Xiao Chengjin, perked up her ears.
She gently pushed away the man beside her saying, "Jiang Qinian is awake. Let's go see what's happening!"
That annoying man, don't ruin my fun.
Xiao Chengjin, pushed away by Jiang Ru, looked aggrieved, slowly getting up from the soft couch.
Hearing the noise not far away, he silently complained in his heart, "A bunch of nosy fellows disturbing our tender moment."
Jiang Ru quickly stowed the soft couch away and, together with Xiao Chengjin, found a concealed spot to secretly observe the commotion.
Hehe! Jiang Qinian would need a strong heart at this moment.
Otherwise, he might die from anger or fright.
Feng Yi looked at Jiang Qinian, who had rushed over, and hurried to meet him.
His expression was anxious as he said, "Prime Minister Jiang, it's bad. The disaster relief funds... they've all disappeared."
Hearing this, Jiang Qinian's entire body trembled, his mind in chaos.
What?
The disaster relief funds... all gone?
Impossible!
This couldn't be true.
Refusing to accept reality, Jiang Qinian shouted at Feng Yi, "Vice Commander Feng, what nonsense are you talking about?"
Feng Yi: "..."
Who's talking nonsense?
Go see for yourself!
Jiang Qinian pushed Feng Yi away and, with a panicked expression, rushed to the cart where the funds were stored...
When he saw the empty cart, his mind went blank.
The next moment, he fainted directly to the ground.
"Help! Prime Minister Jiang has fainted..."
The crowd watched Jiang Qinian faint and scrambled into action.
Finally, under Feng Yi's command, several people managed to lift Jiang Qinian onto the carriage.
Hidden in the shadows, Jiang Ru watched Jiang Qinian being carried away, laughing heartily.
Haha! The excitement of the late-night drama. While you're unconscious, go ahead and enjoy a good sleep.
I'll wait for you in Jizhou!
Jiang Ru pulled Xiao Chengjin along, grinning. "Let's go home!"
Xiao Chengjin, looking at Jiang Ru's cheerful mood, couldn't help but smile.
With Jiang Qinian taking on the disaster relief task, he was just waiting to be dealt with!
Jiang Ru arrived at a concealed location, released the Little Phoenix, and both of them hurried back to Huaxi Village.
As the Little Phoenix soared into the sky, Jiang Ru's joyful singing filled the air.
"I found lots of grain by the roadside, and I delivered it to the granary in the yamen..."
Chapter 140: This "Divine Figure" Clearly Targeted Prime Minister Jiang
The next day.
After Jiang Qinian woke up, he stared blankly at the top of the carriage.
Disaster relief funds... how could they have vanished overnight?
Who could have possibly done this?
Upon returning to the capital, how could he explain this to the Emperor?
Thinking of the scene where the Emperor was furious and ordered his head to be chopped off, Jiang Qinian couldn't help but shudder.
Ah, heaven wanted him dead!
Once it was daylight, Feng Yi arranged for people to search for any traces in the vicinity.
They combed the area meticulously, but found no clues whatsoever.
Normally, even if someone stole grain, there would be some traces left at the scene, right?
It was strange; they hadn't found anything at all.
They considered, "The theft of the grain is too bizarre. Maybe we should let Prime Minister Jiang investigate!"
After circling around the three grain carts several times, Feng Yi scratched his head in frustration.
If you want to steal, just steal! Why leave behind the three carts?
What's this person's motive?
Did they leave behind the food supply for them?
If that were the case, this person... wasn't all that bad.
Huh, why does this situation seem somewhat similar to the methods used in the national treasury theft case?
Feng Yi keenly picked up on the crucial point of the grain theft.
Yes, if necessary, he would use this as an excuse when they returned to the capital.
The treasury theft case remained an unsolved mystery to this day, let alone the mysterious disappearance of the disaster relief funds.
Whether it was to clear his name or whatever else, as long as he could save his life.
A few officials who had gone to nearby villages to search for clues returned mysteriously after inquiring among the villagers.
"Vice Commander Feng, we just found similar incidents in the village. You should analyze this," one official wiped the sweat from his forehead and pulled Feng Yi aside, eagerly recounting the details.
"Just now, we learned from the villagers that there have been grain thefts in the town of Jizhou as well..."
What he was talking about was Jiang Ru emptying the grain stores.
After hearing it all, Feng Yi fell into deep thought.
Could it be that the "divine figure" who robbed the national treasury has now appeared in Jizhou?
This official shifted his eyes earnestly and said, "Vice Commander Feng, I don't think this situation is necessarily a bad thing."
Feng Yi raised an eyebrow and asked, "What do you mean?"
"I think, sir, this grain thief isn't necessarily a bad person."
"Perhaps he knew we were struggling with transporting the grain, so he took it in advance."
Upon hearing this, Feng Yi couldn't help but pat the official's head and said, "Struggling? You're overthinking it."
But he really had to hand it to him.
After being patted, the official also felt like he might have been overthinking it.
So, he changed his approach and continued to analyze, "I suspect that among us, there might be his enemies."
After saying this, he fixed his gaze on the carriage where Jiang Qinian was.
Feng Yi followed his gaze and understood what he meant.
"Why do you say that?"
The official cleared his throat and lowered his voice, "Before we came to Jizhou, I accidentally overheard the servants in Prime Minister's Manor gossiping. It seems the treasury of the Prime Minister's Manor was emptied too."
"They say life at the Prime Minister's Manor has been quite difficult." As he finished speaking, the official couldn't help but stifle a few laughs.
Feng Yi glanced at his comrades, who were smirking, and came up with a plan.
Let's handle it this way.
This "divine figure" clearly targeted Prime Minister Jiang.
It has nothing to do with them.
Yes, Prime Minister Jiang offended this "divine figure"!
Feng Yi patted the official's arm and said solemnly, "We won't get involved in this matter. Let Prime Minister Jiang handle it."
"I understand!" The official concealed his expression and left.
Inside the carriage, Jiang Qinian closed his eyes, hiding his helplessness.
At this point, he had no power to change anything. He had to accept the reality!
After returning to the capital, if he could save his life, that would be good enough.
Sigh, this assignment has brought nothing but misfortune.
Oh right, Yao'er is still in Jizhou. No matter what, he has to go to Jizhou as Yao'er requested.
Considering the dream he had last night, Jiang Qinian suspected that Jiang Ru might have already died in Jizhou.
If not, why would Nangong Li appear in his dream...
While Jiang Qinian was lost in thought, an official approached the carriage carrying a bowl of white porridge.
He nervously knocked on the carriage window, his voice trembling, "Prime Minister Jiang, I've made some porridge. Would you like a bowl?"
Hearing the sounds outside the carriage, Jiang Qinian sighed and got up from the carriage.
Even if he had no appetite, he needed to have breakfast.
Under the astonished gazes of the onlookers, Jiang Qinian took the bowl of white porridge and mechanically began to eat.
The others exchanged glances and silently had their own breakfast.
Hmm, who would have thought that with such a major incident, Prime Minister Jiang would remain so composed.
After getting things in order, Jiang Qinian ordered with a stern face to continue the journey to Jizhou.
The others wondered, "We've lost the grain funds, why are we still going to Jizhou?"
If the people of Jizhou find out that we've lost the grain funds, won't they beat us up?
Although Feng Yi didn't understand why Jiang Qinian was doing this, he didn't argue.
Without a word, he mounted his horse and led the way.
Prime Minister Jiang is in charge of disaster relief; whatever he says goes!
Looking in the direction of Jizhou, Feng Yi suddenly remembered Xiao Chengjin, who had been exiled to Jizhou.
Although Jizhou wasn't a harsh place, it wasn't prosperous either.
Now that they were facing a drought, what would happen to Prince An?
It was said that after learning about the drought in Jizhou, the Emperor never mentioned Prince An.
Sigh, the Emperor was really ruthless to his own younger brother!
The group pulled the empty carts and continued along the official road towards Jizhou.
...
In Huaxi Village, Jiang Ru and Xiao Chengjin had been busy until late at night, so they woke up later than usual.
The housekeepers and servants had been waiting in the dining room for a while.
It was already late in the morning, why hadn't their masters woken up?
Could it be that they had gone to the town before dawn?
Liu Mama whispered to Dong Xue as they approached a corner, both of them murmuring quietly.
Finally, they both agreed that their masters would probably have a little one soon.
Liu Mama approached the table with a smile, "Uncle, we don't need to wait for the masters. Let's eat first!"
Nangong Yi looked out of the window and asked, "Has Ru'er not woken up yet?"
"According to Uncle, the old servant thinks... the master must have been exhausted last night, so he overslept." After saying this, Liu Mama's smile grew wider.
Oh my! Who would have thought I'd be able to serve the little master in my lifetime?
Steward Lin and Ji Yunze exchanged glances as they watched Liu Mama's unusually cheerful demeanor.
Exhausted and overslept...
Could it be... there's a little master on the way?
Oh, Master, you're finally up.