This spring rain in the capital looked like it was about to stop, but suddenly intensified again, shattering previous hopes and leaving people greatly disappointed. The common people prayed to gods and Buddhas daily, hoping heaven would cease punishing the Great Jin Dynasty, but heaven didn’t comply with human wishes—the rain still showed no signs of lessening.
Xia Yan proposed having the Jiang manor’s young ladies go to Baoguang Temple to pray for blessings. First, because around this time each year, the Jiang family would indeed go to Baoguang Temple to donate incense money, seeking Buddha’s protection. Second, because Baoguang Temple, as the capital’s most famous temple, was extremely efficacious, especially for the first incense offering. Every year countless people fought endlessly over the first incense. This year, due to the rain, there wasn’t the usual competitive situation.
When Xia Yan proposed this request, Jiang Ruan agreed very readily. Lu Zhu said nervously: “Miss, she definitely has ill intentions. How could Miss just agree?”
Baoguang Temple was in high mountains and deep valleys, with many dangerous paths along the way. Now with rain washing over everything, it was even more muddy and difficult. With such arduous travel, the usual wealthy families stayed away. Yet Xia Yan proposed going to offer the first incense—it definitely wasn’t that simple.
“It’s fine.” Jiang Ruan smiled slightly: “When a clam shell is too tightly shut, naturally there’s no way to get at it. Now that it’s voluntarily opening, how can we not seize the opportunity?”
Lu Zhu had learned that Xia Yan had gone out for a trip this morning, not returning until evening. When she returned, her expression seemed somewhat strange. She went straight to Suxin Courtyard and talked with Jiang Susu for most of the day before returning to her room.
“Clam shell?” Lu Zhu was stunned: “Miss, are you going to…”
“Tomorrow you’ll also come out with me.” Jiang Ruan had her lean closer and whispered a few instructions. After hearing them, Lu Zhu’s expression changed several times: “Miss, you cannot—this is too dangerous!”
“Without entering the tiger’s den, how can one catch the tiger cub?” Jiang Ruan said: “Moreover, this isn’t entirely without assurance.”
Lu Zhu bit her lip and finally steeled her heart: “This servant will listen to Miss.”
Jiang Ruan smiled slightly. The hot tea before her emitted wisps of steam. Baoguang Temple was a place she would visit for the second time in this life. The first time was five years ago, when she had also wanted to compete for the first incense offering, hoping Zhao Mei’s illness would recover quickly. However, she ultimately didn’t obtain that first incense, and Zhao Mei’s condition never improved.
In this life, she didn’t believe in gods and Buddhas, yet she would begin this bloody revenge precisely in this Buddhist holy place.
Li An? She slowly lowered her head. The tea’s hot steam rose in wisps, obscuring her features. Only her clear, moist eyes flashed with sharp light, and her rosy lips curved slightly.
Wait slowly.
Hui Jue had been living quite comfortably these past days.
To protect him, Guan Lianghan had invited him to stay at the Guan manor and even assigned guards to him. Though Hui Jue didn’t understand, he guessed that Guan Lianghan and the person behind Jiang Ruan must be the same, so he didn’t have as many worries. After the reservoir incident, his reputation in the capital was extremely high. Many noble families considered it an honor to invite him to their homes. But Jiang Ruan had someone deliver a message telling him to keep a low profile and reduce his public appearances.
Hui Jue was initially somewhat dissatisfied, but then understood. People revered gods and Buddhas largely because of their mystery. Now that his reputation was soaring, he needed to maintain that mystery even more. Jiang Ruan said that to accomplish great things, one mustn’t be greedy for small gains. By being cautious and meticulous, great wealth would come in the future.
Hui Jue now treasured Jiang Ruan’s words like precious gems and naturally complied. Usually he meditated silently in the Guan manor, rarely going out these days. This day, as he stood by the window polishing his wooden fish, he saw Guan Lianghan chasing a black-clothed young man hurriedly out the door from the garden corridor, shouting as he walked: “Third brother, why are you using my troops again? No way, absolutely not! What do you think my Guan family army is? Damn it! Stop right there!”
Hui Jue followed the principle of “see no evil, hear no evil” and shut the window with a “bang.”
Outside, Xiao Shao finally stopped. Guan Lianghan’s steps were too large and he nearly crashed into Xiao Shao. He jumped up cursing: “What the hell is wrong with you? Give me back my military seal!”
What Xiao Shao held was indeed the Guan family army’s military seal. Guan Lianghan reached to snatch it, but Xiao Shao sidestepped. After they exchanged moves several times, Guan Lianghan was helpless.
He withdrew his hand: “Third brother, are you treating my soldiers like your own family’s? What are your 300,000 Jinyiwei doing just sitting there?”
“The Jinyiwei aren’t convenient to show themselves.” Xiao Shao said: “I’m borrowing your military seal. I’ll return it after use.”
“No way,” Guan Lianghan said seriously: “Last time with the reservoir incident, I already took the blame for you. What treacherous thing are you planning to do this time? If His Majesty blames me, I’ll have more miserable days ahead.” He looked at Xiao Shao and suddenly said: “But since you and I are fellow disciples, this second brother of yours has always been very generous. If you tell me what you’re going to do today, I’ll lend you the military seal. Otherwise, even if you take it, I can find ways to prevent you from commanding them.”
“Borrowing your troops to pursue Li An.” Xiao Shao said.
“Li An?” Guan Lianghan said: “You know where he is? Why are you chasing him?”
Seeing Xiao Shao remain silent, Guan Lianghan seemed to think of something: “A mission from His Majesty?”
Xiao Shao put away the military seal and turned to leave: “Thank you.”
“Hey, I’m not finished!” Guan Lianghan shouted angrily: “For such a big matter, I’m coming too. Third brother, wait for me!”
The voices gradually faded away.
This morning, Jiang Ruan rose very early, and all three maids got up early as well. After serving Jiang Ruan breakfast, Lian Qiao began selecting clothes for her. Bai Zhi said: “Since we’re going to pray for blessings today, let’s find something more plain.”
In the end, Lian Qiao chose a plain blue figured rain silk brocade cross-collar pipa-front long jacket for Jiang Ruan, with a jade-colored base scattered flower trailing vine plain-faced shawl over it. Accustomed to seeing her in bright red and colorful clothes, wearing such plain colors, combined with her austere expression when not smiling, gave her a cold, simple air.
While combing Jiang Ruan’s hair, Lu Zhu said: “Miss, today will likely be full of risks. How about finding one or two things for self-defense?”
Jiang Ruan nodded. In the hair ornaments Lu Zhu arranged in Jiang Ruan’s coiffure, she inserted only sharp hairpins, all with pointed, long heads that could serve as weapons.
Finally, when leaving, Bai Zhi thought for a moment and pulled out a dagger from the drawer under the table. This dagger’s handle was inlaid with a silver border and decorated with several pearls—originally meant for appreciation and collection. Bai Zhi looked at the somewhat dull blade tip but still handed it to Jiang Ruan: “Miss, please take this. It’s better than nothing.”
Jiang Ruan weighed it and tucked the dagger into her sleeve. As soon as the four of them left the manor gates, they saw carriages waiting nearby.
Jiang Dan, Jiang Li, and Jiang Susu were squeezed into one carriage, Jiang Chao had a carriage to himself, while hers was set aside separately.
Jiang Ruan looked questioningly at Xia Yan, who said gently: “Ruan’er, you’re the legitimate eldest daughter of the Jiang manor and have many maids with you. Putting you in other carriages might not allow proper service. Mother specially found a carriage for you.”
Jiang Ruan looked at the carriage “specially” found for her. The carriage’s exterior was luxurious, even surpassing Jiang Susu’s, but appeared smaller—just right for her and several maids to sit.
“Mother’s kindness truly troubles Ruanruan.” Jiang Ruan smiled slightly: “Since we’re all sisters from the same manor, how can we show such favoritism?”
Xia Yan’s smile deepened: “Why must Ruan’er speak so? You sisters are all good, but now you’re the eldest sister—naturally you must show proper bearing. Besides, we can’t find other carriages now. Let’s go first to avoid delaying the time and missing the first incense offering.”
Jiang Ruan smiled without speaking. Just then, they heard a voice from behind Xia Yan: “Mother worries too much.”
Jiang Xinzhi strode over and touched Jiang Ruan’s head: “Since they’re all sisters from the Jiang manor, having A-Ruan sit alone in one carriage is indeed inappropriate. Father has always been benevolent, treating legitimate and illegitimate children equally.”
Hearing “treating legitimate and illegitimate children equally,” Xia Yan’s face turned slightly green. When Zhao Mei was still alive, Jiang Quan had treated Jiang Susu’s siblings much better than Jiang Ruan’s siblings. Now, with Jiang Xinzhi saying this in front of the servants, her heart tightened. When she looked up, Jiang Xinzhi still wore his proper, relaxed expression, showing not the slightest trace of mockery.
Xia Yan cursed silently. These Jiang siblings were so sharp-tongued—it made one want to tear their mouths apart.
“But we really can’t find carriages now,” Xia Yan said helplessly.
Jiang Xinzhi smiled: “No matter.” He waved his hand, and several carriages slowly approached—all identical to the one “specially” prepared for Jiang Ruan. Three in total. Jiang Xinzhi said: “Carriages I found. Please, sisters, get in.”
Xia Yan was stunned, suddenly feeling cold. She looked at Jiang Xinzhi’s expression, but he appeared normal. Xia Yan forced a smile: “How can we let you spend money?”
Jiang Xinzhi smiled: “Mother needn’t worry. These drivers are all excellent—they drive fast and steady. The sisters won’t have to endure bumpy rides and can go and return quickly.”
Jiang Ruan also smiled: “Mother, please don’t refuse. Are you unwilling to accept elder brother’s kind intentions?”
Under everyone’s gaze, Xia Yan was left speechless by Jiang Ruan’s words, unable to refuse. She could only agree through gritted teeth. Jiang Susu, wearing a veil that concealed her expression, was first to walk toward the rear carriage. Jiang Li was naturally delighted—she wouldn’t have to share a carriage with Jiang Susu and Jiang Dan. Jiang Dan bit her lip, glanced timidly at Jiang Xinzhi, then slowly came down.
After the sisters got into the carriages Jiang Xinzhi had prepared for them, Jiang Ruan led Lu Zhu and the others into her carriage. Xia Yan maintained her forced smile when she heard Jiang Xinzhi wave his hand. Two tall guards appeared from somewhere, and Jiang Xinzhi said: “Protect the young ladies well.”
The two guards accepted the order. Xia Yan was startled: “Xinzhi, what is this…”
“A-Ruan and her sisters are going alone to such a distant place, and second brother doesn’t know martial arts. The manor’s guards might not be sufficient.” Jiang Xinzhi smiled: “These two brothers of mine are rough men from the military who have seen blood and carry heavy killing intent. With them protecting A-Ruan and the others, I can rest easy.”
When he mentioned “seen blood and carry heavy killing intent,” he deliberately slowed his voice. Xia Yan felt a chill down her spine and didn’t dare look up at Jiang Xinzhi’s expression.
Jiang Chao, sitting in his carriage, had been watching Jiang Xinzhi’s every move. When he heard Jiang Xinzhi say he couldn’t fight and had specially found two guards, he felt greatly insulted. He glared viciously at Jiang Xinzhi, cursing him hundreds of times in his heart.
After Jiang Xinzhi arranged everything, Jiang Ruan poked her head out from the carriage curtain and smiled at him: “Elder brother, please go back.”
Jiang Xinzhi patted her head, his expression toward her as gentle as always: “Be careful on the road.”
Jiang Ruan smiled and lowered the curtain. Only after she could no longer see Jiang Xinzhi did she lean against the carriage and sigh softly, whispering: “I’m sorry, elder brother.”
Jiang Susu watched the siblings’ interaction, jealousy flashing in her eyes. Jiang Xinzhi was now like a killing god in the Jiang manor, carrying heavy murderous aura. Everyone was afraid to provoke him, fearing they might anger this soldier returned from the battlefield. Jiang Susu detested Jiang Xinzhi and was jealous that Jiang Ruan had such an excellent brother protecting her. Once upon a time, she too had Jiang Chao’s protection. When Jiang Chao was in his prime, everyone called him a scholar with the talent of a top graduate, and she was naturally extremely proud. But now Jiang Chao had become the capital’s laughingstock while Jiang Xinzhi had transformed into a deputy general. The more he protected Jiang Ruan, the more jealous Jiang Susu became.
She heavily lowered the curtain. Remembering what Xia Yan had told her yesterday, a pleased smile appeared beneath her veil.
So what if Jiang Xinzhi was excellent? So what if he protected Jiang Ruan? Today Jiang Ruan couldn’t escape even with wings—even ten Jiang Xinzhis couldn’t save her.
Jiang Dan looked thoughtfully at Xia Yan and Jiang Xinzhi, then suddenly pulled the carriage curtain. Her timid expression disappeared behind the curtain as she slowly curved her lips upward.
The carriages rolled over rain-soaked stone roads, splashing shallow water. Watching Jiang Ruan’s carriage depart, Jiang Xinzhi showed no intention of leaving. Xia Yan smiled and asked: “Xinzhi, don’t you need to go to the military today?”
“The general has official business today and doesn’t need me to go,” Jiang Xinzhi said.
Xia Yan felt anxious: “Then Xinzhi, why don’t you go wait in your courtyard?”
“The weather is quite nice today. I want to stay at the manor entrance a while longer,” Jiang Xinzhi smiled: “Does mother have something to do?”
The sky was currently gloomy with continuous rain—where was this good weather? Xia Yan bit her lip and said through gritted teeth: “Nothing.” Seeing that Jiang Xinzhi had no intention of going back for a long time, she felt extremely anxious. Gritting her teeth, she turned and walked back into the house.
After Xia Yan left, Jiang Xinzhi’s expression became serious. He beckoned two guards over and instructed: “Watch the manor gate carefully. If anyone comes out, follow them and knock them unconscious.”
The two guards took the order and left.
Jiang Xinzhi remembered what Jiang Ruan had Lu Zhu tell him last night—just to prepare three identical carriages, find two guards with high martial arts skills to follow along, and finally go to the Zhao family.
He didn’t know what Jiang Ruan planned to do. When Jiang Ruan truly wanted to hide something, even as her elder brother, he was helpless. Jiang Xinzhi wouldn’t force Jiang Ruan to reveal things she didn’t want to say—he trusted his sister.
But somehow, his eyelid had been twitching all day, as if something bad was about to happen. He barely suppressed the uneasiness in his heart, mounted his horse, and galloped toward the General’s Manor.
Xia Yan returned to Yanhua Courtyard. A servant came to say Jiang Xinzhi had left, and Xia Yan immediately stood up urgently: “Quick, find two people to go tell them—the second carriage is Jiang Ruan’s. Don’t get the wrong person.”
The servant hurriedly went out. Only then did Xia Yan sit back in her chair and breathe a long sigh of relief. Lin Lang handed her a cup of tea. After drinking several sips, Xia Yan suppressed the panic in her heart. Thinking of Jiang Xinzhi’s every move today, she still felt somewhat uneasy and asked Nanny Li beside her: “Nanny, do you think they discovered something? Otherwise, why would they suddenly change carriages?”
Nanny Li comforted her: “Madam, please be at ease. This old servant thinks that eldest young master must be extremely cunning and wanted to guard against Madam, which is why he acted this way. But he shouldn’t know about Madam’s plan—otherwise, why would he let the eldest miss go to Baoguang Temple and only assign two guards?”
Hearing Nanny Li’s words, Xia Yan finally calmed down: “I think the same way. Hmph, indeed cunning, but today that little bitch absolutely must fall. So what if they’re military men? There are only two of them—it’s like a mantis trying to stop a chariot. Speaking of which, this is all Jiang Ruan’s own doing, forming such deep hatred with the Li family. Li An is someone who holds grudges—how could he easily spare her?”
A cold smile appeared on her beautiful face: “Baoguang Temple is far away. Even if Jiang Xinzhi gets word and rushes over, it will be too late.”
Just yesterday, she had suddenly received a letter—actually from Li An. In the letter, Li An bluntly said he wanted to eliminate Jiang Ruan and needed her help. Though Xia Yan was timid about being involved with such a criminal, Li An was also skilled at manipulating hearts. A few words stirred Xia Yan’s emotions, making her wish she could immediately tear Jiang Ruan to pieces.
Xia Yan had originally planned to cause some trouble for Jiang Ruan on the way to Baoguang Temple, making her suffer. But Li An described his plan, and Xia Yan found it wonderful beyond words. She gave this opportunity to Li An, still proceeding with the plan for the Jiang manor’s young ladies to go to Baoguang Temple—but the plan was no longer the original plan.
If it succeeded, naturally it would be good. She would just wait to reap the benefits. If it failed, it had nothing to do with her, Xia Yan.
Li An’s plan was bold and crazy, but even if something went wrong, a criminal’s sudden appearance couldn’t be connected to her. Originally arranged perfectly, who knew that Jiang Xinzhi would appear midway and force a carriage change? Four identical carriages—Li An’s people might recognize the wrong one.
If they made a mistake, she couldn’t help but shudder, then comforted herself—no, the people sent would quickly notify them. Today’s trip to Baoguang Temple would doom Jiang Ruan. Previously, she had escaped due to good luck, but now waiting for Jiang Ruan at Baoguang Temple was a heaven and earth net. Even two highly skilled guards wouldn’t matter.
Because what Li An brought wasn’t one or two people, but a squad of soldiers.
Real elite troops that the Prime Minister’s manor kept hidden outside.