After Wu Dingyuan left, Lu Yun focused wholeheartedly on managing the prefecture’s affairs. With Gu Qianxi helping to handle both internal and external matters, everything proceeded smoothly. For several consecutive months, he dealt with trials, judgments, and civil litigation. The common people, seeing his honesty and fairness and never accepting bribes, naturally came to respect him. In his leisure time, Lu Yun also ordered the construction of additional dam works along the Lou River to improve irrigation, earning even more gratitude and praise from the people.

Autumn passed to winter, and before long it was the twelfth month. During this month and a half, the Gu family had sent several letters inquiring about Gu Qianxi’s situation. Gu Qianxi, fearing her parents’ anger, didn’t dare reply. Instead, Lu Yun wrote a letter to Gu Siyuan, repeatedly apologizing, afraid his future father-in-law couldn’t forgive his beloved daughter for running away from home. When the time came for him to propose marriage, it would inevitably cause great difficulties and invite endless harassment from Second Concubine.

On this day, it was already the first day of the twelfth month. According to court custom, Lu Yun had to return to the capital to report on his duties and present the details of governmental affairs to the emperor during the New Year’s Day spring greeting ceremony. The servants packed up belongings and official seals, filling two large carts. Gong Zhi escorted them to the city outskirts. Before departure, Lu Yun carefully instructed about prefectural affairs, repeatedly entrusting Gong Zhi with management duties before setting off with peace of mind.

When going south, it had been only September; returning, it was already the twelfth month. The weather had long been extremely cold, with goose-feather snow falling from time to time. The farther north they traveled, the colder it became. Looking outside the carriage, they saw vast white expanses covering mountains and fields. Though heaven and earth were cold, inside the carriage it was warm as spring, adding considerable coziness.

After traveling over ten days, they had entered Hebei Province. Lu Yun reflected on the months of life in Changzhou—it had been like heaven on earth. Having lived a life of wandering and achieving the top scholarly honor, his bitter experiences finally turning sweet made the taste doubly precious. He looked at his beloved and asked: “Qianxi, when I come to Changzhou again, will you still travel with me?”

Gu Qianxi smiled: “Do you want father to throw me out of the house?”

Lu Yun laughed: “With such a clever and adorable daughter, how could Uncle Gu bear to drive you away?” Gu Qianxi sighed: “Running away from home like this, father must be furious. I just hope he doesn’t beat me to death.” Having been away from her parents for so long, she naturally missed them, but thinking of the inevitable scolding when they met, she felt somewhat worried.

Lu Yun grasped Gu Qianxi’s small hand and said gently: “Don’t be afraid. If you get beaten, I’ll definitely accompany you.”

Gu Qianxi laughed: “You said that—you can’t go back on your word.” Lu Yun’s expression became serious: “When I return to the capital this time, I’ll propose to Uncle Gu. Once he grants permission, the next time you come to Changzhou, you’ll be my wife, Lu Yun.” Hearing him speak so directly, Gu Qianxi was both embarrassed and delighted, spitting: “How shameless! Must I marry you?”

Lu Yun smiled: “By parents’ command and matchmaker’s arrangement—you’ll have no choice but to comply.”

Gu Qianxi scraped his cheek and was about to tease him when suddenly the large carriage jolted and stopped. Lu Yun and Gu Qianxi looked at each other, both slightly startled, not knowing what had happened. Lu Yun lifted the carriage curtain and asked: “What’s wrong?”

The driver pointed ahead and answered anxiously: “There are people blocking the road ahead—don’t know what they’re doing.”

They were now in Hebei Province, not far from the capital, where bandits rarely appeared. Lu Yun didn’t know who the people were and wanted to get out to investigate. Gu Qianxi and Xiao Hong, their faces pale, grabbed Lu Yun’s sleeves, unwilling to let him rashly get out and risk danger.

Lu Yun waved his hand to indicate they shouldn’t be afraid. Just then, voices came from ahead, and they heard someone shout: “By court order, travelers halt! Get out for inspection!” Hearing the speaker was a court official, Lu Yun immediately felt relieved. He stuck his head outside the carriage and saw about a hundred soldiers standing at the end of the road, with barriers, swords, and spears already set up as heavy checkpoints. Seeing their murderous expressions, Lu Yun didn’t know what great event had occurred. He said to Gu Qianxi and her servant: “I’ll go out first to see what’s happening. Don’t come out.”

As soon as Lu Yun got out of the carriage, several soldiers approached and shouted at the driver: “You lowly thing, don’t you know to get down?” The driver, hearing their harsh tone, was startled and hurriedly got down from the carriage. Lu Yun, seeing these people’s bad behavior severely disturbing the people, became angry and stepped forward, shouting: “Which garrison are you from?”

A soldier sneered: “The military master’s business—do you dare interfere? Quickly have everyone in your carriage get out. I want to search them one by one! Men, women, old, young—everyone!” Lu Yun, hearing his extremely harsh tone, couldn’t help but sneer: “On what grounds?” The soldier, seeing his arrogant attitude, was first stunned, then furious: “On what grounds? Just on the grounds of the sword in my hand!” He rushed forward, about to punch Lu Yun in the face.

Lu Yun hooked his foot and twisted his hand, already throwing the man to the ground. He stepped on the man’s back and shouted: “Bold ruffian! This official is Lu Yun, Prefect of Changzhou, returning to the capital by imperial order to report on duties. Don’t be rude in your behavior!” He then called loudly: “Who is the commanding officer here? Come speak with me!”

As Lu Yun was angry, a military officer hurried over and bowed to him: “So it’s the Prefect’s carriage. This humble officer has truly given offense.” Lu Yun was a jinshi graduate with seventh-rank insignia, one rank higher than a county magistrate. The military officer naturally didn’t dare offend him. Hearing his polite words and seeing his bow, Lu Yun restrained his anger and said sternly: “What great matter requires setting up checkpoints for searches?”

The military officer replied: “To be frank with Your Honor, a few days ago a great incident occurred at court. Eastern Depot General Manager Liu Jing conspired to rebel and assassinate His Majesty. The palace issued arrest warrants, and all vehicles entering and leaving the capital must be inspected to prevent harboring criminals.”

Hearing of Liu Jing’s rebellion, Lu Yun was shocked beyond words, saying tremblingly: “General Manager Liu rebelled? How is this possible?”

The military officer shook his head: “These affairs of princes and high ministers, this humble officer doesn’t know. If Your Honor wants to understand the details, you’ll need to ask when you return to the capital.”

Lu Yun nodded, his face pale as paper, thinking: “Liu Jing’s rebellion is no small matter. I wonder if Uncle Gu and Marquis Liu are alright?”

The military officer, having explained the situation, bowed to Lu Yun: “Your Honor, although the current situation is tense and you are a court official, this humble officer has duties to fulfill and must still conduct an inspection. Please don’t take offense.” Lu Yun nodded: “I understand.” He then asked Gu Qianxi, Xiao Hong and others to get out of the carriage for the military officer’s inspection.

Although Lu Yun was a seventh-rank prefect, the military officer still searched extremely thoroughly without any relaxation. Everything that could hide a person, whether luggage or packages, was opened and carefully examined, fearing to miss even the smallest place. Even Lu Yun’s personal baggage was searched—they gave no face at all. Lu Yun frowned, thinking: “Seeing them so nervous, the court must be in a state of extreme alarm these past few days.”

Gu Qianxi was full of confusion. After learning the details and hearing of Liu Jing’s rebellion, she was also stunned, fearing her father might be implicated. The group was worried about their relatives and friends and wanted to return to the capital urgently.

But the more anxious they were, the slower their progress became. Along this route, there were checkpoints every three steps and sentries every five steps—truly like a dragnet. Lu Yun took out his prefectural seal, hoping the checkpoint soldiers would accommodate them and let them return to the capital early, but the soldiers showed no consideration, inspecting at every checkpoint. A short distance of three to five li took an entire morning.

By wei time (1-3 PM), they finally reached the city gate with great difficulty. Lu Yun stuck his head out of the carriage and looked far ahead, immediately becoming greatly alarmed. Just as Gu Qianxi was about to stick her head out, he quickly covered her eyes and shouted: “Close your eyes quickly.”

Gu Qianxi was startled: “What are you doing?”

Lu Yun took a deep breath and shook his head: “There are some things on the city wall you absolutely mustn’t see, or you’ll be frightened.”

Hearing this, Xiao Hong immediately covered her own face, afraid of seeing some terrifying scene.

The other servants weren’t so fortunate. Following Lu Yun’s gaze, they were instantly horrified and cried out in alarm. They saw the city wall covered with severed heads. From their hairstyles, most of the dead were Eastern Depot eunuchs. Apparently these eunuchs were implicated in Liu Jing’s case and all beheaded for public display as a warning.

Lu Yun looked carefully and saw the heads of Xue Nu’er, Commander of Xiongfei Camp, and others among them, but didn’t see Liu Jing’s head. With this person’s deep scheming, he was probably still fleeing and hadn’t been captured. The large carriage entered the city, passing under countless severed heads. The driver and servants all trembled, chanting Buddha’s name, fearing being haunted by wronged spirits.

After entering the city, the streets were empty—not a single citizen was out, with only a few scattered shops open sparsely, but with little business. Several civilian houses had been burned to ashes, though by whom was unknown. The roads were full of Embroidered Uniform Guards galloping on horseback, filled with the atmosphere of martial law and slaughter. Lu Yun was secretly alarmed and ordered the driver to quickly head to the Gu residence. Near Daming Gate, they suddenly saw a group of ruffians loitering idly in the streets. Several of them looked fierce and didn’t appear to be from the Central Plains, setting fires and beating civilians. The Embroidered Uniform Guards, seeing this disturbing scene, paid no attention and allowed the thugs to walk around freely, killing and beating.

Lu Yun was greatly shocked and quickly instructed the women: “Cover your faces with head scarves so these violent people don’t see you.” Fearing the women would be harassed by these wolves and tigers, he put on his court robes, carried his steel sword, and personally got out of the carriage to lead the way. After walking only a few steps, several people poked their heads over, staring at them sneakily with obvious ill intentions. Lu Yun ordered all the servants to get out of the carriage with clubs and sticks and follow him. Although the servants were afraid, seeing Lu Yun’s stern tone, they had to comply.

Walking along with quite an imposing presence, the thugs, seeing Lu Yun’s gleaming weapon, didn’t dare come harass them. Though they encountered a few people who came to cause trouble, they were mostly lone vagrants who were easily beaten by Lu Yun after a few moves—they didn’t encounter the main force of rebels.

After a heart-stopping journey, they finally reached the Gu residence, but saw the main gate tightly closed with no one standing guard. Lu Yun was alarmed, fearing something had happened to the Gu family too. He quickly stepped forward to knock on the door, shouting: “I’m Lu Yun, bringing your young lady home! Open the door quickly!”

These words were quite direct and rude, but with the current situation being tense, there was no time for gentle courtesy. Lu Yun shouted for a while without anyone coming to answer. He was extremely worried, and Gu Qianxi sitting in the carriage was also extremely nervous. Just as they didn’t know what to do, the door creaked open a crack, and a face appeared—it was A’Fu.

Lu Yun exclaimed: “What’s wrong? What happened to the master?” A’Fu, seeing it was Lu Yun returning, patted his chest repeatedly and quickly called loudly to those behind: “Master! It’s not bad people—it’s Young Master Lu bringing the young lady home!”

Before his words finished, the main gate opened. Lu Yun looked inside and saw Gu Siyuan coming out quickly with the steward. Seeing him safe and sound, Lu Yun immediately felt relieved and quickly stepped forward: “Uncle Gu, your nephew failed to inform you beforehand and boldly invited your daughter to go south. Please punish me severely.” Fearing his beloved would be scolded, he took all the blame upon himself and criticized himself in front of the servants to avoid making it difficult for Gu Qianxi.

Just as he was worried about being scolded, he suddenly heard a timid voice beside his ear: “Father.” Lu Yun turned to look and saw Gu Qianxi had also gotten out of the carriage, her face showing worry as if fearing her father’s immediate rebuke.

Who knew Gu Siyuan showed no anger at all? He looked panicked, repeatedly looking toward the street edge and urging: “It’s good that you’re back. Come in quickly—don’t delay!” When had Gu Siyuan, usually refined and elegant, ever shown such frantic expressions, as if great disaster was imminent? Lu Yun, seeing this, couldn’t help but be secretly amazed, guessing that the capital must have been in great chaos these past few days to frighten this Minister of War to such an extent.

Everyone entered the courtyard. Gu Siyuan urgently ordered the steward to close the main gate. Lu Yun looked sideways and saw dozens of servants in the courtyard, everyone holding hoes and kitchen knives. Over ten escort guards had even drawn their swords, everyone’s expression alert as if facing a great enemy. Lu Yun exclaimed: “What is this for?”

Only after seeing the main gate securely closed with thick, heavy door bars did Gu Siyuan feel relieved and gasp: “Three days ago, a group of thugs came to the capital, led by a wanted criminal called ‘Sa Mou.’ This gang commits all kinds of evil and no one dares control them. With such lawless incidents happening in the city and His Majesty claiming illness and not holding court, everyone can only seek their own protection.”

Lu Yun exclaimed: “Sa Mou? Who is that?” Gu Siyuan frowned tightly and shook his head: “I don’t know either. This person was previously imprisoned in the Ministry of Justice prison, but Jiang Chong released this thug and allows him to plunder freely in the capital with no one daring to control him. Sigh… These people are extremely brutal—they actually set fire to the Minister of Rites’ house.”

Lu Yun, thinking of Hu Zhilian who had passed the imperial examination with him this year, quickly asked: “Is Minister Hu’s family alright?” Gu Siyuan sighed: “That group of thugs came fiercely, charging into the Hu residence without distinguishing right from wrong, immediately killing Old Mrs. Hu, then setting fire to the house and beating the Hu family brothers until they were covered with wounds and knelt begging for mercy.”

By this time, everyone had entered the main hall. Lady Gu and Second Concubine, hearing the young lady had returned home, were already waiting in the center of the hall. Gu Qianxi, seeing her mother and thinking of her own willfulness, was already full of remorse. But with the capital in such chaos, no matter how angry Lady Gu and Second Concubine were, they had no heart to say much. Seeing Gu Qianxi return safely was already satisfying enough.

Lu Yun sat down and servants brought tea. Gu Siyuan sighed: “I had originally written to have you delay your return to the capital by a few days, not to come back at this critical time, but who knew the roads inside and outside the capital were all sealed by the Embroidered Uniform Guards, making it impossible to send messages out.”

Lu Yun was stunned for a long time: “How did the capital become like this? Don’t the Ministry of Justice and Banner Guard come out to manage it?” Gu Siyuan shook his head: “I think this group of thugs and rebellious troops are actually instigated by Jiang Chong. The Ministry of Justice and Banner Guard are tiny—how dare they interfere? This Jiang Chong is truly ruthless. He’s using the capital’s martial law as an opportunity to have thugs eliminate his political enemies everywhere. That Sa Mou also has high martial arts skills—ordinary guards are no match for him. Sigh… Minister Hu was usually close to Liu Jing, so naturally he bore the brunt.”

Lu Yun was worried and urgently asked: “Is Marquis Liu alright?” Gu Siyuan sighed: “When the lips are gone, the teeth feel cold. Your marquis is now a thorn in Jiang Chong’s eye and has been having a difficult time these days.”

Thinking of his friend’s safety, Lu Yun broke out in cold sweat and said urgently: “I must go explore the situation first.” Gu Siyuan’s expression was hesitant as he advised: “Yun’er, you’ve finally become a court official—don’t get involved in political struggles.”

Lu Yun was stunned for a long time. Thinking of everyone’s friendship with him, how could he stand aside and not help? He shook his head and got up, looking as if he wanted to immediately go out to the marquis’s residence to gather information.

Gu Siyuan was alarmed and reached out to stop him: “The current situation is difficult—Yun’er, don’t be willful.” Lu Yun responded perfunctorily: “Thank you for Uncle Gu’s guidance. I have my own discretion in this trip and won’t cause trouble.”

Lu Yun had a rigid and straightforward nature. Having dealt with him for years, how could Gu Siyuan not know his temperament? Seeing it was difficult to persuade him, he could only sigh and take out a token: “Very well, since you insist on going, take this token. This is my Ministry of War seal. If you encounter difficulties on the road, just show this token to them. The Embroidered Uniform Guards will give me some face when they see it.” Lu Yun accepted it with thanks and was about to leave the residence.

Just then, he suddenly heard: “Lu Lang, wait!” Lu Yun turned back and saw it was Gu Qianxi coming.

Gu Qianxi grasped his hands and shook her head: “The current situation is too chaotic—don’t rush over there. Wait a few days!” Lu Yun lowered his head and didn’t answer. Seeing Lu Yun’s determined expression, Gu Qianxi already knew his mind. She sighed: “Must you go?” Lu Yun felt somewhat apologetic and said gently: “I’m sorry… you know my…”

In this situation, Gu Qianxi, being very perceptive, knew that trying to stop him would be useless. She reached over to tighten Lu Yun’s belt and said seriously: “If you insist on going, I won’t stop you, but you must agree to three things. Otherwise, while it’s easy for you to walk out of the Gu family’s main gate, if you want to come back, even if father is willing to see you, I won’t want to look at you again.”

Lu Yun, hearing these words, was naturally shocked and quickly said: “I’m listening here—just give your instructions.”

Gu Qianxi held up her index finger: “First thing: if you encounter injustice on the road, no matter how difficult it is, I forbid you to interfere.” Lu Yun exclaimed: “How can this be? If thugs kill and set fires, can I not intervene?” Gu Qianxi shook her head: “Do you know your own importance? If even Marquis Liu and Minister Kong can barely protect themselves, what do you think you can do?”

Lu Yun knew this was true and could only sigh: “Tell me the second thing.”

Gu Qianxi nodded and held up her second finger: “Tonight you’re not allowed to stay overnight at Liu’s residence—come back to my house to sleep.”

Lu Yun, hearing the second thing was very easy, quickly said: “Agreed. No matter how difficult it is on the road, I’ll return to the residence to stay with you.”

Gu Siyuan, listening from the side, secretly approved of his daughter’s insightful thinking. With the court’s three-way balance already broken, Liu’s faction was naturally in a tense situation. Gu Qianxi worried about her lover being implicated and wanted him to stay away from disputes to avoid future troubles.

Seeing him agree, Gu Qianxi was very pleased. She walked up and said gently: “Lu Lang, the last thing is also the most important—I want you to know that no matter what happens to you, whether you lose an arm or break a leg, I will wait for you to come back.”

Lu Yun’s whole body trembled. He gripped her hand tightly and nodded: “Set your mind completely at ease—no matter what, I will come back.”

Seeing this, everyone in the Gu household was moved. Second Concubine wiped away tears and scolded: “Surnamed Lu, you heartless little devil! What good did Liu Angtian do for you? Your champion scholar title wasn’t his reward—why are you dying for him? Stay obediently with your auntie!”

Hearing these words, Gu Qianxi instead gently pushed Lu Yun’s back, urging: “Just go—don’t pay attention to others’ words.” Lu Yun turned and saw Gu Siyuan also nodding slightly at him. He said no more and didn’t ask servants to open the door. Instead, he took a vigorous step and leaped over the high wall, then jumped into the main street. Most people in the Gu residence didn’t know he possessed martial arts. Seeing Lu Yun’s skills, they felt somewhat reassured, thinking that even if he encountered thugs blocking his way, he could escape calmly.

Lu Yun left hastily, but Gu Qianxi’s expression remained calm, her face showing neither worry nor joy, only gazing at the gray sky. No one knew what she was thinking.

Lu Yun left the Gu residence, taking small alleys to detour. He knew the capital’s key points had been occupied by thugs, and he would probably encounter them head-on within a few steps. After passing Chang’an Avenue, he finally reached the vicinity of Wangfu Hutong, not far from Liu’s residence. He suddenly saw a row of houses burned to ashes, and many corpses lying on the road—both officials and civilians, all covered with wounds. Lu Yun felt uneasy, knowing the situation was extremely serious, and Liu Angtian might have already suffered disaster.

Just as he was thinking, he suddenly heard someone shout: “Who are you? What are you doing here sneakily?” Lu Yun turned and saw three Embroidered Uniform Guards looking at him with scowling faces. Lu Yun took out his prefectural seal: “I am Lu Yun, Prefect of Changzhou, returning to the capital by imperial order to visit friends.” The guards snorted: “Visit what friends? With the capital under martial law now, if you don’t stay obediently in your house, you’re suspected of being a rebel party!” These men belonged to the Embroidered Uniform Guards, unlike the earlier city gate inspection soldiers who were of low status—they spoke with extreme arrogance.

Lu Yun thought: “These people speak very rudely—no need to provoke them further.” Although he had the Minister of War’s token in his pocket, these people appeared lawless—even if it were the current emperor’s edict, it probably wouldn’t be useful. He slightly bowed and turned to leave.

That person shouted: “Bold boy! How dare you turn and walk away when talking to your grandfather?” He reached out to pat Lu Yun’s back. Lu Yun raised his hand to block: “Sir, if you have something to say, speak well—why use hands and feet?” Seeing him resist, the man immediately became furious. He signaled, and the other two immediately called for companions, shouting loudly. Before long, the surrounding crowd was clamorous, and dozens of guards had surrounded them.

Lu Yun, seeing the situation take a sharp turn for the worse, was greatly alarmed and quickly said: “What do you want to do?” The man sneered: “These past few days, Lord Jiang has ordered that whenever we encounter suspicious situations, officials below seventh rank can be executed first and reported later, while officials of seventh rank and above should be arrested and investigated on the spot without needing documents or orders. Tell me, young man, what rank are you?”

Lu Yun said sternly: “I am a seventh-rank prefect.” The man laughed heartily: “So you’re a seventh-rank minor official. Everyone, let’s kill this dog official!” Everyone shouted and rushed forward.

Lu Yun thought: “These people are crazy—no need to waste words with them.” At this time, with the situation extremely tense, official rank was less useful than fists. He immediately kicked, sending that person flying, then rolled on the ground and escaped from the crowd.

The man, kicked hard in the chest by Lu Yun, was in extreme pain and immediately shouted angrily: “Bold thief! You dare assault Embroidered Uniform Guards—you must be one of Liu Jing’s rebel party! Do you think you can escape alive?” A hundred Embroidered Uniform Guards drew their swords and pursued from all directions. Lu Yun made several leaps and was already near Liu Angtian’s residence. Looking carefully, Liu’s residence had its main gate tightly locked. Lu Yun groaned inwardly—with pursuers behind and no one from Liu’s gate coming out to respond, the situation was definitely going to be bad. Lu Yun thought: “This is terrible. These people are all court officials—I can’t kill them randomly. How can I escape?”

Just as he was at a loss, Liu’s residence main gate opened and countless warriors rushed out, drawing bows and arrows pointed at the Embroidered Uniform Guards. The guards, seeing this formation, all shouted angrily: “What is this? Do you want to rebel?”

A fat, large man walked out of Liu’s main gate and shouted: “Scram! This is the official residence of the Grand Commander of Northern Expedition—is this a place for you dogs to come?” This person’s voice was like a great bell—it was Wei Zizhuang. Lu Yun, suddenly seeing an old friend, immediately breathed a long sigh of relief.

The Embroidered Uniform Guards were unwilling to show weakness and discussed among themselves: “Send word to Commander An, saying Grand Commander Liu Angtian intends to rebel—immediately call for people to arrest him.” Wei Zizhuang wasn’t afraid either, only sneering: “Quickly send word to An’dao Jing and see if he has the ability to come in and arrest people?”

As the two sides were in deadlock, they suddenly heard a bull-like roar coming from far away. This sound was low and deep, like a demon appearing. All the Embroidered Uniform Guards, hearing this sound, trembled and murmured: “Sa Mou… Sa Mou is coming…”

Lu Yun had also heard this name and didn’t know who it was. Just as he was wondering, a scream came. Lu Yun looked quickly and saw an Embroidered Uniform Guard being dragged along the ground by someone gripping his head. The person doing the dragging was a strange man, followed by about a hundred people, all covered in blood with fierce expressions, dressed in prisoner’s clothing.

The Embroidered Uniform Guards, seeing this group’s appearance, were quite frightened. The leading Embroidered Uniform officer shouted: “Stop making trouble! We’re all on the same side! Lord Jiang released you to deal with Liu Angtian!” Before his words finished, Sa Mou lifted his foot and trampled heavily, already crushing the dragged guard to death with one stomp. The remaining Embroidered Uniform Guards didn’t dare say another word and quickly shrank to the roadside.

Lu Yun was secretly amazed. Seeing this large man with the appearance of a savage bull, tall and large in stature, his behavior even more cruel and violent, killing indiscriminately regardless of friend or foe—even his own people weren’t spared. In his shock, he couldn’t help but step back.

Suddenly hearing Sa Mou roar wildly, he led the bandits straight toward Liu Angtian’s residence. Wei Zizhuang, seeing the situation was bad, quickly called: “Prefect Lu, come in quickly—I’m going to close the gate!” Lu Yun shouted loudly: “Just close the gate, don’t worry about me—I can climb over the wall in a moment!” In the chaos, Sa Mou had already rushed to the gate and struck at Wei Zizhuang with a palm. The palm wind was fierce, the force tremendous, and the speed extraordinary—probably victory or defeat would be decided within a few palms.

Wei Zizhuang knew his palm power couldn’t match this person and quickly channeled the soft energy of “Eight Trigrams Swimming Body Palm,” wanting to dissolve the opponent’s internal power. The so-called extreme softness overcoming extreme hardness might slightly impede the opponent’s attack. When palm powers clashed, Sa Mou had no intention of palm-striking his enemy. He waved his palm to divert Wei Zizhuang’s attention while his huge body took advantage to rush forward, already pressing close. Wei Zizhuang hadn’t expected that despite his large stature, he would use close-quarter short fighting. He wanted to retreat but was a step too late—in an instant, his waist was grasped by the opponent. Suddenly hearing Sa Mou’s great roar, he actually lifted Wei Zizhuang’s fat, large body up by the waist.

Lu Yun, watching from the side, was indescribably shocked. He had seen Wei Zizhuang’s skills—who would have thought there was someone in the world who could subdue him in one move? Without thinking further, Lu Yun whistled and channeled his “Peerless Consecutive Fists,” using his fist and leg skills to strike at Sa Mou’s back.

With several banging sounds, Lu Yun repeatedly used heavy strikes. Sa Mou’s back was struck repeatedly, his hand loosened, and Wei Zizhuang fell down. Several thugs, seeing this, quickly came to help fight, but were all blocked by Liu residence soldiers. Both sides saw red and continued fighting chaotically. Lu Yun urgently called: “Where are General Qin and Yang Langzhong? Why don’t I see them?” Wei Zizhuang gasped: “Yang Langzhong took Marquis Liu’s token saying he was going to find reinforcements. Let’s hold on first!”

As they spoke, the three exchanged over ten more moves. Sa Mou’s martial arts were too high and his fist and foot techniques strange. Wei Zizhuang defended head-on while Lu Yun flanked from the side. Though the two cooperated, they still defended more and attacked less. Every time Sa Mou used strange moves that Wei Zizhuang couldn’t defend against, they relied on Lu Yun’s heavy strikes from behind to save their lives. On the other side, the thugs were numerous and vicious in their attacks. The soldiers fought desperately but gradually retreated, unable to match them. It seemed the gate couldn’t be held.

The situation was critical when they suddenly heard the sound of horse hooves from outside the alley—over a thousand people were heading toward Liu’s residence. Lu Yun was shocked: “What a Jiang Chong—reinforcements came so quickly?” Wei Zizhuang, seeing the great army approaching, was also slightly alarmed. If Liu’s residence was forcibly entered by Sa Mou, the consequences would be unthinkable. Both Wei and Lu were panicked but had no solution.

Amid the sound of horse hooves, over a thousand cavalry came proudly, their armor bright and steel swords at their waists. Leading them were two men—one tall and strong with iron gloves on his hands, who was Wu Dingyuan. The other man wore court robes with a face like jade—it was Yang Suguan. Lu Yun was overjoyed, thinking: “So they’re our own people—that really scared me to death.”

The Embroidered Uniform Guards, seeing this formation, were frightened out of their wits. Yang Suguan raised his voice and shouted: “We are carrying the Empress Dowager’s orders to bring troops into the capital to protect the peace of Wangfu Hutong! Leave quickly!” He held up a yellow banner—it was indeed an edict from Jingfu Palace issued by the Empress Dowager. Lu Yun breathed a sigh of relief, thinking: “With General Manager Liu’s rebellion, His Majesty is in a rage and disregarding everything. Fortunately, the Empress Dowager is still here—at least someone is maintaining justice.”

Seeing the Empress Dowager’s edict, the Embroidered Uniform Guards knew they couldn’t resist and could only leave resentfully. Sa Mou here, however, wasn’t bound by court constraints and continued leading his men in fierce attacks. Yang Suguan arranged his formation and ordered arrow volleys, immediately shooting dead over ten thugs. Sa Mou, in great fury, roared to the sky and was about to charge at the defending troops when suddenly a purple light arrived first, blocking Sa Mou’s path—it was Wu Dingyuan.

Wu Dingyuan looked coldly at Sa Mou: “If you want to fight, I, Wu, will accompany you to the end.” Sa Mou had suffered at Wu Dingyuan’s hands before. Seeing him suddenly arrive, he could only step back. Looking at Sa Mou’s eyes showing uncertain shock and anger, he truly both feared and hated Wu Dingyuan.

With great reinforcements arrived, the situation was reversed. The Embroidered Uniform Guards and violent thugs left one after another. Yang Suguan then ordered the defending troops to surround Wangfu Hutong to protect the various princes and high ministers. With the situation stabilized, everyone came to meet. Yang Suguan and Wu Dingyuan both looked weary—apparently with the capital’s dangerous situation these past few days, they had been extremely busy.

With the situation chaotic, everyone had no heart for small talk and entered the residence. Wei Zizhuang walked while asking Lu Yun: “These past few days, the palace has been in complete chaos. Everyone is rushing to leave the capital to avoid disaster—why did you come back instead?” Lu Yun shook his head: “I was in a distant place with no one to inform me. How could I know so many things would happen?”

Yang Suguan, listening from the side, asked: “How is Uncle Gu’s residence?” Lu Yun replied: “I just came from the Gu residence. Fortunately, it hasn’t been harassed by thugs.” Yang Suguan pondered: “It’s fine for now, but you should still go back first. Though the Gu family has many guards, they lack masters and can’t be without someone to watch over them.”

As they spoke, everyone entered the hall one after another. Liu Angtian was already waiting in the center of the hall, with over ten family members sitting beside him, all with grave expressions. A man came forward to greet them. Lu Yun saw he was plump and white, quite resembling Liu Angtian, but didn’t know who he was. Wei Zizhuang brought Lu Yun to pay respects—it turned out this man was Liu Angtian’s son, named Liu Feng. Liu Angtian held high official rank and noble title, with his grace extending to his descendants. The Liu family was enfeoffed in Shanxi, and the sons lived in the fief year-round, rarely returning to the capital. Only because the year-end was approaching did they return for reunion. This was Lu Yun’s first time meeting him.

Everyone sat down. Yang Suguan reported: “My lord, we’ve brought the troops from Weiwu Military Camp. These days, whether Embroidered Uniform Guards come to harass or thugs come to cause trouble, we have ways to respond.” Liu Angtian nodded slightly: “You’ve worked hard.”

Lu Yun stood up and bowed: “Your subordinate returned to the capital hastily without reporting to my lord first. Please forgive me.” Liu Angtian sighed: “Nephew Lu, you’ve come at an unfortunate time. The capital is in war and chaos, His Majesty has no heart for morning court—your return to report on duties will probably be idle for quite some time.”

Lu Yun, thinking of the trial on the twentieth of the twelfth month, immediately asked: “Now that Liu Jing has fallen, will the joint trial of Jiang Chong’s case by the Court of Judicial Review still proceed as scheduled?” Liu Angtian nodded: “Although the capital is currently under martial law, according to Minister Xu Zhongjin’s intention, he still plans to try the case on schedule.” Lu Yun exclaimed admiringly: “Truly worthy of being called Iron Head Xu! With Jiang Chong’s power so great now, he actually chooses this time to try the case?”

Liu Angtian threw back his head and laughed with great spirit, saying loudly: “Naturally! Otherwise, how could he be called Iron Head?”

Lu Yun breathed a sigh of relief. Although Liu Jing had fallen, the court still had righteous forces to counter Jiang Chong. It seemed the ministers still had a way out and wouldn’t face imminent disaster.

Lu Yun turned to look around and asked: “Where is General Qin? Why don’t I see him?” Everyone hearing this changed expression and lowered their heads. Lu Yun found this strange and asked Wu Dingyuan: “Brother Wu, you returned early—have you seen General Qin?”

Wu Dingyuan, hearing the question, only coughed lightly and turned to look at Yang Suguan without speaking.

Wu Dingyuan had left Changzhou a month earlier than him and should naturally have met with Qin Zhonghai. Lu Yun became suspicious, not knowing what had happened, and urgently asked: “Where is Zhonghai? What exactly happened? Tell me quickly!” Yang Suguan sighed: “You’ve just returned to the capital and need to rest first. We can talk about it slowly later.”

Before Yang Suguan finished speaking, they suddenly heard a sob, as if someone was crying. Lu Yun turned quickly and saw a female family member of Liu’s faction weeping bitterly on the spot. Lu Yun was startled and was about to inquire when Liu Angtian heavily sighed and waved his hand: “Nephew Lu, rest well these few days. In a couple of days when there’s leisure, this old man will tell you!”

Lu Yun, seeing everyone’s grave expressions and silent demeanor, knew something major must have happened. Since they were unwilling to say more, Lu Yun decided to investigate on his own. He said: “Since my lord has instructed, your subordinate will take leave first and come discuss matters tomorrow.” He bowed to everyone in the hall one by one and left.

Wu Dingyuan rushed over: “The capital is in great chaos with many bandits on the roads. Let me escort you back.” Lu Yun was overjoyed, knowing Wu Dingyuan had something to say privately. He nodded: “Thank you very much.”

The two left the residence. Wu Dingyuan, seeing no one following behind, quickly pulled Lu Yun aside and whispered: “General Qin has been arrested!” Lu Yun’s expression changed drastically: “Arrested?”

Wu Dingyuan nodded: “When I first returned to the capital, I saw the court had posted notices saying General Qin participated in a coup and intended rebellion, and has been imprisoned in the heavenly prison awaiting execution.” Hearing these words, Lu Yun’s mind buzzed and he nearly collapsed. Wu Dingyuan quickly supported him: “Don’t panic—stay calm.”

Lu Yun was extremely distressed, murmuring: “How… how could this happen?”

Wu Dingyuan said: “This matter is very strange. When I returned to the capital, General Qin had already been arrested. The marquis took Yang Langzhong and me to question Jiang Chong, and the result… the result…”

Lu Yun urgently asked: “What was the result? Did you see Zhonghai?” Wu Dingyuan sighed: “We didn’t see him. We only saw a piece of human skin, said to be flayed from a rebel… The marquis heard that General Qin also had a similar tattoo on his back and immediately collapsed on the spot. Jiang Chong said General Qin not only participated in the coup but also had deep connections with court rebels. These days he’s been severely tortured, trying to force him to confess his accomplices…” Lu Yun was both shocked and anxious, saying tremblingly: “How has the case developed now? Can Zhonghai hold out?”

Wu Dingyuan shook his head: “I don’t know about that either. I only know General Qin… he is to be executed tomorrow.”

Hearing these words, Lu Yun was terrified out of his wits. He rubbed his hands repeatedly and urgently said: “Have you tried to visit the prison?”

Wu Dingyuan said: “His Majesty knows General Qin comes from Liu’s faction and has long suspected the marquis is also an accomplice. Yang Langzhong, fearing everyone would be implicated, told us not to visit the prison.” At this time, the capital was filled with implication and disaster, with everyone in danger of self-preservation, let alone having spare energy to care for rebels? The situation was so severe that Yang Suguan had no choice but to give such orders.

Lu Yun, thinking of his friendship with Qin Zhonghai, felt heartbroken and said tremblingly: “Dingyuan, Zhonghai and I are bound by righteousness. Now that he’s about to die, shall we just stand by and do nothing?” Wu Dingyuan sighed. He lowered his voice and whispered: “Actually, I secretly scouted the prison the night before last and examined the terrain. But first, it’s heavily guarded, and second, His Majesty issued an edict saying that if anyone breaks General Qin out of prison, he’ll settle accounts with the marquis. Sigh… if not for this, I would have already…”

Lu Yun listened in a daze, knowing the court’s defenses were strict with implications hanging over them. Thinking of Qin Zhonghai’s kindness to him, tears couldn’t help but fall. Wu Dingyuan sighed: “With the situation as it is, even if you went to see him, besides adding to your sorrow, it probably wouldn’t help. For Miss Gu’s sake, for your own sake, you’d better not go.”

Lu Yun said sorrowfully: “No! Zhonghai is to be executed tomorrow. Even if they strip off my official hat and break my legs, I still must see him once.” His hands clenched tightly into fists, his whole body trembling.

Wu Dingyuan had once wandered the martial world with Lu Yun and been saved by him several times. Knowing he was a man who valued loyalty and righteousness, how could he ask Lu Yun to abandon Qin Zhonghai when he was trapped in prison? Wu Dingyuan pondered for a long time: “If that’s the case, I’ll go with you.” Lu Yun grasped his sleeve urgently: “Time is of the essence—let’s go quickly!” Just as the two were about to leave, they suddenly saw someone leaning against the alley entrance: “Where are you going?”

Lu Yun looked up and saw it was Yang Suguan. Lu Yun knew Yang Suguan was naturally steady and would certainly try to stop them in such matters, so he immediately took a detour to avoid him without paying attention.

Yang Suguan rushed forward and blocked them: “A small impatience spoils great plans. Have you considered the marquis’s position if you insist on visiting the prison?” Lu Yun snorted and said coldly: “If you’re all afraid, then I’ll go alone. I don’t have deep connections with Liu’s faction—if the court suspects I’m an accomplice, I’ll face it myself.”

Yang Suguan, hearing his contemptuous words, immediately became angry: “What kind of talk is that? Everyone shares weal and woe—we should share fortune and face difficulties together. If something happens to you, how can we stand by and watch?”

Lu Yun ignored him and strode forward. Yang Suguan reached out to stop him, shouting: “The situation is tense! Don’t be reckless!” Lu Yun grunted and channeled his strength to shake Yang Suguan off, but Yang Suguan’s skill was profound—using his “Absolute Heart Method,” he actually couldn’t be shaken off.

Lu Yun said sternly: “Yang Langzhong, if you don’t let go, I’ll have to use force.” Yang Suguan said coldly: “You’re so impulsive now that you’ll surely harm yourself and others. I can’t let you pass.” Lu Yun said no more and kicked toward Yang Suguan’s knee to force him back. Yang Suguan raised his right foot slightly to dodge, then used the grappling techniques of “Eighteen Falls of Clinging Clothes,” reaching for Lu Yun’s arm to hold him firmly.

Lu Yun shouted loudly and no longer held back, using “Peerless Consecutive Fists” with power following intent, striking toward Yang Suguan’s hand.

Wu Dingyuan, seeing the two fighting, quickly stepped between them to separate them, saying: “Everyone should talk nicely—why use hands and feet?” Lu Yun shouted: “Who told him to stop me from going?” He struck at Yang Suguan again—this punch had considerable force, with a whistling sound, using full strength. Yang Suguan grunted: “I’m kindly stopping you—don’t be ungrateful.” He pushed with both palms, palm wind rushing toward Lu Yun, determined to block this punch.

Wu Dingyuan urged: “We’re all on the same side—how can you use such heavy hands?” Quick as lightning, he extended his left wrist and immediately grasped Lu Yun’s shoulder. Using “Purple Qi Spreading,” he actually forced Lu Yun to be unable to move. Wu Dingyuan, being a disciple of the Tianshan sect, now showed a small demonstration of his skills and indeed suppressed Lu Yun in one move.

Wu Dingyuan, having restrained Lu Yun, reached out with his right hand toward Yang Suguan. This claw was quick as lightning—even Sa Mou would find it hard to block. Who knew that with one grab, he caught empty air!

Wu Dingyuan was greatly puzzled. His own martial arts had a strange origin with retreats like a god. That day when he fought Zhuo Lingzhao’s invisible sword energy, he advanced and retreated with equal composure. How could Yang Suguan, a young man in his twenties, be impossible for him to catch?

Wu Dingyuan was full of wonder. Looking carefully at Yang Suguan, he saw that when he retreated without his feet touching the ground, no dust was stirred—he actually had mysterious protective skills. Wu Dingyuan was shocked. Not having seen Yang Suguan fight for a year, he didn’t know his martial arts had progressed to such a divine level.

Wu Dingyuan secretly praised the Shaolin methods while saying: “Yang Langzhong, for my sake, please don’t be angry. Everyone should stop fighting!” Yang Suguan steadied himself: “I had no intention of hurting anyone. I was just afraid Prefect Lu would act rashly and impulsively, getting trapped in the case and unable to extricate himself, so I intervened to stop him.”

Lu Yun snorted sternly: “I’ve received countless kindnesses from Zhonghai—how can I not see him one last time? Yang Langzhong, you understand human feelings and worldly affairs—please don’t obstruct me anymore.” Yang Suguan sighed: “You don’t know what chaos the capital has become. If you rashly visit the prison and Jiang Chong catches you, giving him grounds to fabricate charges against you later—what’s the point of such suffering?”

Lu Yun shook his head: “I’m not afraid even if trouble comes. Zhonghai is to be executed tomorrow. If I can’t see him one last time and hear his final words clearly, I’ll never be at peace in this lifetime.” Yang Suguan shouted: “Do you think Zhonghai is your friend alone? I’ve known him for seven years—much longer than you!”

Lu Yun sighed: “Yang Langzhong, I don’t want to hear these arguments anymore. My desire to see Zhonghai is not something you can stop.”

By this time, evening was approaching. The winter sunset cast its glow, stretching the shadows of the three men into long lines. Yang Suguan looked down at the ground and suddenly gritted his teeth: “Fine! Since you insist on going, I’ll accompany you to prevent you from being falsely accused and leaving grounds for criticism.”

Wu Dingyuan was overjoyed: “This is excellent! Let’s go quickly and not delay any longer.”

As evening approached and once it was completely dark, they feared they wouldn’t even be able to enter the prison. The three hurried toward the Ministry of Justice. On the road, many thugs came to harass them. The three used lightness skills to dodge—the mob, seeing their extremely fast movements, thought they had encountered vengeful ghosts and were all shocked and frightened.

Reaching the Ministry of Justice prison, Lu Yun thought of Qin Zhonghai’s uncertain fate and felt extremely uneasy. The three walked toward the main gate. The guard at the gate, seeing them approach from afar, immediately shouted: “You fellows, what do you want to do here?”

The three had come wearing court robes, but in the current chaos of the capital, often a minor soldier could bring down a prince or high minister—it was a situation where no one feared anyone. Thus, this guard still maintained an arrogant attitude upon seeing them.

Yang Suguan stepped forward and bowed: “Brother, please accommodate us—we want to visit a prisoner.” The guard sneered: “Visit what prisoner? With everything in chaos now and corpses all over the city, what’s there to visit? Come back in a few days to collect the body!”

Lu Yun, hearing his harsh tone, couldn’t help but feel anger rising. Yang Suguan quickly blocked him, then took out a hundred-tael bank note and stuffed it into the guard’s hand. The guard, seeing money to be gained, was overjoyed. Seeing Yang Suguan’s sincere and respectful manner, he immediately changed his tune: “Alright, seeing you three are sincere, I’ll help you out. Let me report for you.”

Before long, the guard came out and let everyone enter. It seemed that while words might penetrate everything, gold and silver were more effective than flattery. The Ministry of Justice prison was oppressively gloomy. Walking along, everything was dark and dim with unbearable stench. Though it was only evening, it was already frighteningly dark. Reaching the prison gate, a jailer blocked their way: “What business do you three have?”

Yang Suguan took out a bank note and stuffed it into the man’s hand, whispering: “We want to see a prisoner. Please accommodate us, brother. I’ll reward you handsomely.” The jailer snatched the bank note and looked Yang Suguan up and down: “Who are you looking for?”

Lu Yun stepped forward: “We want to see a general surnamed Qin, who holds the rank of Tiger Forest Army Commander.”

The jailer sneered: “There’s no damn general here, only thieves.” Seeing Lu Yun’s indignant expression, he repeated his words more emphatically, shouting: “Don’t you understand? Thieves! Only thieves!”

Lu Yun was furious, his hands clenched into fists. Wu Dingyuan, fearing he would strike, quickly blocked in front of Lu Yun and bowed deeply: “Brother, our friend is surnamed Qin, given name Zhonghai. Please help us.”

The jailer smiled evilly: “This fellow has quite a few friends. A few days ago, a woman came and pestered for most of the evening before leaving. Now today three big men have come? His life is really valuable!”

Everyone was startled hearing this—no one had expected someone to visit the prison. Yang Suguan quickly asked: “Someone came to visit? Who was she?” The jailer extended his hand with a fierce grin. Yang Suguan understood and took out another hundred-tael bank note to stuff into the jailer’s hand.

The jailer, seeing money, took the bank note and put it in his bosom, laughing: “Seeing you’re a smart man, I’ll tell you. A few days ago, a beautiful woman came, about twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, quite pretty—seemed like a concubine from a wealthy family.”

Yang Suguan’s face turned ashen. He looked at Wu and Lu and whispered: “Seventh Lady came.”

Lu Yun and Wu Dingyuan, not knowing the inside story, wondered: “Seventh Lady? What did she come for?” Yang Suguan had been in the capital long enough to know everything. He whispered with a sigh: “Before Seventh Lady married the marquis, she was the capital’s most famous courtesan—that’s how she knew Zhonghai. Sigh… with Zhonghai’s life hanging by a thread at this moment, there’s really nothing good to say. Just forget what you’ve heard and don’t spread it around.”

As the three were talking, they heard the jailer shout: “Gentlemen, I’m in a hurry to change shifts. If you want to see someone, come quickly and stop dawdling!” In the current situation of the capital, no matter how good Yang Suguan’s family background, how talented Lu Yun, or how strong Wu Dingyuan’s fists, they were all somewhat diminished. Hearing the angry shout, everyone quickly closed their mouths and followed the jailer inside.

Walking into the prison, the foul air assaulted their nostrils with the smell of excrement everywhere. Barriers stood densely with iron doors locked, and prisoners covered in filth were all waiting to die inside. Wu Dingyuan, having been a constable in the past, had visited prisons often and was unaffected by the stench. Lu Yun had also lived in prison for over a month and was not unfamiliar with it. Yang Suguan, however, was entering a prison for the first time and couldn’t help but cover his nose with a handkerchief.

The three reached the last prison cell and saw a prison within a prison, with door within door, secured with three layers of chains, and over ten guards sitting outside—extremely heavily guarded. Qin Zhonghai must be imprisoned inside.

The jailer said: “Everyone make way—someone’s here to visit.” Several guards moved aside to let Lu Yun and others approach. The three leaned against the iron bars and saw a man lying face down on the ground, covered with a blanket stained with blood.

Lu Yun’s heart ached greatly as he called softly: “General Qin! We’ve come to see you.”

Qin Zhonghai, hearing the call, remained motionless as if dead.

Yang Suguan, seeing the jailer standing nearby with no intention of opening the door, immediately handed over a bank note and whispered: “Brother, please be kind and let us in.” The jailer smiled coldly: “Everything else can be arranged, but this matter I cannot comply with.” Though he said this, he snatched the bank note and put it in his bosom with no intention of returning it.

Lu Yun, worried about his friend’s life and death, urged: “Brother, the person inside has deep friendship with us. Brother, please go all the way and open the door!” The jailer sneered: “There are three layers of locks inside and out—look, those locks still have fire wax seals. How can they be opened casually? If the superiors blame me, how can I bear the responsibility?”

Earlier, when Seventh Lady came to visit, she was still able to enter the cell. This man’s words were just to extort more silver. Lu Yun’s anger flared: “How dare you! Name your price!”

The jailer made a sound of surprise: “Why are you being fierce? Are you begging me or am I begging you?” Lu Yun, seeing his shameless behavior, immediately darkened his face and channeled his internal energy, wanting to knock him down with one punch. Wu Dingyuan, knowing Lu Yun’s temper and seeing his bad expression, quickly held him back and whispered: “Don’t be angry—let Yang Langzhong handle it.”

Indeed, Yang Suguan was sensible. He took out all his remaining bank notes from his bosom and stuffed them in the man’s hands, saying apologetically: “Brother, I am a fifth-rank assistant minister in the Ministry of War’s Bureau of Operations. I also know several senior officials in the Ministry of Justice. If you open the locks now, when the capital stabilizes, Yang will repay you.” The man, hearing of future benefits and counting the bank notes in his hand, became even greedier. He shook his head and sneered: “What about the future? We small people only look at today, not tomorrow. Five hundred taels of silver can only open two locks.”

Wu Dingyuan took out bank notes from his body: “I have three hundred taels here. Please help us, brother.”

The jailer chuckled and turned to Lu Yun: “Your friends are all sensible—what about you? How much silver does this poor scholar have?” Having been offended by Lu Yun’s earlier words, he deliberately spoke to humiliate him with a very arrogant manner.

Lu Yun, anxious in his heart, quickly reached into his pockets and took out all his silver, handing it to the jailer. The jailer, seeing it was loose silver, casually weighed it and sneered: “Less than thirty taels—what a poor devil.” He then opened the locks: “Go in!” Lu Yun was the first to rush in. The jailer reached out to block him: “Those two can go in, but you cannot!”

Lu Yun roared and grabbed the jailer with his backhand, about to beat him severely. The jailer was startled and said tremblingly: “You… what do you want to do?”

Wu Dingyuan quickly pulled Lu Yun away and said: “Don’t do this.” Then to the jailer: “Brother, my friend has a rigid temperament—don’t provoke him anymore. Otherwise, if something really happens, I can’t help it either.”

The jailer, hearing the harsh words, wanted to retort but seeing Wu Dingyuan’s tall and strong build and fearing he wasn’t easy to mess with, could only swallow and dare not say another word.

At this time, Lu Yun had already rushed into the prison cell and helped Qin Zhonghai up, urgently calling: “General Qin! I’m Lu Yun!”

Qin Zhonghai, being shaken by him, slowly opened his eyes. Seeing Lu Yun, he looked confused, then closed his eyes again as if not recognizing him. Lu Yun felt sad and, seeing Qin Zhonghai’s face covered with blood and his body covered with filth, quickly took out a handkerchief to wipe him clean.

Touching his skin, he felt Qin Zhonghai’s forehead burning hot. Lu Yun exclaimed: “Why is he burning like this? Could he be ill?”

Wu Dingyuan and Yang Suguan, hearing this, also quickly came to examine him. Wu Dingyuan reached out and pushed aside Qin Zhonghai’s hair, immediately seeing a bloody character carved on his forehead. Wu Dingyuan was shocked and read the character aloud—it was the word “Crime.”

Lu Yun was greatly alarmed: “This… this was carved?”

Having characters carved on the forehead to record crimes, Yang Suguan was also horrified. Face tattooing had always been used to write names and places of exile—at most a small line—but never had such prominent carving been seen.

The jailer outside coldly commented: “A few days ago, Lord Jiang came to interrogate. We stripped this little thief’s clothes. When Lord Jiang saw the tattoo on this thief’s back, he was so shocked he jumped up, saying this fellow was the son of a traitor and his crime was unforgivable. He immediately had someone carve this character on the spot.”

Lu Yun, hearing this, wept and said tremblingly: “Zhonghai, Zhonghai, what crime have you committed?” He tried to lift him up and reached under the blanket, immediately feeling emptiness and couldn’t help exclaiming: “Leg! Zhonghai! Where is your leg?”

Wu Dingyuan quickly came over and lifted the blanket. At one look, everyone couldn’t help but cover their faces, and Lu Yun burst into loud tears.

Qin Zhonghai’s left leg was severed at the knee—Jiang Chong had amputated his foot.

The jailer laughed: “What are you crying about? It’s just a severed left leg. You should see his collarbone!”

Wu Dingyuan quickly supported Qin Zhonghai and suddenly saw holes punched through both his shoulders with bloody iron chains threaded through them. His whole body trembled and he couldn’t speak.

The jailer laughed: “Pierced, right? You understand the meaning, don’t you?” Seeing Lu Yun and Yang Suguan looking confused, Wu Dingyuan, having long served as a constable, naturally knew the severity. He sighed and whispered: “With the collarbone pierced, General Qin’s martial arts are completely ruined. He probably won’t even be able to hold a rice bowl in the future…” Both Yang and Lu were greatly shocked hearing this.

The jailer outside laughed: “Brother really understands the principle—you used to work in government too, right!”

Lu Yun, seeing his friend tortured beyond human form, immediately held Qin Zhonghai tightly and cried: “Severed leg, disabled body, face tattooed with crime… how can he live in the future?” Qin Zhonghai kept his eyes tightly closed, completely unconscious, naturally unaware that Lu Yun was holding him.

Everyone thought of Qin Zhonghai’s past bold and unrestrained laughter, but now he was disabled and maimed to this extent—they all sighed endlessly.

The jailer, hearing Lu Yun’s sorrowful words, laughed: “Aiya! What do you mean how to live in the future? He’s to be executed at sunrise tomorrow—why worry about anything? Quickly pick out a good coffin for him—that’s the real important matter!”

He pointed at Qin Zhonghai’s right foot and laughed: “Lord Jiang said originally he wanted to cut off all four limbs of this little thief and dismember him for slow execution, but because he must be executed before the twentieth of the twelfth month, how could he have it so easy to die!”

Lu Yun could bear it no longer and suddenly turned around, saying sternly: “Try saying one more word!” The jailer was startled and said tremblingly: “What do you want to do?” Lu Yun said nothing more and suddenly stood up. His heart was filled with grief, and having been subjected to repeated cold words, he was already extremely angry and only wanted to beat this jailer. The three things he had agreed to with Gu Qianxi had long been thrown to the clouds. Wu and Yang blocked him and whispered: “Don’t do this—even if we beat this man to death, it won’t help.”

Lu Yun was persuaded for a while and could only despondently give up. Yang Suguan wanted to ask about Qin Zhonghai’s final words, but he was only unconscious, not only not recognizing people but also unable to speak. Wu Dingyuan and Yang Suguan discussed for a few moments but were at a loss.

The jailer kept chattering: “How long do you want to watch? Are you going to sleep here too? Leave quickly!”

He was eager to finish his shift and leave, so he kept urging everyone to go.

Yang Suguan, seeing it was getting late, shook his head and sighed: “With Zhonghai in this condition, we can’t help either. Let’s go back and discuss.” Lu Yun, hearing these words, gripped Qin Zhonghai’s hand even tighter for a long, long time, saying nothing and only gazing at his face.

Wu Dingyuan crouched beside Lu Yun and urged: “Yang Langzhong is right—everyone standing here isn’t a solution. Let’s go back and discuss.” After several attempts at persuasion, Lu Yun neither answered nor moved. Yang Suguan shook his head and signaled to Wu Dingyuan, whispering: “Let’s go quickly—we can’t let the Embroidered Uniform Guards be drawn here.”

Wu Dingyuan, knowing this was true, reached out to pull Lu Yun. Lu Yun waved his hand to indicate they shouldn’t come over, then suddenly stood up and walked out on his own.

Outside the prison, Yang and Wu saw Lu Yun walking silently ahead without speaking, not knowing what he was thinking. The two looked at each other with increasing fear, afraid Lu Yun would do something foolish.

Yang Suguan walked to Lu Yun’s side and advised: “Brother Lu, General Qin was involved in rebellion and committed a capital crime. The emperor also decreed collective punishment—no one can save him. Please look at it more openly!” Wu Dingyuan also whispered consolingly: “Brother Lu, the only thing we can do now is find out what family General Qin still has so we can support them for him in the future. Don’t you think so?”

Lu Yun walked with his head down, not even responding once.

Wu Dingyuan shook his head and asked Yang Suguan: “Yang Langzhong, do you know General Qin’s family?” Yang Suguan shook his head: “I heard his hometown is in Huainan and his parents are also deceased—don’t know what other people remain.” Qin Zhonghai was still unmarried and alone—apart from these few friends in the capital, probably not even half a person could be found to collect his body.

While the two were talking, Lu Yun had already left. Wu Dingyuan, worried, quickly caught up and called: “Brother Lu, where are you going?”

Lu Yun stopped and turned back to ask: “Dingyuan, with the city in such chaos these days and many civilians dead, do you know where they’re buried?” Wu Dingyuan, seeing his expression become extremely strange, was even more secretly frightened and quickly advised: “With the court in chaos, please don’t do anything foolish.” Lu Yun said indifferently: “Don’t say these things. Just tell me where those corpses are buried.”

Wu Dingyuan took a deep breath: “The corpses of those who died innocent and wrongful deaths are all buried near Tu’er Mountain.” Lu Yun nodded noncommittally and was about to leave. Yang Suguan, always perceptive, could tell from Lu Yun’s expression that he intended to break into the prison. He blocked his way and said sternly: “Lu Yun! If you won’t think of yourself or the marquis, you should at least think of Miss Gu! If you act willfully and end up losing your official position and your life, what will happen to Qianxi in the future?” Yang Suguan usually behaved gently, but now, worried about Lu Yun’s future, his words carried obvious lecturing intent, quite contrary to his usual manner.

Lu Yun, hearing these words, smiled calmly. He looked at Yang Suguan: “Anyway, you, Yang Langzhong, are still here. If any great disaster comes, you can protect her safely. Isn’t that right?”

Yang Suguan’s expression changed and he stepped back two paces, exclaiming: “You… what are you saying?”

Lu Yun shook his head: “Nothing. I’ll take my leave first.” He turned and walked away.

Snow fell in flurries as Lu Yun disappeared into the distance. Only his two lines of footprints remained on the ground, looking doubly lonely in the cold wind and snow.

Yang and Wu looked at each other and both sighed.