Chapter 189

Chapter 189

◎Execution of the Ministers in the Hall◎

Xie Heng spoke with a smile, and Vermilion Bird was taken aback.

Xie Heng pulled his sleeve free from Vermilion Bird’s grasp and handed him a letter, saying gently, "If Lady and the Crown Prince have an argument, give her this letter. If not, forget it."

With that, he turned his horse and rode away.

Vermilion Bird watched Xie Heng’s back in shock. Even though he was usually slow-witted and couldn’t understand these intricate matters, he still felt a sudden unease at that moment.

He stood there in confusion for a while, but eventually had no choice but to follow Xie Heng’s instructions. After cursing under his breath, he mounted his horse and rushed back into the city, shouting, "Move out! Pack up immediately and follow me!"

Hearing Vermilion Bird’s voice behind him, Xie Heng didn’t have time to think further. He focused on the timing of when Luo Wanqing had given him the letter and calculated her route.

His body was splattered with blood, and his chest churned with internal turmoil. The initial confrontation with Yang Chun had shaken his internal energy, yet he felt as light as a butterfly emerging from its cocoon, gracefully leaping under the twilight sun, heading toward the horizon.

When Xie Heng burst out of Si Prefecture, the city was in chaos. The Supervision Division quickly evacuated, and Yang Chun, with ten thousand men, caused disorder for a long time before finally settling down by nightfall.

After things calmed down, Yang Chun placed Li Zong’s body in a coffin. His godson, Zhao Shun, approached nervously and asked, "Godfather, what should we do now?"

Yang Chun closed his eyes upon hearing this.

After a long pause, he took a deep breath and said, "Immediately announce that Xie Heng has committed regicide. Demand that all county offices post wanted notices. Everyone will depart tonight, accompanying the Emperor..." Yang Chun’s voice cracked, "...back to the East Capital."

******

While Si Prefecture was in chaos, Luo Wanqing was already on her way to the city.

On the first day of the fifth month, Beirong came to negotiate peace. After concluding the talks yesterday, she handed over all affairs to Qingya and hurried back, riding through the night.

As she neared Si Prefecture, only half a night’s journey away, a heavy rainstorm began. Seeing the intensity of the rain and feeling exhausted, she found a dilapidated temple nearby and entered to rest.

Upon entering the temple, she saw a fire. Glancing around, she noticed someone was already there.

The person was a young man in his mid-twenties, with a simple band tying his hair, dressed in white, carrying a wine gourd at his waist, and a Dao Sect token visible with his movements.

Luo Wanqing glanced briefly at the Dao Sect token and entered the temple without a word.

Seeing her come in, the man merely glanced at her and remained silent.

It was common for travelers to seek shelter during such a stormy night.

The man looked pale and clearly injured. Although he was from the Dao Sect, Luo Wanqing didn’t want any trouble.

She sat in a corner, ate some dry food, and leaned against the wall, holding Xi Ling in her arms, closing her eyes to sleep.

Tomorrow, she would meet Xie Heng, and she privately didn’t want to appear disheveled. She had even prepared new clothes, intending to tidy up before seeing him. With the current rain, rushing over would just make her look like a mud-covered monkey. It was better to get a good night’s sleep and freshen up tomorrow before meeting him.

Luo Wanqing tried to rest, but the man’s intermittent coughing disturbed her sleep.

After tossing and turning for a while, she thought about the Dao Sect token at his waist and finally couldn’t resist getting up and approaching him.

He seemed surprised by her approach and quickly said, "I’m sorry... I’m unwell, and with the rain..."

"I know a bit of medicine and have some drugs with me."

Luo Wanqing glanced at the fire and continued, "I’ll use your fire tonight. If you don’t mind, I can help adjust your condition; it might improve."

Hearing this, the man hesitated slightly. Luo Wanqing’s gaze swept over his token and calmly asked, "Are you from the Dao Sect?"

"Who are you?"

Upon her question, the man’s demeanor became stern. Luo Wanqing softened her expression and explained, "My husband was once a disciple of your sect. I wish to help you; you needn’t worry."

This piqued the man’s interest, and he curiously asked, "May I ask which disciple’s family member you are?"

"Xie Heng." Luo Wanqing looked at the flames, her eyes filled with longing.

The young man stared at her, his gaze gentle yet distant. "So you are Senior Brother Xie’s family member. I understand my condition well and don’t need your diagnosis. If you have any bruise-healing herbs like purple vine grass, could you lend them?"

Luo Wanqing understood his caution and simply took out the medicine, tossing the bottle to him.

The young man, coughing, bent down and put the bottle away in the shadows. He didn’t take the medicine immediately but looked her up and down and asked with a smile, "How is Senior Brother doing? We haven’t seen each other in years."

"He’s fine." Hearing the inquiry, Luo Wanqing realized he must be a friend of Xie Heng’s and countered, "I am Luo Wanqing. May I ask your name?"

"I am Yun Zhenzi." The young man nodded, exuding a sage-like aura.

Luo Wanqing recognized the name, recalling that Xie Heng had mentioned him.

She relaxed and listened as he continued, "When did Senior Brother get married? Do you have children?"

"The marriage happened only a few months ago," Luo Wanqing replied, slightly embarrassed but honest, "We don’t have any children yet."

Seeing her sincerity, the young man’s smile deepened. After chatting about some of Xie Heng’s past, the rain outside gradually subsided.

Noticing her fatigue, he softly said, "You seem tired, having traveled far. Where are you headed?"

"Si Prefecture."

"To see Senior Brother?"

The young man asked, and Luo Wanqing smiled, nodding, "Yes, tomorrow is my birthday."

She gazed at the flames, thinking of Xie Heng, and said warmly, "We’re always apart... Last year, I wanted to celebrate my birthday with him, but I was working on... a very complicated case."

She was handling the case involving The Eastern Palace’s Six Armies.

At that time... she had agreed to work as a spy for Li Guiyu, not long after she had pretended to share a bed with "Xie Heng."

Now that she thought about it, perhaps Xie Heng had known her birthday back then. He just wanted to distance himself from her at the time, so even though he knew her birthday, he didn't respond.

Thinking this way, Luo Wanqing clearly noticed the difference between Xie Heng now and back then.

The deeper his feelings, the tighter he held back his true self.

Cui Heng used to send gifts and write letters every day, appearing devoted and gentle, but behind all that, he was cold and self-serving, ready to leave at any moment.

Now, although he often throws tantrums and can be annoying in bed, he always thinks of her.

Recalling those times, she explained, "Back then, he was angry with me, and I was too busy, so that matter passed. But thankfully, I spent his birthday with him."

"Then aren't you at a disadvantage?"

The young man asked with a smile. Luo Wanqing was taken aback and said blankly, "Why would I be at a disadvantage?"

"His birthday had you, but yours didn't have him. Wouldn't you feel it's unfair?"

"No," Luo Wanqing shook her head. "I only feel fortunate to have been with him. As for me..."

Luo Wanqing, thinking about seeing Xie Heng tomorrow, couldn't help but feel happy: "I can make up for my birthday this year. After all, I'll see him tomorrow."

Hearing this, the young man looked at Luo Wanqing tenderly and said seriously, "You must really like him."

Luo Wanqing remained silent. The young man seemed puzzled, "Did I guess wrong?"

Luo Wanqing didn't say anything. She stared into the fire as the young man's expression gradually softened. Just as he was about to speak, Luo Wanqing softly said, "It's more than just liking."

She lifted her eyes, looking at the young man with a mix of innocence and seriousness: "I love him."

Upon hearing this, the young man froze, seemingly at a loss.

He gazed at her silently, trying to suppress all emotions in his eyes, his fingers unconsciously curling under his sleeves.

The spider-web-covered deity stood beside them, the fire becoming the only light in the dark night.

A piece of wood cracked in the fire, and Luo Wanqing, slightly embarrassed, said, "I've never spoken like this before."

She turned away, looking back at the fire, her eyes filled with smiles: "He often says it. Before he left, he asked me, and I couldn't answer. These days, I've been practicing over and over. I thought if I said it enough, I could tell him when I see him."

"He's quite petty."

Luo Wanqing shook her head helplessly: "If I were still embarrassed, he'd start thinking all sorts of things."

"With your words," the young man suppressed his emotions and joked, "he'd die without regrets."

"Let him have some regrets," Luo Wanqing laughed, her eyes carrying a hint of sorrow, "with regrets, there's longing. I hope he cherishes this world countless times."

"He will."

The young man spoke softly, almost as if comforting her.

Luo Wanqing turned to look at him, noticing that he looked much better, no longer coughing.

She glanced at the sky, stood up, and said, "It's getting late. Little Brother, rest early. I need to sleep well too; I'm leaving at dawn."

"Sweet dreams."

The young man responded softly.

Luo Wanqing returned to her spot, leaned against the wall, closed her eyes, and fell asleep.

She had no dreams that night. When she woke up, it was still dark, and the rain had stopped. Luo Wanqing walked to the courtyard, washed herself with well water, and returned to the temple to change her clothes and tidy up.

When she came out, she saw Yun Zhenzi had already woken up.

He stared at her intently, his gaze somewhat intrusive.

Feeling uncomfortable under his gaze, Luo Wanqing couldn't help but ask, "Little Brother, why are you looking at me like that?"

"Is Lady going to meet Senior Brother Xie?"

Yun Zhenzi didn't answer her question but asked instead. Luo Wanqing nodded: "Yes. The rain has stopped, so I'll be on my way. May we meet again someday."

With that, Luo Wanqing bowed and turned to leave.

Just as she took a step, she was called back: "Lady!"

Luo Wanqing turned around, feeling a bit puzzled.

She realized that this person had always addressed her by her title since they met.

Usually, people like Vermilion Bird and Qingya called her "Lady" within the Supervision Division because surnames weren't necessary, but this stranger had consistently used the title.

Before she could think further, she saw him lightly coughing and staggering towards her.

He handed her an umbrella, which seemed brand new, still wrapped in paper.

Holding the umbrella in his hand, its length covered most of his hand. Luo Wanqing looked at him in confusion as he sincerely said, "I fear there might be storms on your journey. Please accept this umbrella as a gift."

"Oh, no need."

Luo Wanqing quickly replied, "I ride a horse, so an umbrella isn't convenient."

"Then take it back and give it to Senior Brother for me."

Yun Zhenzi spoke earnestly. Mentioning Xie Heng, Luo Wanqing understood that this wasn't just for her, so she accepted the umbrella and nodded, "My husband thanks you, Little Brother."

"Travel safely."

Yun Zhenzi gazed at her, his tone so light it seemed he barely wanted to speak.

Luo Wanqing felt something was off but couldn't quite put her finger on it. She could only smile, bow, and nod, saying, "Take care."

With that, she turned and held her umbrella.

The young man stood at the door, watching as dawn broke and a blue mist enveloped everything. He stood in the dilapidated temple, no longer protected by gods or buddhas, seeing her in a water-blue, light silk dress with wide sleeves, her hair tied up with a jade pin, her beauty serene and gentle under the morning light like a tranquil lake.

He watched her until she disappeared from sight.

But Luo Wanqing was completely unaware. She mounted her horse, stroked Lian Qing on her shoulder, and said happily, "Let's go see your father."

Lian Qing nuzzled her neck, and the two of them shot off like an arrow.

After riding for a while, Luo Wanqing heard the cry of an eagle overhead. Looking up, she saw Zuisi circling in the sky. She stopped her horse, raised her hand, and called out, "Zuisi!"

Hearing her voice, Zuisi dove down and landed on her arm.

Two letters were tied to Zuisi's leg. Luo Wanqing was puzzled as she quickly removed the letters. The first one was from Li Shengzhao, which read: "There may be changes on the way back to the country. Please hurry and lead five thousand light cavalry to await me at Huangcheng."

The second letter was written by Xie Heng, his handwriting solemn and deliberate: "Trouble in East Capital. Return urgently. Don’t come back on the fifth, happy birthday, see you later."

Luo Wanqing looked at the two letters and suddenly felt a pang of sadness.

After two days of travel, this was the result, but there was no one to blame.

She took a deep breath, looked at Zuisi standing on the horse's head, stroked its head, and couldn't help but ask, "Only letters?"

Xie Heng usually brought gifts when sending letters.

But Zuisi shook its head.

Luo Wanqing thought about it. Li Shengzhao's message eagle wasn't Zuisi. Zuisi bringing the letters meant that Xie Heng had given Li Shengzhao a letter first, then Zuisi carried both their letters from Beirong to her.

Such a long distance; if Zuisi had also carried a gift, it would indeed have been too much of a burden.

Understanding this, Luo Wanqing adjusted her mood and knew she needed to return.

She turned her horse around but couldn't help but glance in the direction of Si Prefecture. In the end, she only carried the umbrella Yun Zhenzi had given her and headed back.

Luo Wanqing spent two days rushing back to the border. Then she had Qingya count the five thousand light cavalry and explained the situation to the Beirong envoys before leading her troops into Beirong.

Luo Wanqing hired a Beirong guide and invited officials from the Beirong court to accompany her towards the agreed-upon city of Huangcheng.

The Beirong plains were vast, mostly desert, unlike the continuous cities of the Central Plains. Cities were far apart, surrounded by endless sand.

This was Luo Wanqing's first time seeing such terrain. She followed the guide, wearing a full-body veil, riding through the endless plains, seeing earthen fortresses, oases in the sand, and the poplars Zhang Jiuran had told her about.

As she traveled to Huangcheng, news of Xie Heng's regicide spread rapidly throughout the Central Plains.

On the fifteenth of May, Yang Chun returned to East Capital with Li Zong's body.

The night before Li Zong entered East Capital, a heavy rain fell. Li Guiyu sat in his room, carving a wooden figurine, listening to Wang Yunzhi explain the current situation.

"Yang Chun is now at the outskirts of the city. Tomorrow, he will bring the late emperor into the city. Father has already mobilized twenty thousand troops under the guise of protecting East Capital. They are currently outside the city. Tonight, he has also contacted the civil officials. Tomorrow, when the late emperor enters the palace, they will recommend you to oversee the state."

Li Guiyu listened quietly as the carving knife peeled away wood shavings. Seeing him unmoved, Wang Yunzhi's gaze fell on the wooden figurine in his hands.

Seeing the rough shape of a woman, Wang Yunzhi's anger flared. Her white silk ribbon sliced through the air, aiming to cut off the figurine's head.

Li Guiyu caught the ribbon, pulled Wang Yunzhi forward, and glared coldly, "If you dare touch my things again, believe me when I say I'll break your hand?"

"Unreasonable!"

Wang Yunzhi's face darkened. She yanked the ribbon back, glanced at the figurine, and angrily said, "What time is it now, and you're still carving your damn wood? You pushed her to death and now pretend to be a saint? Tell me what’s planned for tomorrow’s court session!"

"There are many new people in the city recently."

Li Guiyu spoke calmly, "Minister of Works Jiang Wang has recruited nearly twenty thousand people under various pretexts, such as building gardens, river embankments, bridges in the suburbs, and ships."

Hearing this, Wang Yunzhi frowned, "What does this have to do with us?"

"Jiang Wang is Xie Xiuqi's classmate."

Li Guiyu left it at that, but Wang Yunzhi immediately understood, "Do you suspect that the Xie family has also gathered troops in East Capital?!"

"The number doesn't matter. Who controls the palace guards tomorrow? Who truly commands the imperial city?"

Li Guiyu's words were concise but pointed.

Wang Yunzhi listened and directly asked, "What do you plan to do?"

"Tomorrow, the leader of the palace guards is Yang Yue, who isn’t our man. Have Mother invite him for tea so he can’t attend the early court session tomorrow. Mother should appoint Bian Le, the commander of the Right Feathered Guard, as his replacement."

"Bian Le is your man?"

"He acts for profit. It works."

Li Guiyu spoke, and Wang Yunzhi felt relieved.

Working with Li Guiyu these days, she had come to understand his methods.

He excelled at winning hearts and had an extensive intelligence network. During her stay with the Wang family, he had become close to all the clan members.

When he said Xie Heng would surely kill the emperor, she didn’t believe him, but Xie Heng did just that.

Now, she dared not doubt his decisions and nodded, "Understood. I’ll go see Aunt in the palace."

"One more thing."

Li Guiyu called out to Wang Yunzhi.

Wang Yunzhi turned around and saw Li Guiyu stroking the wooden carving in his hand, calmly saying, "Find out where Xie Heng is exactly."

Wang Yunzhi went out to handle all the affairs, while Li Guiyu sat in the room, carving wood through the night.

By the time it was nearly dawn, he washed up, changed into mourning clothes, and headed to the palace.

He then joined the officials at the city gate, welcoming Li Zong's coffin into the palace as the sky began to lighten.

Everyone cried loudly, whether they had tears or not, wailing aloud.

As the eldest prince now, Li Guiyu, led by Wang Lianyang, took all the princes and princesses to the front, crying as they brought Li Zong back to the palace city.

The palace city was adorned with white flowers, and a memorial hall had been set up inside.

After settling Li Zong, Li Guiyu supported Wang Lianyang to the main hall. The officials, draped in white cloth, mourned together. Wang Lianyang, sitting high up, sobbed, "His Majesty was in his prime, destined for a long reign. Who could have thought that Xie Heng would dare to harbor such rebellious intentions! Such traitors deserve the severest punishment!"

Hearing this, the Xie clan members couldn't help but look up. Wang Lianyang sniffled, then looked towards Xie Xiuqi, who stood at the front, and said, "Fortunately, the Grand Tutor was wise enough to expel this traitor from the family early on, severing all ties. What Xie Heng did has nothing to do with the Xie clan. I understand this clearly."

This statement clarified her stance. Xie Xiuqi bowed respectfully, saying, "Thank you, Your Highness, for your understanding."

Wiping her tears, Wang Lianyang seemed to calm down and continued, "Now that His Majesty has passed, the country cannot be without a ruler. Yang Dajian," Wang Lianyang looked up at Yang Chun, showing concern, "did His Majesty name a successor before he passed?"

"His Majesty's passing was too sudden," Yang Chun said with red eyes, "and he left no words behind."

"No will was left..."

Wang Lianyang murmured, looking at everyone, "Does anyone have any thoughts?"

No one spoke in the hall. After a moment, Wang Shenfeng sighed and stepped forward, saying, "Since no one dares to speak, I will take the liberty. There are only four princes left: Third Prince, Sixth Prince, Ninth Prince, and Eleventh Prince. According to tradition, either the eldest or the legitimate heir should be chosen. Third Prince is from the main consort and is the eldest prince now. Without a will, both by age and legitimacy, Third Prince should be chosen as the successor."

"But... isn't Third Prince under house arrest?"

Song Xichao's voice echoed, filled with doubt. He looked at Yang Chun, "Yang Dajian, if I remember correctly, after the Zheng family's rebellion, Third Prince was detained by the Supervision Division for suspected involvement in the assassination plot. He refused the imperial decree, injured the head of the Supervision Division, and escaped, disappearing without a trace. Now that His Majesty has just passed..."

Song Xichao chuckled, his tone meaningful, "Third Prince returns at quite a convenient time."

"Song Daren speaks truly," Li Guiyu said with a bitter smile, "if you wish to recommend me, at least wait until my innocence is proven. Father was misled by Xie Heng and mistakenly blamed me, asking me to cooperate with the Supervision Division in the investigation. Little did I know that Xie Heng colluded with Luo Wanqing to deceive the emperor, even forging an imperial edict to try to kill me. To save my life, I had to escape... but the Supervision Division pursued me relentlessly. I fled for a long time, and upon hearing of Father's passing, I returned to the capital regardless of danger. I met Prime Minister Wang, who told me the truth: Father only wanted to detain me, not to kill me!"

Li Guiyu's eyes reddened, "How could I have been deceived by traitors and missed Father's last moments..."

Everyone listened silently. The Zheng family's assassination was too chaotic; no one dared to speak rashly, always reserving some skepticism about Li Guiyu's words.

Listening to Li Guiyu, Song Xichao nodded sympathetically, "Your Highness has suffered. But... you are still under suspicion."

"What does Song Daren mean?"

Li Guiyu looked up, puzzled. Song Xichao smiled, "I believe Your Highness, but involving an assassination plot is a grave crime. Until you are cleared, choosing you as the ruler..."

Song Xichao looked at Wang Shenfeng, "would be inappropriate, wouldn't it?"

"What does Song Daren suggest?" Wang Shenfeng smiled coldly at Song Xichao.

Song Xichao smiled back, "I think everything should follow the ancestral rules. Until Third Prince is cleared of suspicion, discussing the succession is not appropriate. Perhaps Sixth Prince should temporarily assume the role of regent until the matter is resolved."

"Sixth Prince?"

Hearing this, Sun Zhengli, the Minister of War, sneered, "Sixth Prince has always been mediocre. What can he do as regent?"

"Being mediocre proves he is steady." Zhang Yiran, hearing Sun Zhengli's words, spoke coldly, "Sixth Prince is only a temporary regent. Steadiness is enough. If Minister Sun has other candidates, please suggest them."

"Third Prince is noble and suitable, respected and wise. He volunteered as a hostage for the state, showing high virtue. With such a good candidate here, why talk about Sixth Prince as a temporary regent, Song Xichao?"

"Guang'an Prince's suspicion of treason has not been cleared. Are you involved in the rebellion, Minister Sun?" Zhang Yiran stared at Sun Zhengli, asking sharply.

"Nonsense!" Sun Zhengli shouted angrily, "I just don't want the country to be in turmoil!"

"With Sixth Prince as regent, what turmoil could there be?"

"Why do you obstruct Third Prince's rightful claim?"

"Since he is still a suspect, why not investigate?"

...

The court erupted into arguments. Li Guiyu stood behind Wang Lianyang, watching the chaos quietly.

After a long while, Song Xichao finally spoke, "Gentlemen, there is no need to argue. If we speak of protocol, perhaps the most knowledgeable person here is Minister Xie."

Song Xichao turned to Xie Guangcheng, the Minister of Rites, "Minister Xie, do you think choosing Third Prince as the successor now complies with the protocol?"

Everyone looked at Xie Guangcheng.

Xie Guangcheng, a veteran of three dynasties, held great respect and his words carried significant weight.

Staring at him, Xie Guangcheng thought carefully and said, "If Third Prince were not involved, his position naturally fits the protocol. But since he is involved, we must prove his innocence, or..."

Xie Guangcheng drew out his words, building suspense. Then he said, "there must be a will or an oral decree from the late emperor."

Hearing this, Wang Shenfeng laughed coldly.

"Minister Xie is making things difficult for Third Prince. Yang Dajian already said there is no will or oral decree. That's why we are arguing here. If there were a will or oral decree, we would simply follow it. Why need our debate?"

"Who said there is no oral decree?"

As the voice echoed, familiar and cold, everyone recognized it. For the past six years, this person had always spoken decisively at crucial moments in the court.

Everyone was stunned and turned to see Xie Heng stepping up the stairs, walking in from outside the hall.

He wore a broad-sleeved long robe of dark blue linen, with a pure white inner garment. A red cord belt connected to a Hetian jade cloud-patterned buckle, and a hairband half-tied his long hair. Suspended at his waist were a wine gourd and a white jade longsword, making him look carefree and out of place in the grand hall.

Seeing him enter, everyone was shocked. Yang Chun reacted first, saying with hatred, "Xie Heng, you dare to come back!"

"Of course I must return," Xie Heng smiled, seemingly nonchalant, "If I don't, who would know the Emperor's final wish?"

Hearing this, everyone instantly realized that the last person by Li Zong's side was Xie Heng!

"The words of a traitor cannot be trusted!"

Wang Shenfeng immediately understood that Xie Heng's words were the true imperial decree. He hurriedly said, "Guards! Arrest him!"

"Dare you?!"

Xie Heng's loud shout froze all the soldiers around him, and for a moment, none dared to step forward.

Xie Heng glanced contemptuously at the surrounding soldiers, then looked up at Wang Lianyang and Li Guiyu on the throne, smiling as he said, "I am the last person by the Emperor's side. Today, I follow the Emperor's order to convey his oral edict: The Third Prince is appointed as the Crown Prince, to ascend the throne and restart the Great Xia Law to rectify the state. Third Prince," Xie Heng stared at Li Guiyu and raised his voice, "Do you accept the edict?"

Hearing this, Wang Shenfeng frowned, feeling a bit flustered.

Everyone exchanged glances, not expecting the matter to involve the Great Xia Law.

For a moment, the entire court was silent, with only Li Guiyu standing high above, silently facing Xie Heng.

He was forcing him.

Li Guiyu knew clearly that Xie Heng was using the throne to pressure him now.

If he accepted Xie Heng's edict or showed any desire for the throne, people would suspect collusion between them, believing that Xie Heng killed Li Zong to secure his position.

Moreover, Xie Heng's edict tied the throne to restarting the Great Xia Law, meaning accepting the throne meant accepting the law's revival.

But if he refused now, his involvement in the assassination of Zheng would be exposed, with Luo Wanqing likely having left evidence. If Song Xichao and others investigated, he could not escape responsibility.

Once discovered, he would forever be ineligible for the throne. Missing this opportunity would make future ascension nearly impossible.

Accepting Xie Heng's edict would invite suspicion, but at least he would gain the throne today—the only legitimate way to ascend.

But this method bound him to restarting the Great Xia Law.

And that was what Xie Heng wanted.

Even after killing the Emperor and being alone at the end of the road, he still wielded power in the hall, getting what he desired.

Why?

Li Guiyu looked at the people in the hall, a deep urge to destroy Xie Heng surging within him.

Why did Xie Heng always get everything he wanted, while he struggled endlessly?

Li Guiyu stared at Xie Heng, clenching his fists.

Xie Heng watched his eyes change, seeming to see through Li Guiyu's heart, and smiled, saying, "Third Prince, the Emperor's edict—will you defy it as a son and subject?"

"As a son and subject, I dare not disobey."

Li Guiyu replied coldly, and both knew the answer.

Xie Heng smiled as Li Guiyu descended from the high platform, approached him, bowed, and knelt, respectfully saying, "Your subject accepts the edict."

"The ruler has knelt; what about the rest of you?"

Xie Heng scanned the court: "Do any of you have doubts?"

"I do."

Zhang Yiran suddenly spoke.

Xie Heng turned to look at him, hearing Zhang Yiran say, "Why did you kill the Emperor? Were you coerced or manipulated by others?"

"What, Lord Zhang wants to seek justice for me?"

Xie Heng found it amusing, but Zhang Yiran looked serious, saying, "Yes. If you speak the truth, I believe the world will seek justice for you."

Hearing this, Xie Heng remained silent.

He quietly looked at Zhang Yiran, seeing another person in his face.

They were equally upright, relentless, and even as insignificant pawns in the court, they fought for their sense of justice.

After being stared at for a long time, Zhang Yiran finally heard Xie Heng laugh, "Now I understand why I've always been jealous of you."

"Director Xie..."

This reaction surprised Zhang Yiran, but Xie Heng only lowered his head and gently touched the sword sheath, softly saying, "You and I are different. My justice..."

Before finishing, Xie Heng's sword flashed out, swiftly heading towards Wang Shenfeng, his expression turning stern: "I'll seek it myself!"

"Qingfeng!"

Wang Shenfeng shouted, and in that instant, Wang Qingfeng rushed forward with a palm strike, while Yang Chun's whisk lashed out from behind Xie Heng: "Die!"

Xie Heng faced attacks from both sides but remained calm, bending and sweeping his sword, escaping the gap between them. With a spin, he pushed the two away.

Seeing this, Wang Shenfeng and other ministers turned to flee. Xie Heng spun, landing on one knee, his sword tip piercing the ground, causing the floorboards to flip up. Wang Shenfeng stumbled forward, and Xie Heng appeared before him, raising his sword to strike down!

Wang Qingfeng instantly rushed to Wang Shenfeng's front, meeting Xie Heng's sword with a palm strike.

He had practiced the Iron Palm technique for many years, making him impervious to blades and bullets. However, when Xie Heng's sword wind approached his palm, he suddenly felt a sharp pain and hastily rolled to the side with Wang Shenfeng.

The sword blade instantly cut into Wang Shenfeng's arm, blood spraying out as Wang Shenfeng screamed in agony, causing chaos throughout the entire court.

Wang Qingfeng shielded Wang Shenfeng behind him while Yang Chun joined the fray. Together, they surrounded Xie Heng, but Xie Heng only focused on Wang Shenfeng.

The sword moved like a serpent's tongue, swift and fierce, piercing densely toward Wang Shenfeng behind Wang Qingfeng, forcing Wang Qingfeng to concentrate all his attention on the tip of the sword, not daring to let his guard down for a moment.

He had never seen such rapid and dense sword movements. When Xie Heng struck again, he simultaneously evaded Yang Chun's attacks.

All his movements were within a small space, as if this space contained his own laws of heaven and earth, controlled by him alone.

Wang Qingfeng felt the pressure of wind and rain, thunderous and overwhelming, almost forgetting to breathe.

Strong.

Too strong.

He had fought Xie Heng six years ago when he was still a young man. He, along with Yang Chun and Zheng Daochu, had defeated him together.

They said it was a joint effort, but at that time, it was merely to make him appear before Cui Muhua. When Xie Heng appeared before Cui Muhua covered in blood, either he or Zheng Daochu could have killed the boy with ease.

Cui Muhua committed suicide to protect her child, and it was because of her death that Li Zong and Cui Qingping found an insurmountable barrier between them.

They watched each other across this mountain, filled with suspicion, allowing the Wang family to rise by feeding on the bones of the Cui family.

He knew back then that Xie Heng had exceptional talent, but he never imagined someone could grow so quickly.

He and Yang Chun attacked together, yet they couldn't make Xie Heng retreat even a step.

Such swift and intense attacks were extremely exhausting. Wang Qingfeng knew they couldn't last long. Glancing at Li Guiyu, who had been watching the battle, he shouted, "Guiyu!"

Li Guiyu remained calm, his hand on his sword, watching the three fighters. After Wang Qingfeng called out, Li Guiyu still did not move until Xie Heng's sword tip aimed at Wang Qingfeng's forehead, forcing Wang Qingfeng to retreat with Wang Shenfeng. At that moment, Li Guiyu, like a coiled king snake, thrust his sword forward!

The strike was so fast that it was almost impossible to see his figure. Xie Heng flipped in mid-air, the sword wind slicing off a strand of his hair. Wang Qingfeng seized the opportunity to deliver a powerful palm strike, while Yang Chun's whisk attacked from above. Xie Heng did not retreat, meeting Wang Qingfeng's palm with his own and tangling Yang Chun's whisk with his sword, slamming Yang Chun heavily into Wang Qingfeng.

As the two were knocked down, Li Guiyu slashed downward. Xie Heng blocked with his sword but was knocked aside by Li Guiyu's sword qi. He grabbed the pillar with force and immediately turned to attack again!

This relentless assault made Wang Qingfeng, who was supporting Wang Shenfeng, exclaim in shock, "How is this possible!"

"Qi Pill!"

Yang Chun realized and gritted his teeth, charging forward with Li Guiyu to intercept Xie Heng, warning, "Xie Heng, if you stop now, you might still have a chance to live. Using the Qi Pill to forcibly enhance your inner strength to this extent, if you continue, you'll be crippled for life!"

"Live for today," Xie Heng replied indifferently, his sword sweeping wide like a river pouring down, laughing wildly, "Kill today if it's meant to be! Someone like me—"

Xie Heng leaped into the air, his sword striking heavily against Yang Chun's whisk: "What does tomorrow matter?"

His immense inner strength descended like a mountain, sending Yang Chun flying.

Li Guiyu took the opportunity to thrust his sword, and Xie Heng parried with his own. In a low voice, he said, "Move aside, I'll give you the Wang family."

Li Guiyu's eyes narrowed slightly, and he withdrew his inner strength. Xie Heng kicked him away, shouting, "Protect Lord Wang!"

But it was too late.

Xie Heng lunged forward, and Wang Shenfeng, hearing the wind rush behind him, turned to strike with all his might, only to feel a gentle breeze. He heard nothing, saw nothing.

When he realized what had happened, he turned to see Xie Heng facing away from him, holding his sword and looking back with a sideways glance.

At that moment, Wang Shenfeng's head fell with a thud, and Wang Qingfeng murmured, "Hanshengsheng..."

The final strike of the Wu Xiang Sword, using qi as the sword, turning all things into a sword, Hanshengsheng.

As the words fell, countless blood holes exploded around him, and he collapsed to the ground.

Xie Heng stepped out, and Yang Chun reacted, hesitating to approach, shouting, "Go! Capture him!"

Soldiers rushed forward, and Xie Heng, like a tiger or a leopard, charged out, grabbing Sun Zhengli, who had run far away, and slamming him to the ground.

Xie Xiuqi stood amidst the chaos, finally unable to bear it. While being dragged away by Xie Guangcheng, he saw Xie Heng being attacked by soldiers and still pursuing Sun Zhengli. He finally couldn't hold back, shaking off his brother's grip and rushing into the crowd, shouting, "Xie Heng!"

Xie Heng, choking Sun Zhengli, looked at Xie Xiuqi, panting and staring at his hand, terrified, saying, "If you stop now, it's not too late."

Xie Heng understood Xie Xiuqi's meaning.

If he only killed Wang Shenfeng, there would still be room for negotiation.

But if he killed Sun Zhengli and more, it would be a complete massacre of ministers, angering all the clans, leaving no room for return.

Looking at the fear in Xie Xiuqi's eyes and the terror in the old man's gaze, he smiled.

"Father," he spoke gently, "I can't go back. Let your younger son take care of you in your old age."

As the words fell, a "snap" echoed, and Sun Zhengli struggled violently, his eyes widening as he lost consciousness.

Xie Xiuqi's eyes widened, but Xie Heng ignored him and charged toward his next target.

He remembered every person involved in the Cui case back then.

He remembered every person who urged him on the day of the Cui execution.

He remembered every person who forced him to besiege the Cui family at Qingyun Ferry.

He remembered their faces every night, reliving their torment in pools of blood.

Minister of Revenue, Wang Lianzhen.

Doctor of the Imperial Censorate, Wang Lang.

The Censorate's Chief Censor, Sun Shu...

These people had started running out of the palace gates from the very beginning. Xie Heng stared at them intently and chased after each one.

Soldiers surged forward, one after another, and Xie Xiuqi squeezed through the crowd, urgently calling out, "Xie Heng! Xie Lingshu! Stop! Stop it!"

But Xie Heng could no longer hear him. His eyes were covered in blood, and he only focused on his targets, killing each one as he went.

The Essence Pill depleted his foundation, but he had swallowed an entire bottle upon arriving. From that moment, he had not intended to retreat.

When the last official he remembered was impaled by him, he finally felt himself weakening.

The pain of his tendons tearing was nothing to him.

Yet for some reason, his mind drifted back to the night he first met Luo Wanqing, when he pretended not to know martial arts and tricked her into protecting him.

That night, Luo Wanqing's tendons were torn open by internal energy, and blood seeped through her skin. At the time, he did not care; he only thought that this woman was mysterious and acted strangely, and he should investigate further.

Later, when he helped reshape her bones, he merely saw it as her destiny.

But now, he thought, how painful it must have been.

His Xiniang, how painful it must have been then.

He pulled his sword out of the official, and the surrounding soldiers encircled him, none daring to approach.

Bodies littered the ground, and Xie Heng was covered in blood. He panted and looked up, seeing Li Guiyu standing not far away.

Li Guiyu stood with Yang Chun, who stared at him with suspicion and uncertainty.

He could tell that Xie Heng's martial skills were now undoubtedly superior to his own. However, to assassinate alone, Xie Heng had taken Essence Pills, which temporarily boosted his strength beyond even the capabilities of Zhang Chunzi, the foremost Grandmaster among the Eight.

He did not dare to step forward, and Li Guiyu remained silent.

Xie Heng glanced around and let out a light laugh.

He was surrounded by corpses and blood. Standing in the midst of it all, he tried to untie the wine gourd from his waist.

But his fingertips trembled, and after several attempts, he finally managed to remove the gourd. He opened the lid and poured the wine over his sword.

As the wine washed over the blood, Xie Heng knew Li Guiyu was watching him. He watched the blood drip off the blade and said with a light breath, "It's done. The ones who deserved to die are dead. My sword likes to drink, so I should reward it."

"Xie Heng, the effects of the pills will eventually wear off," Li Guiyu said calmly, looking at Xie Heng's trembling hands. "Essence Pills can boost internal energy in the short term, but they destroy one's foundation. When the effects dissipate, your tendons will tear, leaving you crippled."

"Do I need you to tell me?" Xie Heng laughed, looking up at him. "When did you start liking to spout nonsense?"

"Assassinating the emperor and plotting treason, slaughtering officials in the hall," Li Guiyu stared at Xie Heng. "Xie Heng, you deserve death ten thousand times over. No one can save you, so why waste others' lives?"

Hearing this, Xie Heng knew he was being persuaded to surrender. He raised his sword and smiled lightly. "I can die, but I, Xie Heng, will only submit to the laws of Great Xia, or perhaps..."

A hint of longing and tenderness appeared in his eyes, and he whispered the name as if speaking to a lover: "Liu Xiniang."

The author has something to say:

"Side Scene"

Vermilion Bird: "Bad news! Young Master killed all the enemies!"

Luo Wanqing: "What? All of them?"

Vermilion Bird: "Yes, all of them!"

Luo Wanqing: "...An assassin, this is what a true assassin does."

Li Guiyu: "The highest form of political intrigue often employs the simplest methods..."