Chapter 4 Chapter Three

The blood on Xu Pingjun's face disappeared in an instant, and he asked sharply: "He Xiaoqi, are you fighting again? Who killed someone? You can't kill people when you are sick." "A Mr. Li from the city of Chang'an came to have a cockfight with the eldest brother. After losing, he wanted to forcefully buy the eldest brother's chicken. The elder brother's temper, my sister knows that if the business is good and the quantity is good, no matter how precious it is, it is not a big deal. Like-minded people, not to mention buying, even giving away for free, the eldest brother is also willing, but that Mr. Li is really bullying, and the eldest brother's temper has come up, no matter what price he offers, he refuses to sell. , When we saw that elder brother was beaten, it was okay? Immediately, a group of brothers were called to fight back, and the government was alarmed. Eldest brother refused to implicate us. He took over all the mistakes alone, and the government... Got it."

"You...you..." Xu Pingjun grabbed He Xiaoqi's ear angrily, "People don't fight with officials, why don't you even understand this? Did you hurt anyone?" "Brother didn't allow us to do anything at the beginning, but then the cockfight was in chaos, everyone's eyes were red, one of the opponent's servants was beaten to death, and the son was broken by the elder brother... Ah!" He Xiao Qi covered his ears and howled miserably, Xu Pingjun had left him and rushed out of the shop. Yun Ge heard the store owner Chang Shu sigh, pretending not to care and asked casually: "Chang Uncle, who are this sister and that elder brother?"

Uncle Chang sighed heavily again, "When you work in the store in the future, you will get to know Xu Yatou well. That Liu Bing is already a 'celebrity' in Shaolingyuan, so you don't know. Xu Yatou has a sharp mouth and a tofu heart. , people are capable, a girl is better than other people's sons. Liu is already sick, but you can avoid as far as you can, and it is best not to talk for the rest of your life. It is rumored that all his family members have died, and only he is left One, but he has discredited his ancestors. He can read and write, and his talent is said to be good, but he has a stubborn personality and refuses to learn well. He is good at fighting chickens, running dogs, fighting and gambling. He is the leader of the gangsters in the suburbs of Chang'an. She is still an official, although she is not very big, her family has no worries about food and clothing, but later because she offended the prince, she was sentenced to the palace sentence, since Xu Yatou and her mother became a widow, her temper is getting worse day by day..."

"What is..." Yun Ge heard the castration, and was about to ask what the punishment was, and then heard the latter sentence of being a widow, and understood a little bit in his heart, and immediately said embarrassedly: "It's nothing, Uncle Chang, you continue to talk. " "Old man Xu is drunk all day long now. As long as there is alcohol, he doesn't care about anything. He and Liu Bing have gotten along very well, and I don't know what they talk about. Xu girl and her mother hate Liu Bing very much. But when encountering such a naughty Liu Bingji, she has no choice but to ignore him. Xu Yatou and Liu Bingji have known each other since childhood, but they treat him very well, just like their own brother. Alas! Xu Yatou's life has not been peaceful because of this Liu Bing. Liu Bingji is afraid that he will not escape the death penalty this time, and his head will only be broken with a scar on the mouth of the bowl, so poor Xu Yatou!" Chang Shu finished gossiping and hurried to greet the guests.

Yun Ge pondered silently, no wonder he felt that Brother Ling's personality had changed drastically, it turned out that he had suffered a drastic change, but he didn't know what happened, all his relatives died. "Do you have to pay for your life if you kill someone?" "That's what the law says, but the official word...it depends on who was killed, and who killed someone." Meng Jue pursed a smile on his lips, but there was a smile in his downcast eyes. I don't care. Yun Ge asked: "What do you mean?" "For example, if ordinary people or ordinary officials offend a prince, what will happen? Xu Pingjun's father was castrated for a small mistake. He was also a first-rank minister of the Han Dynasty during the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty. Hou Ligan was shot and killed by the hussar general Huo Qubing. If it were someone else, it would definitely bring disaster to the whole family, but because the murderer was Huo Qubing, the favorite minister of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, and it was the time when the Wei family was proud of the world. Master's death, the confession to the world is nothing more than an understatement of 'killed by a deer'."

Thinking of Liu Bing's current desperation, and thinking of the noble son from Chang'an City that He Xiaoqi said, Yun Ge couldn't eat anymore, so he only thought that he should first find out the cause and effect of the matter, and said to Meng Jue. "I'm full, if you have something to do, go and do it! Don't accompany me, I can go shopping alone." "Okay! See you tonight. By the way, do you like the place where you lived yesterday?" Yun Ge nodded. "I like it too. I plan to rent it out for a long time and make it a temporary place to stay. Let's talk about it. Don't find another place to live. Cook me a dinner every day and count it as the house money. I can't stay here. Boss, when the business is negotiated, I will leave, and I will enjoy a few days of good luck with my personal favor."

Yun Ge thought that this would benefit everyone, even if she wanted to find a house, she would not be able to find it right away, so she nodded in agreement. Yun Ge wandered around the city of Chang'an all afternoon, but because he was not familiar with the place, it seemed that the people involved in this murder case were very unusual. The people who were asked often had a lively conversation in the first moment, but immediately changed their faces in the next moment. Shaking his hands, he just let Yun Ge go, but he didn't find any useful news. Yun Ge had no choice but to look for Xu Pingjun to see if there was any news from her.

The courtyard wall made of loess mixed with wheat straw has been cracked in many places, and the door has also been cracked. Through the gaps, people in the courtyard can be vaguely seen. Yun Ge heard the fierce quarrel in the courtyard, and hesitated whether to knock on the door, not knowing how to ask after knocking, and how to explain. Seeing a figure walking towards the door, she quickly hid aside. "I don't want you to worry about me. Since I earned the money, I have the right to decide how to spend it." Xu Pingjun rushed out the door while shouting. A short and fat woman chased after the door and cried: "I have given birth to a daughter, but I have given birth to an enemy. Why is my life so hard? It doesn't matter if I starve to death! It's over! Everyone is buried with the dead star." Your wish has been granted."

Yun Ge took a look at the woman, and quietly followed behind Xu Pingjun. Xu Pingjun ran around the corner and slowed down. Yun Ge saw that her shoulders were shaking slightly, obviously she was crying. But after a while, Xu Pingjun's footsteps became faster and faster, and he turned into a secluded alley, and suddenly stopped, staring at the shop in front of him for a long time without moving. Yun Ge followed Xu Pingjun's line of sight and saw the word "Dang" on the side of the door of the shop, and couldn't help being a little startled. Xu Pingjun stood blankly for a while, then bit his lip and walked into the shop.

Yun Ge hid beside the door, listening attentively. "The quality of the jade pendant is too ordinary, and the carving skills are also poor..." Yun Ge smiled wryly and shook his head.Although she never pays attention to these things, the third brother never tires of refinement in food, clothing and daily life, and must use the best of the best. The jade pendant is no worse than the third brother's accessories. How dare the shopkeeper say that The fineness is average, and the best in the world is probably gone. ... The shopkeeper made a mistake for a long time, and finally he slowly and reluctantly quoted an extremely unreasonable price, and he would only give this price if he was dead, and if he didn't even have a third of it.

Xu Pingjun lowered his head, touched the jade pendant in his hand, and when he looked up, there were tears in his eyes, and his tone was slow but firm, "Damn it, double the price, if you want it, don't let it go." ... Seeing Xu Pingjun leaving in a hurry with the money, Yun Ge had a rough understanding of what Xu Pingjun was going to do with the money. After carefully looking at the pawnshop and remembering its location, he sighed heavily and left with heavy steps. There are many thoughts in my head, but there is no idea.If it's the second brother, you can definitely find a solution with just a few words in a soft voice. If it's the third brother, he's going to pass by, no matter whether you are in the government or a prison, you will be rescued a long time ago, but why is she so silent? use it?No wonder the third brother always said she was stupid, she was indeed stupid. When she returned to the inn, it was already dark. When she saw the lights in Meng Jue's room, she remembered that she had promised Meng Jue to cook him dinner. Although she was not in the mood at all, she was even more unwilling to slip up. Just as he was rolling up his sleeves and about to cook, Meng Jue pushed the door out, "Forget about today, I've already asked the cook at the inn to cook. If you haven't eaten outside, come and eat some." Yun Ge followed Meng Jue into the room, held the chopsticks for a while, but didn't take a bite. Meng Jue asked, "Yun Ge, do you have something on your mind?" Yun Ge shook his head, took the food with chopsticks, but couldn't eat any more, so he could only put down the chopsticks, "Meng Jue, are you familiar with Chang'an?" "The elders in the family have a lot of businesses here, so they are quite familiar with them, and they also know a few of the officials." When Yun Ge heard the last sentence, his heart moved, and he immediately said: "Then you... can I trouble you... trouble you..." It was Yun Ge's first time asking for help since she was young, let alone a person she had known not long ago, so she stuttered, Meng Jue didn't press her, just smiled and listened quietly. "Can you help me find out how the government will deal with Liu Bingji? Is there any way to accommodate me? I... I will definitely repay you in the future." Yun Ge was originally worried that if Meng Jue asked her why she cared about Liu Bing being a stranger, what would she say, because under the current situation, she was unwilling to tell others that she and Liu Bing knew each other, but Meng Jue didn't at all. Ask more, and just say gently, "Didn't you say that we are friends? Friends should take care of each other. This case is a big one, and I have heard a thing or two. While you were eating, I said to you listen." Yun Ge immediately picked up the bowl and took a big bite, but his eyes were flickering and staring at Meng Jue. "The person who has offended Liu Bing is called Li Shu. Although the father of the son of Li Shu is an official, he is not yet well-ranked in Chang'an City. However, Li Shu's sister is General Hushi and Sang Lehou Shangguan'an. Concubine." Yun Ge looked blank, "Shangguanan's official is very big?" "Do you know the surname of the current queen of the Han Dynasty?" Yun Ge shook her head in shame. "It's nothing if I don't know." Meng Jue smiled and picked up a chopstick for her. "This matter is very complicated to explain in detail. Let me tell you roughly. When the current emperor ascended the throne, he was still young, so Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty Liu Che appointed four Tuogu ministers, Shangguan Jie, Sang Hongyang, Jin Rixun, and Huo Guang. Except for Jin Rixun who died early due to illness, the remaining three are the three powerful ministers in the Han Dynasty. The current empress, Shangguan's younger sister, is the granddaughter of Shangguan Jie and Huo Guang's granddaughter, although she is only twelve years old this year, she has been the empress for six years." "Shangguan An is a relative of Empress Shangguan?" "Shangguan An's daughter is Empress Shangguan, his father is General Zuo Shangguan Jie, the head of the Tuogu ministers, and his father-in-law is Huo Guang, the great general of Sima." Yun Ge let out an "ah", and could no longer swallow the food in his mouth.As for General Zuo and General Sima, Yun Ge really couldn't tell their weight, but the meaning of the word "Queen" was very clear.Empress Shangguan entered the palace at the age of six, obviously not because of herself.From this alone, one can imagine the power of the family behind her.No wonder Xu Pingjun would cry, even the jade pendant would be willing to die for money.If there are no people left, what is there to be reluctant to do? "But, Meng Jue, that person was not killed by Liu Bingji! Even if Liu Bingji violated the law, at most he injured that young master. Can we find out who killed him?" "Liu Bing is already the leader of the rangers in the area outside Chang'an City. If it was really his servants who killed the servants, given the general style of rangers who value righteousness over life, do you think they would look at Liu Bing as dead? There are many scapegoats, but they were all brought back by the government because their statements and statements were full of loopholes." Yun Ge frowned and thought, "You mean...you mean...the person who was not killed by Liu Bingji's friend, who is that?...It can't be that young master's person, right? Unless someone else secretly... …otherwise……" Meng Jue nodded approvingly, "Even if it's not, it's not far away. It's not that Liu Bing is ignorant of Mr. Li's background, and he has restrained himself time and again, but the other party insists on making trouble. Liu Bing may not fully know why, but he should have known it was definitely not For a cockfight. During the reign of Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, because of the frequent battles, the tax rate of 30 taxes set by Emperor Wen was changed to 11 tax rates. The tax rate increased greatly, coupled with the population consumption of the war. It is already wasted in the country, the household registration is halved, and the ten rooms are half empty. In order to rest with the people, the current emperor announced that the tax will be reduced and the tax set by Emperor Wen will be restored, but the officials in the court and China have different opinions, and they are divided into several factions. , the doctor faction headed by Sang Hongyang, and the official clan faction headed by Shangguan Jie..." Meng Jue's eyes were downcast, staring at the teacup in his hand, his mind seemed to be completely immersed in his own thoughts. He would talk about Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty at one time, Emperor Wen of the Han Dynasty at another time, and taxes at another time. Yun Ge understood a little bit, but most of them couldn't understand. Although it seems that it has nothing to do with Liu Bingji's matter, but knowing that what he said is definitely not nonsense, I can only try my best to listen. Meng Jue looked at Yun Ge thoughtfully, and the light in his deep eyes was flowing, as if he was looking for something and showing something. Yun Ge couldn't understand, so she could only look at Meng Jue with apologetic shame, "I'm sorry, I only understand a little bit about taxes, and I don't understand those parties." Meng Jue seemed to wake up suddenly, the light in his eyes quickly faded, and he smiled faintly, "I was talking nonsense. Simply put, the local officials in Shaolingyuan belonged to Shangguan Jie, and they did not follow the emperor's decree to rest with the people. The people are ignorant and easy to deceive, but Liu Bingji is not so easy to fool. He questioned the taxes set by the officials. If things get serious, Shangguan Jie will never spend any effort for the lowly pawns. An Wei took advantage of that Li Shu, as to whether Li Shu was willing to help him, or Li Shu was also tricked, I don't know. The matter has been resolved so cleverly, and Shangguan An will probably let things go smoothly." Yun Ge sat numbly and remained motionless for half a day, while Meng Jue looked at her without saying a word. It turned out to be a dead set.Shangguan Jie, Shangguan An, these strange names, but represent a high power, a power that ordinary people will never be able to resist. Yun Ge stood up at once, "Meng Jue, can you lend me some money, okay? I'm afraid it will take a lot, a lot, I want to bribe the jailer to visit the mausoleum... Liu is sick, and I want to buy one more thing." Holding the teacup, Meng Jue took a sip, "It's okay to borrow money. But money alone can't save people. What can your family do?" Moisture rose in Yun Ge's eyes, "If it's in the Western Regions, or even further west, through Pamir, to Tiaozhi, Anxi, and Daqin, maybe my father can help me find a way. Although my father is not a rich man, he is just a Ordinary people, but I think as long as my father wants to do, there is nothing impossible. But this is the Han Dynasty, it is Chang'an, my father and mother have never been to the Han Dynasty, and my second and third brothers have never been to the Han Dynasty The Han Dynasty, and...and they will definitely not come." When Yun Ge was speaking, Meng Jue kept staring into her eyes, as if he was judging the truth of the words through her eyes. Although the expression on his face remained unchanged, there were a few traces of disappointment flashing in his eyes. Yun Ge sat down dejectedly, "A few days ago I was always angry with my parents, but now I hope that my father or my brother will be a powerful person in the Han Dynasty, but no matter how powerful they are, they can't surpass the queen! Unless it's the emperor. If I had known today, I should have practiced martial arts well, and I could go to prison now, and it would be useless to know how to cook." When Yun Ge talked about robbing the prison, there was nothing strange about it, he acted as if he should do it for granted, completely different from his usual gentleness. Meng Jue couldn't help but smile slightly, "Robbing a prison is a serious crime. If you are willing to rob, Liu Bing is no longer willing to go into exile with you. From now on, you will have no home and no fixed place to live." Yun Ge's complexion became more and more gloomy, and his head hung lower and lower. "Cooking?" Meng Jue pondered for a moment, "I have a way, you can try it, I wonder if you will?" Yun Ge jumped up, "I will! I will! I will do anything!" "You eat first, and I'll talk to you after dinner." "I will definitely eat it, and while I eat, you talk, okay?" Yun Ge pleaded, Meng Jue shook his head helplessly, and could only agree, "With Shangguan Jie here, even if he doesn't speak, no one in the court would dare to offend Shangguan An easily. There is only one person, the same Huo Guang, the chief minister of the late emperor Tuogu, can turn the whole thing around. After all, as you said, even though people were killed in this incident, Liu Bing did not act first, and he did not commit the death." "But isn't this Huo Guang the father-in-law of Shangguan An? How could he help me?" Meng Jue played with the teacup in his hand, and smiled faintly, "In the royal family, relatives and enemies are just a thin line, and they will change. It is rumored that Huo Guang is a very particular about food. If you can attract his attention, try to Speak to him directly, and be careful, the case may not lead to death. But the chance of success is less than 10%, and if you don't do it well, you will become enemies with the Shangguan family, and maybe you will also offend the Huo family , the consequences...do you understand?" Yun Ge nodded heavily, "I understand this, no matter how small the chance is, I will try it." "I will manage those who can be bribed in the government, try to make Liu Bingji suffer a little less in prison, and then we will find a way to attract Huo Guang's attention, so that he will come to eat your cooking. I can do it That's all, everything after that is up to you." Yun Ge stood up and bowed solemnly to Meng Jue, her heart was full of gratitude, "Thank you!" "Why are you so polite?" Meng Jue bowed his body, returned a half salute, and asked casually, "Why are you so dedicated to helping Liu Bing? I thought you were strangers." Yun Ge sighed lightly, because she was grateful to Meng Jue in her heart, she said without hesitation: "He was...a very...best friend when I was young. It's just that he has forgotten me because I haven't seen him for many years, and I have also forgotten about him. I don't plan to bring up the past with him." Meng Jue was silent for a while, then said with a half-smile, "Yes! It's normal to not know each other after many years." I don't know what method Meng Jue used. In a short period of time, he invited the most popular song and dance girl in Chang'an City, the most popular poet and wit, and officials of all sizes to taste dishes in Qilixiang. I came here specially to eat the dishes made by Yunge. Until now, Yun Ge still blushes whenever she thinks of the day when she asked Meng Jue foolishly, "What is Nei Xing, and what level of official is Nei Xing?"On the other hand, Meng Jue didn't show any abnormal expression, and answered her question as if answering what day is it today, "Nai Xing is not an official name, but a title for a status, which means that he is a person who serves the princess with his body, just like a concubine. It's just that the concubine has a rank. Ding Wairen is being favored and is very domineering. You should be careful tomorrow, but don't worry, as long as there is nothing wrong, he will definitely not embarrass you if he takes my money." Meng Jue suggested that Yun Ge should only be in charge of cooking, and that Uncle Chang should be responsible for publicity. Yun Ge only likes to cook and doesn't like socializing with everyone, so he is happy to follow Meng Jue's suggestion. Under Meng Jue's arrangement, Uncle Chang deliberately concealed Yun Ge's identity and gender, and all the people who came to eat, except Ding, had never seen Yun Ge. The celebrity effect, Yun Ge's extraordinary craftsmanship, coupled with Meng Jue's deliberate arrangement, spread the word to ten, and then spread it to a hundred. For a while, Yun Ge, a mysterious chef, became a topic of conversation in Chang'an City. Qilixiang also became famous because of Yunge, and opened a branch in Chang'an City, which almost rivaled Yipinju, a century-old brand in Chang'an City. Under Meng Jue's deliberate plan, the chef of Yipinju was forced to challenge Yun Ge to defend his title of "No. 1 Chef in the World" and decide the winner in an open competition. After negotiation, Qilixiang and Yipinju reached an agreement, intending to invite five people to judge publicly, and they will taste the dishes in public to decide the winner. Meng Jue also proposed to add two hidden seats, which can be sold to those who want to be judges, but because of their status, it is not convenient for them to participate publicly.The hidden seats are hidden indoors, with windows leading to the arena. It is up to them to decide whether to taste the dishes in public, or to comment secretly after eating alone. Yipinju has enjoyed a century-old reputation in Chang'an. Many young masters and young ladies of noble families have eaten at Yipinju since they were young, and Qilixiang is just a small shop outside Chang'an City. In terms of its relationship with the dignitaries in Chang'an, Yipinju has the upper hand.The chef of Yipinju felt that Meng Jue's proposal was powerful to him, so he readily agreed. With the joint efforts of Yipinju and Qilixiang, a chef competition is more lively than that of oirans. Everyone from dignitaries to street vendors are talking about this competition, arguing whether the luxurious Yipinju will win or the ordinary Qilixiang win. Some people think that the chefs of Yipinju are rich in experience and use seasoned materials, and that Yipinju can stand for a hundred years in the turbulent city of Chang'an. The dishes are novel and ingenious, and those who are interested can see that Yunge can become famous in Chang'an City in a short period of time, and the power behind it is also extraordinary. Amidst the discussions among the crowd, the money-making gambling house even launched a gamble, and everyone is welcome to bet on this rare chef battle, which pushed the momentum to the extreme. However, Yun Ge didn't care about the outcome at all, and she even didn't like such a gorgeous vanity and excitement deep down in her heart. What she was worried about was whether Huo Guang would come, "Meng Jue, will this attract Lord Huo Guang to come?" ?” "Opportunities are rare. But whether he comes or not, this incident has already been heard in the streets of Chang'an City. He will definitely hear about your name and skills, and will come to taste your dishes sooner or later." Yun Ge felt better after hearing Meng Jue's affirmative words, so she calmed down and carefully prepared the dishes for the competition, only secretly praying in her heart that the two hidden seats that Meng Jue deliberately set up would attract Huo Guang. The competition for the two hidden seats was unusually fierce, and it was not until the day before the start of the match that they were bid for at sky-high prices. Uncle Chang, the owner of Qilixiang, was stunned at that price. How could someone charge such a high price just to taste a few dishes? It is said that because the first emperor fought for years, the country was empty and the people were poor, but it seems that it only affected ordinary people, and the rich people in Chang'an City still spent a lot of money. Uncle Chang thought about Qilixiang's beautiful "money scene" in Chang'an City in the future, and his eyes were full of golden light. He already regarded Yunge as a treasure, but now his eyes were "soft like water, like fire." deep feeling". On the day of the competition, after finally waiting for the two hidden judges to arrive, Yun Ge immediately dragged Meng Jue to watch. Those who are willing to spend sky-high prices to buy hidden seats should be because of their special status and do not want to show up, so in order to facilitate the entry and exit of hidden seats, a special corridor is set up for them to enter and exit. At this time, in the corridor, a gentleman in plain robes was walking slowly while admiring the scrolls hanging on both sides of the corridor. The grade is about the same as Yun Ge's, her facial features are elegant and outstanding, she walks like a willow, she is beautiful, but she loses her femininity, if she is a girl, she is stunning. "Too young, definitely not Huo Guang." Yun Ge muttered in a low voice. Although the young man heard the footsteps, he didn't pay any attention to them. He just quietly admired the paintings on the wall and let them stand aside. After a long while, Fang Yusheng asked coldly: "Who do you ask to choose these calligraphy and paintings? Although none of them are from the hands of famous masters, they show the eyes of the painters. There are many people in Chang'an City who have hills and valleys in their hearts. , but there are not many people who have hills and valleys, but also have this kind of elegance and vision.” Meng Jue replied with a smile: "It's good if you can catch the young master's eyes. These calligraphy and paintings are selected by me." The young man let out a soft "Huh", finally tilted his head slightly, and glanced at Meng Jue. The moment he saw Meng Jue, he couldn't help but pause, as if he was amazed at why Fenghuang would stay in the ordinary courtyard. Meng Jue smiled slightly, and bowed to salute. The young master seemed a little embarrassed, blushed slightly, but he only nodded his head in return, and then looked away at Yun Ge. Yun Ge saluted him with a smile, he raised his chin slightly and stared at Yun Ge, neither returning the salute nor showing any expression. Yun Ge smiled indifferently, shrugged his shoulders and lowered his head, secretly praying that Huo Guang would be the next judge. Meng Jue stretched out his hand to ask Mr. Su Pao to go first, but before he moved, a woman's laughter and a tangy fragrance came, and the three of them all looked out. A man in Chinese clothes is holding a beautiful woman in his arms as he enters the corridor.The man is tall and strong, but he can't see what he looks like, because his head is buried in the woman's neck and kissing, the woman wants to hide or not, and she keeps laughing. Master Su Pao didn't bother to look at it anymore, snorted coldly, turned his head, and stared at the silk painting on the wall with displeasure. Yun Ge's face was a little hot, but he thought it was fun. It's worth taking a closer look at such a dissolute person. Yun Ge seemed to hear Meng Jue's light sigh. She turned her head to look at Meng Jue, but saw Meng Jue's face was as usual, and he was looking ahead gently. The man didn't raise his head slightly until he passed in front of them, his body was still half attached to the woman's body, his eyes turned lightly on Yun Ge's face, then his head leaned back on the woman's shoulder, and he entered them with his arms tightly seats. Yun Ge didn't see his face clearly, only felt that he had a pair of extremely clear eyes. Before the curtain was completely drawn down, the sound of the silk being torn and the sound of rapid panting were heard. The young master in plain robes looked at the servant leading the way with a cold face, and Meng Jue immediately said, "We will re-set up a quiet room for you, so that you can try the dishes." Meng Jue signaled the servants to step back, and he stepped forward to lead the way himself. Young Master Su Pao looked at Meng Jue's demeanor and heard the sometimes low and sometimes high gasping, blushing and lowering his head, silently followed behind Meng Jue.The arrogance on his body finally faded away, and he became a little more gentle than ordinary people. Yun Ge also had a hot face, lowered his head and stuck out his tongue, ran out without saying a word, thinking funny in his mind, we should prepare clothes for that young man and girl, otherwise how would they go out and go back later? ah!ah!Yun Ge'er, what are you thinking about?Yun Ge patted her cheek, so shameless! Hearing the noisy voices outside, she suddenly realized that there were still important things to do today. Since neither of the two people who came here was Huo Guang, she still needs to work hard. It doesn't matter whether she wins or not, but everyone in Chang'an City must remember and talk about her dishes.As long as Huo Guang likes a dish, he must be attracted to eat her dishes. Fenghe condensate: use bamboo as a bowl, carved into the shape of lotus leaves, and transparent beef tendon into the size of pearls, stewed with old plum blossoms, and served with rootless water.At the beginning of the mouth, it feels light, but after a few mouthfuls, it feels pure and crisp, with a fragrance on the lips and teeth, like drinking the first dewdrops on the lotus leaves in the summer morning, and the whole person seems to be soaked in the moonlight. Xiangxiang Yingxiu: A rectangular white pastry served on a sapphire plate without any decoration.When I saw it for the first time, I was surprised, can this be considered a dish?But when you hesitate to take the first bite, the aroma of green apricot, mint, and citrus lingers in your mouth and nose, refreshing and green, which reminds you of the first time a person's heart beats faster when you were a teenager; take the second bite , white cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, sweet ginger, spicy and sweet, reminds people of ecstasy under the dark night; bite the third bite, green pine, green leaves, tuberose, long aftertaste, reminds people of the lingering lovesickness... …One bite after another, the taste is different, but the long-fingered pastry, long after eating, I still feel the aroma is full of sleeves, like a beauty in my arms. The whole day, Yun Ge stayed in the kitchen.Put all your heart and soul into the dishes. In the end, after five judges and two hidden judges judged, among the nine dishes, Yun Ge had three wins, one draw and five losses. Although he lost, it was an honor to lose. Yunge lost in the selection of ingredients, seasoning, and overall arrangement of dishes, but she showed innovation and meticulous thought in dishes, especially her good at applying the artistic conception of poetry, calligraphy, painting, and singing and dancing to dishes. The names of the dishes and the way they are eaten are all very interesting, making the kitchen, which was originally considered a pickle in the eyes of gentlemen, become elegant, and greatly won the praise of the literati in Chang'an City. Yunge won the title of "elegant chef" for this reason. Because Yun Ge is only in charge of cooking and never shows up, causing everyone to speculate about the age and appearance of this mysterious elegant chef. Some say he is a handsome young man, while others say he must be ugly. Anyway, the more rumors get more outrageous, Yun Ge listens to it himself. I feel funny. Some people really appreciate the dishes made by Yunge, some are just arty, and some just want to show off. No matter what the reason is, under the admiration of everyone, eating the dishes made by Yachu has become a way to measure whether you are rich, whether you are rich or not. A symbol of talent and taste. All of a sudden, dignitaries, talented men and women in Chang'an City came to order Yunge's dishes, but Huo Mansion's post never appeared. Yun Ge struggled hard for a little hope. The final verdict day of Liu Bingji's case was not delayed at all because of her prayers, and it was still coming day by day. In just one month, Xu Pingjun lost a lot of weight, and his brows and eyes were full of sadness and fatigue. Because Yun Ge and Xu Pingjun were working together in Qilixiang, and Yun Ge deliberately got close, Xu Pingjun just happened to be sad and helpless in his heart, a little less sharp and sharp than usual, and a little more confused and weak. The point of not saying anything, but also extremely close. On the day of the verdict, Yun Ge accompanied Xu Pingjun to listen to Liu Bingji's trial.When the two heard "bring the prisoner to court", their eyes immediately focused on one direction. After a while, I saw that Liu Bing had been brought to the hall by the officials.Wearing a prison uniform, he couldn't hide his haggardness, but the laziness and indifference that he looked at everyone while walking became more and more intense. There was a lazy smile on his lips, a playful look, and he didn't take life and death seriously at all. Longyou was teased by shrimps in shallow water, and tigers were bullied by dogs in Pingyang.Yun Ge suddenly remembered the old man Hou who taught her how to steal things, he often said, and his heart was full of sadness. When Liu Bing saw Xu Pingjun, his face showed apology. Xu Pingjun's eyes were full of pleading, but Liu Bingji just looked at her apologetically for a while, then turned his gaze away. Liu Bing had already seen Yun Ge and Xu Pingjun's handshake, and his eyes paused for a moment on Yun Ge's face, showing surprise. Yun Ge squeezed a smile at him, Liu Bingji raised his eyebrows slightly, his lips slightly raised, and returned Yun Ge's smile. During the trial, all the testimony and evidence were one-sided, and Liu Bing had been listening with a smile, as if the object of the trial was not himself. The result was as expected, but when the verdict of "Qiu Hou Wen Zhan" was dropped, Yun Ge was still cold-hearted, but there was one thing in her heart that would never give up, never let Brother Ling die, and supported her to stand up straighter. Xu Pingjun swayed a few times, and fell limply on Yun Ge's body, crying out uncontrollably, "People don't die when they are sick, why don't you say it? Brother loyalty is more important than life? Why do you protect those people? Scoundrels?" Seeing the officer glaring over with the torture stick, Yun Ge hurriedly covered Xu Pingjun's mouth. Liu Bing nodded gratefully to Yun Ge, and Yun Ge half dragged Xu Pingjun out of the mansion. Because the government was afraid that Liu Bingji's brother would cause trouble, no one was allowed to enter. A large group of people who were waiting outside to hear the news immediately surrounded Yun Ge and Xu Pingjun when they saw Yun Ge and Xu Pingjun coming out. While crying, Xu Pingjun cursed them all to go away. Although He Xiaoqi was not very old, they were very clever, and immediately ordered everyone to leave first. Seeing Xu Pingjun's reaction, these people had already guessed the result, and because they felt ashamed, they all left without saying a word. He Xiaoqi didn't dare to speak, and only asked Yun Ge with his eyes, Yun Ge shook his head at He Xiaoqi, told him to take Xu Pingjun home, and hurried to find Meng Jue by himself. Meng Jue was drinking tea with a man in his forties who was handsome and elegant, and when he saw Yun Ge coming in, he didn't seem to see the anxiety on Yun Ge's face. Before she could speak, he laughed and said, "Yun Ge Ge, I've been waiting for you for a long time, and I've drank two pots of tea. Hurry up and pick up some of your favorite dishes to eat. If you meet a bosom friend today, you must celebrate." Yun Ge was stunned for a moment, and when he met Meng Jue's eyes, he immediately realized something, hurriedly suppressed all the emotions in his heart, nodded in agreement, turned around and entered the inner hall in a hurry. Looking at her back, Meng Jue was a little dazed, but immediately withdrew her mind and looked at the man opposite with a smile. In the time required for two cups of tea, Yun Ge brought up three dishes. Every time the man ate a dish, Yun Ge would softly announce the name of the dish, getting more and more nervous as he went back, clutching his sleeves tightly, not daring to breathe. Daiqing's jade plate is like the sky at night, with dots of stars lined up to form a starry sky.The man caught a star, took a bite and asked, "Sweet but bitter. It's papaya, but it smells like bitter melon. There are three dishes, one is green clothes and the other is Zouyu. What's the name of this dish?" Yun Ge lowered his head and replied, "Little Xing." "Baby little star, three or five is in the east. Su Su Xiao Zheng, Su Ye is in the public. It's a different fate!" The man whispered slowly. "Green clothes, Zouyu, Xiaoxing, there are voices of mourning and resentment in the dishes. Is the girl's relatives in trouble? If you feel unjust, you might as well speak out. Although human life is different, there is always justice in the world." Yun Ge glanced at Meng Jue, seeing that he had no intention of objecting, so he lowered his head and told the story of Liu Bingji in detail. No. 眼前的男子深不可测，喜怒点滴不显，听到女婿的名字时，夹菜的手连顿都未顿一下。 云歌一段话讲完，已是一背脊的冷汗。 那个男子听完云歌的话，没有理会她，对孟珏含了丝笑问，“小兄弟既然已经猜测到我的身份，怎么还敢任由这个丫头在我面前说出这番话？” 孟珏立即站起来，向男子行大礼，“霍大人，你刚进来时，草民的确不知道你的身份。谁能想到大汉朝的大司马大将军竟然会一个随从不带，徒步就走了进来？还和草民说话聊天，待若朋友。所以刚开始草民只是把你当作了风尘异人，后来看到大人的吃饭姿势，心中略有疑惑，又留意到大人袖口内的宫绣，联系到大人起先的谈吐，草民才有八九分推测，也因为有先前草民一时大胆的品茶论交，草民才觉得云歌的话在大人面前，没有什么说不得。也许律法下，其理不通，可大人一定能体谅其情。” 云歌听完孟珏的话，立即向霍光行礼，“民女云歌见过霍大人。” “你叫云歌？很好听的名字，你父母定是盼你一生自在写意。”霍光语气温和地让云歌起身，“难为你小小年纪就一个人在外面闯荡，我的女儿成君和你年纪相仿，她还只知道撒娇闹脾气。” 云歌说：“霍小姐金枝玉叶，岂是民女敢比？” 霍光视线停留在云歌眉目间，有些恍惚，“看到你，倒有几分莫名的熟悉亲切感，这大概就是世人常说的眼缘吧！” 话里的内容大出云歌意外，云歌不禁大着胆子细看了霍光几眼，许是因为霍光的温和，云歌只觉心里也生了几分亲近，笑着向霍光行礼，“谢霍大人厚爱。” 霍光站起身，向外踱步而去，“你说的事情，我会命人重新查过，公正地按大汉律法处置。” 霍光的背影刚走远，云歌就猛一转身，握住了孟珏的胳膊，一面跳着，一面高兴地大叫，“我们成功了，成功了！多谢你！多谢你！多谢你！……” 孟珏的身子被云歌摇得晃来晃去，“够了，够了，不用谢了！” 说到后来，发现云歌根本没有往耳朵里面去，想到云歌这一个月来紧锁的眉头，难见的笑颜，心中微软，遂只静静站着，任由云歌在他身边雀跃。 云歌跳闹了一会，蓦然发觉自己和孟珏的亲昵，她立即放开了孟珏的胳膊，大退了一步，脸颊飞红，讷讷地说：“我去告诉许姐姐这个好消息。” 云歌不敢看孟珏，话还没有说完，就迅速转身，如一只蝴蝶般，翩翩飞出了店堂，飞入了阳光明媚的大街上。 孟珏临窗凝视着云歌的背影，眼中不知是讥还是怜。 真是个蠢丫头！ 霍光的话，你到底听懂了几分？ 忽地轻叹口气，算了！没功夫再陪这个丫头折腾了。 看云歌现在对他的态度，他的目的早已经达到，也该收手了。 刘病已，这一次就先便宜了你。 “一月。” 一道黑影不知道从哪里飞出，悄无声息地落在屋子内的暗影处，“回公子，霍光进入七里香后，窗下赏风景的人，隔座吃饭的人都应该是保护他的侍从。” 孟珏微微而笑。 三大权臣中，性格最谨慎的就是霍光。他怎么会给对手机会去暗杀他？ “通知李蜀，就说这个游戏到此为止，霍光已经介入，他应该不想惊动了上官桀。他要的钱财都给他，他想要月姬，就让月姬先陪他玩一阵。丁外人那边也再下些功夫，他要什么就给什么，他喜欢高，那就顺了他的心意，尽力往高处捧。” 一月低声说：“公子费了不少钱财把刘病已不落痕迹地弄进狱中，放过了这次机会未免可惜。” 孟珏淡笑：“我自然有我的原因。想要刘病已的命，总会有机会，现在别的事情更重要。” 他此行本是特意为了云歌而来，却没有料到撞见了寻访多年的人。 云歌在树荫底下凝视着偷来的玉佩发呆时，隐在暗处的他也是思绪复杂地盯着玉佩。 虽然只见过一次，可因为那块玉佩浸润着无数亲人的鲜血，早已经是刻入骨、铭进心。 刘病已？他记得玉佩主人的真名应该叫刘询。 他曾派了无数人寻访刘询的下落，甚至以为这个人也许已经死了，却没有想到刘询的胆子那么大，只改了个名字，就敢在天子脚下定居。可转念一想，最危险的地方不也是最安全吗？只此一点，刘病已此人就不容低估。 幼年的遭遇一幕幕从脑中滑过，他唯一想做的就是幼时想过无数次的事情，杀了刘病已。 父亲不是说过刘询的命最宝贵吗？刘询的血统最高贵吗？那好……就让最高贵的人因为最低贱的人而死吧！堂堂的卫皇孙，因为一个低贱的家丁而死，如果父亲在地下知道了，不是很有意思吗？ 只是没有料到的事情太多了，孟珏没有料到会因为云歌找到刘病已，也没有料到云歌对刘病已的关心非同一般，现在又结识了霍光，而霍光对刘病已的态度难以预测。 当年为了夺取太子之位，燕王、广陵王早就蠢蠢欲动，却因为有卫青在，一直不能成功。 当卫氏家族的守护神卫青去世后，在众人明里暗中齐心合力的陷害下，卫太子刘据被逼造反，事败后，皇后卫子夫自尽，太子的全家也尽死，仅剩的血脉刘询流落民间。 为了斩草除根，江充在明，昌邑王、燕王、广陵王在暗，还有上官桀和钩弋夫人都想尽了办法去杀刘询，可霍光冒着风险偷偷护住了刘询，以至于众人都以为刘询早死。 但这么多年间，霍光却又对刘询不闻不问，任其自生自灭，似乎霍光的心底深处也很乐意看到刘询死。 孟珏现在不确定霍光究竟知道不知道刘病已就是刘询，也不能确定霍光对刘病已究竟是什么态度。而目前，他还不想去试探霍光的底线。 况且，他固然不喜刘病已，可更不想因为刘病已让上官桀回想起当年的旧事，心生警惕，坏了他的事情。 一月弯了弯身子，“属下明白了。” 一月刚想走，孟珏又说：“转告大公子，请他顾及一下自己的安危，若被人知道他私进长安，安个谋反罪名丝毫不为过，请他立即回昌邑。” 一月颇是为难，孟珏沉默了会，轻叹口气，“实在劝不动就罢了，过几日我和他一起回去。这几日你们看好他，注意有没有人留意到你们。” 一月行了一礼后，悄无声息地消失在暗影中。 孟珏一个人负手立于窗边，居高临下地俯瞰着长安城的子民在他脚下来来往往。 午后的阳光透过窗户阴影照到他身上，少了几分光明处的暖，多了几分阴影下的冷。