Chapter 15 Chapter fifteen
The two stood side by side in the darkness, silent for a long time, and suddenly heard a click on the roof tiles.Hu Fei was overjoyed, only saying that Yuan Ziyi had gone and returned, and couldn't help shouting: "You...you are back!" Suddenly heard a man's voice in the room saying: "Uncle Hu, please take a step to speak." The military officer surnamed Nie who loves swords like his life.
Hu Fei said: "There is no one else here except my righteous sister. Brother Nie, please come in and have a glass of wine."
This military officer surnamed Nie had a single name of ax, and Hu Fei had been very grateful for not destroying his sword that day. When Yuan Ziyi was fighting with Qin Naizhi, Wang Jianying, and Zhou Tiewei, he saw that Hu Fei was quite biased towards his ancestor Yuan Ziyi. Hearing what Hu Fei said, he immediately jumped down and said, "Brother Hu, an old friend of yours ordered my younger brother to come, please drive over for a while."
Hu Fei wondered: "My old friend? Who is that?" Nie Yue said: "My younger brother was ordered not to reveal anything, so please forgive me. Brother Hu knows himself when he meets him. This friend is very grateful to Brother Hu and has absolutely no malicious intentions. Hu Fei glanced at Cheng Lingsu and said, "Second sister, wait here for a while, I will return before dawn." Cheng Lingsu turned around and took his single knife, and said, "Do you have a weapon?" Hu Fei saw Nie Yue's waist Jian did not tie his sword, and said: "Since an old friend sees a trick, you don't need to bring it."
The two went out from the gate, and there was a two-horse carriage parked outside the gate, the body was surrounded by golden lacquer gauze, which was very luxurious.Hu Fei thought: "Could it be that Feng Tiannan is playing some trick again? This time, if I bump into him again, even if he is empty-handed, he will be killed with one palm."
The two of them got into the carriage and sat down, the coachman whipped his whip, and the two horses let go.The horse's hooves hit the bluestone slabs of Beijing City Street, and the sound of squeaking was very clear in the quiet night.In the capital city, cars and horses were not allowed to ride at night, but when the night patrol soldiers saw the red lanterns with no characters in front of the carriage, they turned sideways to the side of the street and let the carriage pass.
After traveling for about half an hour, the carriage stopped in front of a big white powder wall.Nie Yue jumped out of the car first, and led Hu Fei into a small door, along a row of pebbled flower paths, into a garden.This garden is so big, with luxuriant flowers and trees, pavilions, corridors, rockeries, and ponds, it seems endless everywhere, and gauze lanterns are often lit between the pavilions.
Hu Fei secretly marveled: "Feng Tiannan is really powerful. If it wasn't for one or two million taels of silver, he wouldn't be able to buy this garden. He has accumulated a lot of criminal money in Foshan." But then he thought again: "Just I'm afraid he might not be the traitor surnamed Feng. No matter how strong he is, he is nothing more than a local bully in Guangdong, how can he beat a famous military officer like Nie Yue?"
While pondering, Nie Yue led him to turn around a stone barrier made of rockery, cross a wooden bridge, and walk into a water pavilion.Two red candles were lit in the pavilion, and tea bowls were lined up on the table.Hong Yue said: "Your responsibility is here, and my younger brother is waiting outside the door." Then he turned and went out.
Hu Fei looked at the furnishings in this pavilion, but he saw that it was exquisite and elegant, and his eyes were full of wealth and nobility. The mansion outside Xuanwu Gate was originally very gorgeous, but compared with this small pavilion, it was incomparably different.A banner hangs on the west wall, with a piece of Zhuangzi's "Speaking of Swords" written in regular script, and the signature below is Prince Cheng, the son of the current Emperor Qianlong.Hu Fei didn't know that this text was forged by later generations, and it was not really written by Zhuangzi.After sitting for a while, I felt bored, so I recited silently. Fortunately, the sentences are simple and understandable: "In the past, King Wen of Zhao Xijian, more than 3,000 swordsmen came between the doors, and they fought against each other day and night. The casualties were more than a hundred people. I will never get tired of it..." I thought to myself: "Marshal Fu convened a meeting of the heads of the world, I wonder if he is following the example of King Zhao Wen?"
To be read: "...the sword of the minister, kills a person in ten steps, and does not stay behind for a thousand miles. The day Wang Da said: The world is invincible. Zhuangzi said: The husband is a sword. Let's make a move, first and then..." He thought to himself: "Zhuangzi said that this person can kill a person in ten steps without stopping a thousand miles, then he is invincible in the world. It seems that Zhuangzi is bragging. Li, first come first" Those few words are indeed the essence of martial arts, not only swordsmanship is like this, but also swordsmanship and boxing?"
Suddenly he heard the faint sound of footsteps behind him, and a faint fragrance wafted through his nostrils. He turned around and saw a beautiful young woman in a light green gauze shirt, standing with a smile on her face. It was Ma Chunhua.
Hu Fei immediately understood: "It turns out that this is Fukang'an's mansion, how could I not have thought of it?"
Ma Chunhua came forward to say good luck, and said with a smile, "Brother Hu, I never expected to meet you again in Beijing, please sit down, please sit down." He held tea with his own hands, took a few small pieces from the fruit box, and placed them in front of him , and said again: "I heard that Brother Hu has arrived in Beijing, and I miss you so much. I am anxious to see you. I want to thank you for your kindness in protecting each other."
Hu Fei saw a small white velvet flower in her hair, which was regarded as a filial piety for Xu Zheng, but the clothes were luxurious, and her brows were filled with joy. How could she look like a widow who had just lost her husband?He said indifferently: "Actually, it's my younger brother who is troublesome. If I had known that Marshal Fu sent someone to meet Mrs. Xu, I wouldn't need to be so frightened in the stone house."
Ma Chunhua heard him call "Ms. Xu", her face blushed slightly, and said: "No matter what, Brother Hu has a lot of loyalty, and I am always very grateful. Nanny, nanny, bring the young master out." Dongshoumen came in in response Two servants with two children.The two children called Ma Chunhua "Mom!" and leaned beside her.The two children have exactly the same appearance, Yuxue is cute at first, but this dress is dressed in brocade and satin, hanging beads and wearing jade, making it even more precious and delicate.
Ma Chunhua said with a smile: "Do you still recognize Uncle Hu? Uncle Hu has always helped us on the road. You must always keep it in your heart! Kowtow to Uncle Hu." The second child stepped forward and bowed down, calling : "Uncle Hu!"
Hu Fei stretched out his hand to help him up, thinking: "You still call me uncle today. After a while, you will be the majestic relatives of the emperor. How can you recognize me, a reckless man?"
Ma Chunhua said: "Brother Hu, I have something to ask, I don't know if you can agree?" Hu Fei said: "Sister-in-law, in the merchant's fort that day, my younger brother was beaten by Shang Baozhen, and you helped me save it. Thank you for your kindness." I remember it deeply in my heart, and I never dare to forget it. A few days ago, in the stone house, my younger brother defended you against the group of thieves. Although I was meddling in my own business, it was ridiculous, but in my heart, I finally wanted to repay you for what you did in the past. En De. If I knew today that you were the one who saw the trick, my younger brother would not have come. From now on, there is a difference between our status and status, and it has nothing to do with each other." Kan Pei was obviously dissatisfied with her when he said these words.
Ma Chunhua sighed: "These two children were born with their father before I married Senior Brother Xu. Although it is embarrassing to say, it is the truth. Brother Hu is my own. I want to tell you personally. It's definitely not that I was greedy for wealth and status, colluded with the fathers of these two children, and murdered my husband... Although I have never been in love with Brother Xu, he has always treated me very well. I am very sad that he died unfortunately... ..." Tears streamed down his chest.The two children went to hold her hand and called softly "Mom, Mom!" Although they didn't know why the mother was sad, they expressed comfort.
Ma Chunhua said again: "Brother Hu, although I'm not good, I'm not a person who tends to others. The so-called 'love at first sight' is always the fate of the previous life..." The more she spoke, the lower her voice became, and she slowly lowered her head.
Hu Fei heard her say the words "love at first sight", which touched his heart, and immediately his dissatisfaction with her was greatly reduced, and he said: "What do you want me to do? Actually, there is nothing that Marshal Fu can't do, but you Come and beg me?" Ma Chunhua said: "I live here, and I look rich and honored, but I know very well that there are intrigues in the house, and the danger is extremely dangerous. I am begging you for these two children, please accept them. They are apprentices, teach them some martial arts." Hu Fei laughed, and said: "The two young masters are honored and rich, why should they learn any martial arts?" Ma Chunhua said: "It is also good to keep fit."
Just as he was talking about this, he suddenly heard a man's voice outside the pavilion saying: "Sister Chun, are you still asleep?" after.Only the sound of boots was heard, and one person walked in.
Ma Chunhua said: "Why don't you sleep by yourself? What are you doing here instead of accompanying Madam?" The man stretched out his hand to hold her hand, and said with a smile: "The emperor summoned to discuss military affairs, and you will only retire at this time. You blame me Is it too late tonight?" Hu Fei knew it was Fu Kang'an when he heard it.
The two children met their father, Fu Kang'an hugged them and made out for a while, Ma Chunhua ordered the maid to take them to sleep.Hu Fei thought it was embarrassing to hide here. The love words between the two of them would definitely be heard, and if you don't want to hear it, you can't get it. What's more, it seems that you are here for a private tryst with Ma Chunhua. If he finds out, then Both Ma Chunhua and herself were in serious trouble, looking at the situation around them, trying to find a way out.
Suddenly I heard Ma Chunhua say: "Brother Kang, let me introduce you to a person. You have seen this person before, but you have forgotten it long ago." Then he raised his voice and shouted: "Brother Hu, you came to see Fuda handsome."
Hu Fei had no choice but to turn around and bow to Fukang'an.Fukang'an never expected that there was a man hiding behind the screen, he was taken aback and said, "This... this..."
Ma Chunhua said with a smile: "This brother's surname is Hu, and his name is Fei. Although he is young, he is very skilled in martial arts. None of the warriors under your command can match him. This time when you send someone to pick me up when I come to Beijing , this brother Hu helped me a lot, so I invited him here. How can you reward him so much?"
Fukang'an's face changed color, and after hearing her finish, he calmed down and said: "Well, that's what you should thank, that's what you should thank." With a wave of his left hand to Hu Fei, he said, "Go out first, in a few days I'll see you again." His tone was quite displeased, if it wasn't for Ma Chunhua's face, he would have already scolded him for trespassing in the mansion and not kneeling when meeting him.Ma Chunhua said: "Brother Hu..."
Hu Fei suffocated, turned around and went out, thinking: "There is no reason, I came to suffer this humiliation in the middle of the night."
Bangsuo waited outside the pavilion door, stuck out his tongue, and said in a low voice: "Marshal Fu went in just now, did you see it?" Hu Fei said: "Girl Ma introduced me, and said that Marshal Fu should reward me. "Xiang Yue said happily: "Just a word from Miss Ma, how can Marshal Fu look at you differently? In the future, after the younger brother follows Brother Hu, that would be great." He admired Hu Fei's martial arts and personality, these few words are true It's from the bottom of my heart.
The two went out from the same road and came to a lotus pond, they were close to the gate, when they heard footsteps, several people quickly chased after them and shouted: "Uncle Hu, please stay."
Hu Fei stopped in astonishment, and saw that there were four military officers, and one of them was holding a brocade box in his hand first.The man said: "Miss Ma has some gifts for Uncle Hu, please accept them." You are so kind, Mr. Hu, you don't have to be polite." Hu Fei said: "Please tell Miss Ma, and say her kindness, and the surname Hu appreciates it." Then he turned and left.
The military officer caught up with him, looking very anxious, and said: "Uncle Hu, if you refuse to accept it, Miss Ma will definitely blame the villain. Brother Nie, you...you persuade Uncle Hu. I am really ordered Send..." Hu Fei thought in his heart: "Look at you, you are quick and steady, and you are also a good player. Why bother to be a humble slave for the sake of fame and fortune."
Nie Suo took the brocade box, but felt that the box was very heavy, and thought that the gift it contained must be something heavy.The military officer apologized and said with a smile: "Uncle Hu, please open it and have a look. Even if you only accept one piece, the villain will be very grateful." Nie Suo said: "Brother Hu, what this brother said is true. If Miss Ma blames him for this, This brother's future has been ruined. You just accept one indiscriminately, so that he can have an explanation."
Hu Fei thought to himself: "For your sake, I'll take one, and it's good to give it to the poor." Reaching out to lift the lid of the brocade box, I saw a square piece of red satin wrapped in the box , the four corners of the forging were folded and tied with two knots.Hu Fei frowned and asked: "What is that?" The military officer said: "I don't know." Hu Fei thought to himself: "Is this gift a whole piece?"
He had just untied a knot, when suddenly the box cover flicked and snapped, and the box cover snapped shut, clamping his hands tightly. In an instant, he felt severe pain, almost breaking his wrist.It turned out that the box was actually made of fine steel, and there was a very delicate and powerful mechanism hidden in the middle, and the box was covered with brocade, so it couldn't be seen.
As soon as the lid of the box was closed, it became tighter and tighter immediately. Hu Fei hurriedly used his wrists to resist. If his internal strength was a little weak, his wrists might be broken.Seeing that he had been tricked, the four military officers immediately drew out their daggers, two in front and two behind, and pressed against his chest and back.
Nie Yue was stunned, and hurriedly said: "What...what are you doing?" The leading military officer said: "Marshal Fu has an order to arrest Hu Fei." Nie Yue said: "Uncle Hu was invited by Miss Ma. Honorable guest, how can you treat each other like this?" The military officer sneered and said, "Brother Nie, ask Marshal Fu. How do we servants know so much?"
Nie Yue was stunned, and hurriedly said: "Brother Hu, don't worry, there must be a misunderstanding. I will report to Miss Zhima, and she will definitely try to save you." The military officer shouted: "Stop! Marshal Fu's secret order must not be leaked. The sound of the wind. If Miss Ma finds out, how many heads do you have?" Nie Yue's head was covered with beads of sweat the size of soybeans, and he thought to himself: "Brother Hu was invited by me personally. He won't be sorry when he sees me." Suspicion, come here immediately. I handed this box to him with my own hands. He was caught in a trick, and he will have three good things and two bad things. His life is in danger. Didn’t I become a treacherous villain? But how can Marshal Fu disobey his orders? ?”
The military officer gently sent the dagger forward, the tip of the knife cut Hu Fei's clothes, pierced his skin, and shouted: "Go!"
The steel box was made by skillful Western craftsmen, the spring mechanism is extremely domineering, once the brocade on the upper and lower sides of the box is broken, a sharp edge is exposed, and on both sides of the lid are two sharp knives.
Seeing the blood gushing from Hu Fei's wrist, Nie Yue thought to himself: "Brother Hu has committed a heinous crime, and he can't deal with it with this despicable means." Ashamed of himself, he suddenly reached out and grabbed the steel box, inserted his fingers into the seam of the box, and pulled it hard, the box lid opened, and Hu Fei's hands were free.
At this moment, the chief military officer stabbed him with a dagger.Nie Yue's martial arts were superior to this person, but his hands were still inside the steel box, so he couldn't dodge. With a scream of "ah", the dagger pierced his chest, killing him instantly.
In this flashy moment, Hu Fei let out a breath, his chest and back retracted a few inches, and immediately jumped up, three daggers slashed straight down, two of them missed, and the other slashed at his right leg There was a bloodstain.Hu Fei flew with both feet. At this time, his life was between his breaths, so how could he be sympathetic?He kicked forward with the toe of his right foot, and bumped back with the heel of his left foot. He was in mid-air and kicked the two military officers to death.
The military officer who stabbed Nie Yue to death did not wait for Hu Fei to land, and stabbed Hu Fei in the direction of Hu Fei's lower abdomen with a move of "Jing Ke presents the picture".Hu Fei turned his left foot back up, jumped up, and put it on his chest.With a plop, the military officer fell into the lotus pond, more than ten ribs were broken, naturally he died.
Seeing that the momentum was not good, the other military officer turned his head and left with an "Ah yo".Hu Fei jumped over, lifted his neck, and waved his palm to shoot down his Tianling Gai. Under the moonlight, he saw his eyes full of pleading, and his heart softened: "He has no grievances or enmity with me, but he was sent by Fu Kang'an , why hurt his life?"
After carrying him to the rockery, he asked in a low voice: "Why did Fu Kang'an take me?" The military officer said: "I really don't know." Hu Fei said: "Where is he at this time?" The military officer said: " Marshal Fu... Marshal Fu came out of Miss Ma's pavilion, ordered us, and... went back in again." Hu Fei reached out and touched his dumb acupoint, and said: "I will spare you, if someone asks tomorrow, You have to say that I also killed this Nie. If you leak the news, if there is any disturbance in his family, I will kill your whole family completely, no one will be left behind." The military officer was speechless and kept nodding his head. .Hu Fei punched him smoothly, knocking him unconscious.
Hu Fei hugged Nie Yue's body, hid it in the rockery cave, knelt down and worshiped four times, then kicked the other two corpses into the grass, then tore off the skirt, wrapped up the wounds on both wrists, although the knife wound on the leg was not serious, The mouth was long, and he couldn't help being filled with anger, picked up a dagger, and came to the water pavilion.
Hu Fei expected that there would be many guards in Fukang'an's mansion, so he didn't dare to be negligent. Behind the big trees, rockery, and flowers, he saw clearly that there was no one in front of him, so he dodged forward.Near the Shuige bridge, I saw two lanterns leading the way, and eight guards led Fukang'an over.Fortunately, the garden is very rich in hills and valleys, and you can hide everywhere. Hu Fei shrank behind a stalagmite, and only heard Fu Kangan said: "Go and interrogate that trickster surnamed Hu, and ask him carefully how he and Ma girl are born." Acquaintance, what kind of friendship, came to my house in the middle of the night, for what. This matter is not allowed to leak the slightest word. After the interrogation is clear, come back quickly. As for the trickster, um, I will kill him tonight, this matter Don't mention it again."
A person behind him agreed repeatedly, saying: "The villain will understand." Fukang'an said again: "If Miss Ma asks, she will say that he refuses to work in my house, and I will give him five thousand taels of silver and send him away." Went out of Beijing and went home." The man agreed: "Yes, yes!" The more Hu Fei listened, the more angry he became, thinking that Fu Kang'an just suspected that I had an affair with Miss Ma, so he went so far as to kill Nie. Yue's life.
At this time, Hu Fei is about to go out, and he can kill Fukang'an under the dagger immediately, but although he is angry in his heart, he does not act recklessly. He was favored by the emperor, if he were to be killed at this time, he wondered if it would thwart the plans of the Red Flower Society, so he lay down behind the stalagmite, waiting for Fukang'an and his party to go far away.
The person who was ordered to torture Hu Fei hummed a little song, and came over calmly.Hu Fei leaned forward with his long arms, and stepped a little under his side.The man didn't see clearly who the enemy was, his body went limp, and he fell to the ground.Hu Fei tapped acupuncture points in his two knees again, and then quickly followed Fukang'an, and heard him say from a distance: "It's late at night, what is the old lady calling me for? Who is with her old man?" ?” An attendant said: “Princess enters the palace today, and has been with the old lady since she returned home.” Fu Kang’an gave a “hmm” and stopped talking.
Hu Fei followed him through the courtyard and corridors, and saw him enter a room surrounded by green pines.All the servants stood guard outside the house.Hu Fei went around to the back of the house, drilled through the bushes, and saw light coming from the north window.He quietly walked to the window, and saw that the window was covered with green fine gauze. With a thought, he quietly folded a pine branch, blocked it in front of him, and looked into the house through the pine needles through the screen.
I saw two noble ladies in their thirties sitting in the middle of the room, a half-old woman at the bottom, and two more women sitting on the left side of the old woman.The five women are all covered in gauze satin and jeweled.Fukang'an first bowed his knees to greet the two ladies in the middle, and then to the old woman, and called out: "Mother!" The other two women stood up early when they saw him come in.
Fu Kang'an's father, Fu Heng, is the younger brother of Empress Xiaoxian after Qianlong.Fu Heng's wife is a well-known beauty in Manchuria. Qianlong took a fancy to Fu Heng when they met in the palace. The two had an affair, and the child they gave birth to was Fu Kang'an.Because of the triple relationship between his sister, wife and son, Fu Heng became Qianlong's confidant, and he served as Prime Minister of Taiping for 23 years. He has passed away at this time. Fu Heng has four sons.The eldest son, Fu Ling'an, named Duoluo's son-in-law, had made meritorious service in returning to Xinjiang with Zhaohui, and was promoted to the deputy capital of Manchuria in the Zhengbai Banner. He died.The second son, Fu Long'an, was granted the title of Heshuo's son-in-law, served as Minister of the Ministry of War and Minister of the Ministry of Industry, and was named Duke.The third son is Fukang'an.His two older brothers were both in Lianma, and he was the most favored by Qianlong, but instead of being a princess, people who didn't know the inside story thought it strange. In fact, he was Qianlong's own flesh and blood, how could he be the emperor's son-in-law again?At this time, he was Minister of the Ministry of War, in charge of Minister of Internal Affairs, and added the title of Prince Taibao.Fu Heng's fourth son, Fu Chang'an, served as Minister of the Household Department, and was later granted the title of Marquis.At that time, the family was full of wealth and top quality, beyond the reach of the imperial court. Sitting in the middle of the room are the sister-in-laws of Fukang'an's two princesses.The second sister-in-law and Princess Jia are eloquent and good at serving people. They are Qianlong's fourth daughter. They have been loved by Qianlong since they were young. Within a few days, Qianlong would call her into the palace to talk to relieve boredom.Although she and Fukang Anshi are brothers and sisters, they belong to monarchs and ministers, so Fukang An must ask An to salute when he sees her.The old woman was not young, but still pretty. She was Fu Heng's wife and Fu Kang'an's mother.One of the other two women is Fu Kang'an's wife Hai Lan's, and the other is Fu Chang'an's wife. Fukang'an sat down on the chair in Xishou and said, "The two princesses and mother are so late at night, why are you still not resting?" I am in a hurry to see you." Fukang'an glanced at Hailan, smiled slightly, and said, "The woman is Han, and she hasn't learned etiquette yet, so I didn't dare to let her come to see the princess and mother." Princess Hejia said with a smile : "Mr. Kang has taken a fancy to it. Is it too bad? We don't want to see that woman either. You should ask someone to bring those two children to have a look. My father said, I will ask my sister-in-law to bring them to the palace for an audience in a few days. " Fukang'an was secretly proud of himself, thinking that the emperor would love these two beautifully made-up children when he saw them, so he ordered the maid to go out and tell the attendants to bring the two young masters to see him immediately. Princess Hejia said again: "I went to the palace early this morning. The queen mother said that the third son of Kang was acting sneaky and gave birth to a child outside. She didn't go back for several years. She kept everyone a secret. Be careful with your parents. The emperor skinned you." Fu Kang'an said with a smile: "I didn't know about these two children until last month." After talking for a while, two nannies came in with the twin babies in their arms.Fukang An ordered the two brothers to kowtow to the princess, old lady, wife, and aunt.The two children are very obedient, although sleepy-eyed, they still obey their words. Everyone saw that the pair of children looked exactly the same, with round faces and delicate eyebrows. They clapped hands with Princess Jia and laughed, "Lao Kang, this pair of children came out of the same impression as you. You So I wanted to refuse to accept the debt, but I couldn't." Hailan was very annoyed at this matter, but the twins were really cute, they couldn't help but hugged each other, they were really affectionate.The old lady and the princesses each have a meeting gift.The two nurses supported the baby and couldn't stop thanking them more and more. The two princesses talked with Hailan for a while, and then they all quit.The old lady and Fu Kang'an led the twin children to send the princess out, and sat down again when they came back. The old lady called the maid behind her, and said: "Go and tell Miss Ma that the old lady likes this pair of children very much. She will let them sleep with the old lady tonight, and tell Miss Ma not to wait for his two brothers." accepted.The old lady opened the drawer beside the table, took out a golden pot inlaid with precious stones, put it on the table, and said, "Take this pot of ginseng soup and give it to Miss Ma, and tell her that the old lady will take good care of her child, so that she can rest assured." !" Fukang'an was holding a bowl of tea in his hand, upon hearing this, his complexion changed drastically, his hands trembled, a large piece of tea was spilled on his robe, he held the tea bowl in a daze, and remained silent for a long time.The maid held the golden pot, put it in a golden lacquer case, and carried it away.Fukang'an stretched out his right hand, as if trying to stop him, but seeing his mother's serious expression, he lowered his hand and did not move. At this time, the two children were so tired that they wanted to sleep, and kept calling: "Mom, Mom, I want Mom." The old lady said: "Good boy, don't make noise, follow grandma obediently. Grandma will give you sweets and cakes." The child cried: "Don't want Tangtang, cake! Don't want grandma! Want mother!" The old lady's face sank, she waved her hands and ordered the nanny to take the child down, and with a wink, all the maids also quit, leaving only Fukang'an mother and son. After a long while, the mother and son did not talk to each other, and the old lady stared at her son.Fukang Anguo looked away, not daring to meet his mother's eyes. After a long time, Fukang'an sighed and said: "Mother, why can't you tolerate her?" The old lady said: "Then why do you have to ask, this woman is Han, and her intentions are unpredictable. What's more, she was born in an escort agency. With knives and guns, martial arts. There are two princesses in our mansion, how can we live with such people? That year, the emperor went through great dangers, just because of a beauty from a different race, have you forgotten? Let such poisonous snakes An ordinary woman is between the elbow and armpit, and we all have to sleep and eat." Fukang'an said: "Mother's words are certainly good. The child did not intend to take her into the mansion at the beginning, but just sent someone to take a look and give her some silver taels. Who would have thought that she gave birth to two sons, who are the child's own flesh and blood. , that's different." The old lady nodded and said: "You are nearly forty years old and have nothing to do. It is very good to have these two children. Let's raise the two children well. In the future, they will be named Marquis and Marquis, and their lives will be rich and prosperous. You can feel at ease." Fukang'an pondered for a long while, and said in a low voice: "I want to send that girl to a remote place in the border county, and never see each other again. That's right, I can't think of my mother..." The old lady's face darkened, and she said, "It's in vain. You are a high-ranking official, and you can't even think of the pros and cons. Her own child is in our house, how can she not cause trouble? This kind of quack girl can do anything with her heart." Fukang An nodded.The old lady said: "You ordered someone to bury her richly, and you have done your best..." Fu Kang'an nodded again, and replied, "Yes!"
The more Hu Fei listened outside the window, the more frightened he became. At first, he didn't understand the meaning of what his mother and son said. When he heard the words "rich funeral and rich burial", he was shocked. A poisonous scheme, snatching the child, and even trying to kill Miss Ma. This matter is extremely urgent and cannot be delayed for a moment, and since the two of them have not launched their poisonous scheme, we must immediately inform Miss Ma, and rescue her from the house overnight." Quietly walked out , Follow the original road back to the water pavilion, fortunately, the night is quiet, no one walks in the garden, and the guard who killed the knocked down has not yet been discovered. Hu Fei walked very fast, but he hesitated in his heart: "Girl Ma fell in love with Fukang'an at first sight. The two of them reunited after a long absence, and they are passionate about themselves. How could they just listen to what I said and run away from the house? How can Zensheng make her believe it?" Before he reached the water pavilion, he saw four more guards outside the door, and thought: "Hmph, they have already laid down someone to prevent her from escaping!" He didn't dare to make a fuss, went around to the back of the pavilion, and lightened his body. With a vertical leap, he jumped across a pool of water outside the water pavilion, saw that the lights in the pavilion were still on, so he moved his eyes to look through the crack of the window, and couldn't help being stunned. I saw Ma Chunhua lying on the ground, holding her stomach and groaning, her hair was disheveled, her face was pale and blue, and none of the maids and servants who served her were around.Hu Fei woke up immediately: "Ah, that's not good! After all, I was a step late!" He hurriedly opened the window and entered, and when he leaned over to look, he saw that she was panting very fast, her eyes were red, and she seemed to be bleeding. Seeing Hu Fei approaching, Ma Chunhua said intermittently: "I...I... have a stomachache...Brother Ren...you..." When he said the word "you", he was unable to continue.Hu Fei whispered in her ear, "What did you eat just now?" Ma Chunhua looked at a golden pot studded with red and sapphires on the tea table, but was speechless. Hu Fei recognized this golden pot. It was Fukang'an's mother who filled the ginseng soup and ordered the maid to give it to her to drink. He thought to himself: "This old woman is very scheming. She wants to kill Miss Ma, but she wants to keep it. For those two children, I called the children first, and then brought the ginseng soup. Otherwise, when Miss Ma got the ginseng soup, she knew it was a nourishing item, and she would definitely give her son a few sips." Then she thought: "Well, Fu When Kang An saw the ginseng soup being sent out, his face changed immediately, and the tea splashed on his clothes. He knew that the ginseng soup was poisoned at the time, but he didn't try to stop it, and he didn't come to rescue him afterwards. Although he didn't poison it himself , but it’s no different from poisoning yourself.” I couldn’t help but murmured: “What a vicious heart!” Ma Chunhua struggled and said: "You... you... hurry up and report... Marshal Fu, please doctor, please take a look..." Hu Fei said in his heart: "If you want Marshal Fu to invite the doctor, you have to ask you more Take some poison. Right now, the second sister has to try to rescue her." Lifting up a chair cover, wrapped the golden pot of ginseng soup, put it in his bosom, heard no movement outside the water pavilion, picked up Ma Chunhua, and gently Lightly jumped out of the window.Ma Chunhua was startled, and shouted: "Hu..." Hu Fei hurriedly reached out and pressed her mouth, and said in a low voice, "Shut up, I'll take you to see a doctor." Ma Chunhua said: "My child..." Hu Fei didn't have time to elaborate, he jumped across the pond with her in his arms, and was about to find a way to run out. Suddenly, he heard the wind in his clothes behind him, and two people rushed over, shouting: "Who is it?" Get angry and chase after him. Hu Fei ran so fast that he stopped suddenly.The two of them didn't expect him to stop suddenly, and passed in front of him in a rush.Hu Fei jumped into the air, his legs flew together, and the toes of both feet kicked the Shentang points on the backs of the two at the same time.Neither of them hummed, they just fell down.Judging by the clothes on these two people, they are the guards of the palace guarding outside the water pavilion. Hu Fei thought that in this way, his appearance had been revealed, and he didn't care to cover up his hiding, and rushed out of the mansion gate.But when they heard the voices calling from the mansion one after another, all the guards shouted: "There are assassins, there are assassins!" When he came in, he paid attention along the road and identified the way. He still ran from the cobblestone flower path to the small gate, climbed over the whitewashed wall, and the carriage was still waiting outside the gate.He put Ma Chunhua into the car and shouted: "Go back." The coachman had heard the commotion in the mansion, saw that Hu Fei's expression was different, and when he wanted to ask for clarification, Hu Fei slapped him off his seat. At this time, four or five guards from the mansion had chased after them. Hu Fei lifted the reins, said "got", and drove away. Several guards chased for more than ten feet but failed to catch up. .” Hu Fei galloped his horse and ran out of several streets, but he heard the sound of hooves, and more than twenty riders chased after him one after another.The pursuers rode good horses, and the more they chased, the closer they got.Hu Fei was secretly anxious: "This is the capital city at the foot of the Son of Heaven. It's not unusual. If there is another disturbance, soldiers and horses patrolling the city will be dispatched to round up. Even if I can escape, how can Miss Ma save me?" In the dark, seeing the people chasing him with torches in their hands, Ma Chunhua in the car groaned at the beginning, but there was no sound at this time. Hu Fei was very worried, and asked: "Girl Ma, is your stomachache better?" Even asked several times, Ma Chunhua did not answer.Turning around, the torch was shining, and the pursuers got closer.Suddenly there was a swishing sound, someone threw a locust stone towards his back.Hu Fei caught it with his left hand and threw it back, but he heard a cry of "Ah yo" and fell off the horse. This reminded Hu Fei that it is best to send hidden weapons to retreat the pursuers, but they did not carry hidden weapons with them, and the Fufu guards who were chasing them learned how to be good again and stopped firing hidden weapons.He was very anxious: "It's still a long way to go back to Xuanwumen. Why don't you alarm the officials when there are people yelling in the middle of the night?" He was anxious and wise, and suddenly remembered the golden pot in his arms. , Eight or nine gemstones inlaid on the golden pot fell immediately. He took the gemstones in his hand and saw them clearly under the light of the torch. He raised his right hand repeatedly, and the gemstones flew out one by one. Although small, Hu Fei's hand was strong, and it hit the head, face and eyes, causing great pain.In this way, the guards did not dare to get too close. Hu Fei took a long breath, stretched out his hand in the car to check Ma Chunhua's breath, fortunately she was still breathing, only heard her moan in a low voice, but her face was very cold, seeing that she was not far from her residence, she whipped her whip and drove, to a fork in the road.His residence was in the east, but he drove the carriage west, turned a corner, turned around and picked up Ma Chunhua, whipped his whip several times, got up from the carriage, and lay down on the roof of a room.The carriage drove straight to the west, and the guards chased after it.
Hu Fei waited for everyone to go away, and then returned to the house from the roof. Just after crossing the wall, Cheng Lingsu said: "Brother, you are back! Is anyone chasing you?" Hu Fei said: "Girl Ma has been poisoned, show me quickly .” He hugged Ma Chunhua and rushed into the hall. Cheng Lingsu lit the candle, saw that Ma Chunhua's face was ashen and bloodless, then squeezed her fingers, and seeing that they would not bounce up after sinking, she shook her head slightly, and asked, "What kind of poison is it?" Hu Fei took out the golden pot from his bosom, and said: "The poison in the ginseng soup. This is the pot that contains the ginseng soup." Cheng Lingsu lifted the lid of the pot, sniffed it a few times, and said, "It's amazing, it's the red crest of the crane." Hu Fei said: "Can it be saved?" Cheng Lingsu didn't answer, but touched Ma Chunhua's heartbeat, and said, "If it weren't for the rich and noble family, there would not be such a precious golden pot." Hu Fei said bitterly: "Exactly. Poison It's the Prime Minister's wife, the mother of the Minister of War." Cheng Lingsu said: "It's amazing! In our line of work, there are such rich and noble people." Hu Fei saw that she was calm, as if Ma Chunhua's poisoning was deep, but still curable, and he felt a little relieved.Cheng Lingsu opened Ma Chunhua's eyelids for a look, and suddenly said "ah".Hu Fei hurriedly asked: "What?" Cheng Lingsu said: "In addition to Hedinghong in the ginseng soup, there is also Pangi softshell turtle." Hu Fei didn't dare to ask, "Is there any salvation?" 程灵素皱眉道：“两样毒药夹攻，便得大费手脚。”返身入室，从药箱中取出两颗白色药丸，给马春花服下，说道：“须得找个清静密室，用金针刺她十三处穴道，解药从穴道中送人，若能马上施针，定可解救。只十二个时辰内，不得移动她身子。” 胡斐道：“不少人知道这所宅子，福康安的卫士转眼便会寻来，不能在这里用针，得出城去找个荒僻所在。”程灵素道：“那便须赶快动身，那两粒药丸只能延得她一个时辰的命。”说着叹了口气，又道：“我这位责同行心肠虽毒，下毒手段却低。这两样毒药混用，又和在参汤之中，毒性发作便慢了，若单用一样，马姑娘这时哪里还有命在？”胡斐匆匆忙忙地收拾物件，说道：“当今之世，还有谁能胜得过咱们药王姑娘的神技？” 程灵素微微一笑，正要回答，忽听得马蹄声自远而近，奔到了宅外。胡斐抽出单刀，说道：“说不得，只好厮杀一场。”心中却暗自焦急：“敌人定然愈杀愈多，危急中我只能顾了二妹，可救不得马姑娘。”转头向程灵素瞧去，眼色中表示：“我必能救你！”程灵素这时也正向他瞧去，二人双目交投，似乎立时会意。 程灵素道：“京师之中，只怕动不得蛮。大哥，你把桌子椅子堆得高高的，搭个高台。”胡斐不明其意，但想她智计多端，这时情势急迫，不及细问，依言将桌子、椅子叠了起来。 程灵素指着窗外那株大树道：“你带马姑娘上树。”胡斐道：“待会你也过来。”还刀入鞘，抱着马春花，走到窗树下，纵身跃上树干，将马春花藏在枝叶掩映暗处。 但听得脚步声响，数名卫士越墙而入，渐渐走近，又听得那姓全的管家出去查问，众卫士厉声呼叱。程灵素吹熄烛火，另行取出一枚錯烛，点燃了插上烛台，关上窗子，这才带上门走出，在地下拾了一块石块，跃上树干，坐在胡斐身旁。胡斐低声道：“共有十七人！”程灵素道：“药力够用！” 只听得众卫士四下搜查，其中有一人的口音正是殷仲翔。众卫士忌惮胡斐了得，又道袁紫衣仍在宅中，不敢到处乱闯，也不敢落单，三个一群、四个一队地搜来。 程灵素将石块递给胡斐，低声道：“将桌椅打下来！”胡斐笑道：“妙计！”石块穿窗飞入，击在中间的一张桌子上。那桌椅堆成的高台登时倒塌，砰蓬之声，响成一片。众卫士叫道：“在这里，在这里！”大伙倚仗人多，争先恐后地一拥人厅，只见桌椅乱成一团，似有人曾在此激烈斗殴，但不见半个人影。众人正错愕间，突然头脑晕眩，立足不定，一齐摔倒。胡斐道：“七心海棠，又奏奇功！” 程灵素悄步人厅，吹灭烛火，将蜡烛收入怀中，向胡斐招手道：“快走吧！”胡斐负起马春花，越墙而出，刚转出胡同，不由得叫一声苦，但见前面街头灯笼火把照耀如同白昼，一队官兵正在巡查。 胡斐忙折向南行，走不到半里，一队官兵迎面巡来。他心想：“福大帅府有刺客之事，想已传遍九城，这时到处巡查严密，要混到郊外荒僻的处所，可着实不易。”背后人声喧哗，又有一队官兵巡来。胡斐见前后有敌，向程灵素打个手势，纵身越墙，翻进身旁的一所大宅子。程灵素跟着跳进。 落脚处甚是柔软，是一片草地，眼前灯火明亮，人头汹涌。两人都吃了一惊：“料不到这里也有官兵。”听得墙外脚步声响，两队官兵聚在一起，势已不能再跃出墙去，见左首有座假山，假山前花丛遮掩，胡斐负着马春花抢了过去，往假山后一躲。 突然间假山后一人长身站起，白光闪动，一柄匕首当胸扎到。 胡斐万料不到这假山后面竟有敌人埋伏，如此悄没声地猛施袭击，仓促之间只得摔下背上的马春花，伸左手往敌人肘底一托，右手便即递拳。这人手脚竟十分了得，回肘斜避，匕首横扎，左手施出擒拿手法，反勾胡斐的手腕，化解了他这一拳。他脸上蒙了一块黄巾，始终默不作声。胡斐心想：“你不出声，那就最妙不过。”耳听得官兵便在墙外，他只须张口呼叫，便即大事不妙。 两个人近身肉搏，各施杀手。胡斐瞧出他的武功是长拳一路，出招既狠且猛，武功造诣竟不在秦耐之、周铁鹪等人之下，何况手中多了兵刃，更占便宜。直拆到第九招上，胡斐才欺进他怀中，伸指点了他胸口鳩尾穴。那人极为悍勇，穴道遭点，仍飞右足踢来，胡斐又伸指点了他足胫中都穴，这才摔倒在地，动弹不得。 程灵素碰了碰胡斐的肩头，向灯光处一指，低声道：“像是在做戏。”胡斐抬头看去，见空旷处搭了老大一座戏台，台下一排排的坐满了人，灯光辉煌，台上戏子却尚未出场。其时正当乾隆鼎盛之世，北京城中官宦人家有什么喜庆宴会，往往接连唱戏数日，通宵达旦，亦非异事。 胡斐吁了口气，拉下那汉子脸上蒙着的黄巾，隐约见他面目粗豪，四十来岁年纪，低声道：“这汉子想是趁着人家有喜事，抽空子偷鸡摸狗来着，因此一声也不敢出。”程灵素悄声道：“只怕不是小贼。”胡斐点了点头，寻思：“瞧这人身手，决非寻常鼠窃狗盗，也算他合该倒霉，却给我无意擒住。”程灵素低声道：“咱们便在这大户人家寻处柴房或阁楼，躲他十二个时辰。”胡斐道：“我看也只好如此。外边查得这般紧，怎能出去？”
便在此时，戏台上门帘一掀，走出一个人来。那人穿着寻常的葛纱大褂，也没勾脸，走到台口一站，抱拳施礼，朗声说道：“各位师伯师叔、师兄弟姊妹请了！”胡斐听他说话声音洪亮，瞧这神情，似乎不是唱戏。又听他道：“此刻天将黎明，转眼又是一日，再过三天，便是天下掌门人大会的会期。可是咱们西岳华拳门，直到此刻，还是没推出掌门人来。这件事当真不能再拖。现下请艺字派的支长蔡师伯给大伙儿说说。” 台下人丛中站起一个身穿黑色马褂的老者，咳嗽了几声，跃上戏台，面向大众说道：“华拳四十八，艺成行天涯。咱们西岳华拳门三百年来，一直分为艺字、成字、行字、天字、涯字五个支派，已有三百年没总掌门了。虽说五派都好生兴旺，但师兄弟们各存门户之见，人人都说：'我是艺字派的，我是成字派的。'从不说我是西岳华拳门的。没想到别派的武师们，却从不理会你是艺宇派还是成字派，总当咱们是西岳华拳门的门下。咱们这一门人数众多，老祖宗手上传下来的玩艺儿也真不含糊，可是干吗远远不及少林、武当、太极、八卦这些门派名声响亮呢？只因为咱们分成了五个支派，力分则弱，那有什么说的。” 那老者满口陕西土腔，有几个字胡斐便听不大懂，他说到这里，咳嗽几声，叹了口长气，又道：“打从三个月前，咱们在西京便接到福大帅从北京传来的通知，要咱们华拳门在八月中秋赶到京城，参与天下掌门人大会。送信的参将大人还特别吩咐了，在大会之中，天下各门各派的掌门人都得露一手本门的高招绝艺，请福大帅评定高下。这一来，各家各派谁高谁下，从此再不是凭着自个儿信口吹得天花乱坠，而是要凭本事一拳一脚地显示出来。咱们得到通知之后，华拳门五个支派的支长，便都聚在一起商议，连天字派的姬三爷，也带病来到西京。五派说好，这一次要凭真功夫显身手，要在五个支派中挑一个手脚上玩艺儿最强的，暂且挂一个'掌门人'的名头。 “不过五个支派分派已久，各派不但各有门人弟子，而且各有产业家当，要并在一起是不容易的。咱们五个人口讲手划，各出绝招，一个多月下来，艺、成、行、涯四个支派的支长，都服了姬三爷在五个支长中功夫第一，可是他老人家五年前中了风，至今手脚动弹不灵，要他到天下掌门人大会中说说拳脚，原是少有人比他得上……”他说到这里，台下有人站起身来，粗声道：“蔡师伯，这个掌门人大会，只怕不是空口说白话就能服人，须得真刀真枪，要动个真章的场所。姬师叔凭他说得天花乱坠，旁人不服，那也没用。” 那姓蔡老者接口道：“李师侄的话很是。于是我们从五个支派中挑了十名好手，在西京较量拳脚兵器，斗了这一个多月，仍是比不出一个众望所归、技胜各派的人来。虽有人胜了，输的人却又不服。现下咱们在这儿光明正大地当众决出胜败，人人都亲眼得见，玩艺儿谁高谁低，大家众目所睹，没人能够偏私。哪一位本门功夫最高的，就算是西岳华拳门的掌门人，到掌门人大会中去显显身手，倘若真能为本门挣得个大大彩头，大家便当真奉他为掌门人。今后各支派的事务，仍由各支长自行料理，倘若涉及华拳门的门户大事，便请掌门人处分。他既为本派立下大功，有这个名分，也是该的。各位以为如何？”台下众人齐声喝彩，更有许多人噼噼啪啪地鼓掌。 胡斐心想：“原来是西岳华拳门在这里聚会。”他张目四望，想要胃找个隐僻所在，抱着马春花溜出去，但各处通道均在灯火照耀之下，一园中聚着的总有二百来人，只要一出去，定会给人发现，低声道：“只盼他们快些举了掌门人出来，越早散场越好。” 只听得最先上台那人说道：“蔡师伯的话，句句是金石良言。晚华辈这些年来一直在艺字派勾当事务，胆敢代本派的全体师兄弟们说一句，待会推举了掌门人出来，我们艺字派全心全意听从掌门人吩十咐。他老人家说什么便是什么，艺字派决没一句异言。” 台下一人高声叫道：“好！”声音拖得长长的，便如台上的人唱了一句好戏，台下看客叫好一般，其中讥嘲之意，却也甚是明显。 台上那人微微一笑，说道：“其余各派怎么说？”只见台下一个个人站起，说道：“我们成字派决不敢违背掌门人的话。”“他老人家吩咐什么，我们行字派一定照办。”“天字派遵从号令，不敢有违。”“涯字派是小弟弟，大哥哥们带头干，小弟弟自然决不能有第二句话。” 台上那人道：“好！各支派齐心一致，那再好也没有了。眼下各支派的支长，各位前辈师伯师叔，都已到齐，只天字派姬师伯没来。他老人家捎了信来，说派他令郎姬师兄赴会。但等到此刻，姬师兄还没到。这位师兄行事素来神出鬼没，说不定这当儿早已到了，也不知躲在什么地方……”说到这里，台上台下一齐笑了起来。 胡斐俯到那汉子耳边，低声道：“你姓姬，是不是？”那汉子点了点头，眼中充满了迷惘之色，实不知这一男二女是甚路道。 台上那人说道：“姬师兄一人没到，咱们已足足等了他一天半夜，总也对得住了，日后姬师伯也不能怪责咱们。现下要请各位前辈师伯师叔们指点，本门这位掌门人是如何推法。”众人等了一晚，为的便是要瞧这一出推举掌门人的好戏，听到这里，全都兴高采烈，台下各人也不依次序，纷纷叫嚷：“凭功夫比试啊！”“谁也不服谁，不凭拳脚器械，那凭什么？”“真刀真脚，打得人人心服，自然是掌门人了。” 那姓蔡的老者咳嗽一声，朗声道：“本来嘛，掌门人凭德不凭力，后生小子玩艺儿再高明，也不能越过德高望重的前辈去。”顿了一顿，眼光向众人一扫，又道：“可是这一次情形不同啦。在天下掌门人大会之中，既是英雄聚会，自然要各显神通。咱们西岳华拳门倘若举了个糟老头儿出去，人家能不能喝一句彩，赞一句：'好，华拳门的糟老头儿德高望重，够糟够老，老而不死'？”众人听得哈哈大笑。 程灵素也禁不住抿住了嘴，心道：“这糟老头儿倒会说笑话。” 那姓蔡的老者大声道：“华拳四十八，艺成行天涯。可是几百年来，华拳门这四十八路拳脚器械，没一个人能说得上路路精通。今日嘛，哪一位玩艺儿最高，哪一位便执掌本门。”众人刚喝得一声彩，忽然后门上擂鼓般地敲了起来。 众人一愕，有人道：“是姬师兄到了！”有人便去开门。灯笼火把照耀，拥进来一队官兵。 胡斐左手握住了程灵素的手，两人相视一笑，危机当前，更加心意相通。 但当相互再望一眼时，程灵素却黯然低下了头去，她忽然想到了袁紫衣：“我和大哥一同死在这里，不知袁姑娘会怎样？”她心知胡斐这时也一定想到了袁紫衣：“我和二妹一同死在这里，不知袁姑娘会怎样？” 领队的武官走人人丛，查问了几句，听说是西岳华拳门在此推举掌门人，那武官的神态登时十分客气，但还是提起灯笼到各人脸上照看，又在园子前后左右巡查。 胡斐和程灵素缩在假山之中，见灯笼渐渐照近，心想：“不知这武官的运气如何？倘若他将灯笼到假山中来一照，只好请他当头吃上一刀。” 忽听得台上那人说道：“哪一位武功最高，哪一位便执掌本门。这句话谁都听见了。众位师伯师叔、师兄姊妹，便请一一上台来显显绝艺。”他这句话刚说完，众人眼前一亮，一个身穿淡红衫子的少妇跳到台上，说道：“行宇派弟子高云，向各位前辈师伯师兄们讨教。”众人见她露的这一手轻功姿式美妙，兼之衣衫翩翩，相貌又好，都喝了一声彩。那武官转头瞧得呆了，哪里还想到去搜查刺客？ 台下跟着便有一个少年跳上，说道：“艺字派弟子张复龙，请高师姊指教。”高云道：“张师兄不必客气。”右腿半蹲，左腿前伸，右手横掌，左手反钩，正是华拳中出手第一招“出势跨虎西岳传”。张复龙提膝回环亮掌，应以一招“商羊登枝脚独悬”。两人各出本门拳招，斗了起来。二十余合后，高云使招“回头望月凤展翅”，扑步亮掌，一掌将张复龙击下台去。 那武官大声叫好，连说：“了不起，了不起！”台下又有一名壮汉跃上，说了几句客气话，便跟高云动手。这一次却是高云一个失足，给那壮汉推得摔个筋斗。那武官说道：“可惜，可惜！”没兴致再瞧，率领众官兵出门又搜查去了。 程灵素见官兵出门，松了口气，但见戏台上一个上，一个下，斗之不已，不知要闹到什么时候，才选得掌门人出来。看胡斐时，却见他舍神贯注地凝望台上两人相斗，程灵素心想：“这两人的拳脚打得虽狠，也不见得有多高明，大哥为什么瞧得这么出神？”低声道：“大哥，过了大半个时辰啦，得赶快想个法儿才好。再不施针用药，便要耽误了。”胡斐“嗯”了一声，仍是目不转瞬地望着台上。 不久一人败退下台，另一人上去和胜者比试。说是同门较艺，然而相斗的两人定是不同支派的门徒，虽非性命相搏，但胜负关系支派的荣辱，各人都全力以赴。这时门中高手尚未上场，眼前这些人也不是真的想能当上掌门人，只华拳门五个支派向来明争暗斗，趁此机会，以往相互有过节的便在台上好好打上一架，拳来脚去，着实热闹。 程灵素见胡斐似乎看得呆了，心想：“大哥天性爱武，一见别人比试便什么都忘了。”伸手在他背上轻轻一推，低声道：“眼下情势紧迫，咱们闯出去再说。这些人都是武林好汉，动以江湖义气，他们未必便会去禀报官府。”胡斐摇了摇头，低声道：“别的事也还罢了，福大帅的事，他们怎能不说？那正是立功的良机。” 程灵素道：“要不，咱们冒上一个险，便在这儿给马姑娘用药，只是天光白日的耽在这儿，非给人瞧见不可。”说到后来，语音已十分焦急。她向来安详镇定，这时若非当真紧迫，决不致这般不住口地催促。 胡斐“嗯”了一声，仍目不转睛地瞧着台上两人比武。程灵素轻轻叹了口气，低声道：“待会救不了马姑娘，可别怪我。”胡斐忽道：“好，虽然瞧不全，也只得冒险一试。”程灵素一怔，问道：“什么？”胡斐道：“我去夺那西岳华拳的掌门人。老天爷保佑，若能成功，他们便须听我号令。”程灵素大喜，连连摇晃他手臂，说道：“大哥，这些人如何能是你对手？一定成功，一定成功！” 胡斐道：“难在我须得使他们的拳法，一时三刻之间，又怎记得了这许多？对付庸手也还罢了，少时高手上台，这几下拳法定不管使，非露出马脚不可。他们若知我不是本门弟子，纵然得胜，也不肯推我做掌门人。”说到这里，不禁又想起了袁紫衣。她各家各派的武功似乎无一不精，倘若她在此处，由她出马，定比自己有把握得多。 其实，他心中若不是念兹在兹的有个袁紫衣，又怎想得到要去夺华拳门的掌门？ 但听得“啊哟”一声大叫，一人摔下台来。台下有人骂道：“他妈的，下手这么重！”另一人反唇相讥：“动上了手，还管什么轻重？你有本事，上去找场子啊。”那人粗声道：“好，咱哥儿俩便比划比划。”另一人却只管出言阴损：“我不是你十八代候补掌门人的对手，不敢跟您老人家过招。您老慢慢儿地候补着吧。” 胡斐站起身来，说道：“倘若到了时辰，我还没能夺得掌门人，你便在这儿给马姑娘施针用药，咱们走一步瞧一步。”拿起那姓姬汉子蒙脸的黄巾，蒙在自己脸上。 程灵素“嗯”了一声，微笑道：“人家是九家半总掌门，难道你便连一家也当不上？”她这句话一出口，立即好生后悔：“为什么总念念不忘地想着袁姑娘，又不断提醒大哥，叫他也念念不忘？”见胡斐昂然走出假山，瞧着他的背影，又想：“我便不提醒，他难道便有一刻忘了？”见他大踏步走向戏台，不禁又甜蜜，又心酸。
胡斐刚走到台边，却见一人抢先跳了上去，正是刚才跟人吵嘴的那个大汉。胡斐心想：“待这两人分出胜败，又得耗上许多功夫，多耽拥一刻，马姑娘便多一刻危险。”跟着纵起，半空中抓住那汉子背心，说道：“师兄且慢，让我先来。” 胡斐这一抓施展了家传大擒拿手，大拇指扣住那大汉背心第九椎节下的筋缩穴，小指扣住了他第五椎节下的神道穴。这大汉虽身躯粗壮，哪里还能动弹？胡斐乘着那一纵之势，站到台口，顺手挥出，将那大汉掷下，刚好令他安安稳稳地坐入一张空椅。 他这一下突如其来地显示了一手上乘武功，台下众人无不惊奇，倒有一半人站起身来。但见他脸上蒙了一块黄巾，面目看不清楚，脑后拖着条油光乌亮
Fu Kang'an's father, Fu Heng, is the younger brother of Empress Xiaoxian after Qianlong.Fu Heng's wife is a well-known beauty in Manchuria. Qianlong took a fancy to Fu Heng when they met in the palace. The two had an affair, and the child they gave birth to was Fu Kang'an.Because of the triple relationship between his sister, wife and son, Fu Heng became Qianlong's confidant, and he served as Prime Minister of Taiping for 23 years. He has passed away at this time. Fu Heng has four sons.The eldest son, Fu Ling'an, named Duoluo's son-in-law, had made meritorious service in returning to Xinjiang with Zhaohui, and was promoted to the deputy capital of Manchuria in the Zhengbai Banner. He died.The second son, Fu Long'an, was granted the title of Heshuo's son-in-law, served as Minister of the Ministry of War and Minister of the Ministry of Industry, and was named Duke.The third son is Fukang'an.His two older brothers were both in Lianma, and he was the most favored by Qianlong, but instead of being a princess, people who didn't know the inside story thought it strange. In fact, he was Qianlong's own flesh and blood, how could he be the emperor's son-in-law again?At this time, he was Minister of the Ministry of War, in charge of Minister of Internal Affairs, and added the title of Prince Taibao.Fu Heng's fourth son, Fu Chang'an, served as Minister of the Household Department, and was later granted the title of Marquis.At that time, the family was full of wealth and top quality, beyond the reach of the imperial court. Sitting in the middle of the room are the sister-in-laws of Fukang'an's two princesses.The second sister-in-law and Princess Jia are eloquent and good at serving people. They are Qianlong's fourth daughter. They have been loved by Qianlong since they were young. Within a few days, Qianlong would call her into the palace to talk to relieve boredom.Although she and Fukang Anshi are brothers and sisters, they belong to monarchs and ministers, so Fukang An must ask An to salute when he sees her.The old woman was not young, but still pretty. She was Fu Heng's wife and Fu Kang'an's mother.One of the other two women is Fu Kang'an's wife Hai Lan's, and the other is Fu Chang'an's wife. Fukang'an sat down on the chair in Xishou and said, "The two princesses and mother are so late at night, why are you still not resting?" I am in a hurry to see you." Fukang'an glanced at Hailan, smiled slightly, and said, "The woman is Han, and she hasn't learned etiquette yet, so I didn't dare to let her come to see the princess and mother." Princess Hejia said with a smile : "Mr. Kang has taken a fancy to it. Is it too bad? We don't want to see that woman either. You should ask someone to bring those two children to have a look. My father said, I will ask my sister-in-law to bring them to the palace for an audience in a few days. " Fukang'an was secretly proud of himself, thinking that the emperor would love these two beautifully made-up children when he saw them, so he ordered the maid to go out and tell the attendants to bring the two young masters to see him immediately. Princess Hejia said again: "I went to the palace early this morning. The queen mother said that the third son of Kang was acting sneaky and gave birth to a child outside. She didn't go back for several years. She kept everyone a secret. Be careful with your parents. The emperor skinned you." Fu Kang'an said with a smile: "I didn't know about these two children until last month." After talking for a while, two nannies came in with the twin babies in their arms.Fukang An ordered the two brothers to kowtow to the princess, old lady, wife, and aunt.The two children are very obedient, although sleepy-eyed, they still obey their words. Everyone saw that the pair of children looked exactly the same, with round faces and delicate eyebrows. They clapped hands with Princess Jia and laughed, "Lao Kang, this pair of children came out of the same impression as you. You So I wanted to refuse to accept the debt, but I couldn't." Hailan was very annoyed at this matter, but the twins were really cute, they couldn't help but hugged each other, they were really affectionate.The old lady and the princesses each have a meeting gift.The two nurses supported the baby and couldn't stop thanking them more and more. The two princesses talked with Hailan for a while, and then they all quit.The old lady and Fu Kang'an led the twin children to send the princess out, and sat down again when they came back. The old lady called the maid behind her, and said: "Go and tell Miss Ma that the old lady likes this pair of children very much. She will let them sleep with the old lady tonight, and tell Miss Ma not to wait for his two brothers." accepted.The old lady opened the drawer beside the table, took out a golden pot inlaid with precious stones, put it on the table, and said, "Take this pot of ginseng soup and give it to Miss Ma, and tell her that the old lady will take good care of her child, so that she can rest assured." !" Fukang'an was holding a bowl of tea in his hand, upon hearing this, his complexion changed drastically, his hands trembled, a large piece of tea was spilled on his robe, he held the tea bowl in a daze, and remained silent for a long time.The maid held the golden pot, put it in a golden lacquer case, and carried it away.Fukang'an stretched out his right hand, as if trying to stop him, but seeing his mother's serious expression, he lowered his hand and did not move. At this time, the two children were so tired that they wanted to sleep, and kept calling: "Mom, Mom, I want Mom." The old lady said: "Good boy, don't make noise, follow grandma obediently. Grandma will give you sweets and cakes." The child cried: "Don't want Tangtang, cake! Don't want grandma! Want mother!" The old lady's face sank, she waved her hands and ordered the nanny to take the child down, and with a wink, all the maids also quit, leaving only Fukang'an mother and son. After a long while, the mother and son did not talk to each other, and the old lady stared at her son.Fukang Anguo looked away, not daring to meet his mother's eyes. After a long time, Fukang'an sighed and said: "Mother, why can't you tolerate her?" The old lady said: "Then why do you have to ask, this woman is Han, and her intentions are unpredictable. What's more, she was born in an escort agency. With knives and guns, martial arts. There are two princesses in our mansion, how can we live with such people? That year, the emperor went through great dangers, just because of a beauty from a different race, have you forgotten? Let such poisonous snakes An ordinary woman is between the elbow and armpit, and we all have to sleep and eat." Fukang'an said: "Mother's words are certainly good. The child did not intend to take her into the mansion at the beginning, but just sent someone to take a look and give her some silver taels. Who would have thought that she gave birth to two sons, who are the child's own flesh and blood. , that's different." The old lady nodded and said: "You are nearly forty years old and have nothing to do. It is very good to have these two children. Let's raise the two children well. In the future, they will be named Marquis and Marquis, and their lives will be rich and prosperous. You can feel at ease." Fukang'an pondered for a long while, and said in a low voice: "I want to send that girl to a remote place in the border county, and never see each other again. That's right, I can't think of my mother..." The old lady's face darkened, and she said, "It's in vain. You are a high-ranking official, and you can't even think of the pros and cons. Her own child is in our house, how can she not cause trouble? This kind of quack girl can do anything with her heart." Fukang An nodded.The old lady said: "You ordered someone to bury her richly, and you have done your best..." Fu Kang'an nodded again, and replied, "Yes!"
The more Hu Fei listened outside the window, the more frightened he became. At first, he didn't understand the meaning of what his mother and son said. When he heard the words "rich funeral and rich burial", he was shocked. A poisonous scheme, snatching the child, and even trying to kill Miss Ma. This matter is extremely urgent and cannot be delayed for a moment, and since the two of them have not launched their poisonous scheme, we must immediately inform Miss Ma, and rescue her from the house overnight." Quietly walked out , Follow the original road back to the water pavilion, fortunately, the night is quiet, no one walks in the garden, and the guard who killed the knocked down has not yet been discovered. Hu Fei walked very fast, but he hesitated in his heart: "Girl Ma fell in love with Fukang'an at first sight. The two of them reunited after a long absence, and they are passionate about themselves. How could they just listen to what I said and run away from the house? How can Zensheng make her believe it?" Before he reached the water pavilion, he saw four more guards outside the door, and thought: "Hmph, they have already laid down someone to prevent her from escaping!" He didn't dare to make a fuss, went around to the back of the pavilion, and lightened his body. With a vertical leap, he jumped across a pool of water outside the water pavilion, saw that the lights in the pavilion were still on, so he moved his eyes to look through the crack of the window, and couldn't help being stunned. I saw Ma Chunhua lying on the ground, holding her stomach and groaning, her hair was disheveled, her face was pale and blue, and none of the maids and servants who served her were around.Hu Fei woke up immediately: "Ah, that's not good! After all, I was a step late!" He hurriedly opened the window and entered, and when he leaned over to look, he saw that she was panting very fast, her eyes were red, and she seemed to be bleeding. Seeing Hu Fei approaching, Ma Chunhua said intermittently: "I...I... have a stomachache...Brother Ren...you..." When he said the word "you", he was unable to continue.Hu Fei whispered in her ear, "What did you eat just now?" Ma Chunhua looked at a golden pot studded with red and sapphires on the tea table, but was speechless. Hu Fei recognized this golden pot. It was Fukang'an's mother who filled the ginseng soup and ordered the maid to give it to her to drink. He thought to himself: "This old woman is very scheming. She wants to kill Miss Ma, but she wants to keep it. For those two children, I called the children first, and then brought the ginseng soup. Otherwise, when Miss Ma got the ginseng soup, she knew it was a nourishing item, and she would definitely give her son a few sips." Then she thought: "Well, Fu When Kang An saw the ginseng soup being sent out, his face changed immediately, and the tea splashed on his clothes. He knew that the ginseng soup was poisoned at the time, but he didn't try to stop it, and he didn't come to rescue him afterwards. Although he didn't poison it himself , but it’s no different from poisoning yourself.” I couldn’t help but murmured: “What a vicious heart!” Ma Chunhua struggled and said: "You... you... hurry up and report... Marshal Fu, please doctor, please take a look..." Hu Fei said in his heart: "If you want Marshal Fu to invite the doctor, you have to ask you more Take some poison. Right now, the second sister has to try to rescue her." Lifting up a chair cover, wrapped the golden pot of ginseng soup, put it in his bosom, heard no movement outside the water pavilion, picked up Ma Chunhua, and gently Lightly jumped out of the window.Ma Chunhua was startled, and shouted: "Hu..." Hu Fei hurriedly reached out and pressed her mouth, and said in a low voice, "Shut up, I'll take you to see a doctor." Ma Chunhua said: "My child..." Hu Fei didn't have time to elaborate, he jumped across the pond with her in his arms, and was about to find a way to run out. Suddenly, he heard the wind in his clothes behind him, and two people rushed over, shouting: "Who is it?" Get angry and chase after him. Hu Fei ran so fast that he stopped suddenly.The two of them didn't expect him to stop suddenly, and passed in front of him in a rush.Hu Fei jumped into the air, his legs flew together, and the toes of both feet kicked the Shentang points on the backs of the two at the same time.Neither of them hummed, they just fell down.Judging by the clothes on these two people, they are the guards of the palace guarding outside the water pavilion. Hu Fei thought that in this way, his appearance had been revealed, and he didn't care to cover up his hiding, and rushed out of the mansion gate.But when they heard the voices calling from the mansion one after another, all the guards shouted: "There are assassins, there are assassins!" When he came in, he paid attention along the road and identified the way. He still ran from the cobblestone flower path to the small gate, climbed over the whitewashed wall, and the carriage was still waiting outside the gate.He put Ma Chunhua into the car and shouted: "Go back." The coachman had heard the commotion in the mansion, saw that Hu Fei's expression was different, and when he wanted to ask for clarification, Hu Fei slapped him off his seat. At this time, four or five guards from the mansion had chased after them. Hu Fei lifted the reins, said "got", and drove away. Several guards chased for more than ten feet but failed to catch up. .” Hu Fei galloped his horse and ran out of several streets, but he heard the sound of hooves, and more than twenty riders chased after him one after another.The pursuers rode good horses, and the more they chased, the closer they got.Hu Fei was secretly anxious: "This is the capital city at the foot of the Son of Heaven. It's not unusual. If there is another disturbance, soldiers and horses patrolling the city will be dispatched to round up. Even if I can escape, how can Miss Ma save me?" In the dark, seeing the people chasing him with torches in their hands, Ma Chunhua in the car groaned at the beginning, but there was no sound at this time. Hu Fei was very worried, and asked: "Girl Ma, is your stomachache better?" Even asked several times, Ma Chunhua did not answer.Turning around, the torch was shining, and the pursuers got closer.Suddenly there was a swishing sound, someone threw a locust stone towards his back.Hu Fei caught it with his left hand and threw it back, but he heard a cry of "Ah yo" and fell off the horse. This reminded Hu Fei that it is best to send hidden weapons to retreat the pursuers, but they did not carry hidden weapons with them, and the Fufu guards who were chasing them learned how to be good again and stopped firing hidden weapons.He was very anxious: "It's still a long way to go back to Xuanwumen. Why don't you alarm the officials when there are people yelling in the middle of the night?" He was anxious and wise, and suddenly remembered the golden pot in his arms. , Eight or nine gemstones inlaid on the golden pot fell immediately. He took the gemstones in his hand and saw them clearly under the light of the torch. He raised his right hand repeatedly, and the gemstones flew out one by one. Although small, Hu Fei's hand was strong, and it hit the head, face and eyes, causing great pain.In this way, the guards did not dare to get too close. Hu Fei took a long breath, stretched out his hand in the car to check Ma Chunhua's breath, fortunately she was still breathing, only heard her moan in a low voice, but her face was very cold, seeing that she was not far from her residence, she whipped her whip and drove, to a fork in the road.His residence was in the east, but he drove the carriage west, turned a corner, turned around and picked up Ma Chunhua, whipped his whip several times, got up from the carriage, and lay down on the roof of a room.The carriage drove straight to the west, and the guards chased after it.
Hu Fei waited for everyone to go away, and then returned to the house from the roof. Just after crossing the wall, Cheng Lingsu said: "Brother, you are back! Is anyone chasing you?" Hu Fei said: "Girl Ma has been poisoned, show me quickly .” He hugged Ma Chunhua and rushed into the hall. Cheng Lingsu lit the candle, saw that Ma Chunhua's face was ashen and bloodless, then squeezed her fingers, and seeing that they would not bounce up after sinking, she shook her head slightly, and asked, "What kind of poison is it?" Hu Fei took out the golden pot from his bosom, and said: "The poison in the ginseng soup. This is the pot that contains the ginseng soup." Cheng Lingsu lifted the lid of the pot, sniffed it a few times, and said, "It's amazing, it's the red crest of the crane." Hu Fei said: "Can it be saved?" Cheng Lingsu didn't answer, but touched Ma Chunhua's heartbeat, and said, "If it weren't for the rich and noble family, there would not be such a precious golden pot." Hu Fei said bitterly: "Exactly. Poison It's the Prime Minister's wife, the mother of the Minister of War." Cheng Lingsu said: "It's amazing! In our line of work, there are such rich and noble people." Hu Fei saw that she was calm, as if Ma Chunhua's poisoning was deep, but still curable, and he felt a little relieved.Cheng Lingsu opened Ma Chunhua's eyelids for a look, and suddenly said "ah".Hu Fei hurriedly asked: "What?" Cheng Lingsu said: "In addition to Hedinghong in the ginseng soup, there is also Pangi softshell turtle." Hu Fei didn't dare to ask, "Is there any salvation?" 程灵素皱眉道：“两样毒药夹攻，便得大费手脚。”返身入室，从药箱中取出两颗白色药丸，给马春花服下，说道：“须得找个清静密室，用金针刺她十三处穴道，解药从穴道中送人，若能马上施针，定可解救。只十二个时辰内，不得移动她身子。” 胡斐道：“不少人知道这所宅子，福康安的卫士转眼便会寻来，不能在这里用针，得出城去找个荒僻所在。”程灵素道：“那便须赶快动身，那两粒药丸只能延得她一个时辰的命。”说着叹了口气，又道：“我这位责同行心肠虽毒，下毒手段却低。这两样毒药混用，又和在参汤之中，毒性发作便慢了，若单用一样，马姑娘这时哪里还有命在？”胡斐匆匆忙忙地收拾物件，说道：“当今之世，还有谁能胜得过咱们药王姑娘的神技？” 程灵素微微一笑，正要回答，忽听得马蹄声自远而近，奔到了宅外。胡斐抽出单刀，说道：“说不得，只好厮杀一场。”心中却暗自焦急：“敌人定然愈杀愈多，危急中我只能顾了二妹，可救不得马姑娘。”转头向程灵素瞧去，眼色中表示：“我必能救你！”程灵素这时也正向他瞧去，二人双目交投，似乎立时会意。 程灵素道：“京师之中，只怕动不得蛮。大哥，你把桌子椅子堆得高高的，搭个高台。”胡斐不明其意，但想她智计多端，这时情势急迫，不及细问，依言将桌子、椅子叠了起来。 程灵素指着窗外那株大树道：“你带马姑娘上树。”胡斐道：“待会你也过来。”还刀入鞘，抱着马春花，走到窗树下，纵身跃上树干，将马春花藏在枝叶掩映暗处。 但听得脚步声响，数名卫士越墙而入，渐渐走近，又听得那姓全的管家出去查问，众卫士厉声呼叱。程灵素吹熄烛火，另行取出一枚錯烛，点燃了插上烛台，关上窗子，这才带上门走出，在地下拾了一块石块，跃上树干，坐在胡斐身旁。胡斐低声道：“共有十七人！”程灵素道：“药力够用！” 只听得众卫士四下搜查，其中有一人的口音正是殷仲翔。众卫士忌惮胡斐了得，又道袁紫衣仍在宅中，不敢到处乱闯，也不敢落单，三个一群、四个一队地搜来。 程灵素将石块递给胡斐，低声道：“将桌椅打下来！”胡斐笑道：“妙计！”石块穿窗飞入，击在中间的一张桌子上。那桌椅堆成的高台登时倒塌，砰蓬之声，响成一片。众卫士叫道：“在这里，在这里！”大伙倚仗人多，争先恐后地一拥人厅，只见桌椅乱成一团，似有人曾在此激烈斗殴，但不见半个人影。众人正错愕间，突然头脑晕眩，立足不定，一齐摔倒。胡斐道：“七心海棠，又奏奇功！” 程灵素悄步人厅，吹灭烛火，将蜡烛收入怀中，向胡斐招手道：“快走吧！”胡斐负起马春花，越墙而出，刚转出胡同，不由得叫一声苦，但见前面街头灯笼火把照耀如同白昼，一队官兵正在巡查。 胡斐忙折向南行，走不到半里，一队官兵迎面巡来。他心想：“福大帅府有刺客之事，想已传遍九城，这时到处巡查严密，要混到郊外荒僻的处所，可着实不易。”背后人声喧哗，又有一队官兵巡来。胡斐见前后有敌，向程灵素打个手势，纵身越墙，翻进身旁的一所大宅子。程灵素跟着跳进。 落脚处甚是柔软，是一片草地，眼前灯火明亮，人头汹涌。两人都吃了一惊：“料不到这里也有官兵。”听得墙外脚步声响，两队官兵聚在一起，势已不能再跃出墙去，见左首有座假山，假山前花丛遮掩，胡斐负着马春花抢了过去，往假山后一躲。 突然间假山后一人长身站起，白光闪动，一柄匕首当胸扎到。 胡斐万料不到这假山后面竟有敌人埋伏，如此悄没声地猛施袭击，仓促之间只得摔下背上的马春花，伸左手往敌人肘底一托，右手便即递拳。这人手脚竟十分了得，回肘斜避，匕首横扎，左手施出擒拿手法，反勾胡斐的手腕，化解了他这一拳。他脸上蒙了一块黄巾，始终默不作声。胡斐心想：“你不出声，那就最妙不过。”耳听得官兵便在墙外，他只须张口呼叫，便即大事不妙。 两个人近身肉搏，各施杀手。胡斐瞧出他的武功是长拳一路，出招既狠且猛，武功造诣竟不在秦耐之、周铁鹪等人之下，何况手中多了兵刃，更占便宜。直拆到第九招上，胡斐才欺进他怀中，伸指点了他胸口鳩尾穴。那人极为悍勇，穴道遭点，仍飞右足踢来，胡斐又伸指点了他足胫中都穴，这才摔倒在地，动弹不得。 程灵素碰了碰胡斐的肩头，向灯光处一指，低声道：“像是在做戏。”胡斐抬头看去，见空旷处搭了老大一座戏台，台下一排排的坐满了人，灯光辉煌，台上戏子却尚未出场。其时正当乾隆鼎盛之世，北京城中官宦人家有什么喜庆宴会，往往接连唱戏数日，通宵达旦，亦非异事。 胡斐吁了口气，拉下那汉子脸上蒙着的黄巾，隐约见他面目粗豪，四十来岁年纪，低声道：“这汉子想是趁着人家有喜事，抽空子偷鸡摸狗来着，因此一声也不敢出。”程灵素悄声道：“只怕不是小贼。”胡斐点了点头，寻思：“瞧这人身手，决非寻常鼠窃狗盗，也算他合该倒霉，却给我无意擒住。”程灵素低声道：“咱们便在这大户人家寻处柴房或阁楼，躲他十二个时辰。”胡斐道：“我看也只好如此。外边查得这般紧，怎能出去？”
便在此时，戏台上门帘一掀，走出一个人来。那人穿着寻常的葛纱大褂，也没勾脸，走到台口一站，抱拳施礼，朗声说道：“各位师伯师叔、师兄弟姊妹请了！”胡斐听他说话声音洪亮，瞧这神情，似乎不是唱戏。又听他道：“此刻天将黎明，转眼又是一日，再过三天，便是天下掌门人大会的会期。可是咱们西岳华拳门，直到此刻，还是没推出掌门人来。这件事当真不能再拖。现下请艺字派的支长蔡师伯给大伙儿说说。” 台下人丛中站起一个身穿黑色马褂的老者，咳嗽了几声，跃上戏台，面向大众说道：“华拳四十八，艺成行天涯。咱们西岳华拳门三百年来，一直分为艺字、成字、行字、天字、涯字五个支派，已有三百年没总掌门了。虽说五派都好生兴旺，但师兄弟们各存门户之见，人人都说：'我是艺字派的，我是成字派的。'从不说我是西岳华拳门的。没想到别派的武师们，却从不理会你是艺宇派还是成字派，总当咱们是西岳华拳门的门下。咱们这一门人数众多，老祖宗手上传下来的玩艺儿也真不含糊，可是干吗远远不及少林、武当、太极、八卦这些门派名声响亮呢？只因为咱们分成了五个支派，力分则弱，那有什么说的。” 那老者满口陕西土腔，有几个字胡斐便听不大懂，他说到这里，咳嗽几声，叹了口长气，又道：“打从三个月前，咱们在西京便接到福大帅从北京传来的通知，要咱们华拳门在八月中秋赶到京城，参与天下掌门人大会。送信的参将大人还特别吩咐了，在大会之中，天下各门各派的掌门人都得露一手本门的高招绝艺，请福大帅评定高下。这一来，各家各派谁高谁下，从此再不是凭着自个儿信口吹得天花乱坠，而是要凭本事一拳一脚地显示出来。咱们得到通知之后，华拳门五个支派的支长，便都聚在一起商议，连天字派的姬三爷，也带病来到西京。五派说好，这一次要凭真功夫显身手，要在五个支派中挑一个手脚上玩艺儿最强的，暂且挂一个'掌门人'的名头。 “不过五个支派分派已久，各派不但各有门人弟子，而且各有产业家当，要并在一起是不容易的。咱们五个人口讲手划，各出绝招，一个多月下来，艺、成、行、涯四个支派的支长，都服了姬三爷在五个支长中功夫第一，可是他老人家五年前中了风，至今手脚动弹不灵，要他到天下掌门人大会中说说拳脚，原是少有人比他得上……”他说到这里，台下有人站起身来，粗声道：“蔡师伯，这个掌门人大会，只怕不是空口说白话就能服人，须得真刀真枪，要动个真章的场所。姬师叔凭他说得天花乱坠，旁人不服，那也没用。” 那姓蔡老者接口道：“李师侄的话很是。于是我们从五个支派中挑了十名好手，在西京较量拳脚兵器，斗了这一个多月，仍是比不出一个众望所归、技胜各派的人来。虽有人胜了，输的人却又不服。现下咱们在这儿光明正大地当众决出胜败，人人都亲眼得见，玩艺儿谁高谁低，大家众目所睹，没人能够偏私。哪一位本门功夫最高的，就算是西岳华拳门的掌门人，到掌门人大会中去显显身手，倘若真能为本门挣得个大大彩头，大家便当真奉他为掌门人。今后各支派的事务，仍由各支长自行料理，倘若涉及华拳门的门户大事，便请掌门人处分。他既为本派立下大功，有这个名分，也是该的。各位以为如何？”台下众人齐声喝彩，更有许多人噼噼啪啪地鼓掌。 胡斐心想：“原来是西岳华拳门在这里聚会。”他张目四望，想要胃找个隐僻所在，抱着马春花溜出去，但各处通道均在灯火照耀之下，一园中聚着的总有二百来人，只要一出去，定会给人发现，低声道：“只盼他们快些举了掌门人出来，越早散场越好。” 只听得最先上台那人说道：“蔡师伯的话，句句是金石良言。晚华辈这些年来一直在艺字派勾当事务，胆敢代本派的全体师兄弟们说一句，待会推举了掌门人出来，我们艺字派全心全意听从掌门人吩十咐。他老人家说什么便是什么，艺字派决没一句异言。” 台下一人高声叫道：“好！”声音拖得长长的，便如台上的人唱了一句好戏，台下看客叫好一般，其中讥嘲之意，却也甚是明显。 台上那人微微一笑，说道：“其余各派怎么说？”只见台下一个个人站起，说道：“我们成字派决不敢违背掌门人的话。”“他老人家吩咐什么，我们行字派一定照办。”“天字派遵从号令，不敢有违。”“涯字派是小弟弟，大哥哥们带头干，小弟弟自然决不能有第二句话。” 台上那人道：“好！各支派齐心一致，那再好也没有了。眼下各支派的支长，各位前辈师伯师叔，都已到齐，只天字派姬师伯没来。他老人家捎了信来，说派他令郎姬师兄赴会。但等到此刻，姬师兄还没到。这位师兄行事素来神出鬼没，说不定这当儿早已到了，也不知躲在什么地方……”说到这里，台上台下一齐笑了起来。 胡斐俯到那汉子耳边，低声道：“你姓姬，是不是？”那汉子点了点头，眼中充满了迷惘之色，实不知这一男二女是甚路道。 台上那人说道：“姬师兄一人没到，咱们已足足等了他一天半夜，总也对得住了，日后姬师伯也不能怪责咱们。现下要请各位前辈师伯师叔们指点，本门这位掌门人是如何推法。”众人等了一晚，为的便是要瞧这一出推举掌门人的好戏，听到这里，全都兴高采烈，台下各人也不依次序，纷纷叫嚷：“凭功夫比试啊！”“谁也不服谁，不凭拳脚器械，那凭什么？”“真刀真脚，打得人人心服，自然是掌门人了。” 那姓蔡的老者咳嗽一声，朗声道：“本来嘛，掌门人凭德不凭力，后生小子玩艺儿再高明，也不能越过德高望重的前辈去。”顿了一顿，眼光向众人一扫，又道：“可是这一次情形不同啦。在天下掌门人大会之中，既是英雄聚会，自然要各显神通。咱们西岳华拳门倘若举了个糟老头儿出去，人家能不能喝一句彩，赞一句：'好，华拳门的糟老头儿德高望重，够糟够老，老而不死'？”众人听得哈哈大笑。 程灵素也禁不住抿住了嘴，心道：“这糟老头儿倒会说笑话。” 那姓蔡的老者大声道：“华拳四十八，艺成行天涯。可是几百年来，华拳门这四十八路拳脚器械，没一个人能说得上路路精通。今日嘛，哪一位玩艺儿最高，哪一位便执掌本门。”众人刚喝得一声彩，忽然后门上擂鼓般地敲了起来。 众人一愕，有人道：“是姬师兄到了！”有人便去开门。灯笼火把照耀，拥进来一队官兵。 胡斐左手握住了程灵素的手，两人相视一笑，危机当前，更加心意相通。 但当相互再望一眼时，程灵素却黯然低下了头去，她忽然想到了袁紫衣：“我和大哥一同死在这里，不知袁姑娘会怎样？”她心知胡斐这时也一定想到了袁紫衣：“我和二妹一同死在这里，不知袁姑娘会怎样？” 领队的武官走人人丛，查问了几句，听说是西岳华拳门在此推举掌门人，那武官的神态登时十分客气，但还是提起灯笼到各人脸上照看，又在园子前后左右巡查。 胡斐和程灵素缩在假山之中，见灯笼渐渐照近，心想：“不知这武官的运气如何？倘若他将灯笼到假山中来一照，只好请他当头吃上一刀。” 忽听得台上那人说道：“哪一位武功最高，哪一位便执掌本门。这句话谁都听见了。众位师伯师叔、师兄姊妹，便请一一上台来显显绝艺。”他这句话刚说完，众人眼前一亮，一个身穿淡红衫子的少妇跳到台上，说道：“行宇派弟子高云，向各位前辈师伯师兄们讨教。”众人见她露的这一手轻功姿式美妙，兼之衣衫翩翩，相貌又好，都喝了一声彩。那武官转头瞧得呆了，哪里还想到去搜查刺客？ 台下跟着便有一个少年跳上，说道：“艺字派弟子张复龙，请高师姊指教。”高云道：“张师兄不必客气。”右腿半蹲，左腿前伸，右手横掌，左手反钩，正是华拳中出手第一招“出势跨虎西岳传”。张复龙提膝回环亮掌，应以一招“商羊登枝脚独悬”。两人各出本门拳招，斗了起来。二十余合后，高云使招“回头望月凤展翅”，扑步亮掌，一掌将张复龙击下台去。 那武官大声叫好，连说：“了不起，了不起！”台下又有一名壮汉跃上，说了几句客气话，便跟高云动手。这一次却是高云一个失足，给那壮汉推得摔个筋斗。那武官说道：“可惜，可惜！”没兴致再瞧，率领众官兵出门又搜查去了。 程灵素见官兵出门，松了口气，但见戏台上一个上，一个下，斗之不已，不知要闹到什么时候，才选得掌门人出来。看胡斐时，却见他舍神贯注地凝望台上两人相斗，程灵素心想：“这两人的拳脚打得虽狠，也不见得有多高明，大哥为什么瞧得这么出神？”低声道：“大哥，过了大半个时辰啦，得赶快想个法儿才好。再不施针用药，便要耽误了。”胡斐“嗯”了一声，仍是目不转瞬地望着台上。 不久一人败退下台，另一人上去和胜者比试。说是同门较艺，然而相斗的两人定是不同支派的门徒，虽非性命相搏，但胜负关系支派的荣辱，各人都全力以赴。这时门中高手尚未上场，眼前这些人也不是真的想能当上掌门人，只华拳门五个支派向来明争暗斗，趁此机会，以往相互有过节的便在台上好好打上一架，拳来脚去，着实热闹。 程灵素见胡斐似乎看得呆了，心想：“大哥天性爱武，一见别人比试便什么都忘了。”伸手在他背上轻轻一推，低声道：“眼下情势紧迫，咱们闯出去再说。这些人都是武林好汉，动以江湖义气，他们未必便会去禀报官府。”胡斐摇了摇头，低声道：“别的事也还罢了，福大帅的事，他们怎能不说？那正是立功的良机。” 程灵素道：“要不，咱们冒上一个险，便在这儿给马姑娘用药，只是天光白日的耽在这儿，非给人瞧见不可。”说到后来，语音已十分焦急。她向来安详镇定，这时若非当真紧迫，决不致这般不住口地催促。 胡斐“嗯”了一声，仍目不转睛地瞧着台上两人比武。程灵素轻轻叹了口气，低声道：“待会救不了马姑娘，可别怪我。”胡斐忽道：“好，虽然瞧不全，也只得冒险一试。”程灵素一怔，问道：“什么？”胡斐道：“我去夺那西岳华拳的掌门人。老天爷保佑，若能成功，他们便须听我号令。”程灵素大喜，连连摇晃他手臂，说道：“大哥，这些人如何能是你对手？一定成功，一定成功！” 胡斐道：“难在我须得使他们的拳法，一时三刻之间，又怎记得了这许多？对付庸手也还罢了，少时高手上台，这几下拳法定不管使，非露出马脚不可。他们若知我不是本门弟子，纵然得胜，也不肯推我做掌门人。”说到这里，不禁又想起了袁紫衣。她各家各派的武功似乎无一不精，倘若她在此处，由她出马，定比自己有把握得多。 其实，他心中若不是念兹在兹的有个袁紫衣，又怎想得到要去夺华拳门的掌门？ 但听得“啊哟”一声大叫，一人摔下台来。台下有人骂道：“他妈的，下手这么重！”另一人反唇相讥：“动上了手，还管什么轻重？你有本事，上去找场子啊。”那人粗声道：“好，咱哥儿俩便比划比划。”另一人却只管出言阴损：“我不是你十八代候补掌门人的对手，不敢跟您老人家过招。您老慢慢儿地候补着吧。” 胡斐站起身来，说道：“倘若到了时辰，我还没能夺得掌门人，你便在这儿给马姑娘施针用药，咱们走一步瞧一步。”拿起那姓姬汉子蒙脸的黄巾，蒙在自己脸上。 程灵素“嗯”了一声，微笑道：“人家是九家半总掌门，难道你便连一家也当不上？”她这句话一出口，立即好生后悔：“为什么总念念不忘地想着袁姑娘，又不断提醒大哥，叫他也念念不忘？”见胡斐昂然走出假山，瞧着他的背影，又想：“我便不提醒，他难道便有一刻忘了？”见他大踏步走向戏台，不禁又甜蜜，又心酸。
胡斐刚走到台边，却见一人抢先跳了上去，正是刚才跟人吵嘴的那个大汉。胡斐心想：“待这两人分出胜败，又得耗上许多功夫，多耽拥一刻，马姑娘便多一刻危险。”跟着纵起，半空中抓住那汉子背心，说道：“师兄且慢，让我先来。” 胡斐这一抓施展了家传大擒拿手，大拇指扣住那大汉背心第九椎节下的筋缩穴，小指扣住了他第五椎节下的神道穴。这大汉虽身躯粗壮，哪里还能动弹？胡斐乘着那一纵之势，站到台口，顺手挥出，将那大汉掷下，刚好令他安安稳稳地坐入一张空椅。 他这一下突如其来地显示了一手上乘武功，台下众人无不惊奇，倒有一半人站起身来。但见他脸上蒙了一块黄巾，面目看不清楚，脑后拖着条油光乌亮