Chapter 22 Chapter Twenty-Two

Chang'an in the second year of Zhenghe was roughly like this. The Han Empire seemed to have suddenly fallen off its inherent track.Since the spring, in Chang'an's East Market, West Market, and the banks of the Wei River in the south of the city, batches of innocent people's heads have been brutally chopped off their necks under the orders of a few foolish people.In the noble name of the health of the holy emperor, these few people arranged to stage scenes of bloody dramas every day.And Jiang Chong, the director of this drama, only wanted to kill the prince for one goal.Only by killing the prince in time can his whole family be saved.The horrific punishments imposed by the Han Empire kept urging him to race against time. If the emperor died, he would be in great trouble.At this moment, the harsh laws of the empire played a curious joke on itself.At least at this time, the harsh laws did not scare the evil one back, but accelerated his evil, and might even disintegrate the mighty empire.Now, killing people in the Han Empire has completely deviated from the norm, whether it is in terms of procedures or rituals.The death penalty cases that usually need to be verified by the court lieutenant now only need a word from the lieutenant Shui Heng.As for the Shuiheng Mansion, its responsibility was to manage the income of Shanglin Garden's mountains, lakes and gardens and some taxes dedicated to supporting the royal family. At some point, it managed murder with ease; the death penalty that should be carried out in winter , now it can be any day of the year, as long as Jiang Chong is willing.In this way, a somewhat prudent and symbolic execution became light and almost a game.When Zhao Heqi's head and mutilated corpses were floating in the autumn wind in the West City of Chang'an like pieces of bacon, Zhao Changnian and all the men of the Zhao family were also inexplicably killed in the banner city of Pengcheng in Pengcheng, Chu State. Beheaded.Maybe the killing wasn't brutal enough. In Ganquan Palace, the body of the aging emperor didn't come alive a little in the infiltration of thousands of people's blood.Therefore, when Ganquan Palace issued an angry condemnation letter, accusing Jiang Chong of not fulfilling his responsibilities.Jiang Chong felt that the moment had come.He recruited his subordinates who were best at knives and pens, and wrote the most tear-jerking memorandum in history, claiming that the most important voodoo master has not been found yet.And all of this is not because I am incompetent, but because the queen and prince are involved, I dare not and have no right to search.Because Hu Wu has already boarded the Jiantai in the Cangchi of Weiyang Palace, and found that there is witchcraft energy in Mingguang Palace.The emperor, who was recuperating in the Gouyi Hall of Ganquan Palace, got the document and was furious. He naturally believed that the prince had all the motives to curse himself for his early death.He threw the document played by Jiang Chong down the steps of his majesty, and said angrily, how can it be so for a son of man?Even if I die, how dare I hand over the world to such an unfilial person?The great man establishes the world with filial piety, but the prince is not filial, what will the world be called?

The young and beautiful Zhao Jieyu sat beside him, still gently comforting him, don't be sad, Your Majesty, the crown prince is unfilial, it is the fault of the grand master and the young master, he should be beheaded to thank the world, and alert all the teachers in the world. Liu Che said angrily, is the prince innocent?If the child really dared to curse me, I would kill my relatives righteously. Zhao Jieyu shuddered and was too frightened to speak anymore.His youngest son, Liu Fuling, opened his innocent eyes wide, hugged his leg, and said in surprise, "Ah Weng, what does it mean to kill relatives righteously?"

Liu Che looked at his lovely young son, and his expression softened.He looked at the tall Qingbo Pond under the palace, and said thoughtfully, I simply made Fu Ling the crown prince.I will not be reconciled to passing the position to that unworthy son. Zhao Jieyu immediately knelt down, took off the hairpin from her head and the jade ornaments on her ears, kowtowed, and thanked His Majesty for making Fuling the crown prince, the concubine felt at ease now. Liu Che stared at Zhao Jieyu, and said calmly, why don't you feel at ease if Fuling is not the crown prince? Zhao Jieyu burst into tears and said with a sob that the concubine's death is not a pity, but the concubine is worried that after His Majesty lives forever, Fuling will have King Zhao Yin's wishes.

Ugh.Liu Che sighed, you are overthinking, Queen Wei is not the Queen Gao back then.The prince has always been kind, but I don't like him because of this.The Han family ruled the world by mixing Confucianism with the way of overlordship, but the prince only likes Confucianism, which is too kind.Being a king is too kind, and it is difficult to impress the public.If you can't prestige the public, then the government orders will not go down, and the government orders will not go down, and there will always be rebellious officials and thieves peeking at the magic weapon.I'm afraid that the one who messed up the world of our Han family is the prince.I have ruled Yuyu for more than fifty years, and the world sees me dethroning hundreds of schools and respecting Confucianism alone.In fact, I know in my heart that it is not enough to rule the world with Confucianism alone.It's a pity that the prince has always been ignorant of the general situation.

What if what Jiang Chong said is true?Zhao Jieyu said, if the crown prince really cursed His Majesty, would it be considered kind? Liu Che said displeasedly, even if the crown prince cursed me, this matter is not your business.Next time you say something like this, you will go to Ye Ting Prison. Zhao Jieyu shook her body again, kowtowed and said, His Majesty appeases the anger, the concubine deserves to die. Liu Che snorted, get up and take Fu Ling in.come. A group of officials hurriedly approached, saying in unison, the minister is here. Liu Chedao, Commander-in-Chief of Shuiheng: Since this spring, I have always been in a hurry.Nai Zhejun said that the witch was hopeful, and some subjects cursed me with witchcraft.Today, the king has killed nearly ten thousand traitors, but I am still as relentless as before, why not?General Jun and Hu Wu are hopeless, and Jiang Fuken will do his best.Today, the king said that the womb of the crown prince has witchcraft, and I will protect him, so I dare not play it?It is said that it is not true: righteousness kills relatives.I ordered you to lead the Jinwu chariot and ride to search the Tai's uterus, and there is no need to hide.If you don't get it again, the king will untie the seal and ribbon by himself, and go to the court prison with his body.

In the Mingguang Palace in Chang'an, Liu Ju ordered the prince's family to order Zhang Guang to urgently call the prince's young Fu Shide.Shi De immediately drove through Shangguan Street, turned into Zhangtai Street, and drove straight into the south gate of Mingguang Palace.He jumped out of the car and ran into the front hall of Mingguang Palace out of breath.The prince's family ordered Zhang Guang to lead the way in front, and led Shi De into the emergency room on the left side of the front hall.The prince was walking back and forth in the room restlessly.Liu Zheng, who is only in his early forties this year, already has gray hair on his head.Shi De couldn't help feeling sad when he saw it. His family has always had a good relationship with the Prince's family.Shi De's father, Shi Qing, served as the prince and Taifu in his early years. Due to overwork, he later moved to the royal doctor, and then replaced Zhao Zhou as prime minister.Shi Qing has always respected Confucianism and taught the prince with benevolence and righteousness.Ever since he became the prime minister, it happened that Zhang Tang was the imperial censor. Zhang Tang governed political affairs in the name of punishment, and won the favor of the emperor. The emperor was surrounded by so-called capable officials with harsh methods. Although Shi Qing was the prime minister, the court meeting was almost I dare not say anything.Frightened by the killing of the former prime ministers Li Cai, Zhuang Qingzhai, and Zhao Zhou, he was always worried. Occasionally he felt ashamed of his position and had nothing to say.During a court meeting, the emperor simply ordered Shi Qing, who was the head of the courtiers, to go home to rest and only discuss with other courtiers. Shi Qing was extremely ashamed and wrote a letter to resign from the post of prime minister.The tone of the emperor's message was very blunt. At the beginning, he listed Shi Qing's mistakes during his tenure, and at the end he said: If you want to resign, I will approve you, hand over the seal, and go home.Shi Qing has always been honest, when he got the report, he was secretly happy, and immediately wanted to untie the seal ribbon and hand it over to the envoy.But Prime Minister Si Zhi and Chang Shi read the edict and were taken aback, pulled him aside, and said in a low voice, Junhou is so honest, I'm afraid they misunderstood the real intention of the emperor.Please look at the sentence in the imperial edict, "The husband Huai knows that the people are poor and asks for a gift, and he resigns when he is in danger. Is it difficult to return to peace? The king is against his family!" It is clearly to blame the prince for evading responsibility at a critical time.The last sentence "the king is against the house", on the surface, promised the king to resign and go home, but in fact it was an angry statement.If Junhou really agrees, then the more severe condemnation letter will be served immediately, and it will be too late for Junhou to regret it at that time.Chang Shi's worries were deeper and wider. He said that Si Zhijun's analysis was reasonable. Judging from his tone, the emperor was indeed extremely angry, why not...

Shi Qing said in surprise, why not? Chang Shidao said that it is better for a prince to follow the convention and commit suicide with his sword to thank him.so as not to harm the clan. Shi Qing's body softened and he almost fell down. His face was ashen, and his voice tremblingly said, is suicide the only way?He was a little reconciled, under normal circumstances, who would want to die.Besides, his father, Shi Fen, went through the four dynasties of Emperor Gao, Emperor Wen, Emperor Jing, and Emperor Wu. He was famous all over the world for his filial piety, and he never made any small mistakes. The Shi family has always heard only praise books, but never heard of condemnation books , but when he came to him, he had to confess his guilt and commit suicide, which was really embarrassing to his ancestors.

Si Zhidao, I don't think suicide is necessary, the emperor did not send an envoy to take responsibility, but the report, the prince still replied, saying that he dare not resign, that he must work diligently, and the emperor will appease his anger. Shi Qing murmured, then try first, if it doesn't work, it's not too late to die.He immediately wrote a memorial and handed it over to the envoy, scolding himself for being stupid and not resigning to worry his father.When the emperor saw his report, he really calmed down and gave him a letter of encouragement. Shi Qing's position as prime minister was eventually replaced by Gongsun He. After he was dismissed and returned home, he often lamented that the current emperor is really not good at serving.Of course, these words are spoken to the closest people.When Shi De was recruited by the emperor as Prince Taifu because of his superb Confucianism, his father Shi Qing cited his own example to warn him that he must be more cautious.Shi De nodded. The first thing he did after taking office was to write a letter, saying that he could not accept the position of Prince and Taifu, because that was the position his father had held. If he sat in his father's temple office and worked as a son of man, he would feel that uneasy.The emperor was overjoyed when he got the letter, and felt that Shi De was indeed the son of a famous father, respectful, loyal and filial, so he issued an imperial edict to appoint Shi De as Prince Shao Fu, and stipulated that as long as Shi De was in the position of Shao Fu, the post of Tai Tu would always be vacant.Fortunately, although Taifu and Shaofu have different names, their ranks are exactly the same, both are two thousand stones.Shi De got this leisurely official position, and he served in the prince's house where his father left Yu Ze.I thought that as long as I survived until the current emperor's palace chariot was driven, it would not be impossible for me to be named a marquis and a minister in the future with the kindness of the prince and master.However, the surly behavior of the emperor in his later years gradually made him feel that this hope was becoming increasingly slim. According to this trend, not only would it be impossible for him to wear the golden seal with a purple ribbon of ten thousand stones as a master, but he might also be bestowed with death along with the crown prince.Even if the prince is not abolished and only receives a letter of condemnation from the emperor, he may be the first to be punished at any time for the crime of "teaching the prince that there is no way".He asked himself that he could not be said to be incompetent in teaching the prince, and he devoted himself to teaching all Confucian scriptures.He is qualified enough to be proud of himself and his father's achievements, isn't the prince a respectful and modest man?He will be more benevolent than all the emperors of the Han Dynasty, and they all know how to treat their subjects well.He dared to say that as long as the crown prince came to the throne, there would be no fear of war in the world, the people would live and work in peace, and the ministers and officials would be honest and respectful.It's a pity he couldn't wait for this day.He knelt in front of the prince, thinking of the grievances his father and himself had suffered, and thinking of how cautious he had been all his life, but he still couldn't escape the fate of being slaughtered. His anger was like an enraged poisonous snake, and he kept spitting out letters. Temperance is thrown out of the sky.He said, His Royal Highness, if Jiang Chong really got the edict and went around the Mingguang Palace to search, then he should be prepared early, and he should be arrested first, and capable jailers should be sent to deal with his treachery.

Liu Ju said anxiously, "Mr. Fu, since he has an imperial edict, if we arrest him, isn't it a crime of rebellion?"It just so happened that his false accusation was confirmed.And for those who are sons of man, they will die when they die, and they will not be able to turn back to their father. Shi Dedao, prince, don't forget, "Spring and Autumn" records that Jin Xiangong's prince Shen Sheng was slandered by his stepmother and hanged himself in Xincheng. "Spring and Autumn" does not think that he did the right thing, but thinks that he should punish the slander first, so that his sincerity can reach the king's father.If he commits suicide just for the sake of a false name of filial piety, what good will it do for the country?As soon as Shen Sheng died, the Jin Kingdom would be followed by disasters for several generations. "Spring and Autumn" believes that this is Shen Sheng's crime.The current situation of the prince is exactly the same. If Jiang Chong succeeds in framing the prince and the prince refuses to explain himself but commits suicide, even if the emperor can understand the prince's loyalty in the future, how much regret will he have?Moreover, if Jiang Chong succeeds, he will try his best to cover up the truth and kill people wantonly.I am afraid that the prince's injustice will be buried for thousands of years.

Sweat dripped from Liu Ju's head, and he said, it's already winter moon, and it's so hot in Mingguang Palace. ——Is there such a sentence in "Spring and Autumn", God, my head hurts, I really can't remember it at all. Shi Dedao, of course, is in "Zuo Shi Zhuan". Liu Ju waved his hand irritably, please stop talking about Mr. Shao Fu, let me think again. Shi De sighed, the prince should think twice.Or you can hold back temporarily, open the gate of the palace, and let Jiang Chong search, if he doesn't find it, just let it go.If he insists on framing, then the prince must not hesitate any longer.

Ok.The prince seemed to be thinking about something, and subconsciously replied. Things progressed quite quickly, and within a few days of their secret talks, hundreds of leather chariots suddenly appeared under the double gates of the Mingguang Palace.The palace gate order, who was in charge of the safety of the prince's palace, got the report from the watch guards on the tower, and ran to inform the prince in despair.Naturally, he was going to lose his mind. All the officials in Mingguang Palace who served the prince, regardless of their official positions, had been firmly tied to the prince by a rope since they were assigned to serve the prince.The result is either sharing wealth, or returning to hell together.But they are now more likely to be the latter. Crown Princess Shi Liangdi was serving Liu Ju's clothes. Hearing the report from the palace gate order, Liu Ju felt a pain in his heart. He forced himself to calmly straighten out his appearance in front of the bronze mirror, and helped the still noble crown on his head. He tried his best to restrain his tone from being affected by his mood, and calmly said to Shi Liangdi, I went out to meet the messenger.He silently glanced at the eldest son Liu Jin and the other children beside him, and he didn't know what to say, but he just sighed. Shi Liangdi looked at her husband and nodded wordlessly.She has been married to the prince for more than twenty years, and her life has always been like a spring full of vitality. Unexpectedly, the wind and clouds suddenly turned and fell into the late autumn. For many years, she had dreamed that her husband would ascend the throne as soon as possible. The eldest son of the emperor, who was born, can be successfully established as the queen.But all this is getting farther and farther away.Like her husband, she felt oppressed and heavy, not knowing what kind of danger lay outside the gate of the palace. Liu Ju walked to the gate of the hall, turned around, and added, you go to the Quefei Hall first and wait, stay with Shao Fu and the others, and don't act rashly without my order.I don't think anything will happen.His last sentence was weak, as if he doubted himself very much. Liu Jin couldn't help but opened his mouth and called out, father...He still wanted to say something, but when the words came to his lips, he abruptly took them back. Obviously, he was very disapproving of his father's words in his heart. How could there be nothing wrong?This is simply deception.Who could have imagined that an official with a mere two thousand stones would request to use a chariot to search the Tai's womb, and the final result would be nothing.The crown prince is the heir apparent of the Han Empire, and now he is forced into such embarrassment by a subordinate official, what kind of joke it would be to let the people of the world know.Such a move to shake the world, if it is not a precursor of malicious framing and bloody massacre, it would be counterintuitive.Could it be that Jiang Chong is so bored that he has the leisure to make such a joke?Unless he's crazy, and even if he's crazy, it's the kind of madness that enjoys massacres, not the polite kind of madness that makes searching a joke. Seeing that his son hesitated to speak, Liu Ju wanted to ask something, but he was no longer in the mood to ask, and strode out of the palace gate. Under the tall gray twin gates of the Mingguang Palace, Jiang Chong jumped off his leather cart, his movements were brisk and joyful, which could be considered heroic for a middle-aged man.He walked slowly in front of the prince, and said with a businesslike face, His Royal Highness, there is an imperial edict, and the emperor ordered his officials to search the Mingguang Palace to see if there are any witches, please be considerate.His nose was a little reddish in the late autumn breeze in Chang'an, and on his fat palm was a bronze talisman in the shape of a tiger, with thin seal script on the belly of the tiger.This is the festival letter from the emperor, do you want the crown prince to verify it.he added. Standing next to Jiang Chong was an official dressed in armor and military uniform. He was Liu Gan, the executive king, and a member of the clan.He bowed his body and saluted, and the minister obeyed the emperor's edict, hoping that the crown prince would cooperate. Liu Ju said coldly, how could there be witchcraft in my palace, and whether Du Weijun made a mistake. Jiang Chong still said with a smile on his face that there was nothing he could do about the edict, the prince's palace was vast and there were many servants, and it was not impossible for one or two of them to curse the emperor with flattery and witchcraft. Liu Ju was silent for a moment, looked at the festival letter in Jiang Chong's hand, and said, since that's the case, it's okay.There is no need to verify the letter.Since there is an edict from the Son of Heaven, how can I not obey the edict.Gentlemen, please come in, but I hope that the soldiers will not disturb the palace. Although I am bowing clearly and frankly, I still don't want to let the queen know about such a big move, so as not to worry the queen. Liu Gan said humbly, the minister must restrain the soldiers, please rest assured the prince.He didn't want to participate in such an act of offending the prince, but he was helpless as the edict ordered him to cooperate with Jiang Chong. Jiang Chong didn't speak, he laughed secretly in his heart, why not disturb the palace, why not to keep the empress from worrying, your time of death is coming.He hummed and said to Liu Gan, then let's get started.God witch, immediately lead the soldiers to search, try to end as soon as possible, so as not to disturb the prince. Liu Ju nodded, raised his head and gave orders to the Que Tower to open the door.The huge palace gate opened slowly, and the leather chariot rumbled into Mingguang Palace.A large group of soldiers stood on the leather chariot and looked at the prince with strange eyes.What they hold in their hands is not weapons, but digging tools such as hoes and shovels.Their rosy faces were full of confusion, and they knew that if they were ordered to dig, they would never return without success.Even if they don't find anything, another group of people will.They have little knowledge, they are all peasants conscripted by the prefectures of the world, and most of them will return home after one year of military service.Indeed, they really couldn't figure out why the emperor wanted to attack the prince.Therefore, they stood in the car and looked at the prince with bewilderment and a hint of pity. Facts have indeed proved that the soldiers were digging wildly in various palaces of Mingguang Palace. As long as Hu Wu stretched out his finger, he immediately hoeed and shoveled.In the palace covered with diamond-shaped blue bricks, fresh soil piled up like a mountain in an instant. The excavation lasted for three full days, during which no news was revealed.The prince and all his people will move around in the next few days.On the third day when it was time to feed the sun, Jiang Chong brought Liu Gan, Han Shuo, Su Wen and several others to Liu Ju, and said with a smile on his face, "Your Highness, the matter is over, we will leave now." out.The prince can ask the palace people to fill up the pit. Liu Jin stood beside the prince and said angrily, what, you dug the palace in a mess, now we are asking us to fill it in? Jiang Chong smiled again, Shi Huangsun calmed down, the edict only ordered the ministers to search, but not to fill the soil, and the ministers naturally did not have this obligation. His face turned pale from the intake of air, what else did he have to say.Liu Ju stopped him and said, boldly, did you talk to Captain Jiang like this?Hurry up and back down. Liu Jin had no choice but to step aside resentfully.Liu Ju took a step forward, bowed his hands to Jiang Chong politely, the dog is rude, please don't blame Captain Jiang.Dare to ask Du Weijun's search results. Jiang Chong said with a smile, Shi Huangsun was young and vigorous, how could I care about him.Besides, if the minister acts according to the edict, even if there are mountains of swords and seas of fire in front of him, he will never turn back.If the emperor's grandson is going to be angry, the minister can only bear it. As soon as he said this, the attendants around the prince were all surprised and angry.Originally, Liu Ju was polite to Jiang Chong with the honor of the crown prince, but Jiang Chong should have been in a hurry to give in.However, he actually said "how can you care about him", showing that he is really young and high-ranking, and he doesn't bother to care about the younger generation.Although he called him a "minister" in his mouth, he was actually confident and extremely arrogant.The prince's family ordered Zhang Guang to hold the hilt of his sword, and immediately wanted to go up and kill Jiang Chong.Liu Ju noticed something, moved his footsteps, blocked Zhang Guang with his body, and said with a smile, Jiang Duwei would forgive the dog, it couldn't be better.What is the result of Du Weijun's search?Seeing that Jiang Chong didn't answer, he patiently asked again. Jiang Chong said, "It's nothing." ——The prince should go in, there is no need to send it off.He cupped his hands, took a few steps back, grabbed Che Sui with his backhand, boarded his leather chariot, and said loudly, everyone obeys the order of the government, immediately pack up your tools and weapons, and withdraw from the palace.Liu Gan rode a horse, galloping back and forth non-stop, and shouted, all the ministers listen, Jiang Duwei gave the order to evacuate the palace immediately.Several of his subordinates immediately split up to issue orders, and a large group of soldiers clamored and boarded the leather chariot. With the rumble of the chariot passing by, the Mingguang Palace, which was still in full swing just now, returned to its previous dead silence.What was left was Liu Ju's group, who looked at the messy palace land with dejected expressions. They didn't know what Jiang Chong's search results were and what would happen next. Looking at Jiang Chong's back, Zhang Guang said bitterly, "This bastard, I really wanted to kill him just now." Liu Judao, Zhang Jun must not be impulsive, killing him now, isn't it just to confirm that we have ghosts in our hearts.Let's be careful, one day we can let him die. I think this bastard has a plan in mind, Zhang Guangdao, His Royal Highness, don't take too much chance.It is better to prepare early. At this time Shi De came in a hurry and told Liu Judao that Zhang Guangjun was right, we should inform the queen as soon as possible.A few days ago, Empress Zhan Shi Xue Guangde and Zhongshang Ling Cheng'an sent news that they were secretly converting the Zhongshang carriage into a leather cart.Tian Yichang, the commander of the arsenal, also vowed to support the prince. With the weapons in the arsenal, there are 10,000 to 20,000 prisoners in Mingguang Palace, Changle Palace, and Weiyang Palace, plus 20,000 Changle guards who have always supported us. There are more than 20,000 guards and soldiers in Mingguang Palace, and 60,000 to 70,000 officials and prisoners in Chang'an. There are more than 100,000 people in total, and they will definitely defeat Jiang Chong. Could it be that the rebellion is really going to fail, and Liu Zheng's sweat can't help but drip down. You must know that no matter whether he wins or loses, his reputation in future generations will be ruined.Didn't Shao Fu always praise me in "Gongyang Zhuan"? There is a saying in "Gongyang Zhuan": "A minister has no general, and the general will rebel." Weapons in the arsenal, blatantly attacking the envoy of the Son of Heaven, how can they not evade the notoriety of murdering the king and father!Some time ago, Shao Fu talked about "Zuo Shi Zhuan" with me. As a scholar, doesn't he pay much attention to family law?Why did he suddenly change his scriptures? Shi De smiled wryly in his heart, this prince is really pedantic, no wonder he was bullied by his subordinates, this is what my father taught him when he was the prince and Taifu.The world changes with time, of course we have to follow the changes of the situation, how can we stick to the classics.At this time, I still talked about the scriptures and righteousness with me. There is really no place for burial.I have never talked about "Zuo Shi Zhuan" with you, but it was just to persuade you to talk nonsense.He said anxiously, His Royal Highness, now is not the time to talk about scriptures.Looking at Jiang Chong's posture before leaving, it is inevitable to frame the prince.He must be going to play the emperor this time. If the emperor listens to him and gives him the tiger talisman so that he can conscript the soldiers of the three auxiliary counties and the eighth lieutenants of the Northern Army, we will regret it too late.With 100,000 prisoners who are temporarily assigned soldiers, it is absolutely impossible to resist the current soldiers of the Northern Army. Liu Ju has always respected his master. When he saw the master getting anxious, he knew it was for his own good. He walked back and forth a few steps, but still couldn't make up his mind, no, it won't be that serious, let's wait.He may not dare to frame me so blatantly. If he really framed me, why not sentence me immediately. Shi Dedao, the minister sees that Jiang Chong is insane, so there is nothing he dare not do.He was only a little apprehensive for the time being, so he didn't dare to announce immediately. If he had hundreds of thousands of pawns and knights in his hands, then he would have no scruples. No, no, Liu Ju said anxiously, let's wait and see.Unless it is absolutely necessary, you must not do anything that displeases your father. Your Royal Highness... Shi De still wanted to open his mouth, but Liu Ju waved his hand to stop him. You don't need to say more, Shao Fu, I have made up my mind.Stop for now.I'm tired, everyone go back first. Shi De, Zhang Guang and others had no choice but to retreat angrily.They stepped out of the hall, Shi De grabbed Zhang Guang's hand, and whispered, Mr. Zhang, the crown prince is too kind, and he will suffer great disaster without knowing it.We are subordinates, but we can't sit idly by. You should immediately send your confidants to Weiyang Palace to inform the queen, and ask the queen to send an envoy to Ganquan Palace to greet the emperor.The queen sent people several times before, but they were all refused to be interviewed.It is said that the emperor is very ill, maybe he is already insane at this time, and if he said something that a courtier should not say, he is not far from death.This is an extraordinary period, and I am afraid that traitorous officials will make trouble because of this.If the emperor still refuses to meet the envoy this time.We immediately dispatched troops to arrest Jiang Chong, punish him for his treachery, and then order the world to kill him in Chang'an. Zhang Guangdao, what Shaofu Junjian taught is that if the prince hesitates, great things will be ruined.I immediately sent someone to Weiyang Palace.He pulled an official next to him, and said softly, Mr. Chen Wuqi, take the Prince's Day letter and go to Weiyang Palace immediately, and enter through the Changqiu Gate. There are the queen's confidants and family officials, who will let you in. Chen Wuqi said, obey the order. Shi Dedao, then let's split up and make some preparations.I hope the queen can be more decisive and personally advise the prince.The prince has always been filial, maybe he will listen to the queen. Three days ago, Empress Wei already knew the news about Jiang Chong's search for Mingguang Palace, and when she heard Chen Wuqie's report on the situation at that time, she was very upset, and asked Xue Guangde and Zhan Shijun next to her, what do you think should be done. Xue Guangde said, Shi De's suggestion is very good, quickly send people to Ganquan Palace, and use the reason of greeting the emperor's royal body to inquire about Jiang Chong's intention to play the document. If it is not good for us, we will send troops quickly. Cheng An said, if the documents are not good for the prince, it may be too late.It's better to send troops to arrest Jiang Chong now, and punish him for his treachery. Stable Lord and Prince Shaofu have the same opinion.Chen Wuhe said. Queen Wei said, that won't work.In case Jiang Chong didn't mean to frame the prince, we arrested him rashly, didn't we prove to him that we were plotting rebellion? Xue Guangde said, this is really a dilemma. It would be great if we could confirm Jiang Chong's intentions. Alas, Queen Wei sighed, Jiang Chong must be more cautious now, how could he know his intentions. The minister thinks that there is someone who can help us, Xue Guangde said, Jing Zhaoyin and Shen Wu have been quite close to Jiang Chong recently, and maybe he can find out his intentions.And according to the impression that Shi De met Shen Wu last time, he felt that Shen Wu was upright and a sage.Shen Wu's family official, Ruhou, was the captain of Shesheng at that time, and later became Gongsun He's family.There is also Guan Caizhi, who used to be Gongsun He's servant, and now he has become Shen Wu's confidant and family official.Shen Wu was able to win over Gongsun He's servant as a family official, which shows that this person is upright and has a lot of capacity. How can Bingxin be upright and have a close relationship with Jiang Chong, that dog thief.Empress Wei said displeasedly, if it wasn't for this Shen Wu, there would be no witchcraft case.As for people like Shuo Ruhou and Guan Caizhi, it's not surprising at all.There have always been a lot of villains in the world, so what can it explain?Think back when the Great General and General Hussars were alive, how many clinging to our Wei family, how about now?Where did they all die? Cheng An said, the queen should not be angry.It is human nature to seek advantages and avoid disadvantages, so there is no need to be deeply responsible.The minister looked at Shen Wu's actions, and also felt that he was indeed not a treacherous villain.As for the origin of the witchcraft case, that is also partly due to God's will, and he cannot be blamed. Well, you all think he is good, Queen Wei said, then you should ask him, for fear that he will betray us, and Jiang Chong will be prepared earlier. Xue Guangde said, that's nothing, we don't ask, Jiang Chong is also prepared.His mansion was always guarded by five hundred disciples in turn, which were assigned to him by the emperor from the northern army. Empress Wei said feebly, then send someone there quickly.I will trouble Mr. Chen Wuqie to take a trip. Jingzhaoyin Mansion on the edge of Gao Street.Xiao Wu and Ying Qi are discussing matters. Xiao Wudao, Lord Yingqi, just now I heard from Chen Wuqie that the crown prince wanted to send troops to kill Jiang Chong, but he couldn't make up his mind, so let's encourage him.In my opinion, since Jiang Chong searched for Mingguang Palace, the next step is Shangzuo. From Chang'an to Ganquan Palace, the first stop is Weicheng Post, which is the most convenient way.It is also possible that his first stop will be Wannian Station.No matter how you go, these two places are in the jurisdiction of Jingzhaoyin. You should quickly and privately tell Weicheng postmaster, Wannian postmaster and all the pavilion chiefs near these two posthouses. If there are postmen sent by Jiang Chong, immediately Try every means to stabilize and steal the content of his paperwork. Ying Qi said, very good, but there is a seal on the document, and you will find it when you take it apart. Xiao Wudao, of course you have to use your ability to fraudulently engrave letters.After reading it, use the newly engraved seal to cover it again with sealing mud.He patted Yingqi on the shoulder, but it's still dangerous, I owe you too much.If you don't want to do it, I don't force it, or think of other ways. Yingqi blushed, why didn't he want to do it, removing Jiang Chong is a good thing for the country and the people.Not to mention the tragic death of Lord Weng because of him.When I think of this beast, I wish I could skin it alive. If I can die with him, I will not hesitate. Tears suddenly fell from Xiao Wu's eyes. Lido suffered with me and died for me. How can I forget her in my life?If you don't give her revenge, you will live like a walking corpse.He raised his sleeves and wiped his tears. It was very good. We immediately sent people to wait for each booth where the post envoy might pass by.Remember, never go to the big farm to inquire, so as not to leak the news. Fu Jun, don't be sad, Yingqi's eyes are also red, fortunately, he can take revenge right away. Well, Xiao Wudao, Empress Wei thinks that I have a close relationship with Jiang Chong. In fact, Jiang Chong is not a fool, so how could he trust me.Last time I helped him kill Zhao Heqi, he must be puzzled now.Every time I see him, I feel like a knife is going out in my heart, but unfortunately I just don't have the strength to take revenge. Ying Qi said, this time he must be dead.In fact, I expected a few days ago that I had already sent people to wait at all the post booths on the two post lines. Once I saw the envoy sent by Shuiheng Mansion, I would try to find a way to stabilize it.Alright, I'm going to set off now, heading for Weicheng. Well, Xiao Wu said approvingly, Mr. Yingqi is really caring, I sent a Pohu horse to Wannian post, I hope the heaven will help me to kill this traitor. Yingqi rushed to the courtyard and immediately ordered the car to be set up.Not long after, a black clay-screened vehicle rushed out of Jingzhaoyin Mansion, went east along Gao Street, passed through the Bacheng Gate in the east of Chang'an City, and drove towards Weicheng.In less than two hours, the cart had arrived at the first and largest post station not far to the west of Weicheng: Weicheng Post. Yingqi jumped off the cart, just entered the gate of the Weicheng Posthouse, the postmaster came out to welcome him, and when he saw Yingqi, he hurriedly bowed to salute.Yingqi pulled his sleeve, walked in, and asked in a low voice, how many envoys passed by today?Is there anyone from Shuiheng Mansion? The postmaster took Yingqi to the side building of the posthouse, closed the door, and said in a low voice, the servants would like to follow your lord's instructions, and pay close attention to the past postmen and envoys in person these two days.All the postmen who passed by were registered by me myself, and filled in the time of arrival at the station. I did not find the envoy sent by Shuiheng Duwei's Mansion. Ying Qi said, well, they are not so fast after all.To engage in such a big conspiracy, of course, the steps must be carefully discussed.I'm not leaving either, I'll just wait here for a few days.Yingqi said as he took a package from the entourage, took out some light red clothes, put them on one by one, and immediately he also turned into a small post office official.I think the stage horses in Chang'an have been traveling for two hours, and they should change horses here, otherwise they will not be able to walk.There are only a few kiosks in front, and the horses are not only few but also of poor quality. Changing horses at Weicheng Station is the best choice.He walked to a large bronze mirror in the room and took a picture, probably very satisfied with his attire. Don't worry, my lord.The postmaster said, in fact, Jiang Chong's envoy would never have expected us to be waiting for him here.They are not prepared, but we are prepared, and we will definitely be able to find out the news. Ok.Yingqi said, let's go downstairs, if they come at this time, don't miss it. They came downstairs to wait. During this period, some postmen and couriers came, some from the Prime Minister's Mansion, and some from Yushi Dafu Temple.The coffins issued by the Shaofu, Dahongyu and other official offices, as well as the coffins sent back to the soldiers from the east of the river by the counties in the west of the river, all have to go through the Weicheng post.Some documents have to be handed over by the postmaster, and the time of delivery and the time for continued delivery from this post are written.But the post envoy of Shuiheng Mansion did not see it. Yingqi was very restless, he stood upstairs, leaning against the window, staring blankly at the direction of Chang'an Chidao.It was the season of late autumn, and the leaves of the poplar trees on both sides of the road began to fall, and the golden leaves fell all over the ground. The yard of the station was also covered with gold, and the roof was also covered with autumn leaves, which looked colorful.But at this time Yingqi was not in the mood to admire, he walked down the stairs slowly, and sat on the threshold in front of the yard, looking very much like a low-level official.The low-level officials in the Chang'an area are like this, always putting on a sloppy posture that does not pay attention to hygiene.虽然朝廷对于下层官吏的衣冠整洁问题也曾有过严格规定，可是如果不是皇帝巡行路过，谁又去理会呢？除了这份公职，他们每天还要干点农活维持生计呢，哪能有那么多的讲究。 整整两天没有所获，到得第三天早上，婴齐仍是一早起来，洒扫庭院。正是平旦时分，天色已经亮了。驿置的其他小吏也不敢晚起，院子里炊烟袅袅，在烧早饭。吃过早饭，他又焦躁地等候，可是这一天也没有收获，他开始失望了，甚至相信，要么江充还没有派出使者，要么使者走的是万年驿。他有些担心一介武夫的郭破胡能否妥善处理好这件事，虽然他早已刻好了一个“水衡都尉”的印信，让郭破胡带上。但是无疑，如果由他亲自查看文书上的封泥，临时摹刻比较保险。谁知道江充会不会改用别的印信呢？他望了望天色，已经是日下仄时分，正是无奈之际，突然听见马蹄声响，他抬头一望，从长安驰道方向奔来一匹黑马，马背上坐着一个灰衣小吏。他心里不禁砰砰直跳，本能地感觉到，这或许就是自己要等的人。 那小吏也不下马，直接驰进了院子，大声呼道，给我换马，有紧急文书送往云阳。 云阳，那不就是甘泉宫么？婴齐心里一喜。这小吏真懂得作威作福，迫不及待地宣扬自己所送文书的重要，以此显得自己多么有身份。婴齐马上应道，足下请下马，先进驿置用饭，休息一夜，明日再出发。他心里好生欢喜，这邮人来得正是时候，如果早来了，他不肯过夜歇息，倒怕没时间和机会能盗得他的文书。 那小吏的腰上系着一个黑色丝囊，上面印着赤色和白色的花纹。婴齐瞥了一眼，心里砰砰直跳，有点紧张起来，原来寻常奏报文书才用黑色丝囊包裹，如果黑色丝囊上有赤白色的花纹，那就表明此文书异常紧急，一般边境有急，发下的文书才用赤白囊装裹。象这样的文书简直都不用拆开看，就知道太子要倒霉了。但婴齐转念一想，江充用紧急文书囊装密奏文书，傻瓜都知道上奏的内容非同小可，如果有极大的奸谋，何必如此招摇？他心中颇为奇怪，但是不管那么多了，总之先看了再说，如果不抄得一份文书的附件，太子又如何会相信？如果他不相信就不肯孤注一掷地发兵，那么要杀死江充，就真的遥遥无期了。 想到这里，他谦恭地笑道，什么急事，用赤白囊装裹文书。 那小吏骄傲地说，江都尉关于巫蛊案的奏文，自然要紧急了。这事关系到皇上的御体安康，还有什么事比这更重要呢。 婴齐笑道，那是那是。江都尉是天子的忠臣，他的文书自然比什么都重要。足下在水衡都尉府当差，真是前途无量啊。我们这些人就不知何时才能熬到这福分。 那小吏听婴齐这样赞美，满脸喜色，哪里哪里，我不过是都尉府一个小吏罢了，又不是高级掾吏，有什么能让诸君羡慕的。 不然，婴齐道，如此重要的公文，都尉竟放心让足下递送，可见很器重足下。我们也在吏职多年，可不是什么都不懂的傻瓜啊。 那小吏越发欢喜道，这倒是。一般文书都“以亭行” ，再重要些的，也不过“以邮行” ，象我这样专门递送，不假他人之手的“以吏马驰行”，的确是最高规格的了。 婴齐显出一副好奇的神色，不知文书所奏何事？如此要紧，可否说说，让我们这些小吏长点见识？ 这个我的确不知道，那小吏收起了笑容，就算知道也绝对不敢透露，会腰斩的。诸君帮我备好良马，我明天一早赶路。 婴齐道，这个自然的。足下请进驿置歇息，进膳食。 天色渐渐黑了下来，几个人摆好晚膳，婴齐提议道，驿置还藏有几坛好酒，不妨大家群饮为乐？ 众人轰然叫好，那小吏听见有酒，眼睛放光，嘴上却仍迟疑道，好是好，就怕明晨起不来，误了公事。邮使每天行多少里，都有严格规定的。 婴齐道，这个我岂有不知。明天挑匹好马给你，绝对让足下比规定时间早到甘泉。说着已经倒了一樽酒，递给那小吏。 那小吏本来意志就不坚强，现在眼睛见了酒，哪里能够推拒，欣然接过，仰起脖子一饮而尽，叫道，好酒。婴齐也给其他几位小吏斟满，大家边饮边大歌欢呼，霎时间，一坛酒就见了底。婴齐道，今天能和水衡都尉的府吏一起饮酒，真是有幸。干脆再把剩下那坛也全饮了罢。 那小吏这会兴致高涨，再无任何异议，由婴齐给他斟满。而这次，婴齐已经在他的酒樽抹上了一些可暂时致幻昏迷的药粉，那是小武给他的，也是刘丽都的遗物。汉法，不管是毒药还是可使人昏迷的药，只有王侯大吏才准许收藏。那小吏怎么会想到一个驿置的寻常小吏会有这些，他喝下这杯酒，不长时间就歪倒在席上，昏睡了过去。 婴齐赶忙从他腰间解下丝囊，丝囊靠着腰间的里侧原来还有一块木质的封简，封简上有三道契口，用细绳缠了三道。这块封简两头薄，中间坟起的部分被剜了个四方形的凹槽，凹槽里是一块封泥，已经干燥了。婴齐将那封泥放在灯下细细察看，上面是凸起的“水衡都尉印”五字。木简的封泥上方有墨书的几个大字“水衡密奏”。下面是几行小字： 婴齐暗叫，好险。幸好是路过渭城，他这个“水衡都尉印”竟然破了一个角，我还能照原样也刻破一个角，换了郭破胡，恐怕就麻烦了。他马上拿出刀笔，在灯下细致地仿刻。 没多少功夫，将印刻好，他仔细比较了一番，确认一般人绝对看不出破绽，然后果断地抠出那枚封泥。那封泥干燥脆弱，一抠之下就成了碎片。他解开细绳，从丝囊里掏出两片对合在一起的木札。打开一看之下，不禁大惊失色，那上面写的是： 臣充以征和二年十月乙卯率执金吾车骑掘蛊长安诸官寺和民居，费时十余日，掘得桐木人数十，桐人胸腹间分别书陛下、赵婕妤以及皇少子的名讳。经胡巫勘验，确定为行巫蛊术所用。桐木人佥可半尺许，关节可活动，拜送起卧一如真人，为防万一途中亡失，桐人遣他使者送诣。臣不敢自专，冀陛下明断。 这文书中无半句涉及皇太子，只说是搜索诸官寺和民居所得，婴齐不禁暗暗叫苦，这江充果然狡猾，在文书中隐晦其词，连证据也不和文书一起寄送。那真正的奏告文书，想来还有其他使者递送了。万一使者走万年驿，不知郭破胡能否对付。不过，现在这封文书既然拆开了，也不妨抄录一下。他赶忙拿出刀笔，将这封密奏按原样抄录。然后将原书捆扎，装进丝囊，用泥巴将木槽填实，盖上印信。重新系在那小吏的腰上，他明天醒来，绝对不会发现曾有人动过。婴齐看着那小吏昏睡的面孔，想下一步怎么办，是继续在这里等候，还是立即赶赴万年，和郭破胡会合，一时感慨万千，心里不知是什么滋味。 夕阴街的水衡都尉府，江充心里同样忐忑不安，未来几天的结局也充满了惊惧。他又登上他的阙楼，望着冷冷清清的夕阴街，已经是深夜时分，街上半个人也没有，只有城门方向有灯笼的光亮，那是城门校尉的卫卒在巡逻。长安城是阴沉而阔大的，四围都是宫殿飞檐的影子，整个城市，宫殿占了三分之二，这就是伟大的长安城。江充每当心烦意躁的时候，深夜登上他的阙楼，遥望着长安的屋脊，心里就会慢慢安定，能这样端详这伟大的城阙，是一种福分，决不能轻易失去。他自言自语地说，我害怕什么？多年来我千辛万苦，等的不就是这一刻吗？谁不喜欢我，谁就必须付出代价。他脑中想象着刘据被腰斩成两块的情景，心里充满了一种报复过后的虚幻的快意。 阿翁，这么晚了还不睡吗？一个声音传入他的耳朵，他回过神来，听出是儿子江捐之的声音。 What are you doing here?江充不快地说。他对这个儿子很疼爱，这是他唯一的儿子，但是他不喜欢将自己的心事告诉他。因为这儿子和他的性格颇有不同，而且屡次挑战自己作为一个父亲、一个户主、一个二千石大吏的权利，总是劝告自己不要太嚣张。嚣张？可笑，没有自己的嚣张，作为我的儿子，你能够享受这样锦衣玉食的生活吗？这个世道就是一个弱肉强食的世道：不是刘据杀死我，就是我杀死刘据。 江捐之不安地说，阿翁，我听见了你刚才的话。你真的要陷害皇太子么？ 江充板起脸道，什么陷害？是刘据自己找死，竟敢用桐木人诅咒皇上。我作为人臣，自然不能听之任之。他不肯对儿子说真话。 江捐之道，父亲，你何必再瞒我，这样做要赤族的。皇太子没有任何理由诅咒他的君父，这大汉的天下，不久就是他的。 好吧，江充道，我也不怕你去告发，你是我儿子，你去告发，如果皇上相信你，他会赦免你一个人。但是我和其他很多的人都会死；如果你不去，那么我们都可以保全，你可以进宫当郎官，慢慢升迁至二千石。当然还有第三种选择，你不去告发，我也罢手不干，那么皇太子即位，我们都会死。那才叫真正的赤族。——你是我的儿子，我不阻拦你。 江捐之沉默了。从感情讲，他不能在这三条之中作出任何一条选择，特别是他不可能去告发父亲。然而诚如父亲所说的，如果等到皇太子即位，整个江氏家族将遭到诛夷。那么显然，只有采取第二条选择了。他是一个人，虽然他不愿意伤害别人，但是更不愿意别人伤害自己。他只有哀叹道，父亲，你有没有必然的保证一定会成功呢？ 这句话惹起江充的愤怒，去，你不是我的儿子，这世上哪有什么必然的事。成则王侯，败则魖鬼。大丈夫不敢拿命运去赌博，难道一辈子去小心谨慎地侍侯他人吗？而且关键是，人家是否永远乐意要你侍侯。 江捐之不敢答话，他就是这样的一个人，自小跟着父亲逃亡关中，养成了担惊受怕的性格。虽然形貌倒像个雄纠纠的男子，内心却很畏软，自卑而敏感。看见自己喜欢的女人，也只在心里爱慕。象以前见到靳莫如，在家臣的极力怂恿下，才告诉父亲，求父亲派人去求婚。虽然颇有波折，那女子却意外地让他得到了，这甚至让他有些得意。好日子才刚刚开始，他知道，一切都是父亲给他的，他不愿意因为父亲的所为再次失去。 江充见他这个样子，语气缓和了，唉，真是不肖之子。老实说吧，你阿翁如果没有十足的把握，也不会贸然行事。我看皇上想换太子已经很久了。你要知道，虽然他是大汉帝国至高无上的天子，却也不是事事能顺着自己的意愿来的。废掉一个没有任何过错的太子，廷议时绝对通不过，御史会驳回诏书。难道他想强行拂逆群臣的意见，而被天下骂为无道之君吗？我这是在帮他，江充说着，语调都开始抖了起来，虽然我敢说，他应该感激我，但是我永远只能装糊涂。如果让他知道我猜中了他的心事，我们都会没有命。 江捐之瞪大了眼睛，帮皇上，天，皇上还要人帮？ 对，江充道，皇上也是人，他也有自己的弱点。好了，不说这些了，我已经派人从两条驿路送文书给甘泉。一条走渭城，一条走万年。走渭城驿的，发送的只是普通文书；走万年驿的才是这次事件的重要文书。虽然料想刘据一向怯懦，不敢派人去劫掠邮人。但是，也不能指望他的掾属都如此老实。这几日内甘泉宫当有报文，希望皇上能颁下虎符，发兵驰围明光宫。只是消息绝对不能让刘据知道，否则就凭我现在手中这点力量，仅仅他的明光宫卫卒，我都制不住。不能让他狗急跳墙。我已经派人监视明光宫，看他们有何动作。 好吧，阿翁，你所做的总有你的道理。不过除去太子之后，阿翁想要扶植谁为太子呢？ 江充道，那本来不是我有兴趣管的，其实谁当太子都行，只要不是刘据。不过丞相和贰师将军都希望扶持昌邑王，我看也只有他合适。现在我和他们关系都很不错，再加上有拥立之功，将来封个万户侯应该不成问题罢。 江捐之脸色苍白，阿翁难道确信自己和丞相、贰师将军能够一手遮天，只要想扶植谁，就一定可以么。 江充不悦地说，看你那没出息的样子，真是枉为我江充的儿子。你要明白，如果凡事都畏首畏尾，就什么也不能成功。哼，谁敢拂逆丞相和贰师将军？对了，还有一个人一定要除去，就是沈武那竖子，上次射杀你叔叔的仇还没有报呢。 啊，沈武不是和阿翁言归于好了吗？江捐之惊道，上次孩儿婚礼，他还来祝贺的，我看此人恭俭能让，是个人才，何苦要害他。至于叔叔的死，恕孩儿直言，那是叔叔罪有应得，谁做了京兆尹，都会那么做的。叔叔也太蔑视王法了，皇上看阿翁的面子，才容忍了他。倘若将来阿翁宠衰，叔叔即便不死，也一定会连累我们灭族。 What do you know?江充道，即便你叔叔有罪，也轮不着他来管。上次他突然上门祝贺，我一直觉得古怪，你切莫小看了此人，我总觉得他有哪里不对劲的。后来我总算想通了，此人的心计和狠毒只会比我强，不会比我弱，只要上天给他机会。你当他是吃素的？那个掖庭令赵何齐原本和他是一伙，后来可能和他有隐怨，他竟然不顾互相的利害关系，怂恿我将他处死。我曾经派人混到他家当门吏，最近收到秘报，他妻子的死可能和赵何齐有关。然而要算起来，我才是直接害死他妻子的。为了那个女人，他连赵何齐都不放过，岂能对我善罢甘休。哼，不过这竖子命差，暂时没有能力和我斗，我自然要抓住机会，绝不能对他姑息。何况他的岳父是广陵王，他心里自然巴不得拥立广陵王。总之不管为了公还是私，这个人都必须死。 江捐之沉默了一会，长叹道，阿翁，我真的不明白为什么大家一定要你死我活。都是为天子办事，相互和气一点不好么？ 江充哼了一声，那是因为你没有尝过逃亡的苦楚。当年我带着你逃亡时，你年纪还小，也许还以为那是游历山川罢，哪里体会得到你阿翁时时有断头的惊惧。