Chapter 8 Chapter 8 A series of tricks, Chen Zhen falsely accuses Zhang Yi of stealing Bi
After the destruction of Yue, King Wei seemed to feel that his meritorious deeds were complete, and he handed over the government affairs to the prince again, and then went to Zhanghuatai, indulging in the bells, drums, zithers, and entertaining in the harem, and no longer interfered with the affairs of the court.Prince Huai knew that King Wei was trying to train himself, so he became more cautious and followed the old policies of King Wei everywhere. When there was a big event, he would write a book or make a presentation on the stage, and dared not slack off in the slightest.
In the spring of this year, just after the Qingming Festival, a major event happened in the political arena of the Chu State. The old Ling Yin Jingshe, who was over seventy years old, had black eyes when he went to court, and fell headlong on the steps in front of the palace. His forehead was bleeding, and he vomited blood. , never woke up again.
Jing She died on the way to court, which can be regarded as a dedication to Da Chu.The Jing family has only grandson Jing Cui as their direct relatives, and at this time, together with Zhang Yi, they are governing the Yue people in Kuaiji County.While making arrangements for the funeral, Prince Huai urgently called Jing Cui back to Ying for the funeral.When Kuai Ma was about to leave, Jin Shang, who was close to Zhang Yi, asked him to send Zhang Yi a confidential letter.Zhang Yi took it apart and looked at it, and hurriedly arranged all the affairs of the festival. In the name of condolences, he went straight to Yingdu together with Jing Cui and Xiangnv.
Zhang Yi's people traveled side by side by land and water, day and night, non-stop along the way, the boat did not dock, and they arrived in Yingdu in less than half a month.As soon as Zhang Yi arrived in Yingdu, Zhang Yi followed Jing Cuichi to Jingfu to express his condolences before returning home.According to the customs of Jingdi, Xiangnv was unable to go there, so she had to return to the Guest House, which was bestowed by the King of Chu.Because he was not at home for a long time, there was only one old slave in the mansion to take care of him.At the beginning, the old slave was dedicated, but after a long time, he became lazy, resulting in overgrown weeds in the yard and a musty smell in the room, which looked lonely and barren.Xiangnv couldn't stand it anymore, and led her servants to clean up, ignoring the fatigue of the journey.
Xiangnu was busy at work when there was the sound of carriages and horses outside the door, and after a while, a person walked in.Seeing that it was Jin Shang, Xiang Nu threw down the broom, bowed to him and said, "Little girl has met Master Jin."
Jin Shang turned back and bowed: "Jin Shang has met Mrs. Sister-in-law." As soon as he finished speaking, he suddenly heard an inexplicable fragrance, sniffed it several times with his nose, and rolled his eyes around.
Xiangnu smiled and said, "What is Lord Jin looking for?"
Jin Shang wondered while watching: "It's strange, there are no flowers and plants in the courtyard, how can it be fragrant?"
Xiang Nu chuckled: "Master Jin, don't look for it anymore, this scent is from the little girl."
Jin Shang glanced at her, saw that she was covered in sweat, and shook his head again and again: "Sister-in-law, don't be joking, look at your sweating profusely, even if you put flowers on it, there will be no fragrance."
Xiangnu smiled again: "Lord Jin doesn't know something. The little girl is born with a strange fragrance. She is fine on weekdays. The more she sweats, the stronger the fragrance becomes. She just cleaned the courtyard and sweated too much, so she emitted this smell, which disturbed everyone." Master Jin is gone."
Jin Shangda was amazed, stared at her for a while, then took two steps closer, took a few sniffs with his nose, and finally he was convinced, and praised: "Mrs. What about my lord?"
Xiangnu replied, "I went to Jingfu to offer my condolences before I got home."
Jin Shang glanced at Xiangnv, seeing her heroic appearance, blushing cheeks, sweaty body, and indescribably charming and elegant body, he was so moved that he was stunned for a moment.Dazed for a while, he came to his senses, looked up at the sky, and saw that it was already dusk on the western mountain. He walked forward a few steps, bent down to pick up Xiangnv's broom, and said with a smile: "Sister-in-law, you are tired, let's rest first." , I will clean it for you." After speaking, he started to clean it vigorously.
"How can this be done?" Xiang Nu glanced at his tender white hands that had never done rough work before, and giggled, "Master Jin is a noble man, how can he do such rough work?"
Jin Shang also laughed, stopped the broom, and half-jokingly said: "My lower body is full of stinky sweat, but my sister-in-law is sweating fragrantly. If you want to talk about expensive body, my sister-in-law's body is the one!" The fiery gaze was directed at Xiangnv.
Seeing his naked eyes, Xiangnv blushed slightly, took a step back, and said, "Master Jin, you insist on working, and the little girl has no choice but to make a bowl of tea for you." After speaking, she turned around gracefully, All the money went to the hall door.
Jin Shang watched her turn into the door with admiration, then looked away, and started to clean absently.After sweeping a few times, there was the sound of carriages and horses outside the door again, Jin Shang put down the broom, saw that it was Zhang Yi, went up to him, and briefly told about Zhaoyang's desire to fight for Yin.
Zhang Yi pondered for a while, then raised her head and asked, "What's your Highness's intention?"
"Your Highness values you. It is His Highness's will to ask you to come back this time. However, Zhang Zi does not know that the position of Ling Yin is not something anyone can sit at will. Since the Spring and Autumn Period, it has generally come from Zhao, Qu, Jing Sanmen, not to mention foreigners, even other prominent families, few people overstep. Although His Highness has this intention, whether it can be done depends mainly on His Majesty."
Zhang Yi thought for a moment, then nodded and said: "Thank you, brother Jin." After a short pause, "I have one more request. When I come back this time, I didn't obey the king's order. To put it mildly, it is because of personal abolition of the government. To put it more seriously, It is desertion without authorization. If His Majesty asks the crime, I—"
"Don't worry Zhang Zi," Jin Shang said with a smile, "If this is the case, it doesn't matter. I beg Your Highness later, His Highness will take care of this matter and make up an imperial edict."
Zhang Yi cupped her hands and said, "Thank you, Mr. Jin. Whether this matter is successful or not, Mr. Jin is a great kindness, and I will always remember it."
"You and my brother, how can we talk about this?" Jin Shang bowed his hand and returned the gift, "Besides, I am the master. To tell you the truth, His Highness recently discussed with Qu Gai, Qu Xia and a group of people with lofty ideals. Everyone recommended Zhang Son, His Highness also expects to use Zhang Zi to achieve great things. It is good that you can come back, His Highness said, it is not appropriate to see you right now, I want you to just stay at the mansion and not go anywhere, and wait for His Highness's order."
"Master Jin, please recite to His Highness, I will be heartbroken if I am not talented. I want to thank Your Highness for your kindness."
"It's better for you to say this to His Highness personally, and I will leave."
Southern spring morning.In recent days, the climate has been getting warmer. Mrs. Jiang Jun, who is over 60 years old, cannot withstand the weather changes. She suddenly catches a cold and coughs from time to time.
Mrs. Jiang Jun is the widow of Yin Zhaoxixie, the order of the former dynasty (King Xuan of Chu) who heard about the kingdoms, and also Zhaoyang's biological mother, Xiang Shi.Zhao Xixie was enfeoffed in Jiang, and the people of Chu called him Lord Jiang, who had been in charge of the state of Chu for more than ten years when he was King Xuan.Later, when Zhao Xixie passed away, Jing She succeeded Ling Yin, and the state of Chu was transferred from the Zhao family to the Jing family.Now that Jing She passed away, Zhaoyang, as the most authoritative member of the Zhao Clan, was naturally unwilling to give up the excellent opportunity to regain the government.
After some deliberation, Zhaoyang decided to reveal his mother Xiang's illness.The Zhao family, the Xiang family, the Huang family and other famous families who have always been close to the Zhao family, especially the old Zhao Xixie, came to visit after hearing the news.All of a sudden, chariots and horses were bustling in front of Zhaoyang Mansion, and Zhaoyang ushered them there, forming forces with these dignitaries.
Later that day, when Zhaoyang was receiving guests, Xing Cai, the housekeeper, hurried over and whispered a few words in Zhaoyang's ear. Zhaoyang was startled, and pulled Xing Cai aside, and asked urgently, "Please explain clearly, what's wrong with Zhang Yi?" gone?"
"Zhang Yi is back."
"When did you come back?"
"I came back with Jing Cui, I just arrived in Yingdu, and I just paid condolences at Jingfu."
Zhaoyang was stunned, stunned for a moment, then just laughed dryly, shook his head and said, "I'm really afraid that there are ghosts everywhere, and there are lice in the itchy place! Quickly call Chen Zhen, and tell me that I am here."
Xing Cai agreed, turned around and hurried away.
In less than half an hour, someone from Chen Zhen came to visit with a gift box.Zhao Yang sent the eldest son Zhao Sui to entertain the other guests, invited him to the study, dismissed all the servants, closed the hall door, clasped his fists and said, "Master Shangqing, Zhang Yi is back."
"I know it. I also know that it was His Highness who sent a secret letter to invite him back." Chen Zhen smiled slightly, his tone very flat.
"Oh?" Zhaoyang was dumbfounded, "This...how is it possible?"
Chen Zhen smiled and said, "Master Zhu, in Chu, nothing is impossible."
"What do you mean by Shangqing's words?"
"Think about it, my lord. Although the state of Chu is large, there are actually only four households, Xiong, Qu, Jing, and Zhao. One household is the king, and three households are ministers. This is a rule that has not been broken for hundreds of years. Although the Jing family today Losing power, the Jing family is still there, and the Qu family will not be willing to let the power return to the Zhao family. As far as I know, His Majesty has handed over the government to His Highness for a year, but who is close to His Highness? It is Jing Cui from the Jing family, Qu Gai and Qu Xia from the Qu family, and there is another person, Jin Shang. And the person who is good to Jin Shang is this Zhang Yi."
Zhaoyang thought for a while: "Even so, the Qu and Jing clans wouldn't hand over Ling Yin's position to outsiders, would they?"
"Hahahaha," Chen Zhen laughed loudly, "I said, Mr. Zhu, it's not that the position of Ling Yin in the Chu Kingdom has not been done by outsiders. Two hundred years ago, there was Sun Shuao, and forty years ago, there was Wu Qi. Are you doing it?" How can you forget something important?"
"This—" Zhaoyang scratched his head, speechless.
"Furthermore," Chen Zhen continued, "My lord, is there any sage in Qu's family who can appoint Ling Yin?"
Zhaoyang thought for a while, then shook his head.
"Among the Jing family, is there anyone who can serve as Ling Yin?"
Zhao Yang shook his head again.
"Ask your lord again." Chen Zhen smiled slightly, taking no time to rush, "If you are the Qu and Jing families, given the current situation, should you hand over the position of Ling Yin to the Zhao family, or hand it over to Zhang Yi, an outsider?"
Zhaoyang lowered his head, pondered for a while, then raised his head to look at Chen Zhen: "Master Shangqing, I'm ignorant, what should I do now, please enlighten me."
"I don't dare to teach you." Chen Zhen said with a smile, "I have a treasure below. If you have spare time, you can go and see it."
Zhaoyang couldn't figure out what kind of medicine was sold in Chen Zhen's gourd, so he nodded and said, "I would like to go and have a look."
"Okay!" Chen Zhen got up and said courteously, "Master Zhu Guo, please."
The two came to Chen Zhen's house.After entering the door, Zhaoyang was shocked, because on the brick floor of the main hall, a large red carpet was spread in the middle, and a deep purple cloth curtain was hung on each side.
Chen Zhen looked at Zhaoyang's bewildered look, and said with a smile, "Master Zhu Guo, please!" He walked to the front with his hands, and the guests and hosts sat down.
Zhaoyang became more and more puzzled, pointing to the curtains on both sides: "Master Shangqing, this is—"
Chen Zhen clapped his hands lightly twice, and the curtain on the left was pulled open, revealing a row of exotic musicians, each holding a musical instrument, waiting in full force.
Zhaoyang was in a state of panic, Chen Zhen made another "pop", and all the musicians played in unison, but it was Chu tune.Even though Zhaoyang was born in a famous family and is proficient in temperament, he has never heard such a foreign instrument playing Chu Yin Chu Tune, and he was attracted by it all at once.
For a while, the rhythm suddenly accelerated.Zhaoyang was in astonishment when six courtesans appeared one by one from the corner of the curtain on the right, dancing to the rhythm.Zhaoyang has watched a lot of dance music, but he can't see what they are dancing, but seeing the beautiful posture shaking and the sound of drum music, it is like entering a fairyland.
Chen Zhen invites him to see the treasure, but it turns out to be a song and dance, which makes Zhaoyang unhappy.Seeing for a while, Zhaoyang's face gradually became gloomy, and he turned his head to ask a question. A burst of drumbeats came out, and the corner of the curtain was raised again, and a burst of fragrance came out. Ina, a fair-skinned beauty dressed in Western Regions, walked out slowly, stepping on the drumbeat, Screw into the center of the rug.
Ina, who is dressed boldly and has a naked belly, has blond hair and blue eyes, deep eyes and high nose, large breasts and slender waist. She has a strange fragrance, delicate and white skin without any blemishes, and her dancing skills are even more amazing. Shaking her head, sometimes turning like the wind, she really is a thousand kinds of coquettish, all kinds of amorous feelings, not to mention a woman from Chu, even if she is a woman from Zhao Jiyue, it is not as good as it should be.Zhaoyang was completely attracted by her, his big eyes stared like copper bells, his mouth opened wide, he was so dumbfounded.
After a dance, the music stopped abruptly. Yi Na bent down, sang in a clumsy Chu tone, and spun into the background.
Seeing Zhao Yang's eyes go straight behind the scenes, Chen Zhen smiled slightly and said, "Master Zhu Guo, how about this treasure?"
"A natural beauty, a natural beauty!" Zhaoyang came back to his senses and was full of praise.
Chen Zhen burst out laughing, and when he finished, he ordered everyone to remove the curtains and restore the original appearance of the living room.
Zhao Yang's thoughts were on Yi Na, seeing everyone leaving, he asked in a low voice, "How did Shang Qing get such a beauty?"
"Master Huizhu, this woman was presented to Duke Qin by Xirong two years ago. Before Duke Qin could enjoy it, he transferred the reward to me. I went to Chu and brought her here by the way."
Zhaoyang suddenly felt disappointed: "In this way, this woman is Shangqing's heart."
"Hahahaha," Chen Zhen said with a smile, "What kind of heartless person is she? She's just a woman. To tell you the truth, Lord Zhu, I brought her here for my own use."
"Oh?" Zhaoyang asked anxiously, "Sir Shangqing doesn't use it for himself, so what's the use for it?"
"Specially reserved for adults to enjoy."
Zhaoyang was startled at the beginning, and then he said happily: "I thanked Shangqing!" After a short pause, he seemed to think of something again, and looked up at Chen Zhen, "Since Shangqing sent her to me, why did you hide her in the deep house for two years?" , don’t reveal anything?”
"Because the time has not come."
"How do you explain this?"
Chen Zhen motioned, Zhaoyang leaned over, Chen Zhen whispered for a while, Zhaoyang listened, pondered for a while, and sighed: "Oh, let me tell you the truth, these days, I have been tossing and turning, thinking hard, giving birth to thousands of thoughts, which one? It's not as good as Master Shangqing's clever plan!" He paused for a while, the more he thought about it, the more he admired him, and he said, "Well, it's really a series of chains, one chain after another, and the chains are intertwined. Ling, there is no way we can escape this calamity!"
"To tell you the truth, my lord," Chen Zhen said with a smile, "I left this treasure for this person. As long as Zhang Yi is kicked out, in this land of great Chu, who else would dare to compete with you for the position of Ling Yin?"
Zhaoyang nodded slightly, and for a while, he looked at Chen Zhen intently: "If God favors you, great things can be achieved, and Shangqing is so kind, how can I repay you?"
"This statement is wrong," Chen Zhen bowed his hands back, "between you and me, how can we talk about repaying? One day, I will be in a mess, and I will come to my lord. If my lord thinks about my hard work, I will never leave."
"Don't worry about that," Zhaoyang said calmly, "as long as the next breath is still alive, I'll see who dares to touch a hair on Shangqing!"
Jin Shang accompanied Prince Huai to Zhang Huatai.
Prince Huai said goodbye to Jin Shang, went up the steps, walked a few steps, suddenly stopped, turned his head, and said to Jin Shang: "That's all right, you are fine for a while, go back to Ying to pick up Zhang Zi and wait for the order. In case the father summons him, it can save some twists and turns."
Jin Shang responded, turned and left.Prince Huai quickly climbed to the top of the Sanxiu platform to make the palace people report.With that embarrassment two years ago, Prince Huai has learned to behave well. Whenever he takes the stage, he must report first.
The old minister greeted him and led him to a terrace near the lake.King Wei had already sat in front of the table, waiting for him.
Prince Huai came forward and kowtowed: "I kowtow to my father!"
Wei Wang pointed to the seat next to him: "Sit down!"
Prince Huai thanked him, got up and sat down.
King Wei looked at him a few times, nodded and said, "Huai'er, you came just in time, and I'm about to call you."
"My son, I would like to obey my father's orders."
"The Jing family is loyal to the country, and Jing Aiqing has made great contributions to the country. Now he is not on the way to the court. He is a good minister. His heart is commendable and his deeds are commendable. The funeral must be grand, and the whole country must be informed. Subjects, let them see, as long as they are loyal to the country and contribute to the community, the widow will never treat them wrongly!"
"My son obeys the order!"
"Also," Wei Wang pondered for a while, and said slowly, "Jing Aiqing's lack, I also want to hear from you. I am old, and soon, the country and society will be yours. Who will be the Ling Yin?" , it's up to you to specify."
"Father——" Prince Huai's eyes blurred, tears flowed out, he rolled over and knelt on the ground, and kowtowed, "Father must not say such ominous words! Father's dragon body is like cast copper and iron, and his life is like a pine in Nanshan." , my son--"
King Wei laughed and said, "Huai'er, get up. No one in the world can know whether a widow is old or not, and how his body is. Longevity is just an auspicious saying. No matter who says it, the widow will not Believe it, and the widow also advises you not to believe it."
Prince Huai nodded, got up and sat down again.
"Tell me, in your opinion, which love minister can fill this vacancy?"
"My son...recommend Zhang Zi!"
King Wei thought for a while, then nodded slightly: "Well, you have grown up and can recognize people, and I am happy for you. I heard that he managed the Yue people well, is there such a thing?"
"Yes," Prince Huai replied, "The more Zhang Zizhi only lasted for a few months, the more people obeyed him. Even in Yongdong, there were no disturbances."
"It's not easy." Wei Wang praised, "Governing the more difficult it is, the widow asked Zhaoyang to prepare another 50,000 soldiers in Zhaoguan to prevent the riots of the Yue people. Zhang Zi used softness to conquer the strong and wisely subdued the Yue people. He is a genius. You think You can use this person to do great things. Send an order to let him come back!"
"Report to Father, Zi Zhang has returned."
"Oh?" Wei Wang was slightly taken aback, "Why did he come back?"
"It was my son who summoned him. My son thought that it would be of no use for Zhang Zi to stay in the country after the Yue people ruled. It happened that the old Ai Qingxian was going, and my son sent him an order to allow him to come back with Jing Cui. Firstly, I want to offer my condolences to the old Aiqing, and secondly, I also want to hear him talk about Yueren."
"Oh," Wei Wang frowned for a while, nodded and said, "Well, since he has returned, I will pass him Zhang Huatai to see him. I also want to hear about Yueren's affairs."
"The minister leads the order!"
Next, Prince Huai briefly reported to King Wei about all the affairs in the court and how to deal with them. King Wei closed his eyes and listened.About half an hour later, Prince Huai saw King Wei yawning and got up to leave.King Wei didn't hold back either, seeing Prince Huai walking away, he got up and went to the viewing pavilion, fisted and kicked Zeshui for a while, then went into a secret room next to him, sat down on the couch with knees together, closed his eyes and rested for less than half a day At about an hour, the minister approached, saying that it was Zhaoyang of Shangzhu Kingdom who asked to see him.
King Wei frowned slightly, and muttered, "What is he doing here?"
The courtier replied: "It is said that there is an exotic beauty dedicated to His Majesty."
"Exotic beauty?" King Wei suddenly opened his eyes, "Do you know what beauty it is?"
"The old slave doesn't know."
King Wei thought for a moment, raised his hand and said, "Acclaim him an audience!"
The minister led the order to go out.
King Wei sat for a while, got up and walked out of the secret room, and sat down in the hall.After a while, the sound of footsteps came from outside the hall, Zhaoyang hurried forward following the courtiers, kowtowing: "I kowtow to Your Majesty!"
King Wei stared at him and said with a chuckle: "I heard that Aiqing has a rare treasure, let me see it quickly."
"My minister complies with the order!" Zhaoyang got up after bowing again, clapped his hands outward twice, and a group of musicians from the Western Regions in weird clothes, each holding a Western Region musical instrument, came in one by one, bowed to King Wei, and sat down on one side.A few more people carried a red carpet and spread it out in the empty field, followed by the sound of music, and the dance of the six girls. The last one was Yi Na, who vividly expressed the months of rehearsal.These musical instruments, dances, and costumes are all from foreign lands, Wei Wang has never seen it before, but the Chu Yin and Chu tunes played are familiar, so Wei Wang not only has no barriers, but adds a different kind of taste.Especially Yi Na, who is as white as snow, makes King Wei mesmerized even more.
After the dance, King Wei applauded repeatedly, turned to Zhaoyang, and praised repeatedly: "What Aiqing said is true, this girl is a beauty, I accept it!" Turning to his ministers, "Lead them to the music workshop. "
Everyone thanked them for their kindness, and the minister led them out gracefully.
King Wei got up, smiled and said to Zhaoyang: "I haven't seen Aiqing for a long time, let's go and sit by the widow's lake!"
The two walked to the lake and sat down in the viewing pavilion.
King Wei stared at Zhaoyang for a while, and said straight to the point: "Aiqing is not here just to present this beauty, is it?"
"Your Majesty is holy!" Zhao Yang knelt down and kowtowed, "I am here, I do have something to ask Your Majesty!"
"What do you want, tell me."
"Weichen dare not say it!"
"Don't dare to say it, but come to beg again, what are you trying to do?"
"I want to ask His Majesty for the jade of the He clan!"
Heshibi is invaluable, and it is also the treasure of Zhanghuatai. All the Chu kings of all dynasties regarded it as a rare treasure.When Zhaoyang exited, he begged for He's Bi, which surprised King Wei and asked in puzzlement, "Why did Aiqing ask for this thing?"
"Your Majesty," Zhaoyang kowtowed again, "this jade is priceless, I dare not ask for it! I came here to ask for my mother."
"Mrs. Jiang Jun?" Wei Wang was startled, "What's wrong with her?"
"Your Majesty," Zhaoyang burst into tears, "Recently, my mother has been sick and has nightmares every night. I have invited famous doctors all over the world, but none of them can cure me. I have invited a shaman, saying that it is a demon possessed, and I need to reconcile with Shibi. The house was guarded for three days. My mother couldn't bear the torment of the nightmare, so she begged the minister to come and ask His Majesty, but the minister --" paused, choked up.
"Well," Wei Wang nodded again and again, "this thing can drive away evil spirits, and I use it to guard the palace for this purpose. If someone else asks, I will definitely not allow him, but for Mrs. Jiang Jun, I have no choice but to talk about it. Later, the widow will ask them to send this object to Aiqing's residence, and Mrs. Xu Jiangjun will suppress the demons for three days."
Zhaoyang kowtowed again and again: "On behalf of my mother, I thank Your Majesty Long En!"
"Aiqing, please get up." King Wei waved his hand while saying, motioning Zhaoyang to stand up.
Zhaoyang thanked him again, got up and sat down.
Wei Wang smiled and said: "Okay, this matter is settled. Zhao Aiqing, I have another matter, and I also want to hear Aiqing's thoughts."
"My minister is willing to listen."
"A country cannot be without a state." Wei Wang went straight to the topic, "Jing Aiqing's death left Yin's position vacant. According to Aiqing's wishes, who can take over his position?"
Without hesitation, Zhaoyang cupped his hands and recommended, "I think Zhang Yi can take over this position."
Zhaoyang actually recommended Zhang Yi, but King Wei didn't expect it, he couldn't help but take a long breath, staring at Zhaoyang, as if trying to see through his true intentions.After a while, King Wei said slowly: "Aiqing does not recommend members of the three clans, but instead recommends Zhang Yi, why?"
"Reporting to Your Majesty," Zhaoyang replied, "I am not raising relatives, but raising virtuous persons. Zhang Yi has been in Chu for less than two years, not only helping me to destroy Yue, but also winning the king's heart and the people's opinion. He is a great sage. You can keep the position of Ling Yin."
"Tell me, what kind of public opinion does he have?"
"It is better for the people of Yue to submit to Zhang Yi than to submit to the King of Yue."
"Oh, is there such a thing?"
"Yes, Zhang Zi ruled Wu with Wu people, and Yue people with Yue people. Naturally, he will receive miraculous results."
"Wu people rule Wu? Yue people rule Yue?" Wei Wang frowned slightly, "How did he rule?"
"According to what I know, Zhang Zili buried the king of Yue, treated and reused the old officials of the Yue people kindly, but I don't know where to find the sixth grandson of Fucha, the king of Wu, and allowed him to establish the country in Gusu, and he has a close relationship with him in the past. The eldest son of Wujiang Fleeing to the south of Fujian to establish the country, the second son fled to the south of Guangdong to establish the country, Zhang Zi has contacts with them all, I heard that he even sent congratulatory gifts."
"Well," King Wei frowned slightly, and nodded slightly, "What else?"
"I heard that Zhang Zi is very popular with the people of Yuedi. As far as I know, there are thousands of miles in Yuedi and millions of people. In just a few months, Zhang Zi was convinced. My minister sent someone to visit Kuaiji County secretly. Zhang Wherever Zi went, the people were supporting the old and the young, welcoming and seeing him off for more than ten miles, and even villages and towns erected temples and monuments for him. I also found a folk song, which may indicate the grand occasion of Zhang Zi being supported by the Yue people .”
"What ballad is it?"
"It was sung by a child. The song said, 'The sky is dark and rain is coming, open the door to welcome me Zhangzi; the ground is yellow and the rain has stopped, close the door and send me Zhangzi!'"
King Wei frowned again, pondered for a while, then stood up and said, "This ballad is really unique. Zhao Aiqing, do you have anything else to do?"
Zhaoyang heard the voice, Xie En withdrew.
King Wei closed his eyes and meditated for a while. Seeing that his ministers had returned, he bowed and waited aside, and asked slowly: "Just now Zhao Aiqing said that there is a song for children in Yuedi. The song said, 'The sky is dark and it is raining, open the door Welcome me Zhangzi; the ground is yellow and the rain is stopping, close the door and send me Zhangzi!' Have you heard about this?"
The minister replied: "I have never heard of it."
"Is there anyone from Yue who erected a temple tree monument for him?"
"That's true. It's just the Wu people from Gusu, not the Yue people."
"Well," Wei Wang nodded and said, "It seems that what Zhao Aiqing said is not all nonsense." After thinking for a while, he smiled slightly, raised his head and said, "Tell that Bai Ji, let her dance another song."
The minister received the order, and when he was about to go out, King Wei sent another sentence: "Well, and if Zhang Yi comes, just say that the widow is busy, and let him go back to the mansion to wait for the order!"
Excitedly, Jin Shang rushed to Zhanghuatai together with Zhang Yi, but what he got was the words "return to the mansion and wait for the decree".
Prince Huai was so puzzled that he asked people to inquire about Zhaoyang's visit.Prince Huai went on stage in person and found his ministers.The minister did not dare to be negligent, and whispered to him that just now Zhaoyang presented to His Majesty the Baiji of the Western Regions, and His Majesty was enjoying singing and dancing, so he had no time to attend to him.
Prince Huai thanked his courtiers and stepped down sullenly. When he saw Zhang Yi, he couldn't say anything about it, so he smiled wryly and joked: "It's really a coincidence that my father met an expert from a foreign land today, and he was having a good time. All rejected. Mr. Zhang, please go back and wait for the order. After a few days of busy work, the father will definitely call."
When Zhang Yi returned to the mansion, he was at a loss, and was closing the door to contemplate. Zhaoyang Mansion sent an invitation card, inviting him to be a guest the next day.
Zhang Yi rewarded the visitor generously, and found out the whole story from his mouth. It turned out that Jiang Jun's wife was bewitched by an evil spirit. Zhaoyang asked for Heshibi from Zhanghua Palace to exorcise the town. The exorcism ceremony was scheduled to be held at noon.The visitor also told Zhang Yi that he heard from the people in the mansion that Heshibi was collected from the yin of the mountain and was tied to the yin. There were thirty-six distinguished guests.Zhaoyang made the list himself, and hosted a banquet for thirty-six people from famous families in Yingdu.Because the gods and witches have very strict restrictions on the selection of guests, they require less than a weak crown, and a long-term appearance not to be confused, and they must have four spirits, that is, the top has a strong spirit, the face has a evil spirit, the body has a noble spirit, and the inside has a righteous spirit.Zhaoyang thought about it, but only listed thirty-five people, and he was in a dilemma. When he heard that Zhang Zi had returned to the mansion, he was surprised and delighted, so he personally wrote the invitation card, inviting him to give him the honor, so as to make up the number of Tiangang.
After sending the messenger away, Zhang Yi sat down with his knees together, thought over the details before and after, and felt relieved when he saw no flaws.In the morning of the next day, Zhang Yi drove to the busy market, bought some ginseng antlers, and bought a gift box. Seeing that it was getting late, Zhang Yi drove straight to Zhaoyang Mansion.
Zhaoyang Mansion was full of people coming and going, and there was a lot of traffic.As soon as Zhang Yi stopped the car, someone from the gate had already taken Zhang Yi's gift box, unloaded the carriage and horses, and led him to the gate of the house. The housekeeper, Xing Cai, came up to him with a smile on his face, and personally accompanied him to the living room.
Zhaoyang was talking to all the guests, when he saw Zhang Yi from a distance, he got up quickly, strode out to meet him, ten steps away, stopped, and bowed his hands together: "I will wait for Zhang Zi for a long time!"
Zhang Yi also stopped in her tracks, clasped her fists in return, "I'm late coming down!"
After the ceremony, Zhaoyang strode forward, took Zhang Yi's hand into the living room, and introduced to everyone: "Guests, let me introduce you, this is the famous person in the Central Plains, Kuaijiling Zhang Zi I just mentioned!"
Most of these guests are the children of noble families, Zhang Yi didn't know them at all, so he had to bow his hands to them and bowed to them: "Next Zhang Yi has seen you all!"
Although Zhang Yi was well-known in Chu, all of these guests were from prominent families, and they were dignitaries since the abortion, so they would not pay attention to a newcomer, so no one stood up to greet him.At this time, seeing Zhaoyang's grand introduction, everyone couldn't help but stand up in disorder, and waved their hands in perfunctory words: "I've met Zhang Zi!"
Seeing the embarrassing scene, Zhao Yang hurriedly smiled at Zhang Yi: "Zhang Zi, come here, we are all from my family today, so sit wherever you want."
Zhang Yi was also born as a playboy, and he was more capable, so he didn't put these bear bags in the corner of his eyes. When he saw a seat on the left, he smiled slightly, walked over and sat down gracefully.
Zhaoyang looked at the sky and outside the door, as if he was waiting for someone.Seeing that noon was approaching, Zhao Yang was about to speak, when there was a commotion outside the hall, Xing Cai came in and said: "Report, Qin Guo Shangqing, Lord Chen is here!"
When all the guests heard Mr. Chen, they all went out to welcome him.After a while, footsteps came from outside the hall. Amidst the compliments of the guests, the cheerful Chen Zhen walked straight over happily, saluting and talking and laughing with everyone.
In the whole hall, only Zhang Yi sat upright, motionless.
When Chen Zhen saw it, he walked over, looked at Zhang Yi for a while, and exclaimed in surprise, "Hey, isn't this Zhang Zi? Chen Zhen is being polite!" He bowed his hands.
Zhang Yi had no choice but to stand up, and bowed back: "Oh, it's Mr. Shangqing, I'm also polite."
Chen Zhen chuckled and said, "It's been several years since I left Guigu. I never thought I'd see Zhang Zi here. What an adventure!"
Zhang Yi also laughed a few times: "Master Shangqing died in Wei and went to Qin, and he traveled thousands of miles to Chu. He is really busy. Not long ago, I heard that His Excellency was in Ying. I wanted to visit the door to ask for advice, but I don't know where Lord Shangqing lives. This meeting was indeed a fortuitous encounter."
Seeing that all the guests had arrived, Zhaoyang coughed and said in a loud voice: "My dear friends, your mother is a little ill. Upon hearing the news, His Majesty bestowed a special favor on this humble house by bestowing the treasures of the town palace and the clan's biscuit to drive away evil spirits. The gods and witches planned to present the jade at noon, and the afternoon is approaching, I respectfully invite you all to go to the altar, perform the ritual of exorcising evil spirits, and watch the precious jade!"
Everyone stood up and followed Zhaoyang to the family temple behind.
An altar was set up in the open space of the courtyard, colorful flags fluttering, and cigarettes lingering around. The god witch and his disciples were already waiting there.Under the altar, thirty-six tables are neatly placed, each with a name behind it, and various foods are placed on the table, including delicacies from mountains and seas, fruits, vegetables and fine wines.
All the guests were seated in order, the host Zhao Yang sat in the first place, and Zhang Yi sat in the middle seat in the middle row.
Seeing that Zhaoyang and all the guests were fully seated, the housekeeper, Xing Cai, raised his voice and proclaimed loudly: "Guests, the auspicious time has come, and the start of suppressing demons and rewarding jade!"
When the gongs and drums sounded, a witch in a strange costume stepped onto the altar and raised his hand slightly. All the musicians waiting behind the altar played Chudi witch music in unison, and a group of witches came out in response to the witch dance on the altar.
After a few dances, all the witches brought out a magical case, and there was something on the case. No need to ask more questions, everyone knew it was He's Bi.The witch came to the altar again, and danced around the divine case amidst a wilder witch music.For a while, the witch suddenly stopped, and facing the case of the gods, he stepped down, using his gods to perform his kung fu, and shouted: "Come out jade!"
After the voice fell, a surprising scene appeared.In the middle of several cases, pieces of colorful satin fluttered up like snowflakes and landed lightly on the back of the case. A gold plate appeared on the case, on which was placed a piece of magical precious jade as big as a bowl.
He's Bi is the most precious treasure in the world, and its price is invaluable. The story of He's is well-known in Chu, and women and children know it well. , all the people present stretched their necks, opened their eyes wide, and stared at the jade intently.
The witch danced around the table for a while, and called again: "Jade reward!"
The so-called appreciating jade means that the guests appreciate the jade.Previously, a sorcerer had told the guests how to appreciate the jade, that is, to close their eyes and hold their breath, and pay respects, first touch it three times with the left hand, and then touch it three times with the right hand, so that the four qi in the body can be injected into the jade, and the time is preferably three breaths.
When the witch's words were settled, a witch in white walked up to the divine case, took up the gold plate, and placed it in front of Zhaoyang, who was sitting in the first place, and returned the money.Zhaoyang closed his eyes and held his breath, and between three breaths, he touched the gold plate three times with his left and right hands, and passed the gold plate to Chen Zhen who was next in line.
Chen Zhen touched them in the same way, and passed them down in sequence.
The time of the three breaths passed very quickly, and it didn't take long for the gold plate to reach Zhang Yi.In the same way, Zhang Yi closed her eyes and held her breath, and first stroked Baoyu with her left hand.Just after a breath, someone in the distance shouted: "It's not good, it's flooded!"
Immediately afterwards, the sound of footsteps and shouts became a mess.
Everyone looked up, and sure enough, thick smoke was coming out not far away.Everyone was startled, but they didn't dare to leave their seats, and all looked at Zhaoyang in unison.
Zhaoyang sat still.
At this moment, Xing Cai rushed over and shouted: "My lord, it's the old lady's room that caught fire!"
Hearing this, Zhaoyang got up suddenly, shouted: "Mother—" and ran out quickly.
When the guests saw it, they all jumped up from the ground and rushed out of the courtyard like a tide.
There was no one in the courtyard, even the witches and others ran over.Zhang Yi held the precious jade in his hand, he didn’t want to leave, he didn’t want to leave, he was hesitating, there was a rustling sound behind a flower wall, and then a woman in purple clothes came out, walked up to Zhang Yi, bowed deeply, and said in a crisp voice: "My lord, please give me the plate."
Zhang Yi took a look and saw that the woman had a pretty face, quiet demeanor, and modest words, she was expected to be a witch.At this moment, his thoughts were all on the fire, without thinking, he hurriedly handed the plate to her, and flew to put out the fire.
Fortunately, the fire has just started, and the fire is not too fierce.Everyone started to extinguish the flames within a short time.Mrs. Jiang Jun had already been rescued. Although she was greatly shocked, she was safe and sound.
After the fire was extinguished, and everyone was discussing the cause of the fire, Xingcai rushed over and reported to Zhaoyang that the cause had been found out. It was one of the old lady's maids who accidentally knocked down the candle on the incense table while on duty, but she never saw it. Turned around and left.The candles ignited the curtains, and the curtains ignited the window lattices, causing a fire.When the maid came back, she saw that it was too late.The maid was frightened, knowing that the death penalty was inevitable, and while everyone was fighting the fire, she hanged herself in the forest first.
Zhaoyang finished listening with a sullen face, then turned around and went to Mrs. Jiang Jun's new couch to say hello.
After a while, Zhaoyang came out of the room and saw all the guests still standing in the courtyard, he suddenly remembered the jade reward, cupped his fists and said to the guests: "Guests, I'm sorry, let's go, go back The altar continues to reward jade!" After saying that, he took the lead and walked towards the family temple.
None of the guests said anything, they followed silently, walked into the courtyard one after another, and sat down at their respective places.
The witch returned to the altar and asked loudly: "Guests, whose turn is it just now?"
Everyone turned their attention to Zhang Yi.
Zhang Yi responded, "It's time to come."
"Okay," the witch raised his hand, "this guest, please continue to reward the jade."
Everyone's eyes shot over again, but Zhang Yi remained motionless.
The witch raised his voice and repeated: "This guest, please continue to reward the jade!"
Zhang Yi still sat still.
The person sitting at the bottom got anxious and touched him lightly: "Zhang Zi, come on, reward the jade!"
张仪回道：“玉还没来呢，叫在下如何赏？”
神巫听得清楚，脸色微变，急问：“玉呢？”
张仪缓缓说道：“巫女拿走了！”
“巫女？”神巫惊问，“哪个巫女？”
“就是——”张仪略顿一下，“就是端金盘的那个女子。”
神巫急将端金盘的巫女召来，问道：“你可曾从这位客人手中拿走宝玉？”
那女子摇头，大声说道：“小巫不曾拿。”
神巫一怔，转对张仪：“先生，可是这位女子？”
张仪定睛一看，微微摇头：“不是这位，是个紫衣女子。”
所有神巫皆着白衣，张仪却说是个紫衣女子，众人皆惊，无数道目光齐射过来。
昭阳也似觉出问题大了，急站起来，走到张仪跟前，哭丧着脸，揖道：“今日之事，在下……在下已够难心，张子，您……您就莫开玩笑了！”
张仪这也意识到问题的严重，急站起来，回揖道：“回禀柱国大人，在下没开玩笑，方才……方才在下真的将那宝玉交与一个紫衣女子，起身救火去了！”
“天哪——”昭阳一个转身，对邢才大声叫道，“邢才，可有紫衣女子？”
“回禀主公，”邢才叩地禀道，“今日礼玉，犯紫，因而小人昨日已下通告，场上禁紫。”
昭阳复将目光转向神巫，神巫点头道：“紫气上冲，与罡气相抵，是以小巫禁紫，所有巫女皆须衣白，不曾有紫衣女子。”
昭阳阴下脸去，缓缓转向张仪，再揖道：“张子，求你了！莫说在下，就请张子看在家母薄面上，快点拿出宝玉吧！在下——”
张仪一时懵了，脸色煞白，舌头也不灵了，语不成声道：“柱……柱国大人，在下真的是将宝玉交……交与一个紫……紫衣女子了。”
昭阳面对张仪缓缓跪下，泪水流出：“张子，在下求你了！”
在场的所有人都被昭阳的恳求感动了，纷纷谴责张仪。此时此刻，张仪纵使浑身是嘴，也是说不清楚，气结道：“你……你们……在下……在下真的没拿宝玉……真的没拿呀！”
昭阳忽地起身，换了一副嘴脸，厉声喝道：“张仪，在下敬你是个饱学之士，服你是个大才，今日特别邀你，也是看得起你！不想你……你却以怨报德，生此下作手段迫害在下！”转对邢才，“来人！将偷玉贼拿下！”
外面立时冲进几人，不由分说，将张仪牢牢拿住。
直到此时，张仪方才恍然明白过来，仰天长笑一声，冲昭阳叫道：“昭阳，你……你出身名门，身为柱国，在楚也算堂堂丈夫，竟然生此小人之计陷害在下！你——”
昭阳转身朝诸位宾客连连揖手：“诸位客人，在下一向敬重此人。今日之事，前后经过诸位也都亲眼看到了，在下是否陷害此人，恳请诸位做个见证！”
众客无不抱拳应道：“回禀大人，我等全看到了，愿为大人作证！”
张仪知是进了圈套，再说也是枉然，闭目不再言语。昭阳也不动粗，挥手让仆从将张仪暂时看押，将前后经过详细写毕，众宾客逐一签字画押，拟成一道奏章，驱车载着众宾客、神巫等一应证人，赶赴章华台。
威王正在观赏白姬的肚皮舞，听闻和氏璧有失，惊得呆了，挥退白姬等人，召见昭阳，匆匆阅过奏章，又听他和泪讲过备细，思忖有顷，召在场证人悉数上台。众客七嘴八舌，所述与昭阳所奏一般无二，且无不信誓旦旦。
威王审视众人，见他们并不全是昭氏宗亲，其中有几人还与昭氏有隙，不太可能被昭阳买通，又想昭阳是个孝子，又为生母驱魔镇邪，涉及鬼神家庙，想必不是诬陷，当即龙颜大怒，下旨削去张仪职爵，抄没全部家财，发刑狱严审，务必查出和氏璧下落。
香女在家，左等右等，直到天黑，仍然不见张仪回府。香女素知张仪爱酒，猜他许是在昭阳府上喝多了，因而也没放在心上。
候至深夜二更，仍然不见张仪回来，也无任何音讯，香女开始着急，使一个腿快的家仆前往昭阳府中打探，一个时辰后，家仆返回，报说昭阳府中大门关闭，一切静寂，想是皆入睡了。
见家仆两眼犯困，香女打发他去睡了，自己又在房中呆坐一时，听到雄鸡报晓，知他回不来了，方才嘀咕一句：“这个酒鬼，见酒就没魂了。”起身走入内室，在榻上和衣睡了。
天色大亮，旭日东出。香女睡得正熟，街道上陡然传来急快的脚步声，一队甲士奔至张仪府宅，一名军尉一脚踹开大门，众甲士挺枪冲入，在院中站定。
军尉扯起嗓子，大声喝道：“府中所有人丁，全站出来！”
众臣仆大是惊愕，纷纷走出来，在院中站定。
香女的贴身使女急入内室，对香女道：“夫人，不好了，官兵来了！”
“官兵？”香女打个惊愣，从榻上起来，“官兵来做什么？”
使女手指外面：“奴婢不知，他们凶——”话音未落，中尉的声音又传进来，“府中所有人丁，全站出来听旨！”
听到“听旨”二字，香女又是一怔，略一思忖，将西施剑挂在身上，走至镜前，理过云鬓，缓缓走出内室，站在门口，望着众甲士，轻启朱唇，冷冷说道：“诸位军士，你们为何至此？”
看到香女一身英气，军尉微微一凛，抱拳道：“在下奉旨，特来查抄罪臣张仪府中一切财产，请夫人宽谅！”
“罪臣张仪？”香女陡吃一惊，“请问军尉，夫君所犯何罪？”
“在下不知！在下只是奉旨查抄，请夫人让开！”
香女略一思忖，冷冷说道：“查抄可以，请军尉出示御旨。”
“御旨在此！”香女的话音刚落，门外走进一人，是楚国司败项雷。
司败是楚国特有官职，等同于中原列国的司寇或司刑，专司揖盗拿贼、作奸犯科诸事。香女在楚地长大，自知此情。今日司败亲自出马，可见事态甚是严重，上前揖道：“请问大人，小女子夫君所犯何罪？”
项雷走前一步，扫视香女一眼，从袖中摸出一道御旨，亦不回礼，冷冷说道：“夫人，你家夫君张仪在上柱国昭阳大人府中做客时，趁府中失火纷乱之机，盗走镇邪之宝和氏璧，证据确凿。陛下震怒，特旨削去张仪所有职爵，抄没一切财产，这是御旨，请夫人审看！”
在会稽之时，香女不止一次从威王亲发的诏书中看到过威王印玺，因而识得真伪。香女细细审看，见确是御旨，真正急了，叩地求道：“小女子求大人转奏陛下，夫君张仪不是盗贼，必是被人冤枉了，请陛下明察！”
项雷嘿嘿冷笑几声：“你家夫君是否冤枉，不久即知！在下此来奉旨查抄家产，请夫人让开！”
香女知道求他无用，缓缓起身，揖道：“大人既是奉旨查抄，小女子自不敢阻。家中所有财产尽在府中，请大人查抄！大人若无别的事，小女子先行一步！”
司败没有想到香女要走，急道：“夫人不能走！”
香女将手中御旨递还司败：“大人请看，御旨上只说抄没家财，并没说扣押小女子。小女子为何不能走？”
司败怔了下，细看御旨，不好再讲什么，拱手道：“按照御旨，夫人是可以走，但家财须得留下。”
香女缓缓说道：“回禀大人，小女子身上之剑，乃防身之物；小女子身上衣饰，乃遮羞之物，均不属于家财。”从头上拔出一根金钗，“家财皆在府中，小女子身上之财，唯此一根金钗，请大人查收！”
一个兵士上前一步，接过金钗。
项雷办案无数，却未遇到如此难对付之人，一时竟也愣了，既不说准，又不说不准，只拿眼睛盯牢香女。
香女微微抬起双手：“大人若是不信，可以搜身。”
见香女把话说至此处，项雷再无话说，揖道：“夫人遇乱不惊，真乃奇女子也，在下佩服！夫人，你可以走了！”
香女谢过，款款穿越众甲士让开的过道，留下一路幽香。
看到众军士无不在吸鼻子嗅香，项雷怒道：“嗅个屁呀，抄家！”
香女走出家门，心儿如同炸裂的栗子，沿大街狂奔一阵，直到一个小湖边，方才放缓脚步。
眼泪是没有用的。香女沿着湖岸一边游走，一边恢复心绪，思忖这场飞来横祸。
显然，张仪不可能做贼，更不可能去偷和氏璧。一定是有人栽赃，且栽赃之人就是昭阳，目的也很明确，争令尹之位。香女知道，张仪回来，为的也是这个。令尹之位对张仪来说也许重要，但对香女来说，更重要的是张仪这个人。公孙蛭、荆生均已远走，在此世上，眼下的她唯有这一个亲人了。若是张仪有个三长两短，她实在没有理由再活下去。
香女开足脑筋，苦苦思索。昭阳是楚国重臣，和氏璧更是楚国重宝，这且不说，楚王既下御旨，就是钦案，想翻此案几乎是不可能的。
景翠？景舍亡故，景氏落势，景翠纵想帮忙，怕也是爱莫能助。再说，景府上下正在举丧，此时找他，岂不是让他为难？
香女思来想去，竟是无人可施援手。
绝望之中，香女脑海里灵光一闪，豁然亮堂。
靳尚！
只要找到此人，就可找到殿下。张仪此番回来，奉的本是殿下旨意，出此大事，殿下想必不会坐视不理。而且，就眼下情势，唯有殿下，或可搭救。
此前张仪曾对香女提及靳尚的府宅，说是在宫前街。香女不消再想，打个转身，直直朝那儿奔去。赶到街前，香女却是傻眼了。这条大街住着许多达官显贵，声名显赫的昭阳府也在附近。香女不知哪一个府门是靳尚的，又不敢乱问。正自着急，见前面有个当街晨练的老人，上前询问。老人指给她一个府门，香女寻去，果是靳府。
香女报出名姓，门人让她稍候，飞身进去通报。
不一会儿，靳尚大步迎出，揖道：“嫂夫人，在下知你要来，哪儿也不曾去，只在寒舍守候。”
听闻此话，香女断定靳尚早已知情，回过一揖，也不说话，放任两行泪水哗哗流出。
靳尚急道：“嫂夫人莫哭，此处不是说话之处，快进府去。”
香女点点头，抹把泪水，跟他走进府中。靳尚引香女七弯八拐，走进一处十分雅致的密舍，在厅中坐下，指着客位道：“嫂夫人请坐。”
香女扑通一声跪下，泣不成声：“靳大人，小女子求……求你了！”
见香女这样，靳尚的两眼现出欲光，如火一样紧盯着她，许久，起身走来，轻轻扶起她，柔声道：“嫂夫人，来，我们有话慢慢说。”
香女起身，在客位坐下，圆睁泪眼望向靳尚，拱手求道：“靳大人，夫君受人陷害，陛下……陛下将他下入大狱了！”
“唉，”靳尚眼珠儿一转，轻叹一声，“在下查问了，是昭阳干的！在下刚从宫中回来，听殿下说，昭阳前日向陛下晋献一个异域白姬，讨求和氏璧为母驱邪。陛下龙颜大喜，将璧予他。不想他讨此璧不是用来驱邪，而是用来陷害张子！此人用心险毒，设下圈套，前后环节滴水不漏，张大人不曾设防，成为套中猎物。眼下昭阳人证、物证俱在，张子浑身是嘴也说不清楚了。和氏璧是天下至宝，更是陛下心肝，一朝不见踪影，陛下自然震怒，唉，殿下也是——”顿住话头，两眼直勾勾地盯住香女。
“靳大人，”香女听出话音，脸色煞白，“你是说……殿下他——他——”
“不瞒嫂夫人，”靳尚重重点头，“事儿太大了，只怕殿下也无能为力！”
“天哪！”香女惨叫一声，眼前一黑，歪倒于地。
靳尚既惊且喜，上前一步，将她抱在怀中，捏按人中。
香女陡然醒来，见自己躺在靳尚怀中，脸色绯红，又羞又急，猛力挣脱，一个鲤鱼打挺避到一侧，复跪于地，连连叩首，泪如雨下：“靳大人……”
靳尚没想到香女会如此刚烈，略怔一下，悻悻起身，坐回自己位上，轻咳一声，叹道：“唉，嫂夫人，说吧，你要在下如何帮你？”
香女擦去泪水，抬头坚定地说道：“小女子欲见殿下，求靳大人帮忙！”
靳尚眼珠儿又是几转，面现难色，复叹一声：“唉，不瞒嫂夫人，殿下早已推知嫂夫人会来，特让在下守在家中，为的就是告诉嫂夫人，殿下眼下……不愿见你。”
"why?"
“因为此事棘手。昭阳铁证如山，陛下深信不疑，正在震怒之中，殿下——”靳尚再次将话顿住。
香女垂下头去，又过一时，目光如箭般射向靳尚：“靳大人，小女子……再求一次，你肯不肯帮忙？”
靳尚打个怔，不敢与她对视，摇头叹道：“唉，在下当然愿意帮忙，只是——”
香女拢下头发，似也看透他的心思，语态平缓下来：“说吧，你要小女子如何报答？”
香女的直率让靳尚吃惊，愣怔半晌，方才点头：“好吧，既然嫂夫人将话说至此处，在下这也豁出面皮了。”
“说吧。”香女收回目光，微微闭眼，声音越发平静。
“是这样，”靳尚尴尬一笑，“自知嫂夫人天生异香，在下心痒难忍，梦中也想察看嫂夫人身上的奇香之源。嫂夫人若肯——”略顿一下，似是在集市上与小商贩讨价还价，“若肯宽衣解带，让在下一偿夙愿，在下——”
“大人还想什么？”香女冷冷地截住他的话头。
“就…