Chapter 107
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“Wang Gonggong, if you can blindly guess all the people in this row correctly, this prince will reward you generously.”
“Thank you, Fourth Prince.”
In front of Wang Rong stood a row of palace maids and eunuchs. Even with their eyes covered, he could accurately guess each one, even if they carried spices or foul substances to confuse him, it wouldn’t matter.
Seeing that Yuan Ye was about to lose, he noticed Yuan Ran passing by and quickly pulled him over to stand in the last position. Yuan Ran, being mischievous, cooperated with him.
When Wang Rong approached Yuan Ran, he immediately knelt and paid his respects to the crown prince, astonishingly not making a single mistake.
Yuan Ye exclaimed with surprise, “Wang Gonggong, I truly admire you. Is that a dog’s nose? How did you distinguish them, is it really based on the smell?”
“Well… this servant doesn’t know either. It’s innate, even with facial disguises, as long as it’s not a reincarnation, this servant can immediately smell their true identity with this nose.”
Yuan Ran also praised, “Indeed, this skill is impressive. In the future, even if small thieves infiltrate the palace and disguise themselves well, they won’t escape Wang Gonggong’s nose.”
“Your Highness, you exaggerate,” Wang Rong replied modestly.
……
Wang Rong was responsible for the prince’s study companions’ cares when they enter the palace. If he doesn’t get rid of him, the moment they entered the palace gates would be Chu Lishu’s death sentence.
The address of Your Highness the Crown Prince from the Chief Steward Wang left everyone present stunned. However, their reaction wasn’t to think of the former Crown Prince, the unmentionable one. Instead, they believed that the current figure before them, Chu Lishu, was working under Yuan Ye, sent to deal with Chief Steward Wang. Hence, Chief Steward Wang addressed him as the Crown Prince.
Chu Lishu naturally didn’t give Chief Steward Wang a chance to explain. He immediately dislocated his jaw, rendering him unable to speak. He wasn’t incapable of killing Chief Steward Wang on the spot, but if he did, he would lose his hostage. Trying to leave this place alive without alerting anyone would become much more difficult.
Originally, Lu Shi should have been there to assist him at this moment, but given the current situation, Lu Shi must be held up elsewhere, leaving Chu Lishu to devise another plan.
The person guarding Chief Steward Wang closely was undoubtedly a skilled individual. With a diversionary tactic, one person drew Chu Lishu’s attention, while the other swiftly made a move, attempting to seize him. Underestimating Chu Lishu’s combat abilities, they believed they could catch him off guard.
However, even though Chu Lishu had lost his martial skills, his heightened senses and remarkable combat instincts made it easy for him to see through their plan.
Chu Lishu mercilessly slashed Chief Steward Wang’s thick neck with a sharp blade in one hand. Simultaneously, he raised his other hand, and a concealed projectile hidden in his sleeve shot out like lightning, catching the guards off guard as they attempted to grab him.
An arrow to the forehead, and the guard fell to the ground on the spot.
Although this move resolved the immediate crisis, once revealed, others wouldn’t fall for it a second time.
So, when Chu Lishu turned to another guard, the guard swiftly dodged. Unable to avoid completely, he grabbed a nearby small eunuch who had been frightened out of his wits, using him as a human shield to block three consecutive arrows.
Although this small eunuch was the current favorite of Chief Steward Wang, his life couldn’t outweigh Chief Steward Wang’s. The guard had to ensure he could still save his master. Seeing no more arrows coming, he immediately used the petrified eunuch as a makeshift shield, throwing him towards Chu Lishu.
Chu Lishu swatted away the lifeless body with a palm, but the posture holding Chief Steward Wang showed no openings. The guard also realized that this person lacked internal energy, but his agility was exceptional. For a moment, he found himself helpless against him.
The intense struggle had almost concluded within moments. When Chu Lishu ceased his attacks, Chief Steward Wang’s neck was already drenched in blood.
“Young master, let’s talk! As long as you don’t harm Chief Steward Wang, you can make any request,” Hai Gonggong immediately stepped forward, holding back the guard.
Under Chief Steward Wang’s horrified and unbelieving gaze, Chu Lishu slowly spoke, “I just want to take Chief Steward Wang to a place to meet someone. If you cooperate, I won’t harm him.” He then looked at the only remaining guard and said, “Don’t make any reckless moves, or I’ll have to resort to drastic measures. Now, go prepare a carriage…”
The guard’s expression turned grim. He was responsible for protecting Chief Steward Wang, but now he found himself in a completely passive situation, unsure of how to handle it.
Chu Lishu knew that as long as he took down the guard before the others returned, the remaining situation would be less of a concern. Although things had deviated from the original plan, they were still within an acceptable range, albeit risky.
Chu Lishu remained vigilant, mentally prepared for possible injuries. With a ruthless tone, he said, “Don’t you care about your master’s life?”
The guard indeed showed a reaction, but the next moment, Chu Lishu felt that something was amiss.
It felt like an invisible force was draining all the strength from his body, and he couldn’t even hold the blade steadily. Poison?
Chu Lishu’s mind quickly analyzed the situation. It must be the fragrance! He immediately slowed down his breathing.
The Golden Phoenix Tower naturally burned incense inside, so the room was always filled with a strong fragrance. Chu Lishu had previously determined that the fragrance was harmless, but upon careful examination, he realized that the scent in the air had subtly changed at some point. He had considered using incense or similar substances against them, but Chief Steward Wang’s sensitive nose could quickly detect anything unusual, whether it be in food, drink, or smell. Hence, he had to resort to the most troublesome method of assassination.
But now, who in the room had the capability to poison him?
Damn it! He had been careful enough. Yet, he still fell for a trap.
His only antidote had been used by Xu Wenze in Duke Wei Guo’s residence, and he hadn’t had the chance to replenish it. It was truly an oversight in his otherwise meticulous plans.
Chu Lishu maintained a calm exterior, suppressing the rising panic within him. He gripped his weapon tightly, his mind racing for a solution. This situation had become too unpredictable due to a series of unexpected events. If Wang Rong hadn’t been reluctant to leave the palace easily, he wouldn’t have taken such a risk today. Now, with the situation clearly beyond his control, he had to escape.
However, before Chu Lishu could come up with a plan, the airborne poison had already taken effect.
Chief Steward Wang slumped in front of Chu Lishu, and not far away, Hai Gonggong also collapsed. Even the guard standing in front of Chu Lishu swayed, unable to hold on.
Chu Lishu realized that escaping was now impossible. His bones and muscles seemed to be melting, rendering him powerless. He slumped down, but his consciousness remained intact.
At this moment, the small window on one side, leading to the outside, gently opened. A hunched figure in black, resembling a rat, slipped inside.
When the guard and Hai Gonggong saw this person, their faces changed noticeably, indicating recognition.
The person approached Chief Steward Wang and neutralized the effects of the poison. Chief Steward Wang could now make sounds, but he couldn’t speak. Anxiously, he pointed at his mouth.
The person kindly helped him reset his dislocated jaw.
Chu Lishu’s heart sank at this gesture.
He… had miscalculated.
After Chief Steward Wang recovered, he immediately looked at Chu Lishu, his expression vividly animated. It seemed as if he still couldn’t believe it, his nose twitching, and his eyes filled with ecstatic joy.
“Chief Steward Wang, ” the person who came to rescue spoke.
“Du Yu, why are you here? Did your master send you to track me? Is there anything of mine worth tracking?” Chief Steward Wang questioned with an unfriendly expression.
“Hehe, what a coincidence. I just came to see the excitement, nothing to do with the master. If it weren’t for my timely arrival, Chief Steward Wang might be…” Du Yu said with a smirk.
“Hahaha, Chief Steward Ning probably can’t stand me and wishes I were dead sooner. Tracking is just tracking, no need to pretend,” Chief Steward Wangretorted.
“That’s a harsh thing to say. Our master values you greatly. You’ve been friends for many years. If anything happens, he would naturally lend a helping hand. You can rest assured. Regarding your activities outside, he usually turns a blind eye. This time is truly a coincidence,” Du Yu explained.
“Is that so?” Chief Steward Wang didn’t believe it. Chief Steward Ning, Ning Ziheng, was the leader of the eunuchs and was known for his ruthlessness. If he had sent someone to track Chief Steward Wang without reason, there must be some conspiracy.
But now, that didn’t matter.
Du Yu curiously looked at Chu Lishu, who had almost killed Chief Steward Wang just now, and asked, “You mentioned the Crown Prince just now. Is he the one who sent you? When did Chief Steward Wang become enemies with the Crown Prince?”
Chief Steward Wang muttered, “How would I know? Let’s put that aside. If there’s one person trying to kill me, there might be a second or third. I don’t feel safe now. There’s only this one guard left by my side. Quickly, undo the poison on him.”
Du Yu didn’t think much about it. After all, Chief Steward Wang, despite any greed or audacity, wouldn’t dare to oppose Chief Steward Ning.
So, Du Yu went to antidote the guard. After finishing, under Chief Steward Wang’s urging, he turned to antidote Hai Gonggong.
However, before he could finish, he felt a coolness around his neck.
Du Yu’s gaze shifted downward, only to witness his own blood gushing from his neck. He couldn’t believe it as he instinctively covered his neck. Skilled in poisoning but lacking in martial arts, he didn’t realize that the guard, who had been antidoted, had struck his neck.
As Du Yu collapsed, he looked at Chief Steward Wang in astonishment.
Chief Steward Wang suddenly burst into manic laughter, triumphantly declaring, “Thought I wouldn’t dare to kill you, huh? If I did, Ning Ziheng would definitely investigate and come after me. But… hahaha, after tonight, I’ll have accomplished a tremendous feat. By then, Ning Ziheng… oh no, Little Ningzi won’t mean a thing! The power of the Twelve Bureaus will all fall into my hands. Do I still need to care about his face? Hahaha.”
Chief Steward Wang knew that Du Yu would report tonight’s events to Ning Ziheng afterward. The cunning fox might guess something, and with his insane personality, he would surely obstruct Chief Steward Wang’s grand plan. How could he let Du Yu go back alive?
This unexpected achievement could only be enjoyed by him alone. After all… he was the one who discovered Yuan Ran! And only he discovered it.
Chief Steward Wang’s greedy and frenzied gaze was fixed on the fallen Chu Lishu. His face didn’t know what expression to adopt.
Yuan Ran… he was Yuan Ran! The once unparalleled Crown Prince! If he handed him over to the Emperor, it would be like helping the Emperor eliminate a significant threat. What tremendous loyalty that was, and the Emperor would surely reward him handsomely.
From nearly dying to achieving a great merit, Chief Steward Wang’s emotions swung wildly. He became so excited that he seemed almost insane.
The guard quickly bandagedChief Steward Wang’s wounds and suggested that he return to the palace immediately. Even though he had followed instructions and killed Du Yu, the current situation was tricky to handle.
There were six companions in total. The other four had been tasked with dealing with the three individuals who had been helping Chief Steward Wang dispose of stolen goods. Since the negotiations here were about to be concluded, those three were no longer needed, and officials would likely trace them back. To avoid exposing Chief Steward Wang, those three were meant to be silenced.
However, when their people arrived at the location, they found someone had already made the move. A fight ensued, and despite being outnumbered, the lone opponent proved formidable. They didn’t dare reveal the bodies inside the building, fearing it would cause a commotion. Both sides chased and fought, eventually running outside. Only one person returned to report, but as of now, the other four hadn’t come back.
Chief Steward Wang naturally believed that his four companions could handle one person without any issues. However, with their reduced manpower and the killing of Du Yu, who might not have acted alone, returning to the palace seemed the safest option.
Chief Steward Wang nodded, realizing that the night was long, and there could be many unforeseen events. He wanted to hand over Yuan Ran to the authorities as soon as possible.
However, when he saw the guard lifting Yuan Ran with one hand, he suddenly changed his mind. A sinister thought surged within him unstoppablely.
Yuan Ran, once the most noble presence in the world, the Crown Prince everyone admired. If he were to compare, the Crown Prince was like the moon in the sky, and he was like a worm underground.
He still remembered the first time he saw the twelve-year-old Crown Prince. The dazzling sight made him unable to lift his head. He liked young boys, but he dared not entertain thoughts about the bright Crown Prince. He could only find joy with the young eunuchs around him as he gradually rose in rank. Yuan Ran, to him, was like a distant existence, as beautiful and unattainable as the clear breeze and bright moon.
However, just now, he had seen another stunning young man, and his desires were ignited. He couldn’t wait to get his hands on him.
Now, he realized that this was the Crown Prince.
As if the face that belonged to the heavens had changed to one more to his liking, Chief Steward Wang felt like he could now reach the moon in the sky.
The Crown Prince, who had no resistance and allowed himself to be handled at will, was irresistible to someone with certain desires. Who could resist not taking action when presented with such an opportunity? Chief Manager Wang, being a mere mortal with earthly desires, found this opportunity beyond his wildest dreams. And now, it was right in front of him!
“Wait!” Chief Steward Wang suddenly spoke up to stop them, and his gaze towards Chu Lishu had changed. “Move him to the bed.”
The guard’s expression changed slightly. “Master, the timing…”
“You don’t understand. If we miss this opportunity, there won’t be another chance,” Chief Steward Wang’s eyes were clouded, his mind filled with sinister thoughts that were on the verge of exploding. Impulse, like a devil, was controlling him to proceed boldly.
Since Yuan Ran would undoubtedly meet his end after being handed over to the Emperor, if he could fulfill his desires before that, it would be even more satisfying than any reward. Perhaps the Emperor would even be pleased that he had humiliated Yuan Ran in advance.
The guard, seeing Chief Steward Wang’s determination in his eyes, knew that persuasion was useless. He followed the order.
As he placed Chu Lishu on the bed, a sudden stiffness overcame him. He saw Chu Lishu’s gaze – not the eyes that predicted a future filled with pain and despair but eyes that held something gradually fading away, like a beast afflicted with madness.
The guard had never seen such eyes before, and it sent shivers down his spine. He quickly retreated.
“Guard the door!” Chief Steward Wang excitedly approached. Seeing Chu Lishu lying on the bed, he felt a rush of excitement, covering his heart. His eyes, filled with greed and lust, swept over every inch of Chu Lishu’s body like sharp knives.
A plump hand reached towards Chu Lishu’s clothing.
Chu Lishu suddenly moved, startling Chief Steward Wang. However, upon closer inspection, it was merely a feeble struggle, like a fish flopping helplessly on the shore.
Chief Steward Wang looked into Chu Lishu’s eyes and instantly felt anger and shame. The Crown Prince was looking down on him with that contemptuous, high-and-mighty gaze, as if observing the corpse of an ant.
“Your Highness, don’t look at this servant like that. This servant only wants to serve you one last time, let you taste this servant’s flavor before you die. Hahaha.”
The more Chu Lishu looked at him this way, the more excited Chief Steward Wang became. He almost lost his sanity. He forcefully untied Chu Lishu’s belt, binding one hand to the bedpost. Chu Lishu’s outer garment scattered, revealing a dagger at his waist. Chief Steward Wang remembered the blood on his neck and swiftly drew the dagger, ruthlessly stabbing Chu Lishu’s other hand, pinning it to the bed.
In this position, Chu Lishu lay helpless, forming the shape of a large character on the bed. Chief Steward Wang took out a small box prepared in the room at the Golden Phoenix Tower, containing various tools. He cheerfully brought it in front of Chu Lishu and began to systematically remove Chu Lishu’s clothes layer by layer.
Chu Lishu knew what Chief Steward Wang intended – humiliation, to be presented to Emperor Zhouqing, and then be killed by Emperor Zhouqing. He hadn’t expected the night to end like this. Ironically, despite all his calculations, he couldn’t keep up with the twists of fate.
With no room for maneuver, he understood his situation. One misstep, and all would be lost. The path he chose was always on the edge of a knife, where his life could be forfeited at any moment. He had long been mentally prepared for this. This time, due to circumstances beyond his control, he harbored a glimmer of hope. Impatient and unwilling to wait for another opportunity, he paid the price for his lack of caution.
Despite the dire circumstances, he clung to the idea of revenge. He refused to accept failure and was determined to find another opportunity. He couldn’t give up. If he were to die, how could he face those who had died unjustly? He had to… The throbbing in his head intensified, as if gradually stripping away his sanity, and a familiar sensation surged.
As the nauseating hands touched his body, a wave of disgust swept over him. Amidst the chaotic thoughts, a moment of clarity struck. He remembered something he had forgotten.
In a nearby room, there was someone who should be patiently waiting for his return. Someone he had promised to leave with. He couldn’t break that promise.
How could he die now?
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Oh this wang dude needs the worst death i think…..what do u mean uve been fantasizing about a TWELVE YEAR OLD