I Am a Salted Fish in Ancient Times

Chapter 28

Seeing Xiao Shan so enthusiastic about going to Jiangnan together, Xie Zhui agreed with a simple "Alright."

Hearing his response, Xiao Shan's eyes curved into a smile. His laughter was bright and radiant, like a celestial being descending to the mortal world.

Xie Zhui looked at him, and for the first time, he was so captivated that he forgot to speak.

The memorial from Wang Xin accusing Liu Jingxuan quickly spread throughout the court and the harem. Regardless of whether Liu Jingxuan had committed such heinous acts, some people were already spreading the news.

Upon hearing the news, the Empress' first reaction was to worry about Liu Jingyi, fearing that her health might not withstand such a shock. She immediately sent someone to find Xiao Jin, intending to instruct him to ensure that no idle gossip reached Liu Jingyi's ears.

The Empress was very anxious, inwardly cursing Wang Xin for submitting a memorial to the palace at such a time.

She was also worried that Liu Jingxuan might have indeed committed such treasonous acts. If that were the case, Liu Jingxuan would have thoroughly implicated the Liu family this time.

The Empress' anxiety was unbearable, and she didn't expect that not only Xiao Jin would arrive, but Liu Jingyi as well.

Seeing Liu Jingyi, the words the Empress wanted to say to Xiao Jin got stuck in her throat. She forced a smile and said to Liu Jingyi, "Your condition is delicate. You shouldn't move around too much at this time."

Liu Jingyi looked at the Empress and suddenly knelt down solemnly, saying, "Your daughter-in-law thanks Mother Empress for her protection."

The Empress blinked, and Xiao Jin said, "Mother Empress, Liu Jingyi already knows about the Liu family matter."

After a long while, the Empress sighed and said, "Your concerns are valid, but this was still too reckless. You are the Crown Prince. In the future, you must not act so impulsively in other matters."

Xiao Jin quickly responded, "Yes, Mother Empress." He couldn't help but wonder if it was his imagination, but Liu Jingyi seemed to be speaking particularly slowly today, occasionally pausing as if she were very tired.

Liu Jingyi stood quietly to the side, looking completely innocent.

***

The Emperor's decree was soon issued, appointing Xiao Shan to go to Liangzhou to investigate the truth of Wang Xin's allegations.

Additionally, he sent Zong Qing, the Deputy Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, to accompany him.

Zong Qing, nearing his thirties, was known for his uprightness and unwavering loyalty to the Emperor. He never showed favoritism in his investigations and was unafraid of offending the powerful, earning the Emperor's deep trust.

Everyone knew that Zong Qing was a sharp blade in the Emperor's hand.

When the news spread, people had mixed feelings.

Initially, they thought the Emperor was siding with Liu Jingxuan by sending Xiao Shan, implying that no matter what Liu Jingxuan had done, his reputation would be protected.

But then the Emperor also sent Zong Qing along. What was the meaning behind this move?