Zhang Lie, Chen Jingchou, and Yu Xiaoxue hurriedly packed their luggage. Zhang Lie brought three fast horses over. The three of them mounted the horses and galloped south.
On this day on the road, it was the hot weather of July. The fire melted the metal and the heat was unbearable. The ground seemed to be on fire. Suddenly, Zhang Lie saw a tree branch in a forest in front of him. He said,""This damn weather, my throat is almost on fire! Let's drink a bowl of tea before we leave."
The three of them galloped to the tea stall and got off their horses. They sat down at a table by the roadside and asked for three big bowls of tea. "Have you seen a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl pass by here alone these few days?" Zhang Lie asked the waiter.”
The waiter lowered his head and thought for a moment before answering,"Sir! You're talking about an old lady in red!”
"What female grandpa?" Zhang Lie laughed. Grandpa! Tell me what she looks like."
The waiter said," That female, female guest, just by looking at her clothes, she looks like she's from the frontier. She's carrying a long sword. Her age is probably the same as what you said just now. She just came here yesterday."”
"Oh!" Zhang Lie said. Do you know where she went?"
The waiter complained," She asked for the direction of the Lujia Ferry as soon as she came up. I was too slow to answer. She didn't say anything and picked up the knife to hit me. Look, my face is still swollen!"”He pointed at his right cheek. Zhang Lie and the others looked over and saw that his cheek was swollen, turning red and purple.
Zhang Lie thought that this must be Tuoba Yu 'er. He and Chen Jingchou finished their tea in two sips.
Zhang Lie threw a few taels of silver to the waiter and said,"There's no need to look for it. You can keep the rest for yourself!”The waiter was overjoyed and was about to thank him. Zhang Lie and the others had already mounted their horses, raising a cloud of dust as they galloped towards Lujiadu.
In the evening, they arrived at the Lujia ferry. This ferry was backed by the Yellow River and there weren't many residents, but there were merchants passing by everywhere, trading goods back and forth. Zhang Lie and the others saw a large ship parked by the dock, and there were several soldiers guarding the side of the ship. Zhang Lie didn't want to cause any trouble. He secretly fought with Chen Jingqiu and went around to the forest beside the dock to tie the horse to the tree trunk. Looking carefully at the dock, he saw a smaller ferry parked in a remote area to the east. There were no government troops guarding it. Zhang Lie and Chen Jingchou discussed,"Let's go over and ask him to ferry us across the river."”The two of them left Yu Xiaoxue to look after the horses. They bypassed the officers and soldiers and came to the side of the boat. An old man on the boat was lowering his head to tidy up the tattered sails.
Zhang Lie walked over and asked,"Old man, please speak in private."”The old man was stunned. He raised his head and saw Zhang Lie and Chen Jingchou standing on the shore. He quickly waved his hand, signaling them to leave quickly. Zhang Lie was still puzzled and wanted to ask, but the old man had already thrown away the tarpaulin and hid in the cabin. The two of them had no choice but to return to the forest. Yu Xiaoxue saw Zhang Lie's unhappy expression and asked,"Brother Chen, what's wrong? Is the boatman unwilling to ferry us across the river?”
"I don't know either. I feel that there's something strange about that person."”
Zhang Lie saw that it was getting late and that he could not cross the river today. He said,"Brother Chou, let's find an inn to stay in first before we make a fuss!”The three of them led the horses back to the street. There was only one shabby inn in Lujia Du, and it was very small and close to the pier. Zhang Lie asked the waiter to feed the horse and asked for two guest rooms. He and Chen Jingchou squeezed into one. After settling their luggage, the three of them walked downstairs and sat down by the window facing the dock. After ordering some food, the waiter served the dishes not long after.
"Brother Chou, Miss Xiaoxue, you've been on the road all day. You must be hungry. Come!" Let's eat!"
Chen Jingchou had been working from morning till night, and his stomach was already growling with hunger. He said,""Big Brother Zhang! You should also eat quickly!" He raised his chopsticks and started eating.
Yu Xiaoxue moved a little and put down her chopsticks. "Miss Xiaoxue, it's tiring to go out. You must eat your fill!" Zhang Lie said.”
"Thank you, Big Brother Zhang!" Yu Xiaoxue said. I'm not hungry. I'm already full." He left the food for Chen Jingchou.
Zhang Lie raised his head and laughed."Miss Xiao Xue, if my sister-in-law is half as sensible as you, I would be satisfied.”
"Big Brother Zhang, I think Sister Tuoba is very brave!" Yu Xiaoxue blushed. I don't know anything."
"When we rescue Teacher Chen's father, Brother Qiu and I will beg him to take you as his disciple. At that time, will you still be afraid that you won't be able to learn?" Let me see! In a few years, Big Brother Zhang will probably not be your match!”He laughed out loud.
"No, it won't!" Yu Xiaoxue said. How can I compare to Brother Zhang!"
Just as he was speaking, a commotion suddenly sounded from afar. As the voice approached, the soldiers shouted repeatedly, mixed with the cries of women. They put down their bowls and chopsticks and looked out the window together. A few soldiers waved their steel knives and shouted,"Go away, go away! Don't block the way!" The villagers all gave way.
The group of soldiers had just passed by when a person followed behind them. He was dressed in a green official uniform, with his hands crossed in front of his chest. He held a horsetail whisk and walked forward arrogantly. There were more than ten women behind him. The oldest was only in her twenties, and the youngest was only in her teens. Their hands were tied up with ropes, and they stood in a row crying as they were escorted forward by a team of soldiers. Everyone stopped in front of the dock.
The leading officer stepped forward and bowed to the man in the official uniform. He said respectfully,"Reporting to Eunuch Han, all the women have been bought and brought to the riverside. Please take a look, Eunuch!"
"Well done!" Eunuch Han said in a strange tone.”The group of women were still crying in low voices. Eunuch Han turned his head and half-closed his eyes. He slowly swept his gaze around and said to the women,""Why are you crying? It is your greatest honor to be able to enter the palace to serve the Emperor! Why are you still crying?"
When the women heard this, they burst into tears and almost fainted.
Eunuch Han was displeased." You guys, take them to the boat and lock them up!" he said. Let's see if they can still cry!" A few soldiers agreed and dragged the women onto the boat.
"There will be enough women in a few days," Eunuch Han said to the officer. However, would the ship still be able to fit it?”
"Don't worry, Eunuch!" the officer replied hurriedly. This lowly one has already seized all the ships here yesterday! If there is a need, I will be at your disposal!”
"Very good!" Eunuch Han said. When we get back to the dragon boat near the shore of Daliang, I'll report to the Emperor and you'll get a share of the credit!”The officer was overjoyed. He quickly knelt down and kowtowed, saying loudly,"Thank you for your nurturing, Eunuch!"
"I'm also a little tired," Eunuch Han said."I want to board the ship and rest." You can go on your own!" The soldiers escorted him onto the boat.
"This dog Emperor!" Zhang Lie was furious. For his own enjoyment! He actually allowed his subordinate to snatch a good woman in broad daylight! You're really worse than bandits!"
"Big Brother Zhang!" Chen Jingchou frowned. All the boats have been taken by them, so how are we going to cross the river?”
Zhang Lie lowered his head and pondered. He could not think of a way at the moment.
"Big Brother Zhang, I guess…" Yu Xiaoxue suddenly said.
"Oh!" Zhang Lie raised his head. Miss Xiaoxue, what good ideas do you have? Hurry up and let everyone hear it!”
"I…I'm just guessing," Yu Xiaoxue said."Could Sister Yu 'er have been taken away by the soldiers?" She was going to present her to the emperor as a harem beauty!”
Zhang Lie slammed the table, stood up, and said,"Miss Xiao Xue's opinion is reasonable. It is indeed possible. However…" He looked at the river and said,""Judging from that girl's personality, I think it's more likely that she heard that the Emperor was searching for beauties on the way and wanted to use this opportunity to beat him at his own game!”
"Beat him at his own game?" Chen Jingchou asked curiously.”
"Yes!" Zhang Lie said. She pretended to be captured and sneaked into the palace to find out the whereabouts of the divine cauldron!”
"Isn't that dangerous?" Yu Xiaoxue asked in surprise.”
"She's confident in her martial arts skills and is quick-witted!" Zhang Lie said. The possibility of using this method was quite high!”
"Big Brother Zhang! If that was really the case, then wouldn't Miss Tuoba be in a very dangerous situation?”
Zhang Lie sighed." As soon as she's discovered, she'll immediately lose her life. This child always does things like this. She's only relying on her courage for a moment. She doesn't care about what's ahead!”
"Big Brother Zhang!" Chen Jingchou speculated for a moment. Maybe she's on this ship right now. Why don't we think of a way to sneak into the ship and look for her carefully?”
"That's the only way now!" Zhang Lie nodded. But the ship is heavily guarded. How can we get on?”
"Big Brother Zhang!" Chen Jingchou thought for a moment and said. I have a plan!"
"Oh?" Zhang Lie said. Brother Chou, please speak!"
" I'll get a set of women's clothes," Chen Jingchou said." Then, Big Brother Zhang will get an officer's uniform. We'll pretend to be escorting the women and board the ship openly!"”
"Good plan!" Zhang Lie knocked on the table and smiled. To think that you could think of it, then I'll have to trouble you and Miss Xiaoxue! Let's split up and meet up in the woods by the dock!”
Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue left the inn and went to a nearby farmer's house. They spent money to buy a set of ordinary farmer's women's green clothes and some cosmetics. After returning to the guest room, Chen Jingchou changed his clothes. Yu Xiaoxue tied his hair up, combed it into two buns, tied it with two red hair ropes, and smeared it with perfume powder. He turned to Chen Jingchou and burst out laughing.
"Is it done?" Chen Jingchou didn't understand.”Yu Xiaoxue took a bronze mirror and looked at it. Chen Jingchou almost couldn't recognize him. A beauty was also staring at him in the mirror, her face full of surprise. Chen Jingchou couldn't help but laugh.
Yu Xiaoxue took out a flowery headscarf, tidied her hair, and wrapped it up. After the two of them were done, they came to the forest. A soldier was already standing under a tree with his head held high. He had a steel saber on his waist. He was tall and mighty, and he looked very imposing! A person was tied to a tree trunk beside him. His upper body was naked, and his mouth was stuffed by a cloth, making him unable to move.
Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue quickly went forward to greet him. Seeing the two of them, Zhang Lie walked up and sized up Chen Jingchou. He smiled and said,"This, is this Brother Chou?"
"Big Brother Zhang, you're making a fool of yourself!" Chen Jingchou said.”
"Haha!" Zhang Lie said. Who would have thought that Brother Chou was really a beauty when he disguised himself as a woman! He really looks like that!"
The few of them discussed the countermeasures to board the ship and were about to set off when Yu Xiaoxue suddenly said,"Big Brother Zhang, I, can I ask you a question?”
"Miss Xiaoxue, it's rare for you to ask a question. Please ask!" Zhang Lie said.”
"I, I think…that Sister Tuoba, does she really hate us?" Yu Xiaoxue said. I really don't know what I did wrong!”
"It's not your fault. Don't take it to heart!" Zhang Lie waved his hand. That troublesome girl of mine treats everyone in the pass the same way!”
"Big Brother Zhang, then, why is she like this?" Chen Jingchou asked curiously.”
"It's a long story," said Zhang Lie."Do you know what happened in the grassland north of Yanmen Pass last year?"”
"En!" Chen Jingchou replied. Is Big Brother Zhang referring to the siege of the Emperor by the Turkic Khagan? Master once mentioned it to me."
"That's right!" Zhang Lie patted the tree trunk and said. It was this matter! Emperor Yang loved to be extravagant and would find some things to do every year that would waste money and manpower! For example, he went to war, built buildings, and toured everywhere. Last year, when he went to the north, he suddenly had a whim and said that he wanted to go out of the Great Wall to see the scenery beyond the Great Wall. Who knew that the Turkic Khagan would find out and send troops south to ambush him, trapping him outside the Great Wall! He almost lost his life! Fortunately, the imperial court had dispatched a large army to the north to save the emperor, allowing him to escape.”
"Big Brother Zhang, what does this have to do with the Tuoba tribe?" Chen Jingchou asked.”
Zhang Lie turned around and continued," That Emperor Yang has always cared about his face. As the ruler of a country, this matter has embarrassed him greatly. He has lost all face." Therefore, he tried to cover it up and instructed his bodyguards to find a random tribe on the nearby grasslands to massacre before they returned to the south. This would be the glorious result of this northern expedition so that they could return to the court in glory!”
"Could it be that the nomadic tribe he slaughtered belonged to Lady Tuoba and the others?" Chen Jingchou asked in surprise.……”
"That's right!" Zhang Lie said. That's right!"
After Chen Jingchou heard this, he pondered for a while and said,""So there was such a past. No wonder Lady Tuoba has such a deep hatred for us Han people!”
"Actually, her nature is not like this. Yu 'Er used to be an innocent child." Zhang Lie sighed. However, ever since her parents were killed, she had changed completely. She only wanted revenge. To be honest, I'm very worried! I was afraid that something would happen to her, so I tried to persuade her many times, but she never listened…"
Chen Jingchou lowered his head and sighed. "Brother Chou!" Zhang Lie said. Let's go quickly! Otherwise, if they missed the time, it would be too late!”
"Ah!" Chen Jingchou suddenly said. I forgot about the proper business!" The few of them hurriedly rushed to the side of the boat.
The sky had already turned completely dark. The moon and stars were dim, and the river was pitch-black. There were only a few scattered lights that swayed with the waves. Zhang Lie carried his saber and led the way, escorting Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue towards the big ship. When they reached the dock, Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue lowered their heads and sobbed. Walking to the side of the boat, the guards shouted,"Stop! What are you doing!"
"We're on the same side!" Zhang Lie stepped forward and said. He bought a few girls and offered them to the emperor!”
"Why are you back so late?" asked another soldier.”
"These girls are very unruly. They won't leave no matter what, so we're delayed!"”
An officer heard this and walked over, asking,"What is it?"
Zhang Lie cupped his hands and replied.
The officer took a few steps forward. The lights were dim, and he saw two women. He said,"Get on the boat! Lock them in the second cabin at the bottom of the ship! The ship is leaving tomorrow morning, what the hell is going on!”He cursed and walked away. Zhang Lie replied. He turned around and grabbed Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue, shouting,"Why are you still crying? Hurry up and leave! To be able to serve the emperor, I wonder which lifetime you have cultivated for your good fortune!”He dragged the two of them onto the boat.
The lights on the ship were dim, and most of the soldiers had fallen asleep on the deck. Zhang Lie walked to the stern and found a quiet place before letting go of the two of them.
"Big Brother Zhang, I didn't expect us to get in so easily!" Chen Jingchou whispered.”
"These officers and soldiers are really at ease. They don't even have a basic password for patrolling at night!"”He found the entrance to the cabin and said," Let's go to the second cabin first. You and Miss Xiaoxue go in and look for her. See if my troublesome girl is inside."”
The three of them walked down the wooden ladder and turned into a passageway. Zhang Lie counted the doors as he walked. He stopped in front of a large house and said,"This should be the second cabin. You guys go in and look for it. I'll guard the door.”
Chen Jingchou took out a dagger and pried open the door lock. He walked in with Yu Xiaoxue and lit the fire. With the help of the dim light, he saw more than ten women locked in the room. They were all leaning against the cabin wall and sitting on the ground. Their hands and feet were tied with ropes and they were crying softly. Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue looked around, but Tuoba Yu 'er was not there, so they walked out. Chen Jingchou shook his head.
"Since that's the case, let's find another cabin!" Zhang Lie said.”The few of them followed the corridor and carefully checked one by one. However, the doors of the other cabins were not locked. They were filled with weapons and rations. There was not a single person inside.
"This is bad!" Zhang Lie pondered for a while and suddenly said. Could it be that Yu 'Er had boarded another ship? He left this place long ago?"
"Big Brother Zhang! Then what should we do next?"
"Since we're already here, we might as well search again!" Zhang Lie said. If she really wasn't on this ship, it wouldn't be too late to leave!”
Zhang Lie was the first to scout the way, and the three of them walked to the bottom cabin. As soon as they walked down the wooden ladder, two soldiers heard the sound and suddenly raised their swords to block the ladder. They shouted,"It's so late. What are you guys doing here?”
"The second cabin for the women is full. I'm following the orders of my father-in-law to temporarily place these two women in the cabin at the bottom of the ship."”
The soldier sized them up and said,""Since Eunuch Gong said so, then let's go!”He put away his saber.
Another soldier also withdrew his saber and muttered,""Eunuch, really! He had captured so many women that he couldn't even fit them in his room!”
Zhang Lie hurriedly led Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue over. They looked carefully along the way and only found locked rooms. Soon, they arrived at the end of the corridor. He saw a fist-wide copper lock in front of the cabin. Zhang Lie made a gesture and stood outside the corridor. Chen Jingchou flashed to the door, raised his dagger, and secretly used his strength to slash at the lock. The lock broke into two pieces with a clang and fell to the ground. Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue walked into the cabin. Everything before them was pitch black.
Chen Jingchou lit up the firebreak and looked around under the light. He couldn't help but be surprised. The floor was covered with bronze ware, some in pieces, some in broken pieces. They piled up in half the cabin like a small mountain, and there was almost no place to stand. Other than that, there was nothing else. Chen Jingchou waved at Zhang Lie.
Zhang Lie also walked in. He turned left and right and bent down to pick up a copper cup. He weighed it in his hand and said,"This is strange! Why did the soldiers need so many bronze vessels?”
"Could it be that the eunuch wants to make weapons privately and is planning to rebel?" Chen Jingchou asked.”
"If that's the case, then the Imperial Court is in big trouble!" Zhang Lie said. Let's wait and see!" The few of them checked carefully again. Other than the bronze ware, there were still bronze ware.
"It seems that Yu 'Er is indeed not on this ship. Let's leave quickly!" Zhang Lie said.”
Just as they were about to walk out, they suddenly heard hurried footsteps. Several people were rushing towards the cabin. Zhang Lie gave them a look, and Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue lowered their heads to pretend to cry. After a while, two soldiers came out from the side of the road, raised their sabers, blocked the door and shouted,""What are you guys doing here?”
"The cabins above are full," Zhang Lie stepped forward and said,"I've been ordered by my father-in-law to place the two girls here…""Which eunuch ordered you to do this?”A person wearing a brocade robe and a silk crown walked in from the door. He was holding a horsetail whisk. It was Eunuch Han, whom he had seen during the day. There were also several soldiers following behind him.
When Chen Jingchou and the others saw this, they were all shocked. "Hmph!" Eunuch Han said arrogantly. This eunuch is the eunuch in charge of this ship. When did I give the order?”Zhang Lie was speechless.
Eunuch Han waved his right hand and shouted,"Arrest them!"”The group of soldiers received the order and brandished their sabers as they prepared to move forward.
Zhang Lie suddenly raised his head and laughed, his voice shaking the roof tiles. "How dare you!" Eunuch Han shouted in alarm. You, you want to rebel?"
"Eunuch Han!" Just the few of you! You're thinking of keeping me here? Aren't you overestimating yourself?”
Eunuch Han took a step back. What are you guys still standing there for? Hurry up and catch them!" The soldiers hurriedly raised their sabers and rushed forward.
Zhang Lie quickly pulled out his saber with his right hand and rushed forward. He raised his saber and instantly cut the two soldiers in front into two, causing blood to spread all over the ground. Eunuch Han's entire body trembled. Seeing that the situation was not looking good, he hurriedly retreated and shouted in a hoarse voice,"Assassins! Catch the assassin!" The voice was unusually sharp, and Chen Jingchou felt his hair stand on end.
Under the protection of the guards, Eunuch Han hurriedly turned around and fled.
"Since we've been discovered by them, we have no choice but to charge out!" Zhang Lie shook off his armor and said.”He raised his saber and charged out like a ferocious tiger descending a mountain. Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue followed suit. The three of them joined forces and charged out, unstoppable. Those soldiers were no match for him, and they were scared out of their wits. When they reached the front, they were beaten into pieces in a moment, throwing away their helmets and armor and fleeing.
The three of them rushed onto the deck and were about to disembark. Suddenly, a lieutenant jumped up from the gangplank. He was strong and agile, and he landed steadily. He held his saber in front of him and shouted,"How dare you rebel! How dare you barge into the official ship at night? Hurry up and surrender!”His voice was full of energy.
"Shameless bandits!" Zhang Lie shouted angrily. How dare you openly snatch a commoner's daughter? I'm going to get rid of this evil for the people today!”He raised his steel knife and rushed forward like a tiger coming out of seclusion. The blade slashed at the lieutenant's head. The lieutenant was also very impressive. He took a step back and blocked the steel knife. He bent his left knee slightly and swept his right leg towards Zhang Lie's lower body. Zhang Lie leaped up and followed with a kick. With a bang, the lieutenant raised his left arm to block the attack. Enduring the pain, the steel knife in his right hand followed suit. Zhang Lie took a step back and brandished his saber to attack. A white shadow flashed and the two of them immediately fought.
Chen Jingchou shouted and used the Ye Wu Technique to circle around the lieutenant. His palm shadow flew and slapped fiercely. The lieutenant was attacked from the left and right and gradually could not hold on. He was hit by a palm and swayed a few times, but he did not fall. He waved his steel knife into a wall and tightly guarded the door. Zhang Lie continued to attack, closing in step by step. The lieutenant couldn't win, so he took a few steps back and stood on the gangplank. Chen Jingchou was unable to take down his opponent. He watched carefully and waited for the other party to come slashing at him with his saber. He suddenly bent over and heard the sound of the wind blowing beside his ears. The steel saber slashed across his head and the long sword in his hand slashed at the springboard. The captain was about to step forward when he heard a crack. The springboard had broken into two and he couldn't stand steadily. With a splash, he fell into the river. The waves rolled in the river. The lieutenant shouted loudly, and in a moment, his voice reached more than 100 feet away. The waves came, struggled a few times, and disappeared.
Just as Zhang Lie and the others were about to go ashore, they suddenly heard the sound of hooves from behind the mountain in the distance. A faint shout could be heard coming from the river. "Oh no!" Chen Jingchou said. The soldiers must have informed the government and called for reinforcements!”Not long after, there was a hubbub of voices, nearly a thousand people running towards the shore.
"We can't go ashore now, but I have a plan…" Zhang Lie muttered.
"Big Brother Zhang, if you have any good ideas, just tell me!" Chen Jingchou said.”
Zhang Lie said," Let's immediately drive the boat away. There are only a few small boats left here. They won't be able to catch up!"”
"Seize the ship!" Chen Jingchou said curiously.
"Yes, Brother Chou!" Zhang Lie said. There are too many enemies. Other than that, we have no other choice! Let's not delay any longer. We'll set sail immediately!”
"Alright, then we'll listen to Big Brother Zhang!" Chen Jingchou said.”Zhang Lie had Chen Jingchou raise the sails and turned to run to the side of the boat. He pulled hard with both hands, wanting to untie the ropes.
Chen Jingchou suddenly thought of something and said,""Wait a minute! Brother Zhang! I want to release all the women on the boat first.”
"This!" Zhang Lie hesitated. The soldiers will be here soon. I'm afraid it's too late!”
"Big Brother Zhang! The enemy will arrive soon, so I'll try my best to be fast!”
Zhang Lie looked up at the shore and said,"Good! Then go quickly! You have to be fast!"
Chen Jingchou ran down to the hold and untied all the women. He brought them up to the deck and let them escape on their own. At this time, Yu Xiaoxue also returned to the dock inn, took a few people's luggage, and rushed to the boat. At the foot of the mountain in the distance, a fire suddenly appeared. The light was dazzling, as if it was daytime. Shouts rose and fell, and the soldiers rushed to the river. The three of them quickly untied the sail and prepared to set sail. But the ship was so big, with its masts so high that the sails could not be opened for a moment. As the soldiers got closer and closer, Chen Jingchou panicked and his movements became even slower. After a while, a group of soldiers rode on their horses and raised their torches high as they rushed to the dock.
"Brother Chou, you continue to raise the sail. I'll deal with them!" Zhang Lie said.”He picked up the iron pestle and rushed off the boat, blocking the side of the boat.
The person leading the way was Eunuch Han. Eunuch Han rode on his horse and raised his horsewhip, shouting sharply,""How dare you! Don't even think about escaping! If you know what's good for you, obediently surrender!"
Zhang Lie crossed the iron pestle and saw the soldiers surrounding him. He thought to himself that if he didn't make a special move today, he would be doomed.
Eunuch Han saw Zhang Lie lowering his head in deep thought. He waved his right hand and shouted,"Everyone, go! Whoever catches them, I will reward them handsomely!”The soldiers shouted and surged forward like a tide. The situation was critical, and Zhang Lie had no time to think. With a roar, he flew forward like a tiger roaring in the forest. He raised his iron pestle and smashed the heads of the soldiers in the front. Their brains splattered everywhere, and a bloody path was carved out as he pounced toward Eunuch Han. The soldiers were shocked and quickly retreated a few steps, cowering at the side. No one dared to come and save them.
Eunuch Han turned pale with fright. He hurriedly reined in his horse's head and whipped it repeatedly, wanting to escape. Zhang Lie jumped up and swung the iron pestle in the air. He swept the pestle at the horse's leg. With a few cracking sounds, the horse's leg was broken. Eunuch Han and the horse rolled on the ground. Zhang Lie stepped forward and grabbed the iron pestle, then jumped back onto the boat. The soldiers were in chaos. They set up their hard crossbows and rushed to the ship.
Zhang Lie climbed to the top of the boat and grabbed Eunuch Han's collar. He held the dagger against Eunuch Han's chest and shouted,"Stop! Eunuch Han is here!" The soldiers were stunned. They raised their heads and saw that Eunuch Han had been captured. They quickly retreated and stopped their weapons.
Zhang Lie pushed the dagger forward and said,"Eunuch, tell them to retreat!”Eunuch Han was so frightened that his face turned ashen. His entire body went limp, and he almost couldn't speak.
Zhang Lie repeated it again. Eunuch Han hurriedly called out,"Hurry up! Hurry up! Don't shoot, everyone retreat!" His words were already sarcastic. At this moment, he was panicking and scared to the point of peeing his pants. His voice was even more like a ghost's cry. The soldiers felt a bone-chilling chill on their backs and goosebumps all over their bodies. Nine out of ten of them did not hear what was said clearly.
"Eunuch has ordered you to return to the shore!" Zhang Lie shouted.”The soldiers had no choice but to retreat.
"Brother Chou!" Zhang Lie turned around and said. Set sail!"
"Yes, it'll be done soon!" Chen Jingchou said.”Not long after, Chen Jingchou pushed the boat open, and the side of the boat gradually left the shore. Seeing that Eunuch Han had been restrained, none of the soldiers dared to rush forward to save him. They stood on the shore and watched as the ship sailed away. The boat sailed towards the center of the river. The light on the boat turned from bright to dark, from dark to nothing.
Zhang Lie waited for the ship to sail for several miles. When he saw that there were no pursuers, he withdrew his dagger and threw Eunuch Han onto the deck. He dropped the anchor and brought the ship to the center of the river. Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue also walked over.
Eunuch Han prostrated himself on the deck and kowtowed. Tears and snot flowed down his face as he pleaded,""Heroes, I beg you! Don't kill me…Don't kill me…I'll give you all the gold, silver, and jewelry you want!”
"Shut up!" Zhang Lie shouted. Who wants your stinky money? You can't dirty my hands!”
"Yes, yes…" Eunuch Han hurriedly said.”
"Let me ask you, where is the divine cauldron that was transported from Zhuo County to the south?"”
Eunuch Han hesitated for a moment, and cold sweat broke out on his forehead.
Zhang Lie was impatient and shouted,"Hurry up and tell me! If you're not telling the truth and dare to hide a single word…" He waved his right hand and slashed the railing with his dagger. With a crack, the thick railing broke into two.”
Eunuch Han was shocked and could not close his mouth for a long time. He stretched out his sleeve to wipe the sweat off his forehead and composed himself." Hero, spare me…I'll talk, I'll talk…"
"Cut the crap!" Zhang Lie said.
Eunuch Han lowered his head." The Emperor is going on a tour of Jiangnan. Lord Yuwen has offered the divine cauldron to the Emperor to increase the auspicious luck of His Majesty's dragon boat…"
"Shut up!" Zhang Lie shouted. I'm asking you, where is that divine cauldron?”
Eunuch Han trembled." The cauldron…the cauldron has already been transported south to the dragon boat!" he said.”
"Where is the dragon boat now?" Chen Jingchou asked after a moment of silence.”
"Right now, right now, they should be near Daliang," Eunuch Han said."This time, we came out to purchase palace maids because His Majesty is traveling south. Along the way, the Li Palace will need many beautiful women to serve him.”
"Hmph!" Zhang Lie said. What an unconscious dog!" After a while, he asked,"What's the use of that pile of bronze ware under the boat?"”
"I, I don't know…" Eunuch Han said in panic,"I really don't know what those things are for…"
"Hmph!" Zhang Lie said. You don't know?" He took out the dagger and shook it a few times.
Eunuch Han's voice trembled as he said in shock," T-these bronze were ordered by Governor Zhang, who is in charge of transporting the cauldrons. As for what use they have, I really don't know…" His face was panic-stricken, and he didn't seem to be lying.
Zhang Lie pondered for a moment, then took a step forward and said,"Eunuch Han, thank you for telling me so much! -- You can leave first!"
Eunuch Han was delighted. He knelt down and replied," No, no thanks…" Zhang Lie suddenly extended his right hand forward. With a swoosh, a dagger was stabbed into his chest. Blood splattered everywhere. Eunuch Han fell to the ground and died without even making a sound.
"Big Brother Zhang!" Chen Jingchou exclaimed. You, why did you kill him? He…he was just a eunuch, not one of those soldiers?”Zhang Lie pulled out his dagger, turned around, and said,"Brother Chou…didn't you want to save those girls just now?”
"Yeah!" Chen Jingchou said. However, what did this have to do with this eunuch?”
"Brother Chou, I don't want to kill anyone!" Zhang Lie said. -- But think about it carefully, if I don't kill this eunuch and let him go back, I'll let him gather more people and capture all the girls who worked so hard to let go just now! -- Then who did we save?"
Chen Jingchou was speechless, but he couldn't bear it and said,""But…"
Zhang Lie raised his head and looked at the hazy river bank."Brother Chou! If he wanted to save someone, he had to save them to the end! This was what a true hero would do! I understand that you are kind-hearted, but in this chaotic world, if you don't kill those crafty people, you will harm more people's lives!”Chen Jingchou lowered his head in silence.
Zhang Lie walked over and patted his shoulder."Brother Chou, I know that you can't accept these things now…but you will have to face these things yourself sooner or later. --”As he spoke, he threw Eunuch Han's corpse into the river and wiped the blood off the dagger. He pulled out the anchor and set sail.
The big ship set sail and sailed downstream along the river. In a few days, it reached the mouth of the river and turned southeast into the Tongji Canal. I can't tell you the beautiful scenery of the three hundred miles of willow bank wind embankment. Green water clear waves, clouds idle, the sun bright. After another two days, they arrived outside Daliang (Kaifeng). Zhang Lie moored the boat far away, allowing everyone to get ashore and walk to Daliang City. Walking slowly on the flagstone road, he saw that the streets were wide, the buildings were tall, the merchants were bustling, and the rich families were everywhere. It was really like a white jade, golden marquis, and a treasured sword and horse filling the hills!”It was a scene of prosperity.
Chen Jingchou couldn't help but sigh inwardly. Zhang Lie found an inn and settled everyone down. He went downstairs and ordered some food. "Big Brother Zhang," Chen Jingchou sat on the ground and asked,"I wonder if you can get any information about the Divine Cauldron here?”
"The ships on the river pass by frequently. I reckon that the emperor's dragon boat fleet should not be far from here. The Divine Cauldron should also be nearby."”
The three of them chatted as they ate. After dinner, they went to the streets to gather information. The news of Emperor Yang riding a dragon boat fleet and leading a court of civil and military officials to the south had already caused a sensation in the neighborhood! Everyone on the street was talking about the Emperor's tour of Jiangnan and his passing through Daliang. The dragon boat fleet had just passed by and was currently anchored in the river ten miles south of the city.
Zhang Lie waited for half a day, but no one mentioned the whereabouts of the most important divine cauldron. That night, he returned to the inn and stayed the night.
The next morning, after the three of them had breakfast, Zhang Lie said,"Brother Chou, Miss Xiao Xue, let's go out separately today to ask around. We'll return to the inn at noon to collect everything.”Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue agreed, and the three of them went to their respective places to gather information.
At noon, Zhang Lie and Chen Jingchou returned to the inn, but they didn't get any news. They drank a few sips of tea and waited for nearly two hours, but Yu Xiaoxue still didn't return. Chen Jingchou gradually grew anxious and said,""Brother Zhang, could something have happened to Xiaoxue?”
"Logically speaking, it shouldn't be, but I'm just afraid that there might be an accident!" Let's go and look for it!" The two of them walked onto the street and headed straight for the city. However, after walking through the streets and alleys, they searched all over Daliang City, but there was no sign of Yu Xiaoxue. As the sky darkened, Chen Jingchou felt anxious. The two of them continued to move forward. They turned a corner and arrived in front of Jianguo Temple. Suddenly, someone shouted from behind,"Brother Chen! Big Brother Zhang!" The two of them turned their heads and saw that Snowy was standing under the eaves of the roadside behind them.
Chen Jingchou was overjoyed. He quickly ran over and asked,""Why aren't you back yet? I, I thought something happened to you!”
Yu Xiaoxue said," I just heard some news, so it was too late. The Divine Cauldron is now on the emperor's dragon boat."”
"Oh?" Zhang Lie was shocked. When was it shipped up?"
"I just heard from the old man that the divine cauldron was transported onto the dragon boat yesterday," Yu Xiaoxue said.”As he spoke, he pointed. Zhang Lie looked over and saw an old man standing under the cypress tree in front of Jianguo Temple with his hands behind his back.
Zhang Lie quickly walked up and cupped his hands in greeting. He asked,"Uncle, forgive me for being presumptuous, but do you know anything about the Divine Cauldron? Can you tell me?"
The old man slowly shook his head and muttered to himself,"" It's a pity that the Divine Cauldron was presented to the Emperor yesterday. I have no chance to see it. I really want to know what it looks like…" When Zhang Lie asked again, the old man was in a daze. He closed his eyes and said nothing. Zhang Lie had no choice but to retreat and discuss with the two of them.
"Looks like the cauldron is indeed on the dragon boat!" Chen Jingchou said. Definitely!" "Since the Divine Cauldron is with the Emperor, it's very likely that Yu 'er is on the dragon boat!" Zhang Lie muttered.”
"Then, isn't Lady Tuoba in grave danger?" Chen Jingchou asked in shock.”
"She's in the enemy's camp and her life is in danger!" Zhang Lie said. There was no time to lose! We'll set off immediately and try to sneak into the dragon boat!”The three of them hurried back to the inn and packed their luggage. Zhang Lie bought three horses, and the few of them mounted them and galloped away.
An hour later, the sky turned dark, and they had already caught up with Emperor Yang's southern tour fleet. As far as the eye could see, it was really a huge force that stretched for hundreds of miles, rolling like a winding dragon with no end in sight. Flags fluttered on the riverbank, and tents were connected. Officials from all over the country came and went, escorting tributes. When Emperor Yang visited the south, he brought with him nearly ten thousand concubines, civil and military officials, monks and Taoists. All the food needed was provided by the counties along the way. Those local officials had received the divine order. If they disobeyed it, their entire family would be killed immediately. It was extremely cruel. The officials who saved trouble took the opportunity to plunder crazily. Who cared about the lives of the people? They were happy to make a fortune and curry favor with the emperor.
The three of them went around the river bank and continued to ride their horses forward. That night, they traveled through the night. The southern patrol fleet was brightly lit and the sound of drums and drums filled the sky. It actually reflected the river red at night. This Emperor Yang only cared about indulging in pleasure and indulging himself. He actually dug a pit and buried the delicacies he couldn't eat when he set sail! Who cares that the people on the shore are as thin as sticks, starving everywhere, selling their children to escape!
At dawn the next day, Chen Jingchou and the others rode to a low hill by the river. Looking down, they saw a huge dragon boat with a yellow cloth dragon banner hanging from its flagpole. It was parked in the middle of the river. It was more than three hundred feet long and wide enough for a horse to ride. It occupied almost half of the river. They were squeezed together with the many small boats beside them. Each boat was connected by wooden boards and led straight to the shore.
" This should be Emperor Yang's dragon boat," Zhang Lie said." The heavens are really helping me!" Since there is a ready-made pontoon bridge, it will be much easier for us to board the dragon boat!”
"Big Brother Zhang is right," Chen Jingchou said."We just need to jump onto the boat and sneak in!"”
"We'll take action immediately," Zhang Lie said.”
The three of them abandoned their horses and quietly came to the shore. They lay on the grass and watched the guards turn around. They used light body movements and jumped into a boat that was docked on the shore. After hiding on the ship for a while, the guards were all in a daze. They must have had fun all night and were still drunk, so no one noticed.
The boats were very close to each other and were connected by springboards. The three of them landed on the dragon boats in a few steps.
Zhang Lie said in a low voice,""The emperor is so muddle-headed! The soldiers and generals under him were not any better. They were all people who only knew how to drink and enjoy themselves!”
The three of them stepped forward quietly. The dragon boat was divided into four layers, with dragons and phoenixes carved on them. It was magnificent. Along the way, he carefully searched for the whereabouts of the divine cauldron, but there were many cabins on the dragon boat. After searching for nearly two hours, he still had no clue. After walking for a while, they turned a corner and arrived in front of a large house. Zhang Lie broke through the window paper and looked inside. Suddenly, he made a hand gesture. Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue hurriedly followed.
Zhang Lie gently pried open the door with his dagger and let Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue enter first. He then closed the door and entered in a flash. The floor of the room was covered with a golden carpet, and there was a carved jade screen by the window. On a pedestal in the north, there was a bronze cauldron that was half the height of a person.
"Big Brother Zhang, is this the Shennong Cauldron?" Chen Jingchou asked.”He walked up to the base and examined the cauldron carefully. He felt that something was wrong and said,"This, this cauldron seems…seems too new!”He recalled the Kunlun Mirror he had seen before and said,""I feel that if it really is an ancient divine artifact, it should be covered in bronze rust and look very ancient! -- Did we find the wrong place?"
Zhang Lie also walked up and looked at the cauldron. He rested his chin on his right hand and muttered,"The emperor placed the cauldron on his dragon boat and sent a large number of troops to guard it. Logically speaking, it shouldn't be wrong!”
"Big Brother Zhang, have you seen the Shennong Cauldron before?" Yu Xiaoxue asked.”
"Good question, Miss Xiao Xue!" Zhang Lie smiled. Actually, I've only heard about it, but I've never seen it before. The divine cauldron is the divine artifact of the Tuoba tribe. Although I'm related to their tribe by marriage, they've never let an outsider like me see the divine cauldron.”
Yu Xiaoxue walked to the front of the cauldron and said,"Big Brother Zhang has never seen it before either…I thought that only Big Brother Chen and I saw this divine cauldron for the first time."”After saying that, he gently reached out to touch the cauldron. However, just as his finger touched the edge of the cauldron, he suddenly heard a clang. A palm-sized piece of copper fell from the corner of the cauldron, and a hole was immediately formed.
Yu Xiaoxue was shocked and covered her mouth with both hands. She was so surprised that she was at a loss. She took a few steps back and said,"I…I didn't mean it…"
"What, what's going on?!" Chen Jingchou was also shocked. -- How could this cauldron…"
Yu Xiaoxue said," I'm... I'm sorry. I... I just touched it gently!"-- I, I really didn't know that the Divine Cauldron couldn't be touched…"
Zhang Lie walked over, picked up the broken pieces on the ground, and weighed them in his palm. He looked at the bright fracture, snorted, and threw the broken pieces on the ground. He knew that this cauldron was undoubtedly a fake, so he quickly comforted Xiaoxue. However, he still did not understand why the Emperor would put a fake cauldron on the dragon boat.
Just as he was feeling puzzled, a eunuch pushed open the door and entered. When he saw Chen Jingchou and the others, he exclaimed,"W-who is it? How did you get in?"
"You came just in time!" Zhang Lie smiled. I didn't look for you, but you came to me yourself!”
The eunuch was shocked and was about to turn around and escape when he shouted,"Thief!" Zhang Lie kicked his right foot and jumped to the eunuch's side. He reached out with his left hand and grabbed the eunuch's back, holding him down. His right hand took out a dagger and pressed it against the eunuch's throat. The eunuch could not move. Zhang Lie pulled him back and threw him to the ground. The eunuch panicked and knelt on the ground, kowtowing.""Spare me! Sir…please spare my life…"
"Of course you can spare my life, but tell me what's going on with this cauldron first," said Zhang Lie.”As he spoke, he pointed at the bronze cauldron.
The eunuch turned his head and saw that the bronze cauldron had been broken. He was so frightened that his entire body trembled. This…this cauldron is fake!"
"As expected, if this cauldron is fake, then where is the real cauldron?" Zhang Lie said.”
The eunuch hesitated for a moment before lowering his head." The real cauldron…The real cauldron was on its way to the dragon boat through the canal. It was robbed by a group of bandits on the way…"
"Robbers?" Zhang Lie was shocked. Where did this bandit come from?"
The eunuch's voice trembled." We, we don't know who they are either. We only know that the leader is very tall. He rides a yellow stallion and holds two giant axes in his hands. He looks like the Thunder God…"
Zhang Lie looked at his expression and knew that he would not dare to lie. He asked,"Then why is this fake cauldron?”
The eunuch's face was covered in cold sweat." We lost the cauldron. I'm afraid the emperor will punish us if he finds out."-- The chief steward ordered everyone to collect bronze along the way and forge a fake cauldron to make up for the number before arriving at Daliang…Fortunately, the emperor did not notice and even rewarded us greatly…"
When Zhang Lie heard this, he said,"You're a foolish ruler! No wonder the world was in such a state because of him! Continue!"
" That day when I presented the cauldron to His Majesty, Grand Tutor Yuwen was also present," the eunuch said." When he saw the cauldron, he frowned on the spot. Although he didn't say anything, he scared all of us half to death…"
"Any more?" Zhang Lie asked.
"Master, this one, this one indeed only knows this much!" the eunuch said in a panic.”
Zhang Lie pondered for a moment, then took a step forward and said,"Humph! Thank you so much! Since you've seen us, just accept your fate!”He thrust his arm forward and was about to stab the dagger. The eunuch's face turned pale and he collapsed to the ground.
"Wait!" Chen Jingchou quickly reached out to stop him. Brother Zhang, please spare his life on account of his sincere cooperation!”
"Brother Chou!" Zhang Lie retracted his dagger and said. Your old habit is acting up again…Fine, I'll let you have your way this time. I'll let you see for yourself what the consequences of your womanly kindness will bring!”Grabbing the eunuch by the collar, he threw him out of the door and shouted,""Get lost!" The eunuch fell to the ground and somersaulted a few times. Ignoring the pain, he rolled and crawled as he struggled to escape.
Just as Chen Jingchou turned around, he suddenly heard the eunuch shouting from outside the door,""Bandits! The bandits stole the emperor's divine cauldron!" There was a clamor of people, and the sound of footsteps mixed with the clashing of weapons came from all directions.
"Brother Chou!" Zhang Lie said. You should understand now, right?"
Chen Jingchou felt remorseful and said apologetically,""I understand now! Big Brother Zhang…I'm sorry!"
"There's nothing to apologize for. You'll have to face this kind of thing in the future!"-- Seal the door and we'll find another way out!”
The three of them carried the wooden bolt and blocked the door. A moment later, the guards arrived at the door. They knocked on the door and shouted,"How dare you! Quickly open the door! If you dare to disobey, you will be severely punished!" The door frame trembled. Time was tight. Zhang Lie looked around for an exit.
Chen Jingchou lifted the carpet and saw four cracks on the floor, forming a square about three feet wide. He hurriedly said,""Big Brother Zhang, look!" Zhang Lie bent down and used his dagger to pry the crack. With a squeak, the wooden board was lifted open. Chen Jingchou looked inside. It was pitch-black. It seemed to be a secret passage left behind during the construction of the ship, vaguely leading to the bottom of the ship. At this moment, the group of soldiers had already carried the wooden stakes over and started to knock on the door. The dust on the windowsill flew up and scattered in all directions. The door frame was on the verge of collapsing.
"Brother Chou, you and Miss Xiaoxue go down first. I'll follow you."”
"No, Big Brother Zhang and Little Xue should go down first!" Chen Jingchou said. I'll clean up the traces!"
"Alright, then be careful!" Zhang Lie hesitated.”He first went into the cave and went down with Snowy. Chen Jingchou turned around, grabbed a corner of the carpet, and threw it into the air. He jumped into the hole and put on the wooden lid. These three actions were completed almost at the same time. When the carpet fell down, it covered the hole. Although there were some wrinkles, it could not be taken care of.
Eunuch Liu, the Chief Eunuch, had brought his guards with him. With a loud bang, he pushed open the door of the room. The guards held steel knives and swarmed in. In a moment, the small room was filled. However, other than the slight mess in the house, there was no sign of a thief.
Eunuch Liu turned around and shouted at the soldiers to leave. He walked to the platform and looked at the divine cauldron. He was so shocked that he was dumbfounded. His legs were sore and his back was covered in cold sweat. He could not recover for a long time.
"Sir Chief, this cauldron…Why is it broken?" A guard exclaimed.”
Eunuch Liu wiped his sweat and composed himself. His mind turned quickly and he turned around, shouting angrily,"Are you blind? What was wrong with the cauldron? Why didn't you just leave it here!"
The guard was stunned and puzzled. He looked at the divine cauldron and then at Eunuch Liu. However, since Eunuch Liu had said so, it was naturally not bad and could not be disobeyed. He hurriedly bowed and replied,"Yes…Yes! This lowly one is blind!"
Eunuch Liu walked onto the platform and ordered a few soldiers to close the door. He swept his gaze across the crowd and said,"Who dares to leak a word about today's matter? Hmph! -- None of us will live!"
When the guards below heard this, they quickly bowed and replied in unison,"This subordinate does not dare!" Eunuch Liu carefully looked at the gap and hurriedly ordered his trusted subordinates to quickly arrest the craftsmen! He immediately repaired it, and after it was repaired, he would behead it to prevent the news from leaking and prevent future troubles.
Not long after, the Emperor heard that there was a thief on the ship and sent someone to inquire. Eunuch Liu hurriedly let the eunuch who had come to ask questions out of the door. His face was filled with joy, calumny, and fear. He bowed and replied,"Thanks to the emperor's blessing, the divine cauldron is safe and sound! -- A few unruly people and thieves have been killed. Please don't worry, Emperor! May the Emperor live forever! Hooray! As he spoke, he took out a heavy cloth bag from his sleeve and stuffed it into his hand.
The eunuch took it and weighed it in his hand. He understood what it meant and said with a smile,""Lord Chief has done a great job in protecting the cauldron. When I return to report to the emperor, I will definitely be rewarded heavily!”
Eunuch Liu said,"I hope that you can put in a few good words in front of the Emperor. I'll personally visit you another day and thank you!"”The eunuch nodded and put the gold ingot into his pocket. He flicked his horsetail whisk and left with a smile.
Chen Jingchou and the others waited in the cave for half a day before the footsteps above them gradually faded away. Zhang Lie lit up the Fire Breaker and found himself in a narrow passageway. The front of the passageway was slanted downwards. Zhang Lie made a hand gesture and went down first. Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue followed closely behind.
The passage twisted and turned, and the three of them slowly explored the path. They didn't know how many turns they had made. After walking for about an hour, they finally reached the end. It was a wall. Zhang Lie reached out and pressed on the wall. He pushed hard and the wall opened. A golden light instantly entered his sight.
The three of them jumped into the cabin one by one. They looked up and saw that it was a small cabin at the bottom of the ship. The room was filled with gold, silver, and jewelry. It was dazzling and dazzling. "Brother Chou, it seems like we've arrived at the Emperor's treasure room!"”
Chen Jingchou casually picked up a string of pearls. There were a total of forty to fifty pearls, each of which was crystal clear and the size of a thumb. He threw them back and said,"I once heard that wherever the emperor went, he ordered the local officials to pay tribute to rare treasures. Along the way, he plundered countless gold and silver treasures! I didn't expect to see you here today.”
Yu Xiaoxue was also surprised." So much money, it can't be spent in a few lifetimes. Why doesn't the emperor distribute it to the poor people?"”
Chen Jingchou smiled." If the Emperor is so kind, he only needs to collect less taxes and reduce some corvee. The people will be thankful. Why do we need him to distribute silver?!"”
"We're not out of danger yet. Let's go out first."”He jumped to the door and pushed it open. The door was locked. Zhang Lie took out his iron pestle, channeled his strength with both arms, and hacked down at the door. With a bang, the door fell with its frame. Outside the door was a wide passageway that led to both ends.
"Let's go!" Zhang Lie said. After they left the door, they turned left and walked along the corridor. They carefully walked forward. After walking for more than ten feet, they reached the end of the corridor. It was a huge iron door. Zhang Lie walked forward and pushed hard. The iron door did not budge at all. It was extremely firm and had been locked from the outside. It seemed that it could not be opened no matter what.
"How, how do we get out?" Chen Jingchou asked.”
"Let's go to the other side."”Everyone turned around and walked past the treasure room. They walked another 200 feet and reached the end of the corridor. However, there was a cabin wall. There was no exit, not even a door. Zhang Lie looked around and saw a huge wooden pillar by the road. The pillar was painted red. Zhang Lie walked to the pillar and looked up. He seemed to be able to climb to the top of the boat along the pillar. He said,"Brother Chou, there's no road ahead. We can only climb up. Hold Miss Xiaoxue." Chen Jingchou replied. With Zhang Lie in front, the three of them climbed up the wooden pillar step by step. Soon, they reached the end of the pillar.
Zhang Lie turned his head and saw a large wooden beam inlaid with gold on the top of the boat. It was nearly two feet wide. The few of them jumped over the beam and looked down. There was a hall below. There were several red sandalwood couches in the hall, and the furnishings were quite exquisite. There was a large red carpet in front of them, embroidered with several peonies. They were both beautiful and charming. Several wisps of green smoke rose from the purple-gold incense burner on both sides. The fragrance was strange and dazzling. It looked like a side hall of the main hall. Just as they were about to jump down from the beam, they heard footsteps.
"Quickly lie down!" Someone is coming!" Chen Jingchou and Yu Xiaoxue leaned against the beam, holding their breath and not daring to move.
Not long after, the door of the hall opened and a palace maid walked in. She was holding a gold-inlaid plate with a white jade carved wine pot on it. She walked through the hall and went in.
"Big Brother Zhang!" Yu Xiaoxue said. Do you think the back of that palace maid looks like Sister Tuoba?”
"Yes!" Zhang Lie said. It was indeed very similar! Unfortunately, she had her head lowered and could not see her face clearly.”
"Let's follow them and investigate," said Chen Jingchou.”Zhang Lie nodded.
The three of them followed the wooden beam and quietly followed behind the palace maid. After going around a few red pillars, they soon arrived in front of a magnificent hall. Looking down, the hall was bustling with drums and music, singing and dancing.
In front of him was a platform that was several feet tall. On it was a large golden chair that was several people wide. On the chair was a dragon carving. A person wearing a yellow robe and a golden crown was leaning on the side. He was drunk and had fun drinking with a woman beside him. Hundreds of palace maids surrounded him and served him. Seeing this scene, the three of them knew that the old man was undoubtedly Emperor Yang Guang of the Sui Dynasty. However, seeing that there were no guards in the hall, they were not in a hurry to leave.
This book comes from：m.funovel.com。