The Enchanting Imperial Concubine (Book 2)

Chapter 349 - Similarities

Outside the Ministry of Justice and Punishments,

Ning Chen emerged and saw Ye Yun waiting for him under a tree not far away.

On this hot summer day, the lush ancient tree provided a patch of green shade, creating a very cool atmosphere.

"Let's go; I'll head to your place." Ning Chen approached and gently took Ye Yun's hand.

The two walked side by side, with Huiyue holding an umbrella following beside them.

But after just two steps, Ning Chen took the umbrella from her.

"Stay behind. I need to speak with Ming Shunyi."

Huiyue glanced at her mistress; though worried, she stepped back a few paces.

"The Emperor wants to ask what results I found from the interrogation, right?" Ye Yun spoke softly.

Ning Chen nodded slightly, "Yes, although the servants were in the room, there were still a few things they couldn't hear clearly."

After all, some of the sentences were ones Ye Yun had lowered her voice to whisper.

At that moment, Ye Yun hesitated, unsure whether to reveal her suspicions.

Without evidence, if Ning Chen had doubts, it might instead lead her into trouble.

Lost in thought, she couldn't help but look up at the man beside her, only to meet his eyes filled with trust.

Ye Yun's heart softened a bit. Perhaps she was too guarded?

Recalling how Ning Chen had defended her without hesitation that night, it seemed she had indeed been overly cautious.

After calming her thoughts, she decided to speak.

"I suspect that Fang Xiuyuan is involved in this matter. The palace maid I interrogated was brought in specifically for this purpose. Although she revealed nothing, based on her body language, I believe Fang Xiuyuan must be connected to this."

Ning Chen frowned, "Are you talking about Yao Shi?"

He was clearly surprised.

This was not unusual; apart from Ye Yun, who had been wary of Yao Xiang, who would regard her as a rival?

A woman with little favor, who had been in poor health since giving birth to a princess, was hardly a threat.

"Of course, I'm just speculating, and I don't have substantial evidence. Please don't blame me for being suspicious, Your Majesty." Ye Yun lowered her head.

She regretted saying it out loud.

But unexpectedly, Ning Chen tightened his grip on her hand and directly said, "Whether it's her or not, since you suspect her, your reasoning is valid. I trust you; you are different from others and won't harm anyone without cause."

Ye Yun froze for a moment, then a faint smile appeared on her lips.

"I trust Your Majesty as well and won't let you down."

In that moment, their hearts were in sync.

As they slowly walked back to Jiaotang Courtyard, Ning Chen shared his plans.

He had already ordered the news of Chuyun's death to be sealed and spread the word that a strict interrogation was underway. If the person behind this feared being exposed, they would surely find a way to eliminate Chuyun; at that time, whoever acted would be the culprit.

This was, of course, a good strategy, but also a gamble.

Ning Chen was betting that the other party would lose control and attempt murder, but if they remained calm and didn't take the bait, it would all be in vain.