The Doctor’s Three-Time Marriage - Chapter 268
Chapter 268: 268. This woman absolutely cannot stay
Translator: 549690339
On the second day after Gu Ling left, Yan Shiba did not come to Su Liang again. Su Liang was used to her unpredictable and untraceable ways, so she specifically asked Ren Dong to go to Huguo Temple to make sure Cheng Yun was not kidnapped. Other than that, she didn’t care much.
Su Liang asked Ren Dong to find her all kinds of love potions and their corresponding antidotes, regardless of the cost.
Ren Dong was a little confused, not understanding what Su Liang was up to.
“Don’t ask so much, just go find it.” Su Liang handed Ren Dong two banknotes. Ren Dong took them, “Alright, I’ll give it a try.”
It took Ren Dong three days to find several kinds of aphrodisiacs for Su Liang. There were those specifically for brothels, those sold at high prices in the black market, and even so-called imperial harem secret fragrances. Ren Dong felt embarrassed when describing the effects the seller claimed…
Seeing Su Liang’s interest in the special medicinal items on the table, Ren Dong hurriedly reminded her, ‘Master, be very careful, some of them can be harmful by just a touch, and others by just a whiff…”
Su Liang took out her homemade gloves, protective clothing, and gas mask,
“Don’t worry, I’m prepared, and if all else fails, there’s always the antidotes.”
Then, Ren Dong watched as Su Liang, “fully equipped,” delved into the analysis and research of the special and sensitive drugs.
Although knowing that Su Liang was a professional, Ren Dong insisted on being there all the time, fearing that something unexpected might happen due to carelessness.
Apart from going to check the pulse of the two pregnant sisters-in-law from the Lin family every other day, Su Liang rarely went out.
Ren Dong would secretly enter the palace to report to Duanmu Yi about Su Liang’s whereabouts every three days, and most of the things she said were true.
For instance, recently, Ren Dong honestly told Duanmu Yi that Su Liang was researching aphrodisiacs, but as for the purpose, she was not sure.
Yang Yu and Nian Jincheng’s wedding date was set in the twelfth lunar month, leaving only a little more than a month. Both of them were busy preparing for the wedding.
On a chosen day, Yang Yu accompanied Nian Jincheng on a trip back to the Nian Mansion, where he had lived since childhood, and listened to him recount many past events and the various people of the Nian family in his eyes.
Originally, Nian Jincheng did not want to mention those people and those things, but after he did, he felt that some knots in his heart seemed to dissipate. He had always longed for understanding, acceptance, and a warm home. Now, this wish could soon come true.
“Right, didn’t Gu Ling tell the emperor that the Nian family intended to rebel?
What happened to the ones who were exiled before?” Yang Yu asked Nian Jincheng.
Nian Jincheng shook his head, “There may be new arrangements, but the emperor never mentioned it. ”
At first, the entire Nian family was exiled because of Nian Ruxue and Nian Ruting’s crimes of deceiving the emperor. Later, Nian Jincheng himself got into trouble and had to change his identity. There was no news about the Nian family afterward.
Yang Yu sighed, “I’ll arrange for someone to inquire about the place they were exiled to.”
Nian Jincheng nodded, “That would be good.”
Unexpectedly, the next day, Nian Jincheng was summoned to the palace and told that the Nian family members had disappeared.
The place of exile in Qian Country was located in the impoverished and bitterly cold region of the west, guarded by government soldiers. Recently, when Duanmu Yi secretly sent people to execute the Nian family members on the basis of information from Gu Ling that Nian Jitang had long harbored intentions of rebellion, the Nian family members escaped just one day before they arrived! Without the help of a skilled expert, it would have been impossible!
“Who do you think leaked the news, Lord Nian?” Duanmu Yi’s eyes were deep and unfathomable.
Nian Jincheng wore a respectful expression, “In reply to Your Majesty, I have long severed ties with those people. Perhaps, it was the work of Nian Ruxue, who fled out of guilt.”
“Nian Ruxue?” Duanmu Yi’s face darkened. He had a secret relationship with her, and he even almost took her as a concubine. At that time, he thought she was a perfect example of a well-educated lady. Later, it turned out that her boasted martial arts were mere showboating, but she was quite skilled at manipulating people’s hearts.
“I’m just guessing; she’s the only one I can think of right now.” Nian Jincheng said respectfully, “At that time, she managed to escape, perhaps with the help of an expert.”
Duanmu Yi snorted coldly, “Even your grandmother was taken away. Perhaps, as you said, it was Nian Ruxue colluding with someone.”
After leaving the palace, Nian Jincheng first went to Yan’s residence and then went to Su’s residence with Yang Yu.
Su Liang was still studying aphrodisiac drugs, wearing strange clothes, with her face covered and no skin exposed all over her body.
“Don’t come in.” Su Liang in the Study, raised her hand and pointed to her room, “Talk over there, I can hear.”
When Nian Jincheng mentioned the disappearance of the exiled Nian family members, Su Liang blurted out, “Nian Ruxue?”
“I think it is likely to be her.” Nian Jincheng said, “But she couldn’t have done it alone; she must have conspired with someone secretly.”
“Do Nian family members have any value to save?” Su Liang expressed her confusion, “Nian Ruxue is not a person of deep affection and loyalty. Moreover, the timing is so coincidental.”
Nian Jincheng sighed, “Indeed, it is very strange.”
“I’ve heard Gu Ling mention before that he thought you might have been picked up by the Nian family.” Su Liang said.
Nian Jincheng was stunned for a moment, and after a brief silence, spoke again, “Actually, I have also suspected that I was picked up by them, but those people are not kind-hearted and wouldn’t have raised a child for no reason. I should be their biological child, just despised by them.”
Yang Yu held Nian Jincheng’s hand, but Nian Jincheng shook his head, indicating he was alright, merely talking about his feelings. But these feelings would no longer affect his mood.
After the two left, Su Liang called for Ren Dong, “Go and find Song Qi.”
Song Qi was brought back from the southern city of Jiaye by Ning Family’s old housekeeper to act as a steward, and had been in the capital city for some time after meeting Su Liang.
A few days ago, Su Liang had asked Ren Dong to find medicine for her and had mentioned that Song Qi could help. He provided Ren Dong with different channels, and when it came to doing business, he was indeed very talented.
Upon hearing that Su Liang wanted to see him, Song Qi hurried over, putting down his work.
He first reported the recent situation of the capital city’s shops. Under Su Liang’s suggestions and Song Qi’s management, the overall revenue of the shops in the capital increased, as did their reputation.
“Thank you for your hard work.” Su Liang said, “What we produce is for consumption; safety is our top priority, so don’t let anyone exploit it.”
Su Liang had mentioned this before and was now reminding Song Qi again. After all, she was, in name, the head of the Ning Family, and if someone were to target the Ning Family’s stores, it would be very troublesome.
After discussing business matters, Su Liang gave Song Qi another task—to help her find medicine.
Before, she was looking for aphrodisiacs, and now Su Liang asked Song Qi to find various “black medicines” in secret circulation, such as aphrodisiac incense, knockout drugs, laxatives, poisons, etc.
“This subordinate will try his best.” Song Qi agreed. There were all kinds of people in the capital city, and as long as one had enough money and connections, they could buy whatever they wanted.
After Gu Ling left, Su Liang hadn’t been in the kitchen again. Instead, she busied herself with reading and making medicine and felt very fulfilled.
Song Qi was very efficient, continuously providing Su Liang with various kinds of medicines. Su Liang didn’t want to poison anyone; her primary goal was to learn and be prepared, in case someone wanted to poison her.
That day, Duanmu Yi sent someone to invite Su Liang to the palace to treat Sixth Princess Duanmu Qianqian.
Previously, in order to frame Su Liang, Duanmu Qianqian stabbed herself and forced Su Liang to confess using Bai Xiaohu, but she failed, resulting in the complete demise of the Wan family. The Empress Dowager was bedridden, and the Empress’s power was usurped, effectively banished to the Cold Palace, while Duanmu Qianqian, the princess soon to marry, hadn’t set foot outside the palace gate since the incident.
This was Su Liang’s first visit to Duanmu Qianqian’s palace – a place of luxury and wealth – but the eunuchs and palace maids all hung their heads and tightened their faces.
“Your Highness, Dr. Su has arrived.” A palace maid reported.
Through the delicate bead curtain, Su Liang saw Duanmu Qianqian lying on the couch, but she seemed not to hear and did not invite her in.
“Perhaps Her Highness is asleep. You should wait, Imperial Physician Su.” The Palace Maid lowered her head and whispered.
Su Liang’s expression was calm, “Alright.” She then turned and left.
The Palace Maid hurriedly followed her, thinking Su Liang was leaving. However, she saw her sit down in the courtyard and take out a book from her medical box to read.
Seeing the Palace Maid staring at her with wide eyes, Su Liang smiled faintly, “No need to prepare tea. Just call me when the Sixth Princess wakes up.”
“Ah… Alright…” The Palace Maid subconsciously complied and went back in. Soon after, the sound of shattered porcelain was heard from inside.
The Palace Maid came out again with her slapped face covered. Inviting Su Liang in, she said Duanmu Qianqian had woken up.
As the bead curtains were pulled apart, Su Liang approached Duanmu Qianqian while holding her medical box, “Greetings, Sixth Princess.”
Duanmu Qianqian was terribly skinny. She gestured with a gloomy gaze for everyone else to leave when she saw Su Liang.
“I heard that Nian Jincheng is marrying a low-born merchant’s daughter next month?” Duanmu Qianqian asked coldly.
Su Liang smiled gently, “Yes, she is my friend. General Nian fell in love with her at first sight and then deeper at second, it’s all fate.”
Duanmu Qianqian gritted her teeth, “Su Liang, you did this on purpose, didn’t you?”
Su Liang feigned incomprehension, “What do you mean, Your Highness?”
“You tried to get back at me by having some random woman seduce Nian Jincheng!” Duanmu Qianqian said coldly.
Su Liang’s smile deepened, “Your Highness really flatters me. I’m not that capable of controlling who General Nian likes.”
Duanmu Qianqian’s face turned white with anger. Then Su Liang said, “But our score is indeed unsettled.”
As the words fell, Su Liang took out a silver needle. Duanmu Qianqian’s expression changed, “What are you trying to do?”
“Treating Your Highness.” Su Liang said seriously, “It may hurt a bit, but nobody would believe it if I wanted to kill you.”
“You haven’t even checked my pulse yet!” Duanmu Qianqian dodged Su Liang’s needle.
“Oh, I forgot. Please sit down, Your Highness. I’ll check your pulse first, then apply the needle and medicine.” Su Liang’s smile was gentle.
“I’m not sick, I don’t need your treatment! Get out! ” Duanmu Qianqian pointed at the door.
“Alright, I’m busy too. Please think carefully before you want to see me again, Your Highness. Otherwise, when you see me, you want to chop me to pieces but can’t do anything. It’s really uncomfortable!” Su Liang patted Duanmu Qianqian’s shoulder, causing her to shiver involuntarily.
After packing up her medical box, Su Liang left to report to Duanmu Yi. She said plainly that Duanmu Qianqian refused her treatment and she wouldn’t force it.
Duanmu Yi didn’t say anything but let Su Liang leave the palace.
In fact, Su Liang felt sympathy for the princess marrying far away. However, the incident of Duanmu Qianqian colluding with the Wan family to capture Bai Xiaohu made any reconciliation impossible. This debt would be settled sooner or later. In Su Liang’s view, helplessness could never justify harming others.
This was just a minor episode, Su Liang didn’t mind. But that night, Duanmu Qianqian died!
As dawn approached, Ren Dong woke Su Liang up, saying someone from the palace had come, and the emperor had ordered her to enter the palace immediately.
Unaware of what happened, Su Liang met Crown Prince Duanmu Chen at the entrance of the palace, who was also in the dark as she was.
When Su Liang was taken to Duanmu Qianqian’s palace, she wondered if Duanmu Qianqian would try to frame her again with the same trick. However, when she entered, she saw Duanmu Qianqian’s cold body.
Duanmu Qianqian was strangled with a thin wire, and there were no traces of struggle or fight. Only half a footprint was found under the window. The palace maid who was keeping watch at night said that Duanmu Qianqian was in a bad mood and did not want to see them, so they didn’t stay by her bedside. They heard a noise in the middle of the night, went in to check, and found that Duanmu Qianqian had been murdered.
Upon hearing the news, the Empress Xiao Wan hurriedly pushed away the maid who was helping her and threw herself at Su Liang, “It’s you! You killed Qianqian! I’ll kill you!”
Duanmu Chen quickly stood in front of Su Liang, holding back Xiao Wan,
“Mother, the matter has not yet been investigated. Please calm down.”
“Get away! I’ve lost my two sons, and now my only daughter is gone… How can I be calm?” Xiao Wan sat down on the ground, bursting into tears.
Su Liang had already walked to the side of Duanmu Qianqian’s body, bending over to examine the strangulation mark on her neck, which showed nothing
unusual.
Not long after, Su Liang and Duanmu Chen went to the Imperial Study to see Duanmu Yi, and Duanmu Che, the fifth prince, was also present.
Duanmu Yi had loved his daughter very much, and with her impending marriage to Liang Country, Duanmu Qianqian’s sudden death made him extremely angry. He looked at Su Liang with a dark face, “You have had a grudge against Qianqian in the past and had a quarrel with her during the day. Now you are the prime suspect, do you have anything to say?”
Duanmu Chen, with his eyes narrowed, was not sure whether Duanmu Yi was really upset and irrational, or trying to take the opportunity to cause trouble for Su Liang…however, this incident could not have been Su Liang’s doing.
It was getting light outside.
Su Liang remained calm, “Last night, this humble official was at home and never left. The maid Ren Dong, who was bestowed to me by the emperor, can testify.”
“As far as I know, she does not live with you. How can she testify?” Duanmu Yi asked coldly.
Unable to bear it any longer, Duanmu Chen spoke up, “Father, although there have been some conflicts between Doctor Su and the Sixth Sister, she did not instigate them. Your son believes that she would not do such a thing. If she really wanted to harm the Sixth Sister, she would not have attracted suspicion to herself.”
Hearing that, the silent Duanmu Che suddenly gave a cold laugh.
Duanmu Yi asked coldly, “Che’er, what are you laughing at?”
Duanmu Che looked at Su Liang playfully, “Father, I just suddenly thought of some past events. When the bastard son of Prime Minister Xiao, Xiao Muyun, was killed, the greatest suspect was Doctor Su, who had a grudge against him. Yet everyone said that if she had done it, she would not have left any evidence pointing to herself. The second prince was also murdered, and Doctor Su, who had a longstanding feud with him, was a prime suspect. But in the end, the blame fell on the eldest prince. Not long after, the eldest prince disappeared, and Doctor Su happened to be away from the capital city. Last night, the Sixth Sister was poisoned, and instead of feeling sad for the Sixth Sister, the Crown Prince is in a hurry to exonerate Doctor Su, who is the most suspicious. It is really confusing.”
Duanmu Chen’s face stiffens, and Duanmu Yi frowns deeply.
Duanmu Che snorted coldly, “Ever since this Miss Su returned to the capital, the Second Prince, the Eldest Prince, and the Sixth Sister all had accidents, and they all had grudges with Doctor Su, not to mention significant grudges. Once may be a coincidence, but for it to happen repeatedly, even if she did not do it herself, is it really that she is completely innocent? She, who was once a delicate young lady who had been away from the capital for more than a year, has changed into a talented woman who is not only skilled in martial arts and medical skills, but also highly intelligent. Those who bear grudges against her have all met a bad end, yet Father still believes her. Your son has nothing more to say.”
Duanmu Chen knew that something was seriously wrong. He was well aware of Su Liang’s involvement in some matters, such as the fate of Duanmu Cheng and Duanmu Ao. But she had been very careful not to leave any handle. However, when similar things happened too many times, it led to the current situation in which Duanmu Yi’s suspicion was aroused, even without any evidence.
Su Liang was put under house arrest in the Imperial Palace, unable to return home or contact anyone.
Duanmu Chen dared not plead for Su Liang rashly, and could only watch the changes.
“Father, that huge stone that fell from the sky may not have been placed there by someone.” Duanmu Che pondered, “If Father thinks that Su Liang is important for Qian Country, even if she commits a mistake, he will not hold her accountable. Her high-profile pursuit of Gu Ling may not be a form of reverse psychology towards Father. After all, what one cannot get is always more desirable.”
Duanmu Yi’s face darkened like ink as he listened to Duanmu Che continue, “I really can’t help but suspect that she’s a spy sent by someone else, although I don’t know how she managed to look exactly like Su Yuanzhou’s granddaughter. Su Yuanzhou’s daughter-in-law was of unknown origin, and Su Liang was also born outside and brought back later. What if, from the beginning, she was not Su Yuanzhou’s granddaughter at all? Or perhaps she has a secret twin sister.”
“Lately, I have indeed been irrational towards Su Liang.” Duanmu Yi coldly admitted, “What do you think should be done with her?”
“Whether she is a spy or a phoenix star, the safest way is to get rid of her.” Duanmu Che stared intently, “Our Qian Country is strong, and it is only a matter of time before we become a unified nation. Why do we need a woman? If she is really the phoenix star and has another master, it would be a huge threat to Qian Country! In less than a year, she has won over many ministers, including the Crown Prince.”
“Didn’t you like her before?” Duanmu Yi asked.
Duanmu Che shook his head, “I was just infatuated for a while. Now when I think about it, many things were done deliberately by her. She is too good at conquering people’s hearts, and I was inadvertently affected. Now I am sober.. Father, for the sake of Qian Country, this woman must not be allowed to stay!”
