I became the demon of the female devil

Chapter 376 The Empress Arrives! A direct confrontation between the Empress and the Consort!
the other side.

After leaving the Li residence, the man in black did not leave via the main road, but instead plunged into the moat, diving underwater like a fish and swimming swiftly towards the inner city.

It did not peek out to breathe the entire time.

Upon reaching the vicinity of the inner city, they emerged silently from the river, their clothes completely dry.

Just as he was about to enter the inner city, a cold voice suddenly came from behind him: "Too slow. I've been waiting for you here for a long time."

? !
The man in black was startled.

"not good!"

Although he was horrified, he reacted extremely quickly. Without even turning his head, he retreated dozens of feet in an instant, reaching into his robes to grab the jade pendant, ready to crush it immediately.

Since the other party was able to track him all the way here, it means his identity has been exposed.

Now that we've fallen into an ambush, it will be difficult to escape. We must destroy the token first, otherwise it will definitely implicate the adults!

However, the woman did not give him that chance.

A terrifying pressure surged forth, and the man in black suddenly straightened up, slowly rising into the air. The skin on his neck wrinkled, as if he were being tightly gripped by an invisible hand.

"Ho ho-"

His face was bluish-purple, his eyes were bulging, and his vision was blurred.

In the brief moment before consciousness faded, all I saw was a pair of dazzling blue-green eyes, as striking as jade.

Step, step, step——

Yu Youhan walked up to him and muttered to herself, "Although Chen Mo told me to observe secretly and not to act rashly, it's just too troublesome. Anyway, they're all bad news, so I might as well just search their souls..."

Under the fearful gaze of the man in black, a slender, jade-like finger pointed from afar.

click-

Spiderweb-like cracks appeared on his body, which then crumbled and disintegrated inch by inch.

A translucent, twisted soul was held in Yu Youhan's hand, and under the azure halo, it gradually turned into smoke and completely dissipated.

"Tsk, they really are from the prefectural government..."

Yu Youhan raised an eyebrow slightly.

Based on the information retrieved from their memories, they finally figured out Madam Hua's identity.

Hua Yinglan was originally a famous talented woman in Bailu City. She was outstanding in both appearance and learning, and had many suitors in the city, including the patriarch of the Li family, who was a grain transport merchant.

However, Hua Yinglan had no interest in men whatsoever, let alone an old man who was more than thirty years her senior.

But Master Li was not giving up. He first plotted to kill her parents, and then bribed her personal maid to secretly drug her. After forcing her into marriage, he took her into his household.

Hua Yinglan had resigned herself to her fate and was prepared to live out the rest of her life in a daze, until she met Ming Yuchun.

At their first meeting at Liyun Pavilion, Hua Yinglan fell in love with this spirited woman at first sight.

After several encounters, the two fell in love and secretly pledged their lives to each other. However, this relationship was ultimately something that could not be made public. Ming Yuchun was unwilling to live in secrecy for the rest of her life, so she instigated Hua Yinglan to poison her husband.

Then he acted as a middleman, introducing her to Lord Tang from the Maritime Trade Office.

With the support of the government, Hua Yinglan gradually gained control of the Li family's business and expanded her operations, eventually becoming the leading figure in Jinsha Port and monopolizing more than half of the port's business.

The price to pay was to help that Master Tang deal with some special "goods"—

Those were the barbarian slaves on the cargo ships.

Previously, a batch would be shipped every three months, but then it stopped for a few months for some reason, and only recently has it resumed "delivery".

“Ming Yuchun, like this man in black, was all arranged by Tang Xingbang, which is why he knows so much about Hua Yinglan’s situation.”

"On my very first day in Egret City, I actually managed to find the real culprit by following the clues. It's really a bit outrageous..."

Yu Youhan shook her head secretly.

As the dragon energy within Chen Mo's body continued to strengthen, the outward manifestation of this was his increasingly extraordinary luck.

His cultivation progressed by leaps and bounds, he repeatedly escaped danger, and he was sure to succeed in whatever he wanted to do... Everything seemed like a coincidence, but in reality, it was an "inevitable" result of the blessing of the Heavenly Dao.

"However, luck aside, Chen Mo's talent and ability are beyond doubt."

"I never imagined he was so talented not only in cultivation but also in poetry... All those 'birds flying wing to wing' and 'trees with intertwined branches' poems, I don't know how he came up with them, they're so cheesy..."

Yu Youhan feigned disgust, but the corners of her lips unconsciously curled up, and her cheeks flushed.

A night breeze swept by, bringing her back to her senses. She raised her hand and tapped her forehead. "I was thinking too much. I haven't finished the important business yet."

With a wave of his hand, the jade pendant on the ground rose into the air and landed in his palm. After sensing it for a moment, he revealed a look of understanding.

"In order to protect Ming Yuchun, she wanted to use the goods in her possession as a condition, hoping that the prefectural government would show leniency... Ha, she is still a devoted woman, but unfortunately she has met the wrong person."

"So it is said that the Maritime Trade Office and the barbarians have long been in cahoots."

"As for whether other officials are involved, we only need to open up that Lord Tang's head to find out."

Yu Youhan took a step forward, and his figure suddenly disappeared.

In the blink of an eye, they appeared in front of the prefectural government. Just as they were about to look for Lord Tang, suddenly, the sound of rapid hoofbeats rang out, and a group of officials dressed in various colored robes rode towards them from afar.

crunch--

The gates of the government office opened, and a group of constables carrying lanterns filed out.

The group gathered in front of the yamen, led by a middle-aged man with thick eyebrows and a square face, exuding an imposing presence. He was none other than Kuang Yinghao, the Assistant Magistrate of Nantu Prefecture.

He dismounted and called out loudly, "Is everyone here?"

The adjutant beside him replied, "Your Excellency, the officials from the Six Departments and the Three Ministries have all arrived. Lord Jiao will be here shortly."

"it is good."

Kuang Yinghao nodded, glanced at everyone, and said in a deep voice, "You should all know who the person coming later is. If you want to keep your official hats, then keep your mouths shut and watch your eyes. Don't end up dragging everyone down with you!"

"Understand?"

"My subordinate understands!"

Everyone responded.

Kuang Yinghao glanced at the sky, his brows furrowed, his eyes filled with worry.

A few days ago, my nephew, who works in Tiannan Prefecture, sent me a message saying that two commanders of the Tianlin Guard had come to the capital with the aim of eradicating the remnants of the Gu God Cult in the southern border region.

The leader was none other than Chen Mo, who had recently gained considerable fame.

The enemy has already destroyed several strongholds and captured a county magistrate. Their next stop is Bailu City, which clearly indicates they have ill intentions.

Just as he was pondering how to respond, he received another notification from Kyoto that the eldest princess would arrive in the state capital in two days!
As a local official in Nantu, Kuang Yinghao was naturally aware of the princess's importance.

Putting aside her royal status, if she hadn't taken action to suppress the Southern Barbarians and guard the border for many years, the Southern Frontier would probably still be in dire straits. In the hearts of all the people, she was like a god!

The arrival of such a person caused a stir throughout the prefecture, and no one dared to be negligent.

But at this critical juncture, chaos broke out in the city. The Gu God Cult appeared in public and threatened to rebel. And the actor who was possessed by the Gu worms was, to make matters worse, playing the role of the eldest princess!

Everything just happened to coincide; it's such a damn coincidence!

"Is it a coincidence, or was it deliberately orchestrated..."

As Kuang Yinghao was pondering to himself, an elderly man with graying temples and wearing a long-sleeved, curved-collared robe came out, and everyone bowed in respect.

"Greetings, Lord Jiao."

Jiao Yu, the current prefect of Nantu, looked at Kuang Yinghao and asked, "How much longer until our distinguished guest arrives?"

Kuang Yinghao replied, "According to the information provided, it is estimated that there will be about two more hours."

"Let's go, let's wait outside the city gate first. It would be a serious breach of etiquette if they arrive early and we're not there." Jiao Yu, helped by his attendants, sat in the sedan chair, then lifted the curtain and said, "If that person asks about yesterday's events..."

Kuang Yinghao said in a low voice, "I've found a few death row inmates in the state prison; they can be used as human shields if necessary..."

"Okay." Jiao Yu nodded and said, "Remember, we must turn big problems into small ones, and small problems into nothing. In short, let's get through this hurdle first."

"My subordinate understands."

Kuang Yinghao's expression was complicated.

He knew in his heart that Bailu City was definitely not clean, and the Gu God Cult had most likely infiltrated it.

But they can investigate behind closed doors however they want, but they absolutely cannot make a scene in front of the emperor. After all, it's not just him involved; there are dozens of colleagues involved as well. The prefecture government has just undergone a major reshuffle and simply can't afford any more trouble...

"Set off."

"Yes."

The horses galloped towards the city gate, their hooves flying.

"Dignified guest?"

Yu Youhan hesitated for a moment, then followed silently instead of making a move.

Before dawn, night had fallen.

The group walked through the deserted streets and arrived at the main gate. The guards had already received the news, and the city gate was wide open. Hundreds of people stood in neat rows, and two rows of torches were planted on the ground, their flames crackling.

The officials arrived outside the city, dismounted, and lined up in order of rank.

Yu Youhan looked at this scene with increasing confusion, "Who exactly is this guest that warrants such a grand display?"

Just then, as if sensing something, she looked up at the distant sky, a hint of surprise flashing in her eyes.

"This is……"

……

……

At the beginning of the hour of Mao (5-7 AM), the faint morning light began to appear in the east.

A luxurious flying boat pierced the sky, flew over, and slowly landed on the ground.

As the long ladder was lowered, dozens of heavily armored guards emerged from the cabin and stood on either side. Then, a figure dressed in a bright red robe with golden phoenixes embroidered on the hem slowly stepped out.

Her long, black hair was styled into an updo, adorned with pearl and jade hairpins. Her bright face was like a piece of fine jade, yet her eyes and brows exuded a dignified and unapproachable aura.

Several female officials followed behind, carrying parasols, yellow flags, and ceremonial swords, adding a touch of solemnity to the atmosphere.

wow-

Jiao Yu led a group of officials forward quickly, and they all knelt down and kowtowed heavily.

"This humble official greets Your Highness Princess Xuanhuang!"

May Your Highness enjoy boundless blessings and peace!

Yu Youhan watched this scene from afar, her expression frozen.

She truly hadn't expected Chu Yanli to come to Bailu City, but what surprised her even more was the busty female official who was following Chu Yanli, holding a fan in her hand...

"Jiang Yuchan?!"

"Why is that stinky old woman here too?!"

Although the Empress had changed her appearance through some means, Yu Youhan still recognized her at a glance.

As the mother of a nation, a woman of noble birth, she shouldn't even be allowed to leave the palace. Yet this woman disguised herself as a servant and traveled thousands of miles to the southern border?!
What a joke!
She quickly realized what was happening.

"It seems that Zhonglihe guessed my identity and told the Empress, which is why she abandoned state affairs and chased after me all the way here?"

Looking at the Empress, who was standing on tiptoe and glancing around, Yu Youhan narrowed her eyes and a cold smile appeared on her lips. "You'd actually go to this extent for Chen Mo? I underestimated you before."

……

……

"Your Highness, please mind your manners."

Lady Sun tugged at the Empress's sleeve and whispered a reminder.

The Queen then withdrew her gaze and muttered, "Strange, where is the little thief? He should have arrived before me."

"Alright, get up, all of you," Chu Yanli said calmly.

"Thank you, Your Highness."

Only then did everyone get up from the ground.

Chu Yanli looked at the old man at the head of the group and asked, "Are you the newly appointed prefect?"

"Your Highness, I am Jiao Yu. I was originally the Vice Prefect of Jinyang Prefecture, but I was transferred here two months ago," Jiao Yu replied, bowing slightly.

"Do you know why I have come?" Chu Yanli asked.

Jiao Yu shook his head and said, "This humble official is dull-witted and hopes Your Highness will enlighten me."

"Since you have been in office for more than two months, you should be quite familiar with the situation in Nan Tu." Chu Yanli said expressionlessly, "Now the Gu God Sect has been resurrected and is causing havoc everywhere. Tens of thousands of people in Tiannan Prefecture have almost lost their lives because of it."

"I have heard that Bailu City is one of its bases, and even the leader of the Gu God Sect, Yin Tiankuo, may be hiding here."

Are you aware of this matter?

Upon hearing this, everyone's expression changed drastically!
Unexpectedly, the princess went straight to the point as soon as she arrived, giving them no chance to react!
Hiding behind the crowd, Tang Xingbang lowered his head, his eyes filled with panic, and his back was soaked with cold sweat.

"This……"

Jiao Yu hesitated, unsure how to answer.

Chu Yanli had anticipated his reaction and said with a smile, "No rush. When we get to the government office, you'll have plenty of time to report to me. I just hope you won't follow in Tong Zhenhai's footsteps."

"I understand."

Jiao Yu swallowed hard.

I was hoping to get away with it, but it seems I can't escape this hurdle!
"Oh, right." Chu Yanli seemed to remember something, looked around, and asked, "The Tianlin Guard sent two special envoys specifically for the Gu God Sect matter. Why didn't they come with you?"

"special envoy?"

Jiao Yu replied blankly, "This humble official knows nothing about this matter..."

"Ahem." Kuang Yinghao cleared his throat and interjected, "I received a message but haven't had a chance to report to you yet... After finishing his case in Tiannan Prefecture, Commander Chen said he was heading to Bailu City, but he hasn't contacted the prefectural government yet."

"Ah."

Chu Yanli's eyes flickered, but she said nothing more.

Jiao Yu said at the opportune moment, "Your Highness must be tired from your journey. I have prepared a small feast to welcome you and wash away the dust of your travels..."

Chu Yanli interrupted, "Then there's no need. Business is important. Let's go directly to the government office."

"I will follow Your Highness's arrangements." Jiao Yu nodded in agreement.

Chu Yanli, accompanied by a female official, boarded a sedan chair and entered the city surrounded by guards, while the state officials followed at a distance.

Tang Xingbang's eyes darted around, his hand hidden in his sleeve, as he quietly made a gesture to the supervisor beside him.

He understood immediately and nodded silently.

……

……

Inside the sedan chair, Chu Yanli sat by the window, her right hand supporting her chin.

She had said those words deliberately, taking in everyone's reactions and already having a general plan in mind.

"It seems that no matter how much we try to clean this prefecture, we can never get it clean."

The Empress gripped the hem of her robe with a worried expression, muttering, "I thought I'd see the little thief as soon as I landed. Where is he now? Could something have happened to him?"

Before Chu Yanli could speak, a clear, cold voice came from the side:

"Don't worry, with me here, Chen Mo won't lose a single hair."

? !
The two of them suddenly turned their heads to look.

Suddenly, a strange woman appeared in the sedan chair.

She leaned back lazily in the chair, legs crossed, her eyes filled with a hint of mockery and disdain.

"For a man, she even disregarded the imperial court, staging this whole drama of chasing after her husband across a thousand miles... Jiang Yuchan, you really have impressed me!"

"Jade, Jade Cold!"

Chu Yanli and the Empress exchanged a glance, and Chu Yanli's throat tightened.

Although they had prepared themselves mentally before coming, they still felt a little uneasy when they suddenly saw this enchantress.

"Li'er, why are you hiding behind me?"

"When you asked me to come to Southern Xinjiang with you, didn't you say you had a way to deal with Yu Youhan?"

"I do have a way, but I have to wait for Chen Mo to be there. Do you expect me to fight her one-on-one? She hits really hard; she left me covered in bruises last time..."

"If you don't come up with something soon, we'll just end up living in different places!"

"Wait a minute, since Yu Youhan is here, it means Chen Mo must be nearby too... Here's what we'll do, you hold her off for now, I'll go find some help!"

"Then why didn't you try to hold her off?"

"..."

Seeing the two loudly plotting, Yu Youhan's eyelids twitched. "So, you two dared to come all the way here without any preparation?"

"Who, who said I wasn't prepared?"

The Queen mustered her courage, puffed out her proud chest, and gritted her teeth, saying, "I'm prepared to compete with you fairly!"

Yu Youhan asked in confusion, "Compete for what?"

"You know perfectly well why you're asking. Of course it's the eldest daughter-in-law of the Chen family!" The Empress put her hands on her hips.

Yu Youhan: ? ? ?

(End of this chapter)