Observation and Suspicion

A few weeks later, Bai Lian disappeared from Gao Changgong's life, as if she had never appeared. Her words were like a wisp of smoke, often lingering in his heart. Whenever it was late at night and everything was silent, Gao Changgong would always think of that mysterious meeting, recalling her calm and firm voice, reminding him of the dangers in the palace. He knew that her departure did not mean safety, but hiding in the dark, silently watching his safety. She was never far away, perhaps she was in a corner that he could not see, continuing to protect him.

Since that conversation, Gao Changgong lived in seclusion and gradually reduced contact with the outside world. Although he still performed his duties as a general of Northern Qi, he chose to avoid all unnecessary social occasions. He always declined the banquets, celebrations, and even sacrificial ceremonies in the palace on the grounds of physical discomfort or busy official duties. Rumors of his drastic change of temperament began to spread in the capital. Some said that he was exhausted from the war; others suggested that he was deliberately avoiding the emperor's summons.

No matter how the outside world judges, Gao Changgong ignores it. He knows that every step of the current situation must be cautious. There are undercurrents in the palace, and any careless words and deeds will lead to suspicion and murder. In order to avoid becoming a victim of the power struggle, he must keep a low profile and not give the enemy any chance to take advantage.

 

As time goes by, Gao Changgong becomes more alert and begins to carefully observe everyone around him. He knows that Bai Lian's words are not aimless, and there may be traitors lurking around him.

Feng Duo, his confidant assistant, has been with him through life and death. Gao Changgong trusts Feng Duo, but he has to admit that any loyalty can be corrupted. Recently, Feng Duo has behaved as usual, but he occasionally seems too diligent and even takes the initiative to ask Ying to inquire about the movements in the palace. Although Gao Changgong talks to him as usual on the surface, he begins to doubt in his heart: Is Feng Duo colluding with certain forces to try to spy on his next move?

Chen Fu, the housekeeper of the palace, an elderly servant, has been with him for many years, handling all matters in the palace. Gao Changgong knew that the housekeeper was loyal, but recently he seemed to always bring up some insignificant little things, and even frequently mentioned rumors and personnel changes in the palace. Does this excessive attention mean that he is collecting intelligence? Or is he just overly curious about worldly affairs?

A young maid Xiao He is responsible for cleaning Gao Changgong's study and courtyard every day. She is taciturn and agile. Although it seems harmless, Gao Changgong found some things in the study that should not be moved that were moved several times. This girl may not understand any conspiracy, but will she inadvertently become a tool in the eyes of some powerful officials?

Veteran Li Tie, who has been with Gao Changgong for many years, is currently the instructor responsible for training the guards in the mansion. The veteran is fearless on the battlefield, but since returning to the capital, his behavior has become a little strange. Gao Changgong noticed that he always looked outside the mansion from time to time when training, as if waiting for some news or instructions.

The rest of the guards on standby in the mansion had followed him for many years and had experienced life and death, but now when facing them, Gao Changgong couldn't help but feel suspicious. No matter how deep the feelings are, they may be shaken by interests and coercion. He began to re-examine these people who he once regarded as relatives, worrying that one of them might have betrayed him.

 

He carefully considered and analyzed everyone's words and deeds, but no matter how careful he was, he couldn't tell who was the real traitor and who was an innocent bystander. Lies and suspicions were like an invisible net, gradually enveloping him.