Chapter 7, Underestimating the Ancients

In this light, the purpose of Han Wang Yang Liang sending Zheng Chang back becomes clear.

Cui Jingmao and Cui Junchuo

After all, he has the soul of a forty-year-old man, so it feels quite uncomfortable for him to have a young girl call him "brother." Duoduo also did not mind much; she addressed Yan Qing directly by his name without any dissatisfaction. When Zheng Yanqing inquired, Duoduo hesitated for a moment and softly said: "My mother asked me to accompany her to buy some things, but I found it rather uninteresting, so I came back first"

Suddenly, it became clear that Zheng Chang's return was merely a pretext

Since Zheng Dashu instructed Zheng Chang to take over the affairs of Anyuantang, the whereabouts of the Zheng Shian family have long been clear

Oh!

With the example of the Cui family, Yan Qing is indeed very worried

Noble families take pride in their heritage

Duo Duo walked in from outside and, seeing Yan Qing sitting on the steps of the main hall, could not help but ask.

The most evident example occurred in the 20th year of the Kaihuang era, when Crown Prince Yang Yong was deposed. The Crown Prince's attendant, Cui Junzhuo, was implicated and nearly lost his life. Had it not been for Cui Junzhuo marrying a member of the royal family, it is likely that he would have faced execution.

It is difficult to investigate on the side of the two elders; perhaps we might find clues on the side of the smiling tiger

The true decision-maker is not Zheng Chang, but rather Wang Jingwen, and perhaps that Pei An as well

Who

It is not that he does not want to go, but rather that he lacks the qualifications to enter

Oh? Where to?

Grandfather said that Second Uncle has returned and will take over the affairs in his hands. The eldest son will assume the position of East Cao Yuan in Luoyang after the New Year, and he will need assistance by his side. Therefore, the master's intention is for us to go to Luoyang to take care of the eldest son's family

Yan Qing pondered for a moment, his eyes glinting as a plan formed in his mind

Duoduo, we are in trouble!

Yan Qing can be certain that Zheng Chang's purpose for returning to Xingyang this time is far from simple. Moreover, the names Wang Jingwen and Pei An are likely not their real names. These two, or rather Wang Jingwen, is the true representative of Han Wang Yang Liang. With this analysis, the previous series of peculiarities can also be clarified. Zheng Chang was not dismissed from office; instead, he is on a secret mission.

To speak recklessly about the sovereign without any solid evidence could lead to dire consequences. It is better to be cautious.

Hearing Duoduo suddenly mention Wang Jingwen, Yan Qing felt a stir in his heart, sensing that he seemed to have overlooked something during the past period of time

Zheng Yanqing looked up in surprise, "I was just asking casually"

She hurriedly lowered her head and said softly, "Going to Luoyang is fine... this is a good thing, why do you look so troubled?"

Could it be that he should tell Duoduo that he feels there is something wrong with Zheng, which is why he is so troubled

In the event that Zheng Chang causes a disturbance, it would be one thing for the Zheng family to be implicated, but it would be even worse if Zheng Yanqing were to be drawn into it as well

Duo Duo said: "So what ideas do you have?"

Although Cui Junchuo has fallen from grace, the Cui family in Zhengzhou should not be underestimated

In that case, you should go and inform the master to be extra cautious

This ... ...

It was indeed a mistake

Contrary to Zheng Yanqing's expectations, Zheng Changzai did not exhibit much enthusiasm after returning

It has been a long time since the two elders returned, yet they have remained indifferent and unresponsive. Grandfather is busy every day until late, and I am worried about him

Members of the aristocracy generally disdain interactions with ordinary people. Even though Zheng Shi'an represents Anyuan Hall, Cui Jingmao has never shown him any courtesy. Wang Jingwen is merely the steward of Zheng Chang and has not been in Xingyang for long; what qualifications does he have to warrant a banquet hosted by Cui Jingmao

Duo Duo continued, "Little Scholar, you definitely can't guess who Wang Jingwen is with"

Zheng Yanqing had heard of the Water Viewing Pavilion, but had never entered it

Yan Qing remained silent for a long time, which made Duo Duo feel somewhat puzzled, so she gave him a gentle push

I have always felt that the second master, upon returning this time, likely harbors ill intentions... If he causes any trouble, we may be in danger.

By the way, I saw the smiling tiger today

Yan Qing was employed in the provincial capital of Zhongyuan in his previous life and is very familiar with this region. The Zheng family is referred to as the foremost noble clan of Xingyang not only because they have produced generations of scholars and capable individuals over several hundred years, but also due to an important advantage: the Zheng family controls the largest iron smelting workshop of the time. This iron smelting workshop was established during the Three Kingdoms period under the supervision of the renowned minister Zheng Hun of the Cao Wei state.

Little scholar, you are truly filial

He subconsciously asked, "Where did you see him?"

Xingzhou is known for its strategic location, often referred to as the throat of the Three Qin and the connection between the two capitals.

I faintly feel that Wang Jingwen is certainly not as simple as Zheng Chang's steward... Although both Zheng Chang and Wang Jingwen exhibit outstanding acting skills, there is an unconscious humility in Zheng Chang that suggests a subordinate position. This humility is not only evident in his interactions with Wang Jingwen but also manifests in front of the warrior named Pei An, which is by no means a normal phenomenon

Ah?

With a slight pout, she said, "How could I possibly be mistaken? The red mole on Cui Jingmao's forehead is so obvious; there is no way I could confuse it."

Especially in ancient times, it was common for entire families to be executed at the slightest provocation, and even prominent noble families were not spared

He is currently enjoying life at the Zheng family

Oh, it's nothing

In fact, the matter of Zheng Shian and his descendants going to Luoyang is no longer a secret

"Viewing Water Pavilion," Duoduo replied

Yan Qing hugged his legs, pondered for a moment, and then spoke softly: "The urgent task is to obtain evidence. Only with evidence can we alert the master."

Cui Junchuo is a member of the Cui clan from Qinghe, specifically the Zhengzhou branch, and similarly possesses a profound aristocratic background, being part of the royal family, yet he has met with such a fate. When Cui Junchuo returned to Xingyang, Zheng Shi'an was once ordered to pay a visit, and Yan Qing also accompanied him. According to Zheng Shi'an, the lands of Cui Junchuo's family were confiscated, and their servants were sold off, leaving them to rely on the charity of their relatives for survival

"Little Scholar, what is the matter with you today?"

Seeing that Zheng Yanqing was silent, Duoduo suddenly changed the subject and mentioned something that piqued Yanqing's interest.

The Zheng family's iron smelting workshop is an enterprise under the name of Anyuantang

Zheng Yanqing inhaled sharply, revealing a contemplative expression

The smiling tiger is the plump scholar who returned with Zheng Chang. According to Zheng Chang, the plump man's surname is Wang, and his given name is Jingwen. He is from Yangzhou and was purchased by Zheng Chang as a steward while in Taiyuan. Wang Jingwen is chubby and always wears a smile, resembling Maitreya Buddha, which makes him seem very approachable. However, Duoduo does not particularly like this person and has privately remarked that Wang Jingwen has a sinister air.

Ah, there have been quite a few matters to attend to these past couple of days

The iron smelting workshop established by the Zheng family became the greatest assurance for them during the subsequent centuries of warfare

As the days passed by, yet no flaws could be found in Zheng Chang, Yan Qing felt somewhat anxious

Yan Qing casually remarked, "Xu Ma has been going out quite frequently these past couple of days"

If something happens to the Zheng family, his future days will likely be difficult

Thus, Yan Qing privately referred to Wang Jingwen as 'Smiling Tiger' and called Pei An 'Cold-faced Ghost'

He was not in a hurry to take over the affairs of the Zheng family; most of the time, he accompanied Zheng Dashi in conversation and chatting. Even when he went out, he returned early, and he hardly interacted with outsiders. This was indeed in line with his current situation, being under suspicion, having resigned from his official position, how could he possibly be in a good mood to spend all day singing and chatting with others? That would truly be abnormal

Luoyang

However, upon confirmation from Yan Qing, Duoduo's expression still changed.

It is necessary to remind Zheng Dashi that evidence is required

After so many years of political experience, one would not expect to overlook such a simple stratagem of openly repairing the plank road while secretly crossing the stockade.

It is important to understand that being on the wrong side is a very frightening matter

Duoduo, you must be mistaken about the books!

Regardless of Zheng Yanqing's current status and position, there always exists a sense of superiority in his heart, akin to that of a time traveler

Yan Qing felt that Duo Duo seemed a bit off today, but he couldn't quite pinpoint what was abnormal. In the past, Duo Duo rarely offered explanations, but today... it just felt somewhat strange. However, Yan Qing's mind was currently preoccupied with matters concerning Zheng Chang, so he did not pursue it further. He hugged his legs with both hands, adopting a look of deep contemplation.

Duo Duo's expression changed suddenly, but she quickly returned to normal

Duoduo's gentle praise made Yan Qing feel quite embarrassed

The Guanshui Pavilion is a century-old restaurant in Xingyang and is also the largest den of iniquity in the city. Ordinary commoners are not admitted. Those who can enter the Guanshui Pavilion are either wealthy or noble, making it a symbol of status.

"Little Scholar, what are you daydreaming about while sitting here?"

However, Yan Qing's attention had always been focused on Zheng Chang...

Duo Duo displayed a look of difficulty, "Where can I find evidence? The two elders stay in the inner courtyard all day, it might be hard to investigate."

Although his social status is not high, he lives quite freely, and no one dares to trouble him

If Duoduo lets the news slip, Zheng Chang might send someone to kill him tonight. Zheng Chang has a warrior by his side, and it would be exceedingly easy to kill him.

What trouble is there

I am also answering casually

I just feel that the master has already announced that the second master will take over the household affairs

"Duoduo, do you dare to take a risk?"

Winter has already arrived, and a heavy snowfall has occurred. Soon it will be the New Year, and Yan Qing will accompany Zheng Shi'an to Luoyang.

Evidence

Yan Qing raised his head and discovered that Duo Duo was surprisingly not dressed in her usual attire today. She wore a white long robe over a dark-colored coat. Her hair was styled in two crow buns, and a hint of a smile graced her face. She appeared delicate, exuding an air of elegance.

I am referring to the smiling tiger

He hopes to find an appropriate time to remind Zheng Dashi before going to Luoyang.

I was careless, I truly was careless!

Just thinking about these things makes Yan Qing somewhat irritable

Duo Duo's body trembled gently

Yan Qing was quite surprised

Having practiced martial arts together for two years, the term 'sister' has gradually faded away, whether intentionally or unintentionally, in our conversations.

Hiss

Duo Duo, after the New Year, we may have to leave here

However, he possesses decades of political experience in later generations, and in terms of understanding people, he has his own unique insights

It is said that the renowned forging master Huan Mu Huaiwen of the Northern Qi Dynasty, while forging the famous Su Tie Dao, also utilized the techniques from the Zheng family's iron smelting workshop

In fact, Zheng Huan originated from the Zheng family of Xingyang. He was indeed proficient in the art of metallurgy, and at the same time, he was also an expert in internal affairs

Cui Jingmao is the head of the Zhengzhou branch of the Qinghe Cui clan and also serves as the representative of the Qinghe Cui clan in the Central Plains region. The Qinghe Cui clan consists of ten branches, three of which have settled in the Central Plains, with the Zhengzhou branch being the most powerful among them

"Little scholar, why are you not speaking? What are you thinking about?"

"That is even less likely." Duoduo seemed a bit anxious, her delicate face flushed red, and she widened her eyes to say, "Really, I did not see it wrong. I saw Cui Jingmao get out of the car at the entrance of the Guanshui Pavilion, accompanied by many people. The Smiling Tiger came out from the side and squeezed in immediately. Then a servant from the Cui family stepped forward to block my view, and the Smiling Tiger disappeared."

Cui Junchuo's brothers, Cui Junxu and Cui Junzhou, are still serving in the court. Cui Jingmao, as the head of the Cui clan, rarely makes public appearances and has always maintained a low profile. However, he has visited Anyuantang a few times, so Duoduo has also met him

Zheng Chang spends all day cooped up at home without going out. How should Zheng Yanqing go about finding evidence?

Duo Duo, did you just go out?

Regarding the ancient practice of physiognomy, Qing does not understand

Yet, even so, he had his property confiscated and was sent back to his hometown of Xingyang

Later generations refer to Zheng Huan as someone of lowly origins, skilled in metallurgy