Chapter 3, Looking up, the wind and smoke are not as they were in the past

Yan Er, you must remember. For an emperor, bloodline and status are ephemeral; these things can be given to you or taken back at any moment. The most important thing is that you must stand in the right position. I have witnessed three dynasties of emperors, and the reason I have maintained my favor until now is due to my ability to discern the emperor's intentions with these eyes. This time, when Jiao Jiao encountered trouble, I did not make a scene. It is not that I did not want to, but that I could not. If the Empress Dowager were still alive, Liu Che would not dare to act in such a manner. Therefore, I say that my nephew is far superior to his father.

Regardless of what he is here for, once we meet, it will all be clear. Liu Che. Liu Piao let out a cold laugh and stood up, walking outside.

I am not angry about this. I am furious that Liu Che is ungrateful. Back in the day, it was I who supported him to ascend to the throne, and now he dares to play such tricks.

"Yes, Your Highness"

I discovered a tunnel in the Changmen Palace, which leads directly to the banks of the Changshui River. The Empress may have left through that tunnel. Since Zhang Tang was able to become a trusted confidant of Liu Che, he naturally possesses his own abilities. Although the tunnel was constructed discreetly, it still revealed traces under the scrutiny of those who are determined to investigate.

That cannot be allowed. As the Son of Heaven of the Han Dynasty, I, Liu Che, cannot let others say that I do not understand the principle of 'gratitude and reciprocity.' Liu Che shook his head, 'However, my aunt is already the Grand Princess, so there is naturally no title left to bestow. Therefore, I shall elevate the ranks of a few of my cousins.'

Your Majesty ... ... Liu Piao was just about to intervene, but his own son had already joyfully knelt down to express gratitude for the royal favor

The voice of Yang De Yi, sharp and extraordinary, echoed outside the Xuan Room Palace, where Minister Zhang Tang of the Xuan Dynasty was present

Chen Jiao looked at the beauty before her, speechless. She had originally thought that Empress A Jiao's body was already beautiful enough, but unexpectedly, there were mountains beyond mountains, and people beyond people; before her stood someone even more beautiful. Chen Jiao felt a tingling sensation on her scalp, thinking that if she were to face this beauty with her original appearance, she would surely feel utterly ashamed. Fortunately, she now possessed a good appearance herself; although there were suspicions of cheating, at least she would not have to die of embarrassment.

Do you really think he came today just to see "The Ode to Changmen"? He keeps praising Sima Xiangru's writing style, yet he doesn't mention a word about the content of the poem. Do you think he truly doesn't know what this poem is about? Even if I hadn't specifically asked Nie Sheng to reveal any information to him, he should have been able to guess the true meaning of "The Ode to Changmen". Moreover ...

Upon hearing this answer, Liu Piao was momentarily taken aback, unsure how to respond to Liu Che's seemingly ambiguous reply.

Ah, it's nothing. Madam, who are you? In ancient times, women with their hair styled in a bun were all married, and Chen Jiao was aware of this, so she wouldn't make the low-level mistake of calling someone a lady or a girl indiscriminately. However, because A Jiao herself did not understand the intricate styles of ancient hairstyles, she simply gathered her hair at the back of her head, leading everyone to believe she was still an unmarried girl. In fact, according to Chen Jiao's physical age, she had been a married woman for over ten years. Yet, due to A Jiao's lack of knowledge about the complex hairstyles of ancient times, she merely styled her hair simply at the back, causing everyone to think she was still an unmarried girl. In reality, based on Chen Jiao's physical age, she had been a married woman for over ten years.

Liu Che walked to the main seat and sat down, while Liu Piao and her husband, Marquis Chen Wu of Tangyi, took their seats on the right side. Several sons of Liu Piao sat on the left side, and Dong Yan stood behind the three young masters.

Jiao Jiao... are you saying that "The Ode to Changmen" moved the Emperor?" Liu Piao furrowed his brow and said, "But there hasn't been any news from Nie Sheng's side."

"I mean, how do you plan to deal with that young lady?" Zhang Cui gently tucked her husband's slightly disheveled hair behind his ear and asked softly

What brings Your Majesty here today

When Zhang Tang almost thought that Liu Che would not answer this question, Liu Che said, "No need, since she has left, let her go and be with her books."

When the smoke and dust of the imperial carriage had finally dissipated, Liu Piao was the first to stand up, looking at his son in a fit of rage, and shouted: "Come here, take these useless ones away, and deal with them according to the family law"

"Miss, you are awake!" Upon hearing that Chen Jiao had woken up, Zhang Cui approached with great enthusiasm

You pig-headed fool, I went through great effort to obtain "The Ode to Changmen". Why? It was to win back the Emperor's heart for Jiao Jiao. And now, these beasts are only thinking of their own wealth and glory, missing the perfect opportunity to plead for Jiao Jiao. Shouldn't they be punished? Liu Piao glared fiercely at her husband, feeling in her heart how she could have married such a useless man

Although the Grand Princess and His Majesty share a deep bond as aunt and nephew, upon hearing of the disappearance of his beloved daughter, it is inevitable that he may lose his composure and could potentially be exploited by those with ulterior motives Zhang Tang, seeing that Liu Che showed no intention of stopping him, boldly expressed his innermost thoughts "Since the Empress has already been deposed, it suffices to create the illusion that she is still in the Changmen Palace If a large-scale search is conducted, it would not only harm the royal reputation but also provide the feudal lords with a pretext Although this may seem trivial, in the future, if they harbor ill intentions, it could be portrayed as evidence of Your Majesty's lack of benevolence and righteousness Since the Empress has already been deposed, it suffices to create the illusion that she is still in the Changmen Palace If a large-scale search is conducted, it would not only harm the royal reputation but also provide the feudal lords with a pretext Although this may seem trivial, in the future, if they harbor ill intentions, it could be portrayed as evidence of Your Majesty's lack of benevolence and righteousness Moreover, with the Empress missing, you will need to establish another ... ... Queen, which could also reduce resistance

The maid, with a pale face, retreated timidly. Liu Piao suppressed his anger, turned to look at the mirror, and began to shape his eyebrows, softly asking his adopted son behind him, "Yan'er, what do you think the emperor is here for this time"

Because you fainted, my lady, and my husband had a prior engagement with an old friend here, he was in a hurry to meet them. Seeing that you were also about to leave, he took you along with him. Zhang Cui held Chen Jiao's hand and led her into the inn

Ah! Chen Jiao looked at the beautiful woman in front of her with confusion, not understanding why she was so enthusiastic

Dong Yan walked into the courtyard, casting a complex glance at the residence of Princess Guantao. He thought to himself that it turned out every one of his actions was being observed by Princess Guantao. Today was probably a warning from her.

"This ... ... or, could you have the Dou family put some pressure on His Majesty?" Dong Yan expressed his idea

... ... ''

A seemingly astute and capable middle-aged man strode steadily into the Hall of Declaration; he is Zhang Tang, the Grand Minister of the Interior, and one of Liu Che's most trusted officials at present

"Princess, in fact, it doesn't matter if you miss this opportunity. After all, you are still the Grand Princess," Dong Yan whispered softly in her ear.

Chen Jiao understood that her earlier moment of distraction had led to Zhang Cui's misunderstanding due to her unclear enunciation. She did not intend to correct this misunderstanding, but simply smiled and accepted Zhang Cui's compliment, secretly feeling a sense of "shame" in her heart

This is Xinfeng. Zhang Cui looked at Chen Jiao, who had no semblance of a lady's demeanor, and found her straightforwardness increasingly charming

"Cuicui, what she did is not called bravery, but recklessness, alright? As for taking her in..." Li Xi, who initially intended to refuse outright, looked at his wife's blinking eyes and was momentarily at a loss for words, finally saying, "Let's wait until she wakes up to discuss it."

"The Emperor is overly flattering. I only accepted him because he is relatively loyal." Liu Piao responded with a smile.

They? Liu Piao shook his head, "Yan'er, do you know why I have everyone in the residence call me 'Princess' instead of 'Duke's Consort'? The Dou family is unreliable. Five years ago, the death of the Empress Dowager had already determined the fate of the Dou family. Moreover, have you forgotten what happened last year with Dou Ying being executed? The reason His Majesty still maintains a good relationship with me is not only because I am his biological aunt, but also because I have never hindered him from the beginning to the end

Ignoring her husband's cries and her son's wails, Liu Piao rushed back to her room alone. Dong Yan watched the chaos in the entire courtyard with a cold gaze, sighed, and walked towards the residence of Princess Guantao.

"Hmm, aunt, what are you saying?" After Liu Che accepted the gratitude of his three cousins, he pretended not to understand and looked at Liu Piao, who seemed to want to say something but hesitated.

This young lady has set out on a journey all alone; she might be a pitiable person. Moreover, she bravely jumped into the river to save me. If she has nowhere to go... dear husband, shall we take her in?

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I am the person you saved by jumping into the river before" Zhang Cui smiled gently

"Che'er, how come you are in such a good mood today? You even know to come and sit with your aunt here," Liu Piao asked as soon as he took his seat.

Ah, Princess. What wrong have the sons committed? How are you?" Chen Wu was taken aback, taking a moment to respond.

Is the feng shui of the Han Dynasty particularly good? Is it easy to raise beautiful women? Chen Jiao murmured inappropriately

We, your subjects, pay our respects to Your Majesty, may Your Majesty live for ten thousand years, ten thousand years, and ten thousand times ten thousand years

Then, this departure from the palace should be the Empress's own decision. Zhang Tang carefully considered his words, "If that is the case, I believe we should promptly seal off the underground passage of Changmen Palace and strictly keep the Empress's whereabouts confidential"

"You do not jest. Che'er never speaks lightly." Liu Che shook his head and said with a serious expression. Although he was over sixty, due to proper care, Liu Piao still appeared radiant, and Liu Che's words were not entirely insincere.

"A few empty words to soothe people's hearts, who can't do that? While I am alive, he will naturally not touch the Tangyi Marquisate for my sake. But if I am no longer here, that is another matter." Liu Piao scoffed disdainfully.

Sima Xiangru is indeed a great talent. This poem is beautifully crafted and truly a rare piece of excellent writing. After a long pause, Liu Che finally spoke up.

Ah... Zhang Cui's eyes flashed with a glimmer after listening. She carefully observed the woman before her, yet felt that she did not seem like someone who would lie. However, this matter was indeed too bizarre. "So, what does the younger sister plan to do in the future?"

"It has been a while since we last met, and Aunt, you have become even more youthful and beautiful." Liu Che affectionately helped his aunt to her feet and then turned to address his uncle and cousins, who were kneeling on the ground, saying, "Please rise. We are not strangers here."

What is the result? Liu Che lowered his head, touching a small bead in his hand, without looking up

The evening sunlight is no longer scorching, and the afterglow of the setting sun has painted the earth in shades of orange. The hurried passersby on the road stand out distinctly against this orange backdrop. On a public road, a cart drawn by two lean horses is moving slowly under the guidance of the driver. In front of the cart, another fine horse is trotting gently, with a man and a woman conversing with each other atop it

Since that is the case, what else does the princess have to worry about? His Majesty is still willing to appease the Tangyi Marquisate, which shows that although Her Highness has been deposed, the favor within the household remains intact

"Husband, that young lady has not yet awakened," Zhang Cui, held in her husband's arms, looked up at her husband, Li Xi, who had been silent throughout their journey.

Oh, does the Emperor like this poem?" Liu Piao asked, half-closing his eyes as he took a sip of tea

"It is nothing, I was merely saying that these three young men have limited abilities, and Your Majesty's favoritism will surely incite jealousy from others" Liu Piao smiled very reluctantly

I understand. When it comes to this, Chen Jiao felt somewhat disheartened. For her, it was not just difficult; it was likely an insurmountable challenge. If she left Changmen Palace like this, it was likely that the people sent by *Tu* Shuer to capture her would soon be on her trail. Not to mention that, just figuring out how to make a living would be exceedingly difficult for her.

"Could it be that Aunt is reluctant?" Liu Che said with a smile, looking at Liu Piao, waiting for her response

It is merely to soothe people's hearts. Do you think those few little beasts were granted their titles for no reason at all? Liu Piao snorted coldly

Hearing this, Zhang Cui found it somewhat strange, "Could it be that when the young lady appeared by the Changshui River, she was alone? How could she not remember how she arrived? Where does she live, and whether her family is still alive or not, does she not recall any of this?"

What does it matter? I am the Emperor, and since they are my closest kin, as long as I am here, who can possibly bully them? Don't you agree, Aunt? Liu Che cast a meaningful glance at Liu Piao and then turned to say, "Since I have seen Sima Xiangru's "Changmen Fu" today, I can consider my wish fulfilled. Let us return to the palace now"

Seeing Zhang Cui's deep concern, Chen Jiao felt a warmth in her heart. The fear and disappointment accumulated over the past few days surged up all at once, and tears streamed down her face as she clung to Zhang Cui, crying uncontrollably. This made Zhang Cui think she had touched upon her sorrow, leaving her at a loss for what to do.

"Is it good? Little sister," Zhang Cui said gently to Chen Jiao, looking at her surprised face with a warm smile

The young woman referred to by the couple is none other than Chen Jiao, who had just escaped from Changmen Palace and, in a state of confusion, jumped into the river to save someone. She had been unconscious since the morning, and it had already been nearly 5 hours. Apart from the shock she experienced when jumping into the river, the sudden relaxation of her nerves, which had been in a state of high tension and fear for some time, was also a significant reason for her prolonged slumber. When their group arrived at the inn, the servant who came forward to assist her finally managed to wake her up.

Liu Piaohui waved his hand, signaling Dong Yan to leave. Dong Yan obediently exited, but as he walked out the door, he heard a light, airy sentence from inside that startled him so much that he broke out in a cold sweat

Liu Piao, originally leaning on the soft couch, turned around and rested her head on Dong Yan's shoulder, feeling the moderate pressure of his fingers. She couldn't help but let out a long sigh of relief

These heartless beings only care about their own wealth and glory, completely disregarding the current situation of the young lady. Shouldn't they be reprimanded? Chen Wu remained silent, but as soon as he spoke, Liu Piao's anger immediately erupted.

I, my name is Chen Jiao. Chen Jiao was momentarily captivated by that beautiful smile, and in a moment of distraction, she revealed her own name. By the time she realized she should have used a pseudonym, it was already too late

I see, the princess's gaze is indeed piercing. Yan knows this. After hearing this, Dong Yan secretly thought to himself that he should keep his distance from those young masters of the Dou family in the future

Yan Er, this palace does not oppose your making friends, but you must ensure that you choose friends who are beneficial to you. As for the Dou family, aside from Dou Ying, the others are quite useless. You may listen to their words, but if you take them seriously, it will only harm yourself

Dong Yan respectfully presented the silk scroll, and Liu Che took the scroll but did not rush to read it. Instead, he called Dong Yan over, examined it closely, and said: "This must be the adopted son that my aunt received recently. He certainly appears to be clever and bright."

"Zhao Er truly knows how to joke; I am already of an age. How can I still be considered young and beautiful?" Since Liu Che has drawn their relationship closer to that of a close aunt and niece, rather than that of sovereign and subject, Liu Piao naturally responded with a smile in kind.

This ... ... this ... ... is undoubtedly the best thing for Chen Jiao, as it is clear at a glance that the current Zhang Cui is a well-bred young lady. If she were to become her sister, there would be no worries about food and clothing. Moreover, it would allow for the concealment of her identity, for no one would expect that she, who should have been the former empress in the Changmen Palace, would become the sister of a commoner.

However, did not Your Majesty's words before departing serve as a guarantee for you

Young lady, although it is said that the world is peaceful nowadays, it is still difficult for a woman to live independently

"Well then," Li Xi said with a furrowed brow, "when we reach the next town, let us find a doctor to take a look at her."

Ah, it's you. Chen Jiao recalled everything and sat up with a start, jumped out of the car, and asked, "Where are we now?"

"What are you panicking about? Even if the sky falls, I am still here." Liu Piao reprimanded the maid, adjusted her makeup, and instructed, "Go, summon the marquis and several young masters to the entrance, and open the main gate to welcome the imperial entourage."

"Young lady, what are you saying?" Zhang Cui looked at the adorable little girl in front of her and couldn't help but ask

Your Majesty has arrived, Your Majesty has arrived! Such shouts echoed in the residence of the Marquis of Tangyi, startling Princess Liu Piao of Guantao, who had just finished her lunch, as a maid rushed in to deliver the news.

Xinfeng? Why does that sound so familiar? Chen Jiao murmured to herself. "We, I mean how did I end up here?"

Of course, although Sima Xiang's work this time cannot be compared to Lin Zixu's, it is nonetheless a fine piece in its own right. Liu Che unreservedly gave it a high evaluation, saying, 'Che'er should sincerely thank his aunt. It is because his aunt did not keep her treasures to herself that Che'er need not return with regrets.

Perhaps it is related to the young lady's affairs said Dong Yan as he arranged Liu Piao's hair bun while expressing his speculation

We respectfully bid farewell to His Majesty the Emperor! The members of the Tangyi Marquisate are kneeling in an orderly manner behind the imperial carriage, sending off the Emperor of the Great Han Empire

But is the brightness of 'the moon rising bright'? Indeed, my sister's beauty is worthy of this word 'bright'.

"Hehe, Che'er has heard that my aunt obtained a grand poem from Sima Xiangru. My aunt is aware of Che'er; I have always held Sima Xiangru's works in high regard. Now that he has entered Bashu, I can only come to my aunt to request the article eagerly" Liu Che said with a smile

I have already visited the residence of the Marquis of Tangyi, and my aunt is still unaware of A Jiao's departure from the palace. Liu Che's voice, cold and devoid of any warmth, reached Zhang Tang's ears, startling him.

"Princess, please calm down. This is harmful to your health." Dong Yan quietly approached Liu Piao and began to massage her shoulders.

After a considerable amount of time, Chen Jiao's emotions gradually stabilized. She felt somewhat embarrassed as she looked at the wet collar of Zhang Cui's clothes, stained by tears.

Oh?

Mr. Nie, after all, holds a different status and cannot maintain frequent contact. Perhaps it is because His Majesty will soon respond that Mr. Nie has not sent you any messages. After securing the last few strands of hair, Dong Yan gently placed the comb on the dressing table

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"Hehe, then you must be my good sister," Zhang Cui said with a big smile, looking very pleased. She continued, "My surname is Zhang, and my given name is Cui. It is derived from the phrase 'Cui ru jie ru' in the Book of Changes. What about you, sister?"

There is no need for thanks. It is merely a trivial matter, Liu Piao said, putting down his teacup, seemingly indifferent.

I, I also do not know how I ended up here. By the time I realized it, I was already alone." Chen Jiao murmured

"Dong Yan... go ahead." Liu Che glanced at Dong Yan again but said nothing more, dismissing him coldly. He lowered his head, opened the scroll, and pretended to examine it with great interest.

Of course, that would be good. If my sister is truly willing to take in someone of unknown identity like me, I would certainly agree. Chen Jiao has never been one to act coyly, so she naturally agreed without hesitation. Although she still did not know the identity of the person before her, it did not matter; she still had time. If she sensed anything amiss, she could immediately make her escape.

Suddenly slamming his hand on the jade table, Liu Che fixed a terrifying gaze on Zhang Tang, the overwhelming pressure nearly leaving Zhang Tang breathless. Suddenly, Liu Che laughed heartily and said, "Good, Zhang Tang truly lives up to his name. Then I shall entrust this matter to you. Do not let me down."

What does this have to do with Jiao Jiao?" Chen Wu still did not understand.

"Zhang Tang, what is your opinion on this matter?" Liu Che finally raised his head and looked at his capable subordinate.

"Husband, husband." Zhang Cui shook her husband, rousing him from his reverie

I have already ordered someone to guard the exit and have also sent people to search secretly in the vicinity. However, I am unaware of Your Majesty's intentions, so I have come to seek your guidance" Zhang Tang observed Liu Che's demeanor and inquired

"How could that be? Che'er is truly joking," Liu Piao came to his senses and immediately said to Dong Yan, "Yan'er, go fetch Mr. Sima's 'Changmen Fu.'" When mentioning the three characters of 'Changmen Fu,' Liu Piao deliberately emphasized them, keeping a keen eye on Liu Che's reaction from the corner of his eye. Unfortunately, Liu Che's face revealed not a trace of emotion.

After Zhang Tang withdrew, Liu Che knelt alone in the Xuan Room. In the glow of the candlelight, the beads in his hand emitted a soft radiance. Liu Che stared blankly at the beads for a long time before saying: "A Jiao, is this what you wanted?"

The two entered the room together. Zhang Cui affectionately asked Chen Jiao, "I see that your attire suggests you come from a well-to-do family. How is it that you are out alone? It is quite dangerous for a woman. What about your parents and family?"

I... Chen Jiao herself is also very confused, not knowing where to go from here, "I don't know either, I can only take it one step at a time."

"Yan'er, you do not understand." Liu Piao's voice was filled with helplessness. "If all I sought was this kind of honor and favor, there would be no need to marry Jiao Jiao into the palace. With the status of the eldest princess, as long as I am careful and prudent, the wealth and glory of this life would naturally be within reach. But what about my future? I defeated Su Ji and supported Che'er to the throne, all for the sake of my children's future. Yet now..." I defeated Su Ji and supported Che'er to the throne, all for the sake of my children's future. Yet now...

"What’s wrong? Cui Cui." Li Xi awakened, a gentle smile appearing on his handsome face. The evening breeze tousled his hair, adding a touch of ethereal charm to his demeanor

Li Xi seemed not to have heard her question, remaining silent; the backlit face made it difficult to discern any expression at that moment

I believe that the matter of the Empress's disappearance should not be made public, lest it undermine the dignity of the royal family. " As Zhang Tang spoke, he observed Liu Che's reaction, who merely stroked the small beads in his hand. "However, the Changmen Palace was originally presented to you by Empress Dou, so she must be aware of the situation there. Has the Empress left the palace to return to the Tangyi Hou residence?"

Not afraid of being laughed at by my younger sister, I have always wanted to have a sister since I was little. The moment I saw my sister today, I felt a strong connection. If my sister really has nowhere to go, she can stay with me for the time being. Zhang Cui warmly held Chen Jiao's hand, her gaze filled with eagerness.

If the young lady does not mind, then please accompany us as a couple said Zhang Cui, looking at Chen Jiao's worried expression

How do you say this ... ... ?

This... Chen Jiao pondered for a moment; she naturally could not claim to have escaped from Changmen Palace. However, she was not familiar with Chang'an and could not fabricate a detailed story to deceive the person before her. Therefore, she could only say that she did not remember. With these thoughts in mind, she nodded.

"Yes. " Zhang Tang respectfully performed a bow and said, "Your Majesty, should we still seek the Empress through covert investigations?"