Chapter 94: The Imperial Decree Arranges a Marriage.

  The wheels of history are constantly moving forward, whether people like it or not. Today is the second day of February in the 25th year of Hongtai's reign. The procession participating in the sacrificial rites at Qifeng Temple was grand and endless. The temple had silk curtains hanging down to the ground, candles shining brightly, and Buddhist scriptures were written all over the yellow banners.

  The ritual of sacrifice is extremely complex.

  The monk of Taichang Temple was reading the abstruse and obscure ritual texts for offering sacrifices to Heaven with great patience.

  The Left Chan Master of the Sanglu Temple, Chang He, presided over the Dharma Assembly.

  The great Emperor Hong Tai, wearing the most solemn and majestic attire of the imperial court, held a jade tablet in his hand, with a ceremonial apron, a large belt, and a large ribbon on his body. He led the way by kneeling down first, piously kowtowing to show his reverence for the heavens. The princes and grandsons who followed, as well as the civil and military officials, kings, dukes, and nobles, all lined up according to their ranks, and when the emperor knelt, they also knelt, each one deeply bowing their heads in the elaborate sacrificial ritual led by the Zanli Lang.

  Everyone is very devout.

  No matter how many evil deeds they had done in the past, or how many innocent people they had harmed. At this moment, the incumbents of the highest power organs of the Great Yan Dynasty all believed that their sincerity could move heaven and earth, and when making sacrifices, it was also the only time when they could communicate with the spirits, no one dared to be insincere.

  At that time, most people believed in ghosts and gods, from emperors to commoners, all were the same.

  At the beginning of summer, she knelt neatly in the crowd, occasionally glancing forward with the corner of her eye to see where Zhao Zhu was. After last night's "bright pearl hairpin" and "sleeping together", she felt that there seemed to be some difference between them. Before, the two were half joking and half serious, always a bit ambiguous, no one had ever opened their heart, and they had never discussed emotions.

  Last night's "hair knot", she knew in her heart, he understood.

  He personally tied his hair into a bun, which was also a kind of response.

  She clutched the "token of love" wrapped in a handkerchief in her bosom, and like every girl who is eager to see her sweetheart when she is in love, she couldn't wait to take a look at that handsome figure. However, although there were no ladies attending today's ceremony, there were still many people in the great hall, and as the last of the old emperor's N sons-in-law, she was too far away from Zhao Zhen, with many people between them. She saw Dongfang Qingxuan, she saw Zhao Mianze, but she never saw him.

  It feels like it's been an eternity...

  When she was about to fall asleep out of boredom, the sacrificial ceremony finally came to an end.

  A Li surname official in charge of sacrifices at the Taichang Temple came over to say, "Please have all the dignitaries take a short rest and change their clothes. Afterwards, we will proceed together to the imperial field on the other side of the Spring Singing Garden, where the plowing ceremony will be held at noon sharp."

  To be honest, if it weren't for this crossing, Xia Chuyi had no idea that plowing the fields also had so many rules. Da Yan Dynasty was extremely particular about attire at all levels, and sacrificial robes were worn during sacrifices. When going to plow the fields, of course, they couldn't wear these clothes on their bodies. Whether it was the old emperor or civil and military officials, they all needed to change clothes first.

  When she went back to the inner palace to change her clothes, Xia Chuyi still didn't see Zhao Jun.

  On that road, she became the focus of the crowd.

  Whether out of curiosity or observation, everyone wants to take a look at her, the renowned doctor of the Jin Wangfu and the fiancé of Princess Ziyue. It's rare for her to appear in public, making her a 100% attention-grabbing gemstone.

  Everyone has different views and their own thoughts.

  On the seventh day of summer, he pretended not to see those people and, with Li Mo by his side, changed into a set of casual clothes that had been prepared long ago. The fabric was plain and smooth, with red edges, a golden hairpin on his head, no belt around his waist, which matched his slightly slender figure, not as stiff as a man's, but with a unique elegance.

  "Does it look good?" She raised her arms and asked Li Mo with a smile.

  "Not bad." Li Miao glanced at her, still with a cold face.

  "Ah. That's good..."

  Once a woman has someone in her heart, she will be particularly mindful of her appearance and always want to see that person, wanting to be with him, even if nothing can be done, just taking a look is good. After circling around the majestic Qi Feng Temple for several times without seeing Zhao Zhu, she got on the Wang Fu's carriage, preparing to go to Yin Chun Garden ahead of time to wait.

  The weather is warm today, and the scenery around Yīn Chūn Yuán is quite good.

  The imperial field is just outside the Spring Singing Garden, far in sight, it's a large piece of flat land that winds out from a small stream, completely like the character "田". Because the emperor is coming to plow the field today, everything has been prepared, and along the way, one can see the on-duty imperial guards patrolling back and forth with waist knives in hand, the armor making a "clanging" sound.

  "The air is really good, I need to take a few more breaths of oxygen..."

  Xia Chuqi stretched out her arms, closed her eyes slightly, took a deep breath, and felt very comfortable.

  "Chu Qi, look over there."

  Li Mian pointed, and Xia Qi's eyes lit up on the seventh day of summer.

  It was a small garden in the Spring Garden. The garden was very quiet, and on the low wall made of green bricks and stones, there were a few branches of plum blossoms that had stretched out from behind the wall, their heads poking out. At this time, the plum blossoms were basically all gone, but those few remaining branches looked especially enticing, suddenly giving her a feeling of "one red plum blossom emerging from behind the wall".

  "It's really beautiful. Let's go and take a look."

  At the beginning of summer, her heart was greatly moved. She took Li Mo and walked quickly past. Entering through that small circular gate, she saw the sparse plum blossoms, and suddenly felt that this scene was more charming than when the plum blossoms were in full bloom. Without speaking, she flitted between the flowers and leaves, filled with joy, gazing at the incomplete petals shining softly in the sunlight, feeling as if this small courtyard was a paradise on earth.

  "If... you won't see me forever? ... Memories... planned for so long... why ignore me... The greatest sorrow in the world is to seek but not obtain... trapped in that small space... for you... this life has no regrets..."

  A faint and intermittent voice came drifting over, giving Xia Chuqi a big fright.

  This voice, of course, was not hers, but a gentle and melodious female voice that came from the depths of the plum forest, like a clear spring flowing over jade stones. The sound was full of deep emotions, soft and beautiful, as if it were a lover's whisper, and it sounded especially pleasant to hear.

  The distance was too far, she didn't hear it very clearly.

  But Yuanchun Garden is a royal garden, and those who can appear in this place are either palace ladies or inner and outer court ladies.

  Is someone's wife having an affair here?

  As she exchanged a glance with Li Miao, she was weighing whether to advance or retreat. Suddenly, a rustling sound came from the plum forest, and a figure emerged from the slanting thorns, their clothes and sword swirling out with a tearing sound that was quite piercing to the ear.

  Li Mian's movements were quick and agile, without saying a word, he blocked her way and approached her.

  "Is it you?"

  "Is it you?"

  A male voice, a female voice, two different voices asking the same question in unison, made the person being asked look wide-eyed and bewildered, unable to react. It also made Xia Chuqi's eyes freeze, his back stiffening instantly.

  Chen Jing!!!

  He is here, so Zhao Zhuo will also be here.

  So was it that gentle and beautiful female voice just now who was talking to him?

  Her heart skipped a beat for no reason, Xia Chuyi curled up the corner of her mouth and looked at Chen Jing.

  "Lord Chen, is Your Highness inside?"

  "Chu...... Young Master......" Chen Jing had always been a man who remained calm and composed, even when faced with unexpected situations. But at this moment, he was stunned by the sudden appearance of Xia Chuqi, dressed in his finery, and was taken aback, unsure of how to respond, his tall frame frozen in place.

  "But isn't it inconvenient to say?" Xia Chuyi asked calmly again.

  "It is..." Chen Jing's Adam's apple moved slightly as he clasped his hands together in a bow.

  "Is Lord Chen here to keep watch for Your Highness?" Xia Chuyi hooked down the corner of his mouth, and his gaze swept over the plum forest once again.

  "No, it's not." Chen Jing was always a straightforward and honest person, but he wasn't good at lying. His eyes fluttered for a moment, and he didn't dare to look into Xia Chuyi's eyes again, instead slightly lowering his head.

  Her eyes sparkled as she looked at him, Xia Chuqi's ears buzzed, and her legs felt a little weak. She couldn't think clearly about what kind of feeling it was, only that the sound coming out of her mouth was slightly hoarse.

  "Lord Chen, who is the woman speaking with His Highness?"

  She asked very calmly, but Chen Jing's face changed, yet he didn't seem to want to answer her. Seeing this, Xia Chuyi glanced at the withered plum blossoms on the branch and stopped bothering him, about to walk into the plum forest, when Chen Jing, who had always been extremely respectful towards her, suddenly stretched out his sword scabbard, blocking her path.

  "You can't go in, Your Excellency."

  Can't?

  Those seven bright night pearls still linger, those two strands of hair with a faint scent are still tightly wrapped around each other, the words that were spoken still echo in my ears, and the body he held tightly is still warm, but after just a short while, has everything changed?

  Xia Chuiqi felt a lump in her throat and her eyes stung slightly.

  "Get out of the way."

  "Your Highness——" Chen Jing blocked, raised his voice.

  She let out a soft "oh" and Xia Qi Qi couldn't help but wonder if he was trying to warn her. With a sly smile, she asked, "Could it be that Your Highness is having an affair with some young lady inside and is afraid of being seen? If that's the case, then this imperial son-in-law really should take a look. Such a rare occurrence, only happening once in a hundred years, would be a pity to miss."

  She was a stubborn person, but Chen Jing was even more stubborn than her.

  Just as Li Miao was about to fight Chen Jing, another group of people came from the entrance of the small garden. The leader of the group was none other than Ning Wang, whom Xia Chu had not seen for a long time. Beside Ning Wang were several men she did not recognize, who appeared to be sons of Emperor Hongtai based on their attire.

  "Chu's son-in-law, what are you arguing about here?" King Ning of Zhao asked with a smile.

  A dispute...?

  At the beginning of summer, on the seventh day, her heart was inexplicably struck, and she slightly narrowed her eyes, putting away those unpleasant emotions. She first bowed to them, then forced a smile and responded cheerfully.

  "Your Highness, Prince Ning, is joking. What dispute could there be? We are simply admiring the plum blossoms here."

  "Could it be that I, the king, was mistaken?" Zhao Zun glanced into the depths of the plum forest, and a hint of profound smile rippled out from his eyes. "Chu King's son-in-law, isn't Old Nineteen here?"

  Looking at Ning Wang and the expressions of those princes, Xia Chuqi's heart knew that Chen Jing was blocking her from seeing the woman, even more so these princes.

  She felt like she had swallowed a cotton ball and was very uncomfortable.

  But before things are clear, she didn't mind helping Zhao Zhuo because of this.

  With a hint of bitterness in her heart, she smiled brightly and said with an exaggerated tone.

  "His Highness the Nineteenth has gone to pick plum blossoms for me and will be back immediately."

  If Zhao Zun is not here, they will definitely not believe it. This is the best excuse she can think of at present. When blocking these people here, whether to transfer or destroy "evidence", she believes that with Zhao Zun's cleverness, it can be done very well.

  "Hmm? So Chu Shuai and Old Nineteen are indeed..."

  The king was very ambiguous and "hehe" twice, a pair of heavy eyes like installed detectors, scanned her up and down, then turned back to exchange eye contact with Zhao Kai, and swept his clothes, ready to rush in.

  "Your Highness Ning Wang——" Xia Chuyi was interrupted before she could finish speaking, and a figure emerged from the depths of the plum forest. Wearing a black eight-treasured cloud-patterned brocade robe with wide sleeves, his steps were steady and unhurried, and his cold gaze held a hint of majestic dignity that sent shivers down one's spine.

  Contrary to his image, he was indeed holding a bunch of plum blossoms that were blooming beautifully.

  He walked over, glanced at them, and handed the plum blossom to Xia Chuqi.

  "Take a look, do you still like these few branches?"

  The warmth of the red plum blossoms lingered on his body, adding a hint of warmth to his originally cold and stern face, just like the rippling waves in the hot spring pool under the bright moonlight last night, which directly entered Xia Chuyi's heart.

  Looking at him, she slowly opened a smile, took the red plum and brought it to her nose for a light sniff, sighed in intoxication, deliberately showing affection, blushing and saying, "The 19th prince has worked hard."

  "Nonsense."

  Under the ambiguous gaze of those princes, Zhao Zun lightly patted her shoulder, his fingertips silently pinching for a moment before calmly turning away.

  "Are all of you brothers also here to admire the plum blossoms?"

  "Yes, after this blooming season, if you want to see plum blossoms again, you'll have to wait until next year. The plum blossoms in this Spring-Admiring Garden are always the last to wither every year. Today, we came over just to take a look, but unexpectedly, it's also an opportunity for us to meet Old Nineteen and the Imperial Son-in-law."

  The speaker was Zhao Shu, the second son of Emperor Hongtai. He finished speaking with a loud laugh, and then Zhao Ding, the King of Xiang, who was slightly thinner than Ning Wang on his left side, took over the conversation and intentionally added a sentence to annoy people.

  "Unexpectedly, Old Nineteen also has the interest in appreciating plum blossoms? I thought he was hiding inside to meet his old lover! Haha!"

  Zhao Dong's words hit Xia Chuqi's sore spot.

  She curled up the corners of her lips, and with a faint smile, she looked at Zhao Zun, trying to see if he was uncomfortable. Unfortunately, this man has always been as distant as the cold moon in the sky, how could she, an ordinary person, possibly understand him?

  He glanced at Xia Chuqi and seemed to be completely disregarding what others thought, saying calmly.

  "Smelling fragrance and playing with silk threads, pitying others on the spring steps. Human's common feelings."

  As soon as he heard this sentence, Xia Chuiqi admired him even more.

  It seems that the 19th Master is not only able to command the winds and clouds on the battlefield, but also traverse the four seas. Even if he were to take off his armor one day and go for a civil service examination or something, he would definitely be able to become a top scholar. These "beautiful poems and licentious words" of his are truly effortless, making him even more worthy of respect than that romantic Yuan Xiao Gongzi.

  Those few elders probably didn't expect him to admit it directly, exchanging a glance, the Ning King burst out laughing again and said loudly, "The 19th brother has been on the battlefield for many years, rarely returning to the capital, he should enjoy himself more."

  "Third Brother probably doesn't know, that the land of beautiful women is also a burial ground for heroes. If Nineteenth Brother becomes infatuated with beauty and loses his will to fight, won't that be a loss for our Great Yan?"

  "What are you, brothers, teaching...?" Zhao You said faintly, suddenly raising an eyebrow, "With so many sons of the emperor, even if I, the 19th, were gone, wouldn't there still be all you brothers? Which one isn't a pillar of talent capable of taking on great responsibility?"

  He spoke slowly and leisurely, but every word was laced with thorns.

  Why did Hong Taiji have so many sons, but only Zhaozong became a great general king? It's obvious that these people were either greedy and afraid of death, or didn't have the ability to fight on the battlefield.

  At the beginning of summer, Xia Ziyu watched Hong Tai's sons with a gaze as if watching a fire, each one politely "borrowing objects to satirize people". She also listened to the 19th master's chess moves being one step ahead, yet his tone was light and airy, making her feel even more disheartened.

  If there weren't so many people around, she would have definitely asked Zhao Zhuo... who was that woman?

  Unfortunately, I haven't found the opportunity yet.

  Someone came over to greet us soon, and the plowing ceremony was about to begin.

  A group of princes brought their attendants and walked together, leaving the plum forest, leaving the spring recitation complete, and heading towards the imperial fields. The doubts and fermenting bubbles in Xiaochi's heart on the seventh day of summer could only be buried deep within, unable to express that taste.

  "Ah Qi..."

  Zhao Zhuo fell back one step and suddenly called out to her.

  A faint "ah" escaped her lips, Xia Chuyi looked up at him, and he was also quietly gazing back at her, neither of them making a sound for quite some time. The wind swept over from the small stream, gently lifting the hem of his robe, and also blew a chill into her eyes.

  She hesitated for a moment, then stepped forward and walked away, "The ceremony is about to begin, let's talk about it when we get back tonight."

  Just as someone was about to walk past him, he grabbed their wrist.

  Under the gaze of the public, how dare he be so bold?

  Xia's heart skipped a beat on the seventh day of summer, and when she turned back to look at him, his dark eyes seemed unfathomably deep.

  She saw someone had already looked over, she struggled with her wrist and gave him a look.

  "We'll talk about it when we get back."

  Zhao Zun's black eyes narrowed slightly, and he pursed his lips.

  He muttered a low "hmm", released his hand and walked ahead of her.

  Looking at his tall and handsome back, Xia Chuqi stayed in place, feeling a little absent-minded. The feeling was complicated and tangled, she couldn't explain it clearly. If she said that because of one sentence she didn't understand, because of one thing she hadn't figured out yet, she had a falling out with Zhao Zun, it would be too pretentious, even she herself couldn't bear it. But she had to admit, deep down, there was always some resentment.

  "Chu Qi..."

  Li Mian touched her arm and called out softly.

  "Li Zhubo is calling you over."

  She let out a soft "ah" and only then did Xia Zhi react, realizing that the imperial fields were just ahead. However, she felt as though she had no strength left, and when she took a step forward, her legs went limp and she almost fell over. Luckily, Li Mo was there to catch her in time, preventing a big scene from unfolding.

  "Be careful." Li Mo frowned, "Your face is very pale."

  She curved a corner of her lips and suppressed the emotions that made her breathless, smiling slightly.

  "Don't worry, even if I were as pale as a ghost, I'd still be whiter than you."

  “……”

  Li Mian didn't respond, but lost a bit of face. Xia's emotions that had been stirred up on the seventh day of summer suddenly disappeared. Her optimistic attitude supported her and she quickly regained her composure. What was she doing now? The emperor was right in front of her, as well as all the civil and military officials. Countless pairs of eyes were staring at her, staring at Zhao Shi Jiu. No matter what, she couldn't lose her composure today.

  Everything is ready on the edge of the noble field.

  After another round of music and ceremony, it was unclear what the celebrant had said, but the ritual ended with only one segment left: the old emperor personally plowing the land.

  Soon, a water buffalo with a big red ribbon tied around its neck came over slowly. Behind the water buffalo was a man dressed as a farmer, holding an iron plow and walking hesitantly at the same pace as the buffalo, his eyes filled with hesitation and shyness.

  In a daze, Xia Qi saw that tall figure and her heart suddenly skipped a beat.

  Idiot!

  That farmer-looking guy is actually Landa's fool?

  It's been a long time since she saw him, and she really wanted to rush over and ask if he was doing well.

  Unfortunately, standing among a group of people, she not only couldn't go forward to greet him, but also had to shrink her body back again and again, not daring to let the fool see her. Lan Da Shuai was a man with low intelligence, once he saw her, one sentence "wife" would sell her out.

  Even if we were to recognize each other, it can't be now.

  It seems that today's play was arranged by Ning Wang Zhao Ji?

  Otherwise, how would fools end up here?

  But she remembered that Zhao Zhu had promised her, he would always pay attention to the fool, and when the time was right, he would let them meet, and also let the fool recognize his ancestors. Could it be said that, apart from Ning Wang, Zhao Zhu also thought that today was the best opportunity?

  Her heart was in a flurry, she unconsciously retreated and searched for Prince Zhao Ke among the crowd again.

  When it was time for ancestor worship, he wasn't there; now at the imperial field border, still no sign of him.

  It seems that the prince has been staying in the East Palace for a long time and is no longer used to life outside. On such a good day, Zhao Mianze still couldn't persuade him to come out and take a stroll.

  Suddenly, she felt some regret again.

  If he came, how delighted his own son would be to see him for the first time...

  She thought of Zhao Zhuang's kind and gentle thin face, her heart ached.

  The Taoist priest lit incense at the imperial field, and said some ritualistic words about the plowing ceremony, which she didn't hear very clearly. She only saw him paying attention to the awkward movements of the fool, then looked at the old emperor rolling up his sleeves, taking over the plow handle from the fool's hand, ready to start this year's first spring plowing, marking the beginning of farming.

  But at this moment, Ning Wang suddenly came forward and inserted a sentence in front of the civil and military people.

  "Your Majesty, doesn't this peasant look like someone?"

  If it weren't for Ning Wang's reminder, Hong Tai Emperor's eyes wouldn't have looked at Lan Da at all. As a result, he furrowed his brow and glared at Ning Wang with some displeasure, as if he was slightly annoyed that he had interrupted the ceremony. However, his gaze naturally fell on the silly and honest black face of the fool.

  All around was quiet.

  The officials all held their breath and were silent.

  The more I understand you, the faster my heart beats.

  When she first saw Crown Prince Zhao Ke, although he had already become emaciated beyond recognition, she still vaguely saw a few hints of foolishness in his facial features. If that's the case, then the eyebrows and eyes of a fool should somewhat resemble those of young Zhao Ke, shouldn't they?

  The "thumping" sound was her heartbeat.

  Time seemed to pass extremely slowly, as if it had been a long, long time before he heard the voice of Emperor Hongtai.

  "Who is he?"

  Ning Wang was overjoyed upon hearing his father's words, and without noticing the mud on the ground, he immediately knelt down in front of the old emperor with a "thud", excitedly telling him, "Reporting to Your Majesty, it is Mian Huan!"

  "What's wrong?" Emperor Hong Tai's gaze faltered, and he took a step back.

  "Yes, he is indeed Mian Ze. He is your imperial grandson, Mian Huan!"

  The old emperor's hand on the armrest of his throne trembled slightly as he looked at the inexplicable fool with a slow gaze.

  "Are you really Meng Huan?"

  At this moment, Landa's big fool was completely intimidated by the scene in front of him, staring stupidly at the majestic old man in front of him, his head lowered, his hands rubbing the hem of his clothes back and forth, foolishly muttering to himself.

  "My name is Lan Dazhu."

  As soon as he denied it and spoke in a tone that was somewhat foolish, Hong Tai's gaze narrowed. He immediately put down the plow handle, turned his head around, and gazed coldly at Zhao Xi.

  "Old Three, what's going on?"

  Ning Wang was still kneeling on the ground, listening to the old emperor's inquiry, with a face full of joy and tears, his voice was so excited that he almost choked, making Xia Chuyi, who was watching from the other side of the river, really look like presenting him an "Oscar" award.

  "I reported to the Emperor, last time I went to Jin City to pick up my 19th brother to return to Beijing, I unintentionally discovered that this person has a few similarities with my older brother. However, Meng Huan had passed away many years ago... and I didn't think about it in that way. But later, I accidentally saw the birthmark on Meng Huan's lower back. The shape and color of that birthmark are still vivid in my memory, not like ordinary ones. With so many coincidences coming together, I started to have this idea, found the nanny who served Meng Huan, Liu Shi, she indeed had been taking care of Meng Huan all these years... only then did I dare to confirm, and brought Meng Ze back to Beijing..."

  Ning Wang choked out his words, and Hong Tai Emperor's face had already turned cold and stern.

  "Since you have already entered the capital, why haven't you reported yet?"

  "Father, when I brought back Meng Huan, I learned some things from Liu's mouth... Meng Huan mistakenly drank a poisonous medicine given by a treacherous person in the past and had some problems with his brain. I originally wanted to cure him first before reporting it to Your Majesty, but unfortunately, after taking many medicines, there is no improvement. Under helplessness, I thought of bringing Meng Huan to see you on this auspicious day of the Mid-Autumn Festival, giving you a surprise..."

  Did you drink poisonous medicine? Is there something wrong with your brain?

  A crown prince who had been dead for over a decade suddenly came back to life. Moreover, Ning Wang's words were laced with hidden meaning, making the reason behind "poisoning" even more complicated. The officials and nobles present were all guessing the truth of that year, but these people were all slippery fish who emerged from muddy waters, not one of them showing any unusual expression on their faces.

  Hong Tai's old eyes were already stirred with emotions.

  He walked step by step closer to the fool, carefully examined him from head to toe, and raised his hand.

  "Child, show me the birthmark on your waist..."

  As soon as he heard this sentence, the fool was so frightened that he covered his clothes and shook his head.

  "It's no good."

  "Hmm? Why not?" Emperor Hong Tai coaxed him with a rare good temper.

  The fool's eyelids fluttered rapidly, his dark face flushed red, but he still bit his lower lip and remained silent, hanging his head down, not looking at anyone or saying a word. Emperor Hongtai sighed helplessly, patted his shoulder like a loving grandfather, and asked again in a soft voice, before the fool slowly raised his head and hooked his hand at Emperor Hongtai.

  "Come closer and I'll whisper it in your ear."

  Hong Tai Emperor was slightly stunned, paused for a moment, but really didn't care about his imperial dignity, and under the gaze of everyone, he tilted his head, put his ear close to the fool's face.

  "You're a boy, that's why I'm telling you, but don't tell anyone else. Third Aunt said so, no matter who comes to ask, it's not allowed to say it out loud... If I told someone else, my little chicken would fly away..."

  Di Di let out a low "ah" sound, and Hong Tai Emperor suddenly sat up straight.

  He was taken aback for a moment, then he burst out laughing with a hearty "hahaha".

  "Alright, alright, alright... Grandpa Emperor won't look for now, won't look for now..."

  He burst out laughing twice, and Emperor Hongtai seemed to be in a very good mood, no longer pressing him, but instead turned his head to instruct Cui Yingda.

  "Take him down and settle him in, wait until the plowing ceremony is over, then I will carefully interrogate him."

  "Yes, Your Majesty—"

  Chui Yingda led the fool down, and after being scolded by the old emperor, he continued. However, the atmosphere was clearly different from before. The old emperor plowed the field seriously under the guidance of his guards, while the people on the ridge had their own thoughts.

  It is worth noting that Zhao Mianhuan's identity was that of the Emperor's eldest grandson. If he had been poisoned and became an idiot, then why did he drown to death back then? And why did he leave the palace for over a decade without returning? All these will lead to a string of secrets, which will trigger a bloody storm.

  Moreover, Zhao Mianhuan was the eldest grandson by birth.

  When he was young, Zhao Mianhuan was clever and lovely, intelligent and well-behaved, and was very much liked by the old emperor and the crown prince. After his sudden death, Emperor Hongtai, who had always been diligent in governance, suspended court for three days, and both he and Empress Dowager Zhao were heartbroken for a long time.

  Later, Zhao Zhen legitimized Zhao Mianze's mother as his empress, and since Zhao Mianze was originally a son of a concubine, he naturally became the legitimate son. In order to avoid making the old emperor and the crown prince uncomfortable, no one mentioned Zhao Mianhuan again, directly calling Zhao Mianze the imperial grandson. Thus, in this era where "the eldest son of the empress must be the heir", Zhao Mianhuan, who was originally supposed to become the heir, was erased from history, leaving behind only a brief mention.

  The eldest son of Meng Huan, Queen Consort Chang, died in the 11th year of Hongtai, Gengyin month, and was posthumously honored as King Yi Huai.

  However--

  Things are different now, the eight-year-old crown grandson who died prematurely has returned, not to mention that he brought back a nearly earth-shattering "secret", and no one can predict how big a storm this secret will stir up in the future.

  Because no one can guess what's on the mind of the old emperor.

  Ning Wang Zhao Xi chose Mid-Autumn Festival to send back Zhao Mian Huan, naturally not just for the sake of filial piety and giving a surprise.

  He just wants Zhao Mianhuan to be exposed in front of the civil and military officials, as well as the royal nobles, so that no one, including that cunning old emperor, will have a chance to cover him up again. The fool may not be able to become the crown prince, but he is indeed the legitimate son, with him there, Zhao Mianze's position will be very embarrassing.

  Just then, Xia Chuyi intentionally or unintentionally took a glance at Zhao Mianze.

  Right by the imperial field, he had his clothes fluttering in the wind, and on his face was still a quiet and warm smile.

  As expected, those who play politics are all "cunning" ——

  The old emperor plows the field, just going through the motions, for show.

  In less than a minute, he was ashore.

  The activity at the Imperial Field has come to an end, and next is a small banquet.

  What is referred to as "small banquet" is in comparison with the "grand banquet" that will be held at Fengtian Hall tonight. The emperor has plowed the fields, and the civil and military officials, along with their sons and grandsons, have been grinding away for so long, and it's already past noon, everyone is still hungry, they gather to eat a simple meal, chatting casually, and that's what's called "small banquet".

  The dinner party was arranged in the Spring Reflection Garden.

  Before the small banquet, the old emperor had already verified the idiot's true identity. As for "the truth of that year", he didn't reveal whether he would investigate or not. The old emperor was in a good mood after getting back his imperial grandson, and at the small banquet, someone added a chair to let the idiot sit beside him, but he did not issue an edict to change Zhao Mianhuan's posthumous title "Yihuai Wang" to a noble title.

  A light and airy banquet, with fruit and tea on the table, exquisite dishes paired with fine wine, lords and ministers drinking together, brothers and friends showing respect, each chatting and laughing, but beneath the peaceful surface, undercurrents were surging, presenting a strange harmony.

  The old emperor sent someone to the East Palace to deliver a message.

  The person who spoke said that the prince was overjoyed and said he would come over personally after making some preparations.

  Actually, it was Zhao Che who should be the happiest one after finding back the Emperor's grandson.

  Listening to the sighs of the crowd, the cheers, Xia Qi always pretended she didn't exist, hiding in the midst of the people, burying her head in the table, slowly eating, afraid that a fool would suddenly call out to her and cause big trouble.

  In the midst of mixed thoughts, a hundred flavors passed through my heart once again, and then again.

  In front of her were golden cups and jade bowls, but she still had no appetite for food.

  However, from time to time, he would steal a glance at Zhao Zun, only to see his calm and collected expression unchanged, his face still devoid of emotion, sitting there with an air of nonchalance, his posture tall and proud, as if he had never worried about any unexpected events occurring.

  This man can indeed hold his temper.

  No, actually everyone here is very calm.

  The majestic Emperor Hong Tai always wore a gentle smile and shared joy with his ministers.

  Zhao Mianze was in an awkward position, but he always smiled like a spring breeze, with a warm and gentle expression.

  The princes and grandsons, though each has their own differences, do not lose a bit of the noble dignity of the imperial family.

  The Eastern Grand Commander in a red robe who overturned the world was still as beautiful and gorgeous, causing the King of Ning's gaze to always involuntarily glance in his direction.

  The civil and military officials who accompanied him raised their cups and clinked them together, making a lively scene.

  "Your Majesty, I have something to report."

  Suddenly, after a loud shout, a square-faced, bearded old man in his fifties, wearing a first-class official robe, walked out of the seat and knelt down, saying loudly to Emperor Hong Tai.

  "Today, the imperial grandson has been found, this is a great joy for the country. But after old minister's excitement, he thought of a mistake his family had committed... it's like a fish bone stuck in his throat, can't spit it out!"

  Hong Taiyi's gaze, which had been smiling, shifted to that person and let out a hearty laugh.

  "Honest Guo Gong, dispense with the formalities. Today we sit together as equals, no need to be so restrained. Sit down and let's talk."

  Those who can be enfeoffed as "Duke" in the Great Yan Dynasty are basically those who have made achievements on the battlefield, using blood to fight for them. Apart from this, no matter how great the achievement is, it will only be enfeoffed as a marquis or earl. However, Cheng Guo Gong Yuan Chou, although he was a man of extremely high merit, had a humble and unassuming nature, and in the court, his prestige was high, but he never formed cliques or sought personal gain, and always had the favor of Emperor Hong Tai.

  However, when the old emperor let him get up, he didn't get up and still knelt stubbornly on the ground.

  "Your Majesty, your old minister has committed the crime of deceiving you, I dare not rise..."

  He let out a faint "oh" and Emperor Hong Tai gave him a cold glance.

  "Tell me, what is it?"

  "Sixteen years ago, I was ordered to go to Liaodong and met a beautiful woman. I wanted to take her as my concubine, but she refused me. In anger, I took her by force in the military camp. Later, when we returned to the capital, I abandoned her. Unbeknownst to me, she had become pregnant with my child... a daughter. She was not tolerated by her family and had to beg for food with her young daughter, drifting from place to place until they ended up in Jin City Prefecture. Alas, she died in Puzhao Temple. My poor daughter suffered greatly at a young age. Fortunately, she met Master Chang Fa, who performed rituals to help her spirit ascend. It was only then that I learned of this tragic fate and was able to bring my poor daughter back to the capital to reunite with me."

  A more wonderful story than the one I just told you.

  The sound of "xià chū qī" was heard in his ears, but in his heart, he felt a strange and eerie chill.

  Also Taochang, also Jincheng Prefecture, also Puzhao Temple.

  Isn't it so coincidental?

  She had doubts in her mind, but Hong Taiji sighed and stroked his beard with a smile.

  "So it seems that's a great joy, why then did you say deceive me?"

  Cheng Guogong's face turned slightly red, and he lowered his eyelids. "Your old minister has many wives and concubines, but none of them have ever been pregnant. It was only by Your Majesty's benevolence that we were able to adopt Yu'er as our heir... Now, your old minister had a fleeting affair outside, and unexpectedly gave birth to a daughter. Isn't this deceiving the emperor? Your old minister is extremely fearful, please punish me."

  Haha, laughing loudly, Emperor Hong Tai was in a great mood today as he had just received the news of the return of his eldest grandson. He ordered Cui Ying to summon Dao Chang and the monk quickly appeared before everyone's eyes, wearing a dark brown robe.

  Indeed, Daochang Shang's answer was no different from Chengguo Gong's.

  Hong Taiyi was overjoyed and didn't bother to think about it anymore.

  "Alright, alright, my dear. This is a good thing, a very good thing indeed. Today is a great joy for me, and also a great joy for you. Come, come over here and offer me a cup of wine, and this matter will be considered settled."

  "Yes, thank you Your Majesty..."

  Yuan Hongchou trembled with fear and bowed, but instead of going to toast, he continued to kneel on the ground and said, "Your Majesty, I have another presumptuous request, I hope Your Majesty will grant it."

  "Oh, go on and tell me."

  "Your Majesty, my daughter is already sixteen years old. She has a good temperament and character, being intelligent, warm and gentle. She has reached the age for marriage, I wish to request Your Majesty's permission to arrange her marriage..."

  "Imperial marriage?" The old emperor narrowed his eyes, "Who does Your Excellency plan to bestow your daughter upon?"

  Among the many princes of Hong Taiji, there was only one who had not yet married.

  It was almost a conditioned reflex, and Xia Qi's heart suddenly rose to her throat.

  Like her, everyone's eyes fell on Yuan Hongyu.

  He paused for a moment, looked at Zhao Zhuo who was sitting upright with an unchanged expression, and bowed his hands.

  "Your humble servant wishes to request Your Majesty to bestow his younger daughter in marriage upon the Prince of Jin."

  The scene suddenly fell silent, almost to the point where a pin drop could be heard.

  Everyone knows that King Jin has been married three times and died three times. The daughter of the illustrious Marquis Song's family hadn't even waited for her marriage to be bestowed before she suddenly died. Now, Duke Chengguo had just found his beloved daughter, yet he dares to request an imperial decree to give her to Prince Jin - what is the meaning of this?

  Everyone was shocked, and even the usually smiling face of Emperor Hong Tai turned solemn. It's unclear what he was thinking about, but after glancing at Zhao Zun, he looked at Yuan Hongchu instead.

  "Have you all thought it through?"

  "The King of Jin is a man of noble character, with a good reputation. I, your humble minister, have admired him for a long time. Now, I am thickening my skin to ask Your Majesty to consider this marriage proposal and hope that you will grant it."

  There was no immediate response, and Hong Taiyi looked at Zhao Zun once again.

  "Lao Shijiu, this marriage of yours has had its ups and downs. Usually, I haven't asked you in detail whether you were willing or not. Today, Cheng Guo Gong personally requested an imperial decree, and I have agreed to it. However, as for the matter of marriage, although parents are in charge, today I want to hear your opinion."

  Listen to his opinion?

  The heart that was lifted on the seventh day of summer has fallen again.

  He should be refusing, after all, that daughter of Cheng Guo Gong, he hasn't even seen her face before, how could he agree to it so recklessly?

  In an instant, a very low and careless voice, however, thundered into her ears.

  "Marriage is an important matter, but it's up to Father Emperor to decide."

  Digression

  First transmit, then modify

  Girls, for the next period of time, without further notice, the update time will be 5 pm (because the review is at the top of the hour, if not at 5 pm, then come and brush at 6 pm, cough. However, as long as there is no notification, it will definitely be updated, writing this thing, I won't perfunctory, hoping everyone can continue to support...

  Acknowledgments:

  Dear [15874416257], you have been upgraded to San Ding Jia - Banger Jun.

  Dear Chen Xiao Yi, promoted to be a Jinshi.

  Dear 【Floating Kuro】, upgraded to become a contributor.

  Dear [you are my inner 0305], [tinliu], [13755116021] has been upgraded to Yuan.

  Thanks for your trouble, nothing more to say, stretch out your paws and let's shake hands, wooden horse.