Chapter 80 080 Am I not good enough?

Nine years ago was too distant a time; Zhao Jialing, living deep within the palace, was largely unaware of the events. Even Xie Lanzhao only had vague memories. The man who served as the Wannian Magistrate at that time was Pei Kuan, the maternal uncle of the Prince of Puyang, who had been promoted from the position of Crown Prince's Junior Advisor. Later, when the Crown Prince was deposed, Pei Kuan was also removed from his post, making him a true member of the Crown Prince's faction.

Reopening old cases is not easy, but since Liu Fenghua already had clues, Zhao Jialing naturally had no reason to stop her and replied that he would continue the investigation.

As the year drew to a close, firecrackers crackled in the streets and alleys of Chang'an, adding a touch of festive cheer to the otherwise somber atmosphere. Liu Fenghua, ostensibly a street ruffian in Wannian County known for his cockfighting and hunting, was actually continuing his investigation along the leads. Some of the missing children had been abducted and sold to the Sanqu area of ​​Pingkang Ward. Sanqu was known as a haven for philanderers, frequented by wealthy young men from the capital, newly appointed scholars, failed candidates, and even court officials. The previous emperor had attempted to clean up the area under the leadership of Chancellor Zheng, strictly prohibiting prostitution and entertainment, but this sparked numerous protests and ultimately fizzled out.

Following the clues, Liu Fenghe found the brothel and located what appeared to be the missing child. However, upon questioning, the child couldn't remember anything from years ago. The identity document produced by the girl's stepmother, at least at first glance, showed no problems. Undeterred, Liu Fenghe continued to wander around Pingkang Ward, unconcerned even if it attracted impeachment from the censor.

Gradually, she began to suspect Pei Kuan, the former magistrate of Wannian. But just as she was about to continue her investigation, she was assassinated on her way home! Her attendants were no match for the assassin, who specifically chose a time when the Imperial Guards were changing shifts. The assassin, unaware of Chang'an's defenses, thought he was about to succeed when a deafening explosion rang out, and he was struck by a firearm. Appearing before the assassin were guards from the firearms battalion, binoculars at their waists and muskets belching smoke.

A madman, arrogant and audacious, dared to assassinate a high-ranking official in the street! When the news reached the palace, Zhao Jialing was naturally furious. It could be retaliation from the captured and expelled villains, or it could be related to an old case that Liu Fenghe was investigating. The assassin hadn't died; Liu Fenghe immediately summoned Meng Yize, who kept him alive. Through interrogation, they obtained crucial information from the assassin, learning that everything pointed to the old Prince Ji.

Prince Ji was a descendant of Emperor Taizong's son and Emperor Renzong's younger brother. After the death of Prince Ji's son, Empress Si, his adopted son, Zhao Shen, inherited the title. However, due to drinking and merrymaking during the mourning period, he was demoted to Prince of Puyang. The old Prince Ji mentioned in the clues is naturally the previous one, but since the assassin was sent by the Prince of Puyang, he is clearly also involved.

When the officials from Wannian County, Jingzhao Prefecture, and the Qianniu Guard arrived at the Prince of Puyang's residence, Zhao Shen was still drinking and making merry with a group of纨绔子弟 (sons of wealthy families who squandered their wealth). His uncle had escaped, but was caught before even leaving Chang'an. After some torture, the truth about the kidnapping that year was revealed to Pei Kuan. It turned out that the Prince of Ji's residence had been engaged in some shady dealings! The prince's men, either by virtue of their power or through abduction, had captured countless innocent girls, either to be their concubines, sold them to brothels, or made them slaves. Initially, the Prince of Ji's residence hadn't operated near Chang'an, but that year, during the Lantern Festival, the timing and location were perfect, and with Pei Kuan serving as the magistrate of Wannian, they could easily clean up the mess, so they became bolder!

Although the old Prince Ji has passed away, his connections remain, and Pei Kuan is still around. The Prince of Puyang harbors resentment over being stripped of his title, and Pei Kuan is full of grievances over being dismissed from his post. They are accumulating wealth and power, and even dreaming of rebelling and seizing the throne!

Those who received the orders immediately searched the Puyang Prince's residence, finding numerous account books listing the names of court officials who had dealings with them. The court officials were outraged upon learning this. The Puyang Prince was a spoiled brat, but the old Prince Ji had a good reputation. The dealings were merely normal exchanges, and receiving gifts was nothing out of the ordinary. Who knew the Prince Ji's residence would be involved in such a scandal! The origins of the servants gifted by the Prince Ji's residence… they dared not even think about it. The imperial family members were truly audacious!

The Prince of Puyang was doomed, and many court officials felt their own lives were in imminent danger. During the regular court session, not a single person dared to utter a sound, and the atmosphere gradually became tense and terrifying.

Zhao Jialing's face was ashen, her eyes like ice. She stood there with her hands behind her back, like an insurmountable mountain, casting a massive shadow.

Xie Lanzhao, the only one unafraid of the emperor's wrath, slowly spoke amidst the expectant gazes of the court officials. Her voice was firm and resolute: "Your Majesty, please issue an edict to abolish the Three Bends of Beili." There was no objection to the handling of the Prince Ji's residence; further discussion was unnecessary. Even imperial relatives were useless; they had committed heinous crimes punishable by death. What remained was the Three Bends of Beili in Pingkang Ward. And it wasn't just Chang'an that had these places; the local areas dared not even imagine. These were havens of filth and depravity, where the elegance of scholars was built upon the blood and tears of countless women.

Her mother had never mentioned these things to her, but she understood as she grew up. When the Beili Sanqu (Northern Quarters) were abolished in the past, most of the court officials opposed it. Because it was their place of refinement, their haven of pleasure. They used their "faint pity" for courtesans to highlight their own repulsive suave elegance. Which man holding a position in the court hadn't been to Pingkang Beili?

The mother's downfall was due to unfavorable timing, but is this the right time? Xie Lanzhao didn't know, but she had to bring it up.

The court officials, their emotions fluctuating wildly, all bowed their heads, not daring to speak. Only a few scattered voices echoed Xie Lanzhao's sentiments. Normally, the most vocal critics were the censors and remonstrating officials, but their duty was to impeach these matters, and regardless of their true feelings, they were even less likely to stand up and oppose him at this moment.

Zhao Jialing took in the expressions of the court officials and said, "Agreed."

It was called Beili Sanqu, but it was more than just three bends; even hidden brothels were searched. Anyone involved in human trafficking, regardless of their status, was thrown into prison. As for the poor women who had been unjustly enslaved, those who wished to return home were released, while those who were homeless and unable to earn a living were temporarily placed in a nunnery.

The hardest part of changing something is never the moment the order is given. Take, for example, the abolition of the Beili Sanqu (Northern Quarters) right now, which affects the lives and livelihoods of many. Those poor souls forced into prostitution, some with savings who manage to find work after escaping slavery, are few and far between. Most are left bewildered, unsure how to make a living. Forced into a parasitic situation, they are easily trapped back in that predicament. Without Beili Sanqu, the fate of returning to the mire will only be more dire.

In the side hall, Zhao Jialing and Xie Lanzhao discussed the follow-up matters.

Xie Lanzhao sighed, "They know that falling into prostitution is bad, but when they can't survive, what other choice do they have?" The imperial court can give them money when they are rescued, but it can't provide that money indefinitely. What happens when that money runs out?

Zhao Jialing frowned: "What can we get them to do?"

Xie Lanzhao pondered for a moment and said, "When the foster mothers of these girls buy them back, they should teach them songs and ballads." The scholars of this dynasty, following the customs of the past, mostly value literature and elegance. The courtesans who frequent these places should also be versed in poetry and prose. Their appearance is often not a problem, but they must be skilled in conversation and able to sing and ballad. "They should be literate, able to teach orphans in sick wards, and good at singing and dancing. They can also accompany the musicians of the Imperial Music Bureau to bring dramas to the countryside." These are arrangements made based on their own talents, which is better than continuing to be reduced to prostitution or hastily marrying someone.

"Let's leave it at that for now," Zhao Jialing sighed, then added angrily, "These kidnappers are despicable, and the Ji family deserves to die!" The evil deeds these people have committed for money have caused countless families to break apart; they are truly outrageous and deserving of divine condemnation. "They must be severely punished!"

The old Prince Ji is dead, but his title will be posthumously revoked. As for Prince Zhao Shen of Puyang, he was not unaware of this; he and Pei Kuan continued their relationship! He must be stripped of his imperial lineage and demoted to commoner status. When dealing with princes and high-ranking officials, the palace usually adopts a dignified approach, such as issuing a death sentence. But Zhao Jialing didn't want to give Zhao Shen's family any face; even with pleas from members of the imperial clan, she sentenced him to beheading!

"In places I cannot see, disgusting parasites roam." Zhao Jialing pursed her lips, her anger mingled with distress and frustration. With the world in such a state, what kind of "enlightened" was she?

"Your Majesty has done very well," Xie Lanzhao comforted her gently, and said slowly, "How can such a vast world be the burden of one person alone? It requires wise people to work together with one heart. If Your Majesty chooses good people to use, sooner or later you will achieve true peace."

"You're right," Zhao Jialing murmured, letting out a breath and regaining her spirits. The key was personnel management. Look at this appointment of Liu Fenghe; didn't it bring up those old matters from many years ago? The disastrous consequences of the late emperor's improper appointments had continued to this day. She didn't know how many other dark secrets lay hidden beneath the surface, but solving one problem at a time, eliminating one person at a time, was better than doing nothing.

By the time everything was completely over, it was New Year's Eve. When Zhao Jialing signaled for the executions to proceed immediately, some people came forward to advise against drawing blood and suggested waiting until after the New Year. Zhao Jialing merely sneered and questioned whether he was waiting for a general amnesty. The superstitious officials, seeing that the emperor was still in a rage, immediately fell silent. Only when the heads of those criminals rolled amidst the curses of the people in the streets of Chang'an did the tension in the minds of the court officials finally ease. Perhaps, His Majesty would no longer pursue their dealings with the Prince's Mansion.

Zhao Jialing indeed didn't intend to pursue that trivial matter. Before the incident, the Prince's Mansion still had a somewhat "golden exterior" feel to it. Although they were relatives, it wasn't as taboo as the Prince Zhong's Mansion, and visits were quite common. After this unexpected turn of events, the end of the year was approaching, and they still had to celebrate it properly, as a way to bid farewell to the old and welcome the new.

On New Year's Eve, the palace held a banquet as usual.

The Empress Dowager had always disliked such social engagements, and would make a brief appearance before quickly disappearing. Zhao Jialing, too, had little interest in watching the diligent courtiers eat, and soon left. The courtiers breathed a sigh of relief, each knowing they would eventually return home for a family reunion dinner.

The atmosphere became lively and festive when the fireworks were set off.

Zhao Jialing watched the fireworks from the city tower, Xie Lanzhao by his side. She took Xie Lanzhao's hand, her heart no longer filled with the pride of the revelry. She looked up, listening to the "bang, bang, bang" sounds, watching the arcs of fire shoot into the sky, bursting into dazzling brilliance in mid-air. Only after the colorful flames faded did she turn to Xie Lanzhao, exhaling a breath of cold air, and say, "In a little while, we'll bid farewell to the old year together."

Fireworks continued unabated, their explosions echoing incessantly. The vibrant light of the fireworks illuminated Xie Lanzhao's face, which was so close to hers, and she nodded gently.

Fireworks illuminated the entire city, and cheers drifted in and out of the wind. Zhao Jialing's gaze fell on Xie Lanzao's features, and for a moment, all the noise subsided, leaving only the sound of his heartbeat and breathing. He tightened his grip on Xie Lanzao's hand and asked, "It's windy tonight, are you still going back?"

Xie Lanzhao glanced at her. What winter day isn't windy? Her excuse was rather lame. Her eyelashes fluttered, and she whispered, "What if I were to go back?"

Without hesitation, Zhao Jialing said, "Then I will go back with you."

Xie Lanzhao reminded her, "Tomorrow is the New Year's Day ceremony." Like the Winter Solstice ceremony, the New Year's Day ceremony is quite grand, and various departments have probably already begun preparations. Without rain or heavy snow, there's no reason for things to stop. The beginning of the new year cannot afford any mistakes.

Zhao Jialing slapped his forehead, annoyed, and said, "I've completely forgotten about it."

Xie Lanzhao smiled at Zhao Jialing: "Your Majesty, I will remind you."

Zhao Jialing glanced at her resentfully, and as the New Year's fireworks went off, he said, "It's so cold. We can go back now." The wind was biting, and the breath outside was like clouds, but it was a little warmer inside the palace. Zhao Jialing reached out and circled Xie Lanzhao, hugging her for a moment before letting go. Tomorrow, the emperor could not be disrespectful, and Xie Lanzhao, as the prime minister, could not afford to make a mistake. "I'll have someone send you back."

Xie Lanzhao hummed in agreement, placing her arm around Zhao Jialing's waist in a warm embrace. In that brief exchange, the matter was settled, yet neither let go. The hall remained silent until Zhao Jialing's laughter broke the silence. She raised an eyebrow and said, "You're reluctant to part with me either, aren't you?"

Zhao Jialing didn't need a reply. He quickly raised his head, leaned close to Xie Lanzhao's lips, and gently pecked her lips. Seeing a hint of surprise in her eyes, Zhao Jialing said again, "Is it not okay?"

Xie Lanzhao blinked. Although she met with His Majesty every day and they would whisper among themselves while discussing politics, it mostly went as far as hugging and holding hands. Occasionally, there would be a kiss, and His Majesty would always ask repeatedly if it was permissible. In this light, this could be considered a "sneak attack."

Zhao Jialing licked his lips, feigning composure: "I think you should be used to it by now, just like you're used to my embrace."

[What can you possibly do with this little touch? What's the difference between this and bumping into the side of a cup while drinking water? It won't even trigger the system's harmony settings.] The Wise Ruler System couldn't help but chime in.

Zhao Jialing looked bewildered: [How do I test it?]

Wise Ruler System: [It needs to be stringy, at least stringy!]

Xie Lanzhao didn't quite understand, but Zhao Jialing, having spent so much time with the system, knew exactly what it was implying. Her face flushed crimson. Her eyes shone with a tender light as she looked at Xie Lanzhao, her expression hesitant and unsure what to say.

After a while, she finally made up her mind: "I forgot to ask earlier, may I ask now?"

Xie Lanzhao was still wondering what to add when that warm breath drew closer. As their lips touched, she clearly felt the hand on her waist tighten suddenly. But then… nothing more. Was she going to stay pressed against him? Her eyelashes fluttered; she wanted to ask a question, and her lips parted slightly.

Zhao Jialing was taken aback at first, then her surging enthusiasm finally paid off; she had finally figured it out without a teacher. But while she had a grasp of it, she was still far from being a master. Her chaotic charge was filled with a ferocious, almost manipulative, display. A moment later, Zhao Jialing stepped back, panting. In the dim lamplight, both their faces were flushed like a sunset. Zhao Jialing caught her breath and asked, "How was it?"

Xie Lanzhao's heart was pounding, and she looked troubled, unsure how to answer. She didn't dislike intimacy with His Majesty, but... it didn't feel quite right.

Zhao Jialing's heart sank as she considered the worst-case scenario, her tone tinged with sorrow: "Could it be... that you can't accept it?"

"No." Xie Lanzhao noticed Zhao Jialing's change in mood and answered relatively quickly. Her palms were sweaty. She released Zhao Jialing, turned her back to her, sighed, and decided to tell the truth, "Like murder."

Zhao Jialing: "?!" Her calm and straightforward tone held no hint of disdain, yet who wouldn't be devastated? She didn't feel the sadness of being dumped, but the ensuing embarrassment and despair nearly overwhelmed her. Was she really that bad? "You should go back now," Zhao Jialing said with difficulty, unusually urging her to leave.

Xie Lanzhao turned around and comforted him, saying, "Practice makes perfect." Fearing His Majesty might have other ideas, she added, "Not today." With all that sucking and biting, she feared she wouldn't be able to face anyone tomorrow. After saying this, Xie Lanzhao was somewhat puzzled. Didn't His Majesty often read those miscellaneous books?

"I understand," Zhao Jialing said in a muffled voice.

He hadn't even tried, and he didn't know where to put his face. Although he wished he could disappear into the ground, Zhao Jialing suppressed his embarrassment and frustration, personally escorting Xie Lanzao out of the palace. The night breeze brushed against his face, fading the blush from his cheeks. Zhao Jialing's gaze remained fixed on Xie Lanzao until they were about to part, when he whispered, "Am I incompetent?"

One blow might be intended to correct His Majesty's mistakes, but repeated blows could lead to a life of stagnation. Having made her decision, Xie Lanzhao couldn't allow her future to be bleak. She comforted the dejected Emperor, taking the blame herself, saying, "There's a give and take; it was my slow reaction."

Zhao Jialing said pitifully, "Don't lie to me."

Xie Lanzhao: "..."

Zhao Jialing quickly added, "Never mind, I'll ask my elder sister later."

The New Year's Day ceremony was so complicated that no one could have time for idle thoughts.

After the grand court assembly came the bestowal of rewards from the tower, followed by song and dance performances and a banquet for the assembled officials. When rewarding the Imperial Guards, Zhao Jialing, atop the tower, used the "auspicious omen" he had previously awarded. The system's functions were incredibly comprehensive; first, celestial music filled the air, accompanied by the cries of phoenixes. Then, a flock of phoenixes led hundreds of birds to soar above the Daming Palace—what a magnificent sight! Not only the court officials and vassal states attending the banquet, but even the common people of Chang'an could witness the phoenixes circling and singing.

Zhao Jialing's choice of New Year's Day was deliberate. Needless to say, he needed to deter the regional governors, and also the governors of Dayong. With the emperor far away, these high-ranking officials controlling a single prefecture might not be able to effectively implement the new policies. Cultivating the emperor's divine authority would facilitate the advancement of major reforms. Unfortunately, this auspicious omen has cooled down. However, this makes sense; when "auspicious omens" become commonplace, who will continue to be devout?

Throughout history, emperors have auspiciously bestowed upon themselves omens of good fortune. While tangible objects like the orchid could be conjured, witnessing a dragon or phoenix was an experience reserved for a select few. But this New Year's Day celebration saw millions witnessing this magnificent spectacle. Officials from the Ministry of Rites were eager to immediately petition for the year to be changed to "Phoenix"—what did the extra work matter? To witness this scene was enough to make even death worthwhile!

"The mighty Son of Heaven shines upon all nations. Many virtuous officials fill the court. His influence is boundless, his royal plans are truly effective. A joyous gathering is held, with distinguished guests filling the courtyard… Auspicious omens appear, divine responses are revealed. A unicorn appears, a phoenix soars…"①

Amidst the ceremonial songs, there was also a deafening roar of "Long live the Emperor!"

The scene of "the golden palace bells open to ten thousand households at dawn, and the jade steps are filled with a thousand officials"② can reflect the emperor's grandeur and prestige, but the exhaustion after a series of ceremonies goes without saying. However, at least the matter is settled, and one can breathe a sigh of relief, which is still a relief in spirit.

On New Year's Day, a banquet was held, and members of the imperial family were also present.

The events of last night resurfaced in Zhao Jialing's mind, leaving her feeling melancholy. She found an excuse to speak privately with Zhao Xianju. When the topic turned to matters of the bedroom, Zhao Jialing stammered. However, Zhao Xianju was perceptive enough to glean Zhao Jialing's intention from her fragmented words, and bluntly stated, "His Majesty desires a promotion." Her face was full of a radiant smile. "His Majesty is asking me...you've really asked the wrong person."

Zhao Jialing: "?"

Zhao Xianju said, "I'll have the prince consort prepare some books and send them over another day."

Zhao Jialing's brows relaxed: "When is 'another day'?"

Zhao Xianju scrutinized Zhao Jialing for a moment, then asked in surprise, "Does Your Majesty need to be in such a hurry?"

Zhao Jialing: "..." Was she being looked down upon by her elder sister? She glared at Zhao Xianju and snorted, "I am not as quick as my elder sister."

Zhao Xianju chuckled, then straightened her expression and said, "Has Your Majesty made up your mind?" The Emperor was different from her, a mere princess; their responsibilities were different, and the expectations of the court officials were different. She could go mad anytime, anywhere, but His Majesty couldn't. "Xie Lanzhao is pure and resolute. Your Majesty has chosen her, so she is the only one."

Zhao Jialing said in a deep voice, "I know."

Zhao Xianju said, "It's one thing for court officials to spread gossip, but it's another matter when it involves the succession of the dynasty."

Zhao Jialing lowered her eyelashes and casually asked, "How's Anyang?"

Zhao Xianju's expression turned solemn: "This is not something I should be listening to."

Zhao Jialing didn't continue the topic. She looked at the hazy night and after a long while said, "If they need me, but I don't need them, then they can't control me."