119 Destroy Me!
◎Liu Ju: Your crown prince is not even a dog!◎
When Huo Qubing's angry shout pierced through the noise of the theater and reached the upper floors, Huo Yan's heart sank suddenly.
Although I had expected my brother to come, but when I heard the anger and anxiety in that familiar voice, the feeling of guilt still flooded my body like a tide.
He subconsciously reached out to hold onto the vermilion-painted stair railing beside him, his knuckles turning white from the force, as if if he didn't hold on, he would lose control and flee out the window the next moment.
He knew Huo Qubing's temper too well. Although he didn't talk much, once he opened his mouth, he had to act immediately. He was decisive and ruthless on the battlefield, and his oppressive feeling was enough to suffocate the Huns. If he wanted you to get down, you would be whipped if you didn't.
But this is not worse. What is worse is that Huo Yan lacks experience in dealing with his brother's anger. From childhood to adulthood, Huo Qubing has mostly protected and doted on him, and he has almost never been truly furious.
He complained about the injustice, but could he get away with it this time?
[It’s over, it’s over, the big devil is here!]
[Ahhh, the disease is coming!!!]
[Baby, hold on! Don't jump out of the window. You'll break your legs and you won't be able to escape!]
[I told you not to mess with that crappy golden elixir with spices; it's too slow. Just poison them to death, and there's no evidence. Now, we've caught them red-handed!]
[Yanzai: Outwardly calm as an old dog, but inside he's panicking!]
…
The cold touch of the theater railings helped Huo Yan calm down a bit. He took a deep breath, forced himself to calm down, and quickly calculated in his mind.
He couldn't show his weakness. He had to seize the initiative and turn the tables! He said his brother was investigating him, didn't trust him, and had no conscience!
The two brothers stared at each other, and the noisy crowd downstairs suddenly quieted, not daring to move. The musicians, actors, including Zhuo Wenjun and Li Yannian, all subconsciously made way for the figure in the dark uniform.
Huo Qubing, expressionless, strode through the crowd with long, sharp steps, his gaze fixed squarely on the frozen figure standing upstairs. His brocade boots tapped the wooden stairs with a distinct, oppressive "dong, dong," each one akin to treading on Huo Yan's heart. He gripped the cold handrail tightly, his knuckles white from the strain. The slight flush of alcohol had long since faded, leaving his face pale, almost transparent, making the corners of his eyes, slightly red with nervousness, stand out even more, like peach petals.
Li Xiaomei, who was below, secretly glanced at the two of them. When she saw Huo Yan's appearance, she couldn't help but feel pity for him and was a little worried, but was stopped by her brother.
Li Yannian frowned and glared at her, so she had to shrink her neck and get back in.
Huo Yan didn't know that his behavior caused people to overflow with maternal love, and he encouraged himself in his heart.
He will question him back in a moment! Huo Qubing is investigating him, so he has no conscience!
[Oh my god, I told you not to keep this crappy pill, now you're going to end up in tears behind bars!]
[Shawshank Redemption (Han version): After Yan was imprisoned, there was not a drop of oil in the dishes!]
[Bao, how did that idiot Li Cai know our plan!]
[Yanzai, that window on the right! Jump down and you'll find the back alley!]
[Shut up, you idiot! Ah Yan, stop being so stubborn. The right thing to do is to kneel down and admit your mistake immediately!]
[Pretend to be drunk! Act drunk and act crazy! Now! Right now! Immediately!]
…
Huo Yan didn't move. He just stood there, his mind filled with the barrage of comments.
Acting drunkenly? What a joke! As soon as his brother approached, the remaining alcohol in him was completely wiped out!
Jump out the window? If he breaks his leg, wouldn't it be worse if his brother just carries him away?
In Huo Yan's life, he can lose other things but he must never lose his face!
Huo Qubing quickly stepped onto the second floor. His tall figure carried a dusty air, mixed with a hint of sweet fragrance that he had picked up from passing through the pile of cosmetics downstairs.
He frowned slightly, seeming somewhat annoyed by the atmosphere, and casually brushed his sleeves. Then, without saying anything, he simply walked straight to Huo Yan and extended his long, beautiful hands, with distinct joints and calloused skin from years of wielding knives.
Huo Yan's eyes went dark.
Huo Qubing trapped Huo Yan tightly, like a tiger locking onto a rabbit, with a sense of control.
Especially Huo Qubing's deep eyes, which reflected the light clearly at this moment, were filled with undisguised reproach for not returning home and for drinking here.
The barrage of comments was instantly flooded with “Run!”
Huo Qubing's unexpected, direct hand reached out, choking all of Huo Yan's prepared rhetoric and shifting the blame tactics. He froze for a moment, his mind blank, unsure whether to submit and place his hand on him, or forcefully pry open the hand that now symbolized shackles.
Huo Qubing's blood and energy from the battlefield made his calves a little weak, but he gritted his teeth, straightened his back, and even raised his chin with a hint of provocation.
In front of everyone, you can lose face but not the battle!
"You're blocking the light." Huo Yan remained calm. "I've reached adulthood."
He took a deep breath and was about to drag someone in to pour out his brewing accusation of "You investigate me because you don't trust me." But Huo Qubing actually nodded, and a hint of approval, "You're right," even appeared on his handsome face.
Then, he quickly withdrew his hand, flicked his wide black sleeves, and turned to leave! His movements were smooth and flowing, without a moment's hesitation, as if he had really only come to check on Huo Yan's safety, and once that was done, he left without a second thought.
Huo Yan was completely stunned! His beautiful almond-shaped eyes widened as he stared at his brother's tall and resolute back in disbelief.
No... He hasn't even said his carefully prepared lines yet! This script is wrong!
Seeing Huo Qubing walking without stopping, not even turning back to look, and about to disappear at the stairs, Huo Yan felt a surge of shame and inexplicable grievance at being ignored. He was so enraged that he couldn't help but slam his palm against the vermilion lacquer railing beside him.
"Snap!" A crisp sound was particularly harsh on the quiet terrace.
He felt a burning pain in his palm instantly, and he even gasped.
But Huo Qubing's back didn't even pause. Uncle Dan and Zhuo Wenjun, standing in a corner, looked at the little ancestor's increasingly vigorous clapping movements, their faces hesitant to speak.
My dear, why are you here demolishing a building? If you have the energy, you might as well go chase someone!
Huo Yan gritted his teeth, his back molars chattering in anger.
His arrogant temper did not allow him to shout "Huo Qubing, stop!" in public.
Finally, seeing that dark figure completely disappear around the corner of the stairs, he could only hold back his anger and chase after it with his hands red and numb from clapping, his footsteps making the stairs thudding.
Huo Qubing, my hands are hurt from clapping, why don’t you turn back?
Huo Qubing clearly heard the hurried footsteps behind him, and a faint smile appeared at the corners of his tightly clenched lips, but his pace did not slow down at all.
He walked leisurely out of the brightly lit theater, where string music resumed, and onto the cool, moonlit streets. The night breeze caressed his face, blowing away the rich scent of cosmetics.
He slowly and methodically instructed the guards waiting outside the door, "Bring the horses here."
Warfare is the art of deception. The best strategy is to attack the enemy's plans; the best strategy is to attack his heart.
After years of companionship, he knew his younger brother's temperament very well.
His usual docile, docile, and adoring demeanor was all superficial. Deep down, Huo Yan was as stubborn as a wild horse, his pride swirling. If you confronted him, he wouldn't budge. If you tried to reason with him, he'd argue with your feelings. Ultimately, he'd just sit back and let things slide, quietly wrapping up the whole thing, then putting on a pitiful front to admit his mistakes and get away with it.
Today's theater was clearly another Hongmen Feast staged by him, waiting for him to question him. Then he could use his emotions to threaten him and turn the tables, testing his knowledge while also using the opportunity to express his grievances. If he softened his stance even slightly, this little fox would definitely go even further and drug his uncle. If he firmly opposed it, he would temporarily back off and offer a few soft words to smooth things over.
But… he was able to obtain the poison claw grass used by the Nanchu witch priests. He acted out of desperation this time, but who knew he wouldn't be even more subtle next time? He didn't even need to do it himself; he could just go along with it and make some minor adjustments at certain key points… and his uncle would be safe? He could even use this opportunity to eliminate a group of opponents in the court!
Wasn't the death of the young man a perfect murder? Because of the emperor, no one dared to say that the young man hadn't ascended!
He is extremely treasonous and has deep scheming intentions.
He should be beheaded to prevent future troubles.
But this is Huo Yan...
So it's just that I'm rebellious and I get angry sometimes.
The smile on Huo Qubing's lips deepened a little, looking a little mysterious under the cold moonlight.
Ah Yan was simply speaking up for him because he saw that he was seriously injured and on the verge of death.
Although the method was not quite right, this desperate desire to protect... Huo Qubing felt very touched deep down.
Ayan has just grown up and has some rebellious tendencies. He will be fine if you take him home and coax him well.
If it really doesn't work, just let Uncle get humiliated a few more times during the polo game. There's really no need to make a big deal out of it. Uncle's not dead yet, so just punish Ah Yan by making him heal him.
He stroked the shiny mane of his beloved horse brought by his personal guards, turned over neatly, and sat steadily on the horse's back.
Huo Yan stepped out of the theater gate and looked at Huo Qubing, who ignored him with his head down. Without saying a word, he grabbed the horse's reins and asked Huo Qubing to get off. The force was so great that the majestic horse snorted and stamped its hooves nervously.
Huo Qubing loosened the reins and let him pull. He patted the horse's neck, signaling it to go forward, and then continued to look down at him, still silent.
Huo Yan, forced to lead the horse, was even more furious, especially at Huo Qubing's aloof, distant demeanor. He had already chased him out, actively pulling the reins to go home. This was already a huge act of "bow down" in his eyes, and his brother actually gave him the cold shoulder?!
Damn it! It’s all Liu Che’s fault!
"Are you mute?!"
After walking for a short distance, Huo Yan, who couldn't stand Huo Qubing's cold treatment anymore, finally couldn't help it. He raised his head and growled viciously. The corners of his eyes were flushed even deeper because of the residual smell of alcohol and the current anger.
It can be seen that the true energy has arrived.
Huo Qubing thought to himself: "Finally he's willing to talk. Otherwise, I don't know when I can go home."
"No," he said as he leaned over, stretched out his long arms, and precisely grasped Huo Yan's waist. With a slight effort, he lifted him onto the horse's back and placed him in front of him. Before Huo Yan could sit firmly, he suddenly squeezed the horse's belly and rushed out like an arrow!
Huo Yan was caught off guard and cried out in surprise. He subconsciously clenched the reins tightly, his knuckles turning white again. Huo Qubing, who could walk without reins, did not forcefully wrest them from him. He simply raised an eyebrow and patted the horse's head. With his other hand, he even had enough space to rub the back of Huo Yan's neck in a soothing, almost imperceptible way.
"Relax," a deep voice, accompanied by the slight vibration of the horse's back, echoed in Huo Yan's ears, strangely dispelling some of the chill of the night wind. "My dear Ah Yan, it's nothing, don't be afraid."
Feeling the warmth of his brother's palm and the familiar, indulgent tone of his voice, Huo Yan's tense nerves seemed to be gently smoothed by an invisible hand. Slowly and tentatively, he loosened his grip on the reins, handing control back to the man behind him. Huo Qubing, sensing his resignation, chuckled softly. The sound was muffled by the rushing wind, but it made Huo Yan's back relax slightly.
In fact, he also wanted to go to Shuofang, hoping that his brother would take him on a horseback ride like he did in the past.
The moonlight was like water, shining on his face.
"Ayan, are you still thinking that His Majesty is abominable? Not only did he hurt you and me physically, but now he's also destroying our relationship."
Huo Yan's thoughts were touched by Huo Qubing's words. But he was not as panicked as the barrage.
He just said, "Yeah."
You were lying on my back, covered in blood, breathing heavily, as if you were dying. I will have nightmares about you for the rest of my life.
It was so soft that only Huo Qubing heard it.
Huo Qubing said lightly, "Well, you hate him so much."
You are very selfish to me.
Then he began to laugh, his voice deep and pleasant.
Moonlight streamed down like mercury, illuminating the courtyard's bluestone pavement with a cool, clear glow. The crane lanterns hanging in the corridor cast a dim, warm glow, dispelling some of the night's chill.
Huo Qubing dismounted, then naturally carried Huo Yan down from the horse, his movements filled with familiarity. Huo Yan obediently extended his hand, not daring to act rashly.
But as soon as he landed, his expression changed and he walked forward angrily.
Huo Qubing found it funny, so he just walked quickly forward, holding the hand of his still somewhat angry brother, and walked straight to the brightly lit small flower hall.
Huo Yan was reluctant, but still followed him obediently. He was getting more and more backward, like a wronged and disgruntled child.
Huo Qubing held his hand and said, "I drank some wine, and my stomach feels empty and uncomfortable. Do you want to have a bowl of wontons?"
Huo Qubing's tone returned to its usual gentleness, as if what had just happened in the theater had never happened. He didn't wait for Huo Yan to answer, and just gave his instructions to the servants naturally, just as Huo Yan usually took care of him.
Soon, two bowls of steaming wontons were served. These wontons were very similar to those commonly seen in later generations, with a thin layer of unleavened dough wrapped around finely chopped mutton filling. The soup was clear, with a few drops of golden fat and finely chopped wild leeks floating in it.
Onions and garlic were precious spices in the Han Dynasty. People often used wild leeks and scallions as seasonings, which had a simple and attractive aroma.
Most nobles use onions, but Huo Yan still thinks onions with pork and wild leeks with mutton are more delicious.
Huo Yan slowly stirred the soup with a glass spoon, soaking the wild leek in the soup. Huo Qubing did the same thing.
Huo Yan liked all things that were warm and ceremonial. Especially the warm feeling of family gathered together, with the lights on, he felt his heart soften.
The family sits together to eat, as if declaring that they will no longer be alone.
Under Huo Qubing's calm and tolerant gaze, he scooped up a small wonton, blew on it carefully, and slowly put it into his mouth. The warm food, with the fresh aroma of mutton and the fragrance of wheat dough, soothed his stomach.
Perhaps it was the steaming heat or the complex emotions surging in his heart that finally found an outlet, but a drop of water slid down from the corner of his lowered eye without warning.
"Ah Yan, eat slowly."
Huo Qubing seemed not to notice the tear. He just reminded him gently, picked up a clean silk handkerchief very naturally, and gently wiped the corners of Huo Yan's eyes to wipe away the moisture.
[On the surface: eating wontons. Inside: a large-scale confession scene.]
[To cure disease: Mainly use a gentle knife.]
[My god, Qubing is the master of manipulating my child.]
[No, I don't believe my Yanzai's tears! They're clearly tears of guilt!]
[He deliberately acted weak and even stole a glance at Qubing. Damn it, he almost believed it.]
[Little tea fox! You tea fox!]
…
Huo Qubing also scooped a spoonful for himself, but did not eat it immediately. He looked at the wontons floating in the bowl and spoke slowly in a low voice.
"I hate him. I hate him for causing me such a serious injury. I hate him for being suspicious and wavering, and for hurting you and me."
Huo Yan's hand holding the spoon paused slightly.
Huo Qubing continued, his eyes falling on Huo Yan's drooping eyelashes, "If you hate him, why did you choose the most comfortable way for him to die? If you hate him, why are you still hesitating whether to let him die sooner or later?"
"Because Ah Yan knows better than anyone that His Majesty has wronged everyone." He picked up the handkerchief again and wiped Huo Yan's cheek, which wasn't even stained with soup. His movements were as gentle as if he were treating fragile glass, and his tone was filled with a complex and indescribable heaviness. "But from beginning to end, he has never truly wronged us. He has even been kind and compassionate. Even if he hit me in a rage, I guess you would just curse him in your heart like me, calling him a foolish old man, instead of... killing him."
Huo Yan stuffed another wonton into his mouth and chewed it mechanically.
His stomach was actually very uncomfortable and churning, but he still stubbornly stuffed mouthful after mouthful into his mouth, as if this could block out the surging emotions and irrefutable facts.
Huo Qubing is the most annoying person. He is extremely smart and can see everything clearly in a few seconds.
So annoying!
Huo Qubing ate another wonton, watched him move, then sighed softly and put down his spoon. His eyes became sharp and deep, as if they could penetrate all of Huo Yan's disguises.
"I think about it carefully," he said slowly, "before my son was born, you were certain he was a boy. Perhaps there is only one explanation that makes sense..."
He paused, then spoke each word clearly, "Ayan, you possess a magical power. You can see... the future."
Huo Yan's fingers gripping the spoon handle suddenly tightened as he stuffed another wonton into his mouth, his knuckles turning white.
"And in the future," Huo Qubing's gaze locked onto Huo Yan's instantly stiffened face, "Your Majesty will surely do something you find intolerable and will inevitably kill you."
His voice was filled with the calmness of a man who saw everything. "The vision of the future has incited you. You don't want to gamble anymore, you don't want to wait for tragedy to happen again. However, thinking of their past, you can't bear it. So you lowered the dosage, hoping to slowly kill him... Perhaps your true purpose is to make him lose his ability to handle government affairs and become a puppet?"
Huo Yan remained silent, his head lowered, mechanically stuffing wontons into his mouth as if they were his only salvation. But soon, he put it down. He simply couldn't finish it. There was still plenty left in the bowl. As he habitually did, as he had done countless times as a child, he pushed the bowl towards Huo Qubing.
Huo Qubing accepted it, just like when he was a child.
Huo Yan smiled faintly. "I really think about it."
He looked at his fingers and said, "Brother, you've read too many storybooks."
Huo Qubing raised his hand and gently pushed the bowl back in front of Huo Yan.
"Then eat it yourself."
The voice is calm.
Huo Yan's smiling face instantly darkened, as if covered in a layer of ice. He stared at the bowl of wontons that had been pushed back, his chest heaving violently, his fingertips trembling slightly.
So annoying!
[Qubing really understands Ah Yan better than Ah Yan does. This is the point where his psychological defenses are on the verge of collapse!]
[Qubing: I will just watch you quietly.]
[Yanzai: Life is unbearable! Huo Qubing is a smart guy!]
[What a terrifying insight!]
[Hey kid, tell me! I was beaten so hard today, I have to win back a round.]
[Maybe telling my brother would be better!]
…
The air between them seemed frozen, leaving only the occasional crackling of a lamp. Ultimately, Huo Yan was the first to succumb. He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, his voice barely perceptible, a hint of hoarseness and fatigue.
"Normally speaking..." He raised his head, his eyes somewhat empty as he looked at the moon outside the window, "You will die of illness in the year after next, in the sixth year of Yuanshou."
Huo Qubing couldn't eat anymore. He paused for a while and ate a wonton. After all, his younger brother had always emphasized that his health was not good and it was normal for him to die early.
"And then uncle..." Huo Yan's voice was calm, almost cruel, "will also die of illness in eleven years."
The jade spoon in Huo Qubing's hand dropped into the bowl with a clang, splashing a few drops of soup. His beautiful almond-shaped eyes, which resembled Huo Yan's, instantly widened in disbelief and horror.
Huo Yan pulled the corner of his mouth, revealing a smile that was uglier than crying.
"Then my uncle...went completely crazy."
Huo Qubing stood up suddenly, knocking over the stool behind him.
"Isn't that big guy finished?! What about you? Are you dead too?!"
His voice rose in shock, with a barely perceptible tremor.
The second and third in command are dead, and the number one has gone mad! Is there any hope for this country?
Huo Yan rubbed his forehead, his tone numb and indifferent.
"Yes, but it's not the end you think." He looked at Huo Qubing, his eyes filled with unfathomable sadness. "That mad man fought the Xiongnu for another twenty years. You and your uncle were gone, and he...lost the battle. He refused to admit defeat and drained the vitality of the entire country. The country was devastated, nine out of ten houses were empty, and the land was full of starvation."
But he didn't say anything. Then, Ju'er died, my aunt died, my great aunt's family died, Zhuyi, Yangshi, and the others all died. Kang'er died too. Shan'er too. Almost everything you and your uncle had spent half your lives building, everything you fought so hard to protect, was all in vain. The Khan was recruiting soldiers, and the military code was twelve volumes, each one bearing the name of our family.
He was afraid that his brother would faint.
Huo Qubing seemed to be nailed to the stool, unable to move.
"So you are killing him for the people of the world now?"
He rarely felt a trace of disbelief.
But I can't think of anything unreasonable.
"But Yan, you weren't dead then, right?"
"With your ability, if you can wear your uncle out, you will be the master of the world."
[Qubing's positioning of Ah Yan is very accurate.]
[Because you don’t have Ah Yan!]
The comments were a bit sympathetic to Huo Qubing, but they still started to flood the screen, asking Huo Yan to describe for him the witchcraft disaster that swallowed everything.
Huo Yan didn't want to watch, so he just lied to Huo Qubing, "I was so hated that a few wild dogs targeted me. His Majesty wanted to kill me. So I led my men to open the armory, released the prisoners in Chang'an, and gathered everyone I could, including some unsuspecting civilians, and fought a bloody battle outside the west gate of Changle Palace for five days."
He said, still laughing, "How brave!"
How brave he is!
Tears streamed down his cheeks. Huo Qubing's face turned pale in the candlelight, and his fists clenched so tightly that they made a crackling sound.
"You've been clever all your life, but foolish for a moment. You should summon all the officials to face His Majesty and plead your case. If you can't see His Majesty, or if His Majesty kills you, you should quickly kill those wild dogs, take my talisman, and summon your old subordinates." His eyes were extremely sharp. "Although my uncle and I are dead, our legacy is still here. The forces you can summon are no less than His Majesty's. But why is no one following you? Unless your opponent has persuaded you to give up? Was it Ju'er who killed you?"
At that time, only Liu Ju could make Huo Yan choose to fulfill his wish.
Huo Yan used his own life and the lives of those death row prisoners to help Liu Ju ascend to the throne.
Huo Yan's heart tightened when he saw the whole picture from a single detail. His brother was terrifyingly intelligent. Naturally perceptive, he was also a political prodigy.
But people cannot imagine things beyond their common sense, and Huo Qubing is no exception. He could never imagine that the younger brother he could entrust his son to did not exist.
So he could only try his best to think about the source of hatred.
In the end, they only ended up killing each other.
Silly little brother, His Majesty is not crazy at all, he is very clear-headed, it’s just you who is getting in his way.
He suddenly closed his eyes, his body trembling violently, as if he could see Huo Yan's despair. He unconsciously clenched the jade spoon in his hand, and with a "crack," it broke in two! The fragments pierced his palm, oozing blood, but he was completely unaware. He lowered his eyelashes, tears streaming down his cheeks.
"You miserable child, did you commit suicide? Or were you murdered? Are you in pain?"
Huo Yan's hand was held tightly. He took a deep breath silently and had no choice but to lie to him.
"No, I was given poisoned wine. I spit out some blood and then went to accompany you."
"Don't worry about it," he said, "I promise I won't kill him."
He smiled.
"Don't worry."
"Young brother," Huo Qubing held him in his arms, just as he had comforted Shan'er, "Tell me the truth. Did you resort to this desperate measure because you were fumigated with too many herbs and couldn't outlast His Majesty? Given your temperament and abilities, unless you don't have long to live, you must have teamed up with Ju'er. I'll take you to see Aunt Chunyu. Don't be afraid to seek medical treatment."
"Live well, and then join forces with Juer."
Huo Yan: ..., you are the one who needs to live well! You will be the one to lead the charge then!
The most truthful lie in the world is the one that is supplemented by the person who hears it.
Huo Yan's gaze fell on Jiaodong on the map, and he smiled gently.
Jiaodong
The early summer afternoon sun streamed through the high windows. Liu Che sat upright in the main seat, a cup of water on the table before him. Dressed in casual attire, his gaze fixed gravely on Sima Qian, who knelt in the hall.
Sima Qian was accustomed to being stared at. He reported clearly on salt pan management, kelp drying farm revenue, and the increased catch from new fishing boats. He tried to be as precise as possible with his figures, describing the changes brought about by Huo Yan's new laws in minute detail, attempting to appease the emperor's wrath with tangible achievements. Du Zhou and Wei Bu stood solemnly on either side of him, their hands lowered, like two silent stone statues, only occasionally muttering a few words about key data.
Wei Qing knelt slightly beside Liu Che, his eyes calmly sweeping across Sima Qian, then falling back to Liu Che's tense profile.
He could sense that although His Majesty seemed to be listening to the salt affairs, his mind was obviously still lingering in the county school.
He sighed inwardly.
Just as Sima Qian was talking about "the number of new trawlers has increased to 300, and the average monthly catch has increased by 40% compared to the old method...", a deliberately suppressed argument with the clear and rapid sound unique to young people, accompanied by slightly chaotic footsteps, came from far away and broke the silence of the courtyard outside the main hall.
"...Aju! Slow down! If we rush in like this, the county magistrate will be frightened..."
"A Guang! Master Sima is not that timid! And Second Sister is still waiting for our reply!"
"I'll report it to you!"
"Oh no! What's there to report? Uncle Bu is here! Hurry up and go! My second and third sisters said that now that the night school is set up, they will organize a Cuju competition for us!"
The owner of the voice had obviously ignored the obstruction and, with pride and joy, coaxed Huo Guang and rushed straight towards the open vermilion lacquered door of the main hall like two happy ponies.
Everyone in the hall, including Liu Che who was sitting in the main seat, turned their eyes to the door following the sound.
Two young men practically stumbled into the open doorway. The first was Crown Prince Liu Ju. He, too, wore the uniform indigo workwear of the prefectural academy. His face was tense, his eyes gleaming with an eagerness and determination unbecoming of his age. In his hands, he clutched a square, cloth-wrapped object that appeared to be a book.
The man behind him was wearing a short indigo linen suit that was easy to move in. His hair was simply tied up with a cloth band of the same color. His hair was wet with sweat and stuck to his smooth forehead. His cheeks were flushed from running and had a noticeable ochre color from the sea breeze and sun.
The two men were clearly unprepared for the stern atmosphere in the room, and their steps suddenly stopped. The smile on Liu Ju's face froze instantly, and he subconsciously shrank his neck.
Huo Guang's heart trembled as he caught sight of Liu Che, his face as sullen as water, seated at the head of the table. His knees buckled, and he was about to kneel in greeting. Liu Ju, however, was quicker to react, his gaze quickly fixed on the familiar figure beside Liu Che—his uncle, Wei Qing. Like a drowning man grasping at a floating log, his chest heaved slightly, and he tried to force a smile that said, "I'm fine," but the stiffness was worse than tears.
However, before they could say anything, a bigger noise followed.
"Master Sima! We agreed to have dinner at my place tonight! Cao Xiang hunted a fat deer, and Ayan personally cooked the soup..."
The guard's clear voice, laced with panting and a lingering smile, echoed. Holding the curiously looking Cao Xiang in one hand and her two younger sisters in the other, she appeared at the door, carried by a breeze scented with sea salt and sunshine.
The three princesses were all wearing the same indigo-blue coarse cloth dresses as the female workers in the county school. They only had simple wooden or thorny hairpins in their hair. Their faces were flushed from running and had lingering smiles. Yang Shi was especially noteworthy, with her clear eyes and high spirits.
Then, four pairs of eyes met the real gaze from the main seat.
Time seemed to freeze at that moment.
The captain's smile froze on his face.
Cao Xiang subconsciously tried to pull his hand out of Wei Chang's.
The blush on Zhu Yi's face faded instantly and turned pale.
The look in Yang Shi's eyes was like a candle flame blown out by the cold wind, leaving only astonishment and a hint of displeasure that he couldn't hide in time.
The guard's voice was breathless. She pulled Cao Xiang and her two younger sisters along, and they also appeared at the door. The three princesses were all dressed in the same indigo-blue, coarse cloth dresses worn by the county school girls. Their hair was pinned with simple wooden or thorny hairpins, and their faces were flushed and smiling from running.
Their appearance completely froze the already stagnant air in the room.
Liu Che's gaze instantly shifted from Sima Qian to the three daughters standing at the door, dressed in coarse cloth and looking a bit disheveled. The rage he had been forcibly suppressing suddenly flared up again, even more intense than before!
"How dare you!" To everyone's surprise, it was Wei Qing who spoke first. His voice was low and displeased, "Your Highness the Crown Prince! Your Highness the Princess! His Majesty is in the middle of a government meeting. How dare you barge into the main hall without permission? What crime will you commit for disturbing His Majesty?"
As he spoke, he desperately winked at Liu Ju, his eyes full of "Apologize! Run!"
Liu Ju was shaken from his shock by Wei Qing's sudden, sharp shout. Almost instinctively, he sank heavily to his knees on the stone slab outside the threshold, his voice hoarse and dry from extreme nervousness. "Your son, Liu Ju, kowtows to your father! Your Majesty, please calm down! Your son... Your son did not mean to disturb you. I will now take my leave!"
After he said that, without waiting for Liu Che to react, he pulled Huo Guang and wanted to retreat, bowing and saluting, wishing he could disappear from the spot immediately.
The three princesses and Cao Xiang also woke up as if from a dream, and knelt down in unison, their voices filled with panic: "Your sons pay their respects to the emperor! Your Majesty, please calm down! We will take our leave!"
I just want to escape from this suffocating place immediately.
“Get back here!”
Liu Che's voice was like thunder, and he slowly stood up from his seat. His tall figure cast a long shadow in the slanting sunlight, completely covering the several smaller figures kneeling at the door.
His gaze was like a tangible cold current, sweeping across their rough indigo cloth inch by inch, passing over Liu Ju's tanned cheek, and finally stopping on Liu Yan's lowered but tense neck.
"Calm down?" Liu Che's voice was low, each word like a lump of ice hitting his face. "You guys are living happily in Jiaodong! Have you forgotten who you are?!"
He turned his gaze towards Liu Ju, who was trying to escape, and his rage intensified. "Rebellious son! You ran away when you saw me. Kneel before me!"
He pointed at Cao Xiang and Huo Guang, "And you two, kneel down together! No one is allowed to move without my order!"
Then his eyes swept over the three princesses, and his tone suddenly rose, filled with incredible anger.
"You too, a princess of the Han Dynasty, a member of a royal family! You can't live in the imperial palace of Weiyang Palace? You can't wear the silks and satins of Chang'an? But you insist on running to this seaside, wearing these coarse cloths, mixing with women in the market, showing your face in public, and acting as a teacher for children! In your eyes, do you still have the dignity of the royal family?! Do you still have me, your father?"
"Your Majesty, calm down!" The Chief Guard quickly looked up. She had always been favored, and now her eyes were red with anxiety. Her voice was filled with pleading, "Your sons and I did not mean to be disrespectful! It is...it is true that we see that the women and children in Jiaodong have a hard time making a living, and eight out of ten of them are illiterate, often being bullied. The county school has just been established, and there is a lack of teachers for girls. Your sons and us...your sons and us cannot bear to see them without a way to study. And remembering what the Grand Tutor taught us, the people are the foundation of the state, and a solid foundation ensures national peace. That is why we have the courage to ask for your help, Lord Sima... We only want to do our best to teach them a few words and understand some principles. We have no other intentions! Please understand, Your Majesty!"
She was quite coherent and tried to put things in a positive light.
"I understand!" Liu Che chuckled in anger, his eyes sharp as knives, piercing them. "Tell me! In Chang'an, are there no doctors and scholars to teach you? Or are there no noble ladies from aristocratic families to accompany you in your studies? I see that you have condescended to come all the way to Jiaodong to help! I see that you clearly feel that the rules of Chang'an restrict you, and that I am hindering your happiness!"
The last sentence was almost shouted out, shaking the dust on the beam to fall.
As soon as these words were spoken, the whole room was shocked! Even Wei Qing's face changed slightly! Sima Qian was so frightened that his soul flew away and he fell to the ground, shaking like a sieve! Zhu Yi looked at Yang Shi in horror, and Wei Chang's face turned pale.
Especially Liu Ju who was kneeling in the front, the label of "son despising his father" was put on him, the crown prince of the Han Dynasty who ruled the world with filial piety, which was a fatal blow to him!
He felt a chill running from the soles of his feet straight to the top of his head. His whole body was icy cold and he almost collapsed, his teeth chattering.
Is he still going to be the crown prince?
Just as he was about to apologize, Yang Shi suddenly raised her head. Her face instantly drained of color, turning pale. Her lips trembled slightly, and her clear eyes were filled with shock and disbelief. She looked at her father's icy, scrutinizing gaze, at the people kneeling in the hall, terrified, and at the deep worry in her uncle Wei Qing's eyes...
The huge grievance, stubbornness and unwillingness instantly overwhelmed her like a tide.
It's always like this! Back in Jiaodong, at the County School, everyone was so happy, so fulfilled, even the sea breeze carried the scent of freedom. But as soon as he showed up, everything was gone! Only cold rules and endless accusations remained!
It seems like he is the only one in the world who understands!
"Father!" Her voice was trembling, yet remarkably clear, even carrying a sharp edge. "There are the best teachers in Chang'an! But there are no students in Chang'an who need me! Those noble ladies from aristocratic families have their own family traditions of learning, so why should I teach them? Besides learning some singing, dancing, and etiquette, and waiting...waiting to be arranged to marry, what else can I do in Chang'an?! Father, tell me!"
She became more and more excited as she spoke, and tears finally burst out and rolled down her pretty little face.
"But here!" She wiped away her tears, raised her hand, and pointed in the direction of the county school. Her voice was filled with a power that was almost sad and indignant. "They need it! Those women's fingers are covered with calluses from years of hard work. They can't even write their own names, can't read work orders, and can't calculate their wages! They want to learn! There is light in their eyes! I will teach them to write their own names, and seeing their happy faces when they learn... I am happy too."
Her words were like a sharp blade, piercing the splendid shell of royal life, revealing the emptiness within and the powerlessness of a princess. The hall was completely silent, with only the sound of her words and Liu Che's heavy breathing.
"Brother Ayan's workshop clearly states that those who learn calligraphy and understand reason, regardless of gender, can receive extra money at the end of the month! He built this county school to encourage both men and women to learn to read, and to encourage children to learn early! Lord Sima is the same. He lives frugally and uses his salary to subsidize the county school's writing materials! Now that I'm here, and I'm well-read, why can't I do my best?"
"You said I'm a princess, and I'm raised by the people, so I should serve them wholeheartedly. No one in Jiaodong looks down on me, so why does my father keep calling me immoral? Could it be that what men in this world are accustomed to, even proud of—teaching, imparting knowledge, answering questions—are considered immoral and treasonous by my daughter?"
Yang Shi straightened up, raised his head, and faced Liu Che with clear eyes.
"Since it exists, it makes sense! Not only will I teach, I'll also ask Brother Yan to run a night school! This way, those who work during the day will have the opportunity to learn to read and understand things at night!"
Liu Che's expression shifted wildly, filled with shock, anger, and a subtle tremor... a multitude of emotions surged fiercely in his eyes. He had never imagined that his seemingly docile and weak daughter harbored such deep resentment and such intense desire! The words "My father said I was immoral" were like a heavy hammer, hammering down on his heart.
"Second sister! Shut up!" The captain of the guards shouted in fear, his voice changing in tone. He reached out and grabbed Yang Shi's arm tightly, trying to pull her down.
At this moment, Liu Ju, who had been kneeling in the front and trembling violently with fear, suddenly moved!
He suddenly broke free from Huo Guang's hand that was subconsciously grasping the corner of his clothes. His small body burst out with amazing strength. Like an angry little leopard protecting its cub, he crawled forward on his knees a few steps and stood in front of Yang Shi and Wei Chang.
He straightened his thin chest, raised his head with all his strength, and looked directly at his father, "Your Highness, I think what you said is right, Second Sister!"
He overcame the instinctive fear of his father deep in his bones, and every word seemed to be squeezed out from his chest with the courage of a desperate gamble.
He can't retreat! Second sister is so weak.
"If Your Majesty feels that this Crown Prince is not good, unfilial, or unbrotherly, and not to your liking..." Liu Ju took a deep breath and shouted out a shocking sentence with all his strength, "You can depose the Crown Prince!"
As soon as these words were spoken, the whole room fell into a dead silence! Even Yang Shi looked in astonishment at his younger brother who was standing in front of him.
Liu Ju's eyes were filled with tears, but he stubbornly held his neck to prevent them from falling. His small body looked so thin, yet so upright, under the emperor's rage.
"It's not that Chang'an is bad! It's that the emperor and father are not acting as fathers!" The young prince's voice was tinged with tears, but every word was clear, like a tearful accusation. "Father! You only treat us like wooden sculptures and clay statues in the Weiyang Palace. If it suits your taste, it's good. If it doesn't, you will smash it and rebuild it! Brothers Ayan and Qubing refused to obey, and you beat and punished them! My second sister just wanted to do something that she thought was right and made her happy, but you despised and scolded her, and criticized her verbally and writtenly! How can you be a father?! How can you teach me?"
"Enough! Ju'er!" Wei Qing could no longer remain silent and shouted, quickly standing up and trying to pull Liu Ju back. He couldn't let this kid continue talking!
Liu Che stared at Liu Ju, his chest heaving violently.
His anger kept him silent for a long time, and his face was terribly gloomy.
Wei Qing didn't let Liu Ju continue speaking. Liu Ju's tears had already begun to fall, but he stiffened his neck to prevent them from falling.
"Your Majesty, I cannot fulfill your ideal of filial piety. Please depose the Crown Prince!"
"I don't want to burden my brothers and sisters anymore because of my status as the crown prince, which I cannot afford to lose."
There are towering pines on the mountains, wild geese chirping in the wilderness. There are countless people on the earth, all of them are my relatives and friends.
Liu Ju wants to grow up to be the person he wants to be!
Destroy me!
I don't want to be your prince anymore!
He knelt in front of the door.
"Rebellious son! Evil creature!" Liu Che was completely ignited by this series of disobedience. That anger burned away the last bit of his rationality! His eyes were bloodshot, and like an enraged beast, he suddenly drew the sword at his waist!
“Clang!”
The sound of swords echoed throughout the hall, and the cold light stung everyone's eyes.
The long sword was unsheathed, carrying with it a fierce murderous intent.
Sima Qian and the others were terrified, trying to move forward to stop him but not daring to. Wei Qing's pupils suddenly constricted, and he was about to throw himself in front of Liu Ju.
At this critical moment, Liu Che's arm, which was swinging the sword, suddenly froze in mid-air!
The sword shone coldly, illuminating his hideous and distorted face.
He suddenly thought of Huo Yan and Huo Qubing.
The boy's bleeding back and red eyes seemed vivid in my mind.
"Your Majesty, are you going to kill him?"
The sword seemed to be of a thousand pounds weight and could no longer be dropped.
"Bang!"
The long sword slipped out of his hand and hit the cold bluestone slab heavily, making a sharp whine.
He slowly bent down, pinched Liu Ju's face, wiped the child's tears, and smiled at Liu Ju, "Prince, you are worthy of being my prince! You have the style of your father!"
Liu Ju and everyone else were stunned.
After Liu Che finished speaking, he no longer looked at anyone, turned around and strode towards the back hall, leaving only one order, "Get out!"
Everyone was even more confused.
Your Majesty (Father), will you let us go?
【Author’s words】
The big boss appears in this chapter. A Yan guessed it, hhh, he is a thousand-year-old fox.
Congratulations to Juer for getting the praise that rightfully belongs to him.
An overly controlling father raised a group of children who yearned for freedom.
Huo Xiaoyan didn't tell a single word of truth. He was just trying to trick Qubing. Qubing was quite clever, but he didn't know or imagine that his brother didn't exist.
This is hellish. Ayan is exploiting the information gap.
But Qubing did not blame Juer. He even felt that Ayan would be willing to die for Juer.
Except for his uncle, everyone knows, and Qubing can also guess, who is the source of all evil.
Ruer had been holding these words in for a long time. Liu Che looked so dead and had a child, so he actually felt very insecure.
But as Ayan said, he is brave.
A Yan has it, Qu Bing has it, Yang Shi has it, Ju Er has it, Wei Chang and Zhu Yi, Cao Xiang, everyone has his own blood.
Under the tyranny of the big devil, they dared to escape, run, and curse. They are not brave enough!
Friends: Liu Che and A Zheng are both very controlling, why is A Zheng so cute and reliable? Liu Zhuzhu is a bit annoying~
Me: Because Zheng and Xiu grew up together, he treated his younger brother like a human being, a treasure. When he had nothing, Xiuying was all he had. He had a deep emotional connection with her, so he knew her personality and character. He'd say he didn't want her to be in danger, and he'd actively let her do things she liked, and it was usually her who did it. He and Qubing were very similar in this respect. His tenderness tempered his imperial side. He never cast an imperial gaze on Xiuying; he was pure, just a brother or a father, the kind of gentle, understanding, and instructive father.
But Liu Che, maybe he treated A Yan as his son, but he would take the emperor's considerations into account and let the child take risks. He did not think the child would be in danger. He even thought it was a compliment, and others wanted it but could not. He was not pure. He said he was a king and father, but he was only half a king and half a father. He wanted his children to respect him as a king and love him as a father. But he did not teach his children, did not explain. Not to mention being gentle, he would suppress them violently. But he also doted on you and gave you the power to do things. So naturally it was half love and half hate. Loving his father and hating his king was because he did not grasp the right degree, and it was not pure to begin with. So A Yan was a mixture of love and hate. Qubing, A Yan loved more and hated less, while others hated more and loved less.
Ah Yan was originally a balance point, but Qu Bing's injury destroyed the balance. He hated more than he loved, he could not feel his father, and he wanted to kill the tyrant. There must be someone like him, so he did not send someone to kill Liu Che.
What I said about him may not be true, and he can avoid dirtying his hands.
The only people who could save Liu Che were Qubing and his uncle. If Qubing were alive, Ah Yan's sword would have a sheath. If his uncle were alive, Liu Che, the ruler, would have his father by his side. Perhaps his uncle couldn't live without Liu Che, so he could be a little more normal. A father's weight was greater than that of the ruler. If the ruler was killed, the father would also have to die. He would protect the ruler and be obedient.
However, Liu Che also needs to reflect.
He can't stay like a stubborn child all his life without growing up.
He needs to fall once.
Youyou: You like Zhengdie, hahaha.
Me: Daddy Zheng teaches step by step, which is too stressful. I like having an uncle as a dad! Qubing is also fine. Although he is a person who teaches without hesitation and is quite perceptive, he still lets you play when you need to. Ah Yan doesn't need that.
Youyou: What happened to Ayan?
Me: Politically speaking. Ah Yan, don't think he's teaching Liu Ju like he's being reckless. That's because Liu Ju has someone to teach him, and he needs to teach him something else. Guang'er is very self-disciplined, and he needs to see more of the world. But he really watched Wei Kang and the others study. When Shan'er was born, he had his entire life planned out.
The fake daddy, Liu Che who calls me your king and father.
A true big daddy: always calm and composed, always giving you support, A Zheng; always by your side, paving the way for you, A Yan.
Their words.
Good boy, take it one step at a time, of course you can do it.
Good boy, you go forward, I will be on both sides of you.
Oh boy, there's no need to panic.
Friends: Wow, these are some sweet daddy quotes. You promised me to open a book just for this.
Me: You said you wanted to see Shuang Da Da last time.
Youyou: No matter!
Me: Often gnashing my teeth.
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