Chapter 134: Frontline Supervision - Emperor Knocking at Heaven's Gate?

“Jia Wenhe?”

Upon recognizing the newcomer, Xu You managed a forced smile and said, “I’m feeling slightly unwell. If there’s nothing urgent, Wenhe, I’ll take my leave now.”

Xu You wasn’t particularly close with Jia Xu; they had only exchanged visits to each other’s manors twice. Beyond those encounters, their interactions were minimal, resulting in a lukewarm relationship.

Under normal circumstances, he wouldn’t have minded chatting with Jia Xu for a bit. However, today, his mood was far from conducive to conversation.

Seeing Xu You about to depart, Jia Xu promptly suggested, “Our residences aren’t far apart. Since you’re not feeling well, Ziyuan, why don’t you step into my carriage? Allow me to give you a ride.”

”…Thank you for your kindness.”

Among colleagues, accepting a ride in Jia Xu’s carriage was perfectly acceptable.

The carriage began its slow journey.

Once inside, Xu You stared blankly at the curtain, clearly deep in thought.

Jia Xu’s eyes flickered as he observed, “Noticing your expression upon leaving the official residence, Ziyuan… Could it be that you’ve once again clashed with Shen Zhengnan?”

The arrest of Xu You’s son on corruption charges by Shen Pei had become the talk of the town.

As soon as Jia Xu mentioned this matter, Xu You’s face filled with resentment, and he exclaimed loudly, “My son did not commit any corruption! Shen Pei framed him, resorting to torture until he falsely confessed under duress!”

“Everyone praises Shen Pei for his unbending integrity, likening him to ancient heroes. But I see him as nothing more than a deceitful villain!”

In response, Jia Xu feigned shock convincingly. “I believe in Ziyuan’s character; your family must uphold strict principles, never allowing such misconduct with military provisions. Could there be some misunderstanding?”

“Given Shen Zhengnan’s stubborn nature, if indeed it is a misunderstanding, why not write to the Great General? He will surely investigate impartially, uncover the truth, and restore your son’s innocence.

Moreover, even if your son truly engaged in embezzlement, considering your long-standing friendship with the Great General, I doubt he would cause you undue hardship. Why let yourself be consumed by worry, Ziyuan?”

Each word from Jia Xu struck deep within Xu You’s heart, fueling his growing resentment towards Yuan Shao.

Indeed, whether or not his son was guilty of corruption, after decades of friendship, how could Yuan Shao refuse to respond to a simple letter?

Observing Xu You’s shifting expressions—anger, fury, disappointment—Jia Xu’s lips curved slightly beneath his feather fan.

The seed of hatred had been planted. Now, all that remained was to wait for it to take root and sprout before harvesting its bitter fruit.

Three days swiftly passed.

Ultimately, Shen Pei executed Xu You’s son for embezzling military supplies and displayed his severed head as a warning. As an accomplice, Xu You’s wife suffered the same fate.

After burying his wife and son, Xu You shut himself inside his home, refusing to see anyone or even attend to logistics duties, spending all day drinking. Only Yuan Shao’s stern reprimand compelled him to resume his responsibilities.

Meanwhile, after a prolonged absence, Zhen Mi finally returned to Yecheng.

“My beloved!” Liu Xie embraced Zhen Mi tightly. “You’re back at last! We’ve missed you so much that food lost its taste!”

“Your Majesty, there are servants watching…” Flustered, Zhen Mi whispered softly.

Unaccustomed to such direct expressions of passionate love, she felt embarrassed yet overwhelmed with happiness and sweetness. To think the emperor had yearned for her to the point of losing appetite!

“And what if they are?” Liu Xie showed no concern, gazing deeply into Zhen Mi’s eyes. “We wish the entire world knew how much we longed for you!”

He understood well how to delight women—public displays of affection, especially from an emperor, were irresistible to any heart.

The attentive palace maids nearby understood the subtle cues. Witnessing the intimate exchange between His Majesty and the noble consort, they dared not linger any longer. One by one, they discreetly excused themselves, scurrying away.

Zhen Mi’s heart fluttered wildly, her eyes brimming with tender affection. To receive such adoration from the Emperor was truly a great blessing.

“You’ve become far too thin during your absence,” Liu Xie gently caressed Zhen Mi’s cheek. Previously, she had carried a slight hint of baby fat, which felt like smooth jade against his touch, making him enjoy stroking it often.

Now, her face had slimmed to an oval shape, losing the plumpness she had gained upon entering the palace.

Zhen Mi nuzzled Liu Xie’s hand and said softly, “It was just a minor illness; Your Majesty needn’t worry.” With a twinkle in her eye, she added playfully, “Guess what good news I have for Your Majesty?”

Upon hearing the words “good news,” Liu Xie’s heart surged with excitement. Surely, this meant the Zhen Clan had decided to pledge their allegiance to him. However, he wouldn’t simply guess. Suppressing his inner thrill, he continued portraying the role of a deeply devoted emperor.

Liu Xie embraced Zhen Mi, gently caressing her face with his own.

“I won’t guess,” he said softly. “To us, your safe return is the best news.”

At heart, Zhen Mi was still a love-struck young maiden, easily swayed by such words. Hearing Liu Xie’s sentiment brought immense joy to her, almost beyond expression.

Blushing, she replied, “Your Majesty, the Zhen Clan has decided to secretly support you. Here is a letter from my mother for Your Majesty.” As she spoke, Zhen Mi retrieved a letter from within her clothing.

The importance of this letter compelled her to keep it close at all times, ensuring against loss or discovery, which could have caused unnecessary trouble for both her clan and Liu Xie.

“Oh? Let us see it.”

Liu Xie accepted the letter, still warm and fragrant from Zhen Mi’s body, and carefully unfolded it to read its contents.

There was nothing particularly unusual in the letter. It expressed deep gratitude for the Emperor’s favor and pledged the Zhen Clan’s collective efforts to assist him in restoring the Han Dynasty. Following that were details on how to discreetly communicate with the Zhen Clan.

At the end of the letter, several thumbprints bore witness, representing key figures of authority within the Zhen Clan.

It seemed akin to a loyalty oath.

However, Liu Xie didn’t believe a single word of it. Whether the Zhen Clan would fully support him depended on the potential he demonstrated in the future.

If he remained trapped like a dragon confined to shallow waters, unable to escape Yuan Shao’s grasp, the Zhen Clan would see no hope and naturally abandon him.

“I wonder if the Zhen Clan is hedging their bets by placing their eggs in two baskets or if they’ve decided to go all-in on me for a high-stakes gamble…” Liu Xie pondered silently after reading the letter.

Suppressing his thoughts, Liu Xie gently kissed Zhen Mi’s lips and said, “Beloved Consort, you truly are My greatest aide!”

“With the covert assistance of the Zhen Clan, We shall amass power more swiftly, thereby escaping Yuan Shao’s control and reclaiming Our rightful authority!”

The support of the Zhen Clan was a crucial element in Liu Xie’s plan with Guo Jia and Jia Xu. Without it, both the time and difficulty required to gather strength and break free from Yuan Shao’s grip would exponentially increase.

Hearing Liu Xie describe her as his “virtuous consort” filled Zhen Mi’s heart with immense sweetness.

Virtuous consort—a term reserved specifically for describing wives!

“It is my honor and duty to assist Your Majesty,” Zhen Mi replied sincerely. “Mother is equally outraged by Yuan Shao’s coercion and desires to help you regain your freedom soon, restoring the glory of the Han Dynasty.”

Zhen Mi was not naive; she subtly embellished her mother Madam Zhang’s intentions.

“My beloved!” Liu Xie held Zhen Mi’s hand firmly and spoke with deep affection, “When we reclaim our rightful authority, unify the realm, and command the homage of nations worldwide, rest assured, we shall never forget our promise to you.”

“The Zhen Clan will undoubtedly surpass the Yuan clan and become the foremost noble family under heaven!”

Liu Xie effortlessly painted this grand vision for the future. Sneakily, he added two barely noticeable preconditions after regaining his authority-unifying the realm and receiving tribute from all nations.

Unsuspecting, Zhen Mi leaned affectionately into Liu Xie’s embrace, her face filled with delight.

After sharing some tender moments, Liu Xie instructed Zhen Mi to rest well before leaving Qingli Palace.

Upon returning to the Chamber of Audience, he immediately sent Zhang He to summon Guo Jia and Jia Xu to the palace.

With Zhen Mi’s allegiance secured, certain plans needed acceleration, while also boosting Guo Jia and Jia Xu’s confidence, giving them a much-needed morale boost.

Just as Zhang He departed, Guo Jia hurriedly rushed in.

“Fengxiao, why are you alone? Where’s Wenhe?” Liu Xie asked, puzzled by Jia Xu’s absence.

“Your Majesty!”

Guo Jia, known for indulging in wine and women, was notoriously weak. Just running a short distance left him exhausted, panting heavily as he urgently exclaimed:

“A grave situation has arisen!”

“What happened?”

Liu Xie felt a chill, rarely witnessing such panic on Guo Jia’s face.

Guo Jia caught his breath momentarily before gravely stating, “News from the front lines in Northern Ji Province: Unable to make progress against Gongsun Zan, Yuan Shao accepted Ju Shou’s suggestion and decided to request Your Majesty to personally oversee the battle!”

“What!” Liu Xie’s face paled with shock, finding it hard to believe. “He wants us to visit the frontline?”

Liu Xie seriously questioned if Yuan Shao and Ju Shou had lost their minds, asking the Emperor himself to supervise the war effort at the frontlines? Did they not respect the Fake Emperor even slightly?

Battlefields were fraught with danger; anything could happen unexpectedly. If he were accidentally killed by stray arrows, the consequences would be catastrophic—not only would Yuan Shao’s fate be sealed, but the entire realm might unite against him, or close enough to that scenario.

Even taking a massive step back, assuming Yuan Shao didn’t fear Liu Xie dying on the battlefield, did he not worry about Gongsun Zan capturing him instead? Throughout history, instances of abductions during battles were far too common.

Realizing the gravity of the situation, Liu Xie urgently asked, “What exactly were Yuan Shao and Ju Shou thinking?”

Guo Jia’s expression turned solemn as he replied, “The war in Yōu Province is dire; Gongsun Zan’s resistance has been exceptionally tenacious. Yuan Shao cannot defeat him swiftly.”

“Moreover, with winter approaching, if this battle remains inconclusive, it will have to be postponed until next spring. However, Yuan Shao wants to quickly secure Yōu Province so he can then focus on attacking Cao Cao.”

“In Ju Shou’s suggestion for Your Majesty to personally oversee the frontline, there are two objectives: first, to boost our troops’ morale, and second, to deter Gongsun Zan from making rash moves, fearing collateral damage. They aim to exploit this opportunity to decisively conquer Yōu Province.”

Guo Jia was deeply enraged by Yuan Shao and Ju Shou’s actions—risking the Emperor’s safety just to hasten Gongsun Zan’s defeat! Even Dong Zhuo wouldn’t dare act so recklessly!

As Liu Xie listened, the word ‘DANGER’ seemed to loom over his head.

After mentally cursing Yuan Shao and Ju Shou, he looked at Guo Jia and asked, “Fengxiao, what should we do now? Is there any way to avoid going to the frontline?”

Guo Jia gently shook his head and sighed, “Yuan Shao’s decision is firm, and feigning illness may not help… Analyzing the current situation in Yōu Province, I fear Your Majesty must indeed go.”

Although Yuan Shao would undoubtedly provide stringent protection for Liu Xie on the front lines to ensure his safety, Guo Jia couldn’t help but feel anxious.

After all, accidents can always happen.

If something were to befall Liu Xie on the battlefield, their plans, patience, and grand ambitions would all turn into mere illusions.

“When do we depart?”

“Tomorrow. Chunyu Qiong will lead five thousand troops to escort Your Majesty to the Yōu Province battleground.”

With five thousand soldiers protecting just one person, and within their own territory, Yuan Shao was indeed being exceptionally cautious.

“Departing tomorrow?” Liu Xie frowned deeply. It seemed Yuan Shao truly treated him with disdain—Liu Xie must leave immediately upon receiving the news, without any consideration for courtesy.

This was the frustrating reality of being under someone else’s control.

Moreover, he felt a sense of familiarity about the scenario where two armies clashed while the Emperor personally appeared at the frontline, deterring enemy movements.

“Wait… Could it be that Yuan Shao wants me to act as a ‘Heavenly Emperor’ to intimidate the enemy?” Liu Xie suddenly recalled the exploits of a certain Ming Dynasty war god, sending chills down his spine.

If this were true, his dignity as Emperor would be utterly lost, inevitably leading to ridicule in the future.

“How come Wenhe isn’t here? Is he aware of this situation?”

“Wenhe visited Xu You today,” Guo Jia replied. “The news just reached Shen Pei moments ago, and I learned of it immediately from my official residence. Wenhe is likely unaware as yet.”

Yesterday, Guo Jia had conversed with Jia Xu about Xu You’s growing disappointment and resentment towards Yuan Shao—a perfect opportunity to strengthen their bond.

Liu Xie felt it was still necessary to consult Jia Xu, saying, “Have Wenhe come to the palace later. Additionally, Lady Zhen has returned with a letter from the Zhen Clan. They express their willingness to secretly support us wholeheartedly.”

This news brought slight relief to Guo Jia’s expression, but the Emperor’s imminent presence on the front lines remained the most pressing concern.

“The priority now is Your Majesty personally overseeing the battle at the frontline. I will find Wenhe, and we shall discuss this further at the palace tonight.”

After Guo Jia took his leave, Liu Xie’s mood grew increasingly somber, all previous joy from the Zhen Clan’s allegiance dissipating completely.

“Yuan Benchu, daring to force us onto the battlefield today—tomorrow, who knows what outrageous actions you might take next!”

“A true man, born under heaven, should never remain subjugated for long!”

“Jizhou…at least Yecheng, must be firmly within our control!”