After Scheming Against the Enemy Nation’s Emperor, I Got Pregnant Chapter 6

* note I am translating story as written and sometimes they interchange his alias and his real name when describing him, fyi, it is not a mistake 

Xie Zhe’s mouth twitched slightly. “…I was indeed foolish.”

Xiao Yun’s tone grew playful. “Yet I cannot punish him. Doing so would mean I am insecure, that I lack wisdom, that I do not cherish my people and have no tolerance for differing opinions.”

“Do you see how clever he is, Xie Zhe? He has placed so many grand titles upon me. Flattery isn’t always pleasant to hear—because now I must act accordingly, lest the world sees me as petty and narrow-minded.”

“…” Xie Zhe had to exert great control over his facial muscles before responding flatly, “Your Majesty is wise. This man must be executed.”

Xiao Yun shot him a sidelong glance. “Smile. Smile for me.”

Xie Zhe pressed his lips together and shook his head.

Xiao Yun took off the jade pendant at his waist and toyed with it idly, speaking lazily. “Have you considered who he was really speaking to?”

Xie Zhe froze.

It was impossible for that man to know that His Majesty was present at Yixian Tower. But His Majesty’s question was: “Who was he speaking to?”

Xie Zhe answered honestly, “I do not know.”

Xiao Yun smiled meaningfully. “In the largest teahouse in the capital, is there any statement that won’t reach the ears of certain high-ranking officials by tomorrow?”

Xie Zhe was taken aback for a moment. Then his expression suddenly changed. “‘A great nation does not bully the weak. A country belongs to its ruling family, but its people belong to the world’… That’s from Liu Yun’s work National Theory!”

No wonder it had sounded familiar.

Liu Yun was a renowned scholar of the empire, with an extensive body of work and countless disciples. He was currently serving as the Grand Academician of the Imperial Hanlin Academy—and was also the chief examiner of this year’s imperial examination.

Among all the examiners, he held the most influence, even having the final say.

He was known for his unwavering integrity, righteousness, and deep concern for the welfare of the people…

It was often said that no amount of gold could buy Liu Yun’s favor—he viewed wealth as mere dirt and despised flattery or attempts to pull strings. For years, he had shut his doors to all but those who were truly knowledgeable and virtuous.

“You thought he was flattering me?” Xiao Yun clicked his tongue. “He was flattering Liu Yun.”

“If these words reach the old man’s ears, he’ll surely slap the table in approval and exclaim, ‘This young man possesses a heart for the world, his words align with his actions—he has the makings of a top scholar!'”

Xiao Yun even playfully mimicked slamming the table in excitement.

Xie Zhe was so stunned that he was at a loss for words. “…”

He glanced at the brilliant and astute emperor, then at the young man downstairs. Though he himself had spent years navigating the treacherous waters of court politics and human intrigue, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of self-doubt.

His Majesty had spent over twenty years battling through schemes and struggles, becoming a seasoned and ruthless strategist. But that young man? He was barely eighteen.

Xiao Yun remarked, “He has certainly studied well—he even remembers such obscure lines. The knowledge is there.”

Xie Zhe studied his expression carefully. The emperor did not appear angered; instead, he seemed amused.

Cautiously, Xie Zhe asked, “Your Majesty… how do you recognize that passage?”

After all, His Majesty never read, especially not those tedious, archaic texts filled with literary jargon.

Xiao Yun gave him a knowing look, his smile lingering. “That old man has been repeating it in front of me for days, trying to lecture me.”

“…” Xie Zhe’s heart sank. He had a bad feeling about this.

That passage essentially meant: The ruler may change, but the people remain. In other words, emperors come and go, but the people endure.

In short, the empire belongs to its people, not its ruler.

So, Your Majesty must diligently govern and love the people, remain humble and patient, only then can the hearts of the people be won.

Xiao Yun flipped the jade in his hand over and over, as if toying with a person. Whenever he encountered something interesting, he had this little habit.

“He is one of this year’s examination candidates. Go find out his name.”

Seeing Xie Zhe standing frozen in place with an unusual expression, Xiao Yun asked in confusion, “What’s wrong?”

“Oh, right,” he suddenly recalled something and smiled. “That old man Liu Yun—did he take the bait? You must remember to tell me later… Xie Zhe? I’m talking to you!”

Xie Zhe hesitated for a moment, then decided to sacrifice someone else instead of himself. Feeling slightly awkward, he said, “Your Majesty… I know this person. You know him too.”

Xiao Yun raised a brow. “Who?”

Xie Zhe coughed and lowered his head. “West City, Junzhou… Xie Caiqing.”

Xiao Yun’s hand, which had been flipping the jade, abruptly paused. His face visibly darkened, and for a long moment, he remained silent.

Xie Zhe’s scalp tingled.

The moment Xie Caiqing entered, he had intended to inform His Majesty. But before he could, the emperor had casually remarked, “Is Xie Caiqing as good-looking as him?” At that moment, he dared not confirm that it was indeed Xie Caiqing.

Xie Caiqing had previously rejected His Majesty, and now, right under His Majesty’s nose, he openly claimed the emperor was not the most handsome man in the world—yet His Majesty had even praised his looks…

After a long while, Xiao Yun gritted his teeth and forced a lazy smile. “I was wondering why that sharp tongue seemed so familiar. So, it’s him? No wonder. He used to praise me in memorials, saying I was peerless under heaven, yet now he confidently declares Southern Huaiyi is worthy’? Truly, those who are eloquent and charming cannot be trusted.”

Xie Zhe struggled to hold back his laughter and helpfully added, “This man is two-faced and insincere. Should Your Majesty charge him with deceiving the emperor?”

“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you? Laugh in private,” Xiao Yun pointed at him irritably.

Xie Zhe maintained a respectful expression, unfazed.

He might have been agreeing with His Majesty, but he knew full well that this was just an unspoken loss. His Majesty couldn’t openly punish Xie Caiqing—at most, he could ensure he failed the imperial exams and got sent back to Junzhou.

“Xie Zhe.”

“Your servant is here.”

“Since he’s dancing right under my nose, shouldn’t I play along?” Xiao Yun smiled lazily, though his eyes held no warmth. “Attention-seekers merely want fame. How could I not give him the opportunity to stand out?”

His gaze wandered before settling on the jade in his hand.

Since he had come out incognito today, the eunuch had given him a white jade piece.

A fleeting image of that person in plain robes, clean and refined, flashed through Xiao Yun’s mind. He pondered for a few seconds, then smirked and casually tossed the jade to Xie Zhe.

Xie Zhe swiftly caught it, cupped it in both hands, and leaned in to hear Xiao Yun’s instructions. When he stepped out of the private room to relay the order to his subordinates, he sighed for Xie Caiqing.

Of all people to offend…

Still, His Majesty didn’t seem genuinely furious or intent on punishing him severely. More likely, he found him amusing and wanted to tease him, curious about what tricks he would pull next.

It was quite a mischievous move.

…

Meanwhile, on the first floor—

After Jiang Huaichu finished his tirade, the hall fell into a silence even deeper than the brothel next door during the daytime.

The scolded examinee flushed red, sweat pouring down his face. He pointed at Jiang Huaichu, stammering “You—” for a long time before, unable to bear the humiliation under the gloating gazes of the other candidates, he slunk away in shame.

Jiang Huaichu was just about to call for Ru Shi when Ru Shi, already disguised as a tea patron, entered. After circling the first floor a few times, he approached Jiang Huaichu’s table, which had an empty seat.

“Is this seat taken?”

“Please, make yourself comfortable,” Jiang Huaichu said warmly.

No one around paid attention to Ru Shi. After he sat down, Jiang Huaichu took a sip of tea and lowered his voice. “Follow that examinee from earlier.”

“Dispose of him?” Ru Shi’s expression remained impassive, his gaze cold.

Jiang Huaichu: “…No. Just keep watch until the palace examination.”

He was never one to start conflicts lightly. But once enmity was formed, he would ensure his opponents never had the chance to strike back.

“Did you come in at this time for a reason?” Jiang Huaichu frowned.

Ru Shi spoke in a low voice. “Xiao Yun left the palace over two hours ago.”

Taifei’s expression tensed, her gaze snapping toward him.

Jiang Huaichu frowned slightly. “Why are we only hearing about this now?”

“Xiao Yun is heavily guarded by the Changling Guards. Our spies couldn’t follow too closely and lost track of him,” Ru Shi summarized the crucial points. “We only know he is still within the capital and hasn’t returned yet. His exact location is unknown.”

Taifei decided swiftly. “Then forget it.”

She turned to Jiang Huaichu and explained, “Xiao Yun frequently goes out in disguise and visits many places. It’s hard to track him, and we don’t have enough time. The palace examinations are approaching, and the Changling Guards are monitoring all movements in the city. If we make too much noise, we risk exposure.”

Jiang Huaichu nodded.

He hadn’t made any preparations anyway.

For a first meeting, careful planning was best. Taifei had taught him that first impressions were crucial. Even without her teachings, he would have ensured that for such an important encounter, he wore the right attire, prepared his words, and anticipated potential contingencies with alternative plans.

It was best to rehearse everything in his mind, perfecting each detail and minimizing the chances of failure.

Jiang Huaichu said calmly, “There’s no rush—”

Ru Shi’s pupils contracted.

Someone was coming down the stairs behind them. A light tap landed on Jiang Huaichu’s shoulder.

Ru Shi subtly reached for the dagger hidden in his sleeve.

Jiang Huaichu remained composed as he turned around, his expression carrying a hint of a smile. “May I help you?”

The newcomer was dressed as a household servant, with a delicate, refined face, appearing to be in his early twenties. His left hand was tucked into his right sleeve, while his right sleeve bulged slightly, as if concealing something.

In a low voice, the man said, “Would the young master be willing to speak with me in private?”

Jiang Huaichu paused at the unexpected request and then gently replied, “Of course.”

Taifei and Ru Shi exchanged subtly wary glances.

The man led Jiang Huaichu to a secluded corner, then retrieved a finely crafted red silk box from his sleeve and presented it with both hands. “My family’s master has a gift for you.”

Jiang Huaichu frowned slightly but did not reach out to accept it. “One should not accept rewards without merit.”

He had always refrained from touching things he did not intend to accept—once touched, unnecessary trouble would follow.

The man smiled. “Young Master, please don’t misunderstand. My master greatly admired your words just now and has specially sent this as a gift. It is not meant to buy your loyalty with wealth. My master says that gold is easy to come by, but a kindred spirit is rare. He hopes you won’t be too reserved—this gift is merely a token of well wishes, hoping that you will rise to great heights, and that one day, you may meet again in court, drinking and sharing the joys of life.”

A court official?

In Nanruo, it wasn’t uncommon for someone to gift generously upon finding a like-minded individual, especially since Jiang Huaichu now appeared in plain clothes, looking impoverished and without connections.

But he had already made up his mind—not to accept anything from strangers while in Northern Ning, no matter how flowery the words sounded. Being in a foreign land, he could not afford any unnecessary risks.

This situation was already unexpected.

Better to avoid trouble altogether.

He took a step back, his expression apologetic yet sincere. “I am unworthy of such a gift. If I am fortunate enough to pass the imperial exam, I will personally visit to express my gratitude.”

The man clearly hadn’t expected such a firm refusal. Jiang Huaichu was unmoved by money, fine—but he wasn’t even interested in befriending someone in power? His brows knitted slightly in urgency. “Won’t you at least take a look?”

Without waiting for Jiang Huaichu’s response, he opened the brocade box.

Jiang Huaichu glanced inside indifferently at first.

Then, his ever-calm expression suddenly stiffened, a wave of rigidity overtaking him.

It was Xiao Yun’s jade. And Xiao Yun was here.

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