A plan gradually took shape in Chu Yunqing's mind. She decided to take the initiative, using the clue "Ayan" to set a trap and lure the snake out of its hole!
Early the next morning, Chu Yunqing summoned the imperial physician under the pretense of a nightmare.
"Your Majesty, have you been overworking yourself lately? I observe that your complexion is pale and your pulse is weak, as if it is caused by restlessness," the physician said respectfully after checking her pulse.
Chu Yunqing gently rubbed her forehead and spoke in a weak tone, "I had a dream last night about an old acquaintance, and since waking up, I have been feeling unsettled."
"May I ask which old acquaintance you dreamed of?" the physician asked cautiously.
"His name is... Ayan." Chu Yunqing paused, seemingly recalling something, a hint of sadness appearing on her face. "We grew up together like siblings, but later... he hasn't appeared in my dreams for many years."
Hearing this, the physician was secretly astonished but dared not ask further. He could only follow Chu Yunqing's lead and said, "Your Majesty need not worry too much; dreams are merely illusions. Perhaps it is just that you have been thinking about him during the day and dreaming of him at night."
Chu Yunqing nodded and did not say anything more. After the physician left, she immediately summoned Luhua and instructed, "Go spread the word that I, the Empress, miss an old acquaintance and wish to hold a banquet in the Imperial Garden, inviting all ministers and their families to attend, especially those young gentlemen who are around my age. They must all be present."
"I understand," Luhua replied before departing.
Chu Yunqing watched Luhua leave with a meaningful smile playing on her lips. She was determined that among so many people, she would surely find someone who knew "Ayan"!
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Luhua quickly conveyed Chu Yunqing's decree, and the palace staff immediately became busy preparing for the banquet. In the Imperial Garden, various flowers bloomed vibrantly, filling the air with fragrance and creating a lively scene.
As night fell and the lights began to glow, the entire palace was enveloped in a golden radiance. Dressed in elegant attire, officials accompanied by their families attended the event, exchanging compliments about Chu Yunqing's beauty and talent.
Chu Yunqing wore a luxurious and exquisite phoenix robe, adorned with a phoenix crown, sitting gracefully in the main seat. A faint smile graced her face as her gaze slowly swept over the crowd, discreetly observing everyone's reactions.
The sound of silk and bamboo instruments filled the air as a group of dancers entered the hall, gracefully performing to the melodious music. While enjoying the performance, Chu Yunqing continued to quietly observe the audience's responses.
As the dance concluded, Chu Yunqing gently clapped her hands and praised, "Well done! Excellent performance! Rewards!"
The palace attendants immediately brought forth rewards, and the dancers expressed their gratitude before retreating.
Chu Yunqing raised her wine cup, scanning the crowd before speaking slowly, "Today, I, the Empress, host this banquet not only to thank all of you for your care towards me but also to reminisce about old friends and share some past stories with you."
She paused deliberately at this point, watching for reactions. Indeed, a flicker of unusual light appeared in some officials' eyes, while Concubine Shen frowned slightly, a hint of displeasure crossing her face.
Chu Yunqing noted these subtle changes in expression with an inward smirk but continued calmly, "When I was young, I met a boy named 'Ayan.' He was exceptionally gifted and talented; we were like siblings. Unfortunately..."
Her tone took on a hint of sadness as tears seemed to glisten at the corners of her eyes, as if she were genuinely lost in memories of her old friend.
"Alas, fate played its hand, and we lost contact. It has been over ten years now." Chu Yunqing picked up a silk handkerchief and gently wiped away the tears from her eyes, sighing softly, "I wonder where 'Ayan' is now and if he still remembers me."
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