The Prisoner of Beauty

Madam Ding took the two Qiao sisters to the Eternal Life Temple to offer incense. However, when she woke from a short nap, she found that Da Qiao had disappeared. In a panic, she asked Xiao Qiao, who explained that she and Da Qiao had been in the same room together. Xiao Qiao had eaten a bit too much during the midday meal and felt bloated, so she decided to take a walk in the back temple to aid digestion. She had invited Da Qiao to join her, but Da Qiao claimed to be tired and stayed behind alone. Xiao Qiao then went with her maid, and when she returned, Da Qiao was gone. She had assumed Da Qiao was with Madam Ding.

Madam Ding grew even more frantic. She ordered the servants and temple monks to search everywhere, but to no avail. At first, she thought Da Qiao had been abducted by some villain who had sneaked into the temple. Tears streamed down her face, and her legs grew so weak she could barely walk. She hurriedly prepared to return to the city to inform her husband and have the villain apprehended. Just then, the steward who had accompanied them from the mansion reported that the stable hand, Bi Zhi, was also missing.

Madam Ding’s mind was in turmoil. Initially, she didn’t connect the two disappearances. On the way back to the city, she sat in the carriage, still at a loss, clutching a handkerchief and weeping incessantly. Xiao Qiao sat beside her, feeling somewhat guilty seeing her aunt so distraught. She was also worried that if her uncle launched a large-scale search in the area, the two might not have gone far and could be caught. When they were halfway back, Xiao Qiao tearfully blamed herself, saying, “It’s all my fault. If I hadn’t been so careless and had stayed with my sister, this wouldn’t have happened.”

Xiao Qiao had lost her mother at a young age, and Madam Ding, being kind and compassionate, had treated her like her own daughter. Seeing Xiao Qiao blame herself, Madam Ding suppressed her own grief and comforted her, saying, “My child, this isn’t your fault. Don’t torment yourself.”

Xiao Qiao then said, “Aunt, I’ve been thinking—how could it be such a coincidence that my sister and that stable hand disappeared at the same time? I suspect my sister wasn’t abducted by a villain…”

Madam Ding stared at her in shock.

Xiao Qiao leaned closer and whispered something in her ear.

Madam Ding gasped, “You mean they eloped…?”

She abruptly stopped herself, covering her mouth with her handkerchief.

Xiao Qiao nodded.

“I think that’s the only possibility. Aunt, think about it—the Eternal Life Temple is a sacred place. How could a villain just sneak in and abduct someone, especially the daughter of a high-ranking official? And it’s too much of a coincidence that my sister and that stable hand disappeared at the same time. It must be that they left together. And speaking of this, I remembered something…”

Xiao Qiao hesitated.

“What is it? Tell me quickly!” Madam Ding urged anxiously.

“A few days ago, when my sister and I went out, that stable hand was with us. I accidentally saw my sister talking to him in secret. They quickly separated when they noticed me, and my sister seemed flustered. At the time, I didn’t think much of it, but now…”

She trailed off.

What she said was, of course, a lie. Madam Ding, however, would never have imagined that Xiao Qiao would deceive her. After hearing this, her face turned pale, and she was at a loss for words.

“Aunt, if I had known this would happen, I would have told you earlier… It’s my fault for being so careless…”

Xiao Qiao’s voice grew softer, and she lowered her head, pretending to weep.

Madam Ding thought carefully about the stable hand. Aside from his unusual green eyes, he was indeed quite striking in appearance.Two years ago, when Xiao Qiao had just been engaged to Liu Yan, the sister of Liu Yan's stepmother, Madam Yangdu from Langya Kingdom, came to Dongjun. The Qiao family's horse groom caught her eye, and she openly asked for him. Madam Yangdu was known for her charm and flirtatious nature, and she enjoyed keeping male companions. Madam Ding had also heard rumors about her. Since she had asked, and it was just a horse groom, they naturally gave him to her. Unexpectedly, a few days later, the horse groom was found outside the city, severely whipped and on the verge of death. It was said that he had been disobedient and angered Madam Yangdu, thus suffering this cruel punishment. Miraculously, the horse groom survived and, after some time, returned to the Qiao family. By then, Madam Yangdu had already left, so the Qiao family did not drive him away and kept him on.

Recalling this old incident, Madam Ding felt increasingly empty inside, filled with regret and resentment. Suddenly, she shuddered and tightly grasped Xiao Qiao's hand, instructing, "My child, this matter concerns your sister's reputation. You must never let anyone else know!"

Xiao Qiao had been waiting for these words and felt relieved. She nodded and said, "Aunt, don't worry. I will never speak of it."

Initially, Madam Ding had thought her daughter had been abducted by a villain, and her mind was in chaos. But after hearing Xiao Qiao's analysis, she began to see the logic in it. Her daughter's life was likely not in danger, and she gradually calmed down. On the way back, she sighed and wept, and upon arriving home, she hurried to consult her husband. When Qiao Yue heard his wife's tearful account, he was shocked and furious. He overturned the table, drew his sword, and was about to storm out when Madam Ding grabbed him, weeping, "Husband! You must not! If you make a big scene and search everywhere, our daughter's reputation will be ruined!"

Qiao Yue calmed down, realizing his wife was right. Moreover, they were in the midst of arranging a marriage with the Wei family. If it became known that Da Qiao had eloped with a horse groom, no matter how much they tried to appease the Wei family, they would never agree. After a moment of thought, he immediately summoned his trusted advisor, Zhang Pu.

The marriage strategy had originally come from Zhang Pu. Upon hearing this news, Zhang Pu was horrified and did not dare to delay. He quickly issued orders, strictly forbidding the servants from spreading the news of Da Qiao's disappearance while secretly sending people to search for her. Naturally, they could not conduct a large-scale search, so they discreetly sent people to the possible directions the two might have fled.

That night, Xiao Qiao found a letter in her room that Da Qiao had left for her parents, asking for forgiveness. Not daring to delay, she immediately took it to them. After reading the letter, Qiao Yue and his wife were certain that their daughter had indeed run away with the green-eyed horse groom. One was stomping and cursing incessantly, while the other wept and sobbed. With no news from those sent out to search, the household was in complete chaos, though outsiders remained unaware.

While the main household was in turmoil, Qiao Ping's side presented a different scene. Xiao Qiao, with a worried expression, spent her days comforting Madam Ding. Qiao Ci, upon learning that her cousin had eloped at such a critical moment, was not angry but rather pleased. She immediately urged her father to advise her uncle. Qiao Ping waited for two days, but with no news of Da Qiao, he knew they could not delay any longer. He went to his elder brother's study to discuss the matter. As he approached the door, he heard sighs inside. Entering, he saw his elder brother Qiao Ping and advisor Zhang Pu sitting opposite each other, both with furrowed brows.Qiao Yue said, "We just received news. Although the envoy we sent did not meet Wei Shao, he did meet Wei Shao's grandmother, Madam Xu. Madam Xu has already agreed to the marriage proposal and said that once an auspicious date is chosen, they will send someone to Yanzhou to fetch the bride. The marriage envoy is also on his way and will arrive soon. But now Da Qiao has gone missing. What are we to do?"

He was extremely anxious and began pacing back and forth after speaking.

Qiao Ping was startled and glanced at Zhang Pu, who was also frowning deeply. After a moment of thought, Qiao Ping asked Zhang Pu to leave first.

...

Yanzhou was located in the heart of the Central Plains, bordering Henan, where the Wen and Si rivers converged. It was a place of natural beauty and abundance, with a thriving population. It was also a strategic route south to Xuzhou and Yuzhou. Because of this, it had long been a contested territory among military strategists. The ancestors of the Qiao family had been entrusted by the Han emperor to govern this land, and for generations, they had held it firmly. Even during the time of Qiao Ping's grandfather, Qiao Gui, the Qiao family remained strong, and others dared not easily challenge Yanzhou. However, by the time it passed to Qiao Yue, the family's influence had waned. Coupled with Qiao Yue's naturally cautious and self-preserving nature, Yanzhou had gradually declined, leading to the current predicament of being surrounded by wolves.

The Madam Xu that Qiao Yue mentioned earlier was originally the daughter of Princess Gaoyang of Zhongshan, a member of the royal family, and was granted the title of Wengzhu. She married into the Wei family because of Wei Shao's grandfather's meritorious service in repelling the Xiongnu. She was intelligent and capable. Ten years ago, during the campaign against Li Su, she suddenly lost her eldest son and grandson. At that time, Wei Shao was only twelve years old, and with strong enemies surrounding them, the foundation of the Wei family in Yan and You was in jeopardy. It was under Madam Xu's leadership that they managed to survive the crisis. It was said that Wei Shao held great respect for his grandmother. Therefore, although Wei Shao himself had not personally agreed to this marriage, since Madam Xu had consented, the matter was as good as settled. No wonder Qiao Yue was so anxious.

Qiao Ping said, "Elder brother, I still maintain my stance. Even if our niece marries into the Wei family, it may not be a long-term solution. The Wei family's power is still concentrated in the north, and they likely intend to use our Yanzhou as a stepping stone to penetrate deep into the Central Plains without expending any military resources. Once the Wei family establishes a foothold, they may turn against us. How will we respond then? And how will our niece fare? The Wei family must still harbor resentment over past events. This marriage alliance is akin to feeding ourselves to the tiger. The fate of the Li Su clan is a cautionary tale!"

Qiao Yue frowned and said, "Second brother, you're overthinking this. Once we become in-laws, how can the Wei family simply turn against us? Besides, the situation is urgent now, and we must first overcome this crisis! As for Afan, as the eldest daughter of the Qiao family, it is her duty to help the family in this precarious situation. The matter was almost resolved, but who would have thought she would be so unfilial! I’ve raised this daughter for nothing!"

Qiao Ping urged earnestly, "Elder brother, since we cannot find our niece, we should consider the next best option. For now, let me go to Chenliu to persuade Zhang Fu. If we take a bold step, there might still be a way out."

Qiao Yue sighed, "You make it sound so simple! Leaving aside whether allying with Zhang Fu can solve our problems, the marriage envoy from the Wei family is about to arrive, and Afan is nowhere to be found. How do we explain this?"

"We can say that Afan has suddenly fallen seriously ill and is no longer fit for marriage. Then we can send additional gifts to the Wei family as an apology. I doubt the Wei family will make a big fuss about it," Qiao Ping had already prepared a response.

Qiao Yue's brow remained furrowed. After a moment of contemplation, he let out a long sigh and said, "Let me think about it some more."Qiao Ping knew that urging him would be futile, so he had no choice but to take his leave. Upon returning, he briefly recounted the events to the eagerly awaiting Qiao Ci, who then relayed the information to Xiao Qiao. Xiao Qiao immediately felt a glimmer of hope and instructed her brother to inform her as soon as there was any new news. Qiao Ci agreed.

Two days later, there was still no word from Da Qiao. While Qiao Ping anxiously awaited his elder brother's response, rumors began to spread inexplicably throughout Puyang City in Dong Commandery. It was said that Zhou Qun, upon hearing of the marriage alliance between the Qiao and Wei families, had quietly withdrawn his troops, lifting the siege of Yanzhou. It was also rumored that Marquis Wei's envoy for marriage negotiations would arrive soon. The citizens of Puyang, overjoyed at the news of the retreat, flocked from morning till night to the gates of the Governor's residence to kneel and offer their gratitude. Sensing something amiss, Qiao Ping hurriedly sought out his elder brother. He found him seated across from Zhang Pu, who, upon seeing Qiao Ping, stopped speaking, stood up, bowed slightly, and took his leave.

"Elder Brother! Zhou Qun has retreated, and the city is abuzz with talk of the Wei family marriage. How did this news get out?"

In contrast to Qiao Ping's confusion, Qiao Yue, the Governor of Yanzhou, appeared calm and composed, a stark change from his previous panic. "Isn't this good news? It spares our Yanzhou soldiers and civilians from the ravages of war."

"Zhou Qun's retreat is indeed good news. But has there been any word about your daughter?"

Qiao Yue shook his head, his face darkening. "There's been no news! And from now on, don't mention that shameless girl again! The Qiao family has no such daughter!"

Although Qiao Yue had several concubines, apart from Da Qiao, he had also fathered another son and daughter in his early years, but both had died young. Thus, Da Qiao was his only daughter.

With no news of Da Qiao and the city rife with rumors of the marriage, Qiao Ping was puzzled by Qiao Yue's apparent lack of concern. As he looked at his elder brother, who was staring at him intently, he suddenly recalled the meaningful glance Zhang Pu had given him before leaving. A realization dawned on him, and his expression changed.

"Could it be that you intend to have Xiao Qiao take her sister's place in the marriage?" he asked hesitantly.

Qiao Yue replied, "That is indeed my plan. I was just about to call you over to discuss it, and here you are. What do you think?"

Qiao Ping was taken aback and immediately shook his head without thinking. "This is absolutely unacceptable! Elder Brother, have you forgotten that Manman is already betrothed to the heir of Langya, and the wedding is set for next year! How can she marry Wei Yan now?"

Qiao Yue said, "As for the heir of Langya, I don't see any major issues. I will send a skilled envoy to politely cancel the engagement and present generous gifts. I doubt the Langya family will hold it against us too severely."

His tone was calm, almost echoing Qiao Ping's earlier words.

Qiao Ping waved his hands repeatedly. "Elder Brother, this is absolutely out of the question! Manman and the heir have been betrothed for a long time, and they are deeply in love. How can we just cancel it like that? I'm afraid I cannot agree..."

"Lu An!"

Qiao Yue called out his brother's courtesy name loudly, suddenly rising from his seat.

"The people of the commandery are overjoyed at Zhou Qun's retreat. You must have seen how they celebrated! Our Qiao family has been governing this land on behalf of the Emperor for generations. Can you really bear to leave our 200,000 soldiers and civilians in Yanzhou to suffer? Now, just the rumor of a marriage alliance with the Wei family has caused Zhou Qun to retreat! Between my niece and the 200,000 people of Yanzhou, which is more important? I don't need to say more, do I?"

Qiao Ping was momentarily stunned. Finally, he understood.The eldest brother was determined to seek peace, perhaps having heard another suggestion from Zhang Pu, and thought of substituting his own daughter for the marriage. Fearing that he might refuse, he deliberately spread the news early, creating the current situation where he was now caught in a dilemma.

He cherished his children, especially Xiao Qiao, as if they were precious treasures, always afraid of causing them any distress. The thought of marrying her off to the Wei family was something he truly did not wish for, but the word "no" now seemed as heavy as a thousand pounds.

Even in the cold weather of November, Qiao Ping's forehead was beaded with sweat. After a long struggle, he finally spoke with difficulty, "Eldest brother, it's not that I don't understand the gravity of the situation, but this matter is really too..."

Suddenly, Qiao Yue walked up to him and, without a word, knelt down, seemingly about to kowtow. Qiao Ping was shocked and hurriedly stepped forward to stop him.

"Eldest brother, what do you mean by this..."

"Second brother!" Qiao Yue's eyes were filled with tears, his voice emotional, "I know you are reluctant to send Manman far away to Youzhou. I also only have Da Qiao as my daughter, how could I bear to see her leave her parents? But under the current circumstances, listen to your elder brother, there is no other way but to seek favor with Wei Shao! If it weren't for Afan's heartless departure, how could I take your Manman? As your elder brother, I beg you on behalf of the 200,000 soldiers and civilians of Yanzhou!" Despite Qiao Ping's attempts to stop him, he was about to bow again.

Qiao Ping felt as if his heart was pierced by ten thousand arrows, his hands and feet turned cold. He forcefully supported his elder brother and said through gritted teeth, "Eldest brother, please rise, I will follow your instructions."

Seeing that he had finally relented, Qiao Yue secretly sighed in relief and stood up, tightly grasping Qiao Ping's hand, tears in his eyes, "Among all people today, none are as close as brothers! Second brother, I am truly grateful that you can understand my difficulties."

Qiao Ping knew that the matter was settled, leaving him with nothing but a bitter smile. After leaving, he thought about how to break the news to his unprepared daughter, feeling both sorrowful and anxious. When he reached her door, he hesitated, almost afraid to face his beloved daughter.