Listening to what True Void Daoist said, Chen Yuan felt a sinking feeling in his heart.

As expected, Jingtai's purpose wasn't so simple; he wanted to completely pull him onto the Sima family's ship.

How laughable, wanting him to be eternally loyal to the Sima family, to become their war blade.

Was he worthy?!

Chen Yuan didn't think that True Void Daoist would deceive him; he had no motive to do so, and it wouldn't benefit him. Furthermore, Chen Yuan had long harbored doubts about this matter.

Now, it could be considered as resolving his doubts.

It's a pity, in that case, Chen Yuan wouldn't have the fortune to enjoy the wonders of that mother and daughter.

In the face of life-and-death crises, Chen Yuan wouldn't take risks.

He had originally been resistant to Jingtai's plans, and now that he knew the truth, it was naturally impossible for him to comply with his wishes. It was just resisting the imperial edict, and even so, he couldn't agree to this matter.

Now, he could start thinking about how to decline this matter.

But if Jingtai really had a plan, he might not easily give up.

Now that he thought about it, Jingtai had given him the honor of Marquis of Ten Thousand Households, but not the real power of the Sky Survey Division, leaving him idle. Perhaps that was to shut people's mouths.

Unless he agreed to this marriage, he would be given greater power.

Otherwise, it would be suppression.

Chen Yuan put himself in Jingtai's shoes and quickly understood the key points.

Perhaps in Jingtai's eyes, he had always aimed to be a loyal minister and a pillar of the Great Jin, so his resistance to becoming the emperor's son-in-law wouldn't be too great.

After all, this matter was also beneficial to Chen Yuan.

It could be considered as truly connecting him with the Sima family.

But how could he know that Chen Yuan wasn't just an ordinary person? He not only possessed the divine blood of the former dynasty's Xiang family but also had a disguise and wreaked havoc in the imperial city, having slain a True Lord of the Sima family.

Furthermore, he had the ambition to overthrow the Sima family.

It was impossible for him to be eternally loyal to the Sima imperial family.

"Thank you, Senior, for resolving my doubts."

Chen Yuan cupped his hands and bowed solemnly.

Now that he knew the answer, he didn't need to disturb Moro's cultivation anymore.

"No need, no need."

True Void Daoist waved his hand, not taking it to heart.

In reality, he had other thoughts. Chen Yuan had purple qi protecting him, and he also possessed the divine blood of the former Chu Grand Ancestor, with the image of an emperor. Perhaps it wouldn't be long before he could start the prelude to chaos in the world.

And if Chen Yuan could really gamble on it, the True Void Palace, which had always been detached from the world, might also start placing its bet.

It was good to form some good karma now.

After all, this wasn't a big deal, just secrets and speculation.

In the Azure Cloud Temple, Chen Yuan asked True Void Daoist many questions about the marriage, and the other party answered them one by one, allowing Chen Yuan to understand them in more detail.

He had asked why the True Void Palace was hiding in the capital instead of cultivating in the immortal mountains. True Void Daoist stroked his long beard and smiled without saying a word.

Chen Yuan was also an understanding person. Seeing that the other party was unwilling to say more, he didn't ask any further questions and bid farewell when he felt that the time was about right.

True Void Daoist didn't try to keep him.

Chen Yuan returned to the Marquis of Wu'an's mansion to continue his cultivation. The winds in the capital concerning the position of the crown prince and the marriage between Chen Yuan and Princess Pingyang grew stronger and stronger.

The next day, Chen Yuan had wanted to continue his cultivation, but his cheap sister-in-law Li Hongshuang, who only lived four words, sent someone to visit him, inviting him to the Twin River Temple for a discussion.

She didn't say much about the specific matter.

Chen Yuan didn't suspect anything. He instructed the guards in the mansion and headed towards the Twin River Temple. Speaking of which, Chen Yuan had only seen Li Hongshuang once since returning to the capital.

They were of different genders, and Chen Yuan didn't want to have too much contact with her when he was free, to avoid arousing suspicion. However, they couldn't be considered unfamiliar because of his relationship with Jiang He, and Li Hongshuang trusted him quite a bit.

It was worth mentioning that since the two of them had expressed their attitudes last time, their feelings had been completely clarified. Perhaps she knew that Chen Yuan had a way to contact Jiang He, so she asked him to take a lot of words last time.

Chen Yuan didn't deliberately avoid suspicion after inquiring about Jiang He's opinion and acted as a bridge between the two parties. Even if Li Hongshuang didn't invite him this time.

He would also pay a visit in a few days when he was free to pass on the message.

When he arrived at the Twin River Temple, a young female Daoist personally greeted him and was very respectful to Chen Yuan. The current Chen Yuan wasn't simple. In addition to having stepped into the Fifth Realm, he was also the current Marquis of Ten Thousand Households.

He was now one of the top nobles in the capital.

As long as he revealed his identity, most people would be very respectful to him.

Although he wasn't a Divine Envoy of the Sky Survey Division, a Rank 3 official, he was considered more important than a Divine Envoy of the Sky Survey Division because of his status as the Marquis of Wu'an.

After passing through several gates of the Twin River Temple, Chen Yuan arrived at the main hall. Li Hongshuang, who was sitting cross-legged in meditation, also opened her eyes. After dismissing the others, she asked about Chen Yuan's recent situation.

Chen Yuan answered them one by one and also conveyed some of Jiang He's words.

Jiang He's personality was relatively cold, and he didn't say much or any sweet words. The specific meaning was to let Li Hongshuang wait for him for a while longer.

He would personally give her an explanation.

When Li Hongshuang heard this, the expression on her face immediately turned into a light smile, and a trace of love and expectation flashed in her eyes. She understood Jiang He's personality and didn't expect him to say any moving words.

As long as his attitude was in place, she would be very satisfied.

"I wonder what's the matter that my sister-in-law called me here this time?"

Chen Yuan looked at Li Hongshuang, who had a happy face, and asked. Su Dan Novel Network

He was somewhat curious.

Listening to Chen Yuan's words, Li Hongshuang's expression immediately turned serious, and she gradually restrained her joy, smiling lightly:

"There are many rumors about you in the capital recently. Even though I am in this quiet temple, your sister-in-law has heard a lot."

She didn't say it directly but instead sold a trick.

"They are just rumors from outsiders. Sister-in-law doesn't need to take them to heart."

"You are extremely intelligent. Don't you know what's behind these rumors?"

Li Hongshuang looked at him and asked.

"I know a little."

"His Majesty intends to recruit you as his son-in-law. What do you think about it?"

"Chen is wholeheartedly devoted to Dao and has no intention of starting a family."

Chen Yuan said.

"You want to refuse?"

Li Hongshuang was stunned for a moment, somewhat surprised.

"That's right."

"But this is His Majesty's intention. If you resist the imperial edict..."

She couldn't help but feel a little worried.

"The imperial edict hasn't been issued yet. Perhaps there will be a turning point." Chen Yuan smiled calmly, but this was only on the surface. In reality, he was also very solemn in his heart.

Gazing at Chen Yuan quietly, seeing that he didn't seem to be pretending, she then bit her lip lightly and said solemnly:

"The reason why I invited you to the Twin River Temple this time is actually because I was entrusted by someone."

"Who is it?"

"Everyone says you are extremely quick-witted. Why don't you take a guess?"

A faint smile appeared on Li Hongshuang's face.

Chen Yuan frowned, and his mind was spinning, considering who wanted to meet him here, and specially through Li Hongshuang's hands. This must be someone who knew about their relationship.

After excluding one person after another, Chen Yuan suddenly said in a deep voice:

"It's the Eldest Princess, right?"

The smile on Li Hongshuang's face was even more pronounced, and she nodded:

"You are indeed extraordinary. That's right, the Eldest Princess wants to see you this time. However, due to the rumors outside, she invited you through me. Don't blame your sister-in-law for taking the liberty. In my opinion, Pingyang is worthy of you."

She knew that Chen Yuan had some secrets, but she wouldn't think that he was a remnant of the previous dynasty, nor would she think that he was the Asura Demon Lord who had wreaked havoc in the capital before.

In her opinion, it would be a good thing if Chen Yuan could become the Eldest Princess's husband.

Chen Yuan became famous at a young age and had a very high reputation. His talent was also unprecedented and was definitely one of the most outstanding men in this world. There were not many people who could match him.

Princess Pingyang happened to be one of them.

She was proficient in both literary and martial arts, and she had both virtue and talent. Her status in the royal family was very high, and she also had a dignified and noble temperament. It was very appropriate for her to become Chen Yuan's wife.

Therefore, after Princess Pingyang revealed her intention, he took the liberty to make the decision.

However, he didn't expect Chen Yuan to be resistant to it.

He didn't know why.

Could it be that he had someone he loved?

For some reason, she thought of that alluring woman who captivated all living beings.

"What does the Eldest Princess want to see me for?"

Chen Yuan frowned.

"I don't know either. She is currently in the side hall. If you want to see her, you can meet her. If you don't want to see her, then I will decline on your behalf," Li Hongshuang said.

"Then... I'll meet her."

Chen Yuan pondered for a moment and nodded.

Since he was already here, it wouldn't hurt to meet her.

Li Hongshuang told Chen Yuan the location of Princess Pingyang. Chen Yuan immediately got up and headed towards the side hall. The more he walked, the more familiar he felt because he seemed to have slapped Yang Guifei in that side hall last time.

He had also changed her mind.

It was quite a coincidence.

"Knock knock knock"

After scanning with his divine sense and confirming that there was someone inside, Chen Yuan gently knocked on the door.

"Since Marquis Wu'an is here, please come in."

A familiar, clear voice came from the side hall.

It was Princess Pingyang.

"Creak."

Chen Yuan pushed open the door of the side hall of the Twin River Temple.

He immediately saw a slender figure sitting cross-legged with her back to him. She was wearing a white dress that was simple and unadorned. Her hair was tied up with a phoenix hairpin. Although he couldn't see her face, there was still an air of nobility circulating around her.

"Please forgive me for taking the liberty of inviting Marquis Wu'an through my sister Li."

Princess Pingyang turned around, faced Chen Yuan, and smiled with a nod.

"It's nothing." Chen Yuan moved his divine sense, and the door closed slowly without any wind. He then slowly stepped forward:

"I just don't know why Your Highness is looking for me."

"Marquis Wu'an should know in his heart."

"It's always clearer when Your Highness states it directly."

Princess Pingyang looked at Chen Yuan and chuckled:

"It's for the rumors in the capital."

"Those are just rumors in the market. Your Highness doesn't need to care."

"Marquis is really good at playing dumb. This is not a rumor in the market but was bestowed by His Majesty."

"So?"

Chen Yuan sat down cross-legged without showing any emotion and asked in an even voice.

"This palace wants to know what the Marquis thinks."

Princess Pingyang looked directly at Chen Yuan and asked.

She naturally didn't want to get married, and it had nothing to do with Chen Yuan. However, her father had already stated his attitude, and she couldn't refuse, so she wanted to see what Chen Yuan was thinking.

If he could resist it, that would be best, but if he intended to marry her, she wouldn't say much.

After all, compared to others, she still had a lot of respect for Chen Yuan, who was famous throughout the world. It wasn't easy to accomplish so many great things at his age.

He was definitely one of the most outstanding men in the world.

"Your Highness is asking me? Chen is still wanting to ask you what are Your Highness's thoughts." Chen Yuan didn't answer but instead asked a question in return.

Princess Pingyang sighed:

"The imperial decree is hard to violate. Pingyang is just a weak woman and can't stop this matter."

"In other words, Your Highness actually has no intention of marrying?"

"What Marquis Wu'an said is exactly what this palace thinks."

Princess Pingyang nodded.

She naturally couldn't admit in front of others that she had a slight affection for Chen Yuan.

"Actually, what Your Highness is thinking is also what Chen is thinking. I am determined in the martial path and have no intention of starting a family." Chen Yuan replied calmly.

What Yang Guifei said was actually not wrong. Even if she was willing, her cold daughter wouldn't agree to share a husband.

Furthermore, Chen Yuan knew of Jingtai's scheme and wouldn't put himself in danger for the sake of such desires.

Looking at Chen Yuan's calm face, Princess Pingyang knew that this was definitely not a lie. While she was relieved, she also felt a sense of inexplicable loss.

This was the first time a man had no feelings for her.

She felt a little frustrated.

However, she wouldn't reveal it on the surface and only said:

"Marquis Wu'an has lofty aspirations, and Pingyang admires you. However, my father's words are like the law of heaven, and it will be difficult to resist the imperial decree."

"Since Your Highness specially invited me through Daoist Li, you must have a solution." Chen Yuan squinted his eyes and asked the cold princess in front of him.

Princess Pingyang's eyes were a little hesitant, but she still said:

"Since the Marquis is unwilling to start a family, the only choice now is to leave the capital as soon as possible."

"Your Highness thinks that His Majesty will agree to leave the capital?"

Chen Yuan was still holding the position of a Gold Envoy and didn't have any specific power. If he left the capital rashly, it would be equivalent to leaving his job without permission. Not to mention the imperial court, even the Sky Survey Division would be shaken.

Moreover, Chen Yuan was still interested in the position of Heavenly Divine Envoy.

Leaving directly wouldn't be suitable for his future plans, unless Princess Pingyang could find a way to transfer him away, but that was impossible.

At Chen Yuan's position, any transfer would definitely require the emperor's approval.

"If something happens in other states, can the Marquis leave?"

"Chen intends to return to the South. If Your Highness can do this, Chen is naturally willing to leave." Chen Yuan directly threw a difficult problem at her.

"This..."

"Your Highness is usually favored by His Majesty. If you really don't want to get married, you can write a letter to the emperor. If there is any movement on Chen's side, I will also refuse. If you and I work together, we may be able to avoid this matter."

Chen Yuan smiled and then stood up.

The other party couldn't think of any good plan, so there was no need to stay any longer. He was preparing to leave.

Just as he was about to step out of the hall, Princess Pingyang stopped him again:

"Marquis, please wait."

"Is there anything else, Your Highness?"

Chen Yuan turned around and asked.

"Does the Marquis really not want to start a family?"

Princess Pingyang clenched her fists under her sleeves and asked in a calm voice.

Chen Yuan looked at her and smiled, asking in return:

"Is Your Highness willing?"

After saying that, he chuckled and left.

Listening to the sound of footsteps fading away, Princess Pingyang's eyes flickered, and she said softly:

"If the Marquis is willing, this palace may agree."

She didn't know if Chen Yuan had heard these words. In any case, a blush had climbed onto her face, but Chen Yuan's footsteps didn't stop and gradually faded away.

After saying goodbye to Li Hongshuang, Chen Yuan left the Twin River Temple alone and headed towards the Marquis of Wu'an's mansion, thinking about the last sentence Princess Pingyang had said.

If I am willing, she may agree...

Chen Yuan carefully savored these words.

With his cultivation and strength, he could clearly hear even a thin needle falling thousands of feet away, so that sentence was naturally no exception. However, he didn't stop.

Because he had no intention of doing so.

If he didn't know that Jingtai had a scheme against him, Chen Yuan wouldn't mind taking Princess Pingyang to enhance his future prospects and discuss with her mother what it meant to enter the Dao.

But knowing that there was a tiger in the mountain, he wouldn't go to the tiger mountain.

He wouldn't agree to the marriage Jingtai had planned.

His reputation shook the world, and he had a strong reputation in both the North and South. His strength had also undergone earth-shattering changes, and he had a lot of help.

He didn't believe that Jingtai could force him to marry Princess Pingyang if he strictly refused.

Where would he put the imperial family's face?

Were there no women in the Sima family to marry?

Furthermore, Chen Yuan had a deep relationship with Wei Jinfeng, and Gu Tianqiong also admired him quite a bit. There was also Li Hongshuang's backer, Duke Zhenguo, the Divine Martial True Lord, Li Kuangxiu.

Perhaps they could also speak up for him at that time.

Could Jingtai really make a move against him under the eyes of the world for the sake of a marriage contract?

He had contributed to the court, shed blood for the court, and almost lost his life.

His reputation in the capital was also not small.

It was impossible to kill him, at most, he would only be suppressed.

And if he really shamelessly made a move against him, he wasn't without the power to fight back. It was just that the matter of rebellion would be brought forward in a hurry.

Gradually dispersing these distracting thoughts, Chen Yuan returned to the Marquis of Wu'an's mansion.

As soon as he arrived home, an Sky Survey Envoy came, saying that he was ordered by Grand Commandant Xiao Jing to summon him.

Chen Yuan's heart stirred, and he thought of what Xiao Jing had said before.

Calculating the time, it was about time to decide on the position of the Heavenly Divine Envoy.

Without stopping, he followed the Sky Survey Envoy to the headquarters of the Sky Survey Division in the capital.

If he had the opportunity, he would naturally want to compete for this position so that it would be easier to act in the future.

And if Jingtai insisted on suppressing him, he would find a way to quickly transfer out of the capital.

Return to Qingzhou.

To prepare for what was to come.

After passing through several checkpoints of the Sky Survey Division, Chen Yuan came to the Sky Survey Hall again. After reporting, he took a deep breath and immediately stepped into the hall.

As soon as he entered, seven or eight pairs of eyes in the Sky Survey Hall fell on him at the same time.

Grand Commandant Xiao Jing sat high in the top seat. The position of Heavenly Divine Envoy was vacant. The other three Divine Envoys were also in their respective positions. In addition, there were two unfamiliar middle-aged men sitting in the back.

Chen Yuan narrowed his eyes, and he had roughly guessed who these two were.

Punch in, ask for monthly tickets and subscriptions!

Thank you for everyone's rewards and support

(End of this chapter)