Chen Biao transmigrates into the chaotic final years of the Yuan Dynasty, born into a merchant family. To survive, he can’t afford to hide his knowledge from his previous life. Instead, he pretends to be a mystical fortune-teller blessed with innate wisdom who can predict the future. At a very young age, he helps the Chen family become one of the richest families in the country, second only to Shen Wansan.
Then one day, his father, Chen Guorui, tells him:
“Son, your father has joined the Great Ming under the Hongwu Emperor. I’m one of His Majesty’s greatest contributors!”
Even though Chen Biao isn’t a history major, he knows that in his later years, the Hongwu Emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang, would execute a huge portion of his court. So he immediately begins planning an escape by sea.
Chen Biao: “Father, Mother, Empress Ma will pass away soon.”
His mother’s embroidery needle freezes in midair.
Chen Biao: “Father, Mother, the Crown Prince will also die young. Once the Hongwu Emperor loses both his beloved wife and son, he’ll become a bloodthirsty tyrant.”
The smile on his honest-looking father’s face stiffens.
Chen Biao: “Father, Mother, we need to leave by sea as soon as possible! I’ve already bought a large estate overseas. When the Hongwu Emperor starts executing all the civil and military officials, we won’t be able to escape if we stay!”
His parents exchange a glance before nodding.
“All right, son. We’ll do as you say.”
Chen Biao smiles in satisfaction.
In the first year of the Longfeng era, Zhu Yuanzhang’s legitimate eldest son, Zhu Biao, is born.
A fortune-teller proclaims:
“This child is born with innate wisdom and is destined for unparalleled greatness. However, Heaven may become jealous and take him away too soon. He must live under a false identity and conceal his true fate until he comes of age. Once he returns to his rightful place, he will ensure the Zhu family’s prosperity for generations.”
Chen Biao: “Father, when are we finally leaving by sea? I’ve already prepared our overseas estate!”
Zhu Yuanzhang: “There’s still plenty of time. Next time for sure… definitely next year.” (He wiped a bead of cold sweat from his brow.)
