In the battered palace of Luoyang, a stark whiteness had taken over. The coffin of the late Emperor had been brought into the main hall and placed between two railings. The mourning ceremony had been held for three days, and even the imperial family, nobles, and high officials had shed tears until their eyes were red and their voices hoarse. However, today, no one displayed signs of fatigue.
Today marked the day when the Crown Prince would ascend to the throne as the Emperor. After careful arrangements, the Prince of Qinghe, Sima Tan, finally accepted the position of Crown Prince, becoming the official heir to this vast dynasty. There was unanimous support for this outcome throughout the court, to the extent that even Empress Yang, who had been deposed and restored multiple times, showed a high degree of support. After all, if Sima Chong had become Emperor, she would still only be an Empress. However, with a nephew like Sima Tan ascending, she could be promoted to the position of Empress Dowager.
However, as he looked at the young Crown Prince dressed in mourning attire, Sima Yue couldn’t shake a feeling of unease. After a brief resistance, the child who was not yet thirteen and still in his early youth had accepted the position of supreme authority. He didn’t seem fearful, nor did he show arrogance; instead, there was a disconcerting silence about him, as if he had glimpsed his future path in advance.
This child couldn’t stay for long, Sima Yue thought to himself, though he maintained an even more respectful demeanor. Following the ceremonial protocol, as the head of the Three Excellencies, he recited the “Shangshu Guming,” proclaiming the Crown Prince as the new Emperor and the Empress as the Empress Dowager before the late Emperor’s coffin. After this proclamation, the court officials exited, changed from mourning attire to auspicious clothing, re-entered the hall, recited the imperial edict, and passed the jade seal, thus ascending the steps to the throne.
When Sima Tan, now wearing the hastily arranged imperial attire, sat in the main hall, all the court officials prostrated themselves, chanting “Long live the Emperor”. The new Emperor of the Great Jin Dynasty had finally been established. Following this, there would be a brief pause in the mourning ceremony before proceeding to the inauspicious rituals for the late Emperor’s burial. The official enthronement ceremony would be held after paying respects at the ancestral temple, making the transition complete.
However, this time, whether in mourning or celebratory rituals, everything was exceedingly simple. The Luoyang palace had long been stripped of its contents by Zhang Fang. Not to mention the extravagant funerals of past emperors, even the basic essentials for a modest one were lacking. The Emperor’s ceremonial attire, for the most part, had been adapted from the late Emperor’s wardrobe. Thankfully, the assassins who had killed the Emperor hadn’t taken the imperial seal, or the situation would have been even more awkward.
Like a puppet made of clay and wood, Sima Tan meticulously completed the entire set of ceremonies following legal customs without uttering a word of complaint. He carried out each step with precision. It was only after all the ceremonies were completed, and the court officials had left the hall that he softly asked, “I wonder what posthumous1 title has been chosen for Emperor Xiaoxuan?”
Sima Yue was momentarily stunned but quickly replied, “It is the posthumous title ‘Hui’.”
According to the “Shifa Jie,” it describes one who loves the people and is good to them, demonstrating a gentle and benevolent nature. It was an honorable posthumous title. However, as an Emperor, such qualities were not entirely appropriate. The man who shouldn’t have been Emperor had taken control of the nation, leading to over a decade of chaos.
The young Crown Prince lowered his eyelids, and after a long pause, he said, “I entrust the affairs of the court to you, Grand Tutor.”
This statement seemed like submission, but it also appeared as if the Emperor had come to terms with reality and stopped struggling. Sima Yue inwardly sneered and humbly nodded, “I will not fail Your Majesty’s trust.”
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Next was the burial of the late Emperor and the visit to the ancestral temple. However, no one expected that on the day when Emperor Hui was officially laid to rest, the sun in the sky suddenly turned crimson, and the sunlight scattered like blood pouring down. This was an unprecedented weather anomaly that even the Chief Astrologer hadn’t predicted, causing rumors to spread throughout the court and among the common people.
“The Emperor is wronged, and the path of kingship is obscured.”
The meaning of this prophecy was clear to everyone. Three days later, with the support of the defeated Eastern Ping Wang and the former Yu Province Inspector Liu Qiao, King Sima Ying of Chengdu declared himself Emperor in Jing County. From that moment, two Emperors coexisted, and the situation became extremely complicated.
In a spacious hall, an elderly man with a Liang-style headdress and luxurious clothing stroked his beard and asked, “King Sima has also declared himself Emperor?”
Though he was in his fifties, he showed no signs of aging. On the contrary, his bright and commanding eyes exuded an unrivaled charisma and cunning, akin to a fox.
Beside him, a young man with a striking resemblance spoke, “Indeed. King Sima not only declared himself Emperor but also publicly accused King Donghai of causing the death of the late Emperor and unilaterally installing a new ruler. It was these actions that triggered the celestial phenomenon. According to the rites and laws, the throne should belong to him. Master, should we continue to serve King Donghai in this situation?”
The person seated there was none other than Wang Jun, the newly appointed Grand General of the Cavalry by the court. He held authority over the Eastern Barbarians and the various forces in Hedong, and he also served as the Inspector of You County. In essence, he was the true master of You and Ping County. In the previous battles between Sima Yue and Sima Ying, Wang Jun had played a significant role, leading the Xianbei and other horse-riding tribes to attack Ye City and seize Chang’an, ultimately securing victory for King Donghai.
Wang Jun chuckled at the question, “Do you think we are serving King Donghai?”
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Realizing his mistake, the person across from him hurriedly replied, “I apologize, my lord. It’s just that the court is in turmoil, and we’re wondering how You County should proceed.”
“Sima Yue is foolish, and Sima Ying is despicable. Rather than align with those two, we should take matters into our own hands,” Wang Jun said with a cold smile. “Do you know, Fourth Young Master, who currently has the strongest military forces?”
“It’s the Xianbei!” Wang Bin answered without hesitation.
That’s right. The most potent military forces in the realm now belonged to the two Xianbei armies under Wang Jun’s command. By exchanging two princesses for two sons-in-law, he had made the Duan and Yu families subservient to him. In the years of warfare, he had achieved the most significant gains. Ransacking two cities rivaling Luoyang in wealth, how much wealth had he accumulated? Xianbei and You County were no longer suffering from the harsh winter they once had.
“Given that we possess such formidable forces, why should we serve the Sima clan?” Wang Jun finally revealed his hand.
Although he had been dwelling in You County for a long time, he had never ceased monitoring the Central Plains situation. His previous military campaigns were merely to amass power. Now, he had secured the political leverage he needed. When the new Emperor took the throne, Sima Yue, in an effort to win his support, would undoubtedly grant him further titles. This time, it was likely to be the Minister of Works.
And if at this moment Sima Yue and Sima Ying were to clash once more? Wang Jun would still side with the Eastern Sea King, but this time, it was because the foundation of King Chengdu was in Ji County, and Ji County was adjacent to You County. His position was virtually guaranteed!
“Since there are two emperors, there might as well be three. With so many descendants of the House of Sima, why bother asking about the rightful heir?” Wang Jun’s slender fox-like eyes revealed a greedy gleam. “The dynasty is at a dead end; there’s no need to worry further. If we can secure the four provinces of You, Ping, Ji, and Bing and march straight for Luoyang, it may not be impossible!”
This was the first time Wang Jun had expressed his innermost thoughts. Wang Bin, sitting at a lower seat, felt his entire body shudder. This was an act of usurping the throne! To hold the emperor hostage and command the vassals; for anyone with significant military power, who wouldn’t be moved?
“But how can we take Bing County?” Wang Bin couldn’t help but ask.
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Currently, Bing County is under the control of the Xianbei and the Tuoba Xianbei. Even Wang Jun, who commanded formidable troops, couldn’t easily launch an attack.
“Some time ago, I heard your cousin mention that we should marry a Wang family girl to Liang Zixi, the Administrator of Shangdang. Why not take this opportunity and invite Liang Zixi for a discussion? Bing County is the foundation of the Wang family, and if he wants to establish himself, he should not refuse,” Wang Jun stated coldly.
Wang Jun had complex feelings about the Taiyuan Wang family. He was originally a bastard son, and his mother held a lowly position, causing him to be looked down upon by his father and clan. It was only because his father had no legitimate heir that he inherited the title. Afterward, Wang Jun left Bing County and moved to You County, where he planted his roots and spent half his life there. However, if he had a chance to regain Bing County and make those arrogant clan members obey him, it would be a satisfying act of revenge.
Hearing this, Wang Bin’s eyes lit up. “Liang Zixi participated in the capture of Yangyi during the solar eclipse and carries a Buddhist name. I believe he is not a cautious man. Your idea is reasonable! In a few days, I will go see him in person!”
Although Wang Bin was just a bastard son of Wang Jun, his status and seniority were there. It was not impolite for him to negotiate with relatives of his generation on behalf of his father.
Seeing that his son had understood the twists and turns of the matter, Wang Jun nodded with satisfaction. “This matter is of great importance, and we must handle it with the utmost care. Additionally, preparations for the imperial heir should be made quietly and discreetly, without drawing attention.”
Wang Bin nodded repeatedly, then discussed the matter with his father for a while before withdrawing.
※
Back at his residence, he first called his trusted subordinate and explained the situation in detail. “This matter is of great significance. I’m afraid that you and I will have to investigate thoroughly. We need to understand everything about Liang Zixi.”
The man across from him, tall with a handsome face, cupped his hands and replied, “Young Master, rest assured. I will thoroughly investigate Liang Zixi’s background.”
Seeing that this trusted advisor had made a promise, Wang Bin couldn’t help but breathe a sigh of relief. This trip to Bing County should proceed smoothly.
However, what he didn’t know was that after the Military Advisor left the main hall, he immediately returned to his residence and wrote a letter in haste. He handed it to a servant, saying, “Take this letter and deliver it to Jibei, to be given to Seventh Sister.”
He had thought he might never have the chance to send a letter again, but who could have anticipated this opportunity? Now that he had finally infiltrated Wang Jun’s bastards’ circle, he couldn’t entrust all his calculations to others. On this trip to Bing County, he had to make the most of it!
※
Returning to Shangdang, Yiyan went straight to the county yamen. He had been delayed in Leping for half a month and didn’t expect to hear news of the national mourning. At a time like this, how could he leave his lord’s side?
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Walking into the study, he immediately spotted that simple figure. Dressed in plain white, it hadn’t diminished the person’s appearance; rather, it added a touch of elegant simplicity. From a distance, it was impossible to look away.
His heart tightened, and he stepped forward to bow, saying, “Lord, I offer my condolences for the national mourning.”
Seeing his nervous appearance, Liang Feng chuckled and said, “Wearing mourning attire is the duty of a subject, not just for me. Everyone in the magistrate’s office must observe mourning. Don’t worry, Boyuan.”
Hearing this, Yiyan finally relaxed and straightened up, saying, “I have pacified the bandits in Leping, and we’ve taken control of Laoyang. I’ll send word back with money, food, and people in batches.”
This was precisely the kind of news they needed. Liang Feng praised, “That’s excellent! I’ll have Wen Qiao go and oversee Laoyang to develop the rear.”
Laoyang had plenty of forests and even grazing lands and mineral resources. It was an excellent base for development. Wen Qiao was also a capable minister who would surely manage this county efficiently in a short amount of time.
Seeing his lord’s pleased expression, Yiyan felt a sense of relief wash over him and added, “We’ve also captured over a thousand troops from the surrendering bandits and seized the old camp. The spoils are quite substantial. We’ll gradually transport money, food, and the populace back to Shangdang…”
“No need to bring them all back. If there are refugees who can be resettled, just place them in Laoyang. Let’s leave this matter to Master Duan,” Liang Feng said after a brief consideration.
After all, both Laoyang and Leping needed to be properly developed, and it wasn’t necessary to centralize everything.
Once he had discussed the officials’ reactions in Leping, Liang Feng could finally relax. It seemed the person in charge of Leping wasn’t particularly talented, but over time, they would surely improve.
After meticulously handling official business, Yiyan hesitated for a moment before mentioning, “With the national mourning and all, what about your wedding, Lord?”
“No need to worry about that,” Liang Feng smiled. “The Lord Dongyin won’t be returning to Bing County anytime soon. We can resume the wedding after the national mourning. I’ll also send a letter to Wang Zhongzheng to apologize and choose another auspicious date.”
That small glimmer of hope was shattered, and Yiyan’s throat tightened as he fell silent.
As if remembering something, Liang Feng joked, “By the way, you’re about twenty years old now, right? In your prime, are you not planning to get married?”
This comment immediately froze Yiyan’s spine. He suppressed the pain in his heart and shook his head, saying, “The Xiongnu have not been defeated; how can I start a family?”
These were the famous words of Huo Qubing. In his youth, he had gone on expeditions against the Xiongnu for the sake of the Han Dynasty. Today, Yiyan was defending his homeland against the Xiongnu. Using this excuse should not raise any suspicion.
However, Liang Feng raised an eyebrow, “This saying is not auspicious. Do not mention it in the future.”
It was fine to idolize Huo Qubing, but this saying was almost like planting a flag for himself. Huo Qubing died young at the age of 23, and Liang Feng did not want the same fate for Yiyan.
And, unexpectedly, Liang Feng added, “Battles on the battlefield are uncertain, but your life is far more important than anything else. Don’t push yourself too hard!”
This unexpected reassurance made Yiyan, whose heart had been tense and throbbing, finally relax. He lowered his head and said in a low voice, “I understand.”
Seeing the young man’s stiff posture like a sword in front of him, Liang Feng sighed inwardly. It might be time to find a suitable marriage for this young fellow. Perhaps getting married could help soften his increasingly intense aura. People aren’t weapons; too much rigidity can lead to breakage, and it’s not a good thing to remain so tense all the time.
With these thoughts in mind, Liang Feng smiled slightly and said, “Now that we’re in a period of national mourning and there’s no entertainment in the military, why don’t you stay and play a game of Go with me? We can’t have music and dance during mourning, but Go is a good choice. It’s been a while since anyone played with me.”
Yiyan, with the past moments flashing through his mind, couldn’t resist and replied, “I have no pressing duties.”
“Remember to give it your all. I want to see if your strategy in Go has improved,” Liang Feng smiled and called for a servant to bring a small chessboard, setting it up between them.
Yiyan, with a glance at the casual smile on Liang Feng’s face, lowered his gaze and quietly arranged the pieces on the board.
Author’s Note:
The historical records mentioned in this chapter refer to a series of celestial phenomena during the “Guangxi” (光熙) era, which contributed to the upheaval in the country.
1occurs or is awarded or given after a person’s death
In the battered palace of Luoyang, a stark whiteness had taken over. The coffin of the late Emperor had been brought into the main hall and placed between two railings. The mourning ceremony had been held for three days, and even the imperial family, nobles, and high officials had shed tears until their eyes were red and their voices hoarse. However, today, no one displayed signs of fatigue.
Today marked the day when the Crown Prince would ascend to the throne as the Emperor. After careful arrangements, the Prince of Qinghe, Sima Tan, finally accepted the position of Crown Prince, becoming the official heir to this vast dynasty. There was unanimous support for this outcome throughout the court, to the extent that even Empress Yang, who had been deposed and restored multiple times, showed a high degree of support. After all, if Sima Chong had become Emperor, she would still only be an Empress. However, with a nephew like Sima Tan ascending, she could be promoted to the position of Empress Dowager.
However, as he looked at the young Crown Prince dressed in mourning attire, Sima Yue couldn’t shake a feeling of unease. After a brief resistance, the child who was not yet thirteen and still in his early youth had accepted the position of supreme authority. He didn’t seem fearful, nor did he show arrogance; instead, there was a disconcerting silence about him, as if he had glimpsed his future path in advance.
This child couldn’t stay for long, Sima Yue thought to himself, though he maintained an even more respectful demeanor. Following the ceremonial protocol, as the head of the Three Excellencies, he recited the “Shangshu Guming,” proclaiming the Crown Prince as the new Emperor and the Empress as the Empress Dowager before the late Emperor’s coffin. After this proclamation, the court officials exited, changed from mourning attire to auspicious clothing, re-entered the hall, recited the imperial edict, and passed the jade seal, thus ascending the steps to the throne.
When Sima Tan, now wearing the hastily arranged imperial attire, sat in the main hall, all the court officials prostrated themselves, chanting “Long live the Emperor”. The new Emperor of the Great Jin Dynasty had finally been established. Following this, there would be a brief pause in the mourning ceremony before proceeding to the inauspicious rituals for the late Emperor’s burial. The official enthronement ceremony would be held after paying respects at the ancestral temple, making the transition complete.
However, this time, whether in mourning or celebratory rituals, everything was exceedingly simple. The Luoyang palace had long been stripped of its contents by Zhang Fang. Not to mention the extravagant funerals of past emperors, even the basic essentials for a modest one were lacking. The Emperor’s ceremonial attire, for the most part, had been adapted from the late Emperor’s wardrobe. Thankfully, the assassins who had killed the Emperor hadn’t taken the imperial seal, or the situation would have been even more awkward.
Like a puppet made of clay and wood, Sima Tan meticulously completed the entire set of ceremonies following legal customs without uttering a word of complaint. He carried out each step with precision. It was only after all the ceremonies were completed, and the court officials had left the hall that he softly asked, “I wonder what posthumous1 title has been chosen for Emperor Xiaoxuan?”
Sima Yue was momentarily stunned but quickly replied, “It is the posthumous title ‘Hui’.”
According to the “Shifa Jie,” it describes one who loves the people and is good to them, demonstrating a gentle and benevolent nature. It was an honorable posthumous title. However, as an Emperor, such qualities were not entirely appropriate. The man who shouldn’t have been Emperor had taken control of the nation, leading to over a decade of chaos.
The young Crown Prince lowered his eyelids, and after a long pause, he said, “I entrust the affairs of the court to you, Grand Tutor.”
This statement seemed like submission, but it also appeared as if the Emperor had come to terms with reality and stopped struggling. Sima Yue inwardly sneered and humbly nodded, “I will not fail Your Majesty’s trust.”
Advertisement
Next was the burial of the late Emperor and the visit to the ancestral temple. However, no one expected that on the day when Emperor Hui was officially laid to rest, the sun in the sky suddenly turned crimson, and the sunlight scattered like blood pouring down. This was an unprecedented weather anomaly that even the Chief Astrologer hadn’t predicted, causing rumors to spread throughout the court and among the common people.
“The Emperor is wronged, and the path of kingship is obscured.”
The meaning of this prophecy was clear to everyone. Three days later, with the support of the defeated Eastern Ping Wang and the former Yu Province Inspector Liu Qiao, King Sima Ying of Chengdu declared himself Emperor in Jing County. From that moment, two Emperors coexisted, and the situation became extremely complicated.
In a spacious hall, an elderly man with a Liang-style headdress and luxurious clothing stroked his beard and asked, “King Sima has also declared himself Emperor?”
Though he was in his fifties, he showed no signs of aging. On the contrary, his bright and commanding eyes exuded an unrivaled charisma and cunning, akin to a fox.
Beside him, a young man with a striking resemblance spoke, “Indeed. King Sima not only declared himself Emperor but also publicly accused King Donghai of causing the death of the late Emperor and unilaterally installing a new ruler. It was these actions that triggered the celestial phenomenon. According to the rites and laws, the throne should belong to him. Master, should we continue to serve King Donghai in this situation?”
The person seated there was none other than Wang Jun, the newly appointed Grand General of the Cavalry by the court. He held authority over the Eastern Barbarians and the various forces in Hedong, and he also served as the Inspector of You County. In essence, he was the true master of You and Ping County. In the previous battles between Sima Yue and Sima Ying, Wang Jun had played a significant role, leading the Xianbei and other horse-riding tribes to attack Ye City and seize Chang’an, ultimately securing victory for King Donghai.
Wang Jun chuckled at the question, “Do you think we are serving King Donghai?”
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Realizing his mistake, the person across from him hurriedly replied, “I apologize, my lord. It’s just that the court is in turmoil, and we’re wondering how You County should proceed.”
“Sima Yue is foolish, and Sima Ying is despicable. Rather than align with those two, we should take matters into our own hands,” Wang Jun said with a cold smile. “Do you know, Fourth Young Master, who currently has the strongest military forces?”
“It’s the Xianbei!” Wang Bin answered without hesitation.
That’s right. The most potent military forces in the realm now belonged to the two Xianbei armies under Wang Jun’s command. By exchanging two princesses for two sons-in-law, he had made the Duan and Yu families subservient to him. In the years of warfare, he had achieved the most significant gains. Ransacking two cities rivaling Luoyang in wealth, how much wealth had he accumulated? Xianbei and You County were no longer suffering from the harsh winter they once had.
“Given that we possess such formidable forces, why should we serve the Sima clan?” Wang Jun finally revealed his hand.
Although he had been dwelling in You County for a long time, he had never ceased monitoring the Central Plains situation. His previous military campaigns were merely to amass power. Now, he had secured the political leverage he needed. When the new Emperor took the throne, Sima Yue, in an effort to win his support, would undoubtedly grant him further titles. This time, it was likely to be the Minister of Works.
And if at this moment Sima Yue and Sima Ying were to clash once more? Wang Jun would still side with the Eastern Sea King, but this time, it was because the foundation of King Chengdu was in Ji County, and Ji County was adjacent to You County. His position was virtually guaranteed!
“Since there are two emperors, there might as well be three. With so many descendants of the House of Sima, why bother asking about the rightful heir?” Wang Jun’s slender fox-like eyes revealed a greedy gleam. “The dynasty is at a dead end; there’s no need to worry further. If we can secure the four provinces of You, Ping, Ji, and Bing and march straight for Luoyang, it may not be impossible!”
This was the first time Wang Jun had expressed his innermost thoughts. Wang Bin, sitting at a lower seat, felt his entire body shudder. This was an act of usurping the throne! To hold the emperor hostage and command the vassals; for anyone with significant military power, who wouldn’t be moved?
“But how can we take Bing County?” Wang Bin couldn’t help but ask.
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Currently, Bing County is under the control of the Xianbei and the Tuoba Xianbei. Even Wang Jun, who commanded formidable troops, couldn’t easily launch an attack.
“Some time ago, I heard your cousin mention that we should marry a Wang family girl to Liang Zixi, the Administrator of Shangdang. Why not take this opportunity and invite Liang Zixi for a discussion? Bing County is the foundation of the Wang family, and if he wants to establish himself, he should not refuse,” Wang Jun stated coldly.
Wang Jun had complex feelings about the Taiyuan Wang family. He was originally a bastard son, and his mother held a lowly position, causing him to be looked down upon by his father and clan. It was only because his father had no legitimate heir that he inherited the title. Afterward, Wang Jun left Bing County and moved to You County, where he planted his roots and spent half his life there. However, if he had a chance to regain Bing County and make those arrogant clan members obey him, it would be a satisfying act of revenge.
Hearing this, Wang Bin’s eyes lit up. “Liang Zixi participated in the capture of Yangyi during the solar eclipse and carries a Buddhist name. I believe he is not a cautious man. Your idea is reasonable! In a few days, I will go see him in person!”
Although Wang Bin was just a bastard son of Wang Jun, his status and seniority were there. It was not impolite for him to negotiate with relatives of his generation on behalf of his father.
Seeing that his son had understood the twists and turns of the matter, Wang Jun nodded with satisfaction. “This matter is of great importance, and we must handle it with the utmost care. Additionally, preparations for the imperial heir should be made quietly and discreetly, without drawing attention.”
Wang Bin nodded repeatedly, then discussed the matter with his father for a while before withdrawing.
※
Back at his residence, he first called his trusted subordinate and explained the situation in detail. “This matter is of great significance. I’m afraid that you and I will have to investigate thoroughly. We need to understand everything about Liang Zixi.”
The man across from him, tall with a handsome face, cupped his hands and replied, “Young Master, rest assured. I will thoroughly investigate Liang Zixi’s background.”
Seeing that this trusted advisor had made a promise, Wang Bin couldn’t help but breathe a sigh of relief. This trip to Bing County should proceed smoothly.
However, what he didn’t know was that after the Military Advisor left the main hall, he immediately returned to his residence and wrote a letter in haste. He handed it to a servant, saying, “Take this letter and deliver it to Jibei, to be given to Seventh Sister.”
He had thought he might never have the chance to send a letter again, but who could have anticipated this opportunity? Now that he had finally infiltrated Wang Jun’s bastards’ circle, he couldn’t entrust all his calculations to others. On this trip to Bing County, he had to make the most of it!
※
Returning to Shangdang, Yiyan went straight to the county yamen. He had been delayed in Leping for half a month and didn’t expect to hear news of the national mourning. At a time like this, how could he leave his lord’s side?
Advertisement
Walking into the study, he immediately spotted that simple figure. Dressed in plain white, it hadn’t diminished the person’s appearance; rather, it added a touch of elegant simplicity. From a distance, it was impossible to look away.
His heart tightened, and he stepped forward to bow, saying, “Lord, I offer my condolences for the national mourning.”
Seeing his nervous appearance, Liang Feng chuckled and said, “Wearing mourning attire is the duty of a subject, not just for me. Everyone in the magistrate’s office must observe mourning. Don’t worry, Boyuan.”
Hearing this, Yiyan finally relaxed and straightened up, saying, “I have pacified the bandits in Leping, and we’ve taken control of Laoyang. I’ll send word back with money, food, and people in batches.”
This was precisely the kind of news they needed. Liang Feng praised, “That’s excellent! I’ll have Wen Qiao go and oversee Laoyang to develop the rear.”
Laoyang had plenty of forests and even grazing lands and mineral resources. It was an excellent base for development. Wen Qiao was also a capable minister who would surely manage this county efficiently in a short amount of time.
Seeing his lord’s pleased expression, Yiyan felt a sense of relief wash over him and added, “We’ve also captured over a thousand troops from the surrendering bandits and seized the old camp. The spoils are quite substantial. We’ll gradually transport money, food, and the populace back to Shangdang…”
“No need to bring them all back. If there are refugees who can be resettled, just place them in Laoyang. Let’s leave this matter to Master Duan,” Liang Feng said after a brief consideration.
After all, both Laoyang and Leping needed to be properly developed, and it wasn’t necessary to centralize everything.
Once he had discussed the officials’ reactions in Leping, Liang Feng could finally relax. It seemed the person in charge of Leping wasn’t particularly talented, but over time, they would surely improve.
After meticulously handling official business, Yiyan hesitated for a moment before mentioning, “With the national mourning and all, what about your wedding, Lord?”
“No need to worry about that,” Liang Feng smiled. “The Lord Dongyin won’t be returning to Bing County anytime soon. We can resume the wedding after the national mourning. I’ll also send a letter to Wang Zhongzheng to apologize and choose another auspicious date.”
That small glimmer of hope was shattered, and Yiyan’s throat tightened as he fell silent.
As if remembering something, Liang Feng joked, “By the way, you’re about twenty years old now, right? In your prime, are you not planning to get married?”
This comment immediately froze Yiyan’s spine. He suppressed the pain in his heart and shook his head, saying, “The Xiongnu have not been defeated; how can I start a family?”
These were the famous words of Huo Qubing. In his youth, he had gone on expeditions against the Xiongnu for the sake of the Han Dynasty. Today, Yiyan was defending his homeland against the Xiongnu. Using this excuse should not raise any suspicion.
However, Liang Feng raised an eyebrow, “This saying is not auspicious. Do not mention it in the future.”
It was fine to idolize Huo Qubing, but this saying was almost like planting a flag for himself. Huo Qubing died young at the age of 23, and Liang Feng did not want the same fate for Yiyan.
And, unexpectedly, Liang Feng added, “Battles on the battlefield are uncertain, but your life is far more important than anything else. Don’t push yourself too hard!”
This unexpected reassurance made Yiyan, whose heart had been tense and throbbing, finally relax. He lowered his head and said in a low voice, “I understand.”
Seeing the young man’s stiff posture like a sword in front of him, Liang Feng sighed inwardly. It might be time to find a suitable marriage for this young fellow. Perhaps getting married could help soften his increasingly intense aura. People aren’t weapons; too much rigidity can lead to breakage, and it’s not a good thing to remain so tense all the time.
With these thoughts in mind, Liang Feng smiled slightly and said, “Now that we’re in a period of national mourning and there’s no entertainment in the military, why don’t you stay and play a game of Go with me? We can’t have music and dance during mourning, but Go is a good choice. It’s been a while since anyone played with me.”
Yiyan, with the past moments flashing through his mind, couldn’t resist and replied, “I have no pressing duties.”
“Remember to give it your all. I want to see if your strategy in Go has improved,” Liang Feng smiled and called for a servant to bring a small chessboard, setting it up between them.
Yiyan, with a glance at the casual smile on Liang Feng’s face, lowered his gaze and quietly arranged the pieces on the board.
Author’s Note:
The historical records mentioned in this chapter refer to a series of celestial phenomena during the “Guangxi” (光熙) era, which contributed to the upheaval in the country.
1occurs or is awarded or given after a person’s death
