“King Pengzu of You County has sent an envoy, wanting to have a secret meeting with me,” Liang Feng handed the letter in his hand to Duan Qin.
This unexpected letter arrived at a time when the late emperor had just been buried, and the situation had quickly turned into a scenario of two emperors standing simultaneously. Chaos had gripped the court, and Liang Feng had every reason to stay out of the political turmoil, given his current position. Nobody expected a mere county magistrate to take any significant side in this matter.
However, while he remained inactive, someone had come knocking at his door, and that someone was none other than the regional governor of You County. This surprising development couldn’t be ignored.
It should be noted that in the two previous major battles, Wang Jun had consistently supported King Donghai. This was primarily due to his longstanding feud with the Prince of Chengdu. Back when Prince Chengdu had sent assassins to target him, Wang Jun’s life had hung by a thread. Given the intense enmity between these two, it was highly unlikely they would align over an imperial throne. So why was Wang Jun seeking him out?
After quickly perusing the letter, Duan Qin gently shook his head and said, “It seems that You County is about to undergo some changes.”
The situation of two emperors simultaneously vying for power didn’t just bring political shifts; it also cast a psychological shadow. Furthermore, the recent celestial phenomenon known as the “day turning red as blood” had added an ominous cloud over the imperial enthronement ceremony in Luoyang.
Amidst the chaos of the turbulent situation, those with power began to grow restless.
Wang Jun was by no means a benevolent person. His marriage alliance with the Xianbei made his ambitions evident. The repeated military campaigns and plundering had further fueled his appetite for power. Given such a character, inviting Liang Feng for a secret meeting couldn’t bode well.
Liang Feng’s expression grew somber, and he said, “He is also of the Taiyuan Wang clan.”
Although Wang Jun resided in You County, he ultimately belonged to the Taiyuan Wang clan’s branch. Currently, Liang Feng was in the process of forming an alliance with the Wang clan through marriage, so it wasn’t easy to refuse such an invitation.
Duan Qin responded, “Wang Jun, as the governor-general, is an illegitimate son tasked with carrying on the family line. Moreover, he has lived alone in You County for decades. His relationship with Taiyuan might not be very close.”
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Liang Feng considered this and said, “But now, the Taiyuan Wang clan lacks prominent figures. If Wang Pengzu wants to intervene, do you think Taiyuan would refuse?”
This was the complexity of noble families. No one could predict which branch would prosper or decline in several generations, but they all belonged to the same clan and carried the same surname. They were bound to watch out for one another.
Such intricately intertwined relationships were the most complicated. To meet or not to meet was indeed a challenging question.
After a moment, Liang Feng shook his head and said, “Well, since they’ve extended an invitation, we should meet them.”
Duan Qin grew somewhat nervous and cautioned, “My lord, what if the other party has ulterior motives? It could be risky.”
Liang Feng remained relatively unfazed and replied, “Even if we can’t reach an agreement, it won’t be a major issue. We have no direct conflicts of interest with You County at the moment. If they don’t want to lose a potential ally, they won’t abruptly turn hostile. Refusing to meet would be inappropriate.”
The letter received from You County this time did indeed seem sincere. Not only was it personally penned by Wang Jun’s son, Wang Bin, but it also explicitly mentioned that they could meet in Leping. Although it wasn’t directly within their territories, it was near Shangdang and far from You County, making it more dangerous for Wang Jun’s side. Additionally, Liang Feng’s intended bride was Wang Wen’s niece, which meant they were of the same generation. Considering the slightly higher status of the other party, this level of respect had already been shown. A direct refusal would be unjustifiable.
Duan Qin, of course, understood this. After a brief contemplation, he said, “I will accompany my lord.”
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“No need,” Liang Feng waved his hand, “We’ve just acquired a new county, and there are many matters to attend to. This is merely a meeting, no need to be so tense. Bring a few hundred guards along.”
“But Captain Yi must accompany you,” Duan Qin insisted, concerned about Liang Feng going to the meeting.
Naturally, Liang Feng agreed this time, saying, “Of course.”
Since Yiyan had returned from Leping, he could lead his personal guards on this journey. Meeting with Wang Jun was only a minor aspect; the crucial part was establishing Shangdang’s position. The increasing number of ambitious individuals indicated the weakening control of the Sima clan over the political landscape. Shangdang’s influence was still relatively weak, and having the You County Inspector right above them created significant obstacles to their growth. How to handle this situation was indeed a challenge.
Even national mourning was not stable. No one knew how chaotic it would become in the future.
***
“Miss, there’s a message from You County…” When the letter was delivered, even the maidservant couldn’t believe it. That young lord Zhang, would he really respond to the letter? Didn’t he understand the current situation?
However, they had received many favors from him, and the young lady’s condition was severe. It was difficult to avoid this hot potato.
The maidservant’s heart was filled with conflict, but Wang Qi Niang didn’t hesitate for a moment. She immediately sprang from her bed and said, “Quick, give it to me!”
A thin piece of paper was taken from the messenger’s hand and eagerly examined by Wang Qi Niang. After a moment, her worried expression vanished, and she chuckled, “Young Lord Zhang truly knows how to come up with solutions!”
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The maidservant was greatly surprised, “Miss, even though we can’t marry during national mourning, a new wedding date has been set! In the sixth month, the delegation from Shangdang will come to escort you…”
“Humph,” Wang Qi Niang pouted playfully, “Young Lord Zhang is talented. If he says he has a way, he will definitely have a way! I’m not afraid! Besides, Young Lord Zhang is no ordinary man now; he’s serving as an official under our distant cousin. Who knows, he might even become a general in the future and come to marry me.”
The girl’s prideful words troubled Ahxi secretly. What official position was she talking about? Serving under a noble family’s illegitimate son couldn’t possibly compare to being wed to a well-known county magistrate. She cursed herself for letting that Zhang guy bewitch the lady’s heart.
Seeing the maidservant’s expression, Wang Qi Niang suddenly turned stern, “Ahxi, you must keep this a secret. If anyone finds out, I will order you to be flogged to death!”
Hearing this, Ahxi’s knees gave way, and she knelt on the ground, “I am your servant, my lady. How would I dare to speak recklessly?”
That’s right, she was on the same ship as Wang Qi Niang. If the family head found out, she’d be the first to die, not someone else. How could she possibly blabber outside?
Seeing her maidservant so obedient, Wang Qi Niang finally relaxed, “As long as you understand. Go fetch my medicine; I need to rest and recover!”
She had suffered a severe illness in recent days due to anger and worry. Now that there was hope, she needed to take good care of herself. When Lord Zhang came to marry her, she could present herself as a demure bride.
Seeing her lady’s carefree expression, Ahxi clenched her teeth. Well, since things had reached this point, there was no point in worrying further. Let’s see how that Lord Zhang would handle this situation. Besides, that Lord Zhang was remarkably handsome; if he married the lady, he might even take her into his household.
No longer dwelling on those headache-inducing matters, Ahxi obediently rose and went to get the medicine.
***
Both sides used fast horses to transmit messages. Although national mourning had not yet ended, Liang Feng and Wang Jun’s meeting was set. The location was arranged near Shang’ai, not a densely populated area. Even if a few hundred people gathered for the meeting, it wouldn’t attract much attention.
Since it was a confidential meeting, Liang Feng didn’t bring a caravan but instead had Yiyan lead two hundred horsemen. Yiyan, however, didn’t entirely agree with this plan, saying, “My lord, while the bandit issue in Leping has subsided, traveling with so few men is not safe. Moreover, the strain on horses and carriages could risk your health. If you were to fall ill again, it would be disastrous.”
“Just a two or three days’ horse ride, I won’t fall ill. Carriages, on the other hand, make me uncomfortable,” Liang Feng chuckled. Nowadays, his exercise regimen has significantly improved, and he is quite skilled in riding horses. He no longer appeared frail as he did in the past. However, his motion sickness couldn’t be completely cured. With many mountain roads on this journey, staying on horseback for a few days was more favorable.
“But two hundred men seem too few…” Yiyan was still not satisfied.
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Liang Feng waved his hand, “I’m going for a confidential meeting, not a show of force. Besides, the cavalry of You County is renowned for their strength. Exposing our power in front of them isn’t wise.”
This time, he had no intention of cooperating with Wang Jun. Recklessly revealing their strength would make the other side wary, which was not in their best interest. They needed to play it meek, reject when necessary, and put on a show. Once the Wang family’s daughter was married off, it would be harder for them to break ties easily, allowing some room for maneuvering.
Moreover, Liang Feng genuinely wanted to know Wang Jun’s intentions. Understanding the opponent’s plans would also help the future development of Shangdang.
Knowing that his lord may seem frail but had an unwavering character, Yiyan could no longer persuade him. He had equipped the personal guard squad to the teeth and even prepared two horses for carrying daily supplies. In a meeting like this, it was impossible to bring handmaidens. The priority was to ensure the lord’s comfort and security.
After all preparations were in order, the group quietly left Shangdang and headed in the direction of Leping. They marched during the daytime, slept under the open sky at night, and avoided official roads, choosing instead to travel on secluded paths. With Yiyan keeping a close eye, it took them three full days to reach their planned meeting location.
In the wilderness, they had set up tents. As the son of the Grand Commander, Wang Bin didn’t bring many troops this time, only three hundred Xianbei cavalry. Their expressions were very relaxed. If one didn’t know better, it would seem like they were visiting relatives in their hometown.
The arrangement appeared to be non-threatening. Even Yiyan secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Liang Feng didn’t mind such matters. He rode his horse to the front of the camp, dismounted, and was greeted by a group of people.
Leading them was a man in his thirties, dressed in military attire. Seeing Liang Feng, he clasped his hands and smiled, “I never expected our Lord Prefect’s appearance to surpass the rumors by three points! I am Wang Bin, acting on my father’s orders, here to pay my respects.”
Liang Feng returned the gesture, “General Wang, you’re too kind. I’ve heard of your illustrious name for a long time, and now that I meet you, I gain a glimpse of your excellence.”
Although Wang Bin was Wang Jun’s illegitimate son, Wang Jun’s first three wives hadn’t borne him any legitimate sons. His current wife had just given birth to a legitimate son who was not yet six years old. Therefore, these adult illegitimate sons served under Wang Jun’s command. Among them, Wang Bin was highly favored and had risen to the rank of General of the Wu Xianbei, which was a fourth-ranked position, one rank higher than Liang Feng.
The conversation was fitting, and Wang Bin laughed heartily, “We are family, no need for formalities. I hold a fourth rank, just call me Fourth Brother.”
After courtesy came familiarity, and how could one refuse such warmth? Faced with the warm, extended hand, Liang Feng smiled and accepted, not being overly polite. He walked with Wang Bin into the tent.
Behind them, a pair of eyes with a hint of coldness subtly observed Liang Feng before retracting, hiding within the laughter.
“King Pengzu of You County has sent an envoy, wanting to have a secret meeting with me,” Liang Feng handed the letter in his hand to Duan Qin.
This unexpected letter arrived at a time when the late emperor had just been buried, and the situation had quickly turned into a scenario of two emperors standing simultaneously. Chaos had gripped the court, and Liang Feng had every reason to stay out of the political turmoil, given his current position. Nobody expected a mere county magistrate to take any significant side in this matter.
However, while he remained inactive, someone had come knocking at his door, and that someone was none other than the regional governor of You County. This surprising development couldn’t be ignored.
It should be noted that in the two previous major battles, Wang Jun had consistently supported King Donghai. This was primarily due to his longstanding feud with the Prince of Chengdu. Back when Prince Chengdu had sent assassins to target him, Wang Jun’s life had hung by a thread. Given the intense enmity between these two, it was highly unlikely they would align over an imperial throne. So why was Wang Jun seeking him out?
After quickly perusing the letter, Duan Qin gently shook his head and said, “It seems that You County is about to undergo some changes.”
The situation of two emperors simultaneously vying for power didn’t just bring political shifts; it also cast a psychological shadow. Furthermore, the recent celestial phenomenon known as the “day turning red as blood” had added an ominous cloud over the imperial enthronement ceremony in Luoyang.
Amidst the chaos of the turbulent situation, those with power began to grow restless.
Wang Jun was by no means a benevolent person. His marriage alliance with the Xianbei made his ambitions evident. The repeated military campaigns and plundering had further fueled his appetite for power. Given such a character, inviting Liang Feng for a secret meeting couldn’t bode well.
Liang Feng’s expression grew somber, and he said, “He is also of the Taiyuan Wang clan.”
Although Wang Jun resided in You County, he ultimately belonged to the Taiyuan Wang clan’s branch. Currently, Liang Feng was in the process of forming an alliance with the Wang clan through marriage, so it wasn’t easy to refuse such an invitation.
Duan Qin responded, “Wang Jun, as the governor-general, is an illegitimate son tasked with carrying on the family line. Moreover, he has lived alone in You County for decades. His relationship with Taiyuan might not be very close.”
Advertisement
Liang Feng considered this and said, “But now, the Taiyuan Wang clan lacks prominent figures. If Wang Pengzu wants to intervene, do you think Taiyuan would refuse?”
This was the complexity of noble families. No one could predict which branch would prosper or decline in several generations, but they all belonged to the same clan and carried the same surname. They were bound to watch out for one another.
Such intricately intertwined relationships were the most complicated. To meet or not to meet was indeed a challenging question.
After a moment, Liang Feng shook his head and said, “Well, since they’ve extended an invitation, we should meet them.”
Duan Qin grew somewhat nervous and cautioned, “My lord, what if the other party has ulterior motives? It could be risky.”
Liang Feng remained relatively unfazed and replied, “Even if we can’t reach an agreement, it won’t be a major issue. We have no direct conflicts of interest with You County at the moment. If they don’t want to lose a potential ally, they won’t abruptly turn hostile. Refusing to meet would be inappropriate.”
The letter received from You County this time did indeed seem sincere. Not only was it personally penned by Wang Jun’s son, Wang Bin, but it also explicitly mentioned that they could meet in Leping. Although it wasn’t directly within their territories, it was near Shangdang and far from You County, making it more dangerous for Wang Jun’s side. Additionally, Liang Feng’s intended bride was Wang Wen’s niece, which meant they were of the same generation. Considering the slightly higher status of the other party, this level of respect had already been shown. A direct refusal would be unjustifiable.
Duan Qin, of course, understood this. After a brief contemplation, he said, “I will accompany my lord.”
Advertisement
“No need,” Liang Feng waved his hand, “We’ve just acquired a new county, and there are many matters to attend to. This is merely a meeting, no need to be so tense. Bring a few hundred guards along.”
“But Captain Yi must accompany you,” Duan Qin insisted, concerned about Liang Feng going to the meeting.
Naturally, Liang Feng agreed this time, saying, “Of course.”
Since Yiyan had returned from Leping, he could lead his personal guards on this journey. Meeting with Wang Jun was only a minor aspect; the crucial part was establishing Shangdang’s position. The increasing number of ambitious individuals indicated the weakening control of the Sima clan over the political landscape. Shangdang’s influence was still relatively weak, and having the You County Inspector right above them created significant obstacles to their growth. How to handle this situation was indeed a challenge.
Even national mourning was not stable. No one knew how chaotic it would become in the future.
***
“Miss, there’s a message from You County…” When the letter was delivered, even the maidservant couldn’t believe it. That young lord Zhang, would he really respond to the letter? Didn’t he understand the current situation?
However, they had received many favors from him, and the young lady’s condition was severe. It was difficult to avoid this hot potato.
The maidservant’s heart was filled with conflict, but Wang Qi Niang didn’t hesitate for a moment. She immediately sprang from her bed and said, “Quick, give it to me!”
A thin piece of paper was taken from the messenger’s hand and eagerly examined by Wang Qi Niang. After a moment, her worried expression vanished, and she chuckled, “Young Lord Zhang truly knows how to come up with solutions!”
Advertisement
The maidservant was greatly surprised, “Miss, even though we can’t marry during national mourning, a new wedding date has been set! In the sixth month, the delegation from Shangdang will come to escort you…”
“Humph,” Wang Qi Niang pouted playfully, “Young Lord Zhang is talented. If he says he has a way, he will definitely have a way! I’m not afraid! Besides, Young Lord Zhang is no ordinary man now; he’s serving as an official under our distant cousin. Who knows, he might even become a general in the future and come to marry me.”
The girl’s prideful words troubled Ahxi secretly. What official position was she talking about? Serving under a noble family’s illegitimate son couldn’t possibly compare to being wed to a well-known county magistrate. She cursed herself for letting that Zhang guy bewitch the lady’s heart.
Seeing the maidservant’s expression, Wang Qi Niang suddenly turned stern, “Ahxi, you must keep this a secret. If anyone finds out, I will order you to be flogged to death!”
Hearing this, Ahxi’s knees gave way, and she knelt on the ground, “I am your servant, my lady. How would I dare to speak recklessly?”
That’s right, she was on the same ship as Wang Qi Niang. If the family head found out, she’d be the first to die, not someone else. How could she possibly blabber outside?
Seeing her maidservant so obedient, Wang Qi Niang finally relaxed, “As long as you understand. Go fetch my medicine; I need to rest and recover!”
She had suffered a severe illness in recent days due to anger and worry. Now that there was hope, she needed to take good care of herself. When Lord Zhang came to marry her, she could present herself as a demure bride.
Seeing her lady’s carefree expression, Ahxi clenched her teeth. Well, since things had reached this point, there was no point in worrying further. Let’s see how that Lord Zhang would handle this situation. Besides, that Lord Zhang was remarkably handsome; if he married the lady, he might even take her into his household.
No longer dwelling on those headache-inducing matters, Ahxi obediently rose and went to get the medicine.
***
Both sides used fast horses to transmit messages. Although national mourning had not yet ended, Liang Feng and Wang Jun’s meeting was set. The location was arranged near Shang’ai, not a densely populated area. Even if a few hundred people gathered for the meeting, it wouldn’t attract much attention.
Since it was a confidential meeting, Liang Feng didn’t bring a caravan but instead had Yiyan lead two hundred horsemen. Yiyan, however, didn’t entirely agree with this plan, saying, “My lord, while the bandit issue in Leping has subsided, traveling with so few men is not safe. Moreover, the strain on horses and carriages could risk your health. If you were to fall ill again, it would be disastrous.”
“Just a two or three days’ horse ride, I won’t fall ill. Carriages, on the other hand, make me uncomfortable,” Liang Feng chuckled. Nowadays, his exercise regimen has significantly improved, and he is quite skilled in riding horses. He no longer appeared frail as he did in the past. However, his motion sickness couldn’t be completely cured. With many mountain roads on this journey, staying on horseback for a few days was more favorable.
“But two hundred men seem too few…” Yiyan was still not satisfied.
Advertisement
Liang Feng waved his hand, “I’m going for a confidential meeting, not a show of force. Besides, the cavalry of You County is renowned for their strength. Exposing our power in front of them isn’t wise.”
This time, he had no intention of cooperating with Wang Jun. Recklessly revealing their strength would make the other side wary, which was not in their best interest. They needed to play it meek, reject when necessary, and put on a show. Once the Wang family’s daughter was married off, it would be harder for them to break ties easily, allowing some room for maneuvering.
Moreover, Liang Feng genuinely wanted to know Wang Jun’s intentions. Understanding the opponent’s plans would also help the future development of Shangdang.
Knowing that his lord may seem frail but had an unwavering character, Yiyan could no longer persuade him. He had equipped the personal guard squad to the teeth and even prepared two horses for carrying daily supplies. In a meeting like this, it was impossible to bring handmaidens. The priority was to ensure the lord’s comfort and security.
After all preparations were in order, the group quietly left Shangdang and headed in the direction of Leping. They marched during the daytime, slept under the open sky at night, and avoided official roads, choosing instead to travel on secluded paths. With Yiyan keeping a close eye, it took them three full days to reach their planned meeting location.
In the wilderness, they had set up tents. As the son of the Grand Commander, Wang Bin didn’t bring many troops this time, only three hundred Xianbei cavalry. Their expressions were very relaxed. If one didn’t know better, it would seem like they were visiting relatives in their hometown.
The arrangement appeared to be non-threatening. Even Yiyan secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Liang Feng didn’t mind such matters. He rode his horse to the front of the camp, dismounted, and was greeted by a group of people.
Leading them was a man in his thirties, dressed in military attire. Seeing Liang Feng, he clasped his hands and smiled, “I never expected our Lord Prefect’s appearance to surpass the rumors by three points! I am Wang Bin, acting on my father’s orders, here to pay my respects.”
Liang Feng returned the gesture, “General Wang, you’re too kind. I’ve heard of your illustrious name for a long time, and now that I meet you, I gain a glimpse of your excellence.”
Although Wang Bin was Wang Jun’s illegitimate son, Wang Jun’s first three wives hadn’t borne him any legitimate sons. His current wife had just given birth to a legitimate son who was not yet six years old. Therefore, these adult illegitimate sons served under Wang Jun’s command. Among them, Wang Bin was highly favored and had risen to the rank of General of the Wu Xianbei, which was a fourth-ranked position, one rank higher than Liang Feng.
The conversation was fitting, and Wang Bin laughed heartily, “We are family, no need for formalities. I hold a fourth rank, just call me Fourth Brother.”
After courtesy came familiarity, and how could one refuse such warmth? Faced with the warm, extended hand, Liang Feng smiled and accepted, not being overly polite. He walked with Wang Bin into the tent.
Behind them, a pair of eyes with a hint of coldness subtly observed Liang Feng before retracting, hiding within the laughter.
