“Captain Yi.” When Yiyan’s troops arrived at Yangyi, Ge Hong personally went out to greet him.
In the short half-year since leaving Lu City, Yiyan seemed like a different person. He was no longer the young man in green robes with a topknot, and his reserved and quiet demeanor had changed. He had grown darker and a bit leaner, and even his once-reticent temperament had been honed by numerous responsibilities into a more composed and dignified demeanor.
Yiyan greeted him with a bow, and they entered the prefectural office together. The great fire that occurred during the New Year when they captured the city had affected the prefectural office as well. However, due to limited resources, Ge Hong did not undertake any major repairs. He had only cleaned up an area for office work and personal residence. Ge Hong didn’t feel embarrassed to receive guests in such a plain room, and he hadn’t even prepared tea. He brought them into the study first.
On the desk, there was an exquisite sand table. Like the military officers from the Liang family, Ge Hong also preferred to use these clear and straightforward maps for strategizing. During his time in Yangyi, he hadn’t hesitated to request some skilled cartographers from Liang Feng to create this battlefield map.
Without formalities, he got straight to the point. “General Linghu has led three thousand troops and is stationed at Dalin. In this upcoming battle, he will make the first move to lure the enemy.”
“Have we scouted the enemy’s rear supply route?” Yiyan stared at the sand table and inquired.
“It’s in Qixian,” Ge Hong replied. “Currently, the grain and supplies are mostly transported from Si County. The distance is quite far, so it has to be stored in secure cities.”
Previously, the Xiongnu had captured several small cities in the Taiyuan region and had been using them as strongholds to gradually expand their territory. Now, these cities have become essential strategic hubs for logistics, including the transportation of troops and supplies, as well as control over the surrounding counties and prefectures. It was a complicated situation.
However, for the Xiongnu’s massive besieging force of over ten thousand, a nearby supply route was essential. They couldn’t rely on daily shipments from Qixian. The real objective was the supply route from Qixian to Jinyang. Intercepting the enemy’s provisions, disrupting their logistics, and inflicting significant damage on them were key steps to breaking the siege.
Yiyan nodded in silence, his keen eyes fixed on the sand table. After a moment, he pointed to a wooded area. “I’ll lead our troops to lay an ambush near Longshan. We’ll wait for General Linghu and the Xiongnu to engage in battle, and then we’ll strike their rear.”
Ge Hong immediately furrowed his brow. “The road from Yangyi to Longshan is not close. Aren’t we taking too much of a risk?”
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Longshan and Dongmeng, two mountains situated to the west of Jinyang, were also the locations where many nobles built their mountain villas. The terrain was indeed complex and suitable for an ambush. However, the route from Yangyi to Longshan required bypassing Jinyang, and along the way, they were likely to encounter enemy forces.
“No worries, I’ll divert their attention. Later, General Linghu will harass Qixian, drawing in reinforcements, and then we can launch a pincer attack.”
It was a risky move, but Ge Hong nodded in agreement. “In that case, I entrust this to Captain Yi.”
No one understood Yiyan’s military prowess better than him. It could be said that he had personally trained the entire army of Shangdang, and in just a few years, they had achieved nothing but victories. Compared to the plan he had discussed with Linghu Kuang, Yiyan’s arrangement seemed to have the potential to eliminate even more enemies.
Once they had outlined their strategic plan, the two of them carefully examined it on the sand table. After confirming its accuracy, Yiyan said, “I’ll lead the troops out of the city before nightfall. Managing communications is a task I entrust to Lord Ge.”
As the hub between the two armies, the role of Yangyi was equally crucial. Ge Hong didn’t refuse the responsibility and nodded in agreement. Yiyan didn’t linger and took his leave directly. As he watched Yiyan’s departing figure striding away, Ge Hong furrowed his brow.
How is it that in just a short time, this young man seems to have aged several years? The sharpness and fierceness that used to be so evident in him have vanished, replaced by an even deeper aura of authority, like the lead wolf in a pack. The things that used to be so unsettling about him are now buried beneath his ash-blue eyes, surging beneath the surface but hidden from view.
Fortunately, this young man is one of the chief aides to Lord Governor. If he were an enemy, he would undoubtedly be a significant threat… Ge Hong shook his head, dispelling these absurd thoughts, and called his subordinates to arrange various matters.
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As the sun was about to set, Yiyan, leading three thousand cavalry, left Yangyi in several groups and headed towards the distant mountains.
※
As the sky darkened, with only a faint moonlight, the dense forest was shrouded in a chilling silence. If it weren’t for their deep penetration into the woods, it’s doubtful anyone would have noticed the presence of a hidden group of horsemen.
There were thousands of men and horses, but this group remained utterly silent as if they were eerie ghosts from the underworld.
The silence enveloped the mountains and woods, even the starlight couldn’t penetrate it. Everything that needed to be arranged had already been taken care of. Yiyan leaned against a tree trunk with his eyes closed.
Tomorrow, there would be a fierce battle. Whether they could repel the besieging Xiongnu forces hinged on this one move. However, at this very moment, Yiyan’s mind wasn’t filled with strategies and military formations, nor did he engage in tactical planning. Deep within him, there was only one image.
…
It was also a quiet night. Thick curtains separated them from everything, including prying eyes. He knelt by the bedside, gazing at the figure lying there. It was evident that the person had become thinner, with dark circles under their eyes and pallid lips. The remarkable beauty that once left people in awe had withered, displaying signs of decline.
Nevertheless, even so, Yiyan had not moved his gaze, almost greedily observing the other person’s sleeping face. Perhaps in the next moment, the person would wake up, regain their senses, and expel him from the room. Maybe he would strip him of his military authority, turning him from the leader of an army back into a slave, forever banished from getting close. Perhaps he would show a look of disgust, like he had when he killed the person who had offended him, staining the floor with his blood.
Countless chilling possibilities swirled through his mind. After the fear, there was a deeper attachment. He did not retreat but placed his hand gently against the person’s cheek.
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The frail figure trembled slightly, just as before, shaking continuously. This was the person’s suffering, and it was also his. Yiyan’s fingertip gently slid over the cracked lips, like caressing a flower, like touching a butterfly’s wing. Then, he bent down and embraced the trembling body in his arms. With soothing strokes of his hand, he gradually eased the terrifying shivers.
Gradually, the person quieted in his embrace. A soft sigh escaped from the slightly parted lips…
…
Warm breath blew on Yiyan’s head, and he opened his eyes. At some point, the gray-white horse had come up to him, and it was affectionately nuzzling his hair as if sensing its owner’s unease.
Yiyan reached out and patted the horse’s head gently. This horse actually had a name, it was called “Zhuri.” It was just a whim of Lord Governor’s to name it that way. The black horse was named “Zhuiying,” and the white horse had to be named “Zhuri,” as if it were some playful joke.
But Yiyan never called it that way. He had been chasing the rising sun for too long, it seemed that saying one more word would reveal his vulnerability.
His gaze shifted slightly, and Yiyan looked at the soldiers resting around him. He hadn’t been abandoned by Lord Governor, hadn’t been dismissed or degraded. Such an important mission was still entrusted to him. This was already better than countless more desperate thoughts.
He had a purpose to Lord Governor. As long as he had that, there was still a glimmer of hope. Humble and pitiable, but it was a luxury that wouldn’t fade away.
He would bring victory back. Just as always.
Gently stroking the horse’s mane, Yiyan closed his eyes once again.
The next day, Qixian sent an urgent message. Terrified by the previous battle in Yangyi, the Xiongnu forces returned to rescue them within an hour. Unexpectedly, a group of surprise troops appeared behind the main army, set their supply camp on fire, and joined forces with the enemy, launching an attack from both the front and the rear.
After losing more than three thousand soldiers and horses, the commander could no longer withstand the pressure and retreated to Qixian. After being besieged for a year, Jinyang had finally repelled the enemy forces.
The news of this victory was quickly sent to Luoyang.
※
In Luoyang, the summer heat was scorching. But what was even more unbearable than the heat was the ongoing battles at the front lines.
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Wang Mi of Qingzhou rebelled, joined the puppet emperor’s army, and fought a fierce battle with General Gou Xi in Xinye. Despite his ruthless reputation and being known as the “White Tiger,” Gou Xi had not gained much this time. Xiangyang had fallen, and the enemy forces had pushed forward on another front.
This situation was far worse than anyone had imagined.
Because Prince Chengdu held significant power, being an imperial son of Emperor Wu, the states and counties that were not closely tied to the court began to waver. It was unclear when they might defect to the enemy’s side.
At times like these, even the news of Jinyang repelling the besieging forces was not very comforting.
“Jin Yang has successfully repelled the enemy, indicating that the main Xiongnu forces have already left Bing County,” said Sima Yue, his expression somber as he uttered these words.
This was an undeniable fact, and it was something that everyone in the hall understood well. The assassination of Emperor Hui had happened for this very reason. If the Xiongnu were to further deploy their troops to Si County, the safety of Luoyang would be in even greater jeopardy.
“Bing County should find a new leader as soon as possible,” a minister replied from below.
Sima Yue glanced at the young emperor on the throne, who looked like a puppet, and sighed softly, “Indeed, but I wonder if any of you have a candidate in mind?”
“Liu Yueshi should be competent,” someone immediately suggested.
Liu Kun had performed remarkably well in the previous campaign against King Hejian. If he hadn’t successfully persuaded Ji Province Inspector Wen Xian and defeated Yu Province Inspector Liu Qiao, Sima Yue wouldn’t have been able to stabilize the situation in Hedong so easily, paving the way to capture Chang’an.
However, when he heard this, Sima Yue shook his head. “The current situation on the front lines is intense, and General Liu should be utilized on the battlefield.”
While Liu Kun was undoubtedly talented, it seemed that sending him to Bing County at this moment might not be the most efficient use of his skills. The top priority was to deal with the situation involving General Sima Ying, who had rebelled and occupied Chengdu.
“Or we could consider using Minister Wen. He is originally from Taiyuan and has experience overseeing Bing County’s affairs. He should be up to the task…”
Wen Xian, being from a noble background, had a reputation for his talents. It was rumored that the youngest son of the Wen family, Wen Qiao, was also serving in Bing County. Sending him might be a viable option. However, Sima Yue still didn’t give his approval. A person who could be persuaded to abandon their position might not be the most steadfast individual. Bing County was the bulwark of Luoyang, and any mishap there would be a significant problem.
Seeing that Sima Yue hadn’t given his consent, someone else suggested, “Liu Cheqi seems like a viable choice.”
Liu Hong had previously served as the Inspector of Jing County and played a leading role in suppressing the Zhang Chang rebellion. If it weren’t for Sima Ying’s rebellion that led to his dismissal, he would still be in office.
However, before Sima Yue could respond, another person commented, “I heard that Liu Cheqi is seriously ill, so it might not be appropriate.”
Liu Hong was already of advanced age, and with an illness on top of that, the situation was quite uncertain. After a moment of contemplation, Sima Yue asked, “How about his eldest son?”
Liu Hong’s son, Liu Fan, had earned some renown in the previous major battles. Yet, someone raised a concern, “Bing County’s affairs are complex, and it may not be suitable to appoint a newcomer…”
This was an undeniable fact. Sima Yue furrowed his brow and asked, “Is there really no one suitable in the court?”
A well-groomed officer to the side stood up and suggested, “Perhaps Lord Zao could be considered? He is the son-in-law of Lord Wang, known for his exceptional talents and could govern the province effectively.”
This man was part of Wang Jun’s team placed in the court. Sima Yue’s interest was piqued upon hearing this suggestion. With Wang Jun as his backer, appointing Zao Song to Bing County seemed like a viable solution. Once the Xianbei cavalry arrived in Bing County, defeating the Xiongnu wouldn’t be a challenging task, would it?
However, before others could speak, the Emperor sitting on the throne suddenly said, “Lord Wang has a multitude of outstanding generals under his command. He captured Ye city first and then secured Chang’an. If he were to go to Bing County, it would indeed be a good decision.”
The puppet-like figure on the dais suddenly spoke, surprising Sima Yue. This was not good! Wang Jun already held significant power, so why was the Emperor showing a sudden interest in him? Indeed, Ye City and Chang’an were captured with the aid of the Xianbei cavalry. What if Wang Jun decided to ally with the young Emperor and came to attack him?
A chill rushed over him, and he cleared his throat, saying, “Your Majesty, Bing County is of utmost importance, and Zao Song has yet to achieve any notable accomplishments. It may not be appropriate…”
The Emperor, seemingly lost in thought, nodded, “Must there be a notable achievement? What about the one who repelled the Xiongnu this time? Can’t we consider him?”
Sima Yue was rendered speechless. The recent victory report indicated that it was Liang Zixi, the Prefect of Shangdang, who had assisted in repelling the besieging forces around Jinyang. However, Liang Zixi had a rather humble background. Could he be easily promoted to the position of a provincial governor?
Seeing Sima Yue’s hesitation, the young Emperor contemplated for a moment and then suggested, “Why not summon that person to the imperial court in Luoyang? If he proves to be capable, it could save us a lot of trouble.”
This was the Emperor’s decree. Since the blood moon omen, Sima Yue had temporarily restrained his arrogance and presented a more humble demeanor. Now that the Emperor had spoken, it was not appropriate to directly object.
After a brief moment of hesitation, Sima Yue respectfully said, “Your Majesty’s words are reasonable. I will summon Liang Zixi to come to Luoyang.”
While he could bring Liang Zixi to the capital, the final decision on how to place him would remain under his control. The matter of appointing a new Inspector for Bing County couldn’t be delayed any longer, and it was better to decide on the candidate promptly.
“Captain Yi.” When Yiyan’s troops arrived at Yangyi, Ge Hong personally went out to greet him.
In the short half-year since leaving Lu City, Yiyan seemed like a different person. He was no longer the young man in green robes with a topknot, and his reserved and quiet demeanor had changed. He had grown darker and a bit leaner, and even his once-reticent temperament had been honed by numerous responsibilities into a more composed and dignified demeanor.
Yiyan greeted him with a bow, and they entered the prefectural office together. The great fire that occurred during the New Year when they captured the city had affected the prefectural office as well. However, due to limited resources, Ge Hong did not undertake any major repairs. He had only cleaned up an area for office work and personal residence. Ge Hong didn’t feel embarrassed to receive guests in such a plain room, and he hadn’t even prepared tea. He brought them into the study first.
On the desk, there was an exquisite sand table. Like the military officers from the Liang family, Ge Hong also preferred to use these clear and straightforward maps for strategizing. During his time in Yangyi, he hadn’t hesitated to request some skilled cartographers from Liang Feng to create this battlefield map.
Without formalities, he got straight to the point. “General Linghu has led three thousand troops and is stationed at Dalin. In this upcoming battle, he will make the first move to lure the enemy.”
“Have we scouted the enemy’s rear supply route?” Yiyan stared at the sand table and inquired.
“It’s in Qixian,” Ge Hong replied. “Currently, the grain and supplies are mostly transported from Si County. The distance is quite far, so it has to be stored in secure cities.”
Previously, the Xiongnu had captured several small cities in the Taiyuan region and had been using them as strongholds to gradually expand their territory. Now, these cities have become essential strategic hubs for logistics, including the transportation of troops and supplies, as well as control over the surrounding counties and prefectures. It was a complicated situation.
However, for the Xiongnu’s massive besieging force of over ten thousand, a nearby supply route was essential. They couldn’t rely on daily shipments from Qixian. The real objective was the supply route from Qixian to Jinyang. Intercepting the enemy’s provisions, disrupting their logistics, and inflicting significant damage on them were key steps to breaking the siege.
Yiyan nodded in silence, his keen eyes fixed on the sand table. After a moment, he pointed to a wooded area. “I’ll lead our troops to lay an ambush near Longshan. We’ll wait for General Linghu and the Xiongnu to engage in battle, and then we’ll strike their rear.”
Ge Hong immediately furrowed his brow. “The road from Yangyi to Longshan is not close. Aren’t we taking too much of a risk?”
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Longshan and Dongmeng, two mountains situated to the west of Jinyang, were also the locations where many nobles built their mountain villas. The terrain was indeed complex and suitable for an ambush. However, the route from Yangyi to Longshan required bypassing Jinyang, and along the way, they were likely to encounter enemy forces.
“No worries, I’ll divert their attention. Later, General Linghu will harass Qixian, drawing in reinforcements, and then we can launch a pincer attack.”
It was a risky move, but Ge Hong nodded in agreement. “In that case, I entrust this to Captain Yi.”
No one understood Yiyan’s military prowess better than him. It could be said that he had personally trained the entire army of Shangdang, and in just a few years, they had achieved nothing but victories. Compared to the plan he had discussed with Linghu Kuang, Yiyan’s arrangement seemed to have the potential to eliminate even more enemies.
Once they had outlined their strategic plan, the two of them carefully examined it on the sand table. After confirming its accuracy, Yiyan said, “I’ll lead the troops out of the city before nightfall. Managing communications is a task I entrust to Lord Ge.”
As the hub between the two armies, the role of Yangyi was equally crucial. Ge Hong didn’t refuse the responsibility and nodded in agreement. Yiyan didn’t linger and took his leave directly. As he watched Yiyan’s departing figure striding away, Ge Hong furrowed his brow.
How is it that in just a short time, this young man seems to have aged several years? The sharpness and fierceness that used to be so evident in him have vanished, replaced by an even deeper aura of authority, like the lead wolf in a pack. The things that used to be so unsettling about him are now buried beneath his ash-blue eyes, surging beneath the surface but hidden from view.
Fortunately, this young man is one of the chief aides to Lord Governor. If he were an enemy, he would undoubtedly be a significant threat… Ge Hong shook his head, dispelling these absurd thoughts, and called his subordinates to arrange various matters.
Advertisement
As the sun was about to set, Yiyan, leading three thousand cavalry, left Yangyi in several groups and headed towards the distant mountains.
※
As the sky darkened, with only a faint moonlight, the dense forest was shrouded in a chilling silence. If it weren’t for their deep penetration into the woods, it’s doubtful anyone would have noticed the presence of a hidden group of horsemen.
There were thousands of men and horses, but this group remained utterly silent as if they were eerie ghosts from the underworld.
The silence enveloped the mountains and woods, even the starlight couldn’t penetrate it. Everything that needed to be arranged had already been taken care of. Yiyan leaned against a tree trunk with his eyes closed.
Tomorrow, there would be a fierce battle. Whether they could repel the besieging Xiongnu forces hinged on this one move. However, at this very moment, Yiyan’s mind wasn’t filled with strategies and military formations, nor did he engage in tactical planning. Deep within him, there was only one image.
…
It was also a quiet night. Thick curtains separated them from everything, including prying eyes. He knelt by the bedside, gazing at the figure lying there. It was evident that the person had become thinner, with dark circles under their eyes and pallid lips. The remarkable beauty that once left people in awe had withered, displaying signs of decline.
Nevertheless, even so, Yiyan had not moved his gaze, almost greedily observing the other person’s sleeping face. Perhaps in the next moment, the person would wake up, regain their senses, and expel him from the room. Maybe he would strip him of his military authority, turning him from the leader of an army back into a slave, forever banished from getting close. Perhaps he would show a look of disgust, like he had when he killed the person who had offended him, staining the floor with his blood.
Countless chilling possibilities swirled through his mind. After the fear, there was a deeper attachment. He did not retreat but placed his hand gently against the person’s cheek.
Advertisement
The frail figure trembled slightly, just as before, shaking continuously. This was the person’s suffering, and it was also his. Yiyan’s fingertip gently slid over the cracked lips, like caressing a flower, like touching a butterfly’s wing. Then, he bent down and embraced the trembling body in his arms. With soothing strokes of his hand, he gradually eased the terrifying shivers.
Gradually, the person quieted in his embrace. A soft sigh escaped from the slightly parted lips…
…
Warm breath blew on Yiyan’s head, and he opened his eyes. At some point, the gray-white horse had come up to him, and it was affectionately nuzzling his hair as if sensing its owner’s unease.
Yiyan reached out and patted the horse’s head gently. This horse actually had a name, it was called “Zhuri.” It was just a whim of Lord Governor’s to name it that way. The black horse was named “Zhuiying,” and the white horse had to be named “Zhuri,” as if it were some playful joke.
But Yiyan never called it that way. He had been chasing the rising sun for too long, it seemed that saying one more word would reveal his vulnerability.
His gaze shifted slightly, and Yiyan looked at the soldiers resting around him. He hadn’t been abandoned by Lord Governor, hadn’t been dismissed or degraded. Such an important mission was still entrusted to him. This was already better than countless more desperate thoughts.
He had a purpose to Lord Governor. As long as he had that, there was still a glimmer of hope. Humble and pitiable, but it was a luxury that wouldn’t fade away.
He would bring victory back. Just as always.
Gently stroking the horse’s mane, Yiyan closed his eyes once again.
The next day, Qixian sent an urgent message. Terrified by the previous battle in Yangyi, the Xiongnu forces returned to rescue them within an hour. Unexpectedly, a group of surprise troops appeared behind the main army, set their supply camp on fire, and joined forces with the enemy, launching an attack from both the front and the rear.
After losing more than three thousand soldiers and horses, the commander could no longer withstand the pressure and retreated to Qixian. After being besieged for a year, Jinyang had finally repelled the enemy forces.
The news of this victory was quickly sent to Luoyang.
※
In Luoyang, the summer heat was scorching. But what was even more unbearable than the heat was the ongoing battles at the front lines.
Advertisement
Wang Mi of Qingzhou rebelled, joined the puppet emperor’s army, and fought a fierce battle with General Gou Xi in Xinye. Despite his ruthless reputation and being known as the “White Tiger,” Gou Xi had not gained much this time. Xiangyang had fallen, and the enemy forces had pushed forward on another front.
This situation was far worse than anyone had imagined.
Because Prince Chengdu held significant power, being an imperial son of Emperor Wu, the states and counties that were not closely tied to the court began to waver. It was unclear when they might defect to the enemy’s side.
At times like these, even the news of Jinyang repelling the besieging forces was not very comforting.
“Jin Yang has successfully repelled the enemy, indicating that the main Xiongnu forces have already left Bing County,” said Sima Yue, his expression somber as he uttered these words.
This was an undeniable fact, and it was something that everyone in the hall understood well. The assassination of Emperor Hui had happened for this very reason. If the Xiongnu were to further deploy their troops to Si County, the safety of Luoyang would be in even greater jeopardy.
“Bing County should find a new leader as soon as possible,” a minister replied from below.
Sima Yue glanced at the young emperor on the throne, who looked like a puppet, and sighed softly, “Indeed, but I wonder if any of you have a candidate in mind?”
“Liu Yueshi should be competent,” someone immediately suggested.
Liu Kun had performed remarkably well in the previous campaign against King Hejian. If he hadn’t successfully persuaded Ji Province Inspector Wen Xian and defeated Yu Province Inspector Liu Qiao, Sima Yue wouldn’t have been able to stabilize the situation in Hedong so easily, paving the way to capture Chang’an.
However, when he heard this, Sima Yue shook his head. “The current situation on the front lines is intense, and General Liu should be utilized on the battlefield.”
While Liu Kun was undoubtedly talented, it seemed that sending him to Bing County at this moment might not be the most efficient use of his skills. The top priority was to deal with the situation involving General Sima Ying, who had rebelled and occupied Chengdu.
“Or we could consider using Minister Wen. He is originally from Taiyuan and has experience overseeing Bing County’s affairs. He should be up to the task…”
Wen Xian, being from a noble background, had a reputation for his talents. It was rumored that the youngest son of the Wen family, Wen Qiao, was also serving in Bing County. Sending him might be a viable option. However, Sima Yue still didn’t give his approval. A person who could be persuaded to abandon their position might not be the most steadfast individual. Bing County was the bulwark of Luoyang, and any mishap there would be a significant problem.
Seeing that Sima Yue hadn’t given his consent, someone else suggested, “Liu Cheqi seems like a viable choice.”
Liu Hong had previously served as the Inspector of Jing County and played a leading role in suppressing the Zhang Chang rebellion. If it weren’t for Sima Ying’s rebellion that led to his dismissal, he would still be in office.
However, before Sima Yue could respond, another person commented, “I heard that Liu Cheqi is seriously ill, so it might not be appropriate.”
Liu Hong was already of advanced age, and with an illness on top of that, the situation was quite uncertain. After a moment of contemplation, Sima Yue asked, “How about his eldest son?”
Liu Hong’s son, Liu Fan, had earned some renown in the previous major battles. Yet, someone raised a concern, “Bing County’s affairs are complex, and it may not be suitable to appoint a newcomer…”
This was an undeniable fact. Sima Yue furrowed his brow and asked, “Is there really no one suitable in the court?”
A well-groomed officer to the side stood up and suggested, “Perhaps Lord Zao could be considered? He is the son-in-law of Lord Wang, known for his exceptional talents and could govern the province effectively.”
This man was part of Wang Jun’s team placed in the court. Sima Yue’s interest was piqued upon hearing this suggestion. With Wang Jun as his backer, appointing Zao Song to Bing County seemed like a viable solution. Once the Xianbei cavalry arrived in Bing County, defeating the Xiongnu wouldn’t be a challenging task, would it?
However, before others could speak, the Emperor sitting on the throne suddenly said, “Lord Wang has a multitude of outstanding generals under his command. He captured Ye city first and then secured Chang’an. If he were to go to Bing County, it would indeed be a good decision.”
The puppet-like figure on the dais suddenly spoke, surprising Sima Yue. This was not good! Wang Jun already held significant power, so why was the Emperor showing a sudden interest in him? Indeed, Ye City and Chang’an were captured with the aid of the Xianbei cavalry. What if Wang Jun decided to ally with the young Emperor and came to attack him?
A chill rushed over him, and he cleared his throat, saying, “Your Majesty, Bing County is of utmost importance, and Zao Song has yet to achieve any notable accomplishments. It may not be appropriate…”
The Emperor, seemingly lost in thought, nodded, “Must there be a notable achievement? What about the one who repelled the Xiongnu this time? Can’t we consider him?”
Sima Yue was rendered speechless. The recent victory report indicated that it was Liang Zixi, the Prefect of Shangdang, who had assisted in repelling the besieging forces around Jinyang. However, Liang Zixi had a rather humble background. Could he be easily promoted to the position of a provincial governor?
Seeing Sima Yue’s hesitation, the young Emperor contemplated for a moment and then suggested, “Why not summon that person to the imperial court in Luoyang? If he proves to be capable, it could save us a lot of trouble.”
This was the Emperor’s decree. Since the blood moon omen, Sima Yue had temporarily restrained his arrogance and presented a more humble demeanor. Now that the Emperor had spoken, it was not appropriate to directly object.
After a brief moment of hesitation, Sima Yue respectfully said, “Your Majesty’s words are reasonable. I will summon Liang Zixi to come to Luoyang.”
While he could bring Liang Zixi to the capital, the final decision on how to place him would remain under his control. The matter of appointing a new Inspector for Bing County couldn’t be delayed any longer, and it was better to decide on the candidate promptly.
