When leaving the Minister of Works’ residence, the sun had already begun to set. It wasn’t because the banquet had ended early but because Liang Feng had left the table ahead of time.
To be fair, Wang Yan was an expert in the art of enjoyment and had exquisite tastes. Not to mention the food and drinks, even the utensils and dishes on the table were extraordinarily elegant. Large tubs of cellar ice were placed in the corridor, and lovely maidens fanned to dispel the summer heat. The musicians played without interruption, and the entertainment was unceasing.
With poetic compositions, joyful songs, and profound discussions, all the people present were experts in various fields. When it came to moments of brilliance, they would all applaud and cheer together, drinking and rejoicing. Such an atmosphere could captivate and excite even the most aloof individuals, making them forget their worries and indulge in the revelry.
But what about outside the Minister of Works’ residence, outside the city of Luoyang? Jing County has fallen into chaos, and the forces of the pseudo-emperor are steadily advancing. Yi County is in rebellion, besieging Ye city in an ongoing skirmish. Si County, Bing County, and the Xiongnu are all watching closely, and Liu Yuan, that old bandit, could strike against Jin at any moment.
The nation is broken, teetering on the edge of survival. In such circumstances, their ability to revel so openly was chilling when viewed from a detached perspective.
For the sake of today’s objective, Liang Feng could endure. However, when someone proposed engaging in philosophical discussions and merrymaking, he couldn’t hide his change in expression. Regardless of etiquette, he excused himself in advance.
“Lord, be careful!” Cui Ji, seeing Liang Feng step down from the dais1, quickly stepped forward to support his arm.
At this moment, Liang Feng couldn’t speak. There was something churning inside him, tempting him to surrender to desire. It was less than half a month until he would be free from his addiction, but how could he resist this terrifying craving?
If he just said the word, Wang Yan would immediately offer him cold food powder, carefully prepared, and easily obtained…
His fingernails dug fiercely into his palm, and Liang Feng forcibly took steps toward the ox cart. When he settled into the cart, he wasted no time and immediately asked, “Have you figured out Minister Wang’s intentions?”
The question seemed to come out of nowhere, but Cui Ji answered promptly, “It’s a test to see if you’re fit for use, Lord.”
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At the banquet, Cui Ji had no room to interject. His grandfather’s reputation as a great scholar held little weight for those high-ranking scholars from esteemed Confucian families. Who would pay attention to this commoner’s son? Yet, this afforded Cui Ji more time for observation and contemplation. So when Liang Feng asked, he could easily provide an answer.
Indeed, this was a deliberate test by Wang Yan. Otherwise, how could guests like Yu Diao and others dare to ask such sharp and impolite questions?
This wasn’t just an exploration of knowledge and talent; it was more about observing Liang Feng’s attitude and character to see if he could be of use.
“Use in what capacity?” Liang Feng leaned against a table and continued.
“…It can’t be in the court, Lord. You are not favored by Prince Donghai,” Cui Ji’s voice was heavy, as if something was stuck in his throat.
When it came to governing and politics, the man before them was undoubtedly a rare talent, capable of reaching a rank as high as the Three Excellencies, not just a lower rank like 2,000 bushels. However, did Prince Donghai favor such individuals? Just by observing Wang Yan and the carefree literati around him, the answer was clear. Moreover, bringing him to the capital seemed to be the Emperor’s intention. There was very little chance that Sima Yue would keep him in the capital.
If that was the case, why did Wang Yan conduct the test?
Liang Feng chuckled softly, “It’s probably for matters in Bing County…”
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In his mind, a cacophony of thoughts swirled, and he reluctantly clung to the shreds of his rationality. If he wouldn’t be allowed in the court, and they were bringing him for an interview, the most likely reason was related to personnel arrangements in Bing County. With Sima Teng gone to Ye City, Bing County was left without a leader, and it was not a sustainable situation. Such a high position should ideally be given to a member of the Sima clan or a scion of a prestigious family. However, with the ongoing turbulence caused by the Xiongnu, a breach of defenses might put Luoyang at risk. The news of the relief of Jinyang came at an opportune time. This was probably why the Emperor had taken notice of him. The most probable outcome of coming to Luoyang would be an elevation in his position.
“Unfortunately, Prince Donghai stands in the way. If it goes to court, it might still be a challenge,” Cui Ji whispered.
Even if the Emperor favored him, would Sima Yue agree? And today’s visit to the banquet had been far from pleasant. If Wang Yan were to say something negative behind his back, things would become even more complicated.
Liang Feng took a deep breath and whispered, “In the next couple of days, go inquire about the rumors again. Be prepared for my return to the court.”
Seeing Liang Feng drenched in sweat, Cui Ji couldn’t help but suggest, “Lord, you should rest for a while first. When we return to the official residence, have Jiang Ji’en check on you. You can leave these matters that burden your mind to your subordinates…”
Liang Feng weakly waved his hand and didn’t say much, leaning against the low table.
Upon returning to the official residence, Jiang Da diagnosed his pulse, applied acupuncture, and gave him an herbal remedy. Liang Feng was then forced to rest. His symptoms today were primarily a result of his craving, and the effects of medicine could only do so much. Getting through this bout of cravings would eventually bring relief.
However, it sounded easier than it actually was. Lying on the bed, it was an unpleasant feeling. The temptation of the drugs was like an invisible hand, preventing Liang Feng from falling into a peaceful sleep. After tossing and turning for an hour, calming incense finally began to take effect. In a drowsy state, he fell into a deep slumber.
There was something there in the darkness, not empty at all. A creature, like a giant serpent, clung to his side, tightly constricting his chest. The force was overwhelming, making it hard for him to breathe. Liang Feng wanted to struggle and break free, but the thing holding him wouldn’t loosen its grip; in fact, it was getting tighter. A rough texture pressed against him. It wasn’t like snake scales; it was hot and solid, kneading his bare chest inch by inch. Warm, moist breath brushed against his ear, sending shivers down his spine, and making his hair stand on end.
Yet the sensation was not unpleasant. The scorching heat that swirled within his chest and abdomen started to surge and writhe with the pressure, as if possessed, seeking a way to release. It seemed like a craving for a substance, yet it felt like something else, something that was irresistible.
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At some point, Liang Feng reached out with his hand and grabbed the unseen presence in the darkness. He wanted it to hold him tighter, to knead him harder, until the roughness pressed against his soft lower abdomen…
In a gasp of terror, Liang Feng woke up, drenched in sweat.
“Lord, did you have a nightmare?” Qing Mei rushed to the bedside, her voice trembling, and even her small body quivered.
Liang Feng didn’t respond. The buzzing noise still hadn’t subsided, and he couldn’t even see clearly with both his eyes. There was nothing but dark shadows and bright flashes. But something was whispering softly. That voice told him that the person by his bedside was wrong. What he needed was the one from his dream!
His teeth gritted, and Liang Feng closed his eyes. The struggling, relentless things within him seemed to have changed direction. Their insatiable craving, their miserly grasp, didn’t care where the pleasure came from. Just like the addiction he couldn’t shake.
It’s a sickness, Liang Feng reminded himself in a low voice. Someday, they would disappear.
Someday.
After an unknown amount of time, Liang Feng slowly spoke, “Bring me a change of clothes…”
Qing Mei didn’t dare to delay and immediately brought warm water and clean clothes to help her master clean and change. The sweaty clothes were peeled off as if shedding a second layer of skin. Then, clean and soft fabric once again enveloped his body.
Liang Feng lay exhausted on the bed and closed his eyes.
※
The residence of Prince Donghai was the most luxurious mansion in Luoyang. In terms of its exquisite beauty, it might even surpass the emptied imperial palace.
Wang Yan sat in the seat of honor, his gaze sweeping over the brocade curtains and jade screens in the room, concealing his envy deep in his eyes. This kind of life, wasn’t it what he longed for? Unfortunately, to reach this level, it would still take some effort. He needed to arrange for Wang Cheng and Wang Dun to take up positions in the provincial government. Only when all three brothers had established themselves in high positions could the Wang family share this realm with the Sima family.
Across from him, Sima Yue put on a gentle smile and spoke, “I appreciate your presence, Lord Minister. How did you find yesterday’s banquet?”
Wang Yan held a significant reputation, and his exceptional charm and elegance were truly outstanding. Sima Yue treated him very well, not only because Wang Yan could attract more talented individuals to serve but also because Wang Yan’s own presence appealed to Sima Yue, to the point of being entrancing. Perhaps, it was due to his own lack of talent and charisma that he was so infatuated with the effect of these literati.
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Wang Yan naturally understood Sima Yue’s thoughts. In front of him, he always maintained an appearance of lightness and freedom. He lightly shook the feathered fan in his hand and said, “We enjoyed ourselves with fine wine and deep discussions into the night yesterday. It was truly delightful. It’s a pity that our new guest was a bit reserved and couldn’t fully join the festivities.”
His words didn’t contain any direct criticism, but when Sima Yue heard them, he furrowed his brow. “I’ve heard before that this person is incredibly talented, exceptionally elegant. How can this be?”
“In terms of appearance and demeanor, there’s nothing to fault. However, this young man adheres to conventions, has a deep affinity for Buddhism, and ultimately isn’t one of our kind,” Wang Yan said with a meaningful tone.
Upon hearing this, Sima Yue’s expression grew more serious. “Doesn’t that complicate the audience tomorrow?”
Just from these few sentences, Sima Yue had already lost his favor for the person he was going to meet tomorrow. He also knew that the young emperor was probably secretly plotting to win over supporters. If this Liang Zixi turned to the emperor, what use would there be for him?
Wang Yan smiled faintly and replied, “Even if he doesn’t belong to our group, it doesn’t necessarily mean he can’t be of use to the Grand Commandant. As long as he stays away from the court, what harm can he do? Just have a look at his behavior in the court tomorrow, and you can make your judgment.”
Wang Yan’s words were somewhat vague, but the implied message was clear. If Liang Feng pledged his loyalty to the emperor, all would be well. On the other hand, if he understood the current state of affairs in the court and bowed to Sima Yue, it could also be advantageous. Either way, it was a win-win situation. Instead of inviting the emperor to act, they might as well have the head of the Three Excellencies, Wang Yan, take the lead.
Sima Yue hadn’t expected Wang Yan to speak so openly and pondered for a moment before saying, “But if he gains control of a province and goes against us, won’t it be troublesome? Moreover, the Liang family’s foundation is too weak. I heard they were previously engaged to someone from Taiyuan, but the bride-to-be passed away before the marriage. With such instability, how can they pacify a province?”
“It’s precisely because this young man lacks a strong foundation that he needs to attach himself to the towering tree. Otherwise, if he pledges his loyalty to the emperor, how can he wholeheartedly serve as the Grand Commandant?” Wang Yan didn’t mince words this time.
The Taiyuan Wang family and the Langya Wang family shared the same surname but were different branches, and they had a sense of rivalry between them. During the reign of Emperor Wu, the Taiyuan Wang family had a clear advantage, with Wang Hun’s lineage receiving considerable favor. Now, Wang Yan represented the Langya Wang family in this position, surpassing the achievements of Wang Hun in his time. If possible, he naturally wanted to secure the family’s current status. Wang Jun, the Commander of You County, made him quite wary, and he didn’t want to see another close relative gaining influence.
This was indeed a fresh perspective. Sima Yue nodded, “What you say is very true. Loyalty or treachery, and whether he can be used or not, it will become apparent in the court. Alas, His Majesty is still young and easily swayed by others. He believes anyone who appears to be talented.”
Their words were openly spoken, but their true intentions were understood by both of them.
Wang Yan casually waved the feathered fan in his hand and said, “Grand Commandant, do not worry. I have two individuals here who are exceptionally talented and could be of great use…”
Regardless of the person with the surname Liang, Wang Yan openly promoted the “talent” he had recently acquired.
1a raised platform or a low stage, typically used to elevate a speaker, a throne, or a guest of honor at a formal event, such as a ceremony or a banquet
When leaving the Minister of Works’ residence, the sun had already begun to set. It wasn’t because the banquet had ended early but because Liang Feng had left the table ahead of time.
To be fair, Wang Yan was an expert in the art of enjoyment and had exquisite tastes. Not to mention the food and drinks, even the utensils and dishes on the table were extraordinarily elegant. Large tubs of cellar ice were placed in the corridor, and lovely maidens fanned to dispel the summer heat. The musicians played without interruption, and the entertainment was unceasing.
With poetic compositions, joyful songs, and profound discussions, all the people present were experts in various fields. When it came to moments of brilliance, they would all applaud and cheer together, drinking and rejoicing. Such an atmosphere could captivate and excite even the most aloof individuals, making them forget their worries and indulge in the revelry.
But what about outside the Minister of Works’ residence, outside the city of Luoyang? Jing County has fallen into chaos, and the forces of the pseudo-emperor are steadily advancing. Yi County is in rebellion, besieging Ye city in an ongoing skirmish. Si County, Bing County, and the Xiongnu are all watching closely, and Liu Yuan, that old bandit, could strike against Jin at any moment.
The nation is broken, teetering on the edge of survival. In such circumstances, their ability to revel so openly was chilling when viewed from a detached perspective.
For the sake of today’s objective, Liang Feng could endure. However, when someone proposed engaging in philosophical discussions and merrymaking, he couldn’t hide his change in expression. Regardless of etiquette, he excused himself in advance.
“Lord, be careful!” Cui Ji, seeing Liang Feng step down from the dais1, quickly stepped forward to support his arm.
At this moment, Liang Feng couldn’t speak. There was something churning inside him, tempting him to surrender to desire. It was less than half a month until he would be free from his addiction, but how could he resist this terrifying craving?
If he just said the word, Wang Yan would immediately offer him cold food powder, carefully prepared, and easily obtained…
His fingernails dug fiercely into his palm, and Liang Feng forcibly took steps toward the ox cart. When he settled into the cart, he wasted no time and immediately asked, “Have you figured out Minister Wang’s intentions?”
The question seemed to come out of nowhere, but Cui Ji answered promptly, “It’s a test to see if you’re fit for use, Lord.”
Advertisement
At the banquet, Cui Ji had no room to interject. His grandfather’s reputation as a great scholar held little weight for those high-ranking scholars from esteemed Confucian families. Who would pay attention to this commoner’s son? Yet, this afforded Cui Ji more time for observation and contemplation. So when Liang Feng asked, he could easily provide an answer.
Indeed, this was a deliberate test by Wang Yan. Otherwise, how could guests like Yu Diao and others dare to ask such sharp and impolite questions?
This wasn’t just an exploration of knowledge and talent; it was more about observing Liang Feng’s attitude and character to see if he could be of use.
“Use in what capacity?” Liang Feng leaned against a table and continued.
“…It can’t be in the court, Lord. You are not favored by Prince Donghai,” Cui Ji’s voice was heavy, as if something was stuck in his throat.
When it came to governing and politics, the man before them was undoubtedly a rare talent, capable of reaching a rank as high as the Three Excellencies, not just a lower rank like 2,000 bushels. However, did Prince Donghai favor such individuals? Just by observing Wang Yan and the carefree literati around him, the answer was clear. Moreover, bringing him to the capital seemed to be the Emperor’s intention. There was very little chance that Sima Yue would keep him in the capital.
If that was the case, why did Wang Yan conduct the test?
Liang Feng chuckled softly, “It’s probably for matters in Bing County…”
Advertisement
In his mind, a cacophony of thoughts swirled, and he reluctantly clung to the shreds of his rationality. If he wouldn’t be allowed in the court, and they were bringing him for an interview, the most likely reason was related to personnel arrangements in Bing County. With Sima Teng gone to Ye City, Bing County was left without a leader, and it was not a sustainable situation. Such a high position should ideally be given to a member of the Sima clan or a scion of a prestigious family. However, with the ongoing turbulence caused by the Xiongnu, a breach of defenses might put Luoyang at risk. The news of the relief of Jinyang came at an opportune time. This was probably why the Emperor had taken notice of him. The most probable outcome of coming to Luoyang would be an elevation in his position.
“Unfortunately, Prince Donghai stands in the way. If it goes to court, it might still be a challenge,” Cui Ji whispered.
Even if the Emperor favored him, would Sima Yue agree? And today’s visit to the banquet had been far from pleasant. If Wang Yan were to say something negative behind his back, things would become even more complicated.
Liang Feng took a deep breath and whispered, “In the next couple of days, go inquire about the rumors again. Be prepared for my return to the court.”
Seeing Liang Feng drenched in sweat, Cui Ji couldn’t help but suggest, “Lord, you should rest for a while first. When we return to the official residence, have Jiang Ji’en check on you. You can leave these matters that burden your mind to your subordinates…”
Liang Feng weakly waved his hand and didn’t say much, leaning against the low table.
Upon returning to the official residence, Jiang Da diagnosed his pulse, applied acupuncture, and gave him an herbal remedy. Liang Feng was then forced to rest. His symptoms today were primarily a result of his craving, and the effects of medicine could only do so much. Getting through this bout of cravings would eventually bring relief.
However, it sounded easier than it actually was. Lying on the bed, it was an unpleasant feeling. The temptation of the drugs was like an invisible hand, preventing Liang Feng from falling into a peaceful sleep. After tossing and turning for an hour, calming incense finally began to take effect. In a drowsy state, he fell into a deep slumber.
There was something there in the darkness, not empty at all. A creature, like a giant serpent, clung to his side, tightly constricting his chest. The force was overwhelming, making it hard for him to breathe. Liang Feng wanted to struggle and break free, but the thing holding him wouldn’t loosen its grip; in fact, it was getting tighter. A rough texture pressed against him. It wasn’t like snake scales; it was hot and solid, kneading his bare chest inch by inch. Warm, moist breath brushed against his ear, sending shivers down his spine, and making his hair stand on end.
Yet the sensation was not unpleasant. The scorching heat that swirled within his chest and abdomen started to surge and writhe with the pressure, as if possessed, seeking a way to release. It seemed like a craving for a substance, yet it felt like something else, something that was irresistible.
Advertisement
At some point, Liang Feng reached out with his hand and grabbed the unseen presence in the darkness. He wanted it to hold him tighter, to knead him harder, until the roughness pressed against his soft lower abdomen…
In a gasp of terror, Liang Feng woke up, drenched in sweat.
“Lord, did you have a nightmare?” Qing Mei rushed to the bedside, her voice trembling, and even her small body quivered.
Liang Feng didn’t respond. The buzzing noise still hadn’t subsided, and he couldn’t even see clearly with both his eyes. There was nothing but dark shadows and bright flashes. But something was whispering softly. That voice told him that the person by his bedside was wrong. What he needed was the one from his dream!
His teeth gritted, and Liang Feng closed his eyes. The struggling, relentless things within him seemed to have changed direction. Their insatiable craving, their miserly grasp, didn’t care where the pleasure came from. Just like the addiction he couldn’t shake.
It’s a sickness, Liang Feng reminded himself in a low voice. Someday, they would disappear.
Someday.
After an unknown amount of time, Liang Feng slowly spoke, “Bring me a change of clothes…”
Qing Mei didn’t dare to delay and immediately brought warm water and clean clothes to help her master clean and change. The sweaty clothes were peeled off as if shedding a second layer of skin. Then, clean and soft fabric once again enveloped his body.
Liang Feng lay exhausted on the bed and closed his eyes.
※
The residence of Prince Donghai was the most luxurious mansion in Luoyang. In terms of its exquisite beauty, it might even surpass the emptied imperial palace.
Wang Yan sat in the seat of honor, his gaze sweeping over the brocade curtains and jade screens in the room, concealing his envy deep in his eyes. This kind of life, wasn’t it what he longed for? Unfortunately, to reach this level, it would still take some effort. He needed to arrange for Wang Cheng and Wang Dun to take up positions in the provincial government. Only when all three brothers had established themselves in high positions could the Wang family share this realm with the Sima family.
Across from him, Sima Yue put on a gentle smile and spoke, “I appreciate your presence, Lord Minister. How did you find yesterday’s banquet?”
Wang Yan held a significant reputation, and his exceptional charm and elegance were truly outstanding. Sima Yue treated him very well, not only because Wang Yan could attract more talented individuals to serve but also because Wang Yan’s own presence appealed to Sima Yue, to the point of being entrancing. Perhaps, it was due to his own lack of talent and charisma that he was so infatuated with the effect of these literati.
Advertisement
Wang Yan naturally understood Sima Yue’s thoughts. In front of him, he always maintained an appearance of lightness and freedom. He lightly shook the feathered fan in his hand and said, “We enjoyed ourselves with fine wine and deep discussions into the night yesterday. It was truly delightful. It’s a pity that our new guest was a bit reserved and couldn’t fully join the festivities.”
His words didn’t contain any direct criticism, but when Sima Yue heard them, he furrowed his brow. “I’ve heard before that this person is incredibly talented, exceptionally elegant. How can this be?”
“In terms of appearance and demeanor, there’s nothing to fault. However, this young man adheres to conventions, has a deep affinity for Buddhism, and ultimately isn’t one of our kind,” Wang Yan said with a meaningful tone.
Upon hearing this, Sima Yue’s expression grew more serious. “Doesn’t that complicate the audience tomorrow?”
Just from these few sentences, Sima Yue had already lost his favor for the person he was going to meet tomorrow. He also knew that the young emperor was probably secretly plotting to win over supporters. If this Liang Zixi turned to the emperor, what use would there be for him?
Wang Yan smiled faintly and replied, “Even if he doesn’t belong to our group, it doesn’t necessarily mean he can’t be of use to the Grand Commandant. As long as he stays away from the court, what harm can he do? Just have a look at his behavior in the court tomorrow, and you can make your judgment.”
Wang Yan’s words were somewhat vague, but the implied message was clear. If Liang Feng pledged his loyalty to the emperor, all would be well. On the other hand, if he understood the current state of affairs in the court and bowed to Sima Yue, it could also be advantageous. Either way, it was a win-win situation. Instead of inviting the emperor to act, they might as well have the head of the Three Excellencies, Wang Yan, take the lead.
Sima Yue hadn’t expected Wang Yan to speak so openly and pondered for a moment before saying, “But if he gains control of a province and goes against us, won’t it be troublesome? Moreover, the Liang family’s foundation is too weak. I heard they were previously engaged to someone from Taiyuan, but the bride-to-be passed away before the marriage. With such instability, how can they pacify a province?”
“It’s precisely because this young man lacks a strong foundation that he needs to attach himself to the towering tree. Otherwise, if he pledges his loyalty to the emperor, how can he wholeheartedly serve as the Grand Commandant?” Wang Yan didn’t mince words this time.
The Taiyuan Wang family and the Langya Wang family shared the same surname but were different branches, and they had a sense of rivalry between them. During the reign of Emperor Wu, the Taiyuan Wang family had a clear advantage, with Wang Hun’s lineage receiving considerable favor. Now, Wang Yan represented the Langya Wang family in this position, surpassing the achievements of Wang Hun in his time. If possible, he naturally wanted to secure the family’s current status. Wang Jun, the Commander of You County, made him quite wary, and he didn’t want to see another close relative gaining influence.
This was indeed a fresh perspective. Sima Yue nodded, “What you say is very true. Loyalty or treachery, and whether he can be used or not, it will become apparent in the court. Alas, His Majesty is still young and easily swayed by others. He believes anyone who appears to be talented.”
Their words were openly spoken, but their true intentions were understood by both of them.
Wang Yan casually waved the feathered fan in his hand and said, “Grand Commandant, do not worry. I have two individuals here who are exceptionally talented and could be of great use…”
Regardless of the person with the surname Liang, Wang Yan openly promoted the “talent” he had recently acquired.
1a raised platform or a low stage, typically used to elevate a speaker, a throne, or a guest of honor at a formal event, such as a ceremony or a banquet
