Before the break of dawn, the ox cart departed from the official residence. Today was the regular court assembly day and also the day for the prefect of Shangdang to attend the imperial audience. According to the customs, all officials were expected to enter the palace early in the morning to attend the court session. The normally empty streets now saw an increase in carriages as they moved along the Copper Camel Avenue towards the Changhe Gate.
Riding alongside the slowly advancing carriage was Cui Ji. Over the past few days, he had not idled away his time and had paid visits to some acquaintances. While Cui Ji’s social connections might not reach the level of the high-ranking officials and courtiers, who among the government officials did not have aides and assistants? It was these talented individuals, hidden behind the towering trees of their superiors, who were his main targets.
After some investigation, Cui Ji reached the same conclusion as his previous speculations. The court desired to appoint a new Inspector for Bing County. But the choice had not been finalized, so the young emperor had an opportunity to make a suggestion. This was precisely why Liang Feng had been able to come to the capital.
This was an extremely rare opportunity! If Liang Feng were to be promoted as the Inspector, the Lord would immediately wield control over a whole province. Even in conflicts with the Xiongnu, they wouldn’t be at a disadvantage. With an expanded territory, the new policies of Shangdang could be extended to other counties and prefectures, leading to increased population, military power, and wealth. Furthermore, the Inspector was no longer just a provincial governor but also held the rank of a general, making them a significant official responsible for governing and defending the frontier. If they encountered someone like Wang Jun, they wouldn’t be powerless.
To attain such a high position, the most crucial factor was to gain the support of the current Grand Commandant, not the emperor’s favor. In theory, all official appointments were made directly by the emperor, but the present situation was different from the past. The affairs of the court, large and small, were controlled by Grand Commandant Sima Yue. If someone tried to bypass him and approach the emperor directly, they might not even be able to keep their current position as a prefect.
After confirming this information, Cui Ji reminded Liang Feng multiple times to behave appropriately in the court assembly. This was a matter of utmost importance and couldn’t afford any mistakes.
However, at this moment, as he rode on his horse, Cui Ji couldn’t help the turmoil in his heart. The Copper Camel Avenue stretched out endlessly before him, leading to the towering and majestic Changhe Gates. All the officials’ carriages seemed like ants bending their way toward the imperial palace. They were on the central axis of Luoyang, about to enter the core of the dynasty. Even someone like Cui Ji, who didn’t have the qualifications to attend the court, was getting excited. When faced with the emperor and receiving his blessings and rewards, how many people could remain composed?
If they made a mistake, what would happen?
The hot morning breeze blew over him, causing a fine layer of sweat to form on his back. Even this long road seemed challenging.
As it was not a grand occasion like the New Year or the Winter Solstice, the central doors of Changhe remained closed. All the officials had to bypass the main entrance and enter through the side gates. In front of the palace gates, bamboo curtains were lifted, and Liang Feng, in his ceremonial attire, stepped down from the ox cart, supported by his personal guards.
Dressed in a crimson court robe, wearing the exquisite crown of virtue, and holding an imitation bronze seal and ink-colored belt, he also held an ivory court tablet. Even when he stood in place, his demeanor exuded grace and dignity.
With the tension in the air momentarily alleviated, Cui Ji whispered, “Lord, please be cautious.”
With a slight nod, Liang Feng stepped into the palace gates. By this time, the sky had started to brighten, and the layout of the palace was dimly visible. During such regular court gatherings, the number of attendees was relatively low, and everyone wore serious expressions, maintaining a solemn demeanor. In such an atmosphere, Liang Feng didn’t feel it appropriate to casually observe his surroundings. He followed the others and descended the steps.
Due to the custom of kneeling when appearing before the ruler, wearing shoes was not allowed during court sessions. Swords and shoes in the court were a special privilege reserved for powerful figures like Cao Cao. Only wearing white socks, Liang Feng stood on the cold stone floor outside the hall, patiently waiting for his summons.
This wait took nearly half an hour. Standing for so long made his legs go numb. Finally, a eunuch’s voice rang out from inside the hall, “Announcing the presence of Liang Feng, the Prefect of Shangdang!”
With no delay, Liang Feng stepped into the court. Walking slowly is a step; walking quickly is a hurry1. Although it might not look very graceful, particularly for those who were overweight or elderly, it was an essential etiquette during an audience. However, Liang Feng executed it with grace. His wide robe rustled softly as he quickened his steps, and his slender waist swayed like a bamboo in the wind. He reached the base of the imperial platform and bowed deeply.
“Your subject, Liang Feng, the Prefect of Shangdang, pays respects to Your Majesty!”
“Rise, Lord.”
From the imperial throne, a young voice spoke. The ruler appeared to be around twelve or thirteen years old, wearing imperial attire and a crown. Whether the garments were specifically made for him or not, they didn’t quite suit him, making him look like a child playing dress-up in adult clothing, rather than exuding regal dignity.
Contrary to what Cui Ji had worried about, Liang Feng, hailing from the modern era, didn’t exhibit any fear of the “true dragon.” In his eyes, a child was just a child, even if dressed in imperial robes. He didn’t consider it worthy of trepidation. His humble demeanor was more for the benefit of those watching.
Sitting beside the Emperor, slightly below him, was a man with a white beard. He was dressed in a yellow ceremonial robe and wore the Three Beams crown. While he didn’t possess the striking handsomeness of the Prince of Chengdu, he exuded an air of dignity.
At first glance, Liang Feng lowered his gaze, practicing the principles of mindfulness, focusing on his own thoughts and waiting for the ruler’s inquiries.
He refrained from scrutinizing those around him, but the man seated above did not hesitate to observe him. In his heart, Sima Yue couldn’t help but marvel that Liang Zixi’s demeanor exceeded his expectations. Even though the court was accustomed to seeing brilliant and virtuous talents, with luminaries like Wang Yan, this young Prefect still maintained an impressive presence. He seemed like a precious gem among ordinary stones, outshining others in the court.
Just by his appearance, one could imagine the Emperor giving his approval. Indeed, the young Emperor seemed to have finished his appraisal of Liang Feng and began to speak, “I heard that the relief of Jinyang was your accomplishment?”
Liang Feng respectfully bowed, “Your subject dare not claim credit. The relief of Jinyang was mainly the work of the garrison within the city, and the forces from Shangdang merely provided assistance from the periphery. Furthermore, the Xiongnu still hold firm in Qixian and have not completely retreated.”
This response, more modest than the triumphant reports, showed his humility. The young Emperor nodded, “With the repeated failures in Bing County, your achievements are commendable.”
Once these words were spoken, Sima Yue’s expression changed. The one who had previously guarded Bing County was none other than his own younger brother, Sima Teng. Wasn’t this statement indirectly implying that Sima Teng was incompetent?
Liang Feng bowed again, “Failure is due to the enemy’s strength, and success is in part because of the locust plague in Da Huang. Your Majesty’s praise is excessive.”
By attributing success to the locust plague, he spared Sima Teng from blame. Sima Yue’s face became somewhat more amiable, and the young Emperor contemplated for a moment before asking, “If you were to lead the troops, could you repel the Xiongnu?”
Upon hearing this question, Sima Yue couldn’t restrain himself from interjecting, “Your Majesty, military matters should be handled with caution.”
While it was a somewhat impolite comment, the young Emperor immediately closed his mouth and said, “What you said is correct, Grand Commandant.”
Sima Yue took the opportunity to change the subject and directed his attention to the young man below the platform who held the ivory board, “Prefect Liang, for your achievements, the court will undoubtedly grant rewards. However, matters in Bing County are intricate, and hasty decisions should be avoided. I have heard that you used some special weapon when driving back the Xiongnu army in Shangdang?”
This question was rather piercing. Logically, the development of military equipment should be reported to the court. A mere Prefect, utilizing powerful weaponry to achieve victory without immediate reporting, might be seen as a sign of disrespect.
Liang Feng just nodded and said, “In the county, there are skilled craftsmen who improved the trebuchets in the military. They don’t require manpower; you only need to operate the mechanisms to launch projectiles. However, the cost of production has increased by more than double, and the weight of the stone projectiles is limited. The previous victory was achieved when the enemy was unprepared. I have already ordered my men to draw up blueprints and will present them to the court.”
He mentioned “the court” rather than the emperor. This statement eased some of the tension in the heart of Sima Yue. He smiled faintly and said, “County Prefect Liang, you are quite thoughtful.”
After that, he turned to the young emperor and said, “Your Majesty, County Prefect Liang governs the county effectively and has achieved remarkable feats. Grant him the title of County Marquis and increase his fiefdom.”
Sima Yue’s eyes were fixed on the emperor, waiting for his response.
After a moment of silence, the young emperor nodded and said, “As you have proposed, so be it.”
This was not the original purpose for summoning Liang Feng to an audience. However, the twelve-year-old boy had his shortcomings in temperament and self-control. His sudden words raised the caution of his uncle. This statement was more about reconfirming his obedience than requesting a reward. After all, with his intelligence, how could he risk his life to gain a court official?
With this question and answer, the method for granting rewards was settled. The appointment of the Provincial Governor was no longer brought up.
Standing on the court platform, Liang Feng felt a sense of frustration building up within him. He had considered various strategies, but he had never imagined that he would become a tool so easily in the power struggle between the two Sima clans. Just obtaining a noble title, was it worth this journey? But what could he say? This was the court, a place where different rules of the game applied. He didn’t yet have the standing to speak out.
After another bow, he knelt under the cold imperial steps and expressed his gratitude for the emperor’s reward before retreating to the back of the assembly.
As if completing a ritual, Sima Yue effortlessly handled a few more matters, and then the emperor announced the end of the court session.
Stepping out of the grand court gate, the daylight had already brightened. Liang Feng walked slowly within this magnificent palace, but his heart was growing colder. Was there still hope for Bīng County? How would Sima Yue arrange things? The only opportunity had turned into the biggest obstacle. Whom could he blame? Could he blame the puppet seated on the throne?
On the other side, Wang Yan leaned in close to Sima Yue and whispered, “Are you still not going to use this young man?”
Sima Yue coldly chuckled, “I can’t use him recklessly.”
Today, the emperor’s performance had exceeded all expectations, and he couldn’t allow this young fellow to slip from his control. This wasn’t a normal situation. If he lost both the emperor and his high position, wouldn’t that present an opportunity for Sima Ying? Matters of life and death were at stake, and he couldn’t afford to make any mistakes!
However, he had pressed down what needed to be suppressed. Now, he needed to consider the rest. After a moment of contemplation, Sima Yue quietly instructed a eunuch by his side, who nodded repeatedly and quickly retreated.
The first blow had been struck. Let’s see how he deals with it tomorrow.
Outside the palace gates, Cui Ji felt like he could see through with his eyes. He had no idea how things were in the court. Would the Lord successfully ascend to the position of Provincial Governor? However, as the sun rose, and the officials dispersed from the court, he finally spotted that figure.
“Lord!” Cui Ji saw the expression on Liang Feng’s face and couldn’t help but feel a chill in his heart.
Liang Feng said indifferently, “His Majesty has granted me an additional title and fief.”
Oh no! Cui Ji almost wanted to grit his teeth. Just this? Why did it turn out like this?
However, this wasn’t the time to talk. He was about to support Liang Feng onto the carriage to leave the palace gate when a young eunuch hurried over and said, “County Prefect Liang, please wait!”
Liang Feng stopped in his tracks. The young eunuch hurriedly smiled and said, “County Prefect Liang, the Grand Commandant has ordered an invitation for you to attend a banquet tomorrow.”
1referred to a rapid pace with small, hurried steps, which was customary when approaching elders and especially the monarch
Before the break of dawn, the ox cart departed from the official residence. Today was the regular court assembly day and also the day for the prefect of Shangdang to attend the imperial audience. According to the customs, all officials were expected to enter the palace early in the morning to attend the court session. The normally empty streets now saw an increase in carriages as they moved along the Copper Camel Avenue towards the Changhe Gate.
Riding alongside the slowly advancing carriage was Cui Ji. Over the past few days, he had not idled away his time and had paid visits to some acquaintances. While Cui Ji’s social connections might not reach the level of the high-ranking officials and courtiers, who among the government officials did not have aides and assistants? It was these talented individuals, hidden behind the towering trees of their superiors, who were his main targets.
After some investigation, Cui Ji reached the same conclusion as his previous speculations. The court desired to appoint a new Inspector for Bing County. But the choice had not been finalized, so the young emperor had an opportunity to make a suggestion. This was precisely why Liang Feng had been able to come to the capital.
This was an extremely rare opportunity! If Liang Feng were to be promoted as the Inspector, the Lord would immediately wield control over a whole province. Even in conflicts with the Xiongnu, they wouldn’t be at a disadvantage. With an expanded territory, the new policies of Shangdang could be extended to other counties and prefectures, leading to increased population, military power, and wealth. Furthermore, the Inspector was no longer just a provincial governor but also held the rank of a general, making them a significant official responsible for governing and defending the frontier. If they encountered someone like Wang Jun, they wouldn’t be powerless.
To attain such a high position, the most crucial factor was to gain the support of the current Grand Commandant, not the emperor’s favor. In theory, all official appointments were made directly by the emperor, but the present situation was different from the past. The affairs of the court, large and small, were controlled by Grand Commandant Sima Yue. If someone tried to bypass him and approach the emperor directly, they might not even be able to keep their current position as a prefect.
After confirming this information, Cui Ji reminded Liang Feng multiple times to behave appropriately in the court assembly. This was a matter of utmost importance and couldn’t afford any mistakes.
However, at this moment, as he rode on his horse, Cui Ji couldn’t help the turmoil in his heart. The Copper Camel Avenue stretched out endlessly before him, leading to the towering and majestic Changhe Gates. All the officials’ carriages seemed like ants bending their way toward the imperial palace. They were on the central axis of Luoyang, about to enter the core of the dynasty. Even someone like Cui Ji, who didn’t have the qualifications to attend the court, was getting excited. When faced with the emperor and receiving his blessings and rewards, how many people could remain composed?
If they made a mistake, what would happen?
The hot morning breeze blew over him, causing a fine layer of sweat to form on his back. Even this long road seemed challenging.
As it was not a grand occasion like the New Year or the Winter Solstice, the central doors of Changhe remained closed. All the officials had to bypass the main entrance and enter through the side gates. In front of the palace gates, bamboo curtains were lifted, and Liang Feng, in his ceremonial attire, stepped down from the ox cart, supported by his personal guards.
Dressed in a crimson court robe, wearing the exquisite crown of virtue, and holding an imitation bronze seal and ink-colored belt, he also held an ivory court tablet. Even when he stood in place, his demeanor exuded grace and dignity.
With the tension in the air momentarily alleviated, Cui Ji whispered, “Lord, please be cautious.”
With a slight nod, Liang Feng stepped into the palace gates. By this time, the sky had started to brighten, and the layout of the palace was dimly visible. During such regular court gatherings, the number of attendees was relatively low, and everyone wore serious expressions, maintaining a solemn demeanor. In such an atmosphere, Liang Feng didn’t feel it appropriate to casually observe his surroundings. He followed the others and descended the steps.
Due to the custom of kneeling when appearing before the ruler, wearing shoes was not allowed during court sessions. Swords and shoes in the court were a special privilege reserved for powerful figures like Cao Cao. Only wearing white socks, Liang Feng stood on the cold stone floor outside the hall, patiently waiting for his summons.
This wait took nearly half an hour. Standing for so long made his legs go numb. Finally, a eunuch’s voice rang out from inside the hall, “Announcing the presence of Liang Feng, the Prefect of Shangdang!”
With no delay, Liang Feng stepped into the court. Walking slowly is a step; walking quickly is a hurry1. Although it might not look very graceful, particularly for those who were overweight or elderly, it was an essential etiquette during an audience. However, Liang Feng executed it with grace. His wide robe rustled softly as he quickened his steps, and his slender waist swayed like a bamboo in the wind. He reached the base of the imperial platform and bowed deeply.
“Your subject, Liang Feng, the Prefect of Shangdang, pays respects to Your Majesty!”
“Rise, Lord.”
From the imperial throne, a young voice spoke. The ruler appeared to be around twelve or thirteen years old, wearing imperial attire and a crown. Whether the garments were specifically made for him or not, they didn’t quite suit him, making him look like a child playing dress-up in adult clothing, rather than exuding regal dignity.
Contrary to what Cui Ji had worried about, Liang Feng, hailing from the modern era, didn’t exhibit any fear of the “true dragon.” In his eyes, a child was just a child, even if dressed in imperial robes. He didn’t consider it worthy of trepidation. His humble demeanor was more for the benefit of those watching.
Sitting beside the Emperor, slightly below him, was a man with a white beard. He was dressed in a yellow ceremonial robe and wore the Three Beams crown. While he didn’t possess the striking handsomeness of the Prince of Chengdu, he exuded an air of dignity.
At first glance, Liang Feng lowered his gaze, practicing the principles of mindfulness, focusing on his own thoughts and waiting for the ruler’s inquiries.
He refrained from scrutinizing those around him, but the man seated above did not hesitate to observe him. In his heart, Sima Yue couldn’t help but marvel that Liang Zixi’s demeanor exceeded his expectations. Even though the court was accustomed to seeing brilliant and virtuous talents, with luminaries like Wang Yan, this young Prefect still maintained an impressive presence. He seemed like a precious gem among ordinary stones, outshining others in the court.
Just by his appearance, one could imagine the Emperor giving his approval. Indeed, the young Emperor seemed to have finished his appraisal of Liang Feng and began to speak, “I heard that the relief of Jinyang was your accomplishment?”
Liang Feng respectfully bowed, “Your subject dare not claim credit. The relief of Jinyang was mainly the work of the garrison within the city, and the forces from Shangdang merely provided assistance from the periphery. Furthermore, the Xiongnu still hold firm in Qixian and have not completely retreated.”
This response, more modest than the triumphant reports, showed his humility. The young Emperor nodded, “With the repeated failures in Bing County, your achievements are commendable.”
Once these words were spoken, Sima Yue’s expression changed. The one who had previously guarded Bing County was none other than his own younger brother, Sima Teng. Wasn’t this statement indirectly implying that Sima Teng was incompetent?
Liang Feng bowed again, “Failure is due to the enemy’s strength, and success is in part because of the locust plague in Da Huang. Your Majesty’s praise is excessive.”
By attributing success to the locust plague, he spared Sima Teng from blame. Sima Yue’s face became somewhat more amiable, and the young Emperor contemplated for a moment before asking, “If you were to lead the troops, could you repel the Xiongnu?”
Upon hearing this question, Sima Yue couldn’t restrain himself from interjecting, “Your Majesty, military matters should be handled with caution.”
While it was a somewhat impolite comment, the young Emperor immediately closed his mouth and said, “What you said is correct, Grand Commandant.”
Sima Yue took the opportunity to change the subject and directed his attention to the young man below the platform who held the ivory board, “Prefect Liang, for your achievements, the court will undoubtedly grant rewards. However, matters in Bing County are intricate, and hasty decisions should be avoided. I have heard that you used some special weapon when driving back the Xiongnu army in Shangdang?”
This question was rather piercing. Logically, the development of military equipment should be reported to the court. A mere Prefect, utilizing powerful weaponry to achieve victory without immediate reporting, might be seen as a sign of disrespect.
Liang Feng just nodded and said, “In the county, there are skilled craftsmen who improved the trebuchets in the military. They don’t require manpower; you only need to operate the mechanisms to launch projectiles. However, the cost of production has increased by more than double, and the weight of the stone projectiles is limited. The previous victory was achieved when the enemy was unprepared. I have already ordered my men to draw up blueprints and will present them to the court.”
He mentioned “the court” rather than the emperor. This statement eased some of the tension in the heart of Sima Yue. He smiled faintly and said, “County Prefect Liang, you are quite thoughtful.”
After that, he turned to the young emperor and said, “Your Majesty, County Prefect Liang governs the county effectively and has achieved remarkable feats. Grant him the title of County Marquis and increase his fiefdom.”
Sima Yue’s eyes were fixed on the emperor, waiting for his response.
After a moment of silence, the young emperor nodded and said, “As you have proposed, so be it.”
This was not the original purpose for summoning Liang Feng to an audience. However, the twelve-year-old boy had his shortcomings in temperament and self-control. His sudden words raised the caution of his uncle. This statement was more about reconfirming his obedience than requesting a reward. After all, with his intelligence, how could he risk his life to gain a court official?
With this question and answer, the method for granting rewards was settled. The appointment of the Provincial Governor was no longer brought up.
Standing on the court platform, Liang Feng felt a sense of frustration building up within him. He had considered various strategies, but he had never imagined that he would become a tool so easily in the power struggle between the two Sima clans. Just obtaining a noble title, was it worth this journey? But what could he say? This was the court, a place where different rules of the game applied. He didn’t yet have the standing to speak out.
After another bow, he knelt under the cold imperial steps and expressed his gratitude for the emperor’s reward before retreating to the back of the assembly.
As if completing a ritual, Sima Yue effortlessly handled a few more matters, and then the emperor announced the end of the court session.
Stepping out of the grand court gate, the daylight had already brightened. Liang Feng walked slowly within this magnificent palace, but his heart was growing colder. Was there still hope for Bīng County? How would Sima Yue arrange things? The only opportunity had turned into the biggest obstacle. Whom could he blame? Could he blame the puppet seated on the throne?
On the other side, Wang Yan leaned in close to Sima Yue and whispered, “Are you still not going to use this young man?”
Sima Yue coldly chuckled, “I can’t use him recklessly.”
Today, the emperor’s performance had exceeded all expectations, and he couldn’t allow this young fellow to slip from his control. This wasn’t a normal situation. If he lost both the emperor and his high position, wouldn’t that present an opportunity for Sima Ying? Matters of life and death were at stake, and he couldn’t afford to make any mistakes!
However, he had pressed down what needed to be suppressed. Now, he needed to consider the rest. After a moment of contemplation, Sima Yue quietly instructed a eunuch by his side, who nodded repeatedly and quickly retreated.
The first blow had been struck. Let’s see how he deals with it tomorrow.
Outside the palace gates, Cui Ji felt like he could see through with his eyes. He had no idea how things were in the court. Would the Lord successfully ascend to the position of Provincial Governor? However, as the sun rose, and the officials dispersed from the court, he finally spotted that figure.
“Lord!” Cui Ji saw the expression on Liang Feng’s face and couldn’t help but feel a chill in his heart.
Liang Feng said indifferently, “His Majesty has granted me an additional title and fief.”
Oh no! Cui Ji almost wanted to grit his teeth. Just this? Why did it turn out like this?
However, this wasn’t the time to talk. He was about to support Liang Feng onto the carriage to leave the palace gate when a young eunuch hurried over and said, “County Prefect Liang, please wait!”
Liang Feng stopped in his tracks. The young eunuch hurriedly smiled and said, “County Prefect Liang, the Grand Commandant has ordered an invitation for you to attend a banquet tomorrow.”
1referred to a rapid pace with small, hurried steps, which was customary when approaching elders and especially the monarch
