Leaving the pavilion, with no ice-cold basin or fan in sight, even with the shade of greenery around, the temperature had risen a few degrees. Yet, Liang Feng only felt an icy chill in his limbs, and his body began to tremble.
The craving that lurked within him, driving people to madness, surged once again. Just the act of swallowing a pill triggered the unrelenting addiction, urging him to bend to something he had already quit. It wasn’t something his consciousness could control, but Liang Feng didn’t surrender. Inside his closed sleeves, his two hands clenched tightly together, with a force that could leave deep bruises. It’s like he’s wrestling with himself.
The chatter of others, the rustling of the wind through the dense woods, and a variety of other sounds were all left behind. Liang Feng walked woodenly, his pace neither fast nor slow, every step feeling like walking on a razor’s edge. Cold sweat trickled down his spine, and his lips turned pallid, but he didn’t stop, stubbornly keeping up with the group.
From the cool pavilion to the lakeside, a journey of over three miles took less than a quarter of an hour. Sima Yue rushed as if in a hurry, drenched in sweat. The exhilarating restlessness gradually dissipated, turning into an intoxicating ease. With the assistance of a maidservant, he boarded the moored boat by the shore.
The boat was specially crafted, appearing somewhat oversized in this small artificial lake. However, the ripples on the lake couldn’t affect the floating vessel. The mountain mist hung in the air, offering a refreshing chill.
His clothes, soaked with sweat, gradually grew cold, perfectly fitting the attire for post-revelry and cool rest. Sima Yue made no attempt to change his clothes, sitting with careless elegance, ignoring formalities. He motioned for Lao Dao and the accompanying guests to join him on the boat. The music played once again, and a stream of dishes was served.
After the post-revelry, it was essential to consume a substantial amount of food, and it had to be cold food. Sima Yue disregarded others’ preferences and ordered a delectable array of cold dishes to be served, enough for him to indulge in.
He devoured several plates hurriedly, and only then did Sima Yue heave a sigh of relief, feeling that the elixir he had taken today was indeed effective. However, rewarding the immortal master on the spot seemed somewhat inappropriate, so it appeared that he would have to establish a Daoist temple to properly honor this esteemed sage.
With a casual glance, he noticed the lone and cold figure sitting on the side. Perhaps due to some negligence, Liang Feng had been given a seat at the far end of the table, and the dishes in front of him were far from abundant. He remained seated, barely touching his food, his face deathly pale.
Sima Yue put down his wine cup and spoke, “Liang Zixi, why are you eating so little? Is the food not to your taste?”
Liang Feng seemed momentarily stunned, then slowly set down his chopsticks, bowing, “I am in poor health and cannot consume too much.”
This explanation did not seem like a lie. Observing the trembling and pale condition of the man, Sima Yue finally realized the toll the journey had taken on him. Perhaps his body was truly fragile.
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Thinking back to the Daoist’s judgment just moments ago, Sima Yue’s smile deepened, “Lord Liang, with your frail health, you should focus on taking good care of yourself. By the way, I’ve heard that you have quite a few Xiongnu people under your command. Is that true?”
Liang Feng took a low breath before stabilizing his voice, “It is true. The Xiongnu people are unruly, and if left unchecked, they can become a problem. It’s better to employ them.”
Sima Yue’s eyes gleamed, “Is this the method passed down from your ancestor, Lord Liang?”
Liang Feng’s ancestor was the renowned statesman Liang Xi of Cao Wei, who excelled in governing Bing County, bringing the Xiongnu and Xianbei tribes under imperial control. Due to this achievement, he was highly esteemed by two generations of Wei emperors and earned the title of the empire’s most capable minister. If Liang Zixi followed in his ancestor’s footsteps, could he resolve the chaos in Bing County?
Liang Feng lowered his gaze and replied, “Indeed, it’s the method passed down by our ancestors.”
Sima Yue chuckled, “A true descendant of a capable minister…”
As he spoke, Sima Yue’s gaze roamed Liang Feng’s body. Such a talented individual, though gravely ill, could he truly be of use? After a few years of exerting himself, perhaps Liang Zixi might meet his end without Sima Yue having to lift a finger. Then, he could easily consolidate Bing County once more. It would be a double win.
Shifting the conversation, Sima Yue wore a stern expression, “However, in recent years, the tax revenues from Shangdang have been inadequate. There are also rumors that the Leping State has suffered attacks from enemy forces. Is this true?”
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Liang Feng’s mind was already in turmoil, but he clenched his teeth, struggling to maintain his clarity, “There are too many refugees, and supporting the army’s supply lines leaves Shangdang with little surplus. I have petitioned the court multiple times, hoping for a reduction in tax burdens. As for Leping State, it has been plagued by bandits, and County Prefect Wen Tai has taken charge of suppressing them…”
He paused, then slowly bent down, saying, “Shangdang is in danger, and I, with all my heart and effort, have worked tirelessly to protect the Huguan Pass and ensure the safety of the capital. I have shown my utmost sincerity. I hope the Grand Commandant can see this.”
This bow was a genuine act of kowtowing, and he remained in a long prostration. Watching the trembling figure with the frail back, Sima Yue couldn’t help but feel a sense of triumph. He was highly regarded by the elite, even those who had scolded him or acted recklessly, treated him with respect. However, these ambitious men from humble origins could only serve as his subordinates in his mansion, not hold official positions. In his mind, those eligible for official appointments, especially the prestigious positions like the two thousand-bushel rank in the provincial government, were usually the well-born scions of influential families.
Those with slightly less fortune had to obey his orders faithfully to gain his trust. Concepts like integrity and competence were just for show in his eyes.
Therefore, no matter how many words were spoken, they couldn’t compare to this heartfelt plea.
With a faint smile, Sima Yue calmly said, “Zixi, there’s no need for this. I’ve seen your contributions in Shangdang. Concerning financial matters, we can find a solution. However, Bing County’s security is a concern, and you should send some officials from the capital to help with the garrison.”
What did this mean? Lacking his usual sharp perception, Liang Feng stood up rigidly, unsure how to respond. Seeing his apparent confusion, Sima Yue didn’t explain further, sighing, “Zixi, you’re sweating profusely. Should we summon a physician?”
Liang Feng suddenly realized that his face and body were drenched in sweat. He lifted his sleeve and wiped his face, saying, “It’s a hot day, and I can’t bear the heat…”
“If that’s the case, you should rest early. Someone, escort Governor Liang out of the garden.” Seeing him in such a state, Sima Yue had no patience for him to stay and be a nuisance.
Faced with this “thoughtful” suggestion, Liang Feng lowered his gaze and thanked Sima Yue once again. He then slowly got up and followed the attendant back the way he came. Observing his somewhat unsteady gait, Sima Yue sneered. It seemed that Master Wang’s idea was not bad; Bing County could indeed be manipulated as he wished.
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However, after only a moment of reflection, he turned and smiled at those around him, saying, “Today, with the presence of the immortal master, we should discuss profound matters. Bring the wine vessels.”
It was time for music, wine, and eloquent discussions. The guests eagerly prepared, eager to please their host. Beside them, the Daoist smoothed his beard contentedly. Without that annoying Buddhist monk, he could now openly occupy a prominent position at the side of Prince Donghai, just like the immortal master who once stood by the side of Prince Chengdu, enjoying all the prestige.
Everyone left that departing figure behind and plunged back into the revelry.
Liang Feng wasn’t sure how he managed to leave Xianming Garden. When he arrived at the ox-cart, Qing Mei exclaimed in shock, “Master, why does your face look so terrible?”
Liang Feng didn’t say a word and climbed into the cart. Qing Mei didn’t dare to delay and immediately ordered the cart to return to the city. They needed to find Dr. Jiang as soon as possible to examine and treat their master.
However, the ox-cart had only traveled a few miles when Liang Feng suddenly shouted, “Stop the cart!”
Startled, but with a fast reaction, the cart driver, who was also a member of the retinue, immediately pulled the cart to the side of the road. Before the cart came to a complete stop, Liang Feng stumbled out of the carriage and took a few unsteady steps before vomiting violently.
The once delightful dishes had turned into a foul, sticky mess that was now spewing from his throat. Was this motion sickness? No, Liang Feng felt nothing but overwhelming nausea. Why had he become like this? Why had he bowed to that foolish Sima descendant? And that unbearable craving. All the discomfort seemed to converge, making Liang Feng wish he could just purge all his bile and gall!
Qing Mei was terrified and sobbed as she patted Liang Feng’s back, hoping to bring some relief to her master. But what use was this barely perceptible consolation? After vomiting everything up, Liang Feng didn’t return to the cart, nor did he take the bamboo cup of clean water handed to him. He simply walked unsteadily into the nearby woods, his mouth still filled with bitterness.
Where was he going? Liang Feng didn’t even know. His mind had been completely clouded, and he wasn’t even aware of his current location. This wasn’t Beijing; it wasn’t any place he recognized. Where was his car parked? The victory banquet should have been prepared; would the old man send someone to rein him in again?
He stumbled and caught hold of a nearby tree trunk, his long robe hanging in front of him. Puzzled, Liang Feng reached out and tugged at the sleeve’s cuff. Before he could figure out why he was dressed like this, the soft sound of a zither drifted on the wind.
As if drawn by the music, Liang Feng walked deeper into the forest. Passing through a grove of broadleaf trees, he reached a small stone platform. On the polished stone sat an elderly man, his hair and beard snow-white, his face lined with wrinkles. It was impossible to determine his exact age, but he radiated an elderly aura. His clothes were simple linen, and his front was open, revealing a shriveled chest and belly. At his feet lay a toppled wine jug, perhaps drained, and on his chest, he held a musical instrument, a stringed instrument with a long neck and round body.
Liang Feng stared at the old man in front of him, bewildered. This wasn’t the attire he was accustomed to; it wasn’t that of an ordinary villager. On the contrary, the old man seemed to have stepped right out of a historical drama, carrying an indelible sense of history and authenticity.
“Master! This is someone else’s courtyard…” An anxious voice sounded from behind. Liang Feng turned his head and saw a girl of about ten years old, dressed in a pleated skirt.
Who was he? Who were they? The numb confusion suddenly found a direction, and Liang Feng began to tremble. Yes, he was no longer the same Liang Feng, no longer the detective who faced life and death. He was Liang Feng, the Governor of Shangdang, the master of Liang Mansion. He had been in this world for three years…
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Why did he stop here?
His chest sank, and Liang Feng felt his breath quicken. Why did he have to linger here?
Just as the darkness loomed over him, the old man sitting on the stone suddenly spoke, “Would you like to play?”
He handed over the musical instrument from his embrace.
Liang Feng stared at the instrument for a moment, then walked over and accepted it. It wasn’t like the pipa he was familiar with, more rounded and not held vertically, but horizontally, like a guitar. However, it had fewer strings, four in total, with pillars, resembling a transformed version of a pipa. Holding the cold instrument in his arms, Liang Feng stood still for a moment and began to play.
Without plectrums and unfamiliar with the four strings, Liang Feng’s playing was chaotic. The tune he played wasn’t an ancient melody but an old pop song. Back then, they had turned the song into a guitar piece, and a few friends had gathered, laughing and singing, toasting and celebrating. The song was carefree and uninhibited, filled with the spirit of the open road and the joy of adventures. But now, the tune was off-key.
This wasn’t the instrument he was familiar with, it wasn’t the era he knew, and there was no place for him to sing and have others join in.
With a clinking sound, the music stopped. Liang Feng stood there as if he had lost his soul. Yes, he couldn’t go back.
Unable to stop his trembling hands, he handed the instrument back to the old man, staggered to turn away, wanting to leave. But at that moment, the music started again!
It wasn’t just music. The four strings vibrated with a resounding sound, like a distant river’s roar, and then the melody changed. It became carefree as if laughing and singing as if wielding a sword in the mortal world.
Liang Feng abruptly turned his head. The melody was so familiar, exactly like the song he had just tried to play. Yet, the musical notes were simultaneously so strange, more majestic than the original tune he had heard, more carefree, like a wandering scholar dressed in tattered robes, riding the wind and clouds, singing merrily while intoxicated.
Clearly, it was just a musical instrument, yet it produced incredibly complex melodies that left people astounded. And those musical notes pierced through the bones and into the marrow, striking the heart directly. Liang Feng had never heard such music, nor had he ever seen a musician like this! His entire being was ensnared by the music, causing immense pleasure amidst the intense pain!
But before he could savor it, the music suddenly stopped.
The wind ceased, the trees stood still, and even the birds were silent as if the music’s echoes still lingered in the air.
The old man put down his instrument and let out a long sigh, “This melody is unique, reminiscent of the Guangling melodies.”
The old man’s voice was nothing like his music, dry and hoarse, lacking strength. Yet, Liang Feng felt as if he had been struck by something. His eyes welled up with tears, and it was almost impossible to hold back the tears. Yes, in the movie, this tune was adapted as “Guangling Melody.” And at this very moment, the Guangling lingering tune of Ji Zhongsan, was remembered by someone. Was this tune similar to Guangling? Maybe it wasn’t really similar. But in the midst of the chaotic passage of time spanning centuries, it all came together!
Holding back the tears in his eyes, Liang Feng bowed deeply, even kneeling to the ground, and said, “Thank you for bestowing this music.”
He didn’t ask the old man’s name. Someone who could play “Guangling Melody” and create such a melody was certainly not an ordinary person. But was a name important? Was identity important? Not as important as this unexpected encounter with celestial music!
The old man didn’t say much, just waved his hand and began plucking the strings again. The strings buzzed but no longer formed a coherent melody.
Taking a deep breath, Liang Feng straightened up, smoothed out his disheveled clothes, and regained his composure. With light footsteps, he walked back towards where he had come from.
The Wei and Jin periods had true scholars, as well as a demeanor and elegance that have been sung for a thousand years. Unfortunately, they were literary figures and artists, the first in China to truly touch the essence of “beauty.” Unfortunately, these qualities were incompatible with politics.
Poets are not suited for political involvement, at any time.
Leaving the pavilion, with no ice-cold basin or fan in sight, even with the shade of greenery around, the temperature had risen a few degrees. Yet, Liang Feng only felt an icy chill in his limbs, and his body began to tremble.
The craving that lurked within him, driving people to madness, surged once again. Just the act of swallowing a pill triggered the unrelenting addiction, urging him to bend to something he had already quit. It wasn’t something his consciousness could control, but Liang Feng didn’t surrender. Inside his closed sleeves, his two hands clenched tightly together, with a force that could leave deep bruises. It’s like he’s wrestling with himself.
The chatter of others, the rustling of the wind through the dense woods, and a variety of other sounds were all left behind. Liang Feng walked woodenly, his pace neither fast nor slow, every step feeling like walking on a razor’s edge. Cold sweat trickled down his spine, and his lips turned pallid, but he didn’t stop, stubbornly keeping up with the group.
From the cool pavilion to the lakeside, a journey of over three miles took less than a quarter of an hour. Sima Yue rushed as if in a hurry, drenched in sweat. The exhilarating restlessness gradually dissipated, turning into an intoxicating ease. With the assistance of a maidservant, he boarded the moored boat by the shore.
The boat was specially crafted, appearing somewhat oversized in this small artificial lake. However, the ripples on the lake couldn’t affect the floating vessel. The mountain mist hung in the air, offering a refreshing chill.
His clothes, soaked with sweat, gradually grew cold, perfectly fitting the attire for post-revelry and cool rest. Sima Yue made no attempt to change his clothes, sitting with careless elegance, ignoring formalities. He motioned for Lao Dao and the accompanying guests to join him on the boat. The music played once again, and a stream of dishes was served.
After the post-revelry, it was essential to consume a substantial amount of food, and it had to be cold food. Sima Yue disregarded others’ preferences and ordered a delectable array of cold dishes to be served, enough for him to indulge in.
He devoured several plates hurriedly, and only then did Sima Yue heave a sigh of relief, feeling that the elixir he had taken today was indeed effective. However, rewarding the immortal master on the spot seemed somewhat inappropriate, so it appeared that he would have to establish a Daoist temple to properly honor this esteemed sage.
With a casual glance, he noticed the lone and cold figure sitting on the side. Perhaps due to some negligence, Liang Feng had been given a seat at the far end of the table, and the dishes in front of him were far from abundant. He remained seated, barely touching his food, his face deathly pale.
Sima Yue put down his wine cup and spoke, “Liang Zixi, why are you eating so little? Is the food not to your taste?”
Liang Feng seemed momentarily stunned, then slowly set down his chopsticks, bowing, “I am in poor health and cannot consume too much.”
This explanation did not seem like a lie. Observing the trembling and pale condition of the man, Sima Yue finally realized the toll the journey had taken on him. Perhaps his body was truly fragile.
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Thinking back to the Daoist’s judgment just moments ago, Sima Yue’s smile deepened, “Lord Liang, with your frail health, you should focus on taking good care of yourself. By the way, I’ve heard that you have quite a few Xiongnu people under your command. Is that true?”
Liang Feng took a low breath before stabilizing his voice, “It is true. The Xiongnu people are unruly, and if left unchecked, they can become a problem. It’s better to employ them.”
Sima Yue’s eyes gleamed, “Is this the method passed down from your ancestor, Lord Liang?”
Liang Feng’s ancestor was the renowned statesman Liang Xi of Cao Wei, who excelled in governing Bing County, bringing the Xiongnu and Xianbei tribes under imperial control. Due to this achievement, he was highly esteemed by two generations of Wei emperors and earned the title of the empire’s most capable minister. If Liang Zixi followed in his ancestor’s footsteps, could he resolve the chaos in Bing County?
Liang Feng lowered his gaze and replied, “Indeed, it’s the method passed down by our ancestors.”
Sima Yue chuckled, “A true descendant of a capable minister…”
As he spoke, Sima Yue’s gaze roamed Liang Feng’s body. Such a talented individual, though gravely ill, could he truly be of use? After a few years of exerting himself, perhaps Liang Zixi might meet his end without Sima Yue having to lift a finger. Then, he could easily consolidate Bing County once more. It would be a double win.
Shifting the conversation, Sima Yue wore a stern expression, “However, in recent years, the tax revenues from Shangdang have been inadequate. There are also rumors that the Leping State has suffered attacks from enemy forces. Is this true?”
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Liang Feng’s mind was already in turmoil, but he clenched his teeth, struggling to maintain his clarity, “There are too many refugees, and supporting the army’s supply lines leaves Shangdang with little surplus. I have petitioned the court multiple times, hoping for a reduction in tax burdens. As for Leping State, it has been plagued by bandits, and County Prefect Wen Tai has taken charge of suppressing them…”
He paused, then slowly bent down, saying, “Shangdang is in danger, and I, with all my heart and effort, have worked tirelessly to protect the Huguan Pass and ensure the safety of the capital. I have shown my utmost sincerity. I hope the Grand Commandant can see this.”
This bow was a genuine act of kowtowing, and he remained in a long prostration. Watching the trembling figure with the frail back, Sima Yue couldn’t help but feel a sense of triumph. He was highly regarded by the elite, even those who had scolded him or acted recklessly, treated him with respect. However, these ambitious men from humble origins could only serve as his subordinates in his mansion, not hold official positions. In his mind, those eligible for official appointments, especially the prestigious positions like the two thousand-bushel rank in the provincial government, were usually the well-born scions of influential families.
Those with slightly less fortune had to obey his orders faithfully to gain his trust. Concepts like integrity and competence were just for show in his eyes.
Therefore, no matter how many words were spoken, they couldn’t compare to this heartfelt plea.
With a faint smile, Sima Yue calmly said, “Zixi, there’s no need for this. I’ve seen your contributions in Shangdang. Concerning financial matters, we can find a solution. However, Bing County’s security is a concern, and you should send some officials from the capital to help with the garrison.”
What did this mean? Lacking his usual sharp perception, Liang Feng stood up rigidly, unsure how to respond. Seeing his apparent confusion, Sima Yue didn’t explain further, sighing, “Zixi, you’re sweating profusely. Should we summon a physician?”
Liang Feng suddenly realized that his face and body were drenched in sweat. He lifted his sleeve and wiped his face, saying, “It’s a hot day, and I can’t bear the heat…”
“If that’s the case, you should rest early. Someone, escort Governor Liang out of the garden.” Seeing him in such a state, Sima Yue had no patience for him to stay and be a nuisance.
Faced with this “thoughtful” suggestion, Liang Feng lowered his gaze and thanked Sima Yue once again. He then slowly got up and followed the attendant back the way he came. Observing his somewhat unsteady gait, Sima Yue sneered. It seemed that Master Wang’s idea was not bad; Bing County could indeed be manipulated as he wished.
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However, after only a moment of reflection, he turned and smiled at those around him, saying, “Today, with the presence of the immortal master, we should discuss profound matters. Bring the wine vessels.”
It was time for music, wine, and eloquent discussions. The guests eagerly prepared, eager to please their host. Beside them, the Daoist smoothed his beard contentedly. Without that annoying Buddhist monk, he could now openly occupy a prominent position at the side of Prince Donghai, just like the immortal master who once stood by the side of Prince Chengdu, enjoying all the prestige.
Everyone left that departing figure behind and plunged back into the revelry.
Liang Feng wasn’t sure how he managed to leave Xianming Garden. When he arrived at the ox-cart, Qing Mei exclaimed in shock, “Master, why does your face look so terrible?”
Liang Feng didn’t say a word and climbed into the cart. Qing Mei didn’t dare to delay and immediately ordered the cart to return to the city. They needed to find Dr. Jiang as soon as possible to examine and treat their master.
However, the ox-cart had only traveled a few miles when Liang Feng suddenly shouted, “Stop the cart!”
Startled, but with a fast reaction, the cart driver, who was also a member of the retinue, immediately pulled the cart to the side of the road. Before the cart came to a complete stop, Liang Feng stumbled out of the carriage and took a few unsteady steps before vomiting violently.
The once delightful dishes had turned into a foul, sticky mess that was now spewing from his throat. Was this motion sickness? No, Liang Feng felt nothing but overwhelming nausea. Why had he become like this? Why had he bowed to that foolish Sima descendant? And that unbearable craving. All the discomfort seemed to converge, making Liang Feng wish he could just purge all his bile and gall!
Qing Mei was terrified and sobbed as she patted Liang Feng’s back, hoping to bring some relief to her master. But what use was this barely perceptible consolation? After vomiting everything up, Liang Feng didn’t return to the cart, nor did he take the bamboo cup of clean water handed to him. He simply walked unsteadily into the nearby woods, his mouth still filled with bitterness.
Where was he going? Liang Feng didn’t even know. His mind had been completely clouded, and he wasn’t even aware of his current location. This wasn’t Beijing; it wasn’t any place he recognized. Where was his car parked? The victory banquet should have been prepared; would the old man send someone to rein him in again?
He stumbled and caught hold of a nearby tree trunk, his long robe hanging in front of him. Puzzled, Liang Feng reached out and tugged at the sleeve’s cuff. Before he could figure out why he was dressed like this, the soft sound of a zither drifted on the wind.
As if drawn by the music, Liang Feng walked deeper into the forest. Passing through a grove of broadleaf trees, he reached a small stone platform. On the polished stone sat an elderly man, his hair and beard snow-white, his face lined with wrinkles. It was impossible to determine his exact age, but he radiated an elderly aura. His clothes were simple linen, and his front was open, revealing a shriveled chest and belly. At his feet lay a toppled wine jug, perhaps drained, and on his chest, he held a musical instrument, a stringed instrument with a long neck and round body.
Liang Feng stared at the old man in front of him, bewildered. This wasn’t the attire he was accustomed to; it wasn’t that of an ordinary villager. On the contrary, the old man seemed to have stepped right out of a historical drama, carrying an indelible sense of history and authenticity.
“Master! This is someone else’s courtyard…” An anxious voice sounded from behind. Liang Feng turned his head and saw a girl of about ten years old, dressed in a pleated skirt.
Who was he? Who were they? The numb confusion suddenly found a direction, and Liang Feng began to tremble. Yes, he was no longer the same Liang Feng, no longer the detective who faced life and death. He was Liang Feng, the Governor of Shangdang, the master of Liang Mansion. He had been in this world for three years…
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Why did he stop here?
His chest sank, and Liang Feng felt his breath quicken. Why did he have to linger here?
Just as the darkness loomed over him, the old man sitting on the stone suddenly spoke, “Would you like to play?”
He handed over the musical instrument from his embrace.
Liang Feng stared at the instrument for a moment, then walked over and accepted it. It wasn’t like the pipa he was familiar with, more rounded and not held vertically, but horizontally, like a guitar. However, it had fewer strings, four in total, with pillars, resembling a transformed version of a pipa. Holding the cold instrument in his arms, Liang Feng stood still for a moment and began to play.
Without plectrums and unfamiliar with the four strings, Liang Feng’s playing was chaotic. The tune he played wasn’t an ancient melody but an old pop song. Back then, they had turned the song into a guitar piece, and a few friends had gathered, laughing and singing, toasting and celebrating. The song was carefree and uninhibited, filled with the spirit of the open road and the joy of adventures. But now, the tune was off-key.
This wasn’t the instrument he was familiar with, it wasn’t the era he knew, and there was no place for him to sing and have others join in.
With a clinking sound, the music stopped. Liang Feng stood there as if he had lost his soul. Yes, he couldn’t go back.
Unable to stop his trembling hands, he handed the instrument back to the old man, staggered to turn away, wanting to leave. But at that moment, the music started again!
It wasn’t just music. The four strings vibrated with a resounding sound, like a distant river’s roar, and then the melody changed. It became carefree as if laughing and singing as if wielding a sword in the mortal world.
Liang Feng abruptly turned his head. The melody was so familiar, exactly like the song he had just tried to play. Yet, the musical notes were simultaneously so strange, more majestic than the original tune he had heard, more carefree, like a wandering scholar dressed in tattered robes, riding the wind and clouds, singing merrily while intoxicated.
Clearly, it was just a musical instrument, yet it produced incredibly complex melodies that left people astounded. And those musical notes pierced through the bones and into the marrow, striking the heart directly. Liang Feng had never heard such music, nor had he ever seen a musician like this! His entire being was ensnared by the music, causing immense pleasure amidst the intense pain!
But before he could savor it, the music suddenly stopped.
The wind ceased, the trees stood still, and even the birds were silent as if the music’s echoes still lingered in the air.
The old man put down his instrument and let out a long sigh, “This melody is unique, reminiscent of the Guangling melodies.”
The old man’s voice was nothing like his music, dry and hoarse, lacking strength. Yet, Liang Feng felt as if he had been struck by something. His eyes welled up with tears, and it was almost impossible to hold back the tears. Yes, in the movie, this tune was adapted as “Guangling Melody.” And at this very moment, the Guangling lingering tune of Ji Zhongsan, was remembered by someone. Was this tune similar to Guangling? Maybe it wasn’t really similar. But in the midst of the chaotic passage of time spanning centuries, it all came together!
Holding back the tears in his eyes, Liang Feng bowed deeply, even kneeling to the ground, and said, “Thank you for bestowing this music.”
He didn’t ask the old man’s name. Someone who could play “Guangling Melody” and create such a melody was certainly not an ordinary person. But was a name important? Was identity important? Not as important as this unexpected encounter with celestial music!
The old man didn’t say much, just waved his hand and began plucking the strings again. The strings buzzed but no longer formed a coherent melody.
Taking a deep breath, Liang Feng straightened up, smoothed out his disheveled clothes, and regained his composure. With light footsteps, he walked back towards where he had come from.
The Wei and Jin periods had true scholars, as well as a demeanor and elegance that have been sung for a thousand years. Unfortunately, they were literary figures and artists, the first in China to truly touch the essence of “beauty.” Unfortunately, these qualities were incompatible with politics.
Poets are not suited for political involvement, at any time.
