These past few days, Cui Ji has become increasingly active, constantly going out to gather information. He may not be eligible to attend Prince Donghai’s banquet, but he is not entirely clueless about what’s happening in their residence. However, the information he uncovered today sent chills down his spine.
Hastening back to the official residence, he was surprised to see the Lord’s carriage outside. He’s back already? Cui Ji hurried into the bedroom. Before he could even see the person, he heard Jiang Da’s worried voice, “My Lord, you absolutely cannot attend the banquet today! If you can’t resist and use the scattered stones again, what will we do?”
Cui Ji quickly approached, “My Lord, what happened at the banquet today?”
Though the Lord’s face appeared tired, his spirits were not too bad, “Thankfully, Prince Donghai didn’t give me too much trouble, and his tone seemed to soften. But he mentioned sending troops to garrison Bing County. I wonder what his intentions are?”
Cui Ji felt a pang of concern, “I’ve also heard similar news. In the Taipu’s residence, some have suggested that Prince Donghai should personally govern the provinces, including Si County, Bing County, and You County.”
Liang Feng’s gaze sharpened, and he sneered, “What a sly move! They want to take away the support under the pot!”
During the Han Dynasty, the governor was used to supervise local officials, including the 2,000-bushel Taishou, a government office used in various dynasties in China. Later, the position was changed to governor of the state, which expanded their authority, giving them full control over both military and civilian affairs within a province. However, this also led to the rise of various powerful local warlords and was a major factor in the Three Kingdoms period’s chaos. After Sima Yan established the Jin Dynasty, the position of governor of the state was abolished, and military authority was given to the commander-in-chief of the army, while the governor retained administrative responsibilities. Now, it seemed that Sima Yue wanted to revive the position of governor of the state, effectively concentrating all power in one person’s hands and leaving the governor with little real authority.
Cui Ji expressed his concern, “The key is when Prince Donghai will bring up this matter. If he does it before the first day of the seventh month, there may still be a chance.”
The Lord chuckled, “Let him do as he pleases. Even if he appoints a governor of the state, I won’t be able to control the military. It’s best to return to Shangdang as soon as possible.”
Hearing this, Cui Ji suddenly raised his head and looked at the man reclining on the couch. Perhaps it was an illusion, but the suffocating sense of frustration that had clung to him seemed to have disappeared overnight. Although he still looked unwell, the vitality hidden beneath was gradually returning. He appeared as calm and collected as he did back in Shangdang, not arrogant or impatient. With a sense of relief, Cui Ji solemnly nodded, “My Lord, you are right. Given the current situation, it’s best to return as soon as possible.”
Shangdang is their ultimate foundation. They didn’t have military power before, but they still managed to establish garrisons, even gaining control of Yangyi and Laoyang counties. Now, as a provincial governor, without support from the court and even Sima Yue, what can they expect? It’s just a matter of going through some hardships again.
However, Jiang Da paid no attention to their discussion and scolded Cui Ji, “The Lord needs to rest. If it’s not an urgent matter, we can discuss it later.”
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Liang Feng waved his hand at Cui Ji and obediently lay down while Jiang Da began acupuncture and moxibustion1.
Cui Ji sighed softly in his heart. His role in the recent trip to Luoyang had been limited. He wished he could have been more useful. Suppressing the slight hint of regret, he knelt beside Liang Feng, silently observing Jiang Da’s acupuncture.
In another place, Gou Xi won a major victory in Jing County, with 20,000 of the counterfeit Emperor’s troops killed or captured. When Sima Yue received this news, he was extremely delighted. It seemed that Jing County would require additional military reinforcement. If they could eliminate Sima Ying’s large army before this winter, the political situation in Luoyang would be thoroughly stabilized.
However, before that, he needed to properly handle the affairs of the various provinces and commanderies. During the court session earlier in the day, he had already proposed to the Emperor the idea of taking on the role of provincial governor in addition to his current positions. Once they dealt with Prince Chengdu, he should be able to add the title of Prime Minister. Leaning back into the soft cushions, Sima Yue felt a deep sense of contentment. As long as he held significant power, all other arrangements were mere trifles.
However, just as they were about to summon entertainers to amuse themselves, cries of astonishment echoed from outside, “A solar eclipse! There’s a solar eclipse!”
What?! Sima Yue was shocked and jumped up, not even bothering to put on shoes, and rushed out of the hall. In the sky, the setting sun darkened as if night had fallen prematurely, with dense dark clouds covering the sky. The round sun had already been partly devoured, becoming incomplete. But the shadow continued to expand as if it would never end.
Sima Yue’s entire body turned cold. How could this be happening? Wasn’t there already a solar eclipse on New Year’s Day? Coupled with the Red Sun during the late Emperor’s funeral, did the heavens truly despise him, the Grand Commandant?
Staggering back a step, Sima Yue angrily shouted, “Someone, fetch my clothes. I need to go to the palace to meet the Emperor!”
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At the same moment, Liang Feng sat on the porch of the official residence, gazing at the dwindling sun in a basin. The sound of gongs and drums filled his ears, likely people from various households trying to frighten away the “celestial dog.” In this era, people still deeply feared signs from the heavens, even the emperors and officials who governed the country were not exempt from the shackles of “heavenly signs.”
With this “divine warning,” his return to Shangdang probably drew nearer.
From the beginning of the solar eclipse until its complete recovery took over a quarter of an hour. When the sky finally returned to normal, Sima Yue didn’t dare linger and immediately entered the palace to report to the Emperor.
Perhaps the Emperor had anticipated his visit to the palace. He had changed into everyday attire and had a slightly pale complexion as he inquired, “This celestial anomaly, did the Chief Astrologer foresee it?”
A solar eclipse, such a celestial event, must be predicted in advance by the Grand Astrologer and reported to the imperial court. With a dark expression, Sima Yue responded in a low voice, “Previously, after the passing of the late emperor, all officials scattered. The previous Grand Astrologer passed away due to illness, and the current one is a newcomer…”
“Has the calendar not been updated? What difference does it make whether the person is new or old?” The young emperor, his face pale, furrowed his brow. “Could it be that this eclipse is a celestial omen that the Grand Astrologer couldn’t foresee? Isn’t there any precedent the court can follow?”
Sima Yue’s eyebrows twitched sharply. In the case of a sudden solar eclipse, there was indeed a precedent: to accept blame for the Three Excellencies! As the head of the Three Excellencies, he should immediately admit fault and, if necessary, resign to apologize to the world.
How could Sima Yue accept such a situation?! Lifting the hem of his robe, he knelt before the young emperor, “I believe that it was the treacherous actions of Prince Chengdu that brought about this celestial anomaly. We should send more troops to eliminate the rebels!”
This was a way to shift blame and engage in another power struggle with the emperor.
The young emperor looked at his uncle, who bowed low, hiding his clenched fist in his large sleeve, and said softly, “What you say, Grand Commandant, is correct. Tomorrow, we will issue a decree to send more troops to Jing County.”
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Sima Yue breathed a sigh of relief. He was about to rise when the emperor continued, “By the way, we should also postpone the matter of appointing provincial governors to avoid unnecessary criticism…”
Sima Yue’s back froze in place. Half-kneeling and half-rising, he hesitated for a moment before finally saying, “As you command.”
This was the emperor’s subtle hint that he had gone too far. However, Sima Yue had no choice but to obey. He couldn’t possibly declare himself the provincial governor immediately after a solar eclipse, as that would surely stir up gossip across the realm. The most important task at hand was to deal with Prince Chengdu. If this threat is not eliminated, the cunning young child might grow into a serious problem.
The following day, official orders were issued to intensify the offensive against Jing County. However, before the troops could be dispatched, another shocking piece of news arrived from the West.
Chang’an had been breached! The Xiongnu had swept into the city, seizing what was once the western capital!
“How could this happen?!” Sima Yue, upon hearing this news, nearly jumped out of his skin. Weren’t there many garrison commanders left in Chang’an? How could the Xiongnu’s mighty army take the city so easily? With Jing County in dire straits, how could he possibly deal with these fierce nomadic warriors?!
“It is said that the Xiongnu suddenly launched an attack after the solar eclipse, breaking through in a single battle. Now, the situation is critical in the east!”
Hearing this report from the messenger, Sima Yue felt like the world was spinning. Another solar eclipse! How many of these traitors who hid celestial omens from the emperor were left?!
Wait, a solar eclipse during an attack? Sima Yue suddenly asked, “Where is Liang Zixi from Shangdang?”
“He’s still at the official residence…”
“Hurry, appoint him as the provincial governor, and tomorrow, after the audience, have him return to Bing County to face the enemy!” Sima Yue shouted loudly.
That’s right, when Liang Zixi attacked Yangyi, didn’t they also encounter a solar eclipse? He even defeated the Xiongnu in a single battle! Maybe he was sent by the heavens to pacify the impostors! It’s better to have him return to Bing County as soon as possible and disrupt the overall situation. Even though the impostors are currently campaigning in Si County, capturing Chang’an, Bing County remains the foundation of the Xiongnu’s five parts. If Liang Zixi stirs up the situation in Bing County, it might alleviate the pressure on Si County and even You County.
Coincidentally, he couldn’t become a provincial governor himself, so he might as well go along with the emperor’s wishes. Moreover, Liang Zixi wasn’t ignorant of the situation. He had previously surrendered to him, and now that he had an official position, he should remember his favor. This way, it would be a win-win situation, wouldn’t it?
“As for military power…” Sima Yue hesitated for a moment but quickly made up his mind. He needed to appoint a reliable person to become the Commander of Bing County, in charge of military affairs in the province. Liang Zixi, on the other hand, could simply be appointed as a minor provincial governor.
With these decisions made and the long-pending tasks settled, Sima Yue rubbed his aching temples, let out a long sigh, and called for someone to bring him an elixir. These troublesome matters always brought worries, so why not take the elixir, forget about worldly concerns, and relieve the stress?
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※
“I accept the decree.”
Taking the imperial edict handed over by the Court Attendant, Liang Feng slowly rose, yet there was no trace of joy in his heart. Sima Yue had finally relented and allowed him to take the post of Provincial Governor of Bing County. However, accompanying this news was the report of the Xiongnu’s capture of Chang’an and their occupation of the western capital. Accepting this provincial governorship meant he was stepping onto the frontline, facing not just the Xiongnu but also a lack of military authority. Would it be an easy battle without the means to command troops? It would likely require a significant military campaign.
But these concerns were fleeting, and Liang Feng dismissed them from his mind. Ultimately, he was returning home! Once he was back in Shangdang, in his own territory, what did he have to fear?
It was like shedding a heavy burden from his shoulders. He straightened his posture and let out a deep sigh.
The following day, Liang Feng once again appeared in the court, respectfully bidding farewell to the young emperor. He received symbolic tax exemptions and access to the Bing County treasury from Sima Yue. With his entourage, they left the bustling city of Luoyang behind and headed towards Bing County!
These past few days, Cui Ji has become increasingly active, constantly going out to gather information. He may not be eligible to attend Prince Donghai’s banquet, but he is not entirely clueless about what’s happening in their residence. However, the information he uncovered today sent chills down his spine.
Hastening back to the official residence, he was surprised to see the Lord’s carriage outside. He’s back already? Cui Ji hurried into the bedroom. Before he could even see the person, he heard Jiang Da’s worried voice, “My Lord, you absolutely cannot attend the banquet today! If you can’t resist and use the scattered stones again, what will we do?”
Cui Ji quickly approached, “My Lord, what happened at the banquet today?”
Though the Lord’s face appeared tired, his spirits were not too bad, “Thankfully, Prince Donghai didn’t give me too much trouble, and his tone seemed to soften. But he mentioned sending troops to garrison Bing County. I wonder what his intentions are?”
Cui Ji felt a pang of concern, “I’ve also heard similar news. In the Taipu’s residence, some have suggested that Prince Donghai should personally govern the provinces, including Si County, Bing County, and You County.”
Liang Feng’s gaze sharpened, and he sneered, “What a sly move! They want to take away the support under the pot!”
During the Han Dynasty, the governor was used to supervise local officials, including the 2,000-bushel Taishou, a government office used in various dynasties in China. Later, the position was changed to governor of the state, which expanded their authority, giving them full control over both military and civilian affairs within a province. However, this also led to the rise of various powerful local warlords and was a major factor in the Three Kingdoms period’s chaos. After Sima Yan established the Jin Dynasty, the position of governor of the state was abolished, and military authority was given to the commander-in-chief of the army, while the governor retained administrative responsibilities. Now, it seemed that Sima Yue wanted to revive the position of governor of the state, effectively concentrating all power in one person’s hands and leaving the governor with little real authority.
Cui Ji expressed his concern, “The key is when Prince Donghai will bring up this matter. If he does it before the first day of the seventh month, there may still be a chance.”
The Lord chuckled, “Let him do as he pleases. Even if he appoints a governor of the state, I won’t be able to control the military. It’s best to return to Shangdang as soon as possible.”
Hearing this, Cui Ji suddenly raised his head and looked at the man reclining on the couch. Perhaps it was an illusion, but the suffocating sense of frustration that had clung to him seemed to have disappeared overnight. Although he still looked unwell, the vitality hidden beneath was gradually returning. He appeared as calm and collected as he did back in Shangdang, not arrogant or impatient. With a sense of relief, Cui Ji solemnly nodded, “My Lord, you are right. Given the current situation, it’s best to return as soon as possible.”
Shangdang is their ultimate foundation. They didn’t have military power before, but they still managed to establish garrisons, even gaining control of Yangyi and Laoyang counties. Now, as a provincial governor, without support from the court and even Sima Yue, what can they expect? It’s just a matter of going through some hardships again.
However, Jiang Da paid no attention to their discussion and scolded Cui Ji, “The Lord needs to rest. If it’s not an urgent matter, we can discuss it later.”
Advertisement
Liang Feng waved his hand at Cui Ji and obediently lay down while Jiang Da began acupuncture and moxibustion1.
Cui Ji sighed softly in his heart. His role in the recent trip to Luoyang had been limited. He wished he could have been more useful. Suppressing the slight hint of regret, he knelt beside Liang Feng, silently observing Jiang Da’s acupuncture.
In another place, Gou Xi won a major victory in Jing County, with 20,000 of the counterfeit Emperor’s troops killed or captured. When Sima Yue received this news, he was extremely delighted. It seemed that Jing County would require additional military reinforcement. If they could eliminate Sima Ying’s large army before this winter, the political situation in Luoyang would be thoroughly stabilized.
However, before that, he needed to properly handle the affairs of the various provinces and commanderies. During the court session earlier in the day, he had already proposed to the Emperor the idea of taking on the role of provincial governor in addition to his current positions. Once they dealt with Prince Chengdu, he should be able to add the title of Prime Minister. Leaning back into the soft cushions, Sima Yue felt a deep sense of contentment. As long as he held significant power, all other arrangements were mere trifles.
However, just as they were about to summon entertainers to amuse themselves, cries of astonishment echoed from outside, “A solar eclipse! There’s a solar eclipse!”
What?! Sima Yue was shocked and jumped up, not even bothering to put on shoes, and rushed out of the hall. In the sky, the setting sun darkened as if night had fallen prematurely, with dense dark clouds covering the sky. The round sun had already been partly devoured, becoming incomplete. But the shadow continued to expand as if it would never end.
Sima Yue’s entire body turned cold. How could this be happening? Wasn’t there already a solar eclipse on New Year’s Day? Coupled with the Red Sun during the late Emperor’s funeral, did the heavens truly despise him, the Grand Commandant?
Staggering back a step, Sima Yue angrily shouted, “Someone, fetch my clothes. I need to go to the palace to meet the Emperor!”
Advertisement
At the same moment, Liang Feng sat on the porch of the official residence, gazing at the dwindling sun in a basin. The sound of gongs and drums filled his ears, likely people from various households trying to frighten away the “celestial dog.” In this era, people still deeply feared signs from the heavens, even the emperors and officials who governed the country were not exempt from the shackles of “heavenly signs.”
With this “divine warning,” his return to Shangdang probably drew nearer.
From the beginning of the solar eclipse until its complete recovery took over a quarter of an hour. When the sky finally returned to normal, Sima Yue didn’t dare linger and immediately entered the palace to report to the Emperor.
Perhaps the Emperor had anticipated his visit to the palace. He had changed into everyday attire and had a slightly pale complexion as he inquired, “This celestial anomaly, did the Chief Astrologer foresee it?”
A solar eclipse, such a celestial event, must be predicted in advance by the Grand Astrologer and reported to the imperial court. With a dark expression, Sima Yue responded in a low voice, “Previously, after the passing of the late emperor, all officials scattered. The previous Grand Astrologer passed away due to illness, and the current one is a newcomer…”
“Has the calendar not been updated? What difference does it make whether the person is new or old?” The young emperor, his face pale, furrowed his brow. “Could it be that this eclipse is a celestial omen that the Grand Astrologer couldn’t foresee? Isn’t there any precedent the court can follow?”
Sima Yue’s eyebrows twitched sharply. In the case of a sudden solar eclipse, there was indeed a precedent: to accept blame for the Three Excellencies! As the head of the Three Excellencies, he should immediately admit fault and, if necessary, resign to apologize to the world.
How could Sima Yue accept such a situation?! Lifting the hem of his robe, he knelt before the young emperor, “I believe that it was the treacherous actions of Prince Chengdu that brought about this celestial anomaly. We should send more troops to eliminate the rebels!”
This was a way to shift blame and engage in another power struggle with the emperor.
The young emperor looked at his uncle, who bowed low, hiding his clenched fist in his large sleeve, and said softly, “What you say, Grand Commandant, is correct. Tomorrow, we will issue a decree to send more troops to Jing County.”
Advertisement
Sima Yue breathed a sigh of relief. He was about to rise when the emperor continued, “By the way, we should also postpone the matter of appointing provincial governors to avoid unnecessary criticism…”
Sima Yue’s back froze in place. Half-kneeling and half-rising, he hesitated for a moment before finally saying, “As you command.”
This was the emperor’s subtle hint that he had gone too far. However, Sima Yue had no choice but to obey. He couldn’t possibly declare himself the provincial governor immediately after a solar eclipse, as that would surely stir up gossip across the realm. The most important task at hand was to deal with Prince Chengdu. If this threat is not eliminated, the cunning young child might grow into a serious problem.
The following day, official orders were issued to intensify the offensive against Jing County. However, before the troops could be dispatched, another shocking piece of news arrived from the West.
Chang’an had been breached! The Xiongnu had swept into the city, seizing what was once the western capital!
“How could this happen?!” Sima Yue, upon hearing this news, nearly jumped out of his skin. Weren’t there many garrison commanders left in Chang’an? How could the Xiongnu’s mighty army take the city so easily? With Jing County in dire straits, how could he possibly deal with these fierce nomadic warriors?!
“It is said that the Xiongnu suddenly launched an attack after the solar eclipse, breaking through in a single battle. Now, the situation is critical in the east!”
Hearing this report from the messenger, Sima Yue felt like the world was spinning. Another solar eclipse! How many of these traitors who hid celestial omens from the emperor were left?!
Wait, a solar eclipse during an attack? Sima Yue suddenly asked, “Where is Liang Zixi from Shangdang?”
“He’s still at the official residence…”
“Hurry, appoint him as the provincial governor, and tomorrow, after the audience, have him return to Bing County to face the enemy!” Sima Yue shouted loudly.
That’s right, when Liang Zixi attacked Yangyi, didn’t they also encounter a solar eclipse? He even defeated the Xiongnu in a single battle! Maybe he was sent by the heavens to pacify the impostors! It’s better to have him return to Bing County as soon as possible and disrupt the overall situation. Even though the impostors are currently campaigning in Si County, capturing Chang’an, Bing County remains the foundation of the Xiongnu’s five parts. If Liang Zixi stirs up the situation in Bing County, it might alleviate the pressure on Si County and even You County.
Coincidentally, he couldn’t become a provincial governor himself, so he might as well go along with the emperor’s wishes. Moreover, Liang Zixi wasn’t ignorant of the situation. He had previously surrendered to him, and now that he had an official position, he should remember his favor. This way, it would be a win-win situation, wouldn’t it?
“As for military power…” Sima Yue hesitated for a moment but quickly made up his mind. He needed to appoint a reliable person to become the Commander of Bing County, in charge of military affairs in the province. Liang Zixi, on the other hand, could simply be appointed as a minor provincial governor.
With these decisions made and the long-pending tasks settled, Sima Yue rubbed his aching temples, let out a long sigh, and called for someone to bring him an elixir. These troublesome matters always brought worries, so why not take the elixir, forget about worldly concerns, and relieve the stress?
Advertisement
※
“I accept the decree.”
Taking the imperial edict handed over by the Court Attendant, Liang Feng slowly rose, yet there was no trace of joy in his heart. Sima Yue had finally relented and allowed him to take the post of Provincial Governor of Bing County. However, accompanying this news was the report of the Xiongnu’s capture of Chang’an and their occupation of the western capital. Accepting this provincial governorship meant he was stepping onto the frontline, facing not just the Xiongnu but also a lack of military authority. Would it be an easy battle without the means to command troops? It would likely require a significant military campaign.
But these concerns were fleeting, and Liang Feng dismissed them from his mind. Ultimately, he was returning home! Once he was back in Shangdang, in his own territory, what did he have to fear?
It was like shedding a heavy burden from his shoulders. He straightened his posture and let out a deep sigh.
The following day, Liang Feng once again appeared in the court, respectfully bidding farewell to the young emperor. He received symbolic tax exemptions and access to the Bing County treasury from Sima Yue. With his entourage, they left the bustling city of Luoyang behind and headed towards Bing County!
