The convoy had just entered Taihang Pass, and Liang Feng hadn’t even gotten off the carriage when he spoke. His tone didn’t sound like an inquiry but more like a reprimand.
However, Yiyan seemed not to have perceived it and replied in a deep voice, “After the solar eclipse, I joined forces with General Linghu to attack the city, and the Xiongnu army fled. We pursued and killed over three thousand, scattering the remaining enemy forces, and Qixian is now under our control.”
This was a resounding victory. They not only captured Qixian but also completely drove the besieging Xiongnu troops out of the vicinity of Jinyang. With the enemy army in disarray, it would be difficult to regroup. If the Xiongnu wanted to launch another attack, it would require a significant effort. Liang Feng had initially been concerned that Yiyan might have acted rashly and left the battle to come here. Now, it appeared as though Yiyan had come to report his achievements.
However, there was no reason for Liang Feng to reprimand him for such an accomplishment.
After a pause, Liang Feng said, “Boyuan, you’ve worked hard in this battle.”
A simple “worked hard” may have seemed too light, but Yiyan lowered his head slightly and replied, “My lord, you’ve had a long journey. I’ve already prepared a room for you. Please disembark and rest.”
From Luoyang to Bing County, they had to pass through Taihang Pass. When they reached Taihang Pass through the narrow mountain road, it was often sunset. For the safety of the pass, most people would exit the pass and rest at the relay station at the foot of the mountain. However, Liang Feng was no ordinary person; he was the true master of Taihang Pass. When he arrived, not to mention the nearby military quarters, even the scarce few rooms inside the pass were made available for his use.
Upon hearing these words, Qing Mei couldn’t help but show a delighted expression and quickly lifted the bamboo curtains of the carriage. After all, the lord had been on the road for two days, and having a room meant a good opportunity for rest.
Liang Feng gazed at the high curtains and sighed inwardly before stepping out of the carriage. However, as his feet touched solid ground, whether it was due to the lingering effects of motion sickness or not, his knees wobbled, and he nearly lost his balance.
A hand reached out diagonally to support him. Yiyan, who seemed to have appeared by his side without notice, just like in the past, held onto his arm with a firm grip.
His summer attire was thin, and his palm felt scorching hot. With a mere touch, a vivid sensation rushed over him, as if even the calluses on his fingertips had left an impression on his bone marrow.
Liang Feng felt a shiver down his spine, yet his face remained calm as he moved his arm away, saying, “Lead the way.”
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With his hand empty, Yiyan’s eyes dimmed slightly. Suppressing the trace of disappointment, he took a step forward and said, “The room is this way; please follow me.”
In such a small pass, there were no spacious rooms available. However, Yiyan’s choice was spot on. Near the pass, in a secluded area by a well, he had arranged an empty room that had likely been prepared in advance. It was spotless, with mats laid out, a couch, and even a small writing desk. It was far superior to camping in the military camp.
Under Qing Mei’s guidance, the attendants quickly arranged a censer and other daily necessities. Liang Feng had little appetite due to his motion sickness, and Jiang Da, the accompanying physician, followed them and suggested, “This place is suitable for acupuncture. Let the lord freshen up first.”
Before Liang Feng could respond, Yiyan said, “Hot water has been prepared, and I had it brought here.”
A wooden tub filled with hot water was promptly brought in. Qing Mei, with her deft hands, brought a copper basin and attended to Liang Feng’s face and feet. At this point, it became somewhat awkward to bring up the matter. Liang Feng lowered his gaze, allowing a maidservant to assist him with washing up. As his fair feet were placed in the basin, Yiyan suddenly mentioned, “I heard that the lord has been appointed as the governor.”
Liang Feng’s toes flickered, creating ripples in the water. “Yes, the emperor also granted me the title of Governor of Bing County, and I was exempted from taxes in Bing County for three years. However, there will be other candidates for the position of Commanding General.”
With a simple sentence, Yiyan’s heart tightened. He could tell that the person before him had lost weight again, and their complexion was significantly paler. This trip to Luoyang seemed to have been more arduous than just the journey. Judging by the appointment of the Commanding General, it was clear that Prince Donghai had concerns. His lord must have endured considerable hardships on this journey.
And yet, he was not by his lord’s side.
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“I only follow my lord’s orders,” Yiyan lowered his blue eyes and said softly.
This was a declaration of loyalty, but Liang Feng could sense the depth of emotion hidden in those words. His head began to ache again. How could he ever unravel this knot with Yiyan?
Liang Feng raised his foot, allowing Qing Mei to wipe away the water stains. He then lay on the couch, saying, “We can discuss the matters in the prefecture when we return.”
Jiang Da also stepped forward, “My lord, you are right. After traveling for two days, you need to rest. General Yi, please help…”
This time, Liang Feng interrupted before Jiang Da could finish, “No need, just acupuncture. Qing Mei can assist.”
Jiang Da raised an eyebrow. Liang Feng had some itching sensation, and during acupuncture, someone should help to hold the points. It was fine for Qing Mei to assist while they were on the road, but now that Yiyan was here, he could provide a firmer grip and was familiar with the treatment. Why not use him?
However, since the lord had given the order, there was no need to insist. Jiang Da shook his head, took out a bag of needles from his pocket, and prepared to perform the acupuncture. Qing Mei, who had been assisting Liang Feng these days, was now used to it. Her face turned slightly red as she leaned in, pressing down on her lord’s somewhat slender legs. Her delicate and tender hands had a fair amount of strength, and the sensation was entirely different.
Liang Feng closed his eyes as if to keep those lingering memories at bay. Yiyan stood nearby, his fists clenched tightly. He knew that things would be entirely different after this. But when facing it head-on, he felt a heart-wrenching pain. Even so, he refused to give up. There had to be something that would prevent his lord from truly pushing him away.
Acupuncture was routine now, and Jiang Da’s hands worked quickly, finishing the procedure in no time. He breathed a sigh of relief and instructed, “My lord, have another dose of medicine and get some rest as soon as possible. It will take two more days to reach Lu City, so you shouldn’t overexert yourself.”
With a medical officer accompanying them, Liang Feng couldn’t escape, even if he wanted to. Liang Feng nodded, “You all should rest early too. Instruct them that there’s no need for night shifts tonight.”
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He could sleep soundly in the ox cart, but the people below had to remain vigilant. After finally returning to his own territory, it was only fair to let everyone get a good night’s sleep.
Jiang Da felt a warm glow inside and took his leave. However, Yiyan didn’t follow him out. He took two steps back, standing by the door, and declared, “I will keep watch for my lord.”
“Absurd!” Liang Feng’s brows furrowed. “You’ve just recaptured Qixian, and you should rest. Why keep watch?!”
But Yiyan didn’t back down. “I am my lord’s personal guard, and I must keep watch for my lord.”
These were the same words Yiyan had spoken when Liang Feng had first met him, and now they were being repeated verbatim. Liang Feng couldn’t help but feel amused. “Then, how about resigning from your post and becoming a guard again?”
Yiyan sealed his lips shut. Of course, he couldn’t just be a guard. Being like a shadow, guarding his lord’s side, would that earn him recognition? No, only by eliminating bandits, repelling enemies, and protecting Shangdang, even the entire territory of Lu City, would be the best choice. What his lord needed was always a commander, not just a personal guard.
He placed his right hand over his chest and performed a unique Liang family military salute, then silently left the room. Watching his retreating figure, Liang Feng sighed softly. Had he gone too far? But something was constantly struggling within him, like a lingering ghost. It was hard not to become somewhat impatient and anxious. It’s best to let it go.
Turning to the maid who looked a bit dazed beside him, Liang Feng lowered his voice, “You don’t have to keep watch tonight. Get some rest.”
Qing Mei immediately snapped back to attention and whispered, “This servant is not tired…”
Being able to accompany Liang Feng on the journey had filled her with immense joy. She was capable of enduring this little tiredness.
However, the man on the bed had waved his hand to signal her not to speak further. Seeing the handsome furrow on his brows, Qing Mei couldn’t help but feel a pang of sorrow and quickly lit some calming incense. The gentle fragrance wafted through the small and humble room, bringing a sense of tranquility.
Seeing her lord resting with closed eyes, Qing Mei carefully retreated, planning to go to the kitchen to fetch medicine and prepare some light food. However, as soon as she stepped out, she was startled. Right by the door, a tall man sat like a formidable guardian, as if a mighty vajra, protecting the room. It was none other than Captain Yi, who had just left.
Qing Mei wanted to say something, but Yiyan gestured for her to be quiet. Unlike her lord, this man exuded an aura that sent chills down one’s spine in every move. However, Qing Mei had witnessed how he cared for her lord, and with him around, she did feel safer. She obediently nodded and left quietly.
Leaning against the door, Yiyan’s eyelids drooped slightly. When he first entered the Liang residence, he used to stand guard for his lord every night. No matter how tired he was from daytime training, as long as he was by his lord’s side at night, he felt an endless reserve of energy. It was as if his entire being was filled with an unwavering loyalty ready to give everything for his lord. But today, things are no longer that simple. He desired too much, far beyond the boundaries of a master and servant. Taking this step meant there was no turning back.
Just like changing how he referred to himself.
Advertisement
However, regrets were now useless. The only thing he could do was to hold onto that last straw even tighter, so it wouldn’t be swept away by the tide. After all, his lord still needed him.
The sound of soft footsteps approached from the corridor, and Yiyan lifted his head abruptly, his icy gaze piercing like a blade. Qing Mei was startled, and the tray she was carrying trembled in her hands. But his previously fierce blue eyes softened, and he heaved a small sigh of relief. Qing Mei tiptoed around the imposing young man and entered the room.
The door closed once again, and Yiyan quietly closed his eyes.
After finishing the medicine and having a little porridge, Liang Feng lay back on the bed. The symptoms of motion sickness gradually subsided, but another indescribable sensation washed over him, making it difficult for him to sleep. He had experienced this during his time in Luoyang, but he hadn’t expected that a mere touch would reignite those unsettling feelings. It was even more embarrassing than a craving for opium1!
He had already overcome his addiction, so he refused to yield to these temptations. He clenched his teeth, trying to clear his mind of the distracting thoughts. Unconsciously, one of his hands continued to rub the area that had been touched, as if trying to erase the coarse sensation completely from his skin.
It was like this from the first appearance of nightfall until the moonlight bathed the ground, and he finally fell into a deep slumber. Just as everything in the room returned to tranquility, the door creaked open slightly.
A figure, bathed in moonlight, entered the room. Unarmored, their steps were light as if they were a wisp of a ghost, not disturbing the sleeping master and servant. Avoiding the deeply sleeping servant girl, the person approached the edge of Liang Feng’s bed and knelt down. The moonlight cast an eerie glow, adding an unsettling aura to the sleeping face.
After observing quietly for a while, the person gently raised their hand and caressed the other’s cheek. This touch was even lighter than a falling feather, gliding along the cheekbone and pausing on the soft lips. With this slight contact, memories of past intimacies rushed back. As if startled by the touch, the person on the bed stirred, moving closer like a small animal.
In the silent room, the sound of breathing suddenly became a bit louder. However, it soon quieted down again. The hand lingered on the other’s cheek for a moment before retracting.
No further actions followed, and the shadow seemed to have become part of the bed, remaining motionless for a long time.
Author’s note:
Liang Feng: Can this stop already? Can’t I sleep without someone touching my face? Stop! Touching! My! Face!
Little Wolf: … →_→
The convoy had just entered Taihang Pass, and Liang Feng hadn’t even gotten off the carriage when he spoke. His tone didn’t sound like an inquiry but more like a reprimand.
However, Yiyan seemed not to have perceived it and replied in a deep voice, “After the solar eclipse, I joined forces with General Linghu to attack the city, and the Xiongnu army fled. We pursued and killed over three thousand, scattering the remaining enemy forces, and Qixian is now under our control.”
This was a resounding victory. They not only captured Qixian but also completely drove the besieging Xiongnu troops out of the vicinity of Jinyang. With the enemy army in disarray, it would be difficult to regroup. If the Xiongnu wanted to launch another attack, it would require a significant effort. Liang Feng had initially been concerned that Yiyan might have acted rashly and left the battle to come here. Now, it appeared as though Yiyan had come to report his achievements.
However, there was no reason for Liang Feng to reprimand him for such an accomplishment.
After a pause, Liang Feng said, “Boyuan, you’ve worked hard in this battle.”
A simple “worked hard” may have seemed too light, but Yiyan lowered his head slightly and replied, “My lord, you’ve had a long journey. I’ve already prepared a room for you. Please disembark and rest.”
From Luoyang to Bing County, they had to pass through Taihang Pass. When they reached Taihang Pass through the narrow mountain road, it was often sunset. For the safety of the pass, most people would exit the pass and rest at the relay station at the foot of the mountain. However, Liang Feng was no ordinary person; he was the true master of Taihang Pass. When he arrived, not to mention the nearby military quarters, even the scarce few rooms inside the pass were made available for his use.
Upon hearing these words, Qing Mei couldn’t help but show a delighted expression and quickly lifted the bamboo curtains of the carriage. After all, the lord had been on the road for two days, and having a room meant a good opportunity for rest.
Liang Feng gazed at the high curtains and sighed inwardly before stepping out of the carriage. However, as his feet touched solid ground, whether it was due to the lingering effects of motion sickness or not, his knees wobbled, and he nearly lost his balance.
A hand reached out diagonally to support him. Yiyan, who seemed to have appeared by his side without notice, just like in the past, held onto his arm with a firm grip.
His summer attire was thin, and his palm felt scorching hot. With a mere touch, a vivid sensation rushed over him, as if even the calluses on his fingertips had left an impression on his bone marrow.
Liang Feng felt a shiver down his spine, yet his face remained calm as he moved his arm away, saying, “Lead the way.”
Advertisement
With his hand empty, Yiyan’s eyes dimmed slightly. Suppressing the trace of disappointment, he took a step forward and said, “The room is this way; please follow me.”
In such a small pass, there were no spacious rooms available. However, Yiyan’s choice was spot on. Near the pass, in a secluded area by a well, he had arranged an empty room that had likely been prepared in advance. It was spotless, with mats laid out, a couch, and even a small writing desk. It was far superior to camping in the military camp.
Under Qing Mei’s guidance, the attendants quickly arranged a censer and other daily necessities. Liang Feng had little appetite due to his motion sickness, and Jiang Da, the accompanying physician, followed them and suggested, “This place is suitable for acupuncture. Let the lord freshen up first.”
Before Liang Feng could respond, Yiyan said, “Hot water has been prepared, and I had it brought here.”
A wooden tub filled with hot water was promptly brought in. Qing Mei, with her deft hands, brought a copper basin and attended to Liang Feng’s face and feet. At this point, it became somewhat awkward to bring up the matter. Liang Feng lowered his gaze, allowing a maidservant to assist him with washing up. As his fair feet were placed in the basin, Yiyan suddenly mentioned, “I heard that the lord has been appointed as the governor.”
Liang Feng’s toes flickered, creating ripples in the water. “Yes, the emperor also granted me the title of Governor of Bing County, and I was exempted from taxes in Bing County for three years. However, there will be other candidates for the position of Commanding General.”
With a simple sentence, Yiyan’s heart tightened. He could tell that the person before him had lost weight again, and their complexion was significantly paler. This trip to Luoyang seemed to have been more arduous than just the journey. Judging by the appointment of the Commanding General, it was clear that Prince Donghai had concerns. His lord must have endured considerable hardships on this journey.
And yet, he was not by his lord’s side.
Advertisement
“I only follow my lord’s orders,” Yiyan lowered his blue eyes and said softly.
This was a declaration of loyalty, but Liang Feng could sense the depth of emotion hidden in those words. His head began to ache again. How could he ever unravel this knot with Yiyan?
Liang Feng raised his foot, allowing Qing Mei to wipe away the water stains. He then lay on the couch, saying, “We can discuss the matters in the prefecture when we return.”
Jiang Da also stepped forward, “My lord, you are right. After traveling for two days, you need to rest. General Yi, please help…”
This time, Liang Feng interrupted before Jiang Da could finish, “No need, just acupuncture. Qing Mei can assist.”
Jiang Da raised an eyebrow. Liang Feng had some itching sensation, and during acupuncture, someone should help to hold the points. It was fine for Qing Mei to assist while they were on the road, but now that Yiyan was here, he could provide a firmer grip and was familiar with the treatment. Why not use him?
However, since the lord had given the order, there was no need to insist. Jiang Da shook his head, took out a bag of needles from his pocket, and prepared to perform the acupuncture. Qing Mei, who had been assisting Liang Feng these days, was now used to it. Her face turned slightly red as she leaned in, pressing down on her lord’s somewhat slender legs. Her delicate and tender hands had a fair amount of strength, and the sensation was entirely different.
Liang Feng closed his eyes as if to keep those lingering memories at bay. Yiyan stood nearby, his fists clenched tightly. He knew that things would be entirely different after this. But when facing it head-on, he felt a heart-wrenching pain. Even so, he refused to give up. There had to be something that would prevent his lord from truly pushing him away.
Acupuncture was routine now, and Jiang Da’s hands worked quickly, finishing the procedure in no time. He breathed a sigh of relief and instructed, “My lord, have another dose of medicine and get some rest as soon as possible. It will take two more days to reach Lu City, so you shouldn’t overexert yourself.”
With a medical officer accompanying them, Liang Feng couldn’t escape, even if he wanted to. Liang Feng nodded, “You all should rest early too. Instruct them that there’s no need for night shifts tonight.”
Advertisement
He could sleep soundly in the ox cart, but the people below had to remain vigilant. After finally returning to his own territory, it was only fair to let everyone get a good night’s sleep.
Jiang Da felt a warm glow inside and took his leave. However, Yiyan didn’t follow him out. He took two steps back, standing by the door, and declared, “I will keep watch for my lord.”
“Absurd!” Liang Feng’s brows furrowed. “You’ve just recaptured Qixian, and you should rest. Why keep watch?!”
But Yiyan didn’t back down. “I am my lord’s personal guard, and I must keep watch for my lord.”
These were the same words Yiyan had spoken when Liang Feng had first met him, and now they were being repeated verbatim. Liang Feng couldn’t help but feel amused. “Then, how about resigning from your post and becoming a guard again?”
Yiyan sealed his lips shut. Of course, he couldn’t just be a guard. Being like a shadow, guarding his lord’s side, would that earn him recognition? No, only by eliminating bandits, repelling enemies, and protecting Shangdang, even the entire territory of Lu City, would be the best choice. What his lord needed was always a commander, not just a personal guard.
He placed his right hand over his chest and performed a unique Liang family military salute, then silently left the room. Watching his retreating figure, Liang Feng sighed softly. Had he gone too far? But something was constantly struggling within him, like a lingering ghost. It was hard not to become somewhat impatient and anxious. It’s best to let it go.
Turning to the maid who looked a bit dazed beside him, Liang Feng lowered his voice, “You don’t have to keep watch tonight. Get some rest.”
Qing Mei immediately snapped back to attention and whispered, “This servant is not tired…”
Being able to accompany Liang Feng on the journey had filled her with immense joy. She was capable of enduring this little tiredness.
However, the man on the bed had waved his hand to signal her not to speak further. Seeing the handsome furrow on his brows, Qing Mei couldn’t help but feel a pang of sorrow and quickly lit some calming incense. The gentle fragrance wafted through the small and humble room, bringing a sense of tranquility.
Seeing her lord resting with closed eyes, Qing Mei carefully retreated, planning to go to the kitchen to fetch medicine and prepare some light food. However, as soon as she stepped out, she was startled. Right by the door, a tall man sat like a formidable guardian, as if a mighty vajra, protecting the room. It was none other than Captain Yi, who had just left.
Qing Mei wanted to say something, but Yiyan gestured for her to be quiet. Unlike her lord, this man exuded an aura that sent chills down one’s spine in every move. However, Qing Mei had witnessed how he cared for her lord, and with him around, she did feel safer. She obediently nodded and left quietly.
Leaning against the door, Yiyan’s eyelids drooped slightly. When he first entered the Liang residence, he used to stand guard for his lord every night. No matter how tired he was from daytime training, as long as he was by his lord’s side at night, he felt an endless reserve of energy. It was as if his entire being was filled with an unwavering loyalty ready to give everything for his lord. But today, things are no longer that simple. He desired too much, far beyond the boundaries of a master and servant. Taking this step meant there was no turning back.
Just like changing how he referred to himself.
Advertisement
However, regrets were now useless. The only thing he could do was to hold onto that last straw even tighter, so it wouldn’t be swept away by the tide. After all, his lord still needed him.
The sound of soft footsteps approached from the corridor, and Yiyan lifted his head abruptly, his icy gaze piercing like a blade. Qing Mei was startled, and the tray she was carrying trembled in her hands. But his previously fierce blue eyes softened, and he heaved a small sigh of relief. Qing Mei tiptoed around the imposing young man and entered the room.
The door closed once again, and Yiyan quietly closed his eyes.
After finishing the medicine and having a little porridge, Liang Feng lay back on the bed. The symptoms of motion sickness gradually subsided, but another indescribable sensation washed over him, making it difficult for him to sleep. He had experienced this during his time in Luoyang, but he hadn’t expected that a mere touch would reignite those unsettling feelings. It was even more embarrassing than a craving for opium1!
He had already overcome his addiction, so he refused to yield to these temptations. He clenched his teeth, trying to clear his mind of the distracting thoughts. Unconsciously, one of his hands continued to rub the area that had been touched, as if trying to erase the coarse sensation completely from his skin.
It was like this from the first appearance of nightfall until the moonlight bathed the ground, and he finally fell into a deep slumber. Just as everything in the room returned to tranquility, the door creaked open slightly.
A figure, bathed in moonlight, entered the room. Unarmored, their steps were light as if they were a wisp of a ghost, not disturbing the sleeping master and servant. Avoiding the deeply sleeping servant girl, the person approached the edge of Liang Feng’s bed and knelt down. The moonlight cast an eerie glow, adding an unsettling aura to the sleeping face.
After observing quietly for a while, the person gently raised their hand and caressed the other’s cheek. This touch was even lighter than a falling feather, gliding along the cheekbone and pausing on the soft lips. With this slight contact, memories of past intimacies rushed back. As if startled by the touch, the person on the bed stirred, moving closer like a small animal.
In the silent room, the sound of breathing suddenly became a bit louder. However, it soon quieted down again. The hand lingered on the other’s cheek for a moment before retracting.
No further actions followed, and the shadow seemed to have become part of the bed, remaining motionless for a long time.
Author’s note:
Liang Feng: Can this stop already? Can’t I sleep without someone touching my face? Stop! Touching! My! Face!
Little Wolf: … →_→
