In the grand hall of Pingyang, Liu Yuan leaned on the table with one hand, supporting his chin with the other, feeling a buzzing in his ears. What had he just heard? Was it the defeat of the Shangdang army? Did thirty thousand troops suffer heavy losses? Had the commander-in-chief fallen?
His family, his son Xuanming, fell in battle?
“Absurd!” He slammed the table, shouting angrily, “Didn’t Xuanming lead armored cavalry? And there were so many elite riders! How could they suffer a major defeat?!”
The attending courtier was already drenched in cold sweat, bowing again, “Your Majesty, this time Shangdang sought assistance from the Tuoba tribe. They employed deceitful tactics, causing Prince Chu to be ambushed. The routed soldiers have retreated along the Huzi River, and many claim to have heard thunder during the battle…”
He dared not say more. Rumors of Buddhist prophecies had long become a taboo in the court, and no one dared to inflate the prestige of others in the palace.
Upon hearing the words “thunder,” Liu Yuan trembled all over as if a long-standing nightmare had surged into his heart. Wasn’t it Liang Zixi’s deduction that figured out the solar eclipse was a battle signal? Wasn’t it suggested that the thunder might be some kind of trickery? How could such occurrences happen again and again? Now, even his beloved son was about to be swallowed by this nightmare…
After trembling for a while, he finally squeezed out a sentence through his clenched teeth, “Where is Xuanming’s corpse?”
“This… all of Prince Chu’s personal guards perished, and his body has not been recovered…”
“Order the Sixth Army to march! I want to personally crush Shangdang!” After ascending to the throne, Liu Yuan often carefully chose his words, assuming the demeanor of an emperor. But now, he didn’t even say “I,” clearly enraged to the extreme.
Upon hearing this, the courtiers below knelt in a clamor, and Grand Preceptor Wang Yu hurriedly said, “Your Majesty, the main army is currently campaigning in Henan and has not yet returned. How can we easily raise troops? Besides, Luoyang is vulnerable and could be a target. On the other hand, Bing County is strong, and with the support of the Tuoba tribe, we cannot act rashly!”
“Insolence! My son has been killed by that traitor. If I don’t avenge this, what kind of emperor am I?!” Liu Yuan was visibly angered, directly rebuking.
“Your Majesty, calm down!” On the other side, Sikong Huyan Yi also spoke, “Back then, during the defeat at Wan City, did Wei Wu not reemploy Zhang Xiu? Patience in small matters avoids chaos in great schemes!”
Advertisement
AD
Huyan Yi was referring to past events. During the Battle of Wan City, Wei Wu (Cao Cao) lost his eldest son Cao Ang, nephew Cao Anmin, and even the valiant general Dian Wei, who sacrificed himself to protect him. However, later, to attack Yuan Shao, Cao Cao once again accepted the surrender of Zhang Xiu, even hosting a feast to dispel past grievances. He even arranged for his son Cao Jun to marry Zhang Xiu’s daughter.
“Wei Wu died with his eldest son who was to inherit the family legacy. You’ve only lost a fourth son; how can you let things get so out of hand?” Hu Yi’s words were stern and justified. However, as the father of Empress Hu, he had long been displeased with Liu Cong, fearing that this favored son of Liu Yuan would snatch the crown prince position from his daughter’s son, Liu He. Now that Liu Cong had met a violent end, he naturally stepped forward to advise Liu Yuan to suppress his anger.
These words indeed silenced Liu Yuan. As a new sovereign, he had often envied Wei Wu. However, when things came to his own head, he realized the difficulties. Liu Cong was not like his other sons; he had been his beloved son since his youth. They served in the Jin state together and endured as hostages in a foreign land together. Just these aspects were enough to move Liu Yuan. Moreover, Liu Cong was exceptionally filial. In the past, to prevent suspicion from Prince Chengdu, he even abandoned the newly acquired official position and joined Prince Chengdu.
The death of such a son, with no trace of his body remaining!
Just thinking about this made Liu Yuan feel a heart-wrenching pain, making even breathing difficult. However, who among the people below cared about his feelings?
Wang Yu spoke again, “The former Grand Historian once said that it would take three years to capture Luoyang, indicating that the fate of the Jin state is not yet exhausted. Since it is not achievable this time, why not withdraw the troops early, march westward, and recapture Chang’an? Once Chang’an is secured, the foundation of the Han state will be stabilized.”
This was their previous strategic plan, but Liu Yuan was always reluctant to let Sikong Yue go on a good opportunity for an expedition. He also had the desire to showcase national prestige, so they chose to go to Luoyang. Unexpectedly, before Henan could be captured, news of the defeat of the Shangdang army1 arrived, leaving them with no good options this time.
After a moment of silence, Liu Yuan slowly said, “Order the forces in the west to withdraw and return to the capital, then make further plans.”
Advertisement
AD
Seeing him finally calm down, Wang Yu also breathed a sigh of relief and bowed in agreement. However, Liu Yuan did not want to stay in the court for long; he quickly dispersed the court, like a true elderly man. He walked along the narrow corridor of Pingyang Palace, shuffling towards the harem.
※
“Liang Zixi has indeed won!” When he saw the head displayed in the wooden box, Sima Qin did not feel disgusted; instead, he was excited, convinced he had not misjudged the person!
“Annihilating ten thousand enemies and killing the enemy commander! This is a great victory! Have the forces besieging Henan also retreated?” The young emperor turned to Wang Yan and asked.
Wang Yan smiled and stroked his beard, “Exactly so. The pseudo-Han forces were originally divided into two routes. Who would have thought that Liu Cong would be defeated so decisively? The siege of Luoyang this time can be considered resolved.”
“Truly worthy of Liang Zixi!” The young emperor couldn’t help but show joy.
Since ascending to the throne, no one had taken his words seriously. Apart from sitting on the imperial throne daily, resembling a clay figurine, the young emperor had no chance to exercise the power in his hands. He also had to guard against the eager gaze of Sima Yue, fearing that any misstep might provoke his suspicion, leading to a cup of poisoned wine and the loss of his life.
It was precisely because of these cautious days that when he appointed Liang Feng as the governor for the first time and supported him in winning a victory, the self-satisfaction was overwhelming, giving rise to a feeling of intoxication. Now, he could employ capable individuals, control state affairs, and even outshine Sima Yue by many measures!
However, this thought only lasted for a moment, and the young emperor became alert again. He stole a glance at Wang Yan sitting beside him. Minister Wang was Sima Yue’s confidant, and he couldn’t let him harbor any suspicions.
With a light cough, Sima Qin said, “Liang Zixi has achieved great merit again. How should we reward him?”
Advertisement
AD
This submissive and inquiring tone made Wang Yan somewhat headache-inducing. While it was good that Liang Zixi lifted the siege of Luoyang, how could they explain this to Sima Yue? He probably wouldn’t be pleased with the news of the young emperor reallocating grain, prompting the victory in Shangdang. If the rewards were too lavish, it might displease Sima Yue. Yet, if they were too meager, how could they appropriately acknowledge this remarkable feat?
After pondering for a moment, Wang Yan finally said, “In the dispatch, Sir Liang mentioned that the Xianbei came to assist, and their contribution was significant. He wishes to request a fief on behalf of the Tuoba clan. Your Majesty can reward them accordingly.”
By mentioning the Tuoba tribe first, he aimed to gradually divert credit away from Shangdang. Although Dai Commandery was in You County, it was remote and harsh, so bestowing it upon the Tuoba tribe would likely not raise objections from Sima Yue.
The young emperor nodded, “That makes sense. What about Liang Zixi himself?”
Seeing the other party persisting, Wang Yan’s mouth twitched slightly. He casually replied, “Liang Zixi was granted the county marquisate just a few months ago, and he was recently promoted to the position of commander. It might be inappropriate to bestow more titles upon him now. It would be better to wait for the grand court ceremony on New Year’s Day to confer rewards. Granting him a noble estate this time would be suitable.”
The young emperor’s brows slightly furrowed. Waiting until New Year’s Day for the grand court ceremony would mean handing over the authority to confer rewards to his benevolent uncle, Sima Yue. How could small gestures like granting estates showcase his appreciation?
However, when the words were on the tip of his tongue, the young emperor ultimately couldn’t utter them. He silently nodded, “Then let’s follow Minister Wang’s suggestion.”
Now was not the time for him to assert authority. Self-preservation was the best choice.
Seeing that the limited authority he had just used was taken away again, the young emperor endured and said, “The generals in Henan should also be rewarded.”
Those stationed in Henan were all under Sima Yue’s command. This command was evidently an acknowledgment to Sima Yue. Wang Yan couldn’t help but smile, “Your Majesty is indeed considerate.”
After dealing with these personnel arrangements, Wang Yan hesitated for a moment and added, “However, this head should be returned to Liu Yuan.”
“What?” The young emperor suddenly raised his head, “Why return it to the pseudo-Han? Shouldn’t traitors like them be executed without exception?!”
Wang Yan sighed lightly, “Whether it’s Liu Yuan or Liu Xuan, they were once officials of our Great Jin. Now that they are dead, humiliating their corpses is inappropriate. Your Majesty should have a benevolent heart.”
Sima Qin looked at the other party’s compassionate face, remaining silent for a long time. A benevolent heart? The rebellious ministers and traitors like Liu Yuan and his ilk were about to overthrow the dominance of the Sima family. Why should there be benevolence toward them? Was Wang Yan seeking fame for himself, or was he trying to curry favor with the pseudo-Han? Did Wang Yan even remember which dynasty’s official he was?
“…Minister Wang’s words are indeed reasonable.” Clenching his fist tightly, the young emperor replied in a low voice.
Advertisement
AD
The fire suppressed in his chest burned even more fiercely. One day, he would summon loyal ministers with a decree tied to a belt, just like Emperor Xian of Han did, and kill these traitorous officials who controlled the court! However, he wouldn’t be as foolish as Liu Bei, caught red-handed by Cao Cao. Sima Yue must die! Wang Yan must die! As long as he endured a little longer, grew up, and had more trusted subordinates, he could then execute this thunderous blow!
Regardless of how the currents surged in the Luoyang Palace, that severed head finally found its place on a wooden-carved body and was sent back to Pingyang. Perhaps this eerie “act of kindness” earned gratitude from the pseudo-Han. The conflicts along the Heng and Henan frontlines surprisingly settled down. Along with it, Bing County also welcomed a long-awaited tranquility.
Half a month later, the troops stationed in Shangdang divided into several groups, returning to their respective garrisons. The garrisons also disbanded, joining the intense winter plowing and land reclamation. The winter solstice was approaching, and swift planting was essential.
However, not everyone followed suit. Another group of troops bid farewell to Shangdang, guarding several horse carriages, and slowly heading towards Jinyang.
Several days later.
“Father!” Liang Rong practically ran into Liang Feng’s arms.
This was hardly proper etiquette, but how could Liang Feng possibly mind? He reached out and gently patted his son’s horned head, softly saying, “These days, Rong’er, have you been scared?”
“I’m not scared, Father!” Liang Rong’s voice raised a couple of notches, “I even learned a lot of military strategies from General Yi!”
Liang Feng raised an eyebrow in surprise, looking up to find Yiyan’s gray-blue eyes meeting his own. The smile on his lips faded slightly, and Liang Feng spoke softly, “In this battle, Boyuan has also worked hard.”
Yiyan did not reply but instead saluted him with the military courtesy of the Liang Family Army. His demeanor didn’t seem like boasting about achievements; rather, it resembled an expression of missing someone.
The hand on Liang Rong’s shoulder tightened slightly, and Liang Feng smiled, “After a weary journey, it’s best to enter the mansion and rest.”
Liang Rong, oblivious to the subtle atmosphere around him, happily pulled his father’s hand and walked towards the unfamiliar mansion of the regional governor. Behind them, Ye Yan’s steps paused for a moment before catching up.
the Xiongnu army set to attack Shangdang, not the army from Shangdang
In the grand hall of Pingyang, Liu Yuan leaned on the table with one hand, supporting his chin with the other, feeling a buzzing in his ears. What had he just heard? Was it the defeat of the Shangdang army? Did thirty thousand troops suffer heavy losses? Had the commander-in-chief fallen?
His family, his son Xuanming, fell in battle?
“Absurd!” He slammed the table, shouting angrily, “Didn’t Xuanming lead armored cavalry? And there were so many elite riders! How could they suffer a major defeat?!”
The attending courtier was already drenched in cold sweat, bowing again, “Your Majesty, this time Shangdang sought assistance from the Tuoba tribe. They employed deceitful tactics, causing Prince Chu to be ambushed. The routed soldiers have retreated along the Huzi River, and many claim to have heard thunder during the battle…”
He dared not say more. Rumors of Buddhist prophecies had long become a taboo in the court, and no one dared to inflate the prestige of others in the palace.
Upon hearing the words “thunder,” Liu Yuan trembled all over as if a long-standing nightmare had surged into his heart. Wasn’t it Liang Zixi’s deduction that figured out the solar eclipse was a battle signal? Wasn’t it suggested that the thunder might be some kind of trickery? How could such occurrences happen again and again? Now, even his beloved son was about to be swallowed by this nightmare…
After trembling for a while, he finally squeezed out a sentence through his clenched teeth, “Where is Xuanming’s corpse?”
“This… all of Prince Chu’s personal guards perished, and his body has not been recovered…”
“Order the Sixth Army to march! I want to personally crush Shangdang!” After ascending to the throne, Liu Yuan often carefully chose his words, assuming the demeanor of an emperor. But now, he didn’t even say “I,” clearly enraged to the extreme.
Upon hearing this, the courtiers below knelt in a clamor, and Grand Preceptor Wang Yu hurriedly said, “Your Majesty, the main army is currently campaigning in Henan and has not yet returned. How can we easily raise troops? Besides, Luoyang is vulnerable and could be a target. On the other hand, Bing County is strong, and with the support of the Tuoba tribe, we cannot act rashly!”
“Insolence! My son has been killed by that traitor. If I don’t avenge this, what kind of emperor am I?!” Liu Yuan was visibly angered, directly rebuking.
“Your Majesty, calm down!” On the other side, Sikong Huyan Yi also spoke, “Back then, during the defeat at Wan City, did Wei Wu not reemploy Zhang Xiu? Patience in small matters avoids chaos in great schemes!”
Advertisement
AD
Huyan Yi was referring to past events. During the Battle of Wan City, Wei Wu (Cao Cao) lost his eldest son Cao Ang, nephew Cao Anmin, and even the valiant general Dian Wei, who sacrificed himself to protect him. However, later, to attack Yuan Shao, Cao Cao once again accepted the surrender of Zhang Xiu, even hosting a feast to dispel past grievances. He even arranged for his son Cao Jun to marry Zhang Xiu’s daughter.
“Wei Wu died with his eldest son who was to inherit the family legacy. You’ve only lost a fourth son; how can you let things get so out of hand?” Hu Yi’s words were stern and justified. However, as the father of Empress Hu, he had long been displeased with Liu Cong, fearing that this favored son of Liu Yuan would snatch the crown prince position from his daughter’s son, Liu He. Now that Liu Cong had met a violent end, he naturally stepped forward to advise Liu Yuan to suppress his anger.
These words indeed silenced Liu Yuan. As a new sovereign, he had often envied Wei Wu. However, when things came to his own head, he realized the difficulties. Liu Cong was not like his other sons; he had been his beloved son since his youth. They served in the Jin state together and endured as hostages in a foreign land together. Just these aspects were enough to move Liu Yuan. Moreover, Liu Cong was exceptionally filial. In the past, to prevent suspicion from Prince Chengdu, he even abandoned the newly acquired official position and joined Prince Chengdu.
The death of such a son, with no trace of his body remaining!
Just thinking about this made Liu Yuan feel a heart-wrenching pain, making even breathing difficult. However, who among the people below cared about his feelings?
Wang Yu spoke again, “The former Grand Historian once said that it would take three years to capture Luoyang, indicating that the fate of the Jin state is not yet exhausted. Since it is not achievable this time, why not withdraw the troops early, march westward, and recapture Chang’an? Once Chang’an is secured, the foundation of the Han state will be stabilized.”
This was their previous strategic plan, but Liu Yuan was always reluctant to let Sikong Yue go on a good opportunity for an expedition. He also had the desire to showcase national prestige, so they chose to go to Luoyang. Unexpectedly, before Henan could be captured, news of the defeat of the Shangdang army1 arrived, leaving them with no good options this time.
After a moment of silence, Liu Yuan slowly said, “Order the forces in the west to withdraw and return to the capital, then make further plans.”
Advertisement
AD
Seeing him finally calm down, Wang Yu also breathed a sigh of relief and bowed in agreement. However, Liu Yuan did not want to stay in the court for long; he quickly dispersed the court, like a true elderly man. He walked along the narrow corridor of Pingyang Palace, shuffling towards the harem.
※
“Liang Zixi has indeed won!” When he saw the head displayed in the wooden box, Sima Qin did not feel disgusted; instead, he was excited, convinced he had not misjudged the person!
“Annihilating ten thousand enemies and killing the enemy commander! This is a great victory! Have the forces besieging Henan also retreated?” The young emperor turned to Wang Yan and asked.
Wang Yan smiled and stroked his beard, “Exactly so. The pseudo-Han forces were originally divided into two routes. Who would have thought that Liu Cong would be defeated so decisively? The siege of Luoyang this time can be considered resolved.”
“Truly worthy of Liang Zixi!” The young emperor couldn’t help but show joy.
Since ascending to the throne, no one had taken his words seriously. Apart from sitting on the imperial throne daily, resembling a clay figurine, the young emperor had no chance to exercise the power in his hands. He also had to guard against the eager gaze of Sima Yue, fearing that any misstep might provoke his suspicion, leading to a cup of poisoned wine and the loss of his life.
It was precisely because of these cautious days that when he appointed Liang Feng as the governor for the first time and supported him in winning a victory, the self-satisfaction was overwhelming, giving rise to a feeling of intoxication. Now, he could employ capable individuals, control state affairs, and even outshine Sima Yue by many measures!
However, this thought only lasted for a moment, and the young emperor became alert again. He stole a glance at Wang Yan sitting beside him. Minister Wang was Sima Yue’s confidant, and he couldn’t let him harbor any suspicions.
With a light cough, Sima Qin said, “Liang Zixi has achieved great merit again. How should we reward him?”
Advertisement
AD
This submissive and inquiring tone made Wang Yan somewhat headache-inducing. While it was good that Liang Zixi lifted the siege of Luoyang, how could they explain this to Sima Yue? He probably wouldn’t be pleased with the news of the young emperor reallocating grain, prompting the victory in Shangdang. If the rewards were too lavish, it might displease Sima Yue. Yet, if they were too meager, how could they appropriately acknowledge this remarkable feat?
After pondering for a moment, Wang Yan finally said, “In the dispatch, Sir Liang mentioned that the Xianbei came to assist, and their contribution was significant. He wishes to request a fief on behalf of the Tuoba clan. Your Majesty can reward them accordingly.”
By mentioning the Tuoba tribe first, he aimed to gradually divert credit away from Shangdang. Although Dai Commandery was in You County, it was remote and harsh, so bestowing it upon the Tuoba tribe would likely not raise objections from Sima Yue.
The young emperor nodded, “That makes sense. What about Liang Zixi himself?”
Seeing the other party persisting, Wang Yan’s mouth twitched slightly. He casually replied, “Liang Zixi was granted the county marquisate just a few months ago, and he was recently promoted to the position of commander. It might be inappropriate to bestow more titles upon him now. It would be better to wait for the grand court ceremony on New Year’s Day to confer rewards. Granting him a noble estate this time would be suitable.”
The young emperor’s brows slightly furrowed. Waiting until New Year’s Day for the grand court ceremony would mean handing over the authority to confer rewards to his benevolent uncle, Sima Yue. How could small gestures like granting estates showcase his appreciation?
However, when the words were on the tip of his tongue, the young emperor ultimately couldn’t utter them. He silently nodded, “Then let’s follow Minister Wang’s suggestion.”
Now was not the time for him to assert authority. Self-preservation was the best choice.
Seeing that the limited authority he had just used was taken away again, the young emperor endured and said, “The generals in Henan should also be rewarded.”
Those stationed in Henan were all under Sima Yue’s command. This command was evidently an acknowledgment to Sima Yue. Wang Yan couldn’t help but smile, “Your Majesty is indeed considerate.”
After dealing with these personnel arrangements, Wang Yan hesitated for a moment and added, “However, this head should be returned to Liu Yuan.”
“What?” The young emperor suddenly raised his head, “Why return it to the pseudo-Han? Shouldn’t traitors like them be executed without exception?!”
Wang Yan sighed lightly, “Whether it’s Liu Yuan or Liu Xuan, they were once officials of our Great Jin. Now that they are dead, humiliating their corpses is inappropriate. Your Majesty should have a benevolent heart.”
Sima Qin looked at the other party’s compassionate face, remaining silent for a long time. A benevolent heart? The rebellious ministers and traitors like Liu Yuan and his ilk were about to overthrow the dominance of the Sima family. Why should there be benevolence toward them? Was Wang Yan seeking fame for himself, or was he trying to curry favor with the pseudo-Han? Did Wang Yan even remember which dynasty’s official he was?
“…Minister Wang’s words are indeed reasonable.” Clenching his fist tightly, the young emperor replied in a low voice.
Advertisement
AD
The fire suppressed in his chest burned even more fiercely. One day, he would summon loyal ministers with a decree tied to a belt, just like Emperor Xian of Han did, and kill these traitorous officials who controlled the court! However, he wouldn’t be as foolish as Liu Bei, caught red-handed by Cao Cao. Sima Yue must die! Wang Yan must die! As long as he endured a little longer, grew up, and had more trusted subordinates, he could then execute this thunderous blow!
Regardless of how the currents surged in the Luoyang Palace, that severed head finally found its place on a wooden-carved body and was sent back to Pingyang. Perhaps this eerie “act of kindness” earned gratitude from the pseudo-Han. The conflicts along the Heng and Henan frontlines surprisingly settled down. Along with it, Bing County also welcomed a long-awaited tranquility.
Half a month later, the troops stationed in Shangdang divided into several groups, returning to their respective garrisons. The garrisons also disbanded, joining the intense winter plowing and land reclamation. The winter solstice was approaching, and swift planting was essential.
However, not everyone followed suit. Another group of troops bid farewell to Shangdang, guarding several horse carriages, and slowly heading towards Jinyang.
Several days later.
“Father!” Liang Rong practically ran into Liang Feng’s arms.
This was hardly proper etiquette, but how could Liang Feng possibly mind? He reached out and gently patted his son’s horned head, softly saying, “These days, Rong’er, have you been scared?”
“I’m not scared, Father!” Liang Rong’s voice raised a couple of notches, “I even learned a lot of military strategies from General Yi!”
Liang Feng raised an eyebrow in surprise, looking up to find Yiyan’s gray-blue eyes meeting his own. The smile on his lips faded slightly, and Liang Feng spoke softly, “In this battle, Boyuan has also worked hard.”
Yiyan did not reply but instead saluted him with the military courtesy of the Liang Family Army. His demeanor didn’t seem like boasting about achievements; rather, it resembled an expression of missing someone.
The hand on Liang Rong’s shoulder tightened slightly, and Liang Feng smiled, “After a weary journey, it’s best to enter the mansion and rest.”
Liang Rong, oblivious to the subtle atmosphere around him, happily pulled his father’s hand and walked towards the unfamiliar mansion of the regional governor. Behind them, Ye Yan’s steps paused for a moment before catching up.
the Xiongnu army set to attack Shangdang, not the army from Shangdang
