The provincial governor’s mansion can be compared to the commandery governor’s residence in Shangdang, but it is much more spacious and extravagant. Liang Rong was seeing such a mansion for the first time, inevitably feeling a bit distracted. However, he was well-mannered, merely casting a curious glance around without displaying any envious expression. Obediently, he followed alongside his father, arriving at the main courtyard of the mansion.
Sima Teng has always been extravagant, and the provincial governor’s mansion he renovated is certainly not simple. Even in winter, evergreen trees are in the courtyard, and a few plum blossoms have bloomed, giving it a serene and elegant charm. Leading Liang Rong into the house to sit down, Liang Feng took a slight breath before saying, “Rong’er, have you been comfortable during your time in Shangdang?”
Liang Rong obediently nodded, “Every day, the child has been studying diligently, and archery and musical skills have improved. Father, why have you lost so much weight? Is the administrative work in Jinyang too exhausting?”
Unexpectedly, Liang Rong noticed his father’s weight loss immediately. Liang Feng smiled and replied, “I caught a slight cold recently, but I’m better now. Has Rong’er made progress in his studies?”
When the topic shifted to academics, Liang Rong’s attention was immediately captured. He eagerly said, “Father gave me ‘Mencius,’ and I have already mastered it. Master Fan also taught ‘Xunzi,’ and I’m only a few chapters away from completing it!”
Liang Feng raised an eyebrow; Fan Long taught Liang Rong ‘Xunzi’? While the ‘Exhortation to Learn’ is indeed suitable for children, the content of ‘Xunzi’ often contradicts the ideas expressed in ‘Mencius.’ Since Fan Long knew that he gave Liang Rong ‘Mencius,’ why would he also instruct him in ‘Xunzi’?
“Oh? Did Master Fan give any instructions when teaching these two books?” Liang Feng asked thoughtfully.
“Master Fan said: The ruler’s enlightenment comes from listening broadly; his ignorance arises from narrow beliefs. Only through extensive reading can one understand principles,” Liang Rong replied, thinking this was also a test from his father, answering with utmost sincerity.
“Listening broadly leads to enlightenment, while biased belief results in darkness.” This is indeed a wise saying, often used to advise emperors. Fan Long, being a great scholar, wouldn’t casually mis-speak. Uttering such words to someone like Liang Rong implies a certain intention.
Liang Feng sighed inwardly, “Apart from Master Fan, has Magistrate Cui also taught you something?”
“Yes! Some time ago, Magistrate Cui had me stay in the military tent to learn sand table formations, military strategies, and tactics. However, Master Fan still taught me more,” Liang Rong spoke frankly, without concealing anything.
Does an ordinary eight-year-old child need to observe military operations in real time? Both Cui Ji and Fan Long seem to have set their sights on him for bigger things. So, Liang Rong is not just his son; he is the heir to this vast legacy, the future successor. The question remains, does Liang Rong himself fully understand what he will face?
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Liang Feng couldn’t help but extend his hand, gently stroking his son’s head, “Rong’er is truly diligent. Once the situation stabilizes next year, I will move the Chongwen Academy to Jinyang. You can study by my side then.”
This was exactly what Liang Rong most wanted to hear. He grabbed onto Liang Feng’s sleeve, nodding vigorously, too excited to even speak.
Since the attack in Shangdang, Liang Feng has been considering the relocation of the political and economic center. Shangdang was just a corner of Bing County; a county school could be established, but the Chongwen Academy was not a county school—it was a nurturing ground for the offspring of officials. A prestigious institution like this, rich in political significance, indeed should be situated nearby. Separating governance and education also promoted the diversity of talents. When fully matured, it could even lead to the establishment of an academy directly in Jinyang. The establishment of education centers in Shangdang and Jinyang was a significant sign of Bing County gradually stabilizing. It held great significance.
However, at this moment, these profound considerations paled in comparison to the joy reflected in Liang Rong’s smiling face. The carefree days for the little guy might not last much longer. Being drawn into the struggle for dominance, his childhood would soon be a completely different experience.
Unsure if it was empathy at play, Liang Feng unexpectedly felt a bit reluctant in his heart. He spoke softly, “You’ve been on the road for several days, and you must be tired. Go freshen up and have a meal. Tomorrow, I’ll take my time to assess your academic and archery skills.”
Having received the best news, Liang Rong no longer insisted and left the main hall reluctantly. Without this lively little guy, the room fell into a brief silence. The person who had been sitting silently on the side, never uttering a word, could no longer be ignored.
Although they hadn’t seen each other for over a month, the exchange of official letters between them had never ceased. From the battle situation and casualties in Shangdang to the subsequent arrangements, as well as the imperial rewards, each detail required careful instructions, leaving no room for negligence. Yet, with official matters exhausted, what more could be said?
Liang Feng remained silent for a moment before slowly speaking, “Jinyang has started cultivating farmland. The military settlement this time will be overseen by Li Jun.”
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Using this as an opening statement might not be entirely appropriate. After all, Yiyan had preserved the merits in Shangdang; how could he suddenly be informed of a division of power?
Yiyan obviously didn’t anticipate Liang Feng bringing up this matter, but there was no hint of frustration or anger on his face. He simply nodded, “Li Jun has some pride, and he has capable subordinates. It’s worth a try.”
He seemed completely indifferent to the division of power? Liang Feng hesitated for a moment and continued, “The garrison is, after all, just a reserve force. In recent days, many Xiongnu splinter groups have surrendered, and I have made agreements with them for conscription. You will have to train these soldiers. After the battles in Yanmen and Shangdang, we’ve captured quite several horses. Combined with the horse trade with the Tuoba tribe, we can expand the Tiger and Wolf Camp…”
This meant entrusting all the cavalry in Bing County to him. It was indeed a significant responsibility, yet Yiyan still showed little emotion on his face, saying, “I will train these new recruits properly.”
Seeing the calm reaction, Liang Feng frowned slightly, “Is there any change in the Prefecture?”
“Chen Ying is using the military prudently. This time, he led his troops to defeat the enemy besieging Gaodu. The regular troops are still scheduled for deployment on the first of March, and their training is going well.” Yiyan knew what Liang Feng wanted to ask and responded straightforwardly.
Ever since Zhang He took up the position of Captain in Shangdang, his deputy, Chen Shun, succeeded as the Commander of the Liang residence camp. This ensured a reliable supply of grassroots military officers, trained by the Liang family, for Shangdang and even the entire Bing County. This was the key to guaranteeing Liang Feng’s control over the garrison. Even if Li Jun became the actual leader of the Jinyang garrison, the soldiers would ultimately still follow Liang Feng’s orders.
Seeing him say so, Liang Feng nodded, “I heard that Zhang He is preparing for marriage recently?”
The question came abruptly, and Yiyan paused before saying, “It’s a young lady from the Xue family. Captain Zhang mentioned to me that he wished to marry a lady from a prestigious family. If my lord finds it inappropriate, I can have him postpone the wedding.”
This Xue family naturally referred to Xue Ren. After taking over the external trade of the Liang residence, he gradually became an integral part of the inner circle. However, being “integral” was not enough to reassure Xue Ren. Marrying his daughter to Zhang He was an unexpectedly strategic move. Although Zhang He commanded the valiant camp, he was ultimately of commoner origin and could be considered Liang Feng’s servant. No matter how small the Xue family was, they were still a noble family. Such a cross-class marriage could easily turn the Xue family into a subject of ridicule.
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Nevertheless, despite all this, Xue Ren still agreed to the marriage. This alone proved his determination to integrate into this small collective.
Liang Feng waved his hand, “Marrying into the Xue family is not a problem. As long as Zhang He is clear about his position, he must not open any convenient doors for the Xue family because of this marriage.”
Xue Ren was a clever man, and he probably wouldn’t let Zhang He marry the tricky Fifth Sister. This goodwill gesture was meant for himself, and there was no need to spoil it. Similarly, Zhang He was also a smart person, knowing that he could marry a lady from a prestigious family not because of his official position but because of his background in the Liang residence camp. If it were someone else, Liang Feng might have had some concerns. However, with these two individuals, he had nothing to worry about.
Even Zhang He, who was unusually ambitious, had married. What about Yiyan?
Liang Feng opened his mouth but didn’t speak. Since that day, they hadn’t spent much time together, and in recent months, they hadn’t even seen each other. However, for some reason, Yiyan became even more silent in front of him, suppressing worries and unrestrained concerns. He behaved like a standard subordinate, not taking a step beyond the boundaries.
Such restraint made Liang Feng somewhat restless. Playing hard to get was a classic strategy, but he didn’t think Yiyan was deliberately doing it. Because that deep affection still existed, but the other party no longer revealed it openly, no longer pressed forward relentlessly. It was like a volcano covered by snow, leaving only a calm and sparkling lake.
Liang Feng had encountered overly persistent female companions before. Once they started seeking “true love” rather than mere physical desires, he would straightforwardly let go. Anything too intense would be discarded, turning grotesque and ugly, later consumed by time. In this realm, he had never invested a single ounce of emotion nor shown the slightest vulnerability. Relationships between men and women, to him, were nothing more than a means to relax, a harmless fusion of conquest and control desires.
However, now his desire for conquest and control had a new, undeniable target. Women became easily attainable appendages. Everything was turned upside down, no longer resembling the past, leaving him agitated and restless.
If Yiyan had been as wild as he was on that day, it’s uncertain whether Liang Feng would have severed those confusing thoughts by now. Unfortunately, this man was stubborn, bordering on self-infliction.
After another subtle silence, Liang Feng finally sighed softly, “The official residence in Jinyang is in disrepair and inhabitable. You can stay at the provincial governor’s mansion, and I’ll have someone arrange a courtyard for you.”
Previously, Liang Feng hadn’t completely secured control over Jinyang, so Yiyan mostly stayed in the military camp. However, now that the situation had stabilized, Jinyang’s finances were strained, making it impossible to spend on renovating the official residence. Therefore, many of his subordinates were currently residing in the provincial governor’s mansion. Since he had no family members to accommodate, the empty courtyards remained unused.
Everyone was arranged in such a manner, but speaking these words to Yiyan felt somewhat awkward to Liang Feng. Yiyan’s eyes brightened slightly, but his words remained respectful, “Thank you, my lord, for the arrangement.”
Liang Feng’s gaze swept over the faint, almost imperceptible scars on the man’s face. He averted his eyes, “You’ve taken good care of Rong’er.”
He didn’t bring up the events in Shangdang and only lightly mentioned Liang Rong. Yiyan’s chest tightened, and he whispered, “My lord, rest assured.”
This time, Liang Feng didn’t respond.
Yiyan bowed again and slowly retreated.
The provincial governor’s mansion can be compared to the commandery governor’s residence in Shangdang, but it is much more spacious and extravagant. Liang Rong was seeing such a mansion for the first time, inevitably feeling a bit distracted. However, he was well-mannered, merely casting a curious glance around without displaying any envious expression. Obediently, he followed alongside his father, arriving at the main courtyard of the mansion.
Sima Teng has always been extravagant, and the provincial governor’s mansion he renovated is certainly not simple. Even in winter, evergreen trees are in the courtyard, and a few plum blossoms have bloomed, giving it a serene and elegant charm. Leading Liang Rong into the house to sit down, Liang Feng took a slight breath before saying, “Rong’er, have you been comfortable during your time in Shangdang?”
Liang Rong obediently nodded, “Every day, the child has been studying diligently, and archery and musical skills have improved. Father, why have you lost so much weight? Is the administrative work in Jinyang too exhausting?”
Unexpectedly, Liang Rong noticed his father’s weight loss immediately. Liang Feng smiled and replied, “I caught a slight cold recently, but I’m better now. Has Rong’er made progress in his studies?”
When the topic shifted to academics, Liang Rong’s attention was immediately captured. He eagerly said, “Father gave me ‘Mencius,’ and I have already mastered it. Master Fan also taught ‘Xunzi,’ and I’m only a few chapters away from completing it!”
Liang Feng raised an eyebrow; Fan Long taught Liang Rong ‘Xunzi’? While the ‘Exhortation to Learn’ is indeed suitable for children, the content of ‘Xunzi’ often contradicts the ideas expressed in ‘Mencius.’ Since Fan Long knew that he gave Liang Rong ‘Mencius,’ why would he also instruct him in ‘Xunzi’?
“Oh? Did Master Fan give any instructions when teaching these two books?” Liang Feng asked thoughtfully.
“Master Fan said: The ruler’s enlightenment comes from listening broadly; his ignorance arises from narrow beliefs. Only through extensive reading can one understand principles,” Liang Rong replied, thinking this was also a test from his father, answering with utmost sincerity.
“Listening broadly leads to enlightenment, while biased belief results in darkness.” This is indeed a wise saying, often used to advise emperors. Fan Long, being a great scholar, wouldn’t casually mis-speak. Uttering such words to someone like Liang Rong implies a certain intention.
Liang Feng sighed inwardly, “Apart from Master Fan, has Magistrate Cui also taught you something?”
“Yes! Some time ago, Magistrate Cui had me stay in the military tent to learn sand table formations, military strategies, and tactics. However, Master Fan still taught me more,” Liang Rong spoke frankly, without concealing anything.
Does an ordinary eight-year-old child need to observe military operations in real time? Both Cui Ji and Fan Long seem to have set their sights on him for bigger things. So, Liang Rong is not just his son; he is the heir to this vast legacy, the future successor. The question remains, does Liang Rong himself fully understand what he will face?
Advertisement
Liang Feng couldn’t help but extend his hand, gently stroking his son’s head, “Rong’er is truly diligent. Once the situation stabilizes next year, I will move the Chongwen Academy to Jinyang. You can study by my side then.”
This was exactly what Liang Rong most wanted to hear. He grabbed onto Liang Feng’s sleeve, nodding vigorously, too excited to even speak.
Since the attack in Shangdang, Liang Feng has been considering the relocation of the political and economic center. Shangdang was just a corner of Bing County; a county school could be established, but the Chongwen Academy was not a county school—it was a nurturing ground for the offspring of officials. A prestigious institution like this, rich in political significance, indeed should be situated nearby. Separating governance and education also promoted the diversity of talents. When fully matured, it could even lead to the establishment of an academy directly in Jinyang. The establishment of education centers in Shangdang and Jinyang was a significant sign of Bing County gradually stabilizing. It held great significance.
However, at this moment, these profound considerations paled in comparison to the joy reflected in Liang Rong’s smiling face. The carefree days for the little guy might not last much longer. Being drawn into the struggle for dominance, his childhood would soon be a completely different experience.
Unsure if it was empathy at play, Liang Feng unexpectedly felt a bit reluctant in his heart. He spoke softly, “You’ve been on the road for several days, and you must be tired. Go freshen up and have a meal. Tomorrow, I’ll take my time to assess your academic and archery skills.”
Having received the best news, Liang Rong no longer insisted and left the main hall reluctantly. Without this lively little guy, the room fell into a brief silence. The person who had been sitting silently on the side, never uttering a word, could no longer be ignored.
Although they hadn’t seen each other for over a month, the exchange of official letters between them had never ceased. From the battle situation and casualties in Shangdang to the subsequent arrangements, as well as the imperial rewards, each detail required careful instructions, leaving no room for negligence. Yet, with official matters exhausted, what more could be said?
Liang Feng remained silent for a moment before slowly speaking, “Jinyang has started cultivating farmland. The military settlement this time will be overseen by Li Jun.”
Advertisement
Using this as an opening statement might not be entirely appropriate. After all, Yiyan had preserved the merits in Shangdang; how could he suddenly be informed of a division of power?
Yiyan obviously didn’t anticipate Liang Feng bringing up this matter, but there was no hint of frustration or anger on his face. He simply nodded, “Li Jun has some pride, and he has capable subordinates. It’s worth a try.”
He seemed completely indifferent to the division of power? Liang Feng hesitated for a moment and continued, “The garrison is, after all, just a reserve force. In recent days, many Xiongnu splinter groups have surrendered, and I have made agreements with them for conscription. You will have to train these soldiers. After the battles in Yanmen and Shangdang, we’ve captured quite several horses. Combined with the horse trade with the Tuoba tribe, we can expand the Tiger and Wolf Camp…”
This meant entrusting all the cavalry in Bing County to him. It was indeed a significant responsibility, yet Yiyan still showed little emotion on his face, saying, “I will train these new recruits properly.”
Seeing the calm reaction, Liang Feng frowned slightly, “Is there any change in the Prefecture?”
“Chen Ying is using the military prudently. This time, he led his troops to defeat the enemy besieging Gaodu. The regular troops are still scheduled for deployment on the first of March, and their training is going well.” Yiyan knew what Liang Feng wanted to ask and responded straightforwardly.
Ever since Zhang He took up the position of Captain in Shangdang, his deputy, Chen Shun, succeeded as the Commander of the Liang residence camp. This ensured a reliable supply of grassroots military officers, trained by the Liang family, for Shangdang and even the entire Bing County. This was the key to guaranteeing Liang Feng’s control over the garrison. Even if Li Jun became the actual leader of the Jinyang garrison, the soldiers would ultimately still follow Liang Feng’s orders.
Seeing him say so, Liang Feng nodded, “I heard that Zhang He is preparing for marriage recently?”
The question came abruptly, and Yiyan paused before saying, “It’s a young lady from the Xue family. Captain Zhang mentioned to me that he wished to marry a lady from a prestigious family. If my lord finds it inappropriate, I can have him postpone the wedding.”
This Xue family naturally referred to Xue Ren. After taking over the external trade of the Liang residence, he gradually became an integral part of the inner circle. However, being “integral” was not enough to reassure Xue Ren. Marrying his daughter to Zhang He was an unexpectedly strategic move. Although Zhang He commanded the valiant camp, he was ultimately of commoner origin and could be considered Liang Feng’s servant. No matter how small the Xue family was, they were still a noble family. Such a cross-class marriage could easily turn the Xue family into a subject of ridicule.
Advertisement
Nevertheless, despite all this, Xue Ren still agreed to the marriage. This alone proved his determination to integrate into this small collective.
Liang Feng waved his hand, “Marrying into the Xue family is not a problem. As long as Zhang He is clear about his position, he must not open any convenient doors for the Xue family because of this marriage.”
Xue Ren was a clever man, and he probably wouldn’t let Zhang He marry the tricky Fifth Sister. This goodwill gesture was meant for himself, and there was no need to spoil it. Similarly, Zhang He was also a smart person, knowing that he could marry a lady from a prestigious family not because of his official position but because of his background in the Liang residence camp. If it were someone else, Liang Feng might have had some concerns. However, with these two individuals, he had nothing to worry about.
Even Zhang He, who was unusually ambitious, had married. What about Yiyan?
Liang Feng opened his mouth but didn’t speak. Since that day, they hadn’t spent much time together, and in recent months, they hadn’t even seen each other. However, for some reason, Yiyan became even more silent in front of him, suppressing worries and unrestrained concerns. He behaved like a standard subordinate, not taking a step beyond the boundaries.
Such restraint made Liang Feng somewhat restless. Playing hard to get was a classic strategy, but he didn’t think Yiyan was deliberately doing it. Because that deep affection still existed, but the other party no longer revealed it openly, no longer pressed forward relentlessly. It was like a volcano covered by snow, leaving only a calm and sparkling lake.
Liang Feng had encountered overly persistent female companions before. Once they started seeking “true love” rather than mere physical desires, he would straightforwardly let go. Anything too intense would be discarded, turning grotesque and ugly, later consumed by time. In this realm, he had never invested a single ounce of emotion nor shown the slightest vulnerability. Relationships between men and women, to him, were nothing more than a means to relax, a harmless fusion of conquest and control desires.
However, now his desire for conquest and control had a new, undeniable target. Women became easily attainable appendages. Everything was turned upside down, no longer resembling the past, leaving him agitated and restless.
If Yiyan had been as wild as he was on that day, it’s uncertain whether Liang Feng would have severed those confusing thoughts by now. Unfortunately, this man was stubborn, bordering on self-infliction.
After another subtle silence, Liang Feng finally sighed softly, “The official residence in Jinyang is in disrepair and inhabitable. You can stay at the provincial governor’s mansion, and I’ll have someone arrange a courtyard for you.”
Previously, Liang Feng hadn’t completely secured control over Jinyang, so Yiyan mostly stayed in the military camp. However, now that the situation had stabilized, Jinyang’s finances were strained, making it impossible to spend on renovating the official residence. Therefore, many of his subordinates were currently residing in the provincial governor’s mansion. Since he had no family members to accommodate, the empty courtyards remained unused.
Everyone was arranged in such a manner, but speaking these words to Yiyan felt somewhat awkward to Liang Feng. Yiyan’s eyes brightened slightly, but his words remained respectful, “Thank you, my lord, for the arrangement.”
Liang Feng’s gaze swept over the faint, almost imperceptible scars on the man’s face. He averted his eyes, “You’ve taken good care of Rong’er.”
He didn’t bring up the events in Shangdang and only lightly mentioned Liang Rong. Yiyan’s chest tightened, and he whispered, “My lord, rest assured.”
This time, Liang Feng didn’t respond.
Yiyan bowed again and slowly retreated.
