In the deep palace of Luoyang, Sima Tan sat in a daze by the Lingzhi Pond, gazing at the lush and tranquil scenery before him. The beauty of the imperial garden surpassed each passing day, just like the gentle breeze of midsummer, carrying a refreshing vitality. However, he couldn’t sense a trace of comfort, and the chill in his bones seemed to intensify day by day.
Since the beginning of last month, he had several palace maids by his side. These were women specially sent by the Grand Tutor, Sima Yue, to attend to him and educate him on the matters of the inner chambers. This was a common practice in the palace. When Emperor Hui was thirteen years old, it was a woman named Xie Jiu from the harem of Emperor Wu who attended to him. It was this woman who later gave birth to the future Emperor Minhuai.
He is thirteen years old this year, just experiencing the onset of adolescence. If he were to engage in intimate relations with those women, could he also produce offspring? However, Emperor Hui has his father’s care by his side, but what about him? Why did Sima Yue send those women?
He has not yet married. Deep within Sima Tan’s heart, he has always known what he is facing. If he had not followed Sima Yue’s orders back then, he might have already perished in the wilderness. But would that person let him marry peacefully and regain control of political power? Perhaps, he might not have lived to see that day. In such a situation, any offspring born would only serve as another nail in his coffin. A prince in swaddling clothes is far better than an uncontrollable emperor.
He cannot let these palace maids get pregnant. The young emperor’s hands instinctively grasped his knees. The pseudo-emperor has already been eradicated by Sima Yue. If it weren’t for the bandits causing chaos in Yu County, preventing him from returning to Luoyang, the security in the palace might have been increased several levels by now. How long can he use the excuse of mourning the late emperor to refuse these palace maids until Sima Yue returns?
In the past six months, he has secretly contacted some ministers, but whether these people can be trusted and are capable remains unknown. Just like Emperor Xian of Han, who was imprisoned by Cao Cao in Xudu. Even his father-in-law Dong Cheng, a general of chariots and cavalry, couldn’t protect him. He doesn’t even have a wife or concubines to turn to…
“Your Majesty…”
A voice sounded in his ears, and Sima Tan jolted awake. Without revealing the fear in his heart, he slowly raised his head. He saw the little eunuch who attended to him standing by his side, whispering, “… Minister Wang requests an audience.”
What does Wang Yan want to do again? Suppressing his weariness, the young emperor spoke in a low voice, “Let him in.”
Before long, a man with a flowing robe and a handsome appearance entered the imperial garden. Just by his appearance, many people would not guess that he was already over fifty, and looking at his demeanor, no one would suspect that this man was so detestable by nature. Seeing the self-satisfied smile on the other’s face, the young emperor pursed his lips and asked, “Minister Wang is wearing a pleased expression. Is there something joyful?”
Wang Yan elegantly arched his hand, “Your Majesty, indeed there is great joy. The camp of Wang Mi in Yu County has been broken by General Gou, and the scattered troops are now without a leader. It will be cleared up in no time!”
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What?! The young emperor’s heart skipped a beat. The unruly troops are going to be quelled? Does that mean Sima Yue is also returning to Luoyang? His lips trembled, and he forced a smile, “Thanks to the excellent command of the Grand Tutor. With this success, there should be additional rewards…”
This was also the reason for Wang Yan’s imperial audience. With a light cough, he said, “The Grand Tutor single-handedly eliminated the pseudo-emperor and pacified the rebellious troops. He has truly exerted tremendous efforts and merits, serving as the pillar of the country. He should be promoted to the Prime Minister of Jin!”
Another Prime Minister! The young emperor moved his lips, “Naturally…”
Before Wang Yan could finish speaking, he added, “And the important cities of Yan County, Yu County, Si County, Ji County, and Jing County should also be governed by the Grand Tutor.”
He is to concurrently serve as the governor of five provinces? As a prime minister, adding the role of provincial governor, what else does he lack? Perhaps only the status of a regent!
The young emperor suppressed the trembling in his body and nodded with a smile, “That should be granted.”
Seeing the emperor nod and agree to two rewards, Wang Yan also breathed a sigh of relief. Lately, he has been quite self-centered, securing positions for his younger brother Wang Cheng and cousin Wang Dun as governors of Jing County and Qing County, respectively. How could he not make a show of loyalty in front of Sima Yue?
However, it was not enough. Wang Yan smiled again, “There is also Ji County, where the military disaster has decreased. General Ningbei, Yiyan, played a crucial role in lifting the siege of Qinghe. Deputy Inspector Ding wishes to appoint him as a Commandant.”
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This statement was not entirely accurate. From the military reports, Wang Jun in You County also made significant efforts to suppress the bandits. However, the Wang family of Taiyuan, led by Wang Yan, had conflicts with Wang Jun. Since the latter was so powerful, how could they afford to give away all the benefits? On the other hand, this barbarian general, Yiyan, performed exceptionally well with few troops. According to the reports from his appointed Inspector of Wei Jun, Wang Ping, this person loves official titles and has ambitions. Why not appoint him as the Commandant of the Western Region, concurrently overseeing Ji County? After all, Sima Yue is already the governor of Ji County, and Wang Jun might not agree to the position of Commandant.
Did he actually recommend Yiyan? The young emperor had an impression of this barbarian. Wasn’t he a prominent figure under Liang Zixi? How could he have joined Wang Yan’s side in just a few months? Is there no loyalty in this world that cannot be swayed by rewards and favors?
Suddenly, a lightning bolt flashed through the young emperor’s mind, and he was stunned. Right! He is the legitimate emperor of Great Jin, even though he lacks real power. But couldn’t he use generous rewards and benefits to tempt people’s hearts?
“Your Majesty?” Without waiting for an answer, Wang Yan raised his head with some confusion.
The young emperor came back to his senses and smiled faintly, “This decision should be left to the Grand Tutor.”
Unexpectedly, the young emperor handed over the decision-making power to Sima Yue. Wang Yan raised an eyebrow, but he didn’t object. With Sima Yue firmly in control, he could indeed decide with a single word. However, with his eloquence, who feared that Sima Yue wouldn’t budge?
Facing the seemingly calm teenager, Wang Yan smiled and bowed, “Your Majesty’s words are wise.”
※
In a simple thatched hut, a middle-aged man in coarse clothes knelt before a table. Clad in deep mourning attire, he was alone in the humble abode, a clear indication of mourning for a close relative. In these chaotic times, finding someone who still observed proper mourning rituals was a rare sight. After all, the days when one could hold an official position simply by being filial had long passed. Yet, this man chose to live alone in a mourning hut, truly intriguing.
He didn’t display excessive grief on his face, and despite the withered and thin appearance, there was a sense of valor between his brows. Coupled with his tall and straight figure despite being over forty, he exuded a dignified and resolute aura.
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However, at this moment, he was not flipping through the books on the table but sitting in front of it, contemplating something.
Little did he expect that after rejecting Sima Yue’s offer to become a military affairs officer, and choosing to retire to his hometown, someone would still come seeking his service. Moreover, it was the governor of Bing County.
The position of Chief Secretary in the General’s Residence was considered high-ranking. However, compared to the official positions he had held in the past, it seemed a bit lower. Also, why would Sima Yue want him to become the governor of Bing County?
However, the words spoken by the messenger sent by that person were indeed tempting. “Dominating the world, saving people from disasters, and pacifying the pseudo-Han…” Each point touched upon his aspirations. When Sima Yue invited him, he only offered official positions and did not mention such things. The changes in Bing County over the past two years were truly surprising. Should he accept the position of Chief Secretary?
After careful consideration, the man shook his head. Judging from the situation, Wang Pengzu was likely to send troops southward. If there was a war between You County and Bing County, as someone belonging to the Fan family in Fanyang, how could he easily take up a position in Bing County? Unfortunately, although Wang Jun had great power, he wasn’t much stronger than Sima Yue. However, it was unknown how the situation in Bing County would unfold…
Lost in thought, someone suddenly spoke from outside the hut, “Fifth Brother, are you there?”
Upon hearing the voice, the man furrowed his brows, “Is it Tai? Please come in.”
A young man entered the thatched hut, and upon seeing the person at the table, his eyes lit up. He knelt down and sat opposite, “I heard that someone from Bing County is coming, and Fifth Brother is to be appointed as Chief Secretary. Will Fifth Brother accept?”
Unexpectedly, this junior clan member was inquiring about this matter. He shook his head, “The mourning period is not over; I must decline.”
Upon hearing this response, the young man seemed somewhat regretful. He sighed deeply, “In that case, I can only go to Jinyang alone.”
“You’re going to Jinyang? What for?”
“Jinyang’s Chongwen Hall is recruiting talents! I heard that the ‘Nine Chapters of Arithmetic,’ issued by Bing County, was written by two assistant instructors in Chongwen Hall. They are also direct disciples of Master Liu. How can I miss this opportunity?! Moreover, Bing County’s mechanical arts are renowned, and there is a vast library with countless volumes—a chance not to be missed! If I can be selected for Chongwen Hall, what a fortunate event it would be!” The young man spoke rapidly, and his face showed signs of an excited flush.
Little did the man expect that this junior clan member would go to Bing County for this reason, which was both amusing and exasperating. “But there might be a conflict with You County, and it may not be safe to go there…”
Before he could finish his sentence, the other party decisively interrupted, “That’s precisely why I must hurry! Books are unlike anything else; in a massive fire, they can vanish into thin air. If I cannot learn the unheard and understand the unknown, wouldn’t I be wasting my life?!”
These words made the man behind the table fall silent. After a while, he sighed lightly, “Tai, you’re approaching your twentieth year. Haven’t you thought about your future?”
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“Bing County has the Imperial Examination. Even a commoner can pass and make it onto the list. With my abilities, what’s difficult about serving in Bing County?” The young man retorted.
Bing County is not the imperial court; serving there means starting a career below those in the central government. However, despite the words lingering on the tip of his tongue for a while, he could not utter them. What use were the upright officials of the court now? Sima Yue’s intentions were inscrutable, and Luoyang was in a covert turmoil—where else could one go? Compared to the declining appearance of other provinces and commanderies, Bing County was indeed a rare and good destination.
In the end, Zu Ti said, “Going to Bing County is not necessarily a bad idea. Just make sure to seek advantage and avoid harm, and do not get involved in the conflicts.”
“Fifth Brother, are you really not going?” Zu Taizhi still felt somewhat unwilling. If his elder brother responded to the recruitment, going to Bing County would also provide him with some backing.
“I’ve said it; I still need to establish my abode…” Zu Ti raised his hand, stopping the other’s words. “But when you enter Bing County, be sure to tell me the situation in detail. If it aligns with what the envoy said, joining might not be a bad idea.”
Upon hearing his elder brother say so, Zu Taizhi’s eyes brightened even more. He nodded vigorously, “I will definitely investigate thoroughly for Fifth Brother!”
In the deep palace of Luoyang, Sima Tan sat in a daze by the Lingzhi Pond, gazing at the lush and tranquil scenery before him. The beauty of the imperial garden surpassed each passing day, just like the gentle breeze of midsummer, carrying a refreshing vitality. However, he couldn’t sense a trace of comfort, and the chill in his bones seemed to intensify day by day.
Since the beginning of last month, he had several palace maids by his side. These were women specially sent by the Grand Tutor, Sima Yue, to attend to him and educate him on the matters of the inner chambers. This was a common practice in the palace. When Emperor Hui was thirteen years old, it was a woman named Xie Jiu from the harem of Emperor Wu who attended to him. It was this woman who later gave birth to the future Emperor Minhuai.
He is thirteen years old this year, just experiencing the onset of adolescence. If he were to engage in intimate relations with those women, could he also produce offspring? However, Emperor Hui has his father’s care by his side, but what about him? Why did Sima Yue send those women?
He has not yet married. Deep within Sima Tan’s heart, he has always known what he is facing. If he had not followed Sima Yue’s orders back then, he might have already perished in the wilderness. But would that person let him marry peacefully and regain control of political power? Perhaps, he might not have lived to see that day. In such a situation, any offspring born would only serve as another nail in his coffin. A prince in swaddling clothes is far better than an uncontrollable emperor.
He cannot let these palace maids get pregnant. The young emperor’s hands instinctively grasped his knees. The pseudo-emperor has already been eradicated by Sima Yue. If it weren’t for the bandits causing chaos in Yu County, preventing him from returning to Luoyang, the security in the palace might have been increased several levels by now. How long can he use the excuse of mourning the late emperor to refuse these palace maids until Sima Yue returns?
In the past six months, he has secretly contacted some ministers, but whether these people can be trusted and are capable remains unknown. Just like Emperor Xian of Han, who was imprisoned by Cao Cao in Xudu. Even his father-in-law Dong Cheng, a general of chariots and cavalry, couldn’t protect him. He doesn’t even have a wife or concubines to turn to…
“Your Majesty…”
A voice sounded in his ears, and Sima Tan jolted awake. Without revealing the fear in his heart, he slowly raised his head. He saw the little eunuch who attended to him standing by his side, whispering, “… Minister Wang requests an audience.”
What does Wang Yan want to do again? Suppressing his weariness, the young emperor spoke in a low voice, “Let him in.”
Before long, a man with a flowing robe and a handsome appearance entered the imperial garden. Just by his appearance, many people would not guess that he was already over fifty, and looking at his demeanor, no one would suspect that this man was so detestable by nature. Seeing the self-satisfied smile on the other’s face, the young emperor pursed his lips and asked, “Minister Wang is wearing a pleased expression. Is there something joyful?”
Wang Yan elegantly arched his hand, “Your Majesty, indeed there is great joy. The camp of Wang Mi in Yu County has been broken by General Gou, and the scattered troops are now without a leader. It will be cleared up in no time!”
Advertisement
What?! The young emperor’s heart skipped a beat. The unruly troops are going to be quelled? Does that mean Sima Yue is also returning to Luoyang? His lips trembled, and he forced a smile, “Thanks to the excellent command of the Grand Tutor. With this success, there should be additional rewards…”
This was also the reason for Wang Yan’s imperial audience. With a light cough, he said, “The Grand Tutor single-handedly eliminated the pseudo-emperor and pacified the rebellious troops. He has truly exerted tremendous efforts and merits, serving as the pillar of the country. He should be promoted to the Prime Minister of Jin!”
Another Prime Minister! The young emperor moved his lips, “Naturally…”
Before Wang Yan could finish speaking, he added, “And the important cities of Yan County, Yu County, Si County, Ji County, and Jing County should also be governed by the Grand Tutor.”
He is to concurrently serve as the governor of five provinces? As a prime minister, adding the role of provincial governor, what else does he lack? Perhaps only the status of a regent!
The young emperor suppressed the trembling in his body and nodded with a smile, “That should be granted.”
Seeing the emperor nod and agree to two rewards, Wang Yan also breathed a sigh of relief. Lately, he has been quite self-centered, securing positions for his younger brother Wang Cheng and cousin Wang Dun as governors of Jing County and Qing County, respectively. How could he not make a show of loyalty in front of Sima Yue?
However, it was not enough. Wang Yan smiled again, “There is also Ji County, where the military disaster has decreased. General Ningbei, Yiyan, played a crucial role in lifting the siege of Qinghe. Deputy Inspector Ding wishes to appoint him as a Commandant.”
Advertisement
This statement was not entirely accurate. From the military reports, Wang Jun in You County also made significant efforts to suppress the bandits. However, the Wang family of Taiyuan, led by Wang Yan, had conflicts with Wang Jun. Since the latter was so powerful, how could they afford to give away all the benefits? On the other hand, this barbarian general, Yiyan, performed exceptionally well with few troops. According to the reports from his appointed Inspector of Wei Jun, Wang Ping, this person loves official titles and has ambitions. Why not appoint him as the Commandant of the Western Region, concurrently overseeing Ji County? After all, Sima Yue is already the governor of Ji County, and Wang Jun might not agree to the position of Commandant.
Did he actually recommend Yiyan? The young emperor had an impression of this barbarian. Wasn’t he a prominent figure under Liang Zixi? How could he have joined Wang Yan’s side in just a few months? Is there no loyalty in this world that cannot be swayed by rewards and favors?
Suddenly, a lightning bolt flashed through the young emperor’s mind, and he was stunned. Right! He is the legitimate emperor of Great Jin, even though he lacks real power. But couldn’t he use generous rewards and benefits to tempt people’s hearts?
“Your Majesty?” Without waiting for an answer, Wang Yan raised his head with some confusion.
The young emperor came back to his senses and smiled faintly, “This decision should be left to the Grand Tutor.”
Unexpectedly, the young emperor handed over the decision-making power to Sima Yue. Wang Yan raised an eyebrow, but he didn’t object. With Sima Yue firmly in control, he could indeed decide with a single word. However, with his eloquence, who feared that Sima Yue wouldn’t budge?
Facing the seemingly calm teenager, Wang Yan smiled and bowed, “Your Majesty’s words are wise.”
※
In a simple thatched hut, a middle-aged man in coarse clothes knelt before a table. Clad in deep mourning attire, he was alone in the humble abode, a clear indication of mourning for a close relative. In these chaotic times, finding someone who still observed proper mourning rituals was a rare sight. After all, the days when one could hold an official position simply by being filial had long passed. Yet, this man chose to live alone in a mourning hut, truly intriguing.
He didn’t display excessive grief on his face, and despite the withered and thin appearance, there was a sense of valor between his brows. Coupled with his tall and straight figure despite being over forty, he exuded a dignified and resolute aura.
Advertisement
However, at this moment, he was not flipping through the books on the table but sitting in front of it, contemplating something.
Little did he expect that after rejecting Sima Yue’s offer to become a military affairs officer, and choosing to retire to his hometown, someone would still come seeking his service. Moreover, it was the governor of Bing County.
The position of Chief Secretary in the General’s Residence was considered high-ranking. However, compared to the official positions he had held in the past, it seemed a bit lower. Also, why would Sima Yue want him to become the governor of Bing County?
However, the words spoken by the messenger sent by that person were indeed tempting. “Dominating the world, saving people from disasters, and pacifying the pseudo-Han…” Each point touched upon his aspirations. When Sima Yue invited him, he only offered official positions and did not mention such things. The changes in Bing County over the past two years were truly surprising. Should he accept the position of Chief Secretary?
After careful consideration, the man shook his head. Judging from the situation, Wang Pengzu was likely to send troops southward. If there was a war between You County and Bing County, as someone belonging to the Fan family in Fanyang, how could he easily take up a position in Bing County? Unfortunately, although Wang Jun had great power, he wasn’t much stronger than Sima Yue. However, it was unknown how the situation in Bing County would unfold…
Lost in thought, someone suddenly spoke from outside the hut, “Fifth Brother, are you there?”
Upon hearing the voice, the man furrowed his brows, “Is it Tai? Please come in.”
A young man entered the thatched hut, and upon seeing the person at the table, his eyes lit up. He knelt down and sat opposite, “I heard that someone from Bing County is coming, and Fifth Brother is to be appointed as Chief Secretary. Will Fifth Brother accept?”
Unexpectedly, this junior clan member was inquiring about this matter. He shook his head, “The mourning period is not over; I must decline.”
Upon hearing this response, the young man seemed somewhat regretful. He sighed deeply, “In that case, I can only go to Jinyang alone.”
“You’re going to Jinyang? What for?”
“Jinyang’s Chongwen Hall is recruiting talents! I heard that the ‘Nine Chapters of Arithmetic,’ issued by Bing County, was written by two assistant instructors in Chongwen Hall. They are also direct disciples of Master Liu. How can I miss this opportunity?! Moreover, Bing County’s mechanical arts are renowned, and there is a vast library with countless volumes—a chance not to be missed! If I can be selected for Chongwen Hall, what a fortunate event it would be!” The young man spoke rapidly, and his face showed signs of an excited flush.
Little did the man expect that this junior clan member would go to Bing County for this reason, which was both amusing and exasperating. “But there might be a conflict with You County, and it may not be safe to go there…”
Before he could finish his sentence, the other party decisively interrupted, “That’s precisely why I must hurry! Books are unlike anything else; in a massive fire, they can vanish into thin air. If I cannot learn the unheard and understand the unknown, wouldn’t I be wasting my life?!”
These words made the man behind the table fall silent. After a while, he sighed lightly, “Tai, you’re approaching your twentieth year. Haven’t you thought about your future?”
Advertisement
“Bing County has the Imperial Examination. Even a commoner can pass and make it onto the list. With my abilities, what’s difficult about serving in Bing County?” The young man retorted.
Bing County is not the imperial court; serving there means starting a career below those in the central government. However, despite the words lingering on the tip of his tongue for a while, he could not utter them. What use were the upright officials of the court now? Sima Yue’s intentions were inscrutable, and Luoyang was in a covert turmoil—where else could one go? Compared to the declining appearance of other provinces and commanderies, Bing County was indeed a rare and good destination.
In the end, Zu Ti said, “Going to Bing County is not necessarily a bad idea. Just make sure to seek advantage and avoid harm, and do not get involved in the conflicts.”
“Fifth Brother, are you really not going?” Zu Taizhi still felt somewhat unwilling. If his elder brother responded to the recruitment, going to Bing County would also provide him with some backing.
“I’ve said it; I still need to establish my abode…” Zu Ti raised his hand, stopping the other’s words. “But when you enter Bing County, be sure to tell me the situation in detail. If it aligns with what the envoy said, joining might not be a bad idea.”
Upon hearing his elder brother say so, Zu Taizhi’s eyes brightened even more. He nodded vigorously, “I will definitely investigate thoroughly for Fifth Brother!”
