That night, Tang Shen rode a carriage to the Western Expedition Marshal’s residence for the banquet.

The Northwest was a land of yellow sands. Even in August, the sky was still filled with swirling dust. People had to wear thick clothing and wrap their heads in veils to shield themselves from the northern winds carrying sand. By the time Tang Shen arrived at the Marshal’s residence, the sun had yet to fully set, and the last remnants of daylight shone from the west. Li Jingde was roasting a large, fat ox over an open flame, skewered on an iron spit.

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The firelight illuminated the general’s thick beard, making his sharp eyes appear even more intense as he focused entirely on cooking.

A servant came over to inform him of Tang Shen’s arrival. Only then did Li Jingde lift his head and wave enthusiastically. “You’re finally here. See this ox? I picked it myself just for you. Like it?”

The Song Dynasty did not forbid the consumption of beef, and Tang Shen had been in this era long enough, moreover his own Xixia Tower even served hotpot beef. Yet, he had never seen an entire roasted ox served like this before.

Li Jingde was truly an extraordinary man.

Tang Shen asked, “Why is the general roasting the ox himself?”

Li Jingde motioned for Tang Shen to sit and replied casually, “What’s the big deal? Roasting an ox is nothing. When we march in battle, there’s often no meat to eat at all. I’ve spent days surviving on wild greens and hot water just to fill my belly. Wild vegetable soup is already considered a luxury. I remember twelve years ago when we clashed with the Liao army in a canyon—we were trapped for sixteen days! We even had to eat tree bark back then.”

Tang Shen thought to himself: I only asked why you were roasting the ox. How did this turn into a survival story?

Not everyone had the honor of tasting meat personally roasted by Li Jingde. The general sliced off a juicy piece of beef, sprinkled some salt on it, and handed it to Tang Shen. Taking a bite, Tang Shen found the meat tender and flavorful—though a bit mild, it had a unique taste. He sincerely praised, “The general’s roasting skills are excellent.”

Li Jingde laughed heartily. “Then eat more.”

The two enjoyed roasted meat and strong liquor. After a few sips, Tang Shen put his cup down and said, “I have a low tolerance for alcohol, I’m afraid I won’t be able to keep up.”

Li Jingde immediately responded, “Then you better stop drinking! If you get drunk, it’ll ruin my plans.”

Tang Shen paused slightly. He discreetly observed Li Jingde, wondering if the general had actually invited him here for a reason. It didn’t seem like it. Li Jingde was a straightforward warrior—he never hid his thoughts. If he had something to discuss, would he really go through all this trouble instead of just speaking his mind?

The next moment, Li Jingde proved Tang Shen’s assessment of him to be entirely correct. “Actually, I called you here today to talk about the Liao people.”

As expected—this is the Li Jingde I know!

Hearing this, Tang Shen glanced around. Unnoticed until now, the attendants in the marshal’s residence had quietly left the courtyard.

Li Jingde had come prepared.

Tang Shen replied cautiously, “I do not understand the general’s meaning.”

“You don’t understand? How could you not? You civil officials always think about complicated things and talk in circles. Take that Su Wenyun, for example—he dislikes me, but so what? Will his hatred make me lose a piece of flesh? I can curse him to his face, call him a pansy boy, and what can he do? Curse me back? Never.” Li Jingde took another bite of meat and continued, “See, I digress again. I thought you were different from those guys like Wang Zifeng and Su Wenyun, but it turns out that you’re following in their footsteps, Tang Shen.”

Tang Shen, originally maintaining his cautious stance, couldn’t help but chuckle at the accusation. “General, I truly do not understand your meaning.”

“Truly don’t?”

“I don’t.”

Li Jingde scratched his head. “Then let me put it simply—when are we going to kill those Liao bastards? I’ve wanted to fight them for years.”

Tang Shen was momentarily silent before replying, “It cannot be rushed.”

Li Jingde widened his eyes. “Not rushed? It’s already been so many years!”

Tang Shen explained, “General, dealing with the Liao is not a matter for me alone. I have no military experience, nor have I ever led troops in battle. But even the common folk know that the Song are wealthy, while the Liao are hardy warriors. They are a people born on horseback, and every man among them is a soldier. Over the past twenty-two years, we have won many victories in the Northwest, but that does not mean we can truly defeat the Liao.”

Li Jingde chewed his beef in silence.

“To destroy them, we must start from within,” Tang Shen continued. After a brief pause, he reconsidered his words, finding them too absolute. In reality, given the current strength of the Song army, it would be difficult to bring down the Liao within the next twenty years. After all, even a weakened camel is still bigger than a horse. Even if the Song had the upper hand now, the moment the Liao regained their footing, the tide of battle could shift drastically. He amended, “To reclaim lost land, does it really matter if we wait a few more years, General?”

Li Jingde took a large bite of meat and downed his wine. “To you, Tang Jingze, I’ll drink to that—I believe you.”

Perhaps it was the heat from the fire roasting the meat, but Tang Shen felt a surge of warmth in his chest. He raised his own wine jug. “To the general.”

What Tang Shen did not expect was that Li Jingde’s alcohol tolerance was so low!

It was Li Jingde who had insisted on drinking together, yet after just two jugs, he became completely drunk. He threw an arm around Tang Shen’s shoulders, calling him brother. After a bit more drinking, he even started sobbing. “Tang Jingze, life is so hard for me, you know that? Your scheming, cunning senior brother Wang Zifeng—when you return to the capital, talk to him for me, will you? Tell him to give me more money. I’m suffering, I really am… wuuwuuwuu…”

Tang Shen panicked, fumbling to comfort him. “General, please don’t cry.”

But Li Jingde only cried harder. “You civil officials always bully us! We warriors are so honest, yet you all keep taking advantage of us! Wuuwuuwuu…”

He sobbed and wailed until he finally passed out. Only then did Tang Shen manage to make his escape.

However, just as Tang Shen left the Marshal’s residence, the supposedly unconscious Li Jingde suddenly sat upright and craned his neck toward the door. “Is he gone?”

A servant handed him a warm towel. “Yes, General, he’s gone.”

Li Jingde roughly wiped away his tears, nearly rubbing his face raw. He sighed, “Ai, it’s so tough. I have to act like this just to get some money. Luckily, after crying in front of the Grand Marshal so many times, I’ve gotten used to it. The tears come naturally now. Tell me—was my performance convincing? He didn’t suspect anything, right?”

The servant: “…”

General, you are truly one of a kind!

Meanwhile, back at his own residence, Tang Shen sighed deeply. “The Northwestern army has it so hard… Is Li Jingde really that short on funds?”

Tang Shen was almost certain Li Jingde had been faking his drunkenness, but for a man of his rank to cry in front of others—even if it was an act—it was still heartbreaking!

“Is my senior brother really this cruel? When I return to the capital, I should bring it up with him.”

Little did he know, in the northwest military camp, Li Jingde wept once every three days and had a full breakdown once every ten. If he didn’t cry, considering all the things he had done, Grand Preceptor Zhou would have already demoted him from a second-rank Marshal straight down to a common foot soldier!

At the end of August, Tang Shen returned to Shengjing.

Unlike the Northwest, Shengjing was scorching hot, with the blazing sun making the heat unbearable.

As soon as Tang Shen arrived home in the evening, Aunt Yao prepared a table full of chilled melons and ushered him to eat.

These melons closely resembled modern-day watermelons, likely an ancient variety that had not yet been selectively cultivated. As everyone was eating and chatting, Tang Huang suddenly froze, exclaiming, “I completely forgot!” She immediately put down her melon and dared not take another bite.

Tang Shen and Yao San were both bewildered.

Aunt Yao, however, covered her mouth and chuckled. “I’ll go make Ah Huang some brown sugar water.”

Yao San still didn’t understand, but Tang Shen, having modern medical knowledge, quickly caught on.

That night, after eating just two slices of chilled melon, Tang Huang indeed fell ill and couldn’t get out of bed. Originally, Tang Shen had planned to spend the night at the Minister Residence, but seeing her condition, he had no choice but to stay and keep his sister company.

When Tang Shen entered the room, he stood beside the bed, looking at Tang Huang.

“Feeling any better?”

The young lady was deeply embarrassed, hiding her face with a pillow. “Much better, much better! Brother, why did you come in? Aunt Yao was just saying a few days ago that now that I’m seventeen, even though we’re siblings, you shouldn’t just walk in like this!”

Tang Shen was speechless. “You do realize we’re siblings, right?”

Tang Huang righteously declared, “But I haven’t married yet!”

Tang Shen chuckled. “So you do know you haven’t married yet?”

Tang Huang was at a loss for words and buried her face back into the pillow.

Tang Shen hadn’t planned to bring it up, but now that the topic had surfaced, he realized that Tang Huang was already seventeen.

In the Song Dynasty, it wasn’t uncommon for girls to remain unmarried at seventeen, or even at eighteen. However, most would already be engaged by this age. Tang Shen had promised her that she could decide her own marriage.

“When do you plan to make that decision?”

Tang Huang peeked out from the pillow with only her eyes showing. “What decision?”

Tang Shen pulled up a chair and sat down. Raising an eyebrow, he smiled slightly and said simply: “Marriage.”

Tang Huang: “…”

“Brother, have you noticed that you’re becoming more and more like the Minister?”

“Hm?”

“…You look even more like him now!”

Tang Shen suddenly burst into laughter. He certainly didn’t want to be like Wang Zhen—it felt strange just to think about it. Clearing his throat, he spoke seriously, “I’m asking sincerely. When do you plan to decide for yourself?”

Tang Huang remained silent. After a long time, she whispered, “What if I want to stay at home forever?”

“Then stay.”

Tang Huang was surprised. “Brother!”

Tang Shen sighed and ruffled her hair. “I said you could make the decision, so of course, it’s entirely up to you.”

Overjoyed, Tang Huang called out “Brother” three times in excitement.

The next day, Tang Shen went to the Minister Residence, where Wang Zhen was reading.

Minister Wang was a man of refined taste—reading under the moonlight. Just watching him made Tang Shen feel like his eyes would start hurting. Leaning over to glance at the book, Tang Shen scoffed, “What’s this? The Analects? Don’t you know it by heart?”

Wang Zhen sighed, “Reading a book a hundred times reveals its true meaning.”

Tang Shen started reflecting on whether he was being too frivolous. Maybe he should read more instead of relying on his eidetic memory and acting carelessly.

Before he could continue the thought, Wang Zhen suddenly closed the book, leaned in, and planted a kiss on his cheek. Laughing softly, he said, “Of course, I was just waiting for you.”

Tang Shen: “…”

So you really were just showing off!

After dinner, the two of them talked, and Tang Shen brought up Tang Huang’s situation.

Wang Zhen raised an eyebrow and smiled faintly. “If she doesn’t wish to marry, then let her be.”

Tang Shen studied his expression.

Wang Zhen asked, “Is something wrong with that?”

Tang Shen: “…I really have become like you!”

Wang Zhen didn’t know the context and remained puzzled. But the Minister merely smiled, unfazed, as he picked up his teacup and took a sip.

Tang Shen sighed. “Actually, there’s a secret—one that only I know. Even Ah Huang doesn’t know.”

“Oh?”

After a brief hesitation, Tang Shen relented. “Ah Huang isn’t actually my biological sister. My mother found her and took her in when she was just a year old. The villagers all assumed she was my mother’s child because my parents had just returned from visiting relatives in the provincial capital, bringing Ah Huang back with them. But the truth is, my mother only wanted to raise her as a future child bride for me. According to my mother, Ah Huang’s parents had passed away from illness, and she had no remaining relatives.”

Wang Zhen hadn’t expected this revelation. He was surprised and asked, “A child bride?”

“What are you thinking?” Tang Shen scoffed. “Ah Huang is my sister.” He continued, “But within two years, my mother passed away. My father, being the stuffy scholar that he was, disliked the uncultured practice of child brides and raised Ah Huang as my sister instead.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

“In the countryside, people often give children rough-sounding names, believing that it wards off bad luck and ensures survival. ‘Ah Huang’ is one of those crude-sounding names. But my father was particular about naming. He named me Shen, from the phrase ‘A gentleman must be cautious even when alone.’ He was very deliberate about it.

“But since Ah Huang was an adopted child, my father never gave her a proper name—just called her whatever came to mind.” (TN: ‘Ah Huang’ 阿黄=literally meaning “yellow” and a name often used to give to dogs. The “huang” in ‘Tang Huang’ 唐璜 is a homonym with a much nicer meaning “semi-circular jade ornament”l)

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The family letter was sent from Gusu Prefecture to Shengjing, and by the time it reached Youzhou, it was already May.

When Tang Shen received the letter from Gusu, he finally learned that after resigning from office, Fu Wei had even traveled south to Jiangnan for leisure.

The thirty-second year of Kaiping was destined to be different from previous years. Left Prime Minister Ji had been stripped of his position, and Fu Wei had retired from court. These once-powerful ministers, who had wielded immense influence over the imperial court, were now stepping down one by one. Perhaps this also symbolized the gradual passing of the Kaiping Emperor’s era.

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At the end of May, Wang Zhen returned to the capital first.

In just two years, the Military Silver Exchange Bank had been established across all thirty-six provinces of the Song Dynasty, securing its foothold. Originally, the Silver Pull Division only managed the military funds of the Northwestern Army, but starting this year, the pay for the Southwestern Army and various regional forces also flowed into its treasury.

The Silver Pull Division was no longer limited to Youzhou. Wang Zhen’s return to the capital was to oversee the construction of the division’s headquarters in the imperial city.

Tang Shen escorted him out of Youzhou. At the Ten-Mile Pavilion outside the city, Wang Zhen lifted the carriage curtain and smiled at him.
“Little Junior Brother, no need to see me off.”

Tang Shen replied, “Senior Brother, safe travels.”

With many officials present, the two couldn’t exchange private words. Wang Zhen gave Tang Shen a deep look, then let the curtain fall and departed in his carriage.

Not long after Wang Zhen’s return to the capital, the emperor issued an edict to establish Silver Pull Divisions in both Shengjing and Jiangnan.

In an instant, the division’s influence reached its peak.

With immense power in his hands, Wang Zhen even made the Right Prime Minister Wang Quan tread carefully. When officials spoke of the “Wang faction,” the first name that came to mind was no longer Wang Quan but Wang Zhen.

Officials and government officers alike understood how to serve those in power. Seeing Wang Zhen’s rising influence, Minister of Works Yuan Mu, who had previously been at odds with him, chose to yield. Completely disregarding past conflicts, he dedicated himself to constructing the Silver Pull Division headquarters in Shengjing.

Within a month, the divisions in Shengjing and Jiangnan were completed.

During a private family banquet, Right Prime Minister Wang Quan remarked to his nephew, “Look at them—this time, they surely wouldn’t dare to skim off any funds.” He paused, realizing this might not be entirely true, and added, “Even if they did embezzle, it would be at most ten percent. And that’s only because they’re working for you. Everyone knows that you, Wang Zifeng, are the most influential first-rank minister of the moment.”

Wang Zhen raised a brow in mild surprise. “The construction of the Silver Pull Division is a task for His Majesty. What does it have to do with me? Why would you say such a thing, Uncle?”

Wang Quan ignored him, merely snorting. “Ji Wengji has stepped down, Fu Xiru has left, and now I, too, have reached the age of sixty. Perhaps I should start considering my retirement.”

But Wang Quan was only speaking idly. Could he truly resign?

Despite the Wang faction’s growing power, Wang Zhen was only half-aligned with them. If Wang Quan retired, the faction would collapse by half.

The division’s operations flourished, and by July, everything seemed to be thriving.

For years, Wang Zhen had planned meticulously. Now, noble families finally realized something was amiss with the Silver Pull Division and the Military Silver Exchange Bank—but it was too late. These institutions had already spread like chess pieces across the empire, weaving a dense and inescapable net.

The momentum of the Silver Pull Division had picked up. All that remained was the right moment.

Wang Zhen knew that by now, the division was beyond the influence of noble families. However, implementing paper money to replace silver currency immediately would be too hasty. It needed time—perhaps a year, perhaps two. But it wouldn’t be long. The path had been paved. The moment the emperor issued an edict extending the Military Silver Exchange Bank’s services beyond the army and into the hands of the common people, it would mark the first step of a historic transformation.

That night, Wang Zhen sat in the Minister of Revenue’s study, playing Go.

Holding both black and white pieces, he played against himself, each move evenly matched, a fierce battle of wits.

The black stones formed a bold and aggressive dragon, rampaging and destroying cities. The white stones, like a vast and unfathomable sea, remained calm and unreadable. As the game progressed, Wang Zhen’s moves slowed. When he finally picked up another white piece, the steward’s voice came from outside.

“Gongzi, it’s time for the morning court session. Shall I prepare your court robes?”

Dawn had arrived.

Wang Zhen snapped out of his deep thoughts, momentarily dazed.

“Prepare my robes.”

“Yes, gongzi.”

Lowering his gaze, he placed the white piece onto the board.

In an instant, the tranquil sea surged into a great wave, swallowing the black dragon whole.

Looking at the board, Wang Zhen let out a long sigh. He felt immense loneliness.

He rose abruptly, walked to his desk, took up his brush, and penned a letter.

When the steward entered with his court robes, Wang Zhen handed him the letter. “Send this to Youzhou. Use the fastest courier.”

The steward nodded. “Understood.”

Three days later, Tang Shen received the letter. Seeing how urgently it had been sent, he assumed something serious had happened. Anxiously, he tore it open.

Staring at the single line written inside, he was momentarily stunned—before breaking into a helpless smile.

“I miss you too.”

Tang Shen read the letter carefully three times before tucking it into his sleeve. Then, he called for Lin Xu.

Lin Xu was the chief officer of the Youzhou Silver Pull Division and a trusted confidant of Wang Zhen. While Wang Zhen’s letter to Tang Shen only conveyed thoughts of longing, Tang Shen detected something unusual within it. He asked Lin Xu, “Now, in Youzhou, are you familiar with all the officials in the Silver Pull Division? Can you trust them all?”

Lin Xu’s eyes flickered as he lowered his voice. “Rest assured, daren. They are all our people.”

Tang Shen sighed. “Senior Brother has had a hard time.”

Lin Xu did not fully understand but made a mental note to discreetly remove the remaining uncertain elements within the Silver Pull Division.

At the end of July, Wang Zhen submitted a memorial and entered the palace for an audience with the emperor.

Inside Chuigong Hall, the windows gleamed, their glass panes making the palace seem almost ethereal. Wang Zhen had been summoned, and before long, the chamberlains and palace attendants withdrew, leaving only Zhao Fu, Wang Zhen, and the chief eunuch Ji Fu in the hall.

Zhao Fu and Wang Zhen spoke in private for an hour before Wang Zhen left.

Clad in a red official robe, Wang Zhen looked striking yet elegant, as refined as an immortal. With an air of composure, he exited the palace, boarded his carriage, and headed straight to the Ministry of Revenue.

After his departure, silence engulfed Chuigong Hall. The chamberlains did not re-enter immediately, and the eunuchs remained waiting outside.

Zhao Fu leaned back against the throne. Ji Fu stood by his side with his head bowed.

After a long pause, Zhao Fu spoke in a gentle tone, “Tell me, how is it that Wang Zifeng understands my heart so well?”

Ji Fu felt his heart race in alarm. He had no idea how to respond, but since the emperor was awaiting his reply, he cautiously said, “Wang xianggong is devoted to Great Song, just as Your Majesty is. That is why he aligns so well with Your Majesty’s intentions.” Ji Fu had a close friendship with Wang Zhen, and at a time like this, he naturally offered his support.

Even the most calculating ruler could not have foreseen that someone who had served him for decades was actually allied with Wang Zhen.

Zhao Fu nodded and picked up a fresh memorial from the table. He gazed at it for a while before tossing it to Ji Fu. “Take care of this discreetly. I do not want anyone to see it.”

Ji Fu quickly accepted the document and obediently replied, “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Zhao Fu muttered, “How is it that not one of my three sons can compare to Wang Zifeng? I fear even Fei Ran falls short.”

Ji Fu thought to himself: Your three princes were simply born into the right family, but the true power brokers of the court were chosen from among the most exceptional minds in the empire. How could they possibly compare? Let alone Wang Zifeng or Su Wenyun—even Tang Jingze leaves them in the dust!

Ji Fu took the memorial and left Chuigong Hall. He had his godson, Xie Bao, prepare a fire basin and burn the document immediately.

Before tossing it into the flames, Ji Fu hesitated. Ensuring that no one was around, he carefully unfolded the memorial and read its contents.

His eyes widened in shock. The next moment, he hastily threw it into the fire.

The empty palace hall echoed only with the crackling flames. Ji Fu patted his chest and murmured, “That nearly scared me to death.” Then, more seriously, he muttered, “Wang Zifeng is truly remarkable.”

After years of maneuvering within the imperial palace, Wang Zhen had strategically befriended figures like Ji Fu and Li Xiaoren—those closest to the emperor. Now, his efforts were paying off.

Ji Fu sent his godson, Xie Bao, out of the palace with a letter for Wang Zhen.

As Wang Zhen read the contents, he smiled faintly. He brought the corner of the letter close to a candle flame, watching as the fire consumed it.

Who would have thought that by the narrowest margin, Yu Chaosheng had nearly been appointed Minister of Revenue in addition to his position as Minister of Justice?

The next day, the emperor issued an edict promoting Yu Chaosheng to Assistant Minister of the Palace Secretariat, overseeing the Jiangnan Silver Pull Division. Though still second-rank, his authority expanded significantly. By placing the Jiangnan Silver Pull Division under Yu Chaosheng’s control, the emperor subtly weakened Wang Zhen’s power.

After serving Emperor Kaiping for thirty-two years, court officials quickly grasped the implications.

Yu Chaosheng was the prized student of Left Prime Minister Xu Bi, a prominent figure of the Xu faction. By elevating Yu Chaosheng, the emperor was strengthening the Xu faction. Meanwhile, the Jiangnan Silver Pull Division was Wang Zhen’s stronghold—everyone knew he came from the illustrious Wang clan of Langya and was a native of Jinling. The emperor’s move simultaneously curtailed Wang’s power while bolstering the Xu faction, demonstrating masterful political maneuvering.

Su Wenyun had already returned to the capital. Upon hearing the news, he sneered, “If His Majesty truly wanted to elevate the Xu faction, why not simply remove Wang Zifeng from the Ministry of Revenue altogether? He holds the rank of a first-rank minister and still oversees the treasury. Tsk, is that appropriate?”

The minor officials were bewildered.

The self-assured high-ranking ministers believed they had deciphered Zhao Fu’s intent—that he was suppressing the Wang faction while elevating the Left Prime Minister’s faction.

Only the emperor’s closest confidants understood the deeper meaning behind his actions.

Yu Chaosheng himself knew that although he had been promoted, this was not the promotion that was expected.

In a quiet study, teacher and student sat together, listening to the rain pattering against floating duckweed.

After a long silence, Xu Bi exhaled deeply. “I have lost to Wang Zifeng.”

Yu Chaosheng lowered his head. “It was my mistake. I miscalculated.”

Xu Bi chuckled. “You take the blame too easily. But in a match against Wang Zifeng, you are not yet his equal. I spent an entire year raising his status and expanding the Silver Pull Division’s influence to a point where even the Emperor could no longer tolerate it—yet he still managed to turn the situation around. I heard he visited Chuigong Hall a few days ago. Who knows what he said?”

Yu Chaosheng flushed with shame, unable to reply.

For the first time, he felt a deep sense of frustration.

He and Wang Zhen had been part of the same imperial examination cohort—he had placed second, while Wang Zhen was the top scholar. He was even older than Wang Zhen by several years. Yet, his mentor still claimed he was unqualified to compete against Wang Zifeng.

His chest tightened, his fingers trembled. He struggled to suppress his emotions.

Xu Bi glanced at him and said, “Shame can be a powerful motivator. You came from a humble background, so your education and experiences were naturally inferior to his. But time is long. The last prodigy from an aristocratic family who carved his name into the merit stele, only to be condemned for eternity after his death—do you know who that was?”

Yu Chaosheng asked, “Who?”

Xu Bi took a sip of tea and smiled. “Zhong Taisheng. Perhaps, Wang Zifeng will be the next Zhong Taisheng.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

In August, Tang Shen received an imperial edict summoning him back to the capital.

Before leaving, he finalized all matters concerning the Silver Pull Division. Just before his departure, he received an invitation.

The Marshal of the Western Expedition, Li Jingde, had invited him to a private meeting.

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The official document from the Ministry of Personnel was quickly issued, and Fu Xiru resigned from his official position to return to his hometown.

After staying in Shengjing for another month, Fu Wei met up with a few old friends and, feeling that he had no more regrets, packed his belongings and left Shengjing.

“It’s just a pity that my two students are still in Youzhou and haven’t returned yet.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Wang Quan smiled and said, “Once you return to Changzhou, won’t Zi Feng come to visit you when he returns? You can rest assured and go. You’re free now, without the burden of official duties, truly able to travel and enjoy the landscapes, becoming the Master of Insignificant Talent.”

This statement wasn’t wrong. Changzhou is located in the Northern Zhili region, very close to Shengjing, so it wouldn’t be difficult for Wang Zhen and Tang Shen to visit Fu Wei.

However, although Fu Wei often mentioned returning to Changzhou, he didn’t actually go back immediately.

After leaving Shengjing, he traveled south along the Grand Canal, visiting famous mountains and rivers, and enjoying drinks and conversations with several reclusive literary masters. By April, he arrived in Gusu.

Gusu is a place blessed with outstanding people and good energy. As soon as he disembarked, Fu Wei exclaimed, “When you arrive in Gusu, you see houses all built along the rivers.” The numerous water channels and ditches, like a dense web, formed a magnificent and graceful Gusu city.

Having resigned from his official post, Fu Wei naturally didn’t disturb the local officials in Gusu. Accompanied by his Wen Shu and Fu Qin page boys, he arrived at an elegant and quiet residence in a carriage. Upon knocking, the old housekeeper who opened the door was surprised to see him, his eyes welling up with tears as he exclaimed, “Fu xianggong!”

Fu Wei laughed, “I have already resigned from my post; there’s no more ‘Fu xianggong.’ Just call me the Master of Insignificant Talent. Didn’t your master used to call me that?”

The housekeeper nodded repeatedly and stepped aside to let him in, “Please come in.”

Fu Wei stepped into the Liang Residence.

Liang Song’s wife had passed away many years ago, and they had no children. After his death, his only nephew, Xu Hui, was appointed as a county magistrate and left to take up his post six years ago. The Liang Residence was now only inhabited by the housekeeper and a few loyal servants. They kept the large manor spotlessly clean, with the master’s study and bedroom remaining exactly as they were six years ago.

After looking around, Fu Wei entered Liang Song’s study. He carefully examined the room and was surprised to see a piece of calligraphy hanging on the wall, “Is this ‘Viewing Yueyang Tower’ written by Zuoshan Xianren last year? The original is actually here?”

The housekeeper replied, “Indeed, it is the original work of Zuoshan Xianren.”

Zuoshan Xianren was a famous calligrapher of the dynasty, and Fu Wei had met him once in his youth. Not every great master prefers to live in seclusion; Zuoshan Xianren was a thorough businessman. He would write a few pieces of calligraphy each year to auction off. His works were excellent, but also extremely expensive.

Fu Wei looked at it for a while, stroked his beard, and smiled slightly, “Jing Ze had such a thing and didn’t show it to me first, just hung it here?”

The housekeeper’s heart skipped a beat, and he lowered his head without speaking.

The housekeeper hadn’t read Liang Song’s letters, but he knew that Tang Shen had gone to Shengjing six years ago to become Fu Wei’s student. Over the years, Tang Shen would visit the Liang Residence whenever he returned to Gusu. Even when he didn’t return, Madam Tang always took care of both households. Otherwise, how could a few servants manage such a large manor?

But the housekeeper didn’t know how much Fu Wei knew. If Fu Wei misunderstood Tang Shen’s intentions in becoming his student, it could ruin Tang Shen’s plans.

Fortunately, Fu Wei didn’t say much more. He asked, “Where is Liang Bowen buried?”

The housekeeper immediately sent a few attendants to take Fu Wei to Liang Song’s grave in a carriage.

Fu Wei had Wen Shu prepare a pot of good wine and Fu Qin bring out a piece of calligraphy and painting. He poured the wine in front of Liang Song’s tombstone and placed the painting on the ground, setting it alight with a fire starter. No one knew which painting he burned, but he did so without hesitation, suggesting it couldn’t have been too valuable.

Fu Wei took out a small silver leaf from his pocket and buried it in the soil in front of Liang Song’s grave.

“Liang Bowen, oh Liang Bowen, you really were a schemer. Back then, I just forgot my money pouch, and you treated me to a meal, then made me take on a student. That was a big loss for me. When we meet on the Bridge of Forgetfulness, you’ll have to treat me to a few more pots of wine, or I’ll make you regret it.”

After speaking for a while longer, Fu Wei left with his two page boys.

After staying in Gusu for two days, Fu Wei took a boat north to Jinling.

The Tang family only learned of Fu Wei’s visit to Gusu three days later. Madam Tang immediately sent someone to look for him, but Fu Wei had already left. Tang Yun said, “Mother, Fu daren is the teacher of Cousin Jing Ze. We should have entertained him properly when he came to Gusu. Now that he’s already left, what should we do?”

Madam Tang was also worried, but after some thought, she said, “Since Fu daren didn’t want to make a big deal of his visit, let’s pretend we didn’t know. Just write a letter to Shen’er and inform him that Fu daren has been to Gusu.”

“Yes.”

The news of Fu Wei’s travels didn’t reach Youzhou.

By April, Youzhou still showed no signs of spring, truly a place where the spring breeze does not cross the Yumen Pass.

During these two months, a major event occurred in the Liao State.

In March, the Liao Emperor went hunting in Nanjing’s Xijin Prefecture, which should have been a joyous occasion for the emperor and his subjects. However, during the celebration banquet, the eldest prince, Yelü Zhan, angered the emperor, who flew into a rage and had the prince escorted back to Dading Prefecture to reflect on his mistakes, forbidding him from leaving his residence.

When this news reached the Song court, many officials understood that it was merely a result of the power struggle between the second prince, Yelü Shege, and the third prince, Yelü Han, involving the eldest prince. The eldest prince was never a candidate for the throne, and now, like the fourth prince, he had been maneuvered out of contention, which was expected.

However, Tang Shen wrote a secret letter and sent it to Shengjing.

Su Wenyun received the letter, his expression changed, and he immediately went to the palace to see the emperor.

Upon hearing Su Wenyun’s report, Emperor Zhao Fu showed rare interest. Sipping his ginseng tea, he smiled amiably and said, “Is that so? Fei Ran, please tell me in detail.”

Su Wenyun bowed respectfully, “Yes.”

Su Wenyun recounted the events of the Xijin Prefecture hunt in full detail.

The eldest prince of Liao, Yelü Zhan, was a man who loved to affect a cultured demeanor but was utterly uncultured. The Liao people admired Song culture, and the nobility aspired to Song cultural etiquette. Among them, the second prince, Yelü Shege, excelled. He was well-read, elegant, and dignified, a renowned scholar in the Liao court.

Yelü Zhan wanted to emulate his younger brother and become a cultured literatus. However, his attempts were clumsy and unsuccessful, neither achieving the grace of a gentleman nor accomplishing any significant tasks. Additionally, the ordinary background of his birth mother meant he was never a candidate for the throne.

Though Yelü Zhan was foolish, he wasn’t completely stupid. After the fourth prince, Yelü Longzhen, was caught in an affair with Princess Anding, Yelü Zhan couldn’t sleep at night, constantly worried, fearing he would be the next Yelü Longzhen. Driven by this intense anxiety, Yelü Zhan finally decided to give up any ambitions for the throne, wanting only to live out his life in wealth and comfort.

He went to see the Grand Preceptor, Yelü Ding, to pledge his loyalty.

The eldest prince voluntarily stepping aside and supporting the third prince was a great boon for the third prince’s faction.

There are no walls without ears, and when this news reached Yelü Shege, he was furious but kept his anger hidden. The next day, a handsome young servant from the second prince’s residence fell ill and was wrapped in a straw mat and thrown outside the city.

Originally, Yelü Shege had planned to organize a grand event during the Xijin Prefecture hunt to please the emperor. But with this development, he conspired with Yelü Qin and others to execute a scheme.

Yelü Zhan was known for his lust. During the hunt, Liao princes were allowed to bring a concubine. Yelü Shege arranged for Yelü Zhan’s concubine to be sent to an official’s tent. The official, not daring to touch a richly dressed stranger, was confronted by Yelü Zhan, who beat him up and comforted his weeping concubine, thus missing the celebration banquet.

It wasn’t a major issue, but the emperor had always favored Yelü Shege.

Yelü Shege seized the opportunity to criticize Yelü Zhan, asking sternly where the eldest prince had been and why he was late. Yelü Zhan, not daring to lie to the emperor, told the truth. Yelü Shege sighed, “Elder Brother, it’s just a woman. How could you delay such an important event as the celebration banquet?”

Yelü Zhan thought to himself: You don’t like women, what do you know?

But he didn’t dare say it, swallowing his anger.

Seeing this, Yelü Han naturally took the chance to mock Yelü Shege, “I heard that Second Brother didn’t bring his favorite concubine to the Xijin Prefecture hunt. Oh, but I did see a handsome young eunuch in your tent. Is he your new page?”

Yelü Shege’s expression changed, and the emperor grew angry.

The emperor was displeased with Yelü Shege but didn’t want to punish his favorite son, so he punished Yelü Zhan instead. Yelü Zhan was truly caught in the crossfire, suffering unjustly.

Afterwards, the emperor summoned Yelü Shege privately. The once fierce Liao Emperor coldly said, “What young eunuch?”

Yelü Shege replied respectfully, “Just someone to warm the bed.”

“Kill him.”

“…Yes.”

Leaving the emperor’s tent, Yelü Shege let out a long breath and smiled slightly.

The saying goes, to kill ten thousand enemies, one must lose three thousand of their own allies. The emperor was angry with him, but a male concubine was a small matter. Even the emperor himself had had a few young eunuchs to warm his bed. Men play around; as long as it’s not taken seriously, it’s no big deal.

The emperor always thought Yelü Shege only liked to play with men, not that he exclusively liked men. To maintain appearances, Yelü Shege had many concubines in his residence.

If it was just playing around, it was harmless. But if he had no interest in women at all, that would be a serious issue.

After this incident, the emperor would only be slightly angry about the male concubines but would never suspect that Yelü Shege had orchestrated Yelü Zhan’s downfall.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

It was just a pity; that young eunuch was very lovely, with features somewhat resembling a Song man he had taken a liking to. He hadn’t had the chance to enjoy him before having to send him to his death.

After a moment of regret, Yelü Shege called his trusted guard and said indifferently, “Kill him and throw the body in a remote forest.”

“Yes.”

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The two walked out of the study, only to see that outside, a fine and dense silent snowfall had begun.

Against the pitch-black night sky, thick, pristine snowflakes drifted gently to the ground, already forming a thin layer of white. The residence that Ji Zhaosi had prepared for Wang Zhen was meticulously designed; in Youzhou, such a courtyard, rich with the charm of Jiangnan’s water towns, was rare. The manor’s garden even had a pond, with stacked rock formations and layers of trees partially concealing the scenery.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Tang Shen and Wang Zhen walked side by side along the corridor. Tang Shen extended his hand, catching a snowflake.

“It’s strange,” he mused. “On the eve of the seventh day of the first lunar month, Shengjing had a heavy snowfall, and the next day, another just like today. Yet on that very night, the moonlight was clear, without a single flake in sight.” After a pause, he added, “On the night Shanting was executed, it also snowed.”

Wang Zhen’s voice was crisp and cool. “Do you believe in gods and spirits?”

Tang Shen suddenly lifted his head, meeting his senior brother’s gaze. They looked at each other for a moment before Tang Shen replied, “No.”

Of course, he didn’t believe. And he knew that Wang Zhen didn’t believe either.

If he did, then back during the xiangshi exams, Wang Zhen wouldn’t have ‘released’ turtles and rabbits in his name, trying to dissuade him from seeking divine protection and instead relying on himself.

Wang Zhen asked, “Then, little Junior Brother, do you think His Majesty believes?”

Tang Shen had no immediate answer.

Did Zhao Fu believe in gods and spirits?

Ask any citizen of the Song Dynasty, and they would likely answer: He believes, and he believes deeply!

Zhao Fu had followed Taoism for over twenty years. Every Chief Astronomer in the Astronomical Bureau had been a Taoist priest. The Immortal Ascension Platform, the Xuji Tower—weren’t they all built for his pursuit of immortality? He didn’t just believe in Taoism; he even believed in Buddhism. Even after executing that demon monk, Shanting, Zhao Fu still often played with a string of prayer beads during court sessions.

But after a long silence, Tang Shen finally said, “Perhaps he doesn’t believe.” His tone carried hesitation, uncertain speculation.

Wang Zhen chuckled softly. He reached out, grasped Tang Shen’s hand effortlessly, and held it. “Perhaps?”

Encouraged by his gaze, Tang Shen said with more certainty, “He doesn’t believe.”

Wang Zhen commented, “Li daren is an interesting man.”

It took Tang Shen a moment to realize that Wang Zhen was referring to Li Xiaoren, the Chief Astronomer.

“More than ten years ago, when I first met him, he had just been appointed Chief Astronomer and was still full of unease. But at that time, I was just a fifth-rank official myself.”

Tang Shen asked, “A fifth-rank Chamberlain?”

Wang Zhen smiled and nodded.

Tang Shen: “…”

A ‘mere’ fifth-rank official, indeed!

Wang Zhen continued, “Look at that expression—you’re thinking of kissing me, aren’t you?”

Tang Shen immediately averted his gaze.

Wang Zhen, however, leaned in smoothly, pressing a light kiss to Tang Shen’s eyelashes before continuing, “Since last year, Li daren often came to me, complaining about the oppression of Shanting. I understood his meaning, but what could I do? I, Wang Zifeng, am but a minor official with no influence in His Majesty’s eyes. Even if I spoke until my mouth was dry, His Majesty wouldn’t spare me a glance.”

Tang Shen: “…”

“Jing Ze, that look—hehehe, come back here.” Wang Zhen had been about to steal another kiss when he saw Tang Shen nearly turn away without a second thought. Laughing, he grabbed his hand and pulled him back.

Tang Shen was speechless. You? A minor official with no influence? Can you be any more shameless!

Wang Zhen sighed, “Do you think I’m lying? Ah, you misunderstand me again. I mean it sincerely—when it came to Shanting, I truly was powerless. Otherwise, given my longstanding friendship with Li daren and my naturally helpful disposition, how could I not have aided him?”

Not giving Tang Shen the chance to roll his eyes at him again, Wang Zhen quickly added, “Uncle said he couldn’t understand what had happened, couldn’t grasp His Majesty’s motives. But I have always said the same thing—to Uncle, to you: Do not doubt His Majesty. Even if you don’t understand him, do not doubt him. There are very few in this world who can outmaneuver him.”

Very few people could outmaneuver Zhao Fu?

That meant somebody could?

Tang Shen nearly asked Wang Zhen who he thought could outmaneuver Zhao Fu. But the question seemed too much like a death wish, so he refrained. He pondered it himself—Wang Zhen probably thought he himself could, and… Prime Minister Ji?

Better not ask. Instead, Tang Shen looked at Wang Zhen. “Even you don’t understand?”

Wang Zhen replied, “I don’t.”

“Really?”

“I swear.”

Only then did Tang Shen believe him.

It made sense, after all. If Zhao Fu’s actions had once followed some discernible pattern, this New Year’s palace upheaval had been utterly unpredictable.

The world believed it was a matter of an evil monk deceiving the Left Prime Minister, nearly causing disaster. But those within the imperial court, the emperor’s confidants, knew the truth was entirely different—so different that not a single detail aligned with the official account.

Was it Shanting’s fault?

Then how had the emperor, after days of unconsciousness, woken up at the exact crucial moment?

But Zhao Fu only had three sons.

As Emperor of the Song Dynasty, what reason could he possibly have to scheme against all three of his own sons, ruining them so thoroughly?

After the palace upheaval, the three princes had fled Shengjing in a panic, as if escaping for their lives. They seemed to have grasped part of the truth and were left suffocating under the weight of their father’s overwhelming dominance.

What kind of father would plot against his own children like this?

For wealth and beauty? For supreme power?

Zhao Fu lacked none of those.

Then what was he after?

Eternal renown? A lasting legacy?

Would killing his own sons make him immortal in history?

Tang Shen sighed, “Long ago, I once told Sir: I’d rather be a xiucai for life than have my descendants serve in the Hanlin Academy.”

Serving a ruler was like accompanying a tiger. High office and power—such things were not so easily held.

Wang Zhen looked at him in surprise. “Little Junior Brother once thought of not becoming an official? Strange—I don’t recall our teacher ever mentioning this.”

Tang Shen hesitated. “You know which teacher I meant.”

“Wasn’t it Fu Wei—Fu Xiru, our teacher? Who else could it be?”

“…”

“Wang Zifeng, you’re asking the obvious!”

Wang Zhen laughed heartily, pulling him into an embrace. “It’s a cold night with heavy snow. Shall we go inside?”

Only then did Tang Shen realize that, unknowingly, Wang Zhen had led him right to his sleeping quarters. The door creaked open with a soft squeak.

Tang Shen hesitated for a moment. By the time he grasped Wang Zhen’s true intention, he was already being lifted and placed onto the bed.

Wang Zhen gently loosened his waistband. Tang Shen looked at his elegant, handsome features and, for a moment, lost his senses. Without thinking, he instinctively lifted his head and kissed him. Wang Zhen froze for a moment. Although Tang Shen’s kiss was not brief, it wasn’t long either. After the kiss, however, Wang Zhen’s lips curled upwards, and he kissed Tang Shen’s lips again—lips that he had longed for for months.

The bedpost gently rocked, emitting faint sounds.

By the time the snow stopped, the tremors of the bed also ceased. Wang Zhen donned his outer garment and added some charcoal to the brazier. Tang Shen lay on the bed, stretching his neck curiously to watch him tend to the fire. When Wang Zhen turned around, he saw the handsome young man half hanging out of bed, the blanket only covering down to his waist, exposing his snow pale back.

And this person was gazing at him with shiny black eyes, not even blinking.

Wang Zhen’s eyes heated up, his throat tightened, and he quickly said, “Indulging in wine and lust is not the way of a gentleman,” before swiftly walking over and rolling Tang Shen back onto the bed.

The next day, both of them got up. As Tang Shen tied his waistband, he said, “Before coming here, I visited Sir’s residence. He told me that once the book was completed, he would have no regrets.”

Wang Zhen paused in his actions of getting dressed.

He sighed deeply, then said, “Sir’s hometown is not in Shengjing. I don’t know if we will be able to return in time to visit one last time.”

This time, Wang Zhen guessed correctly. On February 19, in the 32nd year of the Kaiping reign, the Hanlin Academy finished a book titled Wen Xun Jing Ji. This book took over three years of effort from Fu Wei. When Fu Wei was younger, he enjoyed participating in literary gatherings and reading the works of poets. Now, having finally completed Wen Xun Jing Ji, he was in high spirits and stayed up two nights in excitement.

But after the excitement wore off, Fu Wei felt an overwhelming sense of exhaustion. The book had nearly drained all his energy. Fu Wei finally realized that he was no longer a young man in his thirties or forties; he no longer had boundless energy. He was getting old and could no longer remain in the court.

At that moment, Fu Wei thought of his favorite student, Wang Zhen, who had left the capital the year before but had specially come to visit him and brought him a painting.

Fu Wei walked to his study and opened the painting. It was a beautiful landscape, with rich ink tones and an ingenious style. Wang Zhen’s painting was always casual and free-flowing, much like his calligraphy—extremely elegant. Yet, as Fu Wei looked at the painting, he saw the image of a white-haired old man riding a mule in the mountains.

After a long silence, Fu Wei burst into laughter. “You know everything, don’t you!”

The next day, Fu Wei submitted his resignation to the emperor and requested to retire to his hometown.

Several years ago, Fu Wei had resigned once, but Zhao Fu had strongly urged him to stay. That time, Fu Wei had gone from being the Left Prime Minister to the Hanlin Academy’s Minister of Imperial Edicts. This time, Zhao Fu tried to retain him again, but Fu Wei said, “I’m old. A few days ago, I finished Wen Xun Jing Ji and went out to gaze at the sky. Suddenly, I realized the vastness of the world, the bright moon, and the stars, yet I have never fully looked at them. Your Majesty, I really am old.”

Zhao Fu sighed deeply and didn’t insist further. “Xi Ru, I truly will miss you.”

Fu Wei said, “I will miss you as well, Your Majesty!” At those words, his eyes grew moist, and a tear fell.

After leaving Chuigong Hall, Fu Wei wiped his eyes and looked at the confined sky above the palace. His past flashed before his eyes—back in his younger days, the four great scholars were renowned, and he loved painting and leisure, calling himself the Master of Insignificant Talent. Back then, there was a person named Zhong Wei, and even a carefree person like Fu Wei had been deeply impressed by Zhong Taisheng.

When the previous emperor passed away and Zhao Fu ascended the throne, the sky changed again. The turbulent years of being lonely and uncertain about the future had lasted more than thirty years!

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Now, Fu Wei was truly old. He no longer moved quickly, and his body was not as strong. Yet, as Fu Wei walked out of the palace, he felt a great sense of relief with every step. The further he walked, the faster his pace became. When he stepped out of the palace gates, Fu Wei threw his head back and laughed loudly. He turned to the page boy and said, “Back home!”

The page boy, not understanding, looked at him. Fu Wei added, “Let’s go, back home to Changzhou, to the place I should have returned to long ago!”

Changzhou was Fu Wei’s hometown.

AN: Old Wang: “Indulging in wine and lust is not the way of a gentleman, but I am no gentleman!”

Little Tang Lang: “…You, go away!”

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However, there was one thing Tang Shen guessed wrong: Wang Zifeng was indeed seriously ill.

Originally, he had caught a cold, and then he braved the wind and snow to personally go to the outskirts of the city to pick up Tang Shen. That night, Wang Zhen developed a high fever and fell into a deep sleep, unable to wake. Tang Shen hurriedly called for a doctor, who prescribed medicine, and Tang Shen stayed by his bedside for two nights.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Zhao Fu would never have imagined in his lifetime that by sending Tang Shen to Youzhou, he had hoped Tang Shen would help share Wang Zhen’s burdens and handle the affairs with the Liao State properly. Instead, not only were the tasks not completed, but Wang Zifeng fell ill because of Tang Shen, and Tang Shen, in turn, delayed his own duties to care for him. No wonder office romances were discouraged in the modern world—it was entirely reasonable.

On the second night, Wang Zhen’s fever gradually subsided. Tang Shen, having not slept for a full day and night, finally felt relieved and fell asleep by the bedside.

When Wang Zhen woke up, he saw his little junior brother sleeping soundly with his head resting on his hand.

He didn’t wake Tang Shen but instead watched him with great interest for a long time. When Tang Shen woke up, he was startled to find Wang Zhen awake. After a moment of surprise, he asked, “How are you feeling?”

“Quite well.”

Tang Shen breathed a sigh of relief, “When did you wake up, Senior Brother?”

“About an hour ago.”

Tang Shen was surprised, “That long? Why didn’t you wake me?”

Wang Zhen’s lips moved, but he didn’t say anything.

Usually, when he teased his little junior brother, he never held back his words. Seeing Tang Shen either annoyed or anxious always delighted him. But when it came to genuine expressions of affection, he no longer spoke them aloud. How could he say that seeing Tang Shen worried and sleepless for his sake filled him with immense joy?

After a long pause, Wang Zhen said sincerely, “Jing Ze, I really like you so much.”

Tang Shen’s heart warmed, but he was also puzzled, “Why are you suddenly saying this?”

Wang Zhen, “I’m thirsty. Little Junior Brother, could you fetch me a cup of water?”

Tang Shen was utterly baffled but got up to get the water.

Why say this now?

Because in thirty years of life, I never imagined I could like someone this much.

When emotions run deep, they become hard to control. A thousand words ultimately boil down to one sentence: I truly like you so much.

Of course, there was plenty of sweetness and affection, but Tang Shen hadn’t forgotten that he hadn’t come to Youzhou just to date his boyfriend. He was here on official business. As soon as Wang Zifeng recovered, Tang Shen went to the Silver Pull Division to meet with Wang Xiao and Mei Shengze.

Last year, Tang Shen had sent the two to Youzhou to take charge of the Silver Pull Division. Now, half a year later, they had quietly settled in Youzhou. On the surface, they were officials of the Silver Pull Division, but privately, they had established channels to communicate regularly with Qiao Jiu in Xijin Prefecture. The two sides exchanged messages every half month, and in urgent situations, Qiao Jiu would return to Youzhou to discuss matters with Wang Xiao and Mei Shengze.

Seeing Tang Shen arrive, both men were delighted.

They welcomed Tang Shen inside.

“Youzhou’s winters are bitterly cold. Jing Ze, why did you come here?” Mei Shengze handed Tang Shen a warming hand heater as he spoke. Although his official rank was lower than Tang Shen’s, the two were old classmates and friends, so their relationship wasn’t overly formal.

Wang Xiao, on the other hand, didn’t engage in small talk. He stirred the charcoal in the brazier and then handed Tang Shen the intelligence report Qiao Jiu had sent just a few days earlier. “Daren, three days ago, Qiao Jiu sent a report saying the Liao Emperor is going to Xijin Prefecture for a hunt. The Liao Emperor’s birthday has just passed, and with Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding dismissed from his post, the Grand Preceptor’s faction has suffered a major blow. However, the Second Prince’s faction hasn’t gained much advantage either. Over the past few months, Yelü Ding has been frequently suppressing Yelü Shege.”

Mei Shengze added, “The Liao State is not like the Great Song. The Liao Emperor fought on the battlefield in his youth and is domineering and decisive. But over the past decade or so, the other tribes have gradually grown stronger. The Liao Emperor, having suffered various injuries in his youth, has found it increasingly difficult to manage court affairs as he ages. Therefore, the Liao Emperor’s preferred successor is the Second Prince, Yelü Shege, but Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding supports the Third Prince. This hunt in Xijin Prefecture will be hosted by the Second Prince.”

Tang Shen nodded slightly, “How is the Liao Emperor’s current condition?”

Wang Xiao and Mei Shengze exchanged a glance.

Tang Shen frowned, “The Liao Emperor’s health has been deteriorating. You must know this. Even if Yelü Ding holds immense power, he wouldn’t dare to overstep the Liao Emperor. The Liao Emperor favors the Second Prince as his successor, and Xiao Zhen, being part of the Second Prince’s faction, is naturally aligned with the Liao Emperor. The Liao Emperor is the one we should truly be trying to get close to.”

Wang Xiao said, “I will immediately write a secret letter and send it to Qiao Jiu.”

The three of them chatted for a while longer before turning to more personal matters.

Wang Xiao had come to Youzhou last year and had settled down there. He was a distant relative of Wang Zhen, and last year, when Wang Xiao went to Ningzhou to oversee the repair of official roads, he had received a letter of recommendation from Wang Zhen, which made his work in Ningzhou go much more smoothly. Now that Wang Zhen was also in Youzhou, Wang Xiao had naturally visited him early on and had heard about Wang Zhen’s cold.

Wang Xiao, “Is Wang xianggong‘s health better now?”

Tang Shen, “Senior Brother is fine.”

Wang Xiao breathed a sigh of relief, “That’s good to hear.”

Mei Shengze said, “Jing Ze, you know this. You didn’t spend much time at the Imperial Academy, so you’re not very familiar with the teachers. I’m old friends with Teacher Xu, and he has always looked out for me. A few days ago, he wrote me a letter mentioning Liu Fang.”

Tang Shen, “Liu Fang?” After thinking for a moment, he recalled the name from the depths of his memory.

Six years ago, when Tang Shen was still studying at the Imperial Academy, Liu Fang was one of the most outstanding students. That year, when the emperor visited the academy, Tang Shen took first place, and Liu Fang came in second. Later, they both passed the imperial examination and became jinshi in the same year.

Mei Shengze, “That’s the Liu Fang I’m talking about. It’s truly lamentable. You might not know this, but after Liu Fang passed the imperial examination, he didn’t stay in Shengjing for long. He went to Yangzhou to take up an official post. If it were just that, it wouldn’t be a big deal, but over the years, he gradually became part of the Ji faction. He should have been thriving, but who could have expected…” Mei Shengze paused before continuing, “Who could have expected what happened in the first month of this year? Liu Fang was implicated, dismissed from his post, and stripped of his rank. What kind of person he was, you might not know, but I do. At the Imperial Academy, he was always arrogant and ambitious, aiming for the top three in the exams. Now, as a disgraced official stripped of his rank, how could he bear it?”

Tang Shen had already guessed what was coming next, “What happened to Liu Fang?”

Mei Shengze sighed, “Teacher Xu had just attended his funeral before writing me this letter. He hanged himself!”

Tang Shen let out a long sigh, feeling greatly affected.

With Prime Minister Ji’s downfall, the situation seemed calm on the surface. The emperor hadn’t drastically reshuffled the court, only promoting Right Vice Prime Minister Xu to stabilize the overall situation. But beneath this apparent calm, how many officials had been destroyed by this storm? It was impossible to know.

Liu Fang was just one shadow among the countless officials affected. How many others like him were there?

In the evening, Tang Shen returned to the residence. As soon as he entered, he saw a middle-aged man in official robes leaving. The two crossed paths, and the man immediately bowed, “This lower official,  Lin Xu, greets Tang daren.”

Tang Shen nodded slightly.

The two didn’t speak further, and Tang Shen walked through the gate. After searching for a while, he finally found Wang Zhen in the study.

Wang Zifeng was someone who never mistreated himself. Even in the remote Youzhou, his study was filled with the faint scent of incense. It wasn’t an expensive or rare fragrance, but the smoke curled gently. On the wall hung several ink paintings of chrysanthemums, which, upon closer inspection, turned out to be Wang Zifeng’s own work. These paintings were now priceless, as Wang Zhen was personally named “the unparalleled top scholar” by Zhao Fu and was renowned throughout the land.

Seeing Tang Shen arrive, Wang Zhen beckoned, “Jing Ze.”

Tang Shen walked over, “Was Lin Xu here to see you just now, Senior Brother? Was it something important?”

Wang Zhen, “Nothing major. Sit.”

Tang Shen sat down, and Wang Zhen suddenly began setting up a chessboard.

Tang Shen: “…”

“…Chess?”

Wang Zhen, while arranging the pieces, looked up at Tang Shen and let out a soft “Hmm,” his voice tinged with amusement and a hint of deliberate confusion to continue the conversation with an explanation.

Tang Shen said helplessly, “It’s been so long since we last played chess, Senior Brother!”

Wang Zhen feigned surprise, “Has it?”

Tang Shen, “At least… half a year?”

Wang Zhen said self-reproachfully, “So you enjoy playing chess with me this much. I hadn’t realized. Don’t worry, from now on, I’ll play a game with you every day.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Who wants to play chess with you?!

Tang Shen didn’t consider himself a masochist. Why would he play chess with Wang Zhen and let himself be utterly trounced? Instinctively, he wanted to refuse, but Wang Zhen had already set up the board and handed him the box of black pieces. Who could refuse Wang Zifeng? Tang Shen naturally took the box, only to regret it immediately afterward.

Holding the box, Tang Shen said honestly, “It’s not like I can beat you.”

Wang Zhen smiled, “What did you just say, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen: “…”

Do you really need to hear it again?

Tang Shen expressionlessly tossed the box aside, “I can’t beat you. I won’t play.”

Wang Zhen laughed heartily for a while, then took Tang Shen’s hand and placed the box back in his palm. “The world is like a game of chess. How do you know you can’t beat me if you haven’t even tried? At the very least, you’ve already won one thing—you’ve won me over. Look, Jing Ze, isn’t this the most brilliant move you’ve ever made?”

Tang Shen, both amused and exasperated by his teasing, said, “Who wants to win you over? What good is having you in my hands?”

Wang Zhen sighed earnestly, “Those who have don’t know how to cherish. You’re truly blessed but don’t realize it!”

Tang Shen ignored him.

Who ever heard of someone praising themselves so shamelessly!

In the end, Tang Shen still played chess with Wang Zhen.

Wang Zhen was exceptionally skilled at chess. In his life, Tang Shen had only played chess with three people: Liang Song, Fu Xiru, and Wang Zifeng. Among them, Fu Xiru was the worst, followed by Liang Song, and Wang Zhen was the best. However, even Fu Xiru could beat Tang Shen five times over.

Tang Shen played absentmindedly, not expecting to win, but Wang Zhen deliberately fed him pieces, creating the illusion of an evenly matched game.

Tang Shen became interested. After playing for a while, just as he thought he might win, Wang Zhen delivered a decisive move, cutting off his momentum.

Tang Shen threw down his piece, “I’m done!”

Wang Zhen laughed, “You quit just because you lost?”

Tang Shen said matter-of-factly, “Who would keep playing after losing?”

Wang Zhen looked at him deeply, about to speak, but Tang Shen cut him off, “Don’t say it. I’ve grown bold with favoritism.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Wang Zhen was momentarily stunned, then burst into laughter. He stood up, hugged Tang Shen, and kissed him. Tang Shen was caught off guard, and by the time he realized what had happened, his ears turned slightly red. Just as he was about to protest in embarrassment, Wang Zhen said, “On that cold night in the first month, did you stay up all night?”

Tang Shen was taken aback. He composed himself and looked up, “Uncle said he didn’t understand, and neither do I. But Senior Brother… do you understand?”

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Liao State, Shangjing, Dading Prefecture.

It happened to be the Liao Emperor’s birthday, and the entire city of Shangjing was decorated with lanterns and banners as the people celebrated the emperor’s longevity. The Liao people did not have as many rules and formalities as the Song. For the emperor’s birthday, a grand procession would travel from the east gate to the west gate, distributing ten thousand cups of wine to the people, symbolizing “sharing joy with the people.” Thus, the Liao Emperor’s birthday was a joyous occasion for the Liao people, who took to the streets to catch a glimpse of the imperial carriage.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

However, the person sitting in the imperial carriage was not necessarily the Liao Emperor. Last year, during the emperor’s birthday, it was the Second Prince, Yelü Shege, who represented the emperor and distributed the ten thousand cups of wine. This year, it was the Third Prince, Yelü Han, who sat in the carriage. Holding a wine jar, his chest exposed, he laughed heartily and said to the guard general beside him, “Drink up! We won’t return until we’re drunk!”

The grand procession of ten thousand cups of wine lasted six hours before it finally concluded.

The Third Prince, Yelü Han, presented the wine offered by the people to the Liao Emperor, saying, “Imperial Father, this is the respect of your subjects!”

The Liao Emperor laughed heartily and drank the entire jar of wine in one go.

With that, the Liao Emperor’s birthday banquet officially began.

The Third Prince, Yelü Han, was currently the most influential figure in the Liao court. His teacher was the Grand Preceptor, Yelü Ding. Although last year, Yelü Ding had been imprisoned for attempting to assassinate Yelü Qin, the Third Prince’s faction remained the most powerful. Yelü Ding alone was enough to stabilize the situation.

The Second Prince, Yelü Shege, sat at the banquet, drinking wine from a jar like the other Liao officials. He frowned and set the jar aside. Yelü Qin leaned over and asked, “Your Highness, do you not like this jar of Shaoye wine? Shall I fetch you another?”

Yelü Shege, “No need.”

It wasn’t the wine he disliked, but the sight of all the Liao people at the banquet drinking heavily and tearing meat apart with their hands.

Even the Liao Emperor, as noble as he was, held a wine jar and poured it directly into his mouth, staining the entire front of his robe with wine.

Three months ago, Yelü Shege had hurriedly left the Song capital and returned to Nanjing’s Xijin Prefecture. As expected, the day after his return, envoys from Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding arrived from Shangjing. Officially, they claimed the Grand Preceptor had matters to discuss with him, but in reality, they were there to verify whether he was still in Xijin Prefecture.

Yelü Shege’s timely return had averted a crisis.

After personally visiting the Song Dynasty, Yelü Shege suddenly realized that the Song court was far less treacherous than the Liao State. The Song people were reserved, and the Song Emperor was weak. Moreover, the Kaiping Emperor had been gravely ill for some time and likely didn’t have long to live. But what about the Liao State?

The Liao Emperor had fought many battles in his youth, leaving him with numerous injuries and ailments. However, a starved camel is still larger than a horse. The Liao Emperor was ruthless and bloodthirsty. He didn’t need to understand the intricacies of court politics because no one in the Liao State dared to challenge the Liao Emperor’s authority—not even Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding.

The Liao Emperor was like a sleeping tiger, while the Grand Preceptor was a coiled serpent on a branch.

The two stood in opposition, yet there was no inevitable conflict of interest between them. If anything, the Grand Preceptor supported the Third Prince, Yelü Han, and wanted to make him the Crown Prince. Although the Liao Emperor never explicitly stated it, he paid more attention to Yelü Shege, favoring this second son of humble origins.

“Shege, next month, accompany me to Nanshan for a hunt. Let me see if your archery skills have dulled!”

Yelü Shege snapped out of his thoughts, stood up, and struck his chest with his fist in salute. “Your son will surely shoot down an eagle as a belated birthday gift for you, Imperial Father.”

The Liao Emperor laughed heartily.

By late February, spring had arrived in most parts of the Great Song. Tang Shen traveled north alone in a carriage, heading westward. As the days passed, the weather should have grown warmer, but the further north he went, the colder it became. On the eighth day, the carriage finally arrived ten miles outside Youzhou City.

Thick snowflakes fell from the sky, blanketing the ground in silver.

Tang Shen sat in the carriage, holding a warming hand heater and flipping through a poetry collection. At that moment, the coachman said, “Daren, it seems someone is waiting ahead.”

Tang Shen lifted the carriage curtain and saw a few people standing outside a small pavilion about a kilometer away.

Youzhou was not like other cities in the Great Song. Few commoners traveled to Youzhou, so if someone was waiting ten miles outside the city, it was almost certainly for him. Tang Shen said, “It must be the Youzhou officials, knowing I’m coming, waiting for me there. Stop by the pavilion when we reach it.”

“Yes, daren.”

Tang Shen placed the poetry collection in the carriage drawer, straightened his robes, and stepped out of the carriage. As soon as he stepped out, a biting cold wind pierced through him, and Tang Shen shivered. He looked up at the people waiting outside the pavilion and immediately recognized the Youzhou Governor, Ji Zhaosi.

However, Tang Shen’s gaze swept past him and landed on the person standing behind Ji Zhaosi.

His heart trembled violently as he stared at Wang Zhen. After a long moment, he said, “This lower official, Tang Shen, greets the Grand Secretary of the Left.”

Wang Zhen was draped in a snow-white fox fur cloak, his gaze clear as he looked at Tang Shen. With a single glance, the two understood each other. Wang Zhen slowly raised his hand, “No need for formalities… hai hai.”

Tang Shen immediately asked, “Senior Brother, are you ill?”

In his urgency, he forgot to address Wang Zhen formally and called him “Senior Brother” instead.

Wang Zhen coughed for a while, and Qin Si, standing beside him, explained, “Daren stayed up late handling official business a few days ago and caught a cold. He only fell ill yesterday. It’s not a serious illness, but it came on strong, so it looks worse than it is.”

Tang Shen breathed a slight sigh of relief.

The group returned to Youzhou City together.

Since Wang Zifeng was ill, Ji Zhaosi, who had originally planned to host a banquet for Tang Shen, had to cancel it so that Wang Zhen could rest early. Tang Shen supported Wang Zhen and took him to the residence where the two would stay in Youzhou. This residence had been specially prepared by Youzhou Governor Ji Zhaosi. Since the Silver Pull Division was established in Youzhou, its highest-ranking official naturally needed a place to stay in the city.

Ji Zhaosi escorted Tang Shen and Wang Zhen to the residence by carriage and said, “Tang daren, you don’t have a residence in Youzhou. You’ve arrived too suddenly—I haven’t had a chance to prepare one yet. In a few days, it will be ready.”

Tang Shen replied matter-of-factly, “No need. I don’t come to Youzhou often. I can just stay with Wang daren.”

Ji Zhaosi didn’t think much of it. “Understood.”

Tang Shen helped Wang Zhen into the residence. Their wide sleeves concealed their hands, and Wang Zifeng took the opportunity to clasp Tang Shen’s hand, their fingers intertwining. Tang Shen paused momentarily, but before he could react, Wang Zifeng leaned his head on Tang Shen’s shoulder.

Minister Wang whispered, “Jing Ze…”

Tang Shen: “…?”

“Jing Ze…”

“I’m here.”

“I’m not going to make it.”

“…What?!”

Minister Wang said, “We’re not married yet. If I die first, you won’t get a single coin from my estate. And my estate is quite substantial. I have three manors in Shengjing, and shops on three streets in Shengjing, Northern Zhili, and Southern Zhili. In fact, I also own a dye workshop and a cloth shop in your hometown, Gusu. And in Jinling, which is the Wang family’s stronghold, most of my assets are there…”

Tang Shen was dumbfounded, “As the Minister of Revenue, you’ve embezzled this much?!”

Wang Zhen, “Embezzled? How could you think that of me? Half of this was your mother-in-law’s dowry… hai hai… How could you hit me? I’m sick.”

“Then speak properly!”

Wang Zhen laughed and leaned heavily on Tang Shen. “My mother only had one son, so her dowry naturally belongs to me, and in the future, it will belong to you too. You haven’t even heard the best part yet. In Jinling, do you know about the Qinhuai River?”

Tang Shen exclaimed in shock, “Don’t tell me the Qinhuai River is also under your name!”

Wang Zhen let out an involuntary laugh, “The Qinhuai River is part of the Great Song’s territory. How could it belong to me alone? But there are two highly profitable restaurants by the Qinhuai River that are mine.”

“Are the singing girls yours too?”

Wang Zhen said cheerfully, “If I told you I own a few pleasure boats, would you be angry?”

“I wouldn’t be angry.”

“Good, then I do own a few… Ai, little Junior Brother!”

Tang Shen pushed him away and strode into the house.

Wang Zhen immediately chased after him, complaining grievously, “You said you wouldn’t be angry.”

Tang Shen looked him up and down, “Of course I’m not angry. Why would I be? What does it matter if you own a few pleasure boats? Do you even like women?”

Wang Zhen hugged him tightly and laughed loudly, “If you say that, I’ll be heartbroken.”

Tang Shen thought to himself: You look perfectly happy right now, thinking I’m jealous!

In truth, Tang Shen wasn’t jealous. If Wang Zifeng could casually fall for a few singing girls, how could he have remained single until the age of twenty-nine? He was simply amazed. This guy is loaded! So annoyingly loaded! He had worked hard to earn his fortune, from Tang’s Logistics to Xixia Tower, and only after opening Baibao Pavilion could he claim to be wealthy. But who would have thought that a true rich heir like Wang Zhen, with just his mother’s dowry, could be so wealthy?

Tang Shen fell silent for a moment, “I gave you a ten percent share of Baibao Pavilion.”

Wang Zhen said sincerely, “Jing Ze, you’re really good at making money. The annual profits from that small Baibao Pavilion are almost as much as all my shops combined.”

Tang Shen was about to say, “Since you’re so rich, why don’t you return my shares?” But after being showered with such flattery, he hesitated and couldn’t bring himself to say it.

Wang Zhen, “Let’s get back to the main topic. Jing Ze, I’m not going to make it.” After saying this, he leaned on Tang Shen’s shoulder again. “If I die, none of my assets will belong to you. That won’t do… I remember you have an elder cousin.”

Tang Shen, “? I only have a younger sister.”

“Not Tang Huang, I mean your cousin in Gusu Prefecture.”

“You mean Tang Yun? He’s my cousin on my father’s side, not my mother’s side. My mother was an only child.”

Wang Zhen frowned but continued, “That’s close enough. According to family customs, if I die, you should go to him and have him help you reclaim my assets from the Langya Wang family. To do that, you’ll need to tell him that you and I are lovers… hai hai.”

Tang Shen pushed him away again, “Aren’t you supposed to be sick?!”

Wang Zhen, “Yes, I’m sick. Very sick.”

Tang Shen: “…”

You don’t look sick at all when you’re scheming!

“Do you know why I got sick?”

“Qin Si said it was because you stayed up late handling official business?”

Wang Zhen gently embraced Tang Shen. He wanted to kiss him but remembered he was sick and didn’t want to pass the illness to Tang Shen, so he held back. He chuckled softly, his voice warm and clear but slightly hoarse, “You were coming, so I wanted to finish as much work as possible beforehand. That way, when you arrived, we could spend more time together. It’s been three months since I last saw you. I really want to kiss you.”

Tang Shen looked up at him, his lips parting slightly, “Senior Brother…”

Wang Zhen, “I’m afraid of passing the sickness to you, so I’ll have to let it go for now.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Tang Shen was even more moved.

Minister Wang rarely acted like a decent human being, so how could he let such a touching moment be wasted on himself alone? Such a losing deal would never exist in his vocabulary.

Holding his little junior brother, Minister Wang deeply felt that he was indeed a once-in-a-century, once-in-a-millennium gentleman.

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