The banquet had not yet finished when someone from the palace arrived. Zhao Fu had bestowed a wolf-hair brush upon Tang Shen.

In ancient times, it was rare for a man to pass the imperial examination before the age of twenty and receive an official title before his coming-of-age ceremony. Those who passed the imperial examination and caught the emperor’s attention were even rarer. Whenever an official held a coming-of-age ceremony, Zhao Fu would bestow gifts, but the gifts varied.

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During Zhao Fu’s reign, only six officials received this honor in thirty-one years. Three of them were powerful officials favored by the emperor, while the other three held lower positions and took up official posts away from the capital.

Tang Shen received the gift personally bestowed by Zhao Fu. He accepted the brush with both hands and handed some lucky money to the eunuch who delivered the gift.

The eunuch initially pretended to decline but soon accepted it. He smiled and said, “Congratulations to Tang daren. Tang daren is young and promising with a bright future ahead.”

When the moon was at its peak, Tang Shen personally escorted the congratulatory officials out.

As he saw off Fu Wei and Wang Zhen, Tang Shen said, “Tomorrow night, I will host a banquet at home. Sir and Senior Brother must attend.”

Both of them naturally agreed.

In the thirty-first year of the Kaiping era, on the seventh day of the third month, it was Tang Shen’s birthday.

Because Tang Shen was leaving for Youzhou in mid-March to oversee the Silver Pull Division, he stopped attending the court and focused on preparing for his trip. At noon, he hosted a banquet at Xixia Tower for a few of his friends. None of the attendees were high-ranking officials, with the highest-ranking being Yao Shan.

Yao Shan and Tang Shen were both fellow jinshi in the same year’s imperial examination. Four years ago, Yao Shan ranked first in the examination and then went to the palace with Tang Shen to serve as a chamberlain. Two years ago, under the leadership of Left Prime Minister Ji Wengji, Consultant in Policy Affairs of the Chancellery Zhao Jing, and Right Vice Minister of Revenue Qin Si, the Revenue And Expenditure Department was reestablished, becoming the most coveted post among court officials at the time. Yao Shan, who was deeply favored by the emperor, originally held the rank of fifth-rank chamberlain but was assigned to the Revenue And Expenditure Department by Zhao Fu during that period.

At that time, Yao Shan didn’t expect that the Revenue And Expenditure Department would end up like that. He and Tang Shen’s friend, Mei Shengze, went to the Revenue And Expenditure Department together, but no one expected that it would take a sharp turn for the worse within a year. The Revenue And Expenditure Department was abolished by the emperor, and Zhao Jing and Qin Si were demoted. Minor officials like them also had a hard time.

Mei Shengze was demoted to a county magistrate of Guinan last year and had temporarily lost touch with Tang Shen.

Yao Shan was lucky, though. He had served as a chamberlain for two years and was not demoted despite being scolded by Zhao Fu. Instead, he was transferred to a fourth-rank Senior Official of Consultative Affairs, but his actual power and influence were far less than Tang Shen’s.

However, Yao Shan had already made peace with his situation.

Life is full of hardships, but being able to stay in the capital is already a blessing.

At the banquet, Yao Shan drank some wine and said to Tang Shen, “Jing Ze, be careful on your trip to Youzhou. The Silver Pull Division is like the Revenue And Expenditure Department’s successor, and its waters are deep. Although I don’t know what kind of twists and turns it has, Youzhou is a city between the Song and Liao States, where fish and dragons coexist. The Silver Pull Division is responsible for military supplies, so it must be dangerous. Be careful.”

Tang Shen was moved by Yao Shan’s concern and said, “Thank you, Brother Wen Ji for your concern. This time at Youzhou, Jing Ze will be very cautious.”

Yao Shan then said with lingering fear, “The incident with the Revenue And Expenditure Department has made me more cautious about the dark currents in officialdom. The higher you stand, the colder it gets. Looking down, every step is treacherous.”

Tang Shen said, “Youzhou is indeed full of dangers, but luckily, the Silver Pull Division is under my senior brother Wang Zifeng’s supervision, so it should be safe.”

Yao Shan suddenly remembered, “Ah, yes! I forgot that Wang daren is your senior brother and that he is in charge of the Silver Pull Division.”

Tang Shen smiled without saying anything.

Yao Shan’s eyes turned green with envy.

“Alas! I’m not even close! Jing Ze, wait until you return from Youzhou and let’s have a few cups together to alleviate my bitter feelings. Do you smell the sourness I am emanating? I’m really envious!”

Tang Shen laughed loudly: “It’s settled then!”

At noon, he entertained his friends. In the evening, Tang Shen hosted a banquet at home for Wang Zhen and Fu Wei.

The three men raised their cups together and chatted as they ate. Fu Wei occasionally laughed loudly and boasted about his painting skills. He praised his own painting as if it were alive and vivid.

Tang Shen initially believed him at first but thought to himself that his teacher was known as the Master of Insignificant Talent, and his calligraphy was indeed one of Song Dynasty’s best works… but he couldn’t help but wonder how Fu Wei could create such an excellent painting today? But he turned his head and his eyes met Wang Zhen’s.

Only to see Wang Zhen’s clear eyes full of playful teasing and laughter. He didn’t say anything but quietly ate his food while listening to Fu Wei bragging on the side.

Tang Shen suddenly realized that his teacher and he were similar in that they were both good at flattery. The only difference was that Tang Shen flattered others, while Fu Wei flattered himself!

Alright, this painting must not be very good and definitely lives up to his teacher’s usual standards.

After finishing their meal, the Fu Residence was a bit far from Tanhua Residence, so Fu Wei left first while Wang Zhen stayed behind.

After Aunt Yao cleared the dishes from the table, Tang Shen and Wang Zhen walked in the courtyard.

The Tanhua Residence was not big, just a three-courtyard residence with an east wing connected on the right side. The garden in the manor was in the northwest corner and had a small pond with a grove of bamboo surrounding it. It was March, early spring, and the evening breeze on their faces felt refreshing, rather than cold.

Walking along the edge of the pond, Tang Shen said, “Senior Brother personally chose this manor for me as the Tanhua Residence, but this is your first time seeing it, right?”

Wang Zhen replied, “If you mean completely walking through this manor, then yes, it’s the first time.”

“I quite like this bamboo grove.” Tang Shen stopped by the bamboo grove and turned to look at Wang Zhen, saying, “Bamboo symbolizes a noble gentleman. It’s spring, and there’s no floral fragrance yet. The study is located nearby, making it the most secluded spot.”

The two of them soon entered Tang Shen’s study.

It wasn’t Wang Zhen’s first time at the Tanhua Residence, but it was his first time entering Tang Shen’s study.

Tang Shen personally went to the kitchen to pour tea for Wang Zhen. Before leaving, he said, “Senior Brother, feel free to look around. My collection of books at home may not be as vast as yours, but there are still quite a few.”

A few moments later, Tang Shen returned with a tea tray. As he entered the room, he saw Wang Zhen standing by the corner of the bookshelf, examining some books on tea art. Tang Shen was startled but quickly composed himself, hiding any trace of abnormality. He placed the tea tray on the table and smiled, saying, “Are you thirsty, Senior Brother? Would you like some tea? It’s the Biluochun brought from Gusu by my cousin.”

Wang Zhen put down the book and took a sip of tea.

“Senior Brother, were you looking at books on tea art just now?” Tang Shen asked.

Wang Zhen glanced at the book he had just placed back on the shelf, his lips curled slightly. “Yes, little Junior Brother, you do have some books here that I don’t have at home. Could you lend me some to take home?”

“Of course,” Tang Shen said, taking out several books on tea art for Wang Zhen. After taking those books down, he inadvertently caused the other books on the side to fall over, blocking the gap left by the missing ones. Tang Shen discreetly rearranged the books, ensuring that they completely covered the gap. He smiled at Wang Zhen and asked, “Is there anything else Senior Brother would like to see?”

Wang Zhen seemed to have not noticed Tang Shen’s subtle movements. He replied, “I seemed to have seen a book on supernatural fiction from a previous dynasty moments ago.”

Tang Shen was surprised, “Senior Brother, you also like reading supernatural fiction?”

Wang Zhen asked in return, “Isn’t it little Junior Brother who likes it, since you have a copy in your collection?”

Tang Shen replied, “I just happened to come across it and found the title intriguing, so I bought it to read.”

“Then I am also the same.”

Tang Shen knew he couldn’t compete with Wang Zhen in eloquence. He packed up the books and the two sat on the couch in the study, reminiscing about the past.

Tang Shen spoke for the first time about the painting he saw at thirteen years old, which was painted by Fu Wei and inscribed by Wang Zhen.

Wang Zhen revealed a surprised expression, “There is actually such a thing?”

Seeing the surprise on his senior brother’s face, Tang Shen felt elated. It was quite an accomplishment to surprise Wang Zhen. He proudly said, “Yes. Back then, I didn’t know the Master of Insignificant Talent was Sir. When I saw Senior Brother’s calligraphy, I remembered the name Wang Zifeng. At the time, I even wondered what Senior Brother’s name was.”

Zi Feng is Wang Zhen’s courtesy name, while Zhen is his given name.

Generally speaking, the courtesy names of ancient people either had meanings, conveyed the hopes of their elders, or were related to their given names.

For example, Confucius was named Qiu and his courtesy name was Zhongni. Zhong means second, and Confucius was second in birth order in his family, so his courtesy name was Zhongni. Another example is Qu Yuan, whose courtesy name was Guangping. The area of Guangping represents a plain, so that’s how his courtesy name is related to his given name.

Wang Zhen’s courtesy name was Zi Feng, and when Tang Shen was thirteen, he secretly pondered, with “Zi” being a term of endearment without an actual meaning, and Wang Zhen’s real courtesy name being “Feng.”

“Feng” means lush, abundant, splendid, and beautiful.

Does this mean that Wang Zhen was exceptionally good-looking, so he was given the courtesy name “Feng”?

As it turned out, when Tang Shen first saw Wang Zhen, he was indeed briefly stunned by his senior brother’s appearance. But Tang Shen always felt that there was more to it than just looks.

Wang Zhen playfully said, “What do you think?”

Tang Shen instinctively started flattering, “I thought, Senior Brother must be a splendid and handsome person, which is why you were given the courtesy name ‘Zi Feng.'”

Wang Zhen replied, “That’s not entirely wrong.”

Tang Shen, “…”

You’re not very modest.

“Little Junior Brother once mentioned that you guessed at my name, Wang Zhen, with the character ‘Zhen’ taken from the Book of Songs, ‘Qin Wei.’ Qin and Wei are rivers with abundant water sources. The year I was born, my father went alone to Jiezhou for his official appointment, and the Qin River passed through Jiezhou. That year, the Qin River was full but not flooding, leading to a bountiful harvest in both places, and my father’s governance in Jiezhou was recognized, earning him the emperor’s reward. Coincidentally, I was also born around the same time, and a letter from the Langya Wang family was sent to Jiezhou, so my father chose a name for me, ‘Zhen.'”

Wang Zhen recited that poem, “‘Rivers Qin and Wei flow freely.’ So when I came of age, I was given the courtesy name ‘Feng.’ May the Qin River flow abundantly every year, bringing blessings to all.”

Everyone enjoys hearing stories, and Wang Zhen’s storytelling was captivating, leaving Tang Shen thoroughly engrossed.

Tang Shen said, “I didn’t expect such a profound origin behind Senior Brother’s name.”

Wang Zhen replied, “Remember when little Junior Brother once recited the poem ‘Qin Wei’ to me?”

Upon hearing this, Tang Shen sensed something was amiss.

What did he mean by me reciting ‘Qin Wei’ to you?

‘Qin Wei’ was a famous love poem from the Book of Songs, typically recited to express romantic feelings! It’s true that four years ago, he did recite this poem to Wang Zhen because it matched his name, but he never intended it as a confession of feelings.

But what Wang Zhen said wasn’t entirely wrong.

Tang Shen awkwardly said, “…I did indeed recite that poem to Senior Brother.”

“That was on my birthday, and little Junior Brother gifted me a jade pendant and a fragrant pouch.”

Tang Shen raised his head, “En?”

The flickering candlelight reflected off Wang Zhen’s clear and elegant face, his faint smile melting like ice on a tall mountain, revealing a hint of a smile. With a slight movement of his fingers, Tang Shen felt a flash before his eyes and focused on Wang Zhen’s right hand.

In the dim candlelight, Wang Zhen slightly raised his hand, and a tassel slipped from his slender and elegant fingers, with a pure white translucent jade tied to its end.

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The beauty of the jade was astonishing, as the dim candlelight failed to hide its delicate warmth. It swayed gently, each movement causing a layer of radiant gleam to flicker across the surface. Although Tang Shen had seen many exquisite jewels and jades, he couldn’t help but stare for a long time. Subconsciously, he began to estimate its value…

Just how much gold was that worth!

On this spring night, Wang Zhen’s gentle voice sounded, “A gift for your twentieth birthday, little Junior Brother.”

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Tang Shen couldn’t figure out what Wang Zhen had done to influence the emperor’s decision. 

Of course he didn’t know that Wang Zhen had actually done nothing and was being wrongly suspected.

It turned out that Wang Zhen had simply mentioned the Silver Pull Division during a conversation with the emperor, and they had coincidentally discussed Tang Shen’s upcoming inspection of the division. The topic had been brought up by the emperor himself, and Wang Zhen had naturally joined in the conversation.

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As they talked, Wang Zhen had bowed and said, “Speaking of which, Tang daren‘s birthday is just two months away. It reminds me of my own coming-of-age ceremony nine years ago, when Your Majesty personally gifted me with a Qingdu jade inkstick. It’s truly a treasure, with its clear and luminous jade luster and fragrant ink. I took it out of storage last year and polished it, and it still looks brand new.”

Zhao Fu suddenly remembered, “It is time for Tang Shen’s coming-of-age ceremony?”

Wang Zhen confirmed that it was indeed time for the ceremony.

The emperor was lost in thought for a moment, then said, “I had forgotten. Jing Ze is only 20 years old, but I always think of him as being the same age as Fei Ran.”

As a result, the emperor issued an edict allowing Tang Shen to hold his coming-of-age ceremony in Shengjing.

The behind-the-scenes story of how this decision was made was recorded in the emperor’s “Daily Records”, but Tang Shen was unaware of it.

After receiving the edict, Tang Shen was still in a daze, but he knew that he had to start preparing for the coming-of-age ceremony. 

Yao San and Feng Bi immediately got to work, starting with a visit to the Astronomical Bureau to request an official to perform divination and select an auspicious date for the ceremony.

Ordinary people couldn’t request the services of the Astronomical Bureau, but as a fourth-rank official, Tang Shen was entitled to their assistance. The officials at the bureau were very attentive to Tang Shen’s needs.

According to rumors, the Director of the Astronomical Bureau, Li Xiaoren, had specifically instructed his subordinates to take care of Tang Shen’s ceremony, saying, “During Tang daren‘s coming-of-age ceremony he will likely receive a gift from His Majesty, so we must not be negligent.”

Tang Shen was highly valued by Zhao Fu and had been appointed to oversee the establishment of the Silver Pull Division in Youzhou before he had even reached the age of 20. His future prospects were bright, and his background was impressive. Despite his humble origins, with a prestigious teacher and a powerful senior brother, Tang Shen’s future was already brightly lit. Naturally, Li Xiaoren was optimistic about Tang Shen, willing to give him face on account of Fu Wei and Wang Zhen.

The officials at the Astronomical Bureau personally selected an auspicious date for Tang Shen’s coming-of-age ceremony, which happened to be March 6th, the day before his 20th birthday.

After the date was set, arrangements for the ceremony had to be made, including inviting guests and preparing the necessary attire and equipment.

Tang Shen then visited Wang Zhen and asked him to be his honored guest for the ceremony. 

Wang Zhen replied, “You know that the honored guest must be a person of high moral character and integrity, or at least someone without any flaws.”

Tang Shen was puzzled and asked, “Does Senior Brother have flaws?”

What? Wang Zifeng is so godly, what flaws could he possibly have? Is he too handsome? Too rich? His official position too high? Or perhaps too trusted by the emperor?

Wang Zhen pointed to himself and said, “Your senior brother, I am still unmarried.”

Tang Shen, “…”

Only now he realized that Wang Zhen was still single, even at the age of 29. Although in the modern world, there are men who remain unmarried at the age of twenty-nine, they indeed can’t really be considered early married; and it was about time they started looking for a partner.

Tang Shen said, “I know you have high standards, Senior Brother.”

“You know?”

“Yes. How can ordinary people be worthy of Senior Brother. You once mentioned that the daughter of the Minister of Works, Yuan daren, was the best among the ladies of marriageable age in the capital. But I later heard some things that made me think she might also not be a good fit for Senior Brother either.”

Tang Shen had heard that the daughter of Yuan daren loved playing a game called madiao. Just think, after dinner, his senior brother, with his refined and elegant demeanor, standing in the courtyard to paint. The night on the heavenly steps was cool as water, the perfect time to sit and watch the stars Vega and Altair as they crossed the sky. Wang Zifeng, dressed in white, looked as pure and ethereal as a celestial being, as if he could ascend to the heavens at any moment. However, the young lady Yuan suddenly called a few people to retreat to her room to play madiao. (TN: a late imperial Chinese trick-taking gambling card game.)

Tang Shen shook his head, waving away the image.

How could that young lady be worthy of his ethereal and god-like senior brother!

At that moment, Tang Shen didn’t consider the fact that Wang Zhen was not only a talented artist and writer but also a skilled and ruthless official who would kill traitorous political opponents and eliminate rebels. That young lady simply liked to play cards, your Wang Zifeng will be killing people!

Anyway, she just wasn’t worthy.

As for who was worthy of Wang Zhen, Tang Shen couldn’t think of anyone, but he was certain it wasn’t the daughter of the Minister of Works.

Wang Zhen couldn’t help but laugh and said, “If Minister Yuan were to hear you say that, it would be a bloody storm.”

Tang Shen fell silent for a moment before saying, “Senior Brother, although you are not married, you are my benefactor, and I would like to ask you to be my honored guest for the coming-of-age ceremony.”

Wang Zhen agreed, and Tang Shen felt a weight lift off his shoulders.

After returning home, Tang Shen thought about his conversation with Wang Zhen earlier that day. He called for Aunt Yao and asked her some questions. After listening to her response, Tang Shen furrowed his brow.

In ancient times, marriage was different from modern times. 

Although Wang Zhen was 29 years old, he still looked young and handsome, and his high social status and wealth made him a desirable husband for many women in Shengjing. If Wang Zhen were to marry the daughter of the Minister of Works, despite their current strained relationship, Yuan daren would likely not refuse.

However, if Wang Zhen continued to delay marriage, he might end up staying single for the rest of his life.

Tang Shen thought to himself, “Never mind, I’ll just have to take care of him in his old age.” He didn’t consider that he was only nine years younger than Wang Zhen, and it was uncertain who would end up taking care of whom in the future. As soon as this thought crossed his mind, Tang Shen remembered the time he had met Wang Zhen in the garden of the Fu Residence after he had just become a tanhua. He had instinctively called Wang Zhen “dad.”

“…”

He really became Wang Zifeng’s son! 

Tang Shen’s coming-of-age ceremony was a relatively simple affair. Since his parents had passed away, and he didn’t have any elderly relatives, nor was he from an old aristocratic family so the ceremony didn’t involve many complicated rituals.

On the morning of March 6th, Tang Shen washed and dressed, and then arrived at the ancestral hall of the Fu Residence. The ceremony was being held there because Tang Shen’s own Tanhua Manor didn’t have a suitable venue.

Several officials who were friends with Tang Shen attended the ceremony to congratulate him. Due to Tang Shen’s fourth-rank official status, representatives from the Astronomical Bureau and the Ministry of Rites also attended the ceremony. In total, there were seven or eight officials wearing formal attire, standing in two rows along the stone path leading to the ancestral hall.

At the end of the path, Fu Wei stood, with Wang Zhen by his side. The air was filled with the fragrance of incense from the bronze censers.

Tang Shen, wearing a heavy, formal black robe, had his hair tied up in a knot, and he knelt before Fu Wei. Fu Wei looked at Tang Shen with a mixture of emotions, nostalgia, and joy.

Fu Wei took a deep breath and began the ceremony. Wang Zhen presented a wooden tray, and Fu Wei took the first cap, made of black hemp cloth, and placed it on Tang Shen’s head.

Fu Wei said, “I have a student, Tang Shen, who is now receiving his first cap. The Master said: ‘When a ruler employs his officials, and the officials serve the ruler, how should this relationship be managed?'”

Tang Shen responded, “The ruler treats his officials with respect, and the officials serve the ruler with loyalty.”

Fu Wei nodded, “Excellent.”

The first cap was successfully placed, symbolizing that Tang Shen was now qualified to participate in government affairs and serve the country.

Next, Tang Shen changed into a plain white robe and returned to Fu Wei, who placed the second cap, made of white deer skin, on his head. This cap represented Tang Shen’s eligibility to serve in the military and defend the country.

Finally, Tang Shen changed into a red robe and received the third cap, a red and black hat, from Fu Wei. This cap signified that Tang Shen had reached adulthood and could participate in sacrificial ceremonies.

The coming-of-age ceremony was complete, and Tang Shen stood up. Fu Wei smiled and said, “Normally, at this point, I would give you a courtesy name. However, you are not an ordinary person. You became a tanhua at the age of 16 and are now a fourth-rank official at the age of 20. You already have a courtesy name, Jing Ze. Today, I have nothing to give you, so I wrote a few characters for you instead.”

Fu Wei finished speaking, and Wen Shu presented a scroll with three characters written on it.

On the snow-white rice paper, three large characters danced gracefully, their strokes pure and exquisite as they settled onto the paper:

“The Master said, The Book of Songs three hundred, in a single phrase it can be summarized: Pure of thought.“

The three characters that Fu Wei bestowed to Tang Shen were exactly “pure of thought”!

Tang Shen was moved, and he received the scroll with both hands, saying, “I will remember your teachings, Sir.”

Fu Wei stroked his beard and smiled.

The coming-of-age ceremony had come to an end, but Tang Shen still needed to host a banquet for his guests. Since most of his family members were in Gusu, only Tang Yun had traveled to Shengjing to attend the ceremony. As a result, the number of guests was relatively small, consisting mainly of officials from Shengjing.

Tang Shen busied himself, thanking his guests for their congratulations and gifts. Fu Wei and Wang Zhen sat at the main table, wearing formal attire.

As the sun began to set, lanterns were lit, and Fu Wei pointed to Tang Shen, who was busy attending to his guests. Fu Wei said, “Zi Feng, your junior brother has truly grown up. It’s been five years, and five years have passed in the blink of an eye.”

Wang Zhen took a sip of wine, but not too much. The aroma of the wine on him was not unpleasant, but rather had a sweet and fruity fragrance. He followed Fu Wei’s gaze and looked at Tang Shen, who was wearing a dark red robe with his long hair tied up for the first time. A few strands of black hair fell on his forehead, and his eyes shone brightly, like stars in the night sky, especially against the dark-colored clothing.

Wang Zhen’s eyes darkened slightly, and a hint of a smile played on his lips as he lowered his head to take a sip of wine.

Fu Wei asked, “What do you think of your junior brother?”

Wang Zhen’s hand paused, holding the wine cup.

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Fu Wei picked up his own wine cup and took a sip, savoring the taste with a look of satisfaction.

Fu Wei sighed, “Pure of thought indeed!”

Pure of thought.

A pure heart harbors no filth, welcomes no corruption, and sees no evil.

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In the cold winter of the 12th lunar month, the city of Shengjing was covered in a thick layer of snow, and the imperial palace was sealed in a vast expanse of white. 

Wearing a deep red official robe, Su Wenyun, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works and the Junior Minister of the Court ofJ udicial Review, walked into the palace, braving the heavy snow to reach Chuigong Hall. He couldn’t directly enter the hall to meet the emperor, so he waited until a eunuch went in to announce his arrival. 

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Su Wenyun first paid his respects to Zhao Fu, then raised his head, and his gaze suddenly stopped on Tang Shen, who was standing in the center of the hall. The two men’s eyes met, and Tang Shen looked away, his expression calm. 

Zhao Fu, still sitting on the couch with his heat warmer, said, “Fei Ran is also here. Look at your official hat, there is nearly a pile of snow collecting on it.” 

“Su Wenyun greets Your Majesty.” 

Zhao Fu smiled and said, “Have a seat.” 

A small eunuch immediately brought a chair, and Tang Shen and Su Wenyun sat down together. 

Zhao Fu said, “Jing Ze has written a memorial, take a look.” The chief eunuch, Ji Fu, immediately handed the memorial to Su Wenyun. 

Su Wenyun opened the document and read it, his expression becoming increasingly strange. After finishing, he restrained his urge to ask Tang Shen questions and said to Zhao Fu, “Your Majesty, it seems that Tang Shen and I have the same idea.” 

Zhao Fu, seemingly in a good mood, laughed and said, “Indeed, I was also surprised when I read the memorial. You submitted your memorial yesterday, and today Tang Shen also submitted one.” 

Tang Shen realized that Su Wenyun must have submitted a memorial to Zhao Fu the previous day, recommending that he send spies to the Liao State!

However, Tang Shen didn’t know what method Su Wenyun planned to use to infiltrate the Liao State. But logically speaking, he shouldn’t have thought of the Silver Pull Division. The Silver Pull Division was managed by Wang Zhen, and Su Wenyun had always been at odds with Wang Zhen; the two had no interactions. Unless Wang Zhen had privately mentioned the Silver Pull Division to Tang Shen, there was no way he would have thought of using it to investigate enemy intelligence from the Liao State either.

As they spoke, a eunuch brought in a bowl of matsutake pigeon soup, saying that it was specially made by a consort from the inner palace for the emperor. Zhao Fu drank the soup, his eyes cast downward, his expression calm, like an ordinary old man. After drinking a few sips, Zhao Fu said, “Today’s soup doesn’t taste as delicious as it used to.” 

Ji Fu, standing beside him, forced a smile and said, “Consort Shu’s cooking skills are renowned in the palace, perhaps the soup was blown cold by the wind when it was brought to Chuigong Hall.” 

Zhao Fu said, “I don’t think that’s the reason. I think that if the matsutake were fresher and the pigeon were more tender, the two would complement each other, and even if the snow were heavier, it wouldn’t affect the flavor of the soup.” 

Ji Fu’s heart tightened, as he realized that Zhao Fu’s words had a hidden meaning, but it was clear that they weren’t directed at him. Ji Fu looked at Su Wenyun and Tang Shen, thinking that the words must be meant for them. 

Tang Shen and Su Wenyun both had their own thoughts. 

Not long after, Tang Shen left Chuigong Hall, while Su Wenyun remained inside. 

As Tang Shen walked out of the hall, he opened his umbrella, and the snowflakes gently fell on the umbrella, making a barely audible sound. Tang Shen walked towards Qinzheng Hall, and when he approached the gate, he stopped and slightly quirked his lips. 

Zhao Fu wanted him to collaborate with Su Wenyun, which might not be a bad thing. 

This was a rare opportunity for him to interact with Su Wenyun after two years. If he could gather some information from Su Wenyun, it would be worth the trip. 

That afternoon, Zhao Fu issued an edict, ordering Tang Shen to travel to the northwest in the second month of the following year to inspect the establishment of the Silver Pull Division and to conduct an imperial inspection on behalf of the emperor.

The eunuch directly brought the imperial edict into Tang Shen’s office and read it aloud. After Tang Shen received the edict, the news quickly spread to Xu Bi’s ears. Xu Bi was holding an ancient book, reading it carefully. When he heard the news, he nodded thoughtfully and didn’t react further.

Before the officials left for the day, the news had already spread to the offices of other officials. Meng Lang, the Minister of Rites, was surprised when he heard the news. He turned to Wang Zhen, the Minister of Revenue, who was in the same office, and said, “Wang daren, I seem to have heard that Su daren, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works, also received an edict today, saying that he will go to the northwest to inspect the military situation next year?”

Wang Zhen was admiring a beautiful white jade and seemed to be in a trance, not noticing Meng Lang’s words. Meng Lang scolded internally, “This guy probably embezzled again, and I’ll catch him sooner or later.” He then tapped his fingers on the desk and continued, “I remember that the Silver Pull Division is under your jurisdiction, and it’s also in Youzhou. Tang daren is going to Youzhou, and Su daren is also going. Could they be traveling together to Youzhou City?”

Wang Zhen finally put down the jade and looked at Meng Lang, smiling. “I don’t think I’ve heard that Right Vice Minister Su is going,” he said. 

Meng Lang replied, “The edict was just announced today.” 

Wang Zhen then said, “Meng daren, as the Minister of Rites, you are very concerned about the officials in the Ministry of Works.”

Meng Lang, “En?”

“And you’re also very interested in the middle-ranking officials under Xu xianggong.”

“…?”

Wang Zhen continued, “Meng daren seems to know a lot about the Silver Pull Division as well, as clear as the back of your hand…”

“Wait a minute, Wang Zifeng, when have I ever been clear about the Silver Pull Division. Don’t try to slander me.” 

Meng Lang quickly denied it. He didn’t want to get involved with the Silver Pull Division at all. Every official in the court had their own speculations about the Silver Pull Division, and Meng Lang was no exception. Although he didn’t know exactly why Zhao Fu had established this institution, it was undoubtedly meant for something significant. As for the so-called benefits, they never fell to him, and he had no desire to get involved in any troublesome matters. Meng daren, the Minister of Rites, had always been reluctant to deal with such headaches.

Wang Zhen put away the jade and stood up. The next moment, the sound of a government worker announcing the time could be heard from outside. 

It was time to leave for the day. 

Wang Zhen looked at Meng Lang seriously and bowed deeply, saying, “Meng daren is truly talented, but it’s a pity that you’re stuck in the Ministry of Rites.” He then turned and left, leaving Meng Lang to look after his graceful figure.

Meng Lang didn’t react until Wang Zhen had left, and then he thought to himself, “Wait, was Wang Zifeng praising me? Something doesn’t feel right.”

As the end of the year approached, officials began to take leave for the holidays. 

Tang Shen didn’t return to Gusu for the New Year because he had received the imperial edict to go to the northwest in the spring. On New Year’s Eve, Tang Shen’s family had dinner together at Xixia Tower. A few months ago, Madam Tang had come from Gusu to arrange for Tang Huang’s “inserting the hairpin” coming-of-age ceremony, which marked her transition to adulthood.

Tang Huang was now 15 years old and could get married. According to tradition, Tang Huang should have returned to Gusu for the ceremony, but Madam Tang had come to Shengjing instead. Tang Shen felt a bit guilty about this.

Madam Tang smiled and said, “I know you’re busy, and I’ve never been to Shengjing before. Now, it is just the right time to see the sights outside of Gusu.” Even someone like Madam Tang, though she was a lady from a prominent family, had never left Gusu before.

After the New Year’s Eve dinner, Tang Huang toasted Tang Shen, saying, “It’s Brother’s turn to have a ‘tying the hair’ coming-of-age ceremony now.” 

Yao San also said. “Little boss’s birthday is in March, and according to tradition, should have a coming-of-age ceremony. However, since you will be leaving for Youzhou in February, it might not be possible to hold the ceremony.”

Tang Shen said, “We can hold the ceremony when I return.” 

Not only did Yao San notice that Tang Shen would be spending his birthday in Youzhou, but Fu Wei also realized this when Tang Shen visited his residence to pay his respects during the New Year. Fu Wei had been working on compiling books in the Hanlin Academy and had lost weight, but he still looked energetic and spirited. He frowned and stroked his beard, saying, “This is a problem.”

Tang Shen smiled and said, “Don’t worry, Sir. We can hold the ceremony when I return. At that time, I must ask Sir to be my distinguished guest and preside over my coming-of-age ceremony.”

“Of course.”

According to tradition, a man’s coming-of-age ceremony marked his transition to adulthood at the age of 20, and a woman’s coming-of-age ceremony marked her transition to adulthood at the age of 15. 

During the coming-of-age ceremony, a distinguished guest to preside over the ceremony and an honored guest to help on the side were required. Usually, the distinguished guest was the father of the person having their hair tied in a topknot, and the honored guest was a teacher or mentor. However, since Tang Shen’s father had passed away, Fu Wei would have to take on the role of a distinguished guest. 

As for the honored guest, Tang Shen said, “I’d like to ask Senior Brother Zi Feng to be my honored guest.”

Fu Wei nodded and said, “Zi Feng is your friend and mentor, so it’s suitable for him to be your honored guest. However, you should ask him yourself, as being an honored guest is a significant responsibility and a once-in-a-lifetime event for both of you. If he’s not willing, I won’t be able to do anything about it.”

“Yes.”

After visiting Fu Wei, Tang Shen didn’t go to see Wang Zhen immediately because Wang Zhen had returned to his hometown, Jinling, for the New Year.

When Tang Shen returned home from the Fu Residence, he suddenly felt a bit empty and like something was missing. After thinking about it, he couldn’t help but laugh: “I’ve been spending the New Year with my senior brother for the past few years!”

Indeed, whenever Tang Shen didn’t return to Gusu, Wang Zhen would also stay in Shengjing. The one time Tang Shen did return to Gusu, Wang Zhen happened to be in Jinling, and they met up in the Langya Wang family estate, where they even shared a bed.

This year, without Wang Zhen’s presence, Tang Shen felt uncomfortable.

Ten days later, Wang Zhen returned from Jinling. The next day, Tang Shen visited Wang Zhen with gifts to wish him a happy New Year.

Wang Zhen accepted the gifts and gave Tang Shen some things he had brought back from Jinling. Tang Shen’s page boy received the gifts.

Wang Zhen said, “I heard from Sir that you want me to be your honored guest for your coming-of-age ceremony?”

Tang Shen was taken aback, wondering why Wang Zhen seemed hesitant to accept his request.

Tang Shen explained, “Yes, I’m turning 20 this year and will be having my coming-of-age ceremony. Since my parents passed away, I was hoping to ask you and Sir to preside over the ceremony.”

Wang Zhen drank some tea and said, “Heave a seat.”

Tang Shen sat down, and Wang Zhen didn’t directly answer his question. Instead, he said, “I remember your birthday is on March 7th.”

Tang Shen replied, “That’s right.”

Wang Zhen continued, “But you’re supposed to leave for Youzhou in February?”

Tang Shen said, “Yes, it can’t be helped. I was thinking of having the coming-of-age ceremony after I return from Youzhou.”

Wang Zhen played with the tea lid for a while before saying, “It’s not necessarily so.”

Tang Shen looked up at Wang Zhen in surprise.

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Half a month later, the emperor suddenly issued an edict, ordering Tang Shen to delay his departure to Youzhou until the end of March. At first, Tang Shen was confused, but then he remembered Wang Zhen’s words and couldn’t help but laugh.

“What kind of magic potion has my senior brother fed the emperor, making him listen to his every word and letting him abuse his power for personal gain?”

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At the Prince Jing’s residence, Princess Jing was in tears all day, and the Carefree Prince, Zhao Ao, frowned constantly, sighing deeply.  

The heir, Zhao Qiong, was so anxious that he couldn’t sit still. Just then, a servant came to report that Tang Shen had sent a letter. Princess Jing wondered, “Could it be that Tang Shen is interested in our Wan’er and wishes to marry her?”  

Zhao Qiong opened the letter, gave a surprised “Oh?”, and then handed it to Prince Zhao Ao, saying, “Father, take a look.”  

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After reading the letter, Zhao Ao was equally astonished.  

Prince Jing summoned his son to the study, and the two discussed it for an hour. Afterward, Prince Jing went to the palace.  

By nightfall, a eunuch arrived from the palace, saying the emperor had asked Prince Jing to stay overnight.  

Upon hearing this, Zhao Qiong breathed a sigh of relief and said to Princess Jing, “It seems my sister won’t have to marry into the Liao State.”  

The next day, Prince Jing returned. He called Zhao Qiong to the study, pulled out a book from the shelf, and retrieved a letter hidden between its pages. Zhao Ao looked at the letter with a complex expression and sighed, “I’ve known my imperial brother since childhood, and we grew up together. Yet, after more than fifty years, I still can’t fathom his thoughts. Qiong’er, those officials in the court, though unrelated by blood, are far better than us at understanding His Majesty’s intentions.”  

Looking at the letter, Zhao Qiong was filled with emotion as well.  

For days, the Prince Jing residence had been shrouded in gloom over the peace marriage. Zhao Qiong never expected Tang Shen to send such a letter. In it, Tang Shen outlined three possible strategies.  

“The Song-Liao peace marriage is inevitable, like an arrow ready to release. Yet, the heir’s love for his sister moves heaven and earth. I, Jing Ze, cannot alleviate your worry, and I have been restless day and night. Humbly, I propose three possible solutions to the heir.”  

“First, feigning illness to avoid the marriage.”

“Misfortune strikes without warning, and people are subject to sudden illness. A peace marriage between nations is a significant matter, not to be taken lightly. If the lady falls ill, she naturally cannot marry. However, this approach risks His Majesty’s suspicion and may tarnish the lady’s reputation.”

“Second, claiming a preexisting marriage arrangement.”

“Should this strategy be used, finding a suitable groom is the first challenge, and convincing His Majesty without arousing suspicion is the second. Moreover, this might delay the lady’s prospects for a good match.”  

“Third, advancing through retreat, defending through attack.”

“As a close sibling of His Majesty, Prince Jing has a deep bond with His Majesty. During cold winters, Prince Jing often accompanies His Majesty, sharing worries and solving problems. If Prince Jing requests an audience with His Majesty and voluntarily offers his youngest daughter for marriage, while showing reluctance, there might be room for negotiation.”

The first and second strategies had already been considered by the Prince Jing household. However, as Tang Shen pointed out, these could arouse the emperor’s suspicion and harm the young lady’s future. The third option, on the other hand, was a bold gamble. If Zhao Ao voluntarily offered his daughter and the emperor accepted, it would be a complete loss for him.  

Yet, the most suitable noblewoman in the capital for the marriage was none other than the young lady of Prince Jing’s residence. Zhao Ao had even received news the previous day that the emperor intended for his youngest daughter to marry into the Liao State. At this point, it was a desperate situation—success or failure would decide everything.  

Thus, Zhao Ao entered the palace, seeking an audience with the emperor and proposing his daughter for the peace marriage.  

In Chuigong Hall, Emperor Zhao Fu was astonished by Prince Jing’s words.  

Holding a vermilion brush in his hand, the emperor looked at Zhao Ao with surprise and asked with concern, “Why would you suddenly say such a thing, my imperial brother?”  

Zhao Ao replied earnestly, “As a prince of the Song Dynasty, I have never contributed much to our nation. Without my imperial brother saying it, I already know that Wan’er is the best candidate. The people of the capital call me the ‘carefree prince,’ but that title only highlights my incompetence! Now, the Liao emperor seeks to marry a Song princess—how can I turn a blind eye?”  

Zhao Ao’s words were sincere, though his trembling hands and quivering beard betrayed his reluctance and pain. He tried to hide his emotions, but how could Zhao Fu not see through him? The emperor gazed at his younger brother quietly for a long moment before finally saying, “Are you speaking truthfully?”  

Zhao Ao shuddered. “Yes.”  

The emperor sighed. “Since when did we brothers begin speaking with such pretense?”  

That evening, Emperor Zhao Fu kept Zhao Ao in the palace, and the two brothers reminisced about their childhood. The emperor, pleased and nostalgic, recalled the simpler days of their youth. After thirty years as an emotionless ruler, he felt a twinge of compassion for his aging brother.  

Clasping Zhao Ao’s hand, he said, “Don’t worry. I have my own plan.”  

Zhao Ao finally breathed a sigh of relief.  

A few days later, the emperor announced that the chosen bride for the Liao State would be the daughter of the late Ninth Prince’s household. The Ninth Prince’s family, long neglected and without influence, had already fallen into decline. The emperor restored the young lady’s royal status, titled her as a princess, and sent her to the Liao State.  

While the Ninth Prince’s household was filled with wailing and lamentation, the rest of the capital celebrated with relief.  

As the New Year approached, the Liao envoys prepared to return home.  

On the twenty-first day of the twelfth month, Tang Shen donned his court robes and a fox-fur cloak. He extended his hand to catch a snowflake.  

The sky was a gray haze, and gentle snow blanketed the ground in silence. Pulling his cloak tighter, Tang Shen walked toward the palace. After attending morning court, he reviewed official documents and submitted reports. An hour later, the emperor summoned him to Chuigong Hall.  

Adjusting his official robes, Tang Shen braved the heavy snow to answer the summons.  

Meeting the emperor required removing his cloak, and the journey left Tang Shen’s lips purple from the cold. Fortunately, upon entering the hall, he was met with a wave of warmth as eunuchs pulled back the heavy curtains.  

The emperor, cradling a hand-warmer, sat on a couch, leisurely eating walnuts. A eunuch carefully cracked the shells with a small hammer and picked out the nutmeats for him.  

Seeing Tang Shen, the emperor glanced him over and said to Ji Fu, “Look how frozen Jing Ze is—the weather is growing colder by the day.”  

Ji Fu, ever perceptive, replied, “Your Majesty, you wouldn’t know, but the snowfall earlier was so heavy it numbed my ears when this slave went outside earlier. Shall I prepare a hand-warmer for Tang daren?”  

The emperor didn’t respond, instead waving his hand. “Give him a seat.”  

Two eunuchs brought a chair closer to the brazier. After bowing, Tang Shen sat down, saying, “Thank you for your grace, Your Majesty.”

Zhao Fu remained silent, continuing to crack walnuts one by one. After a while, he said, “Jing Ze, what brings you to see me today? Do you have something to say? What you wrote in your memorial is rather interesting, but you are still too young.”  

Tang Shen’s alarm bells went off in his head. Not daring to remain seated, he immediately stood and bowed respectfully. “Your Majesty, ever since I received the Liao envoys a month ago, I have had extensive contact with them. As an official and a citizen of the Song dynasty, I have been restless and unable to sleep this past month. The more I interact with the Liao envoys, the more deeply troubled I become.”  

The sharp crack of a walnut shell breaking echoed through Chuigong Hall as a young eunuch worked diligently.  

Zhao Fu raised his head and asked, “By the way, has Li Jingde been with you since his return to the capital?”  

Tang Shen thought for a moment before replying, “General Li is deeply concerned about the northwest and suspicious of whether the Liao envoys have ulterior motives for visiting the capital. Therefore, he has been assisting me in receiving them.”  

Zhao Fu chuckled and scolded, “What could possibly be amiss? To have a brute like him handle the Liao envoys—what an idea!”  

Tang Shen bowed his head. “I am guilty of a mistake.”  

“Do not repeat it,” Zhao Fu said, dismissing it lightly. “The Song and Liao dynasties are on good terms, and the princess will soon marry into the Liao imperial family. Jing Ze, you don’t need to overthink things.”  

Tang Shen thought to himself: Good terms with Liao? Who was it that, during the feast at Shengping Tower, plastered on a smile, acting as though they were utterly incompetent to curry favor with the Liao envoys, only to summon Li Jingde to Immortal Ascension Platform afterward and give him a thorough scolding for not dealing with the Liao people properly, which caused him to have to embarrass himself in front of the Liao envoys?

The reality was that the Song dynasty couldn’t defeat the Liao, and the Liao weren’t willing to expend resources to annex Song for the time being.  

Such was the current state of affairs.  

And now Zhao Fu had the nerve to claim “good terms with Liao”? 

Truly, preserving appearances while suffering inwardly.

Still, Tang Shen couldn’t point this out and had to follow the emperor’s narrative. “Your Majesty is correct, and I am aware. However, one cannot allow others to snore beside one’s bed. Your Majesty, vigilance is essential. Forgive me for speaking boldly, but the Liao people must not be underestimated.”  

Zhao Fu appeared deep in thought and sighed. “Well, Jing Ze’s concerns are not entirely baseless.”  

In the silent hall, Ji Fu stood dutifully nearby, holding a whisk. Imperial chamberlains diligently recorded Tang Shen’s audience with the emperor.  

Tang Shen bowed again and said respectfully, “I believe that in dealing with the Liao, the Song dynasty cannot afford to be passive. Before returning to Youzhou, General Li mentioned to me that if given ten years, he could train a force as strong as the Liao cavalry.”  

Zhao Fu froze mid-motion, his hand gripping the walnut meat. His eyes gleamed as he looked up at Tang Shen and asked eagerly, “Li Jingde said that?”  

Tang Shen nodded firmly. “Yes, he said so.”  

Thousands of miles away, in Youzhou, General Li Jingde, Marshal of the Western Expedition, sneezed violently. “Which damn Liao bastard is plotting against me now?”  

Back in Chuigong Hall, Tang Shen continued, “However, training troops takes time and cannot be accomplished overnight. It requires not only time but also funding. The Northwest Silver Pull Division plays a crucial role in this. I believe that if the division collaborates with the Feilong Army, their combined efforts could indeed produce an army as formidable as the Liao cavalry.”  

Hearing this, Zhao Fu’s expression relaxed, and he seemed quite pleased. Yet, as if something had suddenly occurred to him, the joy in his eyes dimmed slightly. Looking at Tang Shen, he asked in a low voice, “Did Zi Feng tell you this?”  

Tang Shen’s heart skipped a beat. After a brief pause, he said, “Wang daren did mention it to me.”  

The hall fell silent for a moment before Zhao Fu sighed, “You and your senior brother seem to work together seamlessly for my benefit.”  

Tang Shen lowered his head and said nothing.  

Zhao Fu added, “I’ve read your memorial about the Silver Pull Division. These matters are Wang Zifeng’s responsibility and have little to do with you. However, Jing Ze, the additional points you mentioned at the end had me confused—what exactly are you proposing?”  

Tang Shen raised his head and replied, “Your Majesty, I believe the Silver Pull Division should not be limited to managing military finances. To use it solely for such purposes would be to underutilize it.” Without mentioning Zhao Fu’s long-term plan to use the division for nationwide monetary reform—a matter Tang Shen wasn’t supposed to know—he instead said, “The division can also penetrate deep into Liao territory to gather intelligence.”  

Zhao Fu stared intently at Tang Shen, making him feel uneasy.  

As an attendant secretary, Tang Shen’s position lacked a clear set of responsibilities, unlike ministers of the six ministries or military commanders like Li Jingde. Officials from the Secretariat like him were expected to serve as problem-solvers for the emperor.  

By bypassing Xu Bi to seek an audience directly with Zhao Fu, Tang Shen had not overstepped his authority. However, it clearly showed that he did not see himself as a member of Xu Bi’s faction.  

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Tang Shen was loyal solely to the emperor.  

Over the past two years, Xu Bi had never fully trusted Tang Shen or drawn him into his inner circle. Similarly, Tang Shen had not aligned himself with Xu Bi.  

Suddenly, Zhao Fu burst into laughter. “I did not expect you and Fei Ran to think so alike in this matter!”  

Tang Shen was startled.  

Fei Ran?

Su Wenyun?!

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Tang Shen did not have much interaction with Zhao Qiong, but he knew Zhao Qiong was not one to wear his emotions on his sleeve. Tang Shen had opened Xixia Tower and Baibao Pavilion in Shengjing, yet he left the soap and essential oil businesses to others. His business partner was none other than Zhao Qiong, the Heir Apparent of Prince Jing.  

Tang Shen still remembered their first meeting at the Prince Jing Manor. Zhao Qiong had hosted a banquet for the top imperial exam candidates, managing every detail with precision. But now, seeing Zhao Qiong so dejected was a stark contrast.  

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Clearly, Zhao Qiong truly cared for his younger sister.  

Tang Shen asked, “Heir, is there really no way to resolve this?”  

Zhao Qiong sighed, “We, the imperial clan, may have noble titles and resounding names, but in the Song Dynasty, unlike previous dynasties, we are forbidden from interfering in politics. We are nothing more than figureheads. You know this, Jing Ze. The Liao Emperor’s proposal to marry a Song princess is straightforward, not troublesome at all. His Majesty has already agreed, and there’s no going back now. What can we do?”  

Tang Shen considered and said, “Heir, you must have heard that daughters of noble families often feign illness to avoid being selected for the imperial harem.”  

Zhao Qiong replied, “That is one way, but it is a last resort. Actually, we’ve also thought about quickly arranging a marriage for my sister.”  

Tang Shen’s heart sank as a foreboding feeling crept in. He asked, “Heir means…?”  

Zhao Qiong smiled bitterly, “My sister has loved reading since she was a child. She excels in poetry, painting, music, and embroidery. She is gentle, graceful, and modest. We had planned to find her a suitable match next year and wouldn’t settle for anyone less than ideal. But now, with this situation…” He paused, clasping his hands together. “Tang daren, I’ve heard you are not yet betrothed.”  

Tang Shen’s eyelid twitched, and his head began to ache.  

“If you are willing, I can act as a matchmaker and arrange for this marriage.”  

Tang Shen was dumbfounded, speechless. Seeing Zhao Qiong’s hopeful gaze, his mind went blank. Amid his confusion, the first person he thought of was Wang Zhen. He almost blurted out, I need to ask my senior brother first.

Thankfully, he held his tongue.  

Tang Shen replied, “Heir, I have no plans to marry yet.”  

Zhao Qiong pressed on, “Are you worried my sister isn’t beautiful enough?”  

Tang Shen couldn’t help but laugh. “Of course not. Heir, I genuinely have no intention of getting married yet!”  

Despite several more attempts, Tang Shen continuously declined. Zhao Qiong sighed deeply, looking even more troubled. “To be honest, hastily arranging a marriage for my sister isn’t a great idea either. While it could save her from marrying into Liao, it would inevitably attract His Majesty’s attention and leave him with a poor impression of our Prince Jing family. But we have no other options.”  

Tang Shen poured Zhao Qiong a cup of tea.  

Zhao Qiong continued, “Jing Ze, you’re not our only choice, but you are the best choice. We’ve known each other for three years. If we claim you and my sister have long been interested in each other but haven’t formalized the engagement, it might avoid His Majesty’s wrath. Besides, I trust your character, talents, and appearance. You are a perfect match. Marrying my sister to you would put my mind at ease.”  

Tang Shen smiled wryly, “Heir flatters me. I am unworthy of such praise.”  

Seeing that Tang Shen was unlikely to become his brother-in-law, Zhao Qiong took the matter lightly, joking, “Jing Ze, don’t be so modest. You’re quite the eligible bachelor in Shengjing! Haven’t you noticed? Over the years, many noble families and officials have had their eyes on you, hoping to match their daughters with you.”  

“Ah?”  

“Hahaha! Just wait. I might be the first, but there will be others lining up to visit you, the famous Tang tanhua!”  

Sure enough, that same afternoon, when Tang Shen returned home, a servant was waiting outside his residence.  

The servant quickly ran over, delivering an invitation. “Is it Tang Shen, Tang daren? My master invites you to his residence for a discussion.”  

Tang Shen opened the invitation and froze.  

It was personally written by Yuan Mu, the Minister of Works!  

Not every family with a marriageable daughter was desperate to secure a match, but there were so many families with daughters of age. Unbeknownst to Tang Shen, he had long been regarded as the most desirable groom in Shengjing. Though he came from humble beginnings, he had risen to a fourth-ranked official position at a young age, was favored by the emperor, and possessed handsome features. Marrying him meant no suffering from in-laws and securing an ideal husband—a perfect outcome for any family.  

With the Song-Liao peace marriage as a catalyst, families that had been hesitant now scrambled to act.  

Overwhelmed, Tang Shen packed his belongings the next day and moved to the Minister Residence.  

Wang Zhen asked, “Why has little Junior Brother come?” He glanced at the bags and laughed, “Are all these gifts for me?”  

Tang Shen replied, “Ahem, these are my belongings. Senior Brother, I plan to stay here for a few days and might trouble you.”  

“Why so suddenly?”  

“Senior Brother, I missed you,” Tang Shen said earnestly.  

Wang Zhen chuckled, “How many invitations have you received?”  

Tang Shen’s eyes widened. “You knew?”  

Wang Zhen said, “Yuan Mu and I are merely colleagues, but I’ve heard he dotes on his granddaughter, who is of marriageable age. Our relationship cannot be called close and after the Youzhou incident, Yuan Mu rarely contacted me privately, but he sought me out yesterday to act as a matchmaker for you and his granddaughter.”  

Tang Shen was horrified. “Senior Brother, you wouldn’t actually matchmake for me, would you? Am I escaping one trap only to fall into another?”  

Wang Zhen smiled. “Yuan Mu’s granddaughter is a renowned talent, even more outstanding than the young lady from Prince Jing’s household.”  

Tang Shen gulped.  

“The youngest daughter of the Right Vice Minister of Rites also pales in comparison to Yuan Mu’s granddaughter.”  

Tang Shen’s fingers trembled.  

“Even the Duke of Dingguo’s daughter, while beautiful, cannot match Yuan Mu’s beloved granddaughter in both appearance and talent.”  

Tang Shen exclaimed, “Senior Brother, you know everything!”  

Wang Zhen smiled brightly, feigning indifference. “If you must choose, Yuan Mu’s granddaughter is an excellent match. What do you think, little Junior Brother?”  

Tang Shen sighed. “I don’t want to marry.”  

“En?”  

“Senior Brother, please don’t tease me. I’m only nineteen. Isn’t this too young for marriage? While many marry at my age, I’ve yet to establish my career. How can I indulge in matters of the heart? Besides, you aren’t married yet. Surely you understand me?” 

After a moment, Tang Shen still didn’t receive a response from Wang Zhen. He looked at him curiously, only to see him lowering his clear eyes, gazing at him serenely. He softly said, “How do you expect me to understand you?”

Tang Shen felt a lump in his throat.  

With a sigh, Wang Zhen set aside the brush he had been using for painting and asked Tang Shen, “Why don’t you want to get married?”  

Tang Shen answered earnestly, “I’m still too young.”  

Wang Zhen raised an eyebrow. “The real reason.”  

Tang Shen thought to himself, that is the real reason, but you just won’t believe me! Wang Zifeng, even you can get it wrong sometimes. 

As someone from the modern era, and a lifelong bachelor at that—single for over twenty years as a doctoral student—Tang Shen truly didn’t want to get married at nineteen. To him, nineteen was barely the beginning of university, still a kid’s age, nowhere near the right time for marriage! He planned to be like Wang Zhen, or at least Su Wenyun, and wait until at least twenty-five before even considering marriage.  

Although this was his inner truth, Tang Shen felt he needed to fabricate another excuse for Wang Zhen. But after racking his brain, he couldn’t come up with anything plausible. Suddenly, an idea struck him, and he asked in return, “Then why hasn’t Senior Brother married yet?”  

“When did I ever say I wasn’t married?”  

Tang Shen was stunned. “What?”  

What the heck? Wang Zifeng is married?

Seeing Tang Shen’s wide-eyed shock, Wang Zhen smiled faintly. “Of course, I never said I was married, either.”  

Tang Shen: “…”  

If you weren’t Wang Zifeng, someone would’ve beaten you to death by now.  

Wang Zhen said calmly, “I just haven’t met the right person yet.”  

At first, it seemed like a casual response. But after some thought, Tang Shen realized Wang Zhen might actually be telling the truth.  

In the Song Dynasty, filial piety was paramount, and the greatest unfilial act was to leave no descendants. Yet someone like Wang Zhen, who had achieved such high rank, could only be pressured by his family or the emperor about marriage. 

If Emperor Zhao Fu didn’t care about Wang Zhen’s marital status, then clearly, with his influence within the Langya Wang clan, his family wouldn’t meddle either. So perhaps it was possible that Wang Zhen truly hadn’t met the person who could capture his heart, which was why he remained unmarried.  

Wang Zifeng hadn’t settled down because he couldn’t find someone he wanted to hold hands with for life.  

Tang Shen thought: But in this world, who could possibly be worthy of growing old with Wang Zifeng? 

For a moment, he couldn’t imagine what kind of extraordinary woman could qualify for Wang Zhen’s favor.  

Tang Shen spoke from the heart: “I understand now.” He believed he had discovered why Wang Zhen was still single.  

Wang Zhen said, “You don’t understand.”  

Tang Shen shook his head. “No, Senior Brother, I do.” You’re not married because no one is worthy of you. 

Wang Zhen stared at Tang Shen for a long moment before smiling without rebuttal.  

The topic was dropped.  

Wang Zhen asked, “How do you plan to deal with those people?”  

Tang Shen sighed. “I really don’t know. Senior Brother, you must understand—those who send invitations or visit me in person are either royalty or high-ranking officials above me. I can’t afford to offend any of them. That’s why I’ve resorted to hiding here.”  

“You don’t want to entertain them further?”  

Tang Shen answered firmly, “Not at all.”  

With a snap, Wang Zhen unfolded his white fan and said, “Then let’s leave it at that.”  

The next day, to Tang Shen’s surprise, no one came to propose a marriage alliance with him.  

Hiding at the Minister Residence seemed effective, as no matchmakers dared visit him there. Even at Qinzheng Hall, where he worked, the officials who had previously tried to persuade him disappeared without a word. No one tried to persuade him any longer.

Astonished, Tang Shen observed the situation carefully and arrived at a conclusion—

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“My senior brother truly hides his strength well!”  

Wang Zifeng was even more formidable than he had imagined.  

Tang Shen didn’t concern himself with most other matchmaking attempts. However, he shared a good relationship with Zhao Qiong, Heir of Prince Jing, and they had cooperated successfully on the soap business. After returning to the Minister Residence one evening, Tang Shen carefully considered the matter and devised a solution with Wang Zhen. That same night, he wrote a letter and discreetly sent it to Prince Jing’s residence.

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Tang Shen’s heart suddenly skipped a beat. He raised his hand blankly, touching his forehead.  

Wang Zhen said he was “bold because of favoritism”… Could it be that he really crossed the line?  

But looking at Wang Zifeng’s cheerful demeanor, it didn’t seem like he was actually upset.  

“…Senior Brother.”  

“Yes?”  

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

Tang Shen hesitated for a long time, unsure of what to say. Should he insist that he wasn’t acting bold because of favoritism? Should he admit he misspoke and promise to be more careful in the future? Yet, the phrase “bold because of favoritism” was so embarrassing he couldn’t even bring himself to say it. After a long silence, Tang Shen finally said, “Senior Brother, it seems… it’s my turn to play.”  

The clean and handsome young man gazed at him seriously with bright, clear eyes.  

After a moment, Wang Zhen said, “Alright.”  

Tang Shen let out a sigh of relief.  

The two resumed their game.  

Wang Zhen didn’t mention the Liao court again, but the few brief remarks he had made earlier were enough for Tang Shen to picture the turbulent undercurrents of Liao politics. The court of Liao was not as iron-blooded and rigid as its military. For one, its officials were divided into Northern and Southern factions.  

Northern officials, numerous and mostly from noble or tribal backgrounds, held the majority of power. Southern officials, tasked with handling interactions with Song, were fewer in number but still a significant force. Beyond this, Tang Shen had already encountered Liao’s third prince, Yelü Han.  

Yelü Han was courageous but lacked wisdom. From Wang Zhen’s words, the competition among Liao’s first, second, and third princes mirrored the clash of black and white pieces on a chessboard.  

Struggles for power among princes were inevitable throughout history. Similarly, the contention and suppression among influential officials and factions were common occurrences. However, for the first time, Tang Shen realized that the Song Dynasty, too, had many princes and factions. Yet, the Song had Emperor Zhao Fu.  

The second prince, Zhao Shang, tasked with receiving the Liao emissary this time, was no fool. He had been biding his time and had repeatedly outmaneuvered the Liao envoy during negotiations. Above him, the crown prince, Zhao Jing, was also renowned for his talents, once praised by Hanlin Academy’s Grand Secretary Zhou for his calligraphy.  

In addition, the court was filled with aristocratic officials, scholars who rose up from humble backgrounds, aging powerholders, and ambitious newcomers—all like black and white pieces locked in combat.  

Yet, everything remained under Zhao Fu’s control.  

No matter the reasons behind Zhao Fu’s strategies, his arrangements had led to a Song Dynasty free of internal strife.  

Tang Shen felt a mix of emotions, sighing inwardly as he lowered his head and focused on the game.  

Tang Shen said, “The contradictions within Liao’s court and palace are a timely boon for the Song. If leveraged properly, it could be a brilliant strategy.” Returning to the earlier topic, this was the conclusion Tang Shen had reached.  

After making his move, Wang Zhen seemed to only then hear Tang Shen’s comment. He looked at Tang Shen with slight surprise and asked, “Aren’t we playing chess, Junior Brother? Why suddenly bring up Liao’s affairs? Little Junior Brother truly cares for the nation, never forgetting its concerns—even after office hours and during a game of chess. Such a pillar of talent should not be buried.”  

Tang Shen thought to himself: I am a fourth-ranked attendant secretary in Qinzheng Hall. Even the governor of Gusu has to bow and scrape when I visit my hometown. Yet say I am buried?  

“But you’re still a bit too young,” Wang Zhen added.  

Naturally, Tang Shen didn’t mind his meteoric rise. In fact, he wouldn’t object to becoming Grand Chancellor in Qinzheng Hall next year. However, if he could take over Su Wenyun’s position as fourth-rank Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, then he didn’t mind whether he could advance another rank or gain a noble title.  

Though only a fourth-rank post, the Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review oversaw all criminal cases in the empire.  

As Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, investigating certain matters would be much easier. This was why Tang Shen had initially sought to build rapport with Su Wenyun. Unfortunately, the Cizhou incident had soured Su Wenyun’s opinion of him, making future collaboration difficult.  

With a resigned shake of his head, Tang Shen continued the game. Unsurprisingly, Wang Zhen claimed another resounding victory.  

Donning his fox-fur cloak, Tang Shen bade farewell to Wang Zhen and prepared to head home.  

Wang Zhen said, “Little Junior Brother, why not leave a court robe at my residence next time? That way, you won’t have to go home every day just to change before court.”  

Winter’s chill made Tang Shen’s daily carriage rides back home inconvenient. Leaving court attire at Wang Zhen’s residence would allow him to rest there and avoid unnecessary trips. After some thought, he replied, “Then I’ll bring a set next time to leave with Senior Brother.”  

Wang Zhen, holding a lantern, escorted Tang Shen to the gate.  

The sight of the lantern reminded Tang Shen of Wang Zifeng’s self-praise: “I’m a worthy man who is hard to find even with a lantern in hand.” He couldn’t help but chuckle.  

Just then, Wang Zhen spoke: “Little Junior Brother, you are only nineteen, already holding a fourth-rank post. Advancing further within two years, without great achievements, is near impossible.”  

Of course Tang Shen knew, he replied, “Senior Brother misunderstands. I am not a man who covets fame and fortune.”  

“I can, however, point you to a clear path. Achieving second-rank status within five years is entirely possible.”  

Tang Shen’s eyes widened. “Senior Brother?” There was such a method?  

Holding the lantern, Wang Zhen smiled. “It’s simple—sever all ties with me. Go your way, and I’ll go mine. From then on, we’ll have no further connections.”  

Tang Shen: “…”  

Though it sounded like a jest, the more Tang Shen thought about it, the more his scalp tingled.  

Wang Zhen wasn’t entirely joking.  

Tang Shen was favored by the emperor and had risen to Qinzheng Hall within three years. With his good relationship with Wang Zhen, his future was bright, and he might even reach second-rank status within ten years. But to become a powerful minister within five years, severing ties with Wang Zhen would indeed be the quickest route.  

If Tang Shen opposed Wang Zhen and remained estranged from Su Wenyun, the emperor would view him as an ideal counterbalance to the two. This would prompt Zhao Fu to elevate and empower Tang Shen, turning him into a genuine rival to Wang Zhen and Su Wenyun.  

Yet…  

Tang Shen said, “Senior Brother, such words wound me. Everyone has their path. As they say, ‘Do your best and leave the rest to fate.’ I have never harbored such intentions toward you. Senior Brother, you are my senior brother. As I said earlier, Senior Brother Zi Feng, I am not a man who covets fame and fortune.”  

In essence: I don’t want to use you.  

Perhaps initially, Tang Shen had seen Wang Zifeng as a stepping stone. But now, he deeply respected and admired this man, truly treating him as his guiding light.  

Liang Song had been his childhood mentor, but Wang Zhen was the teacher who had led him into the vast, intricate world of officialdom.  

Only now did Tang Shen realize he had grown accustomed to looking up to Wang Zhen, to having this senior brother who was both a mentor and a friend by his side. He trusted Wang Zhen so deeply that he was even willing to stake his life on him.  

That night at the Chizhou posthouse, amidst chaos and danger, when Wang Zhen opened the woodshed door to rescue him, everything changed.  

To Tang Shen, this senior brother was no longer a mere stepping stone but a once-in-a-lifetime confidant.  

With cupped hands, Tang Shen said, “That’s all I have to say. Senior Brother, I’ll take my leave now.” 

Wang Zhen stood frozen in place.  

Tang Shen adjusted his cloak, boarded the carriage, and let the driver take him back to the Tanhua Residence.  

Behind him, Wang Zhen held the lantern, watching from afar with a gaze deep and lingering.  

After a long while, the steward approached and said, “Gongzi, the night wind is strong. You should return indoors.”  

Wang Zhen murmured, “Look at him, always stirring my heart.”  

The steward didn’t know how to respond. He had overheard the earlier conversation between Wang Zhen and Tang Shen. Having practically watched Wang Zhen grow up, the steward knew that Tang Shen interpreted Wang Zhen’s words as mere teasing or perhaps a subtle test of his loyalty. But the steward understood—Wang Zhen wasn’t probing for disloyalty. He was searching for his position in his junior brother’s heart.  

Seeing such a cautious yet earnest young master, the steward couldn’t help but feel a pang of sympathy.  

Bowing his head slightly, the steward gently urged, “Gongzi, it’s time to head back.”  

Wang Zhen let out a long sigh. His voice, carried away by the fierce winter wind, was tinged with infinite longing and melancholy.  

But Wang Zhen didn’t have to wait long. Two days later, Tang Shen arrived at the Minister Residence with a lantern in hand.  

When Wang Zhen looked up at him, Tang Shen awkwardly said, “Senior Brother, you’re like a rare gem—a man one could never find even with a lantern in hand. Please don’t be upset with me.”  

Wang Zhen slowly broke into a smile. “When was I ever upset with you?”  

Tang Shen hesitated. “You weren’t?”  

Wang Zhen chuckled. “Come, let’s play a game of chess.”  

Tang Shen sighed inwardly. Not upset? Then why the chess as punishment?  

Little did Tang Shen know that Wang Zhen had simply been setting up a chessboard when he arrived. The timing was purely coincidental, though Tang Shen’s overthinking made him grumble internally.  

After playing a few rounds, Wang Zhen asked, “Did you bring your court attire?”  

Tang Shen paused, then admitted, “I forgot.”  

“Next time, then.”  

“Okay.”  

As the game concluded, Tang Shen coughed lightly and explained the reason for his visit. “Senior Brother, you oversee the Silver Pull Division. How is the progress of its tasks?”  

Wang Zhen looked up at him. “Why the sudden interest in the Silver Pull Division?”  

After a moment of hesitation, Tang Shen decided to share his thoughts candidly. “Recently, General Li spoke to me about the matter of maintaining an army. Senior Brother, the Liao have always coveted our Song Dynasty. Any strategy against them feels like a temporary fix—unable to address the root cause. Our fear of the Liao lies not in their numbers but in their formidable cavalry. Recently, you mentioned the internal strife within Liao. It occurred to me that all conflicts in the world ultimately boil down to the exchange of pieces.” (TN: The term “exchange of pieces” is used in chess or similar board games. It refers to the act of trading pieces of equal value between players, often as a strategic move to simplify the board or gain positional advantages.)

Ten days later, a treaty was reached between the Song and Liao Dynasties, concluding the confrontation outside Youzhou City in the 30th year of Kaiping. Both sides made concessions.  

The Liao sought monetary compensation, which the Song Dynasty could afford. In exchange, the Song negotiated for the release of hostages and permission to purchase a batch of Ferghana horses—a rare and highly prized breed.  

However, Liao envoy Yelü Qin made an additional demand that shocked the entire Song court.  

Yelü Qin stated, “Our Liao Emperor has long heard that the Song produces beautiful women—gentle, elegant beauties. Thus, one purpose of my mission is to request a Song princess for marriage to our emperor.”  

The next morning in court, the ministers were in an uproar.  

Seated high on the throne, Zhao Fu remarked, “Fair maidens are indeed sought by noble men. Our Song women are known for their grace, even recognized by the Liao Emperor. It’s truly a pity that I don’t have a princess of marriageable age. Ministers, what do you suggest we do?”  

Tang Shen knew Zhao Fu wasn’t particularly concerned about sending his daughter to marry the Liao emperor. Despite saying “what a pity,” he was indifferent. However, many officials were deeply worried for their own daughters.  

For a time, noble families and court officials were filled with unease.  

On his day off, Tang Shen visited Xixia Tower, only to encounter an unexpected figure.  

Stepping forward, Tang Shen saluted and said, “Tang Shen greets the Heir Apparent of Prince Jing. May I ask why the Heir is here?”  

The man was none other than Zhao Qiong, Heir Apparent of Prince Jing.  

Zhao Qiong raised his wine cup and gave a bitter smile. “Drowning my sorrows… only to find they multiply! Tang Shen, you must have heard about the Liao emperor’s proposal to marry a Song princess, right?”  

Tang Shen took a seat. “I’m one of the officials responsible for receiving the Liao envoy.”  

Zhao Qiong sighed heavily. “His Majesty has no suitable daughters, so naturally, they’ll look to the daughters of imperial relatives. If none are chosen—or if His Majesty wishes to spare the imperial family—they’ll turn to officials’ families, select a suitable girl, and bestow her the title of princess before sending her away.”  

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

Selecting from officials’ families was common, as such girls were often unrelated to the imperial lineage and thus deemed expendable. But Zhao Fu was not a sentimental ruler; sending his own daughter or a niece didn’t seem to bother him.  

Zhao Qiong lamented, “My younger sister is only seventeen, deeply cherished by our family. We had hoped to keep her home for a few more years, but now she’s at risk, unmarried as she is!”

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