As the night deepened, shadows danced among the flowers, and the moon cast its mesmerizing glow.

Yanchun Pavilion was nestled on the western side of the imperial garden, hidden among lush trees. Its windows, made of specially crafted crystal glass from Baibao Pavilion, gleamed under the brilliant palace lights, creating a dazzling spectacle. Officials, dressed in their formal court robes, took their assigned seats.

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To the emperor’s left sat the Second Prince Zhao Shang and the Fourth Prince Zhao Jing, while the Fifth Prince Zhao Ji sat to his right. Officials arranged themselves according to rank.

Tang Shen’s seat was neither too close nor too far from the emperor. To his left sat the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy, and to his right, a Hanlin Scholar.

Though the banquet at Yanchun Pavilion was not a family feast, it bore some resemblance to one.

After the emperor took his seat, he exchanged a few words with his sons before turning his attention to several high-ranking ministers. Their conversation was private, and those seated further away couldn’t hear a single word—such was the mark of imperial favor.

Tang Shen, having just “recovered from illness,” was unable to drink alcohol. He sipped tea in silence, occasionally glancing toward the emperor.

The emperor’s face appeared pale. He, too, abstained from wine, instead drinking a bowl of dark medicinal broth at intervals. He occasionally spoke with Left Prime Minister Ji Wengji and Right Prime Minister Wang Quan, while the three princes made multiple attempts to join the conversation—only to be repeatedly shut out, their faces reddening in frustration.

Behind the emperor stood a figure—not the head eunuch Ji Fu, but a round-faced monk dressed in simple robes.

The monk idly rolled a string of Buddhist prayer beads through his fingers, a serene smile gracing his face. Suddenly, he lifted his gaze and met Tang Shen’s eyes.

Tang Shen’s heart clenched, and he immediately looked away.

The monk, Shanting, smiled slightly. After a moment, he bent down and whispered something into Zhao Fu’s ear. The emperor chuckled.

Midway through the banquet, one of the princes could no longer restrain himself.

Fourth Prince Zhao Jing stepped forward. “After traveling to Jizhou, I have acquired a rare stone from beyond the heavens. Its shape is most peculiar, and upon seeing it, I was overcome with joy. I wish to present it to you, Imperial Father.”

The emperor’s expression flickered with interest. “A stone from the heavens? Bring it forward.”

Zhao Jing’s attendants carried in a large stone half as tall as a grown man. The officials gasped in amazement upon seeing its shape.

“This celestial stone resembles a Ruyi scepter—a true omen of prosperity and good fortune!”

The emperor, too, was pleased. He smiled and said, “You have been most thoughtful.”

Zhao Jing beamed with delight.

Seeing the Fourth Prince seize the spotlight, the other two princes could not sit idly by.

Zhao Shang and Zhao Ji quickly presented their own gifts in an attempt to win the emperor’s favor. However, while their treasures were valuable, they lacked the symbolic auspiciousness of Zhao Jing’s Ruyi-shaped celestial stone.

By the xu shi (7-9pm), the banquet concluded, and the officials departed from the palace.

As Tang Shen exited Yanchun Pavilion, he cast a final glance back. There, he saw Shanting following closely behind Zhao Fu, quietly fading into the shadows.

The next day was New Year’s Eve.

With all officials on holiday, Tang Shen helped Aunt Yao and Feng Bi decorate the house. The family gathered joyfully to make dumplings.

That night, just as they sat down for their meal, a knock sounded at Tanhua Residence.

Yao San answered the door and returned with a letter. “It’s from Youzhou.”

Tang Shen immediately unsealed it. Inside, he found only a single line of poetry—an altered version of an old verse:

“If love is to last forever, should it not also yearn for each and every day?”

Though the alteration was clumsy, Tang Shen’s heart warmed. He carefully placed the letter in his study’s document drawer.

As he stepped back outside, Yao San was preparing to light fireworks. Seeing him, Yao San grinned. “Little boss, would you like to set this one off yourself?”

Tang Shen rolled up his sleeves and smiled. “Leave it to me.”

With a loud bang, the firecracker shot into the sky—heralding the start of a new year.

Yet, while fireworks brightened the night sky over the city, the imperial palace was shrouded in an eerie silence.

On New Year’s Eve, while commoners celebrated with family feasts, the imperial family gathered for their own.

That afternoon, Prince Zhao Ao entered the palace. This year marked the first New Year’s Eve without the Empress Dowager, and he was expected to accompany the emperor.

Not all imperial members were invited—only Zhao Ao, his Princess Consort, Prince Heir Zhao Qiong, the three Princes, and their respective mothers. The gathering totaled about ten people.

At first, the banquet proceeded in relative harmony.

But after half an hour, the Second Prince Zhao Shang, eager to flatter his father, raised his cup in a toast and spoke a few words.

Suddenly, Zhao Fu slammed the table, his expression twisting in fury.

“Your grandmother has been gone for less than a year, and you’ve already forgotten her? Is this how my ‘filial’ son repays me?!”

Zhao Shang’s eyes widened in shock.

The room fell into stunned silence. No one even recalled what Zhao Shang had said to trigger such wrath.

His mother, Consort Zhen, quickly stepped forward to plead on her son’s behalf. She assumed the emperor was simply overwhelmed by grief.

But the moment she spoke, Zhao Fu let out a bitter laugh, his gaze ice-cold.

“Have you two been eagerly awaiting my death then?”

Zhao Shang collapsed to the floor, his face drained of color. Consort Zhen stood frozen in horror, utterly speechless.

The family banquet ended on this chilling note.

That night, Consort Zhen was confined to her palace to “reflect on her transgressions.” Zhao Shang was imprisoned in a small Buddhist temple hall, where he was ordered to recite scriptures ninety-nine times and transcribe one hundred copies of the Guanyin Sutra before he could be released.

When Zhao Ao left the palace, he was still bewildered. Turning to his son, he muttered, “What just happened? We were all just eating, and then suddenly, the Empress Dowager came up?”

Zhao Qiong had no answers.

Zhao Ao frowned. “I need to see my imperial brother. He was truly devastated by Imperial Mother’s passing. Zhao Shang made a mistake, but my imperial brother mustn’t let his anger ruin his health—it isn’t worth it.”

Princess Consort Jing pulled him back. “Don’t go. This is imperial business. Even if you are a prince and his brother, you cannot interfere.”

After a moment of hesitation, Zhao Ao relented and left the palace without intervening.

Two days later, news of Zhao Shang being imprisoned in the palace spread.

Tang Shen, holding a relatively minor position, heard of it later than most. But when he did, he also caught wind of another rumor—

The emperor had fallen ill from rage.

When he met Zhao Qiong at Qianli Tower, Zhao Qiong recounted the family banquet.

“I also don’t know what happened. One moment, His Majesty was in good spirits, speaking with my father. The next, Zhao Shang said a few words, and he suddenly exploded.” Zhao Qiong sighed. “His Majesty is also truly unwell. This morning, my father went to the palace to attend to him.”

Since the Empress Dowager’s death, Zhao Fu had been falling ill frequently as if overcome with old age—and each time, his condition was severe enough that it was a miracle he recovered.

After bidding farewell to Zhao Qiong, that evening, an unexpected guest arrived at Tang Shen’s home.

The Chief Astronomer of the Astronomical Bureau, Li Xiaoren, was brought into the flower hall. Seeing him, Tang Shen saluted, “This lower official greets Li daren.”

In just a few short months, Li Xiaoren had become skeletal, his cheeks sunken, his lips tinged blue, looking like a man recovering from grave illness.

Tang Shen recalled that at the Yanchun banquet, Shanting had attended the emperor, while Li Xiaoren was absent.

He cautiously asked, “Li daren, have you been unwell?”

As expected, Li Xiaoren nodded. “I caught a severe chill last month. I only just regained the strength to leave my bed.”

Tang Shen replied, “You must take care of yourself.”

Li Xiaoren hesitated. Then, in a hoarse voice, he asked—

“Is Wang Zifeng, Wang daren still in Youzhou?”

Tang Shen understood immediately—he was here for Wang Zifeng.

“Senior Brother is still in Youzhou and has not returned. The affairs of the Silver Pull Division keep him too busy; it will likely be a few more months before he comes back to the capital.”

Li Xiaoren’s expression twisted in distress, and he coughed heavily a few times. “Ai, what should I do?”

Tang Shen looked at him calmly and said, “If you have pressing matters, daren, you can write a letter to Youzhou. But Senior Brother is certainly not coming back anytime soon.” His tone made it clear—he had no intention of interfering and wasn’t even interested in asking why Li Xiaoren had come.

Li Xiaoren hadn’t expected Tang Shen to be so indifferent. His face stiffened momentarily before he finally blurted out, “Tang daren, you don’t know—there is truly something wrong with that monk, Shanting! Ever since he arrived, His Majesty’s health has never improved! To tell you the truth, though I have been unwell and unable to enter the palace, my two apprentices have been serving inside all this time. Do you know what one of them saw yesterday? He saw Shanting secretly meeting with the Second Prince, who is imprisoned in the Buddhist temple hall. Their behavior was far too familiar!”

Tang Shen’s heart trembled, but outwardly, he only showed a trace of surprise. “Is that so?”

Li Xiaoren insisted, “Would I lie about such a thing?”

“Has daren informed His Majesty of this?”

“Well…”

Tang Shen pressed on urgently. “This… I don’t even know what to make of it, nor what should be done! Why hasn’t Senior Brother returned yet? Perhaps daren should write to Youzhou immediately and ask him what should be done!”

Li Xiaoren continued speaking, but Tang Shen only played the part of someone flustered and helpless, eager to seek Wang Zifeng’s advice. Disappointed, Li Xiaoren finally gave up and took his leave.

On the seventh day of the first lunar month, Zhao Fu’s illness still showed no improvement. Prince Zhao Ao remained in the palace, attending to him.

By evening, Tang Shen was at home reading when a sudden knock came at the door. Yao San opened it to find a middle-aged man dressed as a steward. Seeing Yao San, the man smiled and gave a polite bow. Yao San, having never been bowed to before, quickly imitated the gesture in return.

The man asked, “Is this the residence of Tang Shen, Tang daren, the Court Gentleman Consultant?”

Yao San led him inside. Upon seeing Tang Shen, the man also bowed and said, “Greetings, Tang daren.”

Tang Shen gave him a once-over and asked curiously, “And you are?”

The middle-aged man smiled. “I am a steward from the Right Prime Minister’s residence. My master invites you to his home for a meal. It is the New Year, and he has yet to meet with you. I have been sent to escort you.”

Tang Shen found it a bit strange but cupped his hands in salute. “So, you are from Wang xianggong’s residence. Then, I shall comply with your master’s invitation.”

Soon, Tang Shen was seated in a carriage on his way to Wang Quan’s residence.

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Along the way, he pondered deeply. He did not believe that Wang Quan would invite him over simply for a meal. Like Wang Zifeng, Wang Quan also hailed from the prestigious Langya Wang clan—a noble family of impeccable manners. If it were Wang Zifeng or Tang Shen visiting each other’s homes, they could do so freely, without formal invitations. But Wang Quan was different. Even if he was aware of Tang Shen’s relationship with Wang Zifeng, he wouldn’t summon him so abruptly.

Carrying these doubts, Tang Shen entered the Right Prime Minister’s residence.

Before he could say a word upon seeing Wang Quan, the Right Prime Minister simply smiled slightly, pointed at the table full of dishes with his chopsticks, and said, “Eat.”

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The three princes had been away from the capital for half a year. When they left, they were mere commoners without any notable achievements. Upon reaching their assigned regions, they naturally devoted themselves to governance, eager to make their mark.

The second prince, Zhao Shang, was stationed in Gusu. Initially, he intended to intervene in the affairs of the Silver Pull Division through the Military Silver Exchange Bank, hoping to assist in its operations and improve the local administration. However, things did not go as smoothly as he had envisioned. For some reason, he eventually abandoned his plans with the Silver Pull Division. Instead, the memorial he submitted detailed his efforts in leading troops to eliminate a group of river bandits.

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The fourth prince, Zhao Jing, was assigned to Jizhou, a region frequently devastated by floods from the lower reaches of the Yellow River. Each year, floods would turn Jizhou into a vast expanse of water, displacing countless civilians. Zhao Jing sought out skilled craftsmen from the Ministry of Works to reinforce the dikes in Jizhou.

The fifth prince, Zhao Ji, was sent to Liangzhou. Unlike Gusu, which, despite its prosperity, still had occasional bandit activity that could be dealt with for merit, or Jizhou, where fortifying dikes could be recorded as an accomplishment, Liangzhou posed a different challenge. Situated in the heart of the Central Plains, Liangzhou was wealthy and peaceful, free from natural disasters or major calamities. After much deliberation, Zhao Ji followed the advice of his advisors and focused on bureaucratic reforms. Though his work did not yield immediate results, it was far-reaching in its impact and required significant effort—arguably more than what Zhao Shang and Zhao Jing had undertaken.

As the New Year approached, all three princes wished to return to the capital for the festivities and submitted memorials requesting permission. Since memorials from the princes bypassed Qinzheng Hall and went directly to the emperor’s desk, there was no one to highlight key points for review.

When Emperor Zhao Fu opened one of the memorials, he was met with a flowery preamble: “Your son, writing from Gusu, has spent sleepless nights longing for Imperial Father, and my heart aches with an unbearable yearning…”

What utter nonsense.

Zhao Fu pinched his nose as he read through all three memorials. However, he did take an interest in the work of the fifth prince, Zhao Ji. He scrutinized the third memorial for a long time before summoning the Minister of Personnel, Shen Yun.

“My sons wish to return to Shengjing for the New Year. What do you think, Minister Shen?” the emperor inquired.

Shen Yun respectfully replied, “At the beginning of each year, officials of the fifth rank and above are required to report to the Ministry of Personnel for their annual evaluations. The three princes returning to the capital is reasonable, given their status. Since they are of imperial blood, they need not adhere strictly to bureaucratic protocols, and their return before the New Year is understandable. In my opinion, it is entirely appropriate.”

Zhao Fu nodded. “Then let them return.”

News of the three princes’ impending return spread throughout Shengjing overnight. Imperial envoys were dispatched to Gusu, Jizhou, and Liangzhou to deliver the decree, while speculation ran wild among the officials in the capital.

Tang Shen also sensed that this decree carried deeper implications. The return of the three princes was no trivial matter—this homecoming was bound to stir up a storm that could flood the entire capital.

Yet, before anyone could fully process the significance of the emperor’s decision, a peculiar event took place in Shengjing.

Su Wenyun, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works and Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, was being pressured into marriage by his own family!

At twenty-six years old, Su Wenyun was considered past the ideal marrying age, yet he remained unmarried. The Su family, a prominent clan from Northern Zhili, had been patient for years. Given that Su Wenyun was the highest-ranking official among his kin, no one had dared to push him on the matter. Moreover, he rarely returned home from the capital, making it difficult for his family to intervene.

But with the New Year approaching and Su Wenyun turning twenty-seven, his family could no longer stand idle.

His elderly grandmother traveled overnight from Northern Zhili to Shengjing, cane in hand, and forced Su Wenyun to kneel in the ancestral hall before their family’s ancestral tablets. There, she made him recite the family rules while sternly reprimanding him for his irresponsibility.

In the past, it was always Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, Su Wenyun, who used convicted officials as live targets for relentless beatings. When had there ever been a time when he was the one being disciplined? This amusing incident quickly spread throughout the streets and alleys of Shengjing, becoming a joke in the back courtyards of many officials’ residences.

“There are three unfilial acts, and the worst of them is failing to produce heirs! Do you not feel ashamed before your deceased parents?”

Kneeling for so long that his knees turned bruised and swollen, Su Wenyun dared not defy his grandmother. Pity him, a third-rank official, forced to kneel at home as punishment with nowhere to appeal.

Even Emperor Zhao Fu caught wind of the situation. Summoning Su Wenyun to the palace, he asked with great amusement, “Is it true?”

The expression on Su Wenyun’s face became truly remarkable. Given the state of his knees, how could it not be true?

Zhao Fu’s laughter rang through Chuigong Hall.

Shortly after, Su Wenyun received an imperial decree assigning him to inspect the newly completed official roads in Cizhou.

The moment this decree was issued, officials had mixed reactions.

Tang Shen, however, found it rather intriguing. “The Su family’s marriage pressure was likely genuine—Su Wenyun himself probably never expected his grandmother to show up in Shengjing. But being forced to kneel for an entire day and night… Does that really sound like something Su Wenyun would put up with?”

Tang Shen mused, “Regardless of the truth, this incident provided him the perfect excuse to leave the capital. He’ll likely be away until after the Spring Festival, neatly avoiding the storm that the three princes’ return will bring.”

While Su Wenyun successfully made his exit, others were not as fortunate.

What Tang Shen didn’t know was that the day before Su Wenyun’s departure, a memorial from Youzhou had arrived at the emperor’s desk. It was submitted by Wang Zhen, the Senior Grand Secretary of the Left, who detailed the arduous nature of the Silver Pull Division’s operations, emphasizing that its tasks could not be accomplished overnight nor by a single individual. The underlying message was clear—he was subtly requesting the emperor to send additional manpower, specifically Tang Shen, to Youzhou to assist with the Division’s work.

Zhao Fu was well aware of the close relationship between Wang Zhen and Tang Shen. The final line of the memorial even contained a personal note expressing how deeply Wang Zhen missed Tang Shen—words that only a favored minister could say to an emperor, unintelligible to outsiders but fully understood by Zhao Fu.

Unfazed, the emperor skimmed through the beautifully written memorial and replied with a single phrase:

“I am aware.”

That very day, Zhao Fu appointed Yu Chaosheng, Xu Linghou, and others to Youzhou—but not Tang Shen.

When Tang Shen later heard about Wang Zhen’s request, he immediately grasped the implications. His heart warmed at Wang Zhen’s concern. In response, he penned a succinct letter to Youzhou, quoting an old poem:

“May you worry less,
as green plums ripen beyond the western window.

Let the golden autumn rain pass,
so we may meet in joy and peace.”

Once the letter was sent, Tang Shen fell into deep thought, pondering Zhao Fu’s true intentions.

As Right Deputy Imperial Censor of the Silver Pull Division, it was only logical for him to be sent to assist Wang Zhen. Yet, the emperor had deliberately kept him in the capital while sending others in his stead.

As winter deepened and thick clouds hung over Shengjing, Tang Shen furrowed his brows.

The shifting tides of the imperial court meant little to common folk.

With the New Year approaching, Aunt Yao and Tang Huang had been busy stocking up on festival goods, decorating their home with couplets. On the sixteenth day of the twelfth lunar month, Yao San returned to Shengjing, bringing unexpected news:

“Little boss, the item you were looking for—it has been found in Liao!”

Tang Shen was astonished. “Truly?”

Yao San nodded. “Would I lie to you? At first, you said this material should be abundant in the north and might not even require venturing into Liao. But after searching for over a year, I never found enough of it—at most, only small amounts that were insufficient. I don’t understand why you need so much of it. The locals say it’s just a fuel source, mainly used for smelting iron. Is that really worth all this trouble?”

Tang Shen asked, “What do they call it?”

Yao San had long been accustomed to Tang Shen reading about something in ancient texts, not knowing its name, yet still insisting that he go and find it. He responded, “Locals refer to it as ‘graphite.’ It’s completely black and quite hard, but I don’t see why it’s so important.”

Tang Shen sighed in realization. “So, it’s called graphite… How fascinating.” He chuckled. “Its significance is something even I do not fully grasp yet. Perhaps, in my lifetime, it will remain nothing more than a tool for smelting iron. Or perhaps, it will one day be as precious as gold.”

Yao San was stunned. “That valuable?”

Tang Shen smiled. “This reminds me—when I first entered the court, I had a dream of the kind of official I wanted to become.”

Yao San, “Little boss, what kind of official do you want to be? A high-ranking one, like Minister Wang, a first-rank official?”

Tang Shen’s gaze gradually calmed, and he let out an exasperated laugh. “Like Wang Zifeng? The Senior Grand Secretary of the Left? Or like Right Prime Minister Wang Quan, the Left and Right Prime Ministers, wielding immense power? A first-rank official… I’ve never really thought about it. Who would have known that on the day I placed third in the imperial examination, as I rode a fine steed through Xuanwu Gate, my eyes landed on Yuan Mu, Yuan daren.”

Yao San, “Who is Yuan daren?”

Tang Shen replied earnestly, “Minister of Works, Yuan Mu, Yuan daren.”

Yao San was taken aback. “Little boss, the position you most desire is Minister of Works?”

“It was just a thought I once had. Once you enter the court, what you can do and what the future holds are no longer up to you. Is it fate? No—it’s the ruler who decides.”

As Tang Shen reminisced, lost in thought, five carriages entered the capital through the western gate.

The Fifth Prince, Zhao Ji, was the first to return.

On the 24th day of the twelfth lunar month, the Second Prince, Zhao Shang, also made the long journey back to Shengjing from Gusu.

That very day, Tang Shen feigned illness and stayed home, refusing all visitors.

The three princes, newly returned to the capital, were all anxious and uneasy, wary of making any rash moves. However, the emperor, absorbed in his prayers and Buddhist devotions, only met with them briefly. After asking a few casual questions—Have you been eating well? Staying warm?—he dismissed them without further concern.

The Fourth Prince, Zhao Jing, first visited Liu Quande, the Intendant of the Capital. As longtime friends, their meeting was natural and unremarkable. Using this visit as a test, Zhao Jing observed the emperor’s reaction. When Zhao Fu remained indifferent, he grew bolder and began visiting other officials. Seeing this, the other two princes also loosened their restraints, gradually reaching out to court figures.

By the 29th day of the twelfth lunar month, the night before New Year’s Eve, the emperor hosted a grand banquet in Yanchun Pavilion with his ministers.

On New Year’s Eve, the palace would hold a private family banquet attended only by the imperial clan. Thus, every year on the preceding night, the emperor dined with the officials in celebration.

Such a grand occasion left Tang Shen with no excuse to remain absent.

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As night fell, hundreds of carriages lined up outside the palace gates like a long, winding, dragon. Officials clad in their formal robes dismounted and proceeded on foot into the palace. Any official of fourth rank or higher, regardless of their post, was entitled to attend the banquet at Yanchun Pavilion.

Walking along, Tang Shen recognized a few familiar faces among the officials, but most were strangers to him.

Palace ladies lit the lanterns, and beneath their glow, the three princes entered Yanchun Pavilion, each surrounded by their own people.

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Since he had already taken leave, Tang Shen, dressed in his wrinkled official robe, fled back home in a panic.

Yao San had gone to Ningzhou a few days earlier to handle logistics for Baibao Pavilion, leaving only Tang Huang and Aunt Yao at home. Both were startled to see Tang Shen. Tang Huang asked, “Don’t you have to go to the office today, Brother?” She thought for a moment, “Isn’t today a workday?”

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Tang Shen brushed it off casually, “I had something to attend to, so I came back early.” But after taking a few steps, he suddenly turned back, “Aren’t you curious why I didn’t come home last night?”

Tang Huang smiled and countered, “Why should we be curious? Yesterday afternoon, Minister Wang sent someone to our house, saying you would be having a drink with him at the Minister Residence and would likely stay the night. Brother, it’s not like you haven’t slept at the Minister Residence before. What’s so strange about that?”

Tang Shen: “…”

Returning to his study, Tang Shen fumed, “You really had it all planned out, Wang Zifeng!”

Tang Shen couldn’t help but sigh, feeling that he might never outwit Wang Zifeng in this lifetime. Yet, his future was now irrevocably tied to the man. A pang of regret rose in his heart—was it too late to change his mind…?

Whether it was too late or not, Tang Shen didn’t know, but one thing was certain: he had no chance.

At this point, Tang Shen hadn’t considered that several high-ranking officials in the court had already guessed the nature of his relationship with Wang Zhen. Early the next morning, he went to court. Just after the court session ended, Chief Eunuch Ji Fu came to fetch him. Wang Zhen was busy talking with Right Prime Minister Wang Quan, but from a distance, he noticed Tang Shen being led away by Ji Fu, and a meaningful expression appeared on his face.

Wang Quan, seeing this, glanced at Tang Shen’s retreating figure and immediately understood, “Worried?”

Wang Zhen feigned surprise, “Worried about what?”

Wang Quan, “His Majesty wouldn’t summon Tang Jingze to Chuigong Hall for no reason. You publicly requested leave for him yesterday. I’ve already guessed it. If His Majesty asks around, he’ll probably figure it out too. Aren’t you afraid that when he meets His Majesty, he might say something wrong and provoke His Majesty?”

Wang Zhen smiled leisurely and countered, “Uncle, what do you think I like about him?”

“Oh, what?”

“He never needs me to worry about him. He is Tang Jingze. His current position isn’t truly dependent on me.”

Wang Quan was momentarily speechless.

Meanwhile, Tang Shen was led to Chuigong Hall. Along the way, he pondered why Zhao Fu wanted to see him. Was it about a new assignment related to the Silver Pull Division? Or perhaps about Second Prince Zhao Shang’s activities in Gusu, where he had interfered with the Military Silver Exchange Bank?

When he arrived at Chuigong Hall, Tang Shen bowed and remained silent. Unexpectedly, Zhao Fu also said nothing, simply smiling at him.

Ji Fu, standing nearby, was quite surprised.

Since the Empress Dowager’s passing, the Emperor had rarely been in such a mood. At this moment, Zhao Fu seemed to have regained some of his former vitality, no longer spending his days listening to the monk Shanting recite sutras or tapping his wooden fish, his intentions inscrutable.

Tang Shen felt Zhao Fu’s gaze on him and wondered what he had done to warrant such attention. However, since Zhao Fu remained silent, Tang Shen couldn’t speak first.

After a long while, Zhao Fu’s gentle voice finally broke the silence, “I recall Jing Ze came of age this year, didn’t you?”

Tang Shen, “Yes.”

“You’re already twenty. Why haven’t you married yet?”

Tang Shen’s heart skipped a beat. A possibility dawned on him, but he didn’t dare dwell on it.

Zhao Fu sighed deeply, “You all always make me worry! Fei Ran is already twenty-six and still shows no intention of marrying. Last month, I called him over and asked him about it. Guess what he said? He claimed there wasn’t a single woman in Shengjing worthy of his attention—not even my princess!”

Tang Shen was startled. He cautiously observed Zhao Fu’s expression. He believed Su Wenyun might dare to tell the emperor that he wasn’t marrying because he hadn’t found the right woman, but he doubted Su Wenyun would dare say that even a princess wasn’t good enough for him. This was likely Zhao Fu’s casual remark, but the fact that he said it in front of Tang Shen showed just how much he favored Su Wenyun.

“Jing De also worries me. His wife passed away last year. I suggested he remarry, but he said he already had an heir, so why bother?”

By now, Tang Shen understood what Zhao Fu was getting at. He kept his head bowed, wishing he could bury it in the floor tiles.

Zhao Fu leaned forward, resting his upper body on the table, and peered at the back of Tang Shen’s head with a mix of kindness and teasing, “So now I want to know, Jing Ze, why haven’t you married? And what about your senior brother? He’s already twenty-nine. Why hasn’t he married either?”

Tang Shen felt like his head was about to explode. He kept his head down and replied loudly, “I… I don’t know.”

Zhao Fu burst into laughter.

Tang Shen was at a loss.

After laughing, Zhao Fu looked at Tang Shen’s flustered expression, and a genuine fondness of an elder for the younger generation flickered in his eyes. He spoke earnestly, “Ten years ago, when I learned of Zi Feng’s preference, I was worried for him. I know Zi Feng’s character. If he truly loves someone, he would give them his heart and soul. What if he fell for a scoundrel? But now that I know it’s you, I’m at ease. I never thought that before I closed my eyes, I would see the two of you together. It’s a relief to have one less thing on my mind.”

Tang Shen looked up at Zhao Fu.

Zhao Fu waved his hand, “Since I’ve called you here and teased you, I naturally have a reward for you. It’s already been sent to the Minister Residence.”

Tang Shen bowed respectfully, “I thank Your Majesty for your grace.”

“You may go.”

As Tang Shen stepped out of Chuigong Hall, he paused for a moment before continuing forward. In the vast palace, a small figure in red walked steadily away from the heavy palace gates, his steps firm and resolute, showing no hesitation.

After Tang Shen left, Ji Fu stood quietly to the side, cautiously observing Zhao Fu.

Having served Zhao Fu for over fifty years, there were times when Ji Fu felt he understood this emperor, and other times when he was utterly baffled. For instance, just now, whether Zhao Fu’s words to Tang Shen were genuine or feigned, Ji Fu couldn’t tell. Ji Fu thought that Tang Jingze probably didn’t understand either. Even Wang Zifeng, if he were here, might only sigh and say, “The Emperor’s heart is inscrutable.”

However, Ji Fu had one advantage over Tang Shen and Wang Zhen. After Tang Shen left, the emperor caressed the warm celadon teacup and murmured as if to himself, “I like them even more now.”

Ji Fu memorized these words, planning to ponder them later.

The emperor had said that the imperial gifts had been sent to the Minister Residence, but Tang Shen had no intention of going to see them. When he left the Censorate that day, he spotted the sedan chair of the Senior Grand Secretary of the Left from the Department of State Affairs, a first-rank official, waiting at the gate. Tang daren glanced sideways at it, then walked past with his head held high, not even looking inside.

Wang Zhen stepped out of the carriage and called, “Jing Ze.”

Tang Shen ignored him and kept walking.

Wang daren sighed, “Still angry.”

In matters of strategy, it’s all about tension and release.

Wang daren, being a reasonable man, naturally wouldn’t add fuel to the fire. He gave Tang Shen two days to cool off.

However, on the third day, Fu Wei suddenly sent invitations to his two students, saying he had acquired a particularly fine painting and wanted them to come to his residence to appreciate it together. Tang Shen couldn’t refuse and had to go to the Fu Residence that night. When he arrived, Wang Zifeng was already seated in the flower hall.

Tang Shen kept his eyes down and silently sat down across from Wang Zhen.

Tang Shen, “Sir, where is the painting?”

Fu Wei, “The painting? Of course, there’s a painting. Wen Shu, go fetch the painting.”

Wen Shu immediately ran to the study and brought back a scroll. The painting wasn’t very long, and Wen Shu could hold it open with both hands. At first glance, Tang Shen was stunned, feeling a wave of confusion. But when he saw the seal at the end, he couldn’t help but laugh, “I never expected it to be a masterpiece by the Master of Insignificant Talent. Truly a fine painting.”

Fu Xiru, the Master of Insignificant Talent, stroked his beard and laughed, “Jing Ze has also noticed the brilliance of this painting. Excellent, excellent. You have a discerning eye. What do you think, Zi Feng?”

Tang Shen also glanced discreetly at Wang Zhen.

Wang Zhen’s gaze lingered on the painting for a moment, then he turned to Fu Wei and smiled, “Sir, how did you find out?”

Tang Shen was taken aback.

Fu Wei looked embarrassed, “I don’t understand what you mean.”

Wang Zhen, “His Majesty hasn’t summoned you to the palace recently, so it couldn’t have been him. You’re not close with Ji or Xu xianggong, so it couldn’t have been them either.” After a pause, Wang Zhen sighed, “So it was Second Uncle.”

Fu Wei: “…”

Tang Shen also suddenly understood: “…”

What kind of “bad news travels fast” is this!

The flower hall fell into silence, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Suddenly, Fu Wei said, “Hai, I was just concerned about you two. What’s wrong with that! How could you plan to keep this from me? You’re both my students. How could you not tell your teacher about such an important matter? Is this proper etiquette? Is this proper conduct!”

Tang Shen thought to himself: My relationship with Wang Zifeng is the most improper thing of all!

Tang Shen, “It’s Jing Ze’s fault.”

Fu Wei immediately gained confidence and turned to scold Wang Zhen, “And you, why did you hide it from me? What were you thinking?”

Wang Zhen raised an eyebrow slightly, but after glancing at Tang Shen, who was bowing his head in apology, he smiled and also bowed, “This student was wrong.” Then he added, “This feels a bit like bowing to parents.” (TN: a step in marriage rites)

Fu Wei was stunned.

Tang Shen also didn’t react immediately, but when he did, he was furious, “Wang Zifeng!”

Wang Zhen laughed heartily.

Fu Wei, watching from the side, was even more stunned. He had never seen Wang Zifeng like this before. After a long while, he stroked his beard, feeling deeply gratified.

Soon, dinner was served, and the three of them ate at the residence. During the meal, Fu Wei chatted with them for a while, but being older, he soon retired to rest.

Tang Shen and Wang Zhen walked together through the garden of Fu Residence. Gradually, Tang Shen realized, “Are you taking me to the pond?”

Wang Zhen, “To be precise, little Junior Brother, it’s that pavilion.”

The two quickly passed through layers of bamboo and flowers, arriving at the pavilion. Five years ago, Tang Shen had followed the sound of a zither here and met the “page boy Fu Qin (TN: literally zither-playing boy).” That brief encounter had been unexpected, and neither of them could have imagined the present they were in now.

Tang Shen was moved by the familiar scene, filled with nostalgia.

Wang Zhen suddenly embraced him from behind. Tang Shen stiffened, about to move, when cool lips pressed against the exposed skin of his neck.

“Don’t move.”

Tang Shen held his breath, “Senior Brother…”

“Why don’t you call me Fu Qin anymore?”

Tang Shen was speechless.

Wang Zhen chuckled softly, “It’s been three days. Are you still angry with me?”

Tang Shen, “How could I dare be angry with Senior Brother?”

“Then you are angry. It’s been three days. In this lifetime, how many more sets of three days do I have to spare for you to be angry at me?”

Tang Shen was momentarily stunned. He thought Wang Zhen was referring to his age. In a way, this wasn’t wrong—Wang Zhen was nine years older than Tang Shen. Tang Shen had never considered this before, but now, hearing Wang Zhen’s despondent tone, he wondered if the man might actually feel some insecurity.

Tang Shen’s heart stirred, and he immediately grasped Wang Zhen’s hand, “Senior Brother, why would you think that? I’ve never thought that way.”

Wang Zhen said sadly, “Really? You’ve never thought that?”

Tang Shen replied urgently, “Really!”

“Then promise me you won’t be angry anymore.”

“Alright.”

Wang Zhen kissed him a few more times, then whispered, “In a few days, I’ll be going to Youzhou. The Silver Pull Division’s affairs need to move forward. Leaving it all to Qin Si alone isn’t feasible. Ah, little Junior Brother, life is already so short, and yet we’re busy with other matters, spending little time together. This trip to Youzhou will take at least a month. A month is ten sets of three days. How many more sets of three days do I have?”

Tang Shen suddenly understood, “Wait, when you said that earlier, was it because you’re going to Youzhou?”

Wang Zhen smiled, “Yes, what did you think I meant?”

Tang Shen: “…”

Without hesitation, Tang Shen elbowed Wang Zhen in the stomach. Wang Zifeng grunted in pain and let go.

Tang Shen strode away.

Wang Zhen said weakly, “It… it hurts. I think something’s bruised.”

Tang Shen didn’t even look back as he walked away.

Seeing that Tang Shen was already far away, Wang Zhen straightened up and sighed, “I went too far this time. Look, he doesn’t even care about me anymore.”

Soon after, Wang Zhen left Shengjing for Youzhou.

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

In late November, three memorials arrived in Shengjing from three different locations. Normally, local memorials had to pass through Right Vice Minister Xu Bi before reaching the emperor’s desk. But this time was different. These three memorials were sent directly to Chuigong Hall, presented to the emperor as personal letters.

Zhao Fu opened the memorials and first said, “What is this pretentious, incoherent nonsense!” After saying this, he tossed the memorials onto the desk. But several hours later, he picked them up again to read.

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After entering the gate, Tang Shen saw that the entire ground was paved with broad, smooth granite.

He waited in the entrance hall for a while, but Wang Zhen was nowhere to be seen. Left with no other choice, he ventured into the garden.

Passing through the moon gate on the left, he was greeted by a vast, shimmering pond. The pond extended eastward, winding beneath small bridges. With nowhere else to go, Tang Shen followed the pond’s edge.

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The second courtyard bore a plaque with three words: “Drunken Moon Hall.”

No need to guess—it was Wang Zifeng’s own calligraphy. Tang Shen looked up at it for a moment and murmured, “Drunken by the moon, enchanted by flowers, I no longer serve the king.”

Fifteen minutes passed, and Wang Zhen still hadn’t appeared. Tang Shen searched the garden for a while, calling out, “Senior Brother, where are you?”

The Wang family estate in Jinling was enormous. Tang Shen had spent a day and a night there once and still hadn’t explored it all. But this Liuqi Courtyard was different—it was about a quarter the size of the Wang family’s estate. Wang Zhen, previously a second-rank official and now a first-rank one, was limited to a residence with three main halls and five bays. This Liuqi Courtyard naturally adhered to those restrictions.

Tang Shen quickly searched the entire estate but still couldn’t find Wang Zhen.

He suddenly realized that Wang Zifeng was playing hide-and-seek with him. Otherwise, how could he not find him?

Tang Shen was utterly exasperated and decided to stop searching. Instead, he found a stone bench in the garden and sat down.

“Aren’t you coming out?”

“Senior Brother?”

“Wang Zifeng!”

Suddenly, he heard the sound of grass being crushed underfoot behind him. Tang Shen turned around, but he was too slow. Wang Zhen covered his eyes with both hands from behind.

“Senior Brother…” Tang Shen said, startled.

Wang Zhen leaned down and whispered in Tang Shen’s ear, “I wanted to come out earlier, but seeing you search for me so eagerly and pretty, I couldn’t look away and stayed hidden a little longer.”

Tang Shen: “…”

He forcefully pulled Wang Zhen’s hands away, his face stern, but Wang Zhen burst into laughter.

Tang Shen pretended to be serious, “Since I opened up to Senior Brother, you’ve changed.”

Wang Zhen looked puzzled, “Opened up about what?”

“…Just opened up.”

Wang Zhen suddenly understood, “Opened up about your feelings for me?”

Tang Shen gritted his teeth, knowing he was no match for Wang Zifeng, so he reluctantly changed the subject. He feigned disdain and annoyance, “Senior Brother used to be like an immortal in my eyes, a celestial being from the moon palace, distant and unattainable. But now, Senior Brother keeps ruining that image. Where is the ethereal, otherworldly figure you once were?”

Wang Zhen sighed deeply, “So little Junior Brother liked me so much that he thought I was a celestial being. In that case, perhaps you fell for me first.” After a pause, he added with certainty, “It must be so.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Wang Zifeng, where did you learn this skill of twisting truth and lie, black and white?!

Seeing Tang Shen both angry and flustered, yet unable to find a good comeback, Wang Zhen was in high spirits. He chuckled and wrapped his arms around Tang Shen’s waist. Tang Shen patted his hands, and Wang Zhen asked in surprise, “What does little Junior Brother mean?”

Tang Shen, “I can walk on my own.”

Wang Zhen, “And sneak kisses on your own?”

Tang Shen: “…”

Tang Shen didn’t dare to say another word. Wang Zhen led him on a tour of the entire Liuqi Courtyard. When he first arrived, the sun was setting, and the sky was still light. By the time they finished their tour, the moon hung high, casting its silvery glow over the vast pond in the estate, creating a shimmering reflection.

“Jiangnan gardens emphasize changing scenery with every step. Little Junior Brother, being from Gusu, must be well-versed in this.”

Tang Shen came from a humble background and had never lived in a grand garden courtyard estate, but Liang Song had, so Tang Shen had some knowledge of it. Although Wang Zhen’s estate wasn’t large, every corner was meticulously designed, each view unique and thoughtfully arranged.

What was even more remarkable…

Tang Shen looked up at the plaque on the pavilion in the pond.

“Pushing Stones.”

Tang Shen, “Unable to bend the pines, I can only push the stones for now. Even these characters—were they written by Senior Brother yourself?”

Every courtyard, pavilion, and terrace in the entire Liuqi Courtyard bore Wang Zifeng’s calligraphy! His care and attention were evident everywhere.

Suddenly, Tang Shen understood what Liuqi Courtyard meant to Wang Zhen. But Wang Zhen said nothing about it. Instead, he took Tang Shen’s hand and led him to the Pushing Stones Pavilion. On the round table inside the pavilion were fine wines and dishes, all of Tang Shen’s favorites.

After they sat down, Wang Zhen said, “Little Junior Brother has already voiced the origin of this pavilion’s name. What about the others?”

Both of them had eidetic memories. Tang Shen closed his eyes and recalled the names of the other courtyards and pavilions. “The ‘Sleet Gate’—is it from ‘Without the sun and moon turning, sleet falls together’? The ‘Fragrant Cold Hall’—probably from ‘Bright and serene as the moon, its fragrance cold, not chasing the wind’…”

Tang Shen spoke each line carefully. Amidst the flowers and under the moon, with fine wine and a beloved companion, the gentle breeze stirred. Minister Wang hadn’t even drank any wine yet, but he was already intoxicated.

When Tang Shen finished, Wang Zhen said, “You got most of them right.”

Tang Shen was puzzled, “Was I wrong?”

Wang Zhen, “No, but you missed the most important one.”

Tang Shen thought for a long time, hesitating before finally remembering what he hadn’t mentioned. But after some consideration, he said, “The name ‘Liuqi Courtyard’—where does ‘Liuqi’ come from? It’s not hard to guess, but… why would Senior Brother use ‘Liuqi’ to name this estate?”

“The spring waters flow into the Qi River.”

It comes from The Book of Songs: Odes of Bei – Spring Waters.

The poem itself isn’t problematic—it’s a beautiful, melancholic piece about longing. But the issue is, the poem is about a woman from the state of Wei who married far from home and yearned for her homeland. Wang Zifeng, married far from home? Wang Zifeng, like the woman from Wei, filled with longing and sorrow?

Tang Shen shuddered.

…What kind of nonsense is this?!

Wang Zhen looked disheartened. He seemed to want to say something but couldn’t, so he let out a long sigh.

Seeing this, Tang Shen immediately understood that there must be a story behind the name “Liuqi.” He asked with concern, “What’s wrong, Senior Brother?”

“The name ‘Liuqi’ wasn’t chosen by me.”

“Huh?”

“You guessed correctly. How could I use ‘Liuqi’ to name this estate? It was Sir who named it.” Wang Zhen sighed nostalgically, “Over a decade ago, Sir heard I had built an estate and came to visit. He jokingly said, ‘The spring waters flow into the Qi River’. Zi Feng, you’re far from home, building this estate out of longing for your homeland. Such sincere feelings—let’s call it ‘Liuqi’!”

Wang Zhen looked at Tang Shen, “When an elder bestows a gift, one dare not refuse. How could I decline?”

Tang Shen thought to himself, if you really didn’t want it, what could Sir have done to you?

But Wang Zhen’s rare display of melancholy was too captivating. Tang Shen couldn’t look away, entranced by his beauty, and nodded vaguely.

Wang Zhen pointed to a large Taihu stone in the pond, “So a few months ago, I found a fine porous stone. I didn’t dare breathe a word about it, fearing Sir might see it. This stone still hasn’t been named. Would little Junior Brother like to name it?”

Tang Shen snapped out of his thoughts, “Me?”

Wang Zhen smiled, his joy radiating from within, making him appear even more cheerful and bright.

He asked gently, “Are you full?”

Tang Shen was taken aback and looked up at him. After a long moment, he said, “I’m full.”

Wang Zhen took his hand and led him through the winding corridors, walking above the shimmering pond, past the porous stone, and to a house by the pond. Half of the house was built over the water. Opening the windows revealed a vast expanse of water, blending with the sky in a sea of blue.

By the window was a long desk, filled with an array of brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones.

Wang Zhen led Tang Shen to the desk. He carefully spread out a sheet of rice paper and began grinding ink.

“Little Junior Brother, will you name it?”

Tang Shen looked at him for a while, then turned to gaze at the rugged Taihu stone through the window.

After a long time, he picked up a brush and wrote two characters.

“Warm Jade.”

The calligraphy was taught by Wang Zifeng himself. Though Tang Shen had developed his own style, the essence of Wang Zifeng’s influence was unmistakable.

Wang Zhen stared at the two characters, his heart stirred. He stopped grinding ink and looked up, “Where does ‘Warm Jade’ come from?”

Tang Shen looked at him and said slowly, “Thinking of the gentleman, warm as jade. In his wooden house… it stirs my heart.”

Wang Zhen stepped forward and embraced him tightly. He held Tang Shen in his arms, his voice soft, like the evening breeze brushing through the grass on a spring night, “You came here straight after leaving the office, still wearing your official robes.”

Tang Shen, “Senior Brother sent me a peony. I thought you had something to say to me.”

Wang Zhen chuckled lightly, “Official robes are inconvenient. Shall I help you change?”

Tang Shen’s fingers tightened. He remained silent. Wang Zhen took his hand and led him to the bed. He untied Tang Shen’s belt and removed his deep red official robe. As his hands moved to undo Tang Shen’s undershirt, Tang Shen grabbed his wrist.

Wang Zhen looked up at him.

“My heart is filled with many things—for Senior Brother, for many people.”

Wang Zhen gently kissed him, “But my heart holds only you.”

Tang Shen stared at Wang Zhen in a daze. Unconsciously, he released the hand that had been holding Wang Zhen back.

Outside the window, the pond’s water flowed, and the wind entered the bamboo house, scattering the clothes on the floor. The bed curtains had been drawn early by Wang Zhen. Throughout the night, the sounds of joy and pleasure never ceased.

The next day, before dawn, the steward of the Minister Residence stood outside the door, holding Wang Zhen’s court robes. Wang Zhen got up quietly, and Tang Shen woke with a start. He tried to sit up, but a sharp pain shot through his lower back. He hissed in pain—it hadn’t hurt much the night before, but now the ache was overwhelming.

Wang Zhen pressed his shoulders, gently pushing him back down, “Rest. I’ll request leave for you today.”

Tang Shen, still half-asleep, thought it would be just like a colleague helping him take a day off. Without overthinking, he nodded and drifted back to sleep.

Wang Zhen changed into his court robes and left for the morning court.

When Wang Zifeng arrived at Chongzheng Hall, no one thought anything was amiss. But then he told the chief eunuch, “Tang daren is unwell and won’t be attending court today”.

In the main hall, Right Prime Minister Wang Quan was the first to glance at Wang Zhen. The other officials didn’t react, but Left Prime Minister Ji Wengji overheard and murmured in surprise, “Is that so?” Soon, Right Vice Prime Minister Xu Bi also caught on.

Ordinary people wouldn’t read too much into a single sentence, but these seasoned officials, who had long suspected Wang Zhen’s inclinations, could read between the lines.

The matter was like a breeze rippling the surface of a lake—it caused a stir but quickly settled. Most people remained unaware.

However, Emperor Zhao Fu was no ordinary man. During the morning court, with Wang Zhen now a first-rank official standing closer to the throne, Zhao Fu could observe his every move. Surprised, he asked his chief eunuch, Ji Fu, after the court session, “Did you notice how radiant Wang Zifeng looked today? Quite different from usual.”

Ji Fu thought to himself, different? He looked the same as always.

But Ji Fu was shrewd. He inquired about Wang Zifeng’s activities that day and discovered he had requested leave on Tang Shen’s behalf. Ji Fu, unable to grasp the implications, reported this to Zhao Fu. Upon hearing this, Zhao Fu was stunned for a moment before saying, “Even I didn’t see it coming?”

By mid-morning, Tang Shen finally woke up.

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The room was already prepared with clean clothes, and his body also felt refreshed. Recalling the previous night, Tang Shen realized Wang Zhen had personally cleaned him. His face flushed, and he quickly dressed, hurrying to the Censorate.

As soon as Tang Shen arrived at the Censorate, the guard at the gate looked at him in surprise, “Tang daren, didn’t you request leave today?”

Tang Shen’s groggy mind stirred again as he remembered Wang Zhen’s words that morning.

In an instant, Tang Shen felt his vision darken.

…Wang! Zi! Feng!!!

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The next morning, Minister of Rites Meng Lang, holding a jade tablet and dressed in a brand-new deep red official robe, strode into the main hall of Chongzheng Palace.

Chongzheng Palace was where officials waited before court sessions. First- and second-rank officials gathered in the main hall, while third- and fourth-rank officials waited in the left and right side halls, respectively. As soon as Minister Meng entered, he saw someone he hadn’t seen in a long time. Seeing this person and recalling the upcoming negotiations with the Liao envoys at the guesthouse, Meng Lang felt a headache coming on.

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

However, the Ministry of Rites and the Ministry of Revenue had always been grouped together. In Qinzheng Hall, the ministers of the two ministries shared a common office, and even during court sessions, Meng Lang had to stand next to Wang Zifeng!

Minister Meng pursed his lips and stepped forward with a smile, “When did Wang daren return?”

This was just a polite remark, something Meng Lang said casually. However, he didn’t expect Wang Zifeng to stand up, salute respectfully, and reply in a gentle voice, “Meng daren, I just returned yesterday morning.”

Meng Lang was both surprised and flattered. He scrutinized Wang Zhen.

What was going on with Wang Zifeng? Why had he suddenly become so polite and gentlemanly?

As the saying goes, one doesn’t hit a smiling face. Meng Lang had no choice but to say, “It’s good to have you back. I’ve missed you, Wang daren.” The words sounded awkward—while the words expressed longing, the tone carried no hint of nostalgia, merely politeness.

Wang Zhen, however, replied, “Meng daren‘s kindness fills me with gratitude.”

Meng Lang: “…”

What was wrong with Wang Zifeng today? Why was he being so agreeable?

After all, Meng Lang was a second-rank official who had weathered the ups and downs of the court for many years. After a while, he tentatively asked, “Wang daren seems to be in a good mood today?”

Wang Zhen sighed, “Meng daren has noticed. Indeed, good fortune brings joy. Please forgive my lack of composure.”

Meng Lang: “???” Wang Zifeng, act normal!

By the time the morning court session began, Meng Lang finally understood what good fortune Wang Zifeng had encountered.

As soon as the court session began, the emperor issued an edict promoting Wang Zhen to Senior Grand Secretary of the Left, concurrently serving as Minister of Revenue and Commander of the Silver Pull Division, holding a first-rank position. When this decree was announced, Zichen Hall fell into silence. The officials bowed their heads, their expressions calm and unreadable. Tang Shen, standing at the back of the crowd, was deeply shocked. He couldn’t help but look up.

In the grand hall, no one moved a muscle. Even Wang Zhen’s uncle, Wang Quan, kept his eyes downcast, calmly staring at the golden bricks on the floor.

Wang Zhen stepped forward, bowed, and accepted the decree.

Next, Zhao Fu issued another edict, promoting Zhao Yun, the Minister of Personnel, to Senior Grand Secretary of the Right.

Zhao Fu smiled and said, “Ministers Wang and Zhao are both my trusted confidants, my right-hand men. With the Department of State Affairs in your hands, I am at ease.”

Wang Zhen and Zhao Yun stepped forward together, bowing and accepting the decree.

After the court session ended, the officials immediately crowded around to congratulate Wang Zhen and Zhao Yun.

Zhao Yun, in his early fifties, was a jinshi from the previous dynasty and one of Zhao Fu’s old ministers. His promotion to first-rank, while somewhat unexpected, was justified given his lifelong dedication to Great Song. Wang Zhen, however, was a different story. The treasury’s current prosperity was largely due to his efforts as Minister of Revenue. The Silver Pull Division’s affairs had also been handled flawlessly. His promotion had been anticipated by many, but no one expected him to achieve first-rank before the age of thirty.

This was Zhao Fu’s answer.

After turning thirty, Wang Zhen’s promotion to first rank would have raised no eyebrows.

But achieving it before thirty was a sign of Zhao Fu’s favor and the emperor’s unparalleled trust.

However, even so, Zhao Fu had also promoted Zhao Yun, which was worth pondering.

Wang Zhen was the nephew of Right Prime Minister Wang Quan, while Zhao Yun was a close friend of Left Vice Prime Minister Chen Linghai.

After all the officials had finished offering their congratulations, Wang Zhen and Wang Quan walked together in Qinzheng Hall. The Right Prime Minister sighed, gazing at the increasingly vast sky, and remarked, “The winds of change in the court are becoming more unpredictable.”

On the same day, a secret letter was rushed to Shengjing and delivered to the Liao envoys’ guesthouse.

The Liao envoy, Xiao Zhang, received the letter and was visibly shaken. He hurriedly sought out Yelü Shege and showed him the letter. “Your Highness, what should we do? Yelü Qin daren has sent a letter from Xijin Prefecture. News of your departure from Liao has somehow leaked and is spreading like wildfire. Once it reaches Shangjing, Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding will surely seize this opportunity to demand an explanation for your whereabouts.”

Yelü Shege was stunned, “How could this happen?!”

Yelü Shege had been injured in a hunting accident a month ago and had gone to Xijin Prefecture to recuperate, using this as an excuse to avoid the scandal involving the Fourth Prince and Princess Anding. If news spread that he wasn’t in Xijin Prefecture, Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding would easily connect this to him. Although Yelü Ding had no love for the Fourth Prince and wouldn’t care if he died, if this incident could be used to gain leverage over Yelü Shege, he wouldn’t let it go easily.

Yelü Shege read Yelü Qin’s letter several times carefully. He closed his eyes, and when he opened them again, his gaze was fierce. “I will return to Liao immediately.”

Xiao Zhang, “What about the matter of marrying another Song princess?”

Yelü Shege, “Let the matter go. It’s just one less pawn.”

Xiao Zhang nodded, “Yes, and not every Song princess is as foolish as Princess Anding. Your Highness only needed to make a few promises, and she was completely devoted, never realizing what was happening until her death.”

Yelü Shege smiled, “Xiao daren.”

Xiao Zhang felt a chill run down his spine and immediately knelt, “This subject misspoke. Please forgive me, Your Highness.”

Yelü Shege sighed regretfully, “Actually, Princess Anding wasn’t a bad girl. It’s just a pity she was a woman.” For a moment, Yelü Shege’s mind flashed with the image of a radiant face, and a surge of desire and possessiveness welled up within him. But he quickly suppressed it.

“My great task is not yet complete. How can I waste time on such trivial matters?”

Hearing this, Xiao Zhang felt a surge of admiration, secretly glad he had chosen the right master.

Yelü Shege, “This trip to the Song State hasn’t been without gains. The Song Emperor isn’t as incompetent as you all imagine. It’s just that he’s getting old and no longer needs to be closely guarded against. I hear he’s started believing in Buddhism this year, so his time is likely running out. But we still need to be cautious of his three princes and his trusted ministers.”

Xiao Zhang, “Before I return to Great Liao, I will gather as much information as possible.”

Yelü Shege, “Li Jingde goes without saying—he’s a major threat to our Great Liao. And then there’s Wang Zifeng. His Silver Pull Division is also suspicious.”

“This subject understands.”

That same day, Yelü Shege left Shengjing under cover of night, heading northwest.

Tang Shen had already informed Meng Lang about this matter, asking whether they should detain Yelü Shege or at least partially seal the city to prevent him from leaving easily, as Tang Shen had experienced in Xijin Prefecture. However, upon hearing this, Meng Lang was first shocked, then carefully questioned Tang Shen to confirm the accuracy of the information. After receiving confirmation, he instead said, “No need.”

Tang Shen was puzzled, but then he suddenly remembered something. “Daren, your foresight far surpasses mine.”

Letting Yelü Shege go had two advantages.

First, Yelü Shege was the backbone of the Liao envoys. Capturing him would be of no benefit to the Song Dynasty. Now that he was gone, the Liao envoy Xiao Zhang was no strategist and posed no threat. Without the resourceful Yelü Shege, Meng Lang would find it easy to deal with the remaining Liao envoys.

Second, this was related to Tang Shen. Meng Lang didn’t know that Tang Shen’s spy was planted within Yelü Shege’s ranks. If Yelü Shege was harmed by Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding and lost power in the Liao court, all the efforts Tang Shen and his allies had made would likely go to waste.

Tang Shen hadn’t thought of this at first, but now, suddenly enlightened, he realized that they had to let Yelü Shege go and ensure he returned safely to the Liao State.

After coming to this realization, Tang Shen glanced behind Meng Lang and noticed that the desk that had belonged to Wang Zhen was now empty. Surprised, he asked, “Will Wang daren no longer work in this room?”

Meng Lang, who was pondering how to deal with the Liao envoys, turned around and said, “Don’t you know, Tang daren, that your senior brother was promoted to Senior Grand Secretary of the Left overseeing the Department of State Affairs this morning, holding a first-rank position? From now on, he will have sole authority over the six ministries.”

Tang Shen, “Of course I know.”

Meng Lang, “First-rank officials in Qinzheng Hall have their own private offices. From now on, I’ll likely be sharing an office with Minister Yuan Mu of the Ministry of Works.”

Tang Shen chuckled awkwardly and took his leave.

Before he could leave Qinzheng Hall, a government worker approached him and asked respectfully, “Are you Tang Shen, Tang daren?”

Tang Shen was surprised, “Yes, I am.”

“This humble servant has been ordered by Wang xianggong to wait here for you. Wang xianggong noticed that you went to Meng daren‘s office and stayed for a long time, presumably discussing important matters. Coincidentally, the Ministry of Revenue had some urgent business to tend to, so Wang xianggong left first. He asked me to deliver this invitation to you.”

Tang Shen took the invitation, and the government worker bowed before leaving.

Tang Shen opened the invitation and found a dried peony tucked inside. Beneath the petals, Wang Zifeng’s elegant calligraphy was written in black ink on white paper:

“With this flower, I gift it to you. Let us meet at Liuqi.”

“Wang Zifeng.”

Tang Shen’s heart warmed, but then he cursed inwardly. How could Wang Zifeng be so bold? In broad daylight, in Qinzheng Hall, he dares to send me something like this? Isn’t he afraid of being discovered?

Tang Shen shook his head in irritation, carefully tucking the invitation into his robe. However, as he left, he didn’t notice someone who always seemed to cross paths with him watching from a distance. But before he could greet him, Tang Shen had already stepped out of Qinzheng Hall’s gates.

Yu Chaosheng entered Xu Bi’s office, bowed, and said, “Your student pays his respects, Sir. Just now, I saw Tang Shen, Tang daren in the courtyard and remembered what you once said—that your student and Tang Jingze seem to have some fateful connection. Every time he leaves, I always seem to arrive. I used to think it was just a joke, but now it seems there really is some coincidence.”

Xu Bi put down the memorial in his hand and smiled, “You and he do seem to share a deep connection. Now, one of you is the Left Deputy Imperial Censor of the Silver Pull Division, and the other is the Right Deputy Imperial Censor. Isn’t that fate?”

Yu Chaosheng, “At today’s morning court, I never expected His Majesty to promote Wang Zifeng to Senior Grand Secretary of the Left overseeing the Department of State Affairs.”

Xu Bi, “There were signs.”

“Sir?”

“You are now the Left Deputy Imperial Censor of the Silver Pull Division, subordinate to Wang Zifeng. As the acting head of the Silver Pull Division, do you understand what your duties truly entail?”

Yu Chaosheng pondered for a long time, “Please enlighten me, Sir.”

Xu Bi smiled, “How would I know? His Majesty has never allowed my people to interfere in this matter. However, the affairs of the world and the changes in the court are always predictable. Nothing happens without reason, and there are always signs. The Silver Pull Division emerged because the Revenue And Expenditure Department was abolished. So, what was the Revenue And Expenditure Department originally meant to do?”

Yu Chaosheng was shocked, “So that’s what the Silver Pull Division is about! Your student has learned much!”

The teacher and student chatted for a while longer before parting ways.

By evening, Tang Shen hesitated for a moment but ultimately decided to take the invitation. Without changing out of his official robes, he followed the address on the invitation to a quiet and beautiful estate in the outskirts of the capital. Standing at the gate, Tang Shen looked at the unassuming entrance and exclaimed in surprise, “Is this where Senior Brother wants me to come?”

He looked up and saw the plaque: Liuqi Courtyard.

The characters on the plaque were written with the elegance of a bright moon and the swiftness of a shooting star—undoubtedly Wang Zifeng’s calligraphy.

Tang Shen stood at the gate for a moment before the door of Liuqi Courtyard opened from the inside. A servant ran out and said, “Greetings, Tang gongzi. Gongzi has been waiting for you for some time. Please follow me.”

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Tang Shen was led inside by the servant, but once he entered, the servant did not follow.

Tang Shen turned back in confusion.

The servant said, “I will take my leave here. Tang gongzi, please go ahead.”

With that, the door creaked shut behind Tang Shen.

Caught off guard, Tang Shen could only turn around and take in the serene and beautiful estate.

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Tang Shen fell silent for a moment, then said, “Thank you, Senior Brother, for giving me a ride.”

Wang Zhen replied, “It’s nothing.”

The sedan chair was quiet for a while, neither of them speaking. Finally, Tang Shen broke the silence, “Senior Brother, you’ve been in Jinling for quite some time. Did something important happen?”

At first, Tang Shen had thought Wang Zhen had returned to Jinling because he was angry with him, avoiding him. But after five or six days, he realized that Wang Zhen’s trip couldn’t have been solely because of that. It made sense for Wang Zifeng to return to Jinling, but it was impossible for him to stay away for over ten days just because of personal feelings.

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Wang Zhen glanced at Tang Shen. What he loved about Tang Shen was his intelligence and caution. He answered simply, “The Military Silver Exchange Bank in Gusu.”

Tang Shen was surprised, “So Senior Brother returned to Jinling for this matter?”

Wang Zhen countered, “If not for this, then for what?”

Tang Shen was left speechless.

He had thought Wang Zhen had returned to Jinling in a fit of anger because of his words. Now it seemed it had nothing to do with him at all. Wang Zhen had always planned to return to Jinling. He had used the pretext of visiting family to handle official business privately. That was his true purpose.

A bittersweet feeling welled up in Tang Shen’s heart. Wang Zhen hadn’t left because he was angry with him, which relieved Tang Shen. But if he hadn’t left because of him, then what had Tang Shen been thinking and feeling during those ten days in Shengjing? And what about what happened ten days ago… Had Wang Zifeng really not cared at all?

Tang Shen’s heart was in turmoil, but when it came to expressing his thoughts, he couldn’t find the words.

Wang Zhen lifted the sedan chair’s curtain, “It seems we’ve reached Caiqi Villa.”

Tang Shen, “Huh?”

“I remember when you first came to Shengjing five years ago, I often sent you pastries from Caiqi Villa. Back then, you were just a boy.” Wang Zhen looked at Tang Shen with gentle eyes, no longer filled with affection but more with tolerance and nostalgia. He said to the sedan bearers, “Go buy some pastries.”

The sedan chair stopped, and the bearers quickly returned with a package of warm pastries, handing them to Wang Zhen.

Wang Zhen, “Do you still like pastries, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen instinctively replied, “Actually, I never really liked pastries.”

Wang Zhen was taken aback, “Is that so… Back then, I saw you eating quite a lot, so I thought you liked them.” He sealed the package again and chuckled lightly, “So it turns out you only ate them because I gave them to you. As the saying goes, ‘When an elder gives, one dare not refuse.’ You had no choice but to eat them every time?”

Tang Shen’s eyes widened. He suddenly realized he had said the wrong thing.

An ordinary person might not have read too much into Tang Shen’s words, but Wang Zhen immediately understood. Tang Shen had accepted all the pastries he had given him back then simply because he wanted to please Wang Zifeng and didn’t dare to reject his kindness. Wang Zhen was still giving Tang Shen face by attributing it to “an elder’s gift.”

Wang Zhen stored the pastries in a hidden compartment of the sedan chair and closed his eyes to rest, saying nothing more.

Outside the window, the snow fell heavier, and for some reason, the sedan bearers moved slower than usual.

Tang Shen’s heart was heavy. Finally, he couldn’t hold back and spoke, “Senior Brother…”

Wang Zhen acted as if he hadn’t heard.

“Senior Brother…”

Wang Zhen still didn’t open his eyes.

Tang Shen clenched his teeth and said, “Senior Brother Zi Feng!”

Wang Zhen opened his eyes, looking surprised, “What is it?”

Tang Shen, “Are you still angry with me?”

Wang Zhen’s elegant eyes widened in astonishment, “When was I ever angry with you?”

Tang Shen, “…Really?”

“Of course.”

The sedan chair continued forward, jolting slightly, causing the backs of their hands to brush against each other. Tang Shen’s body temperature was naturally higher, while Wang Zhen’s hand was slightly cold. The touch startled Tang Shen, but before he could react, Wang Zhen subtly moved his hand away.

Tang Shen’s heart plummeted into an icy abyss. It felt as if a bucket of cold water had been poured over his head, chilling him to the bone in the midst of winter.

He suddenly realized something. Since returning from Jinling, Senior Brother had changed. It seemed… he no longer liked him.

Scenes from the past flashed before his eyes.

Five years ago, by the lotus pond, they had first met. Tang Shen had been eloquent and resourceful, doing everything he could to leave a deep impression on the other.

After that, it was this person who had guided him step by step in the treacherous world of officialdom, clearing the thorns from his path.

That was Wang Zifeng. How could he not know that Tang Shen had been using him all along?

He had known from the start.

From the very beginning, Tang Shen had intended to use Wang Zhen as a stepping stone to climb to great heights. However, fate had other plans. He came to respect and admire his senior brother, and he could no longer be that heartless, ungrateful person. He began to genuinely see Wang Zhen as his elder brother and close friend.

Who in this world had been kinder to him than Wang Zifeng?

At the Xuji Tower, it was this person who had said to him, “Comrades in the same school are called friends; those with the same aspirations are called companions.”

In Cizhou City, it was this person who, under the stars, had taken him in his arms and saved him from danger.

Wang Zifeng had once owned a painting he adored. He had treasured it, cherished it, and couldn’t bear to part with it. For many years, he had never made up his mind about the painting’s fate. Back then, Tang Shen had thought his senior brother was hiding some secret. Now he finally understood: he was that painting, and Wang Zhen was the one who was in love with the painting.

Wang Zhen had long harbored feelings for him, but this path ahead was fraught with difficulties. He couldn’t bear to drag Tang Shen into it, so he had endured for years, never revealing his true feelings.

For Tang Shen’s sake, he had endured for so long, yet Tang Shen had done nothing in return. Instead, he had repeatedly hurt this person’s heart.

Wang Zhen had asked him, “Did you see it? My sincere heart.”

Tang Shen’s eyes suddenly welled up with tears.

He had seen it long ago. For the past five years, day and night, he had seen Wang Zifeng’s sincere heart and how well he had treated him!

“Senior Brother…”

Wang Zhen still had his eyes closed and didn’t respond.

Tang Shen called out urgently, “Senior Brother!”

Wang Zhen was inwardly planning to open his eyes after one more call. He believed in moderation—teasing too much would backfire. He needed to proceed carefully.

Tang Shen whispered, “Wang Zifeng…”

Wang Zhen was slightly surprised. He sensed that he might have teased a bit too much this time. Just as he was about to open his eyes, a warm touch pressed against his cheek. All thoughts of strategy and planning vanished in an instant. Wang Zhen’s eyes flew open to see Tang Shen avoiding his gaze, lips tightly pressed, fingers clenched in his sleeves.

The moment Tang Shen kissed him, he regretted it.

If Wang Zhen really didn’t like him anymore, this would only shatter the delicate balance between them.

Sure enough, after being kissed, Wang Zhen didn’t show any signs of joy. He looked at Tang Shen expressionlessly. Tang Shen’s heart sank. He clenched his teeth and explained, “Senior Brother, don’t take it to heart. I was too impulsive. I… I didn’t expect this. Please don’t dwell on it.”

“Don’t take it to heart?”

Tang Shen, “Yes, Senior Brother, please don’t be angry…”

Wang Zhen suddenly laughed. He said joyfully, “Don’t take it to heart? How can I not take it to heart!”

“Tang Jingze, you’re mine now.”

Tang Shen looked up at Wang Zhen in shock, but before he could see clearly, a scorching kiss descended, silencing all his words.

Almost without any surprise, as if it were the most natural thing in the world, Wang Zhen caressed Tang Shen’s lips while kissing him gently. He did it so effortlessly, so smoothly, it was almost infuriating. Tang Shen’s body stiffened, unsure of how to respond.

Finally, Wang Zhen released him but continued to stroke his lips with his fingers.

“I’m so happy.”

Tang Shen’s lips parted, but no words came out.

Wang Zhen said sincerely, “I had already given up hope, no longer daring to ask for more. I never expected you to say such things, to do such things… Jing Ze, how could I resist? Yes, I couldn’t resist.” After justifying himself, Wang Zhen leaned in to kiss him again, but a hand suddenly blocked his path.

Wang Zhen was slightly surprised, then he kissed Tang Shen’s palm instead. He looked up, “En?”

After the initial shock, Tang Shen’s sharp mind finally started working again.

He had only said one sentence, and Wang Zifeng had reacted like this, leaving no room for argument. How could this be the behavior of someone who didn’t like him? How could this be the same cold, indifferent person from before?

Tang Shen’s teeth ached with frustration. He glared at the man before him and asked, “Senior Brother, I suddenly have some questions. Could you answer them for me?”

Wang Zhen, “Oh? What questions?”

“Why were you so cold to me today?”

Wang Zhen looked astonished, “Cold? Was I? Why do you say that, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen: “…”

“Earlier, Senior Brother said you had given up hope and didn’t want to talk about…” Tang Shen paused, then continued, “Didn’t want to talk about us anymore.”

Wang Zhen sighed, his gaze sincere, “Yes, but I never expected that you also had feelings for me.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Tang Shen, “Then let me ask another question. Senior Brother said today that you gave me a ride because the snow was heavy and it was on your way?”

Wang Zhen’s smiling eyes rested on Tang Shen. He seemed to know what Tang Shen was going to say next, but he didn’t mind. Instead, he gently responded, “En.”

Tang Shen said indignantly, “On your way? Senior Brother, you probably don’t know this, but before I saw you, I had just come from the Ministry of Revenue. The officials there said you had gone to the palace! How could you be on your way? How could you go from the palace to the Censorate to give me a ride?”

Wang Zhen said delightedly, “Little Junior Brother, you went to the Ministry of Revenue? Were you looking for me?”

Tang Shen: “…”

Tang Shen, flustered and angry, exclaimed, “Wang Zifeng!!!”

Wang Zhen hugged him and laughed heartily, completely shedding the graceful demeanor of a nobleman. Even his brows and hair were filled with joy, an irrepressible joy. Unfortunately, Wang Zhen’s joy didn’t last long. No matter how slowly the sedan chair moved, it would eventually reach its destination.

Tang Shen broke free from his embrace and quickly got out of the sedan chair to head home. After taking just one step, he heard Wang Zhen’s voice behind him, “Little Junior Brother.”

Tang Shen turned around to see Wang Zhen holding the sedan chair’s curtain with one hand, looking at him with a gentle smile.

“Did you see the peony I gave you?”

Tang Shen was stunned.

Zhen and Wei, flowing wide and clear; men and women, holding orchids fair…

So the scholars and maidens, make sport together…

Gifting each other peonies.

Wang Zhen smiled leisurely. This time, he didn’t hide it from Tang Shen. Right in front of him, he said to the sedan bearers, “No need to walk so slowly anymore. Just go at a normal pace.”

The sedan bearers: “Yes.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Wang Zifeng, happy and carefree, drifted away. Tang Shen returned home in a daze. An hour later, Tang Shen looked up at the sky and sighed, “Wang Zifeng, Wang Zifeng, how could I have fallen for your tricks!”

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

Tang Shen’s actions had proven a universal truth to the masses: Not a single punctuation mark in Wang Zifeng’s words could be trusted!

AN: Little Tang Lang: This is too much! Wang Zifeng, you’re too much!

Old Wang: To be honest, today’s events weren’t part of my plan. It’s because you love me too much, little Junior Brother.

Little Tang Lang: ???? I love you too much????

Old Wang [regretfully]: Yes, so I hadn’t even used many of my tactics before you willingly took the bait.

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