Walking back to the capital, Qin Zhonghai felt both annoyed and confused. He neither wanted to return to the palace nor go home, much less encounter acquaintances. For a moment, in this vast capital city, he surprisingly couldn’t find a place to rest. He wandered aimlessly on the streets when he suddenly saw a sesame cake shop by the roadside. Since it was still morning, the shopkeeper was still conducting business. Qin Zhonghai saw this place was secluded and went in to rest for a while.
Qin Zhonghai ordered some sesame cakes. Though they tasted crispy and fragrant in his mouth, with his current troubled mood, how could he taste any flavor? He chewed like wax, thinking, “That old fox Liu Jing has gone mad—at this time he actually wants to rebel. Heh, the court is really in for trouble now.” Thinking of his own involvement, his heart was disturbed as he picked up his bowl and drank the soy milk like wine in one gulp.
A few months ago, when Xue Nu’er had secretly attacked the Emperor with his golden wheel, though he had fooled Jiang Chong and others, he couldn’t fool Qin Zhonghai, whose martial arts were superb. He had long felt something was fishy, fearing Xue Nu’er truly intended to kill the Emperor. Now comparing this with Liu Jing’s words, it was indeed so.
That day when the Emperor’s life hung by a thread, he had rushed to the imperial carriage—just reaching out his hand could have resolved the Son of Heaven’s danger. Liu Jing, seeing the assassination would fail, simply struck first to save the man, so he could dodge the blame afterward. As for Xue Nu’er’s life, under the intention of sacrificing a rook to save the king, it could naturally be discarded at any time. Looking at Liu Jing, this person was crafty and cunning with sinister methods, his scheming even surpassing Jiang Chong’s.
The more Qin Zhonghai thought, the more shocked he became. He bit hard on the sesame cake, treating it as Liu Jing’s flesh to chew, thinking, “Why does this bastard Liu Jing want to stage a coup when everything’s fine? He holds high position and great power with vast influence—in what way has His Majesty treated him poorly? What more could he be dissatisfied with? Besides, this old fox is just a eunuch—if he really murders the Emperor, could he then replace him? When heroes from all over the world raise armies to punish him, what good could he possibly gain?” He speculated for a while but couldn’t figure out Liu Jing’s intentions, feeling only troubled.
His heart troubled and confused, he sat there eating voraciously. The boss, seeing him gnashing his teeth while eating, didn’t dare come over to bother him. Whenever he gestured, the boss would quickly bring another sesame cake and bowl of soy milk. Qin Zhonghai unconsciously ate over ten sesame cakes and drank all the soy milk in the shop clean. Passersby outside, seeing this strange man, all clicked their tongues in amazement.
After eating and drinking for a long time, his belly nearly bursting, he looked up to check the time—it was nearly noon. Qin Zhonghai wiped the grease with his sleeve, then got up to settle the bill. The boss arranged the change and stuffed it into Qin Zhonghai’s hands. Just as Qin Zhonghai was about to put it in his money pouch, a thought suddenly struck him: “Should I tell the Marquis about Liu Jing’s rebellion or not?”
This thought flashed through, and his whole body couldn’t help but tremble, spilling the handful of broken silver and copper coins all over the ground. If he now revealed the secret to Liu Angtian, Liu Jing would surely be exposed and meet a tragic end with his nine generations executed. But if he didn’t tell Liu Angtian, when the political power truly changed and Liu Angtian carelessly stood on the wrong side, he would probably also face the great disaster of having his entire family executed. Who knew how many of those close friends would survive?
With Liu Jing’s coup imminent, both emotionally and rationally he should inform Liu Angtian of this matter, yet his heart hesitated somewhat.
Qin Zhonghai stared blankly at the scattered silver on the ground, somehow feeling something was wrong in his heart. He had a tattoo of unknown origin on his back, and his master was one of the Five Tiger Generals of Nucang Mountain. These inexplicable matters all made him feel a chill in his heart, fearing his background was truly related to Qin Baxian.
If that were truly the case, then he, Qin Zhonghai, not only couldn’t serve as an official in the court—he would actually be the court’s enemy. Consequently, Liu Angtian, Yang Suguan, Wu Dingyuan, and even his good friend Lu Yun would all view him as remaining rebel scum.
Qin Zhonghai shook his head forcefully. He kicked the silver and copper coins, scattering them flying all over the ground, thinking, “It won’t be so—I’m absolutely not a rebel’s son. All this is made up by Liu Jing to deceive me.” He wanted to forget Liu Jing’s words, but his ears were full of those sentences he had just said: “There was a woman whose head was severed and whose corpse was displayed publicly after death… There was a man who was flayed and dismembered, never to return to his homeland… Do you consider all this as fart?”
The cake shop owner, seeing his strange behavior, was so frightened he froze, calling out, “Sir, are you alright?”
Qin Zhonghai clenched both fists and suddenly struck the table, shaking the wooden table until it cracked. He understood in his heart that if he were truly Qin Baxian’s son, then his parents had died so tragically they truly couldn’t rest in peace. Now Liu Jing wanted to rebel—this could be said to be indirectly avenging him, so he should join hands with Liu Jing to betray the country. But if he wasn’t some rebel’s descendant and this was just Liu Jing’s scheme to recruit him, then if he carelessly caused Liu Angtian’s death, wouldn’t that be utterly ridiculous?
The boss, seeing Qin Zhonghai’s face full of rage, was so frightened his whole body went limp. Not daring to say another word, he hid inside the shop.
Qin Zhonghai thought of Liu Angtian’s many years of kindness toward him, and warmth slowly grew in his eyes. He bent down to pick up the scattered silver one by one. As he picked them up, he thought of the Qin family massacre, and before his eyes were the figures of that family’s orphans and widows, making his heart truly indecisive.
Assisting Liu means the country’s destruction; opposing Liu means Liu’s death. Pitifully, the world’s fortune rested on his shoulders alone, making Qin Zhonghai unable to breathe.
Qin Zhonghai crouched on the ground thinking of his master, wondering, “If master were by my side, I don’t know what he would say?” Thinking of his master, his heart felt warm, like seeing shore in the vast ocean. The Nine Provinces Sword King had raised him from childhood. Though quite strict with him, they still had a subtle father-son-like affection.
Qin Zhonghai sighed and pondered, “No matter what, in all the world only master understands my background. Once this great affair is settled, I must find him and ask everything clearly.”
Just as he was picking up the scattered silver, footsteps suddenly sounded. A pair of boots stopped before his eyes, and he heard a breathless voice say, “Finally found you! Where have you been these past days?” Qin Zhonghai heard this familiar voice, looked up, and saw it was Wei Zizhuang.
Qin Zhonghai’s expression changed slightly. At this critical moment, he originally didn’t want to see acquaintances, yet Wei Zizhuang still encountered him. He composed himself and immediately calmed down, “What’s wrong? Guard Wei, you’re looking for me about something?” Wei Zizhuang snorted, “Of course there’s something! These past days the Marquis has repeatedly wanted you to leave the palace to discuss matters, but you’ve declined every time. What exactly are you busy with?”
Qin Zhonghai didn’t answer, only slowly stood up and called the boss over, giving him all the scattered silver as a tip. Then he laughed dryly a few times and replied, “These past days Wenyuan Pavilion has been organizing documents—really couldn’t get away.” Wei Zizhuang put his hand on his shoulder and smiled, “Is that really so? You wouldn’t be afraid to see me, your creditor, would you?” That day Wei Zizhuang had lent Qin Zhonghai five hundred taels of silver, which Qin Zhonghai hadn’t yet repaid. Now he brought up this matter, probably fearing he would default.
Qin Zhonghai, thinking of this matter, couldn’t help but smile awkwardly, “Guard Wei, Brother Wei, Lord Wei—next month there’ll be salary silver. Please don’t press me.” Wei Zizhuang spat, “Who’s pressing you? Physician Yang has returned from Jiangnan and is waiting at the Marquis’s mansion for you to discuss important matters. Go quickly!”
Qin Zhonghai felt slightly worried, knowing what should come couldn’t be avoided. He stretched lazily, “Alright, I’ll go with you then.”
The two walked one after the other slowly toward the Marquis’s mansion.
Qin Zhonghai followed behind, his steps growing slower and slower. Looking at Wei Zizhuang’s slightly plump back, thinking of their first meeting years ago, his heart couldn’t help but be filled with emotion: “Since I completed my training and came down the mountain, it’s been ten years… Sigh… When we first met, Brother Wei had just married and I was still a young lad… Heh heh, after these years his child should be seven or eight years old, right? Speaking of it, we’ve known each other quite a long time.” Suddenly tears welled up in his eyes, and in the blur he seemed to see many good friends dying in the flames of war. Qin Zhonghai’s spirit was agitated, and he really wanted to reveal the inside story.
Just as he could barely control himself, he suddenly heard someone in the distance shout, “Respectfully avoid—idlers don’t look—” A high official was traveling. Qin and Wei naturally stepped aside to the roadside and saw a sedan chair being carried from afar. Leading were officials holding a large banner with seven characters: “Beijing Head Eunuch Liu.” Wei Zizhuang was startled, “Why has Director Liu left the palace? Could there be some major affair?” Qin Zhonghai knew the approaching sedan carried Liu Jing. He sighed and didn’t want to look straight at it, only turning his head to glance aside.
In three days Liu Jing would stage his coup. If he betrayed this person, the affair would surely fail; but if he concealed and didn’t speak, perhaps Beijing would change dynasties and all civil and military officials would face great disaster. Qin Zhonghai’s heart felt both bitter and difficult. Somehow he just didn’t want to betray Liu Jing’s trust in him, but also didn’t want Liu Angtian and others to fall into danger. In his full irritation, he couldn’t help but sigh deeply.
After Liu Jing departed, the two hurried to Liu Mansion. By this time it was afternoon, and Liu Angtian and Yang Suguan had been waiting for a long time. Seeing Liu Angtian, Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help but feel guilty and quickly lowered his head, “My lord.” Liu Angtian scolded, “Coming only now at this time—you probably went drinking again! Right?”
After Liu Angtian scolded him, Qin Zhonghai’s eyes suddenly reddened. Liu Angtian’s kindness to him was truly considerable. Among all the Liu faction members, though Liu Angtian relied most on Yang Suguan, emotionally speaking he had always been closest to him, always treating him like his own son. Qin Zhonghai thought, “These ten years, who knows how many times we’ve scolded each other. Sigh… If the Marquis has any accident, can I… can I face him…”
Liu Angtian saw his tiger eyes red and quickly said, “What are you doing? Your eyes so red—did you peek at women bathing and get a stye?” Qin Zhonghai laughed, “You guessed right—I was peeking at your wife.” Liu Angtian was furious and grabbed a feather duster to hit him. Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily and dodged aside. Seeing Liu Angtian treat him as before, his heart only felt doubly miserable.
After everyone laughed and scolded for a while, they each sat down. Qin Zhonghai, seeing Wu Dingyuan hadn’t returned, asked, “What? Didn’t find Dingyuan?”
That day when Wu Dingyuan resigned from office and went south, Qin Zhonghai happened to discover it and urgently had someone inform Yang Suguan to prevent accidents. Now Yang Suguan had returned but Wu Dingyuan was nowhere to be seen, which was somewhat surprising.
Yang Suguan smiled slightly, “General Qin needn’t worry—Dingyuan is fine, just recovering from injuries at Magistrate Lu’s mansion.” Qin Zhonghai was shocked, “Recovering from injuries? What injury did he suffer?”
Yang Suguan sighed and explained everything about how Zhuo Lingzhao forged the divine sword, how Wu Dingyuan agreed to compete in martial arts, and how the two fought fiercely at Tiger Hill.
Qin Zhonghai shook his head and sighed, “Zhuo Lingzhao’s martial arts are superb—now that he’s obtained the divine sword, who in the future can do anything to him?”
Yang Suguan said quietly, “This matter isn’t urgent. On this southern trip, following the Marquis’s orders, I’ve reconciled with Zhuo Lingzhao. On the twentieth of next month, if Zhuo Lingzhao keeps his oath, he’ll personally appear at the Court of Judicial Review to expose Jiang Chong’s crimes.”
Though Qin Zhonghai had other major concerns on his mind, hearing this matter he was still startled. He snorted, “You bastard! Such an important matter—why did you wait until now to mention it? I’m the last to know, aren’t I?”
Yang Suguan glanced at Liu Angtian but didn’t answer. Liu Angtian coughed lightly, “This old man instructed nephew Suguan to keep it strictly secret—not to spread this matter until Zhuo Lingzhao agreed to the alliance.”
Qin Zhonghai felt displeased and turned his face away, thinking, “Good, you Marquis—you’re also being so duplicitous, hiding such a major matter from me.” It seemed Liu Angtian knew his character was strong and that hearing this overly sinister plan wouldn’t suit his temperament, so he had concealed it. Qin Zhonghai snorted twice, thinking that he also had matters he was hiding from him—everyone was even, nobody owed anybody.
Yang Suguan said, “Regarding Zhuo Lingzhao’s matter, I wonder what General Qin thinks?” Qin Zhonghai spread both hands and said without good humor, “Your raw rice has already been cooked—what more can I say? Could I still tell you to withdraw?”
Yang Suguan coughed, “Don’t be like this—if you have ideas, just speak them. Everyone’s waiting to hear.”
Hearing these words, Qin Zhonghai only glanced at Yang Suguan sideways, picked up his teacup, and began drinking on his own, too lazy to respond.
Liu Angtian, seeing Qin Zhonghai’s manner, was actually relieved, knowing he had no intention of delving deep into this matter. He immediately coughed and nodded, “It’s good that Zhonghai has no other ideas. It’s just that Jiang Chong is deep in scheming—I fear he’ll come up with other strange plans to disrupt our situation…” With that, he began analyzing the situation and discussing with Yang Suguan.
Everyone talked for a long while, all discussing how to deal with Jiang Chong. Qin Zhonghai was preoccupied and had no heart to listen. At this time, with Liu Jing making an unexpected move, never mind judging Jiang Chong—even the Emperor’s life was like a precarious egg. Jiang Chong’s life or death simply wasn’t in his consideration. But at this moment the situation was chaotic, and it wasn’t convenient for him to bring up this matter, so he could only mumble and muddle through.
Later in the conversation, Yang Suguan changed the subject and said quietly, “My lord, these past days I’ve gathered intelligence. It’s said that Liu Jing recently invited generals from Xiongfei Camp for secret talks—I don’t know what he’s plotting. We must be careful.” Hearing him mention Liu Jing’s activities, Qin Zhonghai’s heart jumped, thinking, “Physician Yang’s intelligence is indeed sharp—he knows about this too.” Thinking that Yang Suguan had discovered this matter, cold sweat poured down his back.
The commander-in-chief of Xiongfei Camp was surnamed Li with the given name Baozheng, an old minister from the previous dynasty who had received promotion and important posts from Emperor Wu Ying. Though his noble rank didn’t match Liu Angtian’s, his military seniority was definitely not below his. Liu Jing’s unprovoked contact with him naturally aroused suspicion. Liu Angtian shook his head, thinking that Li Baozheng would soon be transferred to the capital for garrison duty, feeling even more puzzled, “Zhonghai, these past days you’ve been moving about the palace—have you heard any rumors?”
Qin Zhonghai knew quite a lot—from Xue Nu’er’s assassination attempt on the Emperor down to Consort Qiong’s adultery, all were extremely sensational major affairs. But at this time the situation was extremely dangerous. Qin Zhonghai knew that his every word and action could reverse the entire situation. Before he understood the principles involved, he absolutely couldn’t say much. He immediately shrugged and prevaricated, “Liu Jing has always wanted to win over military generals—doesn’t everyone know this? Since General Li will soon enter the capital, as head eunuch of the palace, how could Liu Jing not maintain more contact? Physician Yang is overthinking it.”
Liu Angtian, hearing his reasonable words, laughed heartily, “You sly fellow—if even you can’t see any signs, there’s probably really nothing wrong. We shouldn’t worry unnecessarily.” Hearing these words, Qin Zhonghai’s heart suddenly felt sad, not knowing what kind of tragic fate his response would bring Liu Angtian. Despite his face being thick as a wall, at this moment his heart was also in tumultuous waves, his hands slightly trembling, which Yang Suguan noticed.
Yang Suguan snorted, “Zhonghai, you’re a bit strange.” Qin Zhonghai raised his teacup, pretending to be nonchalant, “What’s strange?” Yang Suguan pondered for a moment, “You’re somewhat different today.”
Yang Suguan’s gaze was so sharp that Qin Zhonghai was secretly shocked, though he said, “What’s different? Probably my hemorrhoids are acting up—they’ve been quite painful these past days, so I’m different. Do you want to take a look?” With that, he aimed his washbasin-sized buttocks at Yang Suguan and was about to untie his pants. Yang Suguan was startled and quickly said, “You… don’t fool around!”
After Qin Zhonghai teased him for a while, he laughed heartily but felt quite bitter inside. Everyone had finished discussing—when Zhuo Lingzhao came to the capital to surrender and went to the Court of Judicial Review to testify, as long as Jiang Chong made one careless response, he would face great disaster. Liu Angtian, gaining this advantage, was quite pleased and smiled, “Zhonghai, if you’re not busy tonight, stay at my mansion for dinner!” Qin Zhonghai, thinking of the extremely difficult situation and fearing he might speak carelessly after drinking, shook his head, “Not tonight—there are matters at the palace. Let’s do it another day!”
Liu Angtian was quite disappointed and shook his head, “It’s been so long since we drank and played finger-guessing games. I had found a bottle of hundred-year-old wine to get drunk with you together—what a disappointment…” With that, he muttered for a long while. Qin Zhonghai didn’t dare listen further, fearing that under the influence of personal feelings, he might impulsively cast aside Liu Jing’s entrusted matter. He immediately took leave of Liu Angtian and departed.
Qin Zhonghai walked outside the mansion and headed toward the main street. Before he had taken two steps, he saw a young woman walking along the roadside. This woman was richly dressed with several maidservants, apparently returning home. Qin Zhonghai saw this woman was quite beautiful with skin white as snow and a delicate figure, about twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old—it was the Seventh Lady. Thinking of Qingqing at the wine house asking him to inquire about news, Qin Zhonghai actually became afraid and quickly turned around, darting into an alley.
Qin Zhonghai hid in the alley waiting for the Seventh Lady to leave. After standing for a while, having drunk too much—both soy milk and tea—he felt somewhat urgent need to urinate. He pulled open his trouser flap and began urinating in the alley. Just as he was feeling comfortable, he suddenly heard someone at the alley entrance say, “General Qin was walking perfectly well on the road—why did you hide here?” Without looking up, Qin Zhonghai knew the speaker was the Seventh Lady. Qin Zhonghai was scared out of his wits, his stream of urine spraying left and right. He gathered his full internal energy and in his panic hurriedly finished, then pulled up his trouser flap and turned around with a bow, “This subordinate greets My Lady.”
The woman walked up and gazed at Qin Zhonghai, saying gently, “How have you been lately? Every time you see me you run away—it makes people quite worried.” With that, she reached out to arrange his collar. Qin Zhonghai, full of embarrassment, stepped back and laughed dryly, “My Lady is overthinking. This humble official suddenly had stomach pain and needed to relieve himself, so I darted into the alley. Please don’t blame me.”
The woman’s face darkened as she sighed, “Now there’s no one around—please don’t call me ‘My Lady’ anymore, alright?” Qin Zhonghai bowed deeply to the ground, “My Lady is the master’s beloved concubine, occupying the position of family head. Even if this humble official were ten times more bold and reckless, I wouldn’t dare misuse past forms of address.” His words were extremely respectful, not daring to be careless or slack in the slightest, with his former laziness completely gone.
The woman stared at him blankly, suddenly trembling as she remembered the past. Tears immediately glistened as she said softly, “Zhonghai… Zhonghai… The night before last, Qingqing sent someone to find me. She said she encountered you at the wine house and asked about my recent situation, but you ignored her… Zhonghai… I’ve been married into the Liu family for a year now. In this year, you’ve never thought of me, completely forgetting our past affection?”
Qin Zhonghai turned his head away and sighed softly, saying quietly, “This humble official has shallow fortune and such fate—what more is there to say?” The Seventh Lady choked with sobs and cried, “There’s no such thing as fate or no fate—any day you want to take me away to the ends of the earth, I’ll follow you!” With that, tears fell as she actually embraced him and tried to kiss his lips.
Qin Zhonghai was scared out of his wits, his body dropping to the ground as he knelt on both knees, kowtowing like pounding garlic, saying in panic, “My Lady, absolutely not! This humble official is wholeheartedly devoted to serving the Marquis and only regards My Lady as a mother to revere. Please don’t mention past matters anymore—it wouldn’t look good for the Marquis.” The woman’s tears fell like rain as she wept, “I married Liu Angtian because I had no choice—I only hoped to see you sooner or later, and that would satisfy my heart… But every time you’re so heartless, as if I don’t exist in this world… Qin Zhonghai, you… you make me so disappointed…” With that, she covered her face and cried, turning to run out.
The Seventh Lady left the alley, and Qin Zhonghai gasped endlessly, still kneeling on the ground not daring to move.
With great difficulty the footsteps faded away. Qin Zhonghai breathed a sigh of relief, thinking, “Escaped a disaster.” Just as he was about to stand up, he suddenly heard someone laugh, “General Qin, why are you kneeling here for no reason?”
Qin Zhonghai was startled, thinking, “This person’s footsteps are so light and slow—I didn’t even hear them!” He quickly looked up and saw a person with handsome features and a long sword at his waist—it was Yang Suguan.
Qin Zhonghai hastily scrambled up awkwardly, “Damn it, I was tired from walking and knelt down to restore my energy.” Yang Suguan heard his nonsense and knew he was always like this, so he didn’t mind. He smiled, “I see—seeing you kneel here, I thought His Majesty had suddenly arrived.”
Qin Zhonghai saw him gazing at him with rather unusual eyes and thought, “This fellow has always been shrewd—he must have seen the Seventh Lady looking for me just now. Heh heh, I’d better be careful.” He stretched lazily, “Ah, it’s getting late and I’m somewhat tired. I should go home for a nap! Let’s chat another day.” Yang Suguan seemed to know he was avoiding him and smiled, “But it’s only dinner time—General Qin is sleeping rather early. How about this—let’s go have a drink. I’ll be the host.”
Qin Zhonghai was slightly surprised. This Yang Suguan never sought him out for drinking or gambling—why was he in such good spirits today? He couldn’t help but be alarmed, thinking, “This fellow is always cautious—he never visits the Three Treasures Hall without cause. Could he have some conspiracy tonight?”
Yang Suguan saw his eyes full of suspicion and smiled, “It’s rare that I invite you for drinks—please don’t refuse me. Magistrate Lu has just taken office, and Dingyuan is still brooding over Zhuo Lingzhao’s matter. You can’t not know about these things—let’s chat about them.”
Though Qin Zhonghai had been troubled and worried these past days, he still cared about his many friends’ situations. He considered for a moment and nodded, “Alright, since Physician Yang has invited me, let’s go have a drink.” Yang Suguan laughed heartily, quite pleased, and they departed together.
The two walked to the street and visited several wine shops, but because it was dinner time, the shops were all crowded with people—they couldn’t even find an empty table. After walking for another while, they suddenly saw a filthy small shop that was completely empty without half a customer. Qin Zhonghai recognized this place—it was none other than the dirty little shop Lu Yun used to frequent. Thinking that his first meeting with Lu Yun years ago was at this very place, he couldn’t help but smile, thinking, “Back then Brother Lu was troubled by love, making him look neither human nor ghost. Now he’s become the top scholar—heh heh, speaking of it, even if I have no merit, I have hard work!”
Just as he was thinking, Yang Suguan had already entered the shop. He turned to look at Qin Zhonghai apologetically, “I’m truly sorry—I didn’t arrange things in advance and couldn’t find a good place at the moment. I can only ask the General to make do.” Qin Zhonghai didn’t mind and laughed heartily, “What’s to be particular about? As long as there’s wine to drink, I’m fine anywhere—just don’t drag me to a cesspit.”
While talking, the two found a wooden table. Qin Zhonghai was about to sit when Yang Suguan stopped him, then took out a handkerchief to wipe the table and chairs all around. The wine shop was indeed filthy—with just a little wiping, a large patch of black grease stains appeared, revealing accumulated filth and grime of unknown years. Qin Zhonghai saw him busily working and couldn’t help laughing, “Stop wiping! We’re going to drink wine later—if you wipe like this, aren’t you afraid of wiping out the boss’s anger?” Yang Suguan smiled slightly and folded his handkerchief, “General Qin is right—when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Since we’re here, let’s make the best of it. General, please take the seat of honor.” With that, he sat down first.
Yang Suguan wore a pale yellow robe whose hem and cuffs immediately became stained with dirty marks upon touching the tables and chairs, appearing extremely conspicuous. As for Qin Zhonghai, his clothing was always wrinkled with oil stains here and sauce stains there, regardless of time or place—even if he jumped into a mud pit, he probably couldn’t get much dirtier. These few oil spots and dirt marks on the furniture meant nothing to him at all. He sat down in one go, his buttocks wiping across like a rag, actually saving the proprietor considerable effort.
After the two were seated, the shopkeeper came to attend them. This establishment had only a few tables with no manager or assistants—just one person managing the rather quiet business. Yang Suguan ordered several hot stir-fried dishes and selected three to five cold appetizers, then took the wine pot and cups to pour wine for Qin Zhonghai.
Seeing the wine cups were quite small, Qin Zhonghai immediately laughed, “What kind of hero drinks from such tiny cups?” He reached out and grabbed two rice bowls, placing them heavily on the table with a laugh, “Literary Yang and Martial Qin should have this kind of capacity!” With that, he filled Yang Suguan’s bowl to the brim.
Yang Suguan frowned, “How does one drink from such a large bowl?” Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily, “Draining it in one gulp makes a true hero.” He raised his wine bowl and drained it with a gurgling sound, then turned the bowl upside down toward the ground to show it was empty, waiting for Yang Suguan to drink. These past days Qin Zhonghai’s mood had been troubled and he had long wanted an opportunity to get drunk—Yang Suguan had conveniently come knocking, seeking him out for drinks at this moment, which was asking for death. How could Yang Suguan not be shocked seeing this ruffian-like competitive drinking method? He immediately waved his hands, “My drinking capacity is insufficient—I cannot force myself…” Before he finished speaking, he heard Qin Zhonghai’s two cold laughs, his eyes drifting over full of contempt. Yang Suguan saw this and could only smile bitterly, “Very well—tonight in high spirits for drinking together, Suguan naturally sacrifices himself to accompany a gentleman.” He raised his wine bowl and immediately tilted his head back to drain it, his manner quite heroic.
Qin Zhonghai saw him finish this large bowl without flushing or gasping and was secretly shocked, thinking, “This fellow must secretly drink wine at home every day—I’ve finally caught him red-handed.”
While he was thinking, Yang Suguan had already poured him wine. Qin Zhonghai saw his gentle and considerate manner and reached out to take the wine pot, laughing, “Alright, I’ll pour my own wine—I dare not trouble you.” But Yang Suguan wouldn’t let go, shaking his head, “It’s rare to have the opportunity to serve the General—I’m most delighted. General, please don’t be polite.”
Hearing his humble words, Qin Zhonghai immediately chuckled, “Physician Yang, you can play these nauseating games with others, but in front of me, old Qin, all these hypocritical efforts are unnecessary.” With that, he gripped the pot handle and stared at Yang Suguan. Yang Suguan laughed heartily and loosened his fingers, letting Qin Zhonghai take the wine pot, nodding, “With General Qin, even the gloomiest person would become more cheerful.” Qin Zhonghai glanced at him sideways, grabbed a roasted duck leg and chewed roughly, “Mm… you’re quite gloomy, you know…”
Yang Suguan heard these words and sighed, “General Qin, truly, I greatly envy you.”
Qin Zhonghai couldn’t help but exclaim “Oh” upon hearing this. Yang Suguan was highly educated with strong martial arts and an elegant, charming character—yet now he inexplicably envied this ruffian leader. He truly didn’t know what this meant. Qin Zhonghai laughed, “You envy me? What’s there about me to envy? Do you envy that I frequently visit Yihua Tower?” These words weren’t entirely nonsense—apart from frequently visiting pleasure quarters, he really didn’t know what Yang Suguan would envy about him.
Yang Suguan shook his head, “Aren’t you making fun of me? I was raised with strict family education and can hardly be free. If I could be as carefree and unrestrained as the General, I truly don’t know how happy that would be.” Seeing Qin Zhonghai’s half-smiling expression staring at him, apparently not believing his words, he immediately laughed heartily, “Very well—let’s say I envy you for frequently visiting Yihua Tower. Come, let’s toast Yihua Tower.” With that, he raised his wine bowl and immediately drained it again.
Qin Zhonghai laughed loudly, “Seeing you so straightforward makes me happy too! Come! Let’s go to Yihua Tower together later! I’ll introduce you to a mistress!” He rarely went out with Yang Suguan for entertainment. Though they had known each other for seven or eight years, this was the first time they had privately come out to drink together. Who knew they would get along so well—he was momentarily elated.
After the two had drunk several cups, Qin Zhonghai picked up some beef strips with his chopsticks and asked while chewing, “How about it? What exactly happened during your trip to Changzhou this time? Tell me about it.” Yang Suguan heard this question but only sighed without speaking.
Qin Zhonghai saw his troubled expression and, thinking that Gu Qianxi had eloped with Lu Yun, couldn’t help laughing, “What are you doing? Because you couldn’t see your sweetheart in Changzhou, you’ve become this pathetic?” Yang Suguan knew he was referring to Gu Qianxi and couldn’t help frowning, “Where do I have a sweetheart? Don’t talk nonsense.”
Qin Zhonghai chuckled, “Alright—if there’s no one in your heart, it’s fine as long as there’s someone in your bed. Since you’re called the ‘Romantic Physician Yang,’ which girl in the capital doesn’t adore you? Losing out once—what does that matter? Tomorrow I’ll help spread the word—I guarantee you’ll turn misfortune into fortune. The Zhang family’s daughter and the Li family’s widow will all crowd into your bed! No one in your heart, but a bed full of people! Ha ha! Ha ha!” The more he spoke, the happier he became, truly overjoyed.
Yang Suguan spat, “What do you take me for? A lustful person?” Qin Zhonghai laughed, “But you’re not exactly a devoted character either—it’s not like I don’t know.” Yang Suguan’s eyebrows rose, “How do you figure?”
Qin Zhonghai raised his wine bowl, drained it in big gulps, and laughed, “You value interests over emotions, love reputation more than life. Though you’re seven or eight years younger than me, you’re a ruthless character. How could someone like you be unable to let go of romantic entanglements? Saying you’re not devoted is flattering you—I should say you’re naturally heartless.”
Yang Suguan heard these words and laughed heartily, saying, “Those who gave birth to me were my parents, but he who knows me is Zhonghai!” He raised his wine bowl, “You and I are both ruthless characters of our time—this bowl must be drunk.” With that, he drained another large bowl, quite refreshingly.
Qin Zhonghai saw him drain it in one gulp but only smiled as he watched, not touching the wine bowl before him.
Yang Suguan saw him not drinking and immediately said, “Why doesn’t General Qin drink?” Qin Zhonghai shook his head, “Though I, Qin Zhonghai, also calculate interests, I’m naturally coarse and careless, only loving straightforward and heroic actions. Compared to your scheming and deep calculations, Yang Suguan, I’m far inferior—how can I drink this bowl?”
Yang Suguan smiled, “General Qin is too modest. Today I sought you out for drinks precisely because I respect your talent and martial arts. Why must you be so self-deprecating?”
Qin Zhonghai thought, “He’s about to get to the main topic.” He immediately pretended to be confused, “I’m naturally crude—what talent and martial arts do I have? Physician Yang’s words are quite difficult to understand.”
Yang Suguan smiled, “If General Qin speaks this way, wouldn’t it shame all the heroes under heaven?”
Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily, “You flatter me too much. There are many masters in the world—what am I, just a small fellow?” That day on Mount Hua when he extinguished the candle flames, he had spoken modestly, admitting he didn’t dare stand shoulder to shoulder with the heroes. It seemed he truly had self-knowledge.
Yang Suguan made an “oh” sound, “Hearing Zhonghai so modest, it seems the world is full of outstanding figures. I wonder who the heroes in your heart are? Could you reveal them so this younger brother might look up to them?”
The corner of Qin Zhonghai’s mouth turned up as he thought, “Damn, this fellow wants to discuss heroes over wine.” Back then, Cao Cao and Liu Bei met in a garden to drink and had a famous episode of discussing heroes over wine. It seemed Yang Suguan intended to emulate the ancients and also wanted to evaluate the world’s outstanding figures. Hearing Yang Suguan’s urging, Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily and casually replied, “Speaking of the greatest hero in my heart, naturally it’s our current Sacred Majesty! He took on responsibility in crisis when young, assumed the throne, and his literary talent is world-class. Such character is naturally today’s great hero! Don’t you agree?”
Yang Suguan heard this and showed a mocking expression, “Could Zhonghai’s words be forcing me to slander our current ruler?” Qin Zhonghai thought, “This fellow is quite bold,” but said aloud, “Speak your mind directly. I absolutely won’t leak half a word.”
Yang Suguan smiled slightly, “How many times in life can one get drunk? Taking advantage of tonight’s wine enthusiasm, I might as well speak plainly. Our current Sacred Majesty is narrow-minded with poor judgment in employing people. If not for this, how could court politics be so corrupted? How could official circles be so greedy? If such a person is called a hero, wouldn’t it make people’s teeth cold?” These words were a capital offense, yet Yang Suguan spoke freely without the slightest fear—apparently having had a few too many drinks made him speak without restraint.
Qin Zhonghai knew this was so and nodded repeatedly, “What you say is correct.” This agreement was also a crime punishable by exile, but Qin Zhonghai had always been crude and couldn’t care about such things.
Yang Suguan smiled, “What else? Besides His Majesty, how many other heroes in the present day can catch your eye?”
Qin Zhonghai’s eyes gleamed strangely as he chuckled coldly, “Jiang Chong is a world-class ambitious hero, dominating the present with none able to stop him—he can be called a hero.”
Yang Suguan heard this and actually threw back his head in loud laughter, the sound shaking the roof tiles and causing dirt and sand to fall down.
Qin Zhonghai was startled, “What are you doing? Are you possessed?”
Yang Suguan sneered, “Though Jiang Chong is skilled in power schemes, he’s suspicious and changeable by nature, profit-seeking and ungrateful. Such a person can only be arrogant because of our muddled ruler. Looking toward tomorrow, he’s nothing but a prisoner.”
Qin Zhonghai was shocked, “What about Liu Jing? This person has deep schemes with endless plots, plus excellent martial arts—he can be called a hero, right?” Yang Suguan scoffed, “Though Liu Jing’s methods are sophisticated, his vision is limited. He only excels at palace intrigue but doesn’t understand the changes of heaven and earth. Despite being an inner palace official for years, he hasn’t been able to cultivate trusted allies to restrain Jiang Chong. In my view, this person is yesterday’s yellow flower, not worth considering.”
Qin Zhonghai saw him consecutively criticize the two great power ministers of today and was secretly amazed, immediately saying, “Alright! Since neither of these two catches your eye, what about our Marquis? He has resisted the Mongols in the north and Yexian in the west, with distinguished military achievements over decades. How many people in this world have such vast and heroic spirit?” He raised his wine bowl and drained it to show his respect for Liu Angtian.
Yang Suguan also raised his bowl and drank deeply, but remained silent. Qin Zhonghai smiled, “How about it? The Marquis should be the hero in your heart!” Yang Suguan sighed, “I’ve followed the Marquis for seven years, but he’s indecisive in matters and often doubts himself. Though loving toward subordinates, his limited capacity prevents him from making good use of extraordinary talents. Thus, though the Liu faction has many talented people today, it’s difficult to compete with the Jiang and Liu factions—this is my heart’s worry.”
Qin Zhonghai knew Yang Suguan’s words weren’t false and couldn’t help sighing slightly. If Liu Angtian were someone who grasped opportunities quickly, he wouldn’t be concealing Liu Jing’s conspiracy to rebel today either. He shook his head, “You’ve looked down on all three great ministers of the court—who else in today’s world can catch your eye?”
Yang Suguan sat upright holding his wine and said solemnly, “In today’s world, the only heroes are you and me!”
Qin Zhonghai was greatly shocked, spilling wine from his bowl.
Yang Suguan said proudly, “You, Qin Zhonghai, appear rough but are actually calculating. I can see your power schemes and cunning at a glance. Add to this your vast capacity and your view of money and beautiful women as passing clouds—only with your kind of insight can wild scholars like Lu Yun be used by you. General Qin, with your scheming and bearing, you’ll surely become a contemporary hero in time!” He raised his wine bowl and drained it in big gulps.
Qin Zhonghai saw him praise him so highly and felt only amazement, thinking, “Seeing him flatter me so much, he must have something today.” Just as he was suspicious and speculating, he heard Yang Suguan say, “Zhonghai, though you and I haven’t been close in the past, we might as well develop more friendship in the future to plan the revival of our great cause—how about it?”
Qin Zhonghai had already calculated this and immediately chuckled coldly, “What revival of great cause? Suguan, are you talking about eliminating Jiang Chong? I’ve always supported this—why would you worry?” Yang Suguan snorted, “Zhonghai, ah Zhonghai, don’t underestimate me, Yang Suguan. You have something you’re hiding from me today—do you think I can’t tell?”
Qin Zhonghai was secretly amazed but covered up, “What am I hiding from you? Don’t let your imagination run wild.”
Yang Suguan’s mouth turned up at the corner, “You needn’t play dumb in front of me. These past days the Eastern Depot has been close to you—there must be some plot, right!” Qin Zhonghai was greatly shocked, nearly spilling wine from his bowl. His mind raced as he thought, “If he knows about Liu Jing’s conspiracy to rebel, everyone in the Eastern Depot will die without burial ground. I need to probe him.” He immediately threw out a false lead, asking, “What conspiracy are you talking about—could it be Xue Nu’er’s incident of accidentally injuring His Majesty?”
Yang Suguan’s eyes lit up, “I heard this incident was suspicious, but don’t know the details—how is it exactly?”
Qin Zhonghai’s heart settled slightly, thinking secretly, “Seeing how nervous he is, he doesn’t even know this old news—how could he know about Liu Jing’s rebellion?” Seeing Yang Suguan didn’t know the inside story, he casually made things up, “I heard it from someone else—apparently when Xue Nu’er was castrated, it wasn’t done completely. He got involved with the Empress Dowager, and when His Majesty discovered the dirty business, Xue Nu’er wanted to murder the Emperor, but fortunately Director Liu stopped him.”
Yang Suguan was half-believing and half-doubting, frowning, “Not completely castrated? How could such a thing exist in the world?” Qin Zhonghai whispered, “Physician Yang doesn’t know—I heard that when he was cut, it wasn’t done properly. Only a small part was removed, then it grew back later…”
Yang Suguan heard his complete nonsense and shook his head with a bitter smile, “You still don’t trust me.” He sighed and immediately stood up, bowing, “Tonight’s excellent meeting was most enjoyable. I hope the General won’t abandon me and we can gather again in the future.”
Qin Zhonghai also stood up and asked, “You’re leaving?” Yang Suguan sighed, “Tonight in high spirits I spoke too much and will surely make mistakes. Forgive this younger brother for not being able to handle his wine—I must go back early to rest.” While speaking, his steps were slightly unsteady and he seemed unable to stand firmly. Qin Zhonghai laughed heartily and reached out to support him, “Be careful—shall I escort you part of the way?” Yang Suguan shook his head and laughed loudly, “After just a few cups, how could there be trouble?” He flicked his sleeves, his handsome eyes glancing back, about to leave. But he had indeed drunk too much—despite his usual shrewdness and capability, his feet slipped and he nearly fell to the ground. Qin Zhonghai laughed, “Still saying I don’t need to escort you? Look at how drunk you’ve become!” He called the shopkeeper over to settle Yang Suguan’s bill, then helped him up, and the two headed directly toward the Yang mansion.
Literary Yang and Martial Qin rarely had such a heartfelt conversation. Qin Zhonghai looked at the night sky and felt tonight’s starlight was brilliant, truly more moving than usual, and couldn’t help but smile.
Reaching the Yang mansion, just as Qin Zhonghai was about to knock on the door, Yang Suguan grabbed him and gasped, “Don’t knock… my family education is strict. If my father sees me drunk like this, he’ll definitely be very angry.” Qin Zhonghai didn’t know Scholar Yang disciplined his son so strictly. He chuckled and secretly felt glad he had no parents, then pointed at the high wall, “Do you still have internal energy? Can you jump over?” Yang Suguan nodded with drunken eyes and immediately gathered his qi and leaped, flying over the wall.
Qin Zhonghai secretly admired, “This fellow truly deserves to come from Shaolin Temple—even drunk he can still use such lightness skill.”
Just as he was thinking, he heard a splash—Yang Suguan seemed to have fallen into a pond. Qin Zhonghai was startled and quickly jumped onto the wall, indeed seeing Yang Suguan had fallen into a water pool, completely soaked. Qin Zhonghai shook his head and jumped down to help him up. Yang Suguan whispered, “Keep it down—don’t let my father hear.” Qin Zhonghai laughed, “You’re such a grown man—why fear him?” Yang Suguan sighed and was about to stand when suddenly the wine hit him. In his dizzy confusion, he fell into Qin Zhonghai’s arms again.
Qin Zhonghai patted his cheek, calling, “Hey! Get up!” After calling twice and hearing his fine breathing, Yang Suguan had actually fallen fast asleep. Qin Zhonghai looked closely and saw moonlight falling on his handsome face, making him look like a pure and innocent big boy. It was hard to imagine his heroic words in the tavern earlier.
Qin Zhonghai smiled slightly, thinking, “Though Suguan is quite clever and experienced, he’s really still just a child. His father Scholar Yang manages him too strictly, making him seem so prematurely aged.”
Qin Zhonghai looked up at the starry sky, thinking that the day after tomorrow Liu Jing would raise troops in rebellion. At that time, the Liu faction would probably face great disaster—not only would Liu Angtian be in trouble, but Yang Suguan, Wu Dingyuan, Wei Zizhuang, Lu Yun and others would also be implicated. At this moment, if he couldn’t reveal even a hint, how could his heart not feel guilty when his good friends died or were injured in the future?
Qin Zhonghai gritted his silver teeth, his thick eyebrows knotted, thinking, “Director Liu, ah Director Liu—it’s not that I, Qin, intentionally betray you, but I must let my brothers prepare to deal with the changing situation.” He bent down to Yang Suguan’s ear and lowered his voice, “Three days from now at midnight, there will surely be great disaster between heaven and earth. Have the Marquis go to the suburban Weiwu Army Camp to avoid it.” He didn’t specify what would happen, nor mention Liu Jing’s plan to attack Chengtian Gate—just gave a slight hint to let the Liu faction prepare in advance to avoid being caught up in the disaster.
Yang Suguan mumbled confusedly, “What great disaster in three days? What are you saying?” His voice was low and indistinct—he was quite drunk.
Qin Zhonghai had known Yang Suguan for a long time and knew he was deep in scheming with great calculations. Just giving him a slight hint, he would surely live up to expectations and could pass along the message. He said no more and turned to leave.
Just then, he suddenly felt sinister laughter coming from afar. Qin Zhonghai looked up and saw a person standing on distant treetops, staring at him. This person had a gloomy face and was bald—one of the masters Liu Jing had recruited. The two had met once at the temple.
Qin Zhonghai was secretly shocked, realizing his movements were being watched by the Eastern Depot. Fortunately, his voice had been extremely low just now, and he had only whispered one sentence close to the ear—probably it hadn’t been discovered.
Qin Zhonghai saw the bald man looking at him with an unfriendly expression and laughed heartily, waving, “It’s late at night—you’ve worked hard keeping watch all this way!” The man smiled coldly and said, “General Qin keeps his mouth shut like a gentleman, but speaks against people behind their backs like a petty man. I hope you remember this.” As soon as he finished speaking, he touched down with both feet and instantly floated outside the wall, disappearing from sight.
Qin Zhonghai was also secretly shocked seeing such lightness skill, thinking, “That was close—good thing I didn’t leak anything at the Marquis’s mansion, or this life would probably be gone.”
Qin Zhonghai broke out in a cold sweat all over. He gathered his qi and leaped, also flying outside the wall. His movements flashed as he returned to the West Corner Tower.