That day, Lu Yun also collapsed unconscious on the ground. He didn’t know how much time had passed when, in his hazy stupor, he felt someone moving his body. It seemed like someone was shouting and talking, but he couldn’t hear clearly. He thought he was probably dead, which would finally end his tragic life. Lu Yun suddenly felt a sense of peace.

He didn’t know how many days he had been unconscious. One day, Lu Yun came to. He struggled to turn his head and saw that he was lying on a bed, but the surroundings were pitch dark. For a moment, it seemed like he was back at the Gu family mansion in Yangzhou, or back at his hometown in Weifang County, Shandong. He was extremely exhausted and couldn’t distinguish east from west, so he drifted back into unconsciousness.

After several more days, Lu Yun suddenly felt hungry. He opened his eyes to see brilliant, dazzling sunlight streaming through the window lattice into the room. Lu Yun thought to himself: “Where exactly am I? Where is Brother Wu? Where has he gone?” His head was dizzy and spinning, making it impossible to think clearly, but his stomach was rumbling with hunger. Lu Yun forced himself to sit up, wanting only to find some food. In his confusion, not caring where he was, he pressed one hand to his chest, taking three steps and stopping once, slowly shuffling toward the door.

Lu Yun slowly pushed open the door and was startled to see a magnificent mansion. The courtyard’s vegetation was covered with accumulated white snow, and the dazzling sunlight reflected off the courtyard, making the brilliant white snow even more blindingly bright. Lu Yun’s heart leaped in shock. When he was severely injured that day, it was only mid-August, just after the Mid-Autumn Festival. How had it suddenly become deep winter? He didn’t know how long he had been unconscious, nor did he know what had become of Wu Dingyuan. He wanted to find someone to ask.

Lu Yun looked up and saw a long, winding corridor ahead that seemed to lead to the inner hall. Seeing that this residence was magnificent, Lu Yun knew he was in a wealthy mansion, but he didn’t know which prominent official it belonged to. A thought suddenly struck him: “Could it be… could it be that Uncle Gu saved me? Are Brother Wu and I both staying at his house?” His thoughts became confused as he remembered Miss Gu, and he couldn’t help but feel his heart tremble dangerously, his eyes reddening. Though his legs were weak, he still half-crawled and half-dragged himself, stumbling toward the inner hall.

After just a few steps, he heard a burst of talking and commotion coming thunderously from the inner hall. Lu Yun thought that Gu Qianxi was right before him, and he couldn’t help feeling both anxious and joyful. Panting heavily, he hurried through the winding corridor toward the hall.

Stepping into the inner hall, he saw several men sitting around talking, but he recognized none of them. Everyone looked up at him with surprised expressions. Lu Yun’s face showed complete disappointment, knowing that his speculation was completely wrong. Unable to hide his embarrassment, he suddenly felt another sharp pain in his chest. His legs went weak and he immediately collapsed unconscious.

When he woke up again, he saw Wu Dingyuan sitting by his bed. With a face full of gratitude, Wu Dingyuan tightly grasped Lu Yun’s hands and smiled: “Brother Lu, you’ve finally recovered!”

Lu Yun saw that Wu Dingyuan’s complexion was ruddy, completely unlike his severely injured appearance that day. His heart was also filled with joy as he slowly said: “Brother Wu… you… you’re better!”

Wu Dingyuan laughed heartily and said: “Heaven be praised, we two have finally escaped great calamity.” His voice suddenly dropped and became choked with emotion: “Brother Lu… you were willing to risk such mortal danger for someone as insignificant as me… how can Wu Dingyuan ever repay you…”

Lu Yun struggled to sit up and said: “Helping the weak and supporting the fallen – what’s this talk of repayment? Brother Wu, you’re being too formal.”

Wu Dingyuan made a sound and supported Lu Yun’s shoulder, laying him back on the bed: “From Xiliang to here, when has Wu ever owed anyone a favor? That day, if Brother Lu hadn’t exchanged his life for mine and thrown me toward Lord Liu, I would have died long ago. Brother Lu, this debt of gratitude must be repaid.”

Lu Yun heard him mention “Lord Liu” and remembered the officials he had seen before losing consciousness that day, so he interrupted and asked: “Brother Wu, you just mentioned Lord Liu? Could it be Liu Angtian?”

Wu Dingyuan quickly leaned over and whispered in his ear: “Brother Lu, be more careful with your words. You cannot directly address a lord by name.”

Lu Yun nodded in understanding and said: “Is this place his residence?” Wu Dingyuan said: “Brother’s guess is correct. This is indeed Lord Liu’s mansion.”

Lu Yun made a sound of acknowledgment. Though he knew this place was definitely not Gu Siyuan’s residence, his heart still felt a wave of melancholy. He sighed softly, then suddenly felt unbearable hunger in his stomach. He immediately said: “Brother Wu, I’m terribly hungry. Is there anything to eat?”

Wu Dingyuan laughed heartily: “Of course there is, though it can’t compare to the noodles you cooked yourself!”

The two men laughed together. That day Wu Dingyuan had come over for a bowl of noodles, yet it saved his life – truly the height of good fortune. Looking back on past events, both felt as if it were a lifetime ago.

From then on, Lu Yun’s injuries improved day by day. Within half a month, he could get out of bed and move around. Fortunately, his internal martial arts foundation was extremely solid – if it had been an ordinary person who received Zhuo Lingzhao’s earth-shattering palm strike, they would have died on the spot. Wu Dingyuan, grateful for Lu Yun’s life-saving grace, came to see him every few days, sometimes even bringing precious medicinal materials to help him recover.

Lu Yun saw his high spirits and knew he must have been highly valued by Liu Angtian. He couldn’t help but feel happy for him.

One day, with brilliant sunshine and pleasant weather, Wu Dingyuan came rushing over joyfully and said: “Brother, today I’m taking you to meet an important person.”

Lu Yun read his expression and smiled: “Brother Wu is so happy – are we going to meet Lord Liu?”

Wu Dingyuan laughed heartily and patted Lu Yun’s arm, laughing: “Brother is indeed clever – you understand immediately. Lord Liu has always valued talent regardless of background. For you to become an official in the capital wouldn’t be difficult at all.”

Lu Yun suddenly remembered that he was still a fugitive – how could he seek any official position? But this wasn’t the time to explain, so he could only decline: “Brother Wu, I’m rough and crude by nature – how could I handle such occasions? It would be better not to meet this Lord Liu.”

Wu Dingyuan shook his head vigorously: “Brother Lu, you’re a scholar by birth and should serve the court. You shouldn’t remain buried in obscurity. Just listen to your brother and have a good meeting with Lord Liu. It can only benefit you!”

Unable to resist Wu Dingyuan’s good intentions, Lu Yun was half-forced and half-coaxed into changing into new clothes Wu Dingyuan had bought. Though just recovering from serious illness, after washing and grooming, Lu Yun still radiated vigorous heroic spirit. Wu Dingyuan saw this and shouted with approval: “Brother, you’re as refined as jade! Such a distinguished person – Lord Liu will surely be delighted!” He helped Lu Yun adjust his belt as intimately as if treating a real brother.

At this time, Lu Yun was still recuperating at the Liu residence. Wu Dingyuan brought Lu Yun toward the main hall. Walking to the hall entrance, Lu Yun glanced inside and saw dozens of people already seated in the hall center, some in military dress and leather boots, others in wide robes and loose belts – all apparently Liu Angtian’s subordinates. Everyone was chatting and laughing merrily, in high spirits.

As Lu Yun was looking, Wu Dingyuan had already grasped his arm and whispered: “Let’s not disturb these military gentlemen. Let’s go in through the side.” Without waiting for Lu Yun’s response, he took his hand and slipped in through a side door.

Upon entering the hall, they suddenly heard someone laugh heartily and call out loudly: “Supervisor Wu, you look quite well today!”

Everyone in the hall turned to look at them upon hearing this. Wu Dingyuan chuckled and made a ten-direction bow, cupping his fists: “I dare not trouble you gentlemen with your inquiries. Dingyuan pays his respects to you all.”

Lu Yun heard that person address Wu Dingyuan as “Supervisor” and couldn’t help but be startled. He said to Wu Dingyuan: “Brother Wu, you’ve already…”

Wu Dingyuan smiled slightly and whispered: “Thanks to Lord Liu’s grace, he has cleared my name and memorialized the court recommending my promotion to Zhili Northern Campaign Inspector-Supervisor.”

Lu Yun was shocked and quickly cupped his hands in congratulation: “Congratulations, Brother Wu! Your fortunes have finally turned.”

Wu Dingyuan laughed heartily and whispered in his ear: “Brother Lu, perform well today. Lord Liu will definitely not shortchange you.”

Lu Yun thought of his bandit origins and could only smile bitterly without committing either way.

Suddenly they heard a servant announce loudly: “Northern Campaign Grand Commander Marquis Liu arrives!” Everyone quickly stood up. A man with a face like a jade crown, handsome features, and dignified bearing walked out first. Lu Yun was puzzled why Liu Angtian was so young and handsome, but heard Wu Dingyuan whisper: “This is Lord Liu’s most favored general, Yang Suguan. This man is accomplished in both civil and military arts, a first-rate figure in the capital.” Lu Yun saw this Yang’s character and was filled with respect. As the two were talking, an elderly man with an upright countenance emerged – it was Shanmu Marquis Liu Angtian.

Everyone bowed: “We pay our respects to Lord Liu!”

Liu Angtian waved his hand and everyone sat down in order. Wu Dingyuan, holding the position of supervisor, had his own seat. Lu Yun saw that everyone in the hall had already occupied their seats according to rank and status. Not minding this, he stood quietly behind Wu Dingyuan to listen to the discussion.

When Liu Angtian saw everyone seated, he coughed and said: “Today I invited you all here to discuss the northern campaign situation. If you have any insights, please speak freely without reservation.”

Wu Dingyuan turned and whispered to Lu Yun: “Currently the Oirat are powerful, and the court has been at war for years. I’m afraid reinforcements will be needed again this year. Lord Liu has gathered the generals to discuss this matter.” Lu Yun nodded and said nothing more.

Everyone spoke their piece, arguing about the current situation. One faction advocated immediate reinforcement, while another said there was room for peace negotiations and no need to waste public funds. Lu Yun, unfamiliar with military affairs, naturally didn’t understand the reasoning. That Yang Suguan frequently whispered with Liu Angtian, showing his extraordinary status and great favor.

Suddenly someone said: “Gentlemen, hear me out. Currently the northern border is defended by General Zuo Congyi and Vanguard Qin Zhonghai. How the situation stands, I fear you lords may not have personally visited the battlefield and lack understanding. Here is a map of the northern frontier fortresses for your consideration before making decisions.” He took out a map and hung it high on the wall.

That person pointed to a hill and said with satisfaction: “This place is called ‘Eagle Soaring Mountain.’ Occupying high ground overlooking below, it can be defended by using the natural barriers. Behind the mountain is a small stream for water, and with a ravine separating it, it’s also easy to fortify. With these natural mountain and water barriers, plus fortifications, the Tatars won’t dare act rashly for several months. The only problem is insufficient troops. If we want to break camp and attack the enemy, we might have difficulties. If the court reinforces us with thirty thousand infantry, this place could become an impregnable fortress, forever serving as the capital’s shield.” Seeing the cleverness of Zuo Congyi’s defensive arrangements, all the generals nodded in secret admiration.

Lu Yun had been feeling bored, but when he saw that map, he found it extremely ridiculous and couldn’t help but snort with laughter. At this moment everyone in the hall was quietly listening to the explanation. Hearing the laughter, they all turned to look. Wu Dingyuan had been sitting properly, but Lu Yun’s inexplicable laughter nearly scared him to death. Seeing the reproachful looks in everyone’s eyes, he felt extremely embarrassed and quickly stood up apologetically: “My brother has caught a cold and sneezed. Forgive us! Forgive us!”

The person explaining the map was named Shi Ping, holding the rank of Lieutenant. Being inexplicably mocked by an unknown nobody, how could he swallow such an insult? He immediately said angrily: “What sneeze? That was clearly mockery! What exactly is so funny?” Wu Dingyuan’s expression changed drastically as he hurriedly said: “Lord Shi is right to reproach. Brother, quickly apologize.” He lightly pushed Lu Yun, wanting him to apologize and end the matter.

Lu Yun smiled slightly and said: “Lord Shi, I am quite foolish and laughed inappropriately. Please forgive my offense.”

Shi Ping saw his complete lack of sincerity and became even angrier, but not knowing this person’s background and seeing his distinguished appearance, worried he might be some powerful person’s son whom he couldn’t afford to offend. He snorted and said to Wu Dingyuan: “Supervisor Wu, you’ve been serving in Zhili for over a month now, haven’t you? When we discuss important military matters, outsiders have never been permitted to participate. Forgive my ignorance, but what is this young master’s background?”

Wu Dingyuan hurriedly said: “In response to Lord Shi, this friend of mine is named Lu Yun, my sworn brother through life and death.” Shi Ping said: “Oh! So he’s a sworn brother. I thought he was relying on someone’s influence. Master Lu, where is your residence? What official position do you currently hold?”

Lu Yun heard his contemptuous tone but wasn’t angry, saying frankly: “I’m merely a noodle vendor. If Lord Shi has any reproaches, please speak directly.”

Upon hearing this, Shi Ping became even more furious: “Wonderful! A mere noodle-selling brat dares to speak so arrogantly here! What kind of behavior is this! Wu Dingyuan, you explain this to me!”

Wu Dingyuan was shocked and dismayed, never expecting such a pleasant meeting to turn out this way. He immediately apologized repeatedly.

Originally everyone was just observing, but seeing Shi Ping’s harsh words, they all frowned. Someone interjected: “Lord Shi, Supervisor Wu has only been in office for over a month and doesn’t yet fully understand official protocol. Even if his subordinate spoke inappropriately, you should be more tolerant!”

Everyone heard this person speak with a mediating tone, his words carrying natural authority. They all turned to look and saw the speaker was graceful and composed, with an air of jade-like elegance – it was Yang Suguan, Lord Liu’s subordinate. Seeing Yang Suguan intervene, Shi Ping couldn’t continue making difficulties for Wu Dingyuan, but pointed at Lu Yun and cursed: “Noodle-selling brat! What’s wrong with my map? You honestly tell me! If you can’t explain, won’t Old Shi’s blade kill?”

Lu Yun saw Shi Ping’s extreme boorishness and also became truly angry. A surge of pride arose as he thought: “I, Lu Yun, didn’t come here seeking office – how can I tolerate such insults!” Knowing he had risked his life for Wu Dingyuan, he didn’t need Wu Dingyuan to repay this favor. He immediately declared loudly: “Lord Shi, if you truly have the tolerance to hear me out, I won’t be polite. According to your formation, if it isn’t breached within three months, I’ll give you my head.”

Everyone was shocked to hear Lu Yun speak this way, whispering to each other and inquiring about this person’s background. Liu Angtian raised his eyebrows and said: “Young man, your words are quite arrogant. Let’s hear your reasoning.”

Lu Yun walked to the map and pointed at Zuo Congyi’s formation: “Though I haven’t personally visited the battlefield, establishing a camp in the mountains, thinking the high ground is dangerous and easy to defend but hard to attack, actually only increases difficulties with troop movement. If there’s real fighting, how can troops be deployed with the mountain’s treacherous paths making entry and exit inconvenient?” Seeing everyone nodding, he continued: “Mountain camps seem hard for enemies to attack, but they’re actually hard for our own forces to defend. If I were attacking, I’d only need fire tactics. When the fire spreads up the mountain and I guard the key passes down the mountain, Lord Zuo’s entire army would be annihilated within ten days.”

Shi Ping angrily said: “Nonsense! Lord Zuo has long prepared for fire attacks. Don’t you see he deliberately established the camp by the stream?”

Lu Yun laughed loudly: “Establishing a camp by a ravine seems convenient for water but is actually greatly mistaken. If I dam up water for many days, then when spring warms and snow melts, release a great flood while simultaneously attacking with fire from the other side, how would the general respond? Or if I cut off the upstream water source, forcing the mountain troops to suffer from thirst and exhaustion while strictly guarding the mountain passes, how would the general respond?”

Shi Ping raged: “Bullshit! Bullshit!” For a moment he spoke without choosing his words. The observing generals remained silent. Liu Angtian sighed softly, his brows tightly knitted, silent for a long time. The great hall became frighteningly quiet.

After a long while, Liu Angtian waved slightly: “Enough, it’s getting late! Please join us for dinner at the residence.” All the generals agreed. Liu Angtian looked toward Wu Dingyuan and said gravely: “Dingyuan, come here. I have a few words to say to you.” Wu Dingyuan hurriedly agreed, signaling to Lu Yun with his eyes before following Liu Angtian into the study.

The generals went into the inner hall, leaving only Lu Yun alone in the great hall. In early winter with lamps just lit, the hall felt even more profound and deep. Lu Yun stood quietly for a long time, yet no one from the Liu residence came to attend to him. Having experienced much hardship, Lu Yun knew what this meant. He smiled bitterly and thought: “Lu Yun, ah Lu Yun, see how well your mouth speaks – haven’t you offended people again?” He realized his temperament was easily provoked, and with just a few words he had offended a large group of military officials, probably putting Wu Dingyuan in a difficult position, pleasing no one.

Lu Yun stood alone in the hall, hearing the distant sounds of others drinking and chatting merrily, the continuous sounds of revelry making him feel even more desolate. He walked into the courtyard and looked up at the stars in the sky. Inexplicably, a wave of loneliness struck his heart, and tears filled his eyes.

Lu Yun sighed softly and thought: “What am I doing? Isn’t it good enough that I’m alive?” He wiped away his tears and felt somewhat hungry. Touching his belt, he was glad to find his purse still contained several taels of silver – Wu Dingyuan had been extremely thoughtful, arranging silver for his use. Lu Yun smiled slightly and was about to turn and leave, but then thought of Wu Dingyuan. Since they had been through life and death together, their relationship was extraordinary. He turned back to wait in the hall for Wu Dingyuan to come out.

After another half hour, Wu Dingyuan finally emerged. Seeing Lu Yun standing alone in the hall, he asked in surprise: “What? No one invited Brother Lu to dinner?”

Lu Yun smiled slightly: “Brother Wu, let’s not talk about this. I should go.” Wu Dingyuan nodded: “Brother Lu must be hungry. Good, your big brother will treat you – let’s go eat and drink in the streets.” Lu Yun shook his head: “Brother Wu, you and I were fated to share hardships together. Now that you’re safe and secure, Lu’s concerns are resolved. I bid you farewell here.” He cupped his hands and was about to walk out the door.

Wu Dingyuan was shocked, never expecting him to speak this way. His heart became urgent and he suddenly grabbed Lu Yun’s arm, forcibly pulling him into the courtyard and whispering: “Brother Lu, why do you speak this way! Could it be you blame your brother for not treating you well?”

Lu Yun smiled: “Brother Wu, you and I have shared our hearts and endured hardships together – how could I resent you?”

Wu Dingyuan wore a bitter expression, not knowing how to begin. After a long while he said: “Brother, we’re family. No matter what, there are some things your brother must tell you plainly today.”

Lu Yun nodded and said frankly: “Brother Wu, speak freely.”

Wu Dingyuan sighed and said: “Brother Lu, today you made Lord Shi unable to save face. Marquis Liu is very displeased. He said you’re talented but arrogant. Unless you change your ways and conduct yourself better, he’s unwilling to employ you. Brother Lu, the way of officialdom values harmony above all. It’s not that your brother is criticizing you, but… why must you make things difficult for everyone?”

Lu Yun looked up at the starry sky and smiled faintly: “Brother Wu’s instruction is very reasonable. Lu will reflect on it. However, Lu is nearly thirty, with no wife or children, alone in this life. Brother Wu’s words, if heard ten years ago, would have been enlightening wisdom, but today, at this time, everything is too late.”

Seeing his manner, Wu Dingyuan became even more distressed and shook his head: “No matter what, I’m determined to be your Bao Shuya. You saved my life – I can’t bear to see you return to selling noodles. Come! Let me buy you a few drinks!” He forcibly pulled Lu Yun to go drinking.

The two went to a small tavern. Wu Dingyuan ordered a jin of white liquor and several small dishes, desperately trying to get Lu Yun drunk. Lu Yun, not wanting to spoil Wu Dingyuan’s mood, suppressed his earlier words and chatted about other matters. When they were drinking heartily, Lu Yun asked: “Brother Wu, that day when we were chased by martial artists in the street, I remember taking a heavy blow to my back, then I lost consciousness. Who exactly saved us?”

Wu Dingyuan laughed: “This too was heaven’s arrangement, a miraculous working of fate. We were doomed to die, but by heaven’s grace, Yang Langzhong was also beside Lord Liu that day. Yang Langzhong recognized the Jinyiwei commander and, seeing them committing violence in the street, intervened to save us.”

Lu Yun said strangely: “That Yang Langzhong has a scholarly face and comes from the imperial examinations – how could he have such martial arts?”

Wu Dingyuan smiled: “That Yang is accomplished in both civil and military arts, famous among the ministers. He’s not someone ordinary people like us can understand. Actually, Marquis Liu has many skilled experts around him. That day, besides Yang, there was also Wei Zizhuang. That man’s martial arts are also divine and miraculous. With these two present, that An’dao Jing wouldn’t dare act rashly.”

Lu Yun made a sound of acknowledgment: “So now all these people have stopped pursuing Brother Wu?”

Wu Dingyuan pondered a moment: “The reason I was hunted this time wasn’t because I had any feud with them, but mainly because I carried something of great importance, which led to being pursued for thousands of li.” He paused, raised his wine cup and drained it: “Now I’ve given the item to Lord Liu. I expect these people won’t trouble me anymore.”

Lu Yun nodded: “As they say, ‘An innocent man suffers for carrying a precious jade’ – it truly made you suffer, big brother.”

Wu Dingyuan sighed slightly: “I used to be a small constable in Xiliang City, content and happy. Who knew I’d inexplicably get involved in a major case? Now I’ve gained this easily-won glory, but somehow my heart feels uneasy. Northern Campaign Inspector-Supervisor – such a high position I never dared dream of in the old days, yet now I’ve stumbled into it and it actually seems real. Sigh!” He refilled Lu Yun’s cup: “Brother Lu, I really have no close friends to talk to in the capital. Consider it your brother begging you – stay and keep your brother company! Don’t go back to selling noodles for a living!”

Hearing his sincere words, Lu Yun’s heart was filled with sighs. He temporarily suppressed his intention to leave.

Wu Dingyuan, with wine going to his head, spoke without restraint. Lu Yun, however, had deep internal energy and showed no sign of intoxication despite drinking several dou. He listened to Wu Dingyuan sing Xiliang folk songs and talk about the glory of his past case work. Eventually Wu Dingyuan became drunk. Lu Yun supported Wu Dingyuan as they slowly walked down the street, suddenly remembering how months ago they had endured hardships together, and how he had supported him in the same way.

Lu Yun’s heart was filled with mixed emotions as snowflakes fell in the cold winter night, accompanying the two men back to the Liu family mansion.

Several days later, Wu Dingyuan found a residence in the capital to serve as his supervisor’s mansion. Though the scale couldn’t compare to high court officials, the living quarters were spacious with elegant gardens and trees, quite impressive. Wu Dingyuan was busy with official duties daily, so he hired several accountants and secretaries to assist at the mansion. Lu Yun served as Wu Dingyuan’s cavalry archer, usually accompanying him to the training grounds and sometimes offering advice. However, whenever there were grand meetings of Liu’s generals, Lu Yun, knowing he had already had conflicts with the generals, was unwilling to attend, and Wu Dingyuan didn’t force him.

One day, Wu Dingyuan and Lu Yun were drilling soldiers at the training ground when a camp guard hurried over saying: “Lord Wu, Yang Langzhong has arrived.” Wu Dingyuan was startled and said to Lu Yun: “Yang has come – I must personally go greet him! You watch things here for me.” He hurried out of the training ground, but heard a clear, resonant voice say: “Lord Wu, no need – I just happened to pass by and wanted to drop in to see you.” Wu Dingyuan and Lu Yun both looked toward the speaker and saw a handsome, elegant man with a tall, slender figure, graceful as a jade tree in the wind – it was Yang Suguan.

Yang Suguan smiled slightly at Wu Dingyuan: “Lord Wu, have military affairs been going smoothly recently?” Wu Dingyuan hurriedly said: “Thank you for your concern. Recently the soldiers in camp have been training as usual. This humble general dares not neglect his duties.” Yang Suguan held the position of Vice Director in the Ministry of War, several ranks above Wu Dingyuan’s supervisor position, so Wu Dingyuan dared not show the slightest negligence. Yang Suguan nodded and, seeing Lu Yun standing to one side, asked: “This friend looks familiar… could he be…?”

Wu Dingyuan quickly said: “This is a close friend of this humble official, surnamed Lu, named Yun. If you haven’t forgotten, you met him once at Marquis Liu’s mansion.”

Yang Suguan made a sound of recognition and nodded with a smile: “So it’s this brother – remarkable! Remarkable!”

Yang Suguan had handsome features and appeared several years younger than Wu Dingyuan, but when he spoke, he had an old-fashioned air of sophistication. Hearing him say “remarkable,” it was unclear whether this was praise or criticism.

Yang Suguan paid no more attention to Lu Yun and turned to say: “Lord Wu, you’ve been in the capital for quite some time now but still haven’t made connections with the capital’s notable figures. In a few days, a first-rank minister is hosting a birthday banquet. You should prepare well and not miss this excellent opportunity.” Wu Dingyuan hurriedly said: “Naturally, thank you for the guidance.”

Wu Dingyuan had long experience in official circles and understood the ways of advancement and retreat. He knew that when court ministers had celebrations, marriages, or funerals, lower-ranking officials must attend to cultivate relationships. Having recently arrived in the capital, such social obligations were especially important – he mustn’t let people gossip that he was ignorant of proper conduct, or who would look after him in the future?

Wu Dingyuan’s face showed excitement and joy, while Lu Yun remained silent and noncommittal.

On the evening of the birthday banquet, Wu Dingyuan prepared gifts – a bamboo-ribbed folding fan from Japan with exquisite fan paintings of elegant craftsmanship. Such items were much favored by contemporary scholars, but cost dearly – a full half-month’s salary for Wu Dingyuan.

Wu Dingyuan checked the time and, seeing it was approaching, called his servants: “Tell Master Lu to wash and prepare – we’re leaving soon.” The servants agreed and went to call Lu Yun.

After a long while, Wu Dingyuan sat waiting but still didn’t see Lu Yun emerge. Seeing the time was getting late, he couldn’t help feeling his anger burn. His old constable’s temper surged up. He went to Lu Yun’s room and called loudly: “Brother Lu, why are you so slow? You’re not a woman – hurry up!”

Wu Dingyuan called for a while before Lu Yun opened the door. Seeing him disheveled and completely unwashed, Wu Dingyuan was both angry and anxious, stamping his feet: “Brother Lu! Today is a wonderful opportunity to meet the capital’s dignitaries – how can you be in such a state?” Lu Yun shook his head: “Brother Wu, go by yourself. I’m not fit for such occasions – don’t let me embarrass you.”

Wu Dingyuan scratched his head anxiously: “Brother Lu! How can you be so unreasonable? Acting like this, you’ll never get ahead in this lifetime. I can’t let you continue this nonsense – hurry up and come with your brother!” He forced Lu Yun to change clothes and wash his face, insisting on taking him along.

Lu Yun had originally been hiding in his room reading. Seeing Wu Dingyuan lose his temper, he thought Wu Dingyuan meant well – why make him unhappy? So he complied. The two hurriedly prepared, and seeing it was already dark, they rushed to the banquet. When they reached the official’s residence, servants were about to close the main gate. Wu Dingyuan frantically waved and shouted, hurrying inside, barely making it on time.

Upon entering the great hall, they saw a mass of people. The hall was hung with birthday scrolls, brightly lit and decorated – quite lively. Lu Yun’s gaze swept across and saw about ten elderly men seated in the hall, all apparently important court figures. In the midst of the crowd sat an elderly man with a ruddy complexion and vigorous spirit, talking and laughing loudly – it was Liu Angtian. Behind him stood a young man whose features somewhat resembled Liu Angtian’s – probably a nephew or younger relative.

Beside Liu Angtian sat an elderly man who appeared somewhat sickly. At the sight of him, Lu Yun’s entire body shook violently and he couldn’t help stepping back – it was the current Minister of War and palace-appointed top scholar, Gu Siyuan.

Lu Yun never could have imagined he would see Gu Siyuan at this time and place. His mind buzzed as he remembered many past events in Yangzhou. Suddenly overcome with sadness and thinking of Second Concubine Gu’s callous cruelty, Lu Yun couldn’t help sighing and wanted to turn and leave. Suddenly someone grabbed him – it was Wu Dingyuan, who said: “The banquet is about to begin – don’t wander around. This is the Minister of War’s residence!”

Lu Yun asked in a trembling voice: “Is today Minister Gu’s… Minister Gu’s birthday?” Wu Dingyuan nodded slightly: “Who else would it be? Minister Gu recently took over as Minister of War. Everyone in court must show him respect. Even our Marquis Liu came to celebrate his birthday – you can see how it is.”

Lu Yun’s mind was in chaos. Seeing the well-dressed guests with refined manners coming and going, he felt ashamed of his appearance. He didn’t hear half of Wu Dingyuan’s words, only nodding vaguely in response. After a moment, Gu family servants, seeing the guests assembled, began the banquet. The high officials pushed and deferred to each other, all smiling broadly. After much shuffling, they finally seated themselves according to official rank and age. Lu Yun, squeezed among the crowd watching, stood transfixed. He saw that Gu Siyuan looked several years older than when they parted, his back somewhat stooped. Though his face wore a smile, the wrinkles made him appear especially aged and frail.

Suddenly a servant approached Lu Yun: “Sir, what is your honorable name? Please take your seat!” Lu Yun was startled and looked back to see Wu Dingyuan had disappeared somewhere. Lu Yun, deeply afraid the Gu family servants would recognize him, quickly turned his head away without answering and found a seat in the side hall.

That day he had been expelled from the Gu mansion as a bandit, knowing he had wronged Gu Siyuan’s kindness. He really didn’t want to see anyone from the Gu family again. At this moment he felt restless and uneasy, yet couldn’t bear to leave. Why was that? Lu Yun’s heart ached and he shook his head forcefully. He couldn’t think too much, didn’t dare think too much.

The banquet dishes were abundant and the guests chatted and laughed heartily. Lu Yun’s table was in the side hall, mostly seated with various lords’ guards and attendants. Seeing them converse and toast each other, they seemed to have known each other for a long time. Lu Yun had no mind to listen to their talk and only bowed his head in contemplation.

Someone, seeing his dejection, said: “This friend looks unfamiliar. May I ask your honorable name? Where do you serve?” Lu Yun, his mind unsettled, shook his head: “I’m nameless and without title, currently training soldiers under Supervisor Wu.”

Seeing Lu Yun didn’t want to talk much, the man didn’t press but simply said: “So you’re a military officer – my respects! My respects!” He toasted Lu Yun. Lu Yun made a sound and didn’t refuse, casually drinking.

The man smiled: “Brother, you seem new to the capital. You probably aren’t familiar with the capital’s notable figures. Let me introduce you.” The guests at the table toasted Lu Yun one by one. Seeing his sorrowful expression and indifferent attitude, they all felt secretly annoyed.

While drinking, a guest suddenly stood up excitedly: “Oh my! Everyone look! The first beauty of Yangzhou is coming out!” The crowd showed joyful expressions and rushed to the main hall to watch. Lu Yun didn’t join their excitement and remained seated, drinking alone.

He heard the crowd whisper and comment. One praised: “This first beauty of Yangzhou truly lives up to her reputation – she puts all our capital girls to shame!” Another said: “Yangzhou has always been blessed with spiritual land and outstanding people. The beauties are all intelligent and surpass others, talented and beautiful both. Now you’ve finally seen it!”

Another laughed: “What’s this beauty’s background? Is she Minister Gu’s concubine? Can Minister Gu handle such fortune?” A nearby guest immediately slapped his head and scolded: “Don’t talk nonsense! This young lady is Minister Gu’s beloved only daughter, a proper young mistress. Stop spouting garbage or you’ll bring trouble on yourself!” The man hurriedly said: “Damn! I’m dying of embarrassment! See how my dog mouth causes trouble!”

The crowd grinned and jostled, their various expressions too numerous to describe fully.

Hearing this, Lu Yun’s wine cup fell to the ground with a crash, shattering to pieces. He stood up and looked toward the main hall from afar. He saw a beautiful woman gracefully emerge, her figure elegant and eyes sparkling as she curtsied to Gu Siyuan.

Lu Yun recognized this woman as Gu Qianxi, whom he thought of day and night and could never forget. After years of separation, Gu Qianxi had grown even more beautiful and captivating. Lu Yun’s mind was in chaos and his whole body trembled slightly.

Nearby guests whispered: “Is this Gu family young lady so beautiful but not yet engaged?” Another laughed: “Aren’t there enough romantic young masters in our capital? Who isn’t putting forth every effort to seek this marriage?” “Yes! Those sons of high officials and nobles – which one doesn’t run to the Gu family every few days?” Everyone chattered and joked endlessly.

Lu Yun looked toward the hall and indeed saw several elegant young gentlemen gathering around, talking and laughing with Gu Qianxi. She was radiant and poised, truly showing the bearing of an official family’s young lady. When several noble young men stood beside her, everyone praised the men’s distinguished bearing and the woman’s delicate beauty – how well matched they were.

Lu Yun turned his head away, thinking: “How can I still have such improper thoughts? Isn’t this too foolish and stupid? What is Miss Gu’s status and what is my background? Lu Yun, ah Lu Yun! Can’t you see clearly?”

He returned to his seat and without a word drank an entire pot of wine. Wine entering his sorrowful heart was especially intoxicating. Despite his excellent internal energy, he was now overcome by the alcohol. Several guests at his table, intending to tease him, kept toasting him repeatedly. Lu Yun drained every cup offered, refusing none. In a flash he had drunk over a hundred cups. The distant sounds of guests’ revelry continuously reached his ears. Lu Yun’s heart was full of sorrow and he only wanted to drown his sorrows in wine. Thinking of himself as merely a small noodle vendor who could drink here today only through others’ support, a voice in his heart kept mocking him, seeming to laugh at his overreaching ambition and foolish fantasies. In his muddled state, he could no longer support himself. His drunken eyes grew heavy and he finally collapsed face-down on the table, unable to move.

A nearby guest called: “Hey! Get up! Let’s keep drinking!” Lu Yun mumbled something and said unclearly: “Keep drinking! Come! Bottoms up!” His mouth kept yelling but he couldn’t get up.

With Lu Yun collapsed drunk at the table, naturally no one paid attention. After an unknown time, he heard a man’s voice: “Oh my! How is there someone drunk here?” The voice had a thick southern accent, seeming to be a Gu family servant. Lu Yun was too drunk to be conscious and paid no attention. The man clicked his tongue and helped Lu Yun up: “Young master, wake up – it’s time to go home!”

Lu Yun opened his eyes to see the hall was empty and deserted – the guests had all taken their leave. Only one servant was supporting him. Lu Yun looked sideways and saw the servant was his old friend A’Fu.

Lu Yun was shocked and sobered considerably. Fortunately A’Fu was looking aside and the two hadn’t faced each other directly. Lu Yun, afraid of being recognized, quickly got up and covered his face with his sleeve, struggling to walk out. But having drunk too much, he suddenly felt dizzy. His legs went weak and he slipped and fell to the ground.

A’Fu frowned: “Young master, are you all right? Should I get someone to send you home?”

Lu Yun lay on the ground shaking his head: “No… I’ll rest a moment and be fine…” A’Fu cursed under his breath: “What drunk – so troublesome.” He stepped forward to pull him up, but Lu Yun disgracefully became nauseous and vomited, making the side hall reek and leaving the floor filthy.

A’Fu said miserably: “Young master, please leave quickly! Don’t make such a mess here!” Several other servants, seeing someone collapsed on the ground, also gathered around discussing loudly. As everyone was making noise, they suddenly heard a woman’s gentle voice: “Get a cup of tea and let this young master rest a while.”

This voice was so gentle and kind, yet it made one’s heart tremble. Lu Yun, lying on the ground, stole a glance and saw a beautiful woman looking toward him. His heart shook greatly – this woman was elegantly beautiful and gracefully charming. Who else could it be but Gu Qianxi?

Lu Yun had not wanted to see Miss Gu, especially when he was covered in filth and showing such an ugly state. He quickly raised his sleeve to cover his head and face, saying hoarsely: “Thank you for your kindness, miss. I’m already better and will take my leave now.” He stood up with his back to everyone and hurried toward the hall exit.

Gu Qianxi saw his behavior was quite rude, thinking he was still drunk, but didn’t take offense. She said softly: “Young master, you’re still drunk – please be careful when walking.”

Hearing her say this, Lu Yun was instantly reminded of their parting in Yangzhou. Suddenly overcome with grief, tears poured down like rain. He kept his head low and rushed out quickly.

A servant said: “This person is quite strange – drunk to such a state, truly inexplicable.” Gu Qianxi looked at Lu Yun’s retreating figure and also shook her head.

Lu Yun stumbled and swayed all the way, finally struggling out of the Gu family gate. He stood alone in the street as the dark night made it hard to distinguish directions. Not seeing Wu Dingyuan anywhere, he sighed deeply and simply found a street corner to lie down. At this moment his heart was filled with melancholy. Looking across at the Gu family gate, knowing his beloved was so close yet separated by social class – how could he bear it? After more than a year apart, Gu Qianxi had long become a talented woman pursued and admired by countless scholars, while he remained a destitute fugitive. Thinking of this, Lu Yun felt suffocated and wanted to die immediately.

Suddenly someone ran toward him joyfully: “Wonderful, I’ve found you!” Lu Yun opened his eyes to see it was Wu Dingyuan’s steward. The steward said: “The master ordered me to come get you and take you home. The master said he has social obligations tonight and probably won’t return to the mansion.”

Lu Yun nodded, thinking: “No wonder I couldn’t find Brother Wu at the banquet – he went to socialize separately. Sigh! I keep causing him trouble and worry, yet he still treats me this way. It’s really hard on him…” Lu Yun let the steward help him up and they returned to the mansion together.