Chapter 235 - Palace Feast (2)
“May I request everyone's attention!” Zhan Yuanfeng, clad in a dragon robe embellished with nine dark-gold five-clawed golden dragons and adorned with a golden jade crown, wore a humble smile, radiating nobility and handsomeness.
Zuo Shaoqing couldn't help but notice the swarm of unmarried girls casting longing glances at Zhan Yuanfeng upon his arrival.
Despite the rumors circulating, the emperor's harem remained a sought-after destination for many women, flocking in like ducks.
Cao Zongguan bowed his head, recognizing the insurmountable gap in their statuses, a realization deepened in this moment.
True to form, Zhan Yuanfeng delivered a string of eloquent praises, lauding his officials before officially commencing the banquet.
Given the scale of the palace feast, the dishes were understandably pre-prepared. While visually appealing, the flavor fell short of expectations.
Zuo Shaoqing pondered whether Zuo Xiaolang would find the banquet disappointing. He questioned whether he himself would attend future events at the Imperial Palace.
Zuo Shaoqing suddenly felt a tap on his shoulder and turned to find Lu Zheng offering him a slice of orange, which he promptly placed into Zuo Shaoqing's mouth.
A blush immediately tinged Zuo Shaoqing's pale cheeks as he anticipated the judgmental gazes directed at him.
Swallowing the fruit and meat in his mouth, Zuo Shaoqing gently restrained Lu Zheng's hand, “Master Lu, there's no need to fuss over me. I can manage on my own.”
Disappointment clouded Lu Zheng's eyes as he stuffed the remaining oranges into his mouth, remarking, “This palace feast remains as dull as ever. It would have been wiser to dine at home.”
Zuo Shaoqing contemplated the Emperor's summons. Disobeying the imperial decree seemed unwise, despite its informal nature, prompting him to avoid entanglement.
Pouring a glass of wine for Lu Zheng, Zuo Shaoqing politely remarked, “In truth, it's not entirely dull. Observing the captivating performances, indulging in this wine, and engaging in conversation can be quite enjoyable.” Despite his position, no one dared to confront him in the Emperor's presence.
Lu Zheng's gaze drifted to the center of the hall, where a dancer adorned in thin gauze attire performed despite the winter chill. Though her breasts were veiled, their contours hinted at, arousing the lecherous inclinations of certain officials.
“These dancer aren't Great Yang users, right?”
Zuo Shaoqing observed the group of dancers. Previously, without careful attention, the distinction wasn't apparent to him. “Indeed, there's a striking resemblance to the Huoluo Nation dancers we encountered in Crane City.”
In reality, the appearances of the Huoluo Nation and Great Yang people weren't vastly different, especially once attired similarly. It required careful scrutiny to discern between them.
Recollecting rumors of the Emperor favoring overseas dancers, Zuo Shaoqing discreetly glanced toward the throne, pondering if the rumored individual was present among them.
Zhan Yuanfeng appeared to catch the glance and responded with a casual smile, causing Zuo Shaoqing to feel uneasy.
“This person has quite the thick skin!” Zuo Shaoqing muttered under his breath.
Lu Zheng raised an eyebrow and nudged Zuo Shaoqing's head aside. “Don't meddle in others' affairs. Given his disposition, he wouldn't act without certainty.”
“Who's concerned about him?” Zuo Shaoqing couldn't possibly advocate for Zhan Yuanfeng, especially considering Cao Zongguan's disadvantage in the situation.
Lu Zheng lightly grasped his hand. “Of course, you're only concerned about your brother Cao.”
Zuo Shaoqing smirked, then forcefully stomped on Lu Zheng's foot. However, Lu Zheng remained unfazed, seemingly made of steel.
Onlookers couldn't discern the conversation between the pair and assumed they were engaged in flirtation, disregarding others' feelings, much to their chagrin.
“Master Lu, this king respects your valor and contributions to Great Yang, but… this king disagrees with your same-sex marriage. Such an example, if propagated, would disrupt the balance of yin and yang and hinder procreation.”
It was rumored that the fiefdom, situated in the southwest outskirts of the capital, endured harsh conditions, worse than those faced by ordinary officials, with infrequent visits home.
“Your Highness, your concerns are unwarranted. The emperor has decreed that marriage without an imperial mandate is forbidden. Obtaining such a decree is no easy feat.”
“Reflecting on our last encounter, you were merely a child. It's astonishing how quickly you've grown and contributed to Great Yang. Unfortunately, your father didn't live to witness it.”
Zuo Shaoqing was moved by his words, sensing a deep connection between the man and his husband, though it seemed the feeling wasn't mutual.
Sensing the occasional piercing gaze, Zuo Shaoqing grabbed his wine jug and approached Mr. Shang for conversation.
“This youngster lacks manners, hmph!” The old prince, his beard bristling with anger, had hoped to gauge Zuo Shaoqing's character but found himself avoided.
Lu Zheng remained indifferent. While not well-acquainted with the old prince, he didn't prioritize the elder's status.
On the other side, Zuo Shaoqing engaged in animated discussion with Shang Guan, unconcerned about offending the old prince. In his relationship with Lu Zheng, only the elder mistress held sway in disagreements.
“I never anticipated you'd draft regulations for managing thirteen coastal merchants at such a tender age, along with port entry and exit rules. Were it not for Wu Steel Manor's absence, I'd suspect Master Lu had a hand in it.”
Shang Xianyang's words were straightforward and devoid of any ill will. Zuo Shaoqing could discern Shang Xianyang's admiration. Despite Zuo Shaoqing's repeated disclaimers, “The Chief Assistant has achieved remarkable political feats in this lifetime and serves as a role model for the younger generation.”
“Haha…” At your age, this old man wouldn't be able to keep up.” He affectionately patted Zuo Shaoqing on the shoulder. “I trust that you will have many more days to contribute to the future dynasty under your stewardship. Remember, stay humble and vigilant.”
“Yes, I will heed your guidance, senior!” Zuo Shaoqing bowed deeply, expressing sincere gratitude.
Great Yang had finally found a moment to recuperate. Yet, relaxing too much would only allow the enemy to exploit the situation and invade. Though unafraid of adversaries, they wished not to subject citizens to perpetual wartime suffering.
“Do not worry, Sir, Great Yang will undoubtedly grow stronger.” Zuo Shaoqing's words weren't merely flattery. Based on his knowledge from a previous life, five years post-Tianfeng, Great Yang had indeed prospered, with peace prevailing among its populace.
However, Zuo Shaoqing was certain that Tianfeng's identity as a man wasn't public knowledge at that time. He pondered whether this was due to excessively guarded information or alterations in historical course.
The two conversed extensively. Shang Xianyang valued Zuo Shaoqing's talent and was willing to impart some bureaucratic wisdom. Zuo Shaoqing listened intently, recognizing the unparalleled experience and political insights of an elder statesman.
It wasn't until the music ceased that they realized how much time had elapsed. Shang Xianyang chuckled, remarking, “I never anticipated finding such a fine friend in my twilight years. Perhaps we should convene again.”
Zuo Shaoqing hesitated slightly but concurred, “Chief, Sir, your wisdom is profound. I've gained much from our discourse. I'll surely seek your counsel in the future.”
Returning to his seat, Zuo Shaoqing noticed Lu Zheng's somber expression. After a nudge from Zuo Shaoqing, Lu Zheng responded. Zuo Shaoqing then recounted the entire exchange, “I wish to become your apprentice. What do you think?”
In both his lives, Zuo Shaoqing never had a formal mentor. He understood that having a renowned mentor would enhance not only his reputation but also his career prospects.
Considering Shang Xianyang's disposition, Lu Zheng nodded, “You may proceed with this decision.”
Zuo Shaoqing was overjoyed. Despite its impromptu nature, the more he contemplated, the more it appealed to him. Thus, he resolved to pay his respects upon returning home.
Regrettably, when he prepared to pay homage, Shang Xianyang declined. Instead, he proposed becoming sworn brothers.
The dancers exited the hall in an orderly fashion, restoring its previous tranquility. All eyes turned to Emperor Tianfeng as he rose from his elevated seat. His towering stature resembled that of a pine tree, exuding unwavering resolve.
Raising his wine cup, he proclaimed loudly, “As the emperor, I am indebted to my esteemed officials' aid. With their support, tyranny and violence are quelled, while I offer a toast to all of you. May my esteemed officials uphold the mission of Great Yang, supporting righteousness and rectitude, and raising our nation!”
“Your Majesty the Emperor…” Heads bowed in unanimous agreement.
Zhan Yuanfeng drained his cup and surveyed the officials below. He announced calmly, “We have an announcement to make today.”
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