Although Jianye was captured, and the ancestral temple of the Sima clan was destroyed, the situation in the southern regions was still unsettled.
Hearing that his younger brother had been pushed to surrender, Sima Shao, who was in the distant Jing County, erupted in anger and led his troops in a counterattack. Wang Dun’s adopted son, Wang Ying, took control of a significant portion of the military forces in Jing County and resisted stubbornly. Moreover, numerous gentry, fearing that the Zhao dynasty’s emphasis on commoners would ruin their family fortunes, gathered in strongholds and caused disturbances. For a while, the situation in Jiangdong became even more chaotic than before.
However, regardless of how disruptive these forces were, the navy swiftly loaded the surrendered young emperor onto a ship, transporting him to Luoyang. The fate of a fallen sovereign could only be determined by the emperor himself.
This is the final war of annihilation for the Zhao dynasty, also a symbol of unifying the realm. However, the young emperor of Jin did not become a tool for formal surrender and proclamation to the world. Instead, he ascended the Taiji Hall, paid homage to the Zhao emperor, and presented the imperial seal of the transfer of the state.
Since the unification by the First Emperor, the Qin imperial seal has become an enduring treasure. The eight characters “受命于天，既寿永昌1Received the mandate from heaven, now blessed with eternal prosperity” were the sole symbols of the divine right of imperial authority.
Without the imperial seal of the transfer of the state, how could one claim legitimacy? Even when the Great Zhao emperor ascended to the throne, the dragon bones and ritual vessels presented were unable to replace the status of the imperial seal. However, the seal was in Jiangdong. When Emperor Huai of Jin, Sima Tan, moved the capital, he brought this treasure to Shou City. Later, Sima Rui usurped the throne and became the owner of the imperial seal. It was precisely this imperial seal that led many to still consider the Eastern Jin dynasty as the legitimate dynasty.
Therefore, the conquest of Jin was not complete until this imperial seal was received from the hands of the Jin emperor, proving the unification of the realm.
Sitting on the high platform, Liang Feng, through the hanging coronet in front of his eyes, looked down below.
The slender and frightened child, now holding the precious box, knelt on the ground. More than a decade ago, he knelt in the court, paying respects to the similarly young Emperor Huai of Jin. As time passed, it felt like yesterday.
Chi Jian walked forward, personally receiving the precious box, and knelt to present it to the emperor, saying, “Your Majesty, Prince Jin offers the Jade Seal.”
When the emperor ascends to the throne, the imperial seal must be presented by a senior minister. The missing piece, once absent, is finally filled.
Liang Feng received it with both hands and opened the precious box, revealing a square jade seal lying on the brocade inside. It measured four inches in diameter, with five dragons intertwining at the top. Below the jade seal, there was a corner repaired with gold. This was the jade seal thrown and broken by the Empress Dowager when Wang Mang usurped the throne. Passed through countless emperors’ hands, the jade was pure in color, smooth, and weighed over a thousand catties.
After a deep look, Liang Feng placed the jade seal on the table and looked up at the trembling child.
“Sima Rui schemed against Emperor Ai, and his usurpation is illegitimate. During his reign, Wang Dun also governed chaotically, causing suffering in Jiangdong. Change his posthumous title to ‘You’ and remove his temple name.”
This is the foundation of the Great Zhao, Sima Rui’s usurpation is illegitimate. The young emperor, Emperor Ai, who was enthroned and later schemed against by Sima Rui, should be considered the last emperor of the Jin dynasty.
“Yet, what guilt does the young son bear? Sima Xi is to be appointed as the Marquis of Shunde, granted clothing, vehicles, a hundred acres of land, and a thousand households.”
Since Sima Rui cannot be considered a legitimate emperor, his descendants can only be granted marquisates. Great Zhao did not acquire the throne through abdication, so there is no need to treat the Sima family generously, especially considering their previous emperor’s refusal to submit and refusal to bow to imperial decrees. Following the standards set by Emperor Wu of Jin when conferring titles upon Liu Shan and Sun Hao, granting a marquisate is sufficient.
How could the young child understand all this? Upon hearing that he would not be killed and would receive land and households, he hastily followed the instructions of others and bowed down, saying, “Thank you, Your Majesty, for your benevolence!”
This expression of gratitude also served as a signal.
“May Your Majesty rule with wisdom and benevolence, winning the hearts of the people, and lasting for thousands of generations!”
All the civil and military officials in the court knelt, shouting, “Long live our emperor for a myriad of years!”
The resounding cheers echoed, lingering in the air.
※
“After sparing the Wang family of Langya, does Your Majesty truly intend to show them mercy?” After leaving the court, Zhang Bin did not leave but approached the emperor again, asking this crucial question.
The influence of the Wang family in Jiangdong is no less than that of the Sima family. Setting aside Wang Dun’s rebellion, even Wang Dao alone could control everything. Now, although both have died, the Wang family still has many descendants. If they all stay in Jiangdong, it might cause some trouble.
“Those who resist stubbornly cannot stay. However, Wang Dao’s loyalty to the country is somewhat commendable,” replied Liang Feng.
In fact, Wang Dao’s final battle was quite peculiar. It seemed like he brought all the Jin officials who wouldn’t surrender, coming to die. Without that battle, it might have taken more time to conquer Jianye. Strangely, he went to the front lines and died cleanly, leaving no loose ends.
Liang Feng wasn’t interested in whether Wang Dao was loyal or treacherous. However, this kind of “declaration of intent” was worthy of admiration. Moreover, there was another person in the Wang family that he couldn’t help but think about. Now, that person had reached the age of twenty, showing some proficiency in calligraphy. Even though the era of Eastern Jin had ended, it remained to be seen if he could reach the height of the “Calligraphy Saint.” But such a person was worth keeping.
“Except for Wang Dun’s trusted followers, all other members of the Wang family should be relocated to the northern region. Their social status will be lowered, but they can participate in the regular examinations,” after some contemplation, Liang Feng made a decision.
For aristocratic families, demotion was originally a terrifying prospect. However, in the current Zhao dynasty, the social hierarchy was not as strict as it was in the previous dynasty. The status of a ninth-rank official was more symbolic than real, and avoiding examinations meant missing out on substantial positions. What about family reputation? What about prestige? Without high-ranking positions and generous salaries, aristocratic families became like floating weeds in the water.
Demotion might sound frightening, but as long as they could participate in regular examinations, over the course of several decades, they might be able to restore their family’s prestige.
This was the situation with the Wang family, and what about other aristocratic families in Jiangdong? Perhaps this favor, compared to the previous ninth-rank system, could win the hearts of Southern scholars.
However, truly pacifying the Southern region would still take time…
As winter departed and spring arrived once again, with winter solstice recurring, a dragon boat docked on the banks of the Luo River.
The boat, nine zhang long and five stories high had oars on both sides, complete with gold drums. Like a fortress on the water, a fierce golden dragon coiled at the bow, overlooking all directions. A large flag fluttered in the wind, bearing the character “赵2Zhao” as if it could break through the air.
“Whoo…”
A long horn sounded, followed by thunderous explosions in the air. It was a salute. Even though the people in Luoyang were accustomed to the new-style firecrackers, this sudden noise still startled them. However, today, no one was alarmed. Along the river, banners fluttered, and crowds gathered.
The emperor was about to embark on an eastern inspection!
After thirteen years on the throne, this was the first time the emperor had left the capital region. However, the people did not complain about such a grand event. It was because the emperor decreed that no palaces should be built along the way in various provinces and counties, and there should be no disturbance to the people. Heading east, the dragon boat only sailed along the river.
What a wise decision! Unfortunately, the emperor’s journey did not involve the ritual of Mount Tai. If he had performed the Mount Tai ceremony, could it have been as illustrious as Qin Shi Huang and Emperor Wu of Han, with inscribed stones praising his virtues and showcasing his achievements?
However, in the past, Qin Shi Huang built the Apang Palace and constructed roads, employing millions of laborers; Emperor Wu of Han exhausted the military, burdening the people across the nation. Where can one find the benevolence and frugality of the current emperor? Not to mention palaces, even the imperial tomb did not require much manpower. The construction of canals and the paving of roads were all for the well-being of the people. Haven’t you noticed that this dragon boat is somewhat smaller than the ordinary ones?
Such a virtuous ruler deserves the support of the people. Even with the Imperial Guards present, many citizens voluntarily gathered by the riverbank, hoping to catch a glimpse of the emperor’s appearance. Of course, only a few could truly see the emperor’s face. They witnessed the dragon boat unfurling its sails, slowly departing from the harbor under the protection of warships in the front and rear.
“I didn’t expect so many people…” Liang Feng chuckled while standing on the top of the tall tower.
“The world is peaceful, and the people return their hearts. Naturally, the common folk yearns for the emperor’s presence.” The person beside him replied with a smile.
“Have you also learned the language of those courtiers?” Liang Feng gave him a sideways glance, seemingly amused.
The conflicts in the southern region have come to a close, aiming for stability and true “peace” may take several more years. However, these are minor concerns, and there is indeed nothing to hinder his journey eastward. After all, he is not heading to You County; just a circuit through Ji County and Qing County without the need to mobilize a large army.
“If you truly are a courtier of words, you should advise His Majesty to perform the Fengshan ceremony.” The person raised his sword-like eyebrows and retorted.
Liang Feng couldn’t help but curl the corner of his mouth, “Mount Tai is fine, but I might as well visit the Kong Family Mansion.”
Performing the Fengshan ceremony at Mount Tai is not something the emperor can do alone. It requires the presence of important civil and military officials. Not to mention the mobilization of troops, just building roads and clearing mountains would incur significant costs. However, during Liang Feng’s current eastern tour, he has significantly reduced the entourage. Only a few officials from the Ministry of Rites, the Ministry of Works, and the Imperial Censorate accompany him. The Crown Prince is acting as regent, and important ministers are left behind for governance. For most emperors, this would be unthinkable, but Liang Feng has done so without any burden on his conscience.
The route to the Kong Family Mansion is a newly opened path, and Yiyan was somewhat surprised, “Does Your Majesty want to posthumously confer the title of Baocheng Marquis?”
During the reign of Emperor Ping of Han, Confucius was posthumously honored as “Baocheng Xuan Ni Gong,” and his descendants were granted the title of “Baocheng Marquis” with a fief of eight hundred households. However, as the influence of Confucianism declined during the Wei and Jin dynasties, the title of Baocheng Marquis lost its appeal over several generations.
The issue is, isn’t the Great Zhao Empire inclined towards Confucianism? On the contrary, Buddhism is flourishing, and various crafts are reviving, reminiscent of the diverse philosophies during the Hundred Schools of Thought era. Why not honor the mountains first before Confucius?
“There are still valuable aspects of Confucianism.” There were no others around, and Liang Feng didn’t mind speaking a bit more, “It’s just that emulating the three generations and revering an eternal teacher won’t work. We must recreate the initial appearance of Confucianism and give birth to the ‘New Confucianism.'”
Is Confucianism unchanging? In fact, it is not. Quite the opposite. In its formative years, it underwent numerous debates and alterations. Through generations of refinement and shaping, it took on its current form. Every change, besides the efforts of Confucian scholars, also involved conscious choices made by rulers.
Since later generations could have Neo-Confucianism and mind study, why couldn’t there be a more pioneering and inclusive Confucianism? After all, Confucianism is nothing more than an ideology and superstructure that can be fine-tuned based on the economic foundation. When astronomical observatories appear, when microscopes are invented, and when the seeds of science sprout, how could this “ever-changing” Confucianism remain unchanged?
Using experiences from a thousand years ago to apply to society a thousand years later is undoubtedly a closed dead-end road. Therefore, Liang Feng wants to give it a try. Although he doesn’t know if he can succeed in his lifetime or what strange products these changes will create, the “attempt” itself is a thought worth promoting. It is also the most crucial aspect of the Hundred Schools of Thought contention.
Looking at the lord’s proud expression, Yiyan’s eyes flashed with a touch of tenderness, “Those officials from the Ministry of Rites are likely to have a headache.”
Coming out for a walk indeed turned out to be the right decision. When was the last time the lord showed such spirit?
“Why worry? It’s just a royal tour. Who dares to stop the imperial carriage?” Liang Feng, with a smiling expression, held onto the wooden railing, “If it were a discreet investigation, it would be even better…”
As if recalling past experiences, Yiyan’s lips also curved into a smile, “Unfortunately, this is neither the palace nor the Lantern Festival. Your Majesty probably can’t escape.”
“Even with an insider?” Liang Feng turned to ask.
“An insider? As a loyal subject, I must fulfill my duties and apprehend those with ill intentions.” Yiyan replied with righteous words, displaying the demeanor of a grand general.
Liang Feng chuckled, “Let’s go, accompany me for some fishing!”
Even though Yiyan was not good at water activities, he knew that you couldn’t catch fish while sailing. However, how could he dare to refute the words spoken with such confidence? With a faint smile, he followed behind the emperor, descending to the lower deck.
Although it was a boat, the dragon boat was elaborately constructed, with two entire levels dedicated to the emperor’s daily life, not much different from a palace. Coupled with the massive size of the boat, allowing for horse movement, there was no sense of seasickness at all. Liang Feng would spend a few hours each day using a telescope to observe the scenery along the banks.
Fields stretching out, towering water wheels, four-wheeled carriages racing on the official road, and occasional vessels maneuvering to avoid the imperial ship. Each scene captivated Liang Feng’s gaze. On the other hand, Yiyan occasionally helped him put on his cloak, offered pastries, and advised him to take a brief rest. After nightfall, the ship would dock by the shore, and the refreshing riverbank breeze would accompany the scent of the earth into Liang Feng’s dreams.
Not in a hurry, departing from Luoyang and reaching the coast of Jizhou took a full month. When they disembarked from the dragon boat and switched to carriages, entering the city, Liang Feng couldn’t help but straighten his posture slightly.
This was Haixing! The city was built extremely high, filled with three to four-story buildings covering the ground. The flat and wide roads allowed smooth passage for the four-wheeled cargo carts. At the harbor, there were four towering gantry cranes that could save countless manpower by lifting goods directly from the ship.
Upon reaching the pier and gazing at the vast blue sea, Liang Feng couldn’t help but take a deep breath. The sea breeze was salty, seagulls chirped lightly, and the sandy beach was even cleaner and whiter than he remembered.
And there, anchored in the harbor, was the enormous fleet.
This was the latest type of warship from the East Sea Fleet, measuring fifteen zhang in length and accommodating three thousand soldiers. It was named “Yingzhou.” One day, it would be able to sail through the wind and waves, cross the deep sea, and reach the other side of the ocean.
An invincible warship capable of discovering a new world!
“The strong wind will break the waves, and the cloud-suspended sail will traverse the vast sea.” The verse leaped to Liang Feng’s mind, and he recited it aloud.
“Excellent poem!” Even though Yiyan had studied numerous classics, he was not a poet. But that didn’t prevent him from understanding the boldness and determination in the poem.
“This isn’t my creation; it’s…” Liang Feng paused, and after a while, he revealed a complex smile. “…It was written by the Immortal in exile.”
Golden goblets filled with clear wine compete with ten thousand coins, jade plates of exquisite delicacies worth a myriad of money.
Stopping the cup and putting down the chopsticks, unable to eat, drawing the sword to look around, the heart is lost.
Wishing to cross the frozen Yellow River, the snow-covered Taihang Mountain awaits climbing.
In leisure, fishing on the blue stream, suddenly riding a boat, dreaming at the edge of the sun.
The road is difficult! The road is difficult! The many divergent paths, where are they now?
The strong wind will break the waves, and the cloud-suspended sail will traverse the vast sea.
This was a poem Liang Feng loved, and he had recited it repeatedly during moments of reflection. Wasn’t this a portrayal of his current life? A witness to his journey through challenges and hardships up to this moment.
However, the poet who wrote this verse, the Immortal, had not yet descended. Perhaps their appearance would cease to exist due to his own arrival. Of course, he couldn’t reveal the name of that person.
“My Lord?” Yiyan noticed Liang Feng’s unusual mood and immediately stepped forward.
To his surprise, Liang Feng turned his head, addressing him, “Boyuan, do you truly believe that I came from the Immortal Realm?”
Yiyan’s heart tightened and, disregarding others, he tightly grabbed Liang Feng’s hand, “Is my Lord planning to go back?”
He believed, more deeply than others. Yiyan wasn’t foolish; after studying and entering the officialdom, he naturally observed the differences between his Lord and others. Those words beyond the mundane, those extraordinary behaviors—where could they come from if not bestowed by gods and Buddhas?
But what if he came from the Immortal Realm? As long as his Lord remained in this world, he would firmly hold onto him and not let him leave!
“Are you going back?” No doubt, no suspicion, just holding onto him, a trembling question filled with fear.
The dark clouds drifted away.
Liang Feng returned the grip on his hand, lightly shaking his head with a gentle smile, “Not going back. This place is now my home.”
A brand new world, created by his own hands. How could he abandon it? This divine land was also his homeland.
Moreover, there were people by his side.
That smile reflected in Yiyan’s eyes, causing him to choke back a sob, holding back tears.
The sea breeze swept by, and their wide sleeves fluttered. Two hands casually clasped together, never to part again.
