Why are there so many people? When will the museum open?
Standing in the long queue that stretched for two miles, Ye Qian’s impatience was reaching a boiling point. It’s not her fault for being anxious; it’s been a whole six months since the discovery of Emperor Taizu’s tomb!
She hastily booked a flight and rushed here initially, only to find out that the excavation site didn’t allow casual onlookers. With no nearby facilities, she could only pay respects around Mangshan and then return home. The agonizing days followed, keeping a close eye on the official website, waiting for updates.
Now, after the initial exploration finally concluded, a large number of artifacts were organized and exhibited first in Luoyang, the former capital of Zhao. Ye Qian fought tooth and nail for a ticket, but the place was already packed early in the morning. If she had known, she would have queued up overnight!
“Are they restricting the number of people? Can I get in by the morning?” With so many people around, Ye Qian dared not shout loudly, constantly craning her neck to observe.
Just as she was getting anxious, a voice came from behind, “Uh, excuse me. What time is it now?”
Who could it be? Ye Qian turned around, only to see a beautiful woman in white standing behind her. No makeup on her face, but she had clear and charming eyes, radiating elegance both in temperament and appearance.
Seeing the pretty lady, Ye Qian immediately cooled down and quickly took out her phone, “Let me check…”
With a tap, the phone unlocked, revealing a vivid and lifelike image that boldly presented itself in front of both of them. Ye Qian, feeling awkward, almost stumbled to the ground. Oops! She forgot to change her screensaver these days, and she inadvertently displayed an intimate image of the Emperor and General!
“It’s 8… 8:10,” Ye Qian struggled to report the time, attempting to hide her phone.
However, the lady behind her exclaimed, then softly asked, “Is that an image by Aimi?”
“Aimi Chao Xiong” was the top creator in the Zhao history community, with countless fans. Recognizing the artist with just a glance, she was an “ally”!
Ye Qian, revived from embarrassment, nodded repeatedly, “Are you also a fan of Zhao Shu?”
In the Zhao history community, fans of the official pairing are referred to as “Zhao Shu Party,” symbolizing their orthodox status.
The young lady blushed slightly and nodded.
Oh my, what a small world. Ye Qian couldn’t help but get excited, “What’s your account? I’m Ye Menghuang Liang.”
Not to boast, but Ye Qian was considered a prominent figure in the Emperor’s fandom, having written several popular articles. Anyone who ships this pair has likely heard of her name.
The young lady’s eyes lit up, “You’re Menghuang? My pen name is Liu Fei.”
What? Liu Fei?!
Ye Qian was taken aback. What a stroke of luck to meet an acquaintance in a strange place! Moreover, how did Liu Fei know about her? Could it be that she also reads fan fiction from the rival side?
Seeing Ye Qian’s uneasy expression, the young lady quickly explained, “I initially joined the community after reading your stories. But… um, later on, I accidentally started shipping Emperor Taizu too… I also ship General Yi!”
I know… when your ultimate bias meets the ultimate bias wrecker, it’s a tragic story.
Ye Qian forced a smile, “No, it’s fine. I also read Liu Fei’s stories. That one, ‘Cold Palace,’ made me cry buckets.”
After exchanging compliments, the two stood there awkwardly. Given the constant online clashes between their respective fandoms, having such an “unexpected encounter” in person wasn’t easy to handle.
Seeing that the atmosphere was a bit off, the young lady tried to salvage the situation, “Menghuang, are you here to see the exhibition too?”
Small talk could at least break the ice. Ye Qian hurriedly replied, “Exactly! It was a struggle to get these tickets. By the way, let’s not use our online names. I’m Ye Qian, from Minzhou.”
The young lady also breathed a sigh of relief, “I’m Chen Yao, just arrived from Yanzhou. I rushed here and forgot my charger… my phone ran out of battery.”
Being part of the same community, they could be considered “acquaintances.” Ye Qian took out a power bank from her bag, “I have some battery left, want to charge it first?”
“Oh, that would be great!” Chen Yao expressed gratitude, plugging her phone in. “If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t know when I could make a call.”
“Coming all the way from Yanzhou alone is not easy; it takes about a day, right?” Ye Qian sympathetically remarked.
“Yeah, sitting on a plane feels like my back is about to break,” Chen Yao sighed, “If I weren’t in such a rush for the exhibition, I would have taken a boat.”
Wait a minute. Taking a boat from Yanzhou is even more expensive! Ye Qian was momentarily stunned, then suddenly realized something, “Could it be that you are from the Chen family in Yanzhou?”
Chen Yao chuckled, “Not the main branch, though.”
Not the main branch? Even being a part of the Chen family’s side branch is impressive! It was the first time Ye Qian had encountered a legendary family, and as a commoner, she was quite shocked. Unable to contain her curiosity, she asked, “Does the Chen family really have such a significant influence in Yanzhou?”
“That’s ancient history,” Chen Yao, used to such inquiries, explained with a smile, “When Yanzhou gained independence, they relinquished power. Now, the main branch is just doing business, and we, side branches, are not much different from ordinary folks.”
This is definitely being modest, isn’t it? Ye Qian thought in her heart. She was well-versed in Zhao’s history, and the Chen family alone had three individuals mentioned in “Records of Zhao.” The most famous among them was Chen Hang, who sailed through the South China Sea on a merchant ship and discovered a new continent. Due to its seasons being exactly opposite to those of the Central Lands, he named it “Yanzhou” based on the “Records of the Ten Continents.”
Although Yanzhou was remote and difficult to inhabit at that time, the discovery was still commendable. Emperor Taizong specially appointed Chen Hang as the Commander of Yanzhou, granting him ten thousand households within the island. This reward elevated the humble Chen family from merchants to high-ranking officials, marking the beginning of the Age of Great Navigation.
In order to attain the title of Marquis of Wanhu, Chen Hang and his family attracted a considerable number of immigrants to Yanzhou. Later, they discovered gold and copper mines, amassing immense wealth. However, being isolated overseas, Yanzhou was challenging to control. In the late Zhao Dynasty, it detached itself from central political authority, becoming a semi-colonial and semi-feudal state. During subsequent changes of dynasties in the Central Plains, Yanzhou either acknowledged suzerainty or declared independence. It wasn’t until the era of constitutionalism that the old dynasty was overthrown, and Yanzhou gained complete independence.
However, over the past thousand years, the influence of the Chen family in Yanzhou has been indelible. It has become one of the rare aristocratic families in modern society.
The revelation that Liu Fei was from the Chen family in Yanzhou would surely make many fans cry and cling to her fame if it were exposed online.
Suppressing the slight excitement in her heart, Ye Xian sighed, “No wonder Big Sis writes with such meticulous details; it truly comes from a deep family background!”
Now it was Chen Yao’s turn to blush. What family background were they talking about? She quickly waved her hand, “I just make things up, don’t take it seriously.”
With a common ground established, time passed more easily. The two of them chatted about various topics, with the main focus still on Great Zhao.
“Speaking of Emperor Taizu’s tomb, it’s truly heartbreaking. Everyone else’s tombs are so well-maintained, but Taizu chose to have his tomb in the mountains. I heard it’s quite small in scale. How many emperors can refrain from ostentation and simplicity like this?” Ye Qian felt a bit conflicted when discussing imperial tombs.
Back when the excavation was taking place, she had also witnessed it up close. The imperial tomb was built deep in the mountains, with no visible traces from the outside. If it weren’t for the tourism development causing damage to the tomb passage, it might have remained hidden in the mountains for many more years.
“It must be that Emperor Liang didn’t want to be disturbed. After all, it’s the tomb shared with the Grand General. Just thinking about this makes me extremely uncomfortable,” Chen Yao agreed.
Damn, truly a big shot, starting off with a stab. Hearing this, Ye Qian also began to feel a bit distressed, “Exactly! Taizu must have left a testament; otherwise, how could Taizong let the Grand General be buried alongside the Empress?”
“Maybe the testament even mentioned being buried in the same coffin,” Chen Yao said indignantly. The attitude of the emperor-general circle toward Taizong was a bit cold, so this sentiment was not surprising.
Ye Qian quickly changed the topic, “I heard there weren’t many treasures unearthed this time, but there are over ten thousand ancient books, all ancient scrolls. I always feel that Taizu deliberately left them behind.”
Having spent considerable time on the forums, Ye Qian was well-informed about the situation. Comparing the accompanying items of various emperors from different dynasties with those of Taizu, it was indeed quite distinct.
“If not for that, how could the Great Zhao be established?” Chen Yao sighed softly.
“No doubt about that,” Ye Qian also fell into silence.
After a moment of sorrow, Ye Qian continued, “Have you read the autopsy report? I heard that there are many heavy metal elements precipitated in Taizu’s bones. It’s all that damned Li Lang! Otherwise, how could Taizu have passed away prematurely?”
The fact that Zhao Taizu was once nearly assassinated by his cousin Li Lang was unearthed by many people from historical records. Almost every fanfiction treats him as an irredeemable villain, trampling on him severely.
“Exactly!” Chen Yao, this young lady, couldn’t help but grit her teeth, “And Wang Bin! He deserves to die too!”
“Is it true about Wang Bin?” There have always been people in the circle saying that Taizu’s health deteriorated because of the scheming of the Wang clan of You County, trying to disrupt his marriage alliance with the Wang clan of Taiyuan. However, Ye Qian was a bit confused if this was a fanfiction plot or a historical fact.
“I’ve read a few idle notes, and they all mentioned this matter.” Chen Yao answered very affirmatively, “Before Emperor Liang became the Inspector of Bing County, he was sick for quite a long time. Later, he waged war against You County. The Wang clan of the You County line is not worth lamenting!”
“Wuwu, my Liang is really not easy…” Ye Qian was almost crying. Thinking about “The Chronicle of Zhao,” it really felt like every word was written in blood and tears!
Once this topic came up, the conversation shifted to the articles in the circle. Although the two of them were on opposite sides regarding the roles of attackers and receivers, when it came to historical research, having read numerous authentic works, they could still engage in an enthusiastic discussion. An hour quickly passed, and the human queue began to move slowly.
Seeing that they were about to go through a security check, Ye Qian’s heart tightened. Finally entering the gate, what kind of exhibits would they display? Would there be a layout showcasing the mausoleum? The coffin? Could it be that everything before was just a gimmick, and after opening the coffin, there would be some supernatural occurrences that proved it wasn’t the remains of the Grand General?
Cold sweat was about to pour down; Ye Qian’s face turned pale. She passed through the security check, ready to take a step forward, but suddenly froze in the aisle. Like a fool, she gazed at the hall not far away.
In the center of the hall, on a wall towering two stories high, there was a painting. An ancient and elegant mural.
Yakshas wielding blades, sea dragons dancing with claws, celestial patterns, auspicious clouds, eagles, serpents, and precious artifacts—countless intricate and exquisite designs occupied the entire painting. However, the most eye-catching part was the Buddha in the center, casting a gentle smile, accompanied by the kneeling deities below him. The Buddha was graceful, the Yakshas fierce, standing and kneeling, static and dynamic, like the yin and yang merging in Tai Chi, creating an indescribable tension. Four swimming dragons curled up in the corners, their eyes sparkling, scales shrouded in mist, making the entire painting seem to come alive. Even with the painting techniques from over a thousand years ago, it didn’t diminish the charm of this masterpiece.
This… this is… Ye Qian’s legs trembled.
A firm grip seized her arm, and behind her, Chen Yao choked out, “Rainfall Chart… it’s the Rainfall Chart!”
The painting was “The Medicine Buddha Illuminating the Light of Universal Radiance” created by the renowned Zhao Dynasty artist Wei Xie, commonly known as the “Rainfall Chart.” Destroyed in the war eight hundred years ago, not even a fragment remained. Who would have thought that today they would actually witness the genuine work! Was this also just unearthed? Did Taizu personally instruct someone to copy it and place it in the tomb?
Were the Buddha and the Yaksha depicted according to the images of those two?
The two of them quickly turned into a pair of tearful companions, holding hands and slowly walking towards the hall.
Following behind the two girls, Xu Feng rolled his eyes. Were these two really here to see the exhibition? How did they burst into tears right after entering? Slowing his pace, he bypassed the two sobbing girls and walked briskly inside.
Today was the premiere exhibition of Zhao Taizu’s tomb, and he specifically took a day off to come and attend. Since childhood, he had a deep fascination with the history of the Zhao Dynasty, flipping through both official and unofficial records countless times. Even his calligraphy practice used “regular script.” He had also fantasized about whether, if he were in that era, he could hold back the turbulent waves like Zhao Taizu or wield a whip like General Yi. However, he never expected that one day he would actually witness Taizu’s tomb. As for the rumored dual queen’s burial, it wasn’t as crucial for him. Who he liked, he could openly declare; there was nothing to hide.
According to the exhibition sequence, he went through each display one by one. The tomb’s treasures were abundant, including weapons, ceramic funerary objects, various intricate scientific inventions, and even ancient versions of microscopes and telescopes. Surprisingly, there were very few gold, silver, and copper coins, almost as if the exhibition was specially arranged.
Smiling at this thought, Xu Feng’s gaze shifted, and suddenly, on a small display platform, there was a jade pendant. As if something had touched him, he walked quickly toward it. Inside the glass case was a white jade ornament, carved with a Buddha figure. The craftsmanship was simple, with vivid features, bearing the distinctive characteristics of early Zhao Dynasty sculptures. However, a simple piece of jade made Xu Feng’s heart tighten.
What’s going on?
He focused his gaze on the adjacent introduction. It stated that this jade was discovered in the burial chamber of the empress on the west side, held in the hands of the male buried there. It was carved with the Medicine Buddha, showcasing early Zhao Dynasty sculptural features.
Even Xu Feng, however, knew that both the material and craftsmanship of this jade were just average. Why would it be held by the god of war?
As he was engrossed in his thoughts, someone suddenly bumped into him. Professional habits made him snap back to reality, turning to look. A young man had crossed over him, walking straight to the display platform, staring blankly at the jade pendant in the cabinet, seemingly unaware of his presence.
Such an impolite person should at least make Xu Feng frown. But he didn’t. That person seemed a bit familiar…
Impossible! Xu Feng, after all, was a former criminal detective, highly sensitive to facial features. However, the person looked exceptionally handsome, with a hint of exotic blood, tall and well-proportioned. Standing there, he resembled a javelin or a sharp sword. His eyes were grey-blue, making a lasting impression. How could Xu Feng find him familiar?
Nevertheless, after hesitating for a moment, Xu Feng took two steps forward and stood next to the stranger. “Do you also like this jade?”
The young man shook as if just realizing someone was beside him, blinked his eyes, and then spoke, “Um, the jade is… unique.”
His voice was also pleasant, and he seemed a bit dazed, truly itching to the heart. Wait a minute, was he feeling something for him? A man?
Xu Feng’s throat rolled as he said, “Coincidentally, I also find this jade the most attractive. Are you here to see the exhibition as a fan of Zhao Taizu or General Yi? I guess you’re in the military, right?”
Using a bit of investigative skill, Xu Feng easily guessed the other person’s background. The man was quite straightforward, saying, “I like Zhao Taizu. Yes, I serve in the Northwest Military Region.”
In the Northwest, he probably was a special forces soldier. Xu Feng smiled, “I prefer General Ye. Invincible in attack, unbeatable in battle—a true military god. By the way, I’m Xu Feng. What’s your name?”
The handsome man’s face suddenly showed a hint of embarrassment, “Uh… Liang Boyuan.”
Pfft! Xu Feng almost burst out laughing. Named Liang and called Boyuan, it was truly strange in this exhibition hall. It seemed this guy’s parents were hardcore fans of General Yi!
Suppressing his laughter, Xu Feng said, “Coincidence. Your surname is Liang, and my ancestors seem to have had relations with the Zhao princess. We were likely one family a thousand years ago.”
Liang Boyuan shook his head, “My family belongs to the Western Nine Branches and our surname was probably changed later. I have Yueyi ancestry.”
In the past, the various nomadic tribes had changed to somewhat derogatory terms. Among them, the Jie people had changed to Yueyi. Unexpectedly, this person was from the same clan as General Yi. Xu Feng’s eyes twinkled with more amusement, “No wonder you like Taizu.”
This comment seemed to touch Liang Boyuan, making him deeply glance at Xu Feng, seemingly assessing this tall, upright guy.
Unperturbed by the scrutiny, Xu Feng smiled and suggested, “I see there’s a display of tomb chambers ahead. Shall we check it out together?”
Liang Boyuan glanced again at the jade pendant, nodding, “Sure, let’s have a look.”
As they walked forward, Xu Feng casually said, “Speaking of which, I don’t like double tombs. It would be better if those two could be buried together.”
He didn’t specify which two, but Liang Boyuan understood. Feeling a sudden inexplicable palpitation in his chest, he shook his head after a while, “Empress He was, after all, the mother of the crown prince…”
“What does that matter? Compared to his deceased wife, Zhao Taizu definitely loved General Yi more. From life and death decisions to stabilizing the nation and saving the people, as a spiritual companion, who can compare?” Xu Feng spoke decisively and straightforwardly.
Liang Boyuan laughed, “So the formality doesn’t matter.”
“You, my boy…” Xu Feng couldn’t help but laugh as he ruffled his hair.
The gesture was a bit sudden, but Liang Boyuan didn’t dodge it, allowing this guy he just met to establish a comfortable distance.
Xu Feng’s hand naturally rested on his shoulder. “The tomb chamber is this way. Follow me.”
As he spoke, he glanced with his eyes at the girls nearby who were sneakily assessing them. Well, being too handsome does attract attention. Does this guy have an interest in men? If he’s into the looks of Zhao Taizu, it might be tricky…
While these thoughts played in his mind, his face remained calm. The two of them walked shoulder to shoulder towards another exhibition hall.
In the bustling hall, the crowd moved about, creating a lively atmosphere.
—End of the entire text—
Author’s note:
The story concludes. Many have expressed a desire to see Liang Shao’s return to his own world. However, in another timeline, he has already lived a complete life. If he goes back, would it not erase everything that happened before?
On the day he crossed over, it was into a completely different parallel universe. There is no “return”; only a fresh start a thousand years later. Perhaps, in this new world, these two individuals will compose another romantic chapter. ^^
This piece is truly long enough to exhaust people, and I appreciate everyone’s patience as I slowly completed it. After taking a few days of rest, I should be able to add a meaty segment. You can find it on Weibo @捂脸233 or in the reader group (298229871). As for other daily updates, because they are a bit spicy, I’ve placed them in a personal blog. Pre-sales may be announced around the end of September or early October, so stay tuned for updates on Weibo.
The reference material book will also be released tomorrow, and those interested can take a look.
Thank you for accompanying Liang Shao and the little wolf dog through this long journey of life. For those who care, they will forever exist in their own universe.
Translator’s corner:
Aaaaaaand we’re done! Thank you for reading! Hope you liked/loved the story! See ya in my other projects~ (≧∇≦)
