Chapter 9, The Night Banquet

The door opened and gently closed again as Li Gan's footsteps left the study. Huo Qubing was eager to see the expression on his face at that moment, along with the handprint on his cheek, but a jade ruyi placed on the desk was suddenly hurled towards the bookshelf by the girl with great force.

Huo Qubing shrugged his shoulders and said, "It seems that I am unwelcome wherever I go; it would be wise for me to leave gracefully."

But when he saw his bruised and battered subordinate, who timidly and resentfully walked into the private room, all his emotions at that moment were utterly ruined, and he was just short of throwing this fool off the second floor

"As long as you are willing to marry me, I do not care whether you are a petty person or not." The girl's boldness was astonishing

He slowly used the bowl lid to skim off the floating tea leaves, and then said: "That day, Mr. Su and his companions were eager to complete the task entrusted by the King of Huainan, which led to an unpleasant conflict with Young Master Huo. It was only afterward that Princess Liu Ling learned of this. She felt deeply remorseful about it and intended to personally visit to apologize, but was concerned that you might harbor resentment and refuse to meet. Therefore, she entrusted this matter to me, Li, for mediation.

Huo Qubing nonchalantly locked eyes with Guan Fu and said: "It is like a poor man who guards barren land, strong and robust yet barely able to fill his stomach three times a day. Coincidentally, his neighbor has plenty to eat and drink, and raises plump livestock that hardly require any effort. What do you think this poor man would do?"

To be a dog at Your Majesty's feet is something I yearn for. Whether a wolfhound or a pug, as long as I can earn Your Majesty's favor and receive a few bones to avoid hunger, what else matters?

Huo Qubing chuckled, "That is a game for the wealthy; as a poor wretch, all I can do is feel envious." Yet, he was still pressed down into his seat by Liu Ling.

I made excuses not to go, and after much contemplation, I could only invite Young Master Huo to have tea at the Ten-Mile Poplar.

If it really comes to that, we won't be able to stay in Chang'an any longer. Moreover, my father would never agree to it

Li Gan fell into a moment of silence. The girl's voice became gentle and triumphant, "You like me, don't you? You cannot deny it; that silly girl holds no appeal for you. Your heart has long been captured by me, hasn't it?"

"I wonder if Young Master Huo has any plans for tonight?" Li Gan set down the teacup, not intending to continue wasting time with this scoundrel.

Liu Ling chuckled softly, her expression charming and amiable. "Are you implying that I will soon be infuriated by you, young master?"

Gradually, the atmosphere became increasingly lively, and everyone passionately expressed their own views, as if each person's argument was quite reasonable, yet they were unable to refute one another.

I humbly apologize for my ignorance, as I cannot comprehend the meaning of Young Master Huo's nodding and shaking of his head

Huo Qubing smiled and unabashedly admired the young girl's ample bosom, saying, "Moreover, I am quite eager to hear it as well"

This time, not only did Su Fei and the other two show expressions of embarrassment and anger, but Li Gan's face also darkened.

Liu Ling was taken aback and said, "Bored? Does Young Master Huo not consider the war and conflict with the Xiongnu barbarians to be a matter of great importance for the court?"

"Young Master Huo, I, Li, am being presumptuous in extending this invitation, please bear with me." Although Li's words were very polite, they seemed somewhat out of place when contrasted with the innate arrogance reflected in his demeanor.

If that day truly comes, I will certainly express my gratitude to the princess in person for her auspicious words this evening

The young girl was nearly driven mad by the shameless and invulnerable scoundrel. Fortunately, at the last moment, she managed to suppress her impulse, disdainfully huffed at Huo Qubing, and slammed the door as she left

Li Gan's expression changed suddenly; he let out a low hum and downed the wine in his cup, turning away and ignoring Huo Qubing

"Young Master Huo, what happened between you and Princess Jin'e?" Liu Ling walked into the study with some surprise, "Why did I see her leaving with a pale face?"

Young Master Huo, you are too polite. Rather than hoping that you will remember my blessings tonight, it is better for me to use all my abilities to prove it to you.

Li Gan felt a sense of disdain. However, he concealed it well and nodded, saying: "It is good tea"

To be precise, I am very happy right now. "Huo Qubing's gaze returned to the other person's face, and he found that the girl's expression when she was angry was extremely charming and amusing. Unable to help himself, he smiled and said: "I initially thought tonight would be a boring banquet, but with your presence, it has immediately transformed into something delightful for me.

Although she is a princess, she does not exhibit the slightest arrogance or haughtiness. With a warm smile and attentive demeanor, she often bursts into a series of bright, bell-like laughs, making her guests feel as if they are basking in the spring breeze.

Huo Qubing gazed at Liu Ling's astonished beauty and suddenly burst into uncontrollable laughter. Although the hall was filled with a cacophony of voices, his laughter stood out as particularly jarring and discordant, drawing the attention of everyone present

At the appointed hour of Wu, the auction commenced. The initial few items were all jade antiques collected by Juyuge from various regions. For the prominent figures of high society present, these were already commonplace, rendering the atmosphere rather mundane

Li Gan suddenly realized that there truly exists such a type of person in the world, who can seamlessly transform the most ordinary flattery into more malicious and piercing sarcasm, leaving you with a belly full of anger that cannot be expressed

Huo Qubing smiled and said, "Princess, you are the most outstanding businessperson I have ever encountered"

Huo Qubing was completely indifferent to the resentful gazes directed at him by Su Fei and others, nodding with a smile and then shaking his head.

Huo Qubing lazily stood up and finished the wine with Liu Ling. Liu Ling handed the wine cup to the maid and asked, "I see that Young Master Huo is silent and reticent; could it be that he is not interested in the topics of discussion among everyone?"

A single stone stirs up a thousand waves, as numerous generals and heroes present compete to place their bids, with the offers rising rapidly and doubling in quick succession. In the end, it was Liu Ling himself who made a move, acquiring this treasured battle belt at an exorbitant price.

But it was you who barged in. I had to wait here for the owner, so I moved behind the bookshelf to casually flip through some books to pass the annoying time. Who would have thought that you would rush in without even asking and start a big commotion? Even if I wanted to remind you that there are other people in the study, I wouldn't have been able to get a word in, would I?

Huo Qubing truly kept his mouth shut, "It's nothing, young lady usually reacts this way when she sees me"

Another general, with a sharp glint in his eyes, coldly remarked: "Are you mocking our Han Dynasty as a bunch of plump cowards?"

Huo Qubing clearly noticed that many astonished gazes were drawn to him, yet he showed no signs of awkwardness or nervousness. He spoke confidently, saying: "The princess is an intelligent person and should understand that whether to go to war or to make peace with the Xiongnu is not something that can be resolved merely by the esteemed gentlemen at the table moving their well-fed tongues."

When Huo Qubing and Li Gan arrived at the princess's residence, the banquet had just begun. The two were seated in the second row facing each other, surrounded by prominent figures from Chang'an whom Huo Qubing did not know.

Nonsense! The young girl seemed to be making an effort to control her volume, so as not to disturb the other distinguished guests tonight. What does it mean to be powerless? You clearly could cancel the engagement. But you don't dare, do you?

Li Gan replied, "Indeed, it is quite amusing." However, there was not a trace of a smile on his face as he said lightly, "So, does this mean that Young Master Huo has accepted the apologies from Mr. Su and the others?"

"Indeed, she cannot compare to you. However, this is my father's wish, and I am powerless to change it," the person replied, surprisingly, was Li Gan, who deliberately lowered his voice and said, "You should understand me"

Huo Qubing, with great interest, examined the young girl before him under the bright candlelight of the study.

The host of the auction, the owner of Jiyu Pavilion, introduced: "This 'Treasure Belt of a Hundred Battles' is a rare gem of the world. When worn around the waist, it can increase one's strength by thirty percent, making one feel as if they have wings. Today, I reluctantly part with it for auction, not for the sake of wealth, but in the hope that a general will wear this treasure and lead a cavalry northward to eliminate the border troubles for our Han Dynasty for a hundred years!"

The generals said: "The Xiongnu barbarians have insulted our Han Dynasty too much; we must reclaim this grievance at all costs"

Huo Qubing leisurely remarked: "Surely, Lieutenant Li would not have wanted to indulge in the pleasures of a wealthy man, would he?"

Li Gan discerned the insinuation in the man's words, as if it were directed at him, actually mocking him for secretly accepting benefits from "friends." He maintained a composed demeanor and smiled faintly, saying: "Entrusted by others, I serve with loyalty. Young Master Huo surely will not take offense." He gently clapped his hands together, raising his voice slightly, and said: "Come out!"

Huo Qubing did not wait for Li Gan's invitation, but directly took a seat, slowly poured a cup of hot tea, and then spilled it into the silver bowl beside him. Only then did he seem to remember that Li Gan was waiting for his response, and he grinned broadly and said, "Good tea"

Huo Qubing casually sat at the banquet, waiting until the three individuals had completed their bows, before suddenly bursting into a hearty laugh

"Damn it!" The girl actually uttered a curse that many men would be ashamed to say, and then, as if releasing a pent-up frustration, she said: "You aren't even worthy to carry his shoes."

"Who knows?" Huo Qubing said with a slight curl of his upper lip, "But I assure you I will do my best to avoid it"

"Prove my insight and sincerity," Liu Ling said slowly. "If Young Master Huo does not refuse, I am willing to offer my humble assistance for your future rise to prominence and nobility."

Liu Ling spoke first: "Mr. Gongsun, please do not be angry. This young man is none other than Huo Qubing, who recently captured the heir of the Right Noble King at the foot of Dingxiang City, forcing the hundred thousand Xiongnu troops to retreat without achieving anything!"

Huo Qubing left the auction venue with his attendants, yet he could still hear the owner of Jiyu Pavilion boasting about the next exhibit.

Time impatiently slips away from the two individuals, while the light outside the window gradually dims and turns red

Stop talking!" Li Gan shouted, "This is impossible; I can only marry her, not you!

Thank you for inviting me for tea, but I must take my leave. Suddenly, Huo Qubing pushed the table away and left his seat, walking towards the door of the private room

You misunderstood. "Huo Qubing said calmly: 'I am actually admiring you. A girl like you, who dares to love and hate, who dares to act, is truly a rare flower in Chang'an. To speak frankly, that fellow just now, despite his seemingly virtuous demeanor, is nothing but a complete hypocrite; he is utterly unworthy of you.'

Huo Qubing was not surprised at all, nor was he the slightest bit angry. He calmly said, "If that is the case, I would rather carry your shoes."

Liu Ling hurriedly said: "General Guanfu, please do not be angry. Let us first listen to Master Huo's insightful opinion."

"I apologize, I lost my composure." Huo Qubing struggled to suppress his laughter, yet a damned smile remained on his face as he said, "That day at the tavern in Bashang, it was us who meddled and injured Mr. Li. I deeply regret it and hope to have the opportunity to apologize to the three of them in person. Who would have thought that before I could even speak today, Mr. Su and the others preemptively apologized to me? Don't you find that amusing?"

Huo Qubing immediately displayed an expression of surprise and admiration, clasped his hands together, and exclaimed: "So the King of Huainan is also a friend of Colonel Li, I am truly honored!"

The young girl was indifferent to the men staring blankly at her chest. On the contrary, if any man were unmoved by her charm, that would truly anger her

Li Gan stared at Huo Qubing in astonishment, as if he had encountered a monster. He realized that he had come across a formidable opponent

"It is not that I do not dare, but that I cannot." Li Gan's tone was relatively calm, "She is the daughter of General Cheng Bushi, and my father is a close friend of her family. Moreover, this engagement was arranged ten years ago, and I cannot refuse it. You wouldn't want me to become a heartless villain scorned by all, would you?"

Huo Qubing leaned forward after listening, his breath nearly spraying onto Li Gan's face, and asked, "So, will Lieutenant Li go or not?"

He is a young man in his twenties, handsome and valiant. Coupled with his distinguished family background and the status of a cavalry officer, he has undoubtedly become the most discussed man among all the noble ladies and young women in Chang'an.

You... that official was so enraged that he coughed violently and shouted, "What are you, daring to mock me?"

The officials stated: "Repeatedly launching military campaigns far away has neither defeated the Xiongnu nor spared the people from hardship and financial strain, bringing countless harms with no benefits. It would be better to emulate the strategy of the late emperor, fostering peace through marriage alliances and appeasement, conserving strength and resources, and compelling the enemy to submit without engaging in battle"

A loud slap echoed in the study, followed by an angry scream, and then an embarrassing silence.

At the same time, he is a person who truly knows how to enjoy life, particularly relishing the tranquility of savoring tea. He has always believed that drinking tea is fundamentally about one's state of mind; otherwise, it would merely be a waste of resources

This is certainly a matter of great importance to the court, but our discussion of it here is merely for show. Naturally, if everyone is simply looking to pass the time with this, I have nothing more to say

"What does the princess want to prove to me?" Huo Qubing seemed not to understand.

What qualifications does Li possess to dare to associate with the King of Huainan? It is merely that he has had a few encounters with the esteemed Princess Liu Ling, the daughter of the prince. Having gained her trust, I can only reluctantly take on the role of a mediator.

With a snap, Huo Qubing first extended a hand from behind the bookshelf to steadily catch the jade ruyi, and then slowly revealed his head, offering a slight smile to the thrower as he said, "It is quite inappropriate to damage someone else's collection"

The scene was silent as a grave, as if everyone was deep in thought. Suddenly, Li Gan coldly remarked: "So, does Young Master Huo mean to say that we, the valiant soldiers who serve the country and are willing to sacrifice our lives, are merely trained wolves and dogs?"

Indeed, not at all wrong. Huo Qubing nodded repeatedly, saying, "If the nobleman could exchange all his vast wealth for military horses and armor, that would be even more correct."

With a loud bang, a general in the front row slammed the table and turned around, shouting angrily: "Nonsense!"

Absurd! An elderly civil official exclaimed: "Although the strategy of war and peace is determined by Your Majesty, the rise and fall of the nation is the responsibility of every individual. What is wrong with us being concerned about national affairs?"

He walked into the study, where the lights were on, but Liu Ling had not yet arrived. Huo Qubing stood with his hands behind his back, walking to the bookshelf and casually browsing through the collection of books from the princess's residence. Just as he turned behind a row of bookshelves, footsteps were heard from outside the room

Nodding means that I am thanking Colonel Li for his tireless efforts in mediating; shaking my head indicates that I cannot accept the apologies from these three gentlemen. Before the other party's expression changed dramatically, Huo Qubing continued, "The three of them are loyal to the lord; what crime have they committed? If I accept their apology, would I not be a fool who does not understand reason?"

"Not at all, what I mean is that this wealthy man is truly the most courageous and wise person in the world." Huo Qubing raised his glass and smiled at the other party, saying, "When he realizes he cannot resist, he will endure humiliation and gather strength. Because this wealthy man understands that his resources are far more abundant than those of his neighbors, as long as he does not exhaust his vitality, there will eventually come a day when he can turn the situation around.

Huo Qubing set down his wine cup and smiled, saying: "I generally do not wish to waste my breath on such a boring topic"

"You are too naive, Xiao E," Li replied. "The issues in this world are far more complex than mere likes and dislikes. Please forget about me; I will no longer meet with you privately in the future."

Su Fei and the two others bowed to Li Gan, then retreated to the adjacent private room and closed the sliding door again

Amidst the sighs and praises of the crowd, a servant quietly approached behind Huo Qubing and leaned in to whisper: "Young Master Huo, the princess requests your presence in her study for a discussion"

At this moment, Liu Ling arrived at Huo Qubing's table, smiling and saying: "Young Master Huo, recently many of my father's guests have offended you. I would like to offer you a cup on behalf of my father, as a token of apology"

After he exchanged a glance, Su Fei and the other two expressionlessly bowed to Young Master Huo and said: "We apologize to Young Master Huo!"

After speaking, she shot a glare at Huo Qubing and, with a smile, complained: "Young Master Huo's words are rather harsh. Who does not know that Lord Gongsun Hong is a man of integrity, with nothing but his two sleeves and no wealth to speak of? He is one of the few esteemed and virtuous old ministers of the Han Dynasty"

The young girl was taken aback, completely unprepared to find another person hidden behind the bookshelf. However, she quickly regained her composure, straightened up, and put on an air of authority, saying, "Young master, you should let people know you are here. Moreover, eavesdropping on others is the most despicable behavior."

Bang! That was the sound of the door being slammed shut. Then came the voice of an angry young girl: "Are you really going to marry that silly girl who can only embroider and giggle?"

"Young Master Huo, do you find what Li has done to be quite laughable?"

Huo Qubing squinted his eyes at the general who had scolded him, and with a chuckle said: "General, why is one of your front teeth missing? Could it be that the Xiongnu are also very interested in your teeth?"

However, she could not tolerate the expression on Huo Qubing's face when he spoke, nor his brazen and shameless remarks. In a fit of rage, she exclaimed: "Are you pleased with yourself now?"

However, it is evident that this tactic was ineffective against Huo Qubing. When dealing with such individuals, the best approach is to be straightforward.

He did not rise, sitting high in the chair like a majestic figure, exuding the arrogance of youth. His snow-white robe accentuated his cold and proud demeanor, while a silver-sheathed sword lay beside his kneeling legs

Then let us elope! We can go south, or even to the steppes of the Xiongnu. At that time, you can tend the sheep while I milk the cows, and we will never have to care about what others say. I can also bear you many, many children. As long as you like, we can sing under the blue sky and wander together.

Someone pushed the door open and entered, but it was not Liu Ling

Now that the wealthy man's wolfdog has finally grown strong, do you think he will continue to keep this dog at home wasting food, or will he let it out to bite that poor man

"Then why do you want to seduce me? You clearly know you are already engaged, so why do you still have feelings for me?"

Huo Qubing smiled without answering, adopting an attitude of attentive listening. Li Gan had no choice but to continue, "Tonight, Princess Liu Ling will hold a grand evening banquet at her residence, followed by an auction of treasures from 'Jiyu Pavilion'. Prominent officials and celebrities from Chang'an will be in attendance, and the four young masters of the Huo family are also included in the guest list specially selected by the princess."

During the auction, Huo Qubing appeared to be drunk, leaning there and sleeping soundly, oblivious to his surroundings. Only at this moment did he lift his eyelids slightly, glance at the Hundred Battles Treasure Belt, then yawn and close his eyes again

However, what is unexpected is that after the two individuals exchanged these three lines of dialogue, they both fell into a state of having nothing more to say. They sat facing each other, seemingly intent on competing in some way, silently savoring the fragrant tea, to the extent that even their gazes could not find a way to communicate.

Li Gan sat alone in the spacious private room on the second floor of the Shili Yang Tea House, leisurely savoring the fragrance of the tea

However, not long after, the discussion turned into a debate, and the guests at the banquet consciously or unconsciously divided into two factions

Her skin was as pure and delicate as a magnolia flower, and her large, dark eyes were filled with a wild spirit, coldly gazing at him.

"Are you mocking me?" The young girl's expression was one of anger yet pride, "Do not think that just because you have caught me in a bind, you can speak recklessly. If you wish to spread rumors, go ahead; I will not be afraid!"

Then I shall accept your kindness first Liu Ling invited Huo Qubing to take a seat and praised him saying The metaphor you presented at the banquet was refreshing and profound, and I have learned a great deal from it A young talent like you cannot remain hidden in the mountains for long, and your rise to prominence is just around the corner

Li Gan's expression softened, and he nodded, saying: "Young Master Huo is magnanimous, and I, Li, admire him."

He has always been accustomed to setting traps in advance, patiently waiting for the prey to fall into the snare on its own

Then please allow me to present the first investment to you, my lord." Liu Ling smiled gently as she pushed a brocade box in front of him

She appeared to be around fifteen or sixteen years old, with a figure that was full yet retained a delicate grace. Dressed in a magnificent palace gown, she was clearly the result of careful preparation, radiating a dazzling brilliance.

Li Gan casually raised his teacup to block the unpleasant aura blowing from across the table and replied, "If Young Master Huo does not mind, I would be happy to accompany you."

When the fourth treasure was taken out for display, the hall was immediately filled with exclamations of astonishment

Huo Qubing watched the girl leave, smiling to himself and saying, "This girl is indeed a bit different; she is truly a remarkable person."

Huo Qubing let out a long "oh," then sat back down, chuckling as he said, "One is soft when fed and short-handed when receiving; it seems that Lieutenant Li is well-versed in this principle."

Mr. Li, at the request of a friend, wishes to resolve a misunderstanding between him and Young Master Huo. May I ask if Young Master Huo would be willing to grant this favor

Liu Ling grasped his arm and smiled charmingly, saying: "Young Master, please stay a moment. If you take your leave during the banquet, won't it lead others to misunderstand that I am neglecting a distinguished guest? Moreover, there will soon be a treasure auction at the Jiyu Pavilion; it would be beneficial to broaden one's horizons."

At the banquet, the most discussed topic was the recent invasion by the Xiongnu army. Not only was Dingxiang attacked, but also Daijun and Shangjun suffered from the trampling of the Xiongnu cavalry, resulting in heavy casualties among both military and civilians, causing a sensation throughout the court and the public. In comparison, the losses in Dingxiang were not significant, while in the other two places, even the city walls were dismantled by the Xiongnu.

Unbeknownst to him, Huo Qubing seemed to have become the focus of the banquet, yet he still maintained an air of nonchalance. He continued, "In fact, the wealthy have no choice. If they do not unleash their guard dogs to tear at the poor, and instead live in comfort and luxury all day, they will eventually become nothing more than a flabby, unmotivated lapdog. At that point, when the poor come to bully them, they will only be left to suffer the consequences."

Princess Liu Ling had little time to sit at the head table, constantly moving among the guests to toast and engage in conversation. Dressed in resplendent and alluring attire, she was undoubtedly the most eye-catching gem of the evening's banquet

I have no profound insights; the matter is quite clear. Whether to engage in battle or not depends on the Xiongnu, while the decision to make peace or not rests with the Emperor of the Han. Furthermore, one could say that this is all the will of Heaven; we are merely its pawns.

The sliding door on the left side of the private room was pulled open, and Su Fei, Zuo Wu, and Li Shang entered in succession