Chapter 007: The Appointment at Feilai Peak

Does this mean I no longer need to look for you in the future

Han wept for a while before continuing: "Currently, Master Zeng is still imprisoned in the county jail. On the day the case was concluded, the eldest son of the Zeng family visited the county office. After he returned, the matriarch of the Zeng family expelled me from the household and even returned my contract. I could not bear to see Master Zeng suffer this imprisonment, so I sought out County Magistrate Miao, hoping he could show leniency..."

As Yang Yi entered the cave, a soft, warm jade-like body, accompanied by a faint fragrance, leaped into his embrace. In any case, it was merely a fleeting encounter, and Yang Yi did not reject her caresses. Moreover, this woman was beautiful, possessing the qualities that stirred a man's desire for conquest.

Yang Yi smiled; perhaps what she said was true, or perhaps it was just something she said in a moment of excitement. Yang Yi felt there was no need to pursue the truth behind it, as long as she did not betray him now.

Yang Yi's rebuttal of Zhu Guangting at the Hangzhou Academy spread through the city of Hangzhou with extraordinary speed, and by the next morning, it had become widely known throughout the city. Even the street vendors were discussing this matter as a topic of conversation during their meals.

On the peak, there are no stones that are not peculiar, no trees that are not ancient, and no caves that are not secluded. The strange rocks are steep, the ancient trees are lush, and the caves and ravines are widespread. The so-called old place mentioned by the Han family is located at the western foot of Feilai Peak, where a cool spring is hidden in the depths of the green shade. Usually, this area is sparsely populated, making it an excellent spot for secret meetings.

I absolutely refuse to comply

Moreover, at that time, his judgment against Zeng for false accusations was merely an opportunity to strike at the Zeng family, in order to achieve his goal of seizing the Han family, and he did not genuinely believe in the innocence of himself and the Han family.

Li Lang, why have you only just arrived? I have missed you so much!

It is said that after Zhu Guangting regained consciousness from his fainting spell, he fell ill and requested the educational commissioner of Hangzhou to revoke Yang Yiju's status as a scholar. However, for some unknown reason, he was gently rebuffed by Lu Xiyu, the governor of Hangzhou. Yang Yi was unsure whether Lu Xiyu belonged to a different faction than Zhu Guangting, which led to such a slight against him.

Be honest, if you continue like this, be careful that I will deal with you again

Yang Yi found it secretly amusing; it seemed that the Han family was indeed quite astute at times. She clearly understood that Miao An had an interest in her; otherwise, what reason would a mere concubine have to seek out Miao An

Oh! Li Lang... so beautiful! Hmm, I am utterly beautiful...

On the appointed day, after having breakfast, Yang Yi headed to Feilai Peak. The area around Feilai Peak is mostly comprised of temples, with very few ordinary households. Typically, those who come here are either pilgrims or leisurely tourists.

Han's final soft call was tender and charming, enough to stir the heart of any man. Perhaps having been together for a long time, this woman appeared exceedingly proactive. After calling out, she lightly tugged at her clothing, removing her outer garment. The lake-green bodice wrapped around her ample curves, with a deep ravine in the middle that seemed bottomless.

Li Lang, isn't this making a big deal out of things

However, the Han family clearly underestimated the situation. After the eldest son of the Zeng family visited the government office, the Zeng family expelled the Han family from their home and even returned the marriage contract. If it were not for Miao An applying pressure from behind and using this as a condition for releasing Zeng Renxing from prison, the Zeng family would not have been so accommodating. Even if they could not find any real evidence against the Han family, the fact that a mere concubine caused the head of the family to end up in prison was enough for the Zeng family not to easily let the Han family go.

Li Lang... the family misses you!

Once a person is elevated to the status of a deity, even their excrement is considered fragrant. What does it matter to cede a few cities or to sell out a small portion of the nation? The divine has its own reasoning, which cannot be fathomed by ordinary people using common logic

Han's hands continued to explore his body, and she raised a pair of watery eyes to Yang Yi, saying: "At last, Li Lang has a bit of conscience, knowing to care for me. It is not in vain that I have tied my heart to you."

The stone slab resembles a bed, and with this cave nestled deep within the dense shade, sitting on it is exceedingly refreshing

Alright, I will comply with everything that you, my lord, desire, my lord...

Does Li Lang really trust me?

No matter what, one must never entrust one's fate to the pity of others, nor should one expect someone like Miao An to be magnanimous and let one off. What a joke; one must take the initiative!

He certainly won't overtly force you to go

"Bi'er, do not rush; we have plenty of time. First, tell me how you are doing now, and has Miao An ever had any improper thoughts about you?"

Alright, I believe you, but do not speak carelessly! It is indeed quite credible that Han would make such a venomous oath; unlike in later times, where oaths are treated as mere nonsense, people nowadays hold a greater reverence for heaven and earth. Even wicked individuals do not dare to utter such a malicious vow lightly

That day, he easily let himself off the hook, merely intending to use his connection with the Zeng family's case to suppress them first. As for himself, a scholar without any foundation, in Miao An's view, dealing with him was probably akin to crushing an ant. Previously, Li Yi had already committed numerous misdeeds; as long as he wanted to investigate, he could quickly come up with a dozen serious offenses against him.

Yang Yi deliberately sighed and said: "Miao Anhua has exerted such great effort, even to the extent that your expulsion from the Zeng family aligns with his intentions. It seems he will not let you off easily! We must think of a way to deal with this!"

Miao An is not a good person; consider this as a strict punishment for him on behalf of the people. What is there to be concerned about?

Fortunately, Zhu Guangting seemed to be aware of the embarrassment he caused, as he did not stay long in Hangzhou and left the next day

Upon seeing Yang Yi, she nodded affirmatively at her and the book. In an instant, she seemed to collapse, throwing herself into his arms and sobbing uncontrollably, until her tears soaked his entire chest. Only then did she gradually quiet her sobs and say: "I thought I would be lonely for the rest of my life, Li Lang. In my heart, there is truly only you. If you no longer want me, I cannot accommodate anyone else!"

Eliminating Miao An directly is not to be discussed in terms of feasibility, but the risks are too great. Unless absolutely necessary, there is no need to take this step. Therefore, the remaining option is to tarnish Miao An's reputation, causing him to lose his official position. Without the authority of a county magistrate, he would no longer be so formidable. Yang Yi contemplated extensively and roughly devised a feasible plan, but it required the cooperation of the Han family.

Is it true? Is what Li Lang said true?

In Hangzhou, the literary atmosphere is flourishing, and there are many scholars. They passionately cite references and argue heatedly over the points made by Yang Yi and Zhu Guangting. However, if you listen closely, you will find that no matter how fiercely these scholars debate, they deliberately avoid mentioning one person—Sima Guang

Yang Yi carefully considered Miao An's character. This individual had committed numerous acts of corruption and injustice. If one were to harbor any illusions about such a person, it would undoubtedly lead to a tragic end, likely suffering greatly in prison, becoming a mass of decaying flesh infested with rats and ants

I hope he thinks so; Yang Yi is more than happy for him to think that way. After all, I never intended to squeeze into a class with you hypocrites.

The crisis is gradually approaching, and it seems that taking the initiative is the hard truth! How can we make that scoundrel Miao An drink a cup first?

No one dares to say a word against him

Today, upon hearing the words of Li Lang, even if it means I must toil like a beast of burden, I would willingly die for it. Li Lang, do not doubt me; in the future, you shall see. If I have even the slightest transgression against you, may I be struck by five thunders!

At this moment, Han seemed like a child, shedding tears while wearing a smile, as if to repay him, continuously kissing him. The soft and towering peaks rubbed against his chest, and the warm touch ignited Yang Yi's anger once more, prompting him to slap her smooth and perky backside without hesitation.

Since Miao An does not believe that he and the Han family are innocent, will he allow himself, this 'adulterer', to continue living freely? In the future, will the Han family become his concubine or mistress, leaving him to wear the green hat?

It is estimated that these scholars nowadays are truly vying for Sima Guang's relics—perhaps even a pile of excrement, and there might indeed be many who would take it home to venerate.

It is evident that Miao An's intention to target the Han family has become quite clear. It is normal that when the Han family sought him at the county office this time, he did not take action. Even if Miao An were to be extremely impatient, it would be impossible for him to act against the Han family the day after the judge was imprisoned; that would be too obvious.

As Yang Yi arrived at the site, he noticed two of Han's personal maids sitting in the grass ahead, whispering and chatting softly. Upon seeing Yang Yi, they covered their mouths and giggled, gently pointing towards the cave behind them. Yang Yi understood and quickly walked towards the cave.

Yang Xuer also heard about this matter, and when she came before Yang Yi, it was another scene of torrential tears. Yang Yi had no choice but to patiently comfort her for a while, then slipped out to stroll around the streets. In the past, some classmates who had been on good terms with Li Yi deliberately avoided him, as if they had seen a plague god. Yang Yi didn't care; he thought to himself, I won't even bother with you!

Han raised his head, and a pair of watery eyes glanced at him. There was no doubt, a fierce battle was about to unfold once again in the cave

Han seemed very concerned about Yang Yi's feelings. Seeing that Yang Yi did not express his stance, she became so anxious that tears welled up in her eyes. It was only when Yang Yi nodded to her that she let out a long sigh and tightly nestled into his embrace, continuing to say: "That County Magistrate Miao has also agreed to be lenient with Master Zeng. Li Lang, please do not blame me, alright? That day in the court, it was for our lives that I acted that way. However, I have been married to Master Zeng, and he is already of considerable age. I truly cannot bear to see him suffer that kind of punishment! Li Lang..."

Han spoke softly, her spirit waning. Yang Yi patted her back gently to offer comfort and said calmly: "To be honest, I have never thought about things like achieving high honors or holding high office. Having beautiful concubines is indeed a possibility, as long as you truly wish to follow me, I would not abandon you."

Yang Yi had originally prepared himself to wander the world. He had only been in this world for a few days and felt no sense of belonging; it did not matter where he roamed. The only thing that troubled him was his indecisive and easily influenced mother, Yang Xu'er.

Yang Yi wrapped his arms around her delicate waist, and she entwined around him like a vine, her softness brushing against his chest. Yang Yi did not immediately push her away, nor could he let her feel too much change in his demeanor. Thus, he held her and sat down on a piece of green stone slab in the cave.

Who is Sima Guang

Han seemed to suddenly regain strength, her waist twisting like a water snake as she tightly embraced his body, resembling a child who had suddenly found support. Her eyes became bright, with tears glistening as they opened and closed.

Of course, it does not mean that he will let Yang Yi off the hook. As long as he remains an official in the court, it is likely that Yang Yi will never have the chance to succeed in the imperial examination in his lifetime. While he may not be able to control the entire imperial examination system of the Song Dynasty, it is not difficult for him to influence the examination prospects of an individual like Yang Yi. For scholars, being deprived of the opportunity to take the imperial examination is considered a severe punishment.

Although Yang Yi left Zhu Guangting speechless and fainted on the spot, there are currently very few people supporting his argument. Many have labeled Yang Yi as disrespectful to his elders, contemptuous of court officials, and ignorant and arrogant.

"If I must tidy up, then so be it. As I have said, today upon hearing Li Lang's words, I would willingly die for them."

Yang Yi said: "You have done nothing wrong. Now that you are no longer a member of the Zeng family, as long as he does not entangle himself with you in the future, let this matter rest. By the way, where are you living now? How are you making a living?"

From this incident, Yang Yi understood a principle: some people, even after death, if you do not shatter their divine status or transform them from deities into demons, their thoughts and will can still influence and overshadow generations, even possessing greater power than when they were alive

If you truly do not wish to keep me, I would not dare to utter a single word of complaint. In truth, I understand that you look down upon women like me. You are exceptionally talented and are destined to achieve great success, earning high official positions and enjoying endless wealth, with beautiful wives and concubines by your side. I am but a willow by the river, a speck of dust on the road. To have received your affection today is enough for me, and I have never dared to wish for more.

Sima Guang is the deity they need to worship— a god! The one who authored the monumental work "Zizhi Tongjian"— a god!

At this time in the Song Dynasty, there was a division between the new and old parties. After the entire new party was exiled, the ruling old party split into three factions: the Shuo Party, the Luo Party, and the Shu Party. These three old parties often undermined each other and engaged in mutual attacks. It would not be surprising if Lu Xiyu and Zhu Guangting belonged to opposing factions and took this opportunity to create difficulties for Zhu Guangting.

Li Lang, rest assured. The day I left the yamen, I knew that I could no longer stay in the Zeng family, so I had Xi'er rent a small courtyard in Huqingfang in the city. I still have some savings, which I had Xi'er bring out with her. For now, this will do. Later, I will think of ways to open a shop and make a living. As long as you do not ignore me, I fear nothing!

As the green apron from the lake slipped down, Han twisted her snake-like waist, actively offering the peak to his mouth, filling the air with a delicate fragrance

I am aware, but I cannot guess what underhanded tactics he will employ at this moment; I can only think of a solution when the time comes

Yang Yi caught her hand that was groping towards her thigh and urged, "I naturally understand your intentions, but first, can you tell me how things are?"

Upon hearing this, Han immediately raised her head and earnestly explained to Yang Yi: "Li Lang, rest assured, my heart is filled only with you, completely filled with you. Although County Magistrate Miao... was dragged over by me, I did not let him succeed! Li Lang, will you believe me?"

Han cast a glance at him and then said: "This time, I am entirely doing this for Li Lang. You must not abandon me. I did not expect things to escalate to this point. To be fair, the Zeng family has not wronged me. Although the madam has always suppressed me, wishing to expel me from the Zeng family, Master Zeng has treated me quite well. Alas! Ever since I met Li Lang, I have felt as if I have lost my soul. Day and night, I think of him. Li Lang, I truly cannot live without you. Even if you were to ask me to die right now, I would comply; I just cannot be without you!"

It is indeed not easy for a woman like Han Biluo to find herself in such a situation. If it weren't for what happened today in the cave, Yang Yi wouldn't care much. However, since the deed has been done, he should take responsibility like a man. What kind of behavior is it to abandon a vulnerable woman to fend for herself after having had his fun?

At this moment, Han's family suddenly began to cry softly. From her mournful gaze, it did not seem like she was pretending. Yang Yi patted her delicate shoulder, offering a slight comfort, and no longer urged her.

The reason is quite simple. If Yang Yiruoguang were to focus solely on Zhu Guangting, he might gain more support. Although Zhu Guangting is a disciple of Cheng Yi and an official in the court, his status among literati is still somewhat lacking. However, this time, Yang Yi has attacked both Zhu Guangting and Sima Guang together

For Yang Yi, the state academy incident has become a thing of the past; he is too indifferent to care about how others perceive him. However, the seventh concubine, Han, must handle the situation with care, as it would be unworthy to bear the stigma of adultery over this matter

As for Qin Zigui, who was a classmate of Li Yi and had shared indulgences with him, he remained as close as ever, showing no change in attitude due to the Zhu Guangting incident. He even took Yang Yi to a brothel to enjoy some entertainment, which indicates that Li Yi had indeed made a good friend in the past, and as a result, Yang Yi also developed a favorable impression of him

Yang Yi did not expect the situation to change so drastically. After all, it is true that the Han family can no longer stay in the Zeng family. With her cleverness, it is not surprising that she could manage to get her hands on some private funds. This is fine; what does it matter! In this world, apart from a lingering concern for that ungrateful mother, nothing else matters.

Yang Yi turned his head to look at her and smiled. She still bore some marks left by his own ravaging. This woman indeed possessed the qualities to drive men to distraction: her beauty was striking, with a slender waist and delicate legs. What was even more remarkable was her versatility in bed, exuding charm in countless ways, her body soft as a lump of dough that had come into contact with water

"Responding to every challenge as it comes is not a solution; that approach is too passive." Yang Yi organized his thoughts from earlier and began to instruct Han in detail.

In the matter concerning Miao An, Yang Yi still requires her cooperation. Moreover, he is not the type of person to be overly sentimental; with just a few swift moves, he could transform her into a delicate white rabbit and indulge in his whims without restraint

After the rain had stopped, Han spent a full incense stick's time before she had the strength to move her body. The flush on her face had not yet completely faded. Softly leaning into Yang Yi's embrace, she said: "Li Lang, I am utterly beautiful. Having such a loving moment with you is enough for me to savor for a lifetime"

I believe it!