Chapter 009: A Discussion Between Two Illegitimate Sons

Hangzhou is not only the seat of the prefecture but also the administrative center of the Liangzhe Circuit. The number of official offices in the city is as numerous as the hairs on a cow. In comparison, Qiantang's magistrate, Miao An, is merely a small fish. However, my own power is even smaller; to bring him down, I must borrow strength from his political enemies. Upon hearing that Miao An has conflicts with two high-ranking officials in Hangzhou, although he is protected by the military governor, Yang Yi feels that his plan can likely be implemented smoothly.

Perhaps, fragility is also a form of strength

Although Yang was soft-spoken, she was not foolish. She said, "As long as my son knows his own limits, that is enough. Mother has noticed that you have not been able to concentrate on your studies these past few days, which is why I spoke to you. My son, stop fiddling with these things and go upstairs to study! Mother will make you a bowl of lotus seed soup to nourish your body."

Zhang Zhun did not expect Yang Yi to hold such a high opinion of Wang Anshi, far exceeding his expectations He remained silent, signaling for Yang Yi to continue speaking

In such a harmonious atmosphere, Yang Yi subtly inquired and quickly gained a deeper understanding of Miao An's affairs. This individual not only engaged in corruption and abuse of power but also frequently disregarded human life. This not only intensified Yang Yi's sense of crisis but also strengthened his resolve to bring him down

Mother, the child has grown up, and you need not worry too much. The child knows how to act with discretion. In fact, studying also emphasizes a balance between work and leisure. If one spends all day holding a book, it may lead to achieving less with more effort.

Yang Yi found it somewhat amusing yet also poignant. It is often said that a doting mother spoils her child, but in the case of the Yang family, it is not merely affection; rather than teaching her son, it would be more accurate to say she is pleading. No wonder Li Yi used to indulge in a carefree and reckless lifestyle outside. As Yang Yi looked at the faint crow's feet at the corners of her eyes, he felt a twinge of compassion. If Yang Shi had been harsh and tyrannical, he would have been indifferent, but when everything she said was like the wind passing by, her weak demeanor made it impossible for him to feel rebellious.

The two individuals, slightly intoxicated, were thoroughly enjoying themselves. Suddenly, Zhang Jun said: "I have heard your remarks in the provincial academy, and you seem quite dismissive of the old party. What is your opinion on Wang Jinggong and the reforms he advocated?"

Zhang Zhun has always been a staunch supporter of the new laws, but after listening to Yang Yi's speech today, he couldn't help but feel a chill and surprise. The previous carefree demeanor vanished, and he actually stood up solemnly to bow to Yang Yi.

After Yang Yi returned to the city, he immediately went to inquire about Miao An's background. Under the pretext of expressing gratitude for the information provided to him that day, he invited Zhang Long and Zhao Chai to a tavern for drinks. The three of them enjoyed themselves at the table, with Yang Yi addressing them as Brother Zhang and Brother Zhao, as if they were close brothers. Seeing him, a scholar, treating them, the local officials, with such courtesy, Zhang Long and Zhao Chai felt a surge of goodwill towards him. Moreover, forming a friendship with a talented individual like Yang Yi not only brought them prestige, but if Yang Yi were to achieve success in the future, they might even be able to associate with someone of high status.

Yang Yi's statement once again left Zhang Dun greatly astonished. Given Yang Yi's remarks at the provincial academy and his admiration for Wang Anshi, he should have been a staunch supporter of Wang Anshi's new policies. However, listening to Yang Yi's words, he seemed to have sharply divided Wang Anshi's new laws, which raises the question of whether this can still be considered a supportive attitude

As the saying goes, a cunning rabbit has three burrows; it seems I also need to create another small burrow for myself. I will move out and live for a while before deciding what to do next

Yang Yi responded to the celestial phenomena, which elicited a hearty laugh from Zhang Zhun. The two of them, in the pavilion, enjoyed the pine breeze and the sunlight, the reflections of the lake and the mountains, raising their cups in toasts. Zhang Zhun was a straightforward character, only concerned with the purpose of things, unconcerned with empty formalities. Moreover, Yang Yi discerned his sentiments through the sound of the guqin, offering comfort with Han Yu's "Yi Lan Cao," feeling a profound connection with a kindred spirit.

His inexpensive mother, Mrs. Yang, noticed that he was somewhat neglecting his studies. After a moment's hesitation, she spoke up to advise him: "Yi'er, what is the matter with you? The matters of the provincial school have only just settled down, and these past few days you have not been studying properly, but instead are fiddling with these trivial items. Yi'er, I beg you, please go back and study diligently!"

Yang Yi smiled, is this meant to test me? I dare not speak of other matters, but when it comes to knowledge, we have at least a thousand years of historical development to draw upon. If I cannot even win an argument on this, then I truly have no place here

Yang Yi no longer declined. Regardless of whether Zhang Zhun could make a comeback in the future, associating with such an upright person was always a great joy in life. Thus, he boldly declared: "Among the perfect individuals in the three generations, only Wang Jinggong can be considered as such"

More importantly, Zhang Dun is a leading figure of the reformist faction, while Yang Yi publicly criticized the old party member Zhu Guangting at the provincial academy, even labeling Sima Guang as a traitor. Now that the new party has been entirely relegated, the court is dominated by the old party. At this time, Yang Yi dares to denounce the soul of the old party, Sima Guang, as a traitor; such courage is rare in the world. This is the fundamental reason why Zhang Dun, upon first meeting him, regarded him as a confidant

After dining with Zhang Long and the others, Yang Yi found a shop that specialized in sewing shoes, socks, and caps. He had them modify a pair of high-top boots according to his specifications. Once they were completed, he took them home and tinkered with them for another hour. When he tried them on, he instantly appeared a few centimeters taller. The first pair of height-increasing shoes in the Song Dynasty was finally completed.

How should this be said

In other words, Wan Sheng believes that Wang Jinggong's new policies are half acceptable and half inappropriate

Could you please elaborate in detail?

Hahaha

The second matter is that it was learned that Miao An had grievances with the Prefect Lu Xiyu and the Chief Justice Yu Yingxian, but maintained a good relationship with the Commissioner Feng Guoshun, thus being considered part of Feng Guoshun's faction in the officialdom

The green mountains are faintly visible, and the clear waters are free of worries. Regarding this beautiful landscape of hills and fields, let us today discuss it as if it were a breeze. Young friend, please feel free to express your thoughts

He quickly took off his platform shoes and hurried upstairs after a few quick steps

With Yang Yi's guidance, two pieces of information were learned from Zhang Long and others. The first is that yesterday, Miao An had summoned the county's constable, Li Tao, to inquire about Yang Yi. The previous lawsuit has been resolved, and Miao An's inquiry into his own situation through Constable Li Tao is quite intriguing. This point further confirms that Miao An is unlikely to let this matter go.

The two of them drank together in the pavilion for nearly two hours. Zhang Zhun inquired about his place of residence and invited him to frequently visit the Dongxiao Palace, after which he finally let him descend the mountain

Yang Yi's analysis of the exemption from labor law is acceptable, but his analysis of the Qing law left Zhang Dun utterly shocked. Indeed, if a decree offends everyone in the world, regardless of whether they are rich or poor, and fails to gain the support of any social class, then the enforcement of such a decree would put the court in jeopardy

What is your opinion on the new policies implemented by Wang Jinggong?

Zhang Zhun laughed heartily once again, finding Yang Yi's exceptional insights, carefree personality, and flamboyant demeanor perfectly to his liking. He repeatedly exclaimed how they regretted not meeting sooner, maintaining his address of Yang Yi as a young friend, while referring to himself as an old man instead of an old fool. The difference of a single word carries significant meaning; 'old man' implies a degree of arrogance, whereas 'old fool' conveys a sense of humility.

Yang Yi did not even move his body, and with a calm smile said: "Sir, you seem to be losing your composure! Who was it that just said, 'The green mountains are hazy, the waters are carefree'? Regarding this beautiful landscape, what we discuss today is merely idle talk. Are you truly a person who speaks insincerely? That would indeed disappoint me greatly!"

Confucius said, "In a group of three, there must be a teacher among them." This statement has indeed not deceived me. Today, in this rural setting, to hear such enlightening words from a young friend is truly fortunate! I, in my old age, have devoted half my life to promoting new laws, and only today do I realize the errors of the past. It is truly like a refreshing awakening. Young friend, please allow me to bow to you!

Yang Yi was alone upstairs, contemplating. It is now basically certain that Miao An intends to take action against him, but he does not know when exactly this will happen. In Yang Yi's speculation, it should take some time; however, this is merely his own conjecture. If he remains trapped at home, Miao An will strike with precision, leaving him no opportunity to respond.

Yang Yi was left speechless! Completely defeated by the meticulous care and ocean-deep maternal love of the Yang family. Yes, she is very fragile, yet she is all-encompassing. Yang Yi believes he still possesses a shred of conscience, thus he cannot harbor any thoughts of resistance.

In the midst of the mountains and forests, the resounding laughter of Zhang Zhun echoed with unparalleled joy and exuberance. The two occasionally vied for the wine flask, competing to pour wine for each other, and indulged in hearty drinking by the lakeside.

Zhang Zhun wanted Yang Yi to elaborate on other new methods, but Yang Yi responded off-topic: "Sir, let’s leave it for today. It would not be pleasant to quarrel over just this one pot of wine. If we are fortunate enough to meet again, you must prepare more. What kind of cups do you want? The Milky Way as the wine, and the Big Dipper as the ladle; that way, drinking will truly be enjoyable"

Of course, the term 'wan sheng' refers to the integrity of Wang Jinggong. During his administration, Wang Jinggong never used personal grievances to attack his political opponents, and he believed that there was nothing that could not be openly discussed. Such integrity is worthy of emulation by every person in power

"In discussing matters of the world, I have always adhered to this mindset. If I delve deeper and inadvertently show disrespect to the sages of the past, I hope you will not take offense, esteemed sir"

Half and half