Wei and Jin did not submit to Zhou

Chapter 217 Taking the Table for the Feast (2)

Just as Shi Shouxin was being entrusted with an important task by Sima Zhao at the Prince of Jin's residence, Wei Guan was also waiting for him in the house where Shi Shouxin was staying, because they had important matters to discuss.

At this moment, in a side room in the courtyard, Wei Guan looked at his niece Wei Xiu, whose face was beaming with joy, and felt a mix of emotions.

There was relief, guilt, and helplessness at the thought that the silly girl wouldn't send any messages home.

After a moment of awkward silence, he finally spoke, asking, "Xiuniang, you've been a concubine for several months now. How come... you're still a virgin? Has Mr. Shi disliked you?"

Wei Guan was too embarrassed to ask this question, but he couldn't leave it unasked. He was usually a very observant person, and he could almost immediately tell what was going on with his niece.

Sending one's own niece away is meant to win people over; if she is disliked, it will not only fail to serve its purpose of marriage alliance but will also damage the cooperative relationship between the parties.

Wei Guan was a smart man, and he naturally knew that what matters in doing things is practical results, not superficial appearances.

"Uncle, the truth is..."

Halfway through her sentence, Wei Xiu stopped, unsure how to continue, and her raised hand fell to the ground.

She and Shi Shouxin never actually engaged in a "hot war," but whenever they had the chance, they would conduct highly intense "military exercises."

If we consider the standards for Shi Shouxin's videos from his previous life, they would definitely be considered adult content, so how can it be said that they were disliked?

“Uncle, Alang has always been very kind to me.”

Wei Xiu gave an awkward smile and made up an excuse. She couldn't use those things in bed as an example to refute Wei Guan.

In fact, there were many embarrassing little things between her and Shi Shouxin that they couldn't tell outsiders, things that were like dry tinder and raging fire.

Could it be that Wei Xiu said she and Shi Shouxin were intimate in the military tent last night?

It would prove to Wei Guan that she was very favored, but it wouldn't be appropriate to talk about these private matters.

You should take good care of yourself; forced relationships are never sweet.

If you are truly disliked or hated, you can go back to your home.

I'll go and explain to Shi Langjun; you don't need to overthink it.

Madam Zhong is merely a concubine; given the Wei family's status, it wouldn't be difficult for him to send you back.

"If you can't take it anymore, don't bottle it up inside."

Wei Guan sighed and offered some words of comfort to Wei Xiu.

However, he seemed to have misunderstood the other party's meaning.

"No need, no need, I'm really fine."

Wei Xiu was so frightened that she quickly waved her hands. Seeing that Wei Xiu's attitude was very firm and she had no intention of going home, Wei Guan had no choice but to give up the idea.

Suddenly, he sat up straight and asked solemnly, "How is Young Master Shi doing in Qingzhou?"

"Uncle, this... Alang doesn't want me to say."

Recalling Yang Huiyu's romantic escapades, Wei Xiu hesitated and politely declined. She seemed unsure of what Wei Guan wanted to know, but the matter of Yang Huiyu was absolutely not to be revealed.

Can't I tell you either?

Wei Guan frowned, a hint of dissatisfaction showing on his face. The two were still chatting across servers, but their thoughts were completely different.

"Uncle, you really can't say this, or I'll be thrown out the door."

Wei Xiu's attitude was very firm.

"Fine, then I won't ask anymore."

Wei Guan sighed again and made some casual conversation, mainly about the changes in his family.

The biggest change in the family recently is that Wei Xiu's father, Wei Shi, has been granted a noble title.

Wei Xiu was not surprised at all, because Shi Shouxin had said long ago that Wei Shi would definitely be granted a title, which was also one of the rewards Sima Zhao bestowed upon the Wei family.

A short while later, Shi Shouxin returned from the Prince of Jin's residence. Wei Xiu knew from this that her uncle must have something important to discuss with her husband, so she quickly left the room.

After Wei Xiu left, Shi Shouxin had just sat down when Wei Guan spoke up: "I have just been appointed by the Prince of Jin as the Commandant of the City Gates of Luoyang."

He was stern and didn't bother with pleasantries, getting straight to the point. Hearing this, Shi Shouxin nodded slightly, recalling Sima Zhao's appointment of him at the Prince of Jin's residence, and seemed to understand what this powerful minister was up to.

“Wei is from Hedong. He caught the eye of the Prince of Jin because of his merit in conquering Shu, but in reality, he has a shallow foundation in Luoyang.”

Wei Guan spoke frankly, without any attempt to conceal anything.

He was also an outsider at the moment, having just entered the core decision-making circle, and his qualifications in this regard were not much better than Shi Shouxin's.

"If one has deep roots in Luoyang, it will probably be difficult to gain the trust of the Prince of Jin."

For example, if we were to compare official positions and seniority, Jia Chong would obviously be the one to step forward and take charge.

But now, the Prince of Jin has not used him, but instead has given important positions to people like us who have no roots in Luoyang.

The reasons behind this are quite complex and difficult to explain in a few words.

Shi Shouxin added a sentence that was truly insightful, revealing Sima Zhao's worries in a single sentence.

Sima Zhao preferred to bring Wei Guan and Shi Shouxin to Luoyang to control the city's defenses at a crucial moment, rather than let Jia Chong handle this matter. This seems to have a deeper meaning.

The reason is simple: the Prince of Jin is frail and sickly, and the Crown Prince should strive to improve himself.

Sima Zhao probably knew all this, and most of his "old comrades" around him likely knew as well. Everyone was betting on Sima Yan, treating Sima Zhao like a doomed futures player.

This diminishes the sense of awe.

Therefore, in Sima Zhao's view, the person who was not involved with any party, had the ability and skill to control the troops, and had already proven his loyalty was the one who should be entrusted with important responsibilities.

Unfortunately, there aren't many people like that.

Although Li Yin was loyal, he was not good at commanding troops. Jia Chong was good at commanding troops, but he was cunning and treacherous. The Yang family, relatives of the emperor, had deep roots in Luoyang.

These people always have one problem or another.

Shi Shouxin and Wei Guan perfectly met these conditions.

"exactly.

Wei heard that the imperial court would issue an edict the next day, granting Shi the position of Commandant of the Capital Region.

If that's true, then the two of us should work together.

Wei Guan said calmly.

"Yes, I am an old acquaintance of Duke Wei, and we have worked closely together in Shu."

If there's anything, just send someone to inform me; there's no need for Lord Wei to come in person for every matter."

Shi Shouxin said with a smile.

After exchanging a few more polite words, he personally escorted Wei Guan out of the courtyard gate before returning to the room where they had just met. He then sat down at the table, arms crossed, deep in thought.

Although Wei Guan didn't say much this time, he didn't utter a single wasted word. In particular, the news that Wei Guan himself had been appointed as the Commandant of the City Gates surprised Shi Shouxin.

The position of "City Gate Commandant" was first established in the Western Han Dynasty, and its main responsibility was to manage the garrison and defense of the city gates of the capital.

Its subordinate officials included the (city gate) Sima and the twelve city gate garrison commanders, forming a complete city defense management system. It underwent a reform during the Eastern Han Dynasty, which reduced some of its powers, and together with the Zhijinwu and the Northern Army Commander, it constituted the central guard system.

Although Cao Wei's power was reduced again, he still firmly controlled the daily defense of all the gates of Luoyang's outer city wall! However, his troops were reduced significantly and could no longer compare with the imperial guards stationed inside and outside the city.

To suggest that this position could orchestrate a mutiny on its own is nothing but a pipe dream, utterly laughable. But when it comes to finding out who has entered or left Luoyang, the information is absolutely accurate!

Moreover, locking the city gates at crucial moments can solve many problems, making its position undeniably important.

Sima Zhao's primary motivation for appointing Wei Guan to this position was likely ensuring he was well-informed.

As for the Commandant of the Capital Region, there's no need to elaborate. He was the official secret service of the imperial court, specializing in arresting people, confiscating their property, and exterminating their families. Shi Bao had served as the Commandant of the Capital Region multiple times and had done a lot of dirty work for Sima Zhao.

This position was frequently filled in Cao Wei, as the ruling Sima clan was not comfortable with it after a long time.

Overall, the City Gate Commandant and the Capital Commandant each have their strengths and weaknesses, but once they join forces, their power is immense.

Neither Wei Guan nor Shi Shouxin knew what trouble had recently occurred in Luoyang. It was either because they were keeping it extremely secret, or because Sima Zhao was being paranoid and seeing threats everywhere before the founding ceremony.

After taking office, there are still many things that need to be investigated thoroughly, so it's hard to say for sure right now.

"It seems that Sima Zhao has done his best to ensure his smooth ascension to the throne."

Anyone who dares to step forward this time is likely to be in big trouble.

Shi Shouxin muttered to himself, pondering what he should do.

As Sima Zhao was a futures trader who died in the futures market, his words cannot be completely trusted, and it is even less likely that Shi Shouxin would do whatever he said.

And this promised reward may very well never be fulfilled.

However, it was impossible to completely disregard Sima Zhao's advice; otherwise, Shi Shouxin would never have lived to see the founding ceremony.

This is a very difficult balance to maintain; one wrong move and things could go wrong. In fact, Wei Guan's solemn expression tonight is probably partly due to this. Back when he participated in the campaign against Shu, Wei Guan faced far worse circumstances, but he seemed much calmer then.

"Everyone has their own difficulties."

Shi Shouxin sighed again.

Sima Zhao had a tough time, Wei Guan had a tough time, and he himself had a tough time as well.

If it's all about "improvement," then nothing is ever easy.

As Shi Shouxin was reflecting on his experience, Wei Xiu, carrying a wine pot, cautiously pushed open the door and entered. Like a cat, she sat down quietly next to Shi Shouxin.

"I've never hit, scolded, or humiliated you, so you don't need to be so careful, do you?"

Shi Shouxin looked at Wei Xiu with a strange expression and asked.

"I'm terrified! How could I not be terrified? My uncle had a secret talk with you, and you two were plotting something sneakily in the middle of the night."

"Don't I know who he is? Something terrible must have happened."

Wei Xiu poured Shi Shouxin a glass of wine and said nervously.

"Tomorrow you will... move into the home of Jia Chong's ex-wife, Li, and live with Jia Yu."

This place might be under surveillance, and it's not safe when I'm not around.

I'll take you there to settle in first, then I'll go to the imperial court to report on my duties."

Shi Shouxin said in a deep voice, and made Wei Xiu sit on his lap.

"Again? I already made a trip here last time because of Jia Bao's matter."

Wei Xiu muttered a complaint, her face full of frustration.

Shi Shouxin nodded and said:
"When we leave Luoyang, we'll take Jia Yu with us. You'll stay there for the time being."

Things won't be peaceful in Luoyang anytime soon. Your uncle said I'll probably be appointed as the Commandant of the Capital Region.

This position makes it easy to offend people, and it wouldn't be good if the victim retaliated against you.

"No way..."

Wei Xiu stood up in surprise. The title "Sili Xiaowei" was a name that resonated with many... He was in charge of confiscating property and was known for his infamous reputation!

Even Wei Xiu, a woman from a prominent family, knew how formidable the Commandant of the Capital Region was.

"If Ah Lang takes a fancy to a woman in Luoyang now, can't he just go and snatch her?"

Out of curiosity, Wei Xiu asked. Although Shi Shouxin would never do such a thing, that didn't mean he lacked the ability.

The position of Sili Xiaowei (司隶校尉) grants the power to bully men and women; it's just a matter of whether or not one chooses to use it.

Using power also incurs costs, and it's really a waste of time to wield such power for trivial matters.

However, it cannot be denied that if it were to be used, it could indeed be very effective.

"No, they will send the women over; I don't need to snatch them."

Shi Shouxin said with a smile.

"Oh, don't worry, I won't go out these days and won't cause you any trouble."

Wei Xiu sat back down on Shi Shouxin's lap, drooping her head and sighing. She had originally planned to explore Luoyang properly, but it seemed that wasn't the best option anymore.

“I’m not afraid of you doing anything reckless; I’m afraid your uncle can’t be relied on.”

Shi Shouxin suddenly said something that made Wei Xiu's hair stand on end!
However, Shi Shouxin put his arm around her thin shoulders and explained gently, "Your uncle is someone who can't make up his mind at crucial moments! If everything goes smoothly with the Prince of Jin's request, that's fine, but if anything goes wrong, your uncle might take the wrong path at the crucial moment."

"This, I don't know. But ever since I was old enough to understand, I've known that my uncle is very intelligent and has exceptional wisdom."

Wei Xiu said quietly, seemingly disagreeing with Shi Shouxin's words.

“Your uncle has no shortage of resources.”

What he lacks is decisiveness.

Shi Shouxin made a complaint, and then recounted all of Wei Guan's actions during the campaign against Shu.

No detail was overlooked, from beginning to end, from the army's departure to its return to Luoyang.

This conversation lasted for an hour, almost until midnight!
Upon hearing this, Wei Xiu instinctively covered her mouth, afraid that she would scream.

"Ah Lang, are you saying that you defeated Zhong Hui all by yourself, and my uncle only came out to clean up the mess afterward?"
You're just afraid that the tallest tree will stand out from the crowd, so you dragged him out to take the blame?

Also, he had tried to frame you before, but you anticipated his moves and avoided disaster.

Is that really true?

Hearing the secrets Shi Shouxin recounted, Wei Xiu's worldview was shattered. She never imagined that her uncle, Wei Guan, could act so despicably and cowardly at such a crucial moment.

No wonder Shi Shouxin always said that this young lady had a strong sense of justice; it was just that her uncle Wei Guan was too wicked.

"That's right. Your uncle wanted me to go back and beg him, to be his dog, but he messed it up."

Shi Shouxin chuckled.

Wei Xiu suddenly realized that Shi Shouxin could have revealed the truth at the time, but he didn't! He deliberately set a trap for Wei Guan.

By the time Zhong Hui made his move, Wei Guan had finally woken up from his daze, but it was too late for anything he did.

"I've figured it out. I'm just a gift from my uncle to apologize to you, my lord."

Wei Xiu said coquettishly, but her heart was filled with bitterness.

The world of "adults" is full of deceit and treachery; there are no absolute enemies or absolute allies.

Shi Chong was Shi Shouxin's sworn brother, yet he could turn on him just as easily. Wei Guan and Shi Shouxin had betrayed each other, but later, due to practical needs, they could set aside their past grievances and join forces.

“Your uncle sent you here because he was very sincere. I’m overjoyed.”

Shi Shouxin whispered in Wei Xiu's ear, his hands already groping around.

"Ah Lang, you kissed me the first time we met. Was it because you liked me?"

Wei Xiu, panting, returned her man's kiss. Even though she knew he was lying, she didn't want to delve into it further.

As long as the other party has even a sliver of sincerity, Wei Xiu doesn't feel wronged.

"Of course, why would I kiss you if I didn't like you?"

Shi Shouxin casually extinguished the oil lamp.

Upon hearing this, Wei Xiu's body went limp in her man's arms, her brain lost the ability to think, and she surrendered everything to her body's instincts.

Whether you like it or not, those are the most luxurious things in the world, and Shi Shouxin felt he was not qualified to talk about them.

He had a clear purpose for taking each concubine, and he never let his attraction to someone's beauty lead him astray or be led by the nose by their looks.

What Wei Xiu didn't know was that even if her looks were several levels below average, Shi Shouxin would still take her into his room without hesitation, which wouldn't affect his exchange of political interests with Wei Guan and their mutual support.

……

The next morning, just as Shi Shouxin got up, the imperial court sent a minor official with the new appointment document.

Commandant of the Capital Region, concurrently serving as Commander of the Central Army!
This means that Shi Shouxin had the authority to mobilize the Imperial Guards in an emergency!
However, this was just a precaution. With both the Left and Right Guards under Sima Zhao's control, Shi Shouxin's position as Commander of the Central Army was merely a nominal title.

In other words, this was something Sima Zhao hung on him to bolster his prestige, so that he wouldn't be unable to control the situation.

Waking up slowly, Wei Xiu, still naked, saw the appointment letter and was immediately wide awake. She read the document appointing her by the court over and over again!

The more I look at it, the more excited I get, and I want to sing and dance!

Wow, the Commandant of the Capital Region concurrently serves as the Commander of the Central Army! Although the latter is a nominal position, it's still quite prestigious. Before the founding ceremony, even if Shi Shouxin could walk around Luoyang like a tyrant, no one would dare to block his way.

"Ah Lang, you've already been promoted to commander? Your speed of promotion is a bit frightening!"

Wei Xiu asked as she dressed, her face beaming with joy.

At that moment, only two words came to her mind: majestic!
"You still can't see the trick to it, which is nothing to be happy about."

Shi Shouxin sighed, unable to empathize with Wei Xiu's joy, only feeling immense pressure.

Sima Zhao has delegated so much power; he needs something in return! Loyalty alone is far from enough!
This powerful minister wanted: a surprise! A fucking surprise!

Sima Zhao would certainly not be satisfied with merely completing the dynastic change peacefully.

"Go get something to eat and wash up now. I'll take you to the Li family's house later."

Shi Shouxin gave the order listlessly.

First, settle Wei Xiu in, and then it's time to get down to business.

(End of this chapter)