I'll steal Gao Qiu's life and lead the Song Dynasty to prosperity.

The Prince Duan's Mansion is located on the banks of Jinming Pond in the west of the city, not far from Yichun Garden, but it is even more secluded.

The carriage stopped at the side gate. As soon as Zhao Mingcheng got out of the carriage, a person came out to greet him.

The man was about thirty-five or thirty-six years old, wearing a dark blue round-necked robe. He had fair skin, long and slender eyebrows and eyes, and a slight smile before he even spoke.

He walked lightly and steadily to Zhao Mingcheng and bowed in greeting.

"This servant is Liang Shicheng, serving in the Prince's residence. Young Master Zhao, you must be tired from your journey."

Liang Shicheng.

This man later became the infamous "Hidden Prime Minister," one of the "Six Traitors" alongside Cai Jing and Tong Guan, a powerful eunuch in the Inner Palace who held immense influence in the court, and he even claimed to be a descendant of Su Shi.

At this time, however, he was only the chief eunuch of the Prince Duan's mansion, a middle-aged eunuch who appeared respectful and shrewd.

"Thank you for your help, Liang."

Zhao Mingcheng returned the courtesy and addressed Liang Shicheng as a respectful guest.

There's a reason behind this title.

In the Song Dynasty, only eunuchs with official positions could be called "gongfeng" (供奉). This was Zhao Mingcheng giving the other party face.

Liang Shicheng's smile deepened, and he stepped aside to lead the way for Zhao Mingcheng.

"His Highness is waiting at Chengyanzhai. He acquired a fine item today and has been talking about it since morning, saying he wants to invite Young Master Zhao to take a look."

Liang Shicheng spoke slowly and deliberately, with a respectful tone.

But Zhao Mingcheng noticed that those slender eyes swept over him.

That wasn't the politeness of an ordinary servant towards a guest; it was more like assessing the quality of a piece of merchandise.

"Your Highness's kindness is truly overwhelming for Mingcheng."

Zhao Mingcheng followed him inside and across the front yard.

The courtyard was exquisitely arranged, with artificial hills and flowing water, sparse bamboo shadows, and several pomegranate trees in the corner of the wall in full bloom.

A birdcage hung under the eaves, inside which was a thrush. When it saw people coming, it chirped twice in a clear, crisp voice.

"His Highness has instructed that we should not stand on ceremony today, and treat it as a small gathering of friends," Liang Shicheng said as he walked.

"His Highness also said that among the scholars and literati in Bianjing, some are rigid and others are hypocritical. It is truly rare to find someone like Young Master Zhao who is knowledgeable in epigraphy, skilled in Cuju (ancient Chinese football), and can also offer insightful opinions."

These words sounded like a compliment, but Zhao Mingcheng understood the underlying meaning: "Prince Duan has high expectations of you; don't let him down."

"Your Highness flatters me." Zhao Mingcheng's expression remained unchanged. "I am young and inexperienced, and have only made some progress. I am grateful that Your Highness has not overlooked my abilities."

Liang Shicheng glanced at him, smiled, and didn't say anything more.

The two arrived at the east side of the backyard, next to a small pond.

The window was open, and you could see several koi swimming leisurely in the pond.

As Zhao Mingcheng walked to the door, he heard a clear laugh coming from inside.

"It's Mingcheng!"

Zhao Ji turned around from the window.

Today he was dressed in a moon-white casual robe, with his hair tied up with only a jade hairpin, exuding a relaxed and carefree aura.

Upon seeing Zhao Mingcheng enter, his eyes lit up, and he took a few steps to greet him.

"With Mingcheng's willingness to come, my joy for today is complete!"

That's a very affectionate, even exaggerated, remark.

Zhao Mingcheng hurriedly tried to bow, but Zhao Ji stopped him.

"I told you not to stand on ceremony, but you still bow, and I'll get angry."

As he spoke, he kindly pulled Zhao Mingcheng to sit down on the couch by the window.

"Come on, Mingcheng, look at this first."

A piece of blue velvet cloth was laid on the table, and a small bronze seal was placed on it.

The seal is small, about an inch square, and the knob is a crouching beast, resembling a tiger, with some lion-like features. The design is simple and the lines are bold.

The seal surface is worn, but a few seal characters can still be discerned.

"This was just delivered this morning. They say it was unearthed in Guanzhong and is suspected to be from the Wei and Jin dynasties." Zhao Ji picked up the small seal and handed it to Zhao Mingcheng.

"See? Isn't that right?"

Zhao Mingcheng took it; it felt heavy in his hand.

He first looked at the seal knob, ran his fingers over the patterns on the animal's body, then examined the characters on the seal face by the light, and finally turned it over to look at the rust on the bottom.

"Your Highness," Zhao Mingcheng said, looking up and smiling, "this is a good thing."

"Oh?" Zhao Ji leaned forward. "What do you mean?"

"Looking at the bronze, it has a bluish-black hue, typical of Han and Wei bronzes. The rust is natural, layered, indicating it's been buried in the soil for a long time; it can't be faked."

Zhao Mingcheng pointed to the seal and said.

"Look at this animal-shaped knob. Han Dynasty official seals mostly used tortoise or tile knobs, and animal knobs were rare. Moreover, if you look closely at this animal shape, you can see that its mane is flowing and its posture is vigorous, already showing the influence of the northern nomadic style."

"During the Wei and Jin Dynasties, ethnic groups such as the Xianbei and Xiongnu migrated inland and lived among the Han people, which influenced the patterns on artifacts. This seal was very likely the private seal of a military general or leader of a nomadic tribe during the Wei and Jin Dynasties."

Zhao Ji listened intently and clapped his hands.

"Indeed! The one who sent the seal also said it resembled Hu Feng's style, but not as clearly as you described. What about the inscription? Is it possible to decipher it?"

Zhao Mingcheng examined the seal more closely. The four characters were written in an ancient and simple style, with two of them worn away and blurred.

“The Seal of xx.” He examined it, “The first two characters… the first one looks like ‘broken,’ and the second one looks like ‘barbarian’ or ‘Hu.’”

"If it is 'Destroy the Enemy,' it is the title of a military general; if it is 'Destroy the Barbarians,' it further reflects the integration of the Han and the barbarian peoples. However, due to the excessive wear and tear, I dare not make a definitive statement."

Zhao Mingcheng introduced the concept of the integration of Han and non-Han peoples during the Wei and Jin periods, which has been studied by later generations.

"Defeat the enemy...defeat the barbarians..." Zhao Ji murmured repeatedly, his eyes shining even brighter.

"Brilliant interpretation! A fusion of Han and non-Han cultures! Mingcheng, you not only distinguish truth from falsehood, but also see the underlying systems and social atmosphere—that's true scholarship!"

Then, Emperor Huizong personally took the teapot and poured tea for Zhao Mingcheng.

Before Liang Shicheng could react, Zhao Ji had already poured the tea. The speed was so fast that Liang Shicheng cursed himself for being an idiot.

"This is this year's new tea from Fujian, please try it."

Zhao Mingcheng accepted the teacup with both hands. The tea soup was clear and bright, with a delicate aroma; it was indeed a fine tea.

"Your Highness, this seal has another wonderful feature." Zhao Mingcheng put down his teacup and picked up the small seal again.

"Look at the carving technique of this seal. The strokes are sharp and decisive, with turns as swift as a broken hairpin. The spirit of this carving is truly in harmony with the spirit of calligraphy."

These words once again struck a nerve with Emperor Huizong.

Emperor Huizong's biggest concern right now is his calligraphy.

Zhao Ji's eyes lit up, and he was about to speak.

Liang Shicheng, who was standing nearby, suddenly took half a step closer and flattered him with a smile.

"Young Master Zhao is right. Although I do not understand epigraphy, I can see from Your Highness's calligraphy that the strokes and turns have a beautiful, resonant quality."

Liang Shicheng was already knowledgeable in calligraphy, and he believed that his words both flattered his master and showed that he was sensible.

In the past, Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) enjoyed listening to Liang Shicheng praise his calligraphy.

But today was very unusual. Zhao Ji acted as if Liang Shicheng didn't exist and just stared at Zhao Mingcheng.

"Yes! Mingcheng understands me! This blade, this turn, is precisely the 'bone' I seek in calligraphy! Those scholars always say that calligraphy should be rounded and subtle, but in my view, characters without bone are merely affected and effeminate. The blade in this seal script is exactly the strength and vigor I desire!"

Zhao Mingcheng nodded.

"Your Highness is absolutely right. In fact, when ancient people wrote and carved in stone, the knife and the brush were one. By looking at this seal, I can understand the essence of calligraphy; by looking at Your Highness's characters, I can see the charm of the carving technique. The two complement each other, which is the essence of excellence."

When Zhao Mingcheng spoke, his gaze was only fixed on Zhao Ji, and he paid no attention to Liang Shicheng at all.

The two men surnamed Zhao naturally ignored Liang Shicheng.

Liang Shicheng's smile remained unchanged, but his eyes darkened. He quietly took half a step back, stood with his hands at his sides, and dared not say another word.

Emperor Huizong and Emperor Mingcheng got along even better.

In ordinary times, when Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) interacted with scholars, they were either trembling with fear and obsequious, or they relied on their seniority and spoke in clichés.

It's rare to find someone like Zhao Mingcheng who can hit the nail on the head, remain neither arrogant nor humble, and speak to the heart of the matter.

"Mingcheng, I also have an inkstone; please take a look."

Emperor Huizong was in high spirits and took out a stone inkstone from the treasure cabinet.

Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) was in high spirits, frequently clapping his hands in admiration.

Zhao Mingcheng always maintained a proper balance—showcasing his knowledge without overshadowing the emperor; offering unique insights while also appropriately returning the conversation to Zhao Ji.

……

After enjoying the sights, Zhao Ji stood up and stretched his shoulders.

"I've been sitting for too long, my bones are stiff. Mingcheng, shall we stretch a bit?"

"As Your Highness commands."

The Prince's Palace's Cuju (ancient Chinese football) field was located on the west side of the front courtyard. It was smaller than that of the Imperial Academy, but the ground was flatter, and there was a sunshade with tables, chairs, and tea and snacks set up on the side.

Several football players were already waiting on the sidelines. When they saw His Highness arrive, they all bowed.

"Today, I will team up with Mingcheng, and the rest of you will form a team." Zhao Ji was in high spirits, taking off his outer robe to reveal a narrow-sleeved football uniform underneath.

"Mingcheng, let me show you a new move I've learned."

Emperor Huizong had someone throw the ball over, caught it, bounced it a few times, and suddenly flicked it with his right foot.

As the ball soared high into the air and fell, Zhao Ji turned sideways and flicked it with the back of his left foot, sending the ball arcing to the other side.

"This 'Mandarin Duck Staff' move is an old technique, but I've added some variations," Zhao Ji said with some pride. "What do you think?"

Zhao Mingcheng observed carefully.

This move is actually the "backheel pass" in later football, but it was rarely seen at this time, and it was indeed ingenious.

"Your Highness's move is brilliant," Zhao Mingcheng affirmed first, then said.

"However, if Your Highness could rotate your waist and hips by just half an inch when you exert force, the trajectory of the ball would be more unpredictable, making it even harder for your opponent to anticipate."

"Oh?" Zhao Ji tried it and indeed felt the difference. "Tell me more about it."

Zhao Mingcheng took the ball and demonstrated it once.

"You see, when you kick the ball, your weight is on your left, your waist turns to the right, and at the moment your heel hits the ball, your waist turns back to the left. This way, the ball not only has forward force but also spin, and it will change direction when it lands."

As Zhao Mingcheng spoke, he demonstrated, and the ball, as expected, curved slightly in the air and landed in a tricky spot.

Emperor Huizong tried practicing several times, and each time he improved, which made him beam with joy.

"Great! What a brilliant mid-air turn!!"

Emperor Huizong of Zhao was truly pleased with the company.

Liang Shicheng was truly stunned. He only knew some calligraphy and knew nothing about Cuju (ancient Chinese football).

But what about Zhao Mingcheng?

He was good at everything, and more skilled at everything than Liang Shicheng. Liang Shicheng thought to himself that this young man was not to be underestimated.

After warming up, the group stage begins.

On Zhao Ji's side, there were only the two of them and three other players, while the opposing team had five professional players.

Zhao Mingcheng continued to play as a primary striker today, displaying flexibility in position and active running.

Every time he got the ball, he could always find the most suitable passing route. What's even more amazing is that he could almost always deliver the ball comfortably to Zhao Ji's feet.

"Your Highness, catch the ball!"

A low, ground-hugging pass slipped between the two players and rolled precisely in front of Zhao Ji.

Zhao Ji received the ball comfortably, flicked it with his foot, and shot. The ball flew past the goalkeeper.

"Mingcheng, you've delivered a wonderful speech!" Zhao Ji laughed and clapped for Zhao Mingcheng.

In the next round, Zhao Mingcheng dribbled past his opponent, and when he got to Feng Liu, he didn't use his signature curveball. Instead, he flicked his ankle and kicked out a backspin ball.

The ball flew over the defender's head, plummeted, and barely passed through the round hole.

"Tsk tsk, that ball..." Zhao Ji ran over, his eyes shining, "How did you kick it?"

"Your Highness, use the instep to flick the ball down the bottom, giving it backspin," Zhao Mingcheng gestured.

"When the ball has a forward spin in the air, it falls faster. It's like...like throwing a stone. If you throw it horizontally, it will fly farther, but if you make the stone spin, it will land more accurately."

The metaphor was very simple, and Zhao Ji understood it immediately, nodding repeatedly.

"That makes sense! That makes sense! Even in Cuju (ancient Chinese football), there's such a principle!"

The game continues.

Zhao Mingcheng plays just like Modric.

He passed the ball when he needed to pass it, and shot when he needed to shoot. What's even more amazing is that he always managed to give Zhao Ji the chance to shine the most.

Emperor Huizong played with great enjoyment today, scoring goals continuously and laughing non-stop.

The match ended with Zhao Ji's team winning by a large margin.

He was drenched in sweat, but his spirits were high. He naturally put his arm around Zhao Mingcheng's shoulder and walked towards the shade pavilion.

Anyone who didn't know better would think the two were good buddies.

When Liang Shicheng saw this scene, he was so surprised that he couldn't speak.

"That was exhilarating! This was the most enjoyable game I've had in the last six months! Mingcheng, you not only play well yourself, but you also make everyone around you feel comfortable playing. That's a real skill!"

Zhao Mingcheng smiled as he wiped his sweat.

"It is Your Highness's archery skills that are superb."

"Come on." Zhao Ji patted him on the shoulder, his eyes filled with genuine appreciation.

"It's not like I can't see it. Your passes and runs are all methodical. What's even more commendable is your understanding and tact. You know when to show your skills and when to yield. This kind of mindset is more valuable than your football skills."

As he spoke, he sat down in the shaded area, where Liang Shicheng had already prepared warm water and a towel.

Zhao Ji took the handkerchief, wiped his face haphazardly, looked at Zhao Mingcheng, and suddenly sighed.

"Mingcheng, you have no idea how bored I am in this mansion every day. I am so grateful to have you here with me today."

The conversation had reached a point where Zhao Mingcheng should frankly tell Zhao Ji about his difficulties.