Chapter Seventeen Liu Feixu
Year Six of King Zheng of Qin, Ninth Month, Twenty-Fourth Day
There was no court session today.
Li Yu slept in until after eight and only then got up, stretching lazily, his senses sharp and his energy brimming.
He noticed a pattern: every time he returned from Lady Zhao, he’d be especially spirited the next day—perhaps it was the power of love.
As usual, he practiced some Tai Chi.
Yet, the surprising sensation from his first attempt never returned, and his progress was modest at best. It was rather odd.
After a hearty meal, he headed to the front hall, where Li Si awaited him.
Li Si stepped forward, bowed, and reported, “My lord, I have already contacted Widow Ba Qing. She has arranged a banquet in your honor at Auspicious Pavilion.”
Li Yu asked, “Oh? Did you tell her why you sought her out?”
Li Si replied, “No, only that you had business to discuss.”
Li Yu nodded, “Very well, let’s set it for midday. I have other plans this evening.”
Li Si bowed and took his leave.
Li Yu decided to visit the Directorate of Works, intending to ask Gongshu Chou to forge a weapon for him—a Tai Chi sword to practice with.
As he entered the Directorate, the familiar wave of heat greeted him.
While Li Yu was studying his Warring States “Gundam,” Gongshu Chou arrived and said, “My lord, have you come to share another new technology with me?”
Li Yu responded with a smirk, “Perhaps. I’m only worried you might be unable to produce it.”
Gongshu Chou bristled, “What invention could there be that I cannot solve? Tell me!”
Li Yu replied mysteriously, “Your mechanical beasts have limitations, don’t they? They can’t be mass-produced, or else there’d be no need for armies.”
Gongshu Chou flushed, “That’s true. The core mechanisms of the Gongshu family’s constructs require specific conditions, so mass production isn’t possible.”
This unorthodox world of “Qin’s Era” had its amusements—silk stockings, mechanical beasts, and beautiful women—Li Yu found it all quite to his liking.
With a grand gesture, Li Yu declared, “I have a method whereby, with only a liquid beneath the ground, machines may operate. As long as there’s enough fuel, they can be produced and used in great numbers.”
Gongshu Chou’s eyes lit up, “Are you serious?”
Li Yu nodded solemnly, “Absolutely.”
He did not mind igniting the technological tree a bit early. If he didn’t, someone else would. Stagnation was never a virtue. While there might be environmental costs, such was the tide of history—it could not be stopped.
With a quick sketch, Li Yu handed his design to Gongshu Chou.
If there were inventors in ancient times, Gongshu Chou would certainly be one. Li Yu had always thought Gongshu Chou more valuable to the people than most courtiers—yet, due to the limitations of Chinese civilization, such talent was rarely treasured. If not for his theories on unification and governmental reform, Li Yu himself might not be as valued.
He also gave Gongshu Chou the design for the sword he wanted forged.
By the time he left, it was already noon. Li Yu went straight to the Auspicious Pavilion.
The Auspicious Pavilion was a famous restaurant in Xianyang, though this one was a proper establishment, its signature dish roast lamb, run by foreigners. The greeters at the door all wore foreign attire, making for a distinctive atmosphere.
Li Si had arrived early and greeted Li Yu at the door. “Widow Ba Qing has been waiting for some time in a private room upstairs.”
“Lead the way,” Li Yu replied.
Inside, he was greeted by a woman of exceptional cleanliness—her attire, her hair, all immaculate, presenting a most pleasant sight. She appeared to be in her forties, her gentle crow’s feet lending her a kindly air.
“I, Ba Qing of the Qin, greet you, Lord Chancellor,” she said.
Li Yu returned her bow with a slight nod. “Madam, there’s no need for formality. We are here for business. I’ve come to discuss some commercial matters with you.”
Ba Qing replied, “I am willing to offer one hundred thousand taels of gold as a gift!”
Li Yu smiled and shook his head. “I have no need for your wealth. You must have heard about the recent advances in salt and iron technology here in Qin.”
“I’ve heard these innovations are your handiwork,” Ba Qing replied.
“Indeed,” Li Yu said. “I intend to establish a state-sanctioned commercial alliance. With the king’s permission, it will operate salt, iron, and even cement and paper. Spread the word! In seven days, there will be a bidding at Fragrant Retreat. The winner will have exclusive rights for three years.”
Ba Qing’s eyes brightened. “Rest assured, my lord, leave this matter to me.”
“The roast lamb here is excellent. Please, enjoy your meal at leisure—I shall take my leave now,” she said, and departed.
Li Yu looked at the roast lamb, thinking Widow Ba Qing was indeed a straightforward woman.
Since he had another meal planned for the evening, he ate only a little, asking Li Si to pack up the rest and take it home.
With nothing to do in the afternoon, he wandered instinctively to the Hall of Talents, knocking on the door, which was answered—once again—by the Moon Goddess.
Where are you, my Scarlet Mist? In this era when communication is so primitive, waiting is truly agonizing.
Every movement of the Moon Goddess was gentle and graceful, her steps slow and lissome. She exuded an air of mystery, her face half-veiled by a translucent scarf, alluring and elusive, stoking curiosity and desire.
“Still no word from Flame Consort?” Li Yu asked, unwilling to admit he was also here to seek the Moon Goddess’s company.
She shot him a glance. “Is it truly for my senior sister that you come here every time?”
Li Yu quickly replied solemnly, “Of course. My feelings for Scarlet Mist are beyond your understanding.”
The Moon Goddess smiled faintly. “Then why were you just staring at my back, my lord?”
Her spiritual perception was sharp; ever since Li Yu entered, his eyes hadn’t left her, especially those more intimate places, which he glanced at no fewer than seven or eight times.
Li Yu inwardly cursed his carelessness, but smiled, “Admiration for beauty is universal. You, maiden, are a heavenly beauty, a Chang’e descended! What man could fail to appreciate such grace?”
He added, “Admiration is one thing, feelings another. I know the difference. Surely, when you see something beautiful, you also look a few times more?”
Left speechless by his sophistry, the Moon Goddess flicked her sleeve gently, “My senior sister isn’t here. You may go.”
Li Yu was taken aback—who drives guests away upon arrival? He smiled, “Are you jealous of your senior sister?”
The Moon Goddess, feeling her thoughts had been seen through, frowned and retorted, “If you won’t leave, I will!”
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Li Yu, a little embarrassed, said, “No need to be so upset, maiden. I’ll take my leave.” With that, he walked away.
The Moon Goddess watched his departing figure, her mood sinking. Why did all the good things belong to her senior sister? She’d met this man first, yet he liked her sister.
Ah, you still don’t understand men.
At this time, the Moon Goddess was still in her innocent years, not yet the decisive figure she would become.
Having teased his “little sister-in-law,” Li Yu was in high spirits.
…
By evening, a carriage stopped in front of Li Yu’s residence.
He looked at the carriage—Changping Jun was truly considerate, sending a carriage to fetch him for dinner. Such hospitality did engender goodwill—pity, though.
Inside, the carriage was lavish, almost like an ancient Rolls-Royce: soft, unknown furs for carpet, a small huanghuali table, a zitan incense burner—the understated luxury was modestly displayed.
Changping Jun was already waiting outside, making Li Yu feel almost flattered.
He hurried forward, “Lord Changping, your kindness overwhelms me.”
Though it was his second visit to the Fragrant Retreat, Li Yu was still struck by its splendor. This time, he entered the inner courtyard, which was worlds apart from the outer. Walking here felt like treading on gold— even the supporting columns were gilded. Li Yu suspected that if Ying Zheng ever discovered this place, he’d confiscate it immediately.
Who could tolerate such decadence—this was pure corruption!
Dazzled, Li Yu entered a private room where someone already waited at the table.
He looked at Changping Jun, awaiting an introduction.
“This is the proprietress of Fragrant Retreat. She has long admired you, and upon hearing I was entertaining you tonight, insisted on meeting you. I hope you don’t mind,” Changping Jun said.
Li Yu smiled, “Meeting such a beautiful lady is my honor.”
He wasn’t exaggerating—the woman before him was like a ripe peach, a classic hourglass figure, a fox-like face with naturally arched brows, delicate “smoke” eyebrows, and eyes brimming with ambiguous emotion.
Her skin was radiant, lips naturally red, brows unpainted yet verdant.
Her slender waist swayed, her posture reserved yet alluring; her lips light as a feather, tempting bees and butterflies to madness.
Clad in red, her graceful neck rose from a bosom as white as jade, half-hidden, her waist so small it could be spanned with one hand.
She stood and bowed gently, her voice soft as cotton, “I am Liu Feixu. Greetings, my lord.”
Li Yu’s gaze naturally drifted downward as she stood.
Her shapely, fair legs were bare, even her delicate feet exuding a silent allure.
Her attire was undoubtedly seductive, yet her demeanor outshone her clothes. Her large, enchanting eyes brimmed with laughter and mischief, veiled and alluring; even her slightly upturned lips invited a kiss.
She radiated a bewitching charm from within, seemingly seducing men at every moment, tugging at their very nerves.
Changping Jun noticed Li Yu’s reaction and felt his efforts had not been in vain.
Li Yu bowed slightly, “Feifei, crimson and delicate, like flower petals at dusk—what a lovely name. May I ask, is your family from Foxhill?”
Liu Feixu replied, “What do you mean, my lord?”
Li Yu explained, “It’s said that Yu the Great’s wife was the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox of Foxhill, renowned for her beauty. I thought it mere legend, but seeing you today, I realize my ignorance.”
Changping Jun interjected with a laugh, “If you two keep talking, you’ll leave this old man out—hardly the way of gentlemen.”
Li Yu smiled, “Forgive me, Lord Changping. I just find your ‘sister’ so congenial.”
Liu Feixu invited them to sit, “My beauty is of little worth. Through Lord Changping’s introduction, meeting Lord Li is my honor.”
Li Yu replied, “Meeting you is my fortune, lady. Were it not for Lord Changping, I’d never know such a woman existed.”
Changping Jun could hardly stand it—who would have thought Li Yu would flirt so shamelessly? In the pre-Qin era, women had especially low status; what man would linger in conversation with a courtesan like this, especially a nobleman?
Changping Jun quickly changed the subject, “I am a few years your senior—may I call you little brother?”
Li Yu caught on, “Elder brother, I was thinking the same.”
Seniority be damned, he’d play along—he wanted to see what Changping Jun was really up to.
Changping Jun leaned in and asked quietly, “His Majesty’s attitude toward Chancellor Lü has been ambiguous of late. Do you know the reason?”
Li Yu narrowed his eyes, “Royal family matters stay within the royal family. How could I know?”
Changping Jun had expected this and laughed, “I only wish to help His Majesty. Besides, Chancellor Lü is aging. Have you never thought of advancing further?”
So that was his aim. Li Yu replied, “I have no great ambition—wielding the power of the realm is tedious; I’d rather drink and recline in a beauty’s lap. That’s all I seek.” He glanced at Liu Feixu as he spoke.
She poured wine for them, but Li Yu shook his head; she looked to Changping Jun.
Changping Jun laughed, “My little brother can’t hold his liquor—one sip and he’s done. Best bring us fine tea.”
Li Yu felt embarrassed, thinking of his first drinking experience.
Tea soon arrived, fragrant and clear.
Li Yu’s eyes twinkled as he said, “If anyone were to succeed Chancellor Lü, elder brother, it could only be you. I’ll be sure to praise you before the King when the time comes.”
Changping Jun raised his cup, “I thank you with tea in place of wine, little brother!”
Li Yu chuckled, “It’s nothing. Besides, I’ll need your support for my academy.”
Changping Jun drained his cup, “You are a pillar of Qin, founding an academy for the ages! I’ve lived in vain all these years.”
Liu Feixu quietly refilled his cup.
Changping Jun continued, “Your papermaking and cement formulas are state secrets—make sure they don’t leak.”
Li Yu replied, “Fewer than five people know the full recipe. Rest assured.”
Changping Jun raised his tea, “Here’s to a strong Qin, thanks to you, little brother.”
He finished his cup.
Liu Feixu remained silent, playing the role of attendant, refilling their cups.
Li Yu said, “Qin’s strength is the legacy of six generations. I am just adding the finishing touch.”
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Li Yu was not being modest—Qin’s unification of the six kingdoms was inevitable. He only hoped to smooth the process and reduce civilian casualties.
After conquering the six states, Qin’s population was only twenty million—not even as much as a modern capital city. The most devastating period would come twenty-one years later during the Chu-Han Contention, when the population would plummet below ten million, barely that of a third-tier city.
Li Yu was sincere about helping the common folk, and wanted to do what he could.
Changping Jun said, “If everyone were like you, there would be no strife in the world.”
Li Yu replied, “It’s the diversity of people and events that makes the world interesting.”
Changping Jun raised his cup, “To your great talent, little brother.”
After emptying the cup, he looked at Li Yu, “Don’t care for the tea?”
Li Yu smiled, “I’d rather drink the tea poured by Miss Feixu.”
Changping Jun laughed, “You are a man of feeling. Feixu, Lord Li wishes to drink the tea you serve.”
Liu Feixu smiled, “Why involve me in your important discussions?” Nonetheless, she handed the cup to Li Yu, “Allow me to offer you a cup, my lord.”
Li Yu took the cup, gazing into the water, “Miss Liu, I drink this cup for you.” His eyes met hers.
She blushed and glanced away.
He drained the cup in one go—quite a pleasant taste. Then his vision swam, eyelids heavy—he collapsed.
As expected—something was wrong! That was Li Yu’s last thought.
…
Spring dreams leave no trace.
If dreams have levels, perhaps the highest is merging reality and illusion, drifting between truth and fantasy.
Li Yu felt as though he were in an incredibly vivid dream, adrift in a sea of desire, waves relentlessly crashing against the shore, trying to break the rocks, venting his pent-up longing.
But dreams must end.
He slowly opened his weary eyes.
Incense smoke curled upward, suffusing the air with a beguiling fragrance. The room was classical in style, adorned in pink, the dim candlelight tinged with the scent of hormones.
He felt a gentle warmth in his arms; brushing aside disheveled hair, he beheld the exquisite beauty of Liu Feixu.
Li Yu couldn’t help but sigh—the world truly did not deceive him. Even those who never appeared in “Qin’s Era” could be peerless beauties.
Liu Feixu awakened and looked into his eyes. “Will you despise me, my lord?”
Li Yu smiled, “I told you—I drank that water for you. Besides, you are my elder sister, not a servant.”
Her eyes reddened, touched, “If you do not abandon me, I shall never leave you.” Before she could finish, Li Yu gave her a playful spank, setting her voluptuous curves quivering.
He scolded, “Still calling yourself a servant? Deserve a beating.”
She pleaded, “Do you truly not despise…your elder sister?”
Again, another playful slap.
Li Yu said, “If I despised you, I wouldn’t have drunk that cup. In truth, the moment I entered, I knew I’d fall into a trap tonight—and truthfully, I wanted to.”
“Elder sister, do you believe in love at first sight?” he asked, hands behind his head, gazing at the ceiling.
“To be honest, from the moment I first saw you, I decided that you would become my forbidden desire.”
He wiped a tear from the corner of her eye, “Why are you crying?”
She broke into a smile through her tears, “You’re such a fool.”
Li Yu replied, “I am willing to be your fool forever. From now on, may you only cry and laugh for me.”
She said, “Love me,” and climbed atop him.
This time was nothing like the dream—the reality was vivid and overwhelming.
Softness and charm melded with maturity and passion; her supple skin and snow-white curves, her slender, delicate waist—all left Li Yu utterly passive, as if lost in a paradise of beauty. In that moment, he understood the meaning of ultimate pleasure.
He couldn’t claim to love her deeply—it was mere lust. Yet, he was reluctant to let go of a woman like Liu Feixu. He also considered turning this into a counter-plot, making the enemy lose both wife and soldiers.
Before leaving, he left a poem as was his habit:
“A thousand ages without a flawless beauty, only when the eye beholds a fair maiden; a face to topple kingdoms and cities, astounding all beneath the heavens.” — Presented by Li Yu to Liu Feixu.
Liu Feixu gazed at the poem on the wall, tears streaming down her cheeks.
She thought of how Changping Jun had sent her into another’s arms again and again, how she had foolishly believed he cared for her. For his ambitions, she had sacrificed everything and received nothing but wounds in return.
Yet Li Yu had given her a respect she had never known.
Downstairs, Li Yu ran into Changping Jun, who was still there.
He hurried over, “Elder brother, you’ve done me a disservice—what should I do about Liu Feixu’s honor?”
Changping Jun laughed, all affable, “Once Liu Feixu got to know you, she admired you greatly and begged me to make the match. I’m merely fulfilling her wishes. If you don’t care for her, we’ll simply end contact—women are like clothing, after all.”
Li Yu, embarrassed, replied, “But I truly like Miss Liu. Tomorrow I’ll petition the king to make her my wife.”
This startled Changping Jun—if Ying Zheng found out he’d orchestrated this, it would not bode well. He hurried to say, “No need to rush. Get to know each other better first.”
Li Yu agreed, “You’re right, no need to hurry. I’ll leave her in your care for now—I have other matters.”
Changping Jun watched Li Yu depart in his carriage, then headed upstairs. Liu Feixu was already dressed. Changping Jun praised the poem on the wall, “I never expected that boy to be such a romantic.”
Feixu’s eyes narrowed, but she quickly smiled, “Xiong Qi, what should I do next?”
He replied, “Now that he’s taken the bait, try to coax out useful information, like the formulas for paper and cement. I have great need of them. Rest and recover—I’ll be off.”
As Changping Jun disappeared without a backward glance, Liu Feixu’s nails pressed deep into her flesh, drawing blood.