Chapter Thirty-Five: The Grand Mentor
Year Seven of King Zheng of Qin, Ninth Day of the Third Month
Late Morning
When the young women opened the doors, they found a crowd already waiting outside.
“I’m from General Wang’s residence, I came first!”
“Which General Wang? Never heard of him. I’m from the Left Sima’s household!”
“Out of the way, my master is the Third Young Master!”
“Stand aside, all of you. The Fourth Young Master is coming tonight—move over!”
The scene outside was something the young ladies hadn’t anticipated.
Just then, one of them set up a sign at the gate: Tickets—Seat One, 300 gold; Seat Two, 295 gold; Seat Three, 290 gold… the last row, all ten gold each.
After reading the price list, the attendants from various households exchanged glances. Their masters had commanded them to secure tickets no matter what, but these prices…
One of them spoke, “Your prices are a bit steep…”
“Yes, yes!” the crowd echoed in agreement.
The girl with the price sign replied, “My mistress said the high prices are for your benefit. If tickets were cheap, you’d have to sit with all manner of riffraff—wouldn’t that lower your status? Don’t you all agree?”
At this, the attendant representing the Fourth Young Master stepped forward, “What this young lady says is true. I’ll take the first seat on behalf of my master.”
A young woman led him away to complete the transaction.
Once the Fourth Young Master’s attendant had set the example, the others, not wanting to embarrass their masters, hurried to secure their own seats. The process was simple: count out the money, receive a small plaque, and register a name. Seating was determined on a first-come, first-served basis.
Meanwhile, Li Yu had placed “The Legend of the White Snake” on the schedule, including arrangements for music and details. With their experience from performing “Butterfly Lovers,” the girls were more confident on stage and no longer as awkward as their first time.
The opening was, as always, a song and dance. What intrigued the audience most was that every seat in the house had a chair with a padded cushion. Under the guidance of the maids, the guests sat down, gripping the wooden armrests, finding the experience quite novel.
Li Yu stood in the loft, observing the guests below, especially those in the first row.
Han Yu, the Fourth Young Master, sat in the very center, upright and composed, exuding an air of gravitas and confidence. His heroic features naturally invited goodwill. Though he somewhat resembled Han Fei, one could sense from their demeanor that their temperaments were different.
Li Yu had a feeling that Han Yu was here for him today.
But when he noticed who was sitting next to the Fourth Young Master, Li Yu realized he’d been overthinking.
A figure in pink make-up, with almond eyes and a delicate, vulnerable expression—
Hu Beauty had arrived as well.
Li Yu’s interest was piqued. The upright binding of her chest, the sheer shawl, the side slit that nearly reached her chest—
Beside him, Zi Nu noticed Li Yu staring fixedly at the foxlike beauty. She reached out and pinched his waist with a ninety-degree twist.
“Ow!” Li Yu quickly dodged.
“Is my husband jealous?” Li Yu teased with a grin.
“I never thought you’d be into that sort,” Zi Nu laughed, teasing him.
“She’s Han King An’s favorite,” Zi Nu continued, her tone playful. “Not easy to win over.”
Li Yu’s expression turned serious. “It’s not her I’m interested in, but the lady beside her. Don’t you think she reminds you of someone?”
Zi Nu then noticed the woman next to Hu Beauty, dressed conservatively in a blue gown with a high collar, exuding a hint of melancholy—so different from the alluring Hu Beauty, who inspired a desire to protect. This woman, in contrast, made you want to tease her.
And as Li Yu said, her face was uncannily familiar, as if they’d met somewhere before.
Zi Nu turned to Li Yu, waiting to hear his thoughts.
Li Yu lowered his head in a mysterious smile, but his gaze drifted to the stage where Nong Yu was playing the zither.
Sisters? Mother and daughter?
No—he couldn’t let his imagination run wild.
...
The play was a resounding success; the audience was reluctant to leave. Even the seemingly unapproachable Madam Hu had wept like a pear blossom in the rain.
Was her inner world really so fragile? Li Yu mused, feeling a touch of pity for the unfortunate woman.
After the crowd dispersed, Li Yu accompanied Zi Nu to the main hall, only to discover that someone had stayed behind—Han Yu, the Fourth Young Master, had not left.
With Hu Beauty gone, why was he still here?
Curious, Li Yu approached. “I am Fang Yu. May I ask, Fourth Young Master, did you not enjoy yourself today?”
Han Yu, hearing Li Yu introduce himself as Fang Yu, realized this was the person he’d come to see.
Han Yu observed Li Yu—his bearing and looks were exceptional, leaving a good first impression. He nodded with a smile, “I have long wished to meet you, sir, but fortune never favored it until today. Truly, you are extraordinary.”
“May I ask where you studied, sir?”
Li Yu, seeing Han Yu trying to probe his origins, spun a story: “My master’s surname is Zhuge, given name Liang. He is well-versed in the arts of war, inheriting from three great schools.”
Han Yu asked, “What are these three schools?”
Li Yu smiled, “My master is exceptionally gifted and has three teachers.”
Han Yu’s interest was piqued. “Your master must be a rare talent for three schools to set aside their rivalries for him. Might I have the honor of an introduction?”
Li Yu shook his head with feigned sorrow. “Though my master’s learning surpassed the ages, he lamented the suffering of the world, but his health failed him. On his deathbed, he entrusted me with caring for his homeland—which happens to be Xinzheng. That is why I am here.”
Han Yu felt he had come at the right time. Even if he knew nothing of Li Yu’s true abilities, a disciple of such a master could not be ordinary.
As for deceit—words may lie, but talent cannot. A simple test would reveal the truth.
Han Yu grasped Li Yu’s hand warmly. “Would you honor me with your company tomorrow, sir?”
Li Yu shook his head. “I am free tomorrow and wish to spend more time with Miss Zi Nu.” With that, he gently withdrew his hand.
What was it with these people—always wanting to shake hands, even in Qin?
Han Yu laughed heartily. “You are a man of character. Would you grant me the honor of a banquet tomorrow?”
Li Yu smiled, “I would be delighted! You have only to summon me—there’s no need to come in person.”
Han Yu replied, “I promised my father to accompany Hu Beauty to the play.”
Li Yu, feigning disappointment, said, “So I was mistaken.”
Han Yu smiled, “Not at all. I wished to meet you as well.”
Li Yu—oh, as if I’d believe that!
“Then I shall arrive early tomorrow,” Li Yu said with a bow.
Han Yu reciprocated with a cupped fist salute. “Until we meet again.”
As Han Yu walked away, Li Yu slipped an arm around Zi Nu’s waist. “My dear, wherever your husband goes, he’s the center of attention—there’s no hiding it.”
Zi Nu asked, “What are you planning for tomorrow? Are you really going to the Han court?”
Li Yu chuckled, “Of course I am. Han Fei wants a spy—I’ll give him one.”
Zi Nu warned, “Just be careful. Don’t forget who you are.”
Li Yu kissed her on the neck. “Thank you, my love. I know what I’m doing.”
Zi Nu said, “I have a feeling you have another purpose in entering the Han government…”
Li Yu—so clever! But how could I ever admit it?
...
On the road to Xinzheng
Inside Han Yu’s carriage
“Qiancheng, what did your investigation turn up?”
“Foster Father, nothing at all. This man appeared out of nowhere, arriving in Xinzheng with the Ninth Young Master.”
“We’ll see again tomorrow. In fact, no result is the best result.”
“Why, Foster Father?” Qiancheng asked.
“It would mean he belongs to no faction.”
...
Left Sima Liu Yi’s residence
“Has Madam returned?” a general asked a maid.
“She has, and Hu Beauty from the palace returned with her. It seems Madam has just been crying,” the maid replied.
“???” The general’s face instantly showed suspicion.
...
That day, Li Yu returned to his own residence, intending to bring Zi Nu with him, but she refused, claiming she wasn’t ready.
“Nir, have you missed your husband? How about we practice the Twelve Forms of the Yellow Emperor together? I can even split into two to keep you company,” Li Yu suggested.
“No need—I like things just as they are.” Jing Ni refused, uneasy about the martial art, which felt almost supernatural and out of place in this world.
“But Nir, I miss you,” Li Yu said, turning his back to her, crouching down, and pulling up her skirt.
“Madam, dinner is ready,” Xiao He announced as she entered.
Looking around, she asked, “Where is the master?”
Jing Ni blushed. “He went out—he’ll be back soon.”
“Oh, then I’ll take my leave.”
Once Xiao He was gone, Jing Ni relaxed and sat down heavily, her thighs trembling slightly.
That troublesome man...
...
The best time to plan a day is in the morning.
Li Yu, during his morning practice, found his mastery of internal energy growing ever more adept. Although he had given half to his doppelganger, he was stronger than before—especially in flight. For short distances, he could leave only an afterimage behind—his progress was remarkable.
He also discovered that sending his double out to train actually increased his advancement.
Out in the wilds, Li Yu practiced Tai Chi in a dense forest, water vapor swirling between his palms in a mystical dance.
Gazing at the endless mountains, Li Yu felt a longing for home. After finishing his practice and eating some dry rations, he set off for Xianyang.
That day, Li Yu spent time with Jing Ni. The girls at Zilan Pavilion instantly sensed something was missing—their music lacked its usual beauty. Zi Nu watched Nong Yu all day, distracted and sighing softly.
That troublesome man...
...
At dusk, Li Yu, alone and carrying a wooden staff, made his way to the Fourth Young Master’s mansion. At the gate, he was welcomed by someone he recognized—Han Qiancheng, Han Yu’s adopted son, a handsome youth.
Rumor had it Han Yu was inclined toward men—who could say if it was true.
“I am Han Qiancheng, adopted son of the Fourth Young Master. Greetings, sir,” Qiancheng said politely.
“Forgive my tardiness, I hope I haven’t kept the young master waiting,” Li Yu replied in kind.
“This way, sir,” Qiancheng led Li Yu inside.
Han Yu was already waiting in the hall, with food and wine prepared.
As Li Yu entered, Qiancheng blocked his way, eyeing the staff in Li Yu’s hand.
Li Yu smiled, “It’s just for fending off dogs. If you’re worried, you may take it.”
Han Yu waved off Qiancheng, “No need, leave us.”
He stood and gestured to Li Yu, “Please, sir.”
Li Yu took his seat without ceremony, bowing slightly. “Thank you for your invitation, Fourth Young Master.”
Han Yu raised his cup, “A toast to you, sir.”
Li Yu shook his head, “The world is unsettled; my master’s teachings remind me constantly to remain vigilant. Forgive me for not drinking.”
Han Yu set down his cup and called outside, “Remove the wine, bring tea instead.”
“I admire your resolve, sir. May I ask where Han’s strength lies?” Han Yu asked, voicing the question on everyone’s mind.
Li Yu replied earnestly, “A strong army makes a strong nation, but armies march on their supplies. Ultimately, it all comes down to money. Money can work miracles—if wealth reaches a certain point, it can solve countless problems: recruiting troops, bribing foreign officials. Qin has mastered this art, as you surely know, Fourth Young Master.”
“And how would you suggest we obtain such wealth?” Han Yu pressed.
“Li Yu of Qin has ironmaking, soap, paper—these are sources of wealth. I too possess such skills,” Li Yu said with confidence.
Han Yu leapt to his feet. “Is this true?”
Realizing his breach of etiquette, he sat back down. “Tomorrow I shall present you at court. Would you be willing?”
Li Yu bowed. “My master entrusted me with this duty—I cannot refuse.”
Han Yu seized his hand. “Tomorrow, we enter the palace together.”
Li Yu suppressed a shudder at the contact, forcing a smile. “I have long wished to serve, but lacked a patron. Now, thanks to your help, I am in your debt.”
This was exactly what Han Yu had hoped for.
If this Fang Yu was truly the equal of Li Yu of Qin, then who in all Han could challenge him? Even the grand general Ji Wuye would think twice.
Han Yu’s carriage drove Li Yu right to his door, a mark of great respect.
Watching the carriage depart, Li Yu wore a wry smile. His trip to Han was just for amusement—if not for a certain someone in the palace, he wouldn’t have bothered with these shortsighted men.
Jing Ni opened the door, sword in hand. Though Li Yu had assured her there was no danger, she worried still. To avoid suspicion, Li Yu had not brought the Net’s agents along this time.
“My dear, you were worried,” Li Yu said, embracing her gently.
“As long as you’re safe,” she replied softly.
“Nir, I love you,” Li Yu said with heartfelt sincerity.
“And I you,” Jing Ni replied, for once voicing her feelings openly. Li Yu was so moved, he swept her off her feet and carried her inside, leaving only a trailing afterimage.
...
At dawn, Li Yu dressed, took up his staff, yawned, and stepped out.
A carriage was already waiting. Han Qiancheng dismounted to escort him inside, where Han Yu was already seated.
“Are you prepared, sir?” Han Yu asked.
“Completely confident,” Li Yu replied, patting his chest.
“Excellent,” Han Yu said, visibly relieved by Li Yu’s composure.
Han’s court did not meet regularly—King An would call a session whenever he felt like it, sometimes not showing up for half a month. Last night, Han Yu had compared Li Yu to Qin’s royal brother, which greatly pleased King An. He ordered a court assembly, eager to see for himself the man both his sons vied to recruit.
He even dreamed of Tianjian’s predictions, muttering Fang Yu’s name in his sleep.
Meanwhile, the fox-eyed beauty beside him regarded King An’s sharp features with curiosity, murmuring, “Fang Yu?” Her lips curled in a mysterious smile—a perfect blend of cold elegance and seductive charm.
...
King An was in fine spirits that day as Li Yu stood before the court.
“You claim to be Zhuge’s disciple. Why have I never heard of him?” the king asked.
Li Yu raised both hands in a respectful salute. “Even the tutor of Qin’s royal brother was once unknown, and Jiang Shang’s father was a nobody. If the egg tastes good, why care if the hen is beautiful, Your Majesty? My teacher eschews fame and fortune, keeping his talents hidden from the world.”
At this, Zhang Kaidi spoke up. “If your teacher rejects fame, why do you stand here?”
The courtiers murmured in agreement.
Li Yu smiled calmly. “My master wished to serve the country, but was powerless. As his disciple, I must fulfill his last wish. But upon entering Han, I saw hardship everywhere, the people in misery. As a scholar, I must worry before the world worries, and rejoice only after the world rejoices. I am here for the people of Han, Your Majesty.”
“Bravo!” Han Fei cheered.
Han Yu joined the applause, and the ministers followed suit.
Even Zhang Kaidi looked at Li Yu with new respect, realizing he had misjudged him.
Then General Ji Wuye spoke with disdain. “Anyone can spout grand theories. What real talent do you possess?”
Li Yu ignored Ji Wuye and addressed the king. “To strengthen the nation, first strengthen the army. But a strong army needs not just men, but money. Everyone knows armies march on their supplies. With enough money, you can buy anything—even the support of foreign nobles and generals. Qin grew from a tiny state into a giant this way. Why not Han? If we had enough money, we could sway the world.”
Ji Wuye sneered, “Everyone knows money is important. But where does it come from?”
Li Yu turned to him with a bow. “No need to worry, General. I would not stand here without a means to create wealth.” He produced a piece of rough paper from his robe and handed it to the guards. “This is perfume—long-lasting, simple to make, and unique in the world. How much do you think it’s worth, Your Majesty?”
King An took the paper and handed it to Lady Mingzhu for evaluation.
Ji Wuye scoffed, “Tricks and trifles—hardly worthy of the court.”
Li Yu smiled. “It may seem a trifle, but there’s more. Did Your Majesty not notice what else I offered?”
King An was puzzled. “What else?”
Han Fei stepped forward. “Father, Fang Yu also gave you—paper.”
King An asked, “What does that mean?”
...
Li Yu smiled. “Does Your Majesty not see the many uses of paper? Not just for writing—it can serve other purposes.”
King An asked, “What else can it do?”
Li Yu replied, “Suppose I establish a bank and use paper in place of money. What would Your Majesty think?”
King An still didn’t grasp it, so Han Fei explained, “If so, all the wealth in the land would flow into the bank, and what the bank spends is just paper.”
Li Yu cast Han Fei an approving look. “Precisely. All the world’s riches would be in Your Majesty’s hands. You could raise armies at will—Han need never worry about money again.”
King An pondered for a moment, then realized the implications—if it worked, it would revolutionize Han.
Why had no one thought of this before?
King An’s gaze toward Li Yu grew fervent.
At that moment, old Zhang Kaidi stepped forward. This time, rather than oppose, he bowed deeply. “Your Majesty! The auspicious clouds are real—Heaven favors Great Han!”
King An, delighted, laughed. “Qin has Li Yu; Han has Fang Yu. Truly a sign of prosperity!”
Han Yu spoke up. “Father, Li Yu of Qin was made royal brother. Han mustn’t seem stingy.”
King An smiled. “You’re right; too small a title would make us seem petty. Fang Yu, I appoint you Grand Tutor, in charge of all banking affairs.”
Han Yu led the chorus. “His Majesty is wise!”
The ministers echoed, “Long live His Majesty!”
Ji Wuye, seeing the court united, turned away, lost in thought.
The lively court soon quieted as they discussed the details of bank implementation.
Then came the sound of footsteps—steady, rhythmic, drawing closer and closer. Li Yu’s heartbeat quickened.
She was here.
His sixth sense told him exactly who was coming, and he felt a rush of excitement.
Before the person arrived, her voice rang out.
“Your subject Mingzhu greets Your Majesty.”
King An was pleased and a touch uneasy at Lady Mingzhu’s arrival. Over the years, he had grown dependent on her medicines, his health declining even as he relied on her treatments. Without her, he was plagued by nightmares.
She wore a fitted violet dress with a pale lavender bodice, lace-trimmed sleeves, and semi-transparent embroidery accentuating her graceful figure. The skirt’s tight cut highlighted her curves, and her long legs, clad in high-heeled purple boots, extended to the floor—an arresting sight. Her beauty was a perfect blend of allure and icy elegance.
A supreme enchantress—that was Li Yu’s verdict.
Beauty is justice—that was his second thought.
“I just heard Your Majesty mention appointing someone Grand Tutor. Is it this young gentleman below?” Lady Mingzhu’s gaze fixed on Li Yu, as if to see through him. Her lips curled in a faintly wicked smile.
“Yes, elder sister, that would be me,” Li Yu replied with a bow.
The officials all stared at Li Yu in astonishment—even Ji Wuye watched with a mocking smile.
“Elder sister? What an amusing young man,” Lady Mingzhu seemed delighted by the address. She turned to King An, “Since he wishes to call me sister, why shouldn’t I accept him as my younger brother? What do you think, Your Majesty?” Though she addressed the king, her eyes never left Li Yu.
“As you wish, my lady,” King An replied without hesitation.
“The gift from Your Majesty was presented by this little brother, wasn’t it?” Lady Mingzhu continued.
“Yes, it is called perfume, an offering from Fang Yu to Han. I wanted you to examine it,” King An explained.
“I have looked—it is practical, but I’ll need to study it further,” she said, then turned to Li Yu. “Is that not so, little brother?”
Suppressing his excitement, Li Yu bowed to her. “I leave everything to you, elder sister.”
“Later, come directly to my quarters and we’ll discuss it in detail,” she said, turning and walking off. After a few steps, she glanced back at Li Yu, her voice echoing like a phantom, “You must come, all right?”
With a toss of her hair, she strode elegantly away on her heels.
Li Yu dared not look too long—wrong place, wrong time, and he feared he might lose control.
He had noticed, since practicing the Twelve Forms of the Yellow Emperor, his desires had grown exponentially, along with his inner strength. He wasn’t sure whether to be pleased or worried.
To show his appreciation, King An ordered a banquet at noon to celebrate Li Yu.
Han Fei and Han Yu, knowing Li Yu did not drink, raised their teacups instead to toast him.
Zhang Kaidi chatted amiably, growing ever more impressed with Li Yu’s innovative, forward-thinking ideas. For a man searching for new paths, his initial appreciation turned to genuine respect, and he lamented his own failing eyesight.
Bored, Li Yu noticed that a little fox spirit had joined King An’s side—her delicate, dependent manner stirred a protective urge in all who saw her.
At that moment, she looked at Li Yu, whispered something in King An’s ear, then raised her cup and approached him.
“I heard His Majesty has recruited a great talent—who knew it would be such a handsome young man?” With a coquettish laugh, she covered her mouth with her hand—a gesture that, on anyone else, would seem affected, but on Hu Beauty, was perfectly natural. King An’s taste was indeed impeccable.
Li Yu gave him a mental thumbs-up but replied courteously, “You flatter me, madam. It is my greatest honor to meet you.”
Being called madam delighted Hu Beauty. In this strict hierarchy, the difference between “madam” and “beauty” was immense. Li Yu, playing the fool, had acknowledged her as madam; and given his evident future prospects, he was worth cultivating.
She offered him her cup. “A small token to congratulate you on your new post.”
As Li Yu took the cup, his hand brushed lightly—whether by accident or design—across the back of hers, gently scratching it before accepting the cup as if nothing had happened.
Li Yu showed no reaction, but Hu Beauty was terrified. She glanced around, saw no one had noticed, and relaxed slightly, her legs going weak. She shot Li Yu a resentful, seductive glare, but Li Yu remained unmoved, raising the cup. “Madam, since you offer this cup, I shall drink it. I trust you understand my meaning.”
Hu Beauty was bewildered. What did he mean? She wanted to ask, but before she could, Li Yu drained the cup in one gulp and handed it back to her.
As she pondered his words, Li Yu slowly collapsed to the floor.
Hu Beauty shrieked in terror, drawing all eyes.
A newly appointed talent lay on the floor, while the king’s favored consort stood over him, holding the cup, dazed. The scene was utterly bizarre.
Han Fei stepped forward, examined Li Yu, sniffed the cup, and asked, “Did you give Fang Yu wine?”
Hu Beauty, unable to speak, nodded feebly.
Han Fei burst out laughing, turning to the stunned King An. “No need to worry, Father. Fang Yu can’t hold his liquor—one sip and he’s out. He just needs a little rest.”
He glanced at Hu Beauty. “Did you not warn Fang Yu about the wine, madam?”
Hu Beauty, confused, nodded and shook her head in turn.
Han Fei gave up and turned away.
King An ordered the attendants to carry Li Yu to rest in the rear courtyard.
As they lifted him, Lady Mingzhu arrived. Seeing Li Yu unconscious, she was intrigued. After hearing the attendants’ account, she ordered them to bring him to her own chambers. She followed behind, a faint smile on her lips, as if she had just thought of something particularly amusing.