ChatGPT 說:
The next day, Han Zhen and his wife set off with Wu Tong and his companions, traveling for several days. On this day, they changed into the attire of a distinguished couple. They arrived at a place just over ten miles from the county town, situated on a mountainside. The estate was nestled between the mountains and water, a picturesque paradise. Inside the estate stood a large building, with a prominent plaque reading "Loyalty and Righteousness Hall." The sun hung low over the mountains, and weary birds returned to their nests. The group walked into the estate, greeted by the housekeeper, who happily exclaimed, "Master and Madam, you've returned! It's been nearly a year since you last came home, we were truly worried!" Han Zhen smiled and replied, "Wang, this journey to Guangzhou in Lingnan was long and arduous. But this is the last business venture for me. From now on, I shall no longer travel far and will remain here to enjoy my old age. If there are any guests, prepare a banquet for them."
The housekeeper responded, "Congratulations, Master and Madam!" He paused for a moment and then called out, "Prepare the grand feast!" A voice from inside the house echoed, "Prepare the grand feast!" The group entered the estate, which was vast, with a pebble path leading to different parts of the garden, including rockeries and guest rooms. Although Wu Tong came from a wealthy family, he was still amazed by the surroundings. Each person was in awe. The estate was surrounded by plum trees, strange rocks, slender bamboo, and slanting pines. The gentle breeze carried the scent of flowers, and the garden was filled with numerous exotic plants. The natural landscaping created a serene and magical atmosphere, almost like a fairyland, leaving everyone mesmerized.
Li Qian could not help but express with delight, "This retreat of yours, esteemed seniors, is so quiet and elegant, like a dream, like a paradise on earth. It's truly a place where one would never wish to leave."
That evening, as the banquet began, Yang Mi raised her glass and smiled, saying, "My husband and I have wandered the martial world for many years, and we've only spent a few months each year here at the estate. Now, we've finally retired from the martial world. Tonight, we celebrate and drink to the friendships with all of you, the martial world's sons and daughters!" The guests raised their glasses, and the room was filled with cheers and laughter, exchanging drinks in camaraderie. Han Zhen smiled and said, "The feast is prepared, let us put aside the affairs of the martial world and drink freely!"
After a few rounds of wine, the atmosphere grew even warmer. Wu Tong stood and raised his glass, saying loudly, "On behalf of myself and my three wives, I toast to the senior couple, wishing you both a life of peace and joy!" Han Zhen and his wife smiled and raised their glasses, drinking together. As the wine flowed, Wu Tong's expression changed slightly. After a moment of contemplation, he spoke, "There is a matter I must discuss, though I am unsure whether I should inform you both."
Han Zhen, sensing the seriousness of the matter, set down his wine cup and said, "Speak freely, Hall Master Wu. I sense this is no trivial matter."
Wu Tong grew serious and said, "Before the grand ceremony at Mount Hua, Li Qian and I infiltrated the enemy camp to gather intelligence. In the course of our mission, we overheard a shocking secret!"
Yang Mi, intrigued, quickly asked, "Since this is so secretive, please tell us more."
Wu Tong and Li Qian exchanged a glance, and Li Qian continued, "That night, we infiltrated the enemy camp. A heavy snowstorm had reduced visibility, and we happened to encounter an unexpected visitor. In our haste, we had to hide and ended up in a large tent. To our surprise, we overheard a high-ranking official named 'Master Yan' who came to secretly meet with An Qingxu!"
Han Zhen's face darkened, and he spoke in a low voice, "Master Yan? It must be Yan Zhuang! He is highly trusted by An Lushan. A visit to the enemy camp at night surely carries hidden intentions. Please, tell us more."
Wu Tong nodded, "That night, Yan Zhuang revealed a shocking conspiracy. He said An Lushan is quick-tempered, often resorts to whipping his subordinates, and is cruel even to his own officials. That day, Yan Zhuang had been beaten by An Lushan, and he could not endure it anymore. He braved the storm to meet An Qingxu and discussed an alliance to remove An Lushan!"
Upon hearing this, everyone was shocked. Han Zhen and his wife were equally stunned. After all, An Lushan had claimed the throne, and Yan Zhuang, as a powerful official, had been humiliated in such a way. This was beyond the bounds of the proper relationship between emperor and minister. Yang Mi couldn't help but exclaim, "Yan Zhuang, despite his high position, was still subjected to such humiliation? An Lushan is truly ruthless!"
Li Qian added, "The two of them argued for a long time that night. An Qingxu is weak-willed and indecisive. After all, murdering his father and usurping the throne is a great crime, so he hesitated. However, Yan Zhuang, determined to achieve his goal, used provocative tactics to force An Qingxu into making a decision."
Han Zhen paused for a moment before saying slowly, "Yan Zhuang has held power for a long time. He must have another trick up his sleeve to force An Qingxu's hand... Perhaps he is using the threat of the position of the crown prince?" Wu Tong nodded, "You are right, senior! Yan Zhuang made it clear that An Lushan intends to name An Qing'en as the crown prince, which means An Qingxu's position is at risk!"
Han Zhen's gaze sharpened, and he muttered, "Yan Zhuang is indeed a master of strategy. This is a ruthless move! In the struggle for the throne, the first move is often the most decisive!"
Yang Mi asked, "Did they mention when they would take action?"
Li Qian shook his head, "They did not set a definite date that night. They only said that as soon as the opportunity arose, they would act immediately."
Wu Tong added, "Yan Zhuang also mentioned that the eunuchs serving An Lushan can no longer tolerate the situation and may take action at any moment."
Han Zhen nodded slightly and said, "This matter concerns the military situation of the Tang Dynasty. It is extremely serious and must not be spread lightly. Hall Master Wu, as the leader of the Loyalty and Righteousness Hall, this matter is likely connected to the timing of our counteroffensive. If there is an opportunity, we may need to go to Luoyang to gather more detailed intelligence!"
At this point, Yang Mi, concerned that the conversation might dampen the mood of the feast, raised her glass and smiled, "Let us temporarily set aside the matters of the state and enjoy a few more drinks, for tonight we celebrate our gathering!" Han Zhen and his wife raised their glasses in agreement, and with a hearty laugh, they said, "Indeed, indeed, with fine wine before us, how can we not drink to our hearts' content?" The guests followed suit, and the mood lightened as they drank and laughed together. As the saying goes, "A little drunkenness brings joy, and a half-blooming flower delights the eye." For Han Zhen and his wife, who had spent their lives in the martial world, this drink was not only for the past but also for the quiet life ahead. Wu Tong and the others drank freely, and the night passed in laughter and revelry, until they finally departed, intoxicated and content.
The next day, Wu Tong and his companions bid farewell to Han Zhen and his wife. As they rode away, Wu Tong reflected, "Should we head to Lingwu to report this to the emperor, or continue to Luoyang to gather the latest intelligence?"
Wu Tong turned to his wives and asked, "Shall we head west to Lingwu or go to Luoyang to continue gathering intelligence?"
Liu Yun replied, "Husband, we had promised to visit Plum Blossom Village, but we missed it due to unforeseen circumstances. Now that this matter is settled, we should go and enjoy the snow-plum blossoms there."
Li Qian added, "Tong Ge, visiting the village wouldn't hurt, especially since it's near Luoyang."
Zhao Rou said, "It's no harm in visiting scenic spots!"
Wu Tong, previously in a serious mood, couldn't help but smile upon hearing his wives' words, and said, "Whether it's for state affairs or for a little indulgence, this is indeed the perfect season to see the plum blossoms. We shall visit Plum Blossom Village and enjoy the beautiful scenery."
The four of them rode on, traveling by day and resting by night. Three days later, they arrived at Plum Blossom Village, a small village covered in snow-white plum blossoms. The entire mountainside was blanketed in these delicate flowers, creating a serene and beautiful atmosphere. As they dismounted, they were surrounded by plum blossoms, their fragrance filling the air. Walking through the village, everyone felt relaxed and at peace, enjoying the pleasant scent of the flowers. Wu Tong, accompanied by his beautiful wives, found peace and contentment. Not only could they enjoy the beauty of the flowers, but they could also gaze at the vast expanse of plum blossom trees from a high vantage point. The magnificent landscape, combined with the flowers, created a sense of tranquility. A gentle breeze stirred, causing the petals to flutter in the air. At that moment, snowflakes began to fall from the sky, covering the entire village in a white blanket, blending with the white plum blossoms. The group walked through the snow, enjoying the scene, their hearts filled with joy. This moment of peace and beauty was truly breathtaking.