Someone once noted a curious phenomenon: women who appear delicate and vulnerable tend to be particularly adored by men who see themselves as strong and protective. Now, facing this girl again after so long, Liu Bang suddenly felt as if he had grown taller and more imposing. He declared loudly, "Don't be afraid! I'm a public official here—I can protect you!"
I. The Emperor's Dream
On the road back to Pei County, Liu Bang and the other guards exchanged stories about the新奇 sights they had seen. From time to time, bursts of laughter erupted as they chatted merrily. Suddenly, a thunderous sound echoed along the broad imperial highway—a cavalry team galloped past. The riders, adorned in golden helmets and armor, shouted at the pedestrians on the road, "Kneel down, kneel down!" Those who hesitated or moved too slowly risked being struck by the warriors' whips.
Soon, the roadside was lined with kneeling people, including Liu Bang and his group. After what felt like the time it takes to smoke a pipe, dozens of war chariots filed past, followed by numerous yellow imperial carriages. Stern-faced archers and guards armed with blades and axes surrounded the procession.
After the large contingent had passed, Liu Bang stood up, dusting the dirt off his knees, and asked someone nearby, "What was that about? Is the court sending troops to war?"
A local chuckled and said, "You must be from out of town, right? That was the emperor's inspection tour. We see it every now and then."
"Ah! So many people mobilized just for the emperor's inspection—incredible, truly incredible!" Liu Bang exclaimed with admiration, his face filled with envy.
Throughout the journey back to Pei County, he muttered to himself incessantly: I've been wasting my life. Today, I've finally seen what real grandeur looks like.
A companion couldn't help but say, "Are you crazy? Why are you muttering nonstop?"
Liu Bang shot him a dismissive glance and replied, "What do you know? Look at how they live—such awe-inspiring majesty! This is how a true man should aspire to be!"
His companion, baffled, asked, "Who are you talking about?"
Liu Bang declared loudly, "Who else could it be? The emperor, of course!"
Everyone was startled, and no one dared to ask further.
Upon returning to Pei County, Liu Bang invited Xiao He for a drink. Halfway through their wine, he said to Xiao He, "This trip to the capital really broadened my horizons. On the way back, I even happened to witness the imperial procession—the grandeur was beyond words! If one day we brothers could live like that, it would be amazing!"
Xiao He immediately stood up, glanced around, and fortunately, aside from Third Lady, there was no one else nearby. He whispered to Liu Bang, "Good brother, you're still young and lack life experience. Take my advice—never say such things again."
Liu Bang curled his lip and said, "I was just saying it in passing."
Liu Bang, bold and impulsive, naturally didn't overthink his words, and he couldn't understand why everyone was too afraid to even mention the word "emperor."
But life was still life, and fantasies couldn't put food on the table. Soon, Liu Bang returned to his old ways— a Pedestrian life that, in hindsight, seemed like that of a frog at the bottom of a well.
Time flew by, and two years passed.
One day, while Liu Bang was at Third Lady's tavern as usual, Xiao He hurriedly came to inform him, "The magistrate's old friend has moved here from another region. We've been ordered to welcome him tomorrow, and you must attend."
Liu Bang, in high spirits from drinking, retorted, "I don't even know his name. Why should I go?"
Xiao He smiled and said, "This man's surname is Lü. He's an honored guest of our magistrate—dare you refuse? Remember, don't forget to bring a congratulatory gift."
The next morning, Liu Bang went as promised, but he arrived empty-handed.
People can be strange when it comes to money: some live well on little income, while others, despite earning much, live poorly and don't even know where their money goes. Liu Bang likely belonged to the latter group, with the only difference being that his income wasn't substantial to begin with.
The night before going to the county town, he turned his pockets inside out but found barely any money. Glancing at Third Lady sleeping soundly beside him, he felt too embarrassed to ask her for money—after all, he had already been eating, drinking, and living there for freeNevertheless, Liu Bang mustered his courage and headed into the county town. He went to the government office to pay his respects, inquired about the address, and then left.
It was just past noon, and he figured he might as wander around for a while. So, he strolled idly through the streets. As he walked, he suddenly noticed a crowd gathered up ahead and squeezed through to see what was happening.
In the center of the crowd was a cleared space where a sturdy, shirtless man was demonstrating martial arts, his moves fierce and powerful.
Liu Bang watched for a moment but found it uninteresting and was about to leave when he suddenly caught sight of a familiar face in the crowd across from him.
He looked more closely and nearly cried out in surprise—it was the girl from the capital! Though much time had passed since their last meeting, he miraculously recognized her at first glance. Yes, it was her. Though she had filled out a bit compared to before, she now appeared even more radiant.
Liu Bang hurriedly pushed his way out of the crowd, circled around to the other side, and squeezed back in, but the girl had vanished.
Anxious, Liu Bang stepped into the clearing and scanned his surroundings. The performer, who had been throwing punches, glared at him and stopped, about to demand an explanation. Liu Bang quickly waved his hand and said, "It's nothing, carry on."
As he spoke, he continued looking around and finally spotted the girl on the other side. He rushed over, but upon seeing him approach, she turned and fled.
For some reason, Liu Bang chased after her without hesitation. The girl ran frantically ahead until she suddenly stepped on some loose gravel by the roadside, cried out in pain, and sat down clutching her foot. Liu Bang caught up to her, slightly annoyed, and asked, "Why were you running? Don't you recognize me?"
The girl looked up, stared at him, but said nothing, her breathing rapid and shallow.
Liu Bang found it strange—he saw eyes filled with distrust and fear. And without a doubt, this girl had forgotten him entirely.
Their peculiar behavior had already drawn the attention of passersby, who began to stop and watch. Worried about causing a misunderstanding, Liu Bang quickly pulled out his official badge and explained, "Miss, I'm not a bad person. I'm the village chief of Sishui Ting—a government official. This is my badge; you can take a look."
The girl took the badge, examined it, and handed it back. The fear in her eyes lessened, but confusion remained. Her large, glistening eyes seemed to ask, Why were you chasing me?
Seeing her silence, Liu Bang had no choice but to bring up the past, hoping to jog her memory.
When he mentioned that he was the same impulsive fellow from back then—the one who loved the scent of women—a light seemed to turn on in the girl's eyes. She finally remembered.
It was almost uncanny: two people from such distant places, meeting again after so long—it felt like fate. As they strolled side by side down the long street, Liu Bang asked again, "Why did you run earlier?"
A shadow of melancholy crossed the girl's face, and she said softly, "You should rather ask why I've come to a place like this."
After his previous experience, Liu Bang understood her feelings all too well. Indeed, compared to Xianyang, Pei County was pitifully small and humble. He remained silent, sensing she would continue.
The girl went on, "My family is actually from Shan County in Shandong. We only moved to the capital last year. But who would have thought that wretched scoundrel would send people to cause trouble again, refusing to let us live in peace? When you chased me earlier, I thought you were one of that villain's lackeys, so I ran, hoping to hide at home."
In the years since they had parted, the lively, adorable young girl had vanished, replaced by a slightly melancholic, even timid, yet fully matured young woman.
Perhaps it was the boldness in Liu Bang's heart that melted the iceberg in hers, but the distance between them vanished instantly. They talked about many things, and when Liu Bang learned that the young woman's surname was Lü, he suddenly felt a strange sensation.
Time is always exasperating—when you need it most, it slips through your fingers like fine sand. Before they knew it, the sky had begun to darken, and both Liu Bang and the young woman simultaneously thought of parting.
II. Rekindling Fate
The magistrate's esteemed guest lived in a large estate in the eastern part of the city. It had once belonged to a fallen noble but was now occupied by the magistrate. The new owner, Old Master Lü, sat quietly, watching calmly as people moved aboutOld Master Lü had not enjoyed such undisturbed tranquility for a long time. Ever since offending the wealthiest man in his county, his life had grown increasingly difficult. First, he was driven from his homeland and forced to flee to a distant place; later, he had no choice but to seek refuge here. In truth, none of this should have happened—it was all because that powerful family had bullied him, insisting that his daughter marry their foolish son.
At this thought, Old Master Lü clenched his fist in anger.
By then, Liu Bang had arrived. As soon as he entered the hall, he began greeting acquaintances. Xiao He, tasked by the magistrate, was serving as a part-time accountant, responsible for collecting congratulatory gifts.
Seeing Liu Bang swagger in empty-handed, Xiao He couldn't help but feel annoyed. After what I told him yesterday, he's treating my goodwill like dirt, he thought. With a shift in intention, he decided to teach Liu Bang a lesson. He stood up and announced loudly, "Honored guests, Old Master Lü is a distinguished visitor from afar. We in Pei County must not treat him lightly. The magistrate has instructed me to inform everyone that those whose gifts amount to less than a thousand coins shall be seated in the outer hall." As he spoke, he deliberately glanced at Liu Bang.
Unfazed, Liu Bang merely smiled at the announcement and sauntered over to register. Xiao He asked, "What have you brought?"
Without a word, Liu Bang picked up a brush, neatly wrote his name on the red paper, then looked up and met Xiao He's eyes. With a few swift strokes, he added more characters, tossed the brush aside, and strode confidently into the main hall.
Xiao He picked up the paper and saw the words "Congratulations: Ten Thousand Coins" written boldly across it.
He quickly called out, "Liu Bang, you must hand over the money before entering!"
Liu Bang turned back with a sly smile and said, "Who carries that much money on them? I'll have my servant deliver it tomorrow."
Xiao He was nearly furious. I've known you for years, and this is the first I've heard of you having a servant, he thought. Who are you trying to fool? If you don't come up with the money, let's see how the magistrate deals with you. Though seething, Xiao He could say little in front of so many distinguished guests and could only watch helplessly as Liu Bang walked in.
Amusingly, Liu Bang acted as if he were truly a wealthy man, swaggering over to sit beside Old Master Lü in the VIP section. A maid responsible for seating approached Old Master Lü and whispered a few words to him.
Old Master Lü cupped his hands toward Liu Bang and said, "Young brother, your generosity is truly remarkable—to offer ten thousand coins as a gift. This old man offers you his deepest thanks."
Liu Bang smiled without confirming or denying it. Old Master Lü, who had long studied the I Ching and was skilled in physiognomy, examined Liu Bang's features closely and couldn't help but sigh in admiration. "Young brother, you possess the face of great fortune—a long neck, a prominent nose, the back of a tiger, and the waist of a dragon. Rare, truly rare!"
Seeing the old man shaking his head and appraising him so intently, Liu Bang felt a twinge of irritation. Hearing himself described as destined for wealth and nobility, he thought mockingly, This old man must be dazzled by the extravagant gift. How could someone like me, without a tile overhead or an inch of land underfoot, have any fortune to speak of?
During the banquet, Old Master Lü and Liu Bang exchanged toasts and chatted freely about everything under the sun, finding themselves surprisingly compatible.
Although Xiao He had intended to embarrass Liu Bang, he now felt somewhat worried about the situation. He took the opportunity to offer a toast and pulled Old Master Lü aside, whispering, "Liu Bang is locally famous for his tall tales. Please don't take his wild claims seriously, Old Master Lü."
Old Master Lü smiled and waved his hand. "Master Xiao, you've worked hard today. Please enjoy more drinks. As for this matter, this old man knows how to handle it. Thank you for your concern."
After the guests had eaten and drunk their fill, they offered a few more compliments to Old Master Lü before gradually taking their leave. Seeing that most people had left, Liu Bang also stood up and cupped his hands to bid farewell. Noticing his departure, Old Master Lü said, "Chief Liu, why not stay a while longer?" He then busied himself seeing off the other guests.
Liu Bang paused, thinking it impolite to leave just yet, and returned to his seat. After about the time it takes to smoke a pipe, all the other guests had departed, and servants began clearing the cups, plates, and utensils, creating a clatter of noise.
Old Master Lü returned with a flushed face and said to Liu Bang, "It's rather chaotic here. Let's retreat to my study at the back. I have something to discuss."
The study was indeed quiet and serene. Once they were seated, Old Master Lü said with a smile, "I've practiced physiognomy since childhood and have read the faces of many people, but I have never seen features like yours. One could say you are a dragon among men. May I ask, Chief Liu, are you married?"
Liu Bang was taken aback by the sudden shift in conversation but, out of politeness, answered truthfully. Upon hearing his response, Old Master Lü was overjoyed and exclaimed, "Excellent!"
Liu Bang glanced at him but remained silent. Old Master Lü Realizing his outburst might have been inappropriate, Old Master Lü quickly explained, "Chief Liu, please don't misunderstand. I have two daughters of marriageable age. Meeting you today, I feel you would be a suitable match. I only hope you will not find it beneath you to choose one of them."
Liu Bang could hardly believe such fortune had fallen into his lap. He immediately dropped to his knees with a thud and kowtowed, saying, "How could I ever refuse such generosity from you, Old Master Lü?"
Old Master Lü calmly accepted his bow, then helped him up and asked, "So, which one would you choose?"
Liu Bang blushed, thought for a moment, and said, "Might I have the chance to meet them first?"
Old Master Lü hesitated slightly and replied, "It's rather late today, and it wouldn't be convenient. How about this: come back first thing tomorrow morning, and I will arrange for you to meet them."
The next morning, Liu Bang arrived early, dressed in brand-new clothes he had borrowed from Xiao He the night before. Old Master Lü was well-prepared: he had sectioned off part of the hall with a blue silk screen, allowing both parties to sit on opposite sides. Through the translucent screen, they could only see vague outlines of each other, but they could converse freely—an ingenious arrangement. However, under the watchful eyes of their parent, both young women fell silent.
Old Master Lü urged from the side, "Why don't you all chat a bit? Chief Liu, you may begin."
Seeing that it was his turn, Liu Bang could no longer remain silent. He began to briefly introduce himself and his circumstances.
As he was speaking, a corner of the blue screen was lifted slightly and then quickly dropped back into place. A series of bell-like laughter echoed from behind, and someone whispered, "So it's him."
Shortly after, Old Master Lü was called behind the screen. One of his daughters whispered something in his ear, and the old man burst into hearty laughter. Liu Bang felt both puzzled and increasingly nervous, his hands fidgeting restlessly.
For some reason, both daughters rose and left under the cover of the screen, leaving only Liu Bang and Old Master Lü in the vast hall.
Once they were alone, Old Master Lü asked, "Chief Liu, is there another woman in your life outside this matter?"
Liu Bang's head spun with a dull roar. In truth, since the previous day, he had been worried that his relationship with Third Lady would be exposed and ruin this promising match. But now…
Liu Bang deflated like a punctured ball, all his earlier confidence gone. He hung his head and muttered, "I... I..." Liu Bang stammered, his voice trailing off.
Old Master Lü cut him off, saying, "Enough of that. Do you remember, a few days ago, you encountered a young woman surnamed Lü? That was my eldest daughter, Lü Zhi!"
Suddenly, everything clicked for Liu Bang. So it was a blessing in disguise—he breathed an inward sigh of relief. Old Master Lü continued, "Well then, since you two have already met privately, I will betroth Lü Zhi to you."
Overwhelmed with excitement, Liu Bang dropped to his knees with another thud and exclaimed repeatedly, "Thank you, Father-in-law! Thank you, Father-in-law!"
As he left the Lü residence, Liu Bang felt as if even the air breathed easier than before. He pumped his fists triumphantly into the sky. Just as he was basking in his joy, a small stone struck him hard on the back of the head, making him yelp in surprise.
Liu Bang turned toward the direction of the throw and saw a narrow alley. He chased after the figure, catching only a glimpse of a familiar silhouette darting into another alley. Smiling, Liu Bang knew exactly who was behind this and boldly gave chase. When he reached the wall, he slowed his steps and crouched down quietly.
The trick worked—after a moment of silence, the figure cautiously circled back and peeked around the corner, seeing no one. Suddenly, Liu Bang sprang up from below, wrapping his arms tightly around the person.
Just as he had guessed, the ambusher was none other than Lü Zhi.
She had been listening behind the screen in the hall, hearing every word of Liu Bang's conversation with her father. Her heart raced, and her cheeks flushed. But she was more than willing to accept this marriage. So, after Liu Bang left, she slipped out through a side door to intercept him, intending to play a prank. Instead, she found herself caught in his embrace.
Lü Zhi struggled and whispered, "Don't—let me go!"
With a beauty in his arms, Liu Bang had no intention of releasing her. Sunlight shimmered above Lü Zhi's head, and countless golden rays seemed to dance and swirl before her eyes.
Just then, a soft sound came from the side door. Lü Zhi snapped out of her daze, broke free from Liu Bang's embrace, and fled back inside as if escaping.
Finally back in her room, she let out a sigh of relief, though her heart still pounded violently, as if she had done something guilty. Yet that night That night, as she lay in bed recalling that heart-pounding moment, a sweet smile touched her lips. Her fingers gently brushed against her mouth, as if searching for that wondrous sensation.
III. Fleeting Lovers
"Parental decree and matchmaker's words" were indispensable in matters of marriage. Under heaven, only the emperor could bypass such customs. Liu Bang was no emperor and could not defy this rule. Though Pei County and Sishui were not far from Yangli, over the years, Liu Bang had not once crossed the threshold of his familiar home. But this time was different—he had to return, and the more neighbors who knew about it, the better.
Upon arriving home, his parents' eyes held not only affection but also astonishment. They studied their son as if he were a stranger.
Time had aged them all; even Han Shi's hair was now streaked with white. After exchanging greetings, Liu Bang said plainly, "I'm getting married. To the daughter of a wealthy family in the county town."
The elderly couple was clearly delighted. Today was a double blessing: their son had finally returned home on his own, and he was bringing back a bride.
Han Shi chimed in, "That's wonderful! You're already in your thirties. For the other party to take a liking to you—"
"Enough," Liu Bang cut off his mother. He felt that whenever he returned home, he became a pitiful figure, shrinking into the shadows.
Seeing that the matter was settled, Liu Bang stood up and said, "I'll handle the betrothal gifts. You don't need to worry about it. Also, take this—it's my filial offering." As he spoke, he pulled some money from his pocket, placed it on the table, and turned to leave.
Other matters could be resolved with words, but the betrothal gifts required real action. The Lü family, though seeking refuge from elsewhere, were undeniably a wealthy household that valued face and propriety. This formality could not be overlooked. Liu Bang earned little but spent lavishly, leaving him with no savings. The more he thought about it, the more it troubled him.
That evening, back at Third Lady's place, he couldn't help but sigh deeply.
Third Lady knew a little about Liu Bang's impending marriage but had never considered stopping him. After all, at her age, having someone willing to be with her was satisfaction enough. Seeing Liu Bang in such a state, she teased, "What's wrong? Now that you've got a young chick, you can't stand the sight of this old lady anymore? Can't even wait a few days? Do you need me to call Lv qi on your behalf?"
Liu Bang chuckled and said, "Third Lady, you're teasing me again. Your words are sharp, but I bet the vinegar bottle in your stomach has already tipped over, hasn't it?"
"Hmph, I would never," Third Lady retorted, though her tone carried a hint of genuine jealousy. "Liu Bang, mark my words: that little brat Lü Zhi could never care for you the way I do. Just wait and see."
Liu Bang smiled obsequiously and said, "Of course, of course. Is there any woman under heaven as understanding as my Third Lady? Marrying Lü Zhi is just my way of currying favor with the magistrate, hoping to secure an official position someday. Don't worry, Third Lady—even after I'm married, I won't neglect you. But first, could you do me a favor?"
"What favor?"
"Lend me a 'door-knocking brick.'"
"There are plenty outside—take any one you want."
"You know I don't mean that."
"Then what do you want?"
"I... I need money for the betrothal gifts."
"What?!" Third Lady's voice shot up an octave. She turned to glare at Liu Bang and said, "You heartless wretch! I'm already letting you off easy by not blaming you for two-timing me, and now you want me to pay for this? What kind of person do you take me for?"
Liu Bang quickly placated her with a smile. "Don't misunderstand—we're playing the long game here. Think about it: after all these years together, how could some young girl ever compare to you?"
To secure the betrothal money, Liu Bang went to great lengths, wearing out his lips with persuasion. When he finally walked out of the tavern with Third Lady's money in his pocket, he couldn't help but curse under his breath.
Regardless, he used the money to purchase the traditional four-color betrothal gifts and several rolls of high-quality silk brocade in Pei County, then hired someone to deliver them to the Lü family estate.
With everything prepared, all that remained was the wedding. Liu Bang felt a weight lift from his shoulders, and his steps seemed lighter as he walked through the streets.
IV. The Young Bride Crosses the Threshold
Not long after, the auspicious day arrived. Liu Bang dressed in red wedding finery and set out on foot to fetch his bride.
Old Master Lü had also made early preparations. He had his daughter seated in a small sedan chair, with family members carrying the dowry closely behind. Thus, the procession followed Liu Bang's lead toward Yangli Village.
In Yangli, Xiao He, Fan Kuai, Cao Shen, and others had also started early, setting up a festive canopy, decorating with lanterns and streamers, and inviting many neighbors to join the celebration. The scene was quite lively.
However, some whispered among themselves: "Hey, isn't this the third son of the Liu family involved with that Third Lady from the tavern? How did this happen?"
Another replied: "What do you know? That was just a fleeting affair. This is the real deal."
Lü Zhi sat quietly alone in the bridal chamber, occasionally lifting her red veil to sneak a peek at the commotion outside. For a respectable woman, her wedding day was exceptionally significant—it marked her transition from maiden to married woman. Her emotions at this moment were complex and tumultuous.
As she sat there, Lü Zhi's thoughts wandered. Old Master Lü had only two sons and had always hoped for more, believing that sons ensured care in old age. Yet Lü Zhi's birth haddisappointed him and even caused quite a scare.
It was a snowy winter day. Old Master Lü paced restlessly in the hall, unable to sit still. His wife and the midwife had been in the room adorned with red cloth strips for what felt like an eternity, and all he could hear were his wife's increasingly agonized moans.
As time dragged on, Old Master Lü could no longer bear the anxiety. He hurried to the family ancestral hall to burn incense and pray for his ancestors' protection.
In his desperation, he turned to divination. He traced characters on a sand tray, and gradually, words began to form—a line from a book on physiognomy: "Standing birth yields a queen; seated birth yields a general." Old Master Lü was puzzled by its meaning.
On his way home, perhaps due to the accumulated snow, his legs felt weak and unsteady. Just as he entered the courtyard, he heard the cry of a baby from inside. He rushed in and asked the maids scurrying in and out, "How is everything?"
By then, the midwife had emerged. She took over and said:"Master Lü, you must reward me generously this time! This child was exceptionally difficult to deliver!"
Old Master Lü anxiously asked, "Quick, tell me—is it a boy or a girl?"
The midwife smiled and said, "Congratulations, Master! It's a daughter. And what's more, she came out legs first. Isn't that strange?"
Old Master Lü's mind went blank with a roar—this was exactly what "standing birth yields a queen" meant!
"Then... has something happened to my wife?"
he exclaimed in alarm.
"No, not at all," the midwife reassured him. "She's just exhausted from the difficult delivery and has fallen asleep now."
Old Master Lü muttered to himself, "How strange!"
Recalling this, Lü Zhi couldn't help but smile faintly. All parents under heaven hoped their sons would become dragons and their daughters phoenixes. Otherwise, she wouldn't have been named "Zhi" (雉, meaning pheasant, a bird often associated with beauty and grace). Now, it seemed all those hopes were just beautiful fantasies. The man she was about to marry—or rather, had already married—was merely a lowly village chief. The prospect of becoming a queen seemed hopeless in this lifetime.
If not for her father's insistence, this marriage would likely have fallen through. Her mother had argued and complained from the very day she heard about the match. Ah, she sighed inwardly, it's all because of that wretched Liu Bang and his less-than-stellar reputation. Yet, as the saying goes, "bad boys attract good girls," and she found herself quite drawn to him.
Just as these thoughts crossed her mind, the door creaked open, and someone entered. The drowsy scent of alcohol filled the bridal chamber. In one swift motion, her red veil was lifted, and Lü Zhi saw her husband—Liu Bang, his cheeks flushed from drink. Her future life was now inextricably tied to this man.