Wang Tong had an unusual temperament. After making a name for himself at thirty, he never fought anyone again. He abandoned martial pursuits for literature, taught no one martial skills, and only gathered disciples to lecture, producing a great many works as well.
Only a great scholar like Wang Tong could invite Shi Qingxuan, who never did anyone favors.
As for the middle-aged man with the bearing of a high official who sat talking alongside Ouyang Xiyi and Wang Tong, he carried himself with great authority and gave off an impression of shrewd competence.
His name was Wang Shichong. By Emperor Yang's command, he had led troops against Zhai Rang and Li Mi's Wagang Army.
He had taken time out of his busy schedule to come here this time, simply to witness Shi Qingxuan's elegance.
Bang! Bang!
Just as the banquet's atmosphere was reaching its height, two heavy thuds suddenly rang out.
Everyone looked over to see that the two burly guards at the door had been kicked inside.
The guests in the hall immediately erupted into an uproar at the sight.
Those attending Wang Tong's birthday banquet today were all either wealthy or noble. Anyone daring to cause trouble at such a time was truly audacious beyond measure.
One of Wang Tong's disciples saw someone daring to make trouble here and immediately leaped out from the crowd. Staring toward the entrance, he shouted angrily, "Who dares to run wild here?!"
"Hmph!"
A disdainful snort came from beyond the door. Immediately afterward, a man and a woman entered one after the other.
The man was tall and imposing. Though his face was somewhat long and narrow, his features were sharply defined, and his skin was fair without making him seem effeminate. Instead, his fierce gaze revealed a trace of