Shi Bao sat in the carriage, with Hu Fen seated directly across from him.
The atmosphere was somewhat stiff. Shi Bao had gone to the imperial court on Hu Zun's orders, and at first he had been delighted, believing this was an opportunity for him.
But once Hu Fen joined him, Shi Bao realized something was wrong.
Hu Zun did not hold the emperor in nearly as much contempt as he claimed.
His sons were all at court or elsewhere. Nor was he alone; the other Outer Generals were the same. Their families had to remain in Luoyang, effectively serving as hostages. If you dared rebel, your family would be the first to feel the blade.
And at Hu Zun's age, having another child at short notice was hardly a reliable prospect. He was not Zhong Yao.
Sima Shi had originally sent his son to Zhuge Dan to win him over. Sima Zhao had followed suit, sending his son to Hu Zun's side to win him over.
Yet now Hu Zun had voluntarily sent his own son to Luoyang with Shi Bao. This was, in effect, a roundabout way of bowing to the court.
None of my sons are by my side anymore. I certainly have no intention of rebelling.
Shi Bao had not dared speak rashly, solely because Hu Zun was hot-tempered. He did not want to become involved in the struggle between Hu Zun and the emperor.
Watching the scenery along the road, Hu Fen could not help laughing.
"All along the way, we've seen diligent officials and commoners reaping the benefits. Great Wei hasn't seen this in a very long time. Those officials who usually consume powders, strip naked, and climb onto rooftops to relieve themselves actually know how to urge the people to work... Hahaha!"
Shi