Murong Ke, Grand Preceptor, Grand Marshal, and Prince of Taiyuan of Yan, received Chen Caozhi in the Bright Hall of the Wang Residence. Present were Han Huan, the consulting military adviser, Nie Xiong, Director of the Secretariat, and two medical officials from the Yan Kingdom's Medical Office. Han Huan and Nie Xiong were prepared to debate dynastic fortunes and the five elements with Chen Caozhi, while the two medical officials wished to discuss the Prince of Taiyuan's illness and the effects of Five-Stone Powder-
After they exchanged courtesies and took their seats, Murong Ke asked, "Chen Xima, have you been quite happy and comfortable since returning from the hunt?"
This was simply Sima Zhao teasing Liu Shan. Chen Caozhi said solemnly, "I lie sleepless with homesickness, my heart burdened with worry. How could I be happy and comfortable?"
Murong Ke smiled and changed the subject. "You kindly gave me an excellent prescription for Five-Stone Powder earlier. I wish to take it, but the medical officials still have questions and would like your guidance, Chen Xima-"
The medical official to the left, who wore a fine beard, cupped his hands toward Chen Caozhi. "May I ask, Chen Xima: though Five-Stone Powder is said to be an excellent remedy, since the Han and Wei dynasties, many have fallen gravely ill after taking it, lying in the snow and wailing in unbearable agony. It is truly a harrowing sight. The Prince of Taiyuan supports the royal house and is a pillar of the state. Should taking this medicine make him ill, our deaths would be no loss!"
Chen Caozhi thought, Taking the powder won't make Murong Ke breathe his last on the spot. When his condition worsens six months from now, we'll see how good your medical skills are. He said, "Five-Stone Powder