Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

As the year draws to a close, government offices have already begun their annual holiday. With the exception of a few officials with special reasons, all officials have discarded their court robes, enjoying a rare moment of leisure. They gather with a few close friends, discussing history and the present, a joyful occasion. In Luoyang today, the most talked-about figures on the streets are those young men and their beautiful wives. Their distinguished demeanor, combined talent and virtue, inspire admiration and become the subject of much discussion.

Early that morning, Cai Yong's residence was bustling with activity, seemingly ready to be trampled by the visitors. Friends like Guan Ning and Kong Rong, fresh from breakfast, hurried in. Among them was Xun Yu, a participant from the previous day. The crowd's eagerness stemmed from news that the painting they had collectively created the previous day had been enhanced by Cai Wenji's final inscription, which she had carefully preserved and then taken back. Thus, everyone eagerly arrived early to see the painting in all its glory.

Inside the mansion, the aroma of tea and the fragrance of ink filled the air. Everyone gathered around the painting, their eyes filled with anticipation and admiration. Against the backdrop of Cai Wenji's inscription, the painting took on an extraordinary charm, as if it had come alive. Every brushstroke and every stroke held endless poetry and emotion.

Guan Ning stroked his beard and nodded in praise; Kong Rong's eyes widened, as if he wanted to engrave the painting in his mind; and Xun Yu stared at the painting quietly, as if deep in thought. At this time, Cai Yong's residence was filled with a rich artistic atmosphere, and everyone was immersed in the wonderful enjoyment brought by this painting.

As everyone was absorbed in admiring the paintings, the concierge hurried in to announce that Yuan Shao, accompanied by his sons Yuan Tan and Yuan Xi, Yuan Shu with his son Yuan Yao, and Cao Cao with his son Cao Ang, had arrived for a visit. Yuan Shao, Yuan Shu, and Cao Cao, three talented young men from Luoyang of the previous generation, naturally enjoyed the attention of numerous distinguished scholars thanks to their distinguished family pedigree, with three officials serving in four generations. Cao Cao, though descended from a eunuch, also earned acclaim among scholars for his early achievement in establishing the Five-Colored Stick. They had brought their children, partly out of curiosity about these individuals and partly because these children, though of similar age, were already renowned in Luoyang, and they naturally hoped their children would associate with them and build their reputation. Upon meeting, the group exchanged warm yet polite greetings.

Yuan Shao thought to himself, "This trip will allow the children to meet some prominent men, and it will also enhance the reputation of our Yuan family." Cao Cao, on the other hand, thought, "How can my son, Cao Cao, be inferior to others? This time, I must let Cao Ang interact with these talented people, broaden his horizons, and lay a foundation for his future development."

Yuan Shu hadn't actually thought about gaining reputation for his child. However, when he saw Yuan Shao bringing his child, he couldn't help but think, "Since Yuan Shao brought his child, I, Yuan Shu, must also bring my son."

Cao Cao and his companions were absorbed in admiring the painting when they simultaneously noticed the graceful Cai Wenji standing beside them. Yuan Shao gazed eagerly at Cai Wenji, who was about the same age as his son. A look of admiration crossed his face, and he whispered, "She is a truly wonderful wife for my son." After a brief hesitation, he inquired whether Cai Wenji was engaged.

When Cai Wenji heard Yuan Shao's question, a blush suddenly appeared on her pretty face, like a ripe apple. She lowered her head shyly and fiddled with the corner of her clothes.

When Cai Yong heard Yuan Shao's question, he was stunned at first, looked a little embarrassed, and seemed a little at a loss.

At this time, Cao Cao was clear-headed and knew Cai Yong's family situation very well, so he hurried forward to explain.

Cao Cao walked steadily forward and patted Yuan Shao's shoulder, his eyes filled with intimacy and understanding. He spoke in a steady voice, "During the Factional Rebellion, the Hedong Wei family saved Cai Yong's life, so they betrothed Cai Wenji to the Hedong Wei family early on. Wei Zhongdao and Wenji are of similar age, so when they are of marriageable age, it's natural for us to facilitate their marriage."

When Yuan Shao heard this, he suddenly realized and hurriedly said, "Oh, I really didn't know about this before. I hope Brother Cai won't blame me!" Regret and apology appeared on his face.

Seeing this, Cai Yong didn't say anything to blame him. He smiled slightly and waved his hand tolerantly to show that he didn't care.

It was also the first time that Cai Wenji learned that her marriage had already been arranged by her father. Her delicate body trembled suddenly, and her heart seemed to be struck by lightning. She was instantly confused, and a bitter taste spread in her heart. Her throat seemed to be blocked by something, and she could hardly speak.

The figures of Lu Wan and Ma Chao appeared in her mind again. Recalling Lu Wan's deep friendship with Ma Chao, her mood became more complicated and tangled like a tangled thread.

So, she palely excused herself to Cai Yong, saying that she was not feeling well, and then staggered back to the back hall to rest.

Back in her embroidery room, Cai Wenji seemed to have lost all her strength. She slowly walked to the bedside and silently lay down with her head covered. However, she could no longer control her tears, which flowed out like a flood, soaking the bedding.

Everyone watched as the protagonist, Cai Wenji, claimed to be unwell and left, with regretful expressions on their faces. They couldn't help but feel that there seemed to be little point in staying here any longer.

Cao Cao's eyes lit up, and the corners of his mouth curled up slightly. He suggested, "According to Wen Ruo, Sun Ce, Zhou Yu, and others will be gathering at Lu Zhi's house today. Since this is a good opportunity, why don't we all go to Lord Lu Zhi's residence and meet these talented young men together?"

Everyone applauded loudly, and then walked out of Cai Mansion with Cai Yong.

Cao Cao walked in front with great dignity. His steps were steady and his eyes revealed confidence and expectation, as if he was full of longing for this party.

Yuan Shao followed closely behind, smiling, chatting and laughing with the people around him, as if guessing what interesting things would happen at the party.

Cai Yong's steps were a little heavy. He was still thinking about his daughter. He would look back occasionally, but quickly retract his gaze and keep up with the crowd.

The others also had their own characteristics. Some walked in a hurry, eager to see the group of young talents; others took their time, leisurely enjoying the scenery along the way.

On the street, passersby cast curious glances at me. The sunlight shines on everyone, illuminating their figures like a vivid painting.

They passed through the bustling streets, dodging the throngs of people from time to time. The cries of vendors rang out along the roadside, and various aromas filled the air, but everyone's eyes were always firmly fixed on the direction of Lu Zhi's residence.

Occasionally, children would play and fight on the roadside, attracting people to stop and watch, with knowing smiles on their faces.

As they drew closer to Lu Zhi's residence, everyone's excitement grew. They exchanged their understanding of and expectations for Sun Ce, Zhou Yu, and the others, almost as if they could hear the laughter and joy that was about to arrive.

At this time, Sun Ce stood tall and straight, with a heroic demeanor; Zhou Yu was graceful and elegant; Lu Su was calm and reserved, with a deep gaze. They had already arrived at the mansion.

Under Ma Chao's introduction, the three young talents came to visit Lu Zhi with steady steps.

Lu Zhi sat upright in the hall, his gaze like a torch, examining the young men before him. He nodded slightly, motioning for them to sit. A legendary figure among the Han court officials, Lu Zhi's literary skills could promote the Confucian doctrine of governance and promote its flourishing; his military skills could implement the strategies of statecraft and maintain national peace. Under the adoring gazes of the men, he examined them.

Sun Ce spoke first, his words were passionate and showed his heroism and courage.

Zhou Yu had clear thinking and eloquent speech, and his words sparkled with wisdom.

Lu Su responded calmly and answered the questions in an orderly manner, showing his careful consideration.

Lu Zhi listened quietly, a satisfied smile gradually appearing on his face. He was secretly delighted that these young people were indeed rare talents.