That evening, Damo held a grand banquet at the palace to welcome Li Yaoying and her party, while also receiving envoys from other provinces and discussing the matter of official appointments with the Wei dynasty envoys.
Yaoying hadn't even changed her clothes, saying: "With the war intensifying, provisions nearly exhausted, and military funds insufficient, there's no need for such formalities. These envoys are old acquaintances of mine who don't stand on ceremony. There's no need for extravagance..."
As she spoke, she glanced at Zheng Jing and the others.
The men exchanged looks before quickly smiling and cupping their hands: "Exactly so. We came under orders to join forces with the Western Army volunteers to defeat the Northern Rong and reclaim lost territories. Let's dispense with these unnecessary formalities."
Damo was momentarily taken aback, his eyes flashing with admiration as he bowed deeply to Yaoying: "The princess speaks wisely. I'll have the banquet withdrawn immediately. I've long heard that Chang'an values tea drinking, and having always admired the capital's elegance, I'd like to invite the envoys to sample our local tea."
Attendants came forward to lead Zheng Jing and the others to a side hall for tea.
Yaoying deliberately lingered behind, allowing Damo the opportunity to report several important matters: "The envoys sent to Yanqi, Beiting, Yutian, and Qiuci have returned one after another. Though all provinces suffer from the war and yearn for liberation, the situation remains uncertain. They make excuses to avoid sending troops and refuse to dispatch their heirs to present tribute in Chang'an."
Sending their direct descendants to Chang'an at this time would mean complete submission to the Wei dynasty. With the prolonged conflict between the Central Plains and Western Regions, these provinces feared that Wei couldn't protect them and worried about Northern Rong retaliation, hence their cautious observation.
Yaoying wasn't surprised by the other provinces' vacillation. Weak and caught between powerful forces, switching allegiances was their survival strategy.
"When we reclaim Yi Province and reconnect with Helong, the other provinces will naturally submit."
Damo nodded in agreement, producing the documents brought by Zheng Jing and his companions.
Li De had officially appointed Yaoying as West Army Commander, while other Western Army officers received promotions. Gaochang would restore its old system under the name Xizhou, with Damo no longer as monarch but as Xizhou Protector.
Yaoying looked up, "The crown prince shows great righteousness."
Damo smiled wryly, "I wouldn't call it righteousness. I drifted through life for years, unable to even protect my wife... I was merely a puppet. But I've always remembered my late father's dying wish. At least when I meet them in the afterlife, I won't be too ashamed..."
Noting his melancholy expression, Yaoying changed the subject to military preparations.
After some discussion, Damo recalled something and summoned several young officers, smiling as he introduced them: "These are the young men who established the volunteer army with the fourth prince: Third Son of the Zhang family, Seventh Son of the Yuan family, Eleventh Son of the Zhao family, Second Son of the Song family..."
The officers wore embroidered silks, appearing handsome and vigorous - clearly aristocratic youths raised in luxury. They stepped forward one by one to pay respects to Yaoying.
Yaoying inwardly started. These were the same young men she'd encountered outside the city walls, who had just emerged from bloody battle looking rather restrained. Now back in the city, changed into fresh clothes and carrying themselves more confidently, though still visibly nervous.
Damo explained: "The fourth prince is occupied with military affairs and cannot attend the princess. From now on, Zhang San and the others will serve under your command."Damo went ahead to the side hall to have tea with Zheng Jing and the others, allowing Yaoying to speak with Zhang San and Yuan Qi. Before leaving, he threw a meaningful glance at Zhang San and his companions.
Zhang San and the others coughed a few times, their expressions growing increasingly awkward.
Yaoying observed their silent exchange clearly and asked Zhang San to retrieve an item for her from Yang Qian’s place.
The men immediately rolled up their sleeves, responded in unison, and hurried off, as if afraid someone might beat them to it.
Yaoying frowned, and laughter sounded behind her.
Li Zhongqian brushed petals from his clothes and hair as he ascended the steps: "Bright Moon Slave, can’t you see what Damo is implying?"
Yaoying sighed. "Are all these men part of it?"
Li Zhongqian shook his head. "Not just them. These are the most outstanding candidates Damo and Yang Qian selected from all eligible young nobles. If you don’t fancy any of them, they can immediately replace the entire group."
Yaoying didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.
No wonder these young men unconsciously straightened their postures and subtly competed with one another when they saw her. The noble families sought marriage alliances—they were potential consorts. Judging by their surnames, every prominent local clan had joined this competition.
"Any that catch your eye?" Li Zhongqian asked.
Yaoying exhaled deeply. "Elder Brother, don’t ask. Not a single one."
Li Zhongqian frowned.
"They’re accomplished in both civil and military arts, upright in character, of distinguished lineage, handsome, and around your age. You don’t need to decide hastily."
"There’s no need. Delaying will only stir conflict among the clans. I won’t choose any of them."
Li Zhongqian’s expression shifted slightly, and he gestured for his guards to withdraw.
"Why refuse them all? Bright Moon Slave, have you already set your heart on someone?"
His voice carried a stern edge.
Yaoying paused at the steps, gazing westward where majestic mountain ridges stretched across the horizon—the distant Royal Court was beyond sight.
After a moment of contemplation, she looked up at Li Zhongqian. "Elder Brother, I’ve been meaning to ask—why are you so eager for me to marry?"
"So I can rest easier once you’re settled."
Yaoying’s brow furrowed slightly.
He had mentioned this before, but circumstances had changed—she no longer needed marriage for security. Why was he still pushing her?
Her eyes narrowed thoughtfully, and she deliberately adopted a stern tone. "If I marry, will I cease to be your sister? Will you no longer care for me? Are you rushing to find me a home because you no longer wish to be responsible for me?"
Li Zhongqian glared angrily. "What nonsense are you thinking? Whether you marry or not, you’ll always be my sister. I will never abandon you."
Yaoying met his gaze squarely. "Then why urge me to marry?"
His expression softened as he reached out to ruffle her hair. "You’ll marry eventually. Better to choose a good match now."
A glint flashed in Yaoying’s eyes, and she seized his hand. "Elder Brother, what are you planning? Are you hiding something from me?"
Li Zhongqian averted his gaze.
"Elder Brother, what are you concealing?"
"Nothing."
He replied tonelessly and moved to step away.
"Li Zhongqian!"
A flicker of anger crossed Yaoying’s face—the first time she had used his full name. She caught up and gripped his arm. "Don’t hide it from me... Are you planning to perish together with Li De?"
Li Zhongqian closed his eyes briefly.
"As long as he lives, we’ll never know peace. Once matters here are resolved, I’ll return to kill him."He couldn't bear to leave Yaoying alone in this world. If she married early, gained a husband, and then had children, she would have people to care for. Then, even if he died in Chang'an, she would still have other loved ones by her side.
Yaoying's eyes reddened slightly. "Elder Brother, this matter can be discussed at length... Compared with revenge, I'd rather you live well."
"Do you think that once I marry, I'll become an outsider unrelated to you? That if you seek revenge, I can stand aside? Elder Brother, you're wrong. I will always be your sister. If anything happens to you, no matter where I am, I will come find you."
Her voice was soft, hoarse, and resolute.
Li Zhongqian lowered his gaze to stare at her, motionless, his heart both warmed and aching. After a long moment, he sighed deeply and embraced her.
Such a foolish girl.
Yaoying linked her arm through his and spoke slowly: "Elder Brother, don't worry about my marriage matters anymore. Back in the Central Plains, knowing Li De's intentions, I considered marriage. Later, when I drifted to the Royal Court and experienced many things, now that I'm finally reunited with you... I'll be honest with you: unless it's someone I love, I won't consider marriage."
"Elder Brother, you raised me. You know my temperament—I dislike constraints, I hate being cooped up in the inner courtyard all day. The books I read are unconventional... Noble families have too many rules. I have no patience for such matters and won't compromise just to marry."
"Before, I couldn't decide my own marriage. Now that I can, why should I force myself to marry for the sake of marrying?"
"What if I never marry in my lifetime?"
Hearing this, Li Zhongqian knew she had made up her mind. He paused in his steps: "So you really don't plan to choose a consort?"
Yaoying smiled, her expression relaxed: "Not if there's no one I like."
"And if there is someone you like?"
"Then I'll love him properly."
Li Zhongqian was lost in thought for a moment. "Alright, I won't force you to choose a consort."
Yaoying looked into his eyes: "Elder Brother, promise me you won't do anything foolish alone. Discuss things with me. We both need to live well."
Li Zhongqian patted her head.
"Alright, I promise you."
Yaoying breathed a sigh of relief and entered the side hall. The hall was filled with the faint aroma of tea. Zheng Jing and several others held cups of tea mixed with cheese and salt, drinking while chatting and laughing with Damo.
When she entered, Zheng Jing immediately stood up, presented the imperial edict, and after reading it aloud and exchanging pleasantries, she inquired about troop deployment.
Zheng Jing said: "The court needs to guard against Southern Chu and temporarily cannot spare too many forces. Currently, only the Crown Prince's Liangzhou army can be mobilized at any time. But rest assured, Princess, the court will do its utmost to gather provisions and supplies so the Western Army can focus on their mission."
He then mentioned marriage alliances. Li De had already selected several imperial clanswomen, enfeoffed them as princesses, and arranged their marriages to scions of families about to pledge allegiance. Additionally, he sought a marriage between his minister's son and Damo's daughter.
Li Zhongqian sneered. Li De intended to use marriage alliances to win over powerful families.
Yaoying had long anticipated Li De would do this and said nothing. While marriage alliances could be useful, they weren't a cure-all.
After official matters were concluded, Zheng Jing and the others took their leave.
Yaoying discussed matters with Damo, Yang Qian—who had rushed over—and others. Shortly after, she summoned her guards, spread out paper, ground ink, wrote several letters, picked up the official seal sent by the court, stamped the documents, signed them with her flourish, and issued a series of decrees.“In the name of the Western Army, travel to various regions to proclaim the court’s decrees and reward all civilians who have provided provisions and funds to the Western Army.”
“Let the Western Army distribute food and medicine to tribes that have just experienced war.”
“Compile registers to record the population. Those previously wrongfully imprisoned by the Northern Rong should be exonerated and released after the facts are verified. Those who fled from other regions will not be held accountable for past actions.”
“The Western Regions have many believers. Seek out esteemed monks, elders, and priests to reassure their followers—whether Buddhist, Daoist, Nestorian, Zoroastrian, or Manichaean—all should be treated this way.”
“Local officials, whether of Hu or Han ethnicity, whether they previously obeyed the Northern Rong or the Protectorate, may retain their positions if they hold local prestige, serve the people effectively, and have a decent reputation.”
“Send envoys deep into the communities, allowing civilians to report corrupt officials who abuse power, enslave the people, or commit grave crimes. Once verified, they will be punished according to the law.”
…
One directive after another was issued. The guards clasped the edicts and hurried into the twilight.
Yaoying was drenched in sweat from exhaustion.
War had to be fought, but the people also needed reassurance. Only by allowing them to experience tangible benefits and grace would they wholeheartedly support the Western Army.
In the following days, Yaoying grew busier by the day.
As the decrees were implemented, her and the Western Army’s reputation among the people soared.
Damo noticed her displeasure with the several captains and promptly replaced them with younger gentlemen.
Every day, someone tried to court Yaoying with new gestures of affection. She tactfully informed Damo that she had no intention of marrying at present.
Damo took a different approach: “What about Duke Weiguo? Is he interested in taking a wife?”
He then listed over a dozen young ladies’ names in one breath.
Yaoying raised an eyebrow and declined on Li Zhongqian’s behalf. His deep-seated aversion was to political marriages; he would never wed for such a reason.
During this period, battle reports continuously arrived. The campaigns in Sha Prefecture, Gan Prefecture, and Su Prefecture progressed smoothly. Once Helong was pacified, the Western Army could concentrate its forces to reclaim Yi Province.
Meanwhile, Yaoying and her allies closely monitored the Royal Court’s military situation. Mobi Duo relentlessly pursued the remnants of the Northern Rong, successfully trapping Wahan Khan’s elite forces near the Sand Sea Road. After a period of stalemate that exhausted the Northern Rong’s provisions, Mobi Duo was poised to launch an attack.
One evening, as Yaoying worked by the lamplight, Yuanjue stood nearby fanning her.
Soon, a guard requested an audience. He was delivering ceremonial documents to the Royal Court and asked if Yaoying had any letters to send along.
“No,” Yaoying replied without looking up, her tone detached. “All communications between the Royal Court and the Western Army concern official matters. I will have the Chief Secretary convey military reports and requests through official documents. From now on, I will not send any private letters to the Holy City. There is no need to ask me again.”
The guard acknowledged and withdrew.
Yuanjue’s mouth fell open, a chill settling in his chest.
After the princess ceased to be the Girl of Matanga, she had truly severed ties with the Holy City!
During this time, while serving by her side, she had never once mentioned the Holy City or the King. The Western Army sent letters to the Royal Court almost daily, all of them cold, formal documents.
Yuanjue’s fan-wielding hand trembled.
The princess had kept her word—she no longer pursued the King and had done so decisively, never speaking of him even in private. He ought to be pleased, yet her utter detachment, how she had turned away and forgotten the King so completely… somehow, it left him with an inexplicable ache in his heart.He still remembered how the princess had fearlessly stepped into the fire altar for the king—how could she forget him so quickly?
Had the princess been bewitched by those handsome young men swarming around her?
The more Yuanjue thought about it, the more he felt as if a precious treasure had been stolen. Clearing his throat, he said, "Princess, I need to report some matters to General Ashina. Do you have any messages you'd like me to pass along?"
Yaoying lowered her head without even blinking. "No."
Her response was decisive, composed, icy, and unfeeling.
Yuanjue’s shoulders slumped as he returned to his room to write a letter.
The letter was addressed to Ashina Bisha. Accustomed to their casual banter, he couldn’t resist adding some non-essential details at the end.
...
A few days later, the messenger hawk delivered the letter to the Holy City. Bā mǐ ěr retrieved the scroll and brought it directly to the stone grotto.
The man seated before the Buddha statue held Buddhist beads in one hand and unrolled the scroll with the other.
The letter first reported military developments around Xizhou, followed by minor conflicts between the Royal Court and the Western Army. The rest was all gossip.
Several noble sons, admirers of Princess Wenzhao, had traveled thousands of miles to Gaochang just to confirm she was alive. Romantic tales quickly spread across the provinces, captivating the common folk as they speculated on whom the princess would choose as her consort.
Local aristocratic families, unwilling to be outdone, vied to win the princess’s favor in creative ways—young men hunted bears for her one day and plucked rare lotus blossoms for her the next, each showcasing their talents.
Zheng Jing, who had nearly been betrothed to the princess, still hadn’t taken a principal wife... It seemed his ambitions remained unshaken.
Such idle chatter densely filled the scroll.
Finally, it concluded: Princess Wenzhao has already forgotten the king. For many days, she has not mentioned him once.
Tanmoroqie’s fingers trembled slightly. After reading the letter, he went through it once more, then raised his hand and held the scroll over a candle flame, reducing it to ashes.
She belonged to the mortal world, with beauty that could topple cities and captivate nations—it was only natural she had countless admirers.
She had forgotten him.
Just as the Scriptures said: like a flash of lightning or morning dew, nothing is more fleeting.
A sudden, inexplicable surge of emotion stirred in his chest. Tanmoroqie frowned, rotating his rosary as he silently recited scriptures to calm his mind and focus his spirit.
Footsteps echoed from the corridor, growing closer. Bisha’s cheerful voice rang out: "Your Majesty! Great victory on the Sand Sea Road! Wahan Khan has fallen from his horse and died! Mobi Duo is already leading the army back!"
Tanmoroqie opened his eyes.
The Wang Temple’s bronze bell tolled, and news of the great victory swiftly spread to every corner of the Holy City. The people rejoiced, dancing and celebrating.
Even the royal guards couldn’t contain their excitement, eagerly discussing whether Mobi Duo would succeed as Regent.
Court ministers reacted promptly, submitting memorials inquiring about Mobi Duo’s marital plans.
Would the king bestow Princess Wenzhao’s hand in marriage to Mobi Duo?
Was it true that Mobi Duo would marry Princess Wenzhao upon his triumphant return?
After reviewing all the memorials, Tanmoroqie’s hand, holding the brush, suddenly trembled, leaving a winding mark on the paper.
...
Two days later, news of the Sand Sea Road victory reached Gaochang.
Everyone was overjoyed: with the old khan dead, the Northern Rong were now scattered and disorganized. The resistance to reclaiming lost territories had suddenly diminished, paving the way to gradually recover other prefectures and counties!
Yang Qian immediately sent an urgent letter to Shazhou, instructing them to prepare to consolidate forces and attack Yi Province.
Li Zhongqian began reorganizing his troops. Having been to Yi Province before, he could coordinate with the Western Army from Shazhou to launch a pincer attack from east and west against the remaining Northern Rong forces in Yi Province.After only two days of celebration, on this morning, a fast horse galloped from the west: "Princess, a distress letter from Yanqi! Their city lord, responding to Your Highness's call, was preparing to send an envoy to Chang'an when the traitor appointed by the Northern Rong besieged them with troops. The soldiers and civilians in the city have held out for several days but are about to collapse!"
After some discussion, they decided that Yang Qian would lead three thousand men to rescue the city lord of Yanqi.
The three thousand Xizhou soldiers set off in a grand procession, raising clouds of dust.
The city returned to peace. Yaoying and Damo went back to the palace to continue discussing the attack on Yi Province. They worked until the afternoon when suddenly a scout reported: "A large army is passing through the rocky beach a hundred li to the north!"
Damo asked in confusion, "Has Yang Qian returned?"
Yaoying shook her head: "Yanqi is to the west. Yang Qian headed west—it can't be him."
"Then who could it be?Damo frowned, ordering the townspeople outside the city to withdraw into the city, closing the gates, and imposing martial law.
Everyone stood under the corridor, puzzled, waiting for news. Soon, another scout reported that the army was getting closer and closer to Gaochang, clearly heading for the city.
Yaoying's heart skipped a beat: "A feint to the east while attacking in the west?"
Damo's face darkened: "Was Yanqi just a decoy?"
Yaoying's palms grew numb, but she calmed herself and said, "We'll know soon enough."
That day, as the golden dusk fell, the thunder of hooves roared outside Gaochang. On the horizon, dark torrents surged and rolled, surrounding Gaochang like a tidal wave.
Standing on the city wall, Damo's face turned as pale as gold paper: "How could it be the Northern Rong?!"
He stared at the overwhelming, swarming Northern Rong cavalry outside the city, his body rigid.
"Should we ask the Royal Court for help?"
Where had this well-organized Northern Rong army come from? According to their intelligence, there shouldn't be so many Northern Rong cavalry near Gaochang.
"It's too late," Yaoying said, scanning the Northern Rong cavalry's formation for Haidu Aling's banner, clenching her fists to steady herself. "First, sound the alarm and have the nearby Xizhou troops rush back for reinforcement."
The mournful sound of horns echoed, filling the air with a deadly atmosphere.
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