Legend of the Female General

Chapter 232: Sword Competition

Three days later, Emperor Wenxuan held a banquet at the Star Terrace.

The Star Terrace was located on a high platform in front of the palace, with the ceremonial altar for sacrifices further ahead. The Wutuo envoy Maningbu had arrived in the capital, and His Majesty had agreed to the Wutuo People’s offer of reparations and peace. On the surface, this was to showcase the magnanimity of the Great Wei ruler, but in reality, it was also to display the nation’s might.

In both her past and present lives, He Yan was attending such an occasion for the first time. Early in the morning, she changed into her official robes—a red base with floral patterns and a dark black belt in the middle. Her figure was not as tall as a man’s, so the robes still had some extra fabric, but because of her upright posture, they looked rather elegant when worn.

Now that everyone in the court knew she was a woman, there was no need to disguise herself as a man with makeup. Qingmei simply lightly filled in her eyebrows and applied a thin layer of powder. Her lips were naturally pink, so no lip color was used. Her long hair was tied into a ponytail at the back, looking very neat.

He Yan looked at the woman in the mirror—handsome and graceful, neither disguised as a man nor overly delicate. This appearance was truly the most pleasing she had seen since her rebirth.

He Yan took a sip of tea from the table and said, “It’s about time. I’ll head out first.”

Qingmei asked, “Does the young lady really not want this servant to accompany you?”

“I’m not going to a banquet. What would I need you for?” He Yan chuckled. “Just wait for me at the estate.”

She went out and boarded the carriage herself.

Xiao Jue did not come to pick her up today. Although the two of them would soon be married, before the wedding, He Yan was still the Marquis of Wu’an before being Xiao Jue’s fiancée. Official and personal matters had to be kept separate, and on occasions like today, it was best not to be too casual.

She had no attendants by her side, and it was quite rare for someone like her to go to the Star Terrace alone. The carriage had been arranged the day before. When they arrived near the Star Terrace, He Yan got off and walked alone toward the terrace.

Some officials had already arrived, and those who knew each other exchanged greetings and caught up. He Yan didn’t know many people, so she stood there quietly. Suddenly, an excited voice called out, “Sister He!”

He Yan was startled and turned around to see Lin Shuanghe running over.

He was also dressed formally today. If he didn’t speak, he looked like a talented young man in the court. He Yan asked curiously, “Brother Lin, why are you here too? I thought only officials could be here…”

“My grandfather and father are both here,” Lin Shuanghe said nonchalantly. “The Empress Dowager likes me, so she let me come and join the fun.”

Understood—Young Master Lin had pulled strings again.

Lin Shuanghe looked He Yan up and down, his eyes sparkling. “Sister He, this is the first time I’ve seen you in official robes. You look great! Our Huaijin is truly blessed to have found such a stunningly beautiful wife.”

This person’s compliments always came effortlessly, regardless of whether others could accept them. He Yan cut off his flattery: “I haven’t seen you in a while, Brother Lin. What have you been busy with?”

“Don’t even mention it,” Lin Shuanghe said with a pained expression. “I was only away from Shuojing for a year or so, but many female patients had piled up waiting for me in Shuojing City. Ever since I returned, I’ve been diagnosing illnesses every day. Can’t you tell I’ve lost weight from exhaustion?”He Yan, seeing his spirited appearance, remarked, "Not at all. If you don't want to see patients, you could simply close your doors and refuse visitors. Why force yourself like this?"

"Because they're all women," Lin Shuanghe said seriously. "A gentleman should cherish and protect the fairer sex."

He Yan was speechless for a moment before replying, "So that's how it is. No wonder Brother Lin is so busy that he completely forgot about helping me find a house."

Lin Shuanghe was taken aback, finally remembering the matter he had long since pushed to the back of his mind. He looked at He Yan curiously. "But aren't you and Huaijin getting married on the tenth day of the new year? Why buy another house?"

"It's not for me to live in," He Yan explained helplessly. "I want my father and Yunsheng to move to a different house." In the past, they were too poor to afford it, but now she held an official position. The silver Xiao Jue had given her last time was enough to build a new house in the capital. Though it couldn't compare to the luxurious homes of the wealthy, it would be much better than their current one. He Yan had already decided: she would treat it as borrowing from Xiao Jue and repay him once her official salary was issued a year later.

"Oh, it's for your father and younger brother," Lin Shuanghe breathed a sigh of relief and patted He Yan's shoulder. "Don't worry, leave this matter to me. I guarantee I'll handle it perfectly!"

He Yan asked, "What about being too busy to attend to it now?"

"Ahem, free time can always be squeezed out if you try."

"So you were deliberately avoiding helping me before."

"He Yan, how could you think of me that way?"

As they bantered, Lin Shuanghe suddenly waved toward someone behind He Yan. "Huaijin!"

He Yan turned to see Xiao Jue and Xiao Jing walking over from the other side.

The two brothers stood out among the young officials like cranes among chickens, their appearances exceptionally striking. As they approached, He Yan bowed to Xiao Jing, who smiled and said, "This is my first time attending the Tianxing Terrace with a female official. Miss He, your heroic bearing truly rivals that of any man."

He Yan responded modestly. Lin Shuanghe stroked his chin, his gaze shifting between He Yan and Xiao Jue for a moment before saying, "I must admit, the two of you really do look well-matched."

He Yan looked at Xiao Jue. Today, he was also wearing his official uniform. Coincidentally, the embroidered floral patterns on his dark blue robe matched those on her own official attire. A belt cinched his waist, accentuating his noble and handsome demeanor.

"He Yan," Lin Shuanghe continued, "if you get promoted a few more ranks, you'll be able to attend court sessions with Huaijin in the future. That would be quite convenient. In all of Great Wei, you two would be the first married couple to do so."

"Miss He has not yet entered the family," Xiao Jing said softly. "Be careful with your words, Young Master Lin. If others overhear, it could harm Miss He's reputation."

He Yan looked up at Xiao Jing before her. The world praised the eldest Xiao son as a gentle and courteous gentleman, and now she understood why. Even such a small matter warranted his attention. Yet, coming from him, it didn't feel pedantic but rather considerate. No wonder Song Taotao had once wanted to become Xiao Jue's sister-in-law—someone like Xiao Jing was truly rare, even if you searched all of Great Wei with a lantern.

Lost in thought, she was suddenly startled when someone appeared before her, subtly blocking her view of Xiao Jing. He Yan looked up and met Xiao Jue's gaze, which seemed slightly displeased.

He's quite protective of his elder brother, He Yan mused. Is he afraid I might have designs on Xiao Jing too?At that moment, someone ahead called out Lin Shuanghe's name—likely a friend of his—and Lin Shuanghe followed the voice. Xiao Jing also took a few steps forward to chat with his colleagues.

He Yan finally had a moment alone with Xiao Jue. She moved closer to him, spreading her sleeves as she asked, "So, what do you think? This is the newly issued official uniform. It's my first time wearing it today. Doesn't it look dashing and full of imposing presence?"

The sunlight fell on the girl's face, seemingly illuminating even the fine lashes of her eyes, making each one distinct. Her eyes were bright and spirited, and when she smiled, she still carried a touch of pure youthful vigor. Yet, the red official uniform ultimately lent her a more grounded, heroic air—a dashing elegance entirely different from that of any other woman.

Among the countless women in the world, only she stood apart.

Xiao Jue turned slightly aside, averting his gaze.

Seeing him like this, He Yan withdrew her sleeves and leaned even closer. "Well? Isn't it?"

"I didn't see any imposing presence," Xiao Jue couldn't resist her pestering and looked down at her, a flicker of amusement in his eyes as the corners of his lips lifted slightly, deliberately teasing her. "But foolishness keeps bubbling out."

He Yan gritted her teeth. "You, how can you not even say a single nice word?" She turned as if to leave but suddenly spun back and bumped into someone, nearly colliding into their arms.

Once she steadied herself, Chu Zhao stood before her, looking at her. "Miss He."

"...Chu Fourth Young Master."

Xiao Jue pulled He Yan back to his side. Chu Zhao first glanced at Xiao Jue, then his gaze settled on He Yan, still wearing his familiar gentle smile. "I've already heard of Miss He's joyous news. Allow me to offer my early congratulations on your upcoming wedding."

"The same to you," He Yan replied with a smile. "I also wish Fourth Young Master and Miss Xu a happy union."

Upon hearing this, Chu Zhao's eyes trembled slightly, as if dimmed, yet he still cupped his hands toward He Yan before walking forward.

Watching his retreating figure, He Yan couldn't help but feel it looked particularly desolate. She turned to Xiao Jue beside her and said, "Xiao Jue, don't you think Chu Fourth Young Master is actually quite pitiful?"

Xiao Jue replied coldly, "I don't think so."

"How could you not? I think he..." He Yan lowered her voice. "Might not really like that Miss Xu. A person's eyes can't lie. His gaze just isn't right—when he mentions the marriage, there's not a hint of joy, almost as if he's sad."

"You observed quite carefully."

"Well, I was blind once before, so now I have to look at people more carefully... It's a pity the imperial decree has already been issued, so he can only accept it. Do you think he's... Huh?" He Yan turned to look, only to find Xiao Jue had already walked ahead. She hurried to catch up. "Xiao Jue, wait for me!"

A little while later.

"Xiao Jue, are you angry?"

"No."

...

The officials stood in formation on the square of Tianxing Platform.

He Yan's rank did not allow her to stand alongside Xiao Jue. However, among the group she was with, most likely mindful that she was Xiao Jue's soon-to-be fiancée, no one dared to trouble her. Moreover, because of her small stature and to ensure she could see the platform clearly, they specifically reserved the front row for He Yan.

He Yan stood at the very front, gazing at the emperor on the platform.

On the high seat, Emperor Wenxuan looked down at the officials below with a smile.The officials stood in neat rows, dressed in their official robes, presenting a dignified appearance from the outside. It was said that the Wutu Kingdom was surrounded by towering peaks with few plains, and its palaces were less than half the size of those in Great Wei. One could imagine how meager the ceremonies and rituals there must have been.

Though advanced in age and having achieved little in governance, Emperor Wenxuan still hoped to leave behind one or two deeds worthy of praise. Unfortunately, over the years, there had been none. Throughout history, emperors were either remembered for their glory or condemned for their infamy. Achieving lasting glory was beyond his reach, and he lacked the courage to face the scorn of future generations for infamy. Thus, since ascending the throne, he had never undertaken grand construction projects or built numerous Buddhist temples. Only today’s banquet at the Celestial Star Terrace allowed him to reclaim some of the pride of being an emperor.

The princes were seated on one side. The Fifth Prince, Guang Ji, was still young and reached for the exquisite pastries, only to be stopped by Guang Shuo, who whispered, "Fifth Brother, sit properly. You represent the dignity of Great Wei."

Guang Ji pouted but obediently refrained from taking the pastry.

Guang Yan glanced at the two of them, his eyes filled with contempt. By hosting the banquet at the Celestial Star Terrace, Emperor Wenxuan had expressed his sincerity in accepting the Wutu Kingdom’s plea for peace. Establishing the Trade Market was not an urgent matter; it could be pursued gradually in the future. As long as he could secure the assistance of the Wutuo People and eliminate Xiao Huaijin, the Fourth Prince and the vile Consort Lan would eventually become his prisoners.

He was simply too eager to ascend to that position.

The Wutu envoy, Maningbu, stepped forward and knelt before Emperor Wenxuan, performing a grand salute. He uttered a long string of flattering words, praising the emperor’s benevolence and magnanimity, expressing awe at the prosperity and splendor of Great Wei, and declaring that the Wutu Kingdom was willing to establish friendly relations with Great Wei, even acknowledging its supremacy.

Emperor Wenxuan was visibly delighted.

Among the officials below, some were as smug as the Crown Prince, while others, like Wei Xuanzhang, wore their indignation openly. Most, however, suppressed their anger, not daring to speak out. It was said that the court of Great Wei no longer belonged to the Song family but to the Xu family. Even so, what was the meaning of allowing foreigners to openly enter the Celestial Star Terrace? When had Great Wei fallen to such a state?

Among the military officials, He Rufei stood at the forefront, looking relaxed and showing no animosity toward the Wutuo People. In contrast, Yan He, standing further back, was filled with rage, his fists clenched tightly. Had it not been for the Celestial Star Terrace and the emperor’s presence, he might have charged forward and struck Maningbu.

Xiao Jue stood beside him. Unable to restrain himself, Yan He whispered, "What nonsense is this dwarf spouting? Who does he think he’s fooling? The Wutu Kingdom wishes to establish friendly relations with Great Wei? If I were to go to the Wutu Kingdom and slaughter ten thousand of their people, then claim Great Wei’s willingness to befriend them, would their king believe it?"

Receiving no response from Xiao Jue, Yan He grew even angrier. He turned his head and sneered, "Aren’t you General Feng Yun? Are you just going to stand by and watch the Wutuo People run wild on the Celestial Star Terrace?"

Xiao Jue replied calmly, "Aren’t you the Guide Central General? If you want to teach them a lesson, why don’t you step forward yourself?"

Yan He was left speechless. He snorted and fell silent.

On the other side, Emperor Wenxuan accepted the flattery and gifts from the Wutu envoy. Maningbu added, "The warriors of the Wutu Kingdom excel at wrestling. They often perform wrestling matches for our king during ceremonies and celebrations. Today, we wish to offer this performance to Your Majesty."Yan He remarked, "Showing off one's skill before an expert."

In truth, Emperor Wenxuan himself did not particularly enjoy such martial displays. Since his ascension to the throne, the court had increasingly valued literary arts over military prowess. However, since the Wutuo envoy had proposed it themselves, to demonstrate Great Wei's magnanimity and broad-mindedness, he could not refuse. Thus, he waved his hand dismissively and said, "Granted."

Maningbu turned around, and from among the Wutuo envoys, two burly men stepped forward. These two men appeared exceptionally tall and robust, unlike the typically short stature of Wutuo people. Their hair was tied into numerous thin braids at the back of their heads.

Maningbu announced, "Your Majesty, these are the two finest warriors of Wutu Kingdom, Nadaduo and Huyunmu. They humbly offer to perform for Your Majesty."

The two Wutuo men walked to the open space in the center of the square, removed their outer garments, and despite the freezing cold, bared their torsos. With two loud shouts, they embraced each other and began wrestling.

He Yan stood among the officials, hearing whispers from those behind her: "Truly a barbaric land. The way they cling to each other is utterly indecent, most improper."

He Yan, however, did not find it indecent. She felt that wrestling relied more on skill than brute strength. While others only saw them grappling to throw each other down, it was not merely that. Trips, throws, mindset, and speed were all crucial aspects. These two Wutuo men were indeed not to be underestimated.

The wrestling match took a long time to determine a winner. The officials of Great Wei, including the emperor, watched with some boredom, as the contest was not particularly thrilling or entertaining. After it concluded, they had to feign admiration and praise.

Emperor Wenxuan rewarded the two warriors with a plate of silver each. After Maningbu expressed gratitude, he spoke again: "It is said that Great Wei's military is teeming with talent, with warriors no fewer than those of Wutu Kingdom. Since all the esteemed officials are gathered here today, would Your Majesty be gracious enough to allow the Wutuo warriors to broaden their horizons?"

Was this a challenge?

Emperor Wenxuan's heart stirred, and he suddenly felt a surge of excitement.

Historical anecdotes recorded that when a certain kingdom once received foreign envoys, a princess from the foreign tribe provocatively challenged them, only to be thoroughly humiliated by the daughter of a military official through archery skills, greatly boosting their prestige. Though uncertain of its authenticity, such an opportunity to assert dominance was too perfect to pass up.

Great Wei was vast and populous, and among the many talents gathered in the square today, there was no doubt they could handle two Wutuo men. Moreover, most people in Great Wei were slender and dignified, a pleasing contrast to the barbarians. For instance, Flying Swan and Feng Yun were both first-rate handsome men; their performance would surely make the Wutuo people feel ashamed.

Considering this, Emperor Wenxuan cheerfully replied, "That is not difficult. The men of Great Wei never retreat. If you select someone from the military officials, they will naturally accept the challenge."

Emperor Wenxuan was not worried that any military official would lose to the Wutuo men. Firstly, these two Wutuo men had not even wielded weapons earlier, relying solely on brute force to grapple, indicating poor skill. Secondly, if the Wutuo people were truly clever, they would not dare to win under the watchful eyes of everyone.

After all, the Wutuo people still sought to establish a Trade Market in Great Wei.

Maningbu smiled and said, "I heard that Your Majesty recently conferred the title of the first female marquis in Great Wei."

Everyone in the square was taken aback.

Emperor Wenxuan also paused for a moment before replying, "That is correct.""That female marquis, even among our Wutuo People, we have heard of her formidable reputation. It is said she once followed General Feng Yun onto the battlefield, displaying remarkable bravery and intelligence. Is she present today?"

Emperor Wenxuan frowned slightly. He never expected that Maningbu would choose He Yan. Among all the civil and military officials in the court, the Wutuo People had selected a woman. How could a woman's physical strength compare to that of a man? Although he had heard of He Yan's achievements on the battlefield, he had also seen with his own eyes that she was merely a petite and delicate woman. Standing next to the two Wutuo men from earlier, she was like a lamb beside black bears.

"But she is a woman."

"Yet she is no ordinary woman," Maningbu said with a smile. "In our Wutu Kingdom, there are also women skilled in martial arts, but never has a woman served as an official in court. Since she was brought along by General Feng Yun, she must be different from ordinary women. Your Majesty," he bowed low, "please allow that female marquis to spar with our Wutuo warriors."

Guang Shuo shook his head gently. These Wutuo People were clearly taking advantage of a woman, or perhaps settling a personal grudge under the guise of official business. But Guang Shuo knew his father's temperament well—he valued face above all else. Once he had agreed, he would not go back on his word.

After a moment of silence, Emperor Wenxuan said, "Marquis of Wu'an."

He Yan stepped forward and bowed. "Your servant is here."

"You shall compete with their warriors."

The hall fell silent for a moment, then whispers gradually began to spread.

Lin Shuanghe anxiously asked Lin Mu beside him, "Father, how can they let a woman compete in martial arts?"

Lin Mu replied, "Be quiet."

Xiao Jing was also filled with concern. Yan He nudged Xiao Jue beside him and couldn't help but say, "Hey, your wife is being forced into this. How can you remain so calm? Xiao Huaijin, you truly are heartless."

Xiao Jue ignored him.

He Yan stood up but did not immediately respond to the emperor's command. Instead, she looked at Maningbu and asked, "Ambassador Maningbu, what do you think of the two great generals of Great Wei?"

Maningbu looked at the woman before him. Before coming to Great Wei, He Yan's name had already spread throughout the Wutu Kingdom. This woman had fought side by side with Xiao Jue during the battle at Jiyang City and, during the Rundu campaign, single-handedly dealt a hidden blow to Huyate. Even the spies previously sent into the Liangzhou Guard were first discovered by her. Xiao Huaijin was undoubtedly fearsome, but this woman who had suddenly emerged was by no means simple.

She was like the Flying Goose General He Rufei of old, always capable of turning the tide. He Rufei, that eagle, had only recently had his wings clipped with great difficulty. Were they now to face another formidable adversary from the Wutu Kingdom?

Even if she was just a woman.

A woman who could kill on the battlefield was no longer just a woman. In some ways, she had the qualifications to compete with men.

Maningbu said, "General Feng Yun and the Flying Goose General are both admirable heroes. They are talents that appear once in a hundred years—no, once in a thousand years."

"What a coincidence, I think the same," He Yan smiled slightly. "Just as the Wutuo warriors have come to Great Wei and wish to spar upon encountering heroes, I too have heroes I admire. If you merely wish to see my skills, there is no need to compete with me. Ambassador Maningbu," she said, "what I excel at is the sword. In wrestling, I cannot display my true strength. Only in swordplay, and if it is swordplay, I will not compete with you."

Emperor Wenxuan's eyes lit up.He Yan's intention was to compete with Xiao Jue? That was excellent. Since she and Xiao Jue were soon to be husband and wife, if she won, it could be said that Xiao Jue had graciously yielded to her. If she lost, it would simply be a loss to one of their own, and it wouldn’t disgrace the face of Great Wei.

Considering this, Emperor Wenxuan immediately spoke up: "We grant permission. Since we wish to witness the Marquis of Wu'an's skills, we should select a category in which the Marquis of Wu'an excels. Marquis of Wu'an, with whom do you intend to compete in swordsmanship?"

Those in the audience who had been holding their breath for He Yan simultaneously let out a soft sigh of relief. By saying this, Emperor Wenxuan had given He Yan a way out. The officials who had been watching the spectacle also felt somewhat disappointed. If He Yan were to choose, she would naturally select Xiao Jue. As a couple, they could easily orchestrate any outcome they desired in their sparring.

Just as everyone was thinking this way, He Yan walked over to the line of military officers. She did not stop beside Xiao Jue but continued until she stood before He Rufei, only then looking at the person before her.

"Flying Goose General," her smile was brilliant, carrying a hint of barely perceptible sarcasm, "I wish to see your sword."

Jiaojiao: Did you pay me for my cameo appearance? (.

(End of Chapter)