Qiao Chu

Deng Yi threw the Western Liang state letter onto the table.

The court assembly had already adjourned. When Chu Zhao declared there would be no peace negotiations, Deng Yi directly cut her off and dismissed the court: "This matter will be discussed later."

More than half of the officials immediately bowed to see off the Emperor, a few remained silent while watching the Empress, while others observed quietly without speaking.

Chu Zhao said nothing further, rising and leading the Emperor away by the hand.

Then Deng Yi came to her study.

"No peace negotiations—do you intend to continue fighting?" he asked.

Chu Zhao looked at him: "Is this a peace negotiation? This is a defeat."

"Of course I know it's a defeat," Deng Yi retorted sternly. "But what about the three hundred thousand civilians in Stone Slope City? Are you abandoning them?"

Chu Zhao's lips moved slightly, but she remained silent.

Of course she wouldn't abandon them. The thought of civilians falling into the hands of Western Liang soldiers pained her deeply—she had witnessed firsthand how brutal Xiliang soldiers could be.

"I know the Empress would never abandon them," Deng Yi said. "So could you refrain from so decisively rejecting peace negotiations in court? What will the court officials think? How will the people perceive this when word spreads?"

Chu Zhao raised her eyes to look at him, still silent.

Deng Yi observed the girl's slightly pale face, recognizing how heavily this matter weighed on her.

"Regardless, we cannot disregard the civilians of Stone Slope City. The court must take a stance on peace negotiations," he said, watching Chu Zhao. "Your Majesty, perhaps you should refrain from attending court for the time being."

Chu Zhao, whose eyes had been somewhat dazed, suddenly sharpened at these words.

"Does the Grand Tutor believe the military defeat is my responsibility?" she asked.

Deng Yi said coldly, "Hasn't the Empress always considered herself the commander of the Border Army? Shouldn't you bear some responsibility?"

Instead of anger or self-blame, the girl before him smiled—a smile that felt unfamiliar to Deng Yi.

"When I previously served as commander, the Border Army never had any incidents," Chu Zhao said. "But ever since you intervened in the Border Army, deploying troops and conducting investigations everywhere, the Border Army has become disordered. Surely you're aware that this time, the Xiliang soldiers breached the defenses at the post guarded by your favored general, Liang Qiang?"

Deng Yi laughed mockingly. "Your Majesty has learned to shift blame now. If we're speaking like this, one could argue that my intervention in the Border Army came too late. Even after reassigning Liang Qiang, I couldn't reverse the decline at Jiezi Pass!"

Chu Zhao still showed no anger, instead propping her chin on her hand and gazing intently at Deng Yi.

"Who benefits from this Border Army failure and Western Liang seizing a city?" she asked.

Who? Of course, it benefited the King of Xiliang. This wasn't a question but a rhetorical one, Deng Yi thought as he watched Chu Zhao.

"With this incident—" she looked at him, "doesn't it make it more advantageous for the Grand Tutor to depose the Empress?"

Deng Yi's eyes darkened. "Chu Zhao, do you truly believe I would use a Border Army defeat and civilian suffering as a weapon against you?" He let out a cold laugh. "You're not worth it!"

"The Grand Tutor has always prioritized personal gain. I thought you were merely speaking empty threats, but I never imagined you'd actually act on them," Chu Zhao said, straightening up and raising her voice. "Ding Dachui!"

Footsteps sounded outside as Ding Dachui, clad in a python-patterned robe, entered with several Garrison Guard members carrying a large chest. With a heavy thud, they placed it in the hall.

Deng Yi frowned as he watched.

"These are your correspondences with the Border Army," Chu Zhao explained to him, adding, "Private letters."Deng Yi's expression instantly changed as he turned and shouted, "Chu Zhao, how dare you spy on the private affairs of court officials!"

"What if I did spy?" Chu Zhao said indifferently. "You were entrusted by the late Emperor to oversee state affairs, while I was entrusted to protect the nation. I must know everything related to the affairs of the Great Xia."

Before Deng Yi could speak again, she waved her hand dismissively.

"Yin Canshi, bring out the letters between the Grand Tutor and Liang Qiang, as well as the records of the Grand Tutor's discussions with officials about deposing the Empress."

Yin Canshi acknowledged the order and retrieved a stack of documents from a chest.

"Of course, to avoid implicating the Grand Tutor and General Liang, these letters are all copies we made," he politely explained to Deng Yi before adding, "And these are the records of the Grand Tutor's discussions with officials at his residence regarding the deposition of the Empress."

He unfolded them before Deng Yi for inspection.

Deng Yi merely glanced at them, noting how the documents recorded the exact date, time, location within the Grand Tutor's residence, attendees, and even details like dishes served, tea brewed, and the number of servants present—all meticulously documented.

He withdrew his gaze, seeing no need to read further.

"So the Empress isn't using the Dragon Cloak Guard to arrest, interrogate, or flaunt power," he said coldly. "Instead, she engages in such underhanded deeds. I wonder what the late Emperor and your father would think if they knew the term 'dragon majesty' was being represented in this manner."

Chu Zhao's expression remained unreadable as she ignored his remarks and pointed at the letters and records held by Yin Canshi. "In your correspondence with Liang Qiang, he expressed that his transfer to Jieziguan was inappropriate, yet you told him to proceed boldly and that you would bear responsibility for any consequences."

Liang Qiang had indeed written such a letter. Though somewhat perplexing, it was normal for a young man to lack confidence, so he had offered encouragement to boost the young general's morale. What was wrong with that?

However, in the eyes of this woman now blinded by arrogance, even this was problematic. Deng Yi stared coldly at Chu Zhao. "I wonder what Her Majesty the Empress wrote in her letters to Zhong Changrong and Xie Yanlai?"

Chu Zhao continued to ignore his question, stating instead, "Even Liang Qiang, stationed with the Border Army, recognized the inappropriateness. Yet you, a civil official far removed in the capital, insist on meddling in military affairs."

Deng Yi laughed. "And so?"

"And so," Chu Zhao declared, "the Grand Tutor shall not attend court sessions recently. Return to your residence and reflect on your errors."

How decisive this Empress was. He had asked her to temporarily abstain from court, and now she was preemptively barring him from attending. Deng Yi gazed into the girl's profound eyes and sneered coldly. "Very well. Let us see if the Empress can achieve her wishes without this Grand Tutor in court."

With that, he turned to leave.

Chu Zhao watched his retreating figure and commanded, "Commander Ding, escort the Grand Tutor back to his residence."

Ding Dachui acknowledged the order and led Yin Canshi and others to "escort" Deng Yi. Outside the inner palace, more Dragon Cloak Guards awaited. They would not only personally see the Grand Tutor back to his residence but would also station themselves outside it.

Everyone now understood what the Dragon Cloak Guard signified, and the shockwaves this scene would cause were imaginable.

Chu Zhao could almost visualize the stunned expressions of the court officials and the ensuing uproar.

But she no longer cared.

Such a situation had never arisen in that previous life.

In that lifetime, even when the Xie family rebelled, the Border Commandery had not fallen.

How was it that in this life, with Xiao Xun not becoming Emperor and the Xie family not rebelling, the Border Commandery had fallen?

And now they were discussing peace negotiations.Is this a peace negotiation? She stared at the Western Liang state letter on the table. The King of Xiliang wanted to address the Great Xia Emperor as a sworn brother, demanded Great Xia open trade routes, asked for this and that—even through written words, one could almost see the King of Xiliang’s smug expression.

If it really came to this, what meaning did the casualties of the past two years of warfare hold?

No, the blood shed by her father’s generation of soldiers over a decade ago would have been spilled in vain.

How could things have come to this?

Was she truly inferior to Xiao Xun?

A soft tapping sound came from the doorframe. Chu Zhao instinctively glanced toward the palace door, her dazed gaze falling upon Xie Yanfang standing outside.

"I’ve just come from outside," Xie Yanfang said, noticing her look and gesturing beyond the doorway. "I saw—"

He didn’t finish, but his meaning was clear.

The hall was deep and dim, as if sunlight could not penetrate its shadows. The young official standing by the door seemed somewhat blurred in the dim light, yet his concern was palpable.

Chu Zhao smiled faintly. "I’ve given Young Master Xie the Third quite a laughable spectacle."

In this life, she was an Empress who fell short compared to Xiao Xun. If the Xie Yanfang of her previous life—the one who had rendered Xiao Xun helpless—were to witness this scene, he would surely find it deeply amusing.

"Your Majesty, you are the Empress," the young master’s clear voice carried from the doorway. "Everything you do is for the nation and its people. There is nothing laughable about it."

Chu Zhao smiled again, this time genuinely. The confusion in her eyes receded as she gestured an invitation. "Minister Xie, please come in."

Xie Yanfang withdrew his hand from the doorframe and bowed. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

Entering the hall, he took a seat before Chu Zhao.

"Has everyone outside been startled?" Chu Zhao asked.

Xie Yanfang nodded, then shook his head. Instead of answering directly, he smiled. "If the Capital Garrison had entered to secure the inner palace, everyone would have been equally startled."

Both scenarios would cause alarm—but which one would you prefer, Empress? Chu Zhao understood his implication. Her gaze sharpened instantly. Of course, it was better for others to be the ones confined.

But thinking of the current situation in Yunzhong Province, her expression darkened again. She sighed softly, her eyes returning to the Western Liang state letter on the desk.

"This shouldn’t trouble you overly much either," Xie Yanfang said, reaching over to pick up the letter. "The sudden news of Stone Slope City’s capture is alarming, but aside from that, Yunzhong’s other defenses remain solid. Despite multiple engagements, the Western Liang forces have not advanced a single step further."

"I have always trusted the capabilities of the Border Army," Chu Zhao said. "But—"

Her eyes remained fixed on the letter now held in Xie Yanfang’s hand.

What about the people of Stone Slope City?

If they refused negotiation, the enraged Western Liang army would slaughter the civilians as retaliation.

She could well imagine their methods—executing civilians in batches outside the city walls to intimidate and threaten the soldiers and residents of Yunzhong Province.

Such killings had likely already begun.

Chu Zhao’s hand, resting on the table, clenched into a fist.

A warm teacup touched the back of her hand, pulling her from her thoughts. She looked up to see Xie Yanfang sliding a cup toward her.

"No one can save everyone in the world," he said softly. "Your Majesty aspires to save the nation, but the nation cannot be equated with any single individual."

It was a rational argument. Chu Zhao hummed in acknowledgment, lowering her gaze to grasp the teacup.

"Of course, those who seek to save the nation cannot stand idly by while its people die unjustly. Is Your Majesty considering going to Yunzhong Province yourself?" Xie Yanfang’s voice continued, carrying a light, almost amused tone.

She had indeed thought of it—even believed that if all efforts proved futile, she would witness it with her own eyes.

Witness how many would die because of her incompetence.

"Let me go instead."

Hearing these words, Chu Zhao started slightly, lifting her eyes to look at Xie Yanfang."In court, I avoided contention with the Grand Tutor and refrained from taking any action. Now that Your Majesty is capable of handling court affairs independently, it is time for me to act." Xie Yanfang looked at her and said, "Allow me to handle the peace negotiations with the King of Xiliang."

Chu Zhao's lips moved slightly—

"I know, no peace negotiations," Xie Yanfang quickly added, smiling faintly. "Your Majesty need not worry. The King of Xiliang's demands are impossible to fulfill. A Yu is my hope, the emperor I place great expectations upon and will support wholeheartedly."

Speaking of Xiao Yu, Xie Yanfang's eyes held both pride and sorrow.

"A Yu witnessed his parents' tragic deaths at a young age, narrowly escaped death himself to ascend the throne, and now faces internal and external threats. Since ancient times, it has been said that heaven assigns great responsibilities to individuals. If our A Yu cannot become a wise and brilliant emperor, ensuring the stability of the state, the prosperity of the people, expanding territories, and achieving dominance unmatched by previous ancestors, it would be a disservice to the suffering he has endured."

"If Xiao Yu were to agree to peace with Xiliang during his reign, I, Xie Yanfang, could never bear such shame."

"Therefore, Empress, rest assured. I will never allow the Great Xia to be humiliated by the King of Xiliang."

Chu Zhao looked at the arrogant young lord before her and nodded. Yes, in the previous life, even after Xiao Yu's death, Xie Yanfang fought to claim the empire for him. In this life, with Xiao Yu still alive, he would strive even harder to help him achieve dominance. For someone like Xie Yanfang, this was also his own path to supremacy.

The ultimate achievement of standing above all others, overlooking the masses, and controlling fate.

She certainly believed that Xie Yanfang would not tolerate humiliation from the King of Xiliang. She believed that if Xie Yanfang went to Yunzhong Province, the King of Xiliang would not achieve his desires. Instead, he would be forced to bow in submission, admit his crimes, and retreat, ensuring that neither he nor the next two generations would dare invade the Great Xia again.

Yet her hesitation stemmed precisely from this.

A person who looks down upon all living beings sees no one in their eyes. The people of Stone Slope City would likely—

"Your Majesty, you cannot go this time." Xie Yanfang discerned her hesitation and even understood its cause. "Some things can be done by subjects, but not by you, Your Majesty."

So he would act recklessly regardless—Chu Zhao stared at him.

Seeing the girl's gaze suddenly sharpen, Xie Yanfang smiled. "Your Majesty, rest assured. The people of Stone Slope City are part of the Great Xia. I will not let them live in despair and perish within our empire. Your Majesty and A Yu are one; your reputation is his reputation. I will not allow either of you to be tarnished."

Chu Zhao slowly unclenched her tightly held fist.

Xie Yanfang reached out to pick up his self-poured teacup, his eyes smiling as he looked at her. "I, Xie Yanfang, keep my word. Does Miss Azhao doubt my capability?"

Miss Azhao might not trust him as a person, but she should trust his abilities.

Chu Zhao smiled and nodded. Yes, indeed, who could doubt Xie Yanfang's capabilities?

"We will discuss this matter in court tomorrow," she said with a smile. "Minister Xie may prepare in advance today."

This meant he should privately consult with his followers among the officials, ensuring the court discussion would pass smoothly and decisively without any complications.

Xie Yanfang nodded with a smile and was about to say, "Your subject obeys," when hurried footsteps echoed from outside, accompanied by a girl's loud shout.

"Miss—no, Your Majesty—"

A Le rushed in, her face flushed—whether from running or something else—her eyes glistening with tears, her words chaotic.

"Great joy—no, great victory—"

Great joy? Great victory?

Chu Zhao's heart felt as if it had been abruptly seized."Zhang, urgent report from the courier." A Le gasped, unable to continue, pointing behind him, "He's here—"

Chu Zhao understood—this was a courier dispatch through Zhang Gu, confidential, or perhaps arriving one step ahead of the official report.

She looked toward the entrance, where a courier was being supported by two Dragon Cloak Guards as he entered.

The courier was clearly exhausted from running.

"Report—" he shouted hoarsely, though the sound was weak and feeble, "Brigadier General, Xie Yanlai, has breached the royal tent of the King of Xiliang, captured alive—the King of Xiliang—"

This faint voice clearly reached everyone in the hall.

Chu Zhao's breath caught for a moment before returning. She covered her face with both hands, tears streaming through her fingers.

She knew, she knew—Xie Yanlai had told her—she wouldn't always be plagued by misfortune.