Rebirth (Bing Hu Chong Sheng)

"When the beacon fires are lit, it doesn't always signal war—it can also herald the coming of peace."

The dark cyan wind whispered through the swaying grass as the young general, clad in dark cyan armor, sat astride his horse, unfolding a letter and reading it silently for a long while.

The sound of hoofbeats approached from afar. Wei Shu Ye galloped up from behind, raising an eyebrow slightly at his fluctuating expression.

"Another letter from Zhuge Fourth?"

"Yes."

After a long pause, Zhao Che finally looked up and chuckled. "He's had another daughter and is asking me for a title."

"Oh?" Wei Shu Ye smiled genuinely. "He's blessed with both sons and daughters now. We should send congratulations."

"No need to worry—he's already prepared a gift list and wants us to send exactly what he wrote."

Wei Shu Ye was momentarily taken aback, then laughed. "Even with two children, he's still as stubborn as ever. He never lets anyone take advantage of him."

Zhao Che's gaze softened, as if recalling youthful memories, a smile playing on his lips. "He's been like this since we were boys. Remember when we studied together at the Martial Hall? Everyone would host banquets for their birthdays and receive red envelopes and gifts, but he was always eccentric—never mentioned his birthday or held a feast. Once, Thirteenth treated himself to a meal at Zhuge Fourth's place, coincidentally on his birthday. Thirteenth later boasted to us about how clever he was, having eaten Zhuge Fourth's food for free. The next day, over twenty merchants went to Thirteenth's steward to collect payments, claiming that the Fourth Young Master of the Zhuge family had bought a pile of goods under Thirteenth's name and told them to collect from him."

Wei Shu Ye roared with laughter. "I remember it vividly! That meal cost Thirteenth half a year's salary. He borrowed money from me for three months straight and still hasn't paid me back."

"Haha, everyone says Thirteenth is honest, but he's actually the shrewdest. Since childhood, he's been the worst at repaying debts."

As they spoke, they made their way back. Zhao Che's temporary palace was now in Shuanghan City, bordering North Ross. It covered a vast area, comparable to Zhenhuang, the capital of Daxia. After years of development, the population had gradually grown, giving it the air of the foremost commercial hub in the northern regions.

Before they even entered the city, the clamor of rapid hoofbeats approached. At the forefront was a woman in a bright red cloak, wearing fiery fox-fur boots, her cheeks flushed and features delicate as a painting. A closer look revealed a slight bulge in her abdomen, suggesting she was with child. Spotting Zhao Che, her eyes lit up, and she cracked her whip, charging forward on her horse.

Zhao Che couldn't help but frown, while Wei Shu Ye covered his mouth and chuckled softly.

"You returned without telling me? Hmph, but I found out anyway!"

Though already a mother of two, with her third child on the way, she still carried the charming, girlish demeanor of youth. Swinging her whip, she tilted her chin up and squinted at Zhao Che with a triumphant look.

"You're pregnant—why are you still riding? Have you forgotten everything I said?"

"Tch—"

Wan Yanrou snorted softly, unconcerned. "I was born on horseback, just like my mother. We Donghu women aren't as delicate as you Daxia ladies."As she spoke, she suddenly jumped off her horse, ran a few steps to Zhao Che's side, and began climbing onto his horse using both hands and feet. By the looks of it, she seemed to want to ride with him.

"Pull me up, give me a hand!"

Wanyan Rou stood on her tiptoes and called out from the side. With her enlarged belly, mounting the horse was indeed inconvenient.

Looking at her stubborn little face, Zhao Che finally surrendered helplessly, sighed, and pulled her onto the saddle. But he didn't dare to gallop anymore, only lightly kicking the horse's belly to let it walk slowly.

And Miss Wanyan Rou, who had loudly claimed she wasn't as delicate as the women of Daxia, obediently leaned against her husband's chest, smiling happily like a cat that had caught a fish.

As soon as they returned to the palace, a servant came to report that there was war news from the inland. Wanyan Rou cursed angrily, pouted, and went back to the inner palace, saying she was going to find her son to play cuju.

While heading toward the administrative hall, Zhao Che instructed the servants to keep an eye on her. The afternoon sun was warm, shining through the window lattice onto the ground in a brilliant, golden yellow.

The message was sent by Zhao Yang's men, and its content was largely similar to what Zhuge Yue had said, just more detailed.

Zhao Yang had been active along the northern border these past few years, so it was no surprise he knew more. Moreover, Zhuge Yue's letter must have been sent half a month ago when the war situation wasn't intense yet. That he could detect the severity of the situation early was already remarkable.

Wei Shu Ye had long known that Zhuge Yue's letter wouldn't be just about trivial matters. However, since he had just returned from the expedition against the Tuyuhun, Zhao Che didn't want to worry him. So, after just stopping by home briefly, Wei Shu Ye entered the palace. As soon as he stepped into the administrative hall, sure enough, he saw Zhao Che had gathered a group of generals and ministers to discuss military affairs.

They deliberated for a full two hours. When dinnertime arrived, Wanyan Rou sent people to urge them several times, almost coming herself to confront the ministers. The senior officials finally had to leave the palace with uneasy hearts. Zhao Che invited Wei Shu Ye to stay for dinner, and Wei Shu Ye didn't refuse. However, during the meal, he couldn't avoid being glared at several times by a certain woman who wanted to monopolize her husband.

After the meal, the two entered the study. Zhao Che got straight to the point and asked, "What do you think about this matter?"

Wei Shu Ye smiled slightly and said, "Your Highness must have already made up your mind, so why ask me?"

Zhao Che frowned and said, "I haven't decided yet."

"If Your Highness is hesitating, that means you've already decided."

Zhao Che slowly sat down, his fingers rubbing the rim of the teacup, remaining silent.

"Princess Jing'an has defied all conventions by attacking Meilin Pass and allowing the Quanrong People to advance eastward. This is simply seeking her own doom. Your Highness, this time, even if she is a descendant of Daxia's royal bloodline, we cannot let her off."

Seeing that Zhao Che remained silent, Wei Shu Ye continued, "Back then, she repeatedly tried to kill Chu Qiao, both openly and covertly. If it weren't for your sake, Zhuge Yue would have taken action long ago. Over the years, Biantang didn't touch her, Qinghai didn't touch her, and Yan Xun—who knows what he was thinking—had several opportunities but ultimately didn't strike. Plus, with our covert protection, she hasn't been in any real danger. But this time, what she has done is truly excessive."

Zhao Che was silent for a moment before saying, "The Quanrong People have already reached Beishuo.""Great Yan has only been established for six years, with unstable domestic forces and remnants of Daxia's military power still not fully eradicated. Princess Chun, under the banner of restoring the Xia dynasty, can indeed gain some advantages. But once time passes and the people and army witness the brutality of the Quanrong, they will inevitably turn against her. At that point, Princess Chun will be completely passive, and the title of 'Eastern Land Traitor' will be firmly placed upon her."

Wei Shu Ye spoke confidently. Years of bloody turmoil had washed away the elegant noble young master he once was in Zhenhuang City.

Zhao Che frowned and said slowly, "What do you think of Minister Zhang's proposal?"

Wei Shu Ye chuckled, "Your Highness, you already know the answer in your heart. Why ask me?"

Zhao Che looked at him, and after a moment, suddenly laughed, "Indeed. No wonder A-Rou says I’m becoming more indecisive. I’m really too cautious about gains and losses."

"All rulers are like this. You were once just a feudal lord, but now you are the sovereign of Daxia, responsible for so many people. You cannot afford to be careless."

"I understand. Yanbei’s rule has stabilized, and the northern territories are in chaos. We cannot fight on two fronts simultaneously—trying to do both would only leave us with nothing. We cannot take advantage of this situation."

Wei Shu Ye asked, "What about Zhuge Fourth’s proposal?"

"Let’s wait and see." Zhao Che frowned. "We are different from him. Qinghai has always been independent, with no deep-seated hatred for the inland regions. But our soldiers, especially the senior officers, harbor intense hatred for Yanbei. Asking them to fight for Yanbei would be harder than asking for their lives."

Wei Shu Ye sighed helplessly and shook his head, "Ah, how is this fighting for others?"

Zhao Che also smiled wryly, "How can we make these people understand?"

"By the way, the court officials just sent a fast horse beyond the pass. What’s the urgent matter?"

At this, Zhao Che finally showed a relaxed smile. "It’s about finding a wife for Xian'er. The Pearl County Princess of the Zhuge family is now a treasure, and I must secure the marriage before Biantang does."

"Tang Emperor Li Xiuyi?"

Wei Shu Ye said in surprise, "Hasn’t he already established an Empress?"

"Have you forgotten? Li Ce has another son, the one born to Consort Zhan, who has been living in Qinghai."

"Oh, I remember now." Wei Shu Ye nodded. "I’ve seen that child once. He resembles his father, especially his eyes."

Zhao Che leaned back in his chair, looking smug. "He’s taken so much from me. Sooner or later, he’ll have to return it all as his daughter’s dowry."

The wind rose in the northern lands, where green grass had just begun to sprout. Meanwhile, in Qinghai, rain pattered against banana leaves, painting a lush, verdant scene.

In the quiet of the night, Chu Qiao, dressed in a cotton-white nightgown, lowered the window shutters, blocking out the sound of the drizzling rain. A pair of red candles burned quietly, their flames flickering softly in the serene atmosphere.

A pair of arms encircled her from behind, warm breath brushing against her ear. Zhuge Yue, weary from the day, leaned against her soft form and whispered, "You’re still awake."

"How could I sleep before you returned?"

Chu Qiao turned around with a smile, lightly kissing his lips. "Are you hungry? Should I have the kitchen prepare supper? I asked them to keep it warm for you."Zhuge Yue smiled, seemingly unsatisfied with her fleeting kiss. He lowered his head and covered Chu Qiao's soft lips, tracing their shape with his own before his nimble tongue pried open her pearly teeth, engaging in a fiery entanglement with hers.

Chu Qiao gently wrapped her arms around his waist, responding ardently. Soon, the air seemed to grow warmer. Zhuge Yue's husky voice whispered by her ear, thick with desire and carrying a uniquely seductive charm: "It's been so many days. Don't you miss me?"

Chu Qiao's cheeks flushed pink as she panted softly, leaning entirely against his embrace. Tilting her head up, her eyes appeared misty, moist and profound.

"I've missed you. If you keep torturing me like this, I'll take a concubine."

Chu Qiao frowned and feebly struck his chest with her fist: "You wouldn't dare?"

"If you don't want me to take a concubine, then be more diligent."

Zhuge Yue's deft hands moved upward, removing her hairpin and letting her dark tresses cascade down. His slender, jade-like fingers slowly trailed down Chu Qiao's neck, eliciting shivers. Scattered kisses traveled along her snow-white neck as his fingers loosened the ties of her nightgown. The lamplight flickered, the warm bed filled with spring passion, silk garments fluttered to the floor, revealing skin as smooth and delicate as porcelain, curvaceous and alluring.

Zhuge Yue swept her up into his arms and carried her to the spacious bed...

The consequence of skipping dinner was severe. In the middle of the night, someone dragged her sore body out of bed and crept to the small table to sneak some pastries.

After just two steps, she nearly stumbled and fell. Frowning, she rubbed her lower back with grievance.

So sore and painful, even standing was difficult.

She glared daggers at the figure on the bed.

Does it have to be like this every time? How is she supposed to teach Zhou'er sword practice tomorrow? Does he get some satisfaction from seeing their son laugh at her?

Crouching by the small table eating pastries, the tea had gone cold, but she was so hungry it still tasted delicious. Suddenly, a low chuckle came from the bed. Startled, she stood up quickly, wiped her mouth, and said, "You're awake?"

Moonlight streamed through the window, illuminating the man lying on his side, propping his head with one hand. He beckoned to her with a faint smile, "Come here."

Chu Qiao snorted, "No."

Zhuge Yue chuckled, "I'm thinking of your wellbeing. You're not wearing anything, and I'm afraid you'll catch cold."

Chu Qiao's face instantly flushed red as she scrambled to find her clothes, but she felt a firm grip around her waist as the long-limbed man pulled her into his embrace.

"Tired?"

Wrapping a thin blanket around her chest, her fair shoulders exposed to the air, he couldn't resist lowering his head to kiss one.

Chu Qiao nodded truthfully, "A bit."

"Hungry? I'll have someone bring food."

"No, no." Chu Qiao quickly refused. What a joke - having food delivered at this hour would make her the laughingstock of those perceptive children like Li Qingrong tomorrow.

He carried her to the soft couch by the small table and fed her a pastry. They chatted idly as time slipped away quietly. The hall was silent as water, the entire world asleep, leaving only them nestled together, skin warm, in tranquil serenity.

"Xing'er, the Quanrong People have reached Beishuo Pass. What are your thoughts?"Chu Qiao let out a soft sigh and pondered for a long moment before carefully asking, "Zhuge Yue, do you trust me?"

Zhuge Yue raised an eyebrow and smiled, "You want me to send troops to help Yan Xun?"

"Not to help Yan Xun, but to help ourselves."

Chu Qiao shook her head and calmly said, "Both of us know that in this war, the Quanrong People definitely won't gain any advantage. Perhaps in the initial stages, they might have the upper hand due to the element of surprise, but once Yanbei recovers, the Quanrong's good days will be over. However, how long it will take is debatable. Perhaps the only difference in this battle is how much damage the Quanrong can inflict on Yanbei. These people fight fiercely, but they lack overall military strategy. Their attacks are directionless—just a chaotic, all-out assault. Calling them an army is less accurate than calling them a meat grinder."

Zhuge Yue held her quietly, listening without saying a word.

Chu Qiao continued, "In the thirteenth year of Emperor Tangming's reign, the Quanrong once broke through Meilin Pass. Within just a month, the entire western frontier was reduced to scorched earth. Nearly a million civilians died, and all records and buildings were destroyed. That time, the nation's strength declined for decades. If not for that, the Great Tang wouldn't have been exploited by Daxia later, ending up fragmented."

"If Yanbei's national power declines because of this war, wouldn't that give us a better chance to reclaim lost territory?"

Chu Qiao glanced at him sideways with a smile and said, "You clearly know the answer in your heart, yet you insist on asking me. Can I interpret this as our King of Qinghai feeling jealous?"

Zhuge Yue chuckled, lowered his head to kiss her, and said, "I understand. Yan Xun definitely won't let me stand by and watch. If he sees me delaying action, he might even lead the Quanrong to attack Qinghai."

"Your guess is correct, completely in line with his usual behavior."

"Fine," Zhuge Yue said, "Rather than letting him lead them to Qinghai, it's better for me to send troops to help him block them outside Beishuo, so we don't end up with chaos here. The people have just started spring planting. If they come to cause trouble, who would still have the mind to farm and work?"

Chu Qiao asked, "When do you plan to send troops?"

"In the next few days," Zhuge Yue replied. "I'm waiting for news from Zhao Che. At this time, he's definitely taking advantage of the situation in the north. For Yan Xun to free up troops to fight the Quanrong, he'll have to let Zhao Che gain some advantage. I need to wait until he succeeds before I make a move, and also take the opportunity to demand some military funds from the wealthy Yan Emperor."

Chu Qiao said, "You two really are like the barefoot fearing no shoes. Aren't you afraid the negotiations might break down? If that happens, sending troops would be even more embarrassing."

Zhuge Yue smiled and said, "The three of us have been fighting for so many years, we understand each other quite well. Fighting back and forth, we simply can't determine a clear winner or loser. Now that each regime has just stabilized, no one dares to exhaust their national strength to launch a large-scale war. Continuing to fight like this endlessly is no long-term solution. When war can't completely solve the problem, the final way is still to negotiate. Ximeng has been fighting for over ten years; it's time to rest."

Upon hearing this, Chu Qiao sighed softly. She leaned against Zhuge Yue's chest and said quietly, "I hope so."The Quanrong People outside Meilin Pass charged forth with ferocious momentum, making all the common folk of Ximeng gnash their teeth in hatred. Yet perhaps they did not realize that while these invaders brought intense bloodshed and brutal slaughter, they also carried with them a glimmer of true peace—a sliver of hope.

Beishuo, Beishuo—how many years had it been since she left that land?

Never had she imagined there would come a day when she would return.