Chapter 33 "It's alright, I suppose this place is all connected..."

“There’s no need for thanks between us,” Wei Yi said. “Madam saved my life, and I think the General’s life is still very precious to me.”

When such a composed person suddenly started joking, Bai Xuerou was taken aback at first, and then couldn't help but laugh.

“Naturally, the life of a general is extremely precious.”

“So precious, it’s only right that I do anything for you,” Wei Yi said again.

Bai Xuerou sighed softly, smiled gently, and said, "I just don't want you to be bound by so-called favors in this life. I have no intention of holding a grudge, and even if I were to, what you have done over the years is enough to repay it all."

"From now on, I won't say thank you, and you shouldn't mention saving my life again, okay?"

Wei Yi remained silent, his eyes looking downcast as he gazed at Bai Xuerou.

He never felt that the debt of saving his life was a constraint; in fact, he felt that because of that debt of gratitude, he and Bai Xuerou were more bound together and closer than others.

He didn't want to go there.

But Bai Xuerou didn't like it, so Wei Yi finally said "okay".

Bai Xuerou then smiled.

"General Wei," she called out with a smile.

“Madam Bai,” Wei Yi replied, and then the two smiled at each other.

Wei Yi lowered his head slightly, thinking, it's alright, he knows it in his heart.

The two walked together, but parted ways upon hearing voices.

The banquet was a great success, and by the time it ended, it was already afternoon.

Princess Yucheng personally saw Bai Xuerou out and said with a smile, "We're both single, and it's quite boring staying in the mansion all day. If I find anything fun to do in the future, I'll come find you, okay?"

"That would be wonderful, of course. I was just worried about troubling you, Princess," Bai Xuerou said with a smile, readily agreeing.

Anyway, if she doesn't want to, Princess Yucheng can't force her.

Unless the Zhenbei Army is gone.

"There's no need to trouble yourself. Just wait and see. I can't speak for anything else, but when it comes to having fun, you're definitely no match for me," Princess Yucheng said with a smile, her eyes sparkling with a flirtatious air.

Realizing the meaning behind his words, Bai Xuerou's cheeks flushed, and she looked at him reproachfully.

This woman had many male lovers around her, and they often caused some drama and jealousy among themselves. Even though she didn't deliberately inquire, she had heard quite a bit about it.

"Princess, don't tease me. It's nice to be alone," Bai Xuerou said.

"What did I say?" Princess Yucheng denied it and teased.

Bai Xuerou realized that her complexion was still inferior to that of these older women, so she immediately stopped and said, "Anyway, I'm doing quite well now. Alright, Princess, I'm leaving."

Princess Yucheng smiled, stopped teasing her, and saw her out.

As she turned to leave, memories surfaced in her eyes.

Every time she saw Bai Xuerou, it reminded her of that imperial concubine.

That woman was originally her sister-in-law, but was snatched into the palace by her father and favored, and was eventually given death by her father.

With the same beauty and the same tragic fate, it's unknown what will become of Bai Xuerou in the future.

On the carriage ride back, Bai Xuerou and Wu San Niang rode together. Noticing that the girl beside her kept glancing at her, she couldn't help but smile and look at her, asking, "How was the banquet today?"

"That's great. I even made plans with Sister Lang to go hiking outside the city later," Wu San Niang said with a smile.

"Is it the Luoxian Mountain Poetry Gathering a few days from now?" Bai Xuerou remembered that Yu Kai had mentioned it before.

Luoxian Mountain is a great scenic spot in the world. It is said that every autumn, nobles in Chang'an City love to go there to play.

"Sister-in-law, you know about it too? Yes, I heard it's organized by Sister Lang and Yu Sanlang, and many talented men will be attending, including Yu Hesheng, Lu Jinyuan, and Yan Chenming. I've often heard of their poems and essays, and now I'll finally get to see them. I wonder what they'll be like." Wu Sanniang said excitedly. "By the way, will your brother be going too? I heard many girls mention him today, and they're all very curious."

She looked at Bai Xuerou with her watery eyes, clearly curious as well.

Bai Xuerou smiled slightly, showing some interest, and said, "I'll know when I see him. But I don't know if he'll go or not."

Who knows when Bai Qingrong will return? His fellow disciples often linger for a few days in interesting places, so it's hard to say what their itinerary will be like.

Then a thought crossed my mind—

The men Wu San Niang described were indeed the most talented and romantic figures of their time. Their gathering in Chang'an was likely due to the Ling family's conquest of three parts of the empire and the Zhenbei Army's entry into Chang'an; they wanted to see if they were worthy rulers, or perhaps to gain fame through this opportunity.

Born in a chaotic world, ordinary people struggle to survive, while those with some ability always want to make a name for themselves and build a career.

"Is sister-in-law going?"

"Yes, I will go. Princess Yucheng told me about it, and we've already made arrangements," Bai Xuerou said.

"That's great! I'll go with you then, sister-in-law. I'm a little nervous about going alone," Wu San Niang said happily.

Bai Xuerou smiled slightly and said okay.

Wu San Niang stole a glance at her, and a thought flashed through her mind:

Although she was unhappy that Bai Xuerou was somewhat distant from her, she had to admit that being with her was a very comfortable experience. She was gentle, approachable, and patient, and always listened quietly to others, but never perfunctorily, giving people a sense of seriousness.

Her discomfort only surfaced after they parted and she reflected on it.

Because Bai Xuerou treats everyone the same.

But he speaks even less to her.

Sometimes Wu San Niang wondered if she was overthinking things, but that feeling just wouldn't go away. In the end, she realized that Bai Xue Rou really didn't like her that much.

"Why?" she wondered, troubled.

Meanwhile, in Jiangcheng.

Traces of war remain on the city walls, and the bloodstains are still fresh, indicating what happened here before.

The Zhenbei Army had just captured the city and was cleaning up inside and out when Ling Xun, dressed in black robes and armor, stood on the wall, opening the letter in his hand. As he read it, a smile gradually appeared in his eyes.

After leaving the city, he would write to Bai Xuerou every two or three days, telling her about his experiences on the road. Bai Xuerou would reply, writing about her experiences in Chang'an, including her desire to arrange a marriage for Bai Qingrong, which he was unwilling to do.

Like you, I believe in the saying that one shouldn't rush into marriage before establishing a career.

He read what Bai Xuerou wrote and thought to himself, "That's not true at all." He had someone he wanted to spend his life with, but now was not the right time to say it.

No one knows how happy Ling Xun was when Ling Zheng died.

His previously unspoken and hesitant thoughts were immediately resolved.

Wait a little longer, until he has the ability to silence everyone, until he's older enough for Bai Xuerou to believe in his feelings—

Ling Xun knew that no matter what he said at sixteen, Bai Xuerou wouldn't really take it seriously.

The city was under Xue Wenxian's control just the day before. After Ling Xun arrived at the front line, he divided his troops into three routes, with Guan Zhong and Liu Meng leading the left and right routes respectively. He was stationed in the central army. There was no news from the left and right routes yet, but he had already led his men to capture a city.

Ling Xun gazed into the distance. Although Xue Wenxian's territory was large, it was not unified. The various warlords were reluctantly united due to Xue Wenxian's power, but they still acted independently. They would seize any opportunity to take a piece of the territory from others, so it was actually very chaotic inside.

Xue Wenxian wanted to subdue them all, but time was too short and the Zhenbei Army was away, so he couldn't spare the time.

Thus, once Xue Wenxian is defeated, the rest can be easily defeated one by one.

He considered the options carefully. Guan Zhong was more reliable, so he sent him to deal with the mess in the south. Liu Meng, on the other hand, was fierce and good at charging into battle, so he was used to deal with Xue Wenxian.

However, Xue Wenxian is cunning, so we must be careful in dealing with him.

Ling Xun pondered this carefully, wishing to ensure that nothing went wrong.

The successful capture of this city is a good start. If everything goes smoothly, he should be able to go back and spend the New Year with his sister-in-law from here.

Ling Xun thought to himself, a smile playing on his lips.

He turned and descended the city wall, mounted his horse, and led his personal guards toward the residence where they would temporarily stay. This place had originally been the residence of the garrison general, who had been killed in battle.

As he traveled, the soldiers who had settled the people in the city all paid their respects and watched him go.

The soldiers of the Zhenbei Army had heard many stories about Ling Xun before, but they always felt there was something missing, and they couldn't help but wonder if it was exaggerated. Now that they had actually met him, they knew that he lived up to his reputation.

Upon returning home, Ling Xun immediately went to his study, retrieved paper and pen, and prepared to write back to Bai Xuerou, relaying the news of his great victory.

He sealed the letter to Bai Xuerou, wrote the second one to Wei Yi, and then wrote a few more to make other arrangements. He then ordered someone to send them back by fast horse.

The letter was delivered to Chang'an in five days by fast horse.

Bai Xuerou was delighted upon seeing this and wrote back, mentioning the upcoming imperial examinations in the coming year and asking if Ling Xun would return.

On the ninth day of the ninth lunar month, climb to a high place.

Luoxian Mountain is famous throughout the world. Its mountains are verdant and beautiful, and it is often shrouded in mist. Legend has it that immortals were once seen descending from the heavens, hence the name.

There is also Luoxian Temple on the mountain, which has been worshipped by the royal family of the Great Qi Dynasty for generations and its incense is very prosperous.

Every September, nobles from Chang'an love to climb Luoxian Mountain. Some like to leave their names on the stone walls at the top, while others like to hang red silk on the ancient pine trees, hiding their daughters' secrets. They say that hanging it here will be heard by the gods and make it easier to achieve their wishes.

Bai Xuerou has been in Chang'an for more than half a year, but she has never been able to find the time to come to this mountain.

Only after arriving did I realize that this mountain truly lived up to its reputation.

Just looking at the lush greenery and towering mountains from afar is enough to make one feel its beauty. Once inside, after getting off the car and climbing the mountain, every step reveals a new and captivating view.

"This is your first time seeing her. You'll find it normal after a few more times," Princess Yucheng said with a smile after hearing Bai Xuerou's remark.

Bai Xuerou admitted this, saying that once you've seen too many good things, they all seem ordinary. But, "Even if they are ordinary, they are still more beautiful than other mountains. No wonder they have such a great reputation."

“Indeed.” Princess Yucheng thought for a moment and smiled.

She thought Luoxian Mountain was ordinary, but other mountains were even less appealing.

"By the way, where's your brother? Hasn't he come back yet?" she asked again.

The two met outside the city. Bai Xuerou arrived first, and they met briefly in the carriage before setting off one after the other. When they arrived at the foot of Luoxian Mountain and got off the carriage, Princess Yucheng realized that it was just her and Wu Sanniang.

I just blurted it out.

Bai Xuerou's heart stirred slightly, and she smiled, "He's going up the mountain with his fellow disciples, they're probably already there by now."

"Fellow disciple, who is your younger brother's teacher?" Princess Yucheng immediately asked.

“It’s Mr. Yi Mi,” Bai Xuerou said with a smile.

"Old Master Yi?!" Princess Yucheng exclaimed in surprise, and even Wu San Niang, who was following behind, couldn't help but look up.

Yi Mi was a great Confucian scholar of his time, whose reputation even surpassed that of the current prime minister, Lang Cheng. While Lang Cheng's students were mostly in the court, Yi Mi's students were truly spread throughout the world. His lineage had always been characterized by its inclusive approach to education, and he was willing to teach even farmers who asked questions. As a result, he was extremely respected, especially now that the world was in turmoil and armies were rampant. Who knew if someone in any of the armies might have benefited from his teachings?

But this does not mean that they have many apprentices. Those who can truly take on apprentices are all exceptionally talented.

Bai Xuerou nodded, very proud of her younger brother.

Princess Yucheng then thought, "So, Master Yi's disciple has come to Chang'an? Does that mean he himself has come as well?"

"I don't think so, and I didn't ask him," Bai Xuerou said.

Princess Yucheng seemed to be deep in thought. Even if the old master hadn't come, his disciple would not be an ordinary person.

She glanced at Bai Xuerou out of the corner of her eye, hoping that not all of them would join the Zhenbei Army. Old Master Yi's reputation was too great; if that were the case, she feared…

She sighed inwardly.

The group slowly made their way up the mountain, but being pampered noble ladies, they soon grew tired and switched to palanquins.

We arrived at Luoxian Temple halfway up the mountain. Luoxian Temple is built against the mountain. If you happen to be there in the morning or evening when there is fog, it looks like a celestial palace in the sky, and the scenery is absolutely stunning.

When they arrived at their leisure, the literary gathering had already begun. Upon seeing the two of them, they rose to greet them.

Princess Yucheng called out, and Bai Xuerou stood beside her with a smile, feeling the gazes falling on her.

"Qingrong." She saw her younger brother and called out.

“Sister,” Bai Qingrong said with a smile.

Bai Xuerou walked over and smiled and nodded at the people around him.

Bai Qingrong had three fellow disciples. The oldest was around forty years old, while the other two were in their twenties. They had met Bai Xuerou, who had come to visit him in Chang'an before, and were acquainted with her. When they saw her now, they both addressed her as Madam Bai.

"I thought I arrived early, but I didn't see you at all. You didn't set off early this morning, did you?"

Bai Qingrong smiled and said, "We originally planned to set off early this morning, but yesterday we talked about the magnificent scenery of the Misty Heavenly Palace at Luoxian Temple, so we left the city in the evening and stayed here for the night."

"You guys seem quite interested," Bai Xuerou chuckled, then asked, "Is it good?"

"Beautiful." Bai Qingrong praised it repeatedly, her eyes filled with admiration.

Bai Xuerou was moved by what she heard.

She rarely went out at night. Only occasionally, when she was late for a banquet, she would simply travel by carriage to and from the banquet. She had never gone out to play at night before.

“Sister, you’re interested.” Bai Qingrong knew his sister well and immediately said, “Why don’t you stay at Luoxian Temple tonight?”

Bai Xuerou was about to speak when Yuzan quickly supported her arm, "Madam, you can't."

“If you want to stay overnight, we’ll need to bring more people; this number is a bit risky,” she said.

“Indeed, your safety is the most important thing.” Bai Qingrong quickly understood and immediately said.

There are probably many people watching my sister right now. Just look at the number of guards she travels with to give you an idea. It's definitely not advisable to spend the night outside the city without permission.

“If Madam is willing, I can send people over right now,” Wei Yi’s voice suddenly rang out.

Everyone instinctively looked over.

"The general has come too?" Bai Xuerou asked in surprise.

Wei Yi strolled over with his hands behind his back and said gently, "Just here to join in the fun."

"Go to the camp and bring over a thousand men," he ordered.

"No need," Bai Xuerou quickly replied. She glanced at the people around her and realized she really didn't like making such a fuss. She smiled and said, "Thank you for your kindness, General, but there are too many people today. I'll pass and come back another time."

"It's alright, I suppose everyone here is reasonable," Wei Yi said.

Everyone had been paying attention to the conversation. Hearing this, they felt awkward. Of course, no one wanted to come here to play and then be watched by the Zhenbei Army. No one felt at ease, but no one dared to say no rashly. Anyone who dared to say no would be so disrespectful to Wei Yi.

-----------------------

Author's Note: I've done the math, and Abao should be back in the chapter after next.