Chapter 18 Chapter 18 "Master is thinking of his beloved again..."
Ling Xun's eyebrows twitched slightly. Many people had been eyeing his marriage this year, but he had no interest in it. He said, "My great career is not yet accomplished, so why should I think about starting a family?"
"You," Bai Xuerou chuckled. She was just teasing, but then she remembered something and added, "Now that you're becoming famous, there must be discerning people who want to marry you. You should make plans soon."
Ling Xun should be right.
Seeing his lack of interest, Bai Xuerou shook her head slightly, became a little more serious, and said, "Although marriage brings two families together, if possible, it is still better to be with the person you like."
"Life is but a fleeting hundred years, like flowing water that never returns. It would be too regrettable to miss out on the one you love."
After saying that, seeing that Ling Xun seemed a little stunned when he looked at her, Bai Xuerou knew that her words were being interpreted differently by others.
Marriage is about matching social status and bringing harmony between two families. It has always been about finding a suitable wife and then cultivating feelings for each other. How can marrying for love be considered a matter of social standing being secondary?
"I was just saying, just keep it in mind. Don't make a hasty decision about a marriage you don't like, or it will be too late to regret it later," Bai Xuerou said with a slight smile.
"Don't worry, sister-in-law, I understand," Ling Xun replied.
Love and affection.
He didn't understand, but his sister-in-law cared a lot.
Ling Xun felt he needed to think about it carefully.
After all that fuss, it was already very late. The lights that had illuminated half the sky at the Prince of Zhenbei's mansion had mostly gone out. The night was ordinary, the moonlight was obscured by clouds, and only a few stars shone dimly.
It looks like the weather won't be very good for the next few days.
Ling Xun took his leave. Bai Xuerou looked at the night sky with some concern, gave him a few more words of advice, and watched him leave.
The next morning, just as Ling Xun had said, he paid his respects and then left.
As for breakfast, he had already eaten it before paying his respects.
After Ling Xun left, the Zhenbei Prince's Mansion returned to peace, but Bai Xuerou's troubles had only just begun.
However, she was prepared, and with Ling Xun's arrangements, although it was a bit troublesome, she was able to handle it.
On the other side, Ling Xun personally led his elite troops to reinforce the front line. Although they encountered various unexpected events along the way, they successfully arrived at the front line.
The hundreds of thousands of cotton-padded coats, though a considerable number, were far from enough to supply the entire army. However, the Prince of Zhenbei had already considered this matter, and upon arrival, people were sent to distribute and arrange them accordingly.
Ling Xun then relayed Bai Xue Rou's idea to the Prince of Zhenbei as planned. As he spoke, he caught a glimpse of Ling Zheng's expression, though it was only for a fleeting moment.
What's wrong?
My sister-in-law is so considerate and sensible, taking the initiative to offer cotton. My father must have thought of this last time. Husband and wife are one, so naturally he wouldn't leave Ling Zheng out.
He should be happy, so why is he complaining?
Ling Zheng was thinking that Bai Xuerou hadn't discussed it with him.
Such a big matter should be discussed properly by the couple. He had several plans regarding cotton, which would surely bring greater benefits in the future. Who knew that Bai Xuerou would make the decision on her own?
Bai Xuerou had always been gentle and considerate towards him, which made Ling Zheng feel somewhat uncomfortable when she suddenly took matters into her own hands.
As expected, the Prince of Zhenbei did not object. After a slight surprise, he even sighed, "Your wife is quite magnanimous. Good, very good."
These words were clearly directed at Ling Zheng. Ling Xun turned his head to look, only to see Ling Zheng smiling without any apparent sign of anything amiss, saying, "I never expected Chunniang to have such a broad mind, and I was quite surprised."
The Prince of Zhenbei was pleased and in a good mood. Although he could tell that Ling Xun was not very happy, he didn't pay much attention and looked directly at Ling Xun, asking, "What else did your third sister-in-law say?"
Ling Xun then proceeded to explain everything according to what they had previously agreed upon.
The Prince of Zhenbei waved his hand and agreed immediately. After pondering for a moment, he bestowed many rewards upon Bai Xuerou. He gave her a thousand elite soldiers as personal guards and a warrant.
Although this item has no real power, it represents the Prince of Zhenbei to a certain extent. With this, anyone, inside or outside Yandu, who sees it will do her a favor.
"With these things here, your wife will have an easier time guarding the estate." Although the Prince of Zhenbei was a ruthless and ambitious man, he was also meticulous.
He used to look down on Bai Xuerou and wouldn't even glance at her. Now, however, he finds his daughter-in-law to be exceptionally magnanimous and considerate of her.
Ling Zheng thanked Bai Xuerou on her behalf with delight.
As for Ling Xun, he was rewarded for his meritorious service in escorting the goods, and the Prince of Zhenbei was not left out either.
Ling Xun thanked her, but in his heart he was thinking about who to arrange to go back to Bai Xuerou.
The people given by the Prince of Zhenbei are certainly good, but they might not be very convenient to use.
After the two brothers left the Prince of Zhenbei, Ling Xun took out the letter that Bai Xuerou had given to Ling Zheng. In the letter, Bai Xuerou wrote about the recent events on the estate, revealing some sorrow and longing. She said that she was unable to support herself and was therefore preparing to hand over the cotton to her father. She did not have time to discuss it with her husband and hoped that he would not be offended.
Ling Zheng looked at it again and again, and most of his displeasure had dissipated, but he was still a little uncomfortable.
He knew Chunniang disliked trouble, and given everything that had happened, it wasn't surprising she made this decision. And there were some things no one said, but he himself understood—
Bai Xuerou had already told him about the cotton, but he didn't take it seriously, so who can he blame?
If he valued it, he would have arranged for people to protect him long ago, and there wouldn't be this situation now.
This is also why Ling Zheng doesn't really want to mention this matter; every time he thinks about it, he can't help but regret his past disrespect.
After that, Ling Xun only stayed in the camp for half a day, and returned to the southern army with his cotton-padded clothes the next day.
With all this back and forth, it was already the eleventh month.
Wei Yi has already settled the territories he conquered. He is a famous general, and he is also capable in managing affairs, as long as he knows how to use people.
Ling Xun arrived at the army's camp and saw that although the people were still somewhat flustered when they saw the soldiers, they had largely returned to normal life.
When he returned, Wei Yi had already received the news and was waiting. He first glanced at the cotton-padded coat, and then listened to Ling Xun talk about recent events.
Knowing that Bai Xuerou had given the cotton seeds to the Prince of Zhenbei, his expression shifted slightly.
This is indeed a decision that Shirley Bai would make.
Born into wealth, she rarely cared about material possessions; more than anything, she hated trouble. So it's not surprising that she threw trouble away.
Ling Xun had always been close to his master, and spoke less cautiously, inadvertently saying Bai Xuerou's words that only when the world is at peace can the people have the mind to farm and have enough to eat and wear.
This is indeed something Bai Xuerou could say. She has something that ordinary noble ladies don't have: a compassion for the common people, and she can always understand their hardships.
Wei Yi thought again.
"You have a wonderful third sister-in-law." Coming back to his senses, Wei Yi smiled slightly and praised Ling Xun, noticing the subtle hint of pride on his face.
At first, Wei Yi was indifferent to taking Ling Xun as his disciple, but in the end, his subordinates gave in for Bai Xuerou's sake.
But after spending some time with him, he couldn't help but admire him, feeling that this kid was a promising talent, much better than Ling Zheng.
Ling Zheng has ambition and vision, but he lacks magnanimity.
A strong will, if unchecked, becomes arrogance and self-will. Being overly calculating and self-serving, lacking a broader perspective.
Wei Yi could see all of this, and he figured the Prince of Zhenbei certainly couldn't have missed it either; he just didn't have a better option.
At this moment, as he looked at Ling Xun, he couldn't help but feel a pang of regret.
Ling Xun has none of the shortcomings that Ling Zheng has.
He is exceptionally intelligent, insightful, and has a keen understanding of the big picture. Although he is young, everyone who has spent time with him admires him.
If the Prince of Zhenbei is unharmed...
Upon further reflection, one can't help but sigh, realizing that the Prince of Zhenbei's current state is largely due to Consort Ge.
On the other hand, if Aunt Ge hadn't died, the Prince of Zhenbei might still not have had this son in his eyes. Such a complex web of cause and effect can only make one sigh at the cruel twists of fate.
Wei Yi was no longer the bearded man who had covered his face to conceal his identity when he was Bai Xuerou's bodyguard. He was now clean-cut, tall, and handsome, with a clear expression on his face.
But even so, it was of little use—
Ling Xun tried to observe the other person's expression again but failed. Looking at that calm face that could not discern joy or anger, no one could tell anything from it.
Even at the height of the battle, Wei Yi remained as calm as a rock, instantly putting people at ease. Every time he saw him, he couldn't help but admire him and resolve to emulate him.
"Such magnanimity is beyond the reach of most men," Wei Yi said, throwing away what he was holding without hesitation. Ling Zheng must be quite annoyed.
Wei Yi thought about it and felt a vague sense of nostalgia.
I wonder what Bai Xuerou looks like now.
Since he joined the Prince of Zhenbei's forces, in order to avoid suspicion, he and Bai Xuerou mostly corresponded by letter, and could only meet once a year at banquets and other occasions, which was very rare.
The last time we met was when the army was setting off for war; she stood on the city wall and glanced at us from afar.
Even though her face was hard to see, she was the only one I recognized at first glance among the crowd.
She is actually quite easy to recognize. In spring, she likes delicate colors such as peach blossoms and green willows; in summer, she prefers cool colors such as blue and green; in autumn, she prefers orange and yellow; and in winter, she favors red.
Just like the fragrance on her body, it changes with the seasons throughout the year.
"Master is thinking about his sweetheart again," Ling Xun joked, without giving it much thought.
Wei Yi was as steadfast as a mountain and as firm as a rock. If there was anything that could make him change color, it would be his beloved, a figure who existed only in rumors and had never been confirmed, but whom Wei Yi had never refuted.
He would occasionally drift into a reverie like this, revealing a rare tenderness in his expression.
Wei Yi smiled slightly. When he thought of Bai Xuerou in front of Ling Xun, he couldn't help but feel a little guilty, as if his shameful thoughts would be discovered.
He didn't say much, as he always did, and changed the subject.
In Yandu, as the twelfth lunar month approached, Bai Xuerou received a reward from the Prince of Zhenbei.
Land, shops, and rare treasures were nothing unusual, but the thousand elite soldiers surprised her. She was momentarily troubled about how to settle them, but fortunately, Ling Xun's letter offered some suggestions. After careful consideration, she finally managed to settle them down.
After that, she was busy settling other rewards. The harvest was very plentiful. Although the New Year had not yet arrived, she could already feel the joy of the New Year.
As for the cotton seeds, Bai Xuerou gave them directly to the people of Zhenbei King, and she didn't need to worry about what happened afterward.
Neither the Ling family father nor their son returned home for the New Year; only the family members spent the holiday together.
It snowed again on New Year's Eve. After a lively New Year's Eve dinner and playing with the children for a while, everyone went back to their courtyards.
Bai Xuerou walked under the corridor, looking at the swirling snowflakes outside, and suddenly wondered if Ling Xun was wearing the red dress she had prepared.
At this very moment, Ling Xun was fighting a bloody battle. Before him stood neither Xue Wenxian's forces nor those of the Prince of Ning, but Cai Chuan, a general under Chen Bing. Naturally, this was Tongcheng, an important prefecture city guarding Chang'an.
Although its name contains the character "桐" (tong), many people jokingly refer to it as "铜" (tong), implying that the city is an impregnable fortress, extremely difficult to breach.
If we can capture this place, we can advance directly to Chang'an without any more important passes, saving us a lot of effort.
The garrison commander of Tongcheng was named Cai Chuan. He was no nobody; he rose to fame more than a decade ago in a major battle against the rebel army.
At that time, the rebel army rose up fiercely, sweeping across most of the Great Qi in just a few months, with war raging everywhere and the Great Qi teetering on the brink of collapse. But the Great Qi, which had enjoyed peace for over a hundred years, did not fall into silence. As if in the last rays of the setting sun, many previously unknown but capable and powerful individuals emerged.
Cai Chuan rose to fame for his success in resisting the rebel army several times, and even successfully counter-killing and annihilating them on several occasions, thus pacifying the region. He became a renowned general at the time and was highly valued by the Great Qi, who placed him here to guard this important location.
Ling Xun never expected that he would meet Cai Chuan.
As early as a month ago, when Ling Xun was still leading his troops to harass Prince Ning's territory, preparations for this battle had already been made here.
For this reason, the Prince of Zhenbei specially transferred Ling Xun.
To take Chang'an, no amount of formality would be excessive, but too much maneuvering would easily arouse suspicion. Only Ling Xun, despite some suspicion, couldn't help but harbor a sense of侥幸 (a lucky break).
With the help of both inside and outside forces, the Zhenbei Army successfully opened the city gates on New Year's Eve, after which a fierce battle ensued.
This battle was led by General Liu. Before Wei Yi arrived, he was the most powerful general under the Prince of Zhenbei. After capturing the city, his first task was to take the south gate to prevent the large army stationed behind the city from launching a counterattack.
Naturally, the remaining soldiers in the city also wanted to escape to the south gate so as to join the main army outside the city.
Ling Xun headed towards the south gate, and it was expected that he would encounter fleeing soldiers, but he did not expect to run into Cai Chuan.
Cai Chuan also noticed the iconic golden armor with a qilin on his face.
The two exchanged a glance. While he certainly wanted to eliminate the enemy's genius, he also knew that at this moment, the most important thing was to get out of the city as soon as possible and join up with the army stationed outside the city.
The Zhenbei Army attacked from the west gate, but there were still elite troops at the south gate, and a large army was stationed outside the city.
If Cai Chuan and the elite troops from the north and south can join forces, they may be able to stop the Zhenbei Army. Once the troops stationed outside the city enter, they may have a chance to drive the Zhenbei Army out of the city.
Without a moment's hesitation, Cai Chuan left someone behind to cover the rear and led his men away.
Ling Xun ordered his men to charge forward, trying to delay Cai Chuan's movements, while he himself, after a moment's thought, led his men to leave from the side.
The soldiers did their best to slow Cai Chuan down, but he never stopped.
His objective was very clear: to escape before the other Zhenbei Army troops arrived. Logically, there shouldn't be any problems—
But he encountered Ling Xun, who had a photographic memory and could memorize the city's layout.
He led his men along a side road and successfully blocked Cai Chuan ahead.
Their eyes met, and without hesitation, the two rushed forward.
Ling Xun didn't think he could really defeat this fierce general. His goal was to hold Cai Chuan back and prevent him from leaving the city to join the main army. Someone had already informed General Liu, determined to keep him here.
That's how it should have been.
Reinforcements did indeed arrive.
But at that moment, Ling Xun, who had been retreating steadily, seized the fleeting opportunity with absolute composure. His long sword slashed across, and blood flowed from Cai Chuan's throat, then spurted out in all directions.
Cai Chuan covered his throat in vain, staring at Ling Xun in astonishment.
A note from the author:
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Ah Bao, do you know who your master's sweetheart is? It'll be very interesting when you find out.
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