Chapter 149: Tongguan's Opening Battle Stuns All Sides, Xiongnu Refuse to Submit, Fire Stone Reappears!

Until the hour of the Rooster.

The three princes walked out of the Hall of Nurturing the Heart.

King Wei was covered in wounds.

King Qin also had some injuries; the Crown Prince fared a bit better, having taken only two blows, not many.

"I tell you, third brother, are you out of your mind? The old master likes to brag a bit; isn't that normal? Why do you have to expose it?"

King Qin's voice sounded irritated; originally this matter had nothing to do with him, yet he ended up taking a beating for nothing.

Hearing that, King Wei felt deeply aggrieved.

"Second brother, this really isn't my fault."

"Did I say something wrong? The old master is a hero; I respect him, but there's no need to piggyback on everything."

"Gu Jin Nian wrote a poem and summoned fire stone from beyond the heavens; can that still be piggybacked?"

King Wei still felt a bit indignant; his temperament was rather stubborn.

"Whether this matter concerns the old master or not, he's willing anyway. But eldest brother, I must tell you, when trouble arose you fled at once; do you have any sense of brotherly responsibility?"

King Qin grew somewhat depressed, and as he spoke further, his prejudice against the Crown Prince deepened.

"Second brother, what you said isn't right."

"Is the eldest brother not responsible enough? If the eldest didn't seize third brother, our fates would be far worse."

The Crown Prince snorted.

Thus, the three brothers each blamed the other for the departure.

Meanwhile, inside the Hall of Nurturing the Heart.

Emperor Yongsheng felt completely satisfied.

The 250,000 troops were annihilated without breaking a sweat; to him, it was an absolutely exhilarating affair.

It was the most enjoyable thing for him besides his ascension.

However, Emperor Yongsheng also knew that what lay ahead was the truly important matter.

What was the purpose of the opening battle? It was to gain leverage for the upcoming negotiations.

If the opening battle were won, the subsequent negotiations would be much simpler.

If the opening battle were lost, the Da Xia Dynasty would have to pay a price; although they possessed a trump card, they could not use it recklessly nor wish to employ it outright.

Now, the 250,000 troops are gone; even the Xiongnu State, though angry, lacks the will and strength to send more forces.

If they truly dared to send more troops, they would; after all, your vital energy is severely depleted, and Da Xia would not mind taking the opportunity to wipe out the Xiongnu State.

However, Emperor Yongsheng knew very well that the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty could never allow the Da Xia Dynasty to simply push out the Xiongnu State.

Everything was still for the stability of the Eastern Wilderness.

For this emperor, whether to annihilate the Xiongnu State or not was not of great necessity, unless Gu Jin Nian could again destroy a 250,000-strong Xiongnu army.

If so, they could strike directly at the Yellow Dragon.

"Relay my decree: inform Gu Jin Nian that the entire northwest war situation is his sole responsibility."

"Whether war or peace, the decision rests solely with Gu Jin Nian."

"Then broadcast the news worldwide, let all the realm celebrate; when Gu Jin Nian returns, I will personally receive him and prepare a marquis conferral ceremony, with the whole world rejoicing."

Emperor Yongsheng let out a long sigh, calming himself a bit.

This day was extremely joyous.

"Your servant obeys your command."

A voice sounded in response.

But soon, another voice rang out beyond the great hall.

"Minister of the Heavenly Office, Xu Taiyi, requests an audience."

As the voice sounded, Emperor Yongsheng immediately ordered him to enter the hall.

Soon, Xu Taiyi stepped into the hall and said to Emperor Yongsheng.

"Your Majesty."

"I have examined all the ancient texts and roughly determined why the Crown Prince can summon fire stone."

Xu Taiyi spoke; he received the news immediately, so he frantically scoured the records and informed Emperor Yongsheng of the reason.

"Why?"

Emperor Yongsheng was also full of curiosity.

Gu Jin Nian was immensely talented, his poems becoming timeless; that he knew. Yet using poetry to summon fire stone from beyond the heavens was truly unprecedented.

If the cause could be known, it would be an unparalleled boon for the Da Xia Dynasty.

Especially, if we could harness it, what would the Da Xia Dynasty fear thereafter? As long as the enemy does not first deploy iron cavalry, we guarantee not to send Gu Jin Nian into battle.

"Reply, Your Majesty."

"This matter concerns Heaven's Mandate."

Xu Taiyi spoke slowly.

"Heaven's Mandate?"

Emperor Yongsheng was somewhat surprised, filled with curiosity.

"Reply, Your Majesty, since ancient times on the Continent of Shenzhou, every five hundred years Heaven's Mandate selects a system, granting a Heaven's Mandate seal that nurtures the supreme of the Eight Realms."

"However, the five-hundred-year Heaven's Mandate seal is merely an opportunity, not a guarantee that an Eight Realms master will be born."

"If no Heaven's Mandate bearer emerges, by the next five hundred years the old seal will overlay the new one; thus, after a long span, Heaven's Mandate will fully erupt."

" ushering in a Golden Age."

Xu Taiyi explained slowly.

The Golden Age.

And then?

Emperor Yong Sheng listened with great interest.

"Now is the Golden Age; fifty Heaven's Mandate Seals have coalesced into one, thereby the Heaven's Mandate metamorphoses, and all the world's strongmen—whether of the Confucian path or the Immortal path—have a chance to grasp the Heaven's Mandate and step into the legendary Eighth Realm."

"And in this Golden Age, those who master the Heaven's Mandate can have their will control the will of Heaven and Earth; Your Majesty, I will speak plainly: each Heaven's Mandate Seal now represents a Heavenly Dao Divine Skill."

"His Highness the Crown Prince possesses two Heaven's Mandate Seals; it seems the Lord of the Nation also gave his own Heaven's Mandate Seal to the Crown Prince, meaning the Crown Prince now holds three Heaven's Mandate Seals."

"One of the Divine Skills born from these is greatly linked to the Heavenly Fire Stone, but I am not clear on the specifics."

Xu Taiyi spoke with great clarity.

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng fully understood.

"You mean that…"

"A single Heaven's Mandate Seal is equivalent to a Heavenly Dao Divine Skill; the reason Gu Jin Nian could summon the Heavenly Fire Stone is because of a particular Heaven's Mandate Seal?"

Emperor Yong Sheng asked.

"Yes."

Xu Taiyi nodded confidently.

Having heard this, Emperor Yong Sheng couldn't help but take a deep breath.

This truly leaves one no choice but to be shocked.

I never expected the Heavenly Destiny Luck to have such an explanation.

One Heaven's Mandate Seal is equivalent to a Heavenly Dao Divine Skill.

"If the Heaven's Mandate were wholly bestowed upon an individual."

"What benefit would that bring to the dynasty?"

Emperor Yong Sheng spoke, his gaze at the other bearing a hint of unease.

"Reply, Your Majesty."

"The first forty‑nine Heaven's Mandate Seals target individuals; those who master the Mandate can command the forces of Heaven and Earth."

"But the final Heaven's Mandate Seal has a colossal relation to the dynasty, and I am not clear on the specifics."

"However, if someone in our Da Xia Dynasty obtains a Heaven's Mandate Seal, the future Heaven's Mandate Contest will bring great benefits."

Xu Taiyi seemed to know what Your Majesty was worrying about, so he spoke immediately, prompting Emperor Yong Sheng to exhale at length, finally feeling at ease.

"So you mean that, from now on, Da Xia will spare no effort to help Gu Jin Nian pursue the Heaven's Mandate?"

Emperor Yong Sheng said thus.

"Yes."

"Your Majesty, since His Highness the Crown Prince now holds the Heaven's Mandate, this is a cause for celebration; as the saying goes, one's honor is shared, one's loss is shared, and the Crown Prince is of the Da Xia imperial bloodline."

"Furthermore, he is a future sage of the Confucian and Daoist traditions; after mastering the Heaven's Mandate Seals, when he soars, the Da Xia Dynasty will also enjoy the blessing of national fortune."

"Especially, I have observed the heavens and consulted ancient texts; the most crucial element of this Heaven's Mandate Contest should be the final Heaven's Mandate, the Heaven's Mandate Star hanging in the firmament."

"That star holds a profound mystery; it can render the dynasty immortal and can allow a person to transform into invincibility."

Xu Taiyi said earnestly, voicing some of his own conjectures.

Hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng was moved and somewhat surprised, thinking how fortunate he truly was to witness the Golden Age's arrival with his own eyes.

If luck continues, he could arrange his own future to lead the Da Xia Dynasty onto a true pinnacle.

Meanwhile.

Western Frontier.

Prince Ning's Residence.

In the study.

Prince Ning's calm visage could no longer be restrained at this moment.

"You mean Gu Jin Nian summoned four fire stones and annihilated the Xiongnu's 250,000‑strong army?"

In the study, Prince Ning's face was full of disbelief.

He never imagined that this war, which should have drawn the Eastern Wilderness's attention, would conclude in such a manner.

This is too unbelievable.

"Your Highness."

"Such a scenario is unprecedented; circumstances have changed, and I ask Your Highness to make a decision."

Lord Hou spoke, his complexion exceedingly grim.

As the chief strategist of Prince Ning's Residence, Lord Hou is no ordinary man; for this first clash between Da Xia and the Xiongnu, he has rehearsed countless scenarios.

He even prepared three distinct response plans.

Yet he did not anticipate such a situation.

He predicted the two nations would ultimately negotiate peace, foreseeing Da Xia's crushing defeat or perhaps a slight victory, but did not expect the Da Xia Dynasty to achieve a complete triumph.

That outcome was beyond anything he could have dreamed of.

At this moment, he could only stare at Prince Ning, awaiting his command.

"The plan has indeed changed."

"This time Da Xia effortlessly dealt with the Xiongnu's 250,000 troops."

"Directly affecting the peace talks."

"It seems the Da Xia Dynasty will force the Xiongnu to unconditionally return twelve cities and demand various reparations and assets."

"If so, Da Xia's national fortune will be further strengthened."

"What do you think could make the Xiongnu launch another campaign?"

Prince Ning spoke, and he immediately understood what impact and consequences the 250,000-strong army would bring.

The 250,000-strong army was completely annihilated.

The Xiongnu State had lost all fighting spirit.

In this situation, the Da Xia Dynasty could demand anything at will; what they asked for didn't matter, but the return of the twelve cities would greatly boost the Da Xia Dynasty's national fortune.

Moreover, the Xiongnu State would certainly have to pay reparations, which would greatly enhance its prestige.

This was not what he wanted to see.

So he did not want this matter to end like this.

Upon saying this,

Hou Jun couldn't help but frown, lowering his head in deep thought.

About half an hour later.

Hou Jun spoke.

"Your Highness."

"Right now, the Xiongnu State will certainly not accept this, but having lost the 250,000-strong army so heavily, it likely lacks the strength to act."

"Returning the cities and paying reparations is inevitable, but if we let the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty intervene forcibly, it might produce some effect."

"Thus we could regroup the troops again."

Hou Jun spoke up, voicing his own idea.

"Forcible intervention by the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty?"

"Would they be willing?"

"And what pretext would we use?"

Prince Ning frowned and asked in this way.

"Your Highness, the two great dynasties may not be willing, but they also do not want the Da Xia Dynasty to grow stronger."

"As for the pretext, it's actually simple: since the Confucian Dao was weakened, various dynasties have produced a batch of different people."

"Among them, the strategists are the most extraordinary; if we let them step forward, they could accuse Gu Jin Nian of violating heavenly principles, of slaughtering the 250,000-strong army, using the peace of the Eastern Wilderness as grounds, giving the two dynasties a reason to intervene."

"Regrouping the army again would actually be quite effective."

"Of course, this still depends on the willingness of the two great dynasties, after all, Gu Jin Nian's summoning of the Heavenly Fire Stone is truly shocking."

"If it were just a one-time occurrence, that would be fine to discuss, but I fear there might be a second, a third time."

Hou Jun spoke up, saying there was a countermeasure, though it might not necessarily succeed.

After all, it's because Gu Jin Nian's move is too shocking.

Summoning the Heavenly Fire Stone.

Who can withstand this?

Even with tens of thousands of troops, one cannot withstand the bombardment of the Heavenly Fire Stone.

"This should not happen again."

"The reason the Heavenly Fire Stone appeared is likely because Gu Jin Nian has grasped Heaven's Mandate, while the Xiongnu State's national fortune is weak, plus an ancient famous poem."

"Only through a combination of all these factors would the Heavenly Fire Stone appear."

"Once is already a coincidence among coincidences; two or three times would be nearly impossible."

"Go to the Xiongnu State and discuss things thoroughly."

Prince Ning spoke, he was very serious.

"Yes."

"Your Highness."

Hou Jun nodded, also agreeing with Prince Ning's words.

Heavenly Fire Stone, this is most likely a coincidence.

If Gu Jin Nian can really summon the Heavenly Fire Stone, what's the point of fighting? We could just sweep everything away directly.

Not to mention the Xiongnu State.

The entire Eastern Wilderness, all dynasties could just surrender voluntarily.

As for the Central Province Dynasty, there's no need to consider ruling the world; they could honestly come to Da Xia to pay tribute.

Soon, Hou Jun left.

And Prince Ning's expression gradually turned grim.

"Old Four, Old Four, your luck is truly good."

Prince Ning clenched his fists, his eyes full of anger.

"Someone, quickly summon the Eldest Heir back to the manor."

Prince Ning continued speaking, ordering his son to return to the manor quickly.

The plans have all changed.

Da Xia Tongguan City.

Inside the army camp.

It could be described as bustling with activity.

After winning this battle, the entire army camp became extraordinarily lively; even the Defender Prince personally lifted the alcohol ban, allowing half the soldiers to drink and celebrate, while the remaining soldiers still had to take turns guarding the city.

However, at this juncture, the Xiongnu soldiers could not possibly attack; the 250,000-strong army had been destroyed in an instant, and even if they wanted to launch a surprise attack, they could absolutely not muster tens of thousands of troops in a short time.

At this moment.

Inside the army's main camp.

A soldier was reporting the battle situation.

In this campaign, we captured sixty thousand Xiongnu warhorses, one hundred twenty thousand sets of intact armor, ninety thousand sets of damaged armor, and two hundred ten thousand pieces of various weapons.

Please, Duke, give your orders.

The soldiers looked at the spoils information in their hands, their faces full of excitement.

This set of armor is worth at least one hundred taels of silver, and that's only the material cost, not counting labor.

In other words, just the armor alone yields a profit of twelve million taels of silver; as for the damaged armor, the iron can be collected and re-smelted, and the ninety thousand sets of damaged armor are worth at least one million taels of silver, no problem.

Weapons are also expensive, costing thirty to forty taels each to produce.

But the most expensive are still the Xiongnu warhorses.

This thing is something you can encounter but cannot seek.

Having captured sixty thousand Xiongnu warhorses and taken them back for study, we will definitely be able to learn something from them.

Although Xiongnu warhorses have various traits and are extremely loyal to their masters, distributing the sixty thousand warhorses to various places for study will surely yield some results.

This thing is something all the major dynasties covet.

Good.

Gather the warhorses, keep ten thousand of them, and send the rest to the Da Xia Capital for His Majesty to handle.

All military supplies have been properly organized and handed over to the Quartermaster for re-forging or storage.

The State Guardian publicly spoke, handling these spoils.

The Subordinate General obeys the order.

The latter cupped his fists and spoke.

Having said that, he left the main camp.

But inside the main camp, only Grandfather Gu and Gu Jin Nian remained.

At this moment, Grandfather Gu wore a full smile and also turned his gaze to his grandson, Gu Jin Nian.

Jin Nian.

This time, your merit surpasses that of all famous generals of Da Xia.

One can say you became famous in a single battle.

How did you summon this Heavenly Fire Stone?

Grandfather Gu opened his mouth, his heart also full of curiosity, looking at Gu Jin Nian and asking thus.

After all, the significance of this battle is too great.

Its impact is enormous.

Putting it broadly, it could pacify the northwestern war; the Xiongnu State would surely not dare to offend again unless the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty openly supported it.

Putting it narrowly, with his own strength he annihilated 250,000 enemies, enough to be called a peerless famous general—no, even peerless famous generals are not worthy of Gu Jin Nian's battle.

Therefore, he was very curious about how Gu Jin Nian summoned the Heavenly Fire Stone.

If it could be summoned repeatedly, that would be perfect; the Da Xia Dynasty unifying the Eastern Wilderness is just a matter of time.

Grandfather.

It should be due to favorable timing, location, and harmony.

My grandson himself doesn't know what the situation is, but wanting to recreate it again would likely be difficult.

Gu Jin Nian gave a wry smile.

Actually, after recalling the troops with the gong, he himself also researched it, but after researching over and over, he found this thing cannot be controlled.

It seems to have a certain relation to Heaven's Mandate.

But he cannot grasp the method.

Like that.

Why not give it a try? Write another poem and see if you can summon the Heavenly Fire Stone.

Just target inside the Xiongnu State?

The old gentleman spoke up, suggesting to try again.

Um, then let the grandson try it tonight.

However, there probably isn't much hope; this thing might be related to Heaven's Mandate, and the grandson also doesn't know the specifics.

Gu Jin Nian spoke, he really hadn't thought of writing another poem to see, but he felt that even if he wrote one, the impact would be great.

That's also true.

Well, we can try tonight; if it doesn't work, we'll forget it.

The old gentleman actually also knows it's not that simple.

Afterward, he couldn't help but sigh.

It's a pity that, grandfather, in your lifetime you could have trampled the royal court and drunk your horse at the vast sea, but it turned out you were still a bit short.

Indeed, each generation does its own things; grandfather, in your old age, having reclaimed twelve cities in your lifetime is already enough.

Such things as trampling the royal court should still be left to you young people.

Grandfather Gu felt somewhat disappointed, to be precise, he felt regret.

Grandfather, it's just a matter of time; you should stay healthy and strong, living another two hundred years would not be difficult.

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth, smiling as he spoke.

Two hundred years is impossible.

Grandfather is a martial artist; in his youth he campaigned, fought fiercely, injured his foundation, making living to two hundred years difficult.

If he could live another ten years, grandfather would be content.

The old gentleman spoke up, speaking slowly.

Martial artists, by tempering their flesh, can indeed prolong life and avoid all ailments; the old gentleman is very likely to enter the Sixth Realm, a lifespan of two hundred years being quite normal.

It's only that a lifespan of two hundred must be accompanied by knowledge of health cultivation, and it does not damage the fundamentals.

For those like war generals, their lifespans are often short, because they repeatedly bear the strain of battle and have suffered many mortal wounds.

After all, anyone who can sit in the position of Duke has emerged from a pile of corpses; they have some old wounds, and being able to live a hundred years and die peacefully is already a good thing.

In the words of the Immortals, this is cause and effect—what you gain you must lose. "Grandfather Gu, the grandson will certainly obtain the elixir of longevity for you, and you will certainly see Da Xia's soaring rise."

Gu Jin Nian opened his mouth and said very seriously.

"Hahaha."

"You truly are Grandfather's obedient grandson. Good, Grandfather will wait for you to bring the elixir of longevity."

The Duke of the State laughed with satisfaction.

After all, he's his own grandson; the affection was not in vain.

However, Grandfather Gu then looked at Gu Jin Nian and spoke slowly.

"Jin Nian."

"What do you plan to do next?"

He asked.

"We should negotiate peace."

Gu Jin Nian replied calmly.

The purpose of the first battle was to negotiate peace.

But the current peace talks are no longer about seeking peace; they are about making the Xiongnu Nation pay compensation, and then agreeing to the peace.

Da Xia has already done what it needed to do and has fought; continuing the war would actually bring little benefit.

Not to mention how troublesome siege warfare is, even if His Majesty dispatches an additional five hundred thousand troops to annihilate the Xiongnu Nation in one stroke, the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty would not stand by idly.

The greatest benefit is being able to stop.

"Yes."

"But what if the Xiongnu Nation refuses to negotiate peace?"

Grandfather Gu looked at Gu Jin Nian and asked thus.

"The Xiongnu Nation cannot possibly refuse to negotiate peace."

"They have lost 250,000 soldiers, at least a one‑third reduction in their troops; if they gather a large army again, they must be prepared for the loss of their nation."

"Even if the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty provide the greatest assistance, the Xiongnu Nation must think twice before acting."

"Moreover, if they truly dare to gather troops again, the grandson cannot guarantee that he can continue to summon the Celestial Fire Stone, but creating a certain anomalous phenomenon should not pose a major problem."

"As long as the anomaly is concentrated, our troops' morale will inevitably surge like a rainbow; as long as the grandson is present, Da Xia's soldiers will have absolute confidence."

"Now, Grandfather must send some people to spread a message; that will surely settle the situation."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, voicing his thoughts.

"What message?"

Grandfather Gu asked.

"Just say that the grandson can summon the Celestial Fire Stone this time by harnessing Heavenly Destiny Luck, while composing timeless poetry, willingly sacrificing fifty years of his own lifespan to summon it."

"There are still two or three chances to act now; of course, after acting, the grandson will inevitably suffer a backlash and will not live past forty." "Spreading this will stabilize the troops' morale."

Gu Jin Nian was extremely serious.

Grandfather Gu, upon hearing this, could not help but exclaim in admiration.

Gu Jin Nian's method is simple; whether the Celestial Fire Stone was truly summoned by Gu Jin Nian, no one dares to confirm, but Da Xia's soldiers all believe it was summoned by Gu Jin Nian.

The only question is why it was summoned.

Now Gu Jin Nian offers an explanation, using Heaven's Mandate as a pretext and claiming he will sacrifice fifty years of his life; to the soldiers, this is entirely reasonable.

Thus, as long as Gu Jin Nian is present, if the Xiongnu Nation dares to gather a large army again, they will come to clash.

Then Da Xia's soldiers will inevitably have morale soaring like a rainbow; there is no other reason—if they truly cannot win, they can simply sacrifice another fifty years of life, and they will not lose under any circumstances.

In this way, the troops' morale naturally stabilizes, and the high morale becomes terrifying.

In warfare, besides troop deployment, morale is the most important factor.

Think of three hundred thousand reckless soldiers who are convinced of victory and possess an absolute trump card—would they still fear? In contrast, the Xiongnu Nation would only be trembling in fear.

Therefore, another battle would inevitably result in a crushing defeat for the Xiongnu Nation, though Da Xia would also pay a painful price.

But for Da Xia, this is certainly not a bad thing; after all, if the battle begins, a victory would crush the Xiongnu Nation, and even if we lose twelve cities, we will reclaim them, and the Xiongnu Nation will inevitably pay a bloody price.

To put it bluntly, the Xiongnu Nation is already losing badly; no matter how badly Da Xia loses, it will ultimately win.

"Good."

"Grandfather, issue the orders immediately."

"Then in the next few days, we will wait for news."

Grandfather Gu nodded.

At that moment, a voice sounded from outside.

It was Yang Kai's voice.

"Duke, I request an audience."

As Yang Kai's voice rang out.

The Duke of the State allowed him to enter the camp.

Then Yang Kai explained his purpose: he was returning to the capital.

At this point, whether he is present or not makes no difference; as the Minister of Rites, he has many court matters to attend to, and staying here serves no purpose.

He plans to return to the capital to handle official duties.

Upon learning this, the Duke of the State had no major objections; his main concern remained Gu Jin Nian.

Since that's the case, Minister Yang will go slowly; I will handle the peace talks properly.

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

Hmm.

Crown Prince, Minister Li also wishes to leave the camp; court affairs are busy, and if Minister Li does not return, that would indeed be improper.

Please, Crown Prince, grant us your mercy.

At this moment, Yang Kai stated his true purpose; whether he leaves or stays, he only needs to say hello.

There's no need to come in person to report.

The main reason is still that Li Shan wants to leave.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian fell silent for a moment.

Once the peace talks are completely over, he may leave on his own.

Gu Jin Nian still did not intend to let Li Shan leave; this fellow's loyalties are already skewed, and Gu Jin Nian does not know who he really is.

Gu Jin Nian also did not know how His Majesty would treat him, but regardless, before the peace talks conclude, Gu Jin Nian will not let him leave easily.

Stay here honestly.

Hearing this, Yang Kai also nodded.

If that's the case, I will relay this to Minister Li.

Yang Kai said as such.

Afterward, he left.

After Yang Kai left,

Gu Jin Nian also rose and left the big camp; next, he would wait for the Xiongnu's peace invitation.

Thus.

The next day.

The Xiongnu court.

Officials gathered.

The Xiongnu king appeared somewhat ill.

The 250,000-strong army was annihilated; this was a huge blow to him, and also a huge blow to the Xiongnu state.

Now the entire nation is in panic.

The initial defeat could be accepted, but the annihilation of the 250,000-strong army is truly unacceptable.

Your Majesty.

Your subject has urgently mobilized 200,000 troops.

There are still 150,000 troops marching to the frontier.

The Xiongnu Minister of War spoke up, informing of the current situation.

Your Majesty, now domestically there is an uproar, and among the people rumors abound, all saying our nation's fortune has declined and we cannot fight further; please, Your Majesty, decide soon to avoid further friction that would panic the populace.

The Xiongnu Minister of Rites, Halu Mu, spoke up.

He informed them of this matter.

Understood.

The Xiongnu king sighed.

He had already anticipated these things, but now he must wait, wait for the intentions of the Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty.

Just then, a figure hurried over—it was his prince.

Father.

The Great Jin envoy and the Fuyu envoy have arrived.

As the prince spoke, the Xiongnu king immediately rose, then had the officials withdraw, leaving only a few important ones.

About a quarter of an hour later.

Two figures appeared; they were Chen Song and another.

They had returned to their own dynasty and reported this matter upward.

Now they come bearing the will of the two great dynasties.

Both of you.

What should we do next?

Seeing the two, the Xiongnu king, without any beating around the bush, directly asked what to do next: "Your Majesty."

The Great Jin Majesty wishes to provide silver and grain, hoping that Your Majesty will again raise a 250,000-strong army to fight the Da Xia once more.

Otherwise, given the current situation, the Da Xia Dynasty will surely make various demands, which your country may not be able to bear.

Chen Song spoke, conveying the Great Jin Dynasty's intention.

Upon hearing that, the Fuyu Dynasty's envoy also spoke up.

Both Majesties share this view; they hope Your Country will again mobilize 250,000 troops, and they are willing to provide all arms and armor.

The Fuyu envoy spoke, expressing the same meaning.

Upon hearing the envoys of the two countries,

The Xiongnu king's face instantly darkened.

Send another 250,000 soldiers? Is that possible? "Both of you."

The Xiongnu state cannot possibly dispatch another 250,000-strong army.

If we lose again this time, we may well lose the country.

The Xiongnu king spoke.

Directly refuse to launch a campaign.

If the 250,000-strong army disappears again, the Xiongnu Kingdom could be wiped out outright.

"Your Majesty, that is not what we mean."

Chen Song spoke, looking at the Xiongnu king: "Your Majesty's meaning is that there is no need for an actual campaign, only to put on a show; otherwise the Da Xia Dynasty would inevitably demand more compensation."

"If we choose to send troops, with the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty applying pressure, even if the Da Xia Dynasty demands, it would not dare to set sky‑high prices. Your Majesty understand this?"

Chen Song spoke, stating the core point.

Upon hearing this, the Xiongnu king's expression softened considerably.

If he were to send another 250,000 troops to fight the Da Xia Dynasty, he would certainly refuse.

It is no longer a matter of whether we can win or lose.

Even if we win, it would still be a loss.

If we lose, the kingdom would be annihilated outright.

But sending 250,000 soldiers to intimidate others is not a big problem.

Yet he is still somewhat fearful.

"If we send another 250,000 troops, and Gu Jin Nian summons the Heavenly Fire Stone again, wouldn't our Xiongnu Kingdom—"

The Xiongnu king was filled with dread regarding the Heavenly Fire Stone.

"Your Majesty, rest assured, we have studied it; the Heavenly Fire Stone is purely a matter of chance, indeed involving Gu Jin Nian, but he could never summon the Heavenly Fire Stone at will."

Chen Song was absolutely confident.

"Indeed, if Gu Jin Nian could summon the Heavenly Fire Stone at will, not only the Xiongnu Kingdom but even my Fuyu Dynasty or the Great Jin Dynasty could not stand against Gu Jin Nian."

The Fuyu envoy thought the same.

"Your Majesty, rumors say that Gu Jin Nian summons the fire stone using Heavenly Destiny Luck as the source, sacrificing fifty years of lifespan to summon it once."

"Therefore, even if Gu Jin Nian wishes to summon the fire stone, it would be a self‑destructive act, unless he truly is willing to sacrifice his life for the nation."

Harumu spoke, bringing up this matter.

As soon as this was said, everyone nodded, finding the explanation extremely reasonable.

Hearing this, the Xiongnu king couldn't help but sigh in relief.

Yet he couldn't help but speak.

"Actually, I am also worried."

"A 250,000‑strong army would need fifty years to restore its vitality; these past days I have been unable to sleep, and I truly do not wish to launch another campaign."

When the Xiongnu king said this, he even shed old tears; this was not an act.

Who wouldn't cry if they lost 250,000 troops? Seeing the Xiongnu king weep, Chen Song couldn't help but speak.

"Your Highness, His Majesty has heard of your country's heavy losses and is willing to send eight million stone units of dragon rice, and until your nation regains its strength, to continuously provide premium dragon rice to the royal family, plus fifty million taels of silver as compensation, and two hundred thousand craftsmen to help restore your country's power."

Chen Song spoke up.

He directly stated the Great Jin Dynasty's compensation.

The Great Jin Dynasty and the Fuyu Dynasty value the Xiongnu Kingdom so highly.

The reason is that the Xiongnu Kingdom can balance the Da Xia Dynasty, and its soldiers can also do many tasks for them.

Within the Eastern Wilderness there are many regions needing development, and Xiongnu soldiers are the best; moreover, the Xiongnu Kingdom can breed large numbers of warhorses, except the strongest Xiongnu warhorses, which are not for trade.

The other warhorses can be sent to the two great dynasties.

No one knows why the Xiongnu Kingdom can produce such warhorses; it is a secret of the Xiongnu Kingdom.

Considering these three points, the two great dynasties will not abandon the Xiongnu Kingdom.

Everything remains driven by profit.

"Your Majesty, my Fuyu Dynasty will send fifty million taels of silver, plus large quantities of ironware, salt, and other supplies, so that the Xiongnu Kingdom may recover its vitality soon."

The Fuyu envoy also spoke, offering compensation.

Hearing this, the Xiongnu king instantly stopped crying.

"If that is the case, then I will first dispatch fifty thousand soldiers to gather outside the city, to swell our momentum."

"However, should Da Xia declare war, I certainly will not answer."

The Xiongnu king is not foolish either.

He can tolerate intimidation, but only to this extent.

Fight again.

He cannot afford to fight.

"Fine."

"First send people to bolster morale; the Great Jin and Fuyu will, at once, apply pressure on Da Xia."

The two nodded.

Their purpose is not to start a war.

It is merely to tell the Da Xia Dynasty that peace talks are possible, but they should not demand sky‑high prices.

Soon, as the Xiongnu king issued orders, the army immediately gathered outside the city.

And within the royal court.

"Your Majesty, if this peace negotiation proceeds, what are your thoughts?"

Chen Song asked.

"The twelve cities shall be returned unconditionally."

"An additional compensation of fifty million taels of silver is my bottom line."

"All other matters are completely unacceptable."

The Xiongnu King spoke, feeling deeply aggrieved.

But there is no other choice; after all, this defeat was disastrous, so returning the twelve cities unconditionally is inevitable.

Compensation is also unavoidable; if we lose and don't pay silver, they won't cooperate.

Yet, after all, we suffered the greatest loss—fifty million taels of silver, which is our limit.

"Fifty million taels of silver—I'm afraid Da Xia won't agree. We've thought it over for a long time, and I'm certain the Da Xia Dynasty will force the king to issue a self‑condemnation edict."

"Therefore, we still hope the king can bear a little grievance."

Chen Song spoke, feeling somewhat awkward; after all, making an emperor issue a self‑condemnation edict is rather excessive.

"Impossible."

The Xiongnu King outright vetoed it.

A self‑condemnation edict?

What does that even mean? Isn't it just publicly admitting one's mistake?

Would that emperor actually do it?

He can't.

At those words, the two envoys fell silent.

About half a quarter‑hour later.

A voice sounded.

"Your Majesty, the army has already gathered outside the city; please issue an order."

The troops relayed the voice.

The Xiongnu King, with a calm expression, said.

"Beat the drums outside the city!"

The Xiongnu King was somewhat displeased, mainly because hearing about the self‑condemnation edict made him uneasy.

After saying that, the latter immediately left.

Inside the royal court, however, an utter silence prevailed.

After all, for Chen Song and the others, Da Xia must compel the Xiongnu King to issue the self‑condemnation edict.

If the Xiongnu King refuses.

This matter would indeed become rather troublesome.

For a moment, the royal court was exceedingly quiet.

And at this very moment.

Tongguan City.

Gu Jin Nian stood atop the city wall, contemplating poetry.

However, finding a poem fitting the scene proved somewhat difficult.

It felt a bit uncomfortable.

Yet, after a while, a sound rang out.

Dong! Dong! Dong! It was the sound of war drums.

Not very loud, but gradually becoming clear.

The drums came from dozens of li away.

It was a specially crafted war drum, made from the hide and bone of a beast, its sound carrying a hundred li.

Soon, a voice echoed from Tongguan City.

"Beat the drums!"

It was the old master's voice.

Obviously, upon hearing the Xiongnu drums, Da Xia naturally would not fall behind.

They gave a response.

There was no pretense at all.

In an instant, both sides' drums sounded together.

Both sides were incensed; the Da Xia soldiers' anger was even stronger. They couldn't understand why, with the Xiongnu nation already like this, they still dared to bluster on the city walls.

Listening to the successive drumbeats.

Gu Jin Nian felt somewhat helpless.

Is this Xiongnu nation sick?

Having lost 250,000 soldiers, they still dare to provoke?

Do they truly not fear death?

He fell silent for a moment.

Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath, then stopped babbling.

He couldn't find a fitting piece.

So he decided to just write something at random.

If it works.

Then he'll press the Xiongnu nation further.

If it doesn't work.

Then it'll be enough.

With that in mind, Gu Jin Nian lifted his brush.

【Dragon‑horse, flower‑snow mane, golden saddle, a Wuling hero】

Autumn Frost Cuts Jade Sword, Sunset Pearl Robe

With resolve, head to Han Gu, enlist in the army toward Lin Tao

With a shout, crush through a hundred battles, the Xiongnu all flee

This is Li Bai's White Horse chapter.

It may not be fitting the occasion, but it still counts as an ancient famous poem.

Mainly it's just for testing, testing.

When the verses fall.

In an instant.

In the black night, brilliant light instantly blossoms.

An age‑old omen reappears.

But Gu Jin Nian does not care about that; he looks up at the sky, checking whether any fire stone has fallen.

He watches for a while.

None.

"Indeed, you can't just summon just because you want to."

Gu Jin Nian feels a bit helpless.

"Is it not fitting the occasion? Shall I try again?"

Gu Jin Nian thinks to himself.

Then he lifts his brush again, writing three or four poems in one go, to see what the situation is.

But after finishing, Gu Jin Nian feels as if something is missing.

Yet he does not know what is missing.

Strange, at that moment Gu Jin Nian cannot help closing his eyes to inquire, to see what is going on.

However.

In the next instant.

Fifty li away.

Above the ink‑black sky, a fire stone floats, shining brightly.

Boom! After a quarter of an hour.

A terrifying voice sounds, the earth shakes and mountains tremble.

Inside Tongguan Cheng.

All the soldiers are stunned.

No one knows what has happened.

But soon, a scout rushes in, voice excited, saying.

"Fire stone! Another fire stone! His Highness the Crown Prince has summoned a fire stone again!"

"A fire stone fell outside Gu Lin Cheng, fifty thousand troops, the whole army was annihilated."

As that voice echoes, inside Tongguan Cheng, a hush falls.

And the Xiongnu royal court.

Remains quiet.

The Xiongnu king is very resolute.

Self‑blame edict? What are you thinking?

He has just been quiet too long, so the Xiongnu king thinks he must say a few words to ease the atmosphere.

But at that moment.

A figure darts in, voice trembling.

"Your Majesty."

"Gu Lin Cheng again shows a fire stone from the heavens."

"Fifty thousand soldiers, the whole army perished, not a single survivor."

The voice sounds.

"What?"

"Another fire stone?"

This time everyone in the royal court falls silent.

"Your Majesty."

"Within the borders, four fire stones have appeared."

Soon, another figure appears, voice trembling.

When those words are spoken.

The Xiongnu king is completely stunned.

Four fire stones?

Is this to destroy the nation?

"Quick!"

"Hurry to Tongguan Cheng."

"Inform Da Xia."

"I, the king, wish for peace."

"May you accept all Da Xia's demands."

This time the Xiongnu King can't hold on any longer.

Another fifty thousand died? And four fire stones have appeared, which could fall at any moment.

Still not seeking peace.

Our country will really be destroyed.

(End of chapter)