Chapter 94: Xiongnu Arrive, Da Xia Banquet, Gu Jin Nian Appears, Rages at the Barbarians

Inside the palace's celebration hall.

Amid the banquet.

The Xiongnu's actions were far too blunt, actually having the Minister of Rites' granddaughter sit beside them? They call it a friendly exchange between the two nations, but in reality? It's just like a songstress serving wine.

A disgraceful sight.

Even Yang Kai, who values harmony, could not agree to such a request.

Fortunately,

At the crucial moment, Gu Jin Nian appeared, which relieved Yang Kai; otherwise, if he had been too forceful, the banquet might have stalled.

It must be said, Gu Jin Nian's arrival eased the tremendous pressure here.

But the words that followed left everyone silent.

"Stay away from those barbarians."

"Lest you soil yourselves."

A voice rang out, and the scene froze instantly.

The Xiongnu each turned their gaze toward Gu Jin Nian, a single glance full of contempt.

Weak as if blown by the wind, looking like a scholar.

They already held a huge grudge against Gu Jin Nian, believing the Xiongnu nation's fortunes were ruined because of him.

That was already a great hatred.

What they didn't expect was that at the banquet, they simply thought Yang Hanru was beautiful, so they took the initiative to invite her to sit.

Then Gu Jin Nian opened with an insult, calling them barbarians.

He even said, "Don't dirty them."

What does that mean?

"What do you mean by that?"

"What are you saying?"

"Who are you calling a barbarian?"

In an instant, the Xiongnu fell silent; although they had been repeatedly instructed beforehand to keep peace, with marriage alliances being paramount.

But they could not tolerate Gu Jin Nian's such invective.

When the Xiongnu's voice was heard, everyone turned to look, and those from the Ministry of Rites furrowed their brows.

The Xiongnu are overbearing; they are despised.

Gu Jin Nian's unfiltered words also displeased them.

Can't they calm down for a while?

Listening to the Xiongnu's voice, not far away, Gu Jin Nian's gaze, like a blade, swept over the Xiongnu.

To be honest, Gu Jin Nian harbors little goodwill toward the Xiongnu; aside from not being of his own clan, their hearts are bound to differ.

Just mentioning the matter of the twelve border cities, that history cannot be forgotten, right?

Moreover, his own father bears a bone‑deep hatred for the Xiongnu; his best brothers all perished at their hands—this is a blood feud, and Gu Jin Nian could never show them a friendly face.

Now the Da Xia Dynasty is also giving face, welcoming you and even setting up a banquet for you.

Isn't that just giving you face? Yet you speak insolently, and even let the Minister of Rites' granddaughter sit with you?

Even if she weren't the Minister of Rites' granddaughter, a Da Xia woman sitting with you? What are you even? Feeling the Xiongnu's predatory gaze, Gu Jin Nian showed no fear.

"The one I'm scolding is you all."

"Did I get it wrong?"

"A bunch of barbarians, showing no courtesy at all—what do you think this place is? Your Xiongnu steppe?"

"Let a Da Xia woman sit with you? What are you?"

"The Ministry of Rites gives you face, but I, Gu Jin Nian, will not; if you feel offended, then scram."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

There was no outburst, only utter calm, his gaze filled with contempt.

Beside him, Yang Hanru, watching Gu Jin Nian, felt her heart stir inexplicably.

Facing the Xiongnu's brazen irrationality, even the Ministry of Rites cowered, yet Gu Jin Nian stepped forward, embodying true manhood to the fullest.

Unafraid of the Xiongnu.

Some youngsters, seeing this scene, silently cheered in their hearts; Li Ji was especially thrilled, his face beaming with joy, but he dared not speak, fearing a beating.

"How audacious."

At that moment, a voice rang out.

It was Zhang Yun's voice.

He rushed in from the outer hall, moving swiftly, and stood directly before Gu Jin Nian, his face flushed with anger.

"Gu Jin Nian, these are Da Xia's honored guests, Xiongnu nobles; His Majesty has graciously invited them here. You tell them to leave? Are you defying the holy will?"

"What are you trying to do? Provoking the friendship between the two nations, do you intend to force a war?"

Zhang Yun spoke, each word a gem, looking at Gu Jin Nian standing on principle, he said.

With Zhang Yun's arrival, the Xiongnu wore delighted smiles, their eyes full of smugness and mockery.

They need not speak on your behalf; you already start biting your own.

The Crown Prince, still seated, gazed with full mockery, lifted a cup of wine and drank quietly, looking like a spectator at a play.

At that moment, the entire Ministry of Rites frowned, thinking Zhang Yun truly was utterly foolish.

Although Gu Jin Nian's words were harsh, at least he was defending Da Xia's glory; yet you step out to speak for the Xiongnu?

Now no one needs to say anything; just watch the drama quietly. Whatever Gu Jin Nian says, the two are just dogs fighting, only adding to the joke.

Zhang Yun's appearance.

It left Gu Jin Nian speechless; he knew the fellow's mind was dull, but he hadn't expected it to be this dull.

Within Da Xia's borders, he helped outsiders trouble his own people; the Great Scholar actually produced a scoundrel like this.

Impressive, impressive, splendid, splendid!

Seeing Gu Jin Nian remain silent, Zhang Yun considered Gu at a loss and then continued to speak.

"It's all just a trivial matter. Gu Jin Nian, your arrogance—aren't you, as a family of military generals, trying to provoke a war between the two nations to boost your own status and power, while disregarding the common people?"

"The marriage alliance is already decided; stop fantasizing and apologize at once."

"Sister Hanrou, these Xiongnu honored guests have excellent temperaments; they have no ill intentions. Let them sit for a while; friendly exchange between the two nations is not a bad thing."

Zhang Yun spoke, his words logical, simultaneously demanding Gu Jin Nian apologize and asking Yang Hanrou to agree to sit with them.

A living portrait of treachery.

It seems the Crown Prince promised Zhang Yun many favors; otherwise there would be no need for such assistance.

"Zhang Yun."

"Leave."

At that moment, Yang Kai's voice rang out.

As the Minister of Rites, Zhang Yun is a descendant of his student, so there should be some connection, but now he truly can no longer tolerate it.

This fool's mind is truly rotten.

"Sir, I—"

Zhang Yun's expression changed; he pointed at Gu Jin Nian, then looked at Yang Kai, genuinely at a loss for words.

He was obviously preserving the friendship between the two nations.

How to make himself leave? "Leave."

Yang Kai's voice sounded again, his gaze tinged with coldness.

In an instant, Zhang Yun swallowed, a hint of fear, dared not speak further, and lowered his head to depart.

Beside Gu Jin Nian, Yang Hanrou's eyes were also filled with disgust.

She was relieved she hadn't gotten too close to Zhang Yun before; otherwise, such a person would make her vomit.

Zhang Yun left.

The Xiongnu group instantly became displeased; they had finally found some amusement, only for it to vanish.

In a moment, a Xiongnu stood up and addressed Yang Kai.

"Minister Yang."

"Brother Zhang Yun is correct; why drive him out instead of expelling Gu Jin Nian?"

"Indeed, Brother Zhang Yun is right; Gu Jin Nian's actions aim to incite war between the two nations, a heart deserving condemnation."

"Why not expel Gu Jin Nian but drive Brother Zhang Yun out?"

"Brother Zhang Yun is not wrong at all; Gu Jin Nian, apologize to us, or this matter will not end."

The Xiongnu were blunt, giving no respect; politely they'd be called straightforward, crudely they'd be a bunch of brainless brutes with strong limbs and simple minds.

They shouted, demanding Yang Kai give an explanation.

"Everyone."

"Gu Jin Nian is the grandson of the Duke of the Nation and the Crown Prince of Da Xia; I have no authority to expel His Highness, the Crown Prince."

"If you truly object, I will summon the Duke of the Nation, and you can discuss matters with him properly."

"But if something truly happens, don't blame me for not intervening."

Yang Kai was indifferent.

You want to cause trouble, huh?

Then I'll call the Duke of the Nation over; you can make a scene.

Make it louder.

The Duke of the Nation will stay and cause trouble with you.

Sure enough, upon hearing that, the group's expressions changed instantly; hearing the title Duke of the Nation, they truly dared not say anything.

The reason is simple: the Duke of the Nation has indeed earned a fearsome reputation among the Xiongnu.

A single man slew eight thousand.

He slaughtered eight thousand Xiongnu cavalry.

A ruthless man who forcibly left the Xiongnu royal court, an unparalleled ruthless figure.

"Enough."

"It's just a trivial matter; why argue?"

"The grand event is about to begin; we must not spoil it."

At that moment, the Xiongnu chancellor Mu Ha Er's voice rang out; he smiled slowly and cast a glance at the Xiongnu, issuing a warning.

"Your Highness, the Crown Prince, we Xiongnu speak bluntly, unlike the Central Plains people, we are not very eloquent; we hope you will forgive us."

Mu Ha Er spoke with a contrite smile, which was rather courteous.

"Indeed, I heard you once came to Da Xia to study some Confucian and Daoist teachings, is that so?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at Mu Ha Er; a dignified Xiongnu chancellor, it would be impossible not to know him.

"Yes, when I was young I came to Da Xia and learned some Da Xia Confucian rites."

Mu Ha Er nodded, very politely.

"Not bad; I learned some Da Xia things, but unfortunately I didn't teach them properly."

"In the future, if they can't speak properly, keep them silent to avoid embarrassing the host."

Gu Jin Nian's first half of the sentence was fine, the second half was still sarcastic.

After saying that, he ignored whether the group of Xiongnu were angry and walked straight to his seat; as the Crown Prince he could occupy the Minister of State's position, since the Minister of State had not arrived.

Yang Hanrou sat together with him, which was a bit of support.

"Brother Jin Nian, thank you."

After the two sat down, Yang Hanrou lowered her voice and thanked Gu Jin Nian.

"It's nothing."

Gu Jin Nian was very casual, while also looking at the Xiongnu opposite him.

The group of Xiongnu all wore grim faces; even the Grand Prince had a slightly sullen expression.

Verbal sparring wasn't a big deal, but losing looked terrible, which was a bit excessive.

"The marriage alliance is the priority; Your Highness must not get angry."

Mu Ha'er poured wine for the Grand Prince and earnestly told him not to be angry; the purpose of this visit was the marriage alliance.

Other matters could be set aside for later.

Qi Qi Mu knew, but the feeling lodged in his heart was uncomfortable.

"Jin Nian brother, didn't you say you wouldn't come? Why are you here again?"

At this moment, Yang Hanrou was very obedient, took the wine vessel and filled Gu Jin Nian's cup, being very considerate, and also asked him about this matter.

Not far away, Yang Kai saw the scene, felt inexplicably a bit unhappy, but since he knew Gu Jin Nian was helping his granddaughter, he said nothing.

"I really didn't want to come, but I'm afraid these Xiongnu are unruly, so I came."

"Good thing I came; otherwise you'd have been in trouble today."

Gu Jin Nian truly didn't want to come, but after thinking he felt it was necessary to come, to see what these Xiongnu looked like and learn a bit, since someday they might become enemies.

Early contact would give him a baseline in his mind.

"Indeed, these Xiongnu are truly unruly, one by one."

"They have no sense of propriety at all."

Yang Hanrou strongly agreed with Gu Jin Nian's remark; she was indeed startled earlier.

"That's normal; barbarians are like that."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

And at that moment.

A voice rang out.

"His Majesty has arrived."

As the voice sounded, instantly everyone stood up.

Soon, several figures appeared.

Emperor Yong Sheng and Empress Guo slowly appeared, both dressed in dragon robes and phoenix garments, appearing at the grand ceremony.

Behind them, the Crown Prince, Crown Princess, King of Qin, and King of Wei arrived and took seats on either side.

King of Qin appeared.

He immediately saw Gu Jin Nian, broke into a smile, gave a glance as a greeting.

Gu Jin Nian also smiled in return.

"Long live the Emperor, ten thousand years, ten thousand ten thousand years."

At this moment, all officials spoke together, bowing respectfully.

The Xiongnu used their own customs to give a slight bow.

"All of you, no need for formalities."

Emperor Yong Sheng's voice rang out.

He sat on the dragon throne and said thus.

Immediately, everyone sat down.

Then Wei Xian's voice sounded.

"Year 12 of Yong Sheng, November 26th."

"At the Celebration Hall, a banquet for the two nations' marriage alliance is set; the auspicious time has arrived, the feast begins."

As Wei Xian's voice continued.

At once, fireworks shot into the sky, illuminating the entire capital.

At the banquet, music and dance were peaceful; one by one, singing maidens appeared, wearing light gauze, dancing at the ceremony.

It must be said, if one is accustomed to the ancient era, such singing‑maiden performances are indeed beautiful, especially women who can dance gracefully at palace events, they are top‑tier beauties.

Nowadays they wear light gauze, giving a half‑veiled, half‑faced impression.

Both civil and military officials, as well as the Xiongnu, even Gu Jin Nian couldn't help admiring the performance.

It's quite good.

Meanwhile, Yang Hanrou, seeing Gu Jin Nian's enjoyment, couldn't help speaking up.

"Jin Nian brother, do you like this kind of dance?"

She asked curiously, in that way.

"Not really; it's mainly because they're scantily dressed."

Gu Jin Nian quietly watched and voiced his thought.

Regarding Yang Hanrou, Gu Jin Nian had no pretense; if he liked it, he liked it.

"Ask that man, if he doesn't like it, step forward."

Yang Hanrou fell silent; she hadn't expected Gu Jin Nian to be so direct, but thinking about it, since he's neither kin nor lover, speaking frankly posed no problem.

Song and dance performed together.

About three quarters of an hour later, the performance ended, and Gu Jin Nian wore a look of lingering satisfaction, truly wishing he could dance again.

"Mu Ha Er, I raise a cup to you, may this marriage alliance bring friendship between our nations and together achieve a peaceful flourishing era."

As the song and dance concluded, Yang Kai's voice rang out; he lifted a cup of wine and toasted Mu Ha Er.

"Thank you, Minister of the Secretariat."

"Also thank Your Majesty for agreeing to a marriage alliance with our Xiongnu."

Mu Ha Er rose, lifted his cup, drank it in one gulp, then refilled it and drained it in a single swallow toward the Yongsheng Emperor.

"This time, Da Xia's marriage alliance with the Xiongnu pleases me greatly; henceforth, on this northern frontier I hope the Xiongnu nation can intervene to stabilize matters a bit, allowing my Da Xia citizens to remain safe from marauding bandits."

The Yongsheng Emperor spoke.

His words carried two meanings: now that the marriage alliance is sealed, the border must stay peaceful; if any trouble arises, regardless of who caused it, see to it that it is resolved, otherwise the alliance would be meaningless.

"Your Majesty, rest assured; after this marriage alliance, my king will dispatch thirty thousand iron cavalry to patrol all bandit lands, and anyone found impersonating Xiongnu soldiers, committing arson, injury, or looting will be executed without mercy."

Mu Ha Er smiled and spoke, also giving his pledge.

"Very well."

"Bestow wine."

The Yongsheng Emperor spoke, and a palace maid immediately poured him another cup of wine.

He drank it in one gulp, appearing bold.

"Father, I also raise a cup to you."

At that moment, Qi Qi Mu's voice rang out; he directly addressed the Yongsheng Emperor as father, lifted a cup of wine, and laughed.

But as soon as he said that, everyone couldn't help but smile; the Yongsheng Emperor remained silent, and Yang Kai's voice sounded again.

"Prince Qi Qi Mu, your father is not Your Majesty but the Right Assistant Minister of Rites, Lord Wang Jiang."

Yang Kai smiled as he spoke, then asked Wang Jiang to rise.

He came before Qi Qi Mu, nodded, his face full of smiles.

"Not Your Majesty?"

"Is it you?"

Qi Qi Mu instantly frowned, his gaze turning toward Mu Ha Er; at the same time Mu Ha Er looked puzzled, staring at Yang Kai.

Sensing the gazes of several people, Yang Kai gave a slight smile.

"Lord Mu Ha Er, the minister's daughter is of appropriate age, graceful and beautiful, and has now been ennobled by Your Majesty as Princess Zhaoyue."

"Having been conferred by the Da Xia Son of Heaven, there is no ceremonial issue."

Yang Kai laughed.

In truth, this is no big matter; after all, a princess is just a word from the emperor, isn't she?

People are selfish; the emperor also does not wish his own daughter to marry so far away—marrying an official's daughter would suffice, right?

But the Xiongnu's expressions changed one after another, especially Qi Qi Mu, who felt both embarrassed and puzzled.

"My king wishes to take a genuine princess as bride."

"Your Majesty, might it be possible to change it?"

Mu Ha Er spoke, looking at the Yongsheng Emperor, hoping to replace her with a genuine princess.

But as soon as he said that, the Yongsheng Emperor's expression grew cold.

"Whom I confer as princess is a princess; does this world even have real versus fake princesses?"

The Yongsheng Emperor spoke, his tone slightly angry.

At those words, Mu Ha Er immediately responded.

"Your Majesty, that is not my intention."

"It may be a matter of negotiation."

"We will adjust it ourselves."

Mu Ha Er dared not defy the Yongsheng Emperor, for all civil and military officials were present; to continue speaking would be a slap in the face.

Then no one would reap any good fruit.

Hearing Mu Ha Er's reply, the Yongsheng Emperor said nothing further.

For a moment, the Xiongnu fell silent.

It seemed that without a genuine princess, they felt uneasy.

Gu Jin Nian took it all in with his eyes.

"Insisting on a genuine princess?"

"Isn't the purpose of the marriage alliance to witness friendship between the two nations?"

"That does not conform to reason."

Gu Jin Nian thought, politically, the main aim of the marriage alliance is to serve as a testament to bilateral friendship; the specific princess sent is irrelevant.

No one would care about a princess.

But the other side reacted differently; if forced to rationalize, they felt embarrassed, having taken a counterfeit princess back.

Yet another possibility cannot be ruled out.

It could be what Su Huaiyu suggested.

National destiny.

Soon another song-and-dance performance began, and the Xiongnu gradually regained their spirits, continuing to drink; their smiles were a bit stiff, but far better than before.

The crowd said little; after all, the banquet was merely hospitality, not anything else.

When the second song-and-dance performance ended, everyone raised their cups again.

At that moment, a Xiongnu stood up and addressed Emperor Yong Sheng.

"Your Majesty, we have come this time without any fine gifts, but we wish to present a dance; may we have your audience?"

A Xiongnu noble spoke, looking at Emperor Yong Sheng as he said.

"Permission granted."

Emperor Yong Sheng nodded, and the crowd at the gathering grew curious, not knowing what dance these people would perform.

But after Emperor Yong Sheng gave his assent,

Immediately, a group of Xiongnu entered the great hall, bare‑chested, their bodies full of sinewy muscle, bronze‑colored, each with a small drum tied to the waist; a few Xiongnu nobles, also bare‑chested, led the dance.

Dong.

Dong.

Dong.

The war drums sounded, and in an instant the gathering was filled with a solemn, murderous aura.

Everyone stared at them without blinking.

Soon, the drumbeats thundered, shaking in unison, as the Xiongnu moved side to side—this was a war dance.

Their momentum was high, expressions resolute, matching the drums, making one feel as if on a battlefield.

Their dance was neither graceful nor merely fierce; it carried a solemn, warlike feeling.

Everyone watched.

Even Gu Jin Nian could not help but watch.

Dong dong.

Dong dong.

The drums roared like thunder, synchronized with the movements; in an instant a terrifying aura spread.

At that moment, Gu Jin Nian felt the surroundings turn into a battlefield.

Flames of war blazed, and around him the sounds of countless troops and horses, the shouts and killing cries deafening.

The scene shifted, hundreds of Xiongnu cavalry appeared before him, under moonlight their war blades cold, murderous intent fully exposed.

Dong dong dong.

The drums sounded, the atmosphere became exceedingly heavy; Gu Jin Nian's complexion turned grim, for he knew this was an illusion.

It was aura suppression.

"Kill!"

A chilling voice rang out as iron cavalry charged forward, unstoppable, bearing invincible force, slashing toward him.

The sensation was extremely realistic and unbearably distressing.

Gu Jin Nian could not resist.

To be precise, it was very hard to resist.

Yet at that moment a voice sounded.

"I, the Lord Zhen Guo, have come to attend the banquet."

The voice rang, seemingly mixed with the force of thunder, instantly shattering the illusion.

In an instant Gu Jin Nian awoke from the illusion.

He breathed heavily, cold sweat on his forehead, while those around him noticed nothing.

The crowd watched the fantastically surreal war dance; no one paid attention to themselves, yet they were unaffected, for these performers clearly targeted him.

Fortunately, at the crucial moment his grandfather appeared and dispelled the illusion.

With the Lord Zhen Guo's arrival, the Xiongnu's dance involuntarily halted.

Everyone came back to themselves, feeling a lingering impression; though the dance was odd, watching it inexplicably felt powerful, an indescribable sensation.

Unfortunately, the Lord Zhen Guo arrived and interrupted the performance.

In an instant.

The Lord Zhen Guo appeared, stepped over the Xiongnu without even glancing, and bowed to Emperor Yong Sheng.

"The Lord's presence truly makes this a grand gathering; attendant, grant the Lord a seat."

Seeing the Lord Zhen Guo, Emperor Yong Sheng immediately spoke, ordering a seat to be given.

The Lord Zhen Guo did not linger, sitting directly beside Li Shan; his chair exuded a terrifying aura.

At this point, each Xiongnu fell silent, unsure whether to continue, and turned their gazes toward Mu Ha Er.

"Why have you stopped dancing?"

"Do you cease dancing just because I, an old man, have arrived among you barbarians?"

"Continue dancing for me."

Seeing that they had stopped, Grandfather Gu spoke loudly, shouting boisterously, looking exactly like a ruffian.

"Continue dancing."

Mu Ha Er smiled and spoke, then gave them a glance.

Immediately, the group resumed their performance.

Grandfather Gu's telepathic voice rang in Gu Jin Nian's ear.

"The earlier war drum was a demonic tone; you have never been on a battlefield and were tricked by them."

Grandfather Gu's telepathic message.

He informed Gu Jin Nian of what had just occurred.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian's eyes instantly turned cold.

He realized the earlier situation was a trick by those people, and he hadn't expected them to cause trouble for him in front of so many.

That really is ruthless.

"Grandfather, can we cause a ruckus?"

Gu Jin Nian sent his voice back, the meaning was simple.

Can we cause a ruckus?

"As long as it's justified, cause a ruckus however you like."

"Grandfather supports you."

Grandfather Gu had little to say; as long as it's justified, Gu Jin Nian may cause a ruckus at will.

"What if it's unjust?"

Gu Jin Nian asked.

"Then Grandfather will join you in the ruckus."

Grandfather Gu's answer was straightforward.

If it's unjust, then he can only step in and bully these people.

Having received Grandfather's answer, Gu Jin Nian steadied himself.

At that moment, Gu Jin Nian's gaze couldn't help but turn to the Xiongnu Crown Prince.

The latter wore a smiling face, even raised his cup, his eyes provocative, clearly knowing that Gu Jin Nian had just fallen under an illusion.

Although Grandfather Gu shattered it, what of that? It's enough to give Gu Jin Nian a lesson; this mute loss, Gu Jin Nian can only endure it and cannot speak of it, speaking would be unreasonable ruckus.

And it's also humiliating.

Sensing the Crown Prince's smile, Gu Jin Nian also raised his cup, his expression gentle.

Disgusting, huh? Fine.

Gu Jin Nian drank the wine in his cup in one gulp, and at that moment the war dance ended.

Immediately, cheers rang out.

"Good."

"Not bad."

"A war dance, truly unparalleled in bravery, blending the dance steps with a man's true nature—truly a masterpiece."

In an instant, everyone clapped, even Emperor Yongsheng couldn't help but clap.

"Reward."

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, saying only one word.

"We thank Your Majesty."

The Xiongnu nobles were overjoyed; disgusted Gu Jin Nian, yet receiving a reward made the knot in his heart vanish instantly.

So refreshing.

Really refreshing.

These people glanced at Gu Jin Nian unintentionally, saw he remained silent, and their mood grew even more delighted, their laughter louder.

After the dance.

Everyone raised their cups again.

Gu Jin Nian poured another cup, and without waiting for the next program, stood up directly.

"Uncle."

"Never imagined the Xiongnu possessed such skill."

"Now the Xiongnu have presented a dance." "My nephew thinks, with courtesy reciprocated, we should return a gift, right?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He stood and said, and everyone's gaze inevitably gathered on Gu Jin Nian.

Emperor Yongsheng seemed to know what had happened; he nodded, yet asked curiously.

"How shall we return the gift?"

Emperor Yongsheng spoke, asking Gu Jin Nian.

"My nephew cannot dance."

"Moreover, with today's celebration, better to present a poem to celebrate."

Gu Jin Nian replied, this was his return gift.

Present a poem?

Upon hearing this, both inside and outside the venue erupted in a roar.

It should be known that since the Da Xia poetry gathering, Gu Jin Nian has been called a Poetry Immortal—though somewhat exaggerated and not accepted everywhere, at least within Da Xia, everyone acknowledges his poetic talent.

His opening words were timeless.

If he composes a poem now, wouldn't that produce another marvel, a hundred times better than this war dance?

"Fine."

Emperor Yongsheng agreed outright, without any idle words.

However, Gu Jin Nian's gaze couldn't help but turn to Mu Ha Er and Qi Qi Mu.

"What do the two of you think?"

Gu Jin Nian asked, addressing the two.

"Hahaha, Crown Prince, your words are already timeless; if you could compose a celebratory poem, that would be best."

Mu Ha Er laughed and spoke, but he was also clever, hoping Gu Jin Nian would recite a poem celebrating the event.

So as to avoid complications beyond the ceremony.

Qi Qi Mu laughed and spoke.

"To have the famed Poet Immortal compose poetry is the honor of us Xiongnu."

He smiled and spoke, saying that in front of the Emperor one should be a bit more honest.

However, the two's answers made Gu Jin Nian involuntarily shake his head.

"A celebratory poem is very hard to compose."

"When Gu writes poetry it is generally critical."

"If forced to write a celebratory poem, Gu cannot do it, lest the Grand Crown Prince become displeased."

"Of course, I'm still more worried that you Xiongnu won't understand."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

The meaning inside and outside those words was full of sarcasm.

At that moment the crowd was somewhat shocked, not understanding why things had suddenly erupted into a quarrel.

Was it because of the Duke of Zhen Guo?

The Ministry of Rites officials each wore uneasy expressions; the atmosphere had been fairly good, then suddenly a commotion broke out—how to put it?

Not very good.

As expected, after the Xiongnu nobles heard Gu Jin Nian's words, each wore a sour expression.

This was no longer mere mockery; it was almost a direct insult to a bunch of barbarians, pointing at their noses.

"Criticism?"

"My father, the king, told me from childhood not to listen to flattering words, but to hear more voices of criticism."

"Actually, this Crown Prince really wants to hear how the Crown Prince criticizes."

Qi Qi Mu spoke, his expression calm.

When the conversation reached this point, Gu Jin Nian said nothing, but sat down directly, then slowly spoke.

"Fine."

"Let's not write it after all; I'm afraid of further harming the Xiongnu's national fortune, which would cause more trouble."

"Today is the grand marriage alliance event; a livelier atmosphere is best, otherwise later the Grand Crown Prince might be in a bad mood and claim that Da Xia's hospitality was inadequate."

Gu Jin Nian smiled.

I don't want to compose poetry anymore.

But upon saying that, the Xiongnu nobles were completely dissatisfied.

Not mentioning the national fortune was fine.

As soon as the national fortune is brought up, how could they not resent Gu Jin Nian? If Gu hadn't written some lousy poem, would their Xiongnu fortune have been harmed?

Would they travel thousands of miles just to come here, and even to marry a false princess?

Isn't this ridiculous?

With a belly full of anger, now Gu Jin Nian comes out with sarcasm and mockery; how could these nobles not get worked up?

They originally had little sense.

"What a cutting of the national fortune; the rumors seem solid, the Crown Prince's utterance is already a poem for the ages."

"I've lived this long and have never seen what a poem for the ages looks like; I hope the Crown Prince will give us a glimpse."

"Yes, a glimpse."

"Since the Crown Prince keeps saying we don't understand, then please write it out, so we can see whether we truly don't understand."

"If the Crown Prince has opened his mouth, why be so timid, like a woman? It's truly laughable."

"I'm straightforward, and I hope the Crown Prince won't get angry."

Voices rose one after another.

Now it's the Xiongnu's turn to be displeased; if they don't recite a timeless poem today, they won't be allowed to leave.

They simply don't believe it—Gu Jin Nian can compose a poem for the ages? Can he cut the national fortune? As if the heavens belong to your family?

Not only these Xiongnu, but everyone present actually doesn't believe; if Gu Jin Nian could write a timeless poem, they would still believe, and the Da Xia Poetry Society would have subdued them.

One can imagine that cutting the Xiongnu's national fortune is just cutting the Xiongnu's national fortune.

Is it possible? "No."

"If I truly write it, I'm afraid it will affect the friendship between the two nations, and also worry that everyone will lose sleep at night."

Gu Jin Nian took a sip of wine and said calmly.

It gave the impression that he had just done it to disgust these people; he had no preparation at all.

This kind of behavior made the Xiongnu even more dissatisfied.

Mu Ha Er frowned slightly; for a moment he couldn't gauge what Gu Jin Nian was thinking.

Don't mention him.

The Da Xia officials also didn't know what Gu Jin Nian intended to do.

If you want to compose poetry, just do it directly.

Purely to scold them, isn't that just looking for trouble?

"Crown Prince."

"If you speak frankly, this Crown Prince guarantees it will never affect the friendship between the two nations; if the Crown Prince truly can cut my Xiongnu's national fortune, then that is the will of Heaven."

"It has nothing to do with the Crown Prince."

"However, if this Crown Prince's poem isn't critical enough, don't blame this Crown Prince for saying something outside."

The Xiongnu Grand Crown Prince spoke.

He simply doesn't believe that Gu Jin Nian can still compose a timeless poem and can cut the Xiongnu's national fortune.

It was done; no words left.

If you can't do it, don't show off your eloquence here.

「Jin Nian。」

If you can compose, then compose a poem.

At this moment, the Yongsheng Emperor himself spoke, ordering Gu Jin Nian to compose a poem directly.

Otherwise, if this continues, it will surely cause trouble.

Upon hearing his maternal uncle speak.

Gu Jin Nian also stopped wasting words.

He rose to his feet.

He bowed to the Yongsheng Emperor, then turned to the crowd and said.

"Today is a peace-marriage banquet; for Gu to compose a poem would be seriously inappropriate."

"Some of it is improper."

"However, I will dedicate this poem to my grandfather, so as not to harm the harmony between the two states."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He had repeatedly declined, all for this moment.

Directly composing a poem to slap faces would not be good; besides, Grandfather has long wanted me to write him a poem, so I'll take this opportunity to give it to him.

Upon hearing this, Grandfather Gu perked up.

His sitting posture became much more upright.

He looked forward to what poem his grandson would compose for him.

To be frank, 'eternal' is too exaggerated; just give me a state-pacifying poem; that's enough.

"Grant the brush."

The Yongsheng Emperor spoke.

But Gu Jin Nian shook his head and went straight to the imperial presence.

He then picked up the wine jug and drank it in one gulp.

He appeared extraordinarily heroic.

"This poem is 'Full River Red: Hair Standing on End,' presented to the State-Pacifying Duke."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He announced the poem's title.

In that moment, everyone energized and listened attentively.

Even these great scholars were utterly serious, for nothing else, Gu Jin Nian's poetry is truly unmatched under heaven.

"Hair standing on end, leaning on the railing, the fine rain has ceased."

The voice rang out, immensely mighty, and at that moment Gu Jin Nian's gaze turned icy cold.

His emotions also immersed themselves.

The first line, like a sudden blow to the head, made everyone feel this tremendous power.

"Lifting his gaze, he let out a long cry to the heavens, his ardent fervor blazing."

This is the second line.

Gu Jin Nian gazed at the firmament, his tone filled with generosity, carrying a sense of tragic grandeur.

I, hair standing on end, climbed high and leaned on the railing; a sudden fine rain had just ceased; I lifted my eyes and took in the vast expanse, letting out a long, resonant cry to the heavens, my ardent fervor blazing, my spirits soaring.

The crowd listened in silence.

And just at this moment.

Gu Jin Nian's somewhat tragic voice instantly became immensely impassioned.

"Thirty years of merit reduced to dust; eight thousand miles of road, only clouds and moon."

"Do not waste your prime; lest your youth turn white in vain sorrow."

The voice rang out, both impassioned and a kind of resentment.

It was tragic yet also a kind of helplessness.

It was anger, yet also a feeling of suffocation.

Thirty years of achievements have turned to dust; campaigning a thousand miles leaves only floating clouds and bright moon; do not waste your youth, lest your young head turn white, leaving only solitary regret and sorrow.

This is the upper section; Gu Jin Nian's emotions had been repressed to the extreme.

Meanwhile, the State-Pacifying Duke was already entranced.

Not only him, but all the military generals were entranced, and the civil officials listened, entranced as well.

Even the Yongsheng Emperor listened, entranced.

They sensed this repression, this tragedy, and the unyielding spirit that had spread within their hearts for twelve years.

"The Jingkang humiliation has not yet been washed away."

"Subjects' hatred, when will it be extinguished?"

"Drive the long chariot, tread through the gap of Helan Mountain."

Instantly, Gu Jin Nian spoke, not changing a single word; this is Yue Fei's 'Full River Red: Hair Standing on End.' His reason for not altering it is simple: he needs no change, for his state of mind is known to all present as what it means.

Everyone knows what Gu Jin Nian expresses; it is nothing more than a parody.

Yet it lays bare the thoughts of all the military generals and subjects.

The Jingkang humiliation has not yet been washed away; subjects' hatred, when will it be extinguished? Drive the long chariot, tread through the gap of Helan Mountain.

The border's disgrace has not yet been wiped clean; subjects' hatred, when will it be eliminated? I wish to drive fleets of war chariots, trample the Xiongnu court, and cleanse all this disgrace.

Tell the world: this grudge, Great Xia has not forgotten.

Tell those deceased commoners, Da Xia will absolutely not forget their sacrifice.

But just at this moment.

Gu Jin Nian's gaze instantly fell upon this group of Xiongnu.

He drank a mouthful of wine, his gaze holding icy killing intent and unforgettable hatred.

"With heroic ambition, I hunger for the flesh of the Hu barbarians; laughing, I speak of quenching my thirst with Xiongnu blood."

"Let's start from the beginning, I will tidy up the old rivers and mountains, and face the heavenly gates."

Gu Jin Nian's voice, word by word, resonant and forceful, his gaze even more unwaveringly firm.

I will drive war chariots, trample the Xiongnu's royal court; if I am hungry, I will eat your Xiongnu flesh; if I am thirsty, I will drink your Xiongnu blood, so you will know the strength of Da Xia, so you will know the indomitability of Da Xia's soldiers.

I will thoroughly recover the old rivers and mountains from the beginning; I will repay tooth for tooth, life for life, so you Xiongnu will recognize your mistake.

Return again to Da Xia Capital, and report good news to the emperor.

A horrifying sound rang out.

Gu Jin Nian wrote down the poem.

At this moment, the Protector of the State Duke already had tears covering his face.

Gu Jin Nian, word by word, spoke to his innermost heart, expressing all his ambitions and all his ideals.

In the great hall.

Da Xia officials each clenched their fists, unknowingly moved by Gu Jin Nian's poem.

The Jingkang shame remains unavenged; when will the subjects' hatred be extinguished?

The shame of the border, we have not forgotten!

When can our hatred be extinguished!

I wish I could eat your Xiongnu flesh; I wish I could drink your Xiongnu blood.

You still dare to laugh and chat here.

One day, we Da Xia soldiers will drive fleets of war chariots, break through your court, using your fresh blood to sacrifice to those innocent commoners.

Hatred!

Hatred!

Hatred!

Everyone was infected, their eyes filled with hatred.

Their hearts filled with anger.

At this moment, whether military officers or civil officials, their inner hatred has not yet been forgotten.

But each person has their own way to protect the nation, to guard the nation.

But now, all this hatred has been condensed by Gu Jin Nian.

Even the Minister of Rites Yang Kai, his gaze also holds hatred and anger.

Feeling everyone's anger, this group of Xiongnu truly became afraid.

Especially Gu Jin Nian's gaze, not killing intent, but that anger rising from the heart.

Let them be afraid.

At this moment, all Xiongnu felt their whole bodies turn into a battlefield; Da Xia iron cavalry grasped long blades, driving war chariots charging forth.

Gu Jin Nian even more stood upon the battlefield, leading thousands of troops and myriad horses charging forth.

This group of Xiongnu instantly had their courage shattered, their faces deathly pale, fear planted in their hearts.

Especially the Crown Prince.

Thousands of troops and myriad horses galloped forward to attack him.

His complexion turned deathly pale.

He was terrified, his courage trembling and heart startled.

This is an illusion.

He knows it's an illusion, yet he is afraid, a fear arising from the heart.

It is deep fear.

"Good!"

"Good!"

"Good!"

At this moment.

Emperor Yong Sheng's voice sounded, he rose to his feet, tears at the corners of his eyes.

He shouted "good" from the heart.

He praised the exquisite excellence of this poem.

Because this poem also spoke to his innermost heart.

What a fine line: "With heroic ambition, I hunger for the flesh of the Hu barbarians."

What a fine line: "Laughing, I speak of quenching my thirst with Xiongnu blood."

It was said exceedingly well.

However, just then.

Gu Jin Nian's surroundings burst forth with golden light.

In an instant, wind and clouds surged.

Golden light shot up towards the heavens.

It illuminated the entire Da Xia Capital.

Anomaly.

Another anomaly appears.

Again, it's an eternity.

Gu Jin Nian's gaze fell upon a Xiongnu noble, the very one who just said he had never seen an eternal anomaly.

Gu Jin Nian's meaning is simple.

Then open your eyes wide and look.

Look carefully.

And the crowd was shocked again, they all stood up, unable to remain seated.

Really, it's an eternity again?

They were stunned; Gu Jin Nian's poem has become an eternity again? Does this still allow people to live?

At the same time, streams of talent qi leaked from Gu Jin Nian's Wen Mansion.

Inside the hall, Gu Jin Nian was surrounded by talent qi, appearing extraordinarily exceptional.

"I am Gu Jin Nian."

"Today, I present the eternal poem 'Full River Red: Angry Hair Crowns the Crown,' to the Da Xia Guardian Duke."

A resonant voice sounded.

Gu Jin Nian activated his talent qi, infusing it inward; he wanted the world to know this poem was written for his grandfather.

He also wanted the world to know that Da Xia's noble spirit stands tall.

Boom boom boom.

Strands of golden light shot up to the heavens; these golden lights came from special places of the Da Xia Dynasty.

They were battlefields.

They were former battlefields.

"Angry hair crowns the crown, at the railing the fine rain stops; raising one's gaze, crying out to the heavens, ambitions fervent. Thirty years of fame turn to dust and earth, eight thousand li road with clouds and moon. Do not waste time, lest youth's head turn white in vain sorrow."

"The humiliation of Jingkang remains unavenged; the subjects' hatred, when will it be erased? Drive the long chariot, trample the gap of Helan Mountains; heroic ambition feasts on barbarian flesh, laughs while drinking the blood of the Xiongnu. Wait until we start anew, recover the old rivers and mountains, face the heavenly gate."

At this moment.

Gu Jin Nian's voice echoed throughout every place of the Da Xia Dynasty.

At the marriage alliance banquet, the capital's populace felt no joy; every household even closed their doors early.

But as this voice sounded,

In an instant, it drew the populace's shock; everyone looked outward, they gazed in astonishment at the anomaly in the heavens.

By their ears, it was the sound of Gu Jin Nian's poetry.

Clanging and powerful, full of strength, it shocked people.

This sound was deafening.

This sound was full of power.

This sound made blood boil.

The humiliation of Jingkang remains unavenged.

The subjects' hatred, when will it be erased?

Military camps throughout Da Xia.

All the soldiers looked to the heavens and heard Gu Jin Nian's voice.

In an instant, the soldiers were stunned.

Some commanding generals, or soldiers who had participated in the border war twelve years ago, even more so burst into tears.

Yes.

The border humiliation, how could they forget?

Yes.

Under the flames of war, the people of Da Xia were slaughtered.

How could they dare to forget?

Day and night, when did they not wish to return?

When did they not wish to drive the long chariot?

To break through the Xiongnu court.

Among the camps, there was an iron-boned general; even if severely wounded, he did not shed a tear.

But at this moment.

Yet he shed two lines of clear tears, bursting into tears.

This drew countless soldiers who could not hold back a sore nose.

They knew that this general's relatives had all died in the borderlands.

Some prefectural regions.

When some old soldiers heard Gu Jin Nian's voice like this, they could not help but weep loudly, looking at the wooden plaques before them, gazing at the scars on their arms.

This hatred.

Hard to forget.

Da Xia Capital.

One martial officer after another.

Gazing at the heavens, they slowly walked out.

In an instant, they seemed to have returned to twelve years ago.

He returned to the midst of that slaughter.

The people of the twelve cities.

They were slaughtered outright.

Da Xia fell into internal turmoil, the Xiongnu seized the chance to plunder, slaughtering Da Xia's people and defiling Da Xia's women.

This humiliation.

Who could forget?

Who dares to forget? Boom boom boom.

The spiritual power of countless soldiers, at this moment all turned into beams of light, converging above the firmament.

This moment.

Above the firmament.

A golden million-strong army appeared.

The leader was none other than the Duke who Guards the Nation.

He stood upon the war chariot.

He drove the war horses.

He issued orders to the million-strong army.

"Kill."

A terrifying voice sounded.

The golden million-strong army, covering the sky and earth, swept across Da Xia's firmament, marching to slaughter the Xiongnu state.

Just as before.

The golden million-strong army gathered blades and slaughtered, while above the Xiongnu state, a million ghost soldiers appeared, this being the manifestation of the Xiongnu's national fortune.

It resisted on its own.

But it could not withstand Da Xia's high morale.

The battle blades showed no mercy, cutting down each ghost soldier.

The Xiongnu royal court.

The Xiongnu king walked out of the hall, gazed at the situation in the firmament, and his face instantly turned extremely grim.

"Why!"

"Clearly we already made a marriage alliance!"

"Why does Da Xia still want to cut my Xiongnu's national fortune?"

"Could it be that Da Xia truly intends to go to war?"

The Xiongnu king roared, he let out a frenzied roar.

Being cut once before was tolerable, but this time again? Are they really bullying us too much? "Your Majesty, please calm your anger; I will go investigate immediately."

"This matter is absolutely not simple."

The Kong family Great Scholar spoke, his face also turning extremely grim; we had already gone through the marriage alliance, yet our national fortune was still cut?

This really is a slap in the face.

"Find out clearly."

"If Da Xia truly intends to declare war, then let us fight; even if our national fortune is gone, we can fight to the death."

"If you push the Xiongnu to desperation, at worst we will perish together; it merely lets the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty reap the benefits."

"I, the king, am not afraid."

The Xiongnu king said hysterically.

Although the national fortune has been cut, it does not mean the Xiongnu lacks fighting strength; if war truly breaks out, Da Xia will definitely suffer a great loss.

Moreover, even if Da Xia wins.

The Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty, however, are eyeing them covetously from behind.

If they have the ability, let the Da Xia Dynasty keep fighting.

After defeating the Xiongnu, then fight the Fuyu.

After defeating the Fuyu, then fight the Great Jin.

Can Da Xia afford to fight?

Can Da Xia win?

And at this very moment.

Da Xia Capital.

Inside the Celebration Hall.

Prince Qi Qi Mu's face turned completely grim.

His eyes held fear.

And also terrifying.

Gu Jin Nian truly wrote a timeless poem.

Not only that, he again weakened the Xiongnu's national fortune.

This.

This.

He didn't know what to say.

If this matter were to get out, his father the king would absolutely not spare him.

Absolutely not.

Mu Ha'er at the side was also dumbfounded.

After he came to his senses, it was regret, deep regret.

He really felt like scolding this bunch with a sentence.

Why won't they listen to advice?

Why won't they listen to advice?

They insist on causing trouble for Gu Jin Nian.

They insist on causing trouble for Gu Jin Nian.

Are they sick? Really just looking for trouble? They won't be happy unless they cut the nation's fortune again? But regret is regret.

He also had no way.

Gu Jin Nian, truly terrifying.

Thanks to the Alliance Lord's loafing Young Master Cai for the reward! Thank you so much! mwah!

Please update soon!

(End of chapter)