Chapter 229: The War Begins

Outside the camp of Mojieshuo State, sunlight fell on the golden yellow sand, and a gentle breeze fluttered the flying military flag.

Liuche was reviewing the military report in the tent when, suddenly, an attendant rushed in, his voice tinged with excitement: "Your Majesty, Empress Dowager Wei has arrived!"

The bamboo slip in Liuche's hand slipped with a 'pa' sound; he sprang to his feet, his eyes flashing with undisguised delight, and hurriedly stepped out of the tent.

In the sunlight, Wei Zifu wore a plain palace robe; her posture remained graceful, though her brows and eyes bore a few traces of the passage of time and concern.

Their four eyes met, and time seemed to freeze.

Liuche strode forward, gripping Wei Zifu's hands tightly, his voice slightly trembling: "Zifu, it really is you! I have longed for this day day and night; I never imagined we could reunite in this foreign land."

Wei Zifu's eyes reddened, tears spilling over as she lifted her hand to gently touch Liuche's face: "Your Majesty, I too have missed you dearly; hearing you are in peril, I could not rest a moment."

Liuche heartbrokenly wiped away her tears, pulling her gently into his embrace: "You have worried; these days, you have suffered."

Wei Zifu leaned against Liuche's shoulder, her voice choked with sobs: "As long as I can see Your Majesty, everything is worth it. In Chang'an, I pray for Your Majesty every day, hoping for your safe return."

After a long while, Liuche released Wei Zifu, taking her hand as they entered the tent together.

Inside the tent, candlelight flickered, illuminating their excited faces.

Liuche carefully examined Wei Zifu, his eyes full of deep affection: "Zifu, you have managed the harem these years, working hard. After we win this battle, let us return to Chang'an together and never part again."

Wei Zifu nodded slightly, a gentle smile appearing on her face: "Very well, I will await Your Majesty's return to Chang'an to share in peace."

The two smiled at each other, and the tent filled with warmth and sweetness.

The next day, after spending the night together, Liuche and Wei Zifu walked out of the tent hand in hand; from afar they saw Li Yan smiling brightly, her posture light and dignified.

Seeing Liuche and Wei Zifu approach, Li Yan immediately bowed respectfully: "Greetings, Father Emperor, Mother Empress; may Father Emperor and Mother Empress enjoy good health."

Liuche looked at Li Yan with gentle eyes, a relieved smile on his face: "Please rise, Yan'er. Your Majesty's arrival this time was made possible by your attentive care all along. The journey was long and fraught with danger; you not only ensured Zifu's safety but also kept her company and lifted her spirits—this filial devotion I have seen with my own eyes."

Li Yan's cheeks flushed slightly as she humbly said: "Father Emperor overpraises me; this is simply my duty as daughter-in-law. Mother Empress has shown utmost care along the way, and I have learned much from her. Being able to accompany Mother Empress safely to her destination is my honor."

Wei Zifu stepped forward, taking Li Yan's hand, and said to Liuche with a smile: "Your Majesty, Yan'er has been thoughtful throughout the journey; when faced with difficulties she never complained, and always thought of ways to cheer me up. Without her, I truly would not know how to endure this long trek."

Upon hearing this, Liuche nodded repeatedly: "Yan'er, you are not only beautiful in appearance but also kind-hearted and understanding. Having such a daughter-in-law is a blessing for the Liu family; for your husband to have won you is also his fortune."

Li Yan lowered her head shyly and said softly: "Father Emperor's praise is undeserved; I will continue to strive and not disappoint the expectations of Father Emperor and Mother Empress."

Liuche smiled satisfiedly, then added: "From now on in the palace, you should spend more time with Zifu; if your husband does anything wrong, feel free to tell me."

Li Yan obediently replied: "I understand, daughter-in-law."

Just then, a report came from outside the tent that the officers discussing battle plans had all assembled.

Liuche turned to Wei Zifu and Li Yan and said: "You rest first; I will go and return shortly."

Having said that, he strode out of the tent.

The tent was brightly lit and fragrant; Liuche had specially prepared a feast to welcome Wei Zifu and her entourage.

At the banquet, laughter and conversation continued without cease as everyone shared their experiences since parting.

After three rounds of drinks, the banquet drew to a close; attendants swiftly cleared the cups and plates, laying out military maps and documents.

Liuche's expression turned solemn as he scanned the assembled crowd and spoke slowly: "Now that everyone is gathered, it is a fortune for Great Han. However, the Roman-Parthian allied forces press upon our borders; we must quickly devise a countermeasure."

Wei Qing rose first, pointing at the map and said: "Your Majesty, according to intelligence, the enemy's main force is concentrated here. They are strong in troops and horses, well-equipped, but their front is overextended, leaving their supply lines vulnerable. We can dispatch an elite unit to take a detour behind enemy lines, cut off their supplies, and disrupt their deployment."

Huo Qubing's eyes blazed like torches as he excitedly added: "What General Wei says is absolutely correct! At the same time, I am willing to lead a light cavalry unit in a frontal assault on the enemy camp. Taking advantage of their confusion, we will launch a general attack and surely achieve a great victory."

Zhang Qian furrowed his brow, thought for a moment, then said: "Your Majesty, there are still many minor powers around the Roman-Parthian alliance. We can send envoys to persuade them, break their alliance, and isolate the enemy. That way we can reduce resistance and increase our chances of victory."

Dong Zhongshu stroked his beard leisurely and said: "Military action is certainly important, but we must also consider popular sentiment. We can proclaim the banner of a righteous army, expose the enemy's aggression, and garner more support."

Tian Qianqiu also rose and suggested: "Your Majesty, the provision of grain and equipment is crucial. We must ensure the supply routes remain open and promptly deliver supplies to the front lines."

Li Guang nodded slightly and added: "Furthermore, the terrain of Mojieshuo State is complex; we should send scouts ahead to survey the terrain in detail, familiarize ourselves with the surroundings, and make thorough preparations for battle."

Liuche listened attentively to everyone's suggestions, occasionally nodding as he pondered.

After everyone had finished speaking, he rose, his gaze firm, and said: "All of your suggestions are sound. This campaign concerns the rise and fall of Great Han; we must act with caution. We will follow the proposals you have made, each taking responsibility, and hurry preparations. I believe that as long as we work together, we will surely defeat the enemy and bring glory to Great Han."

All shouted in unison: "May we lay down our lives for Your Majesty!"

Morale soared inside the tent.