Chapter 88: Three Princesses

Dawn light barely showed, and the Qian Capital's imperial palace was already gently covered by golden sunlight.

Layer upon layer of palaces, bathed in the morning glow, appeared even more solemn and splendid.

Yet amidst this gold and splendor, a heavy atmosphere quietly spread.

Da Qian Emperor Si Xiaofei sat upright on the dragon throne, his face solemn, his eyes deep, his heart weighed down by a heavy stone, as if bearing countless worries.

Below him stood numerous officials and many descendants of the Si clan of the Da Qian imperial family.

"Hah!"

"My beloved subjects, today I have gathered you all to discuss a matter of utmost importance."

Si Xiaofei's voice carried dignity, steady and powerful, yet the worry within could not be concealed.

The officials immediately straightened their faces; though they harbored doubts, they dared not speak.

In the palace at this moment, it was so quiet that only the emperor's heavy breathing could be heard.

"I intend to marry into the two eastern provinces to pacify their hearts."

Si Xiaofei's words were like a thunderclap that stirs up thousand-layered waves.

The officials' gazes instantly converged on the emperor, their eyes filled with shock and relief.

"This... Your Majesty, a marriage alliance is no trivial matter; should we reconsider?"

A senior official spoke cautiously.

"I understand, this is indeed a risky move. But now Da Qian faces internal and external troubles: externally, the Taiping Sect and Yellow Turban Rebels run rampant; internally, those treacherous ministers scheme in secret; the present situation threatens Da Qian's realm."

"Therefore, the two eastern provinces must not undergo any change at all, at least not in the short term!"

"Thus, while I wish to pacify them, I also know we cannot show weakness; a marriage alliance might give Da Qian a sliver of hope."

Si Xiaofei's words revealed helplessness and resolve.

Who knows why Da Qian was still enjoying peace and prosperity not long ago?

How did war flames suddenly spread everywhere in such a short time!

Si Xiaofei's words fell, and the court fell silent again; officials stared at each other, their hearts tumultuous.

"I intend to marry into the two eastern provinces to pacify their hearts."

"But this is no small matter; we must dispatch our imperial elite."

"Now within the Da Qian imperial family, I have three princesses of marriageable age, each exceptionally talented in her own way."

The emperor's gaze swept over the officials and finally settled on the three princesses standing below, each bearing her own poise.

The Second Princess, Si Luo Ying, dressed in military attire, heroic and spirited, with sword-like brows and starry eyes revealing an extraordinary aura.

The Fourth Princess, Si Luo Shi, gentle as water, well-read in poetry and books, her eyes flashing with intelligent light.

The Sixth Princess, Si Luo Qing, aloof and icy, once became a disciple of the Daoist School's head, her martial arts reaching miraculous heights.

As princesses of the Da Qian dynasty, one of the five great dynasties of the Heavenly Martial Continent, they have received the finest education available since childhood.

Does the Second Princess love military attire?

Then Si Xiaofei invited several military strategists to the Qian Capital, personally teaching them the art of war.

Does the Fourth Princess enjoy reading?

Then Si Xiaofei invited several Confucian scholars and built for her a Library Pavilion, where countless classics gathered.

As for the Sixth Princess, she loves the martial world; Si Xiaofei sent her to the Daoist School, where its head accepted her as a disciple.

It can be said that Si Xiaofei's treatment of his three princesses is beyond reproach.

He has shown no bias against them merely because they are women.

On the contrary, he has spared no effort in cultivating their talents.

Suddenly, a clear and firm voice broke the silence.

Everyone looked over, and it was the heroic Second Princess Si Luo Ying stepping forward: "Your Majesty, I, your daughter, wish to go."

Her eyes were firm and resolute, as if no difficulty could sway her determination.

Between the Second Princess Si Luo Ying's sword-like brows and starry eyes shone an extraordinary temperament.

This stems not only from her noble blood as royalty, but also from the courage and wisdom she gained through military experience.

Her eyes were firm and sharp, as if they could see through all falsehood and deceit, leaving no room for negligence.

In her person reside both the nobility and dignity of royalty and the decisiveness and tenacity of a warrior.

This unique blend of temperament makes her stand out among the crowd, unforgettable.

"Although my martial skill is modest, I will surely devote all my strength to fulfill the mission."

The Second Princess Si Luo Ying knelt on the ground, her tone firm.

The Fourth Princess Luo Shi followed closely, saying: "Your Majesty, I, your daughter, have read extensively; if fortunate to marry into the two eastern provinces, I will surely use my talents to pacify the state and secure the nation."

Her words were earnest, revealing deep affection for Da Qian's realm.

"I, your subject, also wish to go."

A cold voice came from the corner; upon looking, it was the Sixth Princess Luo Qing standing apart from the crowd, having entered the Daoist School since childhood, her martial arts formidable yet rarely shown.

At this moment she expressed her wish, causing everyone to feel surprised.

Gazing at the three princesses of marriageable age standing below, Si Xiaofei's eyes flashed with a hint of guilt.

But it soon vanished.

Since ancient times, royal families have known little affection.

As the ruler of a dynasty, his harem is numerous, and his offspring naturally not few.

Toward his own children, he feels affection, but not much.

Let alone comparing it to Da Qian's state and altars.

He pondered a moment, his gaze sweeping over the princes and senior officials, then said slowly: "These three princesses showing such responsibility are indeed a blessing for Da Qian. I have decided: the Second, Fourth, and Sixth Princesses will lead three thousand elite troops, departing immediately for the two eastern provinces to carry out the marriage alliance mission."

Second Princess Si Luo Ying, your martial arts are superb, your bravery surpasses others—I appoint you as Vanguard Official, leading a force of elite troops to the Eastern Lands.

The father emperor's decision made a flicker of relief flash in Si Luo Ying's eyes, but she soon bowed and accepted the command.

Fourth Princess Luo Shi, you are intelligent and well‑read in the classics; this marriage alliance requires you to assist in communicating with the feudal lords—I appoint you as Envoy, to accompany the expedition.

A flicker of resolve crossed Si Luo Shi's eyes; she fully understood the weight of her responsibility.

But she also knew her future fate.

Once she leaves, there may be no chance to set foot in Qian Capital again.

The sadness in Si Luo Shi's eyes flashed and vanished, but her smile still carried a hint of gentleness and kindness, like a spring breeze brushing the face, making people feel warm.

Sixth Princess Si Luo Qing, you once studied under the chief of the Daoist school, your martial arts extraordinary.

This marriage alliance requires you to protect everyone's safety—I appoint you as Guard Commander, leading the masters from the Hall of Offerings and the jianghu to go together.

Si Luo Qing's eyes showed little emotional fluctuation; she simply accepted the task in silence.

Her gaze betrayed a sense of pride and independence, as if she detached from mortal affairs; her movements revealed elegance and composure, as if everything lay under her control.

She had been sent to study Daoist arts since childhood.

Her feelings toward the Da Qian dynasty were also the weakest.

But now her identity, martial arts, and body all belong to the Da Qian dynasty, all gifts from Father Emperor Si Xiao Fei.

If so, then let her repay with this very body!

(End of chapter)