Chapter 361: My Beloved Wife Returns

Early the next morning, Jiang Mingyu, who had barely slept, was eating when a soldier entered to report that He Jing had arrived.

He Jing looked even more anxious than yesterday; his brows were tightly furrowed, his face drenched in sweat, and his steps hurried.

“Your Majesty, after today’s noon meal, we will be completely out of grain.” He Jing’s face was pale, his voice trembling.

Jiang Mingyu’s chopsticks froze mid-air; he stared at He Jing with bloodshot, wide eyes, disbelief etched on his face. “Didn’t you insist yesterday we could hold out for thirty-five days? How could we run out so quickly?”

The scouts sent to Guizhou still hadn’t returned, and He Jing’s cavalry remained silent—this was nothing short of a deliberate death sentence! Jiang Mingyu felt the world spinning, his chest tightening; the news struck like a bolt from the blue.

He Jing forced a grim, humorless smile. “Your Majesty, according to yesterday’s refugee count, our grain should have lasted thirty-five days. But after your relief announcement spread, a massive wave of new refugees—no one knows where they came from—flooded in this morning, overwhelming our numbers.”

“These refugees are all emaciated, dressed in tattered clothes, their faces filled with despair. Among them are mothers holding infants, elderly men with crippled legs, and many sickly children.” He Jing’s own voice began to shake as he spoke.

Jiang Mingyu could no longer eat; he dropped his bowl and chopsticks and paced anxiously in place. “They’re all refugees, all my subjects—I cannot turn a blind eye. But the rain still pours relentlessly, and noon is only two hours away. What should I do? What can I do?”

Jiang Mingyu muttered to himself, hands clasped behind his back, walking swiftly. His dark eyes brimmed with worry, his lips bitten white from anxiety.

He Jing stood silently beside him, watching Jiang Mingyu with a complex expression. The refugees placed all their hopes on the Emperor—but where could the Emperor possibly find grain?

The rain outside continued unceasingly; the refugees’ sobs and moans seeped into the tent. Hearing their cries, Jiang Mingyu grew even more agitated.

At that moment, the tent flap was thrown open, and Tukesiluo burst in, drenched from head to toe by the downpour. With bright eyes, he exclaimed to Jiang Mingyu: “Brother, good news!”

Still lost in thoughts of grain supplies, Jiang Mingyu automatically asked: “Has He Jing returned?”

Tukesiluo’s smile widened. “No—it’s your wife who’s back!”

Liu Yifei? Jiang Mingyu froze. He immediately asked: “Where is she? When did she return?”

Before Tukesiluo could answer, a familiar, clear voice came from outside: “Jiang Lang, I’m back.”

Seeing his beloved wife finally return, Jiang Mingyu’s eyes lit up, and a joyful smile spread across his lips. He rushed forward and gently held her slender frame, gazing at her with deep concern. Liu Yifei, startled by his sudden embrace, could only blush and look shyly at him. Jiang Mingyu tenderly patted her back, his eyes filled with relief and affection.

“Liu Yifei, you’ve truly returned. I’ve been driven mad with worry—every day and night, I feared for your safety.” Jiang Mingyu scolded, yet his eyes sparkled with joy and adoration.

“Jiang Lang, I’m sorry for making you worry,” Liu Yifei looked up at him, like a wounded little animal, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

“Forget that for now—you’re soaked through. Go change into dry, warm clothes. I’ll have hot water brought right away.” Jiang Mingyu gently wiped the rain from her face, his fingers softly tracing her delicate features.

Liu Yifei nodded shyly and began changing into clean, warm clothing. Watching her familiar, serene figure, Jiang Mingyu exhaled deeply, as if all his troubles had vanished in that moment.

Liu Yifei quickly freshened up, wrapped herself in a thick cloak, and sat by the table to warm herself. Jiang Mingyu gently wrapped an arm around her shoulders, his eyes filled with concern as he studied her thin, weather-worn cheeks. “This journey must have been grueling—you’ve lost weight.”

“It wasn’t too bad—I can take care of myself. The journey was bumpy and exhausting, but at least I’m safe now.” Liu Yifei leaned into his warm embrace, her weary body slowly relaxing.

“That’s good, that’s good...” Jiang Mingyu affectionately stroked her long hair, his eyes brimming with tenderness. “Tell me—what happened during this time? Was your journey safe?”

Liu Yifei met his concerned gaze and began recounting her experiences after leaving Xixia. Her calm, melodious voice unfolded the tale, and Jiang Mingyu listened intently, occasionally asking questions to show his concern. They spoke for a long while, savoring this rare, precious moment of warmth.

Originally, to gather military intelligence from the southern frontier for Jiang Mingyu, Liu Yifei had unhesitatingly left Xixia and traveled alone southward toward Dajiang. She knew the path ahead was perilous, yet she was undeterred—for the man she loved, she was willing to bear all hardships.

Knowing Liu Yifei was about to depart, Zhuge Yu had already prepared full equipment and supplies for her in Qizhou. As Liu Yifei set off with minimal luggage, Zhuge Yu’s worried gaze followed her frail figure until she vanished from sight.

Along the way, Liu Yifei constantly thought of Jiang Mingyu—how was he faring? When would she complete her mission and return to him? These thoughts drove her forward. After more than a month of relentless travel, she finally reached Jiangzhou City.

When she saw the Dajiang military banner fluttering atop Jiangzhou’s walls, a wave of relief washed over her. At least this place still belonged to Dajiang, giving her room to maneuver. Soon, she opened a modified hotpot restaurant and established a bank. Her business flourished, and her status in Jiangzhou became firmly established.

But just as she planned to infiltrate Jiangzhou’s economic lifelines, the southern frontier suddenly shifted—Wei Yangyao led his army toward Jiangzhou and launched a direct assault! Liu Yifei’s alarm bells rang; she urgently needed to warn Jiang Mingyu. Yet the border was now sealed, and no messenger could return north.

With Wei Yangyao’s forces looming, Liu Yifei still chose to remain. For Jiang Mingyu and Dajiang, she had to keep her promise. In times of crisis, one’s character is tested. She understood her mission and would never retreat.

Thus, Liu Yifei began gathering intelligence on the southern warfront and informed Jiang Mingyu of the situation of Song An, the commander of Guizhou. Thanks to her timely reports, Song An was able to prepare defenses and hold Guizhou firmly.

After Mu Feihang’s hundred-thousand-man army was annihilated, Liu Yifei keenly realized Wei Yangyao would not relent. As expected, he sent another 120,000 troops to attack Jiangzhou. To spare Jiang Mingyu worry, she immediately dispatched a messenger northward.

But the border was now blockaded by Ke Bin; her messengers could not break through. Liu Yifei was desperate, terrified Jiang Mingyu would worry about her. Fortunately, just as she faced utter despair, Jiang Mingyu himself led his army to Jiancheng, relieving her of all fears.

Later, upon hearing that Yan Hang’s hundred-thousand-man force had also been destroyed, Liu Yifei deduced Ke Bin would tighten security. She wisely transferred her assets and temporarily hid in a small southern town, waiting for the right moment. Her prudent decision saved her life.

Only yesterday did Liu Yifei learn from scouts that Jiang Mingyu had taken up residence in Jiangzhou. Overjoyed, she immediately set out at night, braving the torrential rain—because reuniting with the one she loved was the greatest happiness in the world.

“So that’s how it was—you’ve endured so much...” After hearing her story, Jiang Mingyu felt overwhelming sympathy and tenderness. He pulled her frail frame close and whispered soothingly: “It’s over now. I’m here—I’ll protect you always.”

“Yes, I believe you,” Liu Yifei gazed at him trustfully, her eyes brimming with affection.

Hearing that she had played a vital role in the Guizhou battle, Liu Yifei merely smiled faintly, indifferent to Jiang Mingyu’s gratitude. She looked into his deep eyes and softly said: “Jiang Lang, between us, there’s no need for formalities. I went south precisely to ease your burdens. Now that we’ve reunited, I’m already content.”

Jiang Mingyu gazed tenderly at his petite wife, his heart swelling with emotion and love. This once-fragile woman had ventured alone into enemy territory for him—and now, at his greatest need, she had delivered timely aid. He gently touched her weather-worn cheeks, his eyes glowing with warm affection.

“Yifei, with you by my side, I’ll never be stuck. No matter what challenges come, we’ll face them together.” Jiang Mingyu solemnly promised. Liu Yifei nodded trustfully, her eyes overflowing with love that left Jiang Mingyu breathless.

In this moment, they shed all external burdens, leaving only the beloved figure nestled close to them. Their separation and trials had only deepened their love, making this reunion all the sweeter.

After hearing Liu Yifei’s account, a dark cloud settled over Jiang Mingyu’s heart. He sighed, his smile vanishing, and sadly told her of the urgent grain shortage.

He expected Liu Yifei to share his gloom, but instead, she suddenly smiled, her peach-blossom eyes sparkling with mischief.

“Jiang Lang, while I was in the south, I brought you a special gift.”

Jiang Mingyu blinked in surprise. What kind of gift could she possibly have at a time like this? Still, he asked curiously: “What gift?”

Liu Yifei blinked her large, glistening eyes and softly uttered five words: “One hundred thousand dan of military grain.”

“What?” Jiang Mingyu’s eyes widened—he thought he’d misheard. After confirming repeatedly, his face broke into an incredulous, joyous grin. “Who told you our army was short on grain?”

Liu Yifei gestured for him to sit and said gently: “No one told me. I know you—when leading a large force deep into enemy territory, grain shortages are inevitable. To prepare for emergencies, I secretly gathered grain during my travels and finally amassed one hundred thousand dan. When I heard you’d captured Jiangzhou yesterday, I immediately packed and came here. I never imagined my foresight would solve your most urgent crisis.”

Jiang Mingyu was overjoyed. He impulsively kissed Liu Yifei’s soft cheek, his eyes brimming with affection: “Yifei, you’re truly my lucky star! With this one hundred thousand dan of grain, both our troops and the refugees are safe. We can proceed with our plans—this is wonderful!”

He clapped his hands vigorously, as if a great burden had been lifted. Liu Yifei watched his ecstatic expression and couldn’t help smiling, her eyes shimmering with love.

“It’s what I should do—we are one. My journey south was to ease your burdens. Now, seeing it all worthwhile, I’m content.” Liu Yifei said gently.

“Yifei, I owe you so much!” Jiang Mingyu embraced his wife’s slender frame again, whispering tender words into her ear. Liu Yifei blushed shyly and wrapped her arms around his back.

After their long separation, their longing had been unbearable. This rare moment of intimacy was precious beyond measure. Jiang Mingyu gently stroked his wife’s dark, lustrous hair, smoothing it strand by strand—as if this simple act could make up for their months apart.

“Yifei, we’ll never be apart this long again. I’ll always be by your side,” Jiang Mingyu solemnly promised.

“Yes, I’ll always be with you,” Liu Yifei nodded trustfully, her eyes glowing with affection.

Holding his beloved close, Jiang Mingyu felt all was right with the world—his heart finally at peace. With his wife’s help, he was certain even the toughest obstacles could be overcome. At this moment, even the dire grain shortage seemed solvable, thanks to her care.

Jiang Mingyu gazed gratefully at his petite wife, his heart overflowing with boundless tenderness. With her beside him, what more could he ask for? In this world, nothing surpassed the joy of reuniting with one’s beloved.

With the grain crisis resolved, Tukesiluo seized the moment to remind him: “Your Majesty, Ke Bin and others have fled to Xiongzhou—that’s a threat. We should strike now to eliminate them, or they’ll cause trouble later.”

Jiang Mingyu paused, his expression troubled. Scouts reported Xiongzhou already housed 70,000 troops; combined with Ke Bin’s fleeing 70,000, Zu Zhao’s forces totaled at least 150,000. Our army numbers 150,000 too, but we must leave troops to garrison—so at most 130,000 can be deployed. Against 150,000, victory seems slim.

As he hesitated, He Jing shook his head and advised calmly: “Your Majesty, I advise against rushing. Xiongzhou is four to five hundred li away—our troops will be exhausted by the march. With 130,000 against 150,000, success is unlikely. Let’s wait for a better opportunity.”

But Li Goudan interjected: “So what if we’re outnumbered? Didn’t thirty thousand men capture Ruan Chen’s hundred thousand? This rain hides everything—plus a surprise attack will catch them off guard!”

He Jing nodded in agreement: “Brother Feng speaks sense, but Tukesiluo and Li Goudan’s concerns are valid. If we don’t move now, Ke Bin may seize the chance—and if the three southern factions unite, it’ll be a true disaster!”

As they argued back and forth, Jiang Mingyu listened quietly, his face darkening. He had never had high odds in this southern campaign, and now the enemy had slipped behind his lines—his heart trembled with dread.

“How should we decide? Your Majesty, please give your command.” Finally, all eyes turned to Jiang Mingyu.

Jiang Mingyu stroked his beard, lost in thought, his brow furrowed with worry. After a moment, he sighed and lowered his gaze: “Each of you has valid points—it’s hard to choose. Night has fallen. Let’s end here for now; we’ll deliberate further tomorrow.”

The generals nodded silently, understanding that no decision could be made tonight. Jiang Mingyu felt utterly drained. He rose and stepped outside, seeking solitude.

Just then, he noticed a small figure standing quietly in the shadows—it was Liu Yifei. She seemed unsure whether to approach. Jiang Mingyu couldn’t help smiling gently and strode forward, wrapping his arm around her shoulders: “Yifei, why aren’t you sleeping?”

Liu Yifei lowered her head shyly. “I heard you were discussing military affairs. I was worried you’d be burdened, so I waited outside...”

“Foolish girl, how can you expect me to focus on war with you standing out here? Go rest—you give me courage just by being near.” Jiang Mingyu tenderly kissed her cheek.

Liu Yifei nodded. Her silent companionship warmed his heart, dissolving all his earlier anxieties.

After Liu Yifei left

Jiang Mingyu turned to He Jing and said firmly: “General He’s analysis is correct—we must seize Xiongzhou now, or we’ll be at a permanent disadvantage.”

Li Goudan opened his mouth to speak, but Jiang Mingyu waved him silent, his expression resolute: “I understand your concerns, but right now, we hold the initiative. Zu Zhao’s forces haven’t even coordinated yet. If they unite, we’ll suffer dearly. Besides, Feng Xiwu hasn’t returned—we’re still short on grain. If we can fight, we must—war must feed war. That’s the best strategy.”

Li Goudan’s face flickered with frustration, but he said nothing. He sighed inwardly and forced a weak smile: “Your Majesty’s wisdom is clear. I understand.”

Seeing him relent, Jiang Mingyu smiled slightly and nodded: “Good. Since there’s no objection, we march on Xiongzhou at dawn tomorrow. Prepare yourselves and move swiftly!”

After hearing the discussion, Jiang Mingyu swept his sleeve and turned to leave. Already, his mind turned to reuniting with his long-separated wife—after all, Tukesiluo’s child had been born so long ago, and he, as a father, felt a pang of guilt.

Just then, Tukesiluo hurriedly asked: “Brother, you’ve decided to attack Xiongzhou—but what about troop deployment and who will garrison Jiangzhou?”

Jiang Mingyu slapped his forehead, grinning sheepishly: “I’ve been sick with a cold lately—my mind’s been foggy. I forgot such a vital matter.” He cleared his throat and said seriously: “According to Zhuge Yu’s letter, officials are already en route to garrison Jiangzhou. Given current conditions, we can leave at most 20,000 troops here. Chang Mu, I entrust Jiangzhou to you—be vigilant!”

“I shall give my all!” Chang Mu bowed deeply.

Jiang Mingyu nodded approvingly and ordered: “We depart for Xiongzhou at dawn. Prepare quickly!” Then he strode out of the tent, heading straight for Liu Yifei’s quarters.

Pushing open the door, he found his wife quietly lying on the bed, resting. Hearing the noise, she slowly opened her drowsy eyes and smiled sweetly: “You’re here?”

“Were you asleep? Sorry, I woke you.” Jiang Mingyu sat beside her, tenderly stroking her cloud-like hair.

Liu Yifei shook her head, propping herself up against him, her cheeks flushed with shy delight: “I was waiting for you... we’ve been apart for so long.”

Jiang Mingyu’s heart softened. He leaned down and kissed her sweet lips deeply. Soon, they forgot everything around them—there was only each other, clear and real.