The Bad Guys: Everyone, let’s revive the Tang Dynasty together!

Chapter 512 Sending You Off on Your Journey
As the Lantern Festival approached, the imperial city of Bianjing was still shrouded in the tranquility of the New Year, and the chill had faded considerably. The snow that had accumulated over the past few days had quietly melted on the glazed tiles and corners of the palace walls, leaving only dark, damp marks in the cracks of the bluestone bricks and in shady areas.

Morning light streamed through the carved window lattices, casting dappled shadows inside the Penglai Palace, with fine dust particles floating slowly within the beams of light.

When Xiao Yan woke up, the first thing he smelled was a familiar fragrance. It was the warm and soft scent of the person next to him, mixed with the faint fragrance from the brazier in the hall, and a hint of the lingering afterglow of last night's intimacy. It was truly intoxicating.

He turned his head slightly and saw that Ji Ruxue had already woken up, propped up on her elbow, quietly watching him. Her clear eyes reflected the dawn light, as clear as autumn water, as serene as a fairy.

The quilt slipped down to her waist, revealing a smooth neck and shoulders and the undulating curves of her body beneath her nightgown. Her skin was fair, adorned with a few faint blush marks, like plum blossoms falling in the snow, drawing attention.

"Awake?" Her voice was very soft, as if afraid of disturbing the tranquility of the hall, or disturbing Xiao Yan's still unconscious consciousness. Her eyes were filled with a tenderness that only he could understand.

"Mm," Xiao Yan responded, his voice equally deep.

He reached out and first brushed away the stray strands of dark hair that fell across her cheek, tucking the hair behind her ear. His fingertips lingered for a moment on her delicate, warm cheek and neck, feeling the steady life force beneath her skin.

She looked radiant; pregnancy and childbirth had not diminished her in the slightest, but rather added to her full charm, like a ripe peach, tempting one to pick it.

His hand slid down, massaging her waist and hips gently through her silky nightgown.

"Did Dai'er bother you last night?" Xiao Yan asked, his gaze still fixed on her face, carrying a hint of morning languor and casualness.

Ji Ruxue's body softened from his caresses, and she leaned closer to him, her fingers unconsciously pressing against the small patch of his chest exposed at the collar of his nightgown.

"No, my wet nurse is taking care of me, and I'm perfectly safe." She shook her head slightly, her hair brushing against his chin. "But you, you were reviewing memorials so late last night, you don't even know how to take care of yourself." Her tone contained a hint of reproach, but more than anything, it was heartache.

Xiao Yan chuckled softly, tightening his arms around her waist to pull her completely against him. "There are some things piling up, and with things heading south... we need to sort things out first."

Ji Ruxue glanced at him with a look that was both reproachful and amused.

Xiao Yan has always been thick-skinned. He felt her body tremble slightly, but he just lowered his head, his nose brushing against her forehead hair, and then smelled the warm fragrance on her neck. His voice was even deeper, "I have nothing to do today, so I'll spend more time with you."

The implications in his words were as clear as the changes in his body.

His free hand had already slipped under the quilt, caressing her smooth thigh, and slowly moving upwards.

Ji Ruxue's breath hitched slightly, and her cheeks flushed slightly, but she did not resist. She simply looked up at him, her eyes shimmering with tears, as if she had a thousand words to say.

"National affairs come first..." she said softly, her tone softening as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "Dai'er and I are both fine..." She tilted her head back and gently kissed the corner of his lips, like a feather brushing against him, yet instantly igniting a raging fire.

Xiao Yan responded, his hands exploring the familiar softness and curves of her body, causing her to tremble slightly and let out a soft moan. Even the morning light seemed to grow warmer and more ambiguous.

Just then, a baby's loud but not noisy cry came from outside the palace, accompanied by the soft humming of a lullaby by a wet nurse. The sound came from afar and was heading towards the bedroom.

Immediately following, Guangmutian deliberately raised his voice, his tone tinged with embarrassment and urgency, as he announced: "Your Majesty, Consort, His Highness the Crown Prince has woken up and is making a ruckus. Even the Empress can't soothe him. The wet nurse says... the Crown Prince wants to see his father..."

The romantic atmosphere was instantly shattered. Ji Ruxue gently nudged Xiao Yan's chest, her breath slightly unsteady: "It must be that Aji has woken up and wants to see Father... Just now, Yu Shanggong seemed to have mentioned that Her Majesty the Empress has already gotten up."

Xiao Yan stopped moving, took a deep breath, pressed his forehead against her neck, chuckled helplessly, and finally let go. The desire in his eyes slowly faded, replaced by a gentle fatherly tenderness. "This little one, woke up just in time."

Ji Ruxue pulled up her nightgown, glanced at him with a flushed face, quickly got up from the bed, took her outer robe and put it on, while tying the belt and calling out to the outside, "Bring the Crown Prince in."

The palace door was gently pushed open, and the wet nurse walked in, carrying Li Mingzhao, who was wrapped in a bright yellow embroidered dragon swaddling clothes.

The six-month-old baby had chubby cheeks, but his cries were quite loud. His bright black eyes, which looked just like Xiao Yan's, were curiously darting around. He was making meaningless syllables like "ee-ee-ya-ya". When he saw Xiao Yan on the bed, he immediately stopped crying, waved his chubby little hands, and grinned from ear to ear.

The wet nurse bowed respectfully, saying, "May Your Majesty be blessed, and may Your Majesty be well. His Highness the Crown Prince has just been fed and is in good spirits, but he can't be soothed; he seems to miss Your Majesty..."

Xiao Yan looked at his son, then glanced at Ji Ruxue, who was turning her back to him, adjusting her clothes, her ears still flushed. He shook his head, couldn't help but chuckle, and quietly suppressed the lingering tenderness. He reached out to the wet nurse: "Let me hold her."

The wet nurse carefully handed the baby over. Xiao Yan took his heavy son and skillfully cradled him in his arms.

Once in his father's arms, Aji immediately grinned, revealing his toothless mouth, and grabbed a stray lock of Xiao Yan's hair with his little hand.

"Oh my, little guy, you've got some strength in your hands." Xiao Yan laughed, letting his son hold on, and gently tapped his little nose with his other hand.

Ji Ruxue tidied her appearance, turned around, and looked at the interaction between the father and son with tenderness in her eyes. She took the warm handkerchief from the wet nurse and carefully wiped away the tears from the corners of Aji's eyes, saying softly, "Aji, loosen your father's hair."

The little guy seemed to understand, or perhaps he was just distracted. He let go of her hand and tried to grab the handkerchief in Ji Ruxue's hand instead.

At this moment, another wet nurse brought in her second son, Li Dai. Li Dai was quieter than his brother, equally chubby and fair-skinned, his bright black eyes quietly surveying his surroundings.

Xiao Yan, holding Aji, walked to the wet nurse's side, looked at his youngest son, and smiled, "Dai'er does seem like a refined gentleman."

Ji Ruxue also laughed: "The two brothers do have different personalities."

Just then, an announcement came from outside the palace that the Empress had arrived with her female officials.

Today, the Empress wore only a scarlet palace dress with a silver fox fur vest over it, and her phoenix eyes exuded an air of majesty.

She stepped into the hall and saw Xiao Yan holding the babbling Li Mingzhao, while Ji Ruxue was playing with Li Dai in the arms of the wet nurse. The scene was harmonious, and the corners of her lips turned up slightly.

"Your Majesty, Xue'er," she greeted, her gaze softening as she swept over the two children.

Then, she looked at her son in Xiao Yan's arms, who had stopped crying and was now playing with his clothes. A look of helplessness and apology appeared on her face. "Aji woke up early this morning and was very fussy. The wet nurse and the palace servants couldn't soothe him. He insisted on finding his father. I had no choice but to bring him here, which disturbed Your Majesty and Xue'er's peace."

Her tone was natural, with a touch of everyday complaint, but she wasn't too reserved.

Xiao Yan chuckled as he held his son: "What's the big deal? My son misses me, so he comes over. There's no question of disturbing him."

He lifted the heavy little guy in his arms and teased him. "Looks like our Aji is quite resourceful; he knows how to recognize people even at such a young age."

Aji giggled, her little hands haphazardly grabbing at the jade hairpin that Xiao Yan used to tie his hair.

"Your Majesty, don't spoil him." The Empress's voice was tinged with laughter as she glanced at Ji Ruxue and nodded slightly in acknowledgment.

"It's alright, it's good for children to be lively." Xiao Yan put his son down and saw Aji twisting his body, stretching out his little hand towards the Empress, and making "ah ah" sounds.

Seeing this, the Empress's smile deepened, and she naturally stepped forward to take her son from Xiao Yan's arms. The little guy immediately nestled against his mother, rubbing his head against her neck, instantly becoming much more docile.

"It seems the Empress has a solution," Xiao Yan said with a smile, taking the opportunity to lower his head and let Ji Ruxue tidy his hair, which had been messed up by his son.

Ji Ruxue couldn't help but smile, "Aji knows that the Empress dotes on him."

Xiao Yan smiled and looked at the Empress, "Have you eaten yet? Let's eat together."

"Alright." The Empress nodded, her gaze sweeping over the people who were arriving in the hall one after another. "Don't stand there, everyone. Share some with us. Also, invite the other consorts. The weather is nice today, so they can keep His Majesty company and warm up together."

Breakfast was served in the small flower hall, and the dishes were exquisite but not extravagant. One after another, the concubines entered the hall, and the palace immediately became lively.

The surrendered official arrived at the perfect time, dressed in a light red palace gown that accentuated her fair skin. She gracefully curtsied, her gaze sweeping over Xiao Yan, a half-smile playing on her lips, her voice drawn out: "Your Majesty's eyes are radiant today, your complexion is truly excellent..."

After her teasing, while the Empress and Xue'er were busy playing with the baby in the cradle, she casually chose a seat next to Xiao Yan, resting her elbow on the table and gently twirling a strand of hair with her fingertips. Seemingly casual, her eyes, however, seemed to be hooked as she stared at Xiao Yan. "Poor me, last night I was alone in my empty bedchamber, counting the night watch, listening to the wind outside, and I felt so cold in my pillow..."

Xiao Yan was reading a copy of the Bianjing Gazette when he heard this. He looked up at her and saw that she was leaning forward slightly, her wide palace sleeves covering her lips, and her peach blossom eyes were shimmering and very alluring.

He couldn't help but chuckle, and took her slender fingers that reached out from under the table, gently squeezing them in his palm. He lowered his voice, making sure only the two of them could hear: "If you feel cold, I remember that the Northern Desert sent some excellent fire fox pelts as tribute last time. They are very warm. I'll have someone send them to you later."

The surrendered concubine glared at him, trying to pull her hand away, but he held it firmly. Looking at his feigned incomprehension and serious expression, she felt both annoyed and itchy, but her eyes flashed with a gentle light. She simply leaned forward slightly, her voice becoming even softer: "What I want is something that warms my heart..."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Yan continued to stroke her delicate hand with a serious expression: "Oh? Then tell me, my beloved consort, what does it mean to truly warm someone's heart? Is it because you feel I haven't tried hard enough the last few times? Or is it that you want to beg for mercy again, like last time, after only getting a little warmth, and insist on calling out..."

The surrendered minister's cheeks flushed instantly, like the sunset. Embarrassed, she tried to withdraw her hand, her eyelashes trembling. She quickly glanced around, and seeing that no one was paying attention to them, she lowered her voice and spat, "You, surnamed Xiao, if you keep talking nonsense, I'll really get angry!" Her tone was both shy and anxious, yet it added to her charm.

Xiao Yan, however, stubbornly held onto her hand. The surrendered minister was both annoyed and anxious. He stomped hard on Xiao Yan's instep, but finally, just as the Empress looked up, he nonchalantly withdrew his hand, sat up as usual, glared at Xiao Yan resentfully, and pulled his seat away considerably.

At this moment, Chi Meng practically skipped in, her silver ornaments jingling. She first bowed respectfully to Xiao Yan, the Empress, and Ji Ruxue, then eagerly approached the cradle, exclaiming softly, "Wow, Dai'er seems to have gotten a little fatter, so cute! Aji, Aji, look at Auntie here!" She made a face, successfully making the little one giggle.

Xiao Yan couldn't help but laugh and said, "I think you're even more active than Aji. Come and sit down, and have your meal first. You'll have time to play with them later."

Chi Meng stuck out her tongue and obediently sat down next to Ji Ruxue.

Shuliduo and Yelü Zhiwu walked slowly into the hall together. The former was dressed in a dark palace gown today, her hair neatly styled. After calmly greeting Xiao Yan and the Empress, she took her seat. Yelü Zhiwu obediently followed behind her mother, and when she received the tea and snacks from the palace servants, she did not forget to thank them.

Shuliduo chatted casually with the Empress about the recent weather and childcare, and also talked with Xiao Yan about the matter of returning to the grasslands from the northern desert. She was poised and generous, as if she were born to be in such occasions. She was neither reserved nor ostentatious, but naturally became the focus of attention.

Qianwu helped Guangmutian and the other women serve the food, not forgetting Xiao Yan's dietary restrictions, and whispered a few instructions to them.

At this moment, Bago and Li Cunren entered together. Although the two women were only dressed in crimson palace dresses, they looked like a pair of sisters. Their eyebrows and eyes had a wild Shatuo profile, and they were bright and beautiful. After bowing to the emperor and empress, they naturally sat down next to each other, keeping a low profile.

Everyone sat down, and for a moment the only sounds in the hall were the clinking of teacups and hushed conversations.

Xiao Yan's gaze swept over the beauties in the hall. His wives and concubines were by his side, and his children accompanied him. Although they were of different statuses, the atmosphere was harmonious at this moment.

He took a sip of soup and said casually, "The Lantern Festival is just a few days away. Lanterns have been prepared on both sides of the Bian River, and the palace will also hold a banquet at Xuande Tower to celebrate with the people and set off fireworks. At that time, you can all go up the tower together to enjoy the festivities."

Upon hearing this, everyone's faces lit up with joy and anticipation. Chi Meng clapped her hands and exclaimed, "That's wonderful! I've heard Sister Xue'er say that the Lantern Festival in the Central Plains is the most lively!"

Xiao Yan smiled slightly, his warm gaze sweeping over everyone before finally settling on Chi Meng's face. His tone softened, his voice carrying a hint of reassurance: "It's best if you like it. However... with the southern expedition imminent and military affairs so complex, the Duke and Lady of Qian will soon be setting off back to Raojiang to prepare provisions and handle military and political matters. I'm afraid we won't be able to spend this Lantern Festival together this time."

As soon as she finished speaking, the cheerful atmosphere froze slightly. Chi Meng's smile froze instantly, her bright eyes dimmed at a visible speed, and although she tried to maintain a slight curve at the corners of her lips, they eventually drooped down. She only let out a soft "oh," and her fingers unconsciously clenched her sleeves. Anyone could see that her full expectation had turned into disappointment and reluctance.

This was not because Xiao Yan was disappointed. The southern expedition had already been decided, and Chi Li had already resigned. If Xiao Yan hadn't wanted Chi Meng to spend more time with her parents, Chi Li and Xian Shen would have returned long ago. As you can see, the people of the northern desert had already set off to return to Dading Prefecture on the second day after the grand court assembly. Chi Meng naturally knew this as well.

In the end, it was the Empress who smiled gently and changed the subject, talking about some trivial matters, which finally livened up the atmosphere again.

After breakfast, Xiao Yan stood up at the opportune moment, glanced at Chi Meng, and said in his clear voice, "It's still early, sitting for too long is boring. Why don't we go to the archery range to stretch our muscles?"

The women naturally agreed, and the atmosphere relaxed. They moved in twos and threes to the small training ground specially set up in the palace.

The field was open, with targets standing in the distance. The fine bows on the weapon racks were polished to a gleaming shine, gleaming steadily in the morning light. Arrows were neatly arranged beside them, their arrowheads gleaming coldly. Xiao Yan removed his outer robe, took his specially made large bow, and tested the string. His posture was upright, his movements of drawing the bow and nocking the arrow fluid and steady, his gaze sharp as he looked at the targets a hundred paces away. He released the string, and the arrow flew like a shooting star, striking the bullseye with a resounding thud. A low cheer erupted.

He shot a few arrows, then smiled and looked at the crowd: "Who wants to give it a try?"

Bago was the first to respond. She rolled up the sleeves of her palace dress, took out a bow, and without saying a word, drew the bow and shot. Her movements were as dashing as those of the grassland people. The arrow accurately struck the bullseye, with great force.

Li Cunren remained silent for a moment, then also chose a bow. Her movements were more restrained, yet exceptionally steady; she shot an arrow, hitting its mark, but with even greater precision.

Even the Empress smiled and tried her hand at archery. Her archery skills were already exceptional. Although she had been living in the deep palace for a long time and seemed a little rusty, her foundation was still there. She fired several arrows in succession, and her demeanor remained the same.

What was most surprising was that Shuliduo did not choose to shoot on foot, but instead ordered someone to bring over a royal horse.

Her movements as she mounted the horse were swift and decisive, revealing her mature and agile figure on horseback. With her legs lightly gripping the horse's flanks, the horse began to trot, and she drew her bow, aimed, and fired amidst the jolting motion.

The arrow pierced the air, and although it did not hit the bullseye, it remained firmly embedded in the target, drawing cheers from the crowd. After the horse had run a distance, she reined in the reins and turned back, her face calm and her breathing not showing much fluctuation, clearly demonstrating her expertise in this art.

Upon seeing this, Xiao Yan laughed loudly: "Good! It's been a while since I've had a proper workout."

After speaking, Xiao Yan also ordered someone to bring his mount. He mounted the horse, took the large bow handed to him by Qianwu, and galloped away. Suddenly, he turned to the side while galloping, drew the bow to its fullest extent, and shot an arrow like a shooting star. With a "whoosh," the arrow cleaved the arrow that was originally stuck in the bullseye in the distance, and accurately pierced the bullseye!

A hush fell over the training ground, then erupted in gasps of amazement. The Empress's eyes flashed with admiration, while Bago's gaze was intense, his worship undisguised. Li Cunren remained silent, but his tightly pressed lips softened slightly. Qianwu smiled and nodded, softly praising Miao Chengtian and the other women beside her, "Your Majesty's bearing is even more magnificent than before."

Only the surrendered minister lay lazily on a recliner not far away, casually glancing at the lively scene in the training ground, picking up a piece of dried fruit and putting it in her mouth, closing her eyes to bask in the sun, as if the wonderful horse archery was no match for the warmth of the sun in front of her.

On the other side, Ji Ruxue stood with Chi Meng under the eaves, watching. She looked at the tall, straight figure on horseback, the bow drawn like the moon, and a gentle smile unconsciously appeared on her lips, her eyes filled with undisguised admiration and tenderness.

Chi Meng, who had been somewhat sullen, was now completely captivated by the sight before her. Her earlier low spirits were dispelled by the scene before her. She subconsciously tugged at Ji Ruxue's sleeve and exclaimed softly, "Sister Xue'er, look! Little Pot... he's so handsome!"

"I know," Xue'er replied with a smile.

Xiao Yan reined in his horse and turned back to Shuliduo, his eyes filled with admiration: "The virtuous consort's riding and archery are truly impressive, she is no less than any man."

Shuliduo had already dismounted and was waiting. Upon hearing this, a hint of undisguised joy flashed in her eyes. But she simply looked up at Xiao Yan, smiled, and shook her head: "Your Majesty's meager skills are merely the instinct of a child of the grasslands. Just now, seeing Your Majesty's arrow strikes so divinely, breaking through with a single shot, is truly awe-inspiring archery skill. I am completely convinced."

Xiao Yan laughed heartily, quite pleased with Shuliduo's flattery.

As noon approached, the sunlight grew warm and bright, and the leisurely archery practice in the palace gardens gradually subsided. Palace servants quietly stepped forward to take the bows and arrows and tend to the horses.

Xiao Yan did not rush to disperse the crowd. His gaze swept across the edge of the field, finally settling on the figure who, though temporarily captivated by the brilliant archery skills, still harbored a trace of melancholy between his brows. He slowly walked towards the corridor, his voice gentle yet loud enough for everyone around to hear: "Chi Meng."

Chi Meng raised her head upon hearing the sound.

Xiao Yan stopped in front of her, and very naturally reached out his hand, gently brushing away a tiny catkin that had fallen onto her shoulder at some unknown time: "This afternoon, I am hosting a family banquet in the palace to bid farewell to my two maternal uncles. You are the main character, so you should drink a couple of cups of Raojiang sweet rice wine with them at the banquet later."

Chi Meng was slightly taken aback. Looking into his smiling eyes, she knew that Xiao Yan had been paying attention to her emotions. Her heart warmed instantly, and she nodded subconsciously.

Xiao Yan then raised his eyes, looked around at the women present, and said with a smile, "Today's archery competition has allowed all of you to show your skills. It would be good if we could all attend the banquet together, which would also serve as a farewell dinner for the Duke of Qian and his wife."

The Empress nodded first, saying gently, "Your Majesty's arrangements are very appropriate." Ji Ruxue had already walked to Chi Meng's side and gently squeezed her hand to comfort her. Bago, Li Cunren, and the others naturally also composed themselves in agreement. Qianwu, without needing to be instructed, had already quietly signaled the female officials behind her to go ahead and make the arrangements.

Xiao Yan then signaled everyone to set off. The group did not march in a grand procession, but rather in twos and threes, chatting about the interesting things that had happened on the training ground, and strolled along the palace path toward the palace where the banquet was to be held.

The banquet was held in the Chuigong Hall. Although it was not decorated with excessive gold and jade, the tableware was exquisite, the dishes were elaborate, and the atmosphere was solemn, which showed that it was a special courtesy to the Duke of Qian and his wife.

During the meal, Xiao Yan and Chi Li drank a few cups together. Chi Li's words and actions remained in accordance with the proper etiquette of a subject, respectful and dignified, and he did not overstep his bounds in the slightest because of their relationship as father-in-law and son-in-law.

Xian Shen was more cheerful, smiling as she said to Chi Meng, "You must be obedient in the palace, serve His Majesty and the Empress well, and get along well with the Consorts." She then looked at Ji Ruxue, "Miss Ji, my daughter is quite lively, so I'll have to be tolerant and take good care of her."

Ji Ruxue smiled and replied, "Madam, you flatter me. Chi Meng is innocent and carefree, and everyone likes her very much."

Xiancan patted his daughter's hand, lowered his voice, and said with a hint of teasing, "Your dad and I are waiting to hold our grandson, so you'd better work harder."

Chi Meng blushed instantly, gave her mother a reproachful look, and then secretly glanced at Xiao Yan. Seeing that he was talking to her father and didn't seem to notice, she felt a little relieved. However, the impending separation made her feel even more bitter, and her eyes quietly welled up with tears.

After the banquet, the Empress and the surrendered officials and other women dispersed. Xiao Yan invited Chi Li to take a walk in the Imperial Garden, while Chi Meng and Ji Ruxue accompanied Xian Shen later.

The snow in the garden has been freshly swept away, the stone path is clean, and the fragrance of plum blossoms floats faintly in the crisp air.

Xiao Yan walked with his hands behind his back, turned his head to look at Chi Li, who was half a step behind him, and said in a gentle tone: "Uncle, there are no outsiders here, so there is no need to be so formal. I still remember the time when you and my aunt sat around the fire in the Raojiang Mountains and talked about countermeasures. At that time, you called me 'Brother Xiao', and I felt more at ease."

Upon hearing this, Chi Li paused slightly, a wistful smile appearing on his face, yet he still insisted on bowing slightly: "Your Majesty's kindness is appreciated. However, propriety cannot be disregarded. Your Majesty now reigns supreme, your power extending throughout the land, and I cannot abandon my duty as a subject because of past affections."

Xiao Yan sighed softly, a hint of helpless amusement in his voice: "Uncle is still as stubborn as ever. Fine, whatever."

He paused, then continued, "The journey back to Raojiang is long, so please take good care of yourself."

"Your Majesty, thank you for your concern. Your Majesty, both Xian Shen and I are still in good health and are used to walking mountain paths, so Your Majesty need not worry." Chi Li's reply was still respectful, but his tone was noticeably more relaxed than at the banquet.

"I am at ease about the situation in Raojiang." Xiao Yan nodded, his voice steady. "Over the years, my maternal uncle has pacified the various tribes, promoted education, and facilitated the integration of Han and Rao peoples. His contributions are invaluable to the nation. The court remembers your merits. The title of Duke of Qian has been a hereditary title in Yunnan. The policy of governing both local and local peoples is a common national policy and is by no means empty talk. If you need the court's support in the future, my maternal uncle, please feel free to report directly to me."

"Your Majesty's trust in me is deeply appreciated. I am moved to tears and will do my utmost to guard the southern border to repay Your Majesty's grace."

Xiao Yan nodded slightly, his gaze falling on the snow-covered pine branches in the distance. He then turned to the main topic: "In that case, I will speak frankly with you. The southern expedition is imminent, and the southern army led by my maternal uncle is crucial to the overall situation, yet it is quite different from the central and eastern armies."

Chi Li's expression hardened, and he unconsciously straightened his posture: "Please give your instructions, Your Majesty."

"In this southern expedition, the southern detachment is mainly for support. The troops of Raojiang are skilled in the mountains and forests and are familiar with the terrain. I want you to send troops from south to north to harass the enemy's rear. Chu and Min are full of mountains and rivers, which are the perfect places for you to use your skills."

Xiao Yan spoke calmly, explaining his strategic intentions: "We may harass their supply lines, making it difficult for them to attend to both ends; or we may use the terrain to ambush them and annihilate their remaining forces; or we may use witchcraft to create panic and disrupt their morale. In short, we must ensure that the rear areas of the towns south of the Yangtze River are not at peace and cannot fully support the defense of the river. At the same time, we must ensure the smooth passage of our army's advance from south to north. This is the first point."

"Secondly, you must closely coordinate with Wang Zongkan's central force and He Gui's eastern force. The timing of your advance and the direction of your attack must be coordinated to form a pincer movement. The transmission of military intelligence is of paramount importance. I have ordered additional personnel to be stationed at the post stations along the route to ensure smooth communication between your forces and the central government and with friendly forces."

Chi Li listened carefully and pondered, "Your Majesty is wise and far-sighted. I have already trained the warriors of the various tribes, and the provisions and weapons have been allocated in a timely manner. We are just waiting for Your Majesty's order to lead the army eastward from the Five-Foot Road and the Yelang Road, with our forces pointing directly to the southwest of Chu, and also pressing south to the borders of Min and Wu. This will surely shake their rear and prevent them from sleeping peacefully."

“Very good.” Xiao Yan’s gaze swept over the scenery in the garden, and his tone softened. “Once Jiangnan is pacified, the Liu family in Lingnan and the Jinghai Army may still need your cooperation in the southwest. Lingnan is inhabited by various ethnic groups, and the situation is complicated. If we want to manage it, we should proceed slowly rather than hastily. Moreover, the climate in Lingnan is hot and humid, and the northern troops may have difficulty adapting. Perhaps we can make more use of the local soldiers. The saying ‘all under heaven are one family’ is not an empty phrase.”

Chi Li's expression turned solemn: "Your Majesty's heart is as vast as the four seas, which I admire. If there is any need for your command, Chi Li and the various tribes of Raojiang will certainly serve you."

"That's excellent advice. We'll need your suggestions then." Xiao Yan listened attentively, his face showing approval. He then asked, "Will the various tribes have any objections to this arrangement? Or any difficulties?"

Chi Li said, “Thanks to Your Majesty’s great fortune, although the policy of replacing native chieftains with centrally appointed officials has just been implemented, the combination of kindness and severity has made most tribes aware of the court’s benevolence and determination, and they are quite willing to serve. Even if there are some dissenting voices, I can suppress them. There are no difficulties, so please rest assured, Your Majesty.”

"Alright." Xiao Yan nodded. "The situation on the battlefield is constantly changing. I grant you the authority to make decisions on the spot. You need not report everything that is beneficial to the war effort. You can handle it first. As for the subsequent food and military supplies, I have ordered Xu Yanqiong, the transport commissioner of Shu, to give priority to your troops. I will ensure that you have no worries about the future."

"Thank you for your trust, Your Majesty!" Chi Li bowed, his tone solemn. "Your subject will certainly live up to Your Majesty's expectations and will do everything in my power to clear the obstacles in the southern border for Your Majesty!"

The two discussed some details for a while. Xiao Yan occasionally asked about the customs and products of Lingnan, seemingly considering the lands further south as well. Chi Li answered truthfully and offered some cautious suggestions based on local conditions. Between father-in-law and son-in-law, he always maintained the demeanor of a subject.

Xian Shen, who was walking behind, patted Chi Meng's hand and said, "Seeing how well His Majesty and your father are talking, I feel relieved. You must behave yourself in the palace and not be temperamental."

Chi Meng said sullenly, "When have I ever thrown a tantrum..."

Xiancan laughed, "Don't I know my own daughter? His Majesty and the Empress are kind, and the other concubines are also amiable. This is your blessing. But," she lowered her voice, "you should also strive to give His Majesty a son or daughter as soon as possible. Your father and I are looking forward to becoming grandparents."

Chi Meng blushed again instantly, "Mom, you're bringing this up again..."

Xiancan held Chimeng's hand and said, "...There are many rules in the palace, unlike the freedom we have in Raojiang. Although your father is a blockhead, he is right about one thing: listen and observe more, and speak less. Once things are settled in the south, your father and I will come to see you when we have the chance." As she spoke, her eyes reddened slightly.

Chi Meng bit her lip, forcing back tears, and simply nodded.

Ji Ruxue said gently from the side, "Don't worry, Madam, Chi Meng is doing well in the palace. Once the war is over and transportation is smooth, it will be much easier to travel back and forth."

Xian Shen looked at Ji Ruxue gratefully: "With Miss Ji's words, I feel much more at ease. Chi Meng is young and ignorant, and it is all thanks to Miss Ji's care."

"Madam, you flatter me." Ji Ruxue seemed to recall something and felt a little sad, but she simply took Chi Meng's hand.

As the sun began to set, to show his respect, Xiao Yan specially ordered the imperial carriage to be set up and personally escorted Chi Li and his party to the Bianjing dock.

The Imperial Guards stood solemnly by the roadside, their banners fluttering in the cold wind. Although the ceremonial guard was not in its full glory, the dragon banners, ceremonial axes, and golden maces of the warriors were all present, demonstrating the majesty of the imperial family and Xiao Yan's extraordinary favor towards this governor of the south.

The official ship had already anchored, and the accompanying guards and servants all stood respectfully with their hands at their sides, awaiting the imperial decree.

After a simple farewell ceremony, the sorrow of parting grew even heavier. Chi Meng looked at her parents, and tears she had been holding back for so long finally streamed down her face. She rushed forward and threw herself into Xian Shen's arms, her voice choked with sobs: "Mom...Dad...you must take care..."

Xiancan hugged her daughter tightly, gently patted her back, and said in a slightly trembling voice, "Don't cry, silly girl. Your mother and father have seen all kinds of storms. Your safety in the palace is our greatest comfort."

Chi Li gazed at his wife and daughter, his stern expression softening slightly. He stepped forward, but could no longer casually pat his daughter's head. He simply instructed her, "Listen carefully to His Majesty and the Empress's teachings..."

Immediately, he turned to Xiao Yan, lifting his robe to bow in the biting river wind. But Xiao Yan preemptively grabbed his arm, stopping him from completing the full bow, and said gently, "Take care on your journey, maternal uncle. I am in Bianjing, awaiting good news."

Chi Li's eyes shone brightly, and he nodded emphatically, replying in a deep voice, "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will do my utmost and will certainly not fail Your Majesty's grace!"

Having said that, he said no more, resolutely turned around, and carrying the fresh ginseng that kept turning back to look at him, stepped onto the springboard.

The sails rose slowly, filling the air with wind. The official ship cast off its moorings and drifted away from the shore.

Chi Meng leaned against Xiao Yan's side, watching the boat's shadow grow smaller and smaller until it finally disappeared where the water met the sky, tears streaming down her face. Xiao Yan didn't speak, but simply reached out and gently put his arm around her shoulder.

The wind at the dock grew stronger, whipping the dragon-embroidered robe sleeves and making a rustling sound.

Xiao Yan gazed southward, his eyes crossing the surging river to land on the vast territory he was about to conquer. Chi Meng in his arms sobbed softly, the sorrow of parting and the heavy responsibility of serving his country intertwined in this winter afternoon, weighing heavily on his heart.

The river wind blows mightily, bidding you farewell on your journey.

(End of this chapter)